Information processing device, program, and control method for information processing device

Abstract

This disclosure provides an information processing device, a program, and a control method for the information processing device that allow users to intuitively understand the effect of reducing the power consumption of an air conditioning system. [Solution] The information processing device in this disclosure includes: a control unit that, when the air conditioning device performs a first air conditioning operation according to first operating conditions set by user operation, acquires the first operating conditions; when the air conditioning device performs a second air conditioning operation according to second operating conditions set by the information processing device, acquires the second operating conditions; generates an effect object that shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioning device when the air conditioning device is made to perform the second air conditioning operation instead of the first air conditioning operation based on the first operating conditions and the second operating conditions; and an output unit that outputs the effect object generated by the control unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0005] ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, a program, and a control method for an information processing apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an evaluation apparatus that outputs data regarding power consumption achievements before and after energy-saving operation after correcting either one of the power consumption achievements during the period before energy-saving operation and the power consumption achievements during the period after energy-saving operation so that it can be compared with the power consumption achievements during the other operation period.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides an information processing apparatus, a program, and a control method for an information processing apparatus that can intuitively grasp the effects of energy-saving operation.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The information processing device in this disclosure is an information processing device for controlling an air conditioning system, comprising: a control unit that, when the air conditioning system performs a first air conditioning operation according to a first operating condition set by a user, acquires the first operating condition; when the air conditioning system performs a second air conditioning operation according to a second operating condition set by the information processing device, acquires the second operating condition; and generates an effect object that shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioning system when the air conditioning system is made to perform the second air conditioning operation instead of the first air conditioning operation based on the first and second operating conditions; and an output unit that outputs the effect object generated by the control unit, wherein the effect object generated by the control unit includes a first object that shows the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioning system included in the first operating condition; a second object that shows the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioning system included in the second operating condition; and a third object that shows the power consumption reduction effect.

[0006] Furthermore, the program in this disclosure is a program that causes a processor mounted on an information processing device that controls an air conditioning device to acquire the first operating conditions when the air conditioning device performs a first air conditioning operation according to the first operating conditions set by the user, acquire the second operating conditions when the air conditioning device performs a second air conditioning operation according to the second operating conditions set by the information processing device, generate an effect object that shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioning device when the air conditioning device is made to perform the second air conditioning operation instead of the first air conditioning operation based on the first and second operating conditions, and output the generated effect object to an output unit, wherein the effect object includes a first object that shows the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioning device included in the first operating conditions, a second object that shows the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioning device included in the second operating conditions, and a third object that shows the power consumption reduction effect.

[0007] Furthermore, the control method for an information processing device in this disclosure involves causing a processor mounted on an information processing device that controls an air conditioner to acquire the first operating conditions when the air conditioner performs a first air conditioning operation according to the first operating conditions set by the user, acquire the second operating conditions when the air conditioner performs a second air conditioning operation according to the second operating conditions set by the information processing device, generate an effect object that shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioner when the air conditioner is made to perform the second air conditioning operation instead of the first air conditioning operation based on the first and second operating conditions, and output the generated effect object to an output unit, wherein the effect object includes a first object that shows the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner included in the first operating conditions, a second object that shows the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner included in the second operating conditions, and a third object that shows the power consumption reduction effect. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The information processing device, program, and control method for the information processing device in this disclosure generate effect objects based on the first operating conditions when the air conditioner is operated under first operating conditions set by the user, and the second operating conditions when the air conditioner is operated under second operating conditions set by the information processing device. The effect object shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioner when the air conditioner is operated under second air conditioning conditions instead of first air conditioning conditions. This effect object includes a first object showing the time change of the set temperature when the air conditioner is operated under first air conditioning conditions, a second object showing the time change of the set temperature when the air conditioner is operated under second air conditioning conditions, and a third object showing the power consumption reduction effect. Therefore, by comparing the time changes of the set temperature of the air conditioner when first air conditioning conditions are performed and when second air conditioning conditions are performed, the user can intuitively grasp the power consumption reduction effect when the second air conditioning conditions are performed instead of first air conditioning conditions. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system in the embodiment. [Figure 2] Diagram showing the configuration of the management server in the embodiment. [Figure 3] A diagram showing an example of the first management data in the embodiment. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an example of the second management data in the embodiment. [Figure 5] A diagram illustrating the updating of the number of actual results in the embodiment. [Figure 6] A diagram illustrating the update of the number of changes in the embodiment. [Figure 7] Flowchart showing the operation of the first acquisition unit, determination unit, and setting unit in the embodiment. [Figure 8] A flowchart showing the details of the decision-making process. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of the data collected in the embodiment. [Figure 10] A flowchart showing the details of the decision-making process. [Figure 11] A diagram showing an example of an energy-saving effect object image. [Figure 12] A diagram showing an example of an energy-saving effect object image. [Figure 13] A diagram showing an example of an energy-saving effect object image. [Figure 14] A diagram showing an example of an energy-saving effect object image. [Figure 15] Flowchart showing the operation of the object generation unit and the second acquisition unit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (Knowledge and other information that formed the basis of this disclosure) When the inventors came up with the present disclosure, there was a technology for outputting data on power consumption performance before and after energy-saving operation. However, although this technology can grasp the amount of power consumption reduction by energy-saving control, the inventors discovered the problem that it is impossible to grasp which operations contributed to the reduction of the power consumption of the air conditioner. In order to solve this problem, the inventors have come to constitute the subject matter of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure provides an information processing device, a program, and a control method for an information processing device that enables a user to intuitively grasp the power consumption reduction effect of an air conditioner.

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, there may be cases where more detailed explanations than necessary are omitted. For example, there may be cases where detailed explanations of well-known matters are omitted, or duplicate explanations for substantially the same configurations are omitted. Note that the attached drawings and the following description are provided for those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0012] (Embodiment) [1. Configuration] [1-1. Configuration of Air Conditioning System] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning system 1000. The air conditioning system 1000 is a system that air-conditions the conditioned space S by the air conditioner 1. The air conditioning of the conditioned space S includes cooling, heating, dehumidification, air supply, ventilation, etc. In the present embodiment, the case where the conditioned space S is cooled and heated by the air conditioner 1 will be described. The conditioned space S is a space owned by the facility H and is a space that is air-conditioned by the air conditioner 1. Note that the facility H includes, for example, a house, an office, a store, a medical facility, a public facility, etc.

[0013] The air conditioning system 1000 includes an air conditioning unit 1. In Figure 1, the air conditioning system 1000 includes four or more air conditioning units 1. However, the number of air conditioning units 1 included in the air conditioning system 1000 is not limited to four or more, and may be less than four. The air conditioning unit 1 includes an indoor unit 11 and an outdoor unit 12, and the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12 perform air conditioning operation to air condition the air-conditioned space S in which the indoor unit 11 is installed. The air conditioning unit 1 is connected to a network NW and communicates with devices connected to the network NW. The network NW is a communication network consisting of a public telephone network, a dedicated line, the internet, or other communication networks.

[0014] The air conditioning system 1000 is equipped with a terminal device 2. The terminal device 2 is a terminal used by the administrator P who manages facility H. Note that administrator P is not limited to a person, but may be an entity that has the authority to manage facility H (for example, a company that operates facility H). The terminal device 2 shown in Figure 1 is a laptop computer, but it may be a tablet computer, a desktop computer, or a smartphone. The terminal device 2 is connected to a network NW. For each facility H, the terminal device 2 displays information related to the air conditioning system 1, such as power consumption.

[0015] The air conditioning system 1000 includes a management server 3. The management server 3 is a server device that manages the air conditioning unit 1. The management server 3 is an example of an "information processing device". The management server 3 is connected to a network NW and processes information with the air conditioning unit 1 and terminal device 2 as clients. The management server 3 may be a server device owned by administrator P, or it may be a server device not owned by administrator P.

[0016] The air conditioning system 1000 is equipped with a weather server 4. The weather server 4 is a server device that provides weather data. The weather data provided by the server includes at least the forecast value of the outside temperature of facility H.

[0017] In each diagram, the management server 3 and the weather server 4 are represented by a single block. However, this does not necessarily mean that the management server 3 and the weather server 4 are composed of a single device. For example, the management server 3 and the weather server 4 may consist of multiple server devices with different processing functions, or they may be composed of the same server device.

[0018] [1-2. Configuration of the air conditioning system] Referring to Figure 1, the configuration of the air conditioning system 1 will be described. The air conditioning system 1 comprises an indoor unit 11, an outdoor unit 12, a remote control 13, and a communication device 14. The number of indoor units 11 and outdoor units 12 in the air conditioning system 1 may be multiple.

[0019] The indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12 are connected by refrigerant piping and control wiring. Thus, in the air conditioning system 1, the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12 constitute a refrigerant cycle.

[0020] The remote control 13 is installed on a wall or the like in the air-conditioned space S. The remote control 13 has multiple operation buttons for the user of the air conditioner 1 to start or stop operation, operate menus, use cursor keys, etc. The remote control 13 also has a display panel that displays, for example, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 and the operating status of the indoor unit 11.

[0021] The communication device 14 is connected to the network NW and communicates with the management server 3. The communication device 14 also controls various parts of the air conditioning unit 1. Whenever the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 is changed, the communication device 14 sends operation data RD to the management server 3.

[0022] Operation data RD is data indicating that an operation to change the set temperature has been accepted. Operation data RD records the air conditioner ID (Identification), date and time of change, type of air conditioner, set temperature before change, set temperature after change, and room temperature data. The air conditioner ID is the identification information for the air conditioning unit 1. The change date and time is the date and time when the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 was changed. The air conditioning type is the type of air conditioning performed by the air conditioning unit 1, and in this embodiment, it indicates cooling or heating. The set temperature before change is the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 before the change. The set temperature after change is the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 after the change. The room temperature data is data indicating the temperature of the conditioned space S in which the indoor unit 11 is installed. The temperature of the conditioned space S may be measured, for example, by the remote control 13, or a thermometer may be installed on the indoor unit 11. In addition, the room temperature data may be measured not only when the set temperature change operation is received, but also at regular intervals, and the room temperature data indicating the measured temperature may be sent to the management server 3.

[0023] The communication device 14 receives configuration data SD from the management server 3. The configuration data SD is data that instructs the air conditioner 1 to set a temperature, and the temperature to be set in the air conditioner 1 is recorded therein. The communication device 14 operates the air conditioner 1 at the temperature recorded in the received configuration data SD.

[0024] [1-3. Configuration of the Management Server] Figure 2 shows the configuration of the management server 3. The management server 3 comprises a server control device 30 and a server communication device 31.

[0025] The server control device 30 includes a server processor 300 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), server memory 310, and interface circuits to which other devices and sensors are connected. The server control device 30 is an example of a "control unit," the server memory 310 is an example of a "storage unit," and the server processor 300 is an example of a "processor."

[0026] Server memory 310 is memory that stores programs and data. Server memory 310 stores control program 311, management DB (database) 312, and data processed by server processor 300. Server memory 310 has a non-volatile storage area. Server memory 310 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute the work area of ​​server processor 300. Server memory 310 is composed of, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory). Control program 311 is an example of a "program".

[0027] Management DB312 is a database that manages data related to air conditioning unit 1. Management DB312 has one record R for each air conditioning unit 1. Each record R contains the following information: air conditioner ID, first communication information, second communication information, location of facility H, type of air conditioning, current set temperature, room temperature data, first management data MD1, and second management data MD2. The first communication information is information for communicating with the air conditioning device 1, and is, for example, the address information of the communication device 14. The second communication information includes the administrator P's email address and device identification information such as a token ID that identifies terminal device 2 owned by administrator P. The location of facility H is the location of facility H where the air conditioning system 1 is installed, and is, for example, the address of facility H. The currently set temperature is the temperature set in air conditioning unit 1. The first management data, MD1, is data that manages information related to changes in the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 during cooling. The second management data, MD2, is data that manages information related to changes in the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 during heating. Hereafter, when the first management data MD1 and the second management data MD2 are not distinguished, they will be referred to as "management data MD" with the designation "MD".

[0028] In this embodiment, the second communication information is recorded in record R, but this is not the case if another DB table R2 is defined to manage administrator P. It is also possible to identify the air conditioner IDs targeted by administrator P by managing the air conditioner IDs managed by administrator P in the record for administrator P in the other table R2.

[0029] Figure 3 shows an example of the first management data MD. The first management data MD1 records time periods in one-hour increments from 0:00 to 23:59. More specifically, the first management data MD1 records time periods from N:00 to N:59 for each of the 0:00 to 23:00 time periods, where N is an integer between 0 and 23.

[0030] Furthermore, the first management data MD1 contains multiple outdoor temperatures recorded in 1°C increments. The range of outdoor temperatures recorded in the first management data MD includes at least the range of temperatures that the outdoor air at facility H can reach. Note that the range of outdoor temperatures recorded in the first management data MD1 may be the same regardless of the location of facility H, or it may be a different range depending on the location of facility H.

[0031] The first management data MD1 records one collection data AD for each pair of time period and outside temperature. The collection data AD contains information related to the history of changes in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1. The collection data AD collects various data within a predetermined range of the set temperature. The set temperature to be set on the air conditioner 1 is determined from the predetermined range of the set temperature indicated by the collection data AD by the processing of the flowchart described later.

[0032] The collected data AD records the set temperatures of multiple air conditioners 1 in 1°C increments within a predetermined range. In the example in Figure 3, the collected data AD records 23°C, 24°C, 25°C, 26°C, and 27°C. In other words, in the example in Figure 3, the predetermined range of set temperatures shown in the collected data AD is 23°C to 27°C. Temperatures in 1°C increments are an example of a "specified temperature."

[0033] The collected data AD records the number of actual sessions, the number of changes, and the probability of changes for each recorded set temperature. In the example in Figure 3, the collected data AD records the number of actual sessions, the number of changes, and the probability of changes for each of the following temperatures: 23°C, 24°C, 25°C, 26°C, and 27°C. The "actual count" indicates the number of times the corresponding set temperature was set in air conditioner 1. The number of changes indicates the number of times the temperature setting has been changed from one setting to another. The change probability indicates the probability that the temperature was changed from a corresponding set temperature to another set temperature. The change probability is calculated by dividing the number of corresponding changes by the number of actual changes.

[0034] Figure 4 shows an example of the second management data MD2. The second management data MD2 differs from the first management data MD1 in that the recorded collected data AD shows a different predetermined range of set temperature. The collected data AD recorded in the first management data MD1 has a predetermined set temperature range of 23°C to 27°C. In contrast, the collected data AD recorded in the second management data MD2 has a predetermined set temperature range of 18°C ​​to 23°C. In this embodiment, the predetermined range is shown as 18°C ​​to 23°C, but the predetermined range is not limited to this range. Also, the predetermined ranges of MD1 and MD2 may overlap.

[0035] Returning to the explanation of Figure 2, the server communication device 31 is equipped with hardware such as a communication circuit that conforms to a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the air conditioning device 1, the terminal device 2, and the weather server 4 according to the control of the server control device 30.

[0036] The server processor 300 functions as a communication control unit 301, a first acquisition unit 302, an update unit 303, a determination unit 304, a setting unit 305, an object generation unit 306, and a second acquisition unit 307 by reading and executing the control program 311 stored in the server memory 310.

[0037] [1-4. Operation of the First Acquisition Unit, Determination Unit, and Setting Unit] First, the operation of the communication control unit 301, the first acquisition unit 302, the update unit 303, the determination unit 304, and the setting unit 305 will be explained.

[0038] The communication control unit 301 communicates with the air conditioner 1, the terminal device 2, and the weather server 4 via the server communication device 31. The communication control unit 301 is an example of an "output unit".

[0039] The first acquisition unit 302 acquires the outside air temperature. The first acquisition unit 302 processes one record R and acquires the outside temperature based on the record R being processed. More specifically, the first acquisition unit 302 generates forecast value request information based on the record R being processed and outputs the generated forecast value request information to the communication control unit 301. The forecast value request information is information requesting a forecast value of the outside temperature for a time period including the current time, and it records the location of the facility H recorded in the record R being processed and the time period for which the request is made. For example, if the current time is H hours and M minutes, the forecast value request information records the time period from H hours and 0 minutes to H+1 hours and 0 minutes. H is an integer from 0 to 24, and M is an integer from 0 to 59. When the communication control unit 301 receives the forecast value request information from the first acquisition unit 302, it transmits the received forecast value request information to the weather server 4. The communication control unit 301 then receives multiple forecast values ​​from the weather server 4 that correspond to the location of the facility H and the time period recorded in the transmitted forecast value request information. The first acquisition unit 302 calculates the average of the forecast values ​​received by the communication control unit 301 and acquires the calculated average value as the outside temperature. In this embodiment, the first acquisition unit 302 either truncates the decimal part or rounds it to the nearest whole number when calculating the average of the forecast values. In this embodiment, the case where the forecast value request information is in one-hour units is shown, but it is not limited to one-hour units.

[0040] The update unit 303 updates the management DB 312. The update unit 303 updates the actual count recorded in the collected data AD at L minutes past every hour. The update unit 303 updates the actual count for each record R. Here, L is an integer from 0 to 59, for example, 0. To elaborate on the updating of the actual count, at L minutes past every hour, the update unit 303 first causes the first acquisition unit 302 to acquire the outside temperature based on the record R to be processed. Next, the update unit 303 refers to the management data MD of the record R to be processed and identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the time period including the current time and the set of outside temperature and degree acquired by the first acquisition unit 302. More specifically, if the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed is cooling, the update unit 303 identifies the collected data AD from the first management data MD1, and if the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed is heating, it identifies the collected data AD from the second management data MD2. Then, the update unit 303 increments the actual count corresponding to the currently set temperature recorded in the record R to be processed from the actual count recorded in the identified collected data AD. Furthermore, the update unit 303 also updates the change probability corresponding to the incremented actual number to a change probability that reflects the actual number after the increment.

[0041] Now, referring to Figure 5, we will explain how to update the actual figures. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the update of the performance figures.

[0042] In the explanation of Figure 5, an example is given where the current time when updating the actual count is in the 2 PM hour, and the outside air temperature acquired by the first acquisition unit 302 is 34°C. Furthermore, in the explanation of Figure 5, an example is given where the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in cooling mode. In the case of Figure 5, the update unit 303 identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the time period in the 2 PM hour and the outside air temperature of 34°C from the first management data MD1 recorded in the record R to be processed.

[0043] In the explanation of Figure 5, the current set temperature recorded in the record R to be processed is 25°C, which is an example. In other words, in the explanation of Figure 5, the set temperature set in the air conditioner 1 is 25°C, which is an example. In the case of Figure 5, the update unit 303 increments the number of actual occurrences corresponding to 25°C from "4" to "5" among the actual occurrences recorded in the identified collected data AD. Also, in the case of Figure 5, the update unit 303 updates the change probability corresponding to 25°C from "3 / 4" to "3 / 5" along with the update of the actual occurrences.

[0044] Furthermore, the update of the update unit 303 will be explained. When the communication control unit 301 receives operation data RD, the update unit 303 updates the management DB 312 based on the received operation data RD. The update unit 303 identifies the record R containing the air conditioner ID of the received operation data RD from the management DB 312. Next, the update unit 303 updates the current set temperature of the identified record R to the changed set temperature recorded in the received operation data RD. The update unit 303 also updates the air conditioner type of the identified record R to the air conditioner type recorded in the received operation data RD.

[0045] Furthermore, the update unit 303 causes the first acquisition unit 302 to acquire the outside air temperature based on the record R identified by the received operation data RD. Next, if the received operation data RD contains information about the type of air conditioning (cooling), the update unit 303 identifies the collection data AD corresponding to the time period including the current time and the set of outside air temperature and temperature acquired by the first acquisition unit 302, from the first management data MD1 of the identified record R. If the received operation data RD contains information about the type of air conditioning (heating), the update unit 303 identifies the collection data AD corresponding to the time period including the current time and the set of outside air temperature and temperature acquired by the first acquisition unit 302, from the second management data MD2 of the identified record R. Next, the update unit 303 refers to the received operation data RD, and if the air conditioning type indicates cooling and the changed set temperature is lower than the changed set temperature, it increments the number of changes recorded in the identified collected data AD that corresponds to the changed set temperature recorded in the received operation data RD. Furthermore, the update unit 303 refers to the received operation data RD, and if the air conditioning type indicates heating and the changed set temperature is higher than the changed set temperature, it increments the number of changes recorded in the identified collected data AD that corresponds to the changed set temperature recorded in the received operation data RD. Furthermore, the update unit 303 also updates the change probability corresponding to the incremented number of changes to a change probability that reflects the number of changes after the increment.

[0046] Now, with reference to Figure 6, we will explain how to update the number of changes. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the update of the number of changes.

[0047] In the explanation of Figure 6, an example is given where the current time when updating the number of changes is in the 2 PM hour, and the outside temperature acquired by the first acquisition unit 302 is 34°C. Furthermore, in the explanation of Figure 6, an example is given where the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in cooling mode. In the case of Figure 6, the update unit 303 identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the time period in the 2 PM hour and the outside temperature of 34°C from the first management data MD1 recorded in the record R to be processed.

[0048] In the explanation of Figure 6, an example is given where the pre-change setting temperature recorded in the received operation data RD is 25°C. Also, in the explanation of Figure 6, an example is given where the post-change setting temperature recorded in the received operation data RD is 24°C. In this example, the update unit 303 increments the number of changes corresponding to 25°C from "3" to "4" among the number of changes recorded in the identified collected data AD. In addition, in the case of Figure 6, the update unit 303 updates the change probability corresponding to 25°C from "3 / 4" to "4 / 4" along with the update of the number of changes.

[0049] Returning to the explanation of Figure 2, the determination unit 304 determines the set temperature to be set in the air conditioner 1. Details of the determination method of the determination unit 304 will be described later.

[0050] The setting unit 305 sets the set temperature determined by the determination unit 304 to the air conditioner 1. The setting unit 305 sets the set temperature to the air conditioner 1 based on the record R to be processed. More specifically, the setting unit 305 generates setting data SD and outputs the generated setting data SD and the first communication information recorded in the record R to be processed to the communication control unit 301. The generated setting data SD contains the set temperature determined by the determination unit 304. Based on the first communication information received from the setting unit 305, the communication control unit 301 transmits the setting data SD received from the setting unit 305 to the air conditioner 1.

[0051] [1-5. Operation Flow of the First Acquisition Unit, Determination Unit, and Setting Unit] Here, the operation of the decision unit 304 will be explained with reference to the flowcharts shown in Figures 7, 8, and 10. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the first acquisition unit 302, the determination unit 304, and the setting unit 305.

[0052] The flowchart in Figure 7 is a flowchart that starts at K minutes past every hour. Here, K is an integer from 0 to 59, for example, 0. Although this flowchart shows an example of processing every hour, it is also possible to perform processing every 5 minutes or every 15 minutes. Furthermore, the flowchart in Figure 7 is a flowchart performed for each air conditioning unit 1. In other words, the flowchart in Figure 7 is an operation performed for each record R stored in the management DB 312.

[0053] The first acquisition unit 302 acquires the outside temperature based on the record R to be processed (step SA1). Step SA1 is described in detail below. The first acquisition unit 302 generates forecast value request information based on the record R to be processed and outputs the generated forecast value request information to the communication control unit 301. For example, if the current time is 10:00, the forecast value request information records the time period from 10:00 to 11:00. When the communication control unit 301 receives the forecast value request information from the first acquisition unit 302, it transmits the received forecast value request information to the weather server 4. The communication control unit 301 then receives from the weather server 4 multiple forecast values ​​(for example, the forecast value for 10:00 and the forecast value for 11:00) corresponding to the location and time period of the facility H recorded in the transmitted forecast value request information. The first acquisition unit 302 calculates the average of the forecast values ​​received by the communication control unit 301 and acquires the calculated average value as the outside temperature.

[0054] Next, the determination unit 304 identifies the collection data AD to be processed from the management data MD recorded in the record R to be processed (step SA2).

[0055] Step SA2 will be described in detail. If the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed indicates cooling, the determination unit 304 identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the time period including the current time and the outdoor temperature and temperature acquired in step SA1 from the first management data MD1 recorded in the record R to be processed. If the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed indicates heating, the determination unit 304 identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the time period including the current time and the outdoor temperature and temperature acquired in step SA1 from the second management data MD2 recorded in the record R to be processed.

[0056] Next, the decision unit 304 performs a decision process (step SA3). The decision process is the process for determining the set temperature to be set in the air conditioning unit 1. In the decision process, the collected data AD identified in step SA2 is the target of processing.

[0057] Next, the setting unit 305 generates setting data SD, which includes the set temperature and operating mode (step SA4), and outputs it to the communication control unit 301. The communication control unit 301 transmits the setting data SD input from the setting unit 305 to the air conditioner 1 (step SA5).

[0058] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the decision unit 304 during the decision process. The operation shown in Figure 8 is performed when the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed indicates cooling.

[0059] The determination unit 304 determines whether the set temperature included in the predetermined range indicated by the collected data AD to be processed satisfies the following first condition (step SA31). Condition 1: There must be a first set temperature and a second set temperature.

[0060] The first set temperature is a set temperature where the corresponding change probability is above a predetermined threshold. An example of a predetermined threshold is 0.1 (10%). The second set temperature is the second lowest set temperature within a predetermined range, and the corresponding change probability is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0061] Here, we will explain the first set temperature and the second set temperature using Figure 3. The collected data AD shown in Figure 3 shows that a change probability of "0 / 3" is recorded for a set temperature of 23°C, a change probability of "0 / 1" is recorded for a set temperature of 24°C, a change probability of "3 / 4" is recorded for a set temperature of 25°C, a change probability of "2 / 3" is recorded for a set temperature of 26°C, and a change probability of "4 / 4" is recorded for a set temperature of 27°C.

[0062] When the predetermined threshold is 0.1, in the collected data AD shown in Figure 3, 25°C, 26°C, and 27°C correspond to the first set temperature, and 24°C corresponds to the second set temperature. Furthermore, the collected data AD shown in Figure 3 satisfies the first condition described above.

[0063] Returning to the explanation of the flowchart shown in Figure 8, if the decision unit 304 determines that the first condition is met (step SA31: YES), it determines whether there are multiple second set temperatures among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed (step SA32).

[0064] If the determination unit 304 determines that there are no multiple second set temperatures (step SA32: NO), it determines the second set temperature as the set temperature to be set on the air conditioner 1 (step SA33).

[0065] Here, we will explain step SA33 in detail using Figure 3. When the predetermined threshold is 0.1, in the collected data AD shown in Figure 3, 24°C is the second set temperature, and the other set temperatures do not correspond to the second set temperature. Therefore, when the predetermined threshold is 0.1 and the collected data AD to be processed is the collected data AD shown in Figure 3, the determination unit 304 determines in step 33 that 24°C is the set temperature to be set for the air conditioner 1.

[0066] On the other hand, if the determination unit 304 determines that there are multiple second set temperatures (step SA33: YES), it determines the second set temperature that best maximizes the comfort of the air-conditioned space S among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed as the set temperature to be set on the air conditioning unit 1 (step SA34).

[0067] The setting temperature that maximizes the comfort of the air-conditioned space S among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD is the lowest setting temperature among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD, when the air conditioning system 1 is performing cooling.

[0068] Now, with reference to Figure 9, step SA34 will be explained in detail. Figure 9 shows an example of collected data (AD). The collected data AD shown in Figure 9 records a change probability of "0 / 3" for a set temperature of 23°C, a change probability of "1 / 4" for a set temperature of 24°C, a change probability of "0 / 2" for a set temperature of 25°C, a change probability of "2 / 3" for a set temperature of 26°C, and a change probability of "4 / 4" for a set temperature of 27°C.

[0069] When the predetermined threshold is 0.1, in the collected data AD shown in Figure 9, 24°C, 26°C, and 27°C correspond to the first set temperature, and 23°C and 25°C correspond to the second set temperature. Therefore, when the predetermined threshold is 0.1 and the collected data AD to be processed is the collected data AD shown in Figure 9, the determination unit 304 determines that the air conditioning system 1 is performing cooling and sets the second set temperature of 23°C as the set temperature to be set for the air conditioning system 1.

[0070] Returning to the explanation of step SA31, if the determination unit 304 determines that the first condition is not met (step SA31: NO), it determines whether all of the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed are the first set temperature or the third set temperature (step SA35). The third set temperature is a set temperature in which the corresponding change probability is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0071] If the determination unit 304 determines that all of the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed are the first set temperature (step SA35: first set temperature), it determines the set temperature that will result in the highest comfort level of the air-conditioned space S among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed as the set temperature to be set on the air conditioning unit 1 (step SA36).

[0072] Returning to the explanation of step SA35, if the determination unit 304 determines that all of the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed are the third set temperature (step SA35: third set temperature), it determines the set temperature that results in the smallest energy savings for the air conditioner 1 from among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed as the set temperature to be set for the air conditioner 1 (step SA37).

[0073] The setting temperature that results in the lowest energy consumption of the air conditioner 1 among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD is the highest setting temperature among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD, when the air conditioner 1 is performing cooling.

[0074] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the decision unit 304 in the decision process. The operation shown in Figure 10 is performed when the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed indicates heating. In the explanation of Figure 10, the same reference numerals are used for the same steps as in Figure 8, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0075] The determination unit 304 determines whether the set temperature, which is included in the predetermined range indicated by the collected data AD to be processed, satisfies the following second condition (step SA41). Second condition: A third set temperature and a fourth set temperature must exist.

[0076] The third set temperature is a set temperature in which the corresponding change probability is less than a predetermined threshold. The fourth set temperature is the second lowest set temperature within a predetermined range, and the corresponding change probability is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0077] Now, using Figure 4 as a reference, we will explain the fourth set temperature. The collected data AD shown in Figure 4 records a change probability of "4 / 4" for a set temperature of 18°C, a change probability of "2 / 3" for a set temperature of 19°C, a change probability of "1 / 4" for a set temperature of 20°C, a change probability of "0 / 2" for a set temperature of 21°C, a change probability of "0 / 3" for a set temperature of 22°C, and a change probability of "0 / 2" for a set temperature of 23°C.

[0078] When the predetermined threshold is 0.1, in the collected data AD shown in Figure 4, 21°C, 22°C, and 23°C correspond to the third set temperature, and 20°C corresponds to the fourth set temperature. Furthermore, the collected data AD shown in Figure 4 satisfies the second condition described above.

[0079] Returning to the explanation of the flowchart shown in Figure 10, if the decision unit 304 determines that the second condition is met (step SA41: YES), it determines whether there are multiple third set temperatures among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed (step SA42).

[0080] If the determination unit 304 determines that there are no multiple third set temperatures (step SA32: NO), it determines the third set temperature as the set temperature to be set on the air conditioner 1 (step SA43).

[0081] On the other hand, if the determination unit 304 determines that there are multiple third set temperatures (step SA43: YES), it determines the third set temperature that best maximizes the comfort of the air-conditioned space S among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed as the set temperature to be set on the air conditioning unit 1 (step SA44).

[0082] The setting temperature that maximizes the comfort of the air-conditioned space S among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD is the highest setting temperature among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD when the air conditioning system 1 is performing heating.

[0083] Returning to the explanation of step SA41, if the determination unit 304 determines that the second condition is not met (step SA41: NO), it proceeds with the processing from step SB35 onward.

[0084] Furthermore, the setting temperature that results in the lowest energy consumption of the air conditioner 1 among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD refers to the lowest setting temperature among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD when the air conditioner 1 is performing heating.

[0085] Returning to the explanation of the flowchart in Figure 7, the setting unit 305 sets the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the set temperature determined in the determination process of step SA3 (step SA4).

[0086] [1-6. Operation of the Object Generation Unit and the Second Acquisition Unit] Next, the operation of the object generation unit 306 and the second acquisition unit 307 will be described. The object generation unit 306 calculates the power consumption when the air conditioner 1 operates in the first air conditioning mode and when the air conditioner 1 operates in the second air conditioning mode. The object generation unit 306 compares the power consumption in the first air conditioning mode with the power consumption in the second air conditioning mode and generates object data that shows the energy-saving effect of the second air conditioning mode.

[0087] The first air conditioning operation mode is the normal operation mode in which the air conditioning unit 1 is operated at a set temperature set by a user such as administrator P. The second air conditioning operation mode is an energy-saving operation mode in which the air conditioning unit 1 is operated at the set temperature determined by the determination unit 304.

[0088] First, the object generation unit 306 selects the days for which the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 will be compared. For example, the object generation unit 306 selects a day on which the air conditioner 1 operated in the first air conditioning mode for one day, and a day on which the air conditioner 1 operated in the second air conditioning mode for one day. The day on which the air conditioner 1 operated in the first air conditioning mode for one day and the day on which the air conditioner 1 operated in the second air conditioning mode for one day are different days.

[0089] Furthermore, the object generation unit 306 may select, for example, days with the same maximum temperature or the same average temperature, where the air conditioning was operated in the first air conditioning mode for one day and days where the air conditioning was operated in the second air conditioning mode for one day. In addition, the object generation unit 306 may select days where the operating time, which is the time the air conditioning unit 1 was operated, is the same or within a preset range.

[0090] Next, the object generation unit 306 causes the second acquisition unit 307 to acquire the set temperature for the selected day and the operating time of the air conditioner 1. The second acquisition unit 307 acquires the set temperature and operating time for the day specified by the object generation unit 306. The set temperature and operating time, which are the settings of the air conditioner 1 when it operates in the first air conditioning operation mode, correspond to the first operating conditions. Also, the set temperature and operating time, which are the settings of the air conditioner 1 when it operates in the second air conditioning operation mode, correspond to the second operating conditions.

[0091] The second acquisition unit 307 may acquire the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 by referring to the record R stored in the management DB 312 when the operating mode of the air conditioner 1 is the first air conditioning operation mode. Alternatively, the second acquisition unit 307 may acquire the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 by estimating it based on historical data that associates past outside temperatures with the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 set by the administrator P.

[0092] The second acquisition unit 307, when the operating mode of the air conditioner 1 is the second air conditioning operation mode, refers to the record R stored in the management DB 312 to acquire the set temperature of the air conditioner 1.

[0093] Next, the object generation unit 306 calculates the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 based on the set temperature and operating time acquired by the second acquisition unit 307. The object generation unit 306 may also calculate the daily power consumption of the air conditioner 1 for the first air conditioning operation mode and for the second air conditioning operation mode. Furthermore, the object generation unit 306 may also calculate the power consumption per unit time, such as one hour, for the first air conditioning operation mode and for the second air conditioning operation mode.

[0094] The object generation unit 306 determines, for example, the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 in the first air conditioning operation mode and the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 in the second air conditioning operation mode, based on the horsepower per unit time of the air conditioner 1, the operating time, and the set temperature of the air conditioner 1.

[0095] Furthermore, the object generation unit 306 may determine the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 in the first air conditioning operation mode and the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 in the second air conditioning operation mode, respectively, based on the power consumption per unit time, the type of air conditioning, the set temperature, and the operating time. In this case, the power consumption per unit time during cooling operation and the power consumption per unit time during heating operation are stored in the server memory 310 in advance. Alternatively, the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 may be calculated based on the set temperature and operating time of one air conditioner 1, or the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 may be calculated using statistical information based on the operating performance of the air conditioner 1 in the first air conditioning operating mode at multiple facilities.

[0096] The object generation unit 306 calculates the power consumption in the first air conditioning operation mode and the power consumption in the second air conditioning operation mode, respectively, and then generates object data based on the calculated power consumption and the set temperature.

[0097] Figure 11 shows an example of an energy-saving effect object image 500A displayed based on object data generated by the object generation unit 306. In Figure 11, the horizontal axis of the energy-saving effect object image 500A represents time. Specifically, it represents the time for one day from 0:00 to 23:00. Also, in the diagram view, the left vertical axis of the energy-saving effect object image 500A in Figure 11 represents temperature [°C], and the right vertical axis represents power consumption [kWh].

[0098] The energy-saving effect object image 500A shown in Figure 11 includes three object images: the first object image 510, the second object image 520, and the third object image 530. The first object image 510 is an example of the "first object," the second object image 520 is an example of the "second object," and the third object image 530 is an example of the "third object." The first object image 510 is an image showing the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 when the operating mode of the air conditioner 1 is the first air conditioning operation mode. The second object image 520 is an image showing the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 when the operating mode of the air conditioner 1 is the second air conditioning operation mode. The third object image 530 shows the difference in power consumption when the air conditioner 1 operates in the first air conditioning operation mode and when it operates in the second air conditioning operation mode. In other words, the third object image 530 shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioner 1 when the air conditioner 1 is made to operate in the second air conditioning operation mode instead of the first air conditioning operation mode.

[0099] The third object image 530 may display the power consumption in the first air conditioning operation mode and the power consumption in the second air conditioning operation mode side by side for each unit of time. Alternatively, the third object image 530 may display the value obtained by subtracting the power consumption in the second air conditioning operation mode from the power consumption in the first air conditioning operation mode. Figure 11 shows an example of the value obtained by subtracting the power consumption per unit time in the second air conditioning operation mode from the power consumption per unit time in the first air conditioning operation mode. If this subtracted value is positive, it indicates that power consumption is reduced by operating the air conditioner 1 in the second air conditioning operation mode, and if this subtracted value is negative, it indicates that power consumption is reduced by operating the air conditioner 1 in the first air conditioning operation mode.

[0100] Furthermore, the object generation unit 306 may identify time periods with high energy-saving effects under the second air conditioning operation mode and generate an energy-saving effect object image 500A that shows the identified time periods.

[0101] For example, the object generation unit 306 calculates the difference between the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 in the first air conditioning operation mode and the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 in the second air conditioning operation mode for each unit of time. Next, the object generation unit 306 compares the calculated difference for each time period with a preset threshold and identifies the time period in which the difference is greater than the threshold. The identified time period is an example of a "reduction period". The object generation unit 306 generates an object image that represents the identified time period. This object is called the fourth object image 540.

[0102] Furthermore, the energy-saving effect object image 500A displays the fifth object 550, which represents the total reduction in daily power consumption. Specifically, the fifth object 550 displays the difference between the total daily power consumption when the air conditioner 1 is operating in the first air conditioning mode and the total daily power consumption when the air conditioner 1 is operating in the second air conditioning mode.

[0103] Furthermore, as another method for identifying time periods with high energy-saving effects, the object generation unit 306 may identify the temperature setting of the air conditioner 1 in which the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 is reduced by more than a preset value. For example, the object generation unit 306 may identify the time period in which the air conditioner 1 operating in the second air conditioning operation mode turns off the thermostat, and the air conditioner 1 operating in the first air conditioning operation mode does not turn off the thermostat, and generate an energy-saving effect object image 500A displaying the identified time period. The object generation unit 306 compares the room temperature of the air-conditioned space S with the set temperature to determine the time period during which the air conditioner 1 is thermo-on when the air conditioner 1 is in the first air conditioning operation mode. Similarly, the object generation unit 306 compares the room temperature of the air-conditioned space S with the set temperature to identify the time period when the air conditioner 1 is in the second air conditioning operation mode.

[0104] Next, the object generation unit 306 identifies the time period during which the air conditioner 1 is thermo-on in the first air conditioning operation mode and the time period during which the air conditioner 1 is thermo-off in the second air conditioning operation mode overlap. The object generation unit 306 generates an energy-saving effect object image 500A in which the identified time period is represented by the fourth object image 540A. Figure 11 shows the energy-saving effect object image 500A in which a star shape is displayed as the fourth object image 540A.

[0105] Figure 12 shows an example of an energy-saving effect object image 500B displayed based on object data generated by the object generation unit 306. In Figure 12, the horizontal axis of the energy-saving effect object image 500B represents time. Also, in the drawing view, the left vertical axis of the energy-saving effect object image 500B shown in Figure 12 represents temperature [°C], and the right vertical axis represents power consumption [kWh].

[0106] The difference between the energy-saving effect object image 500B shown in Figure 12 and the energy-saving effect object image 500A shown in Figure 11 is that while Figure 11 shows the difference in power consumption when the air conditioner 1 is operated in the first air conditioning operation mode and when it is operated in the second air conditioning operation mode, Figure 12 shows the power consumption per unit time for both the first air conditioning operation mode and the second air conditioning operation mode. In addition, the energy-saving effect object image 500B shown in Figure 12 displays the total power consumption of the air conditioner 1 consumed in a day, 570, separately for the first air conditioning operation mode and the second air conditioning operation mode.

[0107] Furthermore, the energy-saving effect object image 500B shown in Figure 12 displays a fourth object image 540B that shows the time periods with high energy-saving effects enclosed in rectangular shapes. The fourth object image 540B shown in Figure 12 indicates that the object generation unit 306 has identified an operating state of the air conditioner 1 in which the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 is reduced by a preset value or more.

[0108] The object generation unit 306 identifies the time periods when the air conditioner 1 is in the first air conditioning operation mode and the administrator P performs rapid energy-increasing operations, and the time periods when the air conditioner 1 is in the second air conditioning operation mode and the administrator P performs gradual energy-increasing operations. The object generation unit 306 generates an energy-saving effect object image 500B, which shows the overlapping time periods among these identified time periods using the fourth object image 540. Similarly, the object generation unit 306 may identify the time period during which rapid energy-saving operations were performed by the administrator P when the air conditioner 1 was in the first air conditioning operation mode, and the time period during which gradual energy-saving operations were performed when the air conditioner 1 was in the second air conditioning operation mode, and generate an energy-saving effect object image 500A in which the overlapping time periods among these identified time periods are shown by the fourth object image 540.

[0109] The object generation unit 306 detects operations that raise or lower the set temperature by a first threshold or more within a unit time as rapid energy-increasing operations or rapid energy-saving operations. The unit time may be, for example, one hour or 30 minutes.

[0110] The object generation unit 306 detects an operation that lowers the set temperature by more than a first threshold within a unit time as a rapid energy-increasing operation when the air conditioning type of the air conditioner 1 is in cooling operation. Conversely, the object generation unit 306 detects an operation that raises the set temperature by more than a first threshold within a unit time as a rapid energy-saving operation.

[0111] The object generation unit 306 detects an operation that raises the set temperature by more than a first threshold within a unit time when the air conditioning system of the air conditioning unit 1 is in heating operation as a rapid energy-increasing operation. Conversely, the object generation unit 306 detects an operation that lowers the set temperature by more than a first threshold within a unit time as a rapid energy-saving operation.

[0112] Furthermore, the object generation unit 306 detects operations that raise the set temperature by more than the second threshold multiple times, or operations that lower the set temperature multiple times, within a unit time, as gradual energy-increasing operations or gradual energy-saving operations. In this case as well, the unit time may be, for example, 1 hour or 30 minutes. The second threshold is smaller than the first threshold. For example, the first threshold is set to 2°C and the second threshold is set to 0.5. Gradual operations are operations that gradually raise or lower the set temperature of the air conditioner 1.

[0113] The object generation unit 306 detects operations that lower the set temperature by a second threshold or more multiple times within a unit time when the air conditioning type of the air conditioner 1 is in cooling operation as gradual energy-increasing operations. Conversely, the object generation unit 306 detects operations that raise the set temperature by a second threshold or more multiple times within a unit time as gradual energy-saving operations.

[0114] The object generation unit 306 detects operations that raise the set temperature by a second threshold or more multiple times within a unit time when the air conditioning type of the air conditioner 1 is in heating operation as gradual energy-increasing operations. Conversely, the object generation unit 306 detects operations that lower the set temperature by a second threshold or more multiple times within a unit time as gradual energy-saving operations.

[0115] The object generation unit 306 identifies time periods within a unit time in which energy-increasing operations exceeding a first threshold or energy-saving operations below a first threshold are performed, when the operating mode of the air conditioner 1 is the first air conditioning operation mode. The time period in which energy-increasing operations exceeding a first threshold are performed within a unit time is called the first time period, and the time period in which energy-saving operations below a first threshold are performed within a unit time is called the third time period. Furthermore, the object generation unit 306 identifies time periods in which, when the operating mode of the air conditioner 1 is the second air conditioning operation mode, multiple energy-increasing operations exceeding the second threshold, or multiple energy-saving operations below the second threshold, are performed within a unit time. The time period in which multiple energy-increasing operations exceeding the second threshold are performed within a unit time is called the second time period, and the time period in which multiple energy-saving operations below the second threshold are performed within a unit time is called the fourth time period.

[0116] The object generation unit 306 determines whether or not there is an overlapping time period between the first time period and the second time period. If there is an overlapping time period between the first time period and the second time period, the object generation unit 306 generates an energy-saving effect object image 500B that includes a fourth object image 540B that indicates this overlapping time period.

[0117] Furthermore, the object generation unit 306 determines whether or not there is an overlapping time period between the third time period and the fourth time period. If there is an overlapping time period between the third time period and the fourth time period, the object generation unit 306 generates an energy-saving effect object image 500B that includes a fourth object image 540B that indicates this overlapping time period.

[0118] Figure 13 shows an energy-saving effect object image 500C. The energy-saving effect object image 500C shown in Figure 13 shows a third object image 530 for each month, which shows the difference in power consumption between when the air conditioner 1 operates in the first air conditioning operation mode and when it operates in the second air conditioning operation mode. The first object image 510 shown in Figure 13 is an image showing the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 when the operating mode of the air conditioner 1 is the first air conditioning operation mode. The second object image 520 shown in Figure 13 is an image showing the monthly average progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 when the operating mode of the air conditioner 1 is the second air conditioning operation mode. Alternatively, the third object image 530 may be shown on an annual basis. Furthermore, the monthly maximum, average, and minimum set temperature progressions may also be shown.

[0119] Figure 14 shows an energy-saving effect object image 500D displayed based on object data. In Figure 14, the horizontal axis of the energy-saving effect object image 500D represents time. Also, in the drawing view, the left vertical axis of the energy-saving effect object image 500D in Figure 14 represents temperature [°C], and the right vertical axis represents power consumption [kWh].

[0120] The object generation unit 306 may acquire the outdoor temperature for the day and the average value of the outdoor temperature, which the first acquisition unit 302 has acquired from the weather server 4. "Today" refers to the outdoor temperature on a day when the operating mode of the air conditioner 1 is the first air conditioning operation mode. If the air conditioning type of the air conditioner 1 is cooling operation, the object generation unit 306 determines whether the acquired outdoor temperature is higher than the average value of the outdoor temperature. If the acquired outdoor temperature is higher than the average value of the outdoor temperature, the object generation unit 306 generates an energy-saving effect object image 500D that includes the outdoor temperature and the average value of the outdoor temperature.

[0121] Furthermore, the object generation unit 306 also determines whether the acquired outside air temperature is higher than the average value of the outside air temperature when the air conditioning type of the air conditioner 1 is in heating operation. If the acquired outside air temperature is lower than the average value of the outside air temperature, the object generation unit 306 generates an energy-saving effect object image 500D that includes the outside air temperature and the average value of the outside air temperature.

[0122] When the object generation unit 306 generates object data, it outputs the generated object data to the setting unit 305. When the setting unit 305 receives object data as input, it outputs this object data and the second communication information recorded in the record R to be processed to the communication control unit 301. The communication control unit 301 sends the object data to the notification destination indicated by the second communication information received from the setting unit 305. The communication control unit 301 sends the object data input from the setting unit 305 to the email address indicated by the second communication information.

[0123] Alternatively, by registering device identification information such as a token ID that identifies terminal device 2 owned by administrator P as the notification destination indicated by the second communication information, the configuration may be such that object data is pushed to terminal device 2 by a push server (not shown).

[0124] Furthermore, the object generation unit 306 may generate object data only when predetermined conditions are met. For example, predetermined conditions include cases where, when the air conditioning device 1 is in the first air conditioning operation mode, there is a difference of a predetermined threshold or greater between the set temperature set by the administrator P and the set temperature set by the server control device 30.

[0125] The object generation unit 306 generates an energy-saving effect object image 500 when the air conditioning type of the air conditioner 1 is in cooling operation and the set temperature set by administrator P is lower than or equal to a threshold value than the set temperature set by server control device 30. Furthermore, the object generation unit 306 generates an energy-saving effect object image 500 when the air conditioning type of the air conditioner 1 is in heating operation and the set temperature set by the administrator P is higher than or equal to a threshold value than the set temperature set by the server control device 30.

[0126] Furthermore, the object generation unit 306 may determine that a predetermined condition is met if the difference between the power consumption in the first air conditioning operation mode and the power consumption in the second air conditioning operation mode is greater than or equal to a preset threshold. For example, the object generation unit 306 may identify the time period in which the difference between the power consumption in the first air conditioning operation mode and the power consumption in the second air conditioning operation mode, calculated per unit time, is the largest, and if the difference in power consumption in this identified time period is greater than or equal to a threshold, the object generation unit 306 may determine that a predetermined condition is met. Alternatively, the object generation unit 306 may determine that a predetermined condition is met if the total difference between the power consumption in the first air conditioning operation mode and the power consumption in the second air conditioning operation mode over the course of a day is greater than or equal to a threshold.

[0127] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the object generation unit 306, the second acquisition unit 307, and the setting unit 305. The operation of the object generation unit 306, the second acquisition unit 307, and the setting unit 305 will be explained with reference to the flowchart shown in Figure 15.

[0128] First, the object generation unit 306 determines whether a certain amount of time has elapsed since the previous generation of object data (step SB1). If a certain amount of time has not elapsed since the previous generation of object data (step SB1 / NO), the object generation unit 306 waits to start processing until that certain amount of time has elapsed.

[0129] When a certain amount of time has elapsed since the previous generation of object data (step SB1 / YES), the object generation unit 306 acquires the first operating conditions, which are the operating conditions when the air conditioner 1 is operated in the first air conditioning operation mode (step SB2). The first operating conditions include the set temperature and the operating time.

[0130] Next, the object generation unit 306 acquires the second operating conditions, which are the operating conditions when the air conditioner 1 is operated in the second air conditioning operation mode (step SB3). The second operating conditions include the set temperature and the operating time.

[0131] Next, the object generation unit 306 generates object data. Based on the acquired set temperature and operating time, the object generation unit 306 calculates the amount of power consumed by the air conditioner 1 per unit time when the air conditioner 1 is operated in the first air conditioning operation mode. The object generation unit 306 also calculates the amount of power consumed by the air conditioner 1 per unit time when the air conditioner 1 is operated in the second air conditioning operation mode, based on the acquired set temperature and operating time.

[0132] The object generation unit 306 generates object data based on the acquired set temperature and the calculated power consumption (step SB4). Once the object generation unit 306 has generated the object data, it outputs the generated object data to the setting unit 305. When the setting unit 305 receives object data, it outputs this object data and the second communication information recorded in the record R to be processed to the communication control unit 301. Based on the second communication information received from the setting unit 305, the communication control unit 301 sends the object data input from the setting unit 305 to the corresponding email address (step SB5).

[0133] [1-7. Effects, etc.] As explained above, the management server 3 outputs object data showing the power consumption reduction effect when the air conditioner 1 is made to execute the second air conditioner operation mode instead of the first air conditioner operation mode, based on the first and second operating conditions. The energy saving effect object image 500 displayed based on the object data includes a first object image 510 showing the time progression of the set temperature when the air conditioner 1 is executing the second air conditioner operation mode, a second object image 520 showing the time progression of the set temperature when the air conditioner 1 is executing the first air conditioner operation mode, and a third object image 530 showing the power consumption reduction effect. This allows the user to intuitively understand the power consumption reduction effect when the second air conditioner operation mode is executed instead of the first air conditioner operation mode by comparing the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner when the first air conditioner operation mode and the second air conditioner operation mode are executed.

[0134] Based on the first and second operating conditions, the server control device 30 identifies a reduction period during which the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 is reduced to or greater than a preset value, the temperature setting of the air conditioner 1, and at least one of the operating states of the air conditioner. The management server 3 generates object data including a fourth object image 540 that shows at least one of the identified reduction period, temperature setting, and operating state of the air conditioner 1.

[0135] Therefore, the server control device 30 identifies at least one of the reduction period, the temperature setting of the air conditioner 1, and the operating state of the air conditioner 1, and displays a fourth object image 540 showing the identified at least one. As a result, the user can be notified of the reduction period during which the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 was reduced, the temperature setting of the air conditioner 1, and at least one of the operating state of the air conditioner 1.

[0136] The server control device 30 calculates the amount of power consumed per unit period when the air conditioner 1 is in the first air conditioning operation mode based on the first operating conditions, and calculates the amount of power consumed per unit period when the air conditioner is in the second air conditioning operation mode based on the second operating conditions. The server control device 30 identifies the period during which the difference between the amount of power consumed by the first air conditioning operation and the amount of power consumed by the second air conditioning operation, calculated for each unit period, is greater than or equal to a preset value as a reduction period.

[0137] Therefore, by comparing the amount of power consumption calculated for each unit period, the reduction period in which power consumption is reduced by more than a preset value can be identified. This allows for the accurate identification of the reduction period in which the power consumption of the air conditioning system is reduced by more than a set value.

[0138] The server control device 30 identifies the case where the air conditioner 1 operating in the second air conditioning operation mode according to the second operating conditions operates in thermo-off mode, and the air conditioner operating in the first air conditioning operation mode according to the first operating conditions does not operate in thermo-off mode, as an operating state of the air conditioner in which the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 is reduced by a preset value or more. The server control device 30 generates object data including a fourth object image 540 that indicates the period during which the air conditioning unit 1 operating in the second air conditioning operation mode is in thermo-off mode, and the air conditioning unit operating in the first air conditioning operation mode is not in thermo-off mode.

[0139] Therefore, object data is output that includes a fourth object image 540 indicating the period during which the air conditioning unit 1 operating in the second air conditioning operation mode operates in thermo-off mode, and the air conditioning unit 1 operating in the first air conditioning operation mode does not operate in thermo-off mode. As a result, the user can be notified of the operating state of the air conditioning unit 1 in which the power consumption of the air conditioning unit 1 is reduced by a preset value or more.

[0140] The server control device 30 identifies a first time period in which the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 included in the first operating conditions changes by a preset first threshold within a preset unit time, and a second time period in which the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 included in the second operating conditions changes by a second threshold multiple times within a unit time. The server control device 30 identifies the time period in which the first and second time periods overlap as the temperature setting of the air conditioner 1 in which the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 is reduced by a preset value or more. The server control device 30 then generates object data including a fourth object image 540 that indicates the time period in which the first and second time periods overlap. The first threshold is greater than the second threshold.

[0141] Therefore, the first time period in which the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 changed by an operator P to a first threshold or more, and the second time period in which the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 changed by an operator P to a second threshold or more multiple times, are identified. Then, object data including a fourth object image 540 indicating the time period in which the first and second time periods overlap is output. As a result, the operator P can be notified of the time period in which the air conditioner 1 operating in the second air conditioning operation mode turned off the thermostat, while the air conditioner 1 operating in the first air conditioning operation mode did not turn off the thermostat.

[0142] [1-8. Other Embodiments] As described above, Embodiments 1 and 2 have been explained as examples disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited thereto and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, it is possible to create new embodiments by combining the components described in Embodiments 1 and 2 above. Therefore, other embodiments are described below as examples.

[0143] For example, Figure 1 shows an example where all air conditioning units are connected to a network NW, but not all air conditioning units in facility H necessarily need to be equipped with communication devices. In other words, air conditioning units 1 that are not connected to a network NW may be present in facility H.

[0144] For example, the monthly electricity cost of the air conditioner 1 may be displayed as an energy-saving effect object image 500. For example, the server control device 30 obtains the electricity rate per unit of energy from the terminal device 2 and calculates the electricity cost corresponding to the energy consumption of the air conditioner 1 based on the obtained electricity rate per unit of energy. The server control device 30 then generates object data including the calculated electricity cost.

[0145] Furthermore, the above explanation described a second air conditioning operation mode for reducing the power consumption of the air conditioner 1, in which the air conditioner 1 is operated at a set temperature set by the management server 3. In addition, the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 may also be reduced by reducing the rotation speed of the compressor equipped in the indoor unit 11.

[0146] Furthermore, the management server 3 may set the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 and the airflow rate of the air conditioning unit 1. For example, if the difference between the room temperature data and the set temperature is 4°C or more, the airflow of the air conditioner 1 is set to "high". Furthermore, if the difference between the room temperature data and the set temperature is greater than 2°C but less than 4°C, the airflow of the air conditioner 1 is set to "medium". Furthermore, if the difference between the room temperature data and the set temperature is 2°C or less, the airflow of the air conditioner 1 is set to "low". In this case, the object data generated by the object generation unit 306 may include data indicating whether the airflow rate of the air conditioner 1 is fixed or changes based on the difference between the room temperature and the set temperature when the air conditioner 1 is in the second air conditioning operation mode.

[0147] Furthermore, the object data generated by the object generation unit 306 may include reference information on how to use the air conditioner 1 in a way that reduces power consumption. By viewing this reference information, the user can become aware of how to use the air conditioner 1 in a way that reduces power consumption.

[0148] Based on actual air conditioning operation data, examples of air conditioning system 1 usage that are unacceptable from an energy-saving perspective, and energy-saving measures for these usage examples may be displayed. For example, if there is an air conditioning unit 1 operating outside of business hours, this air conditioning unit 1 may be displayed. Also, if multiple indoor units 11 are installed on the same floor, and only some of these indoor units 11 are operating, the non-operating indoor units 11, or the operating indoor units 11 and the non-operating indoor units 11 may be displayed.

[0149] Furthermore, instructions on how to use the air conditioning system 1, which contributes to energy conservation, may be displayed. For example, the object generation unit 306 may be instructed to generate object data that includes the energy-saving effect object image 500 shown in Figures 11 to 14, and a message indicating that stepwise changes in the set temperature contribute to energy saving. This object data is transmitted to the terminal device 2 by the communication control unit 301.

[0150] Furthermore, the number of times the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 was changed by user operation and the number of times the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 was changed by the second air conditioning operation mode may be displayed in a comparable manner. This number of set temperature changes may be in units of, for example, one day, one week, or one month. At this time, as shown in the energy-saving effect object image 500 shown in Figures 11 to 14, it is possible to simultaneously show that a higher energy-saving effect can be obtained by operating the air conditioner 1 in the second air conditioning operation mode rather than the first air conditioning operation mode, thereby demonstrating that energy saving and comfort can be achieved at the same time by operating the air conditioner 1 in the second air conditioning operation mode.

[0151] Furthermore, the energy-saving effect object image 500 shown in Figures 11 to 14 may also be displayed with buttons such as "Further reduce power consumption" and "Enhance comfort." If a user who views this energy-saving effect object image 500 decides they want to further reduce power consumption, they press the "Reduce power consumption further" button. Alternatively, if they decide they want to improve indoor comfort, they press the "Improve comfort" button. When the server control device 30 receives these button presses, it changes the set temperature set on the air conditioner 1. For example, if the air conditioner 1 is in cooling operation and the "Reduce power consumption further" button is pressed, the server control device 30 sets the set temperature higher by a preset temperature than the set temperature determined according to the flowchart in Figure 8. Conversely, if the "Improve comfort" button is pressed, the server control device 30 sets the set temperature lower by a preset temperature than the set temperature determined according to the flowchart in Figure 8.

[0152] The server processor 300 may consist of a single processor or multiple processors. These processors may also be hardware programmed to implement the corresponding functional units. That is, these processors may consist of, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0153] The configuration of the management server 3 shown in Figure 2 is merely an example, and the specific implementation is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessarily required that hardware corresponding to each part be implemented individually; it is also possible to configure the system so that a single processor executes programs to realize the functions of each part. Furthermore, some of the functions realized by software in the above-described embodiment may be implemented by hardware, or vice versa.

[0154] The operational step units shown in Figures 7, 8, 10, and 15 are divided according to the main processing content to facilitate understanding of the operation, and the operation is not limited by the way the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. Depending on the processing content, it may be further divided into more step units. Alternatively, it may be divided so that one step unit includes even more processing. Furthermore, the order of the steps may be changed as appropriate, as long as it does not impede the intent of this disclosure.

[0155] Since the embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes of the technology described herein, various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the claims or their equivalents.

[0156] [1-9. Addendum] Based on the above description of embodiments, the following technologies are disclosed.

[0157] (Composition 1) Information processing device for controlling an air conditioning system, comprising: a control unit that generates an effect object showing the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioning system when the air conditioning system performs a first air conditioning operation according to a first operating condition set by user operation, when the air conditioning system performs a second air conditioning operation according to a second operating condition set by the information processing device, when the air conditioning system performs a second air conditioning operation according to a second operating condition set by the information processing device, and an output unit that outputs the effect object generated by the control unit, wherein the effect object generated by the control unit includes a first object showing the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioning system included in the first operating condition, a second object showing the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioning system included in the second operating condition, and a third object showing the power consumption reduction effect.

[0158] According to this configuration, when the air conditioning system is made to perform the second air conditioning operation instead of the first air conditioning operation based on the first and second operating conditions, an effect object is output that shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioning system. The effect object includes a first object that shows the time change of the set temperature when the air conditioning system performs the first air conditioning operation, a second object that shows the time change of the set temperature when the air conditioning system performs the second air conditioning operation, and a third object that shows the power consumption reduction effect. This allows the user to intuitively understand the power consumption reduction effect when the second air conditioning operation is performed instead of the first air conditioning operation by comparing the time changes of the set temperature of the air conditioning system when the first air conditioning operation and the second air conditioning operation are performed.

[0159] (Configuration 2) The information processing apparatus according to Configuration 1, wherein the control unit identifies at least one of the following based on the first operating conditions and the second operating conditions: a reduction period during which the power consumption of the air conditioner is reduced by a preset set value or more, a temperature setting of the air conditioner, and the operating state of the air conditioner, and generates the effect object which includes a fourth object that indicates at least one of the identified reduction period, temperature setting, and operating state of the air conditioner.

[0160] This configuration allows for the identification of at least one of the reduction period, the temperature setting of the air conditioner, and the operating state of the air conditioner, and displays a fourth object indicating the identified at least one of these. This makes it possible to inform the user of the reduction period during which the power consumption of the air conditioner was reduced, the temperature setting of the air conditioner, and at least one of the operating state of the air conditioner.

[0161] (Composition 3) The control unit calculates the amount of power consumed when the air conditioner is operated in the first air conditioning operation mode for each unit period based on the first operating conditions, calculates the amount of power consumed when the air conditioner is operated in the second air conditioning operation mode for each unit period based on the second operating conditions, and identifies the period during which the difference between the amount of power consumed by the first air conditioning operation mode and the amount of power consumed by the second air conditioning operation mode calculated for each unit period is equal to or greater than a preset value as the reduction period, as described in Configuration 2.

[0162] With this configuration, the power consumption of the air conditioning system when it is in first-stage air conditioning operation is calculated for each unit period, and the power consumption of the air conditioning system when it is in second-stage air conditioning operation is also calculated for each unit period. By comparing the power consumption calculated for each unit period, the reduction period in which power consumption is reduced by more than a preset value can be identified. Therefore, the reduction period in which the power consumption of the air conditioning system is reduced by more than a preset value can be identified with high accuracy.

[0163] (Composition 4) The control unit identifies the case in which the air conditioning system performing the second air conditioning operation according to the second operating conditions performs thermo-off operation, and the air conditioning system performing the first air conditioning operation according to the first operating conditions does not perform thermo-off operation, as an operating state of the air conditioning system in which the power consumption of the air conditioning system is reduced by a preset value or more, and generates the effect object including the fourth object indicating the period in which the air conditioning system performing the second air conditioning operation performs thermo-off operation, and the air conditioning system performing the first air conditioning operation does not perform thermo-off operation, according to configuration 2 or 3.

[0164] With this configuration, an effect object is output that includes a fourth object indicating the period during which the second air conditioning unit operates in thermo-off mode and the first air conditioning unit operates in thermo-off mode. Therefore, the user can be notified of the operating state of the air conditioning unit in which the power consumption of the air conditioning unit is reduced by a preset value or more.

[0165] (Composition 5) The control unit identifies a first time period in which the set temperature of the air conditioner included in the first operating conditions changes by a preset first threshold within a preset unit time, and a second time period in which the set temperature of the air conditioner included in the second operating conditions changes by a preset second threshold multiple times within the unit time, and identifies the time period in which the first time period and the second time period overlap as the temperature setting of the air conditioner in which the power consumption of the air conditioner is reduced by a preset set value or more, and generates the effect object including the fourth object that indicates the time period in which the first time period and the second time period overlap, and the first threshold is greater than the second threshold, the information processing device according to any one of configurations 2 to 4.

[0166] This configuration identifies a first time period in which the set temperature of the air conditioner changed by more than a first threshold due to user operation, and a second time period in which the set temperature of the air conditioner changed by more than a second threshold multiple times due to settings by the information processing device. Then, an effect object is output that includes a fourth object indicating the time period in which the first and second time periods overlap. As a result, the user can be notified of the time period in which the air conditioner's thermostat turned off during the second air conditioning operation, but did not turn off during the first air conditioning operation.

[0167] (Composition 6) The control unit acquires the ambient temperature and generates the effect object that shows the time progression of the acquired ambient temperature, according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, in the information processing apparatus according to configuration 1 to 5.

[0168] This configuration allows for the output of an effect object that includes the time progression of the outside air temperature. Therefore, the user can be notified of the time progression of the outside air temperature. As a result, when the air conditioning system is operated in second-stage air conditioning mode, it is possible to determine whether the temperature setting of the air conditioning system is appropriate.

[0169] (Composition 7) The control unit acquires the outside air temperature and the average value of the outside air temperature, and when the air conditioning operation of the air conditioner is in cooling operation, generates the effect object including the outside air temperature and the average value of the outside air temperature if the outside air temperature is higher than the average value of the outside air temperature, and when the air conditioning operation of the air conditioner is in heating operation, generates the effect object including the outside air temperature and the average value of the outside air temperature if the outside air temperature is lower than the average value of the outside air temperature, according to any one of configurations 1 to 5.

[0170] With this configuration, when the air conditioner is operating in cooling mode, an effect object including the outside air temperature and the average value of the outside air temperature is output if the outside air temperature is higher than the average value of the outside air temperature. Similarly, when the air conditioner is operating in heating mode, an effect object including the outside air temperature and the average value of the outside air temperature is output if the outside air temperature is lower than the average value of the outside air temperature. Therefore, even if the user does not perceive an energy-saving effect, the appropriateness of the air conditioner's temperature setting, as determined by the information processing device, can be demonstrated.

[0171] (Composition 8) An information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, comprising a storage unit that stores identification information of a device owned by the user of the air conditioner, or the email address of the user, and an output unit that outputs the effect object to a destination corresponding to the identification information or the address information via push notification or email.

[0172] This configuration allows effect objects to be sent to the user's device or email address. Therefore, the user can see the effect object.

[0173] (Composition 9) The information processing apparatus according to configuration 3, wherein the aforementioned unit period is 1 hour, 1 month, or 1 year.

[0174] With this configuration, the power consumption when the air conditioner is in first-condition operation mode is calculated hourly, monthly, or yearly, and the power consumption when the air conditioner is in second-condition operation mode is also calculated hourly, monthly, or yearly. Therefore, the power consumption when the air conditioner is in first-condition operation mode can be compared on an hourly, monthly, or yearly basis.

[0175] (Composition 10) The information processing apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, wherein the control unit obtains the electricity rate per unit of energy, calculates the electricity rate corresponding to the amount of energy consumed by the air conditioner based on the obtained electricity rate per unit of energy, and generates the effect object including the calculated electricity rate.

[0176] This configuration allows for the generation of an effect object that includes the electricity cost corresponding to the power consumption of the air conditioning system. Therefore, users can check the electricity cost of the air conditioning system by viewing the effect object.

[0177] (Composition 11) The information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 10, wherein the second air conditioning operation includes an air conditioning operation that reduces the rotational speed of the compressor provided in the air conditioning device.

[0178] This configuration allows for a further reduction in the power consumption of the air conditioning system.

[0179] (Composition 12) The control unit generates the effect object which includes reference information on how to use the air conditioner to reduce the power consumption of the air conditioner when the air conditioner is in operation, according to any one of configurations 1 to 11.

[0180] This configuration allows for the generation of an effect object containing reference information on how to use the air conditioner to reduce its power consumption. Therefore, by allowing the user to view the effect object, they can see reference information on how to use the air conditioner to reduce its power consumption.

[0181] (Composition 13) The information processing apparatus according to configuration 3, wherein the control unit generates the effect object which includes the number of times the set temperature was changed during the unit period when the air conditioning system performs the first air conditioning operation, and the number of times the set temperature was changed during the unit period when the air conditioning system performs the second air conditioning operation.

[0182] With this configuration, when the air conditioning system performs first-stage air conditioning operation, it can generate an effect object that includes the number of times the set temperature was changed during a unit period, and when it performs second-stage air conditioning operation, it can generate an effect object that includes the number of times the set temperature was changed during a unit period. Therefore, the user can see the number of times the set temperature was changed in both the first-stage and second-stage air conditioning operation.

[0183] (Composition 14) A program comprising: a processor mounted on an information processing device that controls an air conditioning system, which, when the air conditioning system performs a first air conditioning operation according to a first operating condition set by the user, acquires the first operating condition; when the air conditioning system performs a second air conditioning operation according to a second operating condition set by the information processing device, acquires the second operating condition; generates an effect object that shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioning system when the air conditioning operation of the air conditioning system is changed from the first air conditioning operation to the second air conditioning operation based on the first and second operating conditions; and causes the generated effect object to be output to the output unit, wherein the effect object includes a first object that shows the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioning system included in the first operating condition; a second object that shows the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioning system included in the second operating condition; and a third object that shows the power consumption reduction effect.

[0184] According to this configuration, when the air conditioning system is made to perform the second air conditioning operation instead of the first air conditioning operation based on the first and second operating conditions, an effect object is output that shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioning system. The effect object includes a first object that shows the time change of the set temperature when the air conditioning system performs the first air conditioning operation, a second object that shows the time change of the set temperature when the air conditioning system performs the second air conditioning operation, and a third object that shows the power consumption reduction effect. This allows the user to intuitively understand the power consumption reduction effect when the second air conditioning operation is performed instead of the first air conditioning operation by comparing the time changes of the set temperature of the air conditioning system when the first air conditioning operation and the second air conditioning operation are performed.

[0185] (Composition 15) A control method for an information processing device that controls an air conditioning system, wherein the processor mounted on the information processing device controls the air conditioning system, instructs the processor to acquire the first operating conditions when the air conditioning system performs a first air conditioning operation according to the first operating conditions set by the user, acquire the second operating conditions when the air conditioning system performs a second air conditioning operation according to the second operating conditions set by the information processing device, generate an effect object that shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioning system when the air conditioning operation of the air conditioning system is changed from the first air conditioning operation to the second air conditioning operation based on the first and second operating conditions, and output the generated effect object to the output unit, wherein the effect object includes a first object that shows the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioning system included in the first operating conditions, a second object that shows the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioning system included in the second operating conditions, and a third object that shows the power consumption reduction effect.

[0186] According to this configuration, when the air conditioning system is made to perform the second air conditioning operation instead of the first air conditioning operation based on the first and second operating conditions, an effect object is output that shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioning system. The effect object includes a first object that shows the time change of the set temperature when the air conditioning system performs the first air conditioning operation, a second object that shows the time change of the set temperature when the air conditioning system performs the second air conditioning operation, and a third object that shows the power consumption reduction effect. This allows the user to intuitively understand the power consumption reduction effect when the second air conditioning operation is performed instead of the first air conditioning operation by comparing the time changes of the set temperature of the air conditioning system when the first air conditioning operation and the second air conditioning operation are performed. [Industrial applicability]

[0187] As described above, the information processing device, program, and control method for the information processing device according to the present invention can be used to allow users to understand the energy-saving effects of an air conditioning system. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0188] 1. Air conditioning system 2 Terminal devices 3. Management Server 3. Management Server 4 Weather Server 11 Indoor unit 12 Outdoor unit 13 Remote control 14. Communication equipment 30 Server Control Units 31 Server communication device 300 server processors 301 Communication Control Unit 302 First acquisition part 303 Update Department 304 Decision Section 305 Settings Section 306 Object Generation Unit 307 Second Acquisition Department 310 Server Memory 311 Control Program 500, 500A, 500B, 500C, 500D Energy-saving effect object image 510 First object image 520 Second object image 530 Third object image 540, 540A, 540B: ​​Fourth object image 550 Fifth Object 1000 Air Conditioning Systems AD collected data MD1 First Management Data MD2 Second Management Data NW Network P Administrator RD operation data

Claims

1. An information processing device for controlling an air conditioning system, When the air conditioning system performs a first air conditioning operation according to first operating conditions set by the user, it acquires the first operating conditions, When the air conditioning system performs a second air conditioning operation in accordance with the second operating conditions set by the information processing device, it acquires the second operating conditions, A control unit that generates an effect object showing the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioning system when the air conditioning system is made to perform the second air conditioning operation instead of the first air conditioning operation based on the first and second operating conditions, The system includes an output unit that outputs the effect object generated by the control unit, The effect object generated by the control unit is A first object showing the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner included in the first operating conditions, A second object showing the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner included in the second operating conditions, A third object that demonstrates the power consumption reduction effect, Information processing device, including

2. The control unit, Based on the first operating conditions and the second operating conditions, The reduction period during which the power consumption of the air conditioner is reduced by more than or equal to a preset value, the temperature setting of the air conditioner, and at least one of the operating state of the air conditioner are specified. The effect object is generated, which includes a fourth object indicating at least one of the specified reduction period, the temperature setting, and the operating state of the air conditioning system. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The control unit, Based on the first operating conditions, the amount of power consumed when the air conditioning system is operated in the first air conditioning operation is calculated for each unit period. Based on the second operating conditions, the amount of power consumed when the air conditioning system is operated in the second air conditioning mode is calculated for each unit period. The period during which the difference between the amount of power consumed by the first air conditioning operation and the amount of power consumed by the second air conditioning operation, calculated for each unit period, is greater than or equal to a preset value is identified as the reduction period. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The control unit, The case in which the air conditioning system operating in the second air conditioning operation according to the second operating conditions operates in thermo-off mode, and the case in which the air conditioning system operating in the first air conditioning operation according to the first operating conditions does not operate in thermo-off mode, is identified as an operating state of the air conditioning system in which the power consumption of the air conditioning system is reduced by a preset value or more. The effect object is generated which includes the fourth object indicating the period during which the air conditioning system performing the second air conditioning operation performs the thermo-off operation and the air conditioning system performing the first air conditioning operation does not perform the thermo-off operation. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

5. The control unit, A first time period in which the set temperature of the air conditioner included in the first operating conditions changes by a preset first threshold within a preset unit time, and a second time period in which the set temperature of the air conditioner included in the second operating conditions changes by a preset second threshold multiple times within the unit time, are identified. The time period in which the first time period and the second time period overlap is identified as the temperature setting of the air conditioner such that the power consumption of the air conditioner is reduced by a preset value or more. The effect object is generated which includes the fourth object indicating the time period in which the first time period and the second time period overlap, The first threshold value is greater than the second threshold value. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

6. The control unit, The system acquires the ambient temperature and generates the effect object which includes the time progression of the acquired ambient temperature. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The control unit, The outside air temperature and the average value of the outside air temperature are obtained, When the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, if the outside air temperature is higher than the average value of the outside air temperature, the effect object including the outside air temperature and the average value of the outside air temperature is generated. When the air conditioning system is in heating mode, if the outside air temperature is lower than the average value of the outside air temperature, the effect object is generated which includes the outside air temperature and the average value of the outside air temperature. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The air conditioner includes a storage unit that stores the user's address information, The output unit outputs the effect object to the notification destination corresponding to the address information via push notification or email. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

9. The aforementioned unit period is one hour, one month, or one year. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3.

10. The control unit, Obtain the electricity rate per unit of energy, Based on the electricity rate per unit amount obtained, the electricity rate corresponding to the amount of electricity consumed by the air conditioner is calculated, and the effect object including the calculated electricity rate is generated. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

11. The second air conditioning operation includes an air conditioning operation that reduces the rotational speed of the compressor provided in the air conditioning system. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

12. The control unit, When operating the air conditioning system, the system generates an effect object that includes reference information on how to use the air conditioning system to reduce the power consumption of the air conditioning system. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

13. The control unit, When the air conditioning system performs the first air conditioning operation, it generates an effect object that includes the number of times the set temperature was changed during the unit period, and when the air conditioning system performs the second air conditioning operation, it generates an effect object that includes the number of times the set temperature was changed during the unit period. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3.

14. The processor installed in the information processing unit that controls the air conditioning system, When the air conditioning system performs a first air conditioning operation according to first operating conditions set by the user, it acquires the first operating conditions, When the air conditioning system performs a second air conditioning operation in accordance with the second operating conditions set by the information processing device, it acquires the second operating conditions, Based on the first and second operating conditions, an effect object is generated that shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioning system when the air conditioning system is made to perform the second air conditioning operation instead of the first air conditioning operation. The process of outputting the generated effect object to the output unit is executed. The aforementioned effect object is, A first object showing the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner included in the first operating conditions, A second object showing the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner included in the second operating conditions, A third object that demonstrates the power consumption reduction effect, A program that includes this.

15. The processor installed in the information processing unit that controls the air conditioning system, When the air conditioning system performs a first air conditioning operation according to first operating conditions set by the user, it acquires the first operating conditions, When the air conditioning system performs a second air conditioning operation in accordance with the second operating conditions set by the information processing device, it acquires the second operating conditions, Based on the first and second operating conditions, an effect object is generated that shows the power consumption reduction effect of the air conditioning system when the air conditioning system is made to perform the second air conditioning operation instead of the first air conditioning operation. The process of outputting the generated effect object to the output unit is executed. The aforementioned effect object is, A first object showing the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner included in the first operating conditions, A second object showing the time progression of the set temperature of the air conditioner included in the second operating conditions, A third object that demonstrates the power consumption reduction effect, A control method for an information processing device, including the control method for an information processing device.

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