Construction support system

Abstract

We provide support for plumbing work associated with the installation of water-related equipment. [Solution] The construction support system according to the embodiment is characterized by comprising: a first acquisition means for acquiring layout information for installing at least one plumbing fixture such as a toilet, kitchen, washbasin, and bathtub; a second acquisition means for acquiring piping information for the plumbing space in which the plumbing fixture is installed; an identification means for identifying construction-related information relating to the installation of the plumbing fixture based on the layout information and piping information; and a display means for displaying the construction-related information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to a construction support system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, technologies for supporting construction such as interior finishing work of living spaces have been known. For example, in Patent Document 1, work zones are divided in consideration of the work space required for each of a plurality of operations, and a process plan for performing the plurality of operations in parallel in the divided plurality of work zones is created.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the above-described conventional technology has room for improvement in supporting piping work associated with the installation of plumbing fixtures. For example, in some cases, it was difficult for the conventional technology to support piping work associated with the installation of plumbing fixtures.

[0005] The disclosed embodiments aim to provide a construction support system capable of supporting piping work associated with the installation of plumbing fixtures.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A construction support system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a first acquisition unit configured to acquire arrangement information for installing at least one plumbing fixture among a toilet apparatus, a kitchen, a washbasin, and a bathtub, a second acquisition unit configured to acquire piping information of a plumbing space where the plumbing fixture is installed, an identification unit configured to identify construction-related information related to the construction of the plumbing fixture based on the arrangement information and the piping information, and a display unit configured to display the construction-related information.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the construction support system, the system can identify the piping information necessary for the placement of plumbing equipment from the placement information and piping information for the plumbing equipment, and provide this information to the construction worker as construction information via a display device. Furthermore, the construction support system can support the piping work of on-site workers by identifying construction information regarding appropriate piping for the plumbing equipment to be placed.

[0008] In a construction support system according to one embodiment, the identifying means is characterized in that, with respect to the arrangement information acquired by the first acquisition means, the second acquisition means identifies the construction-related information, including information regarding whether or not pipe changes are necessary, from the piping information acquired by the second acquisition means.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the construction support system, it is possible to support on-site workers in piping work by identifying construction information regarding appropriate piping for the equipment to be placed.

[0010] In a construction support system according to one embodiment, the layout information includes floor information of an apartment building, and when the construction-related information includes information indicating that pipe modifications are necessary, the system further includes a determination means for determining whether soundproofing measures are necessary based on the floor information.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the construction support system, by providing a means for determining whether soundproofing measures are necessary when pipe modifications are required, noise complaints after pipe work can be prevented. For example, when pipe modifications are carried out in an apartment building, there is a possibility of noise affecting the floors below, but with the construction support system, by providing a means for determining whether soundproofing measures are necessary, noise complaints after pipe work can be prevented.

[0012] A construction support system according to one embodiment further comprises a management means for managing estimation information related to the construction of the plumbing equipment, wherein the management means manages the updating of the estimation information based on the construction-related information identified by the identification means.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the construction support system, for example, the estimated cost can be updated based on construction information related to identified piping changes. For example, if special construction or assembly procedures occur, the estimated cost may differ, but the construction support system can quickly calculate an accurate amount by updating the estimated cost based on the identified construction information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to one embodiment, the quality of installation of plumbing fixtures can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a construction support system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of an information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of data stored in the construction-related information storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of arrangement information according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of piping information according to the present invention. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of construction-related information according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing by the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing by the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9]Figure 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of information processing performed by the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of information processing performed by the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of information processing performed by the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of information processing performed by the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of information processing performed by the construction support system according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of information processing performed by the construction support system according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of information processing performed by the construction support system according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of information processing performed by the construction support system according to the embodiment. [Modes for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments of the construction support system disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0017] (Embodiment) [1. Introduction] In recent years, in addition to renovations of detached houses, there has been an increase in renovation work on condominiums that are more than 10 years old. Detached houses, which are built on a foundation, have ample space for piping under the floor. Therefore, in detached houses built on a foundation, it is relatively easy to change the layout of housing equipment (for example, plumbing fixtures such as toilets, kitchens, washbasins, and bathtubs) before and after renovations. In contrast, in detached houses such as concrete houses and wooden houses with improved seismic resistance, as well as condominiums, piping space is limited due to building regulations.

[0018] In renovation projects where piping space is limited, a piping system is adopted that effectively utilizes floor height by consolidating the piping from each floor into a pipe space, with the piping located in the floor slab or ceiling slab. Here, the floor slab and ceiling slab are spaces used to accommodate the piping. For example, in the case of a ceiling slab, the piping is located in the space above the floor. In the case of a floor slab, the piping is located in the space below the floor. In such floor slabs and ceiling slabs, the rising positions of the piping are concentrated and may not be changeable. In any case, in renovation projects where piping space is limited, the height of the piping space is lower compared to detached houses built with conventional foundation structures, and there are many cases where it is not possible to ensure the correct piping slope when changing the layout.

[0019] In contrast, the construction support system according to this embodiment prevents drainage problems after construction by estimating the appropriate piping location based on building and equipment conditions, the layout of components to be installed after renovation, and piping information, for example, in renovation sites where the height of the piping space is insufficient or the piping space is limited. Furthermore, the construction support system identifies in advance the noise caused by the equipment to be installed based on the living space on the floor below and the piping location after renovation, and proposes soundproofing measures to reduce the impact of noise on the living space on the floor below.

[0020] Here, the plumbing equipment according to the embodiment is a concept that includes equipment related to plumbing and the functions they have (are installed in). Plumbing equipment includes various equipment and functions installed in a plumbing space. For example, plumbing equipment includes toilets, urinals, bathrooms, bathtubs, washbasins, and other equipment related to sanitary spaces, as well as various plumbing devices such as kitchens. For example, plumbing equipment includes toilet equipment, bathroom equipment, kitchen equipment and washbasin equipment, etc.

[0021] [2. Configuration of the Construction Support System] Figure 1 shows an example configuration of a construction support system 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the construction support system 1 includes an information processing device 100, a user terminal 200, and an external device 300. The information processing device 100, the user terminal 200, and the external device 300 are connected to each other via a predetermined communication network (network N) by wired or wireless means.

[0022] The information processing device 100 is an information processing device that performs information processing according to the embodiment. For example, the information processing device 100 may be a server in a cloud environment (cloud server). The information processing device 100 acquires layout information for installing at least one plumbing fixture, such as a toilet, kitchen, washbasin, and bathtub. The information processing device 100 also acquires piping information for the plumbing space in which the plumbing fixture is installed. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 identifies construction-related information concerning the installation of the plumbing fixture based on the layout information and piping information.

[0023] The user terminal 200 is an information processing device used by a construction worker (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "user"). The user is a worker who performs construction work on plumbing fixtures. The user terminal 200 acquires construction-related information. When the user terminal 200 acquires construction-related information, it displays the construction-related information. For example, the user terminal 200 is an information processing device such as a desktop PC (Personal Computer) or a notebook PC. Alternatively, the user terminal 200 may be a smart device such as a smartphone or tablet. The user terminal 200 also has a screen such as an LCD display and accepts various operations from the user on the displayed content (e.g., documents or images) on the screen. Operations performed on the area of ​​the screen where the content is displayed may also be considered operations on the content.

[0024] External device 300 is an information processing device that provides information to information processing device 100. For example, external device 300 may be a server in a cloud environment (cloud server). External device 300 stores information on the layout of pipe spaces and residential equipment as shown in the drawings. Pipe spaces are spaces for running pipes such as water and gas lines. Residential equipment layout information includes information indicating the location of walls and floors in the house. An example of pipe space and residential equipment layout information is shown in Figure 5, which will be described later. External device 300 also transmits this information to information processing device 100, and information processing device 100 retrieves this information from external device 300.

[0025] Furthermore, the external device 300 stores height information from the entrance to the floor in the building. The external device 300 also transmits this height information to the information processing device 100, and the information processing device 100 retrieves this height information from the external device 300.

[0026] Furthermore, the external device 300 stores noise information when water flows through the piping. The external device 300 also transmits the noise information when water flows through the piping to the information processing device 100, and the information processing device 100 retrieves the noise information from the external device 300.

[0027] [3. Configuration of the Information Processing Device] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of an information processing device 100 according to an embodiment. The information processing device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0028] The communication unit 110 is implemented using a NIC (Network Interface Card), an antenna, etc. The communication unit 110 is connected to various networks by wired or wireless means, and performs information transmission and reception, for example, with the user terminal 200.

[0029] The storage unit 120 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or by storage devices such as hard disks or optical discs. The storage unit 120 also includes a construction-related information storage unit 121.

[0030] The construction-related information storage unit 121 stores information related to the construction of plumbing fixtures. The construction-related information storage unit 121 stores information related to construction that has actually been carried out in the past. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in the construction-related information storage unit 121 according to the embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 3, the data stored in the construction-related information storage unit 121 includes information that associates the layout information for installing plumbing fixtures, the piping information of the plumbing space in which the plumbing fixtures are installed, and construction-related information regarding the installation of plumbing fixtures. For example, the construction-related information includes information on whether or not piping changes are necessary. That is, the construction-related information storage unit 121 stores information such as the "layout of plumbing fixtures, the location and condition of piping at the time of installation, and specific information on construction that was successfully carried out as installation (construction-related information)" from when it was installed in the past. Therefore, by referring to the construction-related information storage unit 121, it is possible to identify the correct installation content for the current installation target from information on past installation targets.

[0031] Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of arrangement information according to the embodiment. Arrangement information is information that indicates the arrangement of plumbing fixtures in the space in which the plumbing fixtures are to be installed. For example, the arrangement information includes information about the building (house, etc.) in which the plumbing fixtures are to be installed. For example, the arrangement information includes information that indicates the location of walls and floors in the building as information about the building. The arrangement information also includes information about the floor level in the case of an apartment building. The arrangement information also includes information that indicates the location of the plumbing fixtures in the building in which the plumbing fixtures are to be installed. For example, the arrangement information includes information that indicates where the plumbing fixtures are located relative to the building. For example, the arrangement information may be an image that shows where the plumbing fixtures are located relative to the building. The arrangement information may also include information before the installation of the target plumbing fixtures and information after the installation of the target plumbing fixtures. For example, the arrangement information before the installation of the target plumbing fixtures is information that indicates the arrangement of existing plumbing fixtures that were installed before the installation of the target plumbing fixtures. The information after the installation of the target plumbing fixtures is information that indicates the arrangement of the target plumbing fixtures. The arrangement information shown in Figure 4 is information that indicates the arrangement of existing plumbing fixtures that were installed before the installation of the target plumbing fixtures. Specifically, the layout information shown in Figure 4 is an image illustrating how a wall-mounted kitchen (hereinafter referred to as a "wall-mounted kitchen") is positioned in a room surrounded by walls on three sides, with the kitchen unit positioned against the wall. Note that the layout information may also be text. For example, the layout information may be a string of characters such as "wall-mounted kitchen".

[0032] Figure 5 shows an example of piping information according to the embodiment. Piping information is information for installing piping in a water-related space where plumbing equipment is installed. Piping information includes information about the space for installing the piping. For example, piping information includes information about the building (house, etc.) where the piping will be installed. For example, piping information includes information about the building, such as the location of walls and floors in the building. Piping information also includes information indicating the location of the piping in the building where the piping will be installed. For example, piping information includes information indicating where the piping is located relative to the building. For example, piping information may be an image showing where the piping is located relative to the building. Piping information may also include information before the installation of the target plumbing equipment and information after the installation of the target plumbing equipment. For example, piping information before the installation of the target plumbing equipment is information showing the arrangement of existing piping installed before the installation of the target plumbing equipment. Piping information after the installation of the target plumbing equipment is information showing the arrangement of piping installed after the installation of the target plumbing equipment. The piping information shown in Figure 5 is information showing the arrangement of existing piping installed before the installation of the target plumbing equipment. Specifically, the piping information shown in Figure 5 is an image indicating the location of the pipe space (PS) in a room of an apartment building. The piping information may also include information about the pipes to be piped (for example, information such as the length and diameter of the pipes).

[0033] Figure 6 shows an example of construction-related information according to the embodiment. Construction-related information is information related to the construction of plumbing fixtures. For example, construction-related information includes information on whether or not piping changes are necessary. Furthermore, if piping changes are necessary, the construction-related information includes information on the change in floor height if the floor height needs to be changed as a result of the piping changes. The construction-related information shown in Figure 6 is an image that includes information indicating that piping changes are necessary. Specifically, the construction-related information shown in Figure 6 includes information before the piping changes and information after the piping changes. In Figure 6, it is necessary to change the position of the piping when installing the plumbing fixtures in question. Specifically, after changing the piping, it is necessary to raise the floor to maintain the inclination angle of the piping. For example, the construction-related information includes information indicating the position of piping P1 before the change and the position of piping P2 after the change. Furthermore, the construction-related information includes information indicating the position of floor F1 before the change and the position of floor F2 after the change. Furthermore, the construction-related information includes information indicating the height of floor F1 before the change, information indicating the height of floor F2 after the change, and information indicating the height D of floor F2 after the change relative to the height of floor F1 before the change.

[0034] The control unit 130 is a controller, and is realized, for example, by executing various programs stored in the memory device inside the information processing device 100 using RAM as the working area, using a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit), etc. Alternatively, the control unit 130 is a controller and can be realized, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0035] The control unit 130 has a first acquisition unit 131, a second acquisition unit 132, a specific unit 133, a determination unit 134, a transmission unit 135, and a management unit 136 as functional units, and may realize or execute the information processing operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 2, and other configurations are also possible as long as they perform the information processing described later. In addition, each functional unit indicates the function of the control unit 130 and does not necessarily have to be physically separated.

[0036] The first acquisition unit 131 functions as a first acquisition procedure for acquiring layout information for installing at least one plumbing fixture, such as a toilet, kitchen, washbasin, and bathtub. For example, the first acquisition unit 131 acquires layout information from an external device 300.

[0037] The second acquisition unit 132 functions as a second acquisition procedure for acquiring piping information of the water-related space where water-related equipment is installed. For example, the second acquisition unit 132 acquires piping information from an external device 300.

[0038] The identification unit 133 functions as an identification procedure for identifying construction-related information concerning the installation of plumbing equipment based on layout information and piping information. With respect to the layout information acquired by the first acquisition unit 131, the identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information, including information regarding the necessity of piping changes, from the piping information acquired by the second acquisition unit 132. For example, when the identification unit 133 acquires layout information and piping information, it refers to the construction-related information storage unit 121 and acquires the data stored in the construction-related information storage unit 121. The identification unit 133 also identifies data from the data stored in the construction-related information storage unit 121 that contains layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information and piping information. Furthermore, when the identification unit 133 identifies data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information and piping information, it identifies construction-related information corresponding to the data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information and piping information. For example, the identification unit 133 identifies data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information and piping information by image search or text search.

[0039] The determination unit 134 determines whether soundproofing measures are necessary based on the floor information when the construction-related information includes information indicating that piping changes are necessary. For example, the determination unit 134 determines whether the construction-related information identified by the identification unit 133 includes information indicating that piping changes are necessary. If the determination unit 134 determines that the construction-related information identified by the identification unit 133 includes information indicating that piping changes are necessary, it obtains the layout information corresponding to the construction-related information identified by the identification unit 133. As described above, the layout information includes floor information in the apartment building. When the determination unit 134 obtains the layout information, it determines whether the layout information includes floor information in the apartment building. If the determination unit 134 determines that the layout information includes floor information in the apartment building, it identifies the floor information in the apartment building. If the determination unit 134 identifies the floor information in the apartment building, it determines whether soundproofing measures are necessary based on the floor information. For example, the determination unit 134 determines whether the changed piping will be located directly above the living room or bedroom of the apartment on the floor below the target apartment. The determination unit 134 determines that soundproofing measures are necessary if it determines that the modified piping is located directly above the living room or bedroom of the house on the floor below the target house. On the other hand, the determination unit 134 determines that soundproofing measures are not necessary if it determines that the modified piping is not located directly above the living room or bedroom of the house on the floor below the target house.

[0040] The transmission unit 135 functions as a transmission procedure for transmitting construction-related information identified by the identification unit 133 to the user terminal 200. In other words, the transmission unit 135 functions as a display procedure for displaying the identified construction-related information on the user terminal 200.

[0041] The management unit 136 functions as a management procedure for managing estimate information related to the installation of plumbing fixtures. For example, the management unit 136 acquires estimate information from the external device 300. When the management unit 136 acquires estimate information, it stores the estimate information in the storage unit 120. The management unit 136 also manages the updating of the estimate information based on the installation-related information identified by the identification unit 133. For example, the management unit 136 updates the estimated amount based on the installation-related information identified by the identification unit 133. Specifically, the management unit 136 acquires the estimate information and determines whether the estimate information includes installation work specified by the installation-related information. If the management unit 136 determines that the estimate information includes installation work specified by the installation-related information, it decides not to update the estimate information. On the other hand, if the management unit 136 determines that the estimate information does not include installation work specified by the installation-related information, it calculates a new estimated amount by adding the installation cost specified by the installation-related information. The management unit 136 updates the estimated amount by calculating the new estimated amount. When the management unit 136 updates the estimated amount, it updates the estimate information based on the updated estimated amount. Furthermore, when the management unit 136 updates the estimate information, it transmits the updated estimate information to the user terminal 200.

[0042] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing by an information processing device according to an embodiment. In Figure 7, the example of changing the layout of a wall-mounted kitchen is used. In Figure 7, the first acquisition unit 131 acquires layout information 121A-1, which includes layout information showing the layout of the wall-mounted kitchen before the change and layout information showing the layout of the wall-mounted kitchen after the change. The second acquisition unit 132 acquires piping information 121B-1, which includes piping information before the change and piping information after the change. For example, the second acquisition unit 132 acquires piping information 121B-1 showing the positions of the hot water pipe, cold water pipe, and drain pipe before and after the change. The identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information 121C-1, which includes information on whether or not piping changes are necessary, from the piping information 121B-1 acquired by the second acquisition unit 132, with respect to the layout information 121A-1 acquired by the first acquisition unit 131.

[0043] For example, the identification unit 133 identifies data from the data stored in the construction-related information storage unit 121 that contains layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information 121A-1 and piping information 121B-1. Furthermore, if the identification unit 133 identifies data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information 121A-1 and piping information 121B-1, it identifies construction-related information 121C-1 corresponding to the data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information 121A-1 and piping information 121B-1. In Figure 7, the construction-related information storage unit 121 stores data that associates layout information indicating a change from one wall-mounted kitchen to another with construction-related information indicating that the work can be done with existing piping (no piping changes are necessary). The identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information associated with layout information indicating a change from one wall-mounted kitchen to another, similar to the layout information 121A-1, from the data stored in the construction-related information storage unit 121. In other words, the identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information indicating that the work can be done with the existing piping (no need to change the piping). The identification unit 133 also identifies construction-related information 121C-1 from among the construction-related information indicating that the work can be done with the existing piping (no need to change the piping) that is similar to the information indicating the location of walls and floors in the building included in the acquired layout information 121A-1. In this way, the identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information 121C-1. The transmission unit 135 then transmits the identified construction-related information 121C-1 to the user terminal 200. The management unit 136 then determines, based on the construction-related information 121C-1, that the work can be done with the existing piping (no need to change the piping). Furthermore, if the management unit 136 determines that the work can be done with the existing piping (no need to change the piping), it decides not to update the estimate information.

[0044] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing by an information processing device according to an embodiment. Figure 8 illustrates an example of rearranging a wall-mounted kitchen to use it as a custom-built counter kitchen. In Figure 8, the first acquisition unit 131 acquires layout information 121A-2, which includes layout information showing the layout of the wall-mounted kitchen before the change and layout information showing the layout of the custom-built counter kitchen after the change. The second acquisition unit 132 acquires piping information 121B-2, which includes piping information before the change and piping information after the change. For example, the second acquisition unit 132 acquires piping information 121B-2 showing the positions of the hot water pipe, cold water pipe, and drain pipe before and after the change. The identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information 121C-2, which includes information on whether or not piping changes are necessary, from the piping information 121B-2 acquired by the second acquisition unit 132, with respect to the layout information 121A-2 acquired by the first acquisition unit 131.

[0045] For example, the identification unit 133 identifies data from the data stored in the construction-related information storage unit 121 that contains layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information 121A-2 and piping information 121B-2. Furthermore, if the identification unit 133 identifies data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information 121A-2 and piping information 121B-2, it identifies construction-related information 121C-2 that corresponds to the data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information 121A-2 and piping information 121B-2. In Figure 8, the construction-related information storage unit 121 stores data that associates layout information indicating a change from a wall-mounted kitchen to a custom-built counter kitchen with construction-related information indicating that minor piping changes are necessary by utilizing the existing wall (because it is a change from a wall-mounted kitchen to a custom-built counter kitchen). The identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information from among the data stored in the construction-related information storage unit 121, similar to the acquired layout information 121A-2, that is associated with layout information indicating a change from a wall-mounted kitchen to a custom-built counter kitchen. In other words, the identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information indicating that minor changes to the piping are necessary by utilizing the existing wall. Furthermore, from among the construction-related information indicating that minor changes to the piping are necessary by utilizing the existing wall, the identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information 121C-2 that is similar to the information indicating the location of walls and floors in the building included in the acquired layout information 121A-2. In this way, the identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information 121C-2. The transmission unit 135 then transmits the identified construction-related information 121C-2 to the user terminal 200. The construction-related information 121C-2 also includes piping change work information related to piping change work. Piping change work information includes information such as the content of the work to change the piping and the construction cost of the work to change the piping. Furthermore, the management unit 136 identifies piping modification work information based on the construction-related information 121C-2. When the management unit 136 identifies piping modification work information, it updates the estimate information based on that information. For example, the management unit 136 identifies the construction cost included in the piping modification work information and updates the estimate information by adding the identified construction cost to the estimate amount.

[0046] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing by an information processing device according to an embodiment. Figure 9 illustrates an example of rearranging a wall-mounted counter kitchen to use it as an island-type counter kitchen. In Figure 9, the first acquisition unit 131 acquires layout information 121A-3, which includes layout information showing the layout of the counter kitchen (wall-mounted type) before the change and layout information showing the layout of the counter kitchen (island type) after the change. The second acquisition unit 132 acquires piping information 121B-3, which includes piping information before the change and piping information after the change. For example, the second acquisition unit 132 acquires piping information 121B-3 showing the positions of the hot water pipe, cold water pipe, and drain pipe before and after the change. The identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information 121C-3, which includes information on whether or not piping changes are necessary, from the piping information 121B-3 acquired by the second acquisition unit 132, with respect to the layout information 121A-3 acquired by the first acquisition unit 131.

[0047] For example, the identification unit 133 identifies data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information 121A-3 and piping information 121B-3 from the data stored in the construction-related information storage unit 121. Furthermore, if the identification unit 133 identifies data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information 121A-3 and piping information 121B-3, it identifies construction-related information 121C-3 corresponding to the data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information 121A-3 and piping information 121B-3. In Figure 9, the construction-related information storage unit 121 stores data that associates layout information indicating a change from a wall-mounted counter kitchen to an island-type counter kitchen with construction-related information indicating that (because it is a change from a wall-mounted counter kitchen to an island-type counter kitchen) piping modifications are necessary to move the counter kitchen away from the wall. The identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information from among the data stored in the construction-related information storage unit 121, similar to the acquired layout information 121A-3, that is associated with layout information indicating a change from a wall-mounted counter kitchen to an island-type counter kitchen. In other words, the identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information indicating that rework of the piping is necessary to change the location of the counter kitchen to a location away from the wall. Furthermore, from among the construction-related information indicating that rework of the piping is necessary to change the location of the counter kitchen to a location away from the wall, the identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information 121C-3 that is similar to the information indicating the location of walls and floors in the building included in the acquired layout information 121A-3. In this way, the identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information 121C-3. The transmission unit 135 then transmits the identified construction-related information 121C-3 to the user terminal 200. The construction-related information 121C-3 also includes piping change work information related to piping change work. Furthermore, based on the construction-related information 121C-3, the management department 136 determines that while piping modifications are necessary, these modifications will not result in any change to the estimated cost, and therefore decides not to change the estimated cost.

[0048] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing by an information processing device according to an embodiment. Figure 10 illustrates an example of rearranging a wall-mounted kitchen to use it as an island-type counter kitchen. In Figure 10, the first acquisition unit 131 acquires arrangement information 121A-4, which includes arrangement information showing the arrangement of the wall-mounted kitchen before the change and arrangement information showing the arrangement of the counter kitchen (island type) after the change. The second acquisition unit 132 acquires piping information 121B-4, which includes piping information before the change and piping information after the change. For example, the second acquisition unit 132 acquires piping information 121B-4 showing the positions of the hot water pipe, cold water pipe, and drain pipe before and after the change. The identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information 121C-4, which includes information on whether or not piping changes are necessary, from the piping information 121B-4 acquired by the second acquisition unit 132, with respect to the arrangement information 121A-4 acquired by the first acquisition unit 131.

[0049] For example, the identification unit 133 identifies data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information 121A-4 and piping information 121B-4 from the data stored in the construction-related information storage unit 121. Furthermore, if the identification unit 133 identifies data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information 121A-4 and piping information 121B-4, it identifies construction-related information 121C-4 corresponding to the data containing layout information and piping information similar to the acquired layout information 121A-4 and piping information 121B-4. In Figure 10, the construction-related information storage unit 121 stores data that associates layout information indicating a change from a wall-mounted kitchen to an island-type counter kitchen with construction-related information indicating that significant changes to the piping are necessary because the kitchen layout will change significantly (since it is a change from a wall-mounted kitchen to an island-type counter kitchen). The identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information from the data stored in the construction-related information storage unit 121, similar to the layout information 121A-4, that is associated with layout information indicating a change from a wall-mounted kitchen to an island-type counter kitchen. In other words, the identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information indicating that significant changes to the piping are necessary because the kitchen layout will change significantly. Furthermore, from the construction-related information indicating that significant changes to the piping are necessary because the kitchen layout will change significantly, the identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information 121C-4 that is similar to the information indicating the location of walls and floors in the building included in the acquired layout information 121A-4. In this way, the identification unit 133 identifies construction-related information 121C-4. The transmission unit 135 then transmits the identified construction-related information 121C-4 to the user terminal 200. The construction-related information 121C-4 also includes piping change work information related to piping change work. The management unit 136 then identifies piping change work information based on the construction-related information 121C-4. Furthermore, when the management unit 136 identifies information regarding pipe modification work, it updates the estimate information based on that information. For example, the management unit 136 identifies the construction costs included in the pipe modification work information and updates the estimate information by adding the identified construction costs to the estimate amount.

[0050] [4. User terminal configuration] Figure 11 shows an example configuration of a user terminal 200 according to an embodiment. The user terminal 200 includes a communication unit 211, a control unit 212, an input unit 213, a display unit 214, an audio output unit 215, and a storage unit 216.

[0051] The communication unit 211 is implemented by a NIC, antenna, etc. The communication unit 211 is connected to various networks by wired or wireless means, and performs information transmission and reception with, for example, the information processing device 100.

[0052] The control unit 212 is a controller, and is implemented, for example, by a CPU or MPU executing various programs stored in the storage device inside the user terminal 200 using RAM as the working area. Alternatively, the control unit 212 is a controller and can be implemented, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA.

[0053] The control unit 212 has an acquisition unit 221 and an output control unit 222 as functional units, and may realize or execute the information processing operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 212 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 11, and other configurations are also acceptable as long as they perform the information processing described later. Furthermore, each functional unit represents the function of the control unit 212 and does not necessarily have to be physically distinct.

[0054] The acquisition unit 221 acquires construction-related information. For example, the acquisition unit 221 acquires construction-related information from the information processing device 100. When the acquisition unit 221 acquires construction-related information, it stores the construction-related information in the storage unit 216.

[0055] The output control unit 222 controls the display unit 214 to display construction-related information. For example, the output control unit 222 controls the display unit 214 to display construction-related information, which may be an image or text. Alternatively, the output control unit 222 may control the display unit 214 to display construction-related information, which may be a video. The output control unit 222 also controls the output of audio from the audio output unit 215. For example, it may control the audio included in the video construction-related information to be output from the audio output unit 215.

[0056] The input unit 213 is an input device that receives various inputs from the outside. The input unit 213 is equipped with an operating device that receives input operations from the user. The operating device is, for example, a keyboard, mouse, or operation keys, a device for the user to perform various operations. If the user terminal 200 is equipped with a touch panel, the touch panel is also included as an operating device. In this case, the user performs various operations by touching the screen with their finger or stylus. Alternatively, the operating device may be a voice input device (for example, a microphone) that receives input operations from the user's voice.

[0057] The display unit 214 is a display device that displays various information. The display unit 214 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. If the user terminal 200 employs a touch panel, the display unit 214 may be an integrated device with the operating device of the input unit 213. The display unit 214 displays and provides various information to the user. In the following description, the display unit 214 may be referred to as the screen.

[0058] Specifically, the display unit 214 functions as a display procedure for displaying construction-related information. For example, the display unit 214 displays construction-related information according to the control of the output control unit 222. For example, the display unit 214 displays construction-related information in the form of images or text. The display unit 214 may also display construction-related information in the form of video.

[0059] The audio output unit 215 includes, for example, a DA (Digital to Analog) converter that converts a digital audio signal, which is audio information output from the output control unit 222, into an analog audio signal, and a speaker that converts the analog audio signal output from the DA converter into sound and outputs it.

[0060] The memory unit 216 is implemented by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as RAM or flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or optical disc. For example, the memory unit 216 stores construction-related information.

[0061] [5. Processing Flow] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the information processing procedure by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment. In Figure 12, the information processing device 100 acquires layout information for the installation of plumbing equipment (step S101). The information processing device 100 also acquires piping information for the plumbing space where the plumbing equipment will be installed (step S102). The information processing device 100 then identifies construction-related information regarding the installation of the plumbing equipment based on the layout information and piping information (step S103). The information processing device 100 then transmits the identified construction-related information to the user terminal 200 (step S104).

[0062] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the information processing procedure by the user terminal 200 according to the embodiment. In Figure 13, the user terminal 200 acquires construction-related information from the information processing device 100 (step S201). The user terminal 200 also displays the construction-related information (step S202).

[0063] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the information processing procedure by the construction support system 1 according to the embodiment. In Figure 14, the construction support system 1 acquires layout information (also called a layout plan) from the estimation documents (step S301). The construction support system 1 also determines whether or not the determination condition 1 is met (step S302). Specifically, the construction support system 1 determines from the layout information whether or not there is piping information to be added as a display target.

[0064] If the construction support system 1 satisfies judgment condition 1, that is, if it determines from the layout information that there is piping information to be added as a display target (step S302; Yes), it adds the piping information as a display target (step S303). On the other hand, if the construction support system 1 does not satisfy judgment condition 1, that is, if it determines from the layout information that there is no piping information to be added as a display target (step S302; No), it acquires the layout information and piping information (step S304). The construction support system 1 also determines whether or not judgment condition 2 is satisfied (step S305). Specifically, the construction support system 1 determines whether or not there is construction-related information to be added as a display target from the layout information and piping information.

[0065] If the construction support system 1 satisfies the determination condition 2, that is, if it determines from the layout information and piping information that there is construction-related information to be added as a display target (step S305; Yes), it adds the construction-related information to be displayed (step S306). On the other hand, if the construction support system 1 does not satisfy the determination condition 2, that is, if it determines from the layout information and piping information that there is no construction-related information to be added as a display target (step S305; No), it identifies the construction-related information and displays it on the user terminal 200 (step S307).

[0066] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the information processing procedure by the construction support system 1 according to the embodiment. In Figure 15, the construction support system 1 acquires the identified construction-related information (step S401). The construction support system 1 also determines whether or not the determination condition 3 is met (step S402). Specifically, the construction support system 1 determines whether or not pipe modification work will occur based on the construction-related information.

[0067] If the construction support system 1 determines that the pipe modification work will occur, i.e., if it meets the judgment condition 3 (step S402; Yes), it identifies the pipe modification work information (step S403). The construction support system 1 also determines the construction-related information, including the pipe modification work information (step S404). On the other hand, if the construction support system 1 determines that the pipe modification work will not occur, i.e., if it does not meet the judgment condition 3 (step S402; No), it determines the construction-related information, excluding the pipe modification work information (step S404).

[0068] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the information processing procedure by the construction support system 1 according to the embodiment. In Figure 16, the construction support system 1 acquires the determined construction-related information and layout information (step S501). The construction support system 1 also determines whether or not the determination condition 4 is met (step S502). Specifically, the construction support system 1 determines whether or not soundproofing treatment is required at the piping location based on the construction-related information and layout information.

[0069] If the construction support system 1 does not meet the judgment condition 4, that is, if it determines that soundproofing is not required at the piping location (step S502; No), it terminates the process. On the other hand, if the construction support system 1 meets the judgment condition 4, that is, if it determines that soundproofing is required at the piping location (step S502; Yes), it identifies the soundproofing method (step S503). The construction support system 1 also determines the soundproofing method according to the floor-by-floor layout information of the apartment building, etc. (step S504). For example, if the piping is located in the floor slab, the construction support system 1 decides to perform soundproofing on the floor below. On the other hand, if the piping is located in the ceiling slab, the construction support system 1 decides to perform soundproofing on the floor above.

[0070] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the information processing procedure by the construction support system 1 according to the embodiment. In Figure 17, the construction support system 1 acquires the determined construction-related information (including the soundproofing treatment method) (step S601). The construction support system 1 also determines whether or not the determination condition 5 is met (step S602). Specifically, the construction support system 1 determines, based on the construction-related information, whether or not the construction cost will be increased due to the construction corresponding to the construction-related information (step S602).

[0071] If the construction support system 1 determines that the judgment condition 5 is not met, i.e., that no additional construction costs will be incurred (step S602; No), it terminates the process. On the other hand, if the construction support system 1 determines that the judgment condition 5 is met, i.e., that additional construction costs will be incurred (step S602; Yes), it adds the additional construction costs to the estimated amount (step S603). The construction support system 1 also updates the estimated information (step S604).

[0072] Further effects and modifications can be readily derived by those skilled in the art. Therefore, broader aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments expressed and described above. Accordingly, various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the overall concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0073] The embodiments and modifications described above may also have the following configurations, but are not limited to them. (1) A first acquisition means for acquiring layout information for installing at least one plumbing fixture such as a toilet, kitchen, washbasin, and bathtub, A second acquisition means for acquiring piping information of the water-related space where the aforementioned water-related equipment is installed, Based on the aforementioned arrangement information and piping information, a means for identifying construction-related information concerning the installation of the plumbing equipment, A display means for displaying the aforementioned construction-related information, A construction support system characterized by having the following features. (2) The aforementioned specifying means is, With respect to the arrangement information acquired by the first acquisition means, the second acquisition means identifies the construction-related information, including information regarding the necessity of changing the piping, from the piping information acquired by the second acquisition means. The construction support system according to (1), characterized in that (3) The aforementioned layout information includes information on the floor levels of the apartment building. In cases where the aforementioned construction-related information includes information indicating that piping changes are necessary, the system further provides a means for determining whether or not soundproofing measures are necessary based on the aforementioned hierarchical information. The construction support system according to (1) or (2), characterized in that it is the same as described above. (4) The system further includes a management means for managing estimation information related to the installation of the aforementioned plumbing fixtures, The management means manages the updating of the estimate information based on the construction-related information identified by the identification means. A construction support system according to any one of (1) to (3), characterized by the above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0074] 1. Construction support system 100 Information Processing Devices 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Construction-related information storage unit 130 Control Unit 131 First acquisition part 132 Second Acquisition Department 133 Specific part 134 Judgment section 135 Transmitter 136 Management Department 200 user terminals 211 Communications Department 212 Control Unit 221 Acquisition Department 222 Output Control Unit 213 Input section 214 Display section 215 Audio output section 216 Storage section

Claims

1. A first acquisition means for acquiring layout information for installing at least one plumbing fixture such as a toilet, kitchen, washbasin, and bathtub, A second acquisition means for acquiring piping information of the water-related space where the aforementioned water-related equipment is installed, Based on the aforementioned arrangement information and piping information, a means for identifying construction-related information concerning the installation of the plumbing equipment, A display means for displaying the aforementioned construction-related information, A construction support system characterized by having the following features.

2. The aforementioned specifying means is, With respect to the arrangement information acquired by the first acquisition means, the second acquisition means identifies the construction-related information, including information regarding the necessity of changing the piping, from the piping information acquired by the second acquisition means. The construction support system according to feature 1.

3. The aforementioned layout information includes information on the floor levels of the apartment building. In cases where the aforementioned construction-related information includes information indicating that piping changes are necessary, the system further provides a means for determining whether or not soundproofing measures are necessary based on the aforementioned hierarchical information. The construction support system according to feature 1.

4. The system further includes a management means for managing estimation information related to the installation of the aforementioned plumbing fixtures, The management means manages the updating of the estimate information based on the construction-related information identified by the identification means. The construction support system according to feature 1.

Images