Information providing method

Abstract

To provide an information providing method that can effectively use sensor data for providing services.SOLUTION: An information providing method includes: generating (S103) first information indicating a high possibility that the user is tired when (i) a second return time at which the user returned to a space 20 in a second period shorter than a first period is a first threshold time or more later than a first return time at which the user returned to the space 20 in the first period (Yes in S1021) and when (ii) motion information indicates that the user has not moved for a second threshold time or longer in the space 20 (Yes in S1022); obtaining (S111), from a second information processing apparatus 200 connected to a first information processing apparatus 100, information with a first request content described therein, over a network; and outputting (S114), when the content of the first information is included in the first request content, to the second information processing apparatus 200, second information including information for specifying the user or the space 20, using the generated first information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Regarding information provision methods. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, it has become possible to collect huge amounts of sensor data from sensors placed in various locations, and there is a demand for effective use of the collected sensor data. For example, by using sensor data from various sensors placed in indoor spaces such as homes, it becomes possible to provide services that are suited to the user's situation. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-32272 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in conventional technologies, there is little information on how to utilize sensor data, making it difficult to effectively utilize sensor data for providing services.

[0005] The present disclosure provides an information providing method and the like that can effectively utilize sensor data for providing services. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information providing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is an information providing method using a first information processing device including a processor and a memory, the first information processing device including a sensor disposed in an indoor space, and the processor performs the following operations from the memory: Past and acquiring information on a first return time indicating a time when the user returned to the indoor space during a first period from the memory. PastThe method further comprises: acquiring information on a second return time indicating the time when the user returned to the indoor space during a second period; acquiring motion information of the user based on a sensor value of the sensor; generating first information indicating that the user is likely to be tired if (i) the second return time is later than the first return time by a first threshold time or more and (ii) the motion information indicates that the user has not moved within the indoor space for a second threshold time or more; acquiring information describing a first request content from a second information processing device connected to the first information processing device via a network; and outputting, to the second information processing device, second information including information for identifying the user or the indoor space using the generated first information if the first request content includes the content of the first information.

[0007] An information providing method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an information providing method using a first information processing device including a processor and a memory, the first information processing device including an electronic device and a sensor disposed in an indoor space, and the processor, from the memory, Past Sensing statistical information is acquired, and the sensor detects the indoor space. Current (viii) acquiring sensing information; Current A first time point indicating at least one of the presence of a user in the indoor space and the operation of the electronic device, which is included in the sensing information, Past If the detected time is later than a predetermined time or more from a second time included in the sensing statistical information and indicating at least one of the presence of a user in the indoor space and the operation of the electronic device, first information indicating that the user's behavior is slower than usual is generated, and information describing a first request content is obtained via a network from a second information processing device connected to the first information processing device, and if the first request content includes the content of the first information, second information including information for identifying the user or the indoor space is output to the second information processing device using the generated first information.

[0008] An information providing method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an information providing method using a first information processing device including a processor and a memory, the first information processing device including an electronic device and a sensor disposed in an indoor space, and the processor, from the memory, Past Sensing statistical information is acquired, and the sensor detects the indoor space. Current (ix) acquiring sensing information; Current A first time, which is included in the sensing information and indicates at least one of a time during which the user is present in the indoor space and a time during which the electronic device is operating, Past If the detected request content is longer than a predetermined time than a second time included in the sensing statistical information and indicating at least one of the time the user was present in the indoor space and the time the electronic device was operating, first information indicating that the user is in the indoor space longer than usual is generated, and information describing a first request content is obtained via a network from a second information processing device connected to the first information processing device, and if the first request content includes the content of the first information, second information including information for identifying the user or the indoor space is output to the second information processing device using the generated first information.

[0009] An information providing method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an information providing method using a first information processing device including a processor and a memory, the first information processing device including a sensor disposed in an indoor space, and the processor extracts information about the indoor space from the memory. Past Sensing statistical information is acquired, and the sensor detects the indoor space. Current (x) acquiring sensing information; Current The time when the user returned to the indoor space, which is included in the sensing information, PastIf the time is earlier than the threshold time or more than the time when the user returned to the indoor space, which is included in the sensing statistical information, first information indicating that the user has returned to the indoor space earlier than usual is generated, and information describing a first request content is obtained via a network from a second information processing device connected to the first information processing device, and if the first request content includes the content of the first information, second information including information for identifying the user or the indoor space is output to the second information processing device using the generated first information.

[0010] In addition, these comprehensive or specific aspects may be realized by a system, an apparatus, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or may be realized by any combination of a system, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, and a recording medium. Effect of the Invention

[0011] An information providing method according to one aspect of the present invention can effectively utilize sensor data for providing services. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows an overall view of a service providing system according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a configuration of the service providing system according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows functional configurations of the first information processing device and the second information processing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram of the service providing system according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the process of the first information processing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the determination process for the first condition in the first embodiment. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 shows an example of the first sensor data regarding the presence of a user in a space in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows an example of the time of returning home for each day in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows an example of the first sensor data related to the position of the user in the space in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows an example of weather information in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a first modified example of the process of determining whether or not the first condition is met in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a second modified example of the process of determining whether the first condition is met in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a third modified example of the process of determining whether the first condition is met in the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows an example of the bedtimes of the users per day in the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the determination process for the first condition in the second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 shows an example of past sensing information regarding the operation of the electronic device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 shows an example of past sensing information regarding opening and closing of the door of the refrigerator in the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 shows an example of past sensing information by the human presence sensor according to the second embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the determination process for the first condition in the third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the determination process for the first condition in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram of the service providing system according to the first modification. [Figure 22]FIG. 22 is a sequence diagram of the service providing system according to the second modification. [Diagram 23] FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of a generation process of the second information in the third modification. [Figure 24A] FIG. 24A shows an example of the relationship between services and the five senses in the third modification example. [Figure 24B] FIG. 24B shows an example of the relationship between devices and the five senses in the third modification example. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for generating second information in the fourth modification. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 shows an example of a service provision history in the fourth modification. [Figure 27A] FIG. 27A shows an example of service provision availability information in the fourth modification example. [Figure 27B] FIG. 27B shows an example of the simultaneous provision of services prohibition information in the fourth modification. [Figure 27C] FIG. 27C shows an example of service change prohibition information in the fourth modification example. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an example of an output process of the second information in the fifth modification. [Figure 29A] FIG. 29A shows an overall view of the service providing system. [Figure 29B] FIG. 29B shows an example of a data center operating company. [Figure 29C] FIG. 29C shows an example of a data center operating company. [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 shows service type 1 (own data center type). [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 shows service type 2 (IaaS usage type). [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 shows service type 3 (PaaS usage type). [Diagram 33] FIG. 33 shows service type 4 (SaaS type). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, the embodiment will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0014] The embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, the arrangement and connection of the components, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0015] In addition, the drawings are not necessarily strict illustrations. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used for substantially the same configurations, and duplicated explanations are omitted or simplified.

[0016] (Embodiment 1) [Overview of Service Provision System 10] First, an overview of a service providing system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 shows an overview of a service providing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0017] In the service providing system 10 according to the present embodiment, sensor data in a plurality of indoor spaces is collected in a cloud server. The indoor spaces are, for example, spaces in a house, an office space, a building, and a vehicle. The sensor data is data based on a user's usual behavior and / or unusual activity in the indoor spaces.

[0018] Each of multiple service providers can obtain various information based on the sensor data collected by the cloud server through an application programming interface (API). An API is an information processing function of the cloud server that can be called and used from a computer.

[0019] Each service provider provides a service to the user based on the information acquired via the API. Examples of the service include an information provision service, an advertisement distribution service, an automatic control service for devices on a home network, or any combination of these. Note that the service is not limited to these, and may be, for example, a product delivery service.

[0020] [Configuration of service provision system 10] Next, the configuration of the service providing system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 shows the configuration of the service providing system 10 according to the embodiment 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the service providing system 10 according to the embodiment includes a first information processing device 100, a second information processing device 200, a sensor group 300, and a device group 400.

[0021] The sensor group 300 is arranged in the space 20 and includes at least one sensor. The sensor group 300 is connected to a communication network such as the Internet via a gateway 500. Note that the gateway 500 is optional, and the sensor group 300 may be connected to the communication network without going through the gateway 500.

[0022] The sensor group 300 outputs a sensor value indicating operation information related to a user's operation, or information related to the operation / operation of the device group 400. For example, the sensor group 300 can output a sensor value indicating whether a lighting device is turned on or not, a sensor value indicating whether an audio device is outputting sound or not, a sensor value indicating whether a user is present in the space 20 or in a predetermined area in the space 20, or any combination thereof.

[0023] The sensor group 300 may include, for example, a human presence sensor, an opening / closing sensor, a sound sensor, or any combination thereof. The sensors of the sensor group 300 may be, for example, an image sensor, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a visible light sensor, a vibration sensor, a touch sensor, a microphone, or any combination thereof. Such sensors may be installed on the walls, floors, or ceilings forming the space 20, or on electronic devices or furniture arranged in the space 20. The sensors may be built into the devices of the device group 400, and may be, for example, touch sensors built into the touch screen of a smartphone or the like. The sensors are not limited to the above sensors.

[0024] The device group 400 is arranged in the space 20 and includes at least one electronic device. The device group 400 is connected to a communication network such as the Internet via a gateway 500. Note that the gateway 500 is optional, and the device group 400 may be connected to the communication network without going through the gateway 500.

[0025] The device group 400 may include, for example, a display panel, a lighting device, an audio device, a refrigerator, a vacuum cleaner, or any combination thereof. Note that the devices in the device group 400 are not limited to this.

[0026] The first information processing device 100 is a device equipped with a processor and a memory, which is disposed outside the space 20, and corresponds to, for example, a cloud server in Fig. 1. The first information processing device 100 may be an edge server disposed within the space 20.

[0027] The cloud server refers to a server provided via the Internet, and the edge server refers to a server provided via a network (such as a local area network (LAN)) in an area closer to the user than the Internet.

[0028] The second information processing device 200 is a device including a processor and a memory, and is, for example, a device of a service provider in Fig. 1. The second information processing device 200 provides a service to a user via a group of devices 400 in the space 20.

[0029] Here, the service providing system 10 shown in FIG. 2 is assumed to exist in each of a plurality of indoor spaces. Specifically, a first information processing device 100 exists in each of a plurality of indoor spaces, and a plurality of second information processing devices 200 are connected to each of the first information processing devices 100 to provide services to the indoor spaces. At this time, the aim is to provide various information of the user or the space 20 from the plurality of first information processing devices 100 and the plurality of second information processing devices 200 by having the plurality of first information processing devices 100 and the plurality of second information processing devices 200 exist independently, and to provide various services using the plurality of second information processing devices 200. Meanwhile, new information exchange occurs between the plurality of first information processing devices 100 and the plurality of second information processing devices 200. In this embodiment, by defining this information exchange, a mechanism is provided that effectively utilizes sensor data and provides appropriate services.

[0030] [Functional configuration of the first information processing device 100] Next, the functional configuration of the first information processing device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 shows the functional configuration of the first information processing device 100 and the second information processing device 200 according to the first embodiment.

[0031] 3, the first information processing device 100 according to the present embodiment includes a sensor data acquisition unit 101, a first memory 103, a determination unit 104, a second memory 105, a first information generation unit 106, a third memory 107, a second information generation unit 108, and an input / output unit 109. Each functional block of the first information processing device 100 will be described below.

[0032] The sensor data acquisition unit 101 acquires first sensor data including a first sensor value from the sensor group 300. A part or all of the first sensor data is stored in the first memory 103. The first sensor data may include, for example, data indicating whether or not a person is present in a predetermined area in the space 20. Also, for example, the first sensor data may include data indicating a sound output status of an audio device. Furthermore, the first sensor data may include data indicating an operation status of the device. Furthermore, the first sensor data may include data indicating an opening / closing status of a refrigerator door.

[0033] The first memory 103 stores a part or the whole of the first sensor data acquired by the sensor data acquisition unit 101.

[0034] The determination unit 104 determines whether or not a first condition is satisfied. The first condition will be described in detail later.

[0035] The second memory 105 stores information for generating the first information. For example, the second memory 105 stores a correspondence table in which the contents of information to be generated correspond to a plurality of different conditions.

[0036] The first information generating unit 106 generates the first information when the first condition is satisfied. In the present embodiment, the first information indicates that the user is likely to be tired, but is not limited thereto.

[0037] The third memory 107 stores information for generating the second information. That is, the third memory 107 stores information for identifying a user or a space 20 corresponding to the first information generated by the first information generating unit 106.

[0038] The second information generating unit 108 judges whether the first information is included in the first request content included in the information acquired from the second information processing device 200 via the input / output unit 109. Here, when the first request content includes the first information, the second information generating unit 108 generates the second information using the first information. The second information includes information for identifying the user or the space 20 (for example, a user ID, an address, an IP address, identification information of a device, etc.). For example, the second information generating unit 108 generates the second information by reading information for identifying the user or the space 20 corresponding to the first information generated by the first information generating unit 106 from the third memory 107. Here, the second information may be information necessary for providing a service to the user or the space 20. When the content of the service to be provided is included in the first request, the second information corresponding to the content of the service may be provided. For example, an example of the second information in the case where a service is provided by using a communication environment is an IP address. Or, an example of the second information in the case where a service for controlling a device is provided is identification information of the device. An example of the second information when a service for controlling a device is provided using a communication environment may be a combination of an IP address and device identification information.

[0039] The input / output unit 109 acquires information describing the first request content (hereinafter, referred to as first request information) from the second information processing device 200 connected to the first information processing device 100 via a network. Furthermore, the input / output unit 109 outputs the second information generated by the second information generating unit 108 to the second information processing device 200.

[0040] The above-mentioned determination unit 104, first information generation unit 106, and second information generation unit 108 are realized, for example, by a processor and a memory. When instructions or software programs stored in the memory are executed, the processor functions as the determination unit 104, the first information generation unit 106, and the second information generation unit 108. The determination unit 104, the first information generation unit 106, and the second information generation unit 108 may also be realized by dedicated electronic circuits.

[0041] The above-mentioned first memory 103, second memory 105, and third memory 107 are realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory and / or a disk drive, etc. The input / output unit 109 is realized by, for example, a network interface controller (NIC) or the like.

[0042] [Functional configuration of the second information processing device 200] Next, the functional configuration of the second information processing device 200 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0043] 3, the second information processing device 200 according to the present embodiment includes a fourth memory 201, a request generating unit 202, an input / output unit 203, a fifth memory 204, a service generating unit 205, and an output unit 206. Each functional block of the second information processing device 200 will be described below.

[0044] The fourth memory 201 stores information for generating the first request information.

[0045] The request generator 202 generates first request information. Specifically, the request generator 202 refers to the information stored in the fourth memory 201 and generates the first request information in which the first request content is described.

[0046] The first request content indicates a requirement that a user or a space to which a predetermined service is provided should satisfy. In the present embodiment, the first request content indicates, as a requirement, that a user in the space 20 is likely to be tired, but is not limited thereto.

[0047] The input / output unit 203 outputs the first request information generated by the request generation unit 202 to the first information processing device 100. Furthermore, the input / output unit 203 acquires the second information from the first information processing device 100.

[0048] The fifth memory 204 stores information for generating service information, for example, a correspondence table in which service contents are associated with a plurality of different request contents.

[0049] The service generating unit 205 generates first service information using the second information. The first service information is information for providing a service to the users in the space 20 via the device group 400.

[0050] In this embodiment, the first service information is, for example, control information for causing an audio device to play the sound of rain. Also, for example, the first service information may be information to be displayed on a display panel. Information to be displayed on the display panel may be, for example, information on aromatherapy for improving physical and mental health, information on exercise for refreshing the mind, information for introducing coffee beans together with a roasting kit, or any combination of these. Note that the first service information is not limited to the above information.

[0051] The service information can also be expressed as service content. The service content includes information on the service, such as music or advertisement information, and information on device control for providing the service.

[0052] The output unit 206 refers to the second information and outputs the service information generated by the service generation unit 205 to the device group 400. Note that the second information processing device 200 may have a memory that records a correspondence between information corresponding to the second information and information necessary for providing a service, and may obtain the information necessary for providing a service by referring to the second information, and provide the service to the user or the space 20.

[0053] The above-mentioned request generator 202 and service generator 205 are realized, for example, by a processor and a memory. When instructions or software programs stored in the memory are executed, the processor functions as the request generator 202 and the service generator 205. The request generator 202 and the service generator 205 may also be realized by dedicated electronic circuits.

[0054] Moreover, the above-mentioned fourth memory 201 and fifth memory 204 are realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory and / or a disk drive, etc. The input / output unit 203 and the output unit 206 are realized by, for example, a network interface controller (NIC) or the like.

[0055] [Interaction within service provision system 10] Next, interactions within the service providing system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a sequence diagram of the service providing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 4, the first information processing device 100 acquires first sensor data including a first sensor value from the sensor group 300 (S101). The first information processing device 100 judges whether or not the first condition is satisfied based on the first sensor data (S102). In other words, the acquisition of the first sensor data can be expressed as trigger information for judging the first condition. If the first condition is satisfied, the first information processing device 100 generates first information (S103). The first sensor data that became the trigger information for judging the first condition is used for judging the first condition. That is, the first sensor data can be used not only as trigger information but also for judging the first condition corresponding to the condition for providing the service. In addition, the first sensor data that became the trigger information for judging the first condition in the past may be used for judging the first condition.

[0057] Here, when the first information processing device 100 acquires the first request information from the second information processing device 200 (S111), the first information processing device 100 judges whether or not there is a user or space that satisfies the first request content (S112). Here, if it is judged that there is a user or space that satisfies the first request content, the first information processing device 100 generates second information (S113). Furthermore, the first information processing device 100 outputs the generated second information to the second information processing device 200 (S114).

[0058] The second information processing device 200 generates first service information based on the second information (S121). The first service information is information for providing a first service to users in the space 20 via the device group 400. Then, the second information processing device 200 outputs the first service information to the device group 400 (S122).

[0059] Note that the sequence diagram shown in Fig. 4 is an example and is not limiting. For example, the order of the processes in Fig. 4 may be changed.

[0060] [Processing of the first information processing device 100] Here, details of the process of the first information processing device 100 (that is, the information providing method) will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing the process of the first information processing device 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0061] 5, the sensor data acquisition unit 101 acquires first sensor data including a first sensor value from a sensor group 300 arranged in the space 20 (S101). The determination unit 104 determines whether or not a first condition is satisfied based on the first sensor data (S102). Details of this determination process will be described later with reference to the drawings.

[0062] Here, if the first condition is satisfied (Yes in S102), the first information generating unit 106 generates the first information (S103). On the other hand, if the first condition is not satisfied (No in S102), the first information generating unit 106 skips the generation process of the first information, that is, the first information generating unit 106 does not generate the first information.

[0063] After that, the input / output unit 109 acquires the first request information in which the first request content is described from the second information processing device 200 (S111). The second information generation unit 108 determines whether or not there is a user or space that matches the first request content (S112). In other words, the second information generation unit 108 determines whether or not the first request content includes the content of the first information.

[0064] Here, if there is a user or space that matches the first request content (Yes in S112), the second information generation unit 108 generates second information using the generated first information (S113). Then, the input / output unit 203 outputs the generated second information to the second information processing device 200 (S114). On the other hand, if there is no user or space that matches the first request content (No in S112), the second information generation unit 108 skips the generation process and output process of the second information. In other words, the second information generation unit 108 does not generate or output the second information.

[0065] [Determination process for the first condition] In this embodiment, the first condition includes at least the following (i) and (ii): (i) the second home time is later than the first home time by at least a first threshold time. Here, the first home time indicates the time when the user returned home to the space 20 in a first period in the past. Also, the second home time indicates the time when the user returned home to the space 20 in a second period in the past that is shorter than the first period. (ii) the user has not moved within the space 20 for at least a second threshold time.

[0066] The first condition may include the following (iii) in addition to the above (i) and (ii): (iii) The user is within a predetermined distance from a chair or sofa.

[0067] The first condition may further include the following: · Weather information indicates cloudy. · It is quiet in the space.

[0068] If at least the above (i) and (ii) are satisfied, it is estimated that the user has returned home later than usual, is less active, and is feeling tired.

[0069] Here, details of the process of determining whether the first condition is met (S102 in FIG. 5) will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the process of determining whether the first condition is met in the first embodiment.

[0070] First, the determination unit 104 determines whether the second home time is later than the first home time by at least a first threshold time based on the first sensor data (S1021). That is, the determination unit 104 determines whether the time obtained by subtracting the first home time from the second home time is at least a first threshold time. That is, the determination unit 104 determines whether the above (i) is satisfied. Information on the first home time and information on the second home time are acquired from the first memory 103.

[0071] The first threshold time is a delay time for determining whether or not the user is late returning home. As the first threshold time, a time previously determined empirically or experimentally may be used, or a time previously input by the user may be used. The first threshold time may also be determined based on past times of returning home. For example, the first threshold time may be determined based on a variance value of past times of returning home.

[0072] Here, the first coming-home time and the second coming-home time will be specifically described with reference to FIG. 7 and FIG.

[0073] Fig. 7 shows an example of first sensor data related to the presence of a user in space 20 in embodiment 1. In Fig. 7, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents days. Also, the double-headed arrows represent the period of time the user is at home. Such first sensor data can be obtained, for example, by a human presence sensor, a GPS sensor, and a front door unlocking sensor.

[0074] 7, the start time of the at-home period after a period of not being at home for a predetermined time (e.g., 10 minutes) or more (the time at the left end of the double arrow) is derived as the home-coming time. In this case, if multiple home-coming times are derived for a single day, the latest of the multiple home-coming times is used as the home-coming time for that day (triangle mark).

[0075] Fig. 8 shows an example of the time of arrival home for each day in the embodiment 1. Fig. 8 shows the time of arrival home for each day from June 1, 2018 to June 7, 2018. Note that the time of arrival home does not have to be the exact time of arrival home, and may be rounded to a predetermined unit (for example, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, or 1 hour).

[0076] Using such daily home time, a statistical value (e.g., average or median) of home time in a first past period (e.g., the most recent week, month, or three months, or the same month of the previous year) is calculated as a first home time. Also, a statistical value (e.g., average or median) of home time in a second past period (e.g., the most recent day, three days, or week) is calculated as a second home time.

[0077] At this time, a period shorter than the first period is used as the second period. For example, if the first period is a period from one week ago to the present, a period from three days ago to the present is used as the second period. Therefore, the first home time represents a long-term trend of home time, and the second home time represents a short-term trend of home time. Such first home time and second home time are stored in the first memory 103.

[0078] In addition, in the calculation of the statistical values ​​for the first and second homecoming times, outliers of homecoming times may be excluded from the population. The outliers may be obtained by existing statistical methods, etc. In addition, in the calculation of the statistical values ​​for the first and second homecoming times, homecoming times on weekdays or holidays may be excluded from the population.

[0079] Returning now to the description of the flowchart in Fig. 6. If the second home time is later than the first home time by at least the first threshold time (Yes in S1021), the determination unit 104 determines whether the user's stop time is at least the second threshold time (S1022). That is, the determination unit 104 determines whether the above (ii) is satisfied.

[0080] The second threshold time is a time when the user stops moving in order to determine whether the user is active or not. As the second threshold time, a time previously determined empirically or experimentally may be used, or a time previously input by the user may be used. In addition, as the second threshold time, a time determined based on the user's past movements may be used.

[0081] For example, the determination unit 104 acquires user motion information based on the first sensor data. Then, the determination unit 104 determines whether or not the time indicating the user is not moving (i.e., stopped) continues for a second threshold time or more up to the current time based on the motion information. Note that the user not moving (i.e., stopped) includes a state in which the user's motion amount is smaller than the threshold motion amount, in addition to a state in which the user's motion amount is strictly zero. In this case, the threshold motion amount may be previously determined empirically or experimentally.

[0082] Here, if the user's stop time is equal to or longer than the second threshold time (Yes in S1022), the determination unit 104 determines whether the user is within a predetermined distance from the chair or sofa (S1023). In other words, the determination unit 104 determines whether the above (iii) is satisfied.

[0083] For example, the determination unit 104 acquires map data of the space 20 including position information of a chair or sofa from the first memory 103. Furthermore, the determination unit 104 acquires information indicating the position of the user from the first memory 103. Then, the determination unit 104 judges whether or not the distance between the position of the user and the position of the chair or sofa is equal to or less than a predetermined distance. Here, if the distance is equal to or less than the predetermined distance, it is determined that the user is within the predetermined distance range from the chair or sofa, and if the distance is greater than the predetermined distance, it is determined that the user is not within the predetermined distance range from the chair or sofa.

[0084] The predetermined distance is used to determine whether the user is sitting on a chair or a sofa. For example, the predetermined distance may be a distance determined empirically or experimentally, or may be a distance according to the room in which the chair or sofa is located.

[0085] The information indicating the user's position is acquired, for example, based on first sensor data related to the user's position within the space 20. FIG. 9 shows an example of the first sensor data related to the user's position within the space 20 in the first embodiment. In FIG. 9, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents days. Also, the double-headed arrows represent the duration of stay at each position within the space 20. Such first sensor data can be obtained, for example, by a human presence sensor, a GPS sensor, and a front door unlocking sensor, or can also be obtained by input from the user.

[0086] By such a combination of step S1022 and step S1023, the determination unit 104 can determine that the user has not moved within a predetermined distance from the chair or sofa for the second threshold time or longer.

[0087] Here, if the user is within a predetermined distance from the chair or sofa (Yes in S1023), the determination unit 104 determines whether the weather information indicates cloudy or not (S1024). Specifically, the determination unit 104 determines whether today's weather is cloudy or not based on weather information for each time period obtained from, for example, an external server or a sensor installed outside the space 20.

[0088] For today's weather, the weather that corresponds to the longest period of the day can be used. For example, if 9 hours of the 24 hours are rainy and the remaining 15 hours are sunny, sunny is used as today's weather.

[0089] In addition, the weather corresponding to the longest time in the predetermined time period may be adopted as today's weather. The predetermined time period may be a time period preset by the user, or may be a time period during which the user is outside the space 20.

[0090] Furthermore, a predetermined high-priority weather corresponding to a threshold time or more of today may be adopted as today's weather. For example, if the high-priority weather is rain and the threshold time is 3 hours, if it rains for 3 hours or more today, rain may be adopted as today's weather even if the cloudy time is longer than the rainy time. The threshold time and the high-priority weather may be empirically or experimentally determined in advance, or may be set by the user.

[0091] The weather information including today's weather thus adopted is stored in the first memory 103. Fig. 10 shows an example of weather information in the first embodiment. In Fig. 10, the weather information includes the weather for one week including today (for example, June 7, 2018).

[0092] Here, when the weather information indicates cloudy (Yes in S1024), the determination unit 104 determines whether or not the space 20 is quiet (S1025). Specifically, the determination unit 104 determines whether or not the level of a sound picked up by a microphone included in the sensor group 300 is equal to or lower than a threshold level. The threshold level indicates a threshold value of the sound volume for determining that it is quiet. As the threshold level, a sound level that is empirically or experimentally determined in advance can be used. Note that the determination of whether or not the space 20 is quiet is not limited to the determination using a microphone. For example, the determination unit 104 may determine whether or not the space 20 is quiet based on the operating status of an electronic device that outputs sound (for example, a television, an audio device, a washing machine, or a vacuum cleaner).

[0093] Here, if it is determined that the space 20 is quiet (Yes in S1025), the determination unit 104 determines that the first condition is satisfied (S1026). On the other hand, if the second coming home time is not later than the first coming home time by the first threshold time or more (No in S1021), if the user's stop time is not the second threshold time or more (No in S1022), if the user is not within a predetermined distance from a chair or sofa (No in S1023), if the weather information does not indicate cloudy (No in S1024), or if it is determined that the space 20 is not quiet (No in S1025), the determination unit 104 determines that the first condition is not satisfied (S1027).

[0094] If the first condition includes only the above (i) and (ii) and does not include (iii) etc., steps S1023 to S1025 in FIG. 6 may be skipped.

[0095] Note that the determination process for the first condition in Fig. 6 is an example and is not limited to this. If the first condition is different, the determination process is also different. Below, modified examples of the determination process for the first condition will be described with reference to Figs. 11 to 14.

[0096] [First modified example of the process for determining whether the first condition is met] Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing a first modified example of the process for determining the first condition in the first embodiment. In Fig. 11, the first condition includes the following (iv) and (v) in addition to the above (i) and (ii): (iv) a user is in the vicinity of the display panel. (v) the display panel is not being operated by the user.

[0097] If the above (i), (ii), (iv), and (v) are met, in addition to the situation in which the user is feeling tired, it is also estimated that there is a high possibility that the user will see information if it is displayed on the display panel.

[0098] In FIG. 11, first, steps S1021 and S1022 are executed in the same manner as in FIG. 6. Then, if the user's stop time is equal to or longer than the second threshold time (Yes in S1022), the determination unit 104 determines whether or not the user is within a predetermined distance from the display panel (S1021A). That is, the determination unit 104 determines whether or not the above (iv) is satisfied. Here, the predetermined distance is a threshold distance for determining whether or not the user can view information displayed on the display panel. As the predetermined distance, a distance determined empirically or experimentally in advance can be used, and for example, a distance according to the size of the display panel may be used.

[0099] The details of the process in step S1021A are the same as those in step S1023 in FIG. 6, except that the chair or sofa is replaced with a display panel, and therefore will not be described.

[0100] Here, if the user is within a predetermined distance from the display panel (Yes in S1021A), the determination unit 104 determines whether the display panel is being operated by the user (S1022A). That is, the determination unit 104 determines whether the above (v) is satisfied. For example, the determination unit 104 can obtain operation information indicating the user's operation history on the display panel from the display panel, and make a determination based on the obtained operation information.

[0101] Here, if the display panel is not operated by the user (No in S1022A), the judgment unit 104 judges that the first condition is satisfied (S1026). On the other hand, if the second coming home time is not later than the first coming home time by the first threshold time or more (No in S1021), if the user's stop time is not the second threshold time or more (No in S1022), if the user is not within a predetermined distance from the display panel (No in S1021A), or if the display panel is operated by the user (Yes in S1022A), the judgment unit 104 judges that the first condition is not satisfied (S1027).

[0102] [Second modified example of the process for determining whether the first condition is met] Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing a second modification of the process for determining whether the first condition is met in the first embodiment. In Fig. 12, the first condition includes the following (vi) in addition to the above (i) and (ii): (vi) In the schedule information, no schedule other than a work schedule is included in the second period.

[0103] If the above (i), (ii), and (vi) are satisfied, it is estimated that the user is likely feeling tired and wants to take a break from a series of work events.

[0104] In Fig. 12, first, steps S1021 and S1022 are executed in the same manner as in Fig. 6. Then, if the user's stop time is equal to or longer than the second threshold time (Yes in S1022), the determination unit 104 determines whether or not the second period in the schedule information includes a schedule other than a work schedule (S1021B). In other words, the determination unit 104 determines whether or not the above (vi) is satisfied.

[0105] Here, the schedule information is obtained, for example, from an external server (not shown) that provides a schedule management function, and is stored in the first memory 103. Therefore, the determination unit 104 can obtain the user's schedule information from the first memory 103.

[0106] Here, if the schedule information does not include any schedule other than the work schedule in the second period (No in S1021B), the determination unit 104 determines that the first condition is satisfied (S1026). On the other hand, if the second home time is not later than the first home time by the first threshold time or more (No in S1021), if the user's downtime is not the second threshold time or more (No in S1022), or if the schedule information includes any schedule other than the work schedule in the second period (Yes in S1021B), the determination unit 104 determines that the first condition is not satisfied (S1027).

[0107] [Third modified example of the determination process for the first condition] Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing a third modified example of the process for determining whether the first condition is met in the first embodiment. In Fig. 13, the first condition includes the following (vii) in addition to the above (i) and (ii): (vii) The time from the second time of coming home to the time of going to bed is equal to or shorter than a third threshold time.

[0108] If the above (i), (ii), and (vii) are satisfied, it is inferred that the user is more tired.

[0109] In Fig. 13, first, steps S1021 and S1022 are executed in the same manner as in Fig. 6. Then, if the user's stop time is equal to or longer than the second threshold time (Yes in S1022), the determination unit 104 determines whether or not the time from the second coming home time to the bedtime is equal to or shorter than the third threshold time (S1021C). In other words, the determination unit 104 determines whether or not the above (vi) is satisfied.

[0110] The third threshold time is a time for determining that the time from returning home to going to bed is short. As the third threshold time, a time previously determined empirically or experimentally may be used, or a time previously input by the user may be used.

[0111] Here, the bedtime is the statistical bedtime of the user in the past. This statistical bedtime will be specifically described with reference to FIG.

[0112] Fig. 14 shows an example of a bedtime for each day of a user in the first embodiment. Fig. 14 shows the bedtime for each day from June 1, 2018 to June 7, 2018. Note that the bedtime does not have to be an exact bedtime, and may be rounded to a predetermined unit (for example, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, or 1 hour).

[0113] 14 can be obtained based on sensor data from, for example, a motion sensor placed in the bedroom, a sensor in a wearable device worn by the user, a bedroom door opening / closing sensor, etc. For example, when it is detected based on the sensor data that the user has not moved in the bedroom for a predetermined time (e.g., 30 minutes) or more and the bedroom lights are turned off, it can be determined that the user has gone to bed.

[0114] Using these daily bedtimes, a statistical value (e.g., average or median) of bedtimes during a third period in the past (e.g., the most recent week, month or three months, or the same month of the previous year) is calculated as the statistical bedtime.

[0115] The third period does not need to be particularly limited, and any period of a length that is empirically or experimentally determined in advance may be used. The statistical bedtime calculated in this manner is stored in the first memory 103.

[0116] In addition, in the statistical calculation of bedtimes, outliers of bedtimes may be excluded from the population. Outliers can be obtained by existing statistical methods, etc. In addition, in the statistical calculation of bedtimes, bedtimes on weekdays or holidays may be excluded from the population.

[0117] Here, if the time from the second coming home time to the bedtime is equal to or shorter than the third threshold time (Yes in S1021C), the judgment unit 104 judges that the first condition is satisfied (S1026). On the other hand, if the second coming home time is not later than the first coming home time by the first threshold time or more (No in S1021), if the user's downtime is not equal to or longer than the second threshold time (No in S1022), or if the time from the second coming home time to the bedtime is longer than the third threshold time (No in S1021C), the judgment unit 104 judges that the first condition is not satisfied (S1027).

[0118] [Effects, etc.] As described above, the information providing method according to the present embodiment is an information providing method using a first information processing device 100 having a processor and a memory, in which a sensor is arranged in a house, and the processor acquires from the memory information on a first homecoming time indicating a time when the user returned home to the house in a first period in the past, acquires from the memory information on a second homecoming time indicating a time when the user returned home to the house in a second period in the past shorter than the first period, acquires user operation information based on a sensor value of the sensor, generates first information indicating that the user is likely to be tired if (i) the second homecoming time is later than the first homecoming time by a first threshold time or more, and (ii) the operation information indicates that the user has not moved within the house for a second threshold time or more, acquires information describing the first request content from a second information processing device 200 connected to the first information processing device 100 via a network, and if the first request content includes the content of the first information, can output second information including information for identifying the user or the house to the second information processing device 200 using the generated first information.

[0119] According to this, it is possible to determine a situation in which the user is likely to be tired, using the past time of returning home and the operation information based on the sensor value of the sensor. Therefore, it is possible to output information for identifying a user or a house in such a situation to a service provider, etc. As a result, the service provider, etc. can provide a service suitable for the situation of the user or the house. In other words, the effective use of the sensor data for service provision is realized.

[0120] For example, in the information providing method of this embodiment, the processor may obtain a map of the house including position information of the chair or sofa from the memory, and in generating the first information, in addition to (i) and (ii), (iii) the first information may be generated if the operation information indicates that the user is within a predetermined distance from the chair or sofa.

[0121] This makes it possible to estimate a situation in which the user is tired and sitting in a chair or sofa, and more reliably determines a situation in which the user is likely to be tired.

[0122] For example, in the information providing method of this embodiment, a device having a display is placed in a house, and in generating the first information, in addition to (i) and (ii), (iv) the operation information indicates that a user is in the vicinity of the display, and (v) the display is not being operated by the user, the first information may be generated.

[0123] This makes it possible to determine a situation in which the user is likely to be tired and in which providing a service using a display is effective, and to provide a service suited to the user or the situation of space 20.

[0124] For example, in the information providing method of this embodiment, the processor may obtain the user's schedule information from the memory, and in generating the first information, in addition to (i) and (ii), (vi) the first information may be generated if the schedule information does not include any schedule other than a work schedule during the second period.

[0125] This allows the schedule information to be used to determine a situation in which the user is likely to feel like taking a break from a series of work events, making it possible to provide services that are more suited to the user or the situation in space 20.

[0126] For example, in the information providing method of this embodiment, the processor may further obtain from the memory bedtime information indicating the time the user went to bed in a third period in the past, and in generating the first information, in addition to (i) and (ii), (vii) the first information may be generated if the time from the second time of returning home to the time of going to bed is equal to or less than a third threshold time.

[0127] This makes it possible to determine a situation in which the user returns home late every day and has little time left until bedtime, and more reliably determines a situation in which the user is likely to be tired.

[0128] It should be noted that the order of the multiple determination steps in Figure 6 and Figures 11 to 13 is not limited to this. For example, step S1021 and step S1022 may be performed in the reverse order, or may be performed simultaneously.

[0129] (Embodiment 2) Next, a description will be given of a second embodiment. In this embodiment, the first information indicates that the user's behavior is slower than usual, and a different first condition is used to generate the first information, which is a major difference from the first embodiment. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0130] The configuration of the service providing system 10 according to this embodiment, the interactions within the service providing system 10, and the processing of the first information processing device 100 are similar to those in the first embodiment, and therefore illustrations and descriptions thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0131] [Determination process for the first condition] In this embodiment, the first condition includes at least the following (viii): (viii) a first time, which is included in the current sensing information and indicates at least one of a user's presence in the dining space and an operation of an electronic device, is later than a second time, which is included in the past sensing statistical information and indicates at least one of a user's presence in the dining space and an operation of an electronic device, by a predetermined time or more.

[0132] If the above (viii) is satisfied, it is estimated that the user's behavior (e.g., preparation for going out) is delayed compared to usual. The sensing information means the sensor data itself acquired by the sensor group 300, or information obtained by processing the sensor data. Moreover, the sensing statistical information means information obtained by statistically processing the sensing information.

[0133] Here, details of the determination process for the first condition (S102 in FIG. 5) will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the determination process for the first condition (S102) in the second embodiment.

[0134] First, the determination unit 104 determines whether or not the first time is later than the second time by a predetermined time or more (S2021). That is, the determination unit 104 determines whether or not the above (viii) is satisfied.

[0135] The first time is a time included in the current sensing information (i.e., the current time) and is a time indicating at least one of the presence of a user in the dining space and the operation of an electronic device. The current sensing information is acquired from the sensor group 300 arranged in the dining space included in the space 20.

[0136] The second time is a time included in the past sensing statistical information (i.e., a past time) and is a time indicating at least one of the presence of a user in the dining space and the operation of an electronic device. The past sensing statistical information is obtained by performing statistical processing on sensing information previously acquired from the sensor group 300 arranged in the dining space, and is stored in the first memory 103.

[0137] The predetermined time is a time for determining that the user's action is delayed. As the predetermined time, a time determined empirically or experimentally in advance may be used, or a time input in advance by the user may be used.

[0138] Here, the second time point will be specifically described with reference to FIGS.

[0139] Fig. 16 shows an example of past sensing information related to the operation of the electronic device in the embodiment 2. In Fig. 16, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents days. The double-headed arrows represent the time when the electronic device is operating.

[0140] The electronic devices are included in the group of devices 400 and are arranged in the dining space. Examples of the electronic devices include lighting devices and cooking appliances (for example, an IH heater, a gas stove, a microwave oven, a rice cooker, or a coffee maker).

[0141] A statistical value (e.g., average or median value, etc.) of the start time or end time of the earliest operation time of a day among a plurality of operation times of such an electronic device in a predetermined period (e.g., the last one week, one month or three months, or the same month of the previous year, etc.) can be calculated as the second time. The calculated second time is stored in the first memory 103 as past sensing statistical information.

[0142] Fig. 17 shows an example of past sensing information regarding opening and closing of the refrigerator door in embodiment 2. Fig. 17 shows an example of the time when the refrigerator door was opened on a certain day (hereinafter, referred to as opening time).

[0143] The door opening time of the refrigerator in Fig. 17 can be obtained, for example, by a door opening / closing sensor or an image sensor that captures an image of the refrigerator. A statistical value (e.g., average value or median value, etc.) of the earliest door opening time among such multiple door opening times in a day for a predetermined period (e.g., the most recent one week, one month or three months, or the same month of the previous year, etc.) can be calculated as the second time. The calculated second time is stored in the first memory 103 as past sensing statistical information.

[0144] Fig. 18 shows an example of past sensing information by the human presence sensor in the second embodiment. In Fig. 18, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents days. The double-headed arrows represent the time during which a person was detected by the human presence sensor (hereinafter, referred to as detection time). The human presence sensor is included in the sensor group 300 and is placed in the dining space.

[0145] A statistical value (e.g., average or median) for a predetermined period (e.g., the last week, month, or three months, or the same month of the previous year) of the start time or end time of the earliest detection time of a day among the multiple detection times can be calculated as the second time. The calculated second time is stored in the first memory 103 as past sensing statistical information.

[0146] 16 to 18, in the calculation of the statistical value for the second time, outliers at the time may be excluded from the population. The outliers may be obtained by an existing statistical method, etc. In addition, in the calculation of the statistical value for the second time, times on holidays may be excluded from the population.

[0147] Returning now to the description of the flowchart in Fig. 15. If the first time is later than the second time by a predetermined time or more (Yes in S2021), the determination unit 104 determines that the first condition is satisfied (S1026). As a result, the processes in and after step S103 in Fig. 5 are executed. At this time, the first information generated in step S103 indicates that the user feels uneasy about sounds outside the space 20.

[0148] On the other hand, if the first time is not delayed by the second time by the predetermined time or more (No in S2021), the determination unit 104 determines that the first condition is not satisfied (S1027). As a result, step S103 in FIG. 5 is skipped, and the processes from step S111 onward are executed.

[0149] [Service Information] Based on such a determination result of the first condition, the first information is generated (S103), the first request is determined (S112), and the second information is generated (S113), similarly to the first embodiment. Then, based on the second information, the second information processing device 200 generates and outputs first service information for providing the first service to the users in the space 20 via the device group 400 (S121, S122).

[0150] At this time, the second information processing device 200 can display, for example, traffic congestion information on the display panel as the first service. This makes it possible to provide useful information to the user and prevent the user from arriving at the destination late.

[0151] [Effects, etc.] As described above, the information providing method according to the present embodiment is an information providing method using a first information processing device 100 having a processor and a memory, in which electronic devices and sensors are arranged in a dining space of a house, and the processor acquires past sensing statistical information of the dining space from the memory, and acquires current sensing information of the dining space by the sensor, and (viii) if a first time included in the current sensing information and indicating at least one of the presence of a user in the dining space and the operation of an electronic device is later than a second time included in the past sensing statistical information and indicating at least one of the presence of a user in the dining space and the operation of an electronic device by a predetermined time or more, generates first information indicating that the user's behavior is slower than usual, and acquires information describing the contents of a first request from a second information processing device 200 connected to the first information processing device 100 via a network, and if the contents of the first request include the contents of the first information, can output second information including information for identifying the user or the house to the second information processing device 200 using the generated first information.

[0152] According to this, it is possible to determine a situation in which the user's behavior is slower than usual by using the current sensing information and past sensing statistical information. Therefore, it is possible to output information for identifying a user or a house in such a situation to a service provider, etc. As a result, the service provider, etc. can provide a service suited to the situation of the user or the house. In other words, effective use of sensor data for service provision is realized.

[0153] In this embodiment, the operating time of a specific electronic device may be used instead of the electronic device arranged in the dining space. For example, a washing machine or a vacuum cleaner may be used as the specific electronic device. In this case, the first information processing device 100 can generate, as the first information, information indicating that a specific task (for example, laundry or cleaning) is running later than usual. In this case, the second information processing device 200 can output, as the second service information, information proposing a slow life, or information for reserving a takeaway drink (for example, coffee) or a meal.

[0154] (Embodiment 3) Next, a third embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the first information indicates that the user is in the dining space or the entrance space longer than usual, and a different first condition is used to generate the first information, which is a major difference from the first embodiment. The following describes this embodiment, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0155] The configuration of the service providing system 10 according to this embodiment, the interactions within the service providing system 10, and the processing of the first information processing device 100 are similar to those in the first embodiment, and therefore illustrations and descriptions thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0156] [Determination process for the first condition] In this embodiment, the first condition includes at least the following (ix): (ix) A first time, which is included in the current sensing information and indicates at least one of the time that the user was present in the dining space and / or the entrance space (hereinafter referred to as the first space) and the time that the electronic device placed in the first space was operating, is longer by a predetermined time or more than a second time, which is included in the past sensing statistical information and indicates at least one of the time that the user was present in the first space and the past operating time of the electronic device.

[0157] If the above (ix) is satisfied, it is estimated that the user is in the first space longer than usual.

[0158] Here, details of the determination process for the first condition (S102 in FIG. 5) will be described with reference to Fig. 19. Fig. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the determination process for the first condition (S102) in the third embodiment.

[0159] First, the judgment unit 104 judges whether or not the first time is longer than the second time by a predetermined time or more (S3021). That is, the judgment unit 104 judges whether or not the time obtained by subtracting the second time from the first time is longer than the predetermined time or more. That is, the judgment unit 104 judges whether or not the above (ix) is satisfied.

[0160] The first time is a time included in the current sensing information, and indicates at least one of a time during which the user is present in the first space and a time during which the electronic device arranged in the first space is operating. The current sensing information is acquired from the sensor group 300 arranged in the dining space and / or the entrance space included in the space 20.

[0161] The second time is a time included in the past sensing statistical information, and indicates at least one of the time when the user was present in the first space and the time when the electronic device arranged in the first space was operating. The past sensing statistical information is obtained by performing statistical processing on sensing information previously acquired from the sensor group 300 arranged in the dining space and / or the entrance space included in the space 20, and is stored in the first memory 103.

[0162] Specifically, the second time can be calculated from the past sensing information of Fig. 16 or Fig. 18, for example. For example, the second time can be calculated as a statistical value (e.g., average value or median value, etc.) of a plurality of operating times or detection times in a predetermined period (e.g., the most recent one week, one month or three months, or the same month of the previous year, etc.). The calculated second time is stored in the first memory 103 as past sensing statistical information. Note that here too, outliers, etc. of the operating time or detection time may be excluded from the population.

[0163] The predetermined time is a time for determining that the user is in the first space longer than usual. As the predetermined time, a time determined empirically or experimentally in advance may be used, or a time input in advance by the user may be used.

[0164] Returning now to the description of the flowchart in Fig. 19. If the first time is longer than the second time by a predetermined time or more (Yes in S3021), the determination unit 104 determines that the first condition is satisfied (S1026). As a result, the processes in and after step S103 in Fig. 5 are executed. At this time, the first information generated in step S103 indicates that the user is in the first space longer than usual.

[0165] On the other hand, if the first time is not longer than the second time by at least the predetermined time (No in S3021), the determination unit 104 determines that the first condition is not satisfied (S1027). As a result, step S103 in FIG. 5 is skipped, and the processes from step S111 onward are executed.

[0166] [Service Information] Based on such a determination result of the first condition, the first information is generated (S103), the first request is determined (S112), and the second information is generated (S113), similarly to the first embodiment. Then, based on the second information, the second information processing device 200 generates and outputs first service information for providing the first service to the users in the space 20 via the device group 400 (S121, S122).

[0167] At this time, the second information processing device 200 can display, as the first service, information about, for example, waterproof spray on the display panel.

[0168] [Effects, etc.] As described above, the information providing method according to the present embodiment is an information providing method using a first information processing device 100 having a processor and a memory, in which an electronic device and a sensor are arranged in a first space including at least one of an entrance space and a dining space of a house, and the processor acquires past sensing statistical information for the first space from the memory, and acquires current sensing information for the first space by the sensor, and (ix) generates first information indicating that the user is in the first space longer than usual when a first time included in the current sensing information and indicating at least one of a time when the user is present in the first space and a time when the electronic device is operating is longer than a predetermined time or more than a second time included in the past sensing statistical information and indicating at least one of a time when the user was present in the first space and a time when the electronic device was operating, and acquires information describing the first request content from a second information processing device 200 connected to the first information processing device 100 via a network, and when the first request content includes the content of the first information, the processor can output second information including information for identifying the user or the house to the second information processing device 200 using the generated first information.

[0169] According to this, it is possible to determine a situation in which a user is staying in the entrance space and / or dining space longer than usual by using current sensing information and past sensing statistical information. Therefore, information for identifying a user or a house in such a situation can be output to a service provider, etc. As a result, the service provider, etc. can provide a service suitable for the situation of the user or the house. In other words, effective use of sensor data for service provision is realized.

[0170] (Embodiment 4) Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the first information indicates that the user has returned home earlier than usual, and a different first condition is used to generate the first information. The following describes this embodiment, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0171] The configuration of the service providing system 10 according to this embodiment, the interactions within the service providing system 10, and the processing of the first information processing device 100 are similar to those in the first embodiment, and therefore illustrations and descriptions thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0172] [Determination process for the first condition] In this embodiment, the first condition includes at least the following (x): (x) The time when the user returned home, which is included in the current sensing information, is earlier than the time when the user returned home, which is included in the past sensing statistical information, by a threshold time or more.

[0173] If the above (x) is satisfied, it is estimated that the user has returned home earlier than usual.

[0174] Here, details of the first condition determination process (S102 in FIG. 5) will be described with reference to Fig. 20. Fig. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the first condition determination process (S102) in the fourth embodiment.

[0175] First, the determination unit 104 determines whether the current home time is earlier than the previous home time by a predetermined time or more (S4021). That is, the determination unit 104 determines whether the time obtained by subtracting the current home time from the previous home time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time. That is, the determination unit 104 determines whether the above (x) is satisfied.

[0176] The current time of returning home is the time included in the current sensing information (i.e., the current time) and indicates the time when the user returned home. The current sensing information is acquired from the sensor group 300 arranged in the entrance space included in the space 20.

[0177] The past homecoming time is a time included in past sensing statistical information (i.e., a past time), and indicates the time when the user returned home in the past. The past sensing statistical information is obtained by performing statistical processing on sensing information acquired in the past from the sensor group 300 arranged in the entrance space included in the space 20, and is stored in the first memory 103. Note that the past homecoming time can be obtained in the same way as the first homecoming time in the first embodiment, and therefore a detailed description will be omitted.

[0178] The predetermined time is a time for determining that the user will return home early. As the predetermined time, a time determined empirically or experimentally in advance may be used, or a time input in advance by the user may be used.

[0179] Here, if the current home time is earlier than the previous home time by a predetermined time or more (Yes in S4021), the determination unit 104 determines that the first condition is satisfied (S1026). As a result, the process from step S103 onward in Fig. 5 is executed. At this time, the first information generated in step S103 indicates that the user has come home earlier than usual.

[0180] On the other hand, if the current home time is not earlier than the previous home time by at least the predetermined time (No in S4021), the determination unit 104 determines that the first condition is not satisfied (S1027). As a result, step S103 in FIG. 5 is skipped, and the process from step S111 onward is executed.

[0181] [Service Information] Based on such a determination result of the first condition, the first information is generated (S103), the first request is determined (S112), and the second information is generated (S113), similarly to the first embodiment. Then, based on the second information, the second information processing device 200 generates and outputs first service information for providing the first service to the users in the space 20 via the device group 400 (S121, S122).

[0182] At this time, as the first service, the second information processing device 200 can, for example, turn on lighting equipment in the space 20. Also, the second information processing device 200 can, for example, suggest recommended healing music as the first service.

[0183] [Effects, etc.] As described above, the information providing method of this embodiment is an information providing method using a first information processing device 100 having a processor and a memory, in which a sensor is placed in an entrance space of a house, and the processor acquires past sensing statistical information of the entrance space from the memory, and acquires current sensing information of the entrance space using the sensor, and (x) if the time when the user returned home contained in the current sensing information is earlier than the time when the user returned home contained in the past sensing statistical information by a threshold time or more, generates first information indicating that the user has returned home earlier than usual, and acquires information describing the first request content from a second information processing device 200 connected to the first information processing device 100 via a network, and if the first request content includes the content of the first information, can use the generated first information to output second information including information for identifying the user or the house to the second information processing device 200.

[0184] According to this, it is possible to determine a situation in which a user has returned home earlier than usual by using current sensing information and past sensing statistical information. Therefore, it is possible to output information for identifying a user or a home in such a situation to a service provider, etc. As a result, the service provider, etc. can provide a service suited to the situation of the user or the home. In other words, effective use of sensor data for service provision is realized.

[0185] Note that, instead of the current home time being earlier than the previous home time by a predetermined time or more, the first condition may include the current home time being later than the previous home time by a predetermined time or more. In this case, the first information indicates that the user is coming home later than usual.

[0186] (Variation 1) Next, a first modified example of each of the above-mentioned embodiments will be described. This modified example differs from each of the above-mentioned embodiments mainly in that a service is provided via the first information processing device 100. This modified example will be described with reference to the drawings, focusing on the differences from each of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0187] The configuration of the service providing system 10 according to this modification is similar to that of the above-described embodiments, and therefore illustration and description thereof will be omitted.

[0188] [Interaction within service provision system 10] FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram of the service providing system 10 according to the first modification. As shown in FIG. 21, the second information processing device 200 according to this modification generates the first service information (S121), and then outputs the first service information to the first information processing device 100 (S122A). The first information processing device 100 transfers the first service information acquired from the first information processing device 100 to the device group 400 (S122B). The first information processing device 100 may transmit record information on the provision of the first service information to the second information processing device 200. Examples of the record information are the number of times the first service information is provided, and attribute information on the user or the space 20. The attribute information is information that the user or the space 20 cannot be specified. Examples of the attribute information are geographical information and demographic information of the user. The record information may be limited to information that the user is permitted to transmit in advance.

[0189] [Effects, etc.] As described above, according to the service providing system 10 of this modification, the second information processing device 200 does not need to directly communicate with the device group 400 arranged in the space 20, and therefore it is possible to restrict disclosure of information related to the space 20 to the second information processing device 200. Therefore, it is possible to protect the privacy of users in the space 20.

[0190] (Variation 2) Next, a second modification of each of the above-mentioned embodiments will be described. This modification is mainly different from each of the above-mentioned embodiments in that the transmission of the first request information from the second information processing device 200 to the first information processing device 100 is performed before, not after, the generation of the first information (S103). This modification will be described with reference to the drawings, focusing on the differences from each of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0191] The configuration of the service providing system 10 according to this modification is similar to that of the above-described embodiments, and therefore illustration and description thereof will be omitted.

[0192] [Interaction within service provision system 10] Fig. 22 is a sequence diagram of the service providing system 10 according to Modification 2. As shown in Fig. 22, the first information processing device 100 according to this modification acquires first request information (S111) before acquiring first sensor data (S101).

[0193] The first request information may be acquired (S111) before the determination of the first request (S112), and is not limited to being acquired before the first sensor data (S101). Since the first request is transmitted in advance, the second information processing device 200 may desire to acquire information about the timing at which it is determined that the first condition is satisfied (S102). When the first condition is determined (S102) every time the first sensor data is continuously received in a chronological order, it is possible to acquire information about the timing at which the situation changes so that the first condition is satisfied by acquiring information about the first center data that does not satisfy the first condition at the timing immediately before the first center data that satisfies the first condition is received. For example, the second information may include information about the first center data that is immediately before the first condition is satisfied and does not satisfy the first condition. The first information processing device 100 may also propose to the second information processing device 200 to change the first condition according to the result of analyzing statistical information about the information about the first center data that is immediately before the first condition is satisfied and does not satisfy the first condition.

[0194] [Effects, etc.] As described above, according to the service providing system 10 of this modified example, the second information can be output regardless of the timing of obtaining the first request information, thereby realizing more timely provision of the second information.

[0195] (Variation 3) Next, a third modification of each of the above-mentioned embodiments will be described. In this modification, the second information mainly differs from each of the above-mentioned embodiments in that it includes operation information of the equipment related to the service in addition to information for identifying the user or space. This modification will be described with reference to the drawings, focusing on the differences from each of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0196] The configuration of the service providing system 10 according to this modification is the same as that of the above-described embodiments, and therefore illustrations and explanations thereof will be omitted. Also, the interactions within the service providing systems 10 and 10A and the processing of the first information processing device 100 are the same as those in Figs. 6 to 9, and therefore illustrations and explanations thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0197] [Generation process of second information] The details of the second information generation process (S113 in FIG. 5) in this modified example will be described with reference to FIG. 23. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of the second information generation process (S113) in modified example 3. Note that in this modified example, the first request information includes information for identifying a service provided by the second information processing device 200.

[0198] The first information processing device 100 selects devices related to the service specified by the first request information from the device group 400 arranged in the space 20 where the first information was generated (S1131). For example, the first information processing device 100 selects devices from the device group 400 based on the effect of the service on the user's five senses (sight, hearing, smell, touch, taste) and the effect of the devices on the user's five senses.

[0199] Fig. 24A shows an example of relationship information between a service and the five senses. Fig. 24B shows an example of relationship information between a device and the five senses. In Fig. 24A and Fig. 24B, a check symbol indicates that there is an influence, and a dash symbol indicates that there is no influence.

[0200] 24A, for example, it can be seen that service 1 affects vision and hearing, but does not affect smell and touch (back, waist, and eyes). Also, with reference to FIG. 24B, for example, it can be seen that television affects vision and hearing, but does not affect smell and touch (back, waist, and eyes).

[0201] Here, for example, when service 1 is identified by the first request information, the first information processing device 100 selects a television and speakers related to the visual or auditory sense that service 1 affects in FIG. 24A from among the multiple devices shown in FIG. 24B.

[0202] Next, the first information processing device 100 acquires operation information of the selected device (S1132). The operation information is information indicating whether the device is operating or not. The operation information may be acquired directly from the device or via a sensor, for example.

[0203] Then, the first information processing apparatus 100 generates second information including the operation information (S1133).

[0204] [Effects, etc.] As described above, according to this modification, the second information can include the operation information of the device. Therefore, the second information processing device 200 can provide a service by starting a device in a non-operating state, for example, and can avoid the contention of services in the operating devices. In addition, the second information processing device 200 can avoid the confusion of the user's senses caused by multiple devices by skipping the provision of a service, for example, when there are many operating devices.

[0205] In this modification, the second information includes the operation information of the selected device, but is not limited to this. For example, the second information may include the operation information of all devices. Furthermore, the operation information may be output separately from the second information.

[0206] The second information may include only the operation information of the device that is permitted to be provided to the user in advance. If there is a device that is denied to be provided to the user, the second information may include information indicating that the device is denied to be provided to the user. For example, when providing a service using a device that is denied to be provided to the user, the second information processing device 200 may inquire of the user whether the service can be provided.

[0207] (Variation 4) Next, a fourth modified example of each of the above-mentioned embodiments will be described. In this modified example, in addition to the information for identifying the user or the space, the second information mainly includes suitability information indicating suitability for providing the service. This modified example will be described with reference to the drawings, focusing on the differences from each of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0208] The configuration of the service providing system 10 according to this modification is the same as that of the above-described embodiments, and therefore illustrations and explanations thereof will be omitted. Also, the interactions within the service providing systems 10 and 10A and the processing of the first information processing device 100 are the same as those in Figs. 6 to 9, and therefore illustrations and explanations thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0209] [Generation process of second information] Details of the second information generation process (S113 in FIG. 5) in this modified example will be described with reference to FIG. 25. FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing an example of the second information generation process (S113) in modified example 4. Note that in this modified example, it is assumed that the first request information includes information for identifying a service provided by the second information processing device 200.

[0210] The first information processing device 100 acquires a service provision history for the space 20 or the user (S1134). The service provision history is information that associates a service provided in the past to the space 20 or the user with the date and time when the service was provided.

[0211] FIG. 26 shows an example of a service provision history in Modification Example 4. In FIG. 26, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents days. The double-headed arrow represents the time when a service is provided or will be provided to the space 20 or the user. For example, service 1 is provided twice between 18:00 and 24:00 on June 2, 2018. Note that the service provision history may include multiple different services provided by multiple different second information processing devices 200 (i.e., multiple different service providers).

[0212] Next, the first information processing device 100 evaluates the suitability of providing the service specified in the first request information to the space 20 or the user based on the acquired service provision history (S1135). Specifically, the first information processing device 100 evaluates the suitability of providing the service specified in the first request information based on, for example, the number of times the service was provided in a predetermined period. Also, for example, the first information processing device 100 may evaluate the suitability of providing the service specified in the first request information based on other services currently being provided.

[0213] A specific example of such an evaluation of suitability for providing a service will be described with reference to Figures 27A to 27C. Figure 27A shows an example of service provision possibility information in Modification 4. The service provision possibility information may be stored in advance in, for example, third memory 107, or may be acquired from an external server (not shown).

[0214] The service availability information indicates the number of times each service can be provided per day and the circumstances under which each service cannot be provided. For example, in Fig. 27A, it is shown that services 1 and 3 can each be provided an unlimited number of times per day, and service 2 can only be provided once per day.

[0215] In the service provision history of Fig. 26, service 1 and service 2 have already been provided today (June 7, 2018). Therefore, when the service provision possibility information of Fig. 27A is referred to, the suitability of providing services 1 and 3 is evaluated as high, and the suitability of providing service 2 is evaluated as low.

[0216] FIG. 27A also shows that services 1 and 2 cannot be provided in user situations A and B, respectively. As user situations A and B, for example, a situation in which the user's actions in the above-mentioned second embodiment are slower than usual can be used. In this case, by prohibiting the provision of a low-urgency service (for example, playing music or presenting fortune-telling information), it is possible to provide a service suited to the user's situation. As user situations A and B, for example, a situation in which the user is in the dining space or the entrance space longer than usual can be used.

[0217] 27B shows an example of simultaneous service provision prohibition information in Modification 4. The simultaneous service provision prohibition information may be stored in advance in, for example, third memory 107, or may be acquired from an external server (not shown).

[0218] The service simultaneous provision prohibition information indicates combinations of services that are prohibited / permitted to be simultaneously provided. A check mark indicates prohibition, and a dash mark indicates permission.

[0219] 27B, for example, service 1 indicates that simultaneous provision with each of services 2 and 3 is permitted. That is, service 1 indicates that it can be provided together with each of services 2 and 3. Also, for example, service 2 indicates that simultaneous provision with service 3 is prohibited. That is, service 2 indicates that it cannot be provided together with service 3.

[0220] 27C shows an example of service change prohibition information in Modification 4. The service change prohibition information may be stored in advance in, for example, third memory 107, or may be acquired from an external server (not shown).

[0221] The service change prohibition information indicates the services that are prohibited / permitted to be provided in place of the currently provided services. A check symbol indicates that the service in the left column cannot be changed to the service in the upper row, and a dash symbol indicates that the service in the left column can be changed to the service in the upper row.

[0222] 27C, for example, when service 1 is currently being provided, a change from service 1 to service 2 is prohibited. On the other hand, when service 2 is currently being provided, a change from service 2 to service 1 is permitted. Also, when service 2 is currently being provided, a change from service 2 to service 3 is also prohibited.

[0223] In the service provision history of Fig. 26, service 2 is being provided at the current time. Therefore, if the simultaneous service provision prohibition information of Fig. 27B and the service change prohibition information of Fig. 27C are referred to, the suitability of providing service 1 is evaluated as high, and the suitability of providing service 3 is evaluated as low.

[0224] The result of such an evaluation is expressed in two or more levels. For example, two levels, aptitude and inaptitude, can be used as the evaluation result. Also, for example, a score from 0 to 10 or 0 to 100 can be used as the evaluation result.

[0225] Finally, the first information processing device 100 generates second information including aptitude evaluation information indicating the evaluation result (S1136).

[0226] [Effects, etc.] As described above, according to this modification, the second information can include suitability evaluation information. Therefore, the second information processing device 200 can skip providing a service when the suitability evaluation is low, for example, and can prevent a service from being provided at an inappropriate time. As a result, the service providing system 10, 10A can, for example, reduce excessive service provision and prevent interference between services.

[0227] In this modification, the second information includes the suitability evaluation information, but is not limited thereto. For example, the second information may include information on the service provision history in addition to or instead of the suitability evaluation information. The service suitability information may be output separately from the second information.

[0228] (Variation 5) Next, a fifth modified example of each of the above-mentioned embodiments will be described. This modified example is different from each of the above-mentioned embodiments mainly in that, when first requests having the same request contents have been received in advance from a plurality of second information processing devices 200 (see the second modified example above), the second information is output to a second information processing device 200 selected based on the priority. This modified example will be described with reference to the drawings, focusing on the differences from each of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0229] The configuration of the service providing system 10 according to this modification is the same as that of the above-described embodiments, and therefore illustrations and explanations thereof will be omitted. Also, the interactions within the service providing systems 10 and 10A and the processing of the first information processing device 100 are the same as those in Figs. 6 to 9, and therefore illustrations and explanations thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0230] [Output process of second information] The output process of the second information in this modification (S114 in FIG. 5) will be described in detail with reference to FIG 28. FIG 28 is a flowchart showing an example of the output process of the second information (S114) in the fifth modification.

[0231] The first information processing device 100 sets priorities of the multiple second information processing devices 200 (S1141). That is, the first information processing device 100 sets priorities for the multiple second information processing devices 200 corresponding to multiple first requests having the same request content. For example, the priority may be included in the first request information, and in this case, the priority is set according to the priority included in the first request information. Furthermore, the priority may be set according to the space 20 or the user's situation obtained from the sensor group 300 and the device group 400. Furthermore, the priority of the multiple second information processing devices 200 may be set based on the bid price of the service provider in response to the bid for the provision of second information.

[0232] Next, the first information processing device 100 selects one or more second information processing devices 200 based on the set priority (S1142). For example, the first information processing device 100 selects the second information processing device 200 with the highest priority from among the second information processing devices 200 corresponding to the first requests having the same request content. Note that the number of the selected second information processing devices 200 is not limited to one.

[0233] Then, the first information processing device 100 outputs the second information to the selected second information processing device 200 (S1143). After that, the first information processing device 100 judges whether or not the service has been provided by the selected second information processing device 200 within a predetermined time (S1144). In other words, it is judged whether or not the second information processing device 200 has provided the service within a predetermined time after the second information is output. As the predetermined time, a time previously determined empirically or experimentally can be used, and for example, a time common to a plurality of services can be used. Also, as the predetermined time, individual times may be used for a plurality of services.

[0234] If the service is provided within the predetermined time (Yes in S1144), the process ends. On the other hand, if the service is not provided within the predetermined time (No in S1144), the process proceeds to step S1141. At this time, in step S1141, the priorities of the multiple second information processing devices 200 are updated, and the priorities of the second information processing devices 200 that did not provide the service are lowered. The first information processing device 100 selects one or more second information processing devices 200 based on the updated priorities (S1142). Here, the first information processing device 100 may be configured to be able to provide the service to the user or the space 20 only when the priority is set to the highest. For example, in the case where the second information has been transmitted to the second information processing device 200 whose priority was set to the highest before the update and the second information processing device 200 whose priority was set to the highest after the update, if an attempt is made to provide a service from the second information processing device 200 whose priority was set to the highest before the update after a predetermined time, there is a possibility that the services will overlap. Therefore, only the second information processing device 200 whose priority was set to the highest may be configured to be able to use the second information. For example, the second information is encrypted so that it can only be used when the service is being executed and is changed with each update, and this can be realized by providing an encryption key corresponding to the second information processing device 200 that is set to the highest priority.

[0235] [Effects, etc.] As described above, according to this modification, the first information processing device 100 can select the second information processing device 200 based on the priority. Therefore, the service providing system 10, 10A can select the second information processing device 200 suitable for providing the service from among the second information processing devices 200 corresponding to the first requests having the same request content.

[0236] (Service type) Next, the types of services provided by the service providing system according to each of the above embodiments will be described.

[0237] [Overall image of services provided] FIG. 29A shows an overall view of the service providing system.

[0238] The group 1000 may be, for example, a company, an organization, a home, or the like, and may be of any size. In the group 1000, there are a device A, a device B, and a home gateway 1020 included in a plurality of devices 1010. For example, the plurality of devices 1010 are devices included in the device group 400 in each of the above-mentioned embodiments. In addition, the home gateway 1020 is the gateway 500 in each of the above-mentioned embodiments. Among the plurality of devices 1010, there are devices that can be connected to the Internet (e.g., a smartphone, a PC, a TV, etc.), and there are also devices that cannot be connected to the Internet by themselves (e.g., a light, a washing machine, etc.). Even if a device cannot be connected to the Internet by itself, there may be a device that can be connected to the Internet via the home gateway 1020. In addition, there is a user 990A who uses the plurality of devices 1010 in the group 1000.

[0239] The data center operating company 1100 has a cloud server 1110. The cloud server 1110 is a virtualized server that cooperates with various devices via the Internet. For example, the cloud server 1110 is the first information processing device 100 in each of the above-mentioned embodiments. The cloud server 1110 mainly manages huge data (big data) that is difficult to handle with a normal database management tool or the like. The data center operating company 1100 manages data and the cloud server 1110, and operates the data center that performs these operations. The services performed by the data center operating company 1100 will be described in detail later. Here, the data center operating company 1100 is not limited to a company that only manages data and operates the cloud server 1110. For example, when a device manufacturer that develops and manufactures one of the multiple devices 1010 also manages data and manages the cloud server 1110, the device manufacturer corresponds to the data center operating company 1100 (FIG. 29B). Furthermore, the data center operating company 1100 is not limited to one company. For example, if a device manufacturer and another management company jointly or jointly manage data and operate the cloud server 1110, either one or both of them corresponds to the data center operating company 1100 (FIG. 29C).

[0240] The service provider 1200 owns a server 1210. The server 1210 here includes, for example, a memory in a personal PC, regardless of its size. In addition, the service provider may not own the server 1210. For example, the server 1210 is the second information processing device 200 in each of the above embodiments.

[0241] Note that the home gateway 1020 is not essential for the above services. For example, when the cloud server 1110 manages all data, the home gateway 1020 is not necessary. Also, there may be cases where there is no device that cannot connect to the Internet by itself, such as when all devices in a home are connected to the Internet.

[0242] Next, the flow of information in the above service will be described.

[0243] First, device A or device B of group 1000 transmits information obtained by each device to cloud server 1110 of data center operating company 1100. Cloud server 1110 collects information of device A or device B ((a) of FIG. 29A). The collected information is information indicating, for example, the operation status, operation date and time, operation mode, location, etc. of multiple devices 1010. For example, the collected information is information indicating the operation date and time of a television viewing history, recording reservation information of a recorder, operation date and time of a washing machine, amount of laundry, date and time of opening and closing a refrigerator, number of times of opening and closing, amount of food in the refrigerator, etc., but is not limited to these, and refers to all information that can be obtained from any device. Information may be provided to cloud server 1110 directly from multiple devices 1010 themselves via the Internet. Information may also be collected from multiple devices 1010 once in home gateway 1020, and provided from home gateway 1020 to cloud server 1110.

[0244] Next, the cloud server 1110 of the data center operating company 1100 provides the accumulated information to the service provider 1200 in a certain unit. Here, the certain unit may be a unit in which the data center operating company can organize the accumulated information and provide it to the service provider 1200, or may be a unit requested by the service provider 1200. Although it is described as a certain unit, it does not have to be a certain unit, and the amount of information provided may change depending on the situation. The information is stored in the server 1210 owned by the service provider 1200 as necessary ((b) of FIG. 29A). Then, the service provider 1200 organizes the information into information suitable for the service to be provided to the user, and provides it to the user. The user to whom the information is provided may be a user 990A who uses multiple devices 1010, or an external user 990B. The method of providing the service to the user may be, for example, a method in which the service provider directly provides the information to the user ((e) and (f) of FIG. 29A). In addition, the method of providing the service to the user may be, for example, to be provided to the user via the cloud server 1110 of the data center operating company 1100 again ((c) and (d) in FIG. 29A). In addition, the cloud server 1110 of the data center operating company 1100 may organize information into information suitable for the service to be provided to the user, and provide the information to the service provider 1200.

[0245] It should be noted that user 990A and user 990B may be different or the same.

[0246] The technology described in the above aspect may be realized in the following types of cloud services, for example. However, the types in which the technology described in the above aspect is realized are not limited thereto.

[0247] [Service type 1: In-house data center type] FIG. 30 shows service type 1 (own data center type). In this type, a service provider 1200 acquires information from a group 1000 and provides a service to a user. In this type, the service provider 1200 has the function of a data center operating company. That is, the service provider owns a cloud server 1110 that manages big data. Therefore, there is no data center operating company.

[0248] In this type, the service provider 1200 operates and manages a data center 903 (cloud server 1110). The service provider 1200 also manages an OS 902 and an application 901. The service provider 1200 provides a service 904 by using the OS 902 and the application 901 managed by the service provider 1200.

[0249] [Service type 2: IaaS usage type] Figure 31 shows service type 2 (IaaS type). Here, IaaS stands for Infrastructure as a Service, and is a cloud service model that provides the infrastructure for building and running computer systems as a service via the Internet.

[0250] In this type, a data center operating company 1100 operates and manages a data center 903 (cloud server 1110). In addition, a service provider 1200 manages an OS 902 and an application 901. The service provider 1200 provides a service 904 using the OS 902 and the application 901 managed by the service provider 1200.

[0251] [Service type 3: PaaS usage type] Figure 32 shows service type 3 (PaaS type). PaaS stands for Platform as a Service, a cloud service model that provides a platform for building and running software as a service via the Internet.

[0252] In this type, a data center operating company 1100 manages an OS 902, and operates and manages a data center 903 (cloud server 1110). In addition, a service provider 1200 manages an application 901. The service provider 1200 provides a service 904 using the OS 902 managed by the data center operating company and the application 901 managed by the service provider 1200.

[0253] [Service type 4: SaaS] Figure 33 shows service type 4 (SaaS type). Here, SaaS is an abbreviation for Software as a Service. For example, it is a cloud service provision model that allows companies or individuals (users) that do not own a data center (cloud server) to use applications provided by a platform provider that owns a data center (cloud server) via a network such as the Internet.

[0254] In this type, a data center operating company 1100 manages an application 901, an OS 902, and operates and manages a data center 903 (cloud server 1110). In addition, a service provider 1200 provides a service 904 using the OS 902 and the application 901 managed by the data center operating company 1100.

[0255] In any of the above types, it is assumed that the service provider 1200 provides the service. For example, the service provider or the data center operating company may develop an OS, an application, a big data database, or the like by itself, or may outsource it to a third party.

[0256] (Other embodiments) Although the service providing system according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure has been described based on the embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to this embodiment. As long as it does not deviate from the spirit of the present disclosure, various modifications conceived by a person skilled in the art to this embodiment and forms constructed by combining components in different embodiments may also be included within the scope of one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0257] For example, in each of the above embodiments, the first information processing device 100 that processes the sensor data and the second information processing device 200 that generates the service information are separate devices, but the first information processing device 100 and the second information processing device 200 may be realized as one information processing device. In this case, since interaction between the first information processing device 100 and the second information processing device 200 is unnecessary, when the first condition is satisfied, the processing from the generation of the first information to the output of the second information may be skipped. [Industrial Applicability]

[0258] The present disclosure can be used as an information processing device that provides information for providing a service to a user. [Explanation of symbols]

[0259] 10 Service provision system 20 Space 100 First information processing device 101 Sensor data acquisition unit 103 First Memory 104 Judgment section 105 Second Memory 106 1st information generation section 107 Third Memory 108 Second information generation section 109, 203 Input / output section 200 Second information processing device 201 4th Memory 202 Request generator 204 5th Memory 205 Service Generation Unit 206 Output section 300 Sensors 400 equipment groups 500 Gateway

Claims

1. An information providing method using a first information processing device including a processor and a memory, A sensor is disposed within the indoor space, The processor, acquiring information on a first return time indicating a time at which the user returned to the indoor space during a past first period from the memory; acquiring, from the memory, information on a second return time indicating a time at which the user returned to the indoor space during a second past period that is shorter than the first period; acquiring motion information of the user based on a sensor value of the sensor; (i) if the second return time is later than the first return time by at least a first threshold time, and (ii) if the motion information indicates that the user has not moved within the indoor space for at least a second threshold time, generating first information indicating that the user is likely to be tired; acquiring information describing the first request content from a second information processing device connected to the first information processing device via a network; When the first request content includes the content of the first information, outputting, to the second information processing device, second information including information for identifying the user or the indoor space by using the generated first information. Information provision method.

2. The processor, obtaining a map of the indoor space including position information of chairs or sofas from the memory; In generating the first information, In addition to the above (i) and (ii), (iii) when the motion information indicates that the user is within a predetermined distance range from the chair or sofa, the first information is generated. The information providing method according to claim 1 .

3. A device having a display is placed in the indoor space, In generating the first information, In addition to (i) and (ii), (iv) the operation information indicates that the user is in the vicinity of the display, and (v) the display is not being operated by the user, the first information is generated. The information providing method according to claim 1 .

4. The processor, Retrieving schedule information for the user from the memory; In generating the first information, In addition to the above (i) and (ii), (vi) when the schedule information does not include a schedule other than a work schedule in the second period, the first information is generated. The information providing method according to claim 1 .

5. The processor further comprises: obtaining from the memory bedtime information indicating a time when the user went to bed in a past third period; In generating the first information, In addition to the (i) and (ii), (vii) the first information is generated when a time from the second arrival time to the bedtime is equal to or shorter than a third threshold time. The information providing method according to claim 1 .

6. An information providing method using a first information processing device including a processor and a memory, An electronic device and a sensor are disposed in the indoor space, The processor, Obtaining past sensing statistical information in the indoor space from the memory; Obtaining current sensing information in the indoor space by the sensor; (viii) generating first information indicating that the user's behavior is slower than usual when a first time, which is included in the current sensing information and indicates at least one of the presence of a user in the indoor space and the operation of the electronic device, is later than a second time, which is included in the past sensing statistical information and indicates at least one of the presence of a user in the indoor space and the operation of the electronic device, by a predetermined time or more; acquiring information describing the first request content from a second information processing device connected to the first information processing device via a network; When the first request content includes the content of the first information, outputting, to the second information processing device, second information including information for identifying the user or the indoor space by using the generated first information. Information provision method.

7. An information providing method using a first information processing device including a processor and a memory, An electronic device and a sensor are disposed in the indoor space, The processor, Obtaining past sensing statistical information in the indoor space from the memory; Obtaining current sensing information in the indoor space by the sensor; (ix) generating first information indicating that the user is in the indoor space longer than usual when a first time, which is included in the current sensing information and indicates at least one of a time during which the user is present in the indoor space and a time during which the electronic device is operating, is longer than a predetermined time or more than a second time, which is included in the past sensing statistical information and indicates at least one of a time during which the user was present in the indoor space and a time during which the electronic device was operating; acquiring information describing the first request content from a second information processing device connected to the first information processing device via a network; When the first request content includes the content of the first information, outputting, to the second information processing device, second information including information for identifying the user or the indoor space by using the generated first information. Information provision method.

8. An information providing method using a first information processing device including a processor and a memory, A sensor is placed in the indoor space, The processor, Obtaining past sensing statistical information in the indoor space from the memory; Obtaining current sensing information in the indoor space by the sensor; (x) generating first information indicating that the user has returned to the indoor space earlier than usual when a time at which the user has returned to the indoor space, which is included in the current sensing information, is earlier than a threshold time or more than a time at which the user has returned to the indoor space, which is included in the past sensing statistical information; acquiring information describing the first request content from a second information processing device connected to the first information processing device via a network; When the first request content includes the content of the first information, outputting, to the second information processing device, second information including information for identifying the user or the indoor space by using the generated first information. Information provision method.

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