Information providing device, information providing method, information providing program, and device management system

Abstract

To efficiently manage and grasp a usage status of an SIM.SOLUTION: An overall management server 10: acquires apparatus registration information in which application information related to an application which collects information transmitted from a device is associated with apparatus setting information including apparatus identification information of the device and communication identification information set so that the device performs communication; and generates communication registration information in which communication contract information indicating a contract status of the communication is associated with the apparatus registration information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information providing device, an information providing method, an information providing program, and a device management system. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in a plant measurement system using a cloud environment, in places where there is no wired communication equipment, communication with equipment (devices) is sometimes performed using wireless communication over a mobile phone network. Such devices are managed by linking them to a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6436489 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with conventional technology, it is difficult to efficiently manage and understand the usage status of SIM cards, so there is room for improvement.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above, and has an object to efficiently manage and grasp the usage status of SIMs. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention provides an information providing device that includes an acquisition unit that acquires device registration information in which device setting information, including device identification information of a device and communication identification information set for the device to communicate, is associated with application information related to an application that collects information transmitted from the device, and a generation unit that generates communication registration information in which the device registration information is associated with communication contract information that indicates the contract status of the communication.

[0007] The present invention also provides an information providing method in which a computer executes a process to acquire device registration information in which device setting information, including device identification information of a device and communication identification information set for the device to communicate, is associated with application information related to an application that collects information transmitted from the device, and to generate communication registration information in which communication contract information indicating the contract status of the communication is associated with the device registration information.

[0008] The present invention also provides an information providing program that causes a computer to execute a process to acquire device registration information in which device setting information, including device identification information of a device and communication identification information set for the device to communicate, is associated with application information related to an application that collects information transmitted from the device, and to generate communication registration information in which the device registration information is associated with communication contract information that indicates the contract status of the communication.

[0009] The present invention also provides an equipment management system including an information management device that executes an application that collects information transmitted from a device, and an information providing device, in which the information management device includes a receiving unit that receives from the device device setting information including device identification information of the device and communication identification information set for the device to communicate, and a transmitting unit that transmits device registration information in which application information related to the application is associated with the device setting information, and the information providing device includes an acquiring unit that acquires the device registration information from the information management device, and a generating unit that generates communication registration information in which communication contract information indicating the contract status of the communication is associated with the device registration information. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to efficiently grasp the usage status of a SIM. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a device management system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of each device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication registration information storage unit of the overall management server according to the first embodiment; FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a device registration information storage unit of the application server according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a specific example of a display screen of a list of registered devices according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of a device management process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a device management system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a specific example of a display screen of a device search result according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of a device management process according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a device management system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a display screen of a search result of a SIM according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of a device management process according to a third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a device management system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a display screen of a device search result according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of a device management process according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] An information providing device, an information providing method, an information providing program, and an equipment management system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below.

[0013] [Embodiment 1] In the first embodiment, a registration process of communication registration information that links information related to a device, a SIM, and a web application will be described. The configuration of the device management system 100-1 according to the first embodiment, the configuration of each device, and the process flow will be described in order below, and finally, the effects of the first embodiment will be described.

[0014] 1. Configuration of Device Management System 100-1 The configuration of the device management system 100-1 according to the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the device management system 100-1 according to the embodiment. Below, an example of the overall configuration of the device management system 100-1, the processing of the device management system 100-1, and problems with the device management system of the reference technology will be described in order, and finally, the effects of the device management system 100-1 will be described. Note that in the first embodiment, a factory production remote monitoring using plant equipment, which is a device installed in a plant, will be described as an example, but the device and field of use are not limited, and the system can also be applied to environmental measurement remote monitoring such as power monitors, wind power generation, water and sewage monitors, and river monitors.

[0015] (1-1. Example of the overall configuration of the device management system 100-1) The device management system 100-1 has an overall management server 10 which is an information providing device, an application server 20 which is an information management device, plant devices 30 (30A, 30B, 30C), and SIMs 40 (40A, 40B, 40C). Here, the overall management server 10 and the application server 20 are constructed in a cloud environment. Also, the plant devices 30 (30A, 30B, 30C) are installed in a plant, and SIMs 40 (40A, 40B, 40C) are set up for each.

[0016] 1 may include a plurality of overall management servers 10 or a plurality of application servers 20. The overall management server 10 may be integrated with the application server 20.

[0017] (1-2. Overall processing of device management system 100-1: device registration processing) The following describes the registration process of communication registration information in the device management system 100-1 described above. Note that the following steps S11 to S15 may be executed in a different order. Also, some of the following steps S11 to S15 may be omitted.

[0018] (1-2-1. Plant equipment setting process) Engineer E, who is a plant manager, sets the SIM 40 in the plant devices 30 (step S11). For example, engineer E sets the SIM 40 by inserting a card-like SIM 40 (40A, 40B, 40C) into a card slot of each of the plant devices 30 (30A, 30B, 30C) that are sensor devices. Note that the sensor devices may be sensor devices that are equipped with internal sensors or that are connected to external sensors.

[0019] (1-2-2. Device setting information transmission process) The plant device 30 or engineer E transmits device setting information, which is a combination of the identification information of the plant device 30 and the identification information of the set SIM 40, to the application server 20 (step S12). For example, the plant device 30 transmits a combination of a hardware identification number and a SIM card identification number as the device setting information to the application server 20 via a line of a mobile phone network.

[0020] (1-2-3. Application information addition processing) The application server 20 adds application information to the device setting information to generate device registration information (step S13). For example, the application server 20 generates device registration information by adding application information, such as identification information of a web application that collects plant information received by the plant device 30 and hierarchical information indicating a hierarchical structure of the web application, to the device setting information.

[0021] (1-2-4. Device registration information transmission process) The application server 20 transmits the device registration information to the system management server 10 (step S14).

[0022] (1-2-5. Communication registration information generation process) The overall management server 10 generates the communication registration information by linking the device registration information with the communication contract information of the SIM 40 (step S15). For example, the overall management server 10 generates the communication registration information by adding the communication contract information such as the subscriber name and contract phone number of the SIM 40 to the device registration information.

[0023] (1-3. Equipment management process of reference technology) In the following, an overview of the device management process as a reference technique will be described, and then problems with the reference technique will be described.

[0024] (1-3-1. Overview of device management process of reference technology) In the device management process of the reference technology, management is performed as follows. For example, in managing plant equipment and SIMs, the hardware combination is fixed by the SIM's phone number, and the hardware is identified by the SIM's phone number. On the other hand, since plant equipment and SIMs are often procured as separate parts and used in any combination, combinations of hardware and SIMs may be managed by a separately managed list. Note that information on the above combinations is generally managed within individual web applications. Furthermore, when using a SIM, it is necessary to link it to SIM contract information, but this information is often managed by linking it to purchase orders, etc.

[0025] (1-3-2. Problems with equipment management processing in the reference technology) In the device management process of the reference technology, it is difficult to efficiently manage and understand the usage status of SIMs. For example, the provider of the service including SIMs (telecommunications carrier) can monitor the operation status from the SIM's phone number and can identify unused SIMs, but it is difficult to identify which SIM is being used on which web application.

[0026] In other words, because communication services including SIMs are defined on each web application, SIMs cannot be managed unless they are managed for each web application. In such cases, the carrier must log in to the web application to investigate which SIM is being used by which web application, making it difficult to identify the relationship between the SIM and the web application.

[0027] (1-4. Effects of the Device Management System 100-1) In the following, an overview of the device management system 100-1 according to the first embodiment will be described, and then effects of the device management system 100-1 will be described.

[0028] (1-4-1. Overview of the Device Management System 100-1) First, engineer E, who is the plant manager, sets the SIM 40 in the plant device 30. Second, the plant device 30 transmits device setting information, which is a combination of the device identification information of the plant device 30 and the communication identification information of the set SIM 40, to the application server 20. Third, the application server 20 adds application information to the device setting information to generate device registration information. Fourth, the application server 20 transmits the device registration information to the overall management server 10. Fifth, the overall management server 10 links the communication contract information of the SIM 40 to the device registration information to generate communication registration information.

[0029] (1-4-2. Effects of the Device Management System 100-1) By integrating the management of the plant device 30 and the SIM 40 on the individual web applications and the communication contract information of the SIM 40 held by the communication carrier that provides the service including the SIM 40, the relationship between the plant device 30, the SIM 40, and the communication contract information can be centrally managed. Therefore, the communication carrier can easily identify the relationship between the SIM and the web application. In addition, the engineer E who is the manager of the plant can easily identify the plant device 30 from the telephone number of the SIM 40 that is not used in the plant based on the communication record. In addition, the engineer E can easily identify the telephone number of the SIM 40 from the device identification information of the plant device 30. As described above, the device management system 100-1 can efficiently grasp the usage status of the SIM 40.

[0030] 2. Configuration of each device in the device management system 100-1 The functional configuration of each device included in the device management system 100-1 shown in Fig. 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of each device according to embodiment 1. In the following, an example of the overall configuration of the device management system 100-1 according to embodiment 1 will be described, and then examples of the overall management server 10, application server 20, plant device 30, and SIM 40 according to embodiment 1 will be described in detail.

[0031] (2-1. Example of the overall configuration of the device management system 100) 2, the device management system 100-1 includes an overall management server 10, an application server 20, plant devices 30 (30A, 30B, 30C), and SIMs 40 (40A, 40B, 40C). The overall management server 10 and the application server 20 are communicatively connected to each other via a predetermined communication network in a cloud environment. The plant devices 30 are communicatively connected to each other via a communication network N such as a mobile phone network.

[0032] The overall management server 10 and the application server 20 are not limited to server devices constructed in a cloud environment, but may be physical servers, virtual machines, containers, etc.

[0033] (2-2. Example of the configuration of the overall management server 10) First, a configuration example of the overall management server 10, which is an information providing device, will be described with reference to Fig. 2. The overall management server 10 has a communication unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a control unit 13. The overall management server 10 may also have an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) that accepts various operations from the administrator of the device management system 100-1, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) that displays various information.

[0034] (2-2-1. Communications Department 11) The communication unit 11 manages data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 11 performs data communication with each communication device via a router, etc. The communication unit 11 can also perform data communication with an operator's terminal (not shown).

[0035] (2-2-2. Storage section 12) The storage unit 12 stores various information referenced when the control unit 13 operates and various information acquired when the control unit 13 operates. The storage unit 12 has a communication registration information storage unit 12a. Here, the storage unit 12 can be realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. Note that, in the example of FIG. 2, the storage unit 12 is installed inside the overall management server 10, but it may be installed outside the overall management server 10, or multiple storage units may be installed.

[0036] (2-2-2-1. Communication registration information storage unit 12a) The communication registration information storage unit 12a stores communication registration information generated by a generation unit 13b of the control unit 13, which will be described later. An example of information stored in the communication registration information storage unit 12a will now be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the communication registration information storage unit 12a of the overall management server 10 according to the first embodiment. In the example of Fig. 3, the communication registration information storage unit 12a has items such as "contractor information", "communication identification information", "communication unique information", "device identification information", "application identification information", and "application hierarchy information".

[0037] "Contractor information" refers to information about a contractor of a communication service, such as the contractor's contract number, name, address, contact information, etc. "Communication identification information" refers to identification information for identifying a component that enables a communication service, such as the card identification number of the SIM 40. "Communication unique information" refers to information to be used for an individual communication service, such as a telephone number assigned to the SIM 40. "Equipment identification information" refers to identification information for identifying a device, such as the hardware identification number of the plant equipment 30. "Application identification information" refers to identification information for identifying an application, such as the identification number of the application server 20 or the identification number of the application use area. "Application hierarchy information" refers to location information for identifying an area in which an application is installed, such as location information for identifying a hierarchical structure such as a management area managed by a communication service provider or an application area managed by a communication service operator.

[0038] That is, FIG. 3 shows an example in which, for a SIM 40 contracted by subscriber information "subscriber U1", the communication unique information of SIM 40A identified by communication identification information "SIM-A" is "111-1111-1111", the equipment identification information is "plant equipment A", the application identification information is "application A", and the application hierarchical information is "hierarchical structure 001", the communication unique information of SIM 40B identified by communication identification information "SIM-B" is "222-2222-2222", the equipment identification information is "plant equipment B", the application identification information is "application B", and the application hierarchical information is "hierarchical structure 002", and the communication unique information of SIM 40C identified by communication identification information "SIM-C" is "333-3333-3333", the equipment identification information is "plant equipment C", the application identification information is "application C", and the application hierarchical information is "hierarchical structure 003".

[0039] (2-2-3. Control unit 13) The control unit 13 is responsible for controlling the entire total management server 10. The control unit 13 has an acquisition unit 13a, a generation unit 13b, a specification unit 13c, and a notification unit 13d. Here, the control unit 13 can be realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0040] (2-2-3-1. Acquisition part 13a) The acquisition unit 13a acquires device registration information in which application information related to an application that collects information transmitted from a device is associated with device setting information including device identification information of the device and communication identification information set for the device to perform communication. Here, the device is, for example, a plant device 30 that acquires plant information (e.g., sensor value) from the plant, including at least one of a communication device or a sensor device installed in the plant, and transmits the plant information to a specified destination. The communication identification information included in the device setting information is identification information of a SIM card inserted into the device in order for the device to transmit information to the application. The application information is information including application identification information that is identification information of the application, and application hierarchy information that is location information of the application. For example, the application identification information is an identification number of the application server 20 and an identification number of an application use area. The application hierarchy information is location information for identifying a hierarchical structure such as a management area managed by a communication service provider and an application area managed by a communication service operator.

[0041] To explain using a specific example, the acquisition unit 13a acquires, as equipment registration information for the plant equipment 30A, information in which application information {application identification information: application A, application hierarchy information: hierarchical structure 001} is added to equipment setting information {equipment identification information: plant equipment A, communication identification information: SIM-A}.

[0042] Furthermore, the acquiring unit 13a acquires, from an application that collects plant information, device registration information in which application information of the application is associated with device setting information of the device that acquired the plant information. To explain using a specific example, the acquiring unit 13a acquires information to which application information of application A that collects plant information of the plant device 30A is added as device setting information of the plant device 30A, acquires information to which application information of application B that collects plant information of the plant device 30B is added as device setting information of the plant device 30B, and acquires information to which application information of application C that collects plant information of the plant device 30C is added as device setting information of the plant device 30C.

[0043] (2-2-3-2. Generation unit 13b) The generating unit 13b generates communication registration information in which communication contract information indicating the contract status of communication is associated with the device registration information. Here, the communication contract information indicates information related to the contract of the communication service, and includes subscriber information, communication identification information, and communication unique information. For example, the subscriber information is the subscriber's contract number, name, address, contact information, etc. Furthermore, the communication identification information is the card identification number of the SIM 40, etc. The communication unique information is a telephone number assigned to the SIM 40, etc.

[0044] To explain using a specific example, the generating unit 13b generates information in which communication contract information {contractor information: contractor U1, communication identification information: SIM-A, communication unique information: 111-1111-1111} is added to the device registration information {device identification information: plant device A, communication identification information: SIM-A, application identification information: application A, application hierarchy information: hierarchy structure 001} as the communication registration information of the plant device 30A. At this time, the generating unit 13b generates the communication registration information based on, for example, {communication identification information: SIM-A} commonly included in the device registration information and the communication contract information.

[0045] Moreover, the generating unit 13b manages each of the multiple applications in association with the communication registration information. To explain using a specific example, the acquiring unit 13a manages the communication registration information of the application A that collects the plant information of the plant device 30A, the communication registration information of the application B that collects the plant information of the plant device 30B, and the communication registration information of the application C that collects the plant information of the plant device 30C by storing them in the communication registration information storage unit 12a.

[0046] (2-2-3-3. Specific part 13c) In response to various inquiries, the identifying unit 13c identifies information stored in the storage unit 12. Details of the processing by the identifying unit 13c will be described later in the second to fourth embodiments.

[0047] (2-2-3-4.Notification section 13d) The notification unit 13d notifies various kinds of information according to the result identified by the identification unit 13c. For example, the notification unit 13d outputs the communication registration information stored in the communication registration information storage unit 12a as a display screen. Details of the processing by the notification unit 13d will be described later in the second to fourth embodiments. Specific examples of the display screen output by the notification unit 13d will be described in (2-3. Specific examples of display screen) of the first embodiment.

[0048] (2-3. Specific examples of display screens) A specific example of a display screen output by the notification unit 13d of the overall management server 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of a display screen of a list of registered devices according to the first embodiment. The following describes, in the order of "display conditions" and "list of registered devices" on the management screen of the "device registration system."

[0049] (2-3-1.Display conditions) As shown in Fig. 5, the overall management server 10 displays display conditions that are conditions for the order in which the registered plant devices 30 are displayed. In the example of Fig. 5, the overall management server 10 displays, as display conditions, "by device ID" for sorting and displaying the registered plant devices 30 in the order of device identification information, "by installation date and time" for sorting and displaying the registered plant devices 30 in the order of the date and time when the plant devices 30 were installed in the plant, and "by registration date and time" for sorting and displaying the communication registration information of the SIM 40 set in the plant devices 30 in the order of the date and time when the communication registration information was registered, each of which is selectable by a radio button. The overall management server 10 can also display a management screen for each SIM 40 subscriber.

[0050] (2-3-2. List of registered devices) As shown in Fig. 5, the total management server 10 displays a registered device list, which is an overview of communication registration information of the registered plant equipment 30, according to the conditions selected as the display conditions. In the example of Fig. 5, the total management server 10 displays, as the registered device list, "Device ID" which is equipment identification information of the plant equipment 30, "SIM ID" which is communication identification information of the SIM 40 set in the plant equipment 30, and "Application ID" which is identification information of a web application that collects information transmitted by the plant equipment 30, in the order of the device ID selected by the radio button. That is, the total management server 10 displays in the order of {Device ID: plant equipment A, SIM ID: SIM-A, Application ID: Application A, ...}, {Device ID: plant equipment B, SIM ID: SIM-B, Application ID: Application B, ...}, {Device ID: plant equipment C, SIM ID: SIM-C, Application ID: Application C, ...}, ....

[0051] (2-3-3. Other Display) Furthermore, the overall management server 10 can display more detailed information in response to the operation of the user of the terminal device on which the display screen is output. For example, when "Plant Equipment A" is clicked in the above-mentioned registered device list, the overall management server 10 may display the type of plant equipment A (sensor equipment, gateway equipment, control equipment) and information on the plant in which it is installed. When "SIM-A" is clicked in the above-mentioned registered device list, the overall management server 10 may display a telephone number indicating the communication unique information of SIM-A. When "Application A" is clicked in the above-mentioned registered device list, the overall management server 10 may display application hierarchical information indicating the hierarchical structure of Application A.

[0052] (2-4. Example of application server 20 configuration) An example of the configuration of the application server 20, which is an information management device, will be described with reference to Fig. 2. The application server 20 has a communication unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a control unit 23. The application server 20 also executes an application for collecting information transmitted from devices. The application server 20 may also have an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) for receiving various operations from an administrator of the device management system 100-1, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) for displaying various information.

[0053] (2-4-1. Communications Department 21) The communication unit 21 manages data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 21 performs data communication with each communication device via a router, etc. The communication unit 21 can also perform data communication with an operator's terminal (not shown).

[0054] (2-4-2. Storage section 22) The storage unit 22 stores various information referred to when the control unit 23 operates and various information acquired when the control unit 23 operates. The storage unit 22 has a device registration information storage unit 22a. Here, the storage unit 22 can be realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. Note that, in the example of Fig. 2, the storage unit 22 is installed inside the application server 20, but it may be installed outside the application server 20, or multiple storage units may be installed.

[0055] (2-4-2-1. Device registration information storage unit 22a) The device registration information storage unit 22a stores device registration information generated by a generation unit 23b of the control unit 23, which will be described later. An example of information stored in the device registration information storage unit 22a will now be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the device registration information storage unit 22a of the application server 20 according to the embodiment. In the example of Fig. 4, the device registration information storage unit 22a has items such as "device identification information", "communication identification information", "application identification information", and "application hierarchy information".

[0056] "Equipment identification information" refers to identification information for identifying a device, such as the hardware identification number of the plant equipment 30. "Communication identification information" refers to identification information for identifying a component that enables communication services, such as the card identification number of the SIM 40. "Application identification information" refers to identification information for identifying an application, such as the identification number of the application server 20 or the identification number of the application use area. "Application hierarchical information" refers to location information for identifying the area in which an application is installed, such as location information for identifying a hierarchical structure such as a management area managed by a communication service provider or an application area managed by a communication service operator.

[0057] That is, Figure 4 shows an example in which, for plant equipment 30 set up by engineer E in the plant, the communication identification information of plant equipment 30A identified by equipment identification information "Plant Equipment A" is "SIM-A", the application identification information is "Application A", and the application hierarchy information is "Hierarchical structure 001", the communication identification information of plant equipment 30B identified by equipment identification information "Plant Equipment B" is "SIM-B", the application identification information is "Application B", and the application hierarchy information is "Hierarchical structure 002", and the communication identification information of plant equipment 30C identified by equipment identification information "Plant Equipment C" is "SIM-C", the application identification information is "Application C", and the application hierarchy information is "Hierarchical structure 003".

[0058] (2-4-3. Control unit 23) The control unit 23 is responsible for overall control of the application server 20. The control unit 23 has a receiving unit 23a and a transmitting unit 23c. Here, the control unit 23 can be realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU or an MPU, or an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0059] (2-4-3-1. Receiving unit 23a) The receiver 23a receives, from the device, device setting information including device identification information of the device and communication identification information set for the device to perform communication. To explain using a specific example, the receiver 23a receives device setting information {device identification information: plant device A, communication identification information: SIM-A} transmitted from the plant device 30A, device setting information {device identification information: plant device B, communication identification information: SIM-B} transmitted from the plant device 30B, and device setting information {device identification information: plant device C, communication identification information: SIM-C} transmitted from the plant device 30C.

[0060] The receiving unit 23a can also receive various inquiries from the engineer E. For example, as inquiries regarding the plant managed by the engineer E, the receiving unit 23a receives requests for device identification information of the plant device 30, communication identification information of the SIM 40, and identification information of a web application.

[0061] (2-4-3-2. Generation unit 23b) The generating unit 23b generates device registration information in which application information related to an application is associated with device setting information. To explain using a specific example, the generating unit 23b generates information in which application information {application identification information: application A, application hierarchy information: hierarchical structure 001} is added to device setting information {device identification information: plant device A, communication identification information: SIM-A} as device registration information for the plant device 30A. The generating unit 23b also stores the device registration information in the device registration information storage unit 22a.

[0062] (2-4-3-3. Transmitting unit 23c) The transmission unit 23c transmits device registration information in which application information related to the application is associated with the device setting information. To explain using a specific example, the transmission unit 23c transmits {device identification information: plant device A, communication identification information: SIM-A, application identification information: application A, application hierarchy information: hierarchical structure 001} to the overall management server 10 as the device registration information of the plant device 30A generated by the generation unit 23b.

[0063] The transmission unit 23c can also transmit replies to various inquiries to the engineer E. For example, the transmission unit 23c transmits device identification information of the plant device 30, communication identification information of the SIM 40, and identification information of a web application as a response to an inquiry about the plant managed by the engineer E.

[0064] (2-5. Configuration Example of Plant Device 30) A configuration example of the plant equipment 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. For example, the plant equipment 30 is composed of a sensor equipment which is a measuring equipment, a gateway equipment which is a communication equipment, a control equipment which controls the equipment, etc. The plant equipment 30 (30A, 30B, 30C) has a transmission / reception unit 31 (31A, 31B, 31C).

[0065] (2-5-1. Transmitter / receiver 31) The transmitting / receiving unit 31 transmits various types of information. For example, the transmitting / receiving unit 31 transmits the received plant information to the application server 20. The transmitting / receiving unit 31 also receives various types of information. For example, the transmitting / receiving unit 31 receives plant information about a plant.

[0066] (2-6. SIM40 configuration example) An example of the configuration of the SIM 40 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. For example, the SIM 40 (40A, 40B, 40C) is a card-shaped component that is set by being inserted into a card slot of each of the plant devices 30 (30A, 30B, 30C). The SIM 40 also has a card identification number, which is identification information for identifying the SIM card, and a telephone number of the SIM 40, which is information for use in each communication service.

[0067] 3. Processing Flow of Device Management System 100-1 The process flow of the device management system 100-1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the device management process flow according to the first embodiment. Note that the processes of steps S101 to S107 below may be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processes of steps S101 to S107 below may be omitted.

[0068] (3-1. Plant equipment setting process) Engineer E, who is a manager of the plant, sets the SIM 40 in the plant devices 30 (step S101). For example, engineer E sets the SIM 40 by inserting a card-like SIM 40 into a card slot of each of the plant devices 30 (30A, 30B, 30C).

[0069] (3-2. Device setting information transmission process) The engineer E sets the device setting information in the application server 20 (step S102). For example, the engineer E sets the device setting information, which is a combination of the device identification information of the plant device 30 and the communication identification information of the SIM 40, in the application server 20.

[0070] (3-3. Application information addition processing) The application server 20 generates device registration information by adding application information to the device setting information (step S103). For example, the application server 20 generates device registration information by adding application identification information and application hierarchical information as the application information. Then, the application server 20 stores the generated device registration information in the storage unit 22 (step S104). For example, the application server 20 stores a combination of the device identification information of the plant device 30, the communication identification information of the SIM 40, and the application information in the device registration information storage unit 22a as the device registration information.

[0071] (3-4. Device registration information transmission process) The application server 20 transmits the device registration information to the system management server 10 (step S105). For example, the application server 20 transmits, as the device registration information, a combination of the device identification information of the plant device 30, the communication identification information of the SIM 40, and the application information to the system management server 10.

[0072] (3-5. Communication registration information generation process) The overall management server 10 generates communication registration information by adding communication contract information to the device registration information (step S106). For example, the overall management server 10 generates communication registration information by adding contractor information and communication unique information as the communication contract information. Then, the overall management server 10 stores the generated communication registration information in the storage unit 12 (step S107). For example, the overall management server 10 stores, as the communication registration information, a combination of communication identification information of the SIM 40, communication unique information of the SIM 40, device identification information of the plant device 30, and application information for each communication contractor in the communication registration information storage unit 12a.

[0073] 4. Effects of the First Embodiment Finally, a description will be given of the effects of the first embodiment. Below, effects 1 to 3 corresponding to the processing according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0074] (4-1. Effect 1) First, in the process according to the above-mentioned embodiment 1, the overall management server 10 acquires device registration information in which application information related to an application that collects information transmitted from a device is associated with device setting information including device identification information of the device and communication identification information set for the device to perform communication, and generates communication registration information in which communication contract information indicating the contract status of the communication is associated with the device registration information. Therefore, in this process, the usage status of the SIM 40 can be efficiently managed and understood.

[0075] (4-2. Effect 2) Secondly, in the process according to the above-mentioned embodiment 1, the above-mentioned devices are plant devices, including communication devices and sensor devices installed in the plant, that transmit plant information acquired from the plant to a designated destination, and the overall management server 10 acquires device registration information, which associates the application information of each of the multiple applications with the device setting information of the device that acquired the plant information, from each of the multiple applications that collect the plant information, and manages each of the multiple applications in association with the communication registration information. Therefore, in this process, even if multiple applications are used in the plant, the usage status of the SIM 40 can be efficiently managed and understood.

[0076] (4-3. Effect 3) Thirdly, in the process according to the above-mentioned embodiment 1, the communication identification information included in the above-mentioned device setting information is identification information of the SIM card inserted into the device in order for the device to transmit information to the application. Therefore, in this process, by managing information of the device in which the SIM 40 is set, it is possible to efficiently manage and grasp the usage status of the SIM 40.

[0077] [Embodiment 2] In the second embodiment, a process of identifying application information and device identification information by referring to the communication registration information registered by the registration process of the first embodiment will be described. The configuration of the device management system 100-2 according to the second embodiment, the configuration of each device, and the process flow will be described in order below, and the effect of the second embodiment will be described last. Note that a description of the configuration and process common to the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0078] 1. Configuration of Device Management System 100-2 The configuration of the device management system 100-2 according to the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the device management system 100-2 according to the second embodiment. Below, an example of the overall configuration of the device management system 100-2, the processing of the device management system 100-2, and problems with the device management system of the reference technology will be described in this order, and finally, the effects of the device management system 100-2 will be described.

[0079] (1-1. Example of the overall configuration of the device management system 100-2) The device management system 100-2 has a total management server 10, which is an information providing device, plant devices 30 (30A, 30B, 30C), and SIMs 40 (40A, 40B, 40C). Here, the total management server 10 is constructed in a cloud environment. Also, the plant devices 30 (30A, 30B, 30C) are installed in a plant, and SIMs 40 (40A, 40B, 40C) are set up respectively. The device management system 100-2 shown in FIG. 7 may include multiple total management servers 10.

[0080] (1-2. Overall processing of device management system 100-2: device / application specific processing) The following describes a device / application identification process for identifying a plant device 30 and an application for which an unused SIM 40 is set in the device management system 100-2 described above. Note that the following steps S21 to S24 may be executed in a different order. Also, some of the following steps S21 to S24 may be omitted.

[0081] (1-2-1. Usage status confirmation process) Engineer E, who is a manager of the plant, checks the usage status of the SIM 40 set in the plant device 30 (step S21). For example, engineer E obtains information on the usage status provided by the communication carrier terminal 50, checks the usage status of the SIM 40, and obtains communication unique information of the SIM 40 that is not being used.

[0082] (1-2-2. Communication specific information transmission process) The engineer E transmits the communication unique information of the unused SIM 40 to the overall management server 10 (step S22). For example, the engineer E transmits the telephone number of the unused SIM 40C to the overall management server 10 via a terminal device (not shown).

[0083] (1-2-3. Communication registration information reference process) The overall management server 10 uses the identification unit 13c to identify the web application and the plant device 30 based on the communication unique information of the SIM 40 (step S23). For example, the overall management server 10 refers to the registered communication registration information shown in Fig. 3, searches for the telephone number of the SIM 40C, and identifies the application C and the plant device 30C linked to the telephone number.

[0084] (1-2-4. Specific result notification processing) Based on the identified information, the overall management server 10 notifies the engineer E of the application information and the device identification information through the notification unit 13d (step S24). For example, the overall management server 10 notifies the identified identification information of the application C and the device identification information of the plant device 30C to the terminal device (not shown) of the engineer E.

[0085] (1-3. Problems with equipment management processing in the reference technology) In the SIM management of the reference technology, it is difficult to efficiently manage and understand the usage status of SIMs. For example, since plant equipment, web applications, and communication contract information are managed separately, in order to understand the relationship between these pieces of information, it is necessary to investigate the relationship between multiple pieces of information, which is time-consuming and laborious.

[0086] (1-4. Effects of the device management system 100-2) In the following, an overview of a device management system 100-2 according to the second embodiment will be described, and then effects of the device management system 100-2 will be described.

[0087] (1-4-1. Overview of the device management system 100-2) First, engineer E, who is the plant manager, checks the usage status of the SIM 40 set in the plant device 30. Second, engineer E sends the communication unique information of the unused SIM 40 to the overall management server 10. Third, the overall management server 10 identifies the web application and the plant device 30 based on the communication unique information of the SIM 40. Fourth, the overall management server 10 notifies engineer E of the application information and device identification information based on the identified information.

[0088] (1-4-2. Effects of the device management system 100-2) The telecommunications carrier and the plant manager can monitor the operating status of the SIM 40 from the telephone number of the SIM 40, and can easily identify unused SIMs 40 and which SIMs 40 are being used in which web applications or plant devices 30. In other words, related web applications and configured plant devices 30 can be managed from the information on the SIM 40. As described above, the device management system 100-2 can efficiently manage and grasp the usage status of the SIM 40.

[0089] 2. Configuration of each device in the device management system 100-2 The following describes the functional configuration of the overall management server 10 of the device management system 100-2 shown in Fig. 7. Note that the configuration example of the entire device management system 100-2, the plant device 30, the SIM 40, and the application server 20 (not shown) are the same as those of the first embodiment shown in Fig. 2, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0090] (2-1. Example of the configuration of the overall management server 10) The overall management server 10 includes a communication unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a control unit 13. The overall management server 10 may also include an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) for receiving various operations from the administrator of the device management system 100-2, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) for displaying various information.

[0091] (2-1-1. Communications Department 11) The communication unit 11 controls data communication with other devices. Note that the communication unit 11 performs the same process as in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0092] (2-1-2. Storage section 12) The storage unit 12 stores various information referenced when the control unit 13 operates and various information acquired when the control unit 13 operates. Note that the storage unit 12 performs the same process as in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0093] (2-1-3. Control unit 13) The control unit 13 is responsible for controlling the entire overall management server 10. The control unit 13 has an acquisition unit 13a, a generation unit 13b, an identification unit 13c, and a notification unit 13d, similar to Fig. 2. Here, the control unit 13 can be realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU or an MPU, or an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0094] (2-1-3-1. Acquisition part 13a) The acquiring unit 13a acquires various kinds of information. Note that the details of the processing by the acquiring unit 13a are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore will not be described here.

[0095] (2-1-3-2. Generation unit 13b) The generating unit 13b generates various kinds of information. Note that the details of the processing by the generating unit 13b are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0096] (2-1-3-3. Specific part 13c) When the specification unit 13c receives an inquiry regarding at least one of a device, communication contract information, and an application, the specification unit 13c specifies information in response to the inquiry by referring to the communication registration information stored in the storage unit 12. Here, the communication registration information is information associated with communication unique information indicated by the communication contract information of the SIM 40. For example, when the specification unit 13c receives communication unique information indicated by the communication contract information of a specific SIM 40, the specification unit 13c specifies at least one of device identification information and application information associated with the communication unique information of the specific SIM 40 by referring to the communication registration information stored in the storage unit 12.

[0097] To explain a specific example, the identification unit 13c receives the telephone number "333-3333-3333" of an unused SIM 40C from a terminal device of an engineer E who is the manager of the plant, and identifies the associated web application C and the plant equipment 30C in which the SIM 40C is set by referring to the communication registration information in the communication registration information storage unit 12a shown in Figure 3.

[0098] (2-1-3-4.Notification section 13d) The notification unit 13d notifies the inquiry source of a response based on the identification result by the identification unit 13c. For example, the notification unit 13d notifies the response including at least one of the device identification information of the identified device and the identified application information. In a specific example, the notification unit 13d notifies the terminal device of the engineer E who is the manager of the plant of the application identification number "Application C" of the web application C related to the SIM 40C identified by the identification unit 13c and the device identification information "Plant device C" of the plant device 30C to which the SIM 40C is set. In addition, a specific example of a display screen output by the notification unit 13d will be described in (2-2. Specific example of display screen) of the second embodiment.

[0099] (2-2. Specific examples of display screens) A specific example of a display screen output by the notification unit 13d of the total management server 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing a specific example of a display screen of a device search result according to the second embodiment. The following describes in the order of "search target", "search condition", and "search result" on the management screen of the "device registration system".

[0100] (2-2-1. Search target) As shown in Fig. 8, the overall management server 10 refers to the registered communication registration information and displays a selectable search target, which is an object to be specified. In the example of Fig. 8, the overall management server 10 displays, as search targets, "Device" which is a registered plant device 30, "SIM" which is a registered SIM 40, and "Application" which is a registered web application, each of which can be selected with a radio button. In addition, the overall management server 10 can also display a management screen for each subscriber of the SIM 40. In the example of Fig. 8, "Device" and "Application" are selected.

[0101] (2-2-2. Search conditions) As shown in Fig. 8, the total management server 10 displays search conditions to be entered for searching for a target according to the target selected as the search target. In the example of Fig. 8, the total management server 10 displays a pull-down menu from which "SIM phone number" can be selected as a type of search condition, and a text box according to the type of search condition. Here, the total management server 10 starts the search process when the phone number of SIM 40C, "333-3333-3333", is entered into the text box and the "Search" button is clicked.

[0102] (2-2-3. Search results) As shown in Fig. 8, the overall management server 10 displays the search results, which are information related to the search target that has been searched and identified. In the example of Fig. 8, the overall management server 10 displays "Plant Equipment C", which is the equipment identification information "Device ID" of the plant equipment 30C, and "Application C", which is the identification information "Application ID" of the web application that collects the information transmitted by the plant equipment 30C, as the search results corresponding to the SIM 40C whose phone number has been input.

[0103] (2-2-4. Other Display) Furthermore, the overall management server 10 can display more detailed information in response to an operation by a user of the terminal device on which the display screen is output. For example, when "Plant Equipment C" is clicked in the above search results, the overall management server 10 may display the type of plant equipment C (sensor equipment, gateway equipment, control equipment) and information on the plant in which it is installed. Also, when "Application C" is clicked in the above search results, the overall management server 10 may display application hierarchy information indicating the hierarchical structure of Application C.

[0104] 3. Processing Flow of Device Management System 100-2 The process flow of the device management system 100-2 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the device management process flow according to the second embodiment. Note that the processes of steps S201 to S208 below may be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processes of steps S201 to S208 below may be omitted.

[0105] (3-1. Usage confirmation process) Engineer E, who is a plant manager, checks the usage status of the SIM 40 set in the plant device 30 (step S201). For example, engineer E obtains information on the usage status provided by the communication carrier terminal 50 to check the usage status of the SIM 40. Then, engineer E identifies an unused SIM 40 (step S202). For example, engineer E identifies a telephone number, which is communication unique information of the unused SIM 40.

[0106] (3-2. Communication unique information transmission process) The engineer E transmits the communication unique information of the SIM 40 to the system management server 10 (step S203). For example, the engineer E transmits the telephone number, which is the communication unique information of the identified SIM 40, to the system management server 10.

[0107] (3-3. Communication registration information reference process) The system management server 10 searches for the communication unique information of the SIM 40 (step S204). For example, the system management server 10 refers to the registered communication registration information and searches for the telephone number, which is the communication unique information of the SIM 40.

[0108] Next, the system management server 10 identifies a web application (step S205). For example, the system management server 10 identifies a web application linked to a telephone number that is the communication unique information of the SIM 40.

[0109] In addition, the system management server 10 identifies the plant device 30 (step S207). For example, the system management server 10 identifies the plant device 30 linked to the telephone number that is the communication unique information of the SIM 40.

[0110] (3-4. Specific result notification processing) The overall management server 10 notifies the engineer E of the application information (step S206). For example, the overall management server 10 notifies the engineer E of the identification information and hierarchical information of the identified web application.

[0111] Furthermore, the overall management server 10 notifies the engineer E of the device identification information (step S208). For example, the overall management server 10 notifies the engineer E of the identification information of the identified plant device 30.

[0112] 4. Effects of the Second Embodiment Finally, a description will be given of the effects of the second embodiment. The following describes effects 1 and 2 corresponding to the processing according to the second embodiment.

[0113] (4-1. Effect 1) First, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the generated communication registration information is stored, and when an inquiry about a device, communication contract information, or application is received, the information in response to the inquiry is identified by referring to the stored communication registration information, and a response based on the identification result is notified to the source of the inquiry. Therefore, in this process, the relationship between the device, SIM, and application is managed, and the usage status of the SIM can be efficiently managed and understood.

[0114] (4-2. Effect 2) Secondly, in the process according to the embodiment described above, when communication unique information indicated by the communication contract information of a specific SIM is received, the device in which the SIM indicated by the communication unique information is set and the application in which the communication unique information is registered are identified, and a response including the device identification information of the identified device and the application information of the identified application is notified. Therefore, in this process, the relationship between the device and the application from the SIM information is identified, and the usage status of the SIM can be efficiently managed and understood.

[0115] [Embodiment 3] In the third embodiment, a process of identifying communication identification information by referring to the communication registration information registered by the registration process of the first embodiment will be described. The configuration of the device management system 100-3 according to the third embodiment, the configuration of each device, and the process flow will be described in order below, and the effects of the third embodiment will be described last. Note that a description of the configuration and process common to the first and second embodiments will be omitted.

[0116] 1. Configuration of Device Management System 100-3 The configuration of the device management system 100-3 according to the third embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the device management system 100-3 according to the third embodiment. Below, an example of the overall configuration of the device management system 100-3, the processing of the device management system 100-3, and problems with the device management system of the reference technology will be described in this order, and finally, the effects of the device management system 100-3 will be described.

[0117] (1-1. Example of the overall configuration of the device management system 100-3) The device management system 100-3 has an overall management server 10 which is an information providing device, an application server 20 which is an information management device, plant devices 30 (30A, 30B, 30C), and SIMs 40 (40A, 40B, 40C). Here, the overall management server 10 and the application server 20 are constructed in a cloud environment. Also, the plant devices 30 (30A, 30B, 30C) are installed in a plant, and SIMs 40 (40A, 40B, 40C) are set up respectively. The device management system 100-3 shown in FIG. 10 may include a plurality of overall management servers 10 or a plurality of application servers 20.

[0118] (1-2. Overall processing of device management system 100-3: SIM identification processing) In the following, a SIM identification process for identifying communication identification information of a SIM 40 set in an unused plant device 30 in the device management system 100-3 as described above will be described. Note that the following steps S31 to S35 may be executed in a different order. Also, some of the following steps S31 to S35 may be omitted.

[0119] (1-2-1. Device identification information notification process) The application server 20 transmits the device identification information to an engineer E who is a manager of the plant (step S31). For example, the application server 20 notifies the engineer E of the device identification information of the plant device 30 in response to a request transmitted from a terminal device (not shown) of the engineer E.

[0120] (1-2-2. Device identification information transmission process) The engineer E transmits the device identification information of the unused plant device 30 to the overall management server 10 (step S32). For example, the engineer E transmits the device identification information of the unused plant device 30A to the overall management server 10 via a terminal device (not shown).

[0121] (1-2-3. Communication registration information reference process) The overall management server 10 identifies the communication identification information of the SIM 40 based on the device identification information of the plant device 30 (step S33). For example, the overall management server 10 refers to the registered communication registration information, searches for the device identification information of the plant device 30A, and identifies the SIM 40A linked to the device identification information.

[0122] (1-2-4. Specific result notification processing) Based on the identified information, the overall management server 10 notifies the engineer E of the communication unique information (step S34). For example, the overall management server 10 notifies the engineer E's terminal device (not shown) of the identified telephone number of the SIM 40A.

[0123] (1-2-5. SIM deactivation process) Based on the notified information, engineer E determines that the SIM 40 associated with the unused device is not being used, and therefore suspends the SIM 40 via the communication carrier terminal 50 that executes SIM management (step S35). For example, engineer E transmits the telephone number of the identified SIM 40A to the communication carrier terminal 50, and cancels the communication contract for SIM 40A.

[0124] (1-3. Problems with equipment management processing in the reference technology) In the SIM management of the reference technology, it is difficult to efficiently manage and understand the usage status of SIM. For example, a plant manager may not know the phone number of the SIM in the plant and may want to identify the SIM from the identification information of the plant equipment when shutting down the plant equipment, since it is difficult to identify the relationship between the plant equipment and the SIM when the management is done for each communication service. Therefore, even if the plant equipment is shut down, the billing continues because the SIM contract is still valid.

[0125] (1-4. Effects of the device management system 100-3) In the following, an overview of a device management system 100-3 according to the third embodiment will be described, and then effects of the device management system 100-3 will be described.

[0126] (1-4-1. Overview of the device management system 100-3) First, application server 20 sends the device identification information to engineer E, who is the manager of the plant. Second, engineer E sends the device identification information of unused plant devices 30 to the overall management server 10. Third, the overall management server 10 identifies SIM 40 based on the device identification information of plant devices 30. Fourth, the overall management server 10 notifies engineer E of the communication unique information based on the identified information. Fifth, engineer E stops SIM 40 based on the notified information.

[0127] (1-4-2. Effects of the device management system 100-3) The plant manager can grasp the usage status of the SIM 40, and can grasp whether there is a SIM 40 that is not being used by any web application, and can save on unnecessary SIM 40 usage fees by suspending the SIM 40. Also, the communication carrier can identify SIMs 40 whose communication contracts are about to expire, and can confirm with the plant manager whether to continue using them, etc. As described above, the device management system 100-3 can efficiently grasp the usage status of the SIM 40.

[0128] 2. Configuration of each device in the device management system 100-3 The following describes the functional configuration of the overall management server 10 of the device management system 100-3 shown in Fig. 10. Note that the configuration examples of the overall device management system 100-3, the application server 20, the plant device 30, and the SIM 40 are the same as those of the first embodiment shown in Fig. 2, so the description will be omitted.

[0129] (2-1. Example of the configuration of the overall management server 10) The overall management server 10 includes a communication unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a control unit 13. The overall management server 10 may also include an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) for receiving various operations from the administrator of the device management system 100-1, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) for displaying various information.

[0130] (2-1-1. Communications Department 11) The communication unit 11 controls data communication with other devices. Note that the communication unit 11 performs the same process as in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0131] (2-1-2. Storage section 12) The storage unit 12 stores various information referenced when the control unit 13 operates and various information acquired when the control unit 13 operates. Note that the storage unit 12 performs the same process as in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0132] (2-1-3. Control unit 13) The control unit 13 is responsible for controlling the entire overall management server 10. The control unit 13 has an acquisition unit 13a, a generation unit 13b, an identification unit 13c, and a notification unit 13d, similar to Fig. 2. Here, the control unit 13 can be realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU or an MPU, or an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0133] (2-1-3-1. Acquisition part 13a) The acquiring unit 13a acquires various kinds of information. Note that the details of the processing by the acquiring unit 13a are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore will not be described here.

[0134] (2-1-3-2. Generation unit 13b) The generating unit 13b generates various kinds of information. Note that the details of the processing by the generating unit 13b are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0135] (2-1-3-3. Specific part 13c) When the specification unit 13c receives an inquiry regarding at least one of a device, communication contract information, and an application, the specification unit 13c specifies information for the inquiry by referring to the communication registration information stored in the storage unit 12. Here, the communication registration information is information associated with communication unique information indicated by the communication contract information of the SIM 40. For example, when the specification unit 13c receives device identification information of a predetermined device, the specification unit 13c specifies communication identification information of the predetermined SIM 40 associated with the received device identification information by referring to the communication registration information stored in the storage unit 12.

[0136] To explain a specific example, the identification unit 13c receives the equipment identification information "Plant Equipment A" of unused plant equipment 30A from the terminal device of engineer E, who is the manager of the plant, and identifies a specific SIM 40A set in the plant equipment 30A by referring to the communication registration information storage unit 12a.

[0137] (2-1-3-4.Notification section 13d) The notification unit 13d notifies the inquiry source of a response based on the identification result by the identification unit 13c. For example, the notification unit 13d notifies the inquiry source of a response including communication unique information indicated by the communication contract information associated with the communication identification information of the identified SIM 40. To explain a specific example, the notification unit 13d notifies the terminal device of the engineer E who is the manager of the plant of the telephone number "333-3333-3333", which is the communication unique information of the SIM 40A set in the plant device 30A identified by the identification unit 13c. In addition, a specific example of a display screen output by the notification unit 13d will be explained in (2-2. Specific example of display screen) of the third embodiment.

[0138] (2-2. Specific examples of display screens) A specific example of a display screen output by the notification unit 13d of the overall management server 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a specific example of a display screen of a search result of the SIM 40 according to the third embodiment. The following describes in the order of "search target", "search condition", and "search result" on the management screen of the "device registration system".

[0139] (2-2-1. Search target) As shown in Fig. 11, the overall management server 10 refers to the registered communication registration information and displays a selectable search target, which is an object to be specified. In the example of Fig. 11, the overall management server 10 displays, as search targets, "Device" which is a registered plant device 30, "SIM" which is a registered SIM 40, and "Application" which is a registered web application, selectable by radio buttons. The overall management server 10 can also display a management screen for each subscriber of the SIM 40. In the example of Fig. 11, "SIM" is selected.

[0140] (2-2-2. Search conditions) As shown in Fig. 11, the overall management server 10 displays search conditions to be entered for searching for a target according to the target selected as the search target. In the example of Fig. 11, the overall management server 10 displays a pull-down menu from which "Device ID" can be selected as a type of search condition, and a text box according to the type of search condition. Here, the overall management server 10 starts the search process when the device identification information "Plant device A" of the plant device 30A is entered in the text box and the "Search" button is clicked.

[0141] (2-2-3. Search results) As shown in Fig. 11, the overall management server 10 displays the search result, which is information related to the search target that has been searched and identified. In the example of Fig. 11, the overall management server 10 displays "111-1111-1111", which is the communication unique information "SIM phone number" of SIM 40A, as the search result corresponding to the plant device 30A for which the device identification information has been input.

[0142] (2-2-4. Other Display) Furthermore, the overall management server 10 can display more detailed information in response to the operation of the user of the terminal device on which the display screen is output. For example, when "111-1111-1111" is clicked in the above search results, the overall management server 10 may display a screen for canceling the communication contract for SIM 40A.

[0143] 3. Processing Flow of Device Management System 100-3 The process flow of the device management system 100-3 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the device management process flow according to the third embodiment. Note that the processes of steps S301 to S307 below may be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processes of steps S301 to S307 below may be omitted.

[0144] (3-1. Device identification information notification process) Engineer E, who is the manager of the plant, requests equipment identification information from the application server 20 (step S301). For example, engineer E requests equipment identification information of unused plant equipment 30. Meanwhile, the application server 20 notifies engineer E of the equipment identification information (step S302). For example, the application server 20 notifies engineer E of the equipment identification information of unused plant equipment 30. Engineer E can also request equipment identification information from the overall management server 10.

[0145] (3-2. Device identification information transmission process) Engineer E transmits the device identification information to the overall management server 10 (step S303). For example, engineer E transmits the device identification information of the unused plant device 30 to the overall management server 10.

[0146] (3-3. Communication registration information reference process) The overall management server 10 searches for the device identification information (step S304). For example, the overall management server 10 refers to the registered communication registration information and searches for the device identification information of the plant device 30.

[0147] Next, the system management server 10 identifies the SIM 40 (step S305). For example, the system management server 10 identifies the SIM 40 linked to the device identification information of the plant device 30.

[0148] (3-4. Specific result notification processing) The system management server 10 notifies the engineer E of the communication unique information of the SIM 40 (step S306). For example, the system management server 10 notifies the engineer E of the telephone number, which is the communication unique information of the identified SIM 40.

[0149] (3-5. SIM deactivation process) The engineer E suspends the SIM 40 (step S307). For example, the engineer E cancels the communication contract of the SIM 40 by transmitting the telephone number of the unused SIM 40 to the communication carrier via a terminal device (not shown).

[0150] 4. Effects of the Third Embodiment Finally, a description will be given of the effects of the third embodiment. Below, effects 1 and 2 corresponding to the processing according to the third embodiment will be described.

[0151] (4-1. Effect 1) First, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the generated communication registration information is stored, and when an inquiry about a device, communication contract information, or application is received, the information for the inquiry is identified by referring to the stored communication registration information, and a response based on the identification result is notified to the inquiry source. Therefore, in this process, the relationship between the device, SIM 40, and application is managed, and the usage status of SIM 40 can be efficiently managed and understood.

[0152] (4-2. Effect 2) Secondly, in the process according to the embodiment described above, when device identification information of a predetermined device is received, the SIM 40 associated with the received device identification information is identified, and a response including communication unique information indicated by the communication contract information of the identified SIM 40 is notified. Therefore, in this process, the relationship with the SIM 40 is identified from the device information, so that the usage status of the SIM 40 can be efficiently managed and understood.

[0153] [Embodiment 4] In the fourth embodiment, a process of notifying an alarm when a search target cannot be identified by referring to communication registration information registered by the registration process of the first embodiment will be described. The configuration of the device management system 100-4 according to the fourth embodiment, the configuration of each device, and the process flow will be described in order below, and the effect of the fourth embodiment will be described last. Note that a description of the configuration and process common to the first to third embodiments will be omitted.

[0154] 1. Configuration of Device Management System 100-4 The configuration of a device management system 100-3 according to embodiment 4 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a device management system 100-4 according to embodiment 4. Below, an example of the overall configuration of the device management system 100-4, the processing of the device management system 100-4 will be described in order, and finally, the effects of the device management system 100-4 will be described.

[0155] (1-1. Example of the overall configuration of the device management system 100-3) The device management system 100-3 has a total management server 10, which is an information providing device, plant devices 30 (30A, 30B, 30C), and SIMs 40 (40A, 40D, 40C). Here, the total management server 10 is constructed in a cloud environment. Also, the plant devices 30 (30A, 30B, 30C) are installed in a plant, and SIMs 40 (40A, 40D, 40C) are set up respectively. The device management system 100-4 shown in FIG. 13 may include multiple total management servers 10.

[0156] (1-2. Overall processing of device management system 100-4: alarm notification processing) The following describes an alarm notification process associated with a change in the settings of the plant device 30 in the device management system 100-4 described above. Note that the following steps S41 to S44 may be executed in a different order. Also, some of the following steps S41 to S44 may be omitted.

[0157] (1-2-1. Plant equipment setting change processing) The engineer E changes the settings of the plant device 30 and the SIM 40 (step S41). For example, the engineer E removes the SIM 40B that was inserted into the plant device 30B, and inserts the SIM 40D instead.

[0158] (1-2-2. Communication registration information inquiry processing) Engineer E inquires of the overall management server 10 about the plant devices 30 and the SIMs 40 (step S42). For example, in order to check the changes in the combinations of the plant devices 30 and the SIMs 40, Engineer E transmits to the overall management server 10 the communication identification information of all the SIMs 40 (40A, 40D, 40C) set in the plant devices 30 in the plant.

[0159] (1-2-3. Communication registration information reference process) The overall management server 10 refers to the communication registration information (step S43). For example, the overall management server 10 refers to the registered communication registration information, searches for the communication identification information of the transmitted SIM 40, and identifies the device identification information to which the communication identification information is linked. That is, the overall management server 10 identifies the device identification information for SIM 40A and SIM 40C. On the other hand, the overall management server 10 cannot identify the device identification information for SIM 40D because communication registration information between SIM 40D and the plant device 30B is not registered.

[0160] (1-2-4. Specific result notification processing) The overall management server 10 notifies engineer E of device identification information or an alarm based on the identified information (step S44). For example, for SIM 40A and SIM 40C among the transmitted SIMs 40, the overall management server 10 notifies the device identification information of the plant device 30A and the plant device 30C indicated by the communication registration information. On the other hand, for SIM 40D among the transmitted SIMs 40, the overall management server 10 notifies an alarm as a response that the communication registration information is not registered. At this time, the overall management server 10 may notify an answer encouraging registration after changing the settings.

[0161] (1-3. Effects of the device management system 100-4) In the following, an overview of a device management system 100-4 according to the fourth embodiment will be described, and then effects of the device management system 100-4 will be described.

[0162] (1-3-1. Overview of the device management system 100-4) First, engineer E changes the settings of the plant equipment 30 and the SIM 40. Second, engineer E inquires of the overall management server 10 about the plant equipment 30 and the SIM 40. Third, the overall management server 10 searches for communication registration information. Fourth, the overall management server 10 notifies engineer E of equipment identification information or an alarm based on the identified information.

[0163] (1-3-2. Effects of the device management system 100-4) Even if the plant manager changes the settings of the plant device 30 during plant maintenance or the like, the plant manager can grasp the post-change combination of the plant device 30 and the SIM 40. Furthermore, even if the plant device 30 is set erroneously, the plant manager can quickly reconfigure the plant device 30 by receiving an alarm notification.

[0164] 2. Configuration of each device in the device management system 100-4 The following describes the functional configuration of the overall management server 10 of the device management system 100-4 shown in Fig. 13. Note that the configuration examples of the overall device management system 100-4, the application server 20, the plant device 30, and the SIM 40 are the same as those of the first embodiment shown in Fig. 2, so the description will be omitted.

[0165] (2-1. Example of the configuration of the overall management server 10) The overall management server 10 includes a communication unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a control unit 13. The overall management server 10 may also include an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) for receiving various operations from the administrator of the device management system 100-4, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) for displaying various information.

[0166] (2-1-1. Communications Department 11) The communication unit 11 controls data communication with other devices. Note that the communication unit 11 performs the same process as in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0167] (2-1-2. Storage section 12) The storage unit 12 stores various information referenced when the control unit 13 operates and various information acquired when the control unit 13 operates. Note that the storage unit 12 performs the same process as in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0168] (2-1-3. Control unit 13) The control unit 13 is responsible for controlling the entire overall management server 10. The control unit 13 has an acquisition unit 13a, a generation unit 13b, an identification unit 13c, and a notification unit 13d, similar to Fig. 2. Here, the control unit 13 can be realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU or an MPU, or an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0169] (2-1-3-1. Acquisition part 13a) The acquiring unit 13a acquires various kinds of information. Note that the details of the processing by the acquiring unit 13a are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore will not be described here.

[0170] (2-1-3-2. Generation unit 13b) The generating unit 13b generates various kinds of information. Note that the details of the processing by the generating unit 13b are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0171] (2-1-3-3. Specific part 13c) When the specification unit 13c receives an inquiry about at least one of a device, communication contract information, and an application, the specification unit 13c refers to the storage unit 12 to specify information corresponding to the inquiry.

[0172] (2-1-3-4.Notification section 13d) The notification unit 13d notifies the inquiry source of a response based on the result of the identification by the identification unit 13c. For example, the notification unit 13d refers to the communication registration information stored in the storage unit 12, and when the information for the inquiry is not identified, the notification unit 13d notifies the inquiry source of a response that at least one of the device, communication contract information, and application information is not registered. To explain a specific example, when the telephone number "444-4444-4444", which is the communication unique information of the SIM 40D that received the inquiry, is not identified, the notification unit 13d notifies the terminal device of the engineer E who is the manager of the plant of "SIM 40D is not registered. Do you want to register it?" or the like. In addition, a specific example of a display screen output by the notification unit 13d will be explained in (2-2. Specific example of display screen) of the fourth embodiment.

[0173] (2-2. Specific examples of display screens) A specific example of a display screen output by the notification unit 13d of the total management server 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing a specific example of a display screen of a device search result according to the fourth embodiment. The following describes in the order of "search target", "search condition", and "search result" on the management screen of the "device registration system".

[0174] (2-2-1. Search target) As shown in Fig. 14, the overall management server 10 refers to the registered communication registration information and displays a selectable search target, which is an object to be specified. In the example of Fig. 14, the overall management server 10 displays, as search targets, "Device" which is a registered plant device 30, "SIM" which is a registered SIM 40, and "Application" which is a registered web application, selectable by radio buttons. In the example of Fig. 14, "Device" and "Application" are selected.

[0175] (2-2-2. Search conditions) As shown in Fig. 14, the total management server 10 displays search conditions to be entered for searching for a target according to the target selected as the search target. In the example of Fig. 14, the total management server 10 displays a pull-down menu from which "SIM phone number" can be selected as the type of search condition, and a text box according to the type of search condition. Here, the total management server 10 starts the search process when the phone number of SIM 40D, "444-4444-4444," is entered into the text box and the "Search" button is clicked.

[0176] (2-2-3. Search results) As shown in Fig. 14, the overall management server 10 displays a search result, which is information related to the search target that has been searched and identified. In the example of Fig. 14, the overall management server 10 displays the device identification information "Device ID" of the plant device 30 as "Not registered" and the web application identification information "Application ID" as "Not registered" as the search result corresponding to the SIM 40D for which the phone number has been input. In other words, the overall management server 10 notifies that the device setting information and communication registration information corresponding to the SIM 40D are not registered.

[0177] (2-2-4. Other Display) Furthermore, the overall management server 10 can display more detailed information in response to the operation of the user of the terminal device on which the display screen is output. For example, the overall management server 10 may display a screen for resetting the SIM 40D when "Not registered" is clicked in the above search results.

[0178] 3. Processing Flow of Device Management System 100-4 The process flow of the device management system 100-4 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the device management process flow according to the fourth embodiment. Note that the processes of steps S401 to S406 below may be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processes of steps S401 to S406 below may be omitted.

[0179] (3-1. Plant equipment setting change processing) The engineer E changes the settings of the plant device 30 and the SIM 40 (step S401). For example, the engineer E changes the SIM 40 inserted in the plant device 30.

[0180] (3-2. Communication registration information inquiry processing) Engineer E inquires of the overall management server 10 about the plant devices 30 and the SIMs 40 (step S402). For example, in order to check the changes in the combinations of the plant devices 30 and the SIMs 40, Engineer E transmits the communication identification information of all the SIMs 40 set in the plant devices 30 in the plant to the overall management server 10.

[0181] (3-3. Communication registration information reference process) The overall management server 10 refers to the communication registration information (step S403). For example, the overall management server 10 refers to the registered communication registration information and searches for the communication identification information of the transmitted SIM 40. Then, the overall management server 10 identifies the plant device 30 and the SIM 40 (step S404). For example, the overall management server 10 identifies the plant device 30 of the registered SIM 40.

[0182] (3-4. Specific result notification processing) If there is any unspecified information, the overall management server 10 notifies the engineer E of an alarm (step S405). For example, if the overall management server 10 cannot specify the device setting information of the transmitted SIM 40, it notifies the engineer E of a response that the device is not registered. At this time, the overall management server 10 may notify the engineer E of a response that prompts the engineer to reset the settings after the settings have been changed (step S406).

[0183] 4. Effects of the Fourth Embodiment Finally, a description will be given of the effects of the fourth embodiment. Below, effects 1 and 2 corresponding to the processing according to the fourth embodiment will be described.

[0184] (4-1. Effect 1) First, in the process according to the fourth embodiment described above, the generated communication registration information is stored, and when an inquiry about a device, communication contract information, or application is received, the information in response to the inquiry is identified by referring to the stored communication registration information, and a response based on the identification result is notified to the source of the inquiry. Therefore, in this process, the relationship between the device, SIM 40, and application is managed, so that the usage status of SIM 40 can be efficiently managed and understood.

[0185] (4-2. Effect 2) Secondly, in the process according to the above-mentioned fourth embodiment, if the information in response to the inquiry is not specified, a response is given to the effect that the device, the communication contract information, or the information on the application is not registered. Therefore, in this process, even if the device or SIM 40 is not registered, the usage status of the SIM 40 can be efficiently managed and understood.

[0186] 〔system〕 The information including the processing procedures, control procedures, specific names, various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed arbitrarily unless otherwise specified.

[0187] In addition, each component of each device shown in the figure is a functional concept, and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure. In other words, all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0188] Furthermore, each processing function performed by each device may be realized, in whole or in part, by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or may be realized as hardware using wired logic.

[0189] [Hardware] Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the total management server 10, which is an information providing device, will be described. Note that other devices such as the application server 20 can also have a similar hardware configuration. FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining an example of the hardware configuration. As shown in FIG. 16, the total management server 10 has a communication device 10a, a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 10b, a memory 10c, and a processor 10d. Furthermore, each unit shown in FIG. 10 is connected to each other via a bus or the like.

[0190] The communication device 10a is a network interface card or the like, and communicates with other servers. The HDD 10b stores programs and DBs that operate the functions shown in FIG.

[0191] The processor 10d reads out a program that executes the same processes as the respective processing units shown in Fig. 2 from the HDD 10b etc. and loads it in the memory 10c, thereby operating a process that executes each function described in Fig. 2 etc. For example, this process executes a function similar to that of each processing unit possessed by the overall management server 10. Specifically, the processor 10d reads out a program having functions similar to those of the acquisition unit 13a, the generation unit 13b, the identification unit 13c, the notification unit 13d etc. from the HDD 10b etc. Then, the processor 10d executes a process that executes the same processes as those of the acquisition unit 13a, the generation unit 13b, the identification unit 13c, the notification unit 13d etc.

[0192] In this way, the total management server 10 operates as a device that executes various processing methods by reading and executing the programs. The total management server 10 can also realize functions similar to those of the above-mentioned embodiment by reading the above-mentioned programs from a recording medium using a media reading device and executing the read programs. Note that the programs in these other embodiments are not limited to being executed by the total management server 10. For example, the present invention can be similarly applied to cases where other computers or servers execute programs, or where these execute programs in cooperation with each other.

[0193] This program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. This program can also be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-ROM, a magneto-optical disk (MO), or a digital versatile disk (DVD), and can be executed by being read out from the recording medium by a computer.

[0194] 〔others〕 Some examples of combinations of the disclosed technical features are set out below.

[0195] (1) An information providing device comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires device registration information in which device setting information including device identification information of a device and communication identification information set for the device to communicate is associated with application information related to an application that collects information transmitted from the device; and a generation unit that generates communication registration information in which the device registration information is associated with communication contract information indicating a contract status of the communication.

[0196] (2) The information providing device according to (1), wherein the communication identification information included in the device setting information is identification information of a SIM card inserted into the device so that the device can send information to the application.

[0197] (3) The information providing device described in (2) further includes a memory unit that stores the communication registration information generated by the generation unit, an identification unit that, when receiving an inquiry regarding at least one of the device, the communication contract information, or the application, identifies information in response to the inquiry by referring to the communication registration information stored in the memory unit, and a notification unit that notifies the source of the inquiry of a response based on the identification result by the identification unit.

[0198] (4) The information providing device described in (3), wherein the communication registration information is associated with communication unique information indicated by the communication contract information of the SIM card, and when the identification unit receives communication unique information indicated by the communication contract information of a specific SIM, the identification unit identifies at least one of the device identification information and the application information associated with the communication unique information of the specific SIM by referring to the communication registration information stored in the memory unit, and the notification unit notifies an answer including at least one of the device identification information of the identified device and the application information of the identified application.

[0199] (5) The information providing device described in (3), wherein the communication registration information is associated with communication unique information indicated by communication contract information of the SIM card, and when the identification unit receives identification information of a specific device, the identification unit identifies the communication identification information of the specific SIM associated with the received identification information by referring to the communication registration information stored in the memory unit, and the notification unit notifies an answer including the communication unique information indicated by the communication contract information associated with the identified communication identification information of the specific SIM.

[0200] (6) The information providing device described in (3), wherein, if no information is identified in response to the inquiry, the notification unit notifies a response that at least one of the information relating to the device, the communication contract information, or the application is not registered.

[0201] (7) An information providing device described in any one of (1) to (6), wherein the device is a plant equipment that acquires plant information from the plant, including at least one of communication equipment or sensor equipment installed in the plant, and the acquisition unit acquires from an application that collects the plant information, the equipment registration information in which the application information of the application and equipment setting information of the device that acquired the plant information are associated with each other.

[0202] (8) An information providing method in which a computer executes a process to acquire device registration information in which device setting information including device identification information of a device and communication identification information set for the device to communicate is associated with application information related to an application that collects information transmitted from the device, and generate communication registration information in which the device registration information is associated with communication contract information indicating the contract status of the communication.

[0203] (9) An information providing program that causes a computer to execute a process to acquire device registration information in which device setting information, including device identification information of a device and communication identification information set for the device to communicate, is associated with application information related to an application that collects information transmitted from the device, and to generate communication registration information in which the device registration information is associated with communication contract information indicating the contract status of the communication.

[0204] (10) An equipment management system including an information management device that executes an application that collects information transmitted from a device, and an information providing device, wherein the information management device includes a receiving unit that receives from the device equipment setting information including equipment identification information of the device and communication identification information set for the device to communicate, and a transmitting unit that transmits equipment registration information in which application information related to the application is associated with the equipment setting information, and the information providing device includes an acquiring unit that acquires the equipment registration information from the information management device, and a generating unit that generates communication registration information in which communication contract information indicating the contract status of the communication is associated with the equipment registration information. [Explanation of symbols]

[0205] 10. Central Management Server 11 Communications Department 12 Storage section 12a Communication registration information storage unit 13 Control section 13a Acquisition part 13b Generator 13c Specific part 13d Notification Department 20 Application Server 21 Communications Department 22 Memory section 22a Device registration information storage unit 23 Control Unit 23a Receiving section 23b Generator 23c Transmitter 30 30A 30B 30C Plant equipment 31 31A 31B 31C Transceiver section 40 40A 40B 40C 40D SIM 50 Telecommunications carrier terminals 100-1 100-2 100-3 100-4 Equipment management system

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires device registration information in which device setting information including device identification information of a device and communication identification information set for the device to perform communication is associated with application information related to an application that collects information transmitted from the device; a generating unit that generates communication registration information in which communication contract information indicating a contract status of the communication is associated with the device registration information; An information providing device comprising:

2. The communication identification information included in the device setting information is The identification information of a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card inserted into the device so that the device can transmit information to the application.

2. The information providing device according to claim 1.

3. a storage unit that stores the communication registration information generated by the generation unit; an identification unit that, when receiving an inquiry regarding at least one of the device, the communication contract information, and the application, identifies information corresponding to the inquiry by referring to the communication registration information stored in the storage unit; a notification unit that notifies an inquiry source of a response based on a result of the identification by the identification unit; The information providing device according to claim 2 , further comprising:

4. The communication registration information is The SIM card is associated with communication specific information indicated by the communication contract information, The identification unit is When communication unique information indicated by communication contract information of a specific SIM is received, by referring to the communication registration information stored in the storage unit, at least one of the device identification information and the application information associated with the communication unique information of the specific SIM is identified; The notification unit is notifying the user of a response including at least one of device identification information of the identified device and information of the identified application; 4. The information providing device according to claim 3.

5. The communication registration information is The SIM card is associated with communication specific information indicated by the communication contract information, The identification unit is When the identification information of a predetermined device is received, by referring to the communication registration information stored in the storage unit, the communication identification information of the predetermined SIM associated with the received identification information is specified; The notification unit is notifying a response including communication unique information indicated by communication contract information associated with the communication identification information of the specified SIM; 4. The information providing device according to claim 3.

6. The notification unit is If no information is specified in response to the inquiry, a response is given to the effect that at least one of the device, the communication contract information, and the application information is not registered.

4. The information providing device according to claim 3.

7. The device comprises: A plant device including at least one of a communication device and a sensor device installed in a plant, the plant device acquiring plant information from the plant, The acquisition unit is acquiring, from an application that collects the plant information, the device registration information in which the application information of the application is associated with device setting information of the device that has acquired the plant information; The information providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The computer obtain device registration information in which application information related to an application that collects information transmitted from the device is associated with device setting information including device identification information of the device and communication identification information set for the device to perform communication; generating communication registration information in which communication contract information indicating a contract status of the communication is associated with the device registration information; How information is provided to perform the process.

9. On the computer, obtain device registration information in which application information related to an application that collects information transmitted from the device is associated with device setting information including device identification information of the device and communication identification information set for the device to perform communication; generating communication registration information in which communication contract information indicating a contract status of the communication is associated with the device registration information; An information providing program that executes processing.

10. An equipment management system including an information management device that executes an application for collecting information transmitted from a device, and an information providing device, The information management device includes: a receiving unit that receives device setting information from the device, the device setting information including device identification information and communication identification information set for the device to perform communication; a transmission unit that transmits device registration information in which application information related to the application is associated with the device setting information; The information providing device includes: an acquisition unit that acquires the device registration information from the information management device; a generating unit that generates communication registration information in which communication contract information indicating a contract status of the communication is associated with the device registration information; An equipment management system comprising:

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