Server device, control method of server device, program, and air conditioning system

Abstract

The server device of the present application includes a reception unit that receives, from an information processing device, a request to increase an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity, which is an air conditioning capacity at the time of sale of the air conditioning device, to a second air conditioning capacity that is larger than the first air conditioning capacity. In addition, the server device includes a determination unit that, in a case where the reception unit receives the request from the information processing device, determines whether or not an operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. In addition, the server device includes an instruction unit that, in a case where the determination unit determines that the operator or the user has the right, instructs the air conditioning device to perform processing to increase from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to server devices, control methods and programs for server devices, and air conditioning systems. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a technology for sharing a control board among multiple air conditioning units of different models.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2024 / 161631 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention provides a server device, a control method for the server device, a program for the server device, and an air conditioning system that can appropriately increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device after it is installed.

[0007] One embodiment of the server apparatus of the present invention includes a receiving unit that receives a request from an information processing device to increase the air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning unit from a first air conditioning capacity (i.e., the capacity at which the air conditioning unit was sold) to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity. Furthermore, the server apparatus includes a determining unit that, upon receiving the request from the information processing device, determines whether an operator or a user corresponding to the information processing device has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first to the second. Additionally, the server apparatus includes an instruction unit that, if the determining unit determines that the operator or user has the right, instructs the air conditioning unit to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first to the second.

[0008] One aspect of the control method for a server device according to the present invention includes an acceptance step, in which an information processing device accepts a request to increase the air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity (i.e., the capacity at the time the air conditioning device was sold) to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity. Furthermore, the control method for the server device includes a determination step, in which, if the request is accepted from the information processing device, it is determined whether an operator or a user corresponding to the information processing device has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. Additionally, the control method for the server device includes an instruction step, in which, if it is determined in the determination step that the operator or user has the right, the air conditioning device is instructed to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the processor of the server device functions as a receiving unit, receiving a request from the information processing device to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from the first air conditioning capacity (i.e., the capacity at which the air conditioning unit was sold) to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity. Furthermore, the program also functions the processor of the server device as a determining unit, which, upon receiving the request from the information processing device, determines whether the operator or the user corresponding to the information processing device has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first to the second. Additionally, the program further functions the processor of the server device as an instruction unit, which, upon the determining unit determining that the operator or the user has the right, instructs the air conditioning unit to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first to the second.

[0010] An air conditioning system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a server device and an air conditioning unit configured to communicate with the server device. The server device includes a receiving unit that receives a request from an information processing device to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from a first air conditioning capacity (i.e., the capacity at the time the air conditioning unit was sold) to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity. Furthermore, the server device includes a judging unit that, upon receiving the request from the information processing device, determines whether an operator or a user corresponding to the information processing device has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. Additionally, the server device includes an instruction unit that, if the judging unit determines that the operator or user has the right, instructs the air conditioning unit to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.

[0011] The server device, server device control method, program, and air conditioning system of the present invention can appropriately increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device after it is installed. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the overall structure of the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structure of the first server device, the second server device, the personal computer, and the smartphone in Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the first and second air conditioning capabilities in Implementation 1.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the processing flow of the air conditioning system in Implementation Method 1.

[0016] Figure 5This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the first server device and the second server device in Embodiment 1.

[0017] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0018] 100 air conditioning system

[0019] 1. First server device (server device)

[0020] 11. First Processor (Processor)

[0021] 111 Service Department

[0022] 112 Judgment Department

[0023] 113 Request Department

[0024] 114 Instruction Department

[0025] 115 Remaining Number Change Department

[0026] 116 First Communication Control Department

[0027] 12 First Memory

[0028] 121 First Procedure (Procedure)

[0029] 122 Remainder Storage Section

[0030] 2 Second server device

[0031] 21 Second Processor

[0032] 211 Response Department

[0033] 212 Second Communication Control Department

[0034] 22 Second Memory

[0035] 221 Second Procedure

[0036] 222 Contact Information Storage Department

[0037] 3. Personal computer (information processing device)

[0038] 31 Third Processor

[0039] 311 Third Communication Control Department

[0040] 32 Third Memory

[0041] 321 Third Procedure

[0042] 322 Operator Storage Department

[0043] 4. Smartphones (Terminal Devices)

[0044] 41 Touch Panel

[0045] 42 Fourth Processor

[0046] 421 Request Response Section

[0047] 422 Fourth Communication Control Department

[0048] 43 Fourth Memory

[0049] 431 Fourth Procedure

[0050] 5. Air conditioning unit

[0051] 51 control unit

[0052] 52 Air Conditioner Processor

[0053] 521 First Air Conditioning Unit Control Department

[0054] 522 Rewrite Execution Department

[0055] 523 Second Air Conditioning Unit Control Department

[0056] 524 Air Conditioner Communication Control Department

[0057] 53 Air Conditioner Memory

[0058] 531 First Air Conditioner Program (First Software)

[0059] PG1 First Air Conditioner Program (First Software)

[0060] 532 Second Air Conditioner Program (Second Software)

[0061] PG2 Second Air Conditioner Program (Second Software)

[0062] AB1 First Air Conditioning Capacity

[0063] AB2 Second Air Conditioning Capacity

[0064] AD device identification information

[0065] AN reply

[0066] Operator B

[0067] BD operator identification information

[0068] BS base station

[0069] CF agrees

[0070] CM1 First Instruction

[0071] CM2 Second Instruction

[0072] CS1 First Explanation Diagram

[0073] CS2 Second Explanation Diagram

[0074] M. Manufacturer (Industrializer)

[0075] NP specifies the number of

[0076] NR Remaining Number

[0077] NW Network

[0078] PW password

[0079] RQ request

[0080] RT Rights

[0081] TP specified time

[0082] U users

[0083] UD User Identification Information Detailed Implementation

[0084] (Insights, etc., that form the basis of this invention)

[0085] When the inventors conceived of this invention, they disclosed a technique for sharing a control board among multiple air conditioning units of different models in Patent Document 1, etc.

[0086] On the other hand, the inventors discovered a problem with increasing the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit after it has been installed. Furthermore, the inventors discovered that when increasing the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from a first air conditioning capacity to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first, the first software executing actions under the first air conditioning capacity is rewritten to execute actions under the second air conditioning capacity. That is, the inventors discovered that by executing the second software instead of the first software, the increase from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity can be achieved.

[0087] Therefore, the present invention provides a server device, a control method for the server device, a program for the server device, and an air conditioning system that can appropriately increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device after it is installed.

[0088] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, sometimes more detailed descriptions than necessary are omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of matters already known may be omitted, or descriptions of substantially the same structures may be repeated. This is to avoid making the following description too lengthy and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0089] Furthermore, the accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the subject matter described in the claims.

[0090] The following uses Figures 1 to 5 The air conditioning system 100 of Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0091] (Implementation Method 1)

[0092] [1-1. Structure]

[0093] [1-1-1. Structure of an Air Conditioning System]

[0094] First, refer to Figure 1 The overall structure of the air conditioning system 100 in Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the overall structure of the air conditioning system 100 in Embodiment 1.

[0095] like Figure 1 As shown, the air conditioning system 100 includes a first server device 1, a second server device 2, a personal computer 3, a smartphone 4, and an air conditioning device 5.

[0096] Personal computer 3 is a personal computer owned by operator B, who purchased air conditioning unit 5 from manufacturer M. Personal computer 3 is communicatively connected to first server device 1 via network NW. Network NW is, for example, the Internet.

[0097] The personal computer 3 corresponds to an example of an "information processing device".

[0098] Operator B includes, for example, residential companies, construction companies, and retailers of home appliances such as air conditioners. Residential companies, for example, enter into lease agreements with users U who are residents of apartments or rental houses. Construction companies, for example, are involved in the construction, sale, and after-sales service of a property.

[0099] In implementation method 1, operator B is, for example, a construction company.

[0100] The personal computer 3 sends a request RQ to the first server device 1 to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. The first air conditioning capacity AB1 is the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit 5 when it was sold. Alternatively, the first air conditioning capacity AB1 can also be the air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning unit 5 is installed. The second air conditioning capacity AB2 is an air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity AB1. Furthermore, the air conditioning unit 5 is configured to perform operations under either the first air conditioning capacity AB1 or the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0101] The first server device 1 is a server device owned by manufacturer M, which manufactures the air conditioning unit 5. The first server device 1 is communicatively connected to the second server device 2 and the personal computer 3 via network NW.

[0102] Manufacturer M corresponds to an example of "manufacturer".

[0103] The first server device 1 receives a request RQ from the personal computer 3 to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0104] Furthermore, when the "prescribed conditions" are met, the first server device 1 sends a first instruction CM1, which instructs the air conditioning capacity AB1 to be increased to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, to the second server device 2. The "prescribed conditions" refer to the personal computer 3 receiving the request RQ and the operator B corresponding to the personal computer 3 having the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity 5 of the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0105] The second server device 2 is connected to the first server device 1, the smartphone 4, and the air conditioner 5 via network NW in a communicative manner. The second server device 2 is, for example, a server device owned by the manufacturer M that manufactures the air conditioner 5.

[0106] Upon receiving a first instruction CM1 from the first server device 1, the second server device 2 sends a request to the smartphone 4 for consent CF to increase the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0107] Smartphone 4 is connected to the second server device 2 and air conditioning device 5 in a communicative manner via base station BS and network NW. Smartphone 4 is, for example, a smartphone owned by user U of air conditioning device 5.

[0108] Smartphone 4 is an example of "terminal device".

[0109] Upon receiving a request for consent to the CF from the second server device 2, the smartphone 4 sends a response AN to the request for consent to the CF based on an operation from the user U. The response AN includes either a consent CF indicating consent to increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, or a rejection CF indicating rejection of the consent CF.

[0110] The second server device 2 receives a reply AN from the smartphone 4. If the reply AN indicates agreement CF for increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the second server device 2 performs the following processing.

[0111] That is, the second server device 2 sends a second instruction CM2 to the air conditioning device 5, instructing it to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. In addition, when the air conditioning device 5 performs the operation of the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the second server device 2 sends a second air conditioning program PG2 executed by the control unit 51 of the air conditioning device 5 to the air conditioning device 5.

[0112] like Figure 1 As shown, the air conditioning unit 5 includes a control unit 51.

[0113] The control unit 51 has an air conditioner processor 52 and an air conditioner memory 53.

[0114] The air conditioner processor 52 is a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit).

[0115] The air conditioner memory 53 is a memory for storing programs and data. The air conditioner memory 53 stores the first air conditioner program 531.

[0116] The air conditioner memory 53 has a non-volatile storage area. Alternatively, the air conditioner memory 53 may also include a volatile storage area, constituting the working area of ​​the air conditioner processor 52. The air conditioner memory 53 may be composed of, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0117] The air conditioner processor 52 functions as the first air conditioner control unit 521, the rewrite execution unit 522, and the air conditioner communication control unit 524 by reading and executing the first air conditioner program 531.

[0118] The first air conditioning unit control unit 521 controls the operation of each part of the air conditioning unit 5 with the first air conditioning capacity AB1. In other words, the first air conditioning unit control unit 521 controls the operation of each part of the air conditioning unit 5 in a manner that causes the air conditioning unit 5 to perform the operation of the first air conditioning capacity AB1.

[0119] Upon receiving the second instruction CM2 and the second air conditioner program PG2 from the second server device 2, the rewriting execution unit 522 rewrites the first air conditioner program 531 into the second air conditioner program 532. In the following description, for convenience, the first air conditioner program 531 will sometimes be referred to as the first air conditioner program PG1. Furthermore, the rewriting execution unit 522 executes the second air conditioner program 532 in place of the first air conditioner program 531.

[0120] The rewriting execution unit 522 first writes a second air conditioner program PG2 into the air conditioner memory 53. This second air conditioner program PG2, written into the air conditioner memory 53, is sometimes referred to as the second air conditioner program 532. Next, after stopping the execution of the first air conditioner program 531, the air conditioner processor 52 reads and executes the second air conditioner program 532, thereby functioning as the second air conditioner control unit 523 and the air conditioner communication control unit 524.

[0121] The second air conditioning control unit 523 controls the operation of each part of the air conditioning unit 5 with the second air conditioning capacity AB2. In other words, the second air conditioning control unit 523 controls the operation of each part of the air conditioning unit 5 in a manner that causes the air conditioning unit 5 to perform the operation of the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0122] The air conditioner communication control unit 524 communicates with the second server device 2 and the smartphone 4 via the network NW. The air conditioner communication control unit 524 communicates with the second server device 2 and the smartphone 4 according to instructions from the first air conditioner control unit 521.

[0123] [1-1-2. Structure of server devices, etc.]

[0124] Next, refer to Figure 2 The structure of the first server device 1, the second server device 2, the personal computer 3, and the smartphone 4 will be described. Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structure of the first server device 1, the second server device 2, the personal computer 3, and the smartphone 4 in Embodiment 1.

[0125] First, refer to Figure 2 The structure of the first server device 1 will be described below. The first server device 1 has a first processor 11 and a first memory 12.

[0126] The first processor 11 is a processor such as a CPU or MPU. The first memory 12 is a memory for storing programs and data. The first memory 12 stores the first program 121.

[0127] The first memory 12 has a non-volatile storage area. Alternatively, the first memory 12 may also have a volatile storage area, constituting the working area of ​​the first processor 11. The first memory 12 is, for example, composed of ROM or RAM.

[0128] The first processor 11 functions as a receiving unit 111, a judging unit 112, a request unit 113, an instruction unit 114, a remaining number changing unit 115, and a first communication control unit 116 by reading and executing the first program 121. Furthermore, the first processor 11 causes the first memory 12 to function as a remaining number storage unit 122 by reading and executing the first program 121.

[0129] The first server device 1 corresponds to an example of a "server device".

[0130] The first processor 11 corresponds to an example of a "processor".

[0131] The first procedure 121 corresponds to an example of "procedure".

[0132] The remaining number storage unit 122 stores the operator identification information BD of each of the multiple operators B in association with the remaining number NR of the right RT to increase the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0133] The operator identification information BD and the remaining amount NR are stored in the remaining amount storage unit 122 via the remaining amount change unit 115. In addition, the remaining amount NR is changed by the remaining amount change unit 115.

[0134] The remaining number NR of right RT represents the number of air conditioning units 5 that operator B can increase from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0135] The receiving unit 111 receives a request RQ from the personal computer 3 to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. The request RQ includes device identification information AD identifying the air conditioning unit 5 and operator identification information BD identifying the operator B. Operator B is, for example, an operator who purchased the air conditioning unit 5 from manufacturer M.

[0136] The first air conditioning capacity AB1 is, for example, the air conditioning capacity for "6 tatami mats".

[0137] The second air conditioning capacity AB2 is, for example, the air conditioning capacity for "14 tatami mats".

[0138] When the receiving unit 111 receives the request RQ from the personal computer 3, the judgment unit 112 refers to the remaining data storage unit 122 to determine whether the operator B corresponding to the personal computer 3 has the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0139] For example, if the remaining number NR of the right to increase the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, which is stored in the remaining number storage unit 122 in association with the operator identification information BD that identifies the operator B corresponding to the personal computer 3, is "1" or more, the determination unit 112 determines that it has the right RT to increase the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0140] For example, if the determination unit 112 does not store the operator identification information BD corresponding to the operator B of the personal computer 3 in the remaining data storage unit 122, it determines that it does not have the right RT to increase from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Furthermore, if the remaining number NR in the remaining data storage unit 122 for the right RT to increase the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2 associated with the operator identification information BD corresponding to the operator B of the personal computer 3 is "zero", the determination unit 112 determines that it does not have the right RT to increase from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0141] If the receiving unit 111 receives the request RQ from the personal computer 3 and the judgment unit 112 determines that the operator B has the right RT, the request unit 113 performs the following processing. That is, the request unit 113 requests consent CF from the smartphone 4 held by the user U of the air conditioning unit 5 for increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0142] The request unit 113, for example, instructs the second server device 2 to request the smartphone 4 to grant consent CF for increasing the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0143] If the determination unit 112 determines that the operator B has the right RT, the instruction unit 114 instructs the air conditioning unit 5 to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Furthermore, the instruction unit 114 only instructs the air conditioning unit 5 to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2 if the request unit 113 receives a reply AN indicating consent CF from the smartphone 4.

[0144] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, as shown below, a portion of the processing of the request unit 113 and the instruction unit 114 is performed by the second server device 2.

[0145] For example, if the "prescribed conditions" are met, the instruction unit 114 sends a first instruction CM1, which increases the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second server device 2. The first instruction CM1 includes device identification information AD that identifies the air conditioning device 5.

[0146] "Specified conditions" refers to the fact that the request RQ is received from the personal computer 3, and the operator B corresponding to the personal computer 3 has the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0147] Upon receiving a first instruction CM1 from the first server device 1, the second server device 2 requests consent CF from the smartphone 4 for increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0148] The second server device 2 receives a reply AN from the smartphone 4. If the reply AN indicates agreement CF for increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the second server device 2 performs the following processing.

[0149] That is, the second server device 2 sends a second instruction CM2 to the air conditioning device 5, instructing it to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. In addition, when the air conditioning device 5 performs the operation of the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the second server device 2 sends a second air conditioning program PG2 executed by the control unit 51 of the air conditioning device 5 to the air conditioning device 5.

[0150] In addition, if the reply AN indicates a rejection of increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the second server device 2 will forward the reply AN to the first server device 1.

[0151] When the instruction unit 114 instructs the air conditioning unit 5 to perform the process of increasing the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the remaining quantity change unit 115 reduces the remaining quantity NR stored in the remaining quantity storage unit 122 corresponding to the operator identification information BD by "1". The operator identification information BD indicates that the operator B purchased the air conditioning unit 5 from the manufacturer M.

[0152] In addition, if the manufacturer M of the air conditioning unit 5 grants the operator B a predetermined number of rights RT for a fixed number of NPs, the remaining number change unit 115 increases the remaining number NR by the predetermined number NPs.

[0153] The specified number NP is, for example, 5. The specified number NP can also be, for example, 10.

[0154] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the remaining number changing unit 115 changes the remaining number NR as described below.

[0155] For example, when the instruction unit 114 sends a first instruction CM1 to the second server device 2, indicating that the first air conditioning capacity AB1 is increased to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the remaining number change unit 115 reduces the remaining number NR corresponding to the operator identification information BD stored in the remaining number storage unit 122 by "1".

[0156] In addition, when the second server device 2 receives a reply AN indicating a rejection of increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the remaining number change unit 115 increments the remaining number NR stored in the remaining number storage unit 122 corresponding to the operator identification information BD by "1".

[0157] In addition, if the manufacturer M of the air conditioning unit 5 grants the operator B a predetermined number of rights RT for a fixed number of NPs, the remaining number change unit 115 increases the remaining number NR by the predetermined number NPs.

[0158] The first communication control unit 116 communicates with the second server device 2 and the personal computer 3 via the network NW.

[0159] For example, if the first communication control unit 116 receives a reply AN from the second server device 2 indicating a rejection of increasing the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the reply AN will be forwarded to the personal computer 3.

[0160] Next, refer to Figure 2 The structure of the second server device 2 will be described below. The second server device 2 has a second processor 21 and a second memory 22.

[0161] The second processor 21 is a processor such as a CPU or MPU. The second memory 22 is a memory for storing programs and data. The second memory 22 stores the second program 221.

[0162] The second memory 22 has non-volatile storage areas. Alternatively, the second memory 22 may also have volatile storage areas, constituting the working area of ​​the second processor 21. The second memory 22 may be composed of, for example, ROM or RAM.

[0163] The second processor 21 functions as an instruction response unit 211 and a second communication control unit 212 by reading and executing the second program 221. Additionally, the second processor 21 causes the second memory 22 to function as a contact information storage unit 222 by reading and executing the second program 221.

[0164] The contact information storage unit 222 pre-stores the device identification information AD of the air conditioner 5 in association with the user identification information UD of the smartphone 4 held by the user U of the air conditioner 5. The user identification information UD is, for example, the email address of the smartphone 4 held by the user U of the air conditioner 5.

[0165] Upon receiving a first instruction CM1 from the first server device 1, the instruction response unit 211 reads user identification information UD from the contact information storage unit 222 to identify the smartphone 4 held by the user U of the air conditioning unit 5. Then, using the user identification information UD, the instruction response unit 211 requests consent CF from the smartphone 4 to increase the air conditioning unit 5 from a first air conditioning capacity AB1 to a second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0166] The instruction response unit 211 receives a reply AN from the smartphone 4. If the reply AN indicates agreement CF for increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the instruction response unit 211 performs the following processing.

[0167] That is, the instruction response unit 211 sends a second instruction CM2 to the air conditioning unit 5, instructing it to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. In addition, when the air conditioning unit 5 performs the operation of the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the instruction response unit 211 sends a second air conditioning program PG2 executed by the control unit 51 of the air conditioning unit 5 to the air conditioning unit 5.

[0168] In addition, if the response AN indicates a rejection of increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the instruction response unit 211 shall forward the response AN to the first server device 1.

[0169] The second communication control unit 212 controls communication with the first server device 1, the smartphone 4, and the air conditioning device 5.

[0170] Next, refer to Figure 2 The structure of the personal computer 3 is described below. The personal computer 3 has a third processor 31 and a third memory 32.

[0171] The third processor 31 is a processor such as a CPU or MPU. The third memory 32 is a memory for storing programs and data. The third memory 32 stores the third program 321.

[0172] The third memory 32 has a non-volatile storage area. Alternatively, the third memory 32 may also have a volatile storage area, constituting the working area of ​​the third processor 31. The third memory 32 may be composed of, for example, ROM or RAM.

[0173] The third processor 31 functions as the third communication control unit 311 by reading and executing the third program 321. Additionally, the third processor 31 causes the third memory 32 to function as the operator storage unit 322 by reading and executing the third program 321.

[0174] The operator storage unit 322 stores the operator identification information BD, password PW, and device identification information AD in association.

[0175] Operator identification information BD is the identification information of operator B who owns personal computer 3. Password PW is the password required from the first server device 1 when sending a request RQ to the first server device 1 to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Device identification information AD is the identification information of each of the multiple air conditioning units 5 purchased by operator B from manufacturer M, corresponding to operator identification information BD.

[0176] The third communication control unit 311 sends a request RQ to the first server device 1, based on input from operator B, to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. The request RQ includes device identification information AD corresponding to the air conditioning unit 5 and operator identification information BD.

[0177] Furthermore, upon receiving a reply AN from the first server device 1 indicating a rejection of increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the third communication control unit 311 performs the following processing: The third communication control unit 311 displays on a display (not shown) that the request RQ was rejected by the user U.

[0178] Next, refer to Figure 2 The structure of smartphone 4 will be described below. Smartphone 4 has a touch panel 41, a fourth processor 42, and a fourth memory 43.

[0179] The touch panel 41 includes a display such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and a touch sensor. The display shows various buttons, icons, and other images that accept touch operations from the user U. The touch sensor is disposed on the display surface of the display and detects touch operations from the user U. When a touch operation is detected, the touch sensor outputs a signal indicating the detection result to the fourth processor 42.

[0180] The fourth processor 42 is a processor such as a CPU or MPU. The fourth memory 43 is a memory for storing programs and data. The fourth memory 43 stores the fourth program 431.

[0181] The fourth program 431 is, for example, an application installed on the user's smartphone 4 by the user U when the user U begins living in a residence equipped with an air conditioning unit 5. The user U downloads the fourth program 431, for example, from the first server device 1 or the second server device 2.

[0182] The fourth memory 43 has a non-volatile storage area. Alternatively, the fourth memory 43 may also have a volatile storage area, constituting the working area of ​​the fourth processor 42. The fourth memory 43 may be composed of, for example, ROM or RAM.

[0183] The fourth processor 42 functions as a request response unit 421 and a fourth communication control unit 422 by reading and executing the fourth program 431.

[0184] Upon receiving a request from the second server device 2 for consent CF to increase the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the request response unit 421 accepts the operation of user U and sends a reply AN to the second server device 2.

[0185] The response AN includes a response AN expressing consent to increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, and a response AN expressing rejection of increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0186] The fourth communication control unit 422 controls the communication between the second server device 2 and the air conditioning device 5.

[0187] [1-1-3. Examples of First and Second Air Conditioning Capacities]

[0188] Next, refer to Figure 3 The examples of the first air conditioning capacity AB1 and the second air conditioning capacity AB2 are explained. Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the first air conditioning capacity AB1 and the second air conditioning capacity AB2 in Implementation Method 1.

[0189] exist Figure 3 The diagram CS shows an example of the first air conditioning capacity AB1 and the second air conditioning capacity AB2 of the air conditioning unit 5. The diagram CS includes a first diagram CS1 and a second diagram CS2.

[0190] As shown in the first explanatory figure CS1, the air conditioning unit 5 is, for example, an air conditioning unit for 6 tatami rooms, an air conditioning unit for 8 tatami rooms, an air conditioning unit for 10 tatami rooms, an air conditioning unit for 12 tatami rooms, and an air conditioning unit for 14 tatami rooms. In other words, the air conditioning unit 5 is configured to operate as any one of the following: an air conditioning unit for 6 tatami rooms, an air conditioning unit for 8 tatami rooms, an air conditioning unit for 10 tatami rooms, an air conditioning unit for 12 tatami rooms, and an air conditioning unit for 14 tatami rooms.

[0191] Figure 1The air conditioner processor 52 shown controls the operation of various parts of the air conditioning unit 5 by executing a first air conditioning program PG1, so that the air conditioning unit 5 performs the operation of a first air conditioning capacity AB1. The first air conditioning capacity AB1 corresponds to an "air conditioning unit for 6 tatami mats". For example, the air conditioning capacity of the "air conditioning unit for 6 tatami mats" during cooling operation is "2.2kW".

[0192] Furthermore, the air conditioner processor 52 controls the operation of various parts of the air conditioning unit 5 by executing a second air conditioning program PG2, for example, so that the air conditioning unit 5 performs the operation of the second air conditioning capacity AB2. The second air conditioning capacity AB2 corresponds to the "air conditioning unit for 14 tatami mats". The "air conditioning unit for 14 tatami mats" has an air conditioning capacity of "4.0kW" for example when operating in cooling mode.

[0193] As shown in the second explanatory diagram CS2, the air conditioning unit 5 is, for example, an air conditioning unit for 18 tatami mats, an air conditioning unit for 20 tatami mats, an air conditioning unit for 23 tatami mats, an air conditioning unit for 26 tatami mats, and an air conditioning unit for 29 tatami mats. In other words, the air conditioning unit 5 is configured to operate as any one of the following: an air conditioning unit for 18 tatami mats, an air conditioning unit for 20 tatami mats, an air conditioning unit for 23 tatami mats, an air conditioning unit for 26 tatami mats, and an air conditioning unit for 29 tatami mats.

[0194] Figure 1 The air conditioner processor 52 shown controls the operation of various parts of the air conditioning unit 5 by executing a first air conditioning program PG1, so that the air conditioning unit 5 performs the operation of a first air conditioning capacity AB1. The first air conditioning capacity AB1 corresponds to an "air conditioning unit for 18 tatami mats". For example, the air conditioning capacity of the "air conditioning unit for 18 tatami mats" during cooling operation is "5.6kW".

[0195] Furthermore, the air conditioner processor 52 controls the operation of various parts of the air conditioning unit 5 by executing a second air conditioning program PG2, for example, so that the air conditioning unit 5 performs the operation of the second air conditioning capacity AB2. The second air conditioning capacity AB2 corresponds to the "air conditioning unit for 29 tatami mats". The "air conditioning unit for 29 tatami mats" has an air conditioning capacity of "9.0 kW" for example when operating in cooling mode.

[0196] Next, refer to Figure 4 The processing procedure for air conditioning system 100 is explained. Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the processing flow of the air conditioning system 100 in Embodiment 1.

[0197] like Figure 4As shown, operator B enters into a contract with manufacturer M to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. In this contract, operator B pays manufacturer M a stipulated contract fee, and operator B acquires the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity RT of a specified number of air conditioning units 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0198] In addition, the right RT acquired by operator B may expire, for example, after a pre-set contract period. The contract period is, for example, one year.

[0199] When the first air conditioning capacity AB1 of air conditioning unit 5 corresponds to "air conditioning unit for 6 tatami mats", the specified number of units is, for example, "5 units", and the specified contract fee is, for example, "50,000 yen". When the first air conditioning capacity AB1 of air conditioning unit 5 corresponds to "air conditioning unit for 18 tatami mats", the specified number of units is, for example, "5 units", and the specified contract fee is, for example, "50,000 yen".

[0200] Furthermore, while the contract fee is stated as "50,000 yen" for both the first air conditioning capacity AB1 corresponding to an "air conditioning unit for 6 tatami mats" and an "air conditioning unit for 18 tatami mats," the implementation method is not limited to this. The contract fee may also differ depending on whether the first air conditioning capacity AB1 corresponds to an "air conditioning unit for 6 tatami mats" or an "air conditioning unit for 18 tatami mats."

[0201] In the case of the aforementioned contract between operator B and manufacturer M, manufacturer M grants operator B the operator identification information BD and the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of a specified number of air conditioning units 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. The operator identification information BD also functions as the login ID when operator B's personal computer 3 logs into the first server device 1.

[0202] Furthermore, in the case where the aforementioned contract is signed between operator B and manufacturer M, manufacturer M stores a predetermined number of NPs corresponding to a predetermined number of units as the remaining number NR, corresponding to the operator identification information BD, in the remaining number storage unit 122 of the first server device 1. This processing is performed by... Figure 2 The remaining number change unit 115 of the first server device 1 shown is executed.

[0203] If user U of air conditioner unit 5 determines that the cooling or heating capacity of the unit is insufficient due to years of deterioration in the residence where it is installed, they consult operator B about this situation. In this case, user U provides operator B with the unit identification information AD of air conditioner unit 5.

[0204] Operator B proposes to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. If user U agrees to the proposal, operator B operates personal computer 3 and performs the following processing: Personal computer 3 logs into the first server device 1 and sends a request RQ to the first server device 1 to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. The request RQ includes device identification information AD.

[0205] Upon fulfilling "prescribed conditions," the first server device 1 sends a first instruction CM1, indicating an increase from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, to the second server device 2. The first instruction CM1 includes device identification information AD. The "prescribed conditions" refer to the personal computer 3 receiving a request RQ, and the operator B corresponding to the personal computer 3 having the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0206] When the first server device 1 sends the first instruction CM1 to the second server device 2, the first server device 1 reduces the remaining number NR corresponding to the operator identification information BD stored in the remaining number storage unit 122 by "1".

[0207] Upon receiving a first instruction CM1 from the first server device 1, the second server device 2 sends a request to the smartphone 4 for consent CF to increase the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0208] Upon receiving a request for consent to the CF from the second server device 2, the smartphone 4 sends a response AN to the request for consent to the CF based on an operation from the user U. The response AN includes either a consent CF indicating consent to increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, or a rejection CF indicating rejection of the consent CF.

[0209] The second server device 2 receives a reply AN from the smartphone 4. If the reply AN indicates agreement CF for increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the second server device 2 performs the following processing.

[0210] That is, the second server device 2 sends a second instruction CM2 to the air conditioning device 5, instructing it to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. In addition, when the air conditioning device 5 performs the operation of the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the second server device 2 sends a second air conditioning program PG2 executed by the control unit 51 of the air conditioning device 5 to the air conditioning device 5.

[0211] Upon receiving the second instruction CM2 and the second air conditioning program PG2 from the second server device 2, the air conditioning unit 5 rewrites the first air conditioning program 531 into the second air conditioning program 532. Furthermore, the air conditioning unit 5 executes the second air conditioning capacity AB2 by executing the second air conditioning program 532.

[0212] If the response AN indicates a rejection of increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the second server device 2 forwards the response AN to the first server device 1. Upon receiving the response AN indicating rejection, the first server device 1 increments the remaining number NR stored in the remaining number storage unit 122 corresponding to the operator identification information BD by "1".

[0213] In other words, the rights RT corresponding to the operator identification information BD that were subtracted when the first server device 1 sent the first instruction CM1 to the second server device 2 are restored. This is because the first instruction CM1 was sent to the second server device 2, resulting in the increase of the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2 not being executed due to the user U's refusal.

[0214] [1-2. Actions]

[0215] [1-2-1. Processing of the First Server Device and the Second Server Device]

[0216] Next, refer to Figure 5 The processing of the first server device 1 and the second server device 2 in Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the first server device 1 and the second server device 2 in Implementation Method 1.

[0217] like Figure 5 As shown, firstly, in step S101, the receiving unit 111 of the first server device 1 receives a request RQ from the personal computer 3 to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0218] Next, in step S103, the judgment unit 112 of the first server device 1 refers to the remaining number storage unit 122 to determine whether the operator B corresponding to the personal computer 3 has the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0219] In Embodiment 1, the determination unit 112 of the first server device 1 determines whether the operator B corresponding to the personal computer 3 has the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The determination unit 112 of the first server device 1 may also determine whether the operator B corresponding to the personal computer 3 or the user U corresponding to the personal computer 3 has the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. In Embodiment 1, it is described that the personal computer 3, which is an example of the information processing device of the present invention, is held by the operator B, but it may also be a personal computer held by the user U of the air conditioning device 5.

[0220] If the determination unit 112 determines that operator B does not have the right to RT (step S103; No), the process ends. If the determination unit 112 determines that operator B has the right to RT (step S103; Yes), the process proceeds to step S105.

[0221] Furthermore, in step S105, the instruction unit 114 of the first server device 1 sends a first instruction CM1, which instructs the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device 5 to be increased from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, to the second server device 2.

[0222] Next, in step S107, the remaining number change unit 115 of the first server device 1 reduces the remaining number NR corresponding to the operator identification information BD stored in the remaining number storage unit 122 by "1".

[0223] Next, in step S109, the instruction response unit 211 of the second server device 2 receives the first instruction CM1 from the first server device 1 and requests consent CF from the smartphone 4 held by the user U of the air conditioning device 5 to increase the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0224] Next, in step S111, the instruction response unit 211 of the second server device 2 determines whether it has received a reply AN from the smartphone 4 indicating consent CF for increasing the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0225] If the instruction response unit 211 determines that it has received a reply AN indicating agreement to the CF (step S111; yes), the process proceeds to step S121. If the instruction response unit 211 determines that it has not received a reply AN indicating agreement to the CF (step S111; no), the process proceeds to step S113.

[0226] Furthermore, in step S113, the instruction response unit 211 of the second server device 2 determines whether it has received a reply AN from the smartphone 4 indicating a rejection of the consent CF for increasing the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0227] If the instruction response unit 211 determines that it has received a reply AN indicating acceptance of the rejection of the CF (step S113; yes), the process proceeds to step S117. If the instruction response unit 211 determines that it has not received a reply AN indicating acceptance of the rejection of the CF (step S113; no), the process proceeds to step S115.

[0228] Furthermore, in step S115, the instruction response unit 211 of the second server device 2 determines whether a predetermined time TP has elapsed since the time point when the smartphone 4 requested consent CF. The predetermined time TP is, for example, 5 hours. The predetermined time TP can also be, for example, 24 hours.

[0229] If the instruction response unit 211 determines that the specified time TP has not elapsed (step S115; no), the process returns to step S111. If the instruction response unit 211 determines that the specified time TP has elapsed (step S115; yes), the process proceeds to step S117.

[0230] Furthermore, in step S117, the instruction response unit 211 of the second server device 2 decides not to instruct the air conditioning device 5 to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity AB1 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0231] Next, in step S119, the instruction response unit 211 of the second server device 2 sends a reply AN indicating acceptance of the rejection of the CF, or a message indicating that a predetermined time TP has elapsed, to the first server device 1. Furthermore, the remaining number modification unit 115 of the first server device 1 increments the remaining number NR corresponding to the operator identification information BD stored in the remaining number storage unit 122 by "1". After this, the process ends.

[0232] If "yes" is selected in step S111, in step S121, the instruction response unit 211 of the second server device 2 sends a second instruction CM2 to the air conditioning device 5, instructing it to perform a process that increases the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Afterward, the process ends.

[0233] Step S101 corresponds to an example of the "acceptance step".

[0234] Step S103 corresponds to an example of the "decision step".

[0235] Steps S105 and S121 correspond to an example of an “instruction step”.

[0236] [1-3. Effects, etc.]

[0237] As explained above, in Embodiment 1, the first server device 1 includes a receiving unit 111, which receives a request RQ from the personal computer 3 to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 (when the air conditioning device 5 was sold) to a second air conditioning capacity AB2, which is greater than the first air conditioning capacity AB1. Additionally, the first server device 1 includes a judging unit 112, which, upon receiving the request RQ from the personal computer 3, judges whether the operator B corresponding to the personal computer 3 or the user U corresponding to the personal computer 3 has the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Furthermore, the first server device 1 includes an instruction unit 114, which, upon the judging unit 112 judging that the operator B or the user U has the right RT, instructs the air conditioning device 5 to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0238] Based on the above structure, if operator B or user U has the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to a second air conditioning capacity AB2, which is greater than the first air conditioning capacity AB1, the air conditioning unit 5 is instructed to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately determine whether to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Therefore, after installing the air conditioning unit 5, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit 5 can be appropriately increased.

[0239] The first server device 1 described above includes a remainder storage unit 122 that associates operator identification information BD, which identifies multiple operators B, with the remaining number NR of the right RT. The determination unit 112 determines that operator B has the right RT if the remainder storage unit 122 stores operator identification information BD corresponding to the personal computer 3, and the remaining number NR corresponding to the operator identification information BD is 1 or more.

[0240] Therefore, if the remaining number NR corresponding to the operator identification information BD of operator B who owns personal computer 3 is 1 or more, it is determined that operator B has the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately determine whether operator B has the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Therefore, after installing air conditioning unit 5, the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning unit 5 can be appropriately increased.

[0241] The aforementioned first server device 1 includes a remainder change unit 115. When the instruction unit 114 instructs the air conditioning device 5 to perform a process of increasing the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the remainder change unit 115 reduces the remainder NR corresponding to the operator identification information BD stored in the remainder storage unit 122 by 1.

[0242] Therefore, when the first server device 1 instructs the air conditioning device 5 to perform the process of increasing the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, it reduces the remaining number NR corresponding to the operator identification information BD by 1. Thus, it is possible to appropriately change the remaining number NR corresponding to the operator identification information BD.

[0243] In the aforementioned first server device 1, when the manufacturer M of the air conditioning device 5 grants the operator B a predetermined number of rights RT of NP, the remaining number change unit 115 increases the remaining number NR by the predetermined number NP.

[0244] Therefore, when the manufacturer M of the air conditioning unit 5 grants operator B a predetermined number of rights RT (NP), the first server device 1 increases the remaining number NR by the predetermined number NP. Thus, it is possible to appropriately change the remaining number NR corresponding to the operator identification information BD.

[0245] The aforementioned first server device 1 includes a request unit 113, which, upon determination by the determination unit 112 that operator B has the right RT, requests consent CF from the smartphone 4 held by user U of air conditioning device 5 to increase air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. The instruction unit 114 instructs air conditioning device 5 to perform the process of increasing from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 only if the request unit 113 receives the consent CF from smartphone 4.

[0246] Therefore, the first server device 1 instructs the air conditioning device 5 to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2 only if the user U's smartphone 4 receives a consent CF for increasing the air conditioning device 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Thus, the first server device 1 instructs the air conditioning device 5 to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2 only if it receives the user U's consent CF. Therefore, after the air conditioning device 5 is installed, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device 5 can be appropriately increased.

[0247] In the aforementioned first server device 1, the air conditioning device 5 is configured to operate with either a first air conditioning capacity AB1 or a second air conditioning capacity AB2. Furthermore, when the air conditioning device 5 receives an instruction from the instruction unit 114 to perform a process that increases the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, it rewrites the first air conditioning program 531, which operates with the first air conditioning capacity AB1, into a second air conditioning program 532, which operates with the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0248] Therefore, upon receiving an instruction to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2, the first server device 1 rewrites the first software that performs the action based on the first air conditioning capacity AB1 into a second software that performs the action based on the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Thus, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device 5 can be easily and remotely increased.

[0249] The control method of the first server device 1 includes an acceptance step, which accepts a request RQ from the personal computer 3 to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit 5 from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 when the air conditioning unit 5 was sold to a second air conditioning capacity AB2, which is greater than the first air conditioning capacity AB1. Additionally, the control method of the first server device 1 includes a judgment step, which, in the acceptance step, if the request RQ is accepted from the personal computer 3, determines whether the operator B corresponding to the personal computer 3 or the user U corresponding to the personal computer 3 has the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Furthermore, the control method of the first server device 1 includes an instruction step, which, if in the judgment step it is determined that the operator B or the user U has the right RT, instructs the air conditioning unit 5 to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0250] Therefore, the control method of the first server device 1 achieves the same effect as the first server device 1 described above.

[0251] The first program 121 of the first server device 1 enables the first processor 11 of the first server device 1 to function as a receiving unit 111, and to receive a request RQ from the personal computer 3 to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device 5 from the air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device 5 was sold, i.e., the first air conditioning capacity AB1, to a second air conditioning capacity AB2 that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity AB1.

[0252] Furthermore, the first program 121 of the first server device 1 functions as a judgment unit 112, determining whether the operator B or the user U corresponding to the personal computer 3 has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2 when the receiving unit 111 receives a request RQ from the personal computer 3. Additionally, the first program 121 of the first server device 1 functions as an instruction unit 114, instructing the air conditioning device 5 to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2 when the judgment unit 112 determines that the operator B or the user U has the right RT.

[0253] Therefore, the first program 121 of the first server device 1 has the same effect as the first server device 1 described above.

[0254] The air conditioning system 100 includes a first server device 1 and an air conditioning unit 5 configured to communicate with the first server device 1. The first server device 1 includes a receiving unit 111, which receives a request RQ from a personal computer 3 to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit 5 from its initial air conditioning capacity AB1 (the capacity at the time the air conditioning unit 5 was sold), to a second air conditioning capacity AB2, which is greater than the initial air conditioning capacity AB1. Furthermore, the first server device 1 includes a judging unit 112, which, upon receiving the request RQ from the personal computer 3, judges whether the operator B or the user U corresponding to the personal computer 3 has the right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2. Additionally, the first server device 1 includes an instruction unit 114, which, upon the judging unit 112 judging that the operator B or the user U has the right RT, instructs the air conditioning unit 5 to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity AB1 to the second air conditioning capacity AB2.

[0255] Therefore, the air conditioning system 100 has the same effect as the first server device 1 described above.

[0256] (Other implementation methods)

[0257] As described above, the embodiments described are examples of the technology in this invention. However, the technology in this invention is not limited to this and can also be applied to embodiments that have been modified, substituted, added, or omitted. Therefore, other embodiments are illustrated below.

[0258] In the above embodiment, the air conditioning system 100 is described as including a first server device 1 and a second server device 2, but it is not limited to this. For example, a single server device may also have the functions of the first server device 1 and the second server device 2. In this case, the structure of the air conditioning system 100 can be simplified.

[0259] In the above embodiment, the case where the "information processing device" is a personal computer 3 is described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The "information processing device" may be, for example, a tablet computer or a smartphone.

[0260] In the above embodiment, the case where the "terminal device" is a smartphone 4 is described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The "terminal device" may be a personal computer or a tablet computer.

[0261] In the above embodiments, for example, in Figure 1 For convenience, only one air conditioning unit 5 is described, but there can be multiple air conditioning units 5 (e.g., 1000 units). That is, the air conditioning unit 5 only needs to be an air conditioning unit manufactured by the manufacturer M that owns the first server unit 1.

[0262] Furthermore, the smartphone 4 is held by the user U who uses the air conditioning unit 5. Therefore, as described above, if there are multiple air conditioning units 5 (e.g., 1000 units), there can also be multiple smartphones 4 (e.g., 1000 units).

[0263] In the above embodiment, the case where the first air conditioning capacity AB1 corresponds to "an air conditioning unit for 6 tatami mats" and the second air conditioning capacity AB2 corresponds to "an air conditioning unit for 14 tatami mats" is described, but the embodiment is not limited to this.

[0264] For example, the first air conditioning capacity AB1 could correspond to "an air conditioning unit for 18 tatami mats", and the second air conditioning capacity AB2 could correspond to "an air conditioning unit for 29 tatami mats".

[0265] Alternatively, for example, the first air conditioning capacity AB1 could correspond to "an air conditioning unit for 6 tatami mats", and the second air conditioning capacity AB2 could correspond to "an air conditioning unit for 8 tatami mats", "an air conditioning unit for 10 tatami mats", or "an air conditioning unit for 12 tatami mats".

[0266] Alternatively, for example, the first air conditioning capacity AB1 could correspond to "an air conditioning unit for 18 tatami mats", and the second air conditioning capacity AB2 could correspond to "an air conditioning unit for 20 tatami mats", "an air conditioning unit for 23 tatami mats", or "an air conditioning unit for 26 tatami mats".

[0267] The first processor 11 can be composed of a single processor or multiple processors. The first processor 11 can also be hardware programmed to implement corresponding functional units. That is, these processors can be, for example, composed of ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0268] exist Figure 5 In the flowchart shown, the processing steps of the first server device 1 and the second server device 2 are divided into units based on the main processing content for ease of understanding, but the actions are not limited by the method of division or the name of the processing unit. That is, Figure 5 The processing steps of the first server device 1 and the second server device 2 shown in the flowchart can also be divided into more step units according to the processing content. Alternatively, the steps can be divided in such a way that more processing is included in one step unit. Furthermore, the order of these steps can be appropriately changed without affecting the spirit of the invention.

[0269] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments are used to illustrate the technology in this invention, and therefore various changes, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0270] (Postscript)

[0271] The following technology has been disclosed through the above description of the embodiments.

[0272] (Technology 1) The server device of Technology 1 includes a receiving unit that receives a request from the information processing device to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from the first air conditioning capacity (i.e., the capacity at which the air conditioning unit was sold) to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity. Furthermore, the server device includes a judging unit that, upon receiving the request from the information processing device, judges whether the operator or the user corresponding to the information processing device has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. Additionally, the server device includes an instruction unit that, if the judging unit determines that the operator or the user has the right, instructs the air conditioning unit to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.

[0273] According to this structure, when the operator or user has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity, the server device of Technology 1 instructs the air conditioning device to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. Therefore, the server device of Technology 1 can appropriately determine whether to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. Therefore, after the air conditioning device is installed, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device can be appropriately increased.

[0274] (Technology 2) The server device of Technology 2 includes a remainder storage unit in the server device described in Technology 1, which stores operator identification information that identifies multiple operators in association with the remainder of rights. When the remainder storage unit stores operator identification information of the operator corresponding to the information processing device, and the remainder corresponding to the operator identification information is 1 or more, the determination unit determines that the operator has the rights.

[0275] According to this structure, if the remaining number corresponding to the operator identification information of the information processing device is 1 or more, the server device of Technology 2 determines that the operator has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. Therefore, the server device of Technology 2 can appropriately determine whether the operator has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. Therefore, after the air conditioning unit is installed, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit can be appropriately increased.

[0276] (Technology 3) The server device of Technology 3 includes a residual number change unit in the server device described in Technology 2, which reduces the residual number corresponding to the operator identification information stored in the residual number storage unit by 1 when the instruction unit instructs the air conditioning device to perform the process of increasing the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.

[0277] According to this structure, when the server device of technology 3 instructs the air conditioning device to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity, it reduces the remaining number NR corresponding to the operator's identification information by 1. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately change the remaining number corresponding to the operator's identification information.

[0278] (Technology 4) In the server device described in Technology 3, the remaining number change unit of Technology 4 increases the remaining number by a predetermined number when the air conditioner manufacturer has granted the operator the right to a predetermined number of numbers.

[0279] According to this structure, the server device of Technology 4 increases the remaining number NR by a predetermined number when the air conditioning unit manufacturer grants the operator a pre-set number of rights. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately change the remaining number corresponding to the operator's identification information.

[0280] (Technology 5) The server device of Technology 5 includes a request unit in any of the server devices described in Technologies 1 to 4, which, when the determination unit determines that the operator has the right, requests consent from a terminal device held by a user of the air conditioning device for increasing the air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity to a second air conditioning capacity. The instruction unit instructs the air conditioning device to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity only if the request unit receives consent from the terminal device.

[0281] According to this structure, the server device of Technology 5 only instructs the air conditioning device to perform the process of increasing its air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity if the user's terminal device has received consent to do so. Therefore, the server device of Technology 5 is limited to instructing the air conditioning device to perform the process of increasing its air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity only with the user's consent. Thus, after the air conditioning device is installed, its air conditioning capacity can be appropriately increased.

[0282] (Technology 6) In the server device of Technology 6, in the server device described in any one of Technology 1 to 5, the air conditioning device is configured to operate with a first air conditioning capacity or a second air conditioning capacity, and when the instruction unit receives an instruction to perform a process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity, the first software that operates with the first air conditioning capacity is rewritten as the second software that operates with the second air conditioning capacity.

[0283] According to this structure, when the server device of technology 6 receives an instruction to perform processing to increase the air conditioning capacity from a first air conditioning capacity to a second air conditioning capacity, it rewrites the first software that performs the action based on the first air conditioning capacity to the second software that performs the action based on the second air conditioning capacity. Therefore, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device can be easily and remotely increased.

[0284] (Technology 7) The control method of the server device in Technology 7 includes an acceptance step, in which the information processing device accepts a request to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from the first air conditioning capacity (i.e., the capacity at the time the air conditioning unit was sold) to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity. Furthermore, the control method of the server device includes a judgment step, in which, if the request is accepted from the information processing device, it is determined whether the operator or the user corresponding to the information processing device has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. Additionally, the control method of the server device includes an instruction step, in which, if the judgment step determines that the operator or the user has the right, the air conditioning unit is instructed to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.

[0285] According to this structure, the control method of the server device of technology 7 achieves the same effect as the server device of technology 1.

[0286] (Technology 8) The procedure of Technology 8 enables the processor of the server device to function as a receiving unit, which receives from the information processing device a request to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from the first air conditioning capacity (i.e., the capacity at which the air conditioning unit was sold) to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity. Furthermore, the procedure of Technology 8 enables the processor of the server device to function as a judgment unit, which, upon receiving the request from the information processing device, determines whether the operator or the user corresponding to the information processing device has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first to the second. Additionally, the procedure of Technology 8 enables the processor of the server device to function as an instruction unit, which, upon the judgment unit determining that the operator or the user has the right, instructs the air conditioning unit to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first to the second.

[0287] According to this structure, the program of technology 8 has the same effect as the server device of technology 1.

[0288] (Technology 9) The air conditioning system of Technology 9 includes a server device and an air conditioning unit configured to communicate with the server device. The server device includes a receiving unit that receives a request from an information processing device to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from its initial air conditioning capacity (i.e., a first air conditioning capacity) to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity. Furthermore, the server device includes a judging unit that, upon receiving the request from the information processing device, judges whether the operator or user corresponding to the information processing device has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. Additionally, the server device includes an instruction unit that, if the judging unit determines that the operator or user has the right, instructs the air conditioning unit to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.

[0289] According to this structure, the air conditioning system of Technology 9 has the same effect as the server device of Technology 1.

[0290] Industrial applications

[0291] This invention can be applied to the purpose of appropriately increasing the air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning unit after it has been installed.

Claims

1. A server device, characterized in that, include: The receiving department receives from the information processing device a request to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from a first air conditioning capacity, which is the air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning unit is sold, to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity. The judgment unit, when the receiving unit receives the request from the information processing device, determines whether the operator corresponding to the information processing device or the user corresponding to the information processing device has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. and The instruction unit, when the determination unit determines that the operator or the user has the right, instructs the air conditioning unit to perform a process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.

2. The server device according to claim 1, characterized in that: It includes a remaining quantity storage unit that stores operator identification information identifying multiple operators in association with the remaining quantity of the rights. When the remaining number storage unit stores the operator identification information of the operator corresponding to the information processing device, and the remaining number corresponding to the operator identification information is 1 or more, the determination unit determines that the operator has the right.

3. The server device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The system includes a remaining quantity change unit, which, when the instruction unit instructs the air conditioning unit to perform a process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity, reduces the remaining quantity stored in the remaining quantity storage unit corresponding to the operator identification information by 1.

4. The server device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The remaining quantity change unit increases the remaining quantity by the predetermined number when the air conditioner manufacturer grants the operator a predetermined number of rights.

5. The server device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The system includes a request unit that, if the determination unit determines that the operator has the right, requests consent from the terminal device held by the user of the air conditioning unit to increase the air conditioning unit's capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. The instruction unit instructs the air conditioning device to perform the process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity only if the request unit has received the consent from the terminal device.

6. The server apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The air conditioning unit is configured to operate at either the first air conditioning capacity or the second air conditioning capacity, and When the instruction unit receives an instruction to perform a process that increases the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity, the first software that performs the operation with the first air conditioning capacity is rewritten as the second software that performs the operation with the second air conditioning capacity.

7. A control method for a server device, characterized in that, include: The processing step involves receiving a request from the information processing device to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from a first air conditioning capacity, which is the air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning unit was sold, to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity. In the acceptance step, if the request has been accepted by the information processing device, it is determined whether the operator corresponding to the information processing device or the user corresponding to the information processing device has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. and The instruction step, in the determination step, if it is determined that the operator or the user has the right, instructs the air conditioning device to perform a process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.

8. A program product, characterized in that, This includes a program that, when executed, causes the processor of the server device to function as a unit such as: The receiving department receives from the information processing device a request to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from a first air conditioning capacity, which is the air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning unit is sold, to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity. The judgment unit, when the receiving unit receives the request from the information processing device, determines whether the operator corresponding to the information processing device or the user corresponding to the information processing device has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. and The instruction unit, when the determination unit determines that the operator or the user has the right, instructs the air conditioning unit to perform a process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.

9. An air conditioning system comprising a server device and an air conditioning unit configured to communicate with the server device, characterized in that: The server device includes: The receiving department receives from the information processing device a request to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning unit from a first air conditioning capacity, which is the air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning unit is sold, to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity. The judgment unit, when the receiving unit receives the request from the information processing device, determines whether the operator corresponding to the information processing device or the user corresponding to the information processing device has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. and The instruction unit, when the determination unit determines that the operator or the user has the right, instructs the air conditioning unit to perform a process of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.

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