Communication system, program, and communication terminal

Abstract

To prevent erroneous operation in remotely controlling a plurality of apparatuses using a communication terminal to improve convenience of remote control using the communication terminal.SOLUTION: A communication system includes a communication terminal (smartphone 18) connected to a communication network 16 connected to a plurality of apparatuses (water heaters 14) comprises: a control unit (server 28) that for each apparatus, generates presentation information including function information classified using two or more functions including at least any of an operation function or monitoring function for the apparatus and screen identification information associated with the apparatus, receives selection of an operation function and an apparatus to be operated, and generates presentation information for presenting a start or stop instruction for the apparatus identified using the operation function and the apparatus on the basis of the selection; and an information presentation unit 76 for presenting the presentation information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a communication system, a program, and a communication terminal that uses a communication terminal such as a smartphone for remotely controlling and remotely monitoring multiple devices such as a water heater. [Background technology]

[0002] Remote control of water heaters installed in ordinary homes is performed using remote control devices such as bathroom remote controls and kitchen remote controls. Such remote control requires the specific water heater to be controlled, and there is a limit to the communication distance with this water heater. To address this issue, systems that remotely control and monitor multiple water heaters using communication terminals such as smartphones have been put into practical use.

[0003] It is known that in a system using a communication terminal for this remote control, a control unit for associating a communication terminal with a water heater executes a reception process to receive a selection of the type of remote control, such as remote operation or remote monitoring (for example, Patent Document 1). Paragraph 0114 of Patent Document 1 discloses that the display screen includes a remote monitoring screen and a remote operation screen, a display area is provided to distinguish between remote monitoring and remote operation, and the background color of this display area is made different to distinguish the type of remote control being performed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-17900 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Incidentally, when a plurality of water heaters are remotely controlled by a communication terminal, the relationship between each water heater and the communication terminal greatly affects the convenience of remote control of the water heater system. When selecting a water heater to be controlled using a communication terminal, it is necessary to recognize which water heater is currently selected. Even if text information indicating the selected water heater is displayed on the display screen, overlooking this text information can result in incorrect operation.

[0006] When selecting another water heater from the currently selected water heater, it is extremely troublesome to recognize which water heater is the selected water heater, even if the information is presented in text form. In other words, there is a problem that distinguishing between the water heater and the water heater linked to the communication terminal by text on the screen can lead to user misreading, making confirmation troublesome.

[0007] The inventors of the present disclosure have discovered that when multiple devices are remotely controlled using a communication terminal, such as when multiple devices are installed in a residence where multiple households reside, it is important to clarify the relationship between the multiple devices and the display screen of the communication terminal in order to prevent erroneous operation and increase the convenience of remote control.

[0008] Therefore, based on the above-mentioned problems and findings, an object of the present disclosure is to prevent erroneous operations when remotely controlling multiple devices using a communication terminal, and to improve the convenience of remote control using a communication terminal. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the communication system of the present disclosure, there is provided a communication system in which a communication terminal is connected to a communication network which is connected to a plurality of devices, the communication system generating, for each device, presentation information including function information sorted by two or more functions including at least either an operation function or a monitoring function of the device and screen identification information associated with the device, and including: a control unit that accepts a selection of the operation function and the device to be operated, and generates the presentation information that presents an instruction to start or stop operation for the device, which is identified by the operation function and the device based on this selection; and an information presentation unit that presents the presentation information.

[0010] In this communication system, the screen identification information may include either or both of background information indicating a background image of part or all of the presentation screen, and color information for coloring or coloring the presentation screen.

[0011] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the program of the present disclosure, there is provided a program executed by a computer, in which a communication terminal connected to a plurality of devices via a communication network generates, for each device, presentation information including function information sorted by two or more functions including at least either an operation function or a monitoring function of the device, and screen identification information associated with the device, and the computer executes a function to generate the presentation information that presents an instruction to start or stop operation for the device, identified by the operation function and the device, based on this selection, and a function to present the presentation information to an information presentation unit. In this program, the screen identification information may include either or both of background information indicating a background image of a part or the whole of the presentation screen, and color information for coloring or coloring the presentation screen.

[0012] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of a communication terminal of the present disclosure, there is provided a communication terminal connected to a plurality of devices via a communication network, which generates, for each device, presentation information including function information sorted by two or more functions including at least either an operation function or a monitoring function of the device, and screen identification information associated with the device, and includes: a control unit that accepts a selection of the operation function and the device to be operated, and generates the presentation information that presents an instruction to start or stop operation for the device, which is identified by the operation function and the device based on this selection; and an information presentation unit that presents the presentation information. In this communication terminal, the screen identification information may include either or both of background information indicating a background image of part or all of the presentation screen, and color information for coloring or coloring the presentation screen. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present disclosure, any of the following effects can be obtained. (1) Multiple devices remotely controlled by a communication terminal can be easily recognized from the presented information including the screen identification information associated with each device, thereby improving the visibility of the remote operation and remote monitoring of devices by the communication terminal and preventing incorrect operation or misrecognition of devices.

[0014] (2) If the communication terminal can communicate with the device via a communication network, remote operation and remote monitoring can be performed regardless of the distance from the device, making it possible to build a highly convenient communication system.

[0015] (3) A communication terminal to which multiple devices can be connected can be used to remotely control and monitor multiple devices, thereby improving the convenience and safety of device users.

[0016] (4) If the device information specified by the device is distinguished by, for example, the color scheme or coloring of the screen identification information used for operation and monitoring, the device connected to the communication terminal can be easily identified, thereby improving the convenience of the communication system. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a hot water supply system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of hardware of a hot water supply system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the database. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for information processing in the hot water supply system according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows an operation screen associated with a specific water heater. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the water heater selection screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows an operation screen associated with a specific water heater. [Figure 8] A in FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a bath operation screen associated with a specific water heater, and B in FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a bath operation screen associated with a specific water heater. [Figure 9] FIG. 9A is a diagram showing a floor heating operation screen associated with a specific water heater, and FIG. 9B is a diagram showing a floor heating operation screen associated with a specific water heater. [Figure 10] FIG. 10A is a diagram showing the bathroom heater / dryer operation screen associated with a specific water heater, and FIG. 10B is a diagram showing the bathroom heater / dryer operation screen associated with a specific water heater. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the water heater selection screen. [Figure 12] A of FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a monitoring operation screen associated with a specific water heater, and B of FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a monitoring operation screen associated with a specific water heater. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a monitoring operation screen associated with a specific monitoring destination. [Figure 14]FIG. 14A is a diagram showing a usage history screen associated with a specific water heater, and FIG. 14B is a diagram showing a usage history screen associated with a specific water heater. [Figure 15] FIG. 15A is a diagram showing a usage history screen associated with a specific water heater, and FIG. 15B is a diagram showing a usage history screen associated with a specific water heater. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] [One embodiment] 1 shows a hot water supply system 12 according to an embodiment of the communication system of the present disclosure. This hot water supply system 12 is an example of the communication system, program, or communication terminal of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG.

[0019] <Hot water supply system 12> As shown in Figure 1, this hot water supply system 12 includes two or more hot water heaters: water heater 14-1 (first hot water heater), water heater 14-2 (second hot water heater), and water heater 14-3 (third hot water heater), and a smartphone 18 (hereinafter simply referred to as "smartphone 18") is connected to network 16 connected to these water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3 (hereinafter simply referred to as "water heater 14") via a communication line. Hereinafter, when a specific water heater is not being referred to, the explanation will be unified to water heater 14. Network 16 is an example of a communication line, such as a public line, to which water heater 14 and smartphone 18 can be connected.

[0020] In this hot water supply system 12, as an example, water heaters 14-1 and 14-2 are remotely controlled and are remotely controlled by smartphone 18 using function information sorted into two or more functions including either an operation function or a monitoring (surveillance) function. In contrast, water heater 14-3 is the remotely monitored target (monitored destination), and is monitored using usage information of water heater 14-3 by smartphone 18. Smartphone 18 is an example of a communication terminal capable of communication via a network such as a public line.

[0021] The water heater 14 has general hot water supply functions, a reheating function, a heating function, a bathroom drying function, and the like. The hot water supply function, for example, uses the heat of combustion of fuel gas as a heat source to exchange heat with tap water and supply hot water to hot water demand points. The reheating function uses the heat of combustion as a heat source to reheat bath water. The heating function circulates hot water to heat living rooms and bathrooms. The bathroom drying function uses hot water as a heat source to dry laundry in the bathroom, for example.

[0022] <Water heater 14> Water heater 14 is equipped with a water heater control unit 20 that controls the aforementioned hot water supply function, reheating function, heating function, bathroom drying function, etc. This water heater control unit 20 is connected to a kitchen remote control 22 and a bathroom remote control 24 that display operation and control information for water heater 14. Kitchen remote control 22 is installed outside the bathroom, such as in the kitchen, and bathroom remote control 24 is installed in the bathroom. In this example, kitchen remote control 22 has network connection functions such as Wi-Fi communication, similar to smartphone 18, and is connected to router 26. Router 26 is connected to network 16 and is connected to server 28 through this network 16. Router 26 is a relay means for wirelessly connecting kitchen remote control 22 to network 16. Server 28 is a computer that has a connection function with network 16 and processes information. This allows water heater 14, which is the target of remote control and monitoring, to connect to smartphone 18 through router 26. When connected, it is possible to remotely control it using smartphone 18, and to send control information from water heater 14 to smartphone 18, etc.

[0023] Connected to water heater 14 are hot water supply path 30, reheating circulation path 32, and hot water circulation path 34. Bathtub 36 is connected to reheating circulation path 32, which enables reheating and circulation of bath water 38 and hot water supply. Terminal components such as a shower tap 40 and hot water tap 42 are connected to hot water supply path 30, enabling hot water to be supplied to hot water demand points. Connected to hot water circulation path 34 are a floor heating unit 44, a bathroom heater / dryer 46, and the like, which enables room heating with hot water by floor heating unit 44 and bathroom heater / dryer 46 to heat the bathroom and dry laundry, etc.

[0024] <Smartphone 18> Since smartphone 18 has the ability to connect to networks such as Wi-Fi communication and the ability to communicate using public lines, it is possible to selectively connect to any of water heaters 14, i.e., water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3, via network 16.

[0025] The smartphone 18 has a display screen 48 that presents visible images and the like. This display screen 48 is an example of an information presentation unit 76 (FIG. 2) described below. On this display screen 48, an operation screen 52 including function information and screen identification information, a monitoring operation screen 54, a health support screen 56, a usage history screen 58, and a water heater selection screen 60 are selected and presented.

[0026] Operation screen 52 includes operation screen 52-1 (FIG. 5), operation screen 52-2 (FIG. 7), bath operation screen 52-31 (FIG. 8A), bath operation screen 52-32 (FIG. 8B), floor heating operation screen 52-41 (FIG. 9A), floor heating operation screen 52-42 (FIG. 9B), bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 52-51 (FIG. 10A), and bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 52-52 (FIG. 10B), which include operation information 53-1 and screen identification information 53-2. Operation information 53-1 is information that indicates an operation function and is generated for each water heater 14. Screen identification information 53-2 is screen information for screen identification associated with each water heater 14. This screen identification information 53-2 includes, for example, background information that indicates a background image of part or all of display screen 48, or color information that colors or arranges the display screen 48, or both.

[0027] Therefore, each operation screen 52-1, bath operation screen 52-31, floor heating operation screen 52-41, and bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 52-51 is associated with water heater 14-1 by screen identification information 53-2, and each operation screen 52-2, bath operation screen 52-32, floor heating operation screen 52-42, and bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 52-52 is associated with water heater 14-2 by screen identification information 53-2.

[0028] The monitoring operation screen 54 includes a monitoring operation screen 54-1 (A in FIG. 12) associated with the water heater 14-1, a monitoring operation screen 54-2 (B in FIG. 12) associated with the water heater 14-2, and a monitoring operation screen 54-3 (FIG. 13) associated with the water heater 14-3, and each of the monitoring operation screens 54-1, 54-2, and 54-3 includes monitoring information 55-1 and screen identification information 55-2. The monitoring information 55-1 is information that represents the monitoring function, and is generated for each water heater 14. The screen identification information 55-2 is the same as the screen identification information 53-2 described above.

[0029] Health support screen 56 includes health support screen 56-1 associated with water heater 14-1 and health support screen 56-2 associated with water heater 14-2, and each of health support screens 56-1, 56-2 includes health support information 57-1 and screen identification information 57-2. Health support information 57-1 is information representing health support, and is generated for each water heater 14. Screen identification information 57-2 is the same as screen identification information 53-2 described above.

[0030] Usage history screen 58 includes usage history screen 58-1 (A in FIG. 14), usage history screen 58-2 (B in FIG. 14), usage history screen 58-3 (A in FIG. 15), and usage history screen 58-4 (B in FIG. 15). Each of usage history screens 58-1, 58-2, 58-3, and 58-4 includes usage history information 59-1 and screen identification information 59-2. Usage history information 59-1 is information that represents the usage history of water heater 14 and the like, and is generated for each water heater 14. Screen identification information 59-2 is the same as screen identification information 53-2 described above.

[0031] The water heater selection screen 60 includes a water heater selection screen 60-1 (FIG. 6) and a water heater selection screen 60-2 (FIG. 11). Each of the water heater selection screens 60-1, 60-2 includes selection information 61-1 and water heater identification information 61-2. The selection information 61-1 is information that indicates a selection function such as the water heater 14. The water heater identification information 61-2 presents identification information for the water heater 14 that is the selection target. This water heater identification information 61-2 is information for identifying the water heater 14 that is the selection target, and includes either or both of background information that shows a background image for part or all of the display screen 48, and color information that colors or arranges the display screen 48, as identification information that is shared with the operation screen 52, monitoring operation screen 54, health support screen 56, or usage history screen 58 of the selected water heater 14.

[0032] The display screen 48 is equipped with a touch panel 62. This touch panel 62 is an example of an operation input unit 78 (FIG. 2) described below, and is used, for example, for operation input using the operation screen 52, etc., and for operation input for selecting a water heater using the water heater selection screen 60.

[0033] <Hardware for hot water supply system 12> 2 shows an example of the hardware of hot water supply system 12. Like server 28 and smartphone 18, hot water supply control unit 20, kitchen remote control 22, and bathroom remote control 24 each include a computer with communication capabilities. Kitchen remote control 22 is equipped with a kitchen remote control control unit 64, and bathroom remote control 24 is equipped with a bathroom remote control control unit 66.

[0034] Although not shown, the server 28 includes a processor, a storage unit, and a wireless communication unit. The storage unit stores various programs executed under the control of the processor, such as an OS (Operating System) and apps (application programs), and also stores a database (DB) 94 (FIG. 3) used for remote control, which will be described later.

[0035] The smartphone 18 includes a processor 68, a memory unit 70, an input / output (I / O) unit 72, a wireless communication unit 74, an information presentation unit 76, and an operation input unit 78. Various programs such as an OS and apps stored in the memory unit 70 are executed under the control of the processor 68. The apps include functions such as remote control and monitoring of the water heater 14.

[0036] The storage unit 70 is composed of storage elements such as a ROM (Read-Only Memory), a RAM (Random-Access Memory), etc. The storage unit 70 stores the OS, applications, etc., as well as a database (DB) 94 (FIG. 3) described below.

[0037] The I / O 72 is controlled by the processor 68 and is used for inputting and outputting information. The wireless communication unit 74 is capable of wireless communication with the network 16 as well as short-range wireless communication with the router 26. Under the control of the processor 68, the information presentation unit 76 selects and presents the above-mentioned operation screen 52, monitoring operation screen 54, health support screen 56, usage history screen 58, water heater selection screen 60, etc. The operation input unit 78 is controlled by the processor 68 and is used for operation input such as water heater selection.

[0038] Hot water supply control unit 20 includes processor 80-1, memory unit 82-1, communication unit 84-1, and I / O 86-1. Processor 80-1 executes the OS, apps, etc. stored in memory unit 82-1 to control the hot water supply of water heater 14. This hot water supply control includes combustion control, remote control, and the transmission of monitoring information such as operation information. Communication unit 84-1 is connected to communication units 84-2 and 84-3. This allows hot water supply control unit 20 to cooperate with kitchen remote control control unit 64 or bathroom remote control control unit 66, and operation inputs and control information are sent and received from kitchen remote control control unit 64 or bathroom remote control control unit 66 to hot water supply control unit 20.

[0039] Kitchen remote control control unit 64 includes processor 80-2, memory unit 82-2, communication unit 84-2, I / O 86-2, and wireless communication unit 88, and performs remote control of hot water supply control unit 20 under the control of processor 80-2, and also establishes wireless connection with network 16 via wireless communication by wireless communication unit 88. An operation input unit 90-1 and an information presentation unit 92-1 are connected to I / O 86-2, allowing kitchen remote control control unit 64 to input operations and present information for water heater 14. When wireless communication unit 88 is connected to smartphone 18, smartphone 18 can control hot water supply control unit 20 via kitchen remote control control unit 64 after wireless connection. During this control, information indicating the remote control or monitoring status due to the connection of smartphone 18 is presented to information presentation unit 92-1.

[0040] Bathroom remote control control unit 66 includes processor 80-3, memory unit 82-3, communication unit 84-3, and I / O 86-3, and is capable of remote control of hot water supply control unit 20 under the control of processor 80-3. An operation input unit 90-2 and an information presentation unit 92-2 are connected to I / O 86-3, and operation input and information presentation for water heater 14 are possible via bathroom remote control control unit 66. When wireless communication unit 88 of kitchen remote control control unit 64 is connected to smartphone 18, smartphone 18 can control hot water supply control unit 20 via kitchen remote control control unit 64 after wireless connection, and during this control, information indicating the remote control or monitoring status via smartphone 18's connection is presented to information presentation unit 92-2.

[0041] <db94> FIG. 3 shows an example of a DB94 used for remote control such as remote operation and monitoring. This DB94 stores water heater information indicating the water heater 14 that is the target of remote operation or monitoring, and display information and screen information identified by the water heater 14. The function information is classified into two or more functions including at least either the operation function or monitoring function of the water heater 14, and the screen information includes screen identification information, operation screen information, monitoring screen information, health support screen information, usage history screen information, and selection screen information.

[0042] To store this information, DB94 is configured with a water heater section 96, a function section 98, and a screen section 100. The water heater section 96 stores number information ("1," "2," "3") representing numbers for identifying water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3, and attribute information such as the users to which water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3 belong. The number information is an example of identification information that identifies the presentation screen representing water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3. The attribute information is an example of identification information that represents the user to be operated or monitored.

[0043] An operation section 98-1, a monitoring section 98-2, a health support section 98-3, a usage history section 98-4, and a memo section 98-5 are set in the function section 98. Operation, monitoring, health support, usage history, and memo are categories of functional information, and functions are sorted into these categories.

[0044] Operation unit 98-1 stores functional information representing the functions of water heater 14 operation, bath operation, floor heating operation of floor heating unit 44, and bathroom heating and drying operation of bathroom heater-dryer 46. This functional information is stored separately for water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3.

[0045] The monitoring unit 98-2 stores date and time information and function information indicating whether the water heater 14 is in use or not. As with the operation unit 98-1, this function information is associated with and distinguished from the water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3.

[0046] Health support unit 98-3 stores health support information indicating body fat percentage, calorie consumption, bathing time, date and time information, weight transition, user attributes, etc. This health support information is associated with and clearly distinguished from water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3, just like operation unit 98-1.

[0047] The usage history section 98-4 stores usage history information such as setting information, usage information, date and time information, fee information, and usage transitions for the water heater 14. This usage history information is associated with and clearly distinguished from the water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3, just like the operation section 98-1.

[0048] The memo section 98-5 stores memo information such as name editing and memo editing. This memo information is associated with and clearly distinguished from the water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3, just like the operation section 98-1.

[0049] With regard to the functional unit 98, since the water heater 14-3 identified by the number information "3" is a monitored object, information on the operation unit 98-1, health support unit 98-3, and usage history unit 98-4 is not managed.

[0050] The screen unit 100 is a storage unit for display information, and also includes a screen identification unit 100-1, an operation screen unit 100-2, a monitoring screen unit 100-3, a health support screen unit 100-4, a usage history screen unit 100-5, and a selection screen unit 100-6 as storage units for distinction information that distinguish the display screens 48 that present the display information.

[0051] The screen identification unit 100-1 stores screen identification information 53-2, 55-2, 57-2, 59-2 or water heater identification information 61-2 for distinguishing the identified water heater 14. Specifically, screen identification information such as background information and color information for identifying the water heater 14 from the display screen 48 is stored. The background information is information representing the background of the operation screen 52, monitoring operation screen 54, health support screen 56, usage history screen 58 or water heater selection screen 60 on the display screen 48. The color information is color information representing the coloring or color scheme of these display screens 48. In this example, the color information set in the screen identification information identified for the water heater 14-1 is, for example, "blue." The color information set in the screen identification information identified for the water heater 14-2 is, for example, "green." Furthermore, the color information set in the screen identification information identified for the water heater 14-3 is, for example, "pink."

[0052] The operation screen section 100-2 includes setting inputs, operation inputs, selection icons, memo fields, etc., that are specified by the water heater 14. The setting inputs are input information for initial settings of the water heater 14, etc. The memo fields can be used to write the memo information described above.

[0053] The monitoring screen section 100-3 includes a calendar, usage information, selection icons, a memo field, and the like, which are specified by the water heater 14.

[0054] The health support screen section 100-4 includes information about the user who uses the water heater 14, information input about the health support, selection icons, memo fields, and the like.

[0055] The usage history screen section 100-5 includes information input fields for fee information such as gas fees and electricity fees, selection icons, memo fields, and the like.

[0056] The selection screen section 100-6 includes water heater information, a memo field, and the like.

[0057] Regarding the screen section 100, since the water heater 14-3 identified by the number information "3" is the monitored object, information for the operation screen section 100-2, health support screen section 100-4, and usage history screen section 100-5 is not managed.

[0058] <Remote operation or monitoring control> FIG. 4 shows an example of a processing procedure showing the control function of remote operation or monitoring in the hot water supply system 12.

[0059] This processing procedure shows an example of the operation of the hot water supply system 12 of the present disclosure, or the function of the program or smartphone 18. In this processing procedure, S indicates a step, and the numbers attached to S indicate an example order, but the present disclosure is not limited to this order.

[0060] This processing procedure includes registering the water heater 14 (S101, S102), connecting the water heater 14 to the smartphone 18 (S103), obtaining function information and screen information (S104), sorting and registering the function information (S105), sorting and registering the screen information (S106), accepting function and water heater selection (S107), outputting or updating the display information (S108), and presenting the display information (S109).

[0061] Therefore, in this hot water supply system 12, when the app of the present disclosure installed on the smartphone 18 is launched, a determination is made as to whether to register the water heater 14 (S101). If registration of a specific water heater 14 is selected (YES in S101), registration information for the water heater 14 to be registered is entered, and the target of remote operation or monitoring is specified and registered (S102), and the process proceeds to S103. This registration information is stored in the DB 94.

[0062] If the water heater 14 is not to be registered (NO in S101), S102 is skipped and the process proceeds to S103. In S103, the smartphone 18 is connected to one of the registered water heaters 14.

[0063] In the smartphone 18, the processor 68 executes the app to acquire function information and screen information of the water heater 14 (S104). The function information is sorted into two or more functions including at least either an operation function or a monitoring function (S105). That is, the function information is categorized and registered into an operation function, a monitoring function, a health support function, a usage history function, and a memo function, as shown in the DB 94.

[0064] The screen information is sorted for each water heater 14 (S106). That is, the screen information is categorized and registered as screen identification information, operation screen information, monitoring screen information, health support screen information, usage history screen information, and selection screen information, as shown in DB94. The screen identification information is sorted and registered for each water heater 14. In addition, a memo field representing a memo function is associated with the associated screen information.

[0065] Then, on the smartphone 18 running the app of the present disclosure, the function and water heater selection is accepted from the display screen 48 (S107), and the display information identified by the water heater 14 is output or updated (S108).

[0066] Display information representing any one of the water heaters 14 is presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18 (S109).

[0067] According to this processing, on the operation screen 52, monitoring operation screen 54, health support screen 56, usage history screen 58, and water heater selection screen 60 appearing on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18, the user can easily see and recognize which water heater 14 the currently executing process belongs to from the screen identification information 53-2, 55-2, 57-2, 59-2 or water heater identification information 61-2 along with the function information.

[0068] <Operation screen 52-1> 5 shows an example of an operation screen 52-1 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. This operation screen 52-1 includes a header section 101, a body section 102, and a footer section 103. The header section 101 is displayed at the top of the screen and includes a header background section 104-1, a communication icon 105, a title 106, a water heater selection icon 108, a display section 109, and a setting icon 110.

[0069] The header background section 104-1 shows background information associated with the selected water heater 14-1; in FIG. 5, a blue background color is displayed to represent the water heater 14-1. The communication icon 105 shows the communication status of the smartphone 18. The title 106 shows the type information of the operation screen 52; in this case, "Device Operation" is displayed. This "Device Operation" shows the operation of the water heater 14, and the notation may represent the product, for example, "Product Operation." The water heater selection icon 108 is an icon for selecting the water heater 14 to be selected. The display section 109 shows the number information "1," for example, to represent the currently selected water heater 14-1. The setting icon 110 is used to set the water heater 14-1, set registration information for the smartphone 18, and so on.

[0070] The body section 102 includes a body background section 112-1, a bath display section 114, a bath floor display section 116, a floor heating display section 118, a window display section 120, a hot air display section 122, blowout displays 124, 126, and status information displays 128, 130.

[0071] The body background 112-1 displays background information associated with the selected water heater 14-1. In FIG. 5, a blue background representing the water heater 14-1 is displayed, similar to the header background 104-1. The bath display 114 indicates the presence or absence of a bathtub and bathtub water associated with the water heater 14-1. The bath floor display 116 indicates the wash area adjacent to the bathtub. The floor heating display 118 indicates the floor heating location where the floor heating unit 44 in the room is installed and its operating status by color. The window display 120 indicates the presence or absence of a bathroom window. The hot air display 122 indicates the operating status of the bathroom heater / dryer 46 in the bathroom; when this hot air display is present, it indicates that the bathroom heater / dryer 46 is operating. The air outlet display 124 indicates the bath status, whether it is keeping warm, the set temperature, and the set water level. The air outlet display 126 indicates the ambient temperature of the bathroom. Status information display section 128 shows bathroom information, indicating the room temperature and whether or not heating is being performed by bathroom heater / dryer 46. Status information display section 130 also indicates the temperature of the room in which floor heating unit 44 is installed and whether or not heating is being performed by floor heating unit 44.

[0072] The footer section 103 includes an operation icon 132, a bath operation icon 134, a floor heating icon 136, a bathroom heating icon 138, a device operation icon 140, a monitoring icon 142, a health support icon 144, a usage status icon 146, and the like.

[0073] The operation icon 132 is used to instruct the water heater 14 to start operating. The bath operation icon 134 is used to remotely operate the water heater 14. The floor heating icon 136 is used to instruct the water heater 14 and floor heating unit 44 to start or stop heating. The bathroom heating icon 138 is used to instruct the bathroom heater / dryer 46 to start or stop operation. The device operation icon 140 is used to select the water heater 14. The monitoring icon 142 is used to obtain monitoring information related to the water heater 14. The health support icon 144 is used for operations such as obtaining, presenting, and updating health support information. The usage status icon 146 is used for operations such as obtaining, presenting, and updating information on the usage status of the water heater 14, etc.

[0074] <Water heater selection screen 60-1> 6 shows an example of a water heater selection screen 60-1 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. This water heater selection screen 60-1 also includes a header section 101, a body section 102, and a footer section 103.

[0075] Header section 101 is displayed at the top of the screen and includes title 106. Title 106 displays, for example, "Select Water Heater," which indicates either water heater selection screen 60-1 or 60-2 for selecting either water heater 14-1 or 14-2 to be remotely controlled.

[0076] Body section 102 includes water heater selection sections 148-1 and 148-2. Water heater selection section 148-1 displays "water heater" as display information representing water heater 14, and number information "1" representing a specific water heater 14-1, which is displayed in blue representing water heater 14-1 in FIG. 6, similar to the previously described background information associated with water heater 14-1. Furthermore, water heater selection section 148-2 displays "water heater" as display information representing water heater 14, and number information "2" representing a specific water heater 14-2, which is displayed in green representing water heater 14-2 in FIG. 6, similar to the previously described background information associated with water heater 14-2.

[0077] A memo editing section 150 is set in the footer section 103. This memo editing section 150 is an example of the memo field in the screen section 100 described above, and allows the user to write and edit memo information.

[0078] On this water heater selection screen 60-1, the operation screen 52-1 (FIG. 5) for the water heater 14-1 can be selected from the water heater selection section 148-1, and the operation screen 52-2 (FIG. 7) for the water heater 14-2 can be selected from the water heater selection section 148-2.

[0079] <Operation screen 52-2> Fig. 7 shows an example of an operation screen 52-2 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. In Fig. 7, common parts to Fig. 5 are given common reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0080] As mentioned above, this operation screen 52-2 is associated with the water heater 14-2, and the header background section 104-2 representing the water heater 14-2 displays background information associated with the selected water heater 14-2, and in Figure 7, a green background color representing the water heater 14-2 is displayed.

[0081] Display unit 109 displays, for example, number information "2" representing the currently selected water heater 14-2. Body background unit 112-2 displays background information associated with the selected water heater 14-2, and in Fig. 7, a green background color representing water heater 14-2 is displayed, similar to header background unit 104-2.

[0082] <Bath operation screen 52-31> A in Figure 8 shows the bath operation screen 52-31 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. In A in Figure 8, parts that are common to Figure 5 are given the same reference numerals and their explanations are omitted. In this bath operation screen 52-31, the header background portion 104-1 and the body background portion 112-1 are colored "blue" like the operation screen 52-1, and this bath operation screen 52-31 is associated with the water heater 14-1.

[0083] The body section 102 includes a bath status display section 152, an operation operation section 154, an automatic / reheating operation section 156, and a bath reservation operation section 158. The bath status display section 152 clearly displays the bath operation status, bathtub water level, bathtub water temperature, whether hot water is being supplied, etc. The operation operation section 154 includes icons for instructing operation and stop, and by operating these icons, it is possible to instruct the water heater 14-1 to operate or stop the bath. The automatic / reheating operation section 156 includes icons for instructing automatic operation or reheating operation, and by operating these icons, it is possible to instruct automatic operation or reheating of bathwater 38. The bath reservation operation section 158 includes an icon for setting the reservation time for a bath reservation and for instructing it, and it is possible to set and instruct the reservation time.

[0084] <Bath operation screen 52-32> Figure 8B shows the bath operation screen 52-32 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. In Figure 8B, parts that are common to Figures 7 and 8A are given the same reference numerals and their explanations are omitted. In this bath operation screen 52-32, the header background portion 104-2 and the body background portion 112-2 are colored "green" like the operation screen 52-2, and this bath operation screen 52-32 is associated with the water heater 14-2.

[0085] <Floor heating operation screen 52-41> A in Fig. 9 shows a floor heating operation screen 52-41 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. In A in Fig. 9, parts common to A in Fig. 8 are given the same reference numerals and their explanations are omitted. In this floor heating operation screen 52-41, the header background portion 104-1 and the body background portion 112-1 are colored "blue" like the operation screen 52-1, and this floor heating operation screen 52-41 is associated with the water heater 14-1.

[0086] The body 102 includes a heating location selection unit 160 and an all-stop operation unit 162. The heating location selection unit 160 includes a heating location and a switch icon associated with that heating location, allowing the user to select the heating location and start or stop heating using the switch icon. The all-stop operation unit 162 also allows the user to instruct heating to be stopped for all locations, regardless of the heating location.

[0087] <Floor heating operation screen 52-42> B of Fig. 9 shows the floor heating operation screen 52-42 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. In B of Fig. 9, parts common to B of Fig. 8 and A of Fig. 9 are given the same reference numerals and their explanations are omitted. In this floor heating operation screen 52-42, the header background portion 104-2 and the body background portion 112-2 are colored "green" like the operation screen 52-2, and this floor heating operation screen 52-42 is associated with the water heater 14-2.

[0088] <Bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 52-51> Figure 10A shows bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 52-51 presented on display screen 48 of smartphone 18. In Figure 10A, parts common to Figure 9A are given the same reference numerals and their explanations are omitted. In this bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 52-51, header background section 104-1 and body background section 112-1 are colored "blue," just like in operation screen 52-1, and this bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 52-51 is associated with water heater 14-1.

[0089] Body section 102 includes operation status display / operation section 164. Operation status display / operation section 164 includes an indication of whether bathroom heater / dryer 46 is operating or not, and an operation switch icon. By operating this operation switch icon, it is possible to select whether to start or stop the operation of bathroom heater / dryer 46.

[0090] <Bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 52-52> Figure 10B shows bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 52-52 presented on display screen 48 of smartphone 18. In Figure 10B, parts common to Figure 9B and Figure 10A are given the same reference numerals and their explanations will be omitted. In this bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 52-52, header background section 104-2 and body background section 112-2 are colored "green," just like in operation screen 52-2, and this bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 52-52 is associated with water heater 14-2.

[0091] <Water heater selection screen 60-2> Figure 11 shows an example of a water heater selection screen 60-2 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. This water heater selection screen 60-2 is a screen for selecting the water heater 14 to be monitored. In Figure 11, the same parts as in Figure 6 are given the same reference numerals, and their explanation will be omitted. This water heater selection screen 60-2 also includes a header section 101, a body section 102, and a footer section 103.

[0092] The body section 102 includes water heater selection sections 148-1, 148-2, and 148-3. The water heater selection section 148-3 is assigned a specific water heater 14-3 that is the monitored destination.

[0093] A memo editing section 150 is set in the footer section 103. This memo editing section 150 is an example of the memo field in the screen section 100 described above, and allows the user to write and edit memo information.

[0094] On this water heater selection screen 60-2, the monitoring operation screen 54-1 (A in Figure 12) can be selected from the water heater selection section 148-1, the monitoring operation screen 54-2 (B in Figure 12) can be selected from the water heater selection section 148-2, and the monitoring operation screen 54-3 (Figure 13) can be selected from the water heater selection section 148-3.

[0095] <Monitoring operation screen 54-1> Fig. 12A shows an example of a monitoring operation screen 54-1 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. In Fig. 12A, the same parts as in Fig. 5 are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted. This monitoring operation screen 54-1 also includes a header section 101, a body section 102, and a footer section 103.

[0096] The body section 102 includes a year / month display section 166, a calendar display section 168, a monitoring destination display section 170, and a water heater operation display section 172. The year / month display section 166 displays the relevant year and month. The calendar display section 168 displays a message indicating whether the water heater 14 is in use or not, which is associated with the date. The monitoring destination display section 170 displays a graphic representation of a house, which is colored to identify the monitoring destination. In this case, since it is associated with the water heater 14-1, it is colored "blue." Furthermore, the water heater operation display section 172 displays a message indicating whether the water heater 14-1 is in use or not.

[0097] <Monitoring operation screen 54-2> Fig. 12B shows an example of a monitoring operation screen 54-2 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. In Fig. 12B, the same parts as those in Fig. 12A are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0098] This monitoring operation screen 54-2 is colored "green" because it is associated with the water heater 14-2.

[0099] <Monitoring operation screen 54-3> Fig. 13 shows an example of a monitoring operation screen 54-3 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. In Fig. 13, the same parts as those in A of Fig. 12 are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted. This monitoring operation screen 54-3 displays a monitoring destination display 174 in the header section 101, and this monitoring destination display 174 has a different display format from the water heater selection icon 108, allowing it to be clearly distinguished from the water heaters 14-1 and 14-2 to be operated.

[0100] This monitoring operation screen 54-3 is colored "pink" because it is associated with the water heater 14-3 that is the monitoring target.

[0101] <Usage history screen 58-1> A in Fig. 14 shows an example of a usage history screen 58-1 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. In A in Fig. 14, the same parts as those in A in Fig. 8 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0102] In this usage history screen 58-1, the header background portion 104-1 and the body background portion 112-1 are colored "blue" in the same manner as in the operation screen 52-1, and this usage history screen 58-1 is associated with the water heater 14-1.

[0103] The body section 102 includes a bath status display section 176, a date display section 178, a hot water supply usage status display section 180, and an electricity usage status display section 182. The bath status display section 176 clearly shows the bath operation status, bathtub water level, bathtub water temperature, whether hot water is being supplied, etc. The date display section 178 displays the relevant date information. The hot water supply usage status display section 180 displays gas consumption, hot water supply amount, etc. The electricity usage status display section 182 displays electricity purchase information and power generation information.

[0104] <Usage history screen 58-2> B of Fig. 14 shows an example of a usage history screen 58-2 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. In B of Fig. 14, the same parts as those in A of Fig. 14 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0105] This usage history screen 58-2 is colored "green" like the operation screen 52-2, and this usage history screen 58-2 is associated with the water heater 14-2.

[0106] <Usage history screen 58-3> A in Figure 15 shows an example of a usage history screen 58-3 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. In A in Figure 15, the same parts as in Figure 5 are given the same reference numerals. This usage history screen 58-3 shows an energy usage screen associated with the water heater 14-1, and the header background portion 104-1 and the body background portion 112-1, which are colored displays associated with the water heater 14-1, are colored "blue."

[0107] Although not shown, on the usage history screen related to the energy usage screen associated with water heater 14-2, the header background and body background, which are colored displays associated with water heater 14-2, are displayed in "green."

[0108] <Usage history screen 58-4> B of Fig. 15 shows an example of a usage history screen 58-4 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18. In B of Fig. 15, the same parts as in A of Fig. 15 are given the same reference numerals. On this usage history screen 58-4, a graph showing the progress of energy usage associated with the water heater 14-1 is displayed in association with time information such as the year, month, and date.

[0109] Although not shown, on the usage history screen associated with the water heater 14-2, the header background and body background, which are colored displays associated with the water heater 14-2, are displayed in "green."

[0110] <Effects of the embodiment> According to the embodiment described above, any of the following effects can be obtained. (1) It is easy to identify which of the water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3 is the target of remote control, such as remote operation or remote monitoring (watching), using the smartphone 18 from any of the operation screen 52, watch operation screen 54, health support screen 56, usage history screen 58, and water heater selection screen 60 presented on the display screen 48 of the smartphone 18, thereby preventing erroneous operation and erroneous recognition. In this case, the operation screen 52 can be identified from screen identification information 53-2, the watch operation screen 54 can be identified from screen identification information 55-2, the health support screen 56 can be identified from screen identification information 57-2, and the usage history screen 58 can be identified from screen identification information 59-2. Therefore, it is easy to identify which water heater 14 is from the screen information associated with water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3, improving the visibility of remote operation and remote monitoring of water heater 14 via smartphone 18 and preventing incorrect operation or incorrect recognition of water heater 14.

[0111] (2) By using a smartphone 18 that can communicate with the water heater 14 via a network 16, remote operation and remote monitoring can be performed regardless of the distance from the water heater 14, making it possible to build a highly convenient water heating system 12.

[0112] (3) The number of smartphones 18 that can be connected to multiple water heaters 14 is not limited to one, and multiple smartphones 18 that are authorized to be connected can be used to remotely control and monitor multiple water heaters 14, thereby increasing the safety of water heater users.

[0113] (4) The water heater information identified by multiple water heaters 14, for example, water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3, can be distinguished by the background or color of the screen information used for operation and monitoring. Therefore, the connected smartphone 18 and the connected water heater 14 can be easily identified without relying on the text displayed on the screen, thereby improving the convenience of the water heating system 12.

[0114] Other Embodiments Other embodiments included in the present disclosure are as follows. (1) In the above embodiment, a plurality of water heaters 14 are illustrated, but the water heater 14 may include only a single water heater 14-1, and may include other remotely controllable devices as remotely controlled devices.

[0115] (2) In the above embodiment, water heaters 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3 are exemplified, but three or fewer water heaters 14 may be used, or more than three water heaters may be used as remote control targets.

[0116] (3) In the above embodiment, one smartphone 18 is exemplified, but two or more smartphones 18 may be used as communication terminals for remotely controlling or remotely monitoring multiple water heaters 14. If two or more smartphones 18 are used instead of one smartphone 18, each smartphone 18 can be used to selectively remotely control or remotely monitor water heaters 14, which are an example of multiple devices.

[0117] (4) In the above embodiment, the smartphone 18 is used as an example of a communication terminal. However, a personal computer with communication functions or an electronic device other than the smartphone 18 with communication and information processing functions may also be used.

[0118] As explained above, the most preferred embodiment of the technology of the present disclosure has been described. The present disclosure is not limited to the above description. Various modifications and changes are possible for those skilled in the art based on the gist of the claims or disclosed in the description for carrying out the invention. It goes without saying that such modifications and changes are included within the scope of the present disclosure. [Industrial Applicability]

[0119] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to improve convenience by facilitating screen recognition in communication systems that use communication terminals such as smartphones for remote operation and remote monitoring of multiple devices, thereby preventing erroneous operation and erroneous recognition. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 12 Hot Water System 14, 14-1, 14-2, 14-3 Water heater 16 Network 18 Smartphone 20 Hot water supply control unit 22 Kitchen remote control 24 Bathroom remote control 26 Router 28 servers 30 Hot water supply line 32 Reheating circulation route 34 Hot water circulation path 36 Bathtub 38 Bathtub water 40 shower faucet 42 Hot water tap 44 Floor heating unit 46 Bathroom heater / dryer 48 Display screen 52, 52-1, 52-2 operation screen 52-31, 52-32 Bath operation screen 52-41, 52-42 Floor heating operation screen 52-51, 52-52 Bathroom heater / dryer operation screen 53-1 Operation information 53-2, 55-2, 57-2, 59-2 Screen identification information 54, 54-1, 54-2, 54-3 Monitoring operation screen 55-1 Monitoring Information 56, 56-1, 56-2 Health support screen 57-1 Health support information 58, 58-1, 58-2, 58-3, 58-4 Usage history screen 59-1 Usage history information 60, 60-1, 60-2 water heater selection screen 61-1 Selection Information 61-2 Water heater identification information 62 Touch Panel 64 Kitchen remote control control unit 66 Bathroom remote control control unit 68, 80-1, 80-2, 80-3 processors 70, 82-1, 82-2, 82-3 Storage section 72, 86-1, 86-2, 86-3 I / O 74, 88 Radio Communication Department 76, 92-1, 92-2 Information presentation section 78, 90-1, 90-2 Operation input section 84-1, 84-2, 84-3 Communications Department 94 DB 96 Water Heater Section 98 Functional Section 98-1 Operation section 98-2 Watch Department 98-3 Health Support Department 98-4 Usage history section 98-5 Memo Section 100 Screen section 100-1 Screen identification section 100-2 Operation screen section 100-3 Monitoring screen section 100-4 Health support screen section 100-5 Usage history screen 100-6 Selection screen section 101 Header section 102 Body 103 Footer section 104-1, 104-2, 104-3 Header background 105 communication icons 106 titles 108 Water heater selection icon 109 Display section 110 Settings icon 112-1, 112-2, 112-3 Body background 114 Bath display unit 116 Bath floor display unit 118 Floor heating display unit 120 Window display 122 Hot air display 124, 126 Bubble display 128, 130 Status information display section 132 Driving Icon 134 Bath operation icon 136 Floor heating icon 138 Bathroom Heating Icon 140 Water Heater Icon 142 Monitoring Icon 144 Health Support Icons 146 Usage Icons 148-1, 148-2, 148-3 Water heater selection section 150 Memo Editorial Department 152 Bath status display unit 154 Driving operation unit 156 Automatic / reheating operation unit 158 Bath reservation operation unit 160 Heating location selection section 162 Full stop operation section 164 Driving status display and operation unit 166 Year / month display 168 Calendar display 170 Monitoring destination display unit 172 Water heater operation display unit 174 Monitoring destination display 176 Bath status display unit 178 Date display section 180 Hot water usage status display unit 182 Electricity usage status display unit

Claims

1. A communication system in which a communication terminal is connected to a communication network connected to a plurality of devices, a control unit that generates, for each of the devices, presentation information including function information sorted by two or more functions including at least either an operation function or a monitoring function of the device and screen identification information associated with the device, receives selection of the operation function and the device to be operated, and generates the presentation information that presents an operation start or stop instruction for the device identified by the operation function and the device based on the selection; an information presentation unit that presents the presentation information; a communication system including:

2. The communication system according to claim 1 , wherein the screen identification information includes either background information indicating a background image of a part or all of the presentation screen, or color information for coloring or coloring the presentation screen, or both.

3. A program executed by a computer, a function for a communication terminal connected to a plurality of devices via a communication network to generate, for each of the devices, presentation information including function information classified by two or more functions including at least either an operation function or a monitoring function of the devices, and screen identification information associated with the devices, to receive selection of the operation function and the device to be operated, and to generate the presentation information to present an operation start or stop instruction for the device, identified by the operation function and the device, based on this selection; a function of presenting the presentation information to an information presentation unit; A program for causing the computer to execute the above.

4. 4. The program according to claim 3, wherein the screen identification information includes either background information indicating a background image of a part or the whole of the presentation screen, or color information for coloring or coloring the presentation screen, or both.

5. A communication terminal connected to a plurality of devices via a communication network, a control unit that generates, for each of the devices, presentation information including function information sorted by two or more functions including at least either an operation function or a monitoring function of the device and screen identification information associated with the device, receives selection of the operation function and the device to be operated, and generates the presentation information that presents an operation start or stop instruction for the device identified by the operation function and the device based on the selection; an information presentation unit that presents the presentation information; a communication terminal including:

6. The communication terminal according to claim 5 , wherein the screen identification information includes either background information indicating a background image of a part or all of the presentation screen, or color information for coloring or coloring the presentation screen, or both.

Images