Building management system and building management method

Abstract

To allocate seats on a floor to users so as to achieve both of energy saving of a building and the comfort of users.SOLUTION: A building management system 1 includes a user number prediction unit 102, a seat area number and seat area available person number calculation unit 103, a recommended seat area location determination unit 105, and a seat information output unit 110. The user number prediction unit 102 predicts the number of users in a floor on a target date on the basis of statistical information on the use of the floor by users. The seat area number and seat area available person number calculation unit 103 calculates an area of a region where seats satisfying a predetermined criterion are available and a possible number of persons in each unit region on the basis of a function representing a relationship among a predicted number of users, an area of a region in the floor having available seats, and the possible number of persons for each unit region in the region having available seats. The recommended seat area location determination unit 105 determines a location of a region having available seats to be recommended for the user on the basis of the area of the region having available seats.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a building management system and a building management method.

Background Art

[0002] A building management system performs management, monitoring, operation, and control of a building's energy consumption such as electricity, various facilities such as air conditioning, lighting, and office equipment, and the QoL (Quality of Life), safety, etc. of the building's users, and maintains the building in a safe and comfortable environment.

[0003] In recent years, the situation surrounding buildings and building management systems has been changing significantly, triggered by global warming caused by an increase in CO2 emissions and the COVID-19 pandemic that has spread since 2020. Specifically, there is an emphasis on the environmental performance of buildings such as energy conservation for CO2 emissions reduction, and a change in the usage method of office buildings due to the spread of work styles such as hybrid work between commuting to the office and remote (working from home).

[0004] With the change in the usage method of office buildings, the free address type where individuals can freely choose their seats for each work instead of fixing their seats, or office floors and areas (rooms) within office floors corresponding to ABW (Activity Based Working) have been expanding. Even for such free address type and ABW type office floors, from the perspective of emphasizing environmental performance, there is a strong demand for energy conservation of building facilities such as lighting and air conditioning.

[0005] In contrast, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for assigning employees whose departure time zones overlap to the same seat range in a free address office, and when the employees in that seat range leave their seats, performing control to stop the operation of lighting and air conditioning.

[0006] For example, Patent Document 2 discloses a technology for determining the number of seats to be assigned to each department and informing users of this, based on the number of people expected to be present in each department within the workplace based on the schedule, the seating layout, and the criteria for seating allocation based on the equipment layout. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2013-186861 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-071760 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] However, the prior art disclosed in Patent Document 1 above groups employees' seats based on factors such as time spent away from their desks and whether or not they work overtime, but it does not take into account the level of comfort (or discomfort) experienced by users due to congestion within their seating area. Therefore, even if energy is saved, employees may become uncomfortable, potentially leading to a decrease in their QoW (Quality of Work), including their work productivity and satisfaction. Furthermore, the prior art disclosed in Patent Document 1 assumes that a certain number of employees are away from their desks at the same time, but with the spread of remote meetings and chats due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become important to achieve energy savings based on the premise that employees remain at their desks without leaving them.

[0009] Furthermore, the prior art disclosed in Patent Document 2 merely consolidates the seats occupied by workers by assigning them seats sequentially from one end to the other in order to reduce the operating rate of the equipment, without considering the comfort or quality of work (QoW) of the workers. Moreover, depending on the building structure and floor layout, consolidating the seats occupied by workers to the ends does not necessarily reduce energy consumption.

[0010] The objective of the present invention is to allocate floor seating to users in a way that balances energy conservation in buildings with user comfort, taking into consideration the problems of the prior art described above. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] To solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention provides a building management system for managing a building having floors on which seats are arranged, comprising: a prediction unit that predicts the number of users on a given day based on statistical information regarding the use of the floor by users; a calculation unit that calculates the area of ​​the seating area and the number of users per unit that satisfy predetermined criteria based on the number of users predicted by the prediction unit, a function representing the relationship between the area of ​​the seating area on the floor and the number of users per unit area within the seating area; a determination unit that determines the location of the seating area to recommend to the user based on the area of ​​the seating area calculated by the calculation unit; and an output unit that outputs the location of the seating area determined by the determination unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to allocate seats on a floor to users in a way that balances energy conservation in the building with user comfort. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] A diagram showing an example of the configuration of a building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] A diagram showing an example of the relationship between the building management system and peripheral systems according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the configuration of the seating area number and usable number of people within a seating area calculation unit of the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] This diagram shows a graph illustrating the balance between energy conservation and comfort based on the distribution of users. [Figure 5A]A diagram showing an example of a floor and in-floor areas targeted by the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5B] A diagram showing another example of a floor and in-floor areas targeted by the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6A] A diagram showing an example of the seat area and the number of seats within the seat area on the floor targeted by the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6B] A diagram showing an example of a seat area targeted by the building management system according to Embodiment 1 and the air conditioning equipment responsible for the seat area. [Figure 7] A diagram showing an example of a function of the number of seat areas and the available number of people within the seat area with respect to the predicted number of users in the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] A diagram showing an example of the relationship between energy saving and comfort with respect to the function of the number of seat areas and the available number of people within the seat area with respect to the predicted number of users in the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] A flowchart showing an example of the preprocessing of the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] A flowchart showing an example of the calculation process of the number of seat areas and the available number of people within the seat area of the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] A diagram showing an example of the determination of the number of seat areas and the available number of people within the seat area of the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] A diagram showing an example of the determination of the number of seat areas and the available number of people within the seat area of the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 13] A flowchart showing an example of the process for determining the position and attribute setting of the recommended seat area of the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 14] A diagram showing an example of the determination result of the seat area position based on the temperature distribution in the building management system according to Embodiment 1 (summer case). [Figure 15] A diagram showing an example of the determination result of the seat area position based on the temperature distribution in the building management system according to Embodiment 1 (winter case). [Figure 16] A flowchart showing an example of the recommended seat area information presentation process of the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 17] A diagram showing an example of the recommended seat area information presentation screen of the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 18] A flowchart showing an example of the device control process of the building management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 19] A diagram showing an example of the determination of the number of seat areas and the number of available people within the seat area in the building management system according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 20] A flowchart showing an example of the process for determining the number of seat areas and the number of available people within the seat area in the building management system according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 21] A diagram showing an example of the layout of the floor targeted by the building management system according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 22] A diagram showing an example of a function of the area of the available area on the floor and the number of available people per unit area with respect to the predicted number of users in the building management system according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 23] A diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the building management system.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the disclosure of the present application will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments are examples for explaining the present application including the drawings. In the embodiments, for the sake of clarity of explanation, appropriate omissions and simplifications are made. Unless otherwise particularly limited, the components of the embodiments may be singular or plural. Also, a form combining one embodiment and another embodiment is also included in the embodiments according to the present application.

[0015] Identical or similar components may be assigned the same reference numeral, and their description in later embodiments may be omitted, or only the differences may be described. Furthermore, if there are multiple identical or similar components, different subscripts may be assigned to the same reference numeral in the description. Also, if there is no need to distinguish between these multiple components, the subscripts may be omitted in the description.

[0016] (Purpose of the building management system according to this embodiment) Office buildings are emerging that offer flexible and free workspaces to accommodate new ways of working, such as remote work, working in the office, working at satellite offices, and working in shared offices. In such offices, the number of people on each floor tends to fluctuate daily due to the flexible working arrangements of the users. The purpose of the building management system is to adaptively achieve energy savings in equipment such as air conditioning and lighting even under these circumstances, while also maintaining the quality of life (QoL) and quality of work (QoW) of the users.

[0017] The challenge here lies in the trade-off between energy conservation in the building through seating density and dispersion, and the comfort of office users. In office floors where employees can freely use seats, such as with free addressing or Activity-Based Working (ABW), dispersed seating requires the operation of equipment throughout the entire floor, which does not result in energy savings. On the other hand, if seating is made denser to save energy, the level of discomfort for users increases. Therefore, specific measures for seating allocation that appropriately balance energy consumption reduction and discomfort reduction are crucial.

[0018] As an approach to solving this problem, we focus on "seating areas," which are the units of sections where air conditioning and lighting are controlled / operated. We consider the number of seating areas to be related to the amount of energy used for air conditioning and lighting, and the number of seats (people) in use within a seating area to be related to the degree of crowding (discomfort) among users. Based on the predicted number of users on the day, we quantify the trade-off relationship between energy usage and crowding in relation to the number of users using a function, based on the relationship "number of users = number of seating areas × number of available seats within a seating area." Based on this function, we select the number of seating areas and the number of available seats (people) within a seating area that appropriately balance energy saving and comfort.

[0019] Based on this concept, the system determines the location of recommended seating areas for users based on the number of selected seating areas and the number of available seats within those areas, and provides users with information on the location of the seating area and the number of available seats within that area. This makes it possible to use seating within the floor in a way that balances energy saving of equipment with user comfort.

[0020] There is one more important point regarding the building management system according to this embodiment. Specifically, for users of seats on the target floor, the system pre-determines an appropriate seating area from the perspective of energy conservation and density upon entering the floor where they will be working, guides them to that seating area, and ensures they sit in the appropriate seat, thereby eliminating the need to move seats later. Even in offices without fixed seating, such as free address or activity-based working (ABW), once users sit down and place their computers, documents, etc., they tend to want to maintain that situation until they leave work, making it difficult to persuade them to change seats later for reasons such as energy conservation. Therefore, it is crucial to determine and guide them to an appropriate seating area based on the number of people and predicted temperature distribution for the day, at the time they first sit down.

[0021] [Embodiment 1] (Configuration of the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1) Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The building management system 1 is a system that manages various facilities, energy, and user workspaces of a target building. It manages, controls, and outputs information on the facilities and user workspaces of each floor and area within each floor of the building on a daily basis according to the situation.

[0022] The building management system 1 receives information on the user's activity status and working hours (including tenant calendar information 13 (Figure 2) described later) entered by the user via the user status information input unit 2. This information on the user's activity status and working hours is used when determining the attributes of the seating area. Furthermore, this information on the user's activity status and working hours is not mandatory and can be omitted.

[0023] The building management system 1 receives daily user count data via the user count measurement unit 3. This data can be entered in real-time or offline. For example, user count data for each floor may be entered every 5 minutes, 30 minutes, or 60 minutes. The daily user count data is used to calculate predicted user counts for each floor.

[0024] The floor / floor area information database 101 stores map information, seating information, seating area information, user count information, and user information for floors and floor areas. Map information is information about the layout of the target floor or area within the floor. Seating information is information about the seats located in each of the target floor or area within the floor. Seating area information is information about seating areas that correspond to sections ("islands") consisting of a predetermined number of adjacent seats. User count information is the total number of users belonging to organizations using the target floor, or the daily measured number of users on the target floor. User information is input information such as user attributes, activity status, and working hours. This data is used to predict the daily number of users on the target floor, calculate the number of seating areas recommended for users and the number of users within each area, and determine the location of seating areas.

[0025] The user count prediction unit 102 predicts the number of users on a given day based on user count data measured by the user count measurement unit 3, historical user count data, and calendar information of tenant companies using the target floor (these are referred to as "statistical information regarding user use of the floor"). This prediction is made, for example, from statistical characteristics from historical data (e.g., correlation) and statistical characteristics of the days of the week on the calendar. The target floor implements flexible working styles and diverse working styles such as shared offices. As a result, the number of people on the floor fluctuates significantly, and it is possible to calculate appropriate recommended seating information (number of seating areas, number of people in seating areas) on a daily basis according to the characteristics of changes in the number of people on each floor.

[0026] The seating area number / capacity calculation unit 103 calculates the recommended number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area for users on the target floor. The seating area number / capacity calculation unit 103 calculates the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area while balancing energy conservation of the facilities with user comfort.

[0027] The input data for the seating area number / available user calculation unit 103 includes the predicted number of users calculated by the user number prediction unit 102. The input data also includes the number of seating areas, the number of seats within each seating area, and the total number of users, read from the floor / floor area information database 101. The input data also includes balance solution condition data (see Figure 6, described later) between the number of seating areas and the number of available users within each seating area, read from the balance solution selection condition database 104.

[0028] The seating area number / number of available seats within each seating area calculation unit 103 calculates the appropriate number of seating areas and the number of available seats within each seating area based on the predicted number of users, using the functions for the number of seating areas and the number of available seats within each seating area described later, with reference to Figure 3.

[0029] The Balance Solution Selection Condition Database 104 stores condition data for selecting a balanced solution between the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area. As will be described later with reference to Figures 7 and 8, the function between the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area is an inverse proportion function. In other words, energy saving and comfort are in a trade-off relationship. The Balance Solution Selection Condition Database 104 stores information on conditions and processing methods for finding a solution that strikes an appropriate balance from this trade-off relationship. By determining whether building owners, tenants, users, etc., prioritize energy saving or comfort, the conditions and processing methods for selecting a solution that follows that policy are selected from the database.

[0030] The recommended seating area location determination unit 105 determines the location of the seating area to recommend to the user. Based on the number of seating areas calculated as described above, the number of people who can use each seating area, the seating area layout information read from the floor / floor area information database 101, and the temperature distribution and illuminance distribution within the floor / floor area (predicted values ​​for the target day), the recommended seating area location determination unit 105 determines the location of the seating area to recommend to the user. The determination of the seating area location is a process of selecting a specific seating area location from the floor seating area layout information, corresponding to the calculated number of seating areas, to determine which seating area location is best.

[0031] The temperature distribution / illuminance distribution prediction unit 106 calculates predicted values ​​for temperature distribution and illuminance distribution in the floor and areas within the floor. Based on past temperature and illuminance distribution data for the floor and areas within the floor, and floor map information and weather and temperature forecast data obtained from an external source, the temperature distribution / illuminance distribution prediction unit 106 calculates predicted values ​​for temperature and illuminance distribution in the floor and areas within the floor on the target day. The temperature distribution / illuminance distribution, as will be described later with reference to Figure 9, is data on the distribution of temperature and illuminance within the floor space, and based on this data, the location of the seating area is determined in a way that minimizes energy consumption for air conditioning and lighting.

[0032] For example, in the case of air conditioning, seating areas are determined to be located away from windows (lower temperature areas) in the summer, and closer to windows (higher temperature areas) in the winter. In the case of lighting, seating areas are determined to be located in places that can appropriately utilize the illumination from natural light coming through the windows. Such determinations make it possible to further enhance energy-saving effects. Furthermore, temperature and illumination distributions are calculated with higher accuracy by considering past data on similar weather and outside temperatures, data on the number of users (due to the influence of heat load from people and office equipment), the effect of heat-generating equipment such as server equipment installed on the floor, the shape of the floor and internal layout (influence of cabinets and racks, etc.), and airflow due to ventilation equipment.

[0033] The seat area attribute setting unit 108 sets attributes for each seat area determined by the recommended seat area location determination unit 105. Based on information such as the user's activity status and working hours, information about the user's affiliated organization, and past seat area attribute data stored in the seat area attribute category database 109, the seat area attribute setting unit 108 sets attributes for seat areas that allow users to work more comfortably. For example, in the case of activity status, seat areas are divided into areas for users who want to concentrate on their work (quiet seat areas), seat areas for users who hold remote meetings or conversations with others at their seats (noisy seat areas), etc., and seat areas are provided that match the user's activity status. This makes it possible for users to create an environment in which they can work more comfortably.

[0034] During working hours, assigning people who arrive and leave the office at the same time to the same seating area allows for adjustments to the operating times of air conditioning and lighting, thereby further reducing energy consumption.

[0035] The seat area attribute setting unit 108 estimates the number of users corresponding to each activity state and working time on the target day, based on data entered via the user status information input unit 2 and past data. The seat area attribute setting unit 108 then assigns seat area attributes to seat areas whose locations have already been determined, according to the estimated number of users.

[0036] The seat information output unit 110 outputs information such as the location information of the recommended seat area estimated by the recommended seat area location determination unit 105, the number of usable people in the seat area calculated by the seat area number / usable person calculation unit 103, and the attribute information of each seat area set by the seat area attribute setting unit 108, as recommended seat information for users. This information is output to the user's information device 4, which the user possesses individually, such as a smartphone, mobile terminal, or notebook PC (Personal Computer), or to information display devices 5 installed on the floor or in areas within the floor. The information display devices 5 are, for example, displays or digital signage (electronic billboards). By providing users with seat recommendation information that takes into account the balance between energy saving and comfort in this way, users are encouraged to sit in the recommended seats, making it possible to achieve a situation where an appropriate balance between energy saving and comfort is maintained on the floor in question.

[0037] The equipment control unit 111 controls the operation of air conditioning and lighting only for the relevant seat area, or primarily for the relevant seat area, based on the location information of the recommended seat area determined by the recommended seat area location determination unit 105 and / or the attribute information set by the seat area attribute setting unit 108. This reduces the number of operating air conditioning and lighting units and the amount of energy required, thereby suppressing energy consumption. This control command for operational control is transmitted to the floor / floor area air conditioning control system 6 (Figure 2) and the floor / floor area lighting control system 7 (Figure 2), which control the number of operating units (on or off) and operating output of the air conditioning and lighting in the target floor and floor area.

[0038] Through the operation of the functional block diagram described above, the number of seating areas on the floor and the number of people who can use each seating area are determined according to the number of users on the target floor on the target day, and the location and attributes of the seating areas are determined. This information is output to the user as recommended seating information, and furthermore, lighting and air conditioning equipment are controlled according to the usage status of the seating areas.

[0039] As a result, for office buildings that implement diverse working styles, it becomes possible to manage and operate the building in a way that appropriately balances energy saving of equipment such as air conditioning and lighting with maintaining user comfort, even when the number of users on each floor fluctuates.

[0040] (Relationship between the building management system 1 and peripheral systems according to Embodiment 1) Figure 2 shows an example of the relationship between the building management system 1 and the surrounding systems according to Embodiment 1.

[0041] The left side of Building Management System 1 in Figure 2 shows the sources from which information is input to Building Management System 1.

[0042] The elevator control device 8, access control system 9, seat sensor 10, room temperature sensor 11, building energy management system 12, tenant calendar information 13, outside temperature information 14, and tenant employee attribute database 15 shown in Figure 2 are devices that input information to the building management system 1, or information that is provided to the building management system 1.

[0043] The elevator control device 8 controls elevators moving between floors of a building that has a target floor. The access control system 9 manages users entering and leaving the target floor. The elevator control device 8 and the access control system 9 provide data on the number of users (number of people staying, number of people in a room) on a floor or in an area within a floor. This number of users may be measured directly by sensors, or it may be calculated from the number of people getting on and off the elevator or the number of people entering and leaving.

[0044] The seat sensor 10 is installed at each seat on the target floor and monitors the seating status on the floor by reading IC (Integral Circuit) tags carried by users to detect when a user is seated. The monitoring information from the seat sensor 10 is shown to the user as the current seating status when recommending seats to the user.

[0045] The room temperature sensor 11 detects the room temperature of the target floor and provides historical data for calculating the temperature distribution of the floor. The building energy management system 12 manages the supply and consumption of electrical energy and other resources necessary for the operation of the building containing the target floor, and provides data on energy usage for the target floor or areas within the floor, data on heat usage for air conditioning, and data and information on the operating status of various equipment such as air conditioning and lighting. The tenant calendar information 13 is scheduled information on working days and hours for tenants and their employees who use the target floor.

[0046] Based on the data described above, the building management system 1 calculates predictions and actual results of energy-saving effects obtained through seating recommendations.

[0047] The right side of Building Management System 1 in Figure 2 shows the output destinations for information from Building Management System 1.

[0048] The air conditioning control system 6 and the lighting control system 7 receive control signals for each device from the building management system 1, corresponding to information on the location and attributes of the recommended seating area. The in-building signage management system 16, the in-building tenant information provision management system 17, and the in-building employee application management system 18 serve as output destinations for providing information on recommended seating. Here, information such as the location of the recommended seating area, the number of available seats within the seating area (the number of recommended seats), and the attributes of the seating area are output.

[0049] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the seating area number / number of usable people within a seating area calculation unit 103 (Figure 1) of the building management system according to Embodiment 1. The seating area number / number of usable people within a seating area calculation unit 103 includes a function calculation unit 1031 and a balance solution determination unit 1032.

[0050] The function calculation unit 1031 derives a function of equation (1) that represents the relationship that the daily changing predicted number of users on a floor or within a floor, the number of available seats in a seating area (per floor), and the number of seating areas (per floor) must satisfy. The function of equation (1) quantitatively represents the relationship between the predicted number of users, the number of available seats in a seating area, and the number of seating areas. Predicted number of users = Number of people available in the seating area × Number of seating areas…(1)

[0051] Next, the balance solution determination unit 1032 selects a solution that considers an appropriate balance between energy saving of building equipment and user comfort, based on the function derived by the function calculation unit 1031 and the balance solution selection condition data read from the balance solution selection condition database 104. Here, the energy consumption of air conditioning and lighting is proportional to the number of seating areas. Also, the level of user discomfort is proportional to the density within the seating area, i.e., the number of people who can use the seating area. Therefore, energy consumption and user discomfort are proportional. In other words, energy consumption and user comfort are inversely proportional. The balance solution determination unit 1032 uses the balance solution selection condition data to select a balanced solution between energy consumption and user comfort from a graph of the inverse relationship (trade-off relationship) between energy consumption and user comfort. The method for selecting the balanced solution will be described later with reference to Figures 11 to 13.

[0052] As described above, the selected balance solution determines the recommended number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area.

[0053] Figure 4 is a graph illustrating the balance between energy conservation and comfort according to the distribution of users. In the graph shown in Figure 4, the horizontal axis C1 represents an indicator of the distribution of users within the floor, the left vertical axis C2 represents energy consumption, and the right vertical axis C3 represents an indicator of the degree of user discomfort. Line C4 represents the characteristics of energy consumption in relation to the distribution of users within the floor. Line C5 represents the characteristics of the degree of user discomfort.

[0054] The energy consumption characteristics (linear curve C4) show that when users are scattered (low density), energy consumption is high because air conditioning, lighting, and other equipment are operated in many seating areas. Conversely, when users are densely packed, energy consumption is low because air conditioning, lighting, and other equipment are operated in only a few seating areas.

[0055] The characteristic of user discomfort (linear line C5) is that discomfort is higher when users are densely distributed, and lower when they are scattered.

[0056] Thus, there is a trade-off between energy consumption and user discomfort depending on the distribution of users on the floor. Therefore, it is important to identify the user distribution that falls within the C6 range, where energy conservation and comfort are balanced, based on the floor conditions such as the number of users at the time, and then allocate seats and guide users to their seats. The specific procedure for achieving this is the process described in Figures 1 and 3, which uses a quantitative function. Further explanation follows with reference to Figures 5A to 19.

[0057] Referring to Figures 5A to 6B, the floors, areas within the floors, seating areas, and the number of seats (number of users) within the seating areas covered by the building management system 1 according to this embodiment will be explained.

[0058] Figure 5A shows an example of a floor and area within the floor targeted by the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1, and Figure 5B shows another example.

[0059] Figure 5A shows a floor configuration in which one tenant occupies an entire floor without any designated areas. In this case, the target floor in the building consists of floor 19, stairs 20, elevator 21, and toilets, kitchenettes, and garbage disposal area 22.

[0060] On the other hand, Figure 5B shows a floor configuration in which areas are established on the floor, and each of these areas is occupied by a tenant. In the example of Figure 5B, floor 19 is divided into four areas 19A, 19B, 19C, and 19D.

[0061] As described above, there are floor configurations as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, and in either case, the floor is subject to the application of the building management system 1 of this embodiment. In the case of Figure 5A, the entire floor is either a free-address type or an ABW type, and in the case of Figure 5B, at least one of areas 19A, 19B, 19C, and 19D is either a free-address type or an ABW type. In the case of Figure 5A, the entire floor is subject to the application of the building management system 1 of this embodiment, and in the case of Figure 5B, the application of the building management system 1 of this embodiment can be applied on an area-by-area basis.

[0062] Figure 6A shows an example of a seating area 191 and the number of seats within the seating area 191 on floor 19, which is targeted by the building management system according to Embodiment 1.

[0063] By focusing on the number of seating areas 191 and the number of usable seats 192 within those seating areas 191, it becomes possible to determine the area where energy efficiency and comfort are balanced using a quantitative relationship, as explained with reference to Figure 4.

[0064] In Figure 6A, floor 19 is an office floor where users can freely choose their seats each time they work, whether they are using a free-address or activity-based working (ABW) system. Each seating area 191 is an island (group) consisting of a predetermined number of adjacent seats. Each seating area 191 is equipped with air conditioning and lighting, which are controlled and operated. Within each seating area 191, there is a predetermined number of seats 192 that users can use freely.

[0065] In the example in Figure 6A, the total number of seating areas 191 on floor 19 is 12, and the number of seats 192 per seating area 191 is 16. The total number of seats 192 on floor 19 is 16 × 12 = 192.

[0066] Furthermore, on floor 19, information display devices 5 are placed near the windows 193, the three doors 194 for entering and exiting the floor, and near the doors 194 within floor 19. The information display devices 5 show the location of the seating area 191 that is recommended for use by the user on that day, and the number of available seats 192 within the seating area 191. Users are instructed to sit in the recommended seat displayed on the information display device 5.

[0067] Figure 6B shows an example of a seating area 191 and an air conditioning unit 195 responsible for the seating area 191, which are targeted by the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0068] Each seating area 191 corresponds to the area responsible for air conditioning and lighting equipment (the area handled by air conditioning and lighting). For example, in the example shown in Figure 6B, an air conditioning unit 195 is provided for each seating area 191. The air conditioning can be operated and controlled remotely or manually. Although not shown, ceiling lighting is also provided for each seating area 191 and is operated and controlled remotely or manually, similar to the air conditioning. Because each seating area has a designated area for air conditioning and lighting, the number of air conditioning and lighting units or their operating output can be adjusted by adjusting the number of seating areas used, thereby adjusting energy consumption. Therefore, by appropriately determining the number of seating areas according to the number of users, it is possible to save energy in the facility.

[0069] Figure 7 shows an example of a function of the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use a seating area with respect to the predicted number of users in the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 7, the trade-off relationship between energy saving and comfort can be expressed by a function that quantifies this relationship, so by defining the conditions for selecting a balanced solution on the target floor, a solution that balances energy saving and comfort can be selected. Figure 7 will be explained below.

[0070] In Figure 7, graph G1 shows the relationship between the seat utilization rate within seating area 191 and the seating area utilization rate. Here, the horizontal axis, seat utilization rate within the seating area G2, is the value obtained by normalizing the number of available seats or the number of available seats within the seating area by the total number of seats within the seating area, as shown in equation (8). Seat occupancy rate within seating area = Number of people who can use the seating area / Total number of seats in the seating area = Number of available seats in the seating area / Total number of seats in the seating area ... (2)

[0071] Furthermore, the seat area utilization ratio G3 on the vertical axis is the value obtained by normalizing the number of recommended seat areas by the total number of seat areas, as shown in equation (3). Seating area utilization ratio = Recommended number of seating areas / Total number of seating areas ... (3)

[0072] In Figure 1 and other diagrams, we have explained the figures using the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area. In the following graphs, we will normalize these figures so that they can be applied to different conditions on other floors or in other buildings. Therefore, we will use the normalized seating area utilization rate and seating area utilization rate as indicators for our explanation.

[0073] First, in graph G1, the horizontal axis represents the seat occupancy rate within the seating area G2, and the vertical axis represents the seat occupancy rate within the seating area G3. Here, the seat occupancy rate within the seating area G2 on the horizontal axis corresponds to the degree of crowding = the degree of discomfort for users, as already mentioned. For example, a low crowding rate is comfortable, and a high crowding rate is uncomfortable. The seat occupancy rate within the seating area G3 on the vertical axis corresponds to the amount of energy used.

[0074] In Graph G1, each curve for a given attendance rate represents a function of the ratio of seat usage within a seating area to the number of users, and the ratio of seating area usage. Here, the predicted number of users for the target floor is also expressed as an indicator normalized as the attendance rate, as shown in equation (4). Office attendance rate (%) = Predicted number of users / Maximum number of users on the target floor ... (4) or Office attendance rate (%) = Predicted number of users / Total number of seats on the target floor ... (5)

[0075] For example, the function of the seat usage rate within a seating area and the seating area usage rate when the attendance rate is 20% is represented by curve G4. The curve of this function can be calculated using equation (6), which is a transformation of equation (1). Number of seating areas = coefficient × number of predicted users / number of people who can use each seating area ... (6)

[0076] By normalizing each factor in equation (6), we can express it as shown in equation (7). These are the curves of the function shown in Figure 7. Seating area utilization rate = coefficient × attendance rate / seat utilization rate within the seating area ... (7)

[0077] In other words, the function of the seat occupancy rate within a seating area and the seating area occupancy rate is also a function of the number of people available within a seating area and the number of seating areas.

[0078] As shown in Figure 7, the characteristics of the functions for seat occupancy within a seating area and seat area occupancy show that these two functions are inversely proportional, indicating a trade-off relationship. Therefore, energy saving and comfort levels are in a trade-off relationship. For example, if you try to increase comfort by reducing the density, energy consumption will increase as shown by the curve on the graph, resulting in a smaller energy-saving effect. Conversely, if you try to reduce energy consumption, the density will increase as shown by the curve on the graph, leading to an increase in discomfort.

[0079] By expressing the above relationships as quantitative relationships using the functions in equations (6) and (7), it becomes possible to quantitatively select seating solutions that satisfy both energy saving and comfort levels. Furthermore, the ability to derive such relationships is due to focusing on the relationship between seating areas and the number of seats within each seating area for the target floor shown in Figures 6A and 6B.

[0080] Figure 8 shows an example of the relationship between energy saving and comfort in the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1, as a function of the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area relative to the predicted number of users.

[0081] Figure 8 uses a similar approach to Figure 7, classifying items based on the magnitude of energy savings (vertical axis) and comfort (horizontal axis). The dashed line G5 is the boundary line separating the magnitude of energy savings; below the dashed line G5 is a large energy saving effect, and above the dashed line G5 is a small energy saving effect. Similarly, the dashed line G6 is the boundary line separating the magnitude of comfort; to the left of the dashed line G6 is a large comfort, and to the right is a small comfort.

[0082] As shown in Figure 8, of the four regions of the graph separated by dashed lines G5 and G6, the target region is G7, where both energy saving and comfort are high. For each curve (Figure 7) that represents a function of the seat occupancy rate within a seat area and the seat area occupancy rate (similar to a function of the number of seat areas relative to the number of available seats within a seat area), we can determine the values ​​of the seat occupancy rate within a seat area and the seat area occupancy rate that result in both high energy saving and high comfort from the coordinate points of the curve within region G7.

[0083] In Figures 7 and 8, curves corresponding to attendance rates of 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% are shown as examples, but curves corresponding to other attendance rates are also provided in advance. Alternatively, curves corresponding to representative attendance rates may be provided in advance, and curves or points on curves corresponding to non-representative attendance rates may be obtained by interpolating the points on the curves corresponding to representative attendance rates.

[0084] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of pre-processing for the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1. Pre-processing is the process by which the building management system 1 determines the seating area and attributes of the seating area to be recommended to the user before the user uses the target floor. In other words, this pre-processing is performed before the first user of the day arrives at work and enters the target floor.

[0085] First, in step S11, the user count prediction unit 102 (Figure 1) predicts the number of users on the target floor or within the target floor area on the target day. Next, in step S12, the temperature distribution / illuminance distribution prediction unit 106 (Figure 1) predicts the temperature distribution and illuminance distribution inside the target floor or within the target floor area.

[0086] Next, in step S13, the seating area number / number of available seats within each seating area calculation unit 103 (Figure 1) calculates the number of seating areas recommended for users on the target floor and the number of available seats within each seating area, based on the number of users on the target floor or the area within the target floor predicted in step S11 (seating area number / number of available seats within each seating area calculation process). Details of the seating area number / number of available seats within each seating area calculation process (step S13) will be described later with reference to Figure 10.

[0087] Next, in step S14, the recommended seating area location determination unit 105 and the seating area attribute setting unit 108 (Figure 1) execute the process of determining the location and setting the attributes of the recommended seating area. In the process of determining the location and setting the attributes of the recommended seating area, the recommended seating area location determination unit 105 determines the seating area to be recommended to the user within the target floor based on either or both of the temperature distribution and illuminance distribution predicted in step S13. In addition, in the process of determining the location and setting the attributes of the recommended seating area, the seating area attribute setting unit 108 sets attributes (such as seat usage patterns) for each determined seating area based on information such as the user's activity status and working hours (attribute information corresponding to the user's planned use of the floor). Details of the process of determining the location and setting the attributes of the recommended seating area will be described later with reference to Figure 13.

[0088] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the process for determining the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use a seating area in the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1 (step S13 (Figure 9)).

[0089] First, in step S13a, the seating area number / number of usable people within a seating area calculation unit 103 (Figure 1) determines whether the policy for recommending seats to a target user is to prioritize "user comfort" or "energy saving" when determining the number of seating areas and the number of usable people within a seating area. If the policy is to prioritize "user comfort," the seating area number / number of usable people within a seating area calculation unit 103 proceeds to step S13b, and if it is to prioritize "energy saving," it proceeds to step S13j.

[0090] Steps S13b to S13g are the first seat area calculation process, which prioritizes user comfort on the target floor and determines the number of seat areas and the number of people who can use each seat area. Specifically, the number of seat areas and the number of people who can use each seat area are determined so that the number of people who can use each seat area (seat usage ratio within each seat area) and the number of seat areas (seat area usage ratio) satisfy predetermined criteria and the number of people who can use each seat area is minimized.

[0091] In step S13b, the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 sets a value that prioritizes comfort as the standard value for the seat usage ratio within each seat area. When prioritizing user comfort, the standard value for the seat usage ratio within each seat area is set to an appropriate value (a value that reduces density, for example, 0.5) from the perspective that comfort is ensured by mitigating the density of users.

[0092] Next, in step S13c, the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 sets a value prioritizing comfort as the upper limit for the seat area ratio. Since it is necessary to set an upper limit on energy consumption while prioritizing the comfort of users, the upper limit for the seat area usage ratio is set to, for example, 0.8.

[0093] Next, in step S13d, the seat area number / number of available seats within a seat area calculation unit 103 calculates the seat area usage ratio corresponding to the baseline value of the seat area usage ratio set in step S13b, using a function (Figure 7) of the number of seat areas and the number of available seats within a seat area with respect to the predicted number of users corresponding to the assumed attendance rate.

[0094] Next, in step S13e, the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 determines whether the seat area utilization ratio obtained in step S13d is less than or equal to the upper limit. If the seat area utilization ratio is less than or equal to the upper limit (step S13e YES), the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 proceeds to step S13i. On the other hand, if the seat area utilization ratio is greater than or equal to the upper limit (step S13e NO), the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 proceeds to step S13f. The seat area utilization ratio being less than or equal to the upper limit occurs when a balanced solution is selected that ensures comfort while satisfying the upper limit condition for energy consumption.

[0095] In step S13f, the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 relaxes the standard value of the seat occupancy ratio within each seat area (for example, by increasing it by 0.1) to ease the comfort requirements.

[0096] Next, in step S13g, the seat area number / number of available seats within a seat area calculation unit 103 determines whether the standard value of the seat usage ratio within a seat area after relaxation in step S13f is greater than the upper limit. If the standard value of the seat usage ratio within a seat area after relaxation is greater than the upper limit in step S13f (step S13g YES), the seat area number / number of available seats within a seat area calculation unit 103 proceeds to step S13h. On the other hand, if the standard value of the seat usage ratio within a seat area after relaxation is less than or equal to the upper limit in step S13f (step S13g NO), the seat area number / number of available seats within a seat area calculation unit 103 returns to step S13d.

[0097] In step S13h, which is a transition from step S13g, the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 outputs that there are no seats recommended for the user in question, from the perspective of prioritizing comfort, because there is no solution that satisfies the balance solution selection conditions.

[0098] When the seating area count / available person calculation unit 103 completes step S13h, which it has taken over from step S13g, it terminates this seating area count / available person calculation process and moves on to step S14 of the building management system's pre-processing (Figure 9). Alternatively, if steps S13j to S13o have not yet been executed for the relevant user, the seating area count / available person calculation unit 103 may move on to step S13j.

[0099] Steps S13j to S13o are a second seating area calculation process that prioritizes energy conservation on the target floor and determines the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area. In other words, it is a process that determines the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area so that the number of people who can use each seating area (seat usage ratio within seating area) and the number of seating areas (seat area usage ratio) satisfy predetermined criteria and the number of seating areas is minimized.

[0100] In step S13j, the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 sets the reference value for the seat area ratio to a value that prioritizes energy conservation. When prioritizing energy conservation on the target floor, the reference value for the seat area ratio is set to an appropriate value (a value that consolidates seat areas, for example, 0.5) from the perspective that energy consumption will be reduced by consolidating the seat areas used on the target floor (suppressing the seat area usage ratio to a certain extent).

[0101] Next, in step S13k, the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 sets an energy-saving value as the upper limit for the seat usage ratio within each seat area. While prioritizing energy saving, there is an acceptable limit to the degree of discomfort for users within the seat area, and it is necessary to set an upper limit, so the upper limit for the seat usage ratio within each seat area is set to, for example, 0.6.

[0102] Next, in step S13l, the seat area number / number of available seats within a seat area calculation unit 103 calculates the seat usage ratio within a seat area that corresponds to the standard value of the seat area usage ratio set in step S13j, using a function (Figure 8) of the number of seat areas and the number of available seats within a seat area with respect to the predicted number of users corresponding to the assumed attendance rate.

[0103] Next, in step S13m, the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 determines whether the seat usage ratio within each seat area, obtained in step S13l, is less than or equal to the upper limit. If the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 is less than or equal to the upper limit (step S13m YES), the unit proceeds to step S13i. On the other hand, if the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 is greater than or equal to the upper limit (step S13m NO), the unit proceeds to step S13n. The seat area usage ratio being less than or equal to the upper limit occurs when a balanced solution is selected that satisfies the energy saving requirements for the target floor while also satisfying the upper limit of discomfort for the relevant users.

[0104] In step S13n, the seat area number / number of available seats within a seat area calculation unit 103 relaxes the energy-saving conditions by easing the currently set standard value for the seat area usage ratio (for example, by increasing it by 0.1).

[0105] Next, in step S13o, the seat area number / number of available seats within a seat area calculation unit 103 determines whether the standard value of the seat area usage ratio after relaxation in step S13n is greater than the upper limit. If the standard value of the seat area usage ratio after relaxation is greater than the upper limit in step S13n (step S13oYES), the seat area number / number of available seats within a seat area calculation unit 103 proceeds to step S13h. On the other hand, if the standard value of the seat area usage ratio after relaxation is less than or equal to the upper limit in step S13n (step S13oNO), the seat area number / number of available seats within a seat area calculation unit 103 returns to step S13l.

[0106] In step S13h, which is a transition from step S13o, the seat area number / number of available seats within each seat area calculation unit 103 outputs that there are no seats recommended for the user in question, from the perspective of prioritizing comfort, because there is no solution that satisfies the balance solution selection conditions.

[0107] When the seating area count / available person calculation unit 103 completes step S13h, which it has taken over from step S13o, it terminates this seating area count / available person calculation process and moves on to step S14 of the building management system's pre-processing (Figure 9). Alternatively, if steps S13b to S13g have not yet been executed for the user in question, the seating area count / available person calculation unit 103 may move on to step S13b.

[0108] On the other hand, in step S13i, the seating area number / number of usable people within a seating area calculation unit 103 terminates the seating area number / number of usable people calculation process because a balanced solution that achieves both user comfort and energy conservation for the target floor was selected in step S13d or S13l.

[0109] Furthermore, if the seat area number / number of usable people within each seat area calculation unit 103 cannot select a balanced solution after executing either steps S13b to S13g or S13j to S13o, it outputs the first predetermined value set as the default value as the number of seat areas and the second predetermined value as the number of usable people for each seat area.

[0110] This process for calculating the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area can determine the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area in a way that balances energy conservation on the target floor with the comfort of users on that floor.

[0111] Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of determining the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area in the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1, and corresponds to steps S13b to S13g of the seating area number / number of people who can use each seating area calculation process (Figure 10).

[0112] Figure 11 shows graph G1, which, like the graphs in Figures 7 and 8, represents the relationship between the seat usage rate within a seating area and the seating area usage rate. Curve G8 is the function corresponding when the attendance rate on the target floor is 30%. (1) First, from the perspective of ensuring user comfort (reducing congestion), a standard value is set for the seat occupancy rate within the seating area (step S13b in Figure 10). In the example in Figure 11, the standard value G9 for the seat occupancy rate within the seating area is set to 0.5. (2) Next, from the perspective of energy consumption limits, an upper limit is set for the seat area usage ratio (step S13c in Figure 10). In the example in Figure 11, the upper limit G10 is set to 0.8. (3) Furthermore, the seat area utilization ratio relative to the baseline value of the seat area utilization ratio is calculated from the function of the number of seat areas and the number of people available within each seat area relative to the predicted number of users (step S13d in Figure 10). In the example in Figure 11, the coordinate G11((seat area utilization ratio, seat area utilization ratio)=(0.5,0.6)) is obtained. (4) Since the seat area utilization ratio = 0.6 is smaller than the upper limit of the seat area utilization ratio G10 = 0.8 set earlier, coordinate G11 is selected as a solution that satisfies the balance between energy saving and comfort.

[0113] As described above, it is possible to select a solution that balances energy conservation and comfort from the perspective of prioritizing user comfort (reducing the degree of user density).

[0114] Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of determining the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area in the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1, and corresponds to steps S13j to S13o of the seating area number / number of people who can use each seating area calculation process (Figure 10).

[0115] Figure 12 shows graph G1, which, like the graphs in Figures 7 and 8, represents the relationship between the seat usage rate within a seating area and the seating area usage rate. Curve G8 is the function corresponding when the attendance rate on the target floor is 30%. (1) First, from the perspective of reducing energy consumption (consolidating seating areas), a standard value for the seating area utilization ratio is set (step S13j in Figure 10). In the example in Figure 12, the standard value G12 for the seating area utilization ratio is set to 0.5. (2) Next, an upper limit is set for the seat occupancy rate within the seat area from the perspective of the upper limit of discomfort (density) within the seat area (step S13k in Figure 10). In the example in Figure 12, the upper limit G13 is set to 0.65. (3) Furthermore, the seat utilization ratio within a seat area relative to the baseline value of the seat utilization ratio is calculated from the function of the number of seat areas and the number of people available within each seat area relative to the predicted number of users (step S13l in Figure 10). In the example in Figure 12, the coordinate G14((seat utilization ratio within seat area, seat utilization ratio)=(0.6,0.5)) is obtained. (4) Since the seat occupancy ratio within the seating area = 0.6 is smaller than the upper limit G13 = 0.65 set earlier, coordinate G14 is selected as a solution that satisfies the balance between energy saving and comfort.

[0116] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the process for determining the location and setting attributes of the recommended seating area of ​​the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1 (step S14 (Figure 9)).

[0117] The process of determining the location and setting attributes of recommended seating areas involves preparing in advance the location and attributes of recommended seating areas from the perspective of energy saving and comfort, so that users of the floor can be guided to them using display methods such as floor maps and seating maps.

[0118] First, in step S14a, the recommended seat area location determination unit 105 (Figure 1) determines the recommended seat area (specific seat area location) for users corresponding to the number of seat areas calculated in step S13 (Figure 9). In step S14a, the following process is executed. (1) Based on the results of estimating the temperature distribution of the target floor based on weather and temperature forecasts, past temperature measurement data, etc. (Step S12 (Figure 9)), each seating area is arranged as a candidate seating area in order of the smallest absolute value of the deviation between the predicted temperature distribution of the target floor and the set temperature of the air conditioning. (2) From the top of the candidate seating areas, select the number of seating areas calculated in step S13. This determines the location of the seating area recommended to the user.

[0119] By determining the location of seating areas in this way, it is possible to identify seating areas that require less heat output (= energy consumption) from the air conditioning system. For example, in the summer, seating areas near windows are expected to be hotter due to the heat radiation from sunlight, so these areas are avoided, and seating areas with lower temperatures are prioritized. This allows passengers to be guided to cooler locations, further reducing the energy consumption of the air conditioning system.

[0120] Next, in step S14b, the seat area attribute setting unit 108 (Figure 1) sets attributes for the seat area location determined in step S14a. In step S14b, the following process is executed. (1) First, group users based on the following criteria. (Perspective 1) Group the users' activity status (work style) on the day into either (A) meeting / conversation-focused (conversation-oriented) or (B) quiet work-focused (concentration-oriented). (Perspective 2) Grouping by length of stay (e.g., (a) with overtime, (b) without overtime) (2) Set the attributes of the seating area according to the grouping performed in (1) above. For example, set attributes such as "seating area for users who prioritize concentration and do not work overtime".

[0121] The process in step S14b assigns users with similar activity levels to the same seating area, and also assigns users with similar stay times, thereby enabling a more comfortable work environment and reducing the operating time of air conditioning and lighting. Once step S14b is completed, the seating area attribute setting unit 108 returns to the pre-processing of the building management system 1 (Figure 9).

[0122] The seat area location information determined in step S14a and the seat area attributes set in step S14b are stored in a predetermined storage area. The seat area information and attributes are read from the predetermined storage area by the seat information output unit 110 and the equipment control unit 111 as needed.

[0123] Figure 14 shows an example of the selection results of seating area locations based on temperature distribution in the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1 (summer case). In summer, sunlight enters through the windows 193 on the floor, and radiant heat is transmitted into the room as the sunlight heats the walls, resulting in a higher temperature distribution on the side exposed to sunlight. For this reason, the recommended seating area avoids the side with the windows 193, and the seating area 191 group on the opposite side of the boundary line 17A from the side with respect to the windows 193 is determined as the recommended seating area. As a result, it is possible to guide users to cooler locations, further reducing the energy consumption of air conditioning equipment and enabling energy conservation.

[0124] Figure 15 shows an example of the determination of seating area locations based on temperature distribution in the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1 (winter case). In winter, sunlight enters through the windows 193 on the floor, and although weak, the sunlight heats the walls, causing radiant heat to be transmitted into the room. As a result, the side exposed to sunlight has a higher temperature distribution during the day. Therefore, the recommended seating area prioritizes the side with the windows 193, and the group of seating areas 191 on the side with the windows 193 are determined as the recommended seating area relative to the boundary line 17B. As a result, it is possible to guide users to areas with higher temperatures, reduce energy consumption, and conserve energy.

[0125] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the recommended seating area information presentation process of the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The recommended seating presentation process is a process in which the building management system 1 presents a recommended seating area to a user when the user uses the target floor. This recommended seating presentation process is performed after the first user of the day arrives at work and enters the target floor.

[0126] First, in step S21, the seat information output unit 110 (Figure 1) determines whether a user has entered or left the target floor. The building management system 1 detects the user's entry into the target floor 19 using detection means such as cameras, image sensors, and IC (Integral Circuit) tag readers located near the information display device 5. If a user has entered or left the target floor, the seat information output unit 110 proceeds to step S22; otherwise, it repeats step S21.

[0127] In step S22, the seat information output unit 110 detects the usage status of each seat within the seating area recommended to the user using sensors (not shown). The sensors are detection means that detect whether a user is using a seat, such as infrared light or heat detection sensors, image sensors, pressure sensors installed on the seats, power usage sensors for the seat outlets, wireless radio communication information devices such as smartphones, or IC tag reading sensors. Sensors may be provided not only for each seat, but also for each seating area.

[0128] Next, in step S23, the seat information output unit 110 reads the location information of the recommended seating area, the number of available seats, attribute information, etc., from a predetermined storage area for the user whose entry was detected in step S21, and outputs this information, along with the usage status of each seat detected in step S22, to the information device 4 or information display device 5.

[0129] In this way, when users enter the target area for the first time on the day of their visit, they are presented with information such as recommended seating areas, seat availability, seating area availability, and the number of people on the floor. This allows users to be guided to recommended seats and, based on seat usage, to select a more appropriate seat from the perspective of energy conservation and comfort when they first enter the target area on the day of their visit, thus preventing unnecessary seat changes after being seated.

[0130] Next, in step S24, the seat information output unit 110 determines whether to terminate the recommended seat presentation process. If it does terminate (step S24 YES), it terminates the recommended seat presentation process; otherwise, it returns to step S22. The recommended seat presentation process is executed until the end of the day and the last user leaves the target area.

[0131] Figure 17 shows an example of the recommended seating area information display screen 500 of the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The recommended seating area information display screen 500 is displayed on the display screens of the information device 4 and the information display device 5 in step S23 (Figure 16).

[0132] The recommended seating area information display screen 500 is displayed on the information device 4 or the information display device 5. On the recommended seating area information display screen 500, a message 501 regarding the location of the recommended seats for the day is displayed, and the recommended seating area is displayed on the seat map on the screen. In Figure 17, area 517 represents the group of recommended seating areas for the day. This recommended seating area is determined by the recommended seating area location determination unit 105 (Figure 1) based on the number of seating areas calculated by the seating area number / number of available seats within a seating area calculation unit 103 (Figure 1).

[0133] In Figure 17, the recommended number of seating areas, the number of available seats within each seating area, and the location of each seating area were calculated and determined, resulting in the area within 517 being designated as the recommended seating area. The recommended number of seating areas is "7" (out of a total of 12 seating areas), and the number of available seats within each seating area is "8" (out of a total of 16 seats within each seating area).

[0134] The recommended seating area information display screen 500 further displays the occupancy rate 502 of the recommended seats within that seating area. In the example in Figure 17, the occupancy rate of the recommended seats within the seating area is 50%. This occupancy rate is calculated using the result of the number of available seats within the seating area calculated by the seating area number / number of available seats within the seating area calculation unit 103 (Figure 1).

[0135] The floor seat map 519 displayed on the recommended seat area information screen 500 shows the usage status of seat area 5191 and each seat 5192 within seat area 5191. According to the distinction in legend 520, seats already in use are displayed in black 5193, and available seats are displayed in white 5194. New users entering the floor can view the recommended seat area information screen 500 and select their desired available seat within the recommended seat area. Although not shown in Figure 17, the system may also display seat area guidance tailored to the user's activity status (work style) and length of stay, such as displaying the attributes of each seat area (step S23 (Figure 16)).

[0136] When users sit in designated seating areas according to the recommended seating schedule, the air conditioning and lighting systems can operate with the same number of units as the number of seating areas, resulting in energy savings. Furthermore, the seating areas maintain a moderate level of density, allowing for comfortable work. In other words, a balance is achieved between energy conservation and user comfort.

[0137] The recommended seating area information display screen 500 also displays floor usage status 521. Floor usage status 521 includes information such as the current number of users 522, the predicted number of users for today 523, and the expected energy saving effect 524. From this information, users can find out how many people are using the target floor on that day and how many people are using it now.

[0138] Furthermore, current usage patterns can be used as a reference when selecting which seats from the recommended seating options to use. Additionally, the expected energy-saving effect 524 can motivate people to actively sit in the recommended seats by encouraging their contribution to the environment. Moreover, the expected energy-saving effect 524 allows people to experience firsthand the energy-saving benefits of sitting in the recommended seats.

[0139] Figure 18 is a flowchart showing an example of equipment control processing in the building management system 1 according to Embodiment 1. Equipment control processing is executed periodically or triggered by specific events.

[0140] First, in step S31, the equipment control unit 111 (Figure 1) controls the air conditioning and lighting equipment responsible for the seating area determined in step S14a (Figure 13). For example, if the seating area is not one of the recommended seating areas, the unit turns off the air conditioning and / or the lighting, or reduces their output. Conversely, if the seating area is one of the recommended seating areas, the unit operates the air conditioning and lighting, or increases their output.

[0141] Furthermore, the system controls air conditioning and lighting equipment according to the length of time users spend in their seating areas. For example, in seating areas for groups without overtime work, or in seating areas outside of users' working hours, the air conditioning and lighting are turned off. In this way, the number of operating air conditioners and lights is limited to match the number of seating areas, suppressing unnecessary operation of air conditioning and use of lights, thereby reducing energy consumption and increasing energy savings. Thus, by determining the location of seating areas based on the determined number of seating areas and setting the attributes of each seating area, air conditioning and lighting equipment can be operated appropriately according to the location and attributes of each seating area.

[0142] In step S31, the air conditioning and lighting equipment are controlled based on the information of the seating area recommended to the user. As a result, even if the user does not follow the recommendation and chooses to sit in a seating area other than the recommended one, it is expected that the user will move from the other seating area to the recommended seating area in response to the control of the air conditioning and lighting equipment, and as a result, energy savings can be achieved.

[0143] Next, in step S32, the device control unit 111 determines whether to terminate the device control process. If it does terminate (step S32 YES), it terminates the device control process; otherwise, it returns to step S31. This device control process is executed until the end of the day and the last user leaves the target area.

[0144] (Effects of Embodiment 1) According to Embodiment 1, building management can be implemented to maintain and improve the comfort of building users while conserving energy in building facilities, in order to achieve carbon neutrality for the building.

[0145] [Embodiment 2] In Embodiment 1, in region C6 shown in Figure 4 where energy saving and comfort are balanced, there is a tendency to prioritize either energy saving or user comfort, even while striving to balance energy saving and user comfort. In Embodiment 2, compared to Embodiment 1, in order to further balance energy saving and user comfort, the solution closest to a predetermined standard is selected for the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area.

[0146] Embodiment 2 explains the differences from Embodiment 1, and omits the explanation of the same configuration and processing as in Embodiment 1.

[0147] Figure 19 shows an example of determining the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area in the building management system 1B (Figure 1) according to Embodiment 2. In Embodiment 2, the straight line G15 in graph G1B shown in Figure 19 is a baseline representing the ideal balance solution for the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area, and the solution closest to the baseline is selected from curve G8.

[0148] The function of the number of seating areas relative to the predicted number of users (seat area utilization ratio G3, which represents the vertical axis of graph G1B in Figure 19) and the number of people who can use a seating area (seat utilization ratio within a seating area G2, which represents the horizontal axis of graph G1B in Figure 19) corresponds to curve G8, and the baseline for the recommended number of seating areas and the number of people who can use a seating area (the baseline that represents the ideal balance between energy saving and comfort) is straight line G15.

[0149] The line G15 serves as the baseline when the ideal balance condition is that the seat area utilization ratio and the seat utilization ratio within the seat area are equal. From the set of coordinate points that can actually be taken on curve G8, the coordinate point closest to the line G15 is coordinate G16 ((seat utilization ratio within seat area, seat area utilization ratio) = (0.5, 0.6)).

[0150] In the case shown in Figure 19, coordinate G16 is selected as the solution that balances energy conservation and comfort. Coordinate G16 has a seat utilization ratio of 0.5 within the seating area and a seating area utilization ratio of 0.6. By substituting these values ​​into equations (2) and (3), the recommended number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area can be determined.

[0151] In this way, it is possible to select the most appropriate solution that best balances energy conservation and comfort.

[0152] Figure 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the process for determining the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area in the building management system 1B according to Embodiment 2. In Embodiment 2, compared to Embodiment 1, the process for determining the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area (Figure 20) is performed instead of the process for calculating the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area (Figure 10).

[0153] First, in step S41, the seat area number / number of usable people within a seat area calculation unit 103B (Figure 1) sets a baseline for the recommended number of seat areas and number of usable people within a seat area (a baseline that represents the ideal balance between energy saving and comfort) based on a function of the number of seat areas used (corresponding to energy consumption) and the number of usable people within a seat area (corresponding to density = discomfort) relative to the predicted number of users. The "baseline for the ideal balance solution" is not limited to a straight line, but may also be a half-line, curve, or region that satisfies the conditions for the ideal balance solution.

[0154] As an example of a baseline, consider the case where the number of people using a seating area relative to the predicted number of users is expressed as a normalized value called the "seat area usage ratio" defined by equation (3), and similarly, the number of people who can use a seating area is expressed as a normalized value called the "seat usage ratio within a seating area" defined by equation (2). As shown in Figure 19, the baseline can be defined as a straight line that satisfies the condition that both values ​​are equal, representing an ideal balanced solution where the two values ​​are in balance.

[0155] Next, in step S42, the seat area number / number of available seats within a seat area calculation unit 103B, after setting a baseline in step S41, extracts coordinates on a function of the number of seat areas (seat area usage ratio) and the number of available seats within a seat area (seat usage ratio within a seat area) relative to the predicted number of users as candidate balance solutions. For example, since the number of people, the number of seat areas, and the number of seats are integers, the coordinate values ​​of the candidate balance solutions become discrete values, and the function values ​​also become discrete values ​​on the curve.

[0156] Next, in step S43, the seat area number / number of usable people within a seat area calculation unit 103B selects the coordinate point from among the candidate coordinate points for the balance solution extracted in step S42 that has the minimum distance from the baseline of the balance solution (distance of the perpendicular line drawn onto the baseline) as the balance solution that achieves both energy saving and comfort. In other words, the coordinate point is selected in which the ratio of the number of seat areas (seat area usage ratio) to the number of usable people within a seat area (seat usage ratio within a seat area) is closest to a predetermined standard.

[0157] Next, in step S44, the seating area number / number of usable people within a seating area calculation unit 103B determines the recommended number of seating areas and the number of usable people within a seating area based on the coordinate values ​​of the coordinate points of the balance solution selected in step S43.

[0158] As described above, according to Embodiment 2, an appropriate solution can be selected that takes into account the balance between energy conservation and comfort.

[0159] [Embodiment 3] In Embodiments 1 and 2, the seats 192 installed on the target floor 19 are grouped into seating areas 191, each consisting of a predetermined number of seats. Based on the recommended number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area, a recommendation is made to the user for each seating area, and seats are recommended. However, the groups of seats 192 are not limited to seating areas.

[0160] Embodiment 3 explains the differences from Embodiments 1 and 2, and omits the explanation of the same configuration and processing as in Embodiments 1 or 2.

[0161] Figure 21 shows an example of a floor layout targeted by the building management system 1C according to Embodiment 3. Figure 22 shows an example of a function between the area of ​​the usable space on the floor and the number of usable people within a unit area, with respect to the predicted number of users in the building management system 1C according to Embodiment 3.

[0162] In Embodiment 3, as shown in Figure 21, the seating area 191 is not provided. The seating area number / number of usable people within a seating area calculation unit 103C (Figure 1) uses graph G1C (Figure 22) to calculate the ratio of the area of ​​the usable area to the total floor area within the target floor (or the area of ​​the usable area) and the seat usage ratio per unit area within this usable area (or the number of usable people or seats per unit area within the usable area) based on the predicted number of users of the target floor. Graph G1C represents a function of the seat usage ratio within a unit area to the predicted number of users and the area ratio of the usable area to the floor area. "Unit area" refers to an area of ​​a predetermined size, such as "1 square meter".

[0163] Graph G1C (Figure 22) replaces Graph G1 (a function of the number of seating areas and the number of people available within each seating area relative to the predicted number of users (Figure 7)). In Graph G1C, the horizontal axis of Graph G1, "seat utilization rate within seating areas G2," is replaced with "number of people (or seats) per unit area of ​​available space G2C," and the vertical axis, "seat area utilization rate G3," is replaced with "area of ​​available space G3C."

[0164] In other words, the seat area number / usable person calculation unit 103C determines the available seats not by seat area 191, but by "area of ​​available seats," and calculates the area of ​​the area of ​​available seats and the number of usable people (or seats) per unit area within the area of ​​available seats based on the predicted number of users on the target floor. The recommended seat area location determination unit 105C (Figure 1) then determines the location of the area of ​​available seats. The seat area attribute setting unit 108C (Figure 1) sets the attributes of the area of ​​available seats.

[0165] In Embodiment 3, the equipment control process (Figure 18) is performed with control targets being an air conditioning unit capable of controlling the temperature and humidity of the available seating area and a lighting unit capable of controlling the illuminance of the available seating area.

[0166] Thus, even without establishing the concept of seating area 191, it is possible to determine a seating area and the number of users within that area that can balance energy conservation on the target floor with the comfort of users on the target floor.

[0167] (Hardware configuration of building management system 1) Figure 23 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the building management system 1. The building management system 1 is a computer that includes a CPU and other processors 1001, a main memory 1002, an auxiliary memory 1003, a network interface 1004, an input device 1005, and an output device 1006, all of which are interconnected via an internal communication line 1009 such as a bus.

[0168] The processor 1001 controls the operation of the entire building management system 1. The main memory 1002 is composed of, for example, volatile semiconductor memory and is used as the work memory of the processor 1001. The auxiliary storage device 1003 is an example of a non-temporary storage medium and is composed of a large-capacity non-volatile storage device such as a hard disk drive, SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory, and is used to retain various programs and data for a long period of time.

[0169] The executable program 1100 stored in the auxiliary storage device 1003 is loaded into the main memory device 1002 when the building management system 1 is started or when necessary, and the processor 1001 executes the executable program 1100 loaded into the main memory device 1002. This realizes a system and various functional units that perform various processes.

[0170] The executable program 1100 may be recorded on a non-temporary recording medium, read from the non-temporary recording medium by a media reader, and loaded into the main memory 1002. Alternatively, the executable program 1100 may be obtained from an external computer via a network and loaded into the main memory 1002.

[0171] The network interface 1004 is an interface device for connecting the building management system 1 to each network within the system, or for communicating with other computers. The network interface 1004 consists of, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Card) such as a wired LAN (Local Area Network) or a wireless LAN.

[0172] The input device 1005 consists of a keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse, and is used by the user to input various instructions and information into the building management system 1. The output device 1006 consists of a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and an audio output device such as a speaker, and is used to present necessary information to the user when needed.

[0173] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but includes various modifications and equivalent configurations within the spirit of the attached claims. For example, the embodiments described above are described in detail to make the present invention easier to understand, and the present invention is not necessarily limited to having all the configurations described. Furthermore, some of the configurations of one embodiment may be replaced with those of another embodiment. Furthermore, configurations of other embodiments may be added to the configuration of one embodiment. Furthermore, some of the configurations of each embodiment may be added, deleted, or replaced with other configurations.

[0174] Furthermore, each of the aforementioned configurations, functions, processing units, and processing means may be implemented in hardware, either partially or entirely, by designing them as integrated circuits, for example. Alternatively, they may be implemented in software by having the processor interpret and execute programs that realize each function.

[0175] Information such as programs, tables, and files that implement each function can be stored in memory, hard disks, SSDs (Solid State Drives), or non-temporary recording media such as IC (Integrated Circuit) cards, SD cards, and DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs).

[0176] Furthermore, the control lines and information lines shown are those deemed necessary for explanation purposes and do not necessarily represent all control lines and information lines required for implementation. In reality, it can be assumed that almost all components are interconnected. [Explanation of symbols]

[0177] 1,1B,1C: Building management system; 1001: Processor; 1002: Main memory.

Claims

1. A building management system for managing a building that has floors with seating arrangements, A prediction unit that predicts the number of users on the floor on a given day based on statistical information regarding the use of the floor by users, A calculation unit calculates the area of ​​the seating area and the number of users per unit area that satisfy predetermined criteria, based on a function representing the relationship between the number of users predicted by the prediction unit, the area of ​​the seating area on the floor, and the number of users per unit area within the seating area. A determination unit determines the location of the seat in the area of ​​the area of ​​the area of ​​the area of ​​the area of ​​the seat that is recommended to the user, based on the area of ​​the area of ​​the area of ​​the seat that is available to the user, An output unit outputs the location of the usable area of ​​the seat determined by the determination unit. A building management system characterized by having the following features.

2. A building management system according to claim 1, The aforementioned unit area is a seating area formed by grouping a predetermined number of seats. The area where the seats can be used is composed of a plurality of the seat areas, The calculation unit described above, Based on a predetermined function representing the relationship between the number of users predicted by the prediction unit, the number of available seating areas on the floor, and the number of people who can use each seating area, the number of seating areas that satisfy the predetermined criteria and the number of people who can use each seating area are calculated. The aforementioned determination unit, Based on the number of seat areas calculated by the calculation unit, the location of the seat area recommended to the user is determined. The output unit is, The position of the seat area determined by the determination unit is output. A building management system characterized by the following features.

3. A building management system according to claim 2, The calculation unit described above, Based on the predetermined function, a first seat area calculation process is performed to calculate the number of seat areas and the number of available seats in each seat area, such that the number of available seats in each seat area and the number of available seats in each seat area satisfy the predetermined criteria and the number of available seats in each seat area is reduced. A building management system characterized by the following features.

4. A building management system according to claim 3, The calculation unit described above, Based on the predetermined function, a second seat area calculation process is performed to calculate the number of seat areas and the number of available seats in each seat area, such that the number of available seats in each seat area and the number of seat areas satisfy the predetermined criteria and the number of seat areas is reduced. A building management system characterized by the following features.

5. A building management system according to claim 4, The calculation unit described above, In accordance with the prescribed policy, as the first step, one of the processes from the first seat area calculation process and the second seat area calculation process is executed. If the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area cannot be calculated in the first step, the second step is to execute the other process from the first seating area calculation process and the second seating area calculation process that is different from the other process. If the number of seating areas and the number of people who can use each seating area cannot be calculated in the second step described above, the first predetermined value is set as the number of seating areas, and the second predetermined value is set as the number of people who can use each seating area. A building management system characterized by the following features.

6. A building management system according to claim 2, The calculation unit described above, Based on the predetermined function, the number of seating areas and the number of available seats in each seating area are calculated such that the ratio of the number of seating areas to the number of available seats in each seating area is closest to the predetermined standard. A building management system characterized by the following features.

7. A building management system according to claim 2, The system includes a temperature and illuminance distribution prediction unit that predicts the temperature distribution and illuminance distribution on the floor on a given day, based on past temperature and illuminance distribution data for the floor and weather and temperature forecast information for the area where the building is located. The aforementioned determination unit, Based on the predicted values ​​of the temperature distribution or illuminance distribution predicted by the temperature distribution / illuminance distribution prediction unit and the number of seating areas calculated by the calculation unit, the location of the seating area recommended to the user is determined. A building management system characterized by the following features.

8. A building management system according to claim 2, The equipment control unit controls the air conditioning equipment responsible for the air conditioning of the seating area or the lighting equipment responsible for the lighting of the seating area, according to the position determined by the determination unit. A building management system characterized by having the following features.

9. A building management system according to claim 8, The system includes a setting unit that sets attribute information for the seating area according to the user's planned use of the floor, The aforementioned equipment control unit is The setting unit controls the air conditioning equipment or the lighting equipment based on the attribute information set for the seating area. A building management system characterized by the following features.

10. A building management method performed by a building management system that manages a building having floors with seating, A prediction step that predicts the number of users on the floor on a given day based on statistical information regarding the use of the floor by users, A calculation step to calculate the area of ​​the seating area and the number of users per unit area that satisfy predetermined criteria, based on a function representing the relationship between the number of users predicted by the prediction step, the area of ​​the seating area on the floor, and the number of users per unit area within the seating area; A determination step in which, based on the area of ​​the usable seat calculated in the calculation step, a recommended location of the usable seat for the user is determined. An output step that outputs the location of the usable area of ​​the seat determined by the determination step, A building management method characterized by having the following features.

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