Value calculation system, value calculation method, and program

Abstract

A value calculation system is provided that can affect how a user uses a home appliance, since it calculates a value index based on the period of use of the home appliance. [Solution] The value calculation system (server 20) includes an acquisition unit 21 that acquires the usage history of a home appliance 30 via the network 60 from the home appliance 30 connected to the network 60, and a calculation unit 22 that calculates the usage period of the home appliance 30 based on the usage history, and the calculation unit 22 calculates a value index based on the calculated usage period.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a value calculation system, a value calculation method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a system for providing a product discount service in which an electronic shopping server displays product information on a user terminal for a specified presentation period, and when a user reserves a product, the electronic shopping server reduces the value of the product as the total number of reservations increases. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-351000 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure provides a value calculation system and the like that can influence how users use home appliances. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A value calculation system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: an acquisition unit that acquires a usage history of a home appliance via a network; and a calculation unit that calculates a usage period of the home appliance based on the usage history, and calculates a value index based on the calculated usage period. The value index is an index that can be used to pay for the cost of using at least one of a plurality of home appliances including the home appliance or another home appliance. .

[0006] These general or specific aspects may be realized by an apparatus, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a non-transitory recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or may be realized by any combination of an apparatus, a method, a system, an integrated circuit, a computer program, and a non-transitory recording medium. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The value calculation system and the like in the present disclosure can affect how users use home appliances. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a value calculation system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of an information terminal according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of a server according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a home electric appliance according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a value calculation system according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a log stored in the home appliance log database. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of registration information that associates user IDs with device IDs. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of value index information. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing a first example of a value calculation method in the value calculation system according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a second example of a value calculation method in the value calculation system according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is known a service that gives a user points that can be used to get a discount on the next purchase of a home appliance, depending on the purchase price of the home appliance.

[0010] In addition, as in Patent Document 1 above, in a product discount service, an electronic shopping server displays product information on a user terminal for a specified presentation period, and when a user reserves a product, the electronic shopping server reduces the value of the product as the total number of reservations increases.

[0011] However, conventional technologies such as those described in Patent Document 1 do not take into account the period of use of home appliances by users, making it difficult to encourage users to take good care of their home appliances for as long as possible or to encourage users to part with their home appliances in good condition. This makes it difficult to extend the lifespan of home appliances or to distribute home appliances in good condition in the secondary market (second-hand market). In other words, there is a problem in that it is difficult to influence how users use home appliances.

[0012] Therefore, the present inventors have come up with a value calculation system that can influence how users use home appliances.

[0013] A value calculation system according to a first aspect of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires a usage history of a home appliance via a network, and a calculation unit that calculates a usage period of the home appliance based on the usage history and calculates a value index based on the calculated usage period.

[0014] According to this, since the value index is calculated based on the period of use of the home appliance, it is possible to influence how the user uses the home appliance. For example, if the value index is calculated so that the longer the period of use, the larger the value index, it is possible to encourage users to use the home appliance for a long time. Also, for example, if the value index is calculated so that the shorter the period of use, the larger the value index, it is possible to encourage users to get rid of home appliances in short cycles, and home appliances in good condition can be distributed in the secondary market.

[0015] A value calculation system according to a second aspect of the present disclosure is a value calculation system according to the first aspect, wherein the value index is an index that can be used to pay the cost of using at least one of a plurality of home appliances including the home appliance or other home appliances.

[0016] This allows for the calculation of a value index that can be used to pay for the costs of using the home appliance or at least one of a plurality of home appliances, including other home appliances, based on the period of use of the home appliance, thereby influencing how the user uses the home appliance.

[0017] A value calculation system according to a third aspect of the present disclosure is a value calculation system according to the first aspect, wherein the costs include at least one of a cost for purchasing the at least one home appliance, a cost for maintaining the at least one home appliance, or a cost paid for a service for using the at least one home appliance.

[0018] Therefore, a value index can be calculated that can be used to pay for at least one of the costs of purchasing at least one home appliance, the costs of maintaining at least one home appliance, and the costs paid for services to use at least one home appliance.

[0019] A value calculation system according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure is a value calculation system according to any one of the first to third aspects, further comprising a memory unit that stores user identification information that identifies a user of the home appliance and device identification information that identifies the home appliance, in association with each other, wherein the usage history includes the device identification information of the home appliance, and the value index is stored in the memory unit in association with the user identification information that is associated with the device identification information included in the usage history.

[0020] Therefore, the value index can be managed in association with the user identification information.

[0021] A value calculation system according to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure is a value calculation system according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the calculation unit identifies the start time of use of the home appliance based on the usage history, and calculates the usage period based on the period from the start time of use to the current time.

[0022] Therefore, the usage period can be calculated efficiently.

[0023] A value calculation system according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure is a value calculation system according to the fifth aspect, wherein the usage history includes a plurality of logs recorded in the home appliance, and the calculation unit calculates the usage period as the period obtained by subtracting from the period from the start time of use to the current time a period greater than a predetermined time among the periods between two times when two logs recorded adjacent in time were recorded.

[0024] According to this, the usage period is calculated by subtracting the period during which the home appliance is not actually used from the period that has elapsed since the user started using the appliance, so that the usage period can be calculated with high accuracy.

[0025] A value calculation system according to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure is the value calculation system according to the sixth aspect, wherein the predetermined time is set to a length that differs depending on the type of the home appliance.

[0026] This allows for accurate calculation of the usage period, since it takes into account that the length of time during which use of a home appliance is interrupted varies depending on the type of home appliance.

[0027] A value calculation system according to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure is a value calculation system according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the calculation unit calculates the value index so that the longer the usage period, the larger the value index becomes.

[0028] According to this, the value index is calculated so that the longer the period of use, the larger the value index becomes, and therefore it is possible to encourage the user to use the home appliance for a long time.

[0029] A value calculation system according to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure is a value calculation system according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the calculation unit calculates the value index so that the shorter the usage period, the larger the value index.

[0030] According to this method, the value index is calculated so that it increases as the period of use becomes shorter, which encourages users to get rid of home appliances in short cycles and allows home appliances in good condition to be circulated in the secondary market.

[0031] A value calculation system according to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure is a value calculation system according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, further comprising a determination unit that determines whether the home appliance has been used appropriately based on the usage history, and a correction unit that corrects the value index so that it becomes larger based on the determination result that the home appliance has been used appropriately.

[0032] According to this, when a home appliance is used appropriately, the value index is corrected to a larger value, which encourages the user to use the home appliance appropriately, thereby reducing deterioration of the condition of the home appliance.

[0033] A value calculation system according to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure is a value calculation system according to the tenth aspect, wherein the correction unit corrects the value index so that it becomes smaller based on a determination result that the home appliance is not being used appropriately.

[0034] According to this, if the home appliance is not used appropriately, the value index is corrected to a smaller value, which can prevent the user from using the home appliance inappropriately, thereby reducing the deterioration of the condition of the home appliance.

[0035] A value calculation system according to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure is a value calculation system according to the tenth aspect, wherein the determination unit determines that the home appliance has been used appropriately if it determines, based on the usage history, that the home appliance has been maintained at a predetermined frequency.

[0036] According to this, if a home appliance is properly maintained, the value index is corrected to a larger value, which encourages the user to use the home appliance appropriately, thereby reducing deterioration of the condition of the home appliance.

[0037] A value calculation system according to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a value calculation system according to the eleventh aspect, wherein the determination unit determines that the home appliance is not being used appropriately when it determines, based on the usage history, that the detection value by the sensor provided in the home appliance is outside a predetermined range.

[0038] According to this, when it is determined that the detected value by the sensor equipped in the home appliance is outside a predetermined range, the value index is corrected to a smaller value, which can prevent the user from using the home appliance inappropriately, thereby reducing the deterioration of the condition of the home appliance.

[0039] A value calculation method according to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a value calculation method executed by a value calculation system, which obtains a usage history of a home appliance connected to a network via the network, calculates a usage period of the home appliance based on the usage history, and calculates a value index based on the calculated usage period.

[0040] According to this, since the value index is calculated based on the period of use of the home appliance, it is possible to influence how the user uses the home appliance. For example, if the value index is calculated so that the longer the period of use, the larger the value index, it is possible to encourage users to use the home appliance for a long time. Also, for example, if the value index is calculated so that the shorter the period of use, the larger the value index, it is possible to encourage users to get rid of home appliances in short cycles, and home appliances in good condition can be distributed in the secondary market.

[0041] A program according to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing a computer to execute the value calculation method according to the fourteenth aspect.

[0042] These general or specific aspects may be realized by an apparatus, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a non-transitory recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or may be realized by any combination of an apparatus, a method, a system, an integrated circuit, a computer program, and a non-transitory recording medium.

[0043] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, more detailed explanation than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed explanation of well-known matters or redundant explanation of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoid unnecessary redundancy in the following explanation and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0044] The inventors have provided the accompanying drawings and the following description to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and do not intend for them to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0045] (Embodiment) [composition] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a value calculation system according to an embodiment.

[0046] 1 shows an information terminal 10, a server 20, a plurality of home appliances 30, a network 60, and a router 61. For example, the value calculation system 1 includes the information terminal 10, the server 20, and the plurality of home appliances 30 among these components.

[0047] In addition, the above components of the value calculation system 1 do not necessarily have to be hardware, and may be realized by executing the necessary software among the software stored in the information terminal 10, the software stored in the server 20, and the software stored in the home appliance 30 by one or more processors provided in the information terminal 10, the server 20, and at least one of the multiple home appliances 30 that correspond to the necessary software.

[0048] The information terminal 10, the server 20, and the plurality of home appliances 30 are communicatively connected to one another via a network 60. The router 61 is a device that mediates the communication connection of the information terminal 10 and the plurality of home appliances 30 to the network 60. The information terminal 10 may be communicatively connected to the network 60 by being mediated by another router (not shown), or may be communicatively connected to the network 60 by communicating with a base station of a mobile phone communication line.

[0049] The value calculation system 1 is a system for providing a reward to a user of a home appliance 30 based on the period of use of the home appliance 30. The reward is a value index that can be used to pay the cost required to use at least one home appliance among a plurality of home appliances 30, including a home appliance 30 owned by the user. Here, the cost required to use at least one home appliance includes at least one of the cost to purchase the at least one home appliance, the cost to maintain the at least one home appliance, and the cost paid for a service to use the at least one home appliance. Specifically, the reward may be provided in the form of points having the same or similar value as cash, electronic money, virtual currency, or a discount price that can be used for the next payment of a fee.

[0050] The value calculation system 1 may include one home electric appliance 30 instead of the multiple home electric appliances 30. Therefore, an example in which one home electric appliance 30 is included will be described below.

[0051] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of an information terminal according to an embodiment.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 2, the information terminal 10 includes, as its hardware configuration, a processor 10a, a main memory 10b, a storage 10c, a communication IF (Interface) 10d, an input device 10e, and a display 10f.

[0053] The processor 10a is a processor that executes a program stored in the storage 10c or the like.

[0054] The main memory 10b is a volatile storage area that is used to temporarily store data generated during processing by the processor 10a, used as a work area used when the processor 10a executes a program, and used to temporarily store data received by the communication IF 10d.

[0055] The storage 10c is a non-volatile storage area that holds various data such as programs, etc. The storage 10c stores, for example, various data generated as a result of processing by the processor 10a and various data received by the communication IF 10d.

[0056] The communication IF 10d is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information to and from the server 20 or the home appliance 30 via the network 60. The communication IF 10d may be, for example, an interface for wireless communication such as a wireless LAN interface or a Bluetooth (registered trademark) interface. The communication IF 10d may also be an interface for wired communication such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) or a wired LAN interface.

[0057] The input device 10e is an interface for receiving input from a person, and may be a pointing device such as a mouse, a touchpad, a touch panel, or a trackball, or may be a keyboard.

[0058] The display 10f is a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like.

[0059] FIG. 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of a server according to the embodiment.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 3, the server 20 includes, as its hardware configuration, a processor 20a, a main memory 20b, a storage 20c, and a communication IF (Interface) 20d.

[0061] The processor 20a is a processor that executes programs stored in the storage 20c or the like.

[0062] The main memory 20b is a volatile storage area that is used to temporarily store data generated during processing by the processor 20a, used as a work area used when the processor 20a executes a program, and used to temporarily store data received by the communication IF 20d.

[0063] The storage 20c is a non-volatile storage area that holds various data such as programs, etc. The storage 20c stores, for example, various data generated as a result of processing by the processor 20a and various data received by the communication IF 20d.

[0064] The communication IF 20d is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information to and from the information terminal 10 or the home appliance 30 via the network 60. The communication IF 20d may be, for example, an interface for wireless communication such as a wireless LAN interface or a Bluetooth (registered trademark) interface. The communication IF 20d may also be an interface for wired communication such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) or a wired LAN interface.

[0065] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a home electric appliance according to an embodiment.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 4, the home appliance 30 includes a control circuit 30a, a communication IF (Interface) 30b, a display 30c, an input device 30d, a sensor 30e, and an actuator 30f.

[0067] The control circuit 30a controls the operation of the actuator 30f. The control circuit 30a may control the operation of the actuator 30f based on a value detected by the sensor 30e. For example, the control circuit 30a may control the operation of the actuator 30f so that the value detected by the sensor 30e approaches a target value. A memory (not shown) included in the control circuit 30a stores information (such as a program) used by the control circuit 30a to control the operation of the actuator 30f.

[0068] The communication IF 30b communicates with the server 20 via the network 60. The communication IF 30b may be a communication interface for transmitting data to and from the server 20. The communication IF 30b may be an interface for wireless communication, such as a wireless LAN interface or a Bluetooth (registered trademark) interface. The communication IF 30b may be an interface for wired communication, such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) or a wired LAN interface.

[0069] The display 30c is a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like.

[0070] The input device 30d receives input from a person. The input device 30d is, for example, a touch panel. The input device 30d is not limited to a touch panel, and may be another input device such as a mechanical button.

[0071] The sensor 30e is a sensor for detecting the state of the home appliance 30. The home appliance 30 is not limited to having one sensor 30e, but may have a plurality of sensors 30e. When the home appliance 30 has a plurality of sensors 30e, the plurality of sensors 30e may be of different types or the same type.

[0072] When the home appliance 30 is a washing machine, the sensor 30e may be, for example, a sensor that detects the amount of water, a sensor that detects the temperature, or a sensor that detects the current value for operating the actuator 30f (for example, a motor that rotates the washing tub).

[0073] When the home appliance 30 is a refrigerator, the sensor 30e may be, for example, a sensor that detects the temperature inside the refrigerator, or a sensor that detects the current value for operating the actuator 30f (for example, a motor that drives a compressor).

[0074] When the home appliance 30 is a rice cooker, the sensor 30e may be, for example, a sensor that detects the temperature of the bottom of the inner pot of the rice cooker.

[0075] The actuator 30f is a mechanical element that converts input energy into physical motion based on an electrical signal. The actuator 30f may be, for example, an electric motor, a hydraulic cylinder, or a pneumatic actuator. The home appliance 30 is not limited to having one actuator 30f, but may also have multiple actuators 30f. When the home appliance 30 has multiple actuators 30f, the multiple actuators 30f may be of different types or the same type. The home appliance 30 does not necessarily have to have any actuators 30f.

[0076] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a value calculation system according to an embodiment.

[0077] The value calculation system 1 includes an information terminal 10, a server 20, and a home appliance 30. In Fig. 5, the router 61 is not shown.

[0078] The information terminal 10 includes an acquisition unit 11, a transmission unit 12, a storage unit 13, a display unit 14, and a reception unit 15. The information terminal 10 is realized, for example, by a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like.

[0079] The acquisition unit 11 receives information from at least one of the server 20 and the home appliance 30 via the network 60. Specifically, the acquisition unit 11 receives UI information indicating a UI (User Interface) from the server 20. The acquisition unit 11 is realized by the communication IF 10d.

[0080] The transmitter 12 transmits information to at least one of the server 20 and the home appliance 30 via the network 60. Specifically, the transmitter 12 may transmit acceptance information indicating that an input to a UI displayed on the home appliance 30 has been accepted to the server 20. The transmitter 12 is realized by the communication IF 10d.

[0081] The storage unit 13 stores user information for identifying a user. The user information may be information generated in the information terminal 10 based on an input by the user accepted by the accepting unit 15, which will be described later. The storage unit 13 also stores a program for realizing the functions of the information terminal 10. The storage unit 13 is realized by, for example, the storage 10c.

[0082] Based on the UI information, the display unit 14 displays an image or a UI generated in the information terminal 10. The display unit 14 is realized by, for example, the display 10f.

[0083] The reception unit 15 receives an input from a user. Specifically, the reception unit 15 receives an input to a UI displayed on the display unit 14. The reception unit 15 is realized by, for example, the input device 10e.

[0084] The server 20 includes an acquisition unit 21, a calculation unit 22, a storage unit 23, a determination unit 24, and a correction unit 25. Note that the server 20 does not necessarily have to include the determination unit 24 and the correction unit 25.

[0085] The acquisition unit 21 acquires the usage history of the home appliance 30 via the network 60. Specifically, the acquisition unit 21 may acquire, from the home appliance 30 communicably connected to the network 60, a plurality of logs recorded in the home appliance 30 as the usage history of the home appliance 30. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 21 acquires a log transmitted from the home appliance 30 every time the log is transmitted. That is, the acquisition unit 21 acquires a plurality of logs at different times. Note that the log may include a device ID (device identification information) that identifies the home appliance 30.

[0086] The acquiring unit 21 may also acquire, as the usage history of the home appliance 30, information indicating that use of the home appliance 30 has started from the information terminal 10 communicatively connected to the network 60. The information indicating that use has started may be registration information generated based on an input by the user to the information terminal 10. The registration information may be generated in the information terminal 10 by, for example, receiving information for product registration of the home appliance 30 from the user. The registration information may also be automatically generated based on a log transmitted by the home appliance 30 from the server 20 after the home appliance 30 and the information terminal 10 are set to a state in which they can communicate with each other. In addition to the device ID, this log includes a user ID acquired from the information terminal 10 when the home appliance 30 is connected to the information terminal 10. The registration information is information for managing a device ID (device identification information) that identifies the home appliance 30 and a user ID (user identification information) that identifies the user in association with each other. The acquiring unit 21 is realized by the communication IF 20d.

[0087] Calculation unit 22 calculates the usage period of home appliance 30 based on the usage history. Calculation unit 22 may identify the usage start time of home appliance 30 based on the usage history, and calculate the usage period based on the period from the usage start time to the current time (i.e., the time at which the usage period is calculated). Calculation unit 22 is realized by processor 20a, main memory 20b, storage 20c, etc.

[0088] The usage start time may be, for example, the time when the first log received from the home appliance 30 is recorded in the home appliance 30, or the time when the server 20 first receives a log from the home appliance 30. If the device ID included in the received log is not included in multiple logs that the server 20 has received so far, the server 20 may determine that the received log is the first log received from the home appliance 30.

[0089] Alternatively, calculation unit 22 may calculate the usage period by subtracting, from the period from the usage start time to the current time, a period between two times when two adjacent logs were recorded that is longer than a predetermined time. In other words, calculation unit 22 may calculate the usage period such that, if, in multiple logs including the same device ID, the period from a first time when a first log was recorded to a second time when a subsequent second log was recorded is longer than a predetermined time, the calculation unit 22 excludes the period from the usage period. In this way, if the period between a log and the next log is longer than the predetermined time, the calculation unit 22 excludes the period from the usage period in order to exclude, from the user's usage period, a period during which home appliance 30 was left unused by the user.

[0090] The predetermined time may be, for example, one day, one week, one month, or any other length of time. The predetermined time may be set to a different length depending on the type of home appliance 30. For example, if home appliance 30 is a washing machine, rice cooker, or refrigerator that is used every day, the predetermined time may be one day. Also, for example, if home appliance 30 is an air conditioner that is used only in summer or winter, the predetermined time may be two months.

[0091] The period for subtraction is not limited to the above example, and may be a period in which no logs were recorded (or a period in which the number of recorded logs is less than a predetermined number) among multiple periods separated by a predetermined time unit. The length of the predetermined time unit may be set to a different length depending on the type of home appliance 30, as described above.

[0092] Next, the calculation unit 22 calculates a value index that can be used to pay for the cost of using at least one of the plurality of home appliances 30, including the home appliance 30 and other home appliances, based on the calculated usage period. The calculation unit 22 may calculate the value index so that the longer the usage period, the larger the value index. Alternatively, the calculation unit 22 may calculate the value index so that the shorter the usage period, the larger the value index.

[0093] The storage unit 23 stores information acquired by the acquisition unit 21, information generated by the calculation unit 22, the determination result by the determination unit 24, information corrected by the correction unit 25, etc. The storage unit 23 includes a home appliance log database 23a and a home appliance / user database 23b. Note that in FIG. 5, the databases are represented as DBs. The storage unit 23 is realized by the storage 20c.

[0094] The home appliance log database 23a stores logs acquired by the acquisition unit 21. The home appliance / user database 23b stores registration information. The home appliance / user database 23b may also store value index information indicating a value index (points) calculated for each user.

[0095] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a log stored in the home appliance log database. The log includes, for example, the device ID of one home appliance 30, content indicating the log, and the time the log was recorded. Fig. 6 shows multiple logs stored in the home appliance log database 23a.

[0096] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of registration information that associates a user ID with a device ID. The registration information indicates, for example, a pair of the device ID of one home appliance 30 and the user ID of one user who uses the home appliance 30. FIG. 7 shows a plurality of pieces of registration information stored in the home appliance / user database 23b. In this way, by storing the registration information, the storage unit 23 associates and stores the user ID that identifies the user of the home appliance 30 with the device ID that identifies the home appliance 30.

[0097] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of value index information. The value index information indicates, for example, a pair of the user ID of one user and a value index calculated in association with the user ID. FIG. 8 shows a plurality of pieces of value index information stored in the home appliance user database 23b. In this way, the value index is stored in the storage unit 23 in association with the user ID. The user ID associated with the value index is a user ID stored in the storage unit 23 in association with the device ID included in the usage history used to calculate the usage period on which the value index is calculated. Furthermore, the user ID may be a user account of a service for which the value index can be used, or may be an ID further associated with the user account.

[0098] Here, we return to the explanation using FIG.

[0099] The determination unit 24 determines whether the home appliance 30 has been used appropriately based on the usage history. Specifically, the determination unit 24 may determine whether the home appliance 30 has been maintained at a predetermined frequency based on the usage history. If the determination unit 24 determines that the home appliance 30 has been maintained at the predetermined frequency, the determination unit 24 determines that the home appliance 30 has been used appropriately. If the determination unit 24 determines that the home appliance 30 has not been maintained at the predetermined frequency, the determination unit 24 determines that the home appliance 30 has not been used appropriately.

[0100] Whether home appliance 30 has undergone maintenance at a predetermined frequency may be determined based on multiple logs received from home appliance 30. In this case, the multiple logs may include, for example, a log indicating that an error has occurred and a log indicating that the error has been resolved, and it may be determined that maintenance has been performed based on a set of these logs. Alternatively, the multiple logs may include, for example, a log indicating that maintenance has been performed, and it may be determined that maintenance has been performed based on the log.

[0101] Furthermore, whether the home appliance 30 has been maintained at a predetermined frequency may be determined by acquiring information indicating that the home appliance 30 has been maintained from a terminal of a maintenance worker.

[0102] Furthermore, the determination unit 24 may determine whether or not a value detected by a sensor included in the home appliance 30 is outside a predetermined range, based on the usage history. When the determination unit 24 determines that a value detected by the sensor is outside the predetermined range, the determination unit 24 determines that the home appliance 30 is being used improperly. When the determination unit 24 determines that a value detected by the sensor is within the predetermined range, the determination unit 24 determines that the home appliance 30 is being used appropriately. Note that the determination unit 24 may determine that the home appliance 30 is being used improperly only when a state in which a value detected by the sensor is outside the predetermined range occurs a predetermined number of times.

[0103] The determination unit 24 is realized by the processor 20a, the main memory 20b, the storage 20c, and the like.

[0104] The correction unit 25 corrects the value index so that the value index becomes larger based on the determination result that the home appliance 30 has been used appropriately. As a result, the value index to be corrected that is stored in the storage unit 23 is updated to the value index newly generated by the correction.

[0105] Specifically, the correction unit 25 may identify a value index associated with a user ID that is associated with the device ID of the home appliance 30, and may correct the identified value index by multiplying it by a value greater than 1, or by adding a positive number to it.

[0106] Furthermore, the correction unit 25 corrects the value index to decrease it based on the determination result that the home appliance 30 is not being used appropriately. Specifically, the correction unit 25 may identify the value index associated with the user ID associated with the device ID of the home appliance 30, and correct the identified value index by multiplying it by a value smaller than 1, or by subtracting a positive number from it.

[0107] The correction unit 25 is realized by the processor 20a, the main memory 20b, the storage 20c, and the like.

[0108] The home appliance 30 includes a communication unit 31, a control unit 32, a reception unit 33, and a display unit .

[0109] The communication unit 31 receives information from the server 20 via the network 60. The communication unit 31 transmits information to the server 20 via the network 60. Specifically, the communication unit 31 may transmit a log recorded in the home appliance 30 to the server 20. The log transmitted from the communication unit 31 may include a device ID for identifying the home appliance 30. The communication unit 31 may receive a control instruction from the server 20. The communication unit 31 is realized by, for example, the communication IF 30b.

[0110] When a control instruction is received by the communication unit 31 or when a control instruction is accepted by the acceptance unit 33, the control unit 32 executes the operation indicated in the control instruction. When the time to execute the operation is specified in the control instruction, the control unit 32 executes the operation at the specified time. The control unit 32 is realized by, for example, the control circuit 30a.

[0111] The reception unit 33 receives control instructions from the user. Specifically, the reception unit 33 receives input to a UI displayed on the display unit 34. The reception unit 33 is realized by an input device 30d such as a touch panel, for example. Note that the reception unit 33 is not limited to a touch panel and may be another input device.

[0112] The display unit 34 displays an image or a UI (User Interface) generated by the home appliance 30 or the server 20. The display unit 34 is realized by, for example, the display 30c.

[0113] It should be noted that home appliance 30 does not necessarily have to have at least one of reception unit 33 and display unit 34. In this case, home appliance 30 may realize the function of reception unit 33 by communicating with information terminal 10 and receiving information received by information terminal 10, or may realize the function of display unit 34 by transmitting display information to information terminal 10 and causing information terminal 10 to display the display information.

[0114] The log of home appliance 30 indicates the operation history of home appliance 30. The operation history includes operations performed by home appliance 30 and the dates and times when the operations were performed. The operation history may further include the duration of the operations. The operations indicated in the operation history may include the driving of actuators provided in home appliance 30, detection results of sensors provided in home appliance 30, calculation contents of the CPU provided in home appliance 30, calculation results of the CPU provided in home appliance 30, etc.

[0115] [Operation] Next, a first example of the operation of the value calculation system 1 will be described.

[0116] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing a first example of a value calculation method in the value calculation system according to the embodiment.

[0117] The home appliance 30 records a log of when an operation is performed (S1).

[0118] The home appliance 30 transmits the recorded log to the server 20 (S2). In response to this, the server 20 acquires the log from the home appliance 30.

[0119] The server 20 stores the log acquired from the home appliance 30 (S3).

[0120] The server 20 calculates the usage period of the home appliance 30 based on the log as the usage history (S4).

[0121] The server 20 calculates a value index that can be used to pay for the cost of using at least one of the plurality of home appliances 30, including the home appliance 30 and other home appliances, based on the calculated usage period (S5).

[0122] The server 20 stores the calculated value index in the memory unit 23 in association with the user ID stored in the memory unit 23 in association with the device ID included in the log used to calculate the usage period on which the value index was calculated (S6).

[0123] The server 20 determines whether the home appliance 30 has been used appropriately based on the log as the usage history (S7).

[0124] The server 20 corrects the value index based on the determination result (S8).

[0125] Based on the value index information stored in the storage unit 23, the server 20 transmits UI information including the value index to the information terminal 10 of the user ID associated with the value index in the value index information (S9).

[0126] The information terminal 10 presents the UI information (S10). For example, the information terminal 10 displays the UI information.

[0127] Here, steps S1 to S3 are repeated every time a log is stored in step S1. In transmitting the log in step S2, one log may be transmitted each time the log is recorded, or multiple logs accumulated until the log transmission condition is satisfied may be transmitted when the log transmission condition is satisfied. The log transmission condition may be, for example, the passage of a first time period, the accumulation of a first number of logs, or the recording of a specific type of log.

[0128] Steps S4 to S6 may be repeated whenever a calculation condition is satisfied, such as the passage of a second time period, the storage of a second number of logs in the storage unit 23, or the storage of a specific type of log in the storage unit 23.

[0129] Steps S9 and S10 may be repeated whenever a condition for transmitting UI information is satisfied, such as when a new value index is stored or when a value index is updated.

[0130] Next, a second example of the operation of the value calculation system 1 will be described.

[0131] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a second example of a value calculation method in the value calculation system according to the embodiment.

[0132] The second example differs from the first example in that steps S1a to S3a are added and step S4a is executed instead of step S4. Therefore, only the differences will be described, and descriptions of the same processes will be omitted.

[0133] The information terminal 10 receives registration information from the user (S1a).

[0134] The information terminal 10 transmits the received registration information to the server 20 (S2a). As a result, the server 20 acquires the registration information from the information terminal 10.

[0135] The server 20 stores the registration information acquired from the information terminal 10 (S3a).

[0136] The server 20 calculates the usage period of the home appliance 30 based on the registration information as the usage history (S4a).

[0137] [Effects, etc.] The value calculation system 1 according to this embodiment includes an acquisition unit 21 and a calculation unit 22. The acquisition unit 21 acquires the usage history of the home appliance 30 via the network 60. The calculation unit 22 calculates the usage period of the home appliance 30 based on the usage history. The calculation unit 22 calculates a value index that can be used to pay the costs required to use the home appliance 30 and at least one of the other home appliances based on the calculated usage period.

[0138] According to this, the value index is calculated based on the period of use of the home appliance 30, which can influence how the user uses the home appliance 30. For example, if the value index is calculated so that the longer the period of use, the larger the value index, the user can be encouraged to use the home appliance 30 for a long time. Also, for example, if the value index is calculated so that the shorter the period of use, the larger the value index, the user can be encouraged to get rid of the home appliance 30 in a short cycle, and home appliances 30 in good condition can be distributed in the secondary market.

[0139] In addition, in the value calculation system 1 according to this embodiment, the costs include at least one of the costs for purchasing at least one home appliance, the costs for maintaining at least one home appliance, and the costs paid for a service for using at least one home appliance.

[0140] Therefore, a value index can be calculated that can be used to pay for at least one of the costs of purchasing at least one home appliance, the costs of maintaining at least one home appliance, and the costs paid for services to use at least one home appliance.

[0141] Moreover, the value calculation system 1 according to this embodiment further includes a storage unit 23. The storage unit 23 stores user identification information that identifies a user of the home appliance 30 and device identification information that identifies the home appliance 30, in association with each other. The usage history includes the device identification information of the home appliance 30. The value index is stored in the storage unit 23 in association with the user identification information that is stored in the storage unit 23 in association with the device identification information included in the usage history.

[0142] Therefore, the value index can be managed in association with the user identification information.

[0143] Furthermore, in the value calculation system 1 according to the present embodiment, the calculation unit 22 identifies the time when the home electric appliance 30 started to be used based on the usage history. The calculation unit 22 calculates the usage period based on the period from the time when the home electric appliance 30 started to be used to the current time.

[0144] Therefore, the usage period can be calculated efficiently.

[0145] Furthermore, in value calculation system 1 according to the present embodiment, the usage history includes a plurality of logs recorded in home appliance 30. Calculation unit 22 calculates the usage period by subtracting, from the period from the usage start time to the current time, a period longer than a predetermined time between two times when two logs that are recorded adjacent to each other in terms of time are recorded.

[0146] According to this, the usage period is calculated by subtracting the period during which the home appliance 30 is not actually used from the period that has elapsed since the user started using the home appliance 30, so that the usage period can be calculated with high accuracy.

[0147] In the value calculation system 1 according to the present embodiment, the predetermined time is set to a length that differs depending on the type of home electric appliance 30.

[0148] This allows for accurate calculation of the usage period, since it is possible to take into account that the length of time during which use of the home appliance 30 is interrupted differs depending on the type of home appliance 30.

[0149] Furthermore, in the value calculation system 1 according to this embodiment, the calculation unit 22 calculates a value index such that the longer the period of use, the larger the value index becomes.

[0150] According to this, the value index is calculated so that the longer the period of use, the larger the value index becomes, and therefore it is possible to encourage the user to use the home electric appliance 30 for a long time.

[0151] Furthermore, in the value calculation system 1 according to this embodiment, the calculation unit 22 calculates a value index such that the shorter the period of use, the larger the value index.

[0152] According to this, the value index is calculated so that it becomes larger as the period of use becomes shorter, which encourages users to part with home appliances 30 in short cycles, and home appliances 30 in good condition can be distributed in the secondary market.

[0153] Moreover, the value calculation system 1 according to this embodiment further includes a determination unit 24 and a correction unit 25. The determination unit 24 determines whether or not the home appliance 30 has been used appropriately based on the usage history. The correction unit 25 corrects the value index so that it becomes larger based on the determination result that the home appliance 30 has been used appropriately.

[0154] According to this, when the home appliance 30 is used appropriately, the value index is corrected to a larger value, which can encourage the user to use the home appliance 30 appropriately. This can reduce deterioration in the condition of the home appliance 30.

[0155] Furthermore, in the value calculation system 1 according to the present embodiment, the correction unit 25 corrects the value index so as to decrease the value index based on the determination result that the home electric appliance 30 is not being used appropriately.

[0156] According to this, when the home appliance 30 is not used appropriately, the value index is corrected to a smaller value, which can prevent the user from using the home appliance 30 inappropriately. This can reduce deterioration in the condition of the home appliance 30.

[0157] Furthermore, in the value calculation system 1 according to this embodiment, when the determination unit 24 determines based on the usage history that the home appliance 30 has been maintained at a predetermined frequency, it determines that the home appliance 30 has been used appropriately.

[0158] According to this, if the home appliance 30 has been properly maintained, the value index is corrected to a larger value, which can encourage the user to properly use the home appliance 30. This can reduce deterioration in the condition of the home appliance 30.

[0159] Furthermore, in the value calculation system 1 according to this embodiment, when the judgment unit 24 determines based on the usage history that the detection value by the sensor 30e provided in the home appliance 30 is outside a predetermined range, it judges that the home appliance 30 is not being used appropriately.

[0160] According to this, when it is determined that the detection value by the sensor 30e included in the home appliance 30 is outside a predetermined range, the value index is corrected to a smaller value, which can prevent the user from using the home appliance 30 inappropriately. This can reduce deterioration in the condition of the home appliance 30.

[0161] [Variation 1] In the above embodiment, the value calculation system 1 includes the information terminal 10, the server 20, and the home appliance 30, but this is not limited to this. The value calculation system may be the server 20 alone. In other words, the value calculation system only needs to have the functions of the acquisition unit 21 and the calculation unit 22 that the server 20 has, and does not need to include the information terminal 10 and the home appliance 30.

[0162] [Variation 2] In the above embodiment, the UI information transmitted from server 20 may include other information instead of the value index, or may include other information together with the value index. The other information may include an explanation of how to use home appliance 30 or information including a proposal to sell home appliance 30. The UI information including other information may be transmitted from server 20 to information terminal 10 when the difference between the actual usage period of home appliance 30 calculated by calculation unit 22 and the elapsed period since the user started using home appliance 30 is greater than a predetermined period.

[0163] Furthermore, the other information may be information including a suggestion to perform maintenance on the home appliance 30. In this case, the UI information including the other information may be transmitted from the server 20 to the information terminal 10 when the determination unit 24 determines that the home appliance 30 has not been maintained at a predetermined frequency. Furthermore, the UI information may be transmitted when a condition based on at least one of the period of use, the number of times of use, and the frequency of use of the home appliance 30 is satisfied.

[0164] [Variation 3] The value index may be corrected to be larger when the home appliance 30 is used to replace another home appliance of the same type.

[0165] [Variation 4] In Modification 4, a case where the owner of one home appliance 30 is changed to another user will be described. When the owner of the home appliance 30 is changed to another user, the previous owner transmits information for canceling the user registration of the home appliance 30 from the information terminal 10 of the user to the server 20. Upon receiving this information, the server 20 may cancel the association between the device ID of the home appliance 30 and the user ID, or may eliminate the user ID associated with the device ID after receiving this information. Next, when the other user obtains the home appliance 30, the other user performs user registration using another information terminal 10 owned by the other user, and the registration information is transmitted from the other information terminal 10 to the server 20. Upon receiving the registration information from the other information terminal 10, the server 20 associates the device ID of the home appliance 30 with the user ID of the other user and stores them. The server 20 subsequently stores value indexes calculated based on logs received from the home appliance 30 in association with the user ID of the other user.

[0166] Therefore, the server 20 manages the value index calculated based on the log received from the home appliance 30 during the period before the owner change in association with the user ID of the user of the home appliance 30 before the owner change. Then, the server 20 manages the value index calculated based on the log received from the home appliance 30 during the period after the owner change in association with the user ID of the user of the home appliance 30 after the owner change.

[0167] A part or all of the value indexes may be transferable to another user. For example, when a request to transfer a specified amount of value indexes owned by a user identified by a user ID associated with the value indexes to another user is received from the information terminal 10 of the user, the specified amount of value indexes may be subtracted from the value index associated with the user ID of the user, and added to the value index associated with the user ID of the other user.

[0168] [Variation 5] In Modification 5, a usage pattern of the value index will be described. The value index may be used not only for purchasing the home appliance 30 but also as a maintenance fee. The value index may also be used as a fee payable for a service (subscription service) for using at least one home appliance. Depending on the value index or the magnitude of the value index predicted for the future, home appliances or services for using home appliances that can be used with the value index or the predicted value index may be presented to the user's information terminal 10. Points earned in the purchase service or use service for the home appliance may be added to the value index. The value index may also be converted into other types of value index. For example, one value index may be converted from points, cash, electronic money, virtual currency, etc. to another value index. When converted, the value index may be reduced. The value index may also be used as a fee for an extended warranty for the home appliance 30. An extended warranty is a service that allows continued repair or replacement support to be received by paying an additional fee even after the manufacturer's warranty period attached to the home appliance 30 has expired. This service allows the warranty to be extended for a certain number of years (for example, 3 years, 5 years, etc.), and if a breakdown or malfunction occurs in the home appliance 30, repairs can be made free of charge or at a discounted rate.

[0169] [Variation 6] In the above embodiment, the server 20 that calculates the value index and the device (server) that provides the service using the value index may be configured as separate devices. Also, the server 20 may function as the device that provides the service using the value index.

[0170] [others] In the above-described embodiments, each component may be configured with dedicated hardware, or may be realized by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory. Here, the software that realizes the value calculation system of the above-described embodiments is a program that causes a computer to execute each step included in the flowchart shown in the figure.

[0171] The following cases are also included in this disclosure:

[0172] (1) Each of the above devices is specifically a computer system consisting of a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, hard disk unit, display unit, keyboard, mouse, etc. A computer program is stored in the RAM or hard disk unit. Each device achieves its function when the microprocessor operates in accordance with the computer program. Here, a computer program is composed of a combination of multiple instruction codes that indicate commands to a computer to achieve a predetermined function.

[0173] (2) Some or all of the components constituting each of the above devices may be configured as a single system LSI (Large Scale Integration). A system LSI is an ultra-multifunctional LSI manufactured by integrating multiple components on a single chip, and specifically, is a computer system configured to include a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. A computer program is stored in the RAM. The system LSI achieves its functions when the microprocessor operates in accordance with the computer program.

[0174] (3) Some or all of the components constituting each of the above devices may be configured as an IC card or a standalone module that can be attached to each device. The IC card or module is a computer system composed of a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. The IC card or module may include the above-mentioned ultra-multifunctional LSI. The IC card or module achieves its functions when the microprocessor operates according to a computer program. The IC card or module may be tamper-resistant.

[0175] (4) The present disclosure may be embodied as the methods described above, a computer program for implementing these methods on a computer, or a digital signal comprising the computer program.

[0176] The present disclosure may also be the computer program or the digital signal recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, such as a flexible disk, hard disk, CD-ROM, MO, DVD, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc), semiconductor memory, etc. Alternatively, the present disclosure may be the digital signal recorded on such a recording medium.

[0177] Furthermore, the present disclosure may also be applied to transmitting the computer program or the digital signal via a telecommunications line, a wireless or wired communication line, a network such as the Internet, data broadcasting, or the like.

[0178] The present disclosure may also be a computer system including a microprocessor and a memory, wherein the memory stores the computer program, and the microprocessor operates in accordance with the computer program.

[0179] The program or the digital signal may also be implemented by another independent computer system by recording it on the recording medium and transferring it, or by transferring the program or the digital signal via the network or the like.

[0180] (5) The above-described embodiments and modifications may be combined with each other. [Industrial Applicability]

[0181] The present disclosure is useful as a value calculation system that can influence how users use home appliances. [Explanation of symbols]

[0182] 1. Value calculation system 10 Information terminals 10a, 20a processors 10b, 20b main memory 10c, 20c storage 10d, 20d, 30b Communication IF 10e, 30d input devices 10f, 30c display 11, 21 Acquisition Department 12 Transmitter 13, 23 Storage section 14, 34 Display section 15, 33 Reception 20 servers 22 Calculation section 23a Home appliance log database 23b Home Appliances User Database 24 Judgment section 25 Correction unit 30 Home appliances 30a Control circuit 30e sensor 30f actuator 31 Communications Department 32 Control section 60 Network 61 Router

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires a usage history of a home appliance via a network; a calculation unit that calculates a usage period of the home appliance based on the usage history, and calculates a value index based on the calculated usage period; The value index is an index that can be used to pay for the cost of using at least one of a plurality of home appliances including the home appliance or another home appliance. Value calculation system.

2. The costs include at least one of a cost for purchasing the at least one home appliance, a cost for maintaining the at least one home appliance, or a cost for paying for a service for using the at least one home appliance. The value calculation system according to claim 1.

3. moreover, a storage unit that stores user identification information for identifying a user of the home appliance and device identification information for identifying the home appliance in association with each other; the usage history includes the device identification information of the home appliance; The value index is stored in the storage unit in association with the user identification information associated with the device identification information included in the usage history. The value calculation system according to claim 1.

4. The calculation unit Identifying a start time of use of the home appliance based on the usage history; The usage period is calculated based on the period from the usage start time to the current time. The value calculation system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. the usage history includes a plurality of logs recorded in the home appliance; The calculation unit calculates the usage period by subtracting, from the period from the usage start time to the current time, a period between two times at which two logs that are recorded adjacent in time are recorded, the period being longer than a predetermined time. The value calculation system according to claim 4.

6. The predetermined time is set to a different length depending on the type of the home appliance. The value calculation system according to claim 5.

7. The calculation unit calculates the value index so that the longer the period of use, the larger the value index. The value calculation system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. The calculation unit calculates the value index so that the shorter the period of use, the larger the value index. The value calculation system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. moreover, a determination unit that determines whether the home appliance has been used appropriately based on the usage history; a correction unit that corrects the value index so that the value index becomes larger based on a determination result that the home appliance has been used appropriately. The value calculation system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. The correction unit corrects the value index so as to decrease the value index based on a determination result that the home appliance is not being used appropriately. The value calculation system according to claim 9.

11. When the determination unit determines based on the usage history that the home appliance has been maintained at a predetermined frequency, the determination unit determines that the home appliance has been used appropriately. The value calculation system according to claim 9.

12. When the determination unit determines, based on the usage history, that a detection value by a sensor included in the home appliance is outside a predetermined range, the determination unit determines that the home appliance is not being used appropriately. The value calculation system according to claim 10.

13. A value calculation method executed by a value calculation system, acquiring a usage history of a home appliance connected to a network via the network; Calculating a usage period of the home appliance based on the usage history; Calculating a value index based on the calculated usage period; The value index is an index that can be used to pay for the cost of using at least one of a plurality of home appliances including the home appliance or another home appliance. Value calculation method.

14. A program for causing a computer to execute the value calculation method according to claim 13.

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