Incentive determination method, server, and program

Abstract

This incentive determination method is implemented by a computer, for one or more data managers who manage data generated by a plurality of household electrical appliances, wherein the one or more data managers record provision result information in which data identification information, associated with mutually different models of the plurality of household electrical appliances and specifying each of one or more items of data generated by the plurality of household electrical appliances, is associated with manager identification information specifying each of the one or more data managers (S11), and, if there is an item of usage data, from among the one or more items of data, that is used by a data user, an incentive for the data manager who manages the usage data is determined on the basis of the provision result information (S15).

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an incentive determination method, a server, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that collects information (data) from each IoT device using a distributed file sharing technology for sharing electronic file information such as HTML, PDF, and text, and autonomously provides web services on a distributed file sharing network formed by each IoT gateway and shares them.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the method disclosed in Patent Document 1, incentives for different data managers for each home appliance model are not considered, so it is difficult to appropriately distribute the profits obtained by using the data to the data managers.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an incentive determination method, a server, and a program that can appropriately distribute the profits obtained by using the data to the data managers.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An incentive determination method relating to one aspect of this disclosure is a computer-based incentive determination method for one or more data managers who manage data generated by multiple home appliances, wherein the one or more data managers record provision performance information that associates data identification information that identifies each of the one or more data generated by the multiple home appliances, each of which is associated with different models of the multiple home appliances, with manager identification information that identifies each of the one or more data managers, and when there is usage data among the one or more data that has been used by a data user, the incentive for the data manager who manages the usage data is determined based on the provision performance information.

[0007] Furthermore, a server according to one aspect of this disclosure is a server that determines incentives for one or more data managers who manage data generated by multiple home appliances, and comprises a processor and memory, wherein the one or more data managers differ for each model of the multiple home appliances, and the processor uses the memory to record provision performance information that associates data identification information that identifies each of the one or more data generated by the multiple home appliances with administrator identification information that identifies each of the one or more data managers, and when there is usage data among the one or more data that has been used by a data user, the server determines incentives for the data manager who manages the usage data based on the provision performance information.

[0008] These comprehensive or specific embodiments may be implemented as a system, method, integrated circuit, computer program, or recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or as any combination of a system, method, integrated circuit, computer program, and recording medium. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the incentive determination method described in this disclosure, the benefits obtained from the use of the data can be appropriately distributed to the data controller. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the management server according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of the data format of the operation log transmitted from the connection device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of a management register reference table according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the data format of the operation log recorded in the usage history DB according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the data format of the service provision information recorded in the service provision database according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of the data format of usage information recorded in the usage history DB according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of the data format for a change request according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of the configuration of the connection device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of the configuration of a home appliance according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows an example of the configuration of a user terminal according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an example of the data format for a usage request according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of the configuration of a management terminal according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows a first example of analysis data displayed on a user terminal in the management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 15]FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a second example of analysis data displayed on a user terminal in the management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a third example of analysis data displayed on a user terminal in the management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an incentive determination process of the management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a recording process (S11) of provided performance information of the management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a recording process (S12) of usage performance information of the management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of a calculation process of usage fees and incentives of the management system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for changing a management registration ID according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of an update process of value criterion information according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management system according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management server 11 according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a recording process (S11) of provided performance information of the management system according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a recording process (S12) of usage performance information of the management system.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] An incentive determination method relating to one aspect of this disclosure is a computer-based incentive determination method for one or more data managers who manage data generated by multiple home appliances, wherein the one or more data managers record provision performance information that associates data identification information that identifies each of the one or more data generated by the multiple home appliances, each of which is associated with different models of the multiple home appliances, with manager identification information that identifies each of the one or more data managers, and when there is usage data among the one or more data that has been used by a data user, the incentive for the data manager who manages the usage data is determined based on the provision performance information.

[0012] According to this, it is possible to determine different incentives for data administrators for each model based on administrator identification information that offers a high degree of flexibility in changes, thereby enabling the appropriate distribution of profits obtained from the use of data to data administrators.

[0013] Furthermore, the one or more data points mentioned above are provided by one or more data providers who own the multiple home appliances, and the one or more data administrators and the one or more data providers may be different from each other.

[0014] Therefore, it is possible to determine incentives for data managers who are different from data providers.

[0015] Furthermore, the first data provider among the one or more data providers may own a first home appliance of the first model and a second home appliance of a second model different from the first model; the second data provider among the one or more data providers may own a third home appliance of the first model and a fourth home appliance of the second model; the first data administrator among the one or more data administrators may manage the data provided by the first and third home appliances; and the second data administrator among the one or more data administrators may manage the data provided by the second and fourth home appliances.

[0016] Therefore, the profits obtained from the use of data generated by the first type of home appliance can be determined as an incentive for the first data manager, and the profits obtained from the use of data generated by the second type of home appliance can be determined as an incentive for the second data manager. Thus, the profits obtained from the use of the data can be appropriately distributed to the data managers.

[0017] Furthermore, the system may receive a request to change a specific administrator identification information associated with specific data identification information that identifies specific data generated by a specific home appliance in the aforementioned provision performance information, and may change the specific administrator identification information associated with the specific data based on the request for change.

[0018] This makes it easy to change specific administrator identification information associated with specific data identification information. Therefore, it is easy to change the recipients of incentives.

[0019] Furthermore, the change request is a request to change the first administrator identification information, which is associated with first data identification information that identifies each of the one or more first data generated by the first home appliance, to a second administrator identification information that is different from the first administrator identification information. In the change, based on the change request, the first administrator identification information, which is associated with first data identification information that identifies each of the one or more first data, is changed to the second administrator identification information. The first administrator identification information may be identification information that identifies the first data administrator among the one or more data administrators, and the second administrator identification information may be identification information that identifies a second data administrator that is different from the first data administrator among the one or more data administrators.

[0020] This allows for easy modification of the administrator identification information associated with the first data identification information, from the first administrator identification information to the second administrator identification information. Therefore, the recipient of the incentive distribution can be easily changed.

[0021] Furthermore, in determining the incentive, based on the performance information provided, data associated with the same data identification information as the data identifying the usage data may be identified, the data manager managing the identified data may be identified, and the incentive for the identified data manager may be determined based on the value criteria information of the identified data.

[0022] According to this, it becomes easy to identify the data manager who manages the usage data generated by home appliances, based on the usage data that shows the actual usage history of that data. Therefore, it becomes possible to appropriately determine who receives the profits obtained from the use of the data.

[0023] Furthermore, the provision performance information may be recorded in a provision performance database, and usage performance information including data identification information that identifies the usage data may be recorded in a usage performance database. In recording to the provision performance database, the computer may transfer the first transaction data including the provision performance information to another computer and store the first block including the first transaction data in a distributed ledger managed by the computer, thereby recording it in the provision performance database. In recording to the usage performance database, the computer may transfer the second transaction data including the usage performance information to another computer and store the second block including the second transaction data in a distributed ledger managed by the computer, thereby recording it in the usage performance database.

[0024] According to this, provision history information and usage history information can be stored in a distributed ledger, and incentives for data managers can be determined using provision history information and usage history information that is difficult to tamper with. Therefore, incentives for data managers can be determined more appropriately.

[0025] Furthermore, each of the distributed ledgers held by the computer and the other computers includes contract code for identifying the data administrator and determining the incentive based on the second transaction data, and the identification of the data administrator and the determination of the incentive may be performed by obtaining the second transaction data and executing the contract code contained in the distributed ledger of the computer.

[0026] According to this, by executing the contract code, the data administrator is identified and incentives are determined, allowing incentives for data administrators to be automatically determined using data provision and usage information that is difficult to tamper with.

[0027] Furthermore, the aforementioned provision history information may also include the hash value of the aforementioned data.

[0028] According to this, the provision performance information stored in the distributed ledger will include a hash value instead of the actual data, thus preventing the data from being made public.

[0029] A server according to one aspect of this disclosure is a server that determines incentives for one or more data managers who manage data generated by multiple home appliances, and comprises a processor and memory, wherein the one or more data managers differ for each model of the multiple home appliances, and the processor uses the memory to record provision performance information that associates data identification information that identifies each of the one or more data generated by the multiple home appliances with administrator identification information that identifies each of the one or more data managers, and when there is usage data among the one or more data that has been used by a data user, the server determines incentives for the data manager who manages the usage data based on the provision performance information.

[0030] According to this, it is possible to determine different incentives for data administrators for each model based on administrator identification information that offers a high degree of flexibility in changes, thereby enabling the appropriate distribution of profits obtained from the use of data to data administrators.

[0031] These comprehensive or specific embodiments may be implemented as a system, method, integrated circuit, computer program, or recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or as any combination of a system, method, integrated circuit, computer program, and recording medium.

[0032] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are all specific examples of this disclosure. In other words, the numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement and connection configurations of components, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Furthermore, among the components in the following embodiments, those not described in the independent claim representing the highest-level concept are not necessarily required to achieve the objectives of this disclosure, but are described as components that constitute a more preferable configuration.

[0033] (Embodiment 1) First, we will explain the system configuration related to this disclosure.

[0034] The following describes the configuration of the management system according to this embodiment, with reference to the drawings.

[0035] [Management System] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the management system according to Embodiment 1.

[0036] The management system according to this embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, comprises, for example, a management server 10, connection devices 20a to 20x, home appliances 21a to 21x, 22a to 22x, a user terminal 30, and management terminals 50a and 50b. These are connected by a network N. Network N may be, for example, the internet or a mobile phone carrier network, but may consist of any communication line or network. One of the connection devices 20a to 20x and two of the home appliances 21a to 21x, 22a to 22x are associated with one of the residences 40a to 40x. For example, connection device 20a and home appliances 21a and 22a are associated with user A's residence 40a. Note that residences 40a to 40x are not limited to residences but may also be facilities such as factories, companies, or warehouses. Furthermore, although it has been stated that two home appliances are associated with one residence, it is not limited to this, and it is sufficient for one or more home appliances to be associated.

[0037] In the following, connection devices 20a to 20x will each be referred to as connection device 20, but they may also be referred to as connection device A to connection device X. Similarly, home appliances 21a to 21x will each be referred to as home appliance 21, and home appliances 22a to 22x will each be referred to as home appliance 22, but they may also be referred to as home appliance A1 to home appliance X1, and home appliances 22a to 22x to home appliance A2 to home appliance X2. Similarly, houses 40a to 40x will each be referred to as house 40, but they may also be referred to as house A to house X. Similarly, management terminals 50a and 50b will each be referred to as management terminal 50, but they may also be referred to as management terminal A and management terminal B.

[0038] The management server 10 will be described below.

[0039] [Management Server 10] The management server 10 is an example of a device that collects operation logs of home appliances 21a-21x and 22a-22x installed in each dwelling 40a-40x and provides analysis data generated based on the collected operation logs to data users. Here, operation logs are an example of data. The management server 10 determines the incentive to be given to data administrators, who are the administrators of the operation logs used by data users. Multiple data administrators are associated with different models of home appliances 21a-21x. The incentive is determined according to the usage record of the operation logs provided by the home appliances to which the data administrator is associated. The management server 10 may then pay the determined incentive to the data administrator. The management server 10 may also calculate the usage fee for the operation logs used by data users and collect the calculated usage fee from the data users. The incentive may be paid to the data administrator from the usage fee collected from the data users, for example. Note that data users may also be referred to as users. Similarly, data administrators may also be referred to as administrators. Similarly, data providers may also be referred to as providers.

[0040] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the management server according to Embodiment 1.

[0041] As shown in Figure 2, the management server 10 comprises a communication unit 101, a value calculation unit 102, a settlement amount determination unit 103, a recording unit 104, a usage history DB (database) 105, a service provision record DB (database) 106, a usage record DB (database) 107, and a management registration change unit 108. The management server 10 can be realized by a processor executing a predetermined program using memory. The management server 10 is an example of a computer. The following describes each component.

[0042] The communication unit 101 communicates with multiple connection devices 20 via the network N. The communication unit 101 receives operation logs of home appliances 21 and 22 connected to each of the multiple connection devices 20. In other words, the communication unit 101 receives operation logs of home appliances 21a to 21x and 22a to 22x from multiple connection devices 20a to 20x. Details of the operation logs will be described later.

[0043] Furthermore, the communication unit 101 communicates with the user terminal 30 via the network N. The communication unit 101 receives a request from the user terminal 30 to use the operation log. The communication unit 101 sends the operation log corresponding to the received request, or analysis data generated based on the operation log, to the user terminal 30. Details of the analysis data will be described later.

[0044] Furthermore, the communication unit 101 communicates with the management terminal 50 via the network N. The communication unit 101 receives a request from the management terminal 50 to change the administrator identification information (management ID). Details of the change request will be described later.

[0045] Furthermore, communication by the communication unit 101 may be performed using TLS (Transport Layer Security), and the encryption key for TLS communication may be held by the communication unit 101.

[0046] The value calculation unit 102 adds value criterion information to each of the collected operation logs, corresponding to that operation log. The value criterion information is information that serves as a basis for calculating the data value of the operation log. The value criterion information includes index values ​​defined for each of the multiple value indicators. Specifically, the multiple value indicators in the value criterion information may include at least two of the following: a first value indicator based on the type of operation log, a second value indicator based on the type of home appliance that generated the operation log, and a third value indicator based on the time when the operation log was generated by the home appliance. In this embodiment, a larger index value for each of the first, second, and third value indicators indicates a higher value. However, the index value does not necessarily indicate a higher value; a larger index value may indicate a lower value. Furthermore, the value calculation unit 102 does not have to calculate the value of the operation log based on the value criterion information. Specifically, the value calculation unit 102 may calculate the same value (common value), that is, a fixed value, for each operation log.

[0047] The primary value index, based on the type of operation log, is an index that represents the degree to which an operation log type relates to an individual's privacy. The degree to which an individual's privacy relates is such that, for example, a higher index value indicates a greater degree of personal involvement than public involvement. For example, the primary value index may be represented by four index values: "3: Very high," "2: High," "1: Somewhat high," and "0: Not relevant." The index values ​​of the primary value index may be pre-associated with the type of operation log by a table. The table may be further classified by type of home appliance.

[0048] For example, if the appliance is a weighing scale and the operation log is the result of weight measurement, the index value of the first value indicator for this operation log may be set to "3". Also, for example, if the appliance is a TV and the operation log is viewing data, the index value of the first value indicator for this operation log may be set to "2". Note that viewing data includes the viewing channel, viewing time (viewing start time, viewing end time), etc. Also, for example, if the appliance is a microwave oven and the operation log is an operation on the microwave oven, the index value of the first value indicator for this operation log may be set to "1". Also, for example, if the appliance is an air conditioner and the operation log is the temperature setting of the air conditioner, the index value of the first value indicator for this operation log may be set to "0". Also, for example, if the appliance is a lighting device and the operation log is turning on the power of the lighting device, the index value of the first value indicator for this operation log may be set to "0".

[0049] Furthermore, the second value index, based on the type of home appliance that generated the operation log, is an index that represents the prevalence of that type of home appliance. Prevalence, for example, indicates that the higher the index value, the greater the proportion of homes that have that type of home appliance installed. For example, the second value index may be shown with three index values: "2: Small," "1: Medium," and "0: Large." The index values ​​of the second value index may be pre-associated with the type of home appliance that generated the operation log using a table. Note that the type of home appliance may be a set of home appliances classified by having common functions, a set of home appliances classified by model, or a set of home appliances classified by manufacturer.

[0050] For example, if the appliance is a TV, the index value of the second value metric in the operation log generated by this appliance may be set to "0". Also, for example, if the appliance is an air purifier, the index value of the second value metric in the operation log generated by this appliance may be set to "1". Also, for example, if the appliance is a roaster, the index value of the second value metric in the operation log generated by this appliance may be set to "2".

[0051] Furthermore, the third value index, based on when the operation log was generated by the home appliance, is an index that represents the degree of seasonal or temporal variation in when the operation log was generated. The degree of seasonal or temporal variation is greater when sudden changes in season or weather occur. For example, the degree of variation is greater when the event that took place when the operation log was generated is less frequent. An event that takes place infrequently may be an event that takes place once every few years, such as the Olympics, the FIFA World Cup, or the World Expo, or an event that takes place once a year, such as the year-end and New Year holidays. Also, for example, the operation log related to the cooling function of an air conditioner in winter may be set to have a high degree of variation because it occurs infrequently. In addition, the operation log when natural disasters such as heavy rain or earthquakes occur may be set to have a degree of variation that corresponds to the frequency of natural disasters.

[0052] The third value index may be represented, for example, by four index values ​​in descending order of volatility: "3: Extra Large," "2: Large," "1: Medium," and "0: Small." The index values ​​of the third value index may be pre-associated by a table with the time periods when the above events occurred, when natural disasters occurred, when climate change occurred, or other periods.

[0053] Furthermore, the value calculation unit 102 calculates the data value for each operation log based on the value criterion information attached to each operation log. The value calculation unit 102 calculates the value of each operation log based on the index values ​​defined for each of the first, second, and third value indicators included in the value criterion information attached to the operation log to be calculated, and the values ​​that have been pre-associated with each of the first, second, and third value indicators. For example, the value calculation unit 102 may calculate the data value as a value corresponding to the sum of the index values ​​of the first, second, and third value indicators included in the value criterion information attached to the operation log to be calculated. The data value may be calculated such that the larger the above sum, the larger the data value. In other words, the data value may be set to a value associated with the sum using a monotonically increasing function. Alternatively, instead of the sum, a value obtained by weighting and adding the index values ​​of each value indicator may be used.

[0054] Furthermore, the multiple tables to which the values ​​of the first, second, and third value indicators are associated may be determined to change over time. For example, in the table to which the values ​​of the first value indicator are associated, the values ​​associated with the type of operation log may change for each type of operation log. Also, for example, in the table to which the values ​​of the second value indicator are associated, the values ​​associated with the type of home appliance that generated the operation log may change for each type of home appliance. Also, for example, in the table to which the values ​​of the third value indicator are associated, the values ​​associated with the time when the operation log was generated may change for each time period.

[0055] Furthermore, the values ​​pre-associated with the index values ​​defined for each of the first, second, and third value indicators may be determined to fluctuate over time.

[0056] Furthermore, the calculation of data value may be performed using the most recent multiple tables and the latest pre-associated values ​​at the time an operation log is generated. In this case, in addition to the value criterion information, data value may also be added to the operation log, or data value may be added instead of value criterion information.

[0057] Furthermore, the data value may be calculated using the latest multiple tables and the latest pre-associated values ​​at the time a request for use of the operation log is received. In this case, the operation log may not have value criterion information attached, and value criterion information determined by using the latest multiple tables at the time the request for use is received may be attached. The data value may then be calculated using the value criterion information attached at that time and the latest pre-associated values.

[0058] The value calculation unit 102 may calculate a data value to be added to the operation log such that the lower the frequency of operation log occurrences, the greater the data value.

[0059] The settlement amount determination unit 103 calculates the usage fee for one or more operation logs used by a specific data user. Specifically, the settlement amount determination unit 103 determines the usage data to be processed based on the usage history DB 107. The settlement amount determination unit 103 determines one of the one or more operation logs used by a specific data user as the usage data to be processed. The settlement amount determination unit 103 may also determine each of the one or more operation logs as the usage data to be processed in order. The settlement amount determination unit 103 identifies the one or more operation logs used by a specific data user as operation logs associated with user identification information (user ID) that identifies a specific data user in the usage history DB 107.

[0060] The settlement amount determination unit 103 then identifies data in the service performance DB 106 that is an operation log associated with the same data identification information as the data identification information of the usage data to be processed, and identifies the data value of the identified data and the data administrator of that data. For example, the settlement amount determination unit 103 identifies the data administrator indicated by the administrator identification information (management ID) recorded in association with the data identification information.

[0061] Alternatively, the settlement amount determination unit 103 may identify value standard information recorded in association with data identification information, instead of identifying the data value recorded in association with data identification information. The settlement amount determination unit 103 may then have the value calculation unit 102 calculate the data value based on the identified value standard information and obtain the calculated data value.

[0062] The settlement amount determination unit 103 determines the incentive to be given to the determined data manager based on the determined data value. The incentive may be set as the data value itself, or it may be calculated by subtracting a certain value from the data value, or it may be calculated by multiplying the data value by a certain value, or it may be calculated by subtracting a value corresponding to the data value from the data value, or it may be calculated by multiplying the data value by a value corresponding to the data value.

[0063] The settlement amount determination unit 103 may perform the above calculation not only for one or more operation logs used by a specific data user, but also for one or more operation logs used by each of multiple data users. This allows the settlement amount determination unit 103 to calculate the incentive to be given to the data manager of an operation log each time that operation log is used, and to determine the incentive for each operation log's data manager based on its usage. Therefore, the settlement amount determination unit 103 can calculate the incentive for each data manager by aggregating the incentives calculated each time an operation log is used for each data manager.

[0064] Furthermore, in the provision performance DB106, operation logs and the number of times each operation log has been used may be recorded in association. In this case, the settlement amount determination unit 103 can easily determine the data value of the operation log and calculate the incentive that should be paid to the data administrator for each operation log by multiplying the determined data value by the number of times it has been used. In other words, the incentive for the data administrator may be determined based on the data value of the determined data and the number of times it has been used.

[0065] Incentives may be calculated at predetermined intervals, such as monthly or bi-monthly. Once the incentives are calculated, the calculated incentives are paid to the data administrator.

[0066] Furthermore, the settlement amount determination unit 103 identifies the data value of one or more operation logs used by each of the one or more data users, and calculates the usage fee for a specific data user by summing the data values ​​of the one or more operation logs. The calculation of the usage fee may be performed at predetermined intervals, such as every month. Once the usage fee is calculated, the calculated usage fee is collected from the data user.

[0067] The activity logs eligible for incentive calculation are those used by data users for which incentives payable to the data administrator have not yet been calculated. Similarly, the activity logs eligible for usage fee calculation are those used by data users for which usage fees to be collected from data users have not yet been calculated. In other words, the activity logs eligible for calculation are one or more activity logs used after the use of one or more activity logs that were previously included in the calculation. If usage fees are calculated at predetermined intervals, the activity logs eligible for calculation are those used by data users during the most recent predetermined period.

[0068] The recording unit 104 records one or more operation logs of home appliances 21a-21x, 22a-22x received by the communication unit 101 in the usage history DB 105. Each of the one or more operation logs includes, for example, administrator identification information (management ID) that identifies the data administrator of the operation log, type information indicating the type of home appliance that generated the operation log, an individual number that uniquely identifies the home appliance that generated the operation log, time information indicating the time the operation log was generated, and content information indicating the content of the operation log.

[0069] Figure 3 shows an example of the data format of the operation log transmitted from the connection device according to Embodiment 1.

[0070] Each row in the table shown in Figure 3 represents one operation log. In Figure 3, the household ID is an ID assigned to each dwelling 40 and is an example of provider identification information. The household ID may be an ID assigned by, for example, the connection device 20. For example, JP10-200153 represents dwelling 40 of the 200153rd household in the 10th prefecture in Japan (for example, Fukushima Prefecture).

[0071] Furthermore, the appliance model-specific ID is an ID assigned to each appliance model and is an example of type information. For example, Pa-TV-19-42-VX1 indicates a TV from Pa company, specifically the 2019 model 42-inch VX1. Also, for example, Hi-RF-17-500-S2 indicates a refrigerator from Hi company, specifically the 2017 model S2 with a capacity of 500L. Also, for example, Ri-ES-18-201 indicates an electric stove from Ri company, specifically the 201 model from 2018.

[0072] Furthermore, the individual number is an ID assigned to each home appliance. For example, 19-08-10-02224 indicates that it is the 02224th home appliance manufactured on manufacturing line 10 in August 2019.

[0073] Furthermore, the operation time indicates the time the operation was performed and is an example of time information that shows the time the operation log was generated. For example, 2020-10-08-05 indicates that the operation was performed on October 8, 2020 at 5:25:15 AM.

[0074] Furthermore, the operation details indicate the actions performed on the home appliance and are an example of content information showing the contents of the operation log.

[0075] Figure 4 shows an example of a management register reference table according to Embodiment 1.

[0076] The management registration reference table shows the correspondence between appliance model IDs and management registration IDs. In other words, the management registration reference table contains information indicating the models of appliances that generate data managed by the data administrator. For example, management registration ID 02-003 indicates the department indicated by 003 within the appliance manufacturer indicated by 02.

[0077] Figure 5 shows an example of the data format of the operation log recorded in the usage history DB according to Embodiment 1.

[0078] Each row in the table shown in Figure 5 represents one operation log. One operation log in Figure 5 is the same as one operation log in Figure 3, but with the addition of a home appliance usage history ID, a management registration ID, and value standard information.

[0079] The appliance usage history ID is information attached to each of one or more operation logs, and is an example of data identification information.

[0080] The management registration ID is information attached to each of one or more operation logs. The management registration ID attached to a single operation log is the management registration ID that is associated in the management registration reference table with the appliance model ID included in that operation log.

[0081] Value criterion information is information added to each of one or more operation logs and is calculated by the value calculation unit 102. Details of the value criterion information are omitted here as they were explained in the description of the value calculation unit 102.

[0082] Furthermore, the recording unit 104 records in the provision performance DB 106 provision performance information that associates a management ID that identifies the data administrator of one or more operation logs received by the communication unit 101, data identification information that identifies each of the one or more operation logs, and value criterion information added by the value calculation unit 102. The provision performance information may also be associated with a provider ID that identifies the data provider of one or more operation logs.

[0083] Figure 6 shows an example of the data format of the service provision information recorded in the service provision database according to Embodiment 1.

[0084] Each row in the table shown in Figure 6 represents the operational log information provided by a single home appliance. In Figure 6, each piece of operational log information includes the time, management ID, home appliance model ID, individual number, and amount of information provided.

[0085] The relevant time period indicates the period including the time when the data provision information was provided. The amount of information provided indicates the number of operation logs for each appliance provided during that time period.

[0086] Furthermore, the recording unit 104 records the operation logs transmitted by the communication unit 101 to the user terminal 30 in response to a usage request, or the operation logs that formed the basis of the analysis data, in the usage history DB 107. Each time the recording unit 104 transmits an operation log to the user terminal 30, it records it in the usage history DB 107 as usage history information. In other words, the recording unit 104 associates the user ID and the operation log ID and records them in the usage history DB 107 as usage history information.

[0087] Figure 7 shows an example of the data format of usage information recorded in the usage history DB according to Embodiment 1.

[0088] Each row in the table shown in Figure 7 represents one piece of usage history information. One piece of usage history information in Figure 7 includes the user ID, the appliance usage history ID, the management ID, and the appliance model ID.

[0089] Now, let's return to the explanation of Figure 2. The Management Registration Change Unit 108 changes a specific Management Registration ID in the Service Provision Results Information based on a change request received by the Communication Unit 101. A specific Management Registration ID is a Management Registration ID that is associated with a specific individual number, which is a specific data ID, in the Service Provision Results Information. A specific individual number is data identification information that identifies specific data generated by a specific home appliance. For example, based on a change request, the Management Registration Change Unit 108 changes a first Management Registration ID associated with first data identification information that identifies each of one or more first data items to a second Management Registration ID that is different from the first Management Registration ID. In this case, the change request is, for example, a request to change a first administrator identification information associated with first data identification information that identifies each of one or more first data items generated by a first home appliance to a second administrator identification information.

[0090] Figure 8 shows an example of the data format for a change request according to Embodiment 1.

[0091] Each row in the table shown in Figure 8 represents a single change request. A single change request in Figure 8 includes the target home appliance model ID, the current management ID, and the changed management ID.

[0092] The target appliance model ID is information that identifies the model of the appliance that is subject to the change in the management ID.

[0093] The current administrator ID indicates the administrator ID before the change requested. In other words, the current administrator ID is an example of the first administrator ID (first administrator identification information).

[0094] The modified administrator ID indicates the administrator ID after the change request. In other words, the modified administrator ID is an example of a second administrator ID (second administrator identification information).

[0095] Note that one or more data points are provided by one or more data providers. One or more data providers and one or more data managers are different from each other. This will be explained in detail below. For example, the first data provider owns a first home appliance of the first model and a second home appliance of the second model, which is different from the first model, and the second data provider owns a third home appliance of the first model and a fourth home appliance of the second model. The first data manager manages the data provided by the first and third home appliances, that is, the data provided by the first home appliance. The second data manager manages the data provided by the second and fourth home appliances, that is, the data provided by the second home appliance.

[0096] [Connection device 20] Figure 9 shows an example of the configuration of the connection device according to Embodiment 1.

[0097] The connection device 20 is connected to the home appliances 21 and 22 in a communicative manner and transmits operation logs obtained from the home appliances 21 and 22, or obtained by the connection device 20 connecting to the home appliances 21 and 22, to the management server 10 via the network N. The connection device 20 may be a router having at least one of the functions of wireless LAN and wired LAN. The connection device 20 comprises a communication unit 201, a control unit 202, and a storage unit 203. The connection device 20 can be realized by a processor executing a predetermined program using memory. The following describes each component.

[0098] The communication unit 201 communicates with the home appliances 21 and 22. Through this, the communication unit 201 obtains operation logs from the home appliances 21 and 22. The communication unit 201 also communicates with the management server 10 via the network N. For example, the communication unit 201 transmits the operation logs obtained from the home appliances 21 and 22 to the management server 10. The communication unit 201 may be connected to the home appliances 21 and 22 via wireless communication or via wired communication.

[0099] The control unit 202 stores the operation logs acquired by the communication unit 201 in the storage unit 203. The control unit 202 may control the timing of acquiring operation logs from the home appliances 21 and 22 by controlling the communication unit 201. The timing of acquisition may be at predetermined intervals, at predetermined times, or at times when predetermined conditions are met. The control unit 202 may also control the timing of sending the operation logs stored in the storage unit 203 to the management server 10 by controlling the communication unit 201. The control unit 202 may also send multiple operation logs stored in the storage unit 203 to the management server 10 all at once by controlling the communication unit 201. The timing of transmission may be at predetermined intervals, at predetermined times, or at times when predetermined conditions are met.

[0100] The memory unit 203 stores the operation log acquired by the communication unit 201. The memory unit 203 may also store information necessary for the operation of the connection device 20, such as a program.

[0101] [Home appliances 21] Figure 10 shows an example of the configuration of a home appliance according to Embodiment 1.

[0102] The home appliance 21 is installed in the house 40. The home appliance 21 is, for example, a home appliance such as a TV, recording device, air conditioner, lighting device, washing machine, refrigerator, or door phone. The home appliance 21 may also be household equipment such as a solar power generator, fuel cell, electric shutter, water heater, or electronic lock. The home appliance 21 may also be healthcare equipment such as a body composition analyzer, blood pressure monitor, thermometer, or wearable device. The home appliance 21 comprises a communication unit 211, a control unit 212, an input receiving unit 213, an operating unit 214, a sensor 215, and a storage unit 216. The control unit 212 of the home appliance 21 can be realized by a processor executing a predetermined program using memory. The control unit 212 of the home appliance 21 may also be realized by a dedicated circuit. The home appliance 22 has the same configuration as the home appliance 21, so its description is omitted. The following describes each component.

[0103] The communication unit 211 communicates with the connection device 20. The communication unit 211 may also communicate with the management server 10 via the network N without going through the connection device 20. The communication unit 211 sends the operation log of the home appliance 21 to the connection device 20. The communication unit 211 may be connected to the connection device 20 by wireless communication or by wired communication.

[0104] The control unit 212 generates an operation log by associating content information, such as user operations received by the input reception unit 213, the operating status of the operation unit 214, detection results from the sensor 215, and information from external devices received by the communication unit 211, with the appliance model ID of the appliance 21, the individual number of the appliance 21, and the time the content information was generated. The control unit 212 stores the generated operation log in the storage unit 216. The time the content information was generated is, for example, the time the operation was received, the time the operating status changed, the time detection by the sensor 215 was performed, or the time detection by the sensor 215 was initiated, or the time information from an external device was received. The control unit 212 transmits the operation log stored in the storage unit 216 to the connection device 20 by controlling the communication unit 211. The control unit 212 may also control the timing of transmitting the operation log stored in the storage unit 216 to the connection device 20 by controlling the communication unit 211. The control unit 212 may, by controlling the communication unit 211, transmit multiple operation logs stored in the storage unit 216 to the connection device 20 in a batch. The transmission timing may be at predetermined intervals, at a predetermined time, or at a time when predetermined conditions are met. The control unit 212 also controls the operation of the operation unit 214.

[0105] The input receiving unit 213 receives input from the user. The input receiving unit 213 may be, for example, a switch, and may receive on / off input from the user. The input receiving unit 213 may be a remote control receiver, and may receive operation signals emitted from the remote control when the user operates the remote control, thereby receiving operation by the user. Alternatively, the input receiving unit 213 may be a touchpad, touch panel, keyboard, mouse, etc.

[0106] The operating unit 214 realizes the functions of the home appliance 21. For example, in the case of an LCD TV, the operating unit 214 is the backlight, LCD panel, etc. In the case of an air conditioner, it is the compressor, expansion valve, fan, etc. In the case of a lighting device, it is the light source. In the case of a washing machine, it is the motor that rotates the drum, the electronic valve for water supply or drainage, etc. In the case of a refrigerator, it is the compressor, fan, etc. In the case of a door phone, it is the speaker, microphone, monitor, etc.

[0107] Sensor 215 detects the status of the home appliance 21. Sensor 215 can be a temperature sensor, an illuminance sensor, a light detection sensor, etc.

[0108] The memory unit 216 stores the operation log generated by the control unit 212. The memory unit 216 may also store information necessary for the operation of the home appliance 21, such as the program.

[0109] [User terminal 30] Figure 11 shows an example of the configuration of a user terminal according to Embodiment 1.

[0110] The user terminal 30 sends a usage request to the management server 10 and obtains an operation log or analysis data of the operation log from the management server 10 in accordance with the usage request. The user terminal 30 may generate analysis data from the operation log and display the generated analysis data on the display unit 305 of the user terminal 30. If the user terminal 30 obtains analysis data from the management server 10, it may also display the obtained analysis data on the display unit 305 of the user terminal 30. The user terminal 30 is, for example, a computer such as a smartphone, tablet, or personal computer. The user terminal 30 comprises a communication unit 301, a control unit 302, an input receiving unit 303, a storage unit 304, and a display unit 305. The user terminal 30 can be realized by a processor executing a predetermined program using memory. The following describes each component.

[0111] The communication unit 301 communicates with the management server 10 via the network N. Through this, the communication unit 301 sends a usage request to the management server 10. The communication unit 301 also receives operation logs or analysis data of operation logs from the management server 10 in response to the usage request.

[0112] The control unit 302 generates a usage request in response to the input received by the input reception unit 303. After generating the usage request, the control unit 302 controls the communication unit 301 to send the generated usage request to the management server 10. The control unit 302 may also generate analysis data in response to the operation log received by the communication unit 301. The control unit 302 may also display the analysis data received by the communication unit 301 on the display unit 305.

[0113] The usage request will be explained here using Figure 12.

[0114] Figure 12 shows an example of the data format for a usage request according to Embodiment 1.

[0115] Each row in the table shown in Figure 12 represents one usage request. One usage request in Figure 12 includes the user ID, the application time, and the details of the application.

[0116] The User ID is user identification information that identifies the user of the user terminal 30. The Application Time is the time when the request for use was generated. The Application Details specify the conditions for extracting one or more operation logs desired by the data user from multiple operation logs stored in the Management Server 10. For example, if the request is for a survey of washing machine reservation times in fiscal year 2020, the Application Details specify the conditions for extracting reservation times from operation logs generated by washing machines in fiscal year 2020. Alternatively, for example, if the request is for information on detergents used from August 2020 onwards, the Application Details specify the conditions for extracting the brands of detergents used from operation logs generated by washing machines from August 2020 onwards. Alternatively, for example, if the request is for recording status at 11:00 PM on November 3, 2020, the Application Details specify the conditions for extracting recording status from operation logs generated by recording devices at 11:00 PM on November 3, 2020. Recording status may include the channels being recorded, recorded programs, etc.

[0117] The input receiving unit 303 receives input from the user. The input receiving unit 303 may also be a touchpad, touch panel, keyboard, mouse, or the like.

[0118] The memory unit 304 stores operation logs or analysis data received by the communication unit 301. The communication unit 301 may also store information necessary for the operation of the user terminal 30, such as programs.

[0119] The display unit 305 is, for example, a display that shows the analysis data.

[0120] [Administrative terminal 50] Figure 13 shows an example of the configuration of a management terminal according to Embodiment 1.

[0121] The management terminal 50 generates a change request and sends the generated change request to the management server 10. This causes the management server 10 to change the management ID according to the change request. The management terminal 50 may also obtain the result of the management ID change from the management server 10 and display the change result on the display unit 505 of the management terminal 50. The management terminal 50 is a computer such as a smartphone, tablet terminal, or personal computer. The management terminal 50 comprises a communication unit 501, a control unit 502, an input receiving unit 503, a storage unit 504, and a display unit 505. The management terminal 50 can be realized by a processor executing a predetermined program using memory. The following describes each component.

[0122] The communication unit 501 communicates with the management server 10 via the network N. Through this, the communication unit 501 sends a change request to the management server 10. The communication unit 501 also receives the result of the change in the management ID in response to the change request from the management server 10.

[0123] The control unit 502 generates a change request in response to the input received by the input receiving unit 503. After generating the change request, the control unit 502 controls the communication unit 501 to send the generated change request to the management server 10. The control unit 502 may also display the change result received by the communication unit 501 on the display unit 505.

[0124] The input receiving unit 503 receives input from the user. The input receiving unit 503 may also be a touchpad, touch panel, keyboard, mouse, or the like.

[0125] The memory unit 504 stores operation logs or analysis data received by the communication unit 501. The communication unit 501 may also store information necessary for the operation of the user terminal 30, such as programs.

[0126] The display unit 505 is, for example, a display that shows the analysis data.

[0127] Furthermore, the management terminal 50a is owned by the first data administrator and is associated with the first management ID of the first data administrator, while the management terminal 50b is owned by the second data administrator and is associated with the second management ID of the second data administrator.

[0128] Next, the analysis data will be explained using Figures 14 to 16. Figure 14 shows the first example of the displayed analysis data. Figure 15 shows the second example of the displayed analysis data. Figure 16 shows the third example of the displayed analysis data.

[0129] Figure 14 shows the analysis data of multiple operation logs extracted using conditions for extracting reservation times from operation logs generated by washing machines in fiscal year 2020. In this case, the analysis data is shown as a histogram, with the horizontal axis representing the reservation time and the vertical axis representing the number of reservations.

[0130] Figure 15 shows analysis data of multiple operation logs extracted from washing machines since August 2020, based on conditions for extracting the brands of detergents used. In this case, the analysis data is shown as a pie chart, indicating the usage rate for each detergent brand. The detergent brands include the detergent manufacturers.

[0131] Figure 16 shows the analysis data of multiple operation logs extracted from the operation logs generated by the recording device at 11:00 PM on November 3, 2020, based on conditions for extracting recording status. In this case, the analysis data is shown as a pie chart, indicating the recording rate for each channel on the recording device.

[0132] [Management system operation, etc.] Next, we will explain how the management system configured as described above works.

[0133] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the incentive determination process of the management system according to Embodiment 1.

[0134] First, the management server 10 records in the service history DB 106 service history information, which associates data identification information that identifies each of one or more operation logs with administrator identification information that identifies each of one or more data administrators (S11). The management server 10 may also record provider identification information that identifies the data provider. Furthermore, the management server 10 may also record value criterion information that serves as the basis for calculating the data value of each of the one or more operation logs.

[0135] Next, the management server 10 records usage history information, which includes data identification information that identifies the usage data used by the data user from one or more operation logs, in the usage history DB 107 (S12).

[0136] Next, the management server 10 determines the usage data to be processed based on the usage history DB 107 (S13).

[0137] Next, the management server 10 identifies the operation log associated with the same data identification information as the data identification information of the usage data to be processed, in the service history DB 106, and identifies the data administrator who manages the identified data (S14). The management server 10 may further identify the value criteria information and data provider of the identified operation log in the service history DB 106.

[0138] Next, the management server 10 determines incentives for the identified data providers based on the identified value criteria information (S15).

[0139] Next, we will describe a specific example of how the management system, including the incentive determination process described above, operates.

[0140] Figure 18 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the recording process (S11) of the service provision information of the management system according to Embodiment 1.

[0141] Figure 18 shows an example of the configuration of home appliances A1, A2, and connection device A in only home A among homes A to X, and omits the illustration of the configurations of home appliances B1 to X1, B2 to X2, and connection devices B to X in the other homes B to X. In the recording process of the provision performance information, it is assumed that home appliances B1 to X1, B2 to X2, and connection devices B to X are processed in the same way as home appliances A1, A2, and connection device A in home A only.

[0142] Home appliance A1 sends an operation log to connected device A at a predetermined time (S101).

[0143] Furthermore, home appliance A2 sends an operation log to connected device A at a predetermined timing (S102). Steps S101 and S102 may be performed at the same time or at different times.

[0144] Connection device A stores the received operation log (S103). Connection device A stores, for example, the operation logs received over a predetermined period.

[0145] Then, at a predetermined timing, the connection device A transmits the stored operation log to the management server 10 via the network N (S104). For example, the connection device A transmits one or more operation logs stored over a predetermined period to the management server 10 via the network N.

[0146] The management server 10 stores the received operation log (S105).

[0147] The management server 10 then generates service performance information in accordance with the received operation log and records the service performance information in the service performance DB 106 (S106). Specifically, the management server 10 refers to the management registration reference table, identifies the management registration ID to which the home appliance model type ID included in the operation log is associated in the management registration reference table, and adds the management registration ID to the operation log. The management server 10 also adds value criterion information corresponding to the operation log to the operation log. This generates the service performance information.

[0148] Figure 19 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the recording process (S12) of usage history information for the management system according to Embodiment 1.

[0149] The user terminal 30 receives input from the user and generates a request to use the operation log (S111).

[0150] Next, the user terminal 30 sends the generated usage request to the management server 10 via the network N (S112).

[0151] When the management server 10 receives a usage request, it identifies one or more operation logs according to the extraction conditions included in the usage request (S113).

[0152] Next, the management server 10 generates analysis data for one or more identified operation logs (S114).

[0153] Next, the management server 10 sends the generated analysis data to the user terminal 30 via the network N (S115).

[0154] Next, the user terminal 30 displays the received analysis data (S116).

[0155] Furthermore, after step S115, the management server 10 generates usage history information using one or more identified operation logs and records the generated usage history information in the usage history DB 107 (S117).

[0156] In step S114, the management server 10 may send one or more operation logs corresponding to the extraction conditions. In this case, the user terminal 30 may generate analysis data using one or more operation logs and display the generated analysis data.

[0157] Figure 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the calculation process for usage fees and incentives according to Embodiment 1.

[0158] The management server 10 retrieves one or more usage records for each user from the usage record DB 107 (S121). For example, as shown in Figure 7, it retrieves multiple usage records for user ID A2356.

[0159] Next, the management server 10 extracts one or more operation logs from the one or more usage history information obtained for each user (S122).

[0160] Next, the management server 10 retrieves value criterion information from the service performance DB 106 that is associated with the same appliance usage history ID as the appliance usage history ID, which is the data identification information of one or more extracted operation logs (S123).

[0161] Next, the management server 10 determines the data value based on the acquired value criteria information (S124). For each of the one or more acquired operation logs, the management server 10 determines the data value of that operation log.

[0162] Next, the management server 10 calculates the usage fee for each user by summing the data values ​​of one or more operation logs extracted from one or more usage history information for each user, based on the determined data value (S125).

[0163] On the other hand, the management server 10 determines individual incentives, which are incentives for each of the one or more operation logs, based on the data value of one or more operation logs (S126). In other words, the management server 10 determines one or more individual incentives corresponding to each of the one or more operation logs.

[0164] Next, the management server 10 aggregates one or more individual incentives for each management ID (i.e., for each data administrator) (S127).

[0165] Next, the management server 10 determines the individual incentives, which have been aggregated for each management ID and for each predetermined period, as the incentive for each data administrator (S128).

[0166] Figure 21 is a flowchart showing an example of the process for changing the management ID according to Embodiment 1.

[0167] The management server 10 receives a request to change the management ID from the management terminal 50 (S131).

[0168] Next, the management server 10 changes the management ID specified in the change request to another management ID among the management IDs recorded in the management registration reference table, operation logs, service provision information, and usage information in the usage history DB (S132).

[0169] For example, a request to change the management ID may be sent from the first management terminal 50a associated with the original first management ID, or from the second management terminal 50b associated with the destination second management ID. Furthermore, step S132 may be performed after an agreement on the change request has been reached between the first management terminal 50a and the second management terminal 50b.

[0170] Figure 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the value standard information update process according to Embodiment 1.

[0171] The management server 10 receives a request to update value standard information from an external device (S141).

[0172] Next, the management server 10 updates the value criteria information to the latest information (S142). The management server 10 may update the value criteria information to the latest information in response to an update request. For example, an update request may include the latest value criteria information. The latest value criteria information may be determined by a person, or it may be calculated by a computer using a predetermined algorithm. The management server 10 may maintain a predetermined algorithm for calculating the latest value criteria information.

[0173] [Effects, etc.] In the management system according to this embodiment, the management server 10 executes an incentive determination method for one or more data managers who manage data generated by multiple home appliances. The one or more data managers are associated with different models of multiple home appliances. In the incentive determination method, the management server 10 records provision performance information that associates data identification information that identifies each of the one or more data generated by the multiple home appliances with administrator identification information that identifies each of the one or more data managers. Subsequently, if there is any usage data among the one or more data that has been used by a data user, the management server 10 determines an incentive for the data manager who manages the usage data based on the provision performance information.

[0174] According to this, it is possible to determine different incentives for data administrators for each model based on administrator identification information that offers a high degree of flexibility in changes, thereby enabling the appropriate distribution of profits obtained from the use of data to data administrators.

[0175] In the management system according to this embodiment, for example, one or more data points are provided by one or more data providers who own multiple home appliances. The one or more data managers and the one or more data providers are different from each other. Therefore, it is possible to determine incentives for data managers who are different from the data providers.

[0176] In the management system according to this embodiment, for example, a first data provider among one or more data providers owns a first home appliance of the first model and a second home appliance of a second model different from the first model. A second data provider among one or more data providers owns a third home appliance of the first model and a fourth home appliance of the second model. A first data administrator among one or more data administrators manages the data provided by the first and third home appliances. A second data administrator among one or more data administrators manages the data provided by the second and fourth home appliances.

[0177] Therefore, the profits obtained from the use of data generated by the first type of home appliance can be determined as an incentive for the first data manager, and the profits obtained from the use of data generated by the second type of home appliance can be determined as an incentive for the second data manager. Thus, the profits obtained from the use of the data can be appropriately distributed to the data managers.

[0178] In the management system according to this embodiment, for example, the management server 10 further receives a change request to change specific administrator identification information associated with specific data identification information that identifies specific data generated by a specific home appliance in the service provision performance information. Next, the management server 10 changes the specific administrator identification information associated with the specific data based on the change request.

[0179] This makes it easy to change specific administrator identification information associated with specific data identification information. Therefore, it is easy to change the recipients of incentives.

[0180] In the management system according to this embodiment, for example, a change request is a request to change the first administrator identification information, which is associated with first data identification information that identifies each of the one or more first data generated by the first home appliance, to a second administrator identification information that is different from the first administrator identification information. In the change, based on the change request, the first administrator identification information, which is associated with first data identification information that identifies each of the one or more first data, is changed to the second administrator identification information. The first administrator identification information is identification information that identifies the first data administrator among the one or more data administrators. The second administrator identification information is identification information that identifies the second data administrator, which is different from the first data administrator among the one or more data administrators.

[0181] This allows for easy modification of the administrator identification information associated with the first data identification information, from the first administrator identification information to the second administrator identification information. Therefore, the recipient of the incentive distribution can be easily changed.

[0182] In the management system according to this embodiment, for example, when determining incentives, the management server 10 identifies data associated with the same data identification information as the data identifying data that identifies the usage data, based on the provision performance information, and identifies the data manager who manages the identified data. Then, the management server 10 determines an incentive for the identified data manager based on the value criteria information of the identified data.

[0183] According to this, it becomes easy to identify the data manager who manages the usage data generated by home appliances, based on the usage data that shows the actual usage history of that data. Therefore, it becomes possible to appropriately determine who receives the profits obtained from the use of the data.

[0184] (Embodiment 2) Figure 23 shows an example of the configuration of the management system according to Embodiment 2.

[0185] As shown in Figure 23, the management system according to Embodiment 2 differs from the management system according to Embodiment 1 in that it includes multiple management servers 11a to 11c.

[0186] In the following, management servers 11a to 10c will each be referred to as management server 11, but management servers 11a to 11c may also be referred to as management servers A to C.

[0187] [Management Server 11] Figure 24 shows an example of the configuration of the management server 11 according to Embodiment 2. Components identical to those in Figure 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0188] The management server 11 shown in Figure 24 is an example of one server (computer) among multiple servers that maintain a distributed ledger. As shown in Figure 24, the management server 11 comprises a communication unit 101, a value calculation unit 102, a settlement amount determination unit 103, a recording unit 104, a usage history DB 105, a management account change unit 108, a transaction data generation unit 109, a transaction data verification unit 110, and a distributed ledger 111. The management server 11 can be realized by a processor executing a predetermined program using memory. The following describes each component.

[0189] The transaction data generation unit 109 generates first transaction data. In this embodiment, the transaction data generation unit 109 generates first transaction data that includes provision history information generated by the recording unit 104.

[0190] Furthermore, the transaction data generation unit 109 generates second transaction data. In this embodiment, the transaction data generation unit 109 generates second transaction data that includes usage history information generated by the recording unit 104.

[0191] The transaction data generation unit 109 transmits the generated first transaction data to multiple other management servers 11 via the communication unit 101. The transaction data generation unit 109 also transmits the generated second transaction data to multiple other management servers 11 via the communication unit 101.

[0192] The transaction data verification unit 110 verifies the validity of the transaction data when the communication unit 101 receives it. For example, the transaction data verification unit 110 verifies whether the transaction data received by the communication unit 101 has a digitally generated signature attached in the correct manner. This verification may be skipped. Here, the transaction data received by the communication unit 101 is either the first transaction data or the second transaction data.

[0193] Furthermore, the transaction data verification unit 110, together with several other management servers 11, executes a consensus algorithm to agree on the validity of the transaction data.

[0194] Here, the consensus algorithm may be PBFT (Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance) or any other known consensus algorithm. Examples of known consensus algorithms include PoW (Proof of Work) or PoS (Proof of Stake). When PBFT is used as the consensus algorithm, the transaction data verification unit 110 receives reports from each of the multiple other management servers 11 indicating whether the verification of the transaction data was successful or not, and determines whether the number of such reports exceeds a predetermined number. Then, when the number of such reports exceeds the predetermined number, the transaction data verification unit 110 determines that the validity of the transaction data has been verified by the consensus algorithm.

[0195] If the transaction data verification unit 110 confirms the validity of the transaction data, it causes the recording unit 104 to record that transaction data.

[0196] In this embodiment, the transaction data verification unit 110 verifies the validity of the first transaction data and the second transaction data received by the communication unit 101.

[0197] The recording unit 104 records transaction data by including the transaction data whose validity has been verified by the transaction data verification unit 110 into a block and storing it in the distributed ledger 111.

[0198] In other words, in this embodiment, when recording to the service provision database, the management server 11 transfers the first transaction data containing the service provision information to another management server 11, and stores the first block containing the first transaction data in the distributed ledger 111 managed by the management server 11, thereby recording it in the service provision database. Similarly, when recording to the service usage database, the management server 11 transfers the second transaction data containing the service usage information to another management server 11, and stores the second block containing the second transaction data in the distributed ledger 111 managed by the management server 11, thereby recording it in the service usage database. Thus, the service provision database and the service usage database may be stored in the distributed ledger 111.

[0199] The recording unit 104 may also have a distributed ledger 111 configured internally.

[0200] The distributed ledger 111 stores the first transaction data and the second token transaction data. The distributed ledger 111 also stores the contract code that executes the calculation process for usage fees and incentives, as explained in Figure 20.

[0201] [Management system operation, etc.] Next, we will explain how the management system configured as described above works.

[0202] Figure 25 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the recording process (S11) of the service provision information of the management system according to Embodiment 2. The same reference numerals are used for the same processes as in Figure 18, and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0203] In Figure 25, similar to Figure 18, the configuration of appliances A1, A2, and connection device A is shown only for House A among Houses A to X, and the configurations of appliances B1 to X1, B2 to X2, and connection devices B to X for the other Houses B to X are omitted. In the recording process of the provision performance information, it is assumed that appliances B1 to X1, B2 to X2, and connection devices B to X are processed in the same way as appliances A1, A2, and connection device A for House A only.

[0204] After step S103, the connecting device A transmits the stored operation logs to the management server A via the network N at a predetermined timing (S104a). For example, the connecting device A transmits one or more operation logs stored over a predetermined period to the management server A via the network N.

[0205] Management Server A generates service performance information including the received operation log, management ID, and value standard information, and generates first transaction data including the service performance information (S105a). In Figure 25, the first transaction data is denoted as the first Tx.

[0206] Next, management server A sends the generated first transaction data to the other management servers B and C (S106a).

[0207] Next, management servers A to C execute the consensus algorithm, generate a block containing the first transaction data, and store it in the distributed ledger 111 (S107a). As a result, the delivery performance information contained in the first transaction data is stored in the delivery performance DB.

[0208] The first transaction data may be generated by connection device A. In this case, connection device A sends the first transaction data to management server A, and management server A forwards the received first transaction data to other management servers B and C. This may initiate step S107a.

[0209] Figure 26 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the recording process (S12) for usage information of the management system. The same symbols are used for the same processes as in Figure 19, and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0210] After step S114, management server A generates usage history information using one or more identified operation logs and generates second transaction data containing the generated usage history information (S117a). In Figure 26, the second transaction data is denoted as 2nd Tx.

[0211] Next, management server A sends the generated second transaction data to the other management servers B and C (S118a).

[0212] Next, management servers A to C execute the consensus algorithm, generate a block containing the second transaction data, and store it in the distributed ledger 111 (S119a). As a result, the usage information contained in the second transaction data is stored in the usage database.

[0213] Next, when the consensus algorithm is executed for the second transaction data, each of the management servers A to C executes the calculation process for usage fees and incentives via a smart contract (S120a). The calculation process for usage fees and incentives is the same as the process explained using Figure 20, so a detailed explanation is omitted. Note that in Figure 26, the process in step S120a is referred to as the settlement process.

[0214] Thus, each of the multiple distributed ledgers 111 held by management servers A to C contains contract code for identifying the data administrator and determining the incentive based on the second transaction data. When management servers A to C obtain the second transaction data for identifying the data administrator and determining the incentive, they execute the contract code contained in the distributed ledger 111 of management server A to perform the identification of the data administrator and the determination of the incentive.

[0215] [Effects, etc.] In the management system according to this embodiment, the management server 11 further records the service provision information in the service provision database. The management server 10 records the service provision information, including data identification information that identifies the usage data, in the service provision database. When recording to the service provision database, the management server 10 records the service provision information by having the computer transfer the first transaction data, which includes the service provision information, to another computer, and storing the first block, which includes the first transaction data, in a distributed ledger managed by the computer. When recording to the service provision database, the management server 10 records the service provision information by having the computer transfer the second transaction data, which includes the service provision information, to another computer, and storing the second block, which includes the second transaction data, in a distributed ledger managed by the computer.

[0216] According to this, provision history information and usage history information can be stored in a distributed ledger, and incentives for data managers can be determined using provision history information and usage history information that is difficult to tamper with. Therefore, incentives for data managers can be determined more appropriately.

[0217] In the management system according to this embodiment, for example, the management server 11 includes contract code in each of the multiple distributed ledgers held by the computer and other computers for identifying the data administrator and determining the incentive based on the second transaction data. Identifying the data administrator and determining the incentive are performed when the second transaction data is acquired and the contract code contained in the computer's distributed ledger is executed.

[0218] According to this, by executing the contract code, the data administrator is identified and incentives are determined, allowing incentives for data administrators to be automatically determined using data provision and usage information that is difficult to tamper with.

[0219] In the management system according to this embodiment, for example, the provision record information further includes the hash value of the data.

[0220] According to this, the provision performance information stored in the distributed ledger will include a hash value instead of the actual data, thus preventing the data from being made public.

[0221] (modified version) In the management system according to the above embodiment, the management server 10 may further determine incentives for data providers. In this case, the incentives for data providers determined may be paid by the data administrator to the data providers.

[0222] An incentive determination method relating to one aspect of this disclosure is a computer-based incentive determination method for one or more data providers that provide data generated by home appliances, comprising recording provision performance information that associates provider identification information that identifies each of the one or more data providers, data identification information that identifies each of the one or more provided data provided by the one or more data providers, and value standard information that serves as a basis for calculating the data value of each of the one or more provided data, and determining an incentive for the data provider that provided the used data based on the provision performance information when there is any used data among the one or more provided data that has been used by a data user, wherein the value standard information includes index values ​​defined for each of a plurality of value indicators.

[0223] According to this, for one or more data sets provided by one or more data providers, the incentive for the data provider is determined based on the index values ​​defined for each of the multiple value indicators associated with the data used by the user. In this way, since each of the multiple value indicators is associated with the data, the data value of the data can be determined in advance using multiple value indicators. Furthermore, because each of the multiple value indicators is associated with the data, even if one value indicator is biased, that bias can be mitigated, and the data value of the data can be determined to an appropriate value. Therefore, incentives for data providers can be appropriately determined, and providers can be encouraged to provide data. Thus, data can be collected efficiently.

[0224] Furthermore, in determining the incentive, based on the provision performance information, the provided data associated with the same data identification information as the data identification information that identifies the usage data may be identified, the value criteria information of the identified provided data and the data provider that provided the identified provided data may be identified, and the incentive for the identified data provider may be determined based on the identified value criteria information.

[0225] Furthermore, usage history information, including data identification information that identifies the usage data, may be recorded in a usage history database. Based on the usage history database, the number of times the identified provided data is used may be determined. In determining the incentive, the incentive for the identified data provider may be determined based on the identified value criteria information and the identified number of uses.

[0226] Furthermore, the multiple value indicators in the value criteria information may include at least two of the following: a value indicator based on the type of data provided, a value indicator based on the type of home appliance that generated the data provided, and a value indicator based on the time when the data provided was generated by the home appliance.

[0227] Furthermore, the provision performance information may be recorded in a provision performance database, and in recording to the provision performance database, the computer may transfer the first transaction data containing the provision performance information to another computer and store the first block containing the first transaction data in a distributed ledger managed by the computer, thereby recording to the provision performance database; and in recording to the usage performance database, the computer may transfer the second transaction data containing the usage performance information to another computer and store the second block containing the second transaction data in the distributed ledger managed by the computer, thereby recording to the usage performance database.

[0228] According to this, information on service provision and usage can be stored in a distributed ledger, and incentives for providers can be determined using this information, which is less susceptible to tampering. Therefore, incentives for providers can be determined more appropriately.

[0229] Furthermore, each of the multiple distributed ledgers held by the computer and the other computers includes contract code for performing the identification of the value criteria information and the data provider and the determination of the incentive based on the second transaction data, and in the identification of the value criteria information and the data provider and the determination of the incentive, when the second transaction data is obtained, the contract code contained in the distributed ledger of the computer may be executed to perform the identification of the value criteria information and the data provider and the determination of the incentive.

[0230] Furthermore, the aforementioned provision history information may also include the hash value of the aforementioned provision data.

[0231] Furthermore, in determining the incentive, the value of each of the usage data is calculated based on the index value defined for each of the multiple value indicators included in the identified value standard information and the value pre-associated with each of the multiple value indicators, and the incentive is determined based on the calculated value of the usage data, the pre-associated value is determined to fluctuate over time, the computer may transfer the third transaction data including the determined pre-associated value to another computer, and store the third block including the third transaction data in a distributed ledger managed by the computer.

[0232] Furthermore, a server according to one aspect of this disclosure is a server that determines incentives for one or more data providers that provide data generated by home appliances, and comprises a processor and memory, wherein the processor uses the memory to record provision performance information that associates provider identification information that identifies each of the one or more data providers, data identification information that identifies each of the one or more provided data provided by the one or more data providers, and value standard information that serves as a basis for calculating the data value of each of the one or more provided data, and if there is any usage data among the one or more provided data that has been used by a data user, the server determines an incentive for the data provider that provided the usage data based on the provision performance information, wherein the value standard information includes index values ​​defined for each of a plurality of value indicators.

[0233] In the management system according to the above embodiment, the operation logs of home appliances were given as a specific example of data, but the data is not limited to the operation logs of home appliances. The data may be, for example, the operation logs of an autonomous vehicle, or the operation logs of equipment installed in a factory or other facility. In addition, the data may be the measured values ​​of an electricity meter, gas meter, or water meter installed in a house.

[0234] In the management server 10 according to the above embodiment, the functions for recording operation logs in the usage history DB 105, the provision record DB 106, and the provision record information in the provision record DB 106, and the usage record DB 107 and the usage record information in the usage record DB 107 may be implemented as separate devices from the management server 10. These devices only need to be connected to the management server 10 in a communication manner.

[0235] In the management system according to the above embodiment, the data value may fluctuate due to the following factors. For example, the data value may fluctuate according to the reliability of the home appliance that generated the operation log. The reliability of the home appliance may be determined by, for example, the type of OS, the history of OS updates, the history of operations from outside, the history of communication with outside, the history of application installations, etc. The history of OS updates, the history of operations from outside, the history of communication with outside, the history of application installations, etc. may be written to and managed in a database provided by the management servers 10 and 11. The reliability of the home appliance may also be determined using a reliability evaluation table in which reliability is associated with each of the above-mentioned performance records. The reliability of the home appliance may also be evaluated by a combination of multiple performance records. Furthermore, the reliability of each operation log may be determined based on the reliability of the home appliance. In addition, the management servers 10 and 11 may calculate the reliability-enhanced data value by multiplying the data value by the determined reliability, and determine the usage fee or incentive based on the reliability-enhanced data value.

[0236] Furthermore, the calculation of data value may be based on other factors. For example, if a specific request is received from the user terminal 30, such as "I would like this kind of data," the data value may be calculated such that the more requests there are for an operation log, the higher its value. Request information indicating requests may be recorded in databases provided by the management servers 10 and 11. In addition, information indicating the presence or absence of a request may be added to the usage history DB 105, and the presence or absence of a request may be recorded in association with the operation log.

[0237] In the management system according to the above embodiment, the data value is said to vary depending on the type of operation log, the model of the home appliance that generated the operation log, seasonal fluctuations, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0238] The value of the data may be determined by data relating to the family structure of the provider's home (hereinafter referred to as "family attribute data"). Family attribute data includes personal data such as age, gender, height, weight, occupation, place of commute, and income, which are attributes of the family members using the data. In this case, the family attribute data may be recorded in the family attribute database provided by the management servers 10 and 11, paired with the family ID.

[0239] Furthermore, the data value may change based on the operation logs of households with certain specified family attributes. In this case, a column called "Family Attribute Evaluation" may be provided and managed in the home appliance usage history database.

[0240] Furthermore, if a specific request is received from the user terminal 30, such as "We would like data on households with these family attributes," the data value may be calculated such that the value of operation logs generated from households with frequently requested family attributes is higher than the value of operation logs generated from households with fewer requested family attributes. Request information indicating the request may be recorded in the databases provided by the management servers 10 and 11. In addition, information indicating whether or not there is a request for family attributes may be added to the usage history DB 105, and the presence or absence of a request for family attributes may be recorded in association with the operation log.

[0241] Furthermore, the data value may be determined by the number of transactions. The data value may be calculated such that the value of operation logs requested more frequently from the user terminal 30 is higher than the value of operation logs requested less frequently. The number of transactions may be recorded in a distributed ledger using blockchain technology, preventing tampering, and allowing users to access it using the user terminal 30.

[0242] The operation logs stored in the usage history DB 105 may be provided to the user terminal 30 when the number of requests from the user terminal 30 exceeds a predetermined threshold. This ensures that only operation logs with high data value are provided. The process of providing operation logs stored in the usage history DB 105 after the number of requests exceeds the threshold may be implemented by a blockchain smart contract.

[0243] Furthermore, the value of newly added operation logs may be set higher for operation logs that have been requested frequently by user terminals 30. Also, if multiple user terminals 30 request an operation log, that operation log may be provided only to the user terminal 30 that values ​​the operation log most highly (auction format).

[0244] In the management system according to Embodiment 2 described above, the provision record information and usage record information are recorded and managed in a distributed ledger. However, the system is not limited to this, and the data value calculated by the value calculation unit 102 may also be recorded and managed in the distributed ledger.

[0245] Furthermore, the usage fees and incentives determined by the settlement amount determination unit 103 may be recorded in a centralized database provided by the management server 10, or they may be recorded in a distributed ledger using blockchain provided by the management servers 11a to 11c.

[0246] Furthermore, transactions such as the collection of usage fees from users or the payment of incentives to administrators may be conducted using cryptocurrency based on blockchain technology.

[0247] Furthermore, the devices forming the blockchain may include, in addition to the management servers 11a to 11c, all or part of the connection device 20 and the user terminal 30.

[0248] Alternatively, a block containing transaction data, including operation logs, may be stored in a distributed ledger and recorded in the usage history database.

[0249] If any of the usage history DB, service provision DB, or utilization history DB is recorded on a distributed ledger using blockchain, the service provision log itself may not be recorded, and only the hash value of the service provision log may be recorded. In other words, the service provision information stored in the service provision DB may include the hash value of the service provision log but not the service provision log itself. Furthermore, the management server 11 may convert only service provision logs with a privacy relevance greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., 1) into hash values ​​and record service provision information containing only the hash values ​​of those service provision logs as service provision information for those service provision logs in the distributed ledger. This allows the management server 11, which maintains the distributed ledger, to protect user privacy.

[0250] In the management system according to the above embodiment, operation logs are transmitted from the home appliances 21 and 22 installed in each dwelling 40 to the management servers 10 and 11 via the connection device 20. In other words, the provider of the operation logs is the owner of each dwelling 40, but is not limited to this. For example, the provider of the operation logs may be the installer of the connection device 20, or, if the dwelling 40 is a rental property, the provider may be the owner of the rental property. Also, if the dwelling 40 is a facility such as a factory, company, or warehouse, the provider may be the corporation or organization that owns the factory, company, warehouse, or other facility. In this case, the provider identification information may be the owner ID.

[0251] [Other embodiments, etc.] As described above, this disclosure has been explained based on the embodiments described above, but of course, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. The following cases are also included in this disclosure.

[0252] (1) Specifically, each device in the above embodiment is a computer system consisting of a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, hard disk unit, display unit, keyboard, mouse, etc. A computer program is recorded in the RAM or hard disk unit. The microprocessor operates in accordance with the computer program, thereby enabling each device to perform its function. Here, the computer program is composed of a combination of multiple instruction codes that indicate commands to the computer in order to achieve a predetermined function.

[0253] (2) In the above embodiments, each device may have some or all of its constituent components made up of a single system LSI (Large Scale Integration). The system LSI is a multi-functional LSI manufactured by integrating multiple components onto a single chip, and specifically, it is a computer system comprising a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. A computer program is stored in the RAM. The system LSI achieves its function by operating the microprocessor in accordance with the computer program.

[0254] Furthermore, each component of the above-mentioned device may be integrated into a single chip individually, or it may be integrated into a single chip to include some or all of the components.

[0255] Furthermore, while we refer to it as a system LSI here, depending on the degree of integration, it may also be called an IC, LSI, super LSI, or ultra LSI. Also, the method of integrated circuit implementation is not limited to LSIs; it may be implemented using dedicated circuits or general-purpose processors. After LSI manufacturing, FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays) that can be programmed, or reconfigurable processors that allow for the reconfiguration of the connections and settings of circuit cells within the LSI, may also be used.

[0256] Furthermore, if advancements in semiconductor technology or derivative technologies lead to the emergence of integrated circuit technologies that replace LSIs, then naturally, these technologies can be used to integrate functional blocks. The application of biotechnology, for example, is a possibility.

[0257] (3) Some or all of the components constituting each of the above devices may consist of a removable IC card or a standalone module. The IC card or module is a computer system consisting of a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. The IC card or module may include the above-mentioned multi-functional LSI. The microprocessor operates according to a computer program, thereby enabling the IC card or module to perform its function. The IC card or module may be tamper-resistant.

[0258] (4) The disclosure may also be the methods described above. Alternatively, it may be a computer program that implements these methods using a computer, or a digital signal consisting of the computer program.

[0259] Furthermore, the computer program or the digital signal may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, such as a flexible disk, hard disk, CD-ROM, MO, DVD, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, BD (Blu-ray® Disc), semiconductor memory, etc. Alternatively, the digital signal may be recorded on one of these recording media.

[0260] Furthermore, this disclosure may also describe transmitting the computer program or digital signal via telecommunications lines, wireless or wired communication lines, networks such as the Internet, data broadcasting, etc.

[0261] Also, the present disclosure may be a computer system including a microprocessor and a memory, where the memory stores the computer program, and the microprocessor operates according to the computer program.

[0262] Further, it may be implemented by another independent computer system by recording and transferring the program or the digital signal to the recording medium, or by transferring the program or the digital signal via the network or the like.

[0263] (5) It may be possible to combine the above embodiments and the above modifications respectively.

Industrial Applicability

[0264] The present disclosure can be used in an incentive determination method, a server, and a program, and can be used in an incentive determination method, a server, and a program that can efficiently collect data.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0265] 10, 11, 11a to 11c Management Servers 20, 20a to 20x Connection Devices 21, 21a to 21x, 22, 22a to 22x Home Appliances 30 User Terminals 40, 40a to 40x Houses 50, 50a, 50b Management Register Terminals 101, 201, 211, 301, 501 Communication Units 102 Value Calculation Unit 103 Settlement Amount Determination Unit 104 Recording Unit 105 Usage History DB 106 Provision Performance DB 107 Utilization Performance DB 108 Management Register Change Unit 109 Transaction Data Generation Unit 110 Transaction Data Verification Unit 111 Dispersion ledger 202, 212, 302, 502 Control unit 203, 216, 304, 504 Memory unit 213, 303, 503 Input reception unit 214 Operation unit 215 Sensor 305, 505 Display unit

Claims

1. A method for determining incentives for one or more data managers who manage data generated by multiple home appliances, performed by a computer, The one or more data managers mentioned above are associated with different models of the multiple home appliances, The system records provision performance information that associates data identification information that identifies each of the one or more data generated by the aforementioned multiple home appliances with administrator identification information that identifies each of the aforementioned one or more data administrators. If any of the above one or more data points have been used by a data user, an incentive will be determined for the data manager who manages the said data based on the provided data information. Incentive determination method.

2. The aforementioned data (1 or more) is provided by one or more data providers who own the aforementioned multiple home appliances. The one or more data administrators and the one or more data providers are different from each other. The incentive determination method according to claim 1.

3. Of the one or more data providers mentioned above, the first data provider owns a first home appliance of the first model and a second home appliance of a second model that is different from the first model. The second data provider among the one or more data providers mentioned above owns the third home appliance of the first model and the fourth home appliance of the second model, The first data administrator among the one or more data administrators shall manage the data provided by the first home appliance and the third home appliance. The second data administrator among the one or more data administrators mentioned above manages the data provided by the second and fourth home appliances. The incentive determination method according to claim 2.

4. moreover, Upon receiving a request to change a specific administrator identification information associated with specific data identification information that identifies specific data generated by a specific home appliance in the aforementioned provision performance information, Based on the aforementioned change request, modify the specific administrator identification information associated with the specific data. The incentive determination method according to claim 1.

5. The aforementioned change request is a request to change the first administrator identification information, which is associated with first data identification information that identifies each of the one or more first data generated by the first home appliance, to a second administrator identification information that is different from the first administrator identification information. In the above modification, based on the modification request, the first administrator identification information, which is associated with the first data identification information that identifies each of the one or more first data items, is changed to the second administrator identification information. The first administrator identification information is identification information that identifies the first data administrator among the one or more data administrators, The second administrator identification information is identification information that identifies a second data administrator who is different from the first data administrator among the one or more data administrators. The incentive determination method according to claim 4.

6. In determining the aforementioned incentives, Based on the aforementioned provision history information, identify the data associated with the same data identification information that identifies the aforementioned usage data, and identify the data manager who manages the identified data. Based on the value criteria information of the identified data, determine incentives for the identified data managers. The incentive determination method according to claim 1.

7. moreover, The aforementioned information on the provision record is recorded in the provision record database. The usage history information, including data identification information that identifies the aforementioned usage data, is recorded in the usage history database. In recording to the aforementioned service performance database, the computer transfers the first transaction data containing the service performance information to another computer, and records the first block containing the first transaction data in a distributed ledger managed by the computer, thereby recording it in the service performance database. In recording to the aforementioned usage history database, the computer transfers the second transaction data, which includes the usage history information, to another computer, and stores the second block, which includes the second transaction data, in the distributed ledger managed by the computer, thereby recording it in the usage history database. The incentive determination method according to claim 6.

8. Each of the distributed ledgers held by the aforementioned computer and the other computers includes contract code for performing the identification of the data administrator and the determination of the incentives based on the second transaction data. The identification of the data manager and the determination of the incentive are executed when the second transaction data is acquired and the contract code contained in the distributed ledger of the computer is executed. The incentive determination method according to claim 7.

9. The aforementioned provision history information further includes the hash value of the aforementioned data. The incentive determination method according to claim 7.

10. A server that determines incentives for one or more data managers who manage data generated by multiple home appliances, Processor and Equipped with memory, The aforementioned one or more data managers differ for each of the multiple home appliance models, The processor uses the memory to: The system records provision performance information that associates data identification information that identifies each of the one or more data generated by the aforementioned multiple home appliances with administrator identification information that identifies each of the aforementioned one or more data administrators. If any of the above one or more data points have been used by a data user, an incentive will be determined for the data manager who manages the said data based on the provided data information. server.

11. A program for causing a computer to execute the incentive determination method described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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