Information processing apparatus, method, program, and system

Abstract

To provide an information processing apparatus, a method, a program, and a system capable of meeting various water demands for each small scale consumer by using a trained model.SOLUTION: In a water processing system, a control unit of a server 20 receives at least one of a data set regarding an environment where a water processing apparatus 30 operates or a data set regarding water processing of the water processing apparatus 30, and generates a trained model based on the obtained data set. The server 20 transmits the trained model to the water processing apparatus 30 or a terminal device 10 of a user utilizing the environment where the water processing apparatus 30 operates, and presents user with a processing result obtained by using the trained model on the water processing apparatus 30 or the terminal device 10 of the user which receive the trained model.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 16

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] In order to meet the water demand in various regions, large-scale water treatment facilities are being operated. For example, as facilities for water treatment, in order to meet the water demand (such as the number of households) in various regions, predetermined devices such as a filtration device, a dust removal device, a sedimentation tank, an ozone contact layer, and an activated carbon adsorption tank are prepared, and water is treated from intake to purification.

[0003] When operating a large-scale water treatment facility as described above, in order to meet various water demands of users, it tends to be a large-scale combination of water treatment devices.

[0004] On the other hand, smaller-scale water treatment facilities may be introduced on a per-building or per-household basis. For example, as shown in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2015-108979 (Patent Document 1), a system in which water supply and water treatment are performed cyclically in a specific region or a specific building has also been studied.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] According to the technology of Patent Document 1, for small-scale consumers regarding water use, it is described that a sensor for measuring various water quality indicators of discharged water is provided for the purpose of reducing the cost required for water treatment by promoting the improvement of the water quality of discharged water.

[0007] In order to install water treatment devices in various locations for small-scale consumers (e.g., each household), for example, in order to make tap water suitable for drinking, small-scale water purifiers may be installed by connecting them to faucets or the like. Since these water purifiers perform water treatment using filters or the like, the water treatment function gradually decreases.

[0008] Therefore, in order to maintain the water treatment function of the water purifier, based on a certain amount of water treatment being performed, the water purifier is made to give a notice such as prompting filter replacement. As described above, for limited applications such as water purification, it is sometimes necessary to notify the filter replacement time or the like in order to maintain the function of the water treatment device.

[0009] On the other hand, even for small-scale consumers, the uses and amounts of water used vary. For example, as uses of water, there is water used for beverages, water for washing dishes after meals, water for running the toilet, and there may also be cases where water is used to wash the body in the shower room. The amount of water used also differs among each consumer, and the usage patterns also differ. For example, in the shower room, there may be consumers who use a relatively large amount of a specific detergent.

[0010] Therefore, technologies are needed to meet the various water demands of each household and other small-scale consumers.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0011] According to one embodiment, an information processing apparatus including a control unit is provided. The control unit functions as means for receiving at least one of a data set regarding the environment in which the water treatment device operates or a data set regarding the water treatment of the water treatment device in the environment, and means for generating a learned model based on the acquired data set.

[0012] According to one embodiment, a method for operating a computer device including a control unit is provided. The control unit performs steps of receiving at least one of a data set regarding an environment in which the water treatment device operates or a data set regarding water treatment of the water treatment device in the environment, and generating a learned model based on the acquired data set.

[0013] According to one embodiment, a program for operating a computer device including a control unit is provided. The program causes the control unit to perform steps of receiving at least one of a data set regarding an environment in which the water treatment device operates or a data set regarding water treatment of the water treatment device in the environment, and generating a learned model based on the acquired data set.

[0014] According to one embodiment, a system including a water treatment device and an information processing device is provided. The water treatment device transmits sensing data that can be sensed by the water treatment device to the information processing device. The information processing device includes a control unit, and the control unit functions as means for receiving at least one of a data set regarding an environment in which the water treatment device operates or a data set regarding water treatment of the water treatment device in the environment, and means for generating a learned model based on the acquired data set.

Advantages of the Invention

[0015] According to the present disclosure, by using the learned model, it is possible to respond to various water demands for each small-scale consumer.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated.

[0018] <Overview> In the following embodiments, a water treatment system 1 for providing a water source will be described.

[0019] Users use water for various purposes in daily life. For example, users ingest drinking water to replenish moisture. In addition to this, water may be used to wash dirt adhering to articles. For example, users use water when washing dishes after a meal. In addition, users use water for purposes such as showers, baths, washing, toilets, drink servers, and room humidification.

[0020] <Embodiment 1> In the embodiment, a water treatment device 30 having a water treatment function and capable of providing a water source will be described, and a water treatment system 1 realized by installing the water treatment device 30 in various places will be described.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of the water treatment system 1. The water treatment system 1 includes water treatment devices 30 installed in various places (in the example of FIG. 1, water treatment devices 30A, 30B, and 30C are shown) and a server (not shown in FIG. 1) that can communicate with these water treatment devices 30. In the illustrated example, the water treatment device 30A and the water treatment device 30C have a moving mechanism 370. The moving mechanism 370 has, for example, wheels, and enables the water treatment device 30 to travel by driving the wheels. Note that the water treatment device 30B does not have the moving mechanism 370 and does not have a self-propelling function.

[0022] The water treatment device 30 is installed in various locations. For example, the water treatment device 30A is installed on the outdoor land 5. By installing the water treatment device 30A on the outdoor land 5, water can be used for various purposes such as drinking, showering, and toilet use outdoors. For example, by the water treatment device 30A providing a water purification function, the water can be purified so that users can drink it.

[0023] For example, the water treatment device 30B is installed to provide a water treatment function for the building 6. The water treatment device 30B is installed inside or outside the building 6.

[0024] For example, the water treatment device 30C is installed to provide a water treatment function in a moving body 7 such as an automobile. The water treatment device 30B is mounted inside or outside the moving body 7. For example, as the moving body 7, there are those equipped with various facilities that use water, such as a kitchen for cooking, a toilet, etc., like a camper van. The water treatment device 30C provides a water treatment function according to various water usage purposes in the moving body 7.

[0025] Note that in the example of FIG. 1, an example is shown where the water treatment device 30 is used as one independent device. However, by incorporating the function of the water treatment device 30 into facilities such as a building, it is also possible to provide a water treatment function. For example, it is also possible to incorporate the water treatment device 30 into a washing machine, sink, water purifier, shower room, bathroom, toilet, bathtub, humidifier, dehumidifier, air conditioner, etc. in a building or the like. As will be described later, the water treatment device 30 provides a water treatment function by including a water treatment module 40. By incorporating a combination of the water treatment module 30 into facilities such as a building, it is also possible to provide a water treatment function to users.

[0026] Each water treatment device 30 transmits the provided water treatment function and the history of water treatment performed to the server. Thereby, the server can accumulate information about the demand for water treatment in the environment where each water treatment device 30 is installed.

[0027] <Overall Configuration Diagram of the System> FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the water treatment system 1.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, the water treatment system 1 includes a terminal device 10 (in the illustrated example, terminal devices 10A and 10B are shown), a server 20, and a water treatment device 30 (in the illustrated example, water treatment devices 30A and 30B are shown). The terminal device 10, the server 20, and the water treatment device 30 are communicatively connected via a network 80. As shown in the figure, the water treatment device 30 (water treatment device 30B) may communicate with the server 20 via the terminal device 10 (terminal device 10B).

[0029] The terminal device 10 is a device operated by each user. The terminal device 10 is realized by a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet corresponding to a mobile communication system. In addition, the terminal device 10 may be, for example, a stationary PC (Personal Computer) or a laptop PC. As shown as the terminal device 10B in FIG. 2, the terminal device 10 includes a communication IF (Interface) 12, an input / output IF 13, a memory 15, a storage unit 16, and a processor 19. The server 20 includes a communication IF 22, an input / output IF 23, a memory 25, a storage 26, and a processor 29.

[0030] The terminal device 10 is communicatively connected to the server 20 via the network 80. The terminal device 10 is connected to the network 80 by communicating with communication devices such as a radio base station 81 corresponding to a communication standard such as 5G or LTE (Long Term Evolution), and a wireless LAN router 82 corresponding to a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) standard such as IEEE802.11.

[0031] The communication IF 12 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals so that the terminal device 10 can communicate with an external device.

[0032] The input device 13 is an input device (for example, a pointing device such as a touch panel, a touch pad, a mouse, etc., a keyboard, etc.) for receiving an input operation from the user.

[0033] The output device 14 is an output device (a display, a speaker, a vibrator, etc.) for presenting information to the user.

[0034] The memory 15 is for temporarily storing programs and data processed by programs and the like, and is, for example, a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0035] The storage unit 16 is a storage device for storing data, and is, for example, a flash memory or an HDD (Hard Disc Drive).

[0036] The processor 19 is hardware for executing an instruction set described in a program, and is composed of an arithmetic unit, registers, peripheral circuits, and the like.

[0037] The server 20 acquires the history of water treatment in each water treatment device 30 and holds it as a database. The server 20 predicts the demand for water treatment based on the data accumulated in the database.

[0038] The communication IF 22 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals so that the server 20 can communicate with an external device.

[0039] The input / output IF 23 functions as an interface for an input device for receiving an input operation from the user and an output device for presenting information to the user.

[0040] The memory 25 is for temporarily storing programs and data processed by programs and the like, and is, for example, a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0041] The storage 26 is a storage device for storing data, such as a flash memory or an HDD (Hard Disc Drive).

[0042] The processor 29 is hardware for executing an instruction set described in a program, and is composed of an arithmetic unit, registers, peripheral circuits, and the like.

[0043] Next, each device constituting the water treatment system 1 will be described.

[0044] <Configuration of the water treatment device 30> First, the water treatment device 30 constituting the water treatment system 1 will be described.

[0045] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the water treatment device 30. As shown in FIG. 3, the water treatment device 30 has a water treatment module installation mechanism 32. The water treatment module installation mechanism 32 has a plurality of installation mechanisms (installation mechanisms 32A, 32B, 33C,...).

[0046] The plurality of installation mechanisms are mechanisms for receiving the installation of the water treatment module 40. In the illustrated example, the water treatment modules 40A and 40B are shown as the water treatment modules 40. The water treatment device 30 has a water reception unit 36 that supplies water to be treated to the water treatment module installation mechanism 32, and a treated water output unit 37 that outputs the water treated by each water treatment module 40 installed in the water treatment module installation mechanism 32 to the outside. The water reception unit 36 receives the supply of water from the outside of the water treatment device 30, for example, by a pump or the like. The treated water output unit 37 outputs the water treated by the water treatment module 40 to the outside of the water treatment device 30. Note that the drainage after the user uses the output water can also be input to the water reception unit 36.

[0047] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a plurality of installation mechanisms for receiving the installation of the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment apparatus 30. FIG. 4(A) is a diagram showing the front of the insertion surface 31 for receiving the installation of the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment apparatus 30. FIG. 4(B) is a diagram showing the case where the appearance of the insertion surface 31 is viewed from an oblique direction. FIG. 4(C) is a diagram showing another example for installing the water treatment module 40 in a plurality of installation mechanisms.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 4(A), the water treatment apparatus 30 has a plurality of installation mechanisms (installation mechanisms 32A, 32B, 32C, ···) on the insertion surface 31. In the illustrated example, each of the installation mechanisms has an equivalent structure so that the water treatment module 40 can be connected. The water treatment module 40 is prepared according to its function and has a size corresponding to the structure of the installation mechanism.

[0049] Each installation mechanism provides the function of the water treatment module 40 to the user by installing the water treatment module 40 having a certain volume. For example, each installation mechanism has a connection part for connecting to the water treatment module 40. The connection part has, for example, a pump mechanism for supplying the water to be treated to the water treatment module 40 and a discharge mechanism for discharging the treated water treated by the water treatment module 40. The water treatment module 40 has a connection part at its end for connecting to the installation mechanism. Thereby, the installation mechanism and the water treatment module 40 can be connected at the connection part, and the functions of each water treatment module 40 are provided to the water treatment apparatus 30.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 4(B), the water treatment apparatus 30 has a door 33 for covering the insertion surface 31. The water treatment apparatus 30 is attempting to receive the installation of the water treatment module 40A by the installation mechanism. By inserting the water treatment module 40A into the insertion surface 31, the water treatment module 40 can be installed in the installation mechanism.

[0051] In the illustrated example, the water treatment apparatus 30 has 16 installation mechanisms (installation mechanisms 32A, 32B, ··· 32P) on the insertion surface 31 so that a water treatment module 40 having a predetermined size can be installed. As shown in FIG. 4(B), the water treatment module 40 may have an appearance distinguishable by the user (for example, the color of the water treatment module 40) according to its function and performance.

[0052] In the example of FIG. 4(B), the size of the water treatment module 40 is equal to a predetermined unit, but depending on the water treatment function required for the water treatment module 40, it may be necessary to make the water treatment module 40 larger than the predetermined unit.

[0053] FIG. 4(C) shows that a water treatment module 40 larger than the example of FIG. 4(B) can be installed in the water treatment apparatus 30. As shown in FIG. 4(C), a water treatment module 40B having a size twice the unit is shown with respect to the insertion surface 31. Also, a water treatment system 40C having a size four times the unit with respect to the insertion surface 31 may also be made installable in the water treatment apparatus 30.

[0054] Each water treatment module 40 includes those having a water treatment function, such as a filter. In addition to the water treatment function, each water treatment module 40 includes those that supply energy for operating the water treatment apparatus 30, such as a function of supplying power. As described above, the water treatment apparatus 30 provides the functions of the mounted water treatment modules 40 to the user of the water treatment apparatus 30 by mounting each water treatment module 40.

[0055] As described above, since the water treatment apparatus 30 has a configuration in which the water treatment module 40 can be installed, it can also be regarded as a pod capable of accommodating the water treatment module 40.

[0056] Returning to FIG. 3, the description of the configuration of the water treatment apparatus 30 will be continued.

[0057] The water treatment device 30 has a configuration for communicating with an external device and a configuration for performing data processing. The water treatment device 30 includes a plurality of antennas (antenna 311, antenna 312), a wireless communication unit corresponding to each antenna (first wireless communication unit 321, second wireless communication unit 322), an operation reception unit 330 (including a touch-sensitive device 331 and a display 332), an audio processing unit 340, a microphone 341, a speaker 342, a position information sensor 350, a camera 360, a moving mechanism 370, a storage unit 380, and a control unit 390.

[0058] The water treatment device 30 also has functions and configurations not particularly shown in FIG. 3 (for example, a circuit for connecting to a power source to receive power supply, a battery for holding power, a power supply circuit for controlling the power supply from the battery to each circuit, etc.). As shown in FIG. 3, each block included in the water treatment device 30 is electrically connected by a bus or the like.

[0059] Note that the water treatment device 30 does not necessarily have all the configurations shown in FIG. 3 and may have only some of the configurations. For example, the water treatment device 30 may not have some of the configurations that the terminal device 10 capable of communicating with the water treatment device 30 has. For example, the water treatment device 30 may not have a configuration for notifying the user, such as the audio processing unit 340, the microphone 341, the speaker 342, etc. Also, the water treatment device 30 may not have a configuration that can be sensed in the terminal device 10, such as the position information sensor 350, the camera 360, etc. Further, there may be cases where the water treatment device 30 does not need to have antennas and wireless communication units according to a plurality of communication standards, for example, if the water treatment device 30 corresponds to either a mobile communication system or short-range wireless communication.

[0060] The antenna 311 radiates the signal emitted by the water treatment device 30 as an electromagnetic wave. Also, the antenna 311 receives an electromagnetic wave from space and gives the received signal to the first wireless communication unit 321.

[0061] Antenna 312 radiates the signal emitted by the water treatment device 30 as radio waves. Also, antenna 312 receives radio waves from space and supplies the received signal to the second wireless communication unit 322.

[0062] The first wireless communication unit 321 performs modulation / demodulation processing and the like for transmitting and receiving signals via antenna 311 so that the water treatment device 30 can communicate with other wireless devices. The second wireless communication unit 322 performs modulation / demodulation processing and the like for transmitting and receiving signals via antenna 312 so that the water treatment device 30 can communicate with other wireless devices. The first wireless communication unit 321 and the second wireless communication unit 322 are communication modules including a tuner, an RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) calculation circuit, a CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) calculation circuit, a high-frequency circuit, and the like. The first wireless communication unit 321 and the second wireless communication unit 322 perform modulation / demodulation and frequency conversion of the wireless signals transmitted and received by the water treatment device 30, and supply the received signals to the control unit 390.

[0063] The operation reception unit 330 has a mechanism for receiving the input operations of the user. Specifically, the operation reception unit 330 is configured as a touch screen and includes a touch-sensitive device 331 and a display 332. The touch-sensitive device 331 receives the input operations of the user of the water treatment device 30. The touch-sensitive device 331 detects the contact position of the user on the touch panel, for example, by using a capacitive touch panel. The touch-sensitive device 331 outputs, as an input operation, a signal indicating the contact position of the user detected by the touch panel to the control unit 390. Note that the operation reception unit 330 may receive the input operation by a mechanism that physically deforms, such as a button.

[0064] The display 332 displays data such as images, videos, and texts according to the control of the control unit 390. The display 332 is realized by, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, an electronic paper, or the like.

[0065] The audio processing unit 340 demodulates the audio signal. The audio processing unit 340 modulates the signal given from the microphone 341 and gives the modulated signal to the control unit 390. Also, the audio processing unit 340 gives the audio signal to the speaker 342. The audio processing unit 340 is realized by, for example, a processor for audio processing. The microphone 341 receives an audio input and gives an audio signal corresponding to the audio input to the audio processing unit 340. The speaker 342 converts the audio signal given from the audio processing unit 340 into sound and outputs the sound to the outside of the water treatment device 30.

[0066] The position information sensor 350 is a sensor that detects the position of the water treatment device 30 and is, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) module. The GPS module is a receiving device used in a satellite positioning system. In the satellite positioning system, signals from at least three or four satellites are received, and based on the received signals, the current position of the water treatment device 30 on which the GPS module is mounted is detected. The position detected by this GPS module can be used, for example, when notifying the server 20 of the position information of the water treatment device 30.

[0067] The camera 360 is a device that receives light by a light receiving element and outputs it as a photographed image. The camera 360 is, for example, a depth camera that can detect the distance from the camera 360 to the object to be photographed.

[0068] The storage unit 380 is composed of, for example, a flash memory or the like and stores data and programs used by the water treatment device 30. In a certain aspect, the storage unit 380 stores user information 381 and water treatment history information 382.

[0069] The user information 381 is information of a user who receives the provision of the water treatment function by the water treatment device 30. The user information includes information for identifying the user, information on the water treatment module 40 used by the user, information on the water treatment module 40 owned by the user, and the like.

[0070] The water treatment history information 382 is information indicating the results sensed by various sensors provided in the water treatment apparatus 30. For example, the water treatment history information 382 holds the history of water treatment in each water treatment module 40 installed in the water treatment module installation mechanism 32.

[0071] The control unit 390 reads the program stored in the storage unit 380 and executes the instructions included in the program to control the operation of the water treatment apparatus 30. The control unit 390 is, for example, an application processor. By operating according to the program, the control unit 390 functions as an input operation reception unit 391, a transmission / reception unit 392, a data processing unit 393, and a notification control unit 394.

[0072] The input operation reception unit 391 performs a process of receiving a user's input operation on an input device such as the touch-sensitive device 331. Based on the information of the coordinates where the user touches the touch-sensitive device 331 with a finger or the like, the input operation reception unit 391 discriminates the type of operation, such as whether the user's operation is a flick operation, a tap operation, a drag (swipe) operation, etc. Further, the input operation reception unit 391 acquires information such as the position specified by the user with a pointing device or the like on the display 332.

[0073] The transmission / reception unit 392 performs a process for the water treatment apparatus 30 to transmit and receive data to and from an external device such as the server 20 according to a communication protocol.

[0074] The data processing unit 393 performs a process of performing calculations on the data received by the water treatment apparatus 30 according to a program and outputting the calculation results to a memory or the like. For example, in the water treatment apparatus 30, the data processing unit 393 performs a process of causing the water treatment history information 382 to hold the history of water treatment performed by the water treatment module 40, a process of transmitting the information held in the water treatment history information 382 to the server 20, etc.

[0075] The notification control unit 394 performs a process of notifying the user of information. The notification control unit 394 performs, for example, a process of causing a display image to be displayed on the display 332, a process of outputting sound from the speaker 342, and a process of generating vibration in the camera 360.

[0076] <Functional Configuration of Server 20> Next, the configuration of the server 20 will be described.

[0077] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the functional configuration of the server 20. As shown in FIG. 5, the server 20 functions as a communication unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a control unit 203.

[0078] The communication unit 201 performs a process for the server 20 to communicate with external devices (for example, the terminal device 10, the water treatment device 30).

[0079] The storage unit 202 stores data and programs used by the server 20. The storage unit 202 stores a water treatment module database 281, a water treatment device database 282, a user information database 283, and external environment information 284.

[0080] The water treatment module database 281 is a database regarding the specifications of the water treatment module 40. Details will be described later.

[0081] The water treatment device database 282 is a database regarding the settings of the water treatment device 30 and the history of the user's specification of the water treatment device 30. Details will be described later.

[0082] The user information database 283 is a database for holding information of each user who uses the water treatment device 30. Details will be described later.

[0083] The external environment information 284 is information regarding the environment where the water treatment device 30 is installed. For example, the server 20 acquires parameters that affect the demand for water at the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed and stores them in the external environment information 284. For example, as parameters that affect the demand for water, data regarding the climate conditions (such as weather, temperature, humidity, wind speed, etc.) around the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed, data regarding users who use water (such as inflow and outflow of people, etc.), data regarding the water sources in the region (such as river flow, groundwater volume, etc.), and time-series data of other information are included.

[0084] The control unit 203 exhibits functions indicated as various modules when the processor of the server 20 performs processing according to a program.

[0085] The operation content acquisition module 2041 acquires the operation content of the user when the server 20 receives input of information from a user such as the terminal device 10. For example, when the server 20 presents a screen through the browser of the terminal device 10 and receives the user's operation, the operation content acquisition module 2041 acquires the operation content of the user.

[0086] The reception control module 2042 controls the process in which the server 20 receives a signal from an external device according to a communication protocol.

[0087] The transmission control module 2043 controls the process in which the server 20 transmits a signal to an external device according to a communication protocol.

[0088] The water demand prediction module 2044 predicts the demand for water in each location. The water demand prediction module predicts the use of water required at the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed and the amount of water demand based on the stored content of each database stored in the storage unit 202.

[0089] For example, based on the water treatment device database 282, the water demand prediction module 2044 predicts the water usage and demand in each location based on the actual performance of water treatment in the water treatment devices 30 installed in each location. For example, by creating a learned model based on the time-series data of the water treatment performance of the water treatment devices 30 stored in the water treatment device database 282, the water demand prediction module 2044 can predict the water demand based on the learned model.

[0090] For example, the water demand prediction module 2044 may also predict the water demand in each location based on the environmental information of each location shown in the external environmental information 284. By creating a learned model based on the time-series data of the environmental information of each location and the actual performance of water treatment in the water treatment devices 30 installed in each location, the water demand prediction module 2044 can predict the water demand based on the prediction results of the environmental information of each location and the learned model.

[0091] The combination identification module 2045 identifies the combination of the water treatment modules 40 to be installed in the water treatment device 30. The combination identification module 2045 identifies the combination of the water treatment modules 40 that is suitable for the specified use according to the use specified by the user. In addition, the combination identification module 2045 identifies the combination of the water treatment modules 40 that is suitable for the demand according to the prediction result of the water demand by the water demand prediction module 2044 regardless of the user's specification.

[0092] <Configuration of the terminal device 10> Subsequently, the configuration of the terminal device 10 will be described.

[0093] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the terminal device 10. As shown in FIG. 6, the terminal device 10 includes a plurality of antennas (antenna 111, antenna 112), radio communication units (first radio communication unit 121, second radio communication unit 122) corresponding to the respective antennas, an operation reception unit 130 (including a touch-sensitive device 131 and a display 132), an audio processing unit 140, a microphone 141, a speaker 142, a position information sensor 150, a camera 160, a storage unit 180, and a control unit 190.

[0094] Among the components of the terminal device 10, for the components equivalent to those of the water treatment device 30, since they are the same as the respective components of the water treatment device 30, the description will not be repeated. That is, for the antennas (111, 112), radio communication units (first radio communication unit 121, second radio communication unit 122), operation reception unit 130, touch-sensitive device 131, display 132, audio processing unit 140, microphone 141, speaker 142, position information sensor 150, and camera 160 of the terminal device 10, the functional description will not be repeated for the antennas (311, 312), radio communication units (first radio communication unit 321, second radio communication unit 322), operation reception unit 330, touch-sensitive device 331, display 332, audio processing unit 340, microphone 341, speaker 342, position information sensor 350, and camera 360 of the water treatment device 30. Note that the position information sensor 150 is a sensor that detects the position of the terminal device 10.

[0095] The motion sensor 170 is composed of an acceleration sensor and an angular velocity sensor, and outputs sensing data related to the movement of the terminal device 10. Based on this sensing data, the terminal device 10 detects the inclination of the terminal device 10, the fact that the terminal device 10 is being shaken, etc.

[0096] The storage unit 180 is composed of, for example, a flash memory or the like, and stores data and programs used by the terminal device 10. In a certain aspect, the storage unit 180 stores user information 181 and water treatment history information 182.

[0097] The user information 181 is information about the user who uses the water treatment device 30. The user information includes information for identifying the user, information about the water treatment module 40 used by the user, information about the water treatment module 40 owned by the user, and the like.

[0098] The water treatment history information 182 is information indicating the results sensed by various sensors provided in the water treatment device 30. The water treatment history information 182 holds the history of water treatment performed in each water treatment module 40 installed in the water treatment module installation mechanism 32 of the water treatment device 30.

[0099] The control unit 190 reads the program stored in the storage unit 180 and executes the instructions included in the program to control the operation of the terminal device 10. The control unit 190 is, for example, an application processor. By operating according to the program, the control unit 190 functions as an input operation reception unit 191, a transmission / reception unit 192, a data processing unit 193, and a display control unit 194.

[0100] The input operation reception unit 191 performs processing to receive a user's input operation on an input device such as the touch-sensitive device 131. Based on the information on the coordinates where the user touches the touch-sensitive device 131 with a finger or the like, the input operation reception unit 191 determines the type of operation, such as whether the user's operation is a flick operation, a tap operation, a drag (swipe) operation, or the like.

[0101] The transmission / reception unit 192 performs processing for the terminal device 10 to transmit and receive data to and from an external device such as the server 20 according to a communication protocol.

[0102] The data processing unit 193 performs a process of performing an operation on the data received by the terminal device 10 according to a program and outputting the operation result to a memory or the like. For example, the data processing unit 193 acquires the results of water treatment performed in the water treatment device 30 (sensing results in the water treatment device 30) from the water treatment device 30 and transmits them to the server 20, and presents to the user of the terminal device 10 the combination of the water treatment modules 40 to be installed in the water treatment device 30 by means of the display 132 or the like.

[0103] The notification control unit 194 performs a process of causing the display image to be displayed on the display 132, a process of causing the sound to be output from the speaker 142, and a process of causing vibration to be generated in the camera 160.

[0104] <Data Structure> FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the data structures of the water treatment module database 281, the water treatment device database 282, and the user information database 283 stored in the server 20.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 7, each record of the water treatment module database 281 includes an item "module identification information (ID)", an item "type / function", an item "size / dimension", and an item "sensable data".

[0106] The item "module identification information (ID)" is information for identifying each of the plurality of types of water treatment modules 40.

[0107] The item "type / function" indicates the type into which the water treatment module 40 is classified and the function exhibited by the water treatment module 40.

[0108] (i) As types of the water treatment module 40, there are those having a function of performing water treatment on the inflowing water. For example, as the water treatment module 40, there are those providing a function of removing substances larger than a predetermined size by a filter, those providing a function of removing microorganisms (bacteria) by an optical method (such as irradiation with ultraviolet rays) or a chemical method, and the like.

[0109] (ii) The types of the water treatment module 40 also include those having a function of providing an energy source for operating the water treatment apparatus 30. For example, those in which the water treatment module 40 is provided with a solar cell or the like and provides a power supply function for operating the water treatment apparatus 30 are also included. That is, such a water treatment module 40 causes the water treatment apparatus 30 to exhibit a water treatment function by supplying power to the water treatment apparatus 30.

[0110] (iii) The types of the water treatment module 40 include those that provide water having properties required by the user. For example, when the user has a need to use hot water or cold water for shower use or beverage use, those that provide a hot water supply function or a cooling function, and those that provide a function of generating moisture from the air are included in the water treatment module 40.

[0111] The item "size" indicates the size occupied when the water treatment module 40 is installed in the water treatment apparatus 30. In the present embodiment, as described with reference to FIG. 4 and the like, the water treatment apparatus 30 has a plurality of installation mechanisms. As in the example of FIG. 4, each of these installation mechanisms may be defined as a slot, and in the item "size", the size of each water treatment module 40 may be defined.

[0112] For example, a water treatment module with the item "module identification information (ID)" being "FL01" occupies one slot among the slots of the water treatment apparatus 30 when installed in the water treatment apparatus 30 (the water treatment module 40A in the example of FIG. 4).

[0113] Also, for example, a water treatment module with the item "module identification information (ID)" being "FL02" occupies two slots (the water treatment module 40B in the example of FIG. 4).

[0114] The item "sensable data" indicates an object that can be sensed by the water treatment module 40.

[0115] (i) The sensing targets include items that change before and after water treatment. For example, it may also include items to be sensed in order to evaluate the purification performance by water treatment. More specifically, when the water treatment module 40 has a filter or the like to provide a function of obtaining purified water, the concentration of substances or microorganisms to be removed in the water before treatment with the filter or the like or the concentration in the water after treatment with the filter may be the sensing target.

[0116] (ii) The sensing targets include items related to the amount of water treated. For example, the amount of water flowing into the water treatment module 40 may be the sensing target.

[0117] (iii) The sensing targets include items for evaluating the function of the water treatment module 40. For example, when the water treatment module 40 provides power, the power generation amount may be the sensing target. Also, when the water treatment module 40 generates moisture from the air, the amount of water generated may be the sensing target.

[0118] Each record in the water treatment apparatus database 282 includes an item "pod identification information (ID)", an item "user identification information (ID)", an item "pod location information", an item "slot usage status", an item "designated use", an item "operation start date", and an item "sensing data".

[0119] The item "pod identification information (ID)" is information for identifying each of the water treatment apparatuses 30.

[0120] The item "user identification information (ID)" is information for identifying each user who uses the water treatment apparatus 30.

[0121] The item "Pod location information" indicates the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed (for example, information specified by latitude and longitude, or information specified by address). For example, the information acquired by the location information sensor 350 of the water treatment device 30, or the location information acquired by the user using the terminal device 10 may be used as the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 4, the item "Slot usage status" indicates the status in which a plurality of installation mechanisms (a plurality of slots) of the water treatment device 30 are being used by the water treatment module 40. The item "Slot usage status" may include information on the usage status of each of the plurality of installation mechanisms (the usage status of each slot). The item "Slot usage status" may hold, for example, information for identifying each of the plurality of installation mechanisms, information for identifying the type of water treatment module 40 installed in the installation mechanism (module ID), and information on the number of installation mechanisms provided in the water treatment device 30. The item "Slot usage status" may include information on unused installation mechanisms (empty slots).

[0123] The item "Specified use" indicates the use specified by the user in the water treatment device 30 and the usage status of each slot for realizing the use. For example, in the illustrated example, among the plurality of installation mechanisms (each slot) of the water treatment device 30, in order to exhibit the function of the use "dishwashing" (that is, as a use, water is used for cleaning after a meal), it is shown that four installation mechanisms (slots "SL01", "SL02", "SL03", "SL04") are being used.

[0124] The item "Operation start date" indicates the timing when the water treatment function of the water treatment device 30 is started. The item "Operation start date" may include, in the water treatment device 30, information on the timing (date, date and time, etc.) when the water treatment function is started by the combination of the water treatment modules 40 shown in the item "Slot usage status".

[0125] The item "Sensing Data" indicates the sensing results sensed by each water treatment module 40 installed in the water treatment apparatus 30. In the item "Sensing Data", information indicating the timing sensed in each slot may be associated with and stored together with the data of the sensing results.

[0126] Each record of the user information database 283 includes an item "User Identification Information (ID)", an item "Pod Identification Information (ID) in Use", an item "Modules Held", an item "Modules in Use", and an item "Schedule".

[0127] The item "User Identification Information (ID)" is information for identifying each user who uses the water treatment apparatus 30.

[0128] The item "Pod Identification Information (ID) in Use" indicates information (pod ID) for identifying the water treatment apparatus 30 that the user is using.

[0129] The item "Modules Held" indicates information (module ID) for identifying the modules held by the user among the water treatment modules 40 that can be installed in the water treatment apparatus 30. That is, it indicates the candidates for the water treatment modules 40 that can be installed in the water treatment apparatus 30 by the user. For example, when the user performs an operation to obtain the water treatment module 40 (such as an operation to purchase the water treatment module 40), the information on the water treatment module 40 held by the user is updated in the server 20.

[0130] The item "Module in Use" indicates the water treatment module 40 that the user is using by installing it in the water treatment device 30. The item "Module in Use" may be updated by the server 20 acquiring information for identifying the water treatment module 40 installed in the water treatment device 30. For example, the user may operate the terminal device 10 to specify the water treatment module 40 installed in the water treatment device 30. Also, in the water treatment device 30, it may be possible for the water treatment device 30 to acquire the identification information held by the water treatment module 40 by installing the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment module installation mechanism 32.

[0131] The item "Schedule" includes information on the user's schedule. For example, the server 20 acquires information on the user's schedule from a server device that provides a calendar application. The schedule information includes, for example, the subject, location, date and time, information on the content of the schedule, and so on.

[0132] For example, the server 20 may predict the demand for water treatment in the water treatment device 30 based on the user's schedule information. For example, based on information such as the subject and location in the schedule information, it is possible to infer whether there is a demand for water and the amount of water demand at a certain date and time. For example, when information such as "cooking" is included in the subject and the content of the schedule in the schedule information, it can be inferred that there is a demand for water for the use of "washing dishes".

[0133] Also, the server 20 can create a learned model for outputting a prediction result of the demand for water treatment based on the schedule information by comparing the user's schedule information with the actual values of the sensing results (the item "Sensing Data" in the water treatment device database 282) in the water treatment device 30. The server 20 can infer the demand for water treatment before and after the date and time indicated in the schedule based on the learned model and the user's schedule indicated in the item "Schedule".

[0134] <Operation> The operations of each device of the water treatment system 1 will be described below.

[0135] Specifically, (i) a process of accumulating, in the server 20, the results of water treatment performed by the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment device 30 will be described. Also, as a process of presenting to the user the combination of the water treatment modules 40 installed in the water treatment device 30, (ii) a process of presenting the combination of the water treatment modules 40 according to the use specified by the user, (iii) a process of predicting the demand for water treatment at the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed and presenting the combination of the water treatment modules 40 to the user, (iv) a process of presenting the combination of the water treatment modules 40 to the user according to the results of the water treatment of the water treatment device 30 will be described. Also, when the water treatment device 30 can be moved, (v) a process of prompting the user to move the water treatment device 30 according to the demand for water treatment in each place will be described.

[0136] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the flow of a process of accumulating, in the server 20, the results of water treatment performed by the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment device 30.

[0137] In step S801, the water treatment device 30 (control unit 390) identifies each of the water treatment modules 40 installed in the respective slots of the water treatment module installation mechanism 32, thereby specifying the combination of the water treatment modules 40 installed in the water treatment module installation mechanism 32. The water treatment device 30 transmits the specified combination of the water treatment modules 40 to the server 20.

[0138] In step S853, the server 20 (control unit 203) records, in the water treatment device database 282, information for identifying the water treatment device 30, information for identifying the user, information indicating the position of the water treatment device 30, the combination of the water treatment modules 40 installed in each slot of the water treatment device 30, the use of the water treatment module 40, information such as the operation start date on which the water treatment device 30 starts water treatment by the combination of the water treatment modules 40, etc., from the water treatment device 30 or the terminal device 10 of the user of the water treatment device 30. Regarding the use of the water treatment module 40, for example, the user may perform an operation of designating the use of the water treatment device 30 on the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30, and the designated use may be transmitted from the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30 to the server 20. Also, the operation start date may be designated by the user, or may be specified by the server 20 based on the timing when the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30 transmits the combination of the water treatment modules 40 to the server 20, or the timing when the server 20 receives the combination of the water treatment modules 40.

[0139] In step S805, the water treatment device 30 acquires sensing results regarding the processing of the water treatment module 40 by various sensor devices, and sequentially transmits the sensing results to the server 20.

[0140] In step S855, the server 20 receives the sensing results in the water treatment device 30 from the water treatment device 30 or the terminal device 10, and accumulates them in the water treatment device database 282.

[0141] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a flow of a process in which the server 20 presents a combination of the water treatment modules 40 to the user according to the use of the water treatment device 30 designated by the user.

[0142] In step S931, the terminal device 10 (control unit 190) receives, from the user, a designation of one or more uses regarding the use of the water treatment device 30. The terminal device 10 transmits the designated use to the server 20.

[0143] In step S953, the server 20 identifies the necessary water treatment module 40 by referring to the water treatment module database 281 according to the use specified by the user for the water treatment device 30. For example, the server 20 identifies the water treatment module 40 corresponding to the use by holding information associating the uses that the user can specify with the identification information of the water treatment module 40. The server 20 responds to the terminal device 10 with the combination of the water treatment modules 40. Further, the server 20 refers to the user information database 283 and responds with the information of the water treatment module 40 that the user does not hold among the combinations of the water treatment modules 40 corresponding to the user's use. Further, the server 20 responds to the terminal device 10 with the number of slots required for the identified combination of the water treatment modules 40.

[0144] In step S935, the terminal device 10 presents to the user by, for example, displaying on the display 132 the information indicating the combination of the water treatment modules 40 received from the server 20. When there is a water treatment module 40 that the user does not hold in the combination of the water treatment modules 40, the terminal device 10 presents it to the user as the water treatment module 40 required for the use specified by the user. The terminal device 10 determines the number of slots required for the combination of the water treatment modules 40 and the availability of the slots of the water treatment module 40. For example, when there is no availability of the number of slots required to realize the use specified by the user in the water treatment device 30, the terminal device 10 notifies the user to that effect.

[0145] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a flow of a process in which the server 20 predicts the demand for water treatment at the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed and presents a combination of the water treatment modules 40 to the user.

[0146] In step S1053, the server 20 obtains information on the environment (information on regional climate conditions, information on regional water sources, etc.) at the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed by referring to the external environment information 284. The server 20 predicts the demand for water treatment at the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed based on the environmental information.

[0147] In step S1055, the server 20 identifies candidates for combinations of the water treatment modules 40 that meet the prediction result based on the prediction result of the water demand, and transmits the identified candidates to the user's terminal device 10.

[0148] In step S1035, the terminal device 10 receives information on candidates for combinations of the water treatment modules 40 from the server 20, and presents the received candidates for combinations of the water treatment modules 40 to the user.

[0149] Thereby, it is possible to prompt the user to change the combination of the water treatment modules 40 according to the prediction of the water demand.

[0150] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a flow of a process in which the server 20 presents a combination of the water treatment modules 40 to the user according to the actual results of the water treatment of the water treatment device 30.

[0151] In step S1153, the server 20 determines the use of the water treatment by the user based on the sensing result of the water treatment device 30 by referring to the water treatment device database 282. For example, for each use, the server 20 holds information defining the assumed amount of water treatment (the amount of water flowing into the water treatment module 40). By comparing the sensing result of the water treatment device 30 with the assumed amount of water treatment, the usage frequency of the use is determined. When the usage frequency of water treatment for a specific use is lower than a specified value, it can be determined that the user is not using the water treatment device 30 for that use.

[0152] In addition, when the usage frequency of the water treatment device 30 for a specific use is greater than a specified value, it can be determined that the user has a relatively high chance of using the water treatment device 30 for that use.

[0153] Also, when there is a use with a relatively high usage frequency among the uses specified by the user, it can also be presumed that the user is using related uses. For example, when the user designates to use for the use "dishwashing" and the water treatment module 40 purifies water by a filter or the like, it is assumed that the amount of water treatment actually performed by the water treatment module 40 is larger than the amount of water treatment assumed for the use "dishwashing". In this case, the server 20 can presume that the water treatment module 40 is also being used for uses other than "dishwashing".

[0154] In step S1155, based on the result of determining the use based on the sensing result of the water treatment module 40, the server 20 specifies the combination of the water treatment modules 40 to be presented to the user, and transmits the specified combination of the water treatment modules 40 to the terminal device 10.

[0155] In step S1135, the terminal device 10 presents the candidate combinations of the water treatment modules 40 received from the server 20 to the user.

[0156] As described above, based on the actual performance of water treatment in the water treatment device 30, the user can be prompted to change the combination of the water treatment modules 40.

[0157] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a flow of a process for prompting the user to move the water treatment device 30 according to the water treatment demand in each region.

[0158] In step S1353, the server 20 predicts the demand for water treatment in each region based on the sensing results of the water treatment devices 30 installed in each region and the information on the environment of each region by referring to the water treatment device database 282 and the external environment information 284. For example, the server 20 predicts the demand for water treatment in each region and the demand for the water treatment devices 30 required to meet the demand (such as the number of water treatment devices 30) by performing the processes described in steps S1053 and S1153.

[0159] In step S1355, the server 20 obtains the situation where the water treatment devices 30 are arranged in each region by referring to the water treatment device database 282. The server 20 determines the destination of movement of the water treatment devices 30 in each region so as to be able to meet the prediction of the demand for water treatment in each region predicted in step S1353. For example, when there is a first area with a small number of water treatment devices 30 for the predicted demand for water treatment in each region, among the plurality of areas with a surplus in the number of water treatment devices 30 for the prediction, the second area is specified based on the distance to the first area, the movement time, and the amount of energy required for the movement of the water treatment devices 30.

[0160] For example, among the plurality of areas, the second area with a short movement time for moving the water treatment device 30 is specified based on the route (distance, traffic congestion situation, etc.) to the first area. For example, when a decrease in the supply amount from tap water or the like is assumed for the water demand, such as during a disaster, in order to quickly provide the water treatment function by the water treatment device 30 in response to the water demand (to enable the reuse of drainage), the water treatment device 30 may be moved from an area with a short movement time.

[0161] Also, when it is assumed that the demand for water treatment in each region fluctuates due to seasonal changes or the like, the water treatment device 30 to be moved may be specified so that the amount of energy required to move the water treatment device 30 is reduced (so that the amount of energy required for transportation is reduced).

[0162] In step S1357, the server 20 notifies the users of each water treatment device 30 of the information on the destination of the water treatment device 30.

[0163] In step S1335, the terminal device 10 presents the destination of the water treatment device 30 to the user.

[0164] Note that the water treatment device 30 does not necessarily need to be associated with the information of the user who will be the user. For example, the water treatment device 30 may be installed in public facilities, places with a high degree of publicness (such as parks), etc., without associating the user's information, or the information of the administrator may be associated. The water treatment device 30 may be self-driven from the first area to the second area by remote control via communication or by automatically traveling based on map information or the like.

[0165] <Example Screen> An example screen in a situation where information is notified to the user will be described. As described above, the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30 presents information to the user. In the following description of the example screen, an example of presenting information by the user's terminal device 10 will be described.

[0166] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example screen in the terminal device 10.

[0167] FIGS. 13(A), 13(B), and 13(C) are example screens of a situation where a combination of water treatment modules 40 according to the use of the water treatment device 30 is presented to the user.

[0168] FIG. 13(A) corresponds to the processing of steps S931 and S935. As shown in FIG. 13(A), the terminal device 10 displays a position display section 132A, a use display section 132B, a module information display section 132G, and operation buttons 132C on the display 132. The server 20 transmits the information to be displayed on the terminal device 10 to the terminal device 10 by referring to the water treatment device database 282.

[0169] The position display unit 132A is an area for presenting to the user the position where the water treatment device 30 is installed.

[0170] The usage display unit 132B is an area for presenting to the user the usage (e.g., the usage specified by the user) set for the water treatment device 30.

[0171] The module information display unit 132G is an area for presenting to the user the combination of water treatment modules 40 installed in the water treatment device 30. As shown in the module information display unit 132G, the terminal device 10 displays the combination of modules necessary for the water treatment device 30 to exhibit the function of the usage "shower", and the water treatment modules 40 that the user does not own (the water treatment modules 40 necessary for the user to receive the functions corresponding to the usage from the water treatment device 30).

[0172] The operation button 132C is an area for displaying information to guide the user on how to install the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment device 30. For example, in response to the operation of the user designating the operation button 132C, the terminal device 10 displays the positions of the slots for installing each water treatment module 40 displayed in the module information display unit 132G in the water treatment device 30.

[0173] FIG. 13(B) corresponds to the process of step S1035. As shown in FIG. 13(B), the terminal device 10, as shown in the module information display unit 132G, displays the predicted result of water demand at the position where the water treatment device 30 is installed according to the predicted results of water demand in each region, and the combination of water treatment modules 40 that can match the water demand according to the predicted result. For example, when the server 20 predicts a shortage in the supply volume relative to the water demand, the server 20 causes the terminal device 10 to display the combination of water treatment modules 40 that can eliminate the shortage.

[0174] Figure 13(C) corresponds to the process of step S1135. As shown in Figure 13(C), the terminal device 10 displays, as shown in the module information display section 132G, the result of estimating the user's usage based on the history of the user's use of the water treatment device 30. In the module information display section 132G, the terminal device 10 displays the combination of water treatment modules 40 corresponding to the estimated user usage.

[0175] On the screen (the screen that displays the water treatment modules 40 not owned by the user), the terminal device 10 may display a screen (or a button to transition to the screen) for making the water treatment modules 40 not owned by the user available for the user to purchase or the like.

[0176] Figure 13(D) shows a scene where guidance for moving the water treatment device 30 according to the water demand in each region is presented to the user.

[0177] Figure 13(D) corresponds to the process of step S1335. As shown in Figure 13(D), the terminal device 10 displays a guidance display section 132J and a route display section 132K on the display 132.

[0178] Note that the water treatment device 30 may not be the user's property, and the water treatment devices 30 installed in each region may be moved by autonomous driving or transportation according to the prediction result of the water treatment demand.

[0179] Alternatively, Figure 13(D) may be a screen presented to the administrator who manages the water treatment device 30.

[0180] The guidance display section 132J is an area for displaying the destination when moving the water treatment device 30 according to the prediction result of the water treatment demand in each region. In the guidance display section 132J, information about the time required to move the water treatment device 30 and the timing when the water treatment device 30 should be moved may be displayed.

[0181] The route display section 132K is an area for the method of moving the water treatment apparatus 30 from the current value to the destination and for allowing the user to view the movement route. For example, in response to a user operation on the route display section 132K, it may transition to a screen that displays the method of movement or the like, or information such as the movement route may be displayed on the route display section 132K.

[0182] As described above, the water treatment system 1 is configured such that the water treatment module 40 can be reconfigured according to the application in the water treatment apparatuses 30 installed in various locations, and can meet various water demands without requiring infrastructure costs such as those for large-scale water treatment facilities.

[0183] <Embodiment 2> A water treatment system according to another embodiment will be described. In the description of Embodiment 2, the description of "water treatment apparatus" includes the "water treatment apparatus 30" described in Embodiment 1, and refers to an apparatus that performs water treatment such as removing foreign substances from water supplied to the environment or used water by a filter. That is, the "water treatment apparatus" includes apparatuses other than the water treatment apparatus 30 that perform water treatment. Further, in the description of Embodiment 2, the "water utilization facility" refers to a facility installed corresponding to the situation where the user uses water.

[0184] In the description of Embodiment 2, a method for creating a learned model for predicting the water demand and water utilization status in each environment when various water utilization facilities and water treatment apparatuses (including the water treatment apparatus 30 described in Embodiment 1. That is, water treatment apparatuses other than the water treatment apparatus 30 are also installed in houses and the like) can be used in each environment such as houses, apartment buildings, and mobile bodies (such as camping cars and aircraft) will be described. As the environment where water is used, there are the outdoor land 5, the building 6 having an indoor area, the mobile body 7, etc. as described in Embodiment 1.

[0185] In addition, in the second embodiment, it will be described that various processes such as notification of information to the user and maintenance management of the water treatment device are enabled by distributing the created learned model to the water treatment device or the user's terminal (including the terminal device 10 described in the first embodiment).

[0186] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an overview of the water treatment system 2 according to the second embodiment. As shown as the water treatment system 2, the server 20 receives and accumulates a water treatment data set, which is a group of data output during water treatment, from various devices such as water treatment devices (including the water treatment device 30) arranged in each environment, water utilization facilities, and the terminal device 10. For example, the server 20 receives, as the water treatment data set, sensing data sensed by water utilization facilities (61A, 61B,...) installed in environments (60A, 60B) where water treatment devices (including water treatment devices other than the water treatment device 30) operate, and various data sensed during the operation of the water treatment devices (for example, the water treatment devices 30A, 30B). The water utilization facilities are facilities for users to use water. For example, various water utilization facilities are prepared according to the aspects where users use water, such as shower rooms, kitchens, and laundry. For example, various sensors may be provided in various water treatment modules installed in the water treatment device 30.

[0187] Here, the water treatment data set includes, for example, the following.

[0188] (A) Parameters for driving various hardware components constituting the water treatment system 2 · Parameters related to driving pumps of water utilization facilities and water treatment devices (1) Pump driving values (voltage, current), integrated driving time, pump maintenance records (2) Service life of the pump

[0189] · Parameters related to operation control of the tank (1) Tank capacity, material, service life (2) Fluctuation of the tank capacity (3) Integrated driving time of the tank, maintenance records

[0190] · Parameters related to the operation control of the valve (1) Driving value (voltage, current) of the valve, integrated driving time, operation time / timing (2) Service life of the valve

[0191] (a) Sensing results · Sensing results of various sensors capable of sensing in water (for example, the following items can be sensed by the sensor) (1) Flow rate, pressure, water level, temperature (2) pH, electrical conductivity, oxidation-reduction potential, alkalinity, ion concentration (3) Turbidity, chromaticity, viscosity, dissolved oxygen (4) Odor, ammonia nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, nitrite nitrogen, total nitrogen, residual chlorine, total phosphorus, total organic carbon, total inorganic carbon, total trihalomethane (5) Detection results of microbial sensors, chemical oxygen demand, biological oxygen demand (6) Cyanide, mercury, oil content, surfactant (7) Detection results of optical sensors, detection results of TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) sensors (8) Mass spectrometry results, fine particles, zeta potential, surface potential

[0192] · Sensing results of gas sensors (for example, the following items can be sensed by the sensor) (1) Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, ammonia, methane, propane, propanol, VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds), organic solvents, trimethylamine, methyl mercaptan, hydrogen sulfide, methyl sulfide, dimethyl sulfide, oxygen, nitrogen, chlorine, flammable gas

[0193] · Image data (1) Monitoring image data of the biological treatment tank (2) Monitoring image data of the tank (3) Monitoring image data of the filter (4) Monitoring image data of the piping

[0194] · Water quality data (1) Data on the water quality standard items (51 items, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare) of the tap water quality standard (2) Data on sewage treatment

[0195] (c) Other information · Environmental information (1) Atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity (2) Information indicating the location of the environment

[0196] · User data (1) User attributes (gender, nationality, place of residence) (2) User usage patterns (washing use, beverage use)

[0197] Based on the water treatment data set collected from the environment (60A, 60B) in which the water treatment device operates, the server 20 generates a learned model. For example, the server 20 performs machine learning based on the water treatment data set accumulated by being sensed in each of the environments (60A, 60B) in which the water treatment device operates, thereby generating a learned model. The server 20 may store the learned model in association with the information identifying each of the environments (60A, 60B) in which the water treatment device operates.

[0198] The server 20 transmits the generated learned model to computers such as the water treatment device 30 and the terminal device 10. Based on the information identifying the environment in which the water treatment device operates, the server 20 transmits the learned model based on the water treatment data set obtained by sensing in the environment to the water treatment device 30 or the user's terminal device 10 associated with the information identifying the environment. Thereby, the server 20 can distribute the learned model to the water treatment device 30 or the terminal device 10 for each of the environments (60A, 60B) in which the water treatment device operates.

[0199] Here, water utilization facilities and water treatment devices may be installed one or more in a single-family house or in an apartment building as an installation mode. In addition, water utilization facilities and water treatment devices may be installed at a campsite, a travel destination, a temporary staying place, etc. In addition to this, in commercial facilities such as restaurants, water utilization facilities and water treatment devices may be installed. The water utilization facilities are installed corresponding to the situations where users use water, and for example, the following situations may exist.

[0200] As a situation where users use water, (a) users may use body washing equipment. As places where body washing equipment is arranged, there are a shower room, a bathroom, a washbasin, a foot bath, an animal body washing place, etc.

[0201] As a situation where users use water, (b) users may use clothes washing appliances. Examples of clothes washing appliances include washing machines.

[0202] As a situation where users use water, (c) users may use equipment for washing food and tableware, for example, using such washing equipment in the kitchen.

[0203] As a situation where users use water, (d) users may use water supply equipment. For example, users use a water purifier to obtain drinking water or cooking water.

[0204] These water utilization facilities have pipes, faucets, etc. for supplying and draining water, and the amount of water used, etc. is recorded. In addition, the water utilization facilities may be those that use raw water (rivers, marshes, lakes, seawater, well water, rainwater) taken naturally, or may be those that use treated water treated by a water treatment device.

[0205] By providing a filter, the water treatment device can remove foreign substances larger than a predetermined size and foreign substances longer than a predetermined length. For example, the water treatment device removes dust, stones, soil, sand, hair, dirt, excrement, food, etc. by a filter.

[0206] By having a reverse osmosis membrane, the water treatment device can remove metal molecules and pesticide molecules.

[0207] These water treatment devices (including water treatment device 30) can control the flow rate of the water to be treated by the water treatment device and the content of the treatment for the water (which filter to pass through) by operating under computer control.

[0208] For example, by controlling the operation of the valve of the water treatment device by a computer, it is possible to control which filter provided in the water treatment device the water to be treated passes through. For example, by controlling the valve, the water to be treated can be made to pass through one filter, can be made to pass through a plurality of filters, or can be made not to pass through any filter.

[0209] For example, by controlling the operation of the pump of the water treatment device by a computer, the amount of water sent out by the pump and the pressure of the water can be controlled.

[0210] In addition, the water treatment facility and the water treatment device can sense the pressure change and the amount of water by having various sensors. For example, as sensors, there are a pressure sensor, a flow rate sensor, an electrical conductivity sensor, an odor sensor, etc. By providing a pressure sensor in the piping used in the water treatment facility or the water treatment device, the pressure of the water in the piping can be sensed. Also, in the piping through which the treated water flows after being treated by the water treatment device, by providing a flow rate sensor and an odor sensor, the amount of water treated by the water treatment device and the intensity of the odor can be sensed. For example, the electrical conductivity of the water before being treated by the water treatment device can be sensed by an electrical conductivity sensor.

[0211] Such sensors are installed, for example, in piping, faucets, etc.

[0212] <Data Structure> FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the data structure of the external environment information 284 in Embodiment 2.

[0213] As shown in FIG. 15, each record of the external environment information 284 includes information on each item such as the item "environment identification information (ID)", the item "parameters affecting the water demand in the environment", and the item "sensing data of the water treatment facility".

[0214] The item "environment identification information (ID)" is information for identifying each environment in which the water treatment device operates. The environment in which the water treatment device operates refers to, for example, a house in which one or more households reside, a building used as an office, a facility where a plurality of residences or offices are concentrated, and the like. The item "environment identification information (ID)" may include information on the location of the environment in which the water treatment device operates.

[0215] The item "parameters affecting the water demand in the environment" are parameters related to the water supply amount and water demand amount in the environment.

[0216] For example, regarding the parameters related to the water supply amount and water demand amount, factors based on the environment include factors such as the place where water is used, the location, the situation where water is used, temperature, humidity, vibration, air pressure, etc. Also, regarding the said parameters, factors based on the usage mode include how water is used, the purpose, etc. Also, regarding the said parameters, temporal factors include the frequency at which users use water, the time for using water for one use, etc. Specifically, it may include the following.

[0217] (i) As parameters affecting the motivation for users to use water, for example, parameters of climatic conditions are included. The parameters of climatic conditions include the weather, temperature, humidity, wind speed, etc. in the environment (location) where the water treatment device is installed.

[0218] (ii) As parameters that affect the water demand, for example, it includes information on users who use water in the environment. For example, as parameters that affect the water demand, it includes information on the number of users who use water in the environment, including information on the number of people flowing in and out per unit time. Also, as parameters that affect the water demand, it may include information on the time zone when people stay in a house or the like.

[0219] (iii) As parameters related to the supply amount of water supplied to the environment, for example, it includes information on water sources available in the environment. For example, as information on the water source, it may include information such as the flow rate of a river, the amount of groundwater, and water quality.

[0220] The item "sensing data of water use facilities" includes data that can be sensed in the environment (60A, 60B) where the water treatment device operates. For example, when various sensors (such as gas sensors) are installed in the environment, it includes the sensing results of the sensors. Also, it includes information on the operating status of water use facilities (such as tanks) installed in the environment (60A, 60B) under computer control. Also, it includes information on the water quality sensed by various sensors of the water use facilities and the water treatment device.

[0221] As described above, the server 20 can accumulate the water treatment data set acquired in the environment (60A, 60B) where the water treatment device operates in the external environment information 284 or the like, and generate a learned model by performing machine learning based on the water treatment data set. Note that various methods such as deep learning can be used for the machine learning method.

[0222] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the operations of the devices constituting the water treatment system 2 of Embodiment 2. Note that, as an example of the water treatment device, the water treatment device 30 described in Embodiment 1 is exemplified, but it is not limited thereto.

[0223] In step S1601, the water treatment device 30 transmits, as a water treatment data set, parameters for controlling the operation of the water treatment device 30 (such as drive values for valve control and pump control of the water treatment device 30) and sensing data of various sensors (such as in-water sensors) of the water treatment device 30 to the server 20.

[0224] In step S1653, for the water treatment device 30 in each environment, the server 20 receives a water treatment data set from the water treatment device 30. The server 20 accumulates the received water treatment data set in the water treatment device database 282 in association with information for identifying each water treatment device 30.

[0225] In step S1611, the terminal device 10 transmits, as a water treatment data set, data acquired in each environment to the server 20. The terminal device 10 transmits, for example, parameters that affect the demand for water in each environment, sensing data of water utilization facilities, etc. to the server 20.

[0226] In step S1655, the server 20 acquires data acquired in each environment from the terminal device 10 (or a computer other than the terminal device 10 in the environment) and accumulates it as a water treatment data set in a database (such as the external environment information 284). The server 20 accumulates the water treatment data set as a database in association with information for identifying the environment in which the water treatment device operates (for example, information for identifying the user who uses the environment, identification information of the water treatment device 30, location information where the water treatment device 30 is installed, etc.).

[0227] In step S1657, based on the water treatment data sets acquired in each environment, the server 20 generates a learned model for each environment. The server 20 generates a learned model based on various water treatment data sets in association with information for identifying the environment in which the water treatment device 30 operates.

[0228] In step S1659, the server 20 transmits the learned model to the computers in each environment. The server 20 distributes the learned model generated for each environment to the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30 in each environment based on the information identifying each environment.

[0229] In step S1603, the water treatment device 30 receives the learned model from the server 20.

[0230] In step S1605, the water treatment device 30 presents the processing result using the learned model to the user.

[0231] In step S1613, the terminal device 10 receives the learned model.

[0232] In step S1615, the terminal device 10 presents the processing result using the learned model to the user.

[0233] In the description of the above Embodiment 2, an example was described in which the learned model generated by the server 20 is distributed to the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30, and the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30 receives the learned model and presents the processing result based on the learned model to the user (S1605, S1615).

[0234] In addition to this, in the server 20, the learned model generated for each environment may be held, and in response to an access from the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30 in each environment, processing based on the learned model may be performed, and the processing result may be transmitted to the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30. That is, the processing in steps S1605 and S1615 may be borne by the server 20, and the server 20 may transmit the processing result based on the learned model to the water treatment device 30 or the terminal device 10 in response to an access from the water treatment device 30 or the terminal device 10.

[0235] By having each device of the water treatment system 2 perform processing as described above, for example, a learned model can be distributed on a per-household basis. As a result, processing based on the predicted water demand can be performed and the processing results can be presented to the user.

[0236] For example, as a way to present the processing results using the learned model to the user (S1605, S1615), the following is included.

[0237] (1) Processing related to water supply For example, when the amount of water supplied to the environment can vary, it is possible to encourage adjusting the amount of water used in each environment and the method of performing water treatment with the water treatment device. When multiple people share the water from the water source, the time and amount of water used in each environment (e.g., each household) may differ. While predicting the water demand according to fluctuations in weather conditions, the inflow and outflow of people (estimated based on the number of users using the airport, the number of hotel reservations, etc. in the case of a tourist destination), based on the learned model generated for each environment, control can be performed such as reusing the water treated in the water treatment device of each environment so that the water supply from the water source is sufficient.

[0238] (2) Estimating the functions required for water treatment For example, the terminal device 10 uses the learned model to predict the operating status of the pump of the water treatment device when the other information (e.g., weather information, etc.) changes based on the information of the pump drive value and the other information. For example, the terminal device 10 acquires a forecast of weather information such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, etc. by using the learned model, and estimates the water demand in the case of the weather information shown in the forecast based on the prediction of the pump operating status. The terminal device 10 can estimate the water demand by using the learned model and, according to the water demand, estimate the functions required for the water treatment device 30 (e.g., the combination of water treatment modules 40 to be installed in the water treatment device 30. Filters, pump performance, pipe specifications, etc. that can handle the predicted amount of water treatment).

[0239] In addition, since the flow rate and water pressure of the water treatment passing through the filter provided in the water treatment apparatus are controlled by the pump, the terminal device 10 can present the prediction result of the electricity charge to the user, present the replacement timing of the filter, and perform a process of placing an order based on the inventory status of the filter in order to replace the filter, by using the learned model.

[0240] (3) Method of handling the treated water The terminal device 10 predicts the properties of the treated water treated by the water treatment apparatus by using the learned model, and determines the content to be notified to the user according to the prediction result. For example, the terminal device 10 predicts the sensing results of various sensors of the treated water treated by the water treatment apparatus when the sensing result of the water before treatment flowing into the water treatment apparatus fluctuates, thereby predicting the properties of the water after treatment by the water treatment apparatus. For example, based on the properties of the water (such as the degree of removal of pollutants), the terminal device 10 or the like can determine whether the treated water can be directly discharged into rivers, soil, etc.

[0241] <Another example of the configuration of the water treatment apparatus 30> As described in the above Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, the water treatment apparatus 30 has been described as inserting (fitting) a water treatment module 40 having a predetermined shape into a water treatment module installation mechanism 32 (installation mechanisms 32A, 32B,...) as shown in FIG. 4.

[0242] In addition to this, as a method of connecting a plurality of water treatment modules 40 to each other, a method of connecting a mechanism for supplying water to be treated to the water treatment module 40, and a method of connecting a discharge mechanism for discharging the treated water to the water treatment module 40, for example, the following methods may be used.

[0243] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the water treatment apparatus 30. As shown in the figure, a plurality of water treatment modules 40 may be arranged side by side and connected by piping 42. Further, by having a connection mechanism 43 for connecting to other water treatment modules 40 at a predetermined location on the outer appearance of the water treatment module 40, it may be possible to connect a plurality of water treatment modules 40 to each other by arranging, stacking, etc.

[0244] FIG. 17(A) shows an example in which a plurality of water treatment modules 40 are arranged horizontally and connected by piping 42. For example, the water treatment modules 40 are arranged on the floor surface, and the piping 42 is connected to the water treatment modules 40. As shown in the figure, the water treatment module 40A-01 and the water treatment module 40A-02 are connected by the piping 42. Further, the water treatment module 40A-02 and the water treatment module 40A-03 are connected by the piping 42.

[0245] Note that the piping 42 may have a structure for branching and flowing the water to be treated, and the branching direction may be controlled by a valve.

[0246] FIG. 17(B) shows an example in which the water treatment modules 40 are connected to each other by a mechanism provided in the water treatment module 40. For example, an arbitrary surface such as the side surface of the water treatment module 40 has a mechanism for connecting to other water treatment modules 40. For example, the water treatment module 40 may have a concave portion and a convex portion at an arbitrary location, and the water treatment modules 40 may be combined with each other by fitting the unevenness.

[0247] In the example of FIG. 17(B), each water treatment module 40 is connected by stacking a plurality of water treatment modules 40. In the example of FIG. 17(B), the water treatment module 40A-01 and the water treatment module 40A-02 are connected to each other by a connection mechanism 43 (shown by a dotted line). Similarly, the water treatment module 40A-02 and the water treatment module 40A-03, and the water treatment module 40A-03 and the water treatment module 40A-04 are connected by the connection mechanism 43.

[0248] As described above, whether inserting the water treatment module 40 into the water treatment module installation mechanism 32 shown in FIG. 4 or connecting a plurality of water treatment modules 40 to each other as shown in FIG. 17, various sensor devices can sense the water passing through the filter etc. provided in the water treatment module installation mechanism 32, the piping 42, the connection mechanism 43, and the water treatment module 40. The server 20 updates the water treatment apparatus database 282 based on the sensing results of the water treatment apparatus 30.

[0249] <Supplementary Note> The matters described in each of the above embodiments are appended below.

[0250] (Supplementary Note 1) An information processing apparatus (20) including a control unit (29, 203), wherein the control unit functions as means (S1653, S1655) for receiving at least one of a data set related to the environment (60A, 60B) in which the water treatment apparatus (30) operates or a data set related to the water treatment of the water treatment apparatus in the environment, and means (S1657) for generating a learned model based on the acquired data set.

[0251] (Supplementary Note 2) The information processing apparatus further functions as means (S1659) for transmitting the learned model to a terminal of a user who uses the water treatment apparatus or the environment in which the water treatment apparatus operates, thereby causing the water treatment apparatus or the user's terminal that has received the learned model to perform a process of presenting the user with a processing result obtained by using the learned model (S1605, S1615), the information processing apparatus according to (Supplementary Note 1).

[0252] (Supplementary Note 3) The information processing apparatus further transmits, in response to an access from a terminal of a user who uses the water treatment apparatus or the environment in which the water treatment apparatus operates, a processing result obtained by using the learned model to the water treatment apparatus or the user's terminal, the information processing apparatus according to (Supplementary Note 1) or (Supplementary Note 2).

[0253] (Supplementary Note 4) In the receiving means, as a data set related to the water treatment of the water treatment apparatus, at least any one of data related to valve control of the water treatment apparatus, data related to pump control of the water treatment apparatus, and sensing data of a first sensor device that senses the properties of the water to be treated in the water treatment apparatus is acquired (284), and in the generating means, a learned model is generated based on the acquired data set of the water treatment apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 3).

[0254] (Appendix 5) In the receiving means, as a data set related to the environment, at least any one of sensing data of a second sensor device that detects a gas in the environment, data related to the operation of devices other than the water treatment apparatus among the devices constituting the water treatment system including the water treatment apparatus in the environment, and data related to weather conditions in the environment is acquired (284), and in the generating means, a learned model is generated based on the acquired data set related to the environment. The information processing apparatus according to any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 4).

[0255] (Appendix 6) In the receiving means, a data set is received in association with information specifying the operating environment (284), and in the generating means, a learned model is created based on the data set associated with the information specifying the operating environment. The information processing apparatus according to (Appendix 1).

[0256] (Appendix 7) The information processing apparatus further functions as means for transmitting a learned model associated with the information specifying the operating environment to a water treatment apparatus associated with the information specifying the operating environment or a terminal of a user who uses the environment in which the water treatment apparatus operates (S1659, S1603, S1613), and causes the water treatment apparatus or the user's terminal that has received the learned model to perform a process of presenting the user with a processing result obtained by using the learned model (S1605, S1615). The information processing apparatus according to (Appendix 6).

[0257] (Appendix 8) The information processing apparatus further transmits, in response to access from a water treatment apparatus or a user terminal that uses the environment in which the water treatment apparatus operates, a processing result obtained by using a learned model associated with information identifying the operating environment, to the water treatment apparatus or the user terminal. The information processing apparatus according to (Appendix 6).

[0258] (Appendix 9) In the water treatment apparatus or the user terminal, as a processing result obtained by using a learned model, information on functions required for the water treatment apparatus according to the demand for water in the operating environment, the information processing apparatus according to any one of (Appendix 2), (Appendix 3), (Appendix 7), (Appendix 8).

[0259] (Appendix 10) In the water treatment apparatus or the user terminal, as a processing result obtained by using a learned model, information on the properties of the treated water treated in the water treatment apparatus, the information processing apparatus according to any one of (Appendix 2), (Appendix 3), (Appendix 7), (Appendix 8).

[0260] (Appendix 11) In the receiving means, as information identifying the operating environment, information including the location where the water treatment apparatus is installed is received. The information processing apparatus according to any one of (Appendix 7) to (Appendix 10).

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0261] 1 Water treatment system, 2 Water treatment system, 10 Terminal device, 20 Server, 30 Water treatment apparatus, 32 Water treatment module installation mechanism, 40 Water treatment module.

Claims

1. An information processing apparatus that includes a control unit and manages a water treatment apparatus used outdoors, in a house, in an apartment building, or in a moving body, wherein the control unit is: means for receiving a first data set regarding the environment in which the water treatment apparatus operates and a second data set acquired when the water treatment apparatus performs water treatment in the environment, the second data set including the uses for which a consumer uses water; means for generating a learned model for predicting the use and amount of water used in the environment in which the water treatment apparatus operates based on the received first data set and the second data set; An information processing apparatus that functions as such.

2. The control unit: functions as means for transmitting the learned model to the water treatment apparatus or a terminal of a user who uses the water treatment apparatus, and thereby causes the water treatment apparatus or the user's terminal that has received the learned model to perform a process of presenting the user with a processing result obtained by using the learned model. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The control unit: in response to an access from the water treatment apparatus or a terminal of a user who uses the water treatment apparatus, transmits a processing result obtained by using the learned model to the water treatment apparatus or the user's terminal. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. In the receiving means, as the second data set, at least any one of data regarding valve control of the water treatment apparatus, data regarding pump control of the water treatment apparatus, and sensing data of a first sensor device that senses the properties of water to be treated in the water treatment apparatus is received. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. In the receiving means, the second data set is received in association with information specifying the operating environment, and in the generating means, the learned model is generated in association with information specifying the operating environment. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The control unit: functions as means for transmitting the learned model associated with the information specifying the operating environment to the water treatment apparatus associated with the information specifying the operating environment or a terminal of a user who uses the water treatment apparatus, and thereby The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, which causes the water treatment apparatus or the user's terminal that has received the learned model to perform a process of presenting the user with a processing result obtained by using the learned model.

7. The control unit The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, which, in response to an access from the water treatment apparatus or a terminal of a user who uses the water treatment apparatus, transmits a processing result obtained by using the learned model associated with information specifying the operating environment to the water treatment apparatus or the user's terminal.

8. In the water treatment apparatus or the user's terminal, as a processing result obtained by using the learned model, information on the functions required for the water treatment apparatus according to the use and amount of water used in the operating environment is included. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2, 3, 6, and 7.

9. In the water treatment apparatus or the user's terminal, as a processing result obtained by using the learned model, information on the properties of the treated water treated in the water treatment apparatus is included. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2, 3, 6, and 7.

10. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein, in the receiving means, information including the location where the water treatment apparatus is installed is received as information specifying the operating environment.

11. A method of operating a computer device including a control unit and managing a water treatment apparatus used outdoors, in a house, in an apartment building, or in a moving body, the control unit Receiving a first data set regarding the environment in which the water treatment apparatus operates and a second data set obtained when the water treatment apparatus performs water treatment in the environment, the second data set including the use for which a consumer uses water, step A method of executing each step of generating a learned model for predicting the use and amount of water used in the environment in which the water treatment apparatus operates based on the received first data set and the second data set.

12. A program for operating a computer device including a control unit and managing a water treatment apparatus used outdoors, in a house, in an apartment building, or in a moving body, the program causing the control unit Receiving a first dataset regarding the environment in which the water treatment apparatus operates and a second dataset acquired when the water treatment apparatus performs water treatment in the environment, wherein the second dataset includes the uses for which a consumer uses water, Generating a trained model for predicting the uses and amounts of water used in the environment in which the water treatment apparatus operates based on the received first dataset and the second dataset, A program for causing each of the steps to be executed.

13. A system comprising a water treatment apparatus used outdoors, in a house, in an apartment building, or in a mobile object, and an information processing apparatus, The water treatment apparatus transmits sensing data that can be sensed by the water treatment apparatus to the information processing apparatus, The information processing apparatus includes a control unit, and the control unit, Means for receiving a first dataset regarding the environment in which the water treatment apparatus operates and a second dataset acquired when the water treatment apparatus performs water treatment in the environment, wherein the second dataset includes the uses for which a consumer uses water, Means for generating a trained model for predicting the uses and amounts of water used in the environment in which the water treatment apparatus operates based on the received first dataset and the second dataset, A system that functions as such.

Images