Cubicle management system, cubicle management method, and program

Abstract

To support selection of an alternative device when replacing a device provided in a cubicle.SOLUTION: A cubicle management system comprises: a storage unit in which a database storing therein device information indicating a device received in a cubicle and alternative device candidate information indicating an alternative device candidate being a candidate for an alternative device of the device in association with each other is stored, a replacement target information acquisition unit which acquires replacement target information designating a replacement target device being a replacement target out of devices indicated by the device information stored in the database; a selection unit which selects an alternative device for the replacement target device indicated by the replacement target information from among alternative device candidates indicated by the alternative device candidate information stored in the database; and a presentation unit which presents the selected alternative device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cubicle management system, a cubicle management method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] A cubicle management system that manages cubicle-type high-voltage power receiving equipment using a database on a cloud server is known (Patent Document 1). In the cubicle management system described in Patent Document 1, information on the equipment installed in the cubicle is registered in a database on the cloud server, and inspection information for the equipment is managed using the database. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-032761 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The inspection or testing results of equipment installed in a cubicle may indicate that the equipment needs to be replaced. A cubicle management system database such as that described in Patent Document 1 can assist a safety manager in determining whether the equipment needs to be replaced. When it is determined that replacement is necessary, the equipment information registered in the database can be referenced to select an alternative product. However, for inexperienced safety managers, even with reference to the equipment information, selecting an alternative device is not easy and takes time. When replacing equipment installed in a cubicle, there is a need for assistance in selecting alternative equipment.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above points, and provides a cubicle management system, a cubicle management method, and a program that can assist in the selection of alternative equipment when replacing equipment installed in a cubicle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one aspect of the present invention is a cubicle management system comprising: a memory unit that stores a database in which equipment information indicating equipment stored in a cubicle and replacement equipment candidate information indicating replacement equipment candidates that are candidates for replacement equipment for the equipment are stored in correspondence with each other; a replacement target information acquisition unit that acquires replacement target information that specifies replacement target equipment that is to be replaced among the equipment indicated by the equipment information stored in the database; a selection unit that selects a replacement equipment for the replacement target equipment indicated by the replacement target information from the replacement equipment candidates indicated by the replacement equipment candidate information stored in the database; and a presentation unit that presents the selected replacement equipment.

[0007] In one aspect of the present invention, in the cubicle management system, the selection unit selects a plurality of substitute device candidates from among the substitute device candidates indicated by the substitute device candidate information.

[0008] In addition, one aspect of the present invention is that in the above-mentioned cubicle management system, the selection unit selects, from the replacement device candidates indicated by the replacement device candidate information, the replacement device candidate of the same model as the replacement device as the first candidate replacement device for the replacement device, and selects the second and subsequent candidates in order of the highest score obtained by weighting the score for each specified item.

[0009] In addition, one aspect of the present invention is that in the above-mentioned cubicle management system, the items include one or more of price, installation space, ease of construction or placement, performance, ease of availability, or whether or not parts required for replacement are available.

[0010] In one aspect of the present invention, the cubicle management system further comprises a registration unit that, when the device is replaced with the substitute device, registers the device information about the substitute device in the database.

[0011] In addition, one aspect of the present invention is that the above-mentioned cubicle management system further includes a replacement time calculation unit that calculates the replacement time of the equipment and stores replacement time information indicating the calculated replacement time in the database in correspondence with the equipment information.

[0012] In addition, one aspect of the present invention is that the cubicle management system further comprises an ordering unit that orders the substitute device based on ordering information required to order the substitute device.

[0013] In one aspect of the present invention, in the cubicle management system, the order information includes first order information required to order the replacement device of the same model as the device.

[0014] In one aspect of the present invention, in the cubicle management system, the order information includes second order information required to order the alternative device candidate.

[0015] In addition, one aspect of the present invention is a cubicle management system as described above, further comprising an equipment confirmation information acquisition unit that acquires equipment confirmation information indicating that the equipment is stored in the cubicle, and a registration unit that registers the equipment information about the equipment indicated by the equipment confirmation information in the database if the equipment information about the equipment indicated by the equipment confirmation information is not stored in the database.

[0016] In one aspect of the present invention, in the cubicle management system, the equipment confirmation information is generated by reading text written on a nameplate attached to the equipment stored in the cubicle.

[0017] Another aspect of the present invention is a cubicle management method having a storage step of storing a database in which equipment information indicating equipment stored in a cubicle and replacement equipment candidate information indicating replacement equipment candidates that are candidates for replacement equipment for the equipment are stored in correspondence with each other; a replacement target information acquisition step of acquiring replacement target information that specifies replacement target equipment that is to be replaced among the equipment indicated by the equipment information stored in the database; a selection step of selecting a replacement equipment for the replacement target equipment indicated by the replacement target information from the replacement equipment candidates indicated by the replacement equipment candidate information stored in the database; and a presentation step of presenting the selected replacement equipment.

[0018] Another aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to execute the following steps: a storage step of storing a database in which equipment information indicating equipment stored in a cubicle and replacement equipment candidate information indicating replacement equipment candidates that are candidates for replacement equipment for the equipment are stored in correspondence with each other; a replacement target information acquisition step of acquiring replacement target information that specifies replacement target equipment that is to be replaced among the equipment indicated by the equipment information stored in the database; a selection step of selecting a replacement equipment for the replacement target equipment indicated by the replacement target information from the replacement equipment candidates indicated by the replacement equipment candidate information stored in the database; and a presentation step of presenting the selected replacement equipment. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the present invention, when replacing equipment installed in a cubicle, it is possible to assist in the selection of an alternative equipment. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cubicle management system 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a database A1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3]2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of manual information M1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a cubicle management system 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 2 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a safety manager terminal device 4 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of a database registration process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of a substitute device candidate information registration process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of a terminal-side alternative device presentation process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of a server-side alternative device presentation process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an alternative device presentation screen according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a replacement workability screen according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of a database update process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a cubicle management system 1a according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a safety manager terminal device 4a according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an alternative device presentation screen according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a cubicle management system 1b according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a safety manager terminal device 4b according to a third embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] (First embodiment) Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment. The cubicle management system 1 is a system for presenting alternative devices when replacing devices provided in a cubicle-type high-voltage power receiving facility (hereinafter referred to as a cubicle). The cubicle management system 1 has a database A1 for managing devices provided in the cubicle. The cubicle management system 1 is, for example, a cloud server. The cubicle management system 1 is managed by a cubicle manufacturer.

[0022] FIG. 1 shows a cubicle 2 as an example of a cubicle. A cubicle is a facility in which a set of equipment for converting high-voltage commercial power supplied from an electric power company or the like into power having a voltage or frequency that matches the specifications of the load equipment of an electric power consumer is housed in a metal outer box. Equipment 20 is equipment housed in cubicle 2. Cubicle 2 houses multiple pieces of equipment 20. A monitoring device 3 is installed in the cubicle 2. The monitoring device 3 transmits information about the power usage supplied from the cubicle 2 to a load (not shown) of an electric power consumer to the outside.

[0023] The safety manager terminal device 4 is a terminal device used by the safety manager (also referred to as an inspector). The safety manager terminal device 4 is, for example, a mobile terminal such as a laptop computer, smartphone, or tablet terminal. The safety manager uses the safety manager terminal device 4 to perform settings for maintenance inspections, and to specify the equipment to be replaced among the equipment installed in the cubicle 2.

[0024] The cubicle maker terminal 5 is a terminal device used by the cubicle maker. The equipment manufacturer terminal 6 is a terminal device used by the equipment manufacturer. The equipment manufacturer is a manufacturer that manufactures and supplies the equipment provided in the cubicle 2.

[0025] The monitoring device 3, the safety manager terminal device 4, the cubicle manufacturer terminal 5, and the equipment manufacturer terminal 6 each communicate with the cubicle management system 1 via the Internet established by the communication network N1.

[0026] [Database A1 configuration] Database A1 will now be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of database A1 according to this embodiment. Database A1 stores device information B1, manufacturing information C1, substitute device candidate information D1, replacement time information E1, and manual information M1 in association with each other. Note that manual information M1 is not shown in Figure 2 and will be described later with reference to Figure 3.

[0027] Here, the device information B1, manufacturing information C1, substitute device candidate information D1, replacement time information E1, and manual information M1 are associated with each device 20 indicated by the device information B1. The database A1 is created for each cubicle. As an example, FIG. 2 shows the database A1 for one cubicle 2.

[0028] The equipment information B1 is information indicating the equipment 20 housed in the cubicle 2. The equipment information B1 includes, for example, the product number, name, rating, model, manufacturer information (including the manufacturer's URL (Uniform Resource Locator)), and quantity of the equipment 20. The equipment information B1 is registered by the cubicle manufacturer.

[0029] The manufacturing information C1 is information that indicates information related to the manufacturing of the device 20 housed in the cubicle 2. The manufacturing information C1 includes, for example, a manufacturing number, a manufacturing date, and remarks. The manufacturing information C1 is registered by the cubicle manufacturer.

[0030] The substitute device candidate information D1 is information indicating substitute device candidates P1 that are candidates for substitute devices for the device 20. The substitute device candidate information D1 includes, for example, the address of a web page (in FIG. 2, this is indicated as manufacturer information URL) on which the manufacturer's substitute device candidates P1 are listed, as well as one or more of the product number, name, rating, size, mounting pitch, and loss of the substitute device candidate P1. In FIG. 2, only the product number is shown as the substitute device candidate information D1, and other items are omitted. Also, in FIG. 2, only one substitute device candidate P1 is shown as the substitute device candidate information D1, but the substitute device candidate information D1 includes one or more substitute device candidates P1.

[0031] The substitute device candidate information D1 is registered by the device manufacturer, and after being initially registered in the database A1, is periodically updated by the device manufacturer.

[0032] The replacement time information E1 is information indicating the replacement time of the device 20 housed in the cubicle 2. The replacement time is indicated by the year and month. The replacement time information E1 is automatically generated by the cubicle management system 1.

[0033] 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of manual information M1 according to this embodiment. Manual information M1 is information for supporting inspection work on equipment. The equipment includes the devices 20 housed in the cubicle 2 and the cubicle 2. Manual information M1 includes one or more of the equipment name, inspection results, reference criteria, reference deterioration limit samples, and the manufacturing date and recommended replacement time.

[0034] The inspection results indicate the results of the equipment inspection by the safety manager. The inspection results include the date the inspection was conducted, the method used for the inspection, and the results obtained using that method. The reference judgment criteria indicate the criteria for determining abnormalities in equipment when inspected using a specified method. The reference deterioration limit sample indicates various data when equipment has deteriorated to the point where replacement is necessary. The data is shown in the form of a graph or image. The manufacturing date indicates the date when the equipment was manufactured. The recommended replacement time indicates the time after the equipment was manufactured when replacement is recommended. As described above, unlike the device information B1, the manual information M1 includes information on the cubicle 2. Note that the information on the cubicle 2 may be omitted from the manual information M1.

[0035] Database A1 can be viewed from the safety manager terminal device 4. The safety manager views database A1, for example, during regular inspections. By viewing database A1, the safety manager can confirm information about the equipment 20 currently stored in the cubicle 2 (in particular, equipment information B1, replacement time information E1, and manual information M1).

[0036] [Cubicle Management System 1 Functional Configuration] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment. The cubicle management system 1 includes a replacement target information acquisition unit 10, a selection unit 11, a presentation unit 12, a registration unit 13, a replacement time calculation unit 14, a notification unit 15, and a storage unit 16. As described above, the cubicle management system 1 is a cloud server. Therefore, the replacement target information acquisition unit 10, the selection unit 11, the presentation unit 12, the registration unit 13, the replacement time calculation unit 14, the notification unit 15, and the storage unit 16 are realized by one or more servers. Note that the cubicle management system 1 may also be realized by a single server.

[0037] The replacement target information acquisition unit 10, the selection unit 11, the presentation unit 12, the registration unit 13, the replacement time calculation unit 14, and the notification unit 15 are each realized by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) loading a program from a ROM (Read Only Memory) into a RAM (Random Access Memory) and executing processing in accordance with the program. The ROM and RAM are included in the storage unit 16.

[0038] The replacement target information acquisition unit 10 acquires replacement target information F1. The replacement target information F1 is information that specifies a replacement target device Q1. The replacement target device Q1 is a replacement target among the devices 20 indicated by device information B1 stored in the database A1.

[0039] The selection unit 11 selects a substitute device R1 for the replacement target device Q1 indicated by the replacement target information F1 from among the substitute device candidates P1 indicated by the substitute device candidate information D1 stored in the database A1.

[0040] The presentation unit 12 presents the alternative device R1 selected by the selection unit 11. The presentation unit 12 generates alternative device information G1 indicating the alternative device R1.

[0041] The registration unit 13 registers various types of information in the database A1. The various types of information include the above-mentioned device information B1, manufacturing information C1, substitute device candidate information D1, replacement time information E1, and manual information M1. Furthermore, when the device 20 is replaced with a substitute device R1, the registration unit 13 registers the device information B1 about the substitute device R1 in the database A1.

[0042] The replacement time calculation unit 14 calculates the replacement time of the device 20. The replacement time calculation unit 14 stores replacement time information E1 indicating the calculated replacement time in the database A1 in association with the device information B1. Alternatively, the replacement time calculation unit 14 updates the replacement time information E1 according to the calculated replacement time. The replacement time calculation unit 14 calculates the replacement time based on, for example, the installation time of the cubicle 2 and the model of the device 20. Note that the replacement time calculation unit 14 may use the manufacturing time of the cubicle 2 instead of the installation time to calculate the replacement time. Since the cubicle 2 is expected to be installed shortly after being manufactured, it is expected that the installation time and the manufacturing time will indicate approximately the same time.

[0043] The notification unit 15 notifies the safety manager terminal device 4 when it is time to replace the device 20. The notification unit 15 determines whether or not the replacement time has arrived based on the replacement time information E1. The notification unit 15 generates notification information J1 indicating that it is time to replace the device 20.

[0044] The storage unit 16 stores various types of information. The storage unit 16 is configured using a storage device such as a magnetic hard disk drive or a semiconductor storage device. The information stored in the storage unit 16 includes a database A1.

[0045] [Functional configuration of security manager terminal device 4] 5 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the safety manager terminal device 4 according to this embodiment. The safety manager terminal device 4 includes a processing unit 40, a terminal-side storage unit 41, an operation unit 42, a display unit 43, and a communication unit 44.

[0046] The processing unit 40 performs various controls on the security officer terminal device 4. The processing unit 40 includes a replacement target designation unit 400, a substitute device information acquisition unit 401, and a notification acquisition unit 402. The replacement target designation unit 400, the substitute device information acquisition unit 401, and the notification acquisition unit 402 are each realized, for example, by a CPU loading a program read from a ROM into a RAM and executing processing in accordance with the program. The CPU is included in the processing unit 40. The ROM and RAM are included in the terminal-side storage unit 41.

[0047] The replacement target designation unit 400 designates a replacement target device Q1 that is to be replaced among the devices 20 housed in the cubicle 2. The replacement target designation unit 400 generates replacement target information F1 that indicates the designated replacement target device Q1. The replacement target designation unit 400 generates the replacement target information F1 based on an operation from a security manager that is received by the operation unit 42.

[0048] The substitute device information acquisition unit 401 acquires substitute device information G1 from the cubicle management system 1. The substitute device information acquisition unit 401 causes the display unit 43 to display the acquired substitute device information G1.

[0049] The notification acquisition unit 402 acquires the notification information J1 from the cubicle management system 1. The notification acquisition unit 402 causes the display unit 43 to display the acquired notification information J1.

[0050] The terminal-side storage unit 41 stores various types of information and is configured using a storage device such as a semiconductor storage device or a magnetic hard disk device.

[0051] The operation unit 42 receives various operations from the security manager. The operations include an operation to specify a device Q1 to be replaced among the devices 20 housed in the cubicle 2. The operation unit 42 includes, for example, a touch panel, operation buttons, a mouse, or a keyboard.

[0052] The display unit 43 displays various types of information. For example, the display unit 43 displays substitute device information G1 or notification information J1. The display unit 43 also displays a database A1 for viewing by the security manager. The display unit 43 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence (EL: Electro-Luminescence) display.

[0053] The communication unit 44 transmits and receives various information between the safety manager terminal device 4 and the cubicle management system 1 via the communication network N1. The communication unit 44 includes a communication interface (I / F) for wireless communication.

[0054] [Database registration process] Next, a database registration process in which the cubicle management system 1 registers various pieces of information as the database A1 will be described with reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of the database registration process according to this embodiment.

[0055] Step S10: The registration unit 13 registers the equipment information B1 and manufacturing information C1 input from the cubicle manufacturer terminal 5 in the database A1. When a new cubicle 2 is installed, an operator at the cubicle manufacturer uses the cubicle manufacturer terminal 5 to register the equipment information B1 and manufacturing information C1 in the database A1. The registration unit 13 acquires the equipment information B1 and manufacturing information C1 from the cubicle manufacturer terminal 5. The registration unit 13 registers the acquired equipment information B1 and manufacturing information C1 in the database A1.

[0056] Step S20: The registration unit 13 executes a substitute device candidate information registration process. The substitute device candidate information registration process will now be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of the substitute device candidate information registration process according to this embodiment.

[0057] Step S110: The registration unit 13 acquires substitute device candidate information D1 input from the device manufacturer terminal 6. Here, an operator at the device manufacturer periodically registers the substitute device candidate information D1 in the database A1 using the device manufacturer terminal 6. The registration unit 13 acquires the substitute device candidate information D1 from the device manufacturer terminal 6.

[0058] Step S120: The registration unit 13 determines whether the alternative device R1 indicated by the alternative device candidate information D1 can be installed in the cubicle 2. The registration unit 13 makes the determination based on the installation conditions. The installation conditions are indicated by the rating, size, mounting pitch, and loss of the device that can be installed in the cubicle 2. If the rating, size, mounting pitch, and loss of the alternative device R1 each satisfy the installation conditions, the registration unit 13 determines that the alternative device R1 indicated by the alternative device candidate information D1 can be installed in the cubicle 2.

[0059] If the registration unit 13 determines that the substitute device R1 can be installed in the cubicle 2 (step S120; YES), it executes the process of step S130. On the other hand, if the registration unit 13 determines that the substitute device R1 cannot be installed in the cubicle 2 (step S120; NO), it executes the process of step S140.

[0060] Step S130: The registration unit 13 registers the substitute device candidate information D1 in the database A1. After that, the registration unit 13 ends the substitute device candidate information registration process.

[0061] Step S140: The registration unit 13 transmits an installation impossible notification to the equipment manufacturer terminal 6. The installation impossible notification is a notification indicating that the alternative equipment R1 cannot be installed in the cubicle 2. The installation impossible notification includes information indicating which of the rating, size, mounting pitch, and loss of the alternative equipment R1 does not satisfy the installation conditions.

[0062] In response to the notification that installation is not possible, the equipment manufacturer's workers may consider, for example, changing the alternative equipment R1 to another equipment. The equipment manufacturer's workers may also consider changing the rating, size, mounting pitch, and loss of the alternative equipment R1.

[0063] Step S150: The registration unit 13 transmits a notification that installation is not possible to the safety manager terminal device 4. In response to the notification that installation is not possible, the safety manager considers, for example, changing the space in which the replacement target device Q1 is to be installed and the mounting pitch for the cubicle 2. If these spaces and mounting pitches are changed, the replacement device R1 will be able to be installed in the cubicle 2 after the change. After step S150, the registration unit 13 ends the substitute device candidate information registration process.

[0064] In addition, in the substitute device candidate information registration process shown in Fig. 7, one or more of the processes of step S140 and step S150 may be omitted. When the processes of step S140 and step S150 are both omitted, if the registration unit 13 determines in step S120 that the substitute device R1 cannot be installed in the cubicle 2, it simply ends the substitute candidate information registration process. With this, the cubicle management system 1 ends the database registration process.

[0065] 8 and 9, a description will be given of the substitute device presentation process in which the safety manager terminal device 4 specifies the device to be replaced and substitute device information is presented by the cubicle management system 1. The substitute device presentation process consists of a terminal-side substitute device presentation process performed by the safety manager terminal device 4 and a server-side substitute device presentation process performed by the cubicle management system 1.

[0066] [Terminal side alternative device presentation process] 8 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of the terminal-side substitute device presentation process according to this embodiment. The terminal-side substitute device presentation process is executed and started by the safety manager operating the safety manager terminal device 4 when the safety manager determines that the device 20 stored in the cubicle 2 needs to be replaced.

[0067] For example, during a regular inspection of the cubicle 2, the safety manager determines whether or not it is necessary to replace the device 20 due to a malfunction or the like. As another example, when the cubicle management system 1 notifies the safety manager that it is time to replace the device 20, the safety manager determines whether or not it is actually necessary to replace the device 20. This notification is executed by the notification unit 15 provided in the cubicle management system 1 described above sending notification information J1 to the safety manager terminal device 4, and the notification acquisition unit 402 acquiring the notification information J1.

[0068] Step S210: The replacement target designation unit 400 designates a replacement target device Q1 that is to be replaced among the devices 20 housed in the cubicle 2. The replacement target designation unit 400 generates replacement target information F1 based on an operation from the security manager received by the operation unit 42.

[0069] Step S220: The replacement target designation unit 400 transmits the generated replacement target information F1 to the cubicle management system 1. The replacement target designation unit 400 causes the communication unit 44 to transmit the replacement target information F1. When the cubicle management system 1 receives the replacement target information F1, it generates substitute device information G1 by a server-side substitute device presentation process described later.

[0070] Step S230: The substitute device information acquisition unit 401 acquires the substitute device information G1 from the cubicle management system 1. The substitute device information acquisition unit 401 acquires the substitute device information G1 received by the communication unit 44.

[0071] Step S240: The substitute device information acquisition unit 401 displays the acquired substitute device information G1 on the display unit 43. The substitute device information acquisition unit 401 generates a substitute device presentation screen based on the substitute device information G1, and displays the substitute device presentation screen on the display unit 43. In this way, the substitute device candidate P1 is presented to the security manager. A specific example of the substitute device presentation screen will be described later. With the above, the safety manager terminal device 4 ends the terminal-side alternative device presentation process.

[0072] [Server-side alternative device presentation process] 9 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of the server-side substitute device presentation process according to this embodiment. The server-side substitute device presentation process is started when the cubicle management system 1 receives the replacement target information F1.

[0073] Step S310: The exchange target information acquisition unit 10 acquires the exchange target information F1. The exchange target information F1 is received from the cubicle management system 1 as described above.

[0074] Step S320: The selection unit 11 selects a substitute device R1 for the replacement target device Q1 indicated by the replacement target information F1 from among the substitute device candidates P1 indicated by the substitute device candidate information D1 stored in the database A1. The selection unit 11 generates substitute device information G1 based on the selection result.

[0075] In this embodiment, the selection unit 11 selects multiple substitute device candidates P1 from among the substitute device candidates P1 indicated by the substitute device candidate information D1. First, the selection unit 11 selects a substitute device candidate P1 of the same model (same device manufacturer) as the replacement target device Q1 from among the substitute device candidates P1 indicated by the substitute device candidate information D1 as a first candidate for a substitute device for the replacement target device Q1. Next, the selection unit 11 selects a second candidate and subsequent candidates in descending order of the scores obtained by weighting the scores for each predetermined item. The second candidate and subsequent candidates may include a product of a different model from the replacement target device Q1. A product of a different model from the replacement target device Q1 is, for example, a product made by a device manufacturer other than the device manufacturer that manufactured the replacement target device Q1.

[0076] The items in question include one or more of the following: (a) Price; (b) installation space; (c) Ease of construction or placement; (ii) Performance; (e) Availability; (f) Availability of parts required for replacement

[0077] The installation space is indicated, for example, by whether or not the size of the cubicle 2 needs to be changed. The performance includes, for example, one or more of capacity, heat generation, loss, or overcurrent or earth fault protection. The availability is evaluated based on whether the replacement device candidate P1 is a general product or a custom-made product. Note that the availability is different from the availability of stock. The parts required for replacement include, for example, panel parts such as copper bars, current transformers, or meters.

[0078] Each item is assigned a score, for example, on a three-level scale (2 points: optimum, 1 point: good, 0 point: unsuitable). The selection unit 11 calculates the score for each item based on, for example, a predetermined table that associates items with scores. The price, installation space, and performance are indicated by numerical values, and for example, the relative proportions to the price, installation space, and performance of the replacement target device Q1 currently stored in the cubicle 2 are associated with the above three-level scores. The absolute values of the price, installation space, and performance may also be associated with the three-level scores.

[0079] The weights for the scores of each item are set in advance, for example, "3" is assigned to items (A), (B), and (C), "2" is assigned to items (D) and (E), and "1" is assigned to item (F). The selection unit 11 calculates the score for the alternative device candidate P1 by multiplying the score for each item by the weight for that score and adding the results. The score for each item may be indicated by a score other than three levels. In another example, the score for each item may be a two-level score, or a four-level or higher level score.

[0080] In this embodiment, an example has been described in which a replacement device candidate P1 of the same model (same manufacturer) as the replacement-target device Q1 indicated by the replacement device candidate information D1 is selected as the first candidate for the replacement device for the replacement-target device Q1, but this is not limited to this. Multiple replacement device candidates P1 may be selected in descending order of the above-mentioned score, regardless of the model (manufacturer). In this case, depending on the calculated score, a product of a different model from the replacement-target device Q1 currently stored in the cubicle 2 may be selected as the first candidate. The selection unit 11 may select only one substitute device candidate P1 from among the substitute device candidates P1 indicated by the substitute device candidate information D1.

[0081] Step S330: The selection unit 11 transmits the generated substitute device information G1 to the safety manager terminal device 4. Thereafter, as described above, the substitute device presentation screen generated based on the substitute device information G1 is displayed on the display unit 43 of the safety manager terminal device 4. With this, the cubicle management system 1 ends the server-side alternative device presentation process.

[0082] The substitute device presentation screen will now be described with reference to Figures 10 and 11. Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of the substitute device presentation screen according to this embodiment. The substitute device presentation screen displays information about the replacement device candidate P1 as well as information about the replacement target device Q1 ("transformer" in Figure 10) currently stored in the cubicle 2. The information about the replacement target device Q1 currently stored includes the device manufacturer ("Company A") and product number ("PQR"). Figure 10 shows that a device of the same model (product number) as the replacement target device Q1 has been discontinued.

[0083] As shown in the figure, the substitute device presentation screen has columns for the following items: "Substitute device candidate," "Device manufacturer," "Model number," "Capacity," "Size," "Mounting pitch," and "Loss (heat generation)." In other words, in the example of the substitute device presentation screen shown in Fig. 10, the substitute device information G1 is displayed as a two-dimensional table consisting of rows and columns in which each piece of information indicated by the substitute device information G1 for each substitute device candidate P1 is stored.

[0084] The replacement device presentation screen displays the ranking and product number of the replacement device candidate P1. As an example, the ranking is displayed up to the top three. The first candidate is the replacement device candidate P1 that is the same model as the currently stored replacement target device Q1, made by device manufacturer "Company A." Note that the number of replacement device candidates P1 displayed may be any number other than three.

[0085] Furthermore, even if the substitute device information G1 includes multiple substitute device candidates P1, only some of the multiple substitute device candidates P1 may be displayed. For example, only the first candidate may be displayed. The number of candidates to be displayed may be selected by an operation from the operation unit 42. If too many substitute device candidates P1 are displayed, it may be time-consuming for the security manager to further select from the candidates, so it is appropriate to display about three substitute device candidates P1.

[0086] The substitute device presentation screen displays not only the ranking and product number of the substitute device candidate P1, but also the evaluation results that were the factors that led to the selection of the substitute device candidate P1. As an example, Fig. 10 displays evaluation results such as installation space such as size, ease of installation or placement such as mounting pitch, and performance such as loss (heat generation).

[0087] Furthermore, the replacement device candidate P1 includes the evaluation result of the replacement workability for the replacement target device Q1. The replacement workability screen is a screen that is generated based on the evaluation result. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the replacement workability screen according to this embodiment. The replacement workability screen may be displayed as part of the replacement device presentation screen as shown in FIG. 10, or may be displayed when a predetermined operation (such as a click) is performed on a predetermined area of the replacement device presentation screen (for example, a cell displaying evaluation result items such as installation space, ease of construction or placement, and performance).

[0088] The replacement workability screen shown in Fig. 11 displays text based on the evaluation results of the first, second, and third candidates in a remarks column, such as installation space, ease of construction or placement, and performance. The safety manager refers to this text and uses it to make a decision when selecting the alternative device R1 from the presented alternative device candidates P1.

[0089] For example, if replacing the replacement target device Q1 with the replacement candidate device P1 increases the capacity, it may be necessary to add or change parts. The replacement workability screen may display information about the parts required for replacement. In Figure 11, the text "250mm" displayed in the row of the third candidate is 2 "Needs to be changed to" is an example of information about a part that needs to be replaced. If there are multiple parts that need to be replaced, a list of the parts may be displayed.

[0090] [Database update process] Next, referring to Fig. 12, a database update process will be described in which the cubicle management system 1 updates various pieces of information in the database A1 when the device 20 is replaced with an alternative device R1. A database registration process will be described in which the cubicle management system 1 registers various pieces of information as the database A1. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of the database update process according to this embodiment.

[0091] Step S410: When the device 20 is replaced with the alternative device R1, the registration unit 13 registers device information B1 about the alternative device R1 in the database A1. When the device 20 is replaced with the alternative device R1, the safety manager performs an operation to send replacement completion information L1 to the cubicle management system 1 using the safety manager terminal device 4. The replacement completion information L1 is information indicating that the device 20 has been replaced with the alternative device R1. The registration unit 13 registers device information B1 about the alternative device R1 in the database A1 based on the replacement completion information L1 acquired from the safety manager terminal device 4.

[0092] In this embodiment, the registration unit 13 updates the device information B1 for the replacement target device Q1 with the device information B1 for the replacement device R1. Note that the registration unit 13 may add the device information B1 for the replacement device R1 to the database A1 while retaining the device information B1 for the replacement target device Q1 before replacement. In this case, when the database A1 is displayed, the device information B1 for the replacement target device Q1 before replacement is displayed in a manner indicating that the device indicated by the device information B1 has already been replaced. For example, the device information B1 for the replacement target device Q1 before replacement is displayed in an area separate from the device information B1 for the currently installed devices 20, including the replacement device R1 after replacement. The area displaying the device information B1 for the replacement target device Q1 before replacement may be given a background color different from that of the area displaying the device information B1 for the currently installed devices 20, or a predetermined mark may be added.

[0093] Step S420: The registration unit 13 executes a substitute device candidate information registration process. The process of step S420 is similar to the process of step S20 (FIG. 6) described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. However, in the process of step S420, while the substitute device candidate information D1 for the device 20 is registered in step S20, the substitute device candidate information D1 for the substitute device R1 is registered. With this, the cubicle management system 1 ends the database update process.

[0094] One or more of the replacement time calculation unit 14 and the notification unit 15 may be omitted from the configuration of the cubicle management system 1. In that case, the replacement time information E1 may be omitted from the configuration of the database A1. The replacement time information E1 may be generated by a device other than the cubicle management system 1 and registered in the database A1. Also, the replacement time may be calculated by an operator of the cubicle manufacturer and registered as the replacement time information E1.

[0095] As described above, the cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment includes the storage unit 16, the exchange target information acquisition unit 10, the selection unit 11, and the presentation unit 12. The memory unit 16 stores a database A1 in which equipment information B1 indicating equipment 20 housed in the cubicle 2 and substitute equipment candidate information D1 indicating substitute equipment candidate P1 that is a candidate for a substitute equipment for the equipment 20 are stored in association with each other. The replacement target information acquisition unit 10 acquires replacement target information F1 that designates a replacement target device Q1 that is a replacement target among the devices 20 indicated by the device information B1 stored in the database A1. The selection unit 11 selects a substitute device R1 for the replacement target device Q1 indicated by the replacement target information F1 from among the substitute device candidates P1 indicated by the substitute device candidate information D1 stored in the database A1. The presentation unit 12 presents the selected alternative device R1.

[0096] With this configuration, in the cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment, when replacing equipment 20 provided in a cubicle 2, an alternative equipment R1 is automatically presented, thereby assisting in the selection of the alternative equipment R1. Furthermore, in the cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment, the security manager can refer to the database A1 in which the equipment information B1 is stored when deciding whether to replace the equipment 20.

[0097] Previously, security managers would refer to information posted on the web based on inspection or testing results to determine whether or not equipment needed replacing for cubicles. Inexperienced security managers would have to select replacement products themselves based on the equipment information for the installed cubicles, which took time. Furthermore, security managers are not always the same person, and there are cases where the next security manager takes over. When this happens, information may not be passed on correctly.

[0098] Furthermore, in the cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment, the selection unit 11 selects a plurality of substitute device candidates P1 from among the substitute device candidates P1 indicated by the substitute device candidate information D1.

[0099] With this configuration, the cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment can present a plurality of substitute device candidates P1, so that the security manager can select the substitute device R1 by himself while comparing the plurality of substitute device candidates P1.

[0100] Furthermore, in the cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment, the selection unit 11 selects a replacement device candidate P1 of the same model as the replacement device Q1 from among the replacement device candidates P1 indicated by the replacement device candidate information D1 as the first candidate replacement device for the replacement device Q1, and selects the second and subsequent candidates in descending order of the scores obtained by weighting the scores for each specified item.

[0101] With this configuration, the cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment can present the second and subsequent candidates along with the first candidate of the same model as the replacement target device Q1, so that even if it is more appropriate to select from the second and subsequent candidates rather than the first candidate of the model, the safety manager can select the replacement device R1 from the second and subsequent candidates. An example of a case where it is more appropriate to select from the second and subsequent candidates rather than the first candidate is when the first candidate of the same model as the replacement target device Q1 is difficult to obtain.

[0102] In addition, in the cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment, the items include one or more of price, installation space, ease of construction or placement, performance, ease of availability, or whether or not parts that require replacement are available.

[0103] With this configuration, the cubicle management system 1 of this embodiment can select candidate replacement equipment P1 based on one or more of the following conditions: price, installation space, ease of construction or placement, performance, availability, or the presence or absence of parts required for replacement. This improves the quality of the selection of candidate replacement equipment P1 compared to when these conditions are not used.

[0104] Moreover, the cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment further includes a registration unit 13. When the device 20 is replaced with a substitute device R1, the registration unit 13 registers device information B1 about the substitute device R1 in the database A1.

[0105] With this configuration, in the cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment, when the device 20 is replaced, the database A1 is automatically updated, thereby eliminating the need to update the database A1.

[0106] Moreover, the cubicle management system 1 according to this embodiment further includes a replacement time calculation unit 14. The replacement time calculation unit 14 calculates the replacement time of the device 20, and stores replacement time information E1 indicating the calculated replacement time in the database A1 in association with the device information B1.

[0107] With this configuration, in the cubicle management system 1 of this embodiment, the replacement time of the equipment 20 is automatically calculated and stored in the database A1, thereby assisting the security manager in determining whether or not the equipment 20 needs to be replaced.

[0108] (Second embodiment) The second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the first embodiment, a case where a substitute device for a device stored in a cubicle is automatically presented by the cubicle management system is described. In this embodiment, a case where the presented substitute device is ordered from the cubicle management system is described. The cubicle management system according to this embodiment will be referred to as a cubicle management system 1a, and the safety manager terminal device will be referred to as a safety manager terminal device 4a. The same components as those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same components and operations may be omitted.

[0109] [Functional configuration of cubicle management system 1a] 13 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a cubicle management system 1a according to this embodiment. The cubicle management system 1a includes a replacement target information acquisition unit 10, a selection unit 11, a presentation unit 12, a registration unit 13, a replacement time calculation unit 14, a notification unit 15, an order placement unit 17a, and a storage unit 16.

[0110] Comparing the cubicle management system 1a (FIG. 13) according to this embodiment with the cubicle management system 1 (FIG. 4) according to the first embodiment, the ordering unit 17a is different. Here, the functions of the other components (replacement target information acquisition unit 10, selection unit 11, presentation unit 12, registration unit 13, replacement time calculation unit 14, notification unit 15, and storage unit 16) are the same as those of the first embodiment. Explanation of the same functions as those of the first embodiment will be omitted, and the second embodiment will be mainly described with reference to the parts that are different from the first embodiment.

[0111] The ordering unit 17a places an order for the replacement device R1 based on the order information H1, which includes first order information H11 and second order information H12. The first order information H11 is information necessary for ordering a replacement device R1 of the same model as the device 20. The first order information H11 is, for example, information indicating the model of the device 20. The ordering unit 17a uses the model and the manufacturer's URL included in the device information B1 as the first order information H11. The second order information H12 is information necessary for ordering the substitute device candidate P1. The second order information H12 is, for example, information indicating the model of the substitute device candidate P1. The ordering unit 17a uses the model and manufacturer information URL included in the substitute device candidate information D1 as the second order information H12.

[0112] [Functional configuration of the safety manager terminal device 4a] 14 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the safety manager terminal device 4a according to this embodiment. The safety manager terminal device 4a includes a processing unit 40a, a terminal-side storage unit 41, an operation unit 42, a display unit 43, and a communication unit 44.

[0113] Comparing the safety manager terminal device 4a (FIG. 14) according to this embodiment with the safety manager terminal device 4 (FIG. 5) according to the first embodiment, the processing unit 40a is different. However, the functions of the other components (terminal-side storage unit 41, operation unit 42, display unit 43, and communication unit 44) are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0114] The processing unit 40a includes a replacement target designation unit 400, a substitute device information acquisition unit 401, a notification acquisition unit 402, and a terminal-side ordering unit 403a. The functions of the replacement target designation unit 400, the substitute device information acquisition unit 401, and the notification acquisition unit 402 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0115] The terminal-side ordering unit 403a transmits ordering instruction information indicating that the substitute device R1 is to be ordered to the cubicle management system 1a. The terminal-side ordering unit 403a generates the ordering instruction information based on the operation from the safety manager accepted by the operation unit 42.

[0116] This operation is performed, for example, from a substitute device presentation screen displayed on the display unit 43. As shown in FIG. 15, an order button is displayed on the substitute device presentation screen. The order button is displayed in association with a substitute device candidate P1. The security manager presses (tap, click, etc.) the order button via the operation unit 42 to specify the substitute device R1 to be ordered.

[0117] As described above, the cubicle management system 1a according to this embodiment further includes the ordering unit 17a. The ordering unit 17a orders the substitute device R1 based on the order information H1 required to order the substitute device R1.

[0118] With this configuration, the cubicle management system 1a according to this embodiment can order the substitute device R1, which reduces the time and effort required for the safety manager to order the substitute device R1. If the ordering unit 17a is not provided, the safety manager must place the order by himself / herself, for example, by accessing the URL of the device manufacturer.

[0119] In the cubicle management system 1a according to this embodiment, the order information H1 includes first order information H11 required to order a substitute device R1 of the same model as the device 20.

[0120] With this configuration, in the cubicle management system 1a of this embodiment, the first order information H11 is stored in the database A1, which reduces the effort required for the security manager to look up the information necessary to order replacement equipment R1 of the same model as equipment 20.

[0121] Furthermore, in the cubicle management system 1a according to this embodiment, the order information H1 includes second order information H12 required to order the alternative device candidate P1.

[0122] With this configuration, in the cubicle management system 1a of this embodiment, the second ordering information H12 is stored in the database A1, thereby reducing the effort required for the security manager to look up the information necessary to order the replacement equipment candidate P1.

[0123] (Third embodiment) The third embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the first embodiment, the case where equipment information is registered in the database from the cubicle manufacturer terminal is described. In this embodiment, the case where whether or not equipment information about equipment stored in a cubicle is registered in the database is confirmed from the safety manager terminal device is described. The cubicle management system according to this embodiment will be referred to as a cubicle management system 1b, and the safety manager terminal device will be referred to as a safety manager terminal device 4b. The same components as those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same components and operations may be omitted.

[0124] [Cubicle Management System 1b Functional Configuration] 16 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a cubicle management system 1b according to this embodiment. The cubicle management system 1b includes a replacement target information acquisition unit 10, a selection unit 11, a presentation unit 12, a registration unit 13b, a replacement time calculation unit 14, a notification unit 15, a device confirmation information acquisition unit 18b, and a storage unit 16.

[0125] Comparing the cubicle management system 1b (FIG. 16) according to this embodiment with the cubicle management system 1 (FIG. 4) according to the first embodiment, the registration unit 13b and the equipment confirmation information acquisition unit 18b are different. Here, the functions of the other components (replacement target information acquisition unit 10, selection unit 11, presentation unit 12, replacement time calculation unit 14, notification unit 15, and storage unit 16) are the same as those of the first embodiment. Explanation of the same functions as those of the first embodiment will be omitted, and the third embodiment will be mainly described with reference to the parts that are different from the first embodiment.

[0126] The equipment confirmation information acquisition unit 18b acquires equipment confirmation information K1. The equipment confirmation information K1 is information indicating that equipment 20 is housed in the cubicle 2. In the present embodiment, as an example, the equipment confirmation information K1 is generated by the safety manager terminal device 4 by reading text written on a nameplate attached to the equipment 20 housed in the cubicle 2. The text indicates the product number, name, rating, model, etc.

[0127] If the device information B1 for the device 20 indicated by the device confirmation information K1 is not stored in the database A1, the registration unit 13b registers the device information B1 for the device 20 indicated by the device confirmation information K1 in the database A1.

[0128] [Functional configuration of the safety manager terminal device 4b] 17 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the safety manager terminal device 4b according to this embodiment. The safety manager terminal device 4b includes a processing unit 40b, a terminal-side storage unit 41, an operation unit 42, a display unit 43, a communication unit 44, and a reading unit 45b.

[0129] Comparing the safety manager terminal device 4b (FIG. 17) according to this embodiment with the safety manager terminal device 4 (FIG. 5) according to the first embodiment, the processing unit 40b and the reading unit 45b are different. However, the functions of the other components (terminal-side storage unit 41, operation unit 42, display unit 43, and communication unit 44) are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0130] The processing unit 40b includes a replacement target designation unit 400, a substitute device information acquisition unit 401, a notification acquisition unit 402, and a device confirmation information transmission unit 404b. The functions of the replacement target designation unit 400, the substitute device information acquisition unit 401, and the notification acquisition unit 402 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0131] The equipment confirmation information transmitting unit 404b transmits the equipment confirmation information K1 to the cubicle management system 1b. In the equipment confirmation information transmitting unit 404b, the reading unit 45b generates the equipment confirmation information K1 based on the text written on the nameplate attached to the equipment 20 stored in the cubicle 2.

[0132] The reading unit 45b reads text written on a nameplate attached to the device 20 housed in the cubicle 2. Here, the reading unit 45b recognizes characters in the text based on optical character recognition and extracts character data.

[0133] The reading of the text by the reading unit 45b is executed by the safety manager during, for example, a power outage inspection. The equipment confirmation information transmitting unit 404b may generate the equipment confirmation information K1 based on an operation from the safety manager received by the operation unit 42. In this operation, the safety manager visually checks the text written on the nameplate attached to the equipment 20 housed in the cubicle 2 and inputs the text. In this case, the reading unit 45b may be omitted from the configuration of the safety manager terminal device 4b.

[0134] As described above, the cubicle management system 1b according to this embodiment further includes the device confirmation information acquisition unit 18b and the registration unit 13b. The equipment confirmation information acquiring unit 18b acquires equipment confirmation information K1 indicating that the equipment 20 is housed in the cubicle 2. If the device information B1 for the device 20 indicated by the device confirmation information K1 is not stored in the database A1, the registration unit 13b registers the device information B1 for the device 20 indicated by the device confirmation information K1 in the database A1.

[0135] With this configuration, in the cubicle management system 1b of this embodiment, even if the equipment information B1 for the equipment 20 is not stored in the database A1, the equipment information B1 can be registered in the database A1, thereby preventing the occurrence of a situation in which the equipment information B1 is not registered in the database A1.

[0136] In the cubicle management system 1b according to this embodiment, the device confirmation information K1 is generated by reading the text written on the nameplate attached to the device 20 housed in the cubicle 2.

[0137] With this configuration, the cubicle management system 1b of this embodiment can easily generate equipment confirmation information K1 indicating that equipment 20 is stored in the cubicle 2, thereby saving the security manager the trouble of generating the equipment confirmation information K1.

[0138] In addition, parts of the cubicle management systems 1, 1a, and 1b in the above-described embodiments, such as the replacement target information acquisition unit 10, selection unit 11, presentation unit 12, registration unit 13, 13b, replacement time calculation unit 14, notification unit 15, ordering unit 17a, and equipment confirmation information acquisition unit 18b, may be implemented by a computer. In this case, the control functions may be realized by recording a program for implementing the control functions on a computer-readable recording medium and loading and executing the program on the recording medium into a computer system. Note that the "computer system" here refers to a computer system built into the cubicle management systems 1, 1a, and 1b, including an operating system (OS) and hardware such as peripheral devices. Furthermore, the "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, read-only memories (ROMs), and compact disc-read-only memories (CD-ROMs), as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into the computer system. Furthermore, the term "computer-readable recording medium" may include a medium that dynamically stores a program for a short period of time, such as a communication line when transmitting a program via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line, or a medium that stores a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory within a computer system that serves as a server or client in such a case. The program may also be one that realizes part of the above-mentioned functions, or one that can realize the above-mentioned functions in combination with a program already stored in the computer system. Furthermore, part or all of the cubicle management systems 1, 1a, and 1b in the above-described embodiments may be realized as an integrated circuit such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration). Each functional block of the cubicle management systems 1, 1a, and 1b may be individually implemented as a processor, or part or all of them may be integrated into a processor. Furthermore, the integrated circuit implementation method is not limited to LSI, and may be implemented using a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. Furthermore, if an integrated circuit implementation technology that can replace LSI emerges due to advances in semiconductor technology, an integrated circuit based on that technology may be used.

[0139] One embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, but the specific configuration is not limited to that described above, and various design changes and the like are possible within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0140] 1, 1a, 1b... cubicle management system, 10... replacement target information acquisition unit, 11... selection unit, 12... presentation unit, 16... storage unit, 2... cubicle, 20... equipment, A1... database, B1... equipment information, D1... replacement equipment candidate information, P1... replacement equipment candidate, Q1... replacement target equipment, R1... replacement equipment

Claims

1. a storage unit that stores a database in which device information indicating devices housed in a cubicle and substitute device candidate information indicating substitute device candidates that are candidates for substitute devices for the devices are stored in association with each other; a replacement target information acquisition unit that acquires replacement target information that specifies a replacement target device that is a replacement target among the devices indicated by the device information stored in the database; a selection unit that selects a substitute device for the replacement target device indicated by the replacement target information from the substitute device candidates indicated by the substitute device candidate information stored in the database; a presentation unit that presents the selected alternative device; A cubicle management system equipped with:

2. The selection unit selects a plurality of substitute device candidates from the substitute device candidates indicated by the substitute device candidate information. The cubicle management system according to claim 1.

3. The selection unit selects, from the replacement device candidates indicated by the replacement device candidate information, the replacement device candidate of the same model as the replacement target device as a first candidate for the replacement device, and selects second and subsequent candidates in descending order of scores obtained by weighting the scores for each predetermined item. The cubicle management system according to claim 2.

4. The items include one or more of the following: price, installation space, ease of construction or placement, performance, availability, or whether or not replacement parts are required. The cubicle management system according to claim 3.

5. a registration unit that registers the device information about the substitute device in the database when the device is replaced with the substitute device; The cubicle management system according to claim 1 , further comprising:

6. a replacement time calculation unit that calculates the replacement time of the device and stores replacement time information indicating the calculated replacement time in the database in association with the device information; The cubicle management system according to claim 1 , further comprising:

7. an ordering unit that orders the replacement device based on order information required to order the replacement device; The cubicle management system according to claim 1 , further comprising:

8. The ordering information includes first ordering information necessary to order the replacement device of the same model as the device. The cubicle management system according to claim 7.

9. The ordering information includes second ordering information necessary for ordering the replacement device candidate. The cubicle management system according to claim 7.

10. an equipment confirmation information acquisition unit that acquires equipment confirmation information indicating that the equipment is housed in the cubicle; a registration unit that registers, in the database, the device information about the device indicated by the device confirmation information if the device information about the device indicated by the device confirmation information is not stored in the database; The cubicle management system according to claim 1 , further comprising:

11. The device identification information is generated by reading text written on a nameplate attached to the device housed in the cubicle. The cubicle management system according to claim 10.

12. a storage step of storing a database in which device information indicating devices housed in the cubicle and substitute device candidate information indicating substitute device candidates that are candidates for substitute devices for the devices are stored in association with each other; a replacement target information acquisition step of acquiring replacement target information that specifies a replacement target device that is a replacement target among the devices indicated by the device information stored in the database; a selection step of selecting a substitute device for the replacement target device indicated by the replacement target information from the substitute device candidates indicated by the substitute device candidate information stored in the database; a presentation step of presenting the selected alternative device; A cubicle management method having the above structure.

13. On the computer, a storage step of storing a database in which device information indicating devices housed in the cubicle and substitute device candidate information indicating substitute device candidates that are candidates for substitute devices for the devices are stored in association with each other; a replacement target information acquisition step of acquiring replacement target information that specifies a replacement target device that is a replacement target among the devices indicated by the device information stored in the database; a selection step of selecting a substitute device for the replacement target device indicated by the replacement target information from the substitute device candidates indicated by the substitute device candidate information stored in the database; a presentation step of presenting the selected alternative device; A program to execute.

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