Shadow impact assessment system, shadow impact assessment method, and shadow calculation system

Abstract

To provide a sun shade influence amount evaluation system capable of more correctly evaluating influence which building sun shade exerts on photovoltaic power generation facilities around, a sun shade influence amount evaluation method, and a sun shade calculation system.SOLUTION: A shadow influence amount evaluation system includes: a map data acquisition unit for acquiring map data about an object building being a building that forms sun shade and buildings around the object building; a sunshine related data acquisition unit for acquiring sunshine related data being information about sunshine; a sun shade difference calculation unit 105 for calculating sun shade difference data being information of sun shade of the object building other than sun shade of the buildings existing around the object building on the basis of the map data and the sunshine related data; and a surrounding influence evaluation unit 106 for evaluating a sun shade influence amount exerted on a photovoltaic power generation amount of influenced buildings being the buildings that are shaded by the object building on the basis of the sun shade difference data and the map data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for evaluating the amount of shadow impact, a method for evaluating the amount of shadow impact, and a shadow calculation system. In particular, the present invention relates to a system for evaluating the amount of shadow impact and the like that can be suitably used for calculating the amount of shadow impact on the solar power generation amount.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in order to solve the climate change problem, efforts towards carbon neutrality have been accelerating. As an intensification of environmental measures towards carbon neutrality, for example, measures such as obliging the installation of solar power generation devices and restricting carbon dioxide emissions are being taken. On the other hand, for example, when constructing a building such as a mid- to high-rise building, it will cause economic damage because it obstructs the sunlight of the solar power generation device near the construction site.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a sunlight simulation system. This sunlight simulation system corresponds to a target site and sets a horizontal plane having a desired height with respect to a reference plane preset for the site. For this horizontal plane, the shadow integration value by the sunlight obstruction object adjacent to the site is calculated and displayed in different expressions distinguished according to the shadow integration value. In particular, a large number of grids corresponding to the module dimensions set for the building are formed on the horizontal plane, and the shadow integration value for each grid is calculated and expressed.

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses a sunshine simulation system. This sunshine simulation system first launches 3D modeling software and loads two-dimensional map data (including floor number information) and floor height settings for the area around the target building. Next, it uses the 3D function of the same software to create a 3D model of the area. Then, it performs additional modification processing to match the actual building exterior and additional structures (e.g., utility poles). Furthermore, it adds a building to be verified (apartment building) to the planned construction site in CAD software. The 3D data of the target area, which has undergone the above processing, is loaded into the CAD software. Next, it performs image processing in the CAD software to vertically install solar collection panels on the balcony surface of each unit of the building to be verified. Information such as location information and azimuth angle is input into the CAD software and the sun shadow simulation calculation is performed. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2003-167065 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2013-37523 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] A system that can understand the impact of building shadows on surrounding solar power generation facilities is useful. However, conventionally, the impact on solar power generation facilities has not been evaluated solely on the shadow cast by the building in question. When there are multiple buildings, it is necessary to differentiate the shadow cast by each building in order to more accurately evaluate the impact on surrounding solar power generation facilities. The present invention aims to provide a shadow impact evaluation system, a shadow impact evaluation method, and a shadow calculation system that can more accurately evaluate the impact of building shadows on surrounding solar power generation facilities. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above problems, the present invention provides a shadow impact evaluation system comprising: a map data acquisition unit that acquires map data of a target building which is a building that casts a shadow and buildings in the vicinity of the target building; a sunshine-related data acquisition unit that acquires sunshine-related data which is information about sunlight; a shadow difference calculation unit that calculates shadow difference data which is information about the shadow of the target building excluding the shadows cast by buildings in the vicinity of the target building, based on the map data and sunshine-related data; and a surrounding impact evaluation unit that evaluates the amount of shadow impact that the target building casts on the amount of solar power generation of influencing buildings, which are buildings that are cast a shadow by the target building, based on the shadow difference data and map data. In this case, a shadow impact evaluation system can be provided that can more accurately evaluate the impact that the shadow cast by a building has on surrounding solar power generation equipment.

[0008] Here, the surrounding impact assessment unit can calculate the impact calculation range as the area that affects the amount of solar power generation of the affected building, and calculate the amount of shadow impact within the impact calculation range. In this case, the estimation of the amount of shadow impact on solar power generation can be refined. Furthermore, the scope of impact calculation can be set to the location where the solar panels for solar power generation are installed. In this case, the amount of direct shading impact on the solar panels can be calculated. Furthermore, the surrounding impact assessment unit can calculate the amount of shading impact by taking into account the installation angle at which the solar panels are installed. In this case, the estimation of the amount of shading impact on solar power generation can be made more precise. Furthermore, the scope of impact calculation can be limited to at least one of the rooftop and side of the affected building. In this case, the scope of impact calculation can be limited to locations where solar power generation equipment may be installed. Furthermore, the shadow difference data can be configured to show the difference between the shadow area of ​​the target building and the shadow area of ​​surrounding buildings. In this case, the influence of shadows from buildings other than the target building can be excluded. Furthermore, the surrounding impact assessment unit can calculate the amount of shadow impact for each design data based on multiple design data for the unconstructed target building. In this case, the amount of shadow impact can be estimated accurately in advance for each of the multiple design data for the target building. Furthermore, the shadow difference calculation unit can use multiple map data sets, each containing a map of the area surrounding the target building with an unconstructed target building placed based on multiple design data sets, to calculate the shadow difference data for each. In this case, map data based on each of the multiple design data sets can be prepared. Furthermore, the surrounding impact assessment unit can calculate the amount of shadow impact on the target building based on actual values ​​for at least one of the solar power generation amount and solar radiation. In this case, a more accurate amount of shadow impact can be calculated based on actual values. Furthermore, the actual values ​​can be at least one of the following: power generation actual values, solar radiation measurements, and weather information. In this case, more suitable data can be used as the actual values.

[0009] Furthermore, the present invention is a method for evaluating the amount of shadow impact, in which a processor executes software stored in memory to acquire map data for a target building that forms a shadow and buildings surrounding the target building, acquires sunshine-related data which is information about sunlight, calculates shadow difference data which is information about the shadow of the target building excluding the shadows of buildings surrounding the target building based on the map data and sunshine-related data, and evaluates the amount of shadow impact that the target building has on the amount of solar power generation of influencing buildings which are buildings that are shadowed by the target building, based on the shadow difference data and map data.In this case, the present invention can provide a method for evaluating the amount of shadow impact that a building's shadow has on surrounding solar power generation equipment more accurately.

[0010] Furthermore, the present invention provides a shadow calculation system comprising: a shadow impact evaluation system that evaluates the amount of shadow impact that a target building, which is a building that forms a shadow, has on the amount of solar power generation of an influencing building, which is a building that casts a shadow; and a terminal device that displays the evaluation results of the shadow impact. The shadow impact evaluation system comprises: a map data acquisition unit that acquires map data for the target building and buildings in the vicinity of the target building; a sunshine-related data acquisition unit that acquires sunshine-related data, which is information about sunlight; a shadow difference calculation unit that calculates shadow difference data, which is information about the shadow of the target building excluding the shadows cast by buildings in the vicinity of the target building, based on the map data and sunshine-related data; and a surrounding impact evaluation unit that evaluates the amount of shadow impact based on the shadow difference data and map data. In this case, a shadow calculation system can be provided that can more accurately evaluate the impact that the shadow of a building has on surrounding solar power generation equipment.

[0011] Here, the terminal device can display images comparing the amount of shadow impact for each of the multiple design data for the unconstructed target building. In this case, the amount of shadow impact can be visually understood. Furthermore, the terminal device can display images comparing the amount of shadow impact for each affected building. In this case, the amount of shadow impact for each affected building can be visually understood. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a shadow impact evaluation system, a shadow impact evaluation method, and a shadow calculation system that can more accurately evaluate the impact of building shadows on surrounding solar power generation facilities. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This figure shows the overall configuration of the shadow calculation system, including the shadow impact evaluation system of this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the computing server. [Figure 3] This diagram shows the configuration of the database server. [Figure 4]It is a sequence diagram explaining the operation of the solar shadow influence amount evaluation system. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart detailing the processing performed by the data request processing unit of the database server in step S206 of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart detailing the processing performed by the solar shadow difference calculation unit of the calculation server in step S211 of FIG. 4. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart detailing the processing performed by the surrounding influence evaluation unit of the calculation server in step S216 of FIG. 4. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing the content of the condition data. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing the content of the map model list. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing the content of the solar shadow influence data. [Figure 11] (a) is a diagram showing an example display when drawing a solar shadow on the terminal in step S213 of FIG. 4. (b) to (d) are diagrams showing the influence calculation range described in step S369 of FIG. 7. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing the case where the evaluation result of the solar shadow influence amount is displayed on the terminal in step S218 of FIG. 4. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing the actual power generation values of the solar power generation facilities installed in the target building or the affected building.

[0014] <Overall description of the system including the solar shadow influence amount evaluation system 1> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall schematic configuration of the solar shadow calculation system S including the solar shadow influence amount evaluation system 1 of the present embodiment. The solar shadow calculation system S shown in FIG. 1 includes a solar shadow influence amount evaluation system 1 for evaluating the influence of the solar shadow, terminals 5a, 5b, 5c for displaying the evaluation result of the solar shadow influence amount evaluated by the solar shadow influence amount evaluation system 1, and an external system 7 for performing predetermined processing according to the influence of the solar shadow, which are connected via a network 6.

[0015] The shadow impact assessment system 1 is a server computer that manages the entire shadow calculation system S shown in the diagram. As will be explained in more detail later, the Shadow Impact Assessment System 1 is a device that calculates the amount of shadow impact that occurs when sunlight shines on a building and affects solar power generation. In the following, when calculating the shadow impact, the building that forms the shadow may be referred to as the "target building." The building that is shaded by the target building may be referred to as the "affected building." The target building can also be described as a building that blocks sunlight and creates a shadow. The affected building can also be described as a building that is shaded (cast a shadow over) by the target building. When the shadow formed by the target building falls on the affected building, the amount of power generated by the solar power generation equipment installed on the roof of the affected building decreases. The Shadow Impact Assessment System 1 calculates the amount of shadow impact at this time, which is the amount of impact on solar power generation.

[0016] The shadow impact assessment system 1 comprises a calculation server 2, a database server 3, and a communication control unit 4. Calculation server 2 performs various calculations, such as calculating the amount of shadow impact. Database server 3 stores map data for the entire city, the target building, and buildings surrounding the target building. Here, the map data is 3D (three-dimensional) map information. That is, the map data not only represents the position and shape of the building when viewed from above, but also includes data in the height direction, indicating the position and shape of the building in three-dimensional space. The communication control unit 4 transmits and receives information between terminals 5a, 5b, 5c and an external system 7 via the network 6.

[0017] Terminals 5a, 5b, and 5c (Terminals 1-3) are terminal devices used, for example, by a user to request an assessment of the amount of shadow impact from the shadow impact assessment system 1, or to display the assessment results of the amount of shadow impact. In the first embodiment described later, when planning the construction of a target building, terminal 5a is a terminal device operated by the construction planner planning the construction of the target building. In the second embodiment described later, when calculating the amount of shadow impact of a target building that has already been constructed, terminal 5b is a terminal device operated by the operations manager who manages the target building. Furthermore, terminal 5c is a data manager that manages data related to sunlight, such as the target building, buildings in the vicinity of the target building, and sunlight position and amount of sunlight. In Figure 1, there are three terminals 5a, 5b, and 5c, but there can be any number of them, as long as there is one or more. Hereafter, when terminals 5a, 5b, and 5c are not distinguished, they may simply be referred to as "Terminal 5". Terminal 5 is, for example, a computer device such as a general-purpose personal computer (PC), mobile computer, mobile phone, smartphone, or tablet.

[0018] The external system 7 is not particularly limited as long as it is a device that receives the calculation results of the amount of shading and performs predetermined processing. For example, in the second embodiment described later, the external system 7 is a device that calculates the amount of compensation when the amount of solar power generation decreases due to shading of the target building and damage occurs. The external system 7 can be a computer device such as a PC or a server computer.

[0019] The shadow impact assessment system 1, terminal 5, and external system 7 each have, for example, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that controls each part through program execution, and a display device such as a display that shows images and other information. The shadow impact assessment system 1, terminal 5, and external system 7 also have, for example, input devices such as a keyboard and mouse for entering text. Furthermore, the shadow impact assessment system 1, terminal 5, and external system 7 each have, for example, a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication I / F") used for communication with external devices, and memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and storage where system data and internal data are stored.

[0020] Network 6 is a communication method used for information communication between the shadow impact assessment system 1, terminal 5, and external system 7, and is, for example, the Internet, LAN (Local Area Network), or WAN (Wide Area Network). The communication lines used for information communication can be wired or wireless, or a combination of both may be used. In addition, the shadow impact assessment system 1, terminal 5, and external system 7 may be connected via multiple networks and communication lines using relay devices such as gateway devices and routers.

[0021] <Explanation of Shadow Impact Assessment System 1> [First Embodiment] First, a first embodiment of the shadow impact assessment system 1 will be described. In the first embodiment, the target building is not yet constructed. The system evaluates the amount of shadow cast by the target building, which would affect the solar power generation of surrounding buildings, once the building is constructed. In this case, the shadow impact evaluation system 1 calculates the amount of shadow impact for each of the multiple design data for the unconstructed target building. Terminal 5 then displays an image comparing the amount of shadow impact for each of the multiple design data for the unconstructed target building.

[0022] Figure 2 shows the configuration of the computing server 2. As shown in the figure, the computing server 2 includes communication interfaces 101a and 101b, a CPU 102, memory 103, and storage 104. Communication interfaces 101a and 101b exchange information with the database server 3 and the communication control unit 4.

[0023] CPU 102 performs calculations to execute the processing performed by the computing server 2. CPU 102 also functions as a map data acquisition unit, obtaining map data about the target building and surrounding buildings. Furthermore, CPU 102 functions as a sunshine-related data acquisition unit, obtaining sunshine-related data, which is information about sunlight. "Map data," as mentioned above, is 3D map information. "Sunshine-related data" includes information about the sun's position and amount of sunlight for each day and time.

[0024] Memory 103 stores programs for implementing the functions of the shadow difference calculation unit 105 and the surrounding influence evaluation unit 106, and the CPU 102 executes these programs. The shadow difference calculation unit 105 calculates shadow difference data 108, which is information about the shadow of the target building excluding the shadows of surrounding buildings, based on map data and sunlight-related data, as will be described in more detail later. The surrounding impact assessment unit 106, as will be described in detail later, evaluates the amount of shadow impact that the target building has on the amount of solar power generation of affected buildings, which are buildings that are shadowed by the target building, based on the shadow difference data 108 and map data. "Solar power generation" is the amount of electricity generated by the solar power generation equipment. Solar power generation equipment is, for example, a power generation device that is installed on the roof or roof of a building and uses solar panels made of silicon solar cells, but is not limited to this. For example, it may be a power generation device that uses organic thin-film solar cells. In the case of organic thin-film solar cells, it is easy to perform solar power generation not only on the roof of the building but also on the walls of the building.

[0025] Storage 104 stores data used by the program executed by CPU 102. Storage 104 stores various types of data, including condition data 107, shadow difference data 108, and shadow effect data 109. Condition data 107, as will be explained in more detail later, includes the data for the target location, target period, and target building information list used when evaluating the amount of shadow impact. Shadow difference data 108 shows the difference in the range of shadows cast by surrounding buildings compared to the range of shadows cast by the target building. Shadow Impact Data 109 contains data on the results of calculating the shadow impact of the target building for each area where the shadow impact is calculated.

[0026] Figure 3 shows the configuration of database server 3. As shown in the diagram, the database server 3 includes communication interfaces 121a and 121b, a CPU 122, memory 123, and storage 124. Communication interfaces 121a and 121b exchange information with the computing server 2 and the communication control unit 4. CPU122 performs calculations to execute the processes performed by database server3. Memory 123 stores a program for implementing the functions of the data request processing unit 125 and the data update unit 126, and the CPU 122 executes this program. The data request processing unit 125 selects the necessary data in accordance with the data request from the computing server 2. The data update unit 126 updates the various data stored in the storage 124 according to the calculation server 2's calculation of the amount of shadow impact or any newly acquired data.

[0027] Storage 124 stores data used by programs executed by CPU 122. Storage 124 stores various types of data, including target building information 127, map model list 128, overall map model 129, surrounding map model 130, integrated map model 131, and sunlight-related data 132.

[0028] The target building information 127 is a 3D model of the target building. The 3D model of the target building is, for example, a BIM (Building Information Modeling) model. Furthermore, data regarding the installation status of solar power generation equipment may also be entered into the target building information 127. Map model list 128 is a list for managing the surrounding map model 130 and the integrated map model 131.

[0029] The overall map model 129 is the overall map data. For example, the overall map model 129 is the map data for an entire city or an entire town. The surrounding map model 130 is a 3D model of buildings surrounding the target building, extracted from the overall map model 129. For example, the surrounding map model 130 is a 3D model of buildings surrounding the target building in areas divided by a mesh, obtained by dividing the overall map model 129 into meshes. For example, one side of a mesh is 0.5 km. The surrounding map model 130 is, for example, a BIM model and consists of CityGML format. CityGML format is a data format in which building models and building information are linked. The integrated map model 131 is a 3D model that integrates the 3D model of the target building with the 3D models of buildings surrounding the target building. If there are multiple design data for the target building, the integrated map model 131 can also be described as multiple map data sets in which the unconstructed target building is placed on the map data of the area surrounding the target building, based on the multiple design data sets. Therefore, the integrated map model 131 may be referred to as the integrated map model (group) 131 below. This allows for the preparation of map data based on each of the multiple design data sets.

[0030] As described above, the sunshine-related data 132 includes information on the position of the sun and the amount of sunshine for each day and time. The sunshine-related data 132 consists of annual sunshine amount data obtained from a sunshine amount database and data obtained from the building's management system. The former is used in the first embodiment described later. The latter is used in the second embodiment described later. The sunshine-related data 132 may also include data such as actual solar power generation values / illuminance sensor measurements and weather information for a specified period.

[0031] Figure 4 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the shadow impact assessment system 1. This section illustrates the operations of terminal 5, computing server 2, and database server 3. Further details on some of the steps illustrated will be described later. First, terminal 5 launches a web browser (step S201). Then, the user operating terminal 5 inputs the calculation conditions (step S202). These calculation conditions may include, for example, the address of the target building, the date and time for calculating the shadow impact, and the design data of the target building. The entered calculation conditions are sent to the calculation server 2, which receives them (step S203). The calculation server 2 creates condition data 107 based on the calculation conditions and requests the necessary data from the database server 3 (step S204). The created condition data 107 is sent to the database server 3, which receives it (step S205).

[0032] In the database server 3, the data request processing unit 125 selects the necessary data in accordance with the data request from the calculation server 2 (step S206). The database server 3 selects the data to be used by the calculation server 2 according to the calculation conditions. The data to be selected is, for example, the surrounding map model 130, the integrated map model 131, and the sunlight-related data 132. The selected data is sent to the computing server 2, which receives it (step S207). When the computing server 2 receives the necessary data, it sends a notification to terminal 5 that the calculation is ready (step S208). On terminal 5, the user inputs a button to give instructions for calculating the shadow (step S209). The instruction for calculating the shadow is sent to the calculation server 2, which receives it (step S210).

[0033] The calculation server 2 uses a shadow difference calculation unit 105 to calculate shadow difference data 108, which represents the range of the shadow cast by the target building excluding the shadows cast by surrounding buildings (step S211). In other words, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 calculates the shadow impact limited to the shadow cast by the target building itself. This eliminates the shadow impact of buildings other than the target building. Specifically, it calculates the shadow when the target building is not present (shadow in the surrounding map model 130) and the shadow when the target building is present (shadow in the integrated map model 131), and uses the difference between them as shadow difference data 108 for impact assessment. The shadow difference data may be a shadow image when the integrated map model 131 is viewed from above, or a shadow image when the integrated map model 131 is unfolded as a texture map. When the calculation server 2 calculates the shadow difference data 108, it notifies terminal 5 that the shadow calculation is complete (step S212).

[0034] Terminal 5 displays the shadow on the display device based on the shadow difference data 108 (step S213). Furthermore, on terminal 5, the user inputs evaluation conditions (step S214). These evaluation conditions include, for example, specifying the design data of the target building, specifying the affected buildings, and specifying the date and time to perform the evaluation. The entered evaluation conditions are sent to the calculation server 2, which receives them (step S215). On the calculation server 2, based on the evaluation conditions, the surrounding impact evaluation unit 106 evaluates the amount of shading impact on the amount of solar power generation of buildings surrounding the target building (step S216). When the calculation server 2 evaluates the amount of shadow impact, it notifies terminal 5 of the evaluation result (step S217). Terminal 5 displays a comparative drawing of the evaluation results on the display device based on the amount of shadow influence (step S218). Specifically, Terminal 5 displays an image comparing the amount of shadow influence for each of the multiple design data for the target building. This allows for a visual understanding of the amount of shadow influence. It also provides suggestions for deciding which of the multiple design data to adopt. Furthermore, at this time, compensation may be provided in cooperation with external system 7 based on the evaluation results.

[0035] Figure 5 is a flowchart detailing the process performed by the data request processing unit 125 of the database server 3 in step S206 of Figure 4. First, the data request processing unit 125 receives the condition data 107 (step S301). The condition data 107, as described above, is a list of target locations, target periods, and target building information used when evaluating the amount of shadow influence. Here, the list of target building information is a list of IDs of the target building information set as a calculation condition. Next, the data request processing unit 125 reads the map model list 128 based on the condition data 107 (step S302). Next, the data request processing unit 125 determines whether or not there is a surrounding map model 130 that includes the target location (step S303). That is, the data request processing unit 125 determines whether or not there is a surrounding model whose range matches that of the target location. The target location in the condition data 107 is represented by latitude and longitude, but since the number of digits is smaller than that in the map model list 128, the unit determines whether or not there is a matching value by, for example, rounding to match the number of digits. As a result, if there is a surrounding map model 130 that includes the target location (Yes in step S303), the data request processing unit 125 extracts the surrounding map model 130 (step S304). Note that multiple surrounding map models 130 may be required.

[0036] Furthermore, the data request processing unit 125 determines whether or not there is a surrounding map model 130 corresponding to the target period included in the condition data 107 (step S305). The surrounding map model 130 is updated at regular intervals. This determination is made based on whether the surrounding map model 130 extracted in step S303 corresponds to the target period, and the most recent surrounding map model 130 prior to the target period is selected. For example, if there are surrounding map models 130 with information acquisition dates of 2019 / 10 / 02 and 2020 / 04 / 07, and the target period is 2020 / 01 / 01-2020 / 01 / 31, the former, the surrounding map model 130 from 2019 / 10 / 02, is selected. However, if the information update date of the surrounding map model 130 is earlier than a certain threshold, it is determined that there is no corresponding surrounding map model 130. The information update date is assigned in conjunction with the information date of the overall map model 129.

[0037] If no corresponding surrounding map model 130 is found in steps S303 and S305 (No in step S303, No in step S305), the data request processing unit 125 reads the overall map model 129 corresponding to the target period (step S306). Next, the data request processing unit 125 creates a surrounding map model 130 centered on the target location and saves it to the storage 124 (step S307). Furthermore, the data request processing unit 125 updates the map model list 128 (step S308).

[0038] Furthermore, if a corresponding surrounding map model 130 exists in step S305, and after step S308, the data request processing unit 125 reads the surrounding map model 130 (step S309). Next, the data request processing unit 125 sequentially selects the target buildings from the list of target building information included in the condition data 107 (step S310). That is, the data request processing unit 125 repeats the process of selecting one from among multiple design data for the target building until all of them have been selected. The data request processing unit 125 then determines whether the selected target building is in the corresponding calculated model list (step S311). As will be explained in more detail later, the calculated model list is located in the map model list 128. The data request processing unit 125 makes this determination by checking whether the calculated model list and the target building (or its ID) match. As a result, if the selected target building is in the corresponding calculated model list (Yes in step S311), the data request processing unit 125 reads the integrated map model 131 (step S312).

[0039] Conversely, if the target building is not found in the corresponding pre-calculated model list (No in step S311), the data request processing unit 125 reads the surrounding map model 130 (step S313). Next, the data request processing unit 125 reads the target building information 127 (step S314). Then, the data request processing unit 125 places the target building model on the surrounding map model 130 according to the target building information 127 (step S315). Furthermore, the data request processing unit 125 saves the integrated map model 131 to the storage 124 (step S316). Furthermore, the data request processing unit 125 updates the map model list 128 (step S317).

[0040] After steps 312 and S317, the data request processing unit 125 determines whether processing has been completed for all data in the target building information list (step S318). If the process is not completed (No in step S318), the process returns to step S310. Conversely, if the processing is completed (Yes in step S318), the data request processing unit 125 transmits the integrated map model(s) 131 and the surrounding map model 130 to the calculation server 2 (step S319, step S207 in Figure 4). Next, the data request processing unit 125 reads the sunshine-related data 132 corresponding to the conditions (step S320). In this case, the data request processing unit 125 reads the sunshine-related data 132 that matches the target location and target period as the conditions. Then, the data request processing unit 125 transmits the sunlight-related data 132 to the calculation server 2 (step S321, step S207 in Figure 4).

[0041] Figure 6 is a flowchart detailing the process performed by the shadow difference calculation unit 105 of the calculation server 2 in step S211 of Figure 4. First, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 reads the condition data 107 created in step S204 of Figure 4 (step S331). Next, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 reads the sunlight-related data 132 sent from the database server 3 (step S332). Next, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 reads the integrated map model (group) 131 and the surrounding map model 130 (step S333).

[0042] Furthermore, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 selects the surrounding map model 130 (step S334). Next, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 sets the sun's position and amount of sunlight at the specified date and time based on the sunlight-related data 132 (step S335). Furthermore, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 performs a shadow calculation (step S336). The result of this calculation is the result of calculating the extent of the shadow cast on buildings surrounding the target building. Furthermore, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 saves the shadow calculation result as the shadow calculation result of the surrounding map model 130 (step S337). This shadow calculation result is the result calculated for the range of shadows cast by buildings surrounding the target building, and represents the result when the target building is not present.

[0043] Then, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 determines whether or not the calculation has been completed for all days and times within the target period (step S338). If the process is not completed (No in step S338), return to step S335. Conversely, if the process is completed (Yes in step S338), the integrated map model 131 is selected sequentially (step S339). That is, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 repeats the process of selecting one from among multiple design data for the target building until all of them have been selected. Then, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 sets the sun's position and amount of sunlight at the specified date and time based on the sunlight-related data 132 (step S340). Next, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 performs a shadow calculation (step S341). The result of this calculation is the calculated range of shadows when the target building and surrounding buildings are combined. Furthermore, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 saves the shadow calculation results as the shadow calculation results of the integrated map model 131 (step S342).

[0044] Then, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 calculates the difference between the shadow calculation result of the surrounding map model 130 and the above result (step S343). This difference is the result calculated for the range of shadow cast by the target building, excluding shadows cast by buildings in the surrounding area. Next, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 adds the calculated difference value to the shadow difference data 108 (step S344).

[0045] Furthermore, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 determines whether the calculation has been completed for all days and times within the target period (step S345). If the process is not completed (No in step S345), return to step S340. Conversely, if the process is completed (Yes in step S345), the shadow difference data 108 is saved to the storage 104 (step S346). Then, the shadow difference calculation unit 105 determines whether or not it has completed processing all integrated map models 131 (step S347). If the process is completed (Yes in step S347), the series of operations is terminated. Conversely, if the process is not complete, return to step S339.

[0046] Figure 7 is a flowchart detailing the process performed by the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 of the computing server 2 in step S216 of Figure 4. First, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 reads the condition data 107 created in step S204 of Figure 4 (step S361). Next, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 creates shadow impact data 109 for each condition data 107 (step S362). Next, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 sequentially selects the target buildings from the list of target building information included in the condition data 107 (step S363). That is, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 repeats the process of selecting one from among multiple design data for the target buildings until all of them have been selected. Then, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 reads the integrated map model 131 and shadow difference data 108 corresponding to the selected target building (step S364). Furthermore, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 totals the shadow difference data over the target period included in the condition data 107 and calculates the range of shadows corresponding to the selected target building (step S365).

[0047] Next, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 extracts a list of buildings in the integrated map model 131 (step S366). These buildings are located in the vicinity of the target building. Then, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 sequentially selects buildings located around the target building (step S367). Furthermore, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 determines whether the selected building is located within the range of the shadow (step S368). As a result, if the area is within the shadow range (Yes in step S368), the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 specifies the impact calculation range (step S369). The impact calculation range is the range for which the amount of shadow impact is calculated. That is, even if the selected building is within the shadow range of the target building, it does not immediately affect the amount of solar power generation; rather, the amount of solar power generation is affected by the shadow cast on the solar panels of the solar power generation equipment. Therefore, in this embodiment, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 calculates the impact calculation range as the range that affects the amount of solar power generation of the affected building, and calculates the amount of shadow impact within the impact calculation range. This makes the amount of shadow impact on solar power generation more accurate. The impact calculation range can be specified as, for example, the entire building, the rooftop of the building, or the location where the solar panels for solar power generation are installed (equipment installation area). This can be a process that limits the range for which the amount of shadow impact is calculated using building information (e.g., BIM data). Alternatively, it can be a process that estimates the location and size of the solar power generation equipment from the texture data included in the integrated map model 131. By defining the impact calculation area as the location where the solar panels are installed, the direct amount of shading impact on the solar panels can be calculated. Furthermore, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 may calculate the amount of shading impact by taking into account the installation angle at which the solar panels are installed. Alternatively, the impact calculation area may be defined as the side (wall) of the affected building. By defining the impact calculation area as the rooftop or side of the affected building, the area where solar power generation equipment may be installed can be defined as the impact calculation area. In the case of the rooftop, it is mainly the area where solar panels are expected to be installed. In the case of the side of the affected building, it is mainly the area where organic thin-film solar cells are expected to be installed.

[0048] The surrounding impact assessment unit 106 then calculates the amount of shadow impact within the impact calculation range at the specified time (step S370). Here, the amount of shadow impact is evaluated for each target shadow, but it is also possible to attempt to evaluate the amount of shadow impact using the cumulative result of the target shadows. Furthermore, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 adds the amount of shadow impact to the shadow impact data 109 (step S371). Next, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 determines whether the calculation has been completed for all days and times within the target period (step S372). If the result is not completed (No in step S372), return to step S370. Conversely, if the process is completed (Yes in step S372), the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 determines whether the processing has been completed for all buildings (step S373). If the result is not completed (No in step S373), return to step S367. Conversely, if the process is completed (Yes in step S373), the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 saves the shadow impact data 109 to the storage 104 (step S374). Furthermore, the surrounding impact assessment unit 106 determines whether or not it has finished processing all the data for the target building included in the target building information list (step S375). If the result is not completed (No in step S375), return to step S363. Conversely, if the process is complete (Yes in step S375), the series of processes is terminated.

[0049] Figure 8 shows the contents of condition data 107. The illustrated condition data 107 consists of condition ID 401, target location 402, target period 403, and target building list 404. Condition ID 401 is an ID assigned to each condition data 107. Here, it indicates that there are at least two condition data 107, and that C001 and C002 are set as condition ID 401 for each of them. Target point 402 represents the location of the building whose shadow impact will be evaluated, expressed in latitude and longitude. The target period 403 represents the period for which the amount of shadow impact will be evaluated, expressed in dates. The target building list 404 is a list of target buildings, and here it indicates that for each of the condition IDs 401, "C001" and "C002", design data for at least two target buildings is included. For example, if condition ID 401 is "C001", the target building design data will include at least two items: "Model01B" and "Model06B". The target building list 404 may also include information on the installation location of the solar power generation equipment and the installation angle of the solar panels. When generating solar power using solar panels, due to their structure, if part of the solar panel is shaded, the amount of power generated can decrease significantly. By using information on the installation location of the solar power generation equipment and the installation angle of the solar panels, it is possible to refine the estimation of the amount of shading that affects the amount of solar power generated.

[0050] Figure 9 shows the contents of map model list 128. Map model list 128 consists of information from the created surrounding map model 130 (surrounding map ID 411, target area 412, information acquisition date 413) and the corresponding calculated model list 414. The surrounding map ID 411 is an ID assigned to each surrounding map model 130. Here, it is shown that there are at least three surrounding map models 130, and each of them is assigned the surrounding map ID 411 as M001_01, M002_01, and M001_02, indicated by codes 415 to 417. The target area 412 represents the area for which the surrounding map model 130 was created, expressed in terms of latitude and longitude. The information acquisition date 413 represents the date on which the surrounding map model 130 was acquired. The calculated model list 414 is a list of integrated map models 131.

[0051] Figure 10 shows the contents of the shadow effect data 109. The shadow effect data 109 shown in the diagram consists of a condition ID 421, an integrated map ID 422, a building ID 423, a date and time 424, a shadow effect amount 425, and a specified range type 426. Condition ID 421 indicates condition ID 107 used to calculate the shadow effect data 109. Here, it indicates that condition ID 107 of C001, indicated by symbols 427-430, was used. The integrated map ID 422 is an ID assigned to each integrated map model 131 that is created. The integrated map ID 422 consists of the surrounding map model 130 and the model name of the target building list 404. For example, if the integrated map ID 422 is "M001_01_Model01B", the surrounding map model 130 is "M001_01" shown as reference numeral 415 in Figure 9, and the model name of the target building list 404 is "Model01B" shown in the target building list 404 in Figure 8. The building ID is an ID assigned to buildings in the vicinity of the target building, which is selected in step S367 of Figure 7. Date and time 424 is the date and time when the shadow impact was evaluated. The time increment depends on the specifications of the data and simulation. The shadow impact value 425 is a numerical representation of the shadow impact. It indicates illuminance and power generation. The specified range type 426, which will be explained in more detail later in Figure 11, indicates the type of influence calculation range. There are three types here: A, B, and C.

[0052] Figure 11(a) shows an example of the display when drawing a shadow on terminal 5 in step S213 of Figure 4. Figure 11(a) shows the shadow area excluding the shadows cast by surrounding buildings 501 as the shadow difference 505. It also shows the extent of the shadow difference 505's impact on affected buildings 502-504. Note that this diagram shows the view from above of the target building 501, affected buildings 502-504, and shadow difference 505, with the top surfaces of the target building 501 and affected buildings 502-504 displayed. However, the viewpoint is flexible, and the sides may also be shown.

[0053] Figures 11(b) to 11(d) show the scope of the impact calculation explained in step S369 of Figure 7. Of these, Figure 11(b) shows the case where the entire building of affected building 502 is included in the impact calculation range. In this case, the impact calculation range becomes range 506. In this case, the specified range type 426 in Figure 10 becomes type A. Furthermore, Figure 11(c) shows the case where the rooftop of the affected building 502 is set as the impact calculation area. When viewed from above, the affected building 502 consists of the rooftop 502a and the lower section 502b, which is located lower than the rooftop 502a. When the rooftop of the building is set as the impact calculation area, the impact calculation area becomes range 507. In this case, the designated range type 426 in Figure 10 becomes type B. Furthermore, Figure 11(d) shows the case where the area where the solar power generation equipment is installed on the affected building 502 is used as the impact calculation range. Solar power generation equipment is installed on the rooftop 502a of the affected building 502, and when this area is used as the impact calculation range, the impact calculation range becomes range 508. In this case, the designated range type 426 in Figure 10 becomes type C.

[0054] Figure 12 shows the case where the evaluation results of the amount of shadow impact are displayed on terminal 5 in step S218 of Figure 4. This section shows the evaluation of the amount of shadow impact on influencing building 504, indicated by Building D. In this case, selecting influencing building 504 by clicking with the mouse will display the evaluation result of the amount of shadow impact on influencing building 504 as window W1. It is also possible to select other influencing buildings. In other words, terminal 5 can display an image comparing the amount of shadow impact for each influencing building. This allows for a visual understanding of the amount of shadow impact for each influencing building. Furthermore, it is possible to evaluate the amount of shadow impact for each influencing building. Window W1 displays the title 511, the date 512, the amount of shadow influence 513, and the comparison result 514. Title 511 indicates that the affected building 504 is "Building D" and that the target building 501 is based on the design data of "Model01A". Date 512 is the date on which the amount of shadow impact was assessed. The shadow impact amount 513 displays the shadow impact amount on date 512 as time-series data. Here, the shadow impact amount 513 consists of the total shadow impact value and the shadow difference value. Comparison Result 514 is a table comparing the amount of shadow influence depending on the type of target building 501. Specifically, it compares the amount of shadow influence on the influencing building 504 for each design data of the target building 501.

[0055] In the first embodiment, the amount of shadow impact can be estimated more accurately in advance before the construction of the target building. Furthermore, the amount of shadow impact can be estimated more accurately in advance for each of the multiple design data for the target building. Therefore, measures can be taken such as selecting the design data that has the least shadow impact on surrounding buildings from among the multiple design data.

[0056] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the shadow impact assessment system 1 will be described. In the second embodiment, the target building includes not only cases where it is not yet constructed, but also cases where it is already constructed. The amount of shadow cast by the target building, whether it is not yet constructed or already constructed, on the amount of solar power generation of surrounding buildings is evaluated. At this time, the shadow impact evaluation system 1 calculates the amount of shadow cast by the target building, whether it is not yet constructed or already constructed, based on actual values ​​for at least one of solar power generation and solar radiation. The external system 7 then calculates the amount of compensation, for example, when solar power generation decreases due to the shadow cast by the target building and damage occurs, based on the calculated amount of shadow impact.

[0057] In the first embodiment, the amount of shading is not determined based on actual values ​​regarding solar power generation and solar radiation. In other words, in the first embodiment, a common solar radiation amount for the entire area and typical for a given year is used, so there is a possibility that the difference from the actual solar radiation will be large. For example, if the amount of sunshine decreases due to unfavorable weather, the actual solar radiation will decrease. In the second embodiment, the amount of shading impact caused by the unconstructed or already constructed target building is evaluated based on actual values ​​related to solar power generation and solar radiation. The actual values ​​related to solar power generation and solar radiation are, for example, the actual power generation values ​​of the solar power generation equipment installed in the target building or the affected building, or the measured values ​​(solar radiation measurement values) from the sunshine sensor.

[0058] In the second embodiment, the amount of shadow influence can be evaluated in the same way as in the first embodiment. However, in the second embodiment, if the target building has already been constructed, there is only one design data for the target building to be calculated. Therefore, although the target building list 404 in the condition data 107 of Figure 8 listed multiple buildings in the first embodiment, if the target building has already been constructed, the calculation should be performed on the target building that has actually been constructed.

[0059] Figure 13 shows the actual power generation values ​​of solar power generation equipment installed in the target building or affected building. The power generation performance values ​​604 shown are determined for each item: ID 601, date 602, and period 603. In other words, they are a list of power generation performance values ​​604 for the time period of date 602 and period 603. Here, we have listed power generation data and solar radiation sensor measurements (solar radiation measurement values) as actual values, but weather information can also be used as actual values. By using power generation data, solar radiation sensor measurements (solar radiation measurement values), and weather information as actual values, more suitable data can be used.

[0060] In the second embodiment, actual data for that year is used, rather than average data for the entire area. This allows for a more accurate calculation of shadow impact based on actual values.

[0061] <Explanation of the method for evaluating the amount of shadow impact> The processes performed by the shadow impact assessment system 1 described above are realized through the cooperation of software and hardware resources. Specifically, the processor inside the computer provided in the shadow impact assessment system 1 loads the software that implements each of the above-mentioned functions into memory and executes it, thereby realizing each of these functions.

[0062] Therefore, the process performed by the shadow impact evaluation system 1 can be understood as a shadow impact evaluation method in which the processor executes software stored in memory to acquire map data for the target building, which is the building that casts the shadow, and buildings in the vicinity of the target building, acquires sunshine-related data 132, which is information about sunlight, calculates shadow difference data, which is information about the shadow of the target building excluding the shadows cast by buildings in the vicinity of the target building, based on the map data and sunshine-related data 132, and evaluates the amount of shadow impact that the target building has on the amount of solar power generation of influencing buildings, which are buildings that cast shadows on the target building, based on the shadow difference data and map data.

[0063] Although this embodiment has been described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiment. It is clear from the claims that various modifications or improvements made to the above embodiment are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0064] 1...Shadow Impact Assessment System, 2...Calculation Server, 3...Database Server, 102, 122...CPU, 103, 123...Memory, 104, 124...Storage, 105...Shadow Difference Calculation Unit, 106...Surrounding Impact Assessment Unit, 107...Condition Data, 108...Shadow Difference Data, 109...Shadow Impact Data, 127...Target Building Information, 128...Map Model List, 129...Overall Map Model, 130...Surrounding Map Model, 131...Integrated Map Model, 132...Sunshine-Related Data, 501...Target Building, 502-504...Affected Buildings, 505...Shadow Difference, 506-508...Range, 513...Shadow Impact Amount, S...Shadow Calculation System

Claims

1. A map data acquisition unit acquires map data for a target building that casts a shadow and buildings in the vicinity of the said target building. A sunshine-related data acquisition unit acquires sunshine-related data, which is information about sunshine, A shadow difference calculation unit calculates shadow difference data, which is information about the shadow of the target building, by removing the shadows of buildings surrounding the target building, based on the aforementioned map data and the aforementioned sunlight-related data. A surrounding impact assessment unit evaluates the amount of shadow impact on the amount of solar power generation of an influencing building, which is a building that is shaded by the target building, based on the shadow difference data and the map data. Equipped with, The surrounding impact assessment unit calculates an impact calculation range as the area that affects the amount of solar power generation of the affected building, and a shadow impact assessment system that calculates the amount of shadow impact within the impact calculation range.

2. The shadow impact evaluation system according to claim 1, wherein the impact calculation range is the location where solar panels for solar power generation are installed.

3. The shadow impact evaluation system according to claim 2, wherein the surrounding impact evaluation unit calculates the shadow impact amount taking into account the installation angle at which the solar panels are installed.

4. The shadow impact evaluation system according to claim 1, wherein the impact calculation range is at least one of the rooftop of the affected building and the side of the affected building.

5. A map data acquisition unit that acquires map data for a target building which is a building that casts a shadow and buildings in the vicinity of the target building, A sunshine-related data acquisition unit acquires sunshine-related data, which is information about sunshine, A shadow difference calculation unit calculates shadow difference data, which is information about the shadow of the target building, by removing the shadows of buildings surrounding the target building, based on the aforementioned map data and the aforementioned sunlight-related data. A surrounding impact assessment unit evaluates the amount of shadow impact on the amount of solar power generation of an influencing building, which is a building that is shaded by the target building, based on the shadow difference data and the map data. Equipped with, The shadow difference data is a shadow impact evaluation system that shows the range of the difference obtained by subtracting the range of shadows cast by buildings surrounding the target building from the range of shadows cast by the target building.

6. A map data acquisition unit that acquires map data for a target building which is a building that casts a shadow and buildings in the vicinity of the target building, A sunshine-related data acquisition unit acquires sunshine-related data, which is information about sunshine, A shadow difference calculation unit calculates shadow difference data, which is information about the shadow of the target building, by removing the shadows of buildings surrounding the target building, based on the aforementioned map data and the aforementioned sunlight-related data. A surrounding impact assessment unit evaluates the amount of shadow impact on the amount of solar power generation of an influencing building, which is a building that is shaded by the target building, based on the shadow difference data and the map data. Equipped with, The surrounding impact assessment unit is a shadow impact assessment system that calculates the shadow impact amount for each of the design data based on multiple design data for the unconstructed target building.

7. The shadow difference calculation unit uses multiple map data sets in which the unconstructed target building is placed on map data of the area surrounding the target building based on multiple design data sets, and calculates the shadow difference data for each, according to claim 6.

8. A map data acquisition unit that acquires map data for a target building which is a building that casts a shadow and buildings in the vicinity of the target building, A sunshine-related data acquisition unit acquires sunshine-related data, which is information about sunshine, A shadow difference calculation unit calculates shadow difference data, which is information about the shadow of the target building, by removing the shadows of buildings surrounding the target building, based on the aforementioned map data and the aforementioned sunlight-related data. A surrounding impact assessment unit evaluates the amount of shadow impact on the amount of solar power generation of an influencing building, which is a building that is shaded by the target building, based on the shadow difference data and the map data. Equipped with, The surrounding impact assessment unit is a shadow impact assessment system that calculates the amount of shadow impact on the target building based on actual values ​​relating to at least one of the amount of solar power generation and solar radiation.

9. The shadow impact evaluation system according to claim 8, wherein the aforementioned actual value is at least one of the power generation actual value, solar radiation measurement amount, and weather information.

10. The processor executes the software stored in memory, Map data is obtained for the target building that casts a shadow and for buildings in the vicinity of the said target building. We obtain sunshine-related data, which is information about sunshine. Based on the aforementioned map data and sunlight-related data, shadow difference data is calculated, which is information about the shadow of the target building after removing the shadows of buildings surrounding the target building. Based on the shadow difference data and the map data, when evaluating the amount of shadow impact on the amount of solar power generation of an influencing building, which is a building that casts a shadow on the target building, the influence calculation range is calculated as the area that affects the amount of solar power generation of the influencing building, and the amount of shadow impact within the influence calculation range is calculated. Method for evaluating the impact of sunlight.

11. A shadow impact evaluation system that evaluates the amount of shadow impact that a target building, which is a building that casts a shadow, has on the amount of solar power generation of an influencing building, which is a building that casts a shadow, A terminal device that displays the evaluation results of the aforementioned shadow impact amount, Equipped with, The aforementioned shadow impact evaluation system is A map data acquisition unit that acquires map data for the aforementioned target building and buildings in the vicinity of the aforementioned target building, A sunshine-related data acquisition unit acquires sunshine-related data, which is information about sunshine, A shadow difference calculation unit calculates shadow difference data, which is information about the shadow of the target building, by removing the shadows of buildings surrounding the target building, based on the aforementioned map data and the aforementioned sunlight-related data. A surrounding influence assessment unit evaluates the amount of shadow influence based on the shadow difference data and the map data, Equipped with, The terminal device is a shadow calculation system that displays an image comparing the amount of shadow influence for each of several design data for the unconstructed target building.

12. The shadow calculation system according to claim 11, wherein the terminal device displays an image comparing the amount of shadow influence for each of the affected buildings.

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