Evaluation apparatus, system, method, and program

Abstract

To provide evaluation equipment, etc., that can contribute to conducting evaluations that meet the evolving requirements of standardized evaluation methods. [Solution] The evaluation device comprises: an evaluation method acquisition unit configured to acquire evaluation method data from an evaluation method providing device; an evaluation criteria creation unit configured to create evaluation criteria information for evaluating collected information which is an integrated collection of data collected from a field management system that manages field information, based on the evaluation method data; and an evaluation processing unit configured to evaluate the collected information based on the evaluation criteria information and create an evaluation result.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Description of Related Applications] This invention is based on the claim of priority of Japanese Patent Application: Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-205580 (filed on December 17, 2021), and the entire description of the application is incorporated herein by reference. This invention relates to an evaluation device, a system, a method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in order to ensure the safety and security of livestock animals for meat consumption, evaluations (judgments, estimations, etc.) regarding health, breeding, and environment are performed based on information related to livestock animals, and automation of these evaluations has been attempted (see Patent Documents 1 to 3).

[0003] For example, in Patent Document 1, a system is disclosed that receives information for identifying the origin of a judgment target cow (stable isotope ratio data, fatty acid composition data, inorganic trace element data, image analysis data, sensory evaluation data when eating the judgment target cow, and included in the judgment target cow), and determines the origin of the judgment target cow based on information in the cow origin database.

[0004] Also, in Patent Document 2, a system is disclosed that estimates individual breeding information (such as movement amount, body weight, etc.) of livestock based on an image of the livestock, and determines whether the health state of the livestock being bred is abnormal from the estimated individual breeding information.

[0005] Also, in Patent Document 3, a system is disclosed that estimates the state of livestock based on power generation information generated by a power generation unit in a sensor device attached to the livestock.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

[0007] [Non-Patent Document 1] "Animal Welfare Evaluation Method for Dairy Cows: Revised September 11, 2021 (PDF)," http: / / animalwelfare.jp / wp-content / uploads / 2021 / 09 / EvaluationCriteriaCOW_2021.pdf [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] The following analysis is provided by the present inventor.

[0009] Incidentally, in recent years, the concept of animal welfare, which involves reducing stress and disease in livestock by raising them in comfortable environments, is becoming more widespread thanks to the efforts of the World Organisation for Animal Health, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and the Animal Welfare Livestock Association. In animal welfare, evaluation methods have been created for the environment related to the lives and deaths of animals and the associated physical and mental states of the animals (see Non-Patent Literature 1). In addition to animal welfare, evaluation methods for grass-fed farming, cage-free farming (raising chickens in open or free-range environments), organic farming (farming without relying on pesticides or chemical fertilizers), and carbon farming (farm management that stably reduces CO2 emissions and fixes them in soil and plants) are also being standardized.

[0010] However, the systems described in Patent Documents 1-3 collect specific information and evaluate unique factors such as origin, health status, and livestock condition, which may prevent them from conducting objective evaluations that ensure the safety and security of livestock for meat production. In other words, the current systems may not be able to adequately perform evaluations that meet the requirements of evolving standardized evaluation methods. This is true not only in the field of livestock but also in other industrial sectors.

[0011] The main objective of the present invention is to provide an evaluation apparatus, system, method, and program that can contribute to performing evaluations in response to the evolving requirements of standardized evaluation methods. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] The evaluation device relating to the first perspective includes an evaluation method acquisition unit configured to acquire evaluation method data from an evaluation method providing device, an evaluation criteria creation unit configured to create evaluation criteria information for evaluating collected information which is an integrated collection of data collected from a field management system that manages field information, based on the evaluation method data, and an evaluation processing unit configured to evaluate the collected information based on the evaluation criteria information and create an evaluation result.

[0013] The evaluation system relating to the second perspective comprises an evaluation device relating to the first perspective, a field management system that manages field information and is connected to the evaluation device for communication, an evaluation method providing device that provides evaluation method data and is connected to the evaluation device for communication, and a viewing terminal connected to the evaluation device for communication.

[0014] The evaluation system relating to the third perspective comprises an evaluation device relating to the first perspective, an information management device that manages collected information and is connected to the evaluation device for communication, a field management system that manages on-site information and is connected to the information management device for communication, an evaluation method providing device that provides evaluation method data and is connected to the evaluation device for communication, and a viewing terminal connected to the information management device for communication.

[0015] The fourth perspective is an evaluation method for evaluating collected information using hardware resources, and includes the steps of: acquiring evaluation method data from an evaluation method providing device; creating evaluation criteria information for evaluating collected information by integrating data collected from a field management system that manages field information, based on the evaluation method data; and evaluating the collected information based on the evaluation criteria information to create an evaluation result.

[0016] The program relating to the fifth perspective is a program that causes hardware resources to perform a process for evaluating collected information, and causes the hardware resources to perform the following: a process for acquiring evaluation method data from an evaluation method providing device; a process for creating evaluation criteria information for evaluating collected information by integrating data collected from a field management system that manages field information based on the evaluation method data; and a process for evaluating the collected information based on the evaluation criteria information and creating an evaluation result.

[0017] Incidentally, the program can be recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium can be a non-transient one such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, etc. Also, in the present disclosure, it is possible to embody it as a computer program product. The program is input into a computer device through an input device or from the outside via a communication interface, stored in a storage device, drives a processor according to predetermined steps or processes, and can display the processing results including intermediate states step by step via a display device as needed, or can communicate with the outside via a communication interface. A computer device for that purpose typically includes, as an example, a processor, a storage device, an input device, a communication interface, and a display device as needed, which can be connected to each other by a bus.

Effects of the Invention

[0018] According to the first to fifth viewpoints, it is possible to contribute to performing an evaluation corresponding to the requirements of the evolving standardized evaluation method.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of an evaluation system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of evaluation method data provided from an evaluation method providing device of an evaluation system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of evaluation criterion information created by an evaluation device in an evaluation system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of collection information collected by an evaluation device in an evaluation system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of an evaluation result when evaluation processing is performed by an evaluation device in an evaluation system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6]This is a schematic diagram showing an example of visualization information created by the evaluation device in the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] This flowchart schematically shows the operation of the evaluation device in the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 when creating evaluation criteria information. [Figure 8] This flowchart schematically shows the operation of the evaluation device in the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 when data collection and evaluation processing are performed. [Figure 9] This flowchart schematically illustrates the operation of the evaluation device in the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 when providing information. [Figure 10] This is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the evaluation system according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 11] This is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the evaluation system according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 12] This is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the evaluation system according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 13] This is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the evaluation device according to Embodiment 5. [Figure 14] This is a block diagram that schematically shows the configuration of hardware resources. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0020] Embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Reference numerals used in the drawings in this application are solely for the purpose of aiding understanding and are not intended to limit the invention to the illustrated configuration. Furthermore, the embodiments described below are merely illustrative and do not limit the present invention. In addition, the connecting lines between blocks in the drawings and other diagrams referenced in the following description include both bidirectional and unidirectional lines. Unidirectional arrows schematically represent the flow of the main signal (data) and do not exclude bidirectionality. Furthermore, in the circuit diagrams, block diagrams, internal configuration diagrams, connection diagrams, etc., shown in this disclosure, although not explicitly shown, input ports and output ports exist at the input and output ends of each connecting line. The same applies to input / output interfaces. The program is executed via a computer device, which includes, for example, a processor, storage device, input device, communication interface, and, if necessary, a display device. The computer device is configured to communicate with internal or external equipment (including computers) via the communication interface, whether wired or wireless.

[0021] [Embodiment 1] The evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of evaluation method data provided from the evaluation method providing device of the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of evaluation criteria information created by the evaluation device in the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of collected information collected by the evaluation device in the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of evaluation results when evaluation processing is performed by the evaluation device in the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1. Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of visualization information created by the evaluation device in the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1.

[0022] Evaluation System 1 is a system that evaluates objects to be evaluated according to standardized evaluation methods (see Figure 1). Examples of standardized evaluation methods include standardized evaluation methods related to animal welfare, grass-fed, cage-free, organic, carbon farming, etc., as well as standardized evaluation methods related to other industrial fields, factories, offices, residences, public facilities, gas and water, roads and railways, telephones and electricity, etc. Examples of objects to be evaluated include livestock animals, objects, facilities, and the environment related to other industrial fields, etc. Evaluation System 1 monitors standardized evaluation method data 31 (see, for example, Figure 2), acquires evaluation methods for new species (new livestock breeds, new varieties, etc.) and revised evaluation methods, and creates evaluation criteria information 16a (see, for example, Figure 3). Evaluation System 1 collects various data necessary for evaluating each evaluation item of the created evaluation criteria information 16a, integrates and manages the collected data as collected information 16b (see, for example, Figure 4), and makes the collected information 16b viewable. The evaluation system 1 creates and makes available evaluation results 16c (see, for example, Figure 5) based on the collected information 16b that is centrally managed. The evaluation system 1 also creates and makes available visualization information (see, for example, Figure 6) that visualizes the evaluation results to be viewed. The evaluation system 1 mainly comprises an evaluation device 10, a management terminal 20, an evaluation method provision device 30, a field management system 40, a viewing terminal 80, and a network 90.

[0023] The evaluation device 10 is a device that evaluates the condition of an object to be evaluated (for example, livestock animals, etc.) (see Figure 1). The evaluation device 10 provides a mechanism for utilizing collected information 16b (for example, see Figure 4) and its evaluation results 16c (for example, see Figure 5) related to the object to be evaluated. The evaluation device 10 acquires evaluation method data 31 (for example, see Figure 4) from the evaluation method providing device 30 and creates evaluation criteria information 16a (for example, see Figure 3) based on the acquired evaluation method data 31. The evaluation device 10 collects the data necessary for each evaluation item in the evaluation criteria information 16a (corresponding to the input data in Figure 3) from the field management system 40 and stores it as collected information 16b. Based on the created evaluation criteria information 16a, the evaluation device 10 creates evaluation results 16c of the stored collected information 16b and makes the collected information 16b and evaluation results 16c viewable from the viewing terminal 80. The evaluation device 10 can be a server device equipped with a computer including a processor, memory, network interface, etc. The evaluation device 10 is connected to the management terminal 20, the evaluation method provision device 30, the field management system 40, and the viewing terminal 80 via the network 90, enabling communication (wireless and wired communication). The evaluation device 10 has a clock function for managing the date and time. By executing a program in the processor while utilizing memory, the evaluation device 10 can be virtually configured to include an evaluation method acquisition unit 11, an evaluation criteria creation unit 12, an information collection unit 13, an evaluation processing unit 14, an information provision unit 15, and a storage unit 16.

[0024] The evaluation method acquisition unit 11 is a functional unit that acquires evaluation method data 31 from the evaluation method providing device 30 (see Figure 1). The evaluation method acquisition unit 11 periodically (or at any time) accesses the evaluation method providing device 30 to acquire evaluation method data 31, compares the acquired evaluation method data 31 with previously acquired evaluation method data, and if the acquired evaluation method data 31 is a new type of evaluation method data or revised evaluation method data, it stores the acquired evaluation method data 31 (for example, see Figure 2) in the storage unit 16 and transmits it to the evaluation criteria creation unit 12. If the acquired evaluation method data 31 is not a new type of evaluation method data or revised evaluation method data, the evaluation method acquisition unit 11 does not store the acquired evaluation method data 31 in the storage unit 16 and does not transmit it to the evaluation criteria creation unit 12, because evaluation criteria information 16a already exists. Furthermore, if the evaluation method acquisition unit 11 has evaluation method data 31 to be acquired but there is no evaluation method providing device 30, it may acquire the evaluation method data 31 input to the management device 20 from the management device 20.

[0025] Here, the evaluation method data 31 can be standardized evaluation method data created by international organizations, public institutions, etc. For example, data on animal welfare evaluation methods as shown in Figure 2 can be used. The evaluation method data 31 is not limited to international or public data; it may also be data that is standardized in practice.

[0026] The evaluation criteria creation unit 12 is a functional unit that creates evaluation criteria information 16a for evaluating collected information 16b collected from the field management system 40 based on evaluation method data 31 acquired by the evaluation method acquisition unit 11 (see Figure 1). The evaluation criteria creation unit 12 can create the evaluation criteria information 16a automatically or manually (input from the administrator's management terminal 20). The evaluation criteria creation unit 12 may also extract keywords from the evaluation method data 31, and based on evaluation-related keywords accumulated by machine learning (for example, keywords related to evaluation items, input data, and evaluation criteria), extract keywords corresponding to the evaluation-related keywords from the extracted keywords, and create evaluation criteria information 16a as shown in Figure 3 based on the keywords corresponding to the extracted evaluation-related keywords. Regarding the evaluation method and evaluation content in the evaluation criteria information 16a, for those evaluated by thresholds, the evaluation method may be set to levels, and the evaluation content may be set to graded levels such that higher levels are given as the achievement rate of the evaluation criteria increases. For those evaluated by YES / NO, the evaluation method may be set to OK / NG, and the evaluation content may be set to OK / NG. The evaluation criteria creation unit 12 may also notify the management terminal 20 used by the administrator of the evaluation device 10 of the existence of keywords that do not correspond to any of the evaluation-related keywords among the extracted keywords. This allows the administrator to use the management terminal 20 to sort the keywords that do not correspond to any of the evaluation items, input data, and evaluation criteria, and to have the evaluation criteria creation unit 12 perform machine learning on this. The evaluation criteria creation unit 12 may also create evaluation criteria information 16a based on the keywords related to the evaluation items, input data, and evaluation criteria sorted by the administrator. Furthermore, the evaluation criteria creation unit 12 may extract the difference between the previous evaluation method data 31 and the current evaluation method data 31 and notify the management terminal 20 used by the administrator of the evaluation device 10 of any changes. The evaluation criteria creation unit 12 saves the created evaluation criteria information 16a to the storage unit 16.

[0027] The information collection unit 13 is a functional unit that collects data corresponding to pre-set collection items from the field management system 40 (see Figure 1). The information collection unit 13 provides information regarding the collection items to the server device 50 of the field management system 40. The collected data includes identification information (e.g., individual identification number, producer identification number, etc.) and the reception date and time when it is received by the evaluation device 10 (see Figure 4; "y / m / dh:m:s1" means "year / month / day hour:minute:second") is added. If the information collection unit 13 has not been able to collect data according to the collection items from the field management system 40, it may notify the field management system 40 to send the missing data. The information collection unit 13 associates the collected data, identification information, and reception date and time and saves them to the storage unit 16 as collected information 16b. When saving the collected information 16b, the information collection unit 13 may create processed data (not shown) by processing the collected data (calculating average values, summation, etc.) and include it in the collected information 16b before saving.

[0028] The evaluation processing unit 14 is a functional unit that evaluates the collected information 16b based on the evaluation criteria information 16a (see Figure 1). For evaluation items where the evaluation method in the evaluation criteria information 16a is level, the evaluation processing unit 14 may perform the evaluation process by assigning a level score corresponding to the numerical value of the data in the collected information 16b that corresponds to the evaluation item (see, for example, the "BCS score" column in Figures 3 and 5). For evaluation items where the evaluation method in the evaluation criteria information 16a is OK / NG, the evaluation processing unit 14 may perform the evaluation process by assigning OK / NG according to the data in the collected information 16b that corresponds to the evaluation item (see, for example, the "Presence or Absence of Human-Use Stepping Basin" column in Figures 3 and 5). The evaluation method in the evaluation criteria information 16a may be a gradient scoring system or mandatory / optional. The evaluation processing unit 14 stores the evaluation result 16c obtained by the evaluation process in the storage unit 16, associating it with the corresponding collected information 16b. The evaluation processing unit 14 may also notify the field management system 40 of any evaluation items that do not meet the evaluation criteria in the evaluation result 16c.

[0029] Here, evaluation result 16c is the result obtained by the evaluation processing of collected information 16b. As shown in Figure 5, evaluation result 16c can be associated with the individual identification number, producer identification number, and scores or OK / NG for each evaluation item (in Figure 5, "BCS score", "presence or absence of human-accessible footing layer", etc.).

[0030] The information provision unit 15 is a functional unit that provides collected information 16b and evaluation results 16c to the viewing terminal 80 (see Figure 1). When the information provision unit 15 receives viewing request information from the viewing terminal 80 (searched by individual identification number, producer identification number, etc.), it transmits collected information 16b corresponding to the viewing request information to the viewing terminal 80. The information provision unit 15 may also include an information visualization unit 15a that visualizes the collected information 16b and evaluation results 16c. For example, the information visualization unit 15a may, upon request from the viewing terminal 80, calculate scores for each animal base, facility base, and management base based on the evaluation results 16c related to an arbitrary individual identification number in the collected information 16b using a pre-set calculation formula, and graph (for example, create a radar chart) the results, thereby creating visualized information as shown in Figure 6 and transmitting it to the viewing terminal 80. The visualized information is not limited to graphs like those in Figure 6; charts and graphs may also be used. Furthermore, the visualization information may be presented as bar graphs showing evaluation results for each evaluation item based on an arbitrary base, line graphs showing arbitrary evaluation items of the evaluation results in a time series (for example, a time series using the reception date and time), line plots, bubble plots, accumulation of data for arbitrary items, or visualizations using moving averages or spool lines.

[0031] The storage unit 16 is a functional unit that stores various types of data (see Figure 1). The storage unit 16 stores evaluation criteria information 16a (for example, see Figure 3) created by the evaluation criteria creation unit 12. The storage unit 16 stores collected information 16b (for example, see Figure 4) which is an integrated version of the data collected by the information collection unit 13. The storage unit 16 stores evaluation results 16c (for example, see Figure 5) processed by the evaluation processing unit 14, associating them with the corresponding collected information 16b. The storage unit 16 may also store evaluation method data 31 acquired in the past, along with the date and time of acquisition. The storage unit 16 may also store evaluation criteria information 16a created in the past, along with the date and time of creation. The storage unit 16 may also store keywords accumulated through machine learning during the creation of the evaluation criteria information 16a. The storage unit 16 may also store collected information 16b for each identification information created for past viewing, along with the date and time of creation (or the actual date and time of acquisition of the data in the collected information 16b). The memory unit 16 may store visualization information that has been previously created by the information visualization unit 15a.

[0032] Here, the collected information 16b is information that integrates various data related to the object of evaluation (e.g., health, rearing, environment, etc. of livestock animals). For example, in the case of livestock animals, the collected information 16b is information that records the history of the livestock animals. The collected information 16b includes identification information (e.g., individual identification number, producer identification number, etc.). The collected information 16b can be managed by individual identification number for each livestock animal, by producer identification number for each producer, and by the date and time of receipt of data received from the field management system 40, as shown in Figure 4. The collected information 16b can be divided into animal-based, facility-based, and management-based categories, as shown in Figure 4, in accordance with the animal welfare evaluation method, and each category can be organized into information that contains various detailed data related to the health, rearing, environment, etc. of livestock animals.

[0033] The management terminal 20 is a terminal used by the administrator of the evaluation device 10 (see Figure 1). The management terminal 20 is connected to the evaluation device 10 via the network 90 so that it can communicate (wireless or wired). The management terminal 20 can be a terminal (computer terminal) equipped with functional components that constitute a computer (e.g., processor, storage device, input device, communication interface, and display device), such as a personal computer, server, tablet terminal, or smartphone. The management terminal 20 can manage (input, create, delete, add, change, edit, etc.) information in the evaluation device 10 through the administrator's operations. There may be more than one management terminal 20.

[0034] The evaluation method provider 30 is a device that provides standardized evaluation method data 31 (see, for example, Figure 2) created by international organizations, public institutions, etc. (see Figure 1). The evaluation method provider 30 can be a server device equipped with a computer including a processor, memory, network interface, etc. The evaluation method provider 30 is connected to the evaluation device 10 via the network 90 so that it can communicate (wireless or wired). The evaluation method provider 30 stores the evaluation method data 31. The evaluation method provider 30 transmits the evaluation method data 31 to the evaluation device 10 upon request from the evaluation device 10. There may be more than one evaluation method provider 30.

[0035] The site management system 40 is a system that manages information about the objects to be evaluated at the site (for example, livestock animals, etc.) (see Figure 1). The site management system 40 can be equipped with, for example, a server device 50, a sensor 60, a camera 61, a robot 62, a contractor terminal 70, and a local network 91.

[0036] The server device 50 is a device that manages information related to the field (for example, livestock animals at the livestock farm under its jurisdiction) (see Figure 1). The server device 50 can be a server device equipped with a computer including a processor, memory, network interface, etc. The server device 50 is connected to the evaluation device 10 via the network 90 so that it can communicate (wireless communication, wired communication). The server device 50 collects and stores data according to the collection items provided by the evaluation device 10. In addition to collecting data for evaluation, the server device 50 may also collect and store data for farm management or other purposes. The server device 50 transmits the collected data to the evaluation device 10. The server device 50 has a clock function for managing the date and time. The server device 50 can be configured to virtually include a data management unit 51, a communication unit 52, and a storage unit 53 by executing a program on the processor while utilizing memory.

[0037] The data management unit 51 is a functional unit that manages data collected from the sensor 60, camera 61, robot 62, or vendor terminal 70 in accordance with the collection items provided by the evaluation device 10 (see Figure 1). The data management unit 51 controls the communication unit 52 and the storage unit 53. The data management unit 51 acquires the collection items provided by the evaluation device 10 via the communication unit 52 and stores them in the storage unit 53. The data management unit 51 periodically (or at any time) collects data from the sensor 60, camera 61, robot 62, or vendor terminal 70 via the communication unit 52 in accordance with the collection items and stores the collected data in the storage unit 53. The data management unit 51 can perform information processing (calculation processing, image processing, analysis processing, etc.) on the collected data and store the processed data in the storage unit 53. The data management unit 51 periodically (or at any time) transmits the data stored in the storage unit 53 (including processed data) to the evaluation device 10 via the communication unit 52.

[0038] The communication unit 52 is a functional unit that performs communication (wired communication, wireless communication) via the network 90 and the local network 91 (see Figure 1). The communication unit 52 receives collection items provided from the evaluation device 10 under the control of the data management unit 51. The communication unit 52 receives data from the sensor 60, camera 61, robot 62, or vendor terminal 70 under the control of the data management unit 51. The communication unit 52 transmits the data stored in the storage unit 53 (which may include processed data) to the evaluation device 10 under the control of the data management unit 51.

[0039] The memory unit 53 is a functional unit that stores various types of data (see Figure 1). The memory unit 53 stores the collection items provided by the evaluation device 10 under the control of the data management unit 51. The memory unit 53 stores data collected from the sensor 60, camera 61, robot 62, or vendor terminal 70 according to the collection items, under the control of the data management unit 51. The memory unit 53 may, under the control of the data management unit 51, divide the collected data into, for example, animal-based, facility-based, and management-based categories according to the collection items, and organize and store various detailed data related to the health, rearing, and environment of livestock animals for each category.

[0040] Sensor 60 is a functional unit that senses various data related to the object being evaluated (e.g., the health, breeding, and environment of livestock animals) (see Figure 1). Sensor 60 is connected to the server device 50 via the local network 91, enabling communication (wired communication, wireless communication). Sensor 60 transmits the sensed data (e.g., indoor and outdoor temperature, humidity, illuminance, power consumption, water usage, gas usage, etc.) to the server device 50. Note that there may be more than one sensor 60. Also, if the contractor inputs data using the contractor terminal 70, sensor 60 may not be necessary.

[0041] Camera 61 is a functional unit that captures various image data related to the object being evaluated (e.g., the health, breeding, and environment of livestock animals, etc.) (see Figure 1). Camera 61 is connected to the server device 50 via the local network 91 so that it can communicate (wired communication, wireless communication). Camera 61 transmits the captured image data (e.g., images of livestock animals, images of barns, etc.) to the server device 50. Note that there may be more than one camera 61. Also, if the vendor inputs image data using the vendor terminal 70, camera 61 may not be necessary.

[0042] Robot 62 is a functional unit that monitors various status data related to the object being evaluated (e.g., the health, breeding, and environment of livestock animals, etc.) (see Figure 1). Robot 62 is connected to the server device 50 via a local network 91 so that it can communicate (wired communication, wireless communication). For example, a mobile body equipped with sensors and cameras, a drone, etc., can be used for Robot 62. Robot 62 transmits the monitored status data (e.g., sensing data and image data of livestock animals that require monitoring while moving, livestock barns, etc.) to the server device 50. Robot 62 may also be used, for example, to take action on-site by operating the vendor terminal 70, or to give specific instructions to areas where the evaluation results were poor. Note that there may be more than one robot 62. Also, Robot 62 is not necessary if the vendor inputs status data using the vendor terminal 70.

[0043] The vendor terminal 70 is a terminal used by the vendor who manages the field management system 40 (see Figure 1). The vendor terminal 70 is connected to the server device 50 via the local network 91, enabling communication (wireless or wired communication). The vendor terminal 70 can be a terminal (computer terminal) equipped with the functional components that make up a computer (e.g., processor, storage device, input device, communication interface, and display device), such as a personal computer, server, tablet terminal, or smartphone. The vendor terminal 70 can manage (input, create, delete, add, change, edit, etc.) information on the server device 50 through the vendor's operation. The vendor terminal 70 can be used by the vendor to input data and transmit it to the server device 50 when there is no sensor 60, camera 61, or robot 62 at the site and data needs to be entered manually, or when data that cannot be acquired by the sensor 60, camera 61, or robot 62 needs to be entered (for example, the condition of the breeding environment such as the management status of bedding and feed, the health status of livestock animals, odor level, electronic medical records, injury status, illness status, treatment status, medication status, slaughter status, frequency and amount of cleaning, body size, stress, etc.). There may be more than one vendor terminal 70.

[0044] The local network 91 is a communication network that enables communication (wired communication, wireless communication) within the local area between the server device 50, sensor 60, camera 61, robot 62, and vendor terminal 70 in the field management system 40 (see Figure 1). A wide area network may be included as part of the local network 91. The local network 91 can use communication networks such as PAN (Personal Area Network), LAN (Local Area Network), MAN (Metropolitan Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), and GAN (Global Area Network).

[0045] The viewing terminal 80 is a terminal used by viewers to view collected information 16b and evaluation results 16c (see Figure 1). The viewing terminal 80 is connected to the evaluation device 10 via the network 90 so that it can communicate (wireless or wired). The viewing terminal 80 can be a terminal (computer terminal) equipped with functional parts that constitute a computer (e.g., processor, storage device, input device, communication interface, and display device), such as a personal computer, server, tablet terminal, or smartphone. The viewing terminal 80 can acquire, display, and view collected information 16b and evaluation results 16c from the evaluation device 10 according to the viewer's operation. Examples of viewers include consumers, wholesalers and retailers, food companies, livestock distributors, animal welfare promoters, universities, government ministries, retailers (supermarkets, convenience stores), food and beverage companies (restaurants, cake shops), mail-order companies, SNS (Social Networking Service) providers, and matching service providers.

[0046] Network 90 is a communication network that enables wide-area communication (wired and wireless) between the evaluation device 10, the management terminal 20, the evaluation method provision device 30, the field management system 40, and the viewing terminal 80 (see Figure 1). Network 90 can utilize communication networks such as PAN, LAN, MAN, WAN, and GAN.

[0047] The operation of the information management device in the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 will be described. First, the operation when creating collection items will be explained using diagrams. Figure 7 is a flowchart schematically showing the operation when the evaluation device in the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 creates evaluation criteria information. For the configuration of the evaluation system, please refer to Figure 1.

[0048] First, the evaluation method acquisition unit 11 of the evaluation device 10 accesses the evaluation method providing device 30 and acquires evaluation method data 31 from the evaluation method providing device 30 (step A1).

[0049] Next, the evaluation method acquisition unit 11 compares the acquired evaluation method data 31 with previously acquired evaluation method data (the most recent stored evaluation method data) to determine whether the acquired evaluation method data 31 is evaluation method data for a new species (for example, a livestock animal species not found in past evaluation method data) (step A2). If it is evaluation method data for a new species (YES in step A2), the unit proceeds to step A4.

[0050] If the evaluation method data is of the same type (NO in step A2), the evaluation method acquisition unit 11 compares the acquired evaluation method data 31 with previously acquired evaluation method data (the most recent stored evaluation method data) to determine whether the acquired evaluation method data 31 has been revised (step A3). If the evaluation method data 31 has not been revised (NO in step A3), the process ends. If the evaluation method data 31 has been revised (YES in step A3), the process proceeds to step A4.

[0051] If the evaluation method data is of a new type (YES in step A2), or if the evaluation method data 31 has been revised (YES in step A3), the evaluation method acquisition unit 11 stores the acquired evaluation method data 31 in the storage unit 16 (step A4).

[0052] Next, the evaluation criteria creation unit 12 of the evaluation device 10 extracts keywords from the acquired evaluation method data 31 (step A5).

[0053] Next, the evaluation criteria creation unit 12 extracts evaluation-related keywords from the extracted keywords based on pre-set criteria (step A6). When extracting evaluation-related keywords, it extracts evaluation-related keywords from the keywords extracted in step A5 based on criteria for evaluation-related keywords accumulated by machine learning. If there are keywords extracted in step A5 that do not correspond to any of the evaluation-related keywords accumulated by machine learning, the system may notify the management terminal 20 used by the administrator of the evaluation device 10 that there are keywords that do not correspond, ask the administrator to extract evaluation-related keywords from the keywords that do not correspond, and then obtain the evaluation-related keywords extracted by the administrator from the management terminal 20 to extract the evaluation-related keywords.

[0054] Next, the evaluation criteria creation unit 12 creates evaluation criteria information 16a based on the extracted evaluation-related keywords (step A7). In creating the evaluation criteria information 16a, the evaluation items may be organized and created in accordance with the data structure of the acquired evaluation method data 31.

[0055] Next, the evaluation criteria creation unit 12 saves the created evaluation criteria information 16a to the storage unit 16 (step A8).

[0056] Next, the evaluation criteria creation unit 12 transmits the created evaluation criteria information 16a to the server device 50 of the field management system 40 (step A9), and then terminates.

[0057] Next, the operation during data collection and evaluation processing will be explained using diagrams. Figure 8 is a schematic flowchart showing the operation of the evaluation device in the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 when data collection and evaluation processing are performed. For the configuration of the evaluation system, please refer to Figure 1.

[0058] First, the information collection unit 13 of the evaluation device 10 collects data corresponding to pre-set collection items from the field management system 40 (step B1).

[0059] Next, the information gathering unit 13 determines whether the collected data includes all the data for the collection items (step B2). If all the data is included (YES in step B2), the process proceeds to step B4.

[0060] If not all data is included (NO in step B2), the information collection unit 13 sends a data deficiency notification (including the items of the missing data) to the field management system 40 informing it that there is missing data in the collected data (step B3), and then proceeds to step B4. This allows the contractor to find out about the missing data through the contractor terminal 70 on the field management system 40, and the contractor can collect the missing data and provide it to the evaluation device 10.

[0061] If all data is included (YES in step B2), or after step B3, the information collection unit 13 creates processed data (e.g., average value, cumulative value, etc.) by processing predetermined data from the collected data based on pre-set conditions (step B4). If there is insufficient data, the process is skipped and processed data is not created.

[0062] The information collection unit 13 stores the collected information 16b, which integrates the collected data (e.g., individual identification number, producer identification number, and reception date and time) and processing data, in the storage unit 16 (step B5). If there is insufficient data, the collected information 16b is stored in the storage unit 16 without any processing data.

[0063] Next, the evaluation processing unit 14 of the evaluation device 10 evaluates the collected information 16b based on the evaluation criteria information 16a (step B6).

[0064] Next, the evaluation processing unit 14 stores the evaluation results 16c obtained by the evaluation process in the storage unit 16 in association with the corresponding collected information 16b (step B7). When saving the evaluation results 16c, they may be saved in association with the evaluation method data 31 and evaluation criteria information 16a that formed the basis of the evaluation process, so that the evaluation results 16c can be viewed on the viewing terminal 80 while referring to the evaluation method data 31 and evaluation criteria information 16a.

[0065] Next, the evaluation processing unit 14 determines whether or not there are any evaluation items in the evaluation result 16c that do not meet the evaluation criteria (step B8). If there are no evaluation items that do not meet the evaluation criteria (NO in step B8), the process terminates.

[0066] If there are evaluation items that do not meet the evaluation criteria (YES in step B8), the evaluation processing unit 14 notifies the field management system 40 of the evaluation items that do not meet the evaluation criteria (step B9), and then terminates.

[0067] Next, the operation when providing (viewing) collected information and evaluation results will be explained using diagrams. Figure 9 is a flowchart schematically showing the operation when the evaluation device in the evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 provides information.

[0068] First, the information provision unit 15 of the evaluation device 10 receives viewing request information (for example, information requesting a search using individual identification number, producer identification number, period, etc.) from the viewing terminal 80 (step C1).

[0069] Next, the information provision unit 15 determines whether or not there is a visualization request in the received viewing request information (step C2). If there is no visualization request (NO in step C2), the process proceeds to step C6.

[0070] If there is a request for visualization (YES in step C2), the information provision unit 15 searches for the collected information 16b and the evaluation result 16c based on the received viewing request information (step C3).

[0071] Next, the information visualization unit 15a of the information provision unit 15 creates visualization information (for example, a graph) based on the information extracted by the search (step C4).

[0072] Next, the information provision unit 15 transmits the information extracted by the search and the created visualization information to the viewing terminal 80 (step C5), and then terminates. As a result, the extracted information and the created visualization information can be viewed on the viewing terminal 80.

[0073] If there is no visualization request (NO in step C2), the information provision unit 15 searches for the collected information 16b and evaluation results 16c based on the received viewing request information (step C6).

[0074] Next, the information provision unit 15 transmits the information extracted by the search to the viewing terminal 80 (step C7), and then terminates. As a result, the extracted information can be viewed on the viewing terminal 80.

[0075] According to Embodiment 1, since the collected information 16b is evaluated based on the evaluation criteria information 16a created by acquiring the evaluation method data 31, it can contribute to performing evaluations that respond to the evolving requirements of standardized evaluation methods.

[0076] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, since it is possible to determine whether or not the system meets the requirements of a standardized evaluation method simply by checking the evaluation results that the system has automatically processed, the effort and cost incurred by vendors for evaluation and certification can be reduced.

[0077] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, the evaluation device 10 can output the evaluation result 16c in real time, so viewers of the evaluation result 16c can check whether or not it conforms to a standardized evaluation method.

[0078] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, evaluation criteria information 16a is created based on the latest standardized evaluation method data 31 that is constantly evolving and notified to the on-site management system 40 (contractor), which allows the configuration of the on-site management system 40 to be reviewed to correspond to the standardized evaluation method.

[0079] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, the administrator (operator) of the evaluation device 10 performs an evaluation process to determine whether the system is always automatically responding to the requirements of the standardized evaluation method, and notifies the on-site management system 40 (contractor) if the evaluation criteria are not met. As a result, the contractor can identify areas for improvement and areas that should be prioritized, and maintain operations (raising, transporting, slaughtering, etc.) in accordance with the standardized evaluation method.

[0080] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, when dealing with information on livestock animals, evaluation results 16c can be obtained based on a wide range of evaluation criteria information 16a of a standardized evaluation method, so that the conditions can be checked not only at the farm, but also during transport from the farm to the slaughterhouse, and even up to the slaughtering method.

[0081] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, when handling information on livestock animals, the evaluation device 10 can provide individual evaluation results 16c for each livestock animal, or evaluation results 16c for each type and species of livestock animal, making it possible to check the entire number of livestock animals without much effort.

[0082] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, when handling information on livestock animals, the field management system 40 (contractor) can prove through the evaluation results 16c that the livestock animals comply with the standards of a standardized evaluation method, thereby reducing the effort and cost of proof.

[0083] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, when handling information on livestock animals, livestock product transporters and slaughterhouses can view the evaluation results of the evaluation device 10 to determine whether to transport or slaughter the animals according to the evaluation results based on a standardized evaluation method, and select a method of transport or slaughter, thereby reducing the effort and cost of certification.

[0084] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, when handling information on livestock animals, processors, retailers, and consumers can search using producer identification information or individual identification numbers and view evaluation results to determine whether the livestock animal in question is meat obtained from a supplier that meets the standards of a standardized evaluation method. This enhances assurance of meat safety and improves confidence before purchase.

[0085] [Embodiment 2] The evaluation system according to Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 10 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the evaluation system according to Embodiment 2.

[0086] Embodiment 2 is a modification of Embodiment 1, in which a simulation unit 17 is added to the evaluation device 10. The simulation unit 17 receives virtual information (data such as that included in the collected information 16b) from a contractor terminal 70, which is the administrator of the field management system 40. The simulation unit 17 then simulates whether the input virtual information meets the criteria of the evaluation criteria information 16a, creates the simulation results, and transmits them to the contractor terminal 70. This allows the contractor to refer to the simulation results on the contractor terminal 70. Although Embodiment 2 includes a simulation unit 17, the operation of the simulation unit 17 may be performed by the evaluation processing unit 14 instead. In this case, the simulation results of the evaluation can be obtained simply by providing the evaluation processing unit 14 with artificially changed values ​​and then performing the evaluation as usual. The simulation may be performed not only on all evaluation items of the evaluation criteria information 16a, but also on at least one specific evaluation item (for example, the BCS (Body Condition Score) score). The other configurations of Embodiment 2 are the same as those of Embodiment 1.

[0087] According to Embodiment 2, similar to Embodiment 1, it is possible to contribute to conducting evaluations that respond to the evolving requirements of standardized evaluation methods. Furthermore, by allowing vendors to refer to the simulation results before formal evaluation to understand how to meet the standards of the standardized evaluation method, the value of each vendor's final products and services can be improved, and the system can be made more widespread. In addition, by providing the simulation unit 17, it becomes possible to simulate multiple evaluations based on the conditions in the evaluation criteria. In the example of the BCS score, by specifying or leaving blank one BCS score while all the necessary collection items for evaluation are available, the evaluation simulation results can be output based on the evaluation criteria information.

[0088] [Embodiment 3] The evaluation system according to Embodiment 3 will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 11 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the evaluation system according to Embodiment 3.

[0089] Embodiment 3 is a modification of Embodiment 1, in which the information management (collection and provision) function is extracted from the evaluation device (10 in Figure 1) of Embodiment 1 and an information management device 21 is provided. As a result of extracting the information management function from the evaluation device 10, an information acquisition unit 18 is provided in the evaluation device 10.

[0090] The evaluation device 10 is a device that evaluates the condition of an object to be evaluated (for example, livestock animals, etc.) (see Figure 11). The evaluation device 10 acquires evaluation method data 31 from the evaluation method provision device 30 and creates evaluation criteria information 16a based on the acquired evaluation method data 31. The evaluation device 10 does not collect data about the object to be evaluated from the field management system 40, but acquires collected information 24a (collected from the field management system 40) from the information management device 21. The evaluation device 10 creates evaluation results 24b of the acquired collected information 24a based on the created evaluation criteria information 16a. The evaluation device 10 does not store the created evaluation results 24b itself, but transmits them to the information management device 21. The evaluation device 10 can be a server device equipped with a computer including a processor, memory, network interface, etc. The evaluation device 10 is connected to the management terminal 20, the information management device 21, the evaluation method provision device 30, the field management system 40, and the viewing terminal 80 via the network 90, enabling communication (wireless communication, wired communication). The evaluation device 10 can be configured to virtually include an evaluation method acquisition unit 11, an evaluation criteria creation unit 12, an information acquisition unit 18, an evaluation processing unit 14, and a storage unit 16 by executing a program on the processor while utilizing memory. The evaluation device 10 may also include a simulation unit (17 in Figure 10).

[0091] The evaluation method acquisition unit 11 is the same as the evaluation method acquisition unit of Embodiment 1 (11 in Figure 1), but the collected evaluation method data 31 may be transmitted to the information management device 21 for storage. The evaluation criteria creation unit 12 is the same as the evaluation criteria creation unit of Embodiment 1 (12 in Figure 1), but the created evaluation criteria information may be transmitted to the information management device 21 for storage. The evaluation processing unit 14 transmits the evaluation results 24b obtained by the evaluation process to the information management device 21 for storage, without storing them in the storage unit 16 (although it may be stored), and otherwise is the same as the evaluation processing unit of Embodiment 1 (14 in Figure 1). The storage unit 16 does not store the collected information 24a and evaluation results 24b itself (although it may be stored), and otherwise is the same as the storage unit of Embodiment 1 (16 in Figure 1). The collected information 24a (similar to the collected information 16b in Figure 1) and the evaluation results 24b (similar to the evaluation results 16c in Figure 1; may include visualization information of the evaluation results 24b) are stored in the information management device 21. All information provided from the information management device 21 to the viewing terminal 80 is stored in the information management device 21. The evaluation device 10 does not have an information collection unit 22 and an information provision unit 23, but the information management device 21 does have an information collection unit 22 and an information provision unit 23.

[0092] The information acquisition unit 18 is a functional unit that acquires collected information 24a from the information management device 21 (see Figure 11). The information acquisition unit 18 transmits the acquired collected information 24a to the evaluation processing unit 14. The information acquisition unit 18 may also store the acquired collected information 24a in the storage unit 16.

[0093] The information management device 21 is a device that manages collected information 24a and its evaluation results 24b (see Figure 11). The information management device 21 provides a mechanism for utilizing the collected information 24a and its evaluation results 24b. The information management device 21 stores collected information 24a, which is data corresponding to pre-set collection items that has been collected and integrated. The information management device 21 provides the stored collected information 24a to the evaluation device 10, obtains the evaluation results 24b of the collected information 24a from the evaluation device 10, and stores the evaluation results 24b in the storage unit 24, associating them with the collected information 24a. The information management device 21 makes the collected information 24a and evaluation results 24b viewable from the viewing terminal 80. For example, the information management device 21 can be a server device equipped with a computer including a processor, memory, network interface, etc. The information management device 21 is connected to the evaluation device 10, management terminal 20, evaluation method provision device 30, field management system 40, and viewing terminal 80 via the network 90, enabling communication (wireless and wired communication). The information management device 21 has a clock function for managing the date and time. The information management device 21 can be configured to virtually include an information collection unit 22, an information provision unit 23, and a storage unit 24 by executing a program on the processor while utilizing memory. The information management device 21 may also be configured in a distributed manner on the cloud. The information collection unit 22 and the information provision unit 23 are the same as the information collection unit (13 in Figure 1) and information provision unit (15 in Figure 1) of Embodiment 1. The storage unit 24 does not store evaluation criteria information 16a, and is otherwise the same as the storage unit (16 in Figure 1) of Embodiment 1. In Embodiment 3, the information management device 21 has a function to provide information for viewing, but the information management device 21's information provision function may be discontinued, and the evaluation device 10 may be used to store the information for viewing and provide the information for viewing.

[0094] According to Embodiment 3, similar to Embodiment 1, it is possible to contribute to performing evaluations that respond to the evolving requirements of standardized evaluation methods, and the information provision service (browsing service) on the information management device 21 can continue even when the evaluation device 10 is being maintained. Furthermore, security can be ensured by separating the evaluation device 10 from the information management device 21.

[0095] [Embodiment 4] The evaluation system according to Embodiment 4 will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 12 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the evaluation system according to Embodiment 4.

[0096] Embodiment 4 is a modification of Embodiment 1, wherein a third-party certification body or certifier performs authentication on the evaluation result 16c processed by the evaluation device 10 using the authentication terminal 26. Alternatively, an authentication server that automatically performs authentication may be used instead of the authentication terminal 26. The configuration other than the authentication terminal 26 is the same as in Embodiment 1 (see Figure 1). Furthermore, Embodiment 4 may also be applied to Embodiments 2 and 3.

[0097] The authentication terminal 26 is a terminal used by an authentication body (e.g., a public institution) or an authentication person (e.g., a certified person) when authenticating the collected information 16b and the evaluation results 16c (see Figure 12). The authentication terminal 26 is connected to the evaluation device 10 via the network 90 so that it can communicate (wireless or wired). The authentication terminal 26 can be a terminal (computer terminal) equipped with functional parts that constitute a computer (e.g., a processor, storage device, input device, communication interface, and display device), such as a personal computer, server, tablet terminal, or smartphone. The authentication terminal 26 acquires and displays the collected information 16b and evaluation results 16c from the evaluation device 10 and performs authentication through operation by the authentication body or authentication person. Authentication of the collected information 16b and evaluation results 16c may also be performed, for example, by associating authentication identification information issued by the authentication body or authentication person with the collected information 16b and evaluation results 16c and storing it in the evaluation device 10.

[0098] According to Embodiment 4, similar to Embodiment 1, it is possible to contribute to conducting evaluations that respond to the evolving requirements of standardized evaluation methods, and the reliability of the collected information 16b and evaluation results 16c can be further improved by having the certification body or certifier certify the collected information 16b and evaluation results 16c. In particular, when dealing with information on livestock animals, when processors, retailers, and consumers view the information from the evaluation device 10, they can refer to the certification identification information to find out whether the livestock animal in question is meat obtained from a business that has been certified in accordance with a standardized evaluation method, thereby improving the assurance of meat safety and peace of mind.

[0099] [Embodiment 5] The evaluation apparatus according to Embodiment 5 will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 13 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the evaluation apparatus according to Embodiment 5.

[0100] The evaluation device 10 is a device for evaluating the state of an object to be evaluated (see Figure 13). The evaluation device 10 comprises an evaluation method acquisition unit 11, an evaluation criteria creation unit 12, and an evaluation processing unit 14. The evaluation method acquisition unit 11 is configured to acquire evaluation method data 31 from an evaluation method providing device 30. The evaluation criteria creation unit 12 is configured to create evaluation criteria information for evaluating collected information, which is integrated from data collected from a field management system 40 that manages field information, based on the evaluation method data 31. The evaluation processing unit 14 is configured to evaluate the collected information based on the evaluation criteria information and create an evaluation result.

[0101] According to Embodiment 5, since the collected information is evaluated based on evaluation criteria information created by acquiring evaluation method data 31, it can contribute to performing evaluations that respond to the evolving requirements of standardized evaluation methods.

[0102] Furthermore, the evaluation device, management terminal, evaluation method provision device, viewing terminal, server device, and vendor terminal according to Embodiments 1 to 5 can be composed of so-called hardware resources (information processing devices, computers), and those with the configuration illustrated in Figure 14 can be used. For example, the hardware resource 100 includes a processor 101, memory 102, network interface 103, etc., which are interconnected by an internal bus 104.

[0103] The configuration shown in Figure 14 is not intended to limit the hardware configuration of the hardware resource 100. The hardware resource 100 may include hardware not shown (e.g., input / output interfaces). Similarly, the number of units such as processors 101 included in the device is not limited to the example in Figure 14; for example, multiple processors 101 may be included in the hardware resource 100. For example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processor Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc., can be used for the processor 101.

[0104] Memory 102 can be, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), etc.

[0105] The network interface 103 can use, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) card, a network adapter, a network interface card, etc.

[0106] The functions of the hardware resource 100 are realized by the processing module described above. This processing module is realized, for example, by the processor 101 executing a program stored in memory 102. Furthermore, this program can be downloaded via a network or updated using a storage medium containing the program. Moreover, the processing module may be implemented by a semiconductor chip. In other words, the functions performed by the processing module can be realized by the execution of software on some hardware.

[0107] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows, but are not limited to the following.

[0108] [Note 1] An evaluation method acquisition unit configured to acquire evaluation method data from an evaluation method providing device, An evaluation criteria creation unit is configured to create evaluation criteria information for evaluating collected information by integrating data collected from a field management system that manages field information, based on the aforementioned evaluation method data. An evaluation processing unit configured to evaluate the collected information based on the evaluation criteria information and create an evaluation result, An evaluation device equipped with the following features. [Note 2] The evaluation device according to Appendix 1, comprising a simulation unit that simulates whether virtual information from the field management system meets the criteria of the evaluation criteria information, creates a simulation result, and transmits it to the field management system. [Note 3] The system further includes an information acquisition unit that acquires the collected information from an information management device that manages the collected information, The evaluation processing unit is configured to evaluate the acquired collected information based on the evaluation criteria information, create an evaluation result, and transmit it to the information management device. The evaluation apparatus described in Appendix 1 or 2. [Note 4] An information collection unit configured to collect data from the on-site management system based on pre-set collection items, A storage unit configured to store the collected information, which is an integrated version of the collected data, in association with the evaluation results, An information provision unit is configured to receive a viewing request from a viewing terminal, extract information corresponding to the viewing request from the collected information or the evaluation results, and transmit it to the viewing terminal. An evaluation apparatus as described in Appendix 1 or 2, further comprising the above. [Note 5] The aforementioned information provision unit, When there is a visualization request in the aforementioned viewing request information, the process involves searching for the aforementioned collected information or the aforementioned evaluation results based on the aforementioned viewing request information, and creating visualization information based on the information extracted by the search. A process of transmitting the collected information or evaluation results extracted by the search, and the created visualization information, to the viewing terminal, It is configured to do, The evaluation apparatus described in Appendix 4. [Note 6] The evaluation method acquisition unit is configured to compare the evaluation method data acquired this time with evaluation method data acquired in the past, and to save the evaluation method data acquired this time if it is a new type of evaluation method data or if the evaluation method data acquired this time has been revised. The evaluation criteria creation unit is configured to create evaluation criteria information based on the evaluation method data acquired when the evaluation method data acquired is saved. An evaluation apparatus as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 5. [Note 7] The aforementioned evaluation criteria creation unit, The process involves extracting keywords from the acquired evaluation method data, A process to extract keywords related to evaluation from the extracted keywords based on pre-set criteria, A process for creating evaluation criteria information based on the extracted keywords related to the evaluation, It is configured to do, An evaluation apparatus as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 6. [Note 8] An evaluation device described in any one of the appendices 1, 2, 4 through 6, or 7, A field management system that manages on-site information and is connected to the aforementioned evaluation device in a manner that allows communication between the two systems, An evaluation method providing device that provides evaluation method data and is connected to the evaluation device in a manner that enables communication with the evaluation device, A viewing terminal that is connected to the evaluation device in a communication manner, An evaluation system equipped with the following features. [Note 9] The evaluation apparatus described in Appendix 1 to 3, 6 or 7, An information management device that manages the collected information and is connected to the evaluation device in a manner that allows communication with it, A field management system that manages on-site information and is connected to the aforementioned information management device in a manner that allows communication with it, An evaluation method providing device that provides evaluation method data and is connected to the evaluation device in a manner that enables communication with the evaluation device, A viewing terminal that is connected to the aforementioned information management device in a communicative manner, An evaluation system equipped with the following features. [Note 10] The system further includes an authentication terminal or authentication server that performs authentication processing on the aforementioned evaluation results and is connected to the evaluation device in a manner that allows communication with the evaluation device. The evaluation system described in Appendix 8 or 9. [Note 11] An evaluation method for evaluating collected information using hardware resources, Steps include acquiring evaluation method data from an evaluation method providing device, Based on the aforementioned evaluation method data, the step of creating evaluation criteria information for evaluating collected information by integrating data collected from a field management system that manages field information, A step of evaluating the collected information based on the aforementioned evaluation criteria information and creating an evaluation result, An evaluation method that includes this. [Note 12] A program that causes hardware resources to perform the process of evaluating collected information, The process of acquiring evaluation method data from the evaluation method providing device, Based on the aforementioned evaluation method data, a process is performed to create evaluation criteria information for evaluating collected information by integrating data collected from a field management system that manages field information, and A process of evaluating the collected information based on the aforementioned evaluation criteria information and creating an evaluation result, A program that causes the aforementioned hardware resources to execute.

[0109] Furthermore, the above-mentioned patent and non-patent document disclosures are incorporated into this document by reference and may be used as the basis or part of the present invention as necessary. Within the framework of the full disclosure of the present invention (including the claims and drawings), further modifications and adjustments to the embodiments or examples are possible based on the basic technical concept. Also, within the framework of the full disclosure of the present invention, various combinations or selections (or non-selection as necessary) of various disclosure elements (including each element of each claim, each element of each embodiment or example, each element of each drawing, etc.) are possible. In other words, the present invention naturally includes the full disclosure, including the claims and drawings, and various modifications and alterations that a person skilled in the art could make in accordance with the technical concept. Furthermore, regarding the numerical values ​​and numerical ranges described in this application, any intermediate values, lower values, and smaller ranges are deemed to be described even if not explicitly stated. Moreover, the disclosures of the above-mentioned cited documents may, as necessary, be used in part or in whole as part of the disclosure of the present invention, in accordance with the spirit of the present invention, in combination with the matters described in this document, and these may also be considered to be included in (belong to) the disclosures of this application. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0110] 1. Evaluation System 10 Evaluation device 11. Evaluation Method Acquisition Department 12. Evaluation Criteria Creation Department 13. Information Gathering Department 14. Evaluation Processing Unit 15 Information Provision Department 15a Information visualization section 16 Memory section 16a Evaluation Criteria Information 16b Information to be collected 16c Evaluation Results 17 Simulation Department 18 Information acquisition department 19. Information Registration Department 20 Management terminals 21 Information management device 22 Information Gathering Department 23 Information Provision Department 24 Memory section 24a Information to be collected 24b Evaluation Results 26 Authentication terminals 30 Evaluation Method Providing Device 31. Evaluation Method Data 40. Site Management System 50 Server Devices 51 Data Management Department 52 Communications Department 53 Memory section 60 sensors 61 Camera 62 Robots 70 Vendor terminals 80 Viewing terminals 90 Networks 91 Local Network 100 hardware resources 101 Processors 102 memory 103 Network Interface 104 Internal Bus

Claims

1. An evaluation method acquisition unit configured to acquire evaluation method data from an evaluation method providing device, An evaluation criteria creation unit is configured to create evaluation criteria information for evaluating collected information, which is an integrated collection of data from a field management system that manages field information, based on the aforementioned evaluation method data. An evaluation processing unit configured to evaluate the collected information based on the evaluation criteria information and create an evaluation result, An evaluation device comprising, The evaluation method acquisition unit compares the acquired evaluation method data with previously acquired evaluation method data, and if the acquired evaluation method data is a new type of evaluation method data or has been revised, it uses this as a trigger to store the acquired evaluation method data in the storage unit. The aforementioned evaluation criteria creation unit, The process involves extracting corresponding keywords from the saved evaluation method data based on evaluation-related keywords accumulated through machine learning, and A process to extract evaluation-related keywords from the extracted keywords based on pre-set criteria, A process for creating evaluation criteria information based on the extracted keywords related to the evaluation, An evaluation device configured to perform the following: An evaluation device that, if the extracted keywords do not correspond to the evaluation keywords, performs machine learning using the extracted keywords that do not correspond to the evaluation keywords, thereby providing feedback to the machine learning process.

2. The evaluation device according to claim 1, further comprising a simulation unit that simulates whether virtual information from the field management system meets the criteria of the evaluation criteria information, creates a simulation result, and transmits it to the field management system.

3. The system further includes an information acquisition unit that acquires the collected information from an information management device that manages the collected information, The evaluation processing unit is configured to evaluate the acquired collected information based on the evaluation criteria information, create an evaluation result, and transmit it to the information management device. The evaluation apparatus according to claim 1.

4. An information collection unit configured to collect data from the on-site management system based on pre-set collection items, A storage unit configured to store the collected information, which is an integrated version of the collected data, in association with the evaluation results, An information provision unit is configured to receive a viewing request from a viewing terminal, extract information corresponding to the viewing request from the collected information or the evaluation results, and transmit it to the viewing terminal. The evaluation apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:

5. The aforementioned information provision unit, When there is a visualization request in the aforementioned viewing request information, the process involves searching for the aforementioned collected information or the aforementioned evaluation results based on the aforementioned viewing request information, and creating visualization information based on the information extracted by the search. A process of transmitting the collected information or evaluation results extracted by the search, and the created visualization information, to the viewing terminal, It is configured to do, The evaluation apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The evaluation method acquisition unit is configured to compare the evaluation method data acquired this time with evaluation method data acquired in the past, and to save the evaluation method data acquired this time if it is a new type of evaluation method data or if the evaluation method data acquired this time has been revised. The evaluation criteria creation unit is configured to create evaluation criteria information based on the evaluation method data acquired when the evaluation method data acquired is saved. The evaluation apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The evaluation apparatus according to claim 1, A field management system that manages on-site information and is connected to the aforementioned evaluation device in a manner that allows communication between the two systems, An evaluation method providing device that provides evaluation method data and is connected to the evaluation device in a manner that enables communication with the evaluation device, A viewing terminal that is connected to the evaluation device in a communication manner, An evaluation system equipped with the following features.

8. The evaluation apparatus according to claim 1, An information management device that manages the collected information and is connected to the evaluation device in a manner that allows communication with it, A field management system that manages on-site information and is connected to the aforementioned information management device in a manner that allows communication with it, An evaluation method providing device that provides evaluation method data and is connected to the evaluation device in a manner that enables communication with the evaluation device, A viewing terminal that is connected to the aforementioned information management device in a communicative manner, An evaluation system equipped with the following features.

9. An evaluation method for evaluating collected information using hardware resources, Steps include acquiring evaluation method data from an evaluation method providing device, Based on the aforementioned evaluation method data, the step of creating evaluation criteria information for evaluating collected information by integrating data collected from a field management system that manages field information, A step of evaluating the collected information based on the aforementioned evaluation criteria information and creating an evaluation result, Includes, The step of acquiring the aforementioned evaluation method data includes comparing the acquired evaluation method data with previously acquired evaluation method data, and if the acquired evaluation method data is a new type of evaluation method data or has been revised, using this as a trigger, storing the acquired evaluation method data in the storage unit. The step of creating the aforementioned evaluation criteria information is: From the saved evaluation method data, the step of extracting corresponding keywords based on evaluation-related keywords accumulated by machine learning, A step of extracting keywords related to evaluation from the keywords extracted based on pre-set criteria, An evaluation method comprising the step of creating evaluation criteria information based on the extracted keywords relating to the evaluation, An evaluation method that includes a step in which, if the extracted keywords do not correspond to evaluation keywords, the machine learning is performed using the extracted keywords that do not correspond to evaluation keywords, thereby providing feedback to the machine learning process.

10. A program that causes hardware resources to perform the process of evaluating collected information, The process of acquiring evaluation method data from the evaluation method providing device, Based on the aforementioned evaluation method data, a process is performed to create evaluation criteria information for evaluating collected information by integrating data collected from a field management system that manages field information, and A process of evaluating the collected information based on the aforementioned evaluation criteria information and creating an evaluation result, The hardware resources are made to execute this, The process for acquiring the aforementioned evaluation method data includes comparing the acquired evaluation method data with previously acquired evaluation method data, and if the acquired evaluation method data is a new type of evaluation method data or has been revised, this triggers a process to save the acquired evaluation method data to the storage unit. The process for creating the aforementioned evaluation criteria information is: The process involves extracting corresponding keywords from the saved evaluation method data based on evaluation-related keywords accumulated through machine learning, and A process to extract evaluation-related keywords from the extracted keywords based on pre-set criteria, A program that includes a process for creating evaluation criteria information based on the extracted keywords relating to the evaluation, and further includes the hardware resources, If the extracted keywords do not correspond to the evaluation keywords, the program performs machine learning using the extracted keywords that do not correspond to the evaluation keywords, thereby performing a process to provide feedback to the machine learning.

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