Information provision system, information provision method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information providing system, an information providing method, and a program that can provide information related to a more proper environmental state according to a situation in an area.SOLUTION: An information providing system comprises: an acquisition part which acquires environmental data measured by measurement devices installed at many places; an analysis part which analyzes an environmental state in an object area included in the many places based upon the environmental data; an image generation part which generates an image showing a spatial distribution including soil conditions in the object area based upon a result of analysis by the analysis part; and a display control part which causes a display part to display the image generated by the image generation part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] In recent years, in mountainous regions, cultivated land, and other environments, there has been a need for systems that can easily grasp environmental data related to soil, weather, and water in real time at multiple locations and predict environmental conditions in the near future in order to detect signs of floods and landslides, and to perform irrigation management and yield predictions in farmland.In this regard, conventionally known technologies include those that collect agricultural produce and weather environmental data and accumulate time-series humidity estimates, those that analyze the growth status of agricultural produce from images and future weather forecasts, those that monitor only slopes during heavy rain, and those that estimate groundwater levels and diagnose soil physical properties (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 6). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-64591 [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication No. 2021-96726 [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2019 / 135282 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-197154 [Patent Document 5] Patent No. 7123224 [Patent Document 6] Patent No. 7123381 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the above-mentioned conventional technology, the environmental data measurement device and the equipment and software for analyzing the data are integrated, which makes it lacking in versatility, and when an abnormality occurs in one part, it becomes wasteful, and there are cases where it is difficult to collect and analyze environmental data corresponding to the topography and information on features such as mountain slopes, farmland, and rice paddies, etc. Therefore, there are cases where it is not possible to provide appropriate information according to the condition of the area.

[0005] The aspects of the present invention have been made in consideration of these circumstances, and aim to provide an information provision system, an information provision method, and a program that can provide more appropriate information on environmental conditions depending on the situation in the area. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The information providing system, the information providing method, and the program according to the present invention employ the following configuration.

[0007] A first aspect of the information provision system of the present invention is an information provision system comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires environmental data measured by measuring devices installed at multiple locations; an analysis unit that analyzes the environmental condition in a target area included in the multiple locations based on the environmental data; an image generation unit that generates an image showing the spatial distribution including the soil condition of the target area based on the results of the analysis by the analysis unit; and a display control unit that displays the image generated by the image generation unit on a display unit.

[0008] The information provision system of a second aspect of the present invention further includes a prediction unit that predicts future environmental conditions in the target area based on changes in the environmental conditions over time in the target area analyzed by the analysis unit.

[0009] In a third aspect of the information provision system of the present invention, the prediction unit further predicts the need for and timing of irrigation in the target area based on the environmental data, the topography of the target area, and soil hardness information of the target area.

[0010] In a fourth aspect of the information provision system of the present invention, the prediction unit further predicts the occurrence of a future disaster in the target area based on the environmental data, the topography of the target area, and soil hardness information of the target area.

[0011] In the information providing system according to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the prediction unit predicts a degree of change in future soil moisture content in the target area based on past or future weather information.

[0012] In a sixth aspect of the information provision system of the present invention, the prediction unit further predicts the degree of risk of slope collapse based on the degree of change in soil moisture on the slope when the target area includes a slope.

[0013] In a seventh aspect of the information provision system of the present invention, the prediction unit further predicts the direction of movement of soil moisture in the target area and generates information for proposing soil improvement based on the predicted results.

[0014] In the information providing system according to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the measurement devices are arranged so that the installation density or type varies depending on the topography and feature information of the target area.

[0015] A ninth aspect of the present invention is an information providing method in which an information providing server acquires environmental data measured by measuring devices installed at multiple locations, analyzes the environmental conditions in a target area included in the multiple locations based on the acquired environmental data, generates an image showing the spatial distribution including the soil conditions of the target area based on the results of the analysis, and displays the generated image on a display unit.

[0016] A tenth aspect of the present invention is a program that causes an information providing server to acquire environmental data measured by measuring devices installed at multiple locations, analyze the environmental conditions in a target area included in the multiple locations based on the acquired environmental data, generate an image showing the spatial distribution including the soil conditions of the target area based on the analysis results, and display the generated image on a display unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the aspects of the present invention, it is possible to provide more appropriate information on environmental conditions depending on the situation of the area. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram of an information providing system 1 according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of an information providing server 100. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the contents of device information 184. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the contents of collection environment data 186. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a measuring device 200. [Figure 6] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a first image IM10 generated by an image generating section 150. FIG. [Figure 7] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a second image IM20 generated by an image generating section 150. FIG. [Figure 8] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a third image IM30 generated by an image generating section 150. FIG. [Figure 9] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a fourth image IM40 generated by the image generating section 150. FIG. [Figure 10] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a fifth image IM50 generated by the image generating section 150. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing executed by the information providing system 1. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an environment measured by a measuring device 200 in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an image showing the spatial distribution of odors and wind direction in a grazing area 400 analyzed using environmental data from the measuring devices 200a and 200b of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an image showing the spatial distribution of temperature in the vicinity of a cowshed. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an operation MAP. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an environment measured by a measuring device 200 in a second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an image showing the spatial distribution of the environmental state analyzed using the environmental data of the measuring devices 200c and 200d of the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an environment measured by a measuring device 200 in a third embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an image showing the spatial distribution of the environmental state analyzed using the environmental data of the measuring device 200e of the third embodiment. [Figure 20] 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of an environment measured by a measuring device 200 in a fourth embodiment and information provided based on the measurement results. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments of an information providing system, an information providing method, and a program according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0020] [Overall configuration] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an information providing system 1 according to an embodiment. The information providing system 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes, for example, an information providing server 100, a plurality of measuring devices 200-11 to 200-36, and a terminal device 300. Hereinafter, the plurality of measuring devices 200-11 to 200-36 will be collectively referred to as "measuring devices 200" unless they are individually described. The information providing server 100 and the measuring devices 200 can communicate with each other via a network NW. The network NW may include, for example, the Internet, a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), a low power wide area network (LPWA), a telephone line, a public line, a dedicated line, a provider device, a wireless base station, etc. The network NW may also include a router, a gateway device, or other relay device. In the example of FIG. 1, each measuring device 200 may communicate with another measuring device 200 as a relay device.

[0021] The information providing server 100 acquires environmental data measured by measuring devices 200 installed in the predetermined areas AR1 to AR3 via the network NW, and analyzes the environmental conditions in the target areas (which may be all or part of the predetermined areas AR1 to AR3) corresponding to the areas (multiple locations) in which the measuring devices 200 are installed, based on the acquired environmental data and other information. Furthermore, the information providing server 100 generates information (e.g., images and sounds) to be provided to users such as administrators based on the analysis results, and outputs the generated information to the terminal devices 300 or a display unit of the information providing server 100. Note that the information providing server 100 may function as a cloud server that communicates with the measuring devices 200 and the terminal devices 300 via the network NW and transmits and receives various data.

[0022] The measuring device 200 measures surrounding environmental data. The environmental data may include, for example, conditions on the ground (air), underground, and underwater, as well as the conditions of plants such as agricultural crops and forests growing in the target area. For example, the environmental data may include various information such as the ambient temperature (air temperature, soil temperature, water temperature), humidity, atmospheric pressure, soil moisture (groundwater), groundwater level, and precipitation. The environmental data may also include information on solar radiation, wind direction, wind speed, amounts of dust, pollen, and PM2.5, detected gases and odors (for example, the odors of substances volatilized from plants and animals (including insects and microorganisms) in farmland and forests, the odor of compost spread on farmland, etc.), and images from infrared cameras and fixed-point cameras. The measuring device 200 is equipped with various sensors for measuring the environmental data information described above. The various sensors may be installed at a predetermined height above ground (which may be one location or multiple locations), at a predetermined depth underground (which may be one location or multiple locations), or both above ground and underground.

[0023] Furthermore, the measuring device 200 includes a communication unit for transmitting the environmental data measured at a predetermined interval to the information providing server 100 via the network NW, and a power supply unit such as a battery (power storage unit) or cell for supplying power to each device in the device. If a battery is provided, the measuring device 200 may be provided with a mechanism for storing power obtained by energy harvesting from sunlight, wind power, electromagnetic waves, etc. in the battery. The environmental data may also include information regarding the amount of power in the battery in the measuring device 200. The measuring device 200 may also be provided with a position sensor for acquiring position information (latitude and longitude). The position sensor is, for example, a sensor that can detect latitude and longitude using GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System).

[0024] In the information providing system 1 according to the embodiment, for example, different numbers (installation densities) or types of measuring devices 200 are installed depending on the topography and area condition information (for example, information on features such as paddy fields, farmlands, pastures, roads, buildings, mountains, rivers, and oceans). The installation densities and types are managed in advance by the information providing server 100 or the like. In the example of FIG. 1 , area AR1 is a forest area, area AR2 is a pasture area, and area AR3 is a paddy field area. Measuring devices 200-11 to 200-13 capable of measuring at least one of soil composition, soil temperature, precipitation, air temperature, solar radiation, groundwater temperature, and groundwater level are installed in area AR1. Measuring devices 200-21 to 200-25 capable of measuring at least one of soil composition, soil pH (an index value indicating the acidity or alkalinity of soil), precipitation, air temperature, and air temperature are installed in area AR2. Area AR3 is installed with measuring devices 200-31 to 200-36 that can measure, for example, at least one of leaf color, plant color (to detect changes due to fertilizer deficiency or pest damage), soil pH, oxidation-reduction potential, solar radiation, air temperature, water temperature, water level, etc. These measuring devices 200 do not need to measure the same environmental data individually, and it is sufficient if multiple measuring devices can measure the various environmental data described above.

[0025] The terminal device 300 may be, for example, a tablet terminal or a smartphone, or may be a general-purpose PC (Personal Computer), a server device, or the like. The terminal device 300 includes, for example, a communication unit for communicating with the outside via the network NW, a display unit for displaying images (including moving images), an audio output unit for outputting audio, and a reception unit for receiving user input. The terminal device 300 accesses the information providing server 100 via the network NW and acquires information such as environmental data collected by the information providing server 100 from the measuring devices 200, as well as analysis results and prediction results based on the environmental data. For example, the terminal device 300 can visualize, on the web, environmental data centrally managed by the information providing server 100, analysis results of the environmental data, and prediction results of the environmental state. In this way, a web-based system configuration can be applied, eliminating the need for dedicated software in the terminal device 300 and improving user convenience. Note that the information providing system 1 may include multiple terminal devices 300.

[0026] [Information server] Next, the information providing server 100 will be described in detail. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the information providing server 100. The information providing server 100 includes, for example, a communication unit 110, an acquisition unit 120, an analysis unit 130, a prediction unit 140, an image generation unit 150, a display control unit 160, an input / output unit 170, and a storage unit 180. The acquisition unit 120, the analysis unit 130, the prediction unit 140, the image generation unit 150, and the display control unit 160 are realized by, for example, a hardware processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) executing a program (software). Furthermore, some or all of these components may be realized by hardware (including circuitry) such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or may be realized by a combination of software and hardware. The program may be stored in advance in a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or flash memory (a storage device with a non-transitory storage medium), or may be stored in a removable storage medium (a non-transitory storage medium) such as a DVD or CD-ROM, and installed in the storage device of the information providing server 100 by inserting the storage medium into a drive device or the like.

[0027] The storage unit 180 may be realized by the various storage devices described above, or a solid-state drive (SSD), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a read-only memory (ROM), or a random-access memory (RAM). The storage unit 180 stores, for example, map information 182, device information 184, collection environment data 186, programs, and various other information. The map information 182 includes location information (latitude and longitude), address, topography (slope), altitude (contour information), and status information (such as feature information) of the location (or area). The map information 182 may also include two-dimensional or three-dimensional topography information. The map information 182 may also include soil hardness information and geological layer information. The map information 182 may be updated as needed by the communication unit 110 communicating with other devices via the network NW.

[0028] The device information 184 stores information about the measuring device 200. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the contents of the device information 184. In the device information 184, a device ID, which is identification information for identifying the measuring device 200, is associated with installation location information, installation date, and sensor type. The sensor type stores information about the type of sensor mounted on the measuring device 200. For example, based on the device information 184, the administrator of the information providing server 100 can manage the location, type of environmental data the measuring device 200 measures, and when the measuring device 200 was installed. The device information 184 may also store information such as the date on which maintenance of the measuring device 200 was performed by a worker or the like. The device information 184 may also include status information about the area where the measuring device 200 is installed (e.g., feature information), and may include, for each type of status information, information about the installation density and type of the measuring device 200, soil hardness information, etc.

[0029] The collected environmental data 186 stores environmental data measured at a predetermined interval and collected from a plurality of measuring devices 200. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the contents of the collected environmental data 186. In the collected environmental data 186, for example, date and time information is associated with an ID and environmental data. The date and time information is information about the date and time when measurement was performed by the measuring device 200 or information about the date and time when data was acquired by the server. The ID may be a device ID or may include a sensor type. Furthermore, the environmental data is an actual measurement value of the environmental data corresponding to the sensor type. The collected data 176 may be sorted in chronological order or by ID.

[0030] The communication unit 110 communicates with the measuring device 200, the terminal device 300, and other external devices via the network NW.

[0031] The acquiring unit 120 acquires environmental data transmitted from the measuring device 200 and stores it in the collected environmental data 186. The acquiring unit 120 may also acquire the latest map information from an external source and update the map information 182. The acquiring unit 120 may also acquire information on weather, temperature, rainfall, etc. from an external device via the network NW. The acquiring unit 120 may also acquire request information (request) regarding information provision from the terminal device 300, acquire information corresponding to the request information from the storage unit 180, and transmit the information to the requesting terminal device 300 via the communication unit 110.

[0032] The analysis unit 130 analyzes the environmental state of a target area associated with a predetermined area (multiple locations) where the measuring device 200 is installed, based on the collected environmental data 186. The target area may be, for example, an area specified by a user of the information providing server 100 or the terminal device 300, an area set based on the results of environmental data, or an area set based on environmental conditions such as weather and topography. The environmental state may be, for example, the current state on the ground (including air), underground, or underwater, environmental changes over time, or other details about the surrounding environment.

[0033] The prediction unit 140 predicts the future environmental state of the target area based on the time-series changes in the environmental state of the target area analyzed by the analysis unit 130.

[0034] The image generating unit 150 generates an image including the spatiotemporal distribution of environmental changes in a predetermined area based on the results of the analysis by the analyzing unit 130 and the results of the prediction by the predicting unit 140. The image may include, for example, text information, patterns, marks, etc., and may also include moving images. The image generating unit 150 may also generate sounds, alarms, etc. corresponding to the image.

[0035] The display control unit 160 outputs the image etc. generated by the image generation unit 150 to a display unit or speaker provided in the input / output unit 170 in a predetermined display mode. The display control unit 160 also outputs information on the image etc. to the terminal device 300 via the network NW. The display control unit 160 may also store information on the image etc. in the storage unit 180.

[0036] The input / output unit 170 is an interface for inputting instructions from a user of the information providing server 100 and outputting information to the user. The input / output unit 170 includes a display unit 172 for displaying information (images and videos). The display unit 172 may have an integrated configuration of input and output, like a touch panel device. The input / output unit 170 may include a keyboard, mouse, microphone, buttons, switches, levers, etc. for receiving input of information such as instructions from the user. The input / output unit 170 may also include a speaker for outputting sound.

[0037] [Measuring Device] Next, an overview of the measuring device 200 will be described in detail. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the measuring device 200. The measuring device 200 includes a container body 202, a lid 204, and a support (base) 206. The container body 202 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape, and has openings on its upper and lower surfaces. The upper and lower ends of the container body 202 are provided with notches, protrusions, and recesses. The upper end of the container body 202 can be opened and closed by fitting, engaging, or screwing with the detachable lid 204. The container body 202 can be fixed by fitting, engaging, or screwing its lower end with the upper end of the support 206, and is supported by the support 206. The support 206 is fixed to a target location by burying its lower portion in the ground UG, and supports the container body 202 connected at its upper end. The measuring device 200 may not have the support 206. In this case, the portions of the measuring device 200 other than the support portion 206 are attached to other members (for example, a pillar of a building or a fence).

[0038] The container body 202 and the lid 204 are made of synthetic resin such as polyvinyl chloride, but may be made of other materials. The support 206 is made of, for example, a hard polyvinyl chloride pipe or a single-tube pipe, but may be made of other materials. The container body 202 and the support 206 are formed into a cylindrical shape, which reduces the effects of surrounding wind, etc. Furthermore, the container body 202 and the support 206 are detachable, which makes replacement easy for workers. Furthermore, since the support 206 can be used as is when replacing the container body 202, equipment costs can be reduced compared to an all-in-one device.

[0039] The measuring device 200 is equipped with, for example, a battery 210, a communication unit 220, a control unit 230, a first sensor 240, and a second sensor 250. The measuring device 200 may be configured to include either the first sensor 240 or the second sensor 250. The measuring device 200 may also be provided with a memory (storage unit) 260 that temporarily stores information from the first sensor 240 and the second sensor 250 and stores other control information (log information, etc.).

[0040] The battery 210 supplies power to the communication unit 220, the control unit 230, the first sensor 240, the second sensor 250, and the memory 260. The battery 210 is, for example, a secondary battery such as a lithium ion battery or a capacitor, but is not limited to these. Furthermore, if the measuring device 200 is provided with an energy harvester such as a solar panel, the battery 210 may store power obtained by the energy harvester.

[0041] The communication unit 220 may communicate with the information providing server 100 via the network NW, and may communicate with other measuring devices based on, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or other short-range wireless communication standards. The control unit 230 controls the overall components of the measuring device 200. The control unit 230 temporarily stores environmental data measured by the first sensor 240 and the second sensor 250 in the memory 260 and controls transmission of the environmental data to the information providing server 100 via the communication unit 220 at predetermined intervals. When transmitting the environmental data, the control unit 230 may also add identification information (device ID) of the measuring device, identification information of the sensor, time information based on an internal clock, location information acquired from a location sensor, etc. to the environmental data. The control unit 230 may also erase the information stored in the memory 260 at a predetermined timing (e.g., when transmission to the information providing server 100 is completed).

[0042] The first sensor 240 is a sensor primarily for measuring terrestrial environmental data, and may include, for example, at least one of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a wind sensor, a rainfall sensor, a solar radiation sensor, an odor detection sensor, a camera sensor, an image discrimination sensor, an infrared / near-infrared sensor, a water temperature sensor, and a water level sensor. The first sensor 240 may also include a position sensor. The second sensor 250 is a sensor for measuring underground UG environmental data, and may include, for example, a soil temperature sensor, a soil component (e.g., soil moisture, soil pH, redox potential) sensor, a groundwater temperature sensor, and a groundwater level sensor. The first sensor 240 may be installed at one or more heights where terrestrial environmental data is desired to be measured, and the second sensor 250 may be installed at one or more depths where underground UG or underwater environmental data is desired to be measured.

[0043] Note that some or all of the equipment installed inside the measuring device 200 is installed by being inserted through an opening in the top surface of the container body 202 with the lid 204 open. The battery 210, communication unit 220, control unit 230, first sensor 240, and memory 260 installed on the container body 202 side are arranged so that predetermined cavities FS1 and FS2 are provided on the upper and lower sides inside the main body. By providing these cavities FS1 and FS2, it is possible to suppress deterioration of the equipment due to the influence of moisture inside the container, etc.

[0044] In the embodiment, the installation density and type of the measuring devices 200 are varied depending on the type of terrain and feature. For example, the installation density or type of the measuring devices 200 is varied depending on whether the terrain is sloping (the inclination of the ground relative to the horizontal is a predetermined angle or more) or flat (the inclination of the ground relative to the horizontal is less than a predetermined angle). When the terrain is sloping, water levels and groundwater change rapidly, causing water to move from the top of the slope to the bottom. Therefore, the number of measuring devices 200 is increased in order to grasp the water movement status. Furthermore, when the terrain is flat, the sunshine hours are longer than on a slope, so sensors that can measure air temperature and soil temperature are used. Furthermore, when the feature is a rice paddy, a sensor that measures the water level of the rice paddy is provided instead of (or in addition to) a sensor that measures the groundwater level. Furthermore, when a combination of different terrains (e.g., a flat area below a slope) is expected to be more susceptible to damage such as flooding, the installation density of the measuring devices 200 is narrower (more devices are installed) than in other flat areas. In this way, by measuring the installation density and type of measuring devices 200 according to the topography and types of features in the area, more appropriate environmental data can be obtained.

[0045] [Analysis department, prediction department] Next, a specific example of the processing performed by the analysis unit 130 and the prediction unit 140 will be described. The analysis unit 130 analyzes the environmental conditions, including the soil conditions, of the target area based on, for example, environmental data included in the collected environmental data 186. The soil conditions include at least one of, for example, soil moisture content, soil pH, redox potential, groundwater level, groundwater temperature, and the direction of soil moisture movement. The environmental conditions may also include the conditions above ground (air), underground, and underwater, as well as the conditions of plants, such as agricultural crops and forests, growing in the target area. When analyzing this information, not only the environmental data but also information acquired from external devices (e.g., aerial images taken by satellites or drones and future weather information) and information obtained from map information 182 (e.g., soil hardness information and geological layer information) may be included. For example, when the soil moisture content (more specifically, the soil volumetric water content) is below a threshold, the analysis unit 130 analyzes that there is a water shortage for agricultural crops or that irrigation is necessary. It may also be analyzed that when the soil moisture content exceeds an upper limit, there is a possibility that a disaster such as a flood or a landslide (slope collapse) may occur (or has already occurred).

[0046] The analysis unit 130 also analyzes changes in the environmental conditions in the target area over a predetermined period of time based on the time-series environmental data included in the collected environmental data 186. The changes in the environmental conditions are, for example, the amount of change (increase or decrease) in each element, such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, soil temperature, and soil moisture content, over a predetermined period of time at the same point (the installation location of the measuring device) included in the target area. The changes in the environmental conditions may also be, for example, the flow of changes in the above elements across the entire area (for example, an increase in soil moisture content from high altitude areas to low altitude areas). The analysis unit 130 may also analyze the extent of moisture deficiency in the target area.

[0047] For example, the analysis unit 130 compares environmental data from past disasters for each area with the actual measured values ​​of the environmental data corresponding to that area, and if the degree of match is equal to or greater than a threshold, analyzes that the current environmental state is the same as the past environmental state, or that a disaster similar to a past disaster has occurred. The degree of match may be derived from the two pieces of information being compared using, for example, AI (artificial intelligence) functions such as machine learning (neural networks) or deep learning, or may be derived using other methods. Furthermore, if a trained model that has been trained in advance to output, in response to input environmental data, the environmental state of the area corresponding to the environmental data, the presence and type of disaster, etc., of the target area may be acquired by inputting the environmental data into the trained model. The content analyzed by the analysis unit 130 and the analysis method are not limited to the above examples.

[0048] The prediction unit 140 predicts the future environmental state of the target area (after a predetermined time) based on the time-series changes in the environmental state of the target area analyzed by the analysis unit 130. For example, the prediction unit 140 predicts the necessity and timing of irrigation in the target area based on the environmental data, the topography of the target area, and soil hardness information of the target area. In this case, the prediction unit 140 may predict the amount of water required when irrigation is required, or may predict the future quality of soil drainage. By using soil hardness information in addition to the topography and actual environmental data, it is possible to more accurately estimate, for example, the amount of future change in groundwater, thereby making it possible to make more appropriate predictions.

[0049] The prediction unit 140 may also predict the degree of change in the future soil moisture content of the target area based on past or future weather information acquired by the acquisition unit 120. For example, the prediction unit 140 predicts the degree of change in the future soil moisture content based on the amount of rainfall in the target area over a predetermined period in the past. The prediction unit 140 may also predict the degree of change in the future soil moisture content in the event of no rainfall in the future based on future rainfall forecast information. This allows for more accurate prediction of changes in the soil moisture content based on the weather information for the target area. The prediction unit 140 may also predict the future environmental state of the target area by combining past and future weather information.

[0050] The prediction unit 140 also predicts the occurrence of a future disaster (e.g., a slope failure such as a landslide, a flood, or a drought) in the target area (after a predetermined time) based on the environmental data, the topography of the target area, and soil hardness information of the target area. In this case, the prediction unit 140 may predict the timing and conditions under which a predetermined environmental state such as a disaster will occur, and the probability of occurrence (which may be expressed as a percentage (%), or may be high, medium, or low). The prediction unit 140 may change the content of the prediction depending on the topography, feature information, etc. of the target area. For example, if the target area includes a slope, the prediction unit 140 predicts the risk of slope failure based on the degree of change in soil moisture on the slope. Furthermore, if the target area is flat, the prediction unit 140 predicts the occurrence of floods and water damage. Furthermore, if the target area is farmland, the prediction unit 140 predicts damage related to drought. In this way, by changing the content of the prediction depending on the topography and feature information, it is possible to make predictions related to more necessary information.

[0051] The prediction unit 140 may also predict the direction of soil moisture movement in the target area and generate information for proposing soil improvement based on the prediction result. For example, if the destination of soil moisture is farmland, damage to crops due to flooding or water damage is expected, and the prediction unit 140 may propose soil improvement to change the direction of movement or to reduce the amount of moisture movement. Furthermore, if the destination of soil moisture is a rice paddy, the prediction unit 140 may propose soil improvement to allow more water to flow into the rice paddy. Note that the proposed information may include, for example, information encouraging changes to soil components (e.g., soil hardness, the position, direction, and depth of culverts and open channels), suggestions for changing the type of land feature (use pattern) (e.g., converting pastureland into rice paddy), etc.

[0052] For example, similar to the above-described analysis unit 130, the prediction unit 140 compares data on the results of irrigation or disasters in relation to past environmental data with actual measured values ​​of the environmental data, and predicts that the current state will be the same as the past state if the degree of match is equal to or greater than a threshold. Furthermore, if a trained model that has been trained in advance to output predictive information such as the presence and timing of irrigation or disasters corresponding to the input environmental data is stored in the storage unit 180, the prediction unit 140 may input the environmental data into the trained model to predict the environmental state of the target area, the presence and type of disaster, etc. The content and prediction method predicted by the prediction unit 140 are not limited to the above examples.

[0053] [Image generation section] Next, a specific description will be given of the image generated by the image generating unit 150. In the following description, the soil moisture content will be used as an example of information indicating the environmental state, but instead of (or in addition to) the soil moisture content, information indicating other soil conditions or information indicating environmental conditions other than the soil condition (for example, temperature, humidity, weather) may be used.

[0054] (First image) 6 is a diagram showing an example of a first image IM10 generated by the image generating unit 150. Note that the display aspects such as the content, shape, size, and layout displayed in the image IM10 are not limited to this. The same applies to the other images described below.

[0055] The image generating unit 150 generates a first image IM10 showing a spatial distribution including soil conditions of the target area based on, for example, the environmental conditions of the target area analyzed by the analyzing unit 130. The first image IM10 includes information showing soil moisture measured by measuring devices 200 installed at positions (e.g., P11, P12, P13, P14, etc.) corresponding to the latitude and longitude of the three-dimensional topographical data of the target area acquired from the map information 182. The soil moisture amounts DW1 and DW2 shown in FIG. 6 are soil moisture amounts measured at positions (two depths) at different depths underground. The soil moisture amounts DW1 and DW2 may be displayed in a distinguishable manner using colors or patterns, or may be displayed numerically.

[0056] The example in Figure 6 shows the spatial distribution of soil conditions in target areas AR11, AR12, and AR13 set by a user or the like. The first image IM10 may include information about feature information for each target area. The first image IM10 makes it possible to visualize the soil moisture distribution in three-dimensional space, including topographical information and feature information.

[0057] The image generator 150 may generate a video or screen transition diagram showing changes in groundwater content over time based on the time-series data of environmental data stored in the collected environmental data 186. This allows changes in environmental conditions to be displayed as a spatiotemporal distribution, and for example, in an area such as the target area A12 that includes slopes and terraced terrain, the soil moisture moving from above to below can be more clearly visualized. This allows the user to more accurately grasp the direction and amount of soil moisture movement.

[0058] By being provided with the first image IM10, the user can predict future soil moisture content, whether or not irrigation is necessary for the target area A11 (pasture) and the target area A13 (paddy field), and the timing of irrigation. Furthermore, disasters such as floods and landslides can be predicted with higher accuracy.

[0059] (Second image) FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a second image IM20 generated by the image generating unit 150. The second image IM20 illustrates a rainfall distribution map (time distribution) for one week from a reference date in the target area and a two-dimensional (XY plane) distribution map (bird's-eye view) of soil moisture content in the target area. The horizontal axis of the rainfall distribution map indicates time, and the vertical axis indicates rainfall. The reference date may be the present date or a past date such as one year or three years ago. The distribution map illustrated in FIG. 7 illustrates soil moisture distribution at the same depth (e.g., 20 cm underground) measured by measuring devices 200 installed at each position (e.g., P11, P12, P13, P14, etc.) in the target areas AR11 to AR13 illustrated in FIG. 6. In the distribution map, soil moisture content in areas where no measuring devices are installed is interpolated using soil moisture content measurement results, etc., measured by one or more measuring devices 200 installed in the vicinity. This interpolation process is performed, for example, by the analyzing unit 130.

[0060] In addition, the distribution map may display information about the soil components (soil volumetric moisture content %) at the location where the measuring device 200 is installed (for example, one or more locations selected by the user), as shown in Figure 7, and whether or not irrigation is necessary, as predicted by the prediction unit 140 based on the soil components.

[0061] By being provided with the second image IM20, the user can more accurately predict whether or not and when irrigation is necessary based on the rainfall distribution and the current soil moisture distribution.

[0062] (Third image) FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a third image IM30 generated by the image generation unit 150. The third image IM30 is a modified example of the second image IM20, and illustrates a rainfall distribution map (temporal distribution) for one week from a reference date in a target area and a two-dimensional (XZ plane) distribution map (cross-section) of soil moisture content in the target area. That is, the third image IM30 illustrates a cross-section instead of the overhead view of the soil moisture distribution in the second image IM20. Two points aligned along the Z-axis direction on the cross-section indicate depths (two depths) measured by two second sensors 250-1 and 250-2 installed in the measuring device 200. In addition, in the distribution map illustrated in FIG. 8, the soil moisture content in areas and depths where the measuring device 200 is not installed is interpolated by the analysis unit 130 using the measurement results of soil moisture content measured by one or more measuring devices 200 installed in the vicinity.

[0063] In addition, the distribution map in Figure 8 may also display information about the soil components (soil volumetric water content %) at each point, as well as the need for irrigation, as predicted by the prediction unit 140 based on the soil components, in the same way as the distribution map shown in Figure 7.

[0064] By providing the third image IM30, users can more accurately predict the need for and timing of irrigation based on the rainfall distribution and the current soil moisture distribution at depth. For example, since the shape and type of strata vary in each target area and the amount of moisture change varies for each strata, providing information that also includes depth can provide more appropriate environmental conditions.

[0065] (4th image) FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a fourth image IM40 generated by the image generating unit 150. The fourth image IM40 illustrated in FIG. 9 includes, for example, a measured and predicted information display area A41 and a detailed display area A42. The measured and predicted information display area A41 includes an image showing the amount of precipitation over time for the target area and an image showing the standard soil volumetric moisture content over time. The standard soil volumetric moisture content is, for example, a standard value of soil volumetric moisture content that determines whether the drainage in the target area is good or poor based on the amount of precipitation or the passage of time. For example, if the current date is December 23, 2022, as shown in FIG. 9, the measured and predicted information display area A41 displays predicted values ​​for the future if there is no rainfall based on the degree of change in the standard soil volumetric moisture content to date. The prediction is performed by the prediction unit 140 based on, for example, meteorological information, environmental data, and the like.

[0066] The detailed display area A42 shows the soil moisture distribution (bird's-eye view, cross-sectional view of the slope) on a certain date. In the example of Fig. 9, the soil moisture content is displayed in a distinguishable manner using colors, patterns, etc. Note that this distribution map may be the distribution map included in the second image IM20 and the third image IM30 described above.

[0067] By being provided with the fourth image IM40, the user can determine the necessity and timing of irrigation based on soil drainage standards, using actually measured environmental data, precipitation, etc. Furthermore, the user can consider land use patterns and soil improvement methods according to the soil.

[0068] (5th image) FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a fifth image IM50 generated by the image generating unit 150. The fifth image IM50 illustrated in FIG. 10 includes, for example, a basic information display area A51, an icon display area A52, a past data display area A53, and a predicted information display area A54. The basic information display area A51 displays information that is basic to the information displayed (such as date and time and target area). The icon display area A52 displays icons for outputting other images and information. Examples of icons include GUI (Graphical User Interface) switches. In the example illustrated in FIG. 10, an icon for displaying information related to the "risk of slope collapse" as disaster prediction information, an icon for displaying a "soil moisture map (soil moisture distribution)," and an icon for displaying "past data" are displayed. However, other icons may also be displayed. When a user selects one of the icons, an image associated with the selected icon is generated by the image generating unit 150 and displayed on the display unit by the display control unit 160.

[0069] The past data display area A53 displays environmental data such as rainfall and soil moisture for the past 24 hours. To display other environmental data, the user selects the "Past Data" icon in the icon display area A52 to display a selection screen for other environmental data, and then selects the type of environmental data they want to display from the selection screen, and the selected environmental data is displayed in the past data display area A53.

[0070] The prediction information display area A54 displays the future risk of slope collapse (landslide) predicted by the prediction unit 140, information such as the predicted time and conditions when the risk will be high, and map information of the target slope. The displayed map information may also show the location of the measurement device 200 and the location where the risk will be above a threshold. The prediction unit 140 combines data from a prior soil physical property survey, accumulated soil moisture data and real-time data from multiple locations, and real-time rainfall data to predict the risk of slope collapse and the allowable rainfall. The image generation unit 150 generates an image containing information about the prediction results and displays it in the prediction information display area A54. In the example of FIG. 10, the risk of slope collapse in the target area is "low," and the risk will increase if 120 mm or more of rain falls in the next two hours.

[0071] By providing the fifth image IM50, users can grasp the comprehensive information and can determine the necessity and timing of irrigation based on soil drainage standards, taking into account actual environmental data and precipitation, etc. Furthermore, more appropriate countermeasures can be taken at the appropriate time before a disaster occurs.

[0072] Each of the first to fifth images IM10 to IM50 described above may be displayed in combination with some or all of the other images. Furthermore, the image generating unit 150 may generate an image that displays various information predicted by the prediction unit 140 described above, in addition to the information displayed in the first to fifth images IM10 to IM50. This allows the user to make more appropriate predictions based on the results predicted by the prediction unit 140.

[0073] [Processing flow] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of processing executed by the information providing system 1. In the example of Fig. 11, the processing executed by the information providing server 100 will be mainly described among the processing executed by the information providing system 1. In the example of Fig. 11, the acquisition unit 120 acquires environmental data measured by measuring devices 200 installed at multiple points (step S100), and stores the acquired environmental data in chronological order as collected environmental data 186 in the storage unit 180 (step S110).

[0074] Next, the analysis unit 130 analyzes the environmental state of the target area using the collected environmental data 186, etc. (step S130). Next, the prediction unit 140 predicts the future environmental state of the target area based on the analysis result and future changes in the environmental state of the target state (step S140). Next, the image generation unit 150 generates an image showing the spatial distribution including the soil state of the target area based on the analysis result by the analysis unit 130 (step S150). Note that in the processing of step S150, the image generation unit 150 may generate an image based on the result predicted by the prediction unit 140. Next, the display control unit 160 displays the image generated by the image generation unit 150 on the display unit of the input / output unit 170 or the display unit of the terminal device 300 (step S160). This ends the processing of this flowchart.

[0075] [Analysis of environmental conditions using measurement results from measuring devices] Next, the analysis of the environmental state using the measurement results of the measuring device 200 will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that, although several embodiments other than the above-mentioned examples will be described below, the scope of application of the measuring device 200, the analysis contents, and the display contents are not limited to the examples described below.

[0076] (First Example) FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the environment measured by the measuring device 200 in the first embodiment. The first embodiment illustrates an example in which the measuring device 200 is installed in a grazing (raising) area 400 for cows (an example of livestock). Specifically, one or more measuring devices 200a are attached at predetermined intervals to a fence 410 that separates the grazing area 400, and one or more measuring devices 200b are attached at predetermined intervals to pillars of a cowshed 420. A compost shed may be installed in the grazing area 400, and one or more measuring devices 200b may also be attached to pillars, etc., in the same way as the cowshed 420. The measuring devices 200b include measuring devices 200b1 and 200b2 at different heights on the same pillar. The cowshed 420 is also provided with one or more atomizers 422, sprinklers 424, electric fans 426, etc.

[0077] Measuring device 200a is provided with, for example, an odor sensor and a wind direction sensor, and measures the surrounding odor (odor intensity) and wind direction (which may include wind volume) at a predetermined cycle. Measuring devices 200b1 and 200b2 are each provided with an odor sensor and a temperature sensor, and measure the surrounding odor (odor intensity) and temperature at a predetermined cycle.

[0078] The information providing server 100 acquires information (environmental data) obtained by the measuring devices 200a, 200b1, and 200b2 and analyzes the environmental conditions in the grazing area 400. The information providing server 100 also generates an image showing the spatial distribution of the environmental conditions in the grazing area 400 and displays it on the display unit 172 or the like. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an image showing the spatial distribution of odor and wind direction in the grazing area 400 analyzed using the environmental data from the measuring devices 200a and 200b of the first embodiment. The example in FIG. 13 shows an odor / wind direction map that includes wind direction information WI based on the position of the measuring device 200a installed in the grazing area 400 and an odor distribution SI based on odor information measured by the measuring devices 200b installed in the cowshed and compost shed, respectively. In the wind direction information WI, the wind direction is represented by a vector, and the magnitude of the wind corresponds to the length of the vector. The odor distribution SI is displayed using different colors, patterns, etc. depending on the odor intensity (odor strength). By providing the user with the information shown in Figure 13, it is possible to predict future odor distribution according to wind direction.

[0079] Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of an image showing the spatial distribution of temperature near the cowshed. The example in Fig. 14 shows a temperature distribution TI1 in the upper part of the cowshed 420 acquired by measuring device 200b1, and a temperature distribution TI2 in the lower part of the cowshed 420 acquired by measuring device 200b1. By providing such information, it is possible to provide the user with a three-dimensional spatial temperature distribution including height.

[0080] By providing the information shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, efficient control can be implemented, for example, by activating the atomizer 422 or sprinkler 424 to spray odor-eliminating substances or by activating the electric fan 426 to reduce odor intensity. When the information providing server 100 acquires the operating status of various devices installed in the grazing area 400, it may generate an operation map showing the operating status and provide it to the user. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the operation map. In the example of FIG. 15, three atomizers 422a to 422c, three sprinklers 424a to 424c, and four electric fans 426a to 426d are displayed at positions corresponding to their respective installation locations. The number of each device is not limited to this. Each device is displayed in a different color or pattern depending on whether it is powered on or off, allowing for identification. 15 shows that the atomizer 422c, the sprinkler 424c, and the electric fans 426a and 426b are on (operating), and the rest are off. The electric fan 426 may also have its current amount (A: amperes) and the like displayed individually.

[0081] According to the first embodiment, by using the environmental data measured by the measuring devices 200a and 200b, it is possible to realize a more appropriate environment by taking into consideration the surroundings of the grazing area 400, the health of the cows, measures against heat, etc. Furthermore, by operating the devices appropriately, it is possible to save on electricity costs, etc.

[0082] (Second Example) FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating the environment measured by the measuring device 200 in the second embodiment. The second embodiment illustrates an example in which the measuring device 200 is installed in a mountain stream (stream) area 500. Specifically, one or more measuring devices 200c are installed at a predetermined interval in the mountain stream, and one or more measuring devices 200d are installed at a predetermined interval on both sides of the mountain stream. The measuring device 200c is provided with, for example, a water level sensor and a turbidity sensor, and measures the water level and turbidity at the installation point at a predetermined cycle. The measuring device 200d is provided with, for example, two soil moisture sensors at different heights (two depth levels), and measures the soil moisture at the installation point at a predetermined cycle.

[0083] The information providing server 100 acquires information (environmental data) obtained by the measuring devices 200c and 200d, analyzes the environmental conditions in the mountain stream area 500, generates an image showing the spatial distribution of the environmental conditions, and displays it on the display unit 172 or the like. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of an image showing the spatial distribution of the environmental conditions analyzed using the environmental data from the measuring devices 200c and 200d of the second embodiment. The example of FIG. 17 shows a soil moisture map (for shallow and deep water) analyzed from the information obtained from the measuring device 200d, corresponding to the installation positions of the measuring devices 200c and 200d, and information showing changes in water level and turbidity analyzed from the information obtained from the measuring device 200c according to the installation position of the measuring device 200c (water level / turbidity map). Note that in the second embodiment, only a part of the image shown in FIG. 17 may be displayed.

[0084] On the soil moisture map (for shallow and deep soils), the moisture distributions WA1 and WA2, which indicate soil moisture, are displayed in different colors or patterns that can be distinguished according to the soil moisture content. The soil moisture map may also display the soil moisture content numerically in addition to (or instead of) the moisture distributions WA1 and WA2. The water level and turbidity map displays graphs that are positioned further to the right as the water level and turbidity increase.

[0085] According to the second embodiment, by using the environmental data measured by the measuring devices 200c and 200d, the user can more accurately grasp the spatial distribution of soil moisture, water level, and turbidity in the event of a landslide caused by a thunderstorm, etc. This allows the user to take appropriate preparations and measures in preparation for a disaster.

[0086] (Third Example) FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating the environment measured by the measuring device 200 in the third embodiment. The third embodiment shows an example in which a measuring device 200e is installed in an irrigation channel area 600. In the example of FIG. 18, one or more measuring devices 200e are installed at predetermined intervals in an irrigation channel 620 through which rainwater, water from a river 610, etc. flows. The measuring device 200e may be installed near a water intake position 621 from the river 610. The measuring device 200e is provided with, for example, a water level sensor and a flow velocity sensor, and measures the water level and flow velocity at the installation point at a predetermined interval. The water level may be, for example, the distance downward from the upper limit of the irrigation channel 620.

[0087] The information providing server 100 acquires information (environmental data) obtained by the measuring device 200e, analyzes the environmental state in the irrigation channel area 600 (e.g., the state of water volume using water level and flow velocity), generates an image showing the spatial distribution of the environmental state (e.g., water level distribution, flow velocity distribution, water volume distribution), and displays it on the display unit 172, etc. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of an image showing the spatial distribution of the environmental state analyzed using the environmental data of the measuring device 200e of the third embodiment. The example of FIG. 19 shows the change in water level over time at each installation location of the measuring device 200e (five locations in the example of FIG. 19). The horizontal axis of FIG. 19 represents the date and time, and the vertical axis represents the distance downward from the upper limit of the irrigation channel 620. The vertical axis indicates the water level as "0" when the water reaches the upper limit and as "+ (plus)" when the water overflows. In the example of FIG. 19, the change in water level is displayed in a distinguishable manner using different colors, patterns, etc. for each installation location of the measuring device 200e. 19 shows, as an example, the changes in water level acquired from the measuring devices 200e installed at five different locations. The displayed water level may be the water level acquired from the measuring device 200e installed at a location preset in the information providing server 100, the water level acquired from the measuring device 200e installed at a location where the amount of change in water level in a predetermined time is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, or the water level acquired from the measuring device 200e installed at a location specified by the user.

[0088] According to the third embodiment, environmental data measured by the measuring device 200e is analyzed and an image such as that shown in Fig. 19 is provided to the user, thereby enabling the user to instantly grasp locations of leaks in the irrigation channel 620, locations of flooding on the road 630, and locations where there is a shortage of irrigation water. Therefore, for example, during heavy rain, the user can grasp the flooding status of the river 610 and irrigation water over time without having to go to the irrigation channel 620 to check, and can determine a more appropriate evacuation route based on the flooding status of the road 630, etc. Furthermore, according to the third embodiment, when water is taken from a river, the operation status of the pump can be adjusted according to the water level of the irrigation channel 620. Therefore, electricity costs, labor costs, etc. can be saved.

[0089] (Fourth Example) FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of the environment measured by the measuring device 200 in the fourth embodiment and information provided based on the measurement results. The fourth embodiment shows an example in which one or more measuring devices 200f are installed at predetermined intervals within a paddy field area 700, and a measuring device 200g is also installed near the water inlet and outlet. The measuring device 200f is provided with, for example, a water level sensor and a water temperature sensor, and measures the water level and water temperature at the installation point at a predetermined interval. The measuring device 200g is also provided with, for example, a water level sensor and a flow rate sensor, and measures the water level and flow rate at the installation point at a predetermined interval.

[0090] The information providing server 100 acquires information (environmental data) obtained by the measuring devices 200f and 200g, analyzes the environmental conditions in the paddy field area 700, generates an image showing the spatial distribution of the environmental conditions, and displays it on the display unit 172, etc. The example in FIG. 20 shows a water level MAP showing the water level distribution WA3 in the paddy field area 700, and a water temperature MAP showing the water temperature distribution TI3. ​​The water level and water temperature are displayed in identifiable colors, patterns, etc. according to their values ​​(magnitudes). Note that the information shown in FIG. 20 may be generated using only information obtained from the measuring device 200f.

[0091] According to the fourth embodiment, the environmental data measured by the measuring devices 200f and 200g is analyzed and an image such as that shown in FIG. 20 is provided to the user, thereby enabling appropriate management of the rice paddy area 700. Therefore, for example, since excessively high water temperature can cause poor growth and sterility, the temperature can be lowered by gradually introducing water into the rice paddy area 700 through the water inlet. In this case, the amount of water introduced into the rice paddy area 700 can be controlled based on the water level and amount measured by the measuring device 200g installed near the water inlet. Furthermore, according to the fourth embodiment, it is possible to detect an excessive drop in the water level due to leakage in the rice paddy area 700, and to identify and predict where and how the water level will change when a particular location in the rice paddy area 700 is damaged.

[0092] Each of the first to fourth embodiments described above may be combined with part or all of the other embodiments. As described above, the type of sensor to be mounted on the measuring device 200 can be selected depending on the environment to be measured, so that necessary information can be appropriately acquired and more accurate analysis and prediction of the environment can be performed.

[0093] According to the above-described embodiment, the information providing system 1 includes an acquisition unit 120 that acquires environmental data measured by measuring devices 200 installed at multiple locations, an analysis unit 130 that analyzes the environmental state in a target area included in the multiple locations based on the environmental data, an image generation unit 150 that generates an image showing the spatial distribution including the soil state of the target area based on the results of the analysis by the analysis unit, and a display control unit 160 that displays the image generated by the image generation unit 150 on the display unit 172, thereby making it possible to provide more appropriate information on the environmental state depending on the situation in the area.

[0094] Specifically, according to the embodiment, for example, environmental data related to soil, weather, and water can be easily obtained in real time at multiple locations, and this information can be used to more appropriately analyze soil conditions and make near-future predictions. Furthermore, according to the embodiment, it is possible to predict the degree of change in soil moisture, predict floods and the risk of slope collapse, propose land improvement, and perform irrigation management and yield prediction in farmland. The technology according to the embodiment can be widely used in fields such as agriculture and forestry, for example, for environmental monitoring of a specified area, field management, facility management, crop cultivation, and consideration of effective land use.

[0095] The above describes the form for carrying out the present invention using an embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment, and various modifications and substitutions can be made within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 1...information providing system, 100...information providing server, 110, 220...communication unit, 120...acquisition unit, 130...analysis unit, 140...prediction unit, 150...image generation unit, 160...display control unit, 170...input / output unit, 180...storage unit, 200...measuring device, 210...battery, 230...control unit, 240...first sensor, 250...second sensor

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires environmental data measured by measuring devices installed at multiple locations; an analysis unit that analyzes an environmental state in a target area included in the multiple points based on the environmental data; an image generation unit that generates an image showing a spatial distribution including the soil condition of the target area based on the results of the analysis by the analysis unit; a display control unit that causes the image generated by the image generation unit to be displayed on a display unit; a prediction unit that predicts a future environmental state in the target area based on the time-series changes in the environmental state in the target area analyzed by the analysis unit, the prediction unit predicts whether or not irrigation is necessary and the timing of irrigation in the target area based on the environmental data, the topography of the target area, and soil hardness information of the target area; Information provision system.

2. an acquisition unit that acquires environmental data measured by measuring devices installed at multiple locations; an analysis unit that analyzes an environmental state in a target area included in the multiple points based on the environmental data; an image generation unit that generates an image showing a spatial distribution including the soil condition of the target area based on the results of the analysis by the analysis unit; a display control unit that causes the image generated by the image generation unit to be displayed on a display unit; a prediction unit that predicts a future environmental state in the target area based on the time-series changes in the environmental state in the target area analyzed by the analysis unit, the prediction unit predicts the occurrence of a future disaster in the target area based on the environmental data, the topography of the target area, and soil hardness information of the target area; Information provision system.

3. an acquisition unit that acquires environmental data measured by measuring devices installed at multiple locations; an analysis unit that analyzes an environmental state in a target area included in the multiple points based on the environmental data; an image generation unit that generates an image showing a spatial distribution including the soil condition of the target area based on the results of the analysis by the analysis unit; a display control unit that causes the image generated by the image generation unit to be displayed on a display unit; a prediction unit that predicts a future environmental state in the target area based on the time-series changes in the environmental state in the target area analyzed by the analysis unit, the prediction unit predicts the direction of movement of soil moisture in the target area and generates information for proposing soil improvement based on the prediction result; Information provision system.

4. the prediction unit predicts a future change in soil moisture content in the target area based on past or future weather information; 4. The information providing system according to claim 1.

5. the prediction unit predicts a risk of slope collapse based on a degree of change in soil moisture of the slope when the target area includes a slope; 4. The information providing system according to claim 1.

6. The installation density or type of the measurement devices is varied depending on the topography and feature information of the target area.

4. The information providing system according to claim 1.

7. The information providing server Acquire environmental data measured by measuring devices installed at multiple locations, Analyzing an environmental state in a target area included in the multiple points based on the acquired environmental data; generating an image showing a spatial distribution including the soil condition of the target area based on the analysis result; Displaying the generated image on a display unit; predicting a future environmental state in the target area based on the analyzed time-series changes in the environmental state in the target area; predicting whether or not and when irrigation is necessary in the target area based on the environmental data, the topography of the target area, and soil hardness information of the target area; Information provision method.

8. The information providing server Acquire environmental data measured by measuring devices installed at multiple locations, Analyzing an environmental state in a target area included in the multiple points based on the acquired environmental data; generating an image showing a spatial distribution including the soil condition of the target area based on the analysis result; Displaying the generated image on a display unit; predicting a future environmental state in the target area based on the analyzed time-series changes in the environmental state in the target area; predicting the occurrence of a future disaster in the target area based on the environmental data, the topography of the target area, and soil hardness information of the target area; Information provision method.

9. The information providing server Acquire environmental data measured by measuring devices installed at multiple locations, Analyzing an environmental state in a target area included in the multiple points based on the acquired environmental data; generating an image showing a spatial distribution including the soil condition of the target area based on the analysis result; Displaying the generated image on a display unit; predicting a future environmental state in the target area based on the analyzed time-series changes in the environmental state in the target area; predicting the direction of soil moisture movement in the target area and generating information for proposing soil improvement based on the predicted results; Information provision method.

10. The information server Acquire environmental data measured by measuring devices installed at multiple locations; analyzing an environmental state in a target area included in the multiple points based on the acquired environmental data; generating an image showing a spatial distribution including the soil condition of the target area based on the analyzed results; Displaying the generated image on a display unit; predicting a future environmental state in the target area based on the analyzed time-series changes in the environmental state in the target area; predicting whether or not irrigation is necessary and the timing of irrigation in the target area based on the environmental data, the topography of the target area, and soil hardness information of the target area; program.

11. The information server Acquire environmental data measured by measuring devices installed at multiple locations; analyzing an environmental state in a target area included in the multiple points based on the acquired environmental data; generating an image showing a spatial distribution including the soil condition of the target area based on the analyzed results; Displaying the generated image on a display unit; predicting a future environmental state in the target area based on the analyzed time-series changes in the environmental state in the target area; predicting the occurrence of a future disaster in the target area based on the environmental data, the topography of the target area, and soil hardness information of the target area; program.

12. The information server Acquire environmental data measured by measuring devices installed at multiple locations; analyzing an environmental state in a target area included in the multiple points based on the acquired environmental data; generating an image showing a spatial distribution including the soil condition of the target area based on the analyzed results; Displaying the generated image on a display unit; predicting a future environmental state in the target area based on the analyzed time-series changes in the environmental state in the target area; predicting the direction of soil moisture movement in the target area and generating information for proposing soil improvement based on the predicted results; program.

Images