Device control system, device control method, and program

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of allowing a server to recognize the contents of control by a remote controller when an electric apparatus is controlled by the remote controller. A relay system (10) is provided with: a signal acquisition unit (110); and a data transmission unit (112). The signal acquisition unit (110) acquires a control signal transmitted from an infrared remote controller to an apparatus to be controlled. The data transmission unit (112) transmits control data based on the control signal acquired by the signal acquisition unit (110) to a server, configured to be able to control the apparatus to be controlled, via a network.

Description

Relay system, device control system, device control method and program

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a relay system, a device control system, a device control method, and a program, and more particularly to a relay system, a device control system, a device control method, and a program related to the control of a control target device operated by an infrared remote controller.

[0002] Patent document 1 describes a control device that, when it receives a first remote control signal, sets the device to a remote control priority mode from the time the signal is received until a first predetermined time has elapsed, and when the first predetermined time has elapsed, cancels the remote control priority mode and accepts operation command information from an information communication terminal device.

[0003] In Patent Document 1, the source of a command can be changed between a remote control priority mode and a mode in which the remote control priority mode is disabled. However, it is desirable to be able to control an electrical device from a remote control and from a server via a network without using such a mode. In this case, if an electrical device is controlled by a remote control while the server is controlling the electrical device, the server will control the electrical device without recognizing the control content from the remote control. As a result, the server may not be able to properly control the electrical device.

[0004] JP 2016-111540 A

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a relay system, a device control system, a device control method, and a program that, when a control target device is controlled by a remote controller, enable a server capable of controlling the control target device to recognize the control content by the remote controller.

[0006] A relay system according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a signal acquisition unit and a data transmission unit. The signal acquisition unit acquires a control signal transmitted from an infrared remote controller to a control target device. The data transmission unit transmits control data based on the control signal acquired by the signal acquisition unit to a server configured to be able to control the control target device via a network.

[0007] A device control system according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes the relay system and the server, wherein the server controls the control-target devices based on a control plan.

[0008] A device control method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is used in a device control system. The device control method includes a control step of, when a control-target device is controlled by an infrared remote controller while the control-target device is being controlled based on a control plan, changing the control plan and controlling the control-target device based on the control of the control-target device by the infrared remote controller.

[0009] A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a program that causes a computer to execute the device control method.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a relay system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a system configuration diagram showing a configuration of a device control system including the relay system according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a server included in the device control system according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a change in a control plan when a temperature is changed. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing another example of a change in a control plan when a temperature is changed. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing yet another example of a change in a control plan when a temperature is changed. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a change in a control plan when a brightness is changed. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another example of a change in a control plan when a brightness is changed. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing yet another example of a change in a control plan when a brightness is changed. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a change in a control plan when a color temperature is changed. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing another example of a change in a control plan when a color temperature is changed. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing yet another example of a change in a control plan when a color temperature is changed. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a registration process performed by the relay system according to the embodiment in a registration mode. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a relay process performed by the relay system according to the embodiment in a normal mode. Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing a first control plan change process performed by the server of the above-mentioned system. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing a second control plan change process performed by the server of the above-mentioned system. Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing a first control process included in the second control plan change process performed by the server of the above-mentioned system. Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing a second control process included in the second control plan change process performed by the server of the above-mentioned system.

[0011] The embodiments and modifications described below are merely examples of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and modifications. Various modifications other than the following embodiments and modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as they do not deviate from the technical concept of the present disclosure.

[0012] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, a relay system 10 according to the present embodiment and a device control system 1 including the relay system 10 will be described with reference to Figs.

[0013] (1) Overview As shown in Fig. 2, the device control system 1 of this embodiment includes a relay 11 as a relay system 10, and a server 20. The device control system 1 further includes a transmitter 12 and a communication device 13.

[0014] The server 20 is configured to be able to communicate with the communication device 13 via a network NT1 such as the Internet.

[0015] The device control system 1 controls a plurality of (two in the illustrated example) electrical appliances 2 provided in a facility 5. For example, the device control system 1 controls the plurality of electrical appliances 2 while a user is sleeping. Here, the plurality of electrical appliances 2 includes an air conditioning appliance 2a and a lighting appliance 2b. The device control system 1 controls at least one electrical appliance 2 (a controlled appliance) among the plurality of electrical appliances 2 based on a predetermined control plan during a predetermined period. Specifically, the server 20 controls at least one electrical appliance 2 (a controlled appliance) among the plurality of electrical appliances 2 based on a predetermined control plan during a predetermined period. For example, the (server 20 of) the device control system 1 controls at least one of the air conditioning appliance 2a and the lighting appliance 2b based on the control plan during a user's sleeping period.

[0016] Each of the plurality of electrical appliances 2 is configured to be operable by an infrared remote controller (hereinafter referred to as a remote controller) 3 that transmits an infrared signal (control signal). The remote controller 3 transmits, as a control signal, a pattern signal corresponding to a user's operation from among a plurality of pattern signals corresponding to each of a plurality of control patterns that can be used to control the electrical appliance 2 that is the control target device.

[0017] For example, when the air conditioning device 2a receives an infrared signal transmitted from the remote controller 3a, it performs an operation based on the received infrared signal. For example, the air conditioning device 2a changes the set temperature, switches between heating and cooling, etc., based on the infrared signal received from the remote controller 3a. When the lighting device 2b receives an infrared signal transmitted from the remote controller 3b, it performs an operation based on the received infrared signal. For example, the lighting device 2b changes the brightness, color temperature, etc., based on the infrared signal received from the remote controller 3b.

[0018] The plurality of electrical appliances 2 are configured to be able to communicate with the transmitter 12. The transmitter 12 receives control information including control details for the electrical appliances 2, which are control target appliances, from the server 20. The transmitter 12 transmits a control signal to the electrical appliances 2, which are control appliances, based on the received control information.

[0019] 1, the repeater 11 serving as the relay system 10 includes a signal acquisition unit 110 and a data transmission unit 112. The signal acquisition unit 110 acquires an infrared signal (control signal) transmitted from the remote controller 3 to a control target device. The data transmission unit 112 transmits control data based on the infrared signal acquired by the signal acquisition unit 110 to a server 20 configured to be able to control the control target device via a network NT1.

[0020] The server 20 receives the control data from the repeater 11 via the network NT1. When the server 20 receives the control data while executing a control plan and the controlled device is an electric device 2 controlled by the control plan, the server 20 changes the control plan and controls the electric device 2 that is the controlled device via the transmitter 12.

[0021] Furthermore, the plurality of electrical appliances 2 are configured to be operable using an information terminal 30. The information terminal 30 transmits control instruction information including control content for an electrical appliance 2 specified by a user operation among the plurality of electrical appliances 2 to the server 20 via the communication device 13. The server 20 receives the control instruction information transmitted by the information terminal 30. The server 20 controls the electrical appliance 2 specified by a user operation via the transmitter 12 based on the received control instruction information.

[0022] (2) Configuration Here, the configuration of the device control system 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.

[0023] (2.1) Repeater The repeater 11 as part of the relay system 10 includes a receiving unit 101, a communication unit 102, a storage unit 103, and a control unit 104, as shown in FIG.

[0024] The repeater 11 includes a computer system having, for example, a processor and a memory. The processor executes a program stored in the memory, causing the computer system to function as the control unit 104. The program executed by the processor is pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system in this example, but may also be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a memory card, or via a telecommunications line such as the Internet.

[0025] The receiving unit 101 has a communication interface for receiving an infrared signal (control signal) transmitted by the remote controller 3 .

[0026] The communication unit 102 has a communication interface for communicating with the server 20 .

[0027] The storage unit 103 is configured by a device selected from a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and the like.

[0028] The storage unit 103 stores a plurality of pattern signals corresponding to a plurality of control patterns that can be controlled by the remote controller 3 for the electrical appliance 2 that is the control target device. Specifically, a control correspondence table (table) is stored for each electrical appliance 2, in which a plurality of control patterns are associated one-to-one with a plurality of pattern signals. Furthermore, the storage unit 103 stores a plurality of control data in a one-to-one correspondence with a plurality of control patterns in the control correspondence table. Here, the pattern signals are signals that can be decoded by the electrical appliance 2 that is the control target device. The control patterns indicate the control content represented by the pattern signals. The control data is data that represents the corresponding control pattern (control content) and can be decoded by the server 20. If the control signal transmitted from the remote controller 3 (3a) indicates a change in temperature, the control data includes the amount of change in temperature. If the control signal transmitted from the remote controller 3 (3b) indicates a change in brightness, the control data includes the amount of change in brightness. If the control signal transmitted from the remote controller 3 (3b) indicates a change in color temperature, the control data includes the amount of change in color temperature. In the case where the control data transmitted from the remote controller 3 (3a, 3b) indicates an operation to turn off the electrical appliance 2 (air conditioning appliance 2a, lighting appliance 2b), the control data includes information indicating the operation to turn off the electrical appliance 2.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 1 , the control unit 104 includes a signal acquisition unit 110 , a conversion unit 111 , a data transmission unit 112 , and a learning unit 113 .

[0030] The repeater 11 has two operation modes: a normal mode and a registration mode.

[0031] The signal acquisition unit 110 acquires a control signal transmitted to the control target device from the remote controller 3. Specifically, the signal acquisition unit 110 acquires the control signal transmitted from the remote controller 3 to the control target device via the receiving unit 101, regardless of whether the operation mode is the normal mode or the registration mode.

[0032] The converter 111 converts the control signal into control data. When the operating mode is the normal mode, the converter 111 converts the control signal into control data. The converter 111 converts the control signal into control data that represents a control pattern corresponding to the control signal. More specifically, the converter 111 identifies the control pattern corresponding to the control signal using a control correspondence table, which is a table in which a plurality of control patterns is associated with a plurality of pattern signals. Furthermore, the converter 111 uses the control correspondence table to acquire the control data that corresponds to the identified control pattern from the plurality of control data.

[0033] The data transmitting unit 112 transmits control data based on the control signal acquired by the signal acquiring unit 110 to the server 20 configured to be able to control the control-target device via the network NT1. That is, the data transmitting unit 112 transmits the control data based on the control signal acquired by the signal acquiring unit 110 to the server 20 via the network NT1 and the communication unit 102. Specifically, the data transmitting unit 112 transmits the control data converted by the conversion unit 111 to the server 20. More specifically, the data transmitting unit 112 transmits the control data acquired by the conversion unit 111 using the control correspondence table to the server 20.

[0034] When the operation mode is the registration mode, the learning unit 113 associates pattern signals with control patterns, and associates control patterns with control data. The learning unit 113 acquires the control content to be registered, i.e., the control pattern, as the learning content. For example, the learning unit 113 acquires the control pattern to be registered from the information terminal 30 as the learning content. The learning unit 113 associates the control signal acquired by the signal acquisition unit 110 with the acquired learning content and stores the associated information in the control correspondence table. Furthermore, the learning unit 113 stores the control data corresponding to the acquired learning content (control pattern) in the control correspondence table, associating it with the control pattern.

[0035] (2.2) Communication Device The communication device 13 is, for example, a router installed in the facility 5.

[0036] The communication device 13 includes, for example, a computer system having a processor and a memory. The processor executes a program stored in the memory, causing the computer system to realize the functions of the communication device 13. The program executed by the processor is pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system in this example, but it may also be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a memory card, or via a telecommunications line such as the Internet.

[0037] The communication device 13 is configured to be able to communicate with the repeater 11, the transmitter 12, and the server 20. For example, the communication device 13 is configured to be able to communicate wirelessly with the repeater 11 and the transmitter 12, and is configured to be able to communicate with the server 20 via the network NT1. Note that the communication device 13 may also be configured to be able to communicate with the repeater 11 and the transmitter 12 via a wired connection.

[0038] Communication device 13 receives the control data transmitted by repeater 11 and transmits the received control data to server 20. When communication device 13 receives control instruction information transmitted by information terminal 30, it transmits the received control instruction information to server 20.

[0039] When the communication device 13 receives control-related information regarding control of the electrical appliance 2 that is the control target from the server 20, the communication device 13 transmits the received control-related information to the transmitter 12. Here, the control-related information includes identification information that identifies the electrical appliance 2 that is the control target appliance, and the control content.

[0040] (2.3) Transmitter The transmitter 12 has, for example, a computer system having a processor and a memory. The processor executes a program stored in the memory, causing the computer system to realize the functions of the transmitter 12. The program executed by the processor is pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system in this example, but it may also be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a memory card, or via a telecommunications line such as the Internet.

[0041] The transmitter 12 receives the control-related information from the server 20 via the communication device 13. The transmitter 12 transmits a control signal corresponding to the control content included in the control instruction information to the electrical appliance 2, which is a control target appliance indicated by the identification information included in the received control instruction information.

[0042] (2.4) Server The server 20 includes a communication unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a control unit 203, as shown in FIG.

[0043] The server 20 includes a computer system having, for example, a processor and a memory. The processor executes a program stored in the memory, causing the computer system to function as the control unit 203. The program executed by the processor is pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system in this example, but may also be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a memory card, or via a telecommunications line such as the Internet.

[0044] The communication unit 201 has a communication interface for communicating with the repeater 11 and the transmitter 12 via the communication device 13 .

[0045] The storage unit 202 is configured with a device selected from a ROM, a RAM, an EEPROM, etc. The storage unit 202 stores a control plan corresponding to each of the plurality of electrical appliances 2. Specifically, the storage unit 202 stores an operation schedule for a predetermined period for each of the plurality of electrical appliances 2. For example, the storage unit 202 stores an operation schedule (first operation schedule) for the air conditioning device 2a while the user is sleeping. The storage unit 202 stores an operation schedule (second operation schedule) for the lighting device 2b while the user is sleeping. The first operation schedule includes a schedule for changing the set temperature of the air conditioning device 2a. The second operation schedule includes a schedule for changing the brightness and color temperature of the lighting device 2b.

[0046] The first operation schedule includes a set temperature (target temperature) at wake-up and a temperature transition from bedtime until the target temperature at wake-up is reached. For example, to ensure a comfortable sleep, the temperature transition is such that the temperature is lowered from bedtime until a first predetermined period. After the first period, the temperature transition is maintained at a constant temperature until a second predetermined period. After the second predetermined period, the temperature transition is such that the temperature is raised until the target temperature at wake-up is reached.

[0047] The second operation schedule includes the brightness at wake-up (target brightness value) and the transition of brightness from bedtime until the target brightness is reached at wake-up. For example, to ensure a comfortable sleep, the brightness is reduced from bedtime until a third predetermined period. After the third period, the brightness remains constant or changes only slightly until a fourth predetermined period. After the fourth predetermined period, the brightness is increased so as to reach the target brightness at wake-up.

[0048] The second operation schedule includes the color temperature at wake-up (target color temperature) and the transition of the color temperature from bedtime until the target color temperature is reached at wake-up. For example, to ensure a comfortable sleep, the color temperature is decreased from bedtime until a fifth predetermined period. After the fifth period, the color temperature remains constant until a sixth predetermined period. After the sixth predetermined period, the color temperature is increased so as to reach the target color temperature at wake-up.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 3 , the control unit 203 includes a first processing unit 210 and a second processing unit 211 .

[0050] The first processing unit 210 controls the electric appliance 2 based on the control plan. In other words, the control target appliance is controlled by the server 20 (the first processing unit 210 thereof) based on a predetermined control plan.

[0051] When the first processing unit 210 receives control data for the electric device 2 from the relay 11 while controlling the electric device 2 based on a control plan, the first processing unit 210 modifies the control plan based on the received control data and controls the electric device 2 based on the modified control plan. In other words, when the control-target device is controlled by the remote controller 3 while being controlled based on a control plan, the server 20 (the first processing unit 210 of the server 20) modifies the control plan based on the content of the control of the control-target device by the remote controller 3, and controls the control-target device. In other words, when the first processing unit 210 of the server 20 receives control data corresponding to the control-target device from the relay system 10 while controlling the control-target device based on a control plan, the first processing unit 210 modifies the control plan based on the control data.

[0052] The following describes how to change the control plan using a specific example.

[0053] A case where the control content represented by the control data transmitted from the repeater 11 represents a change in the temperature of the air conditioner 2a will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0054] 4 to 6 represent the temperature transition from bedtime to the wake-up target temperature value included in the first operation schedule. The first processing unit 210 controls the temperature of the air conditioning device 2a so that the temperature reaches the wake-up target temperature value T1 at wake-up time (time t4).

[0055] Line segment L11 of broken line L1 represents the temperature change from when the user goes to bed until the first predetermined period has elapsed (until time t2). Line segment L12 represents the temperature change after the first period has elapsed until the second predetermined period has elapsed (until time t3). Line segment L13 represents the temperature change after the second predetermined period has elapsed until the user wakes up (until time t4). Note that in FIGS. 4 to 6, the dashed lines of broken line L1 represent the temperature change when the control plan is not changed.

[0056] FIG. 4 shows that a temperature change operation was performed by the remote controller 3a at time t1, i.e., during the first predetermined period. At time t1, the remote controller 3a sets a temperature Ta that is higher than the temperature T(t1) within the facility 5 (the space in which the air conditioning device 2a is installed) that was controlled under the original control plan. At this time, the control data includes the amount of temperature change. The first processing unit 210 calculates the temperature Ta set by the remote controller 3a as a control value from the temperature T(t1) and the amount of temperature change. Here, the temperature Ta is equal to or greater than a predetermined lower limit and equal to or less than a predetermined upper limit.

[0057] The first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from time t1 onwards. At this time, the first processing unit 210 sets the temperature to be controlled by the control plan at time t1 using the following Equation 1. Here, the value "a" is a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, for example, "1".

[0058] [Formula 1] Tz(t1)=T(t1)+a·(Ta−T(t1))

[0059] Thereafter, for a time ta from time t1 to time t4, the first processing unit 210 sets the temperature to be controlled by the control plan using the following equation 2. Here, b(t) is a time function that outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1. Here, the time function b(t) outputs a value of "1" from time t1 to time t3, and outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1 from time t3 to time t4. For example, from time t3 to time t4, the value output by the time function b(t) decreases as time passes.

[0060] [Formula 2] Td(ta)=T(ta)+b(ta)・(Tz(t1)−T(t1))

[0061] The temperature transition when the control plan is changed is represented by broken line L2 in FIG. 4 . From time t1 to time t2, the value output by time function b(t) is 1, so the slope of line segment L21 from time t1 to time t2, which is included in broken line L2, is the same as the slope of line segment L11. Similarly, from time t2 to time t3, the value output by time function b(t) is 1, so the slope of line segment L22 from time t2 to time t3, which is included in broken line L2, is the same as the slope of line segment L12. From time t3 to time t4, the time function b(t) outputs a value that is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, and that decreases as time passes. As a result, the slope of line segment L23 from time t3 to time t4, which is included in broken line L2, is smaller than the slope of line segment L13. That is, at time t4 (when waking up), the temperature in the facility 5 (the space in which the air conditioning device 2a is installed) controlled by the changed control plan can be made the same as the target value.

[0062] As described above, the first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the air conditioning equipment 2a so that the temperature transition is as shown by the solid line in the line segment L11 of the broken line L1 from time t0 to time t1. The first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the air conditioning equipment 2a so that the temperature transition is as shown by the broken line L2 from time t1 to time t4.

[0063] FIG. 5 shows that a temperature change operation was performed by the remote controller 3a at time t11, i.e., during the second predetermined period. The dashed line L4 in FIG. 5 also represents the transition of the predetermined lower limit temperature. At time t11, the remote controller 3a sets a temperature Tb that is lower than the temperature T(t11) within the facility 5 (the space in which the air conditioning equipment 2a is installed) controlled by the original control plan. At this time, the control data includes the amount of temperature change. The first processing unit 210 calculates the temperature Tb set by the remote controller 3a as the control value from the temperature T(t11) and the amount of temperature change. Here, the temperature Tb is smaller (lower) than the predetermined lower limit temperature.

[0064] The first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from time t11 onwards. At this time, the first processing unit 210 sets the temperature to be controlled by the control plan at time t11 using the following Equation 3. Here, as described above, the value "a" is a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, for example, "1".

[0065] [Formula 3] Tz(t11)=max(T(t11)+a·(Tb−T(t11)), lower limit)

[0066] Here, max(a, b) is a function that outputs the larger value of a and b.

[0067] Thereafter, for time tb from time t11 to time t4, the first processing unit 210 sets the temperature to be controlled by the control plan using Equation 2 in which time ta is replaced by time tb and time t1 is replaced by time t11. Here, b(t) is a time function, and as described above, outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1. Here, the time function b(t) outputs a value of "1" from time t11 to time t3, and outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1 from time t3 to time t4. For example, from time t3 to time t4, the value output by the time function b(t) decreases as time passes.

[0068] The temperature transition when the control plan is changed is represented by the broken line L3 in FIG. 5 . Because the value output by the time function b(t) is 1 from time t11 to time t3, the slope of the line segment L31 included in the broken line L3 from time t11 to time t3 is the same as the slope of the line segment L12. Furthermore, in this example, the line segment L31 is the same as the transition of the lower limit value from time t2 to time t3. From time t3 to time t4, the time function b(t) outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, which decreases over time. As a result, the slope of the line segment L32 included in the broken line L3 from time t3 to time t4 is greater than the slope of the line segment L13. That is, at time t4 (when waking up), the temperature in the facility 5 (the space in which the air conditioning equipment 2a is installed) controlled by the changed control plan can be made the same as the target value.

[0069] As described above, the first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the air conditioning equipment 2a so that the temperature transition is as shown by the solid line in the polygonal line L1 from time t0 to time t11. The first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the air conditioning equipment 2a so that the temperature transition is as shown by the polygonal line L3 from time t11 to time t4.

[0070] FIG. 6 shows that a temperature change operation was performed by the remote controller 3a at time t12, i.e., during the first predetermined period. The dashed line L6 in FIG. 6 also represents the transition of the predetermined upper limit value of the temperature. At time t12, the remote controller 3a sets a temperature Tc that is higher than the temperature T(t12) within the facility 5 (the space in which the air conditioning equipment 2a is installed) controlled by the original control plan. At this time, the control data includes the amount of temperature change. The first processing unit 210 calculates the temperature Tc set by the remote controller 3a as the control value from the temperature T(t12) and the amount of temperature change. Here, the temperature Tc is greater (higher) than the predetermined upper limit value.

[0071] The first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from time t12 onwards. At this time, the first processing unit 210 sets the temperature to be controlled by the control plan at time t12 using the following Equation 4. Here, as described above, the value "a" is a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, for example, "1".

[0072] [Formula 4] Tz(t12)=min(T(t12)+a·(Tc−T(t12)), upper limit)

[0073] Here, min(a, b) is a function that outputs the smaller value of a and b.

[0074] Thereafter, for time tc from time t12 to time t4, the first processing unit 210 sets the temperature to be controlled by the control plan using Equation 2 in which time ta is replaced by time tc and time t1 is replaced by time t12. Here, b(t) is a time function, and as described above, outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1. Here, the time function b(t) outputs a value of "1" from time t12 to time t3, and outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1 from time t3 to time t4. For example, from time t3 to time t4, the value output by the time function b(t) decreases as time passes.

[0075] The temperature transition when the control plan is changed is represented by broken line L5 in FIG. 6 . Because the value output by the time function b(t) is 1 from time t12 to time t2, the slope of line segment L51 from time t12 to time t2, included in broken line L5, is the same as the slope of line segment L11. Similarly, because the value output by the time function b(t) is 1 from time t2 to time t3, the slope of line segment L52 from time t2 to time t3, included in broken line L5, is the same as the slope of line segment L12. Furthermore, in this example, line segment L31 is the same as the transition of the upper limit value from time t12 to time t3. From time t3 to time t4, the time function b(t) outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, which decreases over time. As a result, the slope of line segment L53 from time t3 to time t4, included in broken line L5, is smaller than the slope of line segment L13. That is, at time t4 (when waking up), the temperature in the facility 5 (the space in which the air conditioning device 2a is installed) controlled by the changed control plan can be made the same as the target value.

[0076] As described above, the first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the air conditioning equipment 2a so that the temperature transition is as shown by the solid line in the line segment L11 of the polygonal line L1 from time t0 to time t12. The first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the air conditioning equipment 2a so that the temperature transition is as shown by the polygonal line L5 from time t12 to time t4.

[0077] Next, a case where the control content represented by the control data transmitted from the repeater 11 represents a change in brightness of the lighting device 2b will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0078] 7 to 9 represent the transition of brightness from bedtime to the wake-up target brightness value included in the second operation schedule. The first processing unit 210 controls the brightness of the lighting device 2b so that the brightness reaches the brightness target value U1 at wake-up (time t24).

[0079] Line segment G11 of polygonal line G1 represents the change in brightness from bedtime until the third predetermined period has elapsed (until time t21). Line segment G12 represents the change in brightness from the third period elapsed until the fourth predetermined period has elapsed (until time t23). Line segment G13 represents the change in brightness from the fourth predetermined period elapsed until wake-up (until time t24). Furthermore, dashed line G3 shown in FIGS. 7 to 9 represents the change in the predetermined lower limit of brightness. Dashed line G4 shown in FIGS. 7 to 9 represents the change in the predetermined upper limit of brightness. Note that in FIGS. 7 to 9, the dashed lines of polygonal line G1 represent the change in brightness if the control plan is not changed.

[0080] FIG. 7 shows that a brightness change operation was performed by the remote controller 3b at time t22, i.e., during the fourth predetermined period. At time t22, the remote controller 3b sets a brightness Ua that is darker than the brightness U(t22) within the facility 5 (the space in which the lighting device 2b is installed) controlled under the original control plan. At this time, the control data includes the amount of change in brightness. The first processing unit 210 calculates the brightness Ua set by the remote controller 3b as a control value from the brightness U(t22) and the amount of change in brightness. Here, the brightness Ua is equal to or greater than a predetermined lower limit and equal to or less than a predetermined upper limit.

[0081] The first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from time t21 onwards. At this time, the first processing unit 210 sets the brightness controlled by the control plan at time t21 using the following formula 5. Here, the value "a" is a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, for example, "1".

[0082] [Formula 5] Uz(t22)=U(t22)+a·(Ua−U(t22))

[0083] Thereafter, for time td from time t22 to time t24, the first processing unit 210 sets the brightness controlled by the control plan using the following equation 6. Here, b(t) is a time function that outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1. Here, the time function b(t) outputs a value of "1" from time t21 to time t23, and outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1 from time t23 to time t24. For example, from time t23 to time t24, the value output by the time function b(t) decreases as time passes.

[0084] [Formula 6] Ud(td)=U(td)+b(td)・(Uz(t22)−T(t22))

[0085] The change in brightness when the control plan is changed is represented by the polygonal line G2 in FIG. 7 . The slope of the line segment G21 included in the polygonal line G2 from time t22 to time t23 is the same as the slope of the line segment G11. From time t23 to time t24, the time function b(t) outputs a value that is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, and that decreases as time passes. As a result, the slope of the line segment G22 included in the polygonal line G2 from time t23 to time t24 is greater than the slope of the line segment G13. In other words, at time t24 (when waking up), the brightness in the facility 5 (the space in which the lighting device 2b is installed) controlled by the changed control plan can be made the same as the target value.

[0086] As described above, the first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the lighting device 2b so that the brightness transition is as shown by the solid line in the polygonal line G1 from time t0 to time t22. The first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the lighting device 2b so that the brightness transition is as shown by the polygonal line G2 from time t22 to time t4.

[0087] FIG. 8 shows that a brightness change operation was performed by the remote controller 3b at time t25, i.e., during the fourth predetermined period. At time t25, the remote controller 3b sets a brightness Ub that is darker than the brightness U(t25) within the facility 5 (the space in which the lighting device 2b is installed) controlled under the original control plan. At this time, the control data includes the amount of change in brightness. The first processing unit 210 calculates the brightness Ub set by the remote controller 3b as a control value from the brightness U(t25) and the amount of change in brightness. Here, the brightness Ub is smaller (darker) than a predetermined lower limit.

[0088] The first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from time t25 onwards. At this time, the first processing unit 210 sets the brightness to be controlled by the control plan at time t25 using the following Equation 7. Here, as described above, the value "a" is a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, for example, "1".

[0089] [Formula 7] Uz(t25)=max(U(t25)+a·(Ub−U(t25)), lower limit)

[0090] Thereafter, for a time te from time t25 to time t24, the first processing unit 210 sets the brightness controlled by the control plan using Equation 6, in which time td is replaced by time te and time t22 is replaced by time t25. Here, b(t) is a time function, and as described above, outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1. Here, the time function b(t) outputs a value of "1" from time t25 to time t23, and outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1 from time t23 to time t24. For example, from time t23 to time t24, the value output by the time function b(t) decreases as time passes.

[0091] The change in brightness when the control plan is changed is represented by the polygonal line G5 in FIG. 8 . Because the value output by the time function b(t) is 1 from time t25 to time t23, the slope of the line segment G51 from time t25 to time t23, included in the polygonal line G5, is the same as the slope of the line segment G12. Furthermore, in this example, a portion of the line segment G51 is the same as the change in the lower limit value from time t21 to time t23. From time t23 to time t24, the time function b(t) outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, which decreases over time. As a result, the slope of the line segment L52 from time t23 to time t24, included in the polygonal line G5, is greater than the slope of the line segment G13. That is, at time t24 (when waking up), the brightness of the facility 5 (the space in which the lighting devices 2b are installed) controlled by the changed control plan can be made the same as the target value.

[0092] As described above, the first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the lighting device 2b so that the brightness transitions as shown by the solid line in the polygonal line G1 from time t0 to time t25. The first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the lighting device 2b so that the temperature transitions as shown by the polygonal line G5 from time t25 to time t4.

[0093] 9 shows that an operation to change the brightness was performed by the remote controller 3b at time t26, i.e., during the fourth predetermined period. At time t26, the remote controller 3b sets a brightness Uc that is brighter than the brightness U(t26) within the facility 5 (the space in which the lighting device 2b is installed) controlled under the original control plan. At this time, the control data includes the amount of change in brightness. The first processing unit 210 calculates the brightness Uc set by the remote controller 3b as a control value from the brightness U(t26) and the amount of change in brightness. Here, the brightness Uc is greater (brighter) than a predetermined upper limit value.

[0094] The first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from time t26 onwards. At this time, the first processing unit 210 sets the brightness controlled by the control plan at time t26 using the following mathematical formula 8. Here, the value "a" is, as described above, a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, for example, "1".

[0095] [Formula 8] Uz(t26)=min(U(t26)+a·(Uc−U(t26)), upper limit)

[0096] Thereafter, for time tf from time t26 to time t24, the first processing unit 210 sets the brightness controlled by the control plan using Equation 6, in which time td is replaced by time tf and time t22 is replaced by time t26. Here, b(t) is a time function, and as described above, outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1. Here, the time function b(t) outputs a value of "1" from time t26 to time t23, and outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1 from time t23 to time t24. For example, from time t23 to time t24, the value output by the time function b(t) decreases as time passes.

[0097] The change in brightness when the control plan is changed is represented by the polygonal line G6 in FIG. 9 . Because the value output by the time function b(t) is 1 from time t26 to time t23, the slope of the line segment G61 included in the polygonal line G6 from time t26 to time t23 is the same as the slope of the line segment G12. Furthermore, in this example, the line segment G61 is the same as the change in the upper limit value from time t21 to time t23. From time t23 to time t24, the line segment G61 outputs a value that is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, and decreases over time. As a result, the slope of the line segment G62 included in the polygonal line G6 from time t23 to time t24 is smaller than the slope of the line segment G13. That is, at time t24 (when waking up), the brightness of the facility 5 (the space in which the lighting device 2b is installed) controlled by the changed control plan can be made the same as the target value.

[0098] As described above, the first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the lighting device 2b so that the brightness transition is as shown by the solid line in the polygonal line G1 from time t0 to time t26. The first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the lighting device 2b so that the temperature transition is as shown by the polygonal line G6 from time t26 to time t24.

[0099] Next, a case where the control content represented by the control data transmitted from the repeater 11 represents a change in the color temperature of the lighting device 2b will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12. FIG.

[0100] 10 to 12 represent the transition of color temperature from bedtime to the wake-up target color temperature, which is included in the second operation schedule. The first processing unit 210 controls the color temperature of the lighting device 2b so that the color temperature reaches the color temperature target value V1 at wake-up (time t34).

[0101] Line segment P11 of broken line P1 represents the change in color temperature from bedtime until the fifth predetermined period has elapsed (until time t31). Line segment P12 represents the change in color temperature after the fifth period has elapsed until the sixth predetermined period has elapsed (until time t33). Line segment P13 represents the change in color temperature after the sixth predetermined period has elapsed until wake-up (until time t34). Furthermore, dashed line P3 shown in FIGS. 10 to 12 represents the change in the predetermined lower limit of color temperature. Dashed line P4 shown in FIGS. 10 to 12 represents the change in the predetermined upper limit of color temperature. Note that in FIGS. 10 to 12, the dashed lines of broken line P1 represent the change in color temperature when the control plan is not changed.

[0102] FIG. 10 shows that an operation to change the color temperature was performed by remote controller 3b at time t32, i.e., during the sixth predetermined period. At time t32, remote controller 3b sets a color temperature Va that is higher than the color temperature V(t32) of facility 5 (the space in which lighting device 2b is installed) controlled under the original control plan. At this time, the control data includes the amount of change in color temperature. The first processing unit 210 calculates the color temperature Va set by remote controller 3b as a control value from the color temperature V(t32) and the amount of change in color temperature. Here, color temperature Va is equal to or greater than a predetermined lower limit and equal to or less than a predetermined upper limit.

[0103] The first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from time t32 onwards. At this time, the first processing unit 210 sets the temperature to be controlled by the control plan at time t32 using the following Equation 9. Here, the value "a" is a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, for example, "1".

[0104] [Formula 9] Vz(t32)=V(t32)+a・(Va−V(t32))

[0105] Thereafter, for a time tg from time t32 to time t34, first processing unit 210 sets the color temperature controlled by the control plan using the following mathematical expression 10. Here, b(t) is a time function that outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1. Here, time function b(t) outputs a value of "1" from time t32 to time t33, and outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1 from time t33 to time t34. For example, from time t33 to time t34, the value output by time function b(t) decreases as time passes.

[0106] [Formula 10] Vd(tg)=V(tg)+b(tg)・(Vz(t32)−V(t32))

[0107] The transition of color temperature when the control plan is changed is represented by broken line P2 in FIG. 10 . Because the value output by the time function b(t) is 1 from time t32 to time t33, the slope of line segment P21 from time t32 to time t33, included in broken line P2, is the same as the slope of line segment P12. From time t33 to time t34, a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1 is output, which decreases over time. As a result, the slope of line segment P22 from time t33 to time t34, included in broken line P2, is smaller than the slope of line segment P13. That is, at time t24 (when waking up), the color temperature in facility 5 (the space in which lighting device 2b is installed) controlled by the changed control plan can be made the same as the target value.

[0108] As described above, the first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the lighting device 2b so that the color temperature transition is as shown by the solid line of the polygonal line P1 from time t0 to time t32. The first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the lighting device 2b so that the color temperature transition is as shown by the polygonal line P2 from time t32 to time t34.

[0109] 11 shows that an operation to change the color temperature was performed by remote controller 3b at time t35, i.e., during the sixth predetermined period. At time t35, remote controller 3b sets a color temperature Vb that is lower than the color temperature V(t35) of facility 5 (the space in which lighting device 2b is installed) controlled under the original control plan. At this time, the control data includes the amount of change in color temperature. The first processing unit 210 calculates the color temperature Vb set by remote controller 3b as a control value from the color temperature V(t35) and the amount of change in color temperature. Here, color temperature Vb is smaller (lower) than a predetermined lower limit.

[0110] The first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from time t35 onwards. At this time, the first processing unit 210 sets the color temperature controlled by the control plan at time t35 using the following Equation 11. Here, the value "a" is, as described above, a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, for example, "1".

[0111] [Formula 11] Vz(t35)=max(V(t35)+a·(Vb−V(t35)), lower limit)

[0112] Thereafter, for the time th from time t35 to time t34, the first processing unit 210 sets the temperature to be controlled by the control plan using Equation 10, in which time tg is replaced with time th and time t32 is replaced with time t35. Here, b(t) is a time function, and as described above, outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1. Here, the time function b(t) outputs a value of "1" from time t35 to time t33, and outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1 from time t33 to time t34. For example, from time t33 to time t34, the value output by the time function b(t) decreases as time passes.

[0113] The change in brightness when the control plan is changed is represented by the broken line P5 in FIG. 11 . Because the value output by the time function b(t) is 1 from time t35 to time t33, the slope of the line segment P51 from time t35 to time t33, included in the broken line P5, is the same as the slope of the line segment P12. Furthermore, in this example, the line segment P51 is the same as the change in the lower limit value from time t31 to time t33. From time t33 to time t34, the time function b(t) outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, which decreases over time. As a result, the slope of the line segment P52 from time t33 to time t34, included in the broken line P5, is greater than the slope of the line segment P13. That is, at time t34 (when waking up), the color temperature in the facility 5 (the space in which the lighting device 2b is installed) controlled by the changed control plan can be made the same as the target value.

[0114] As described above, the first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the lighting device 2b so that the color temperature transition is as shown by the solid line on the polygonal line P1 from time t0 to time t35. The first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the lighting device 2b so that the color temperature transition is as shown by the polygonal line P5 from time t35 to time t4.

[0115] 12 shows that an operation to change the color temperature was performed by the remote controller 3b at time t36, i.e., during the sixth predetermined period. At time t36, the remote controller 3b sets a color temperature Vc that is higher than the color temperature V(t36) of the facility 5 (the space in which the lighting device 2b is installed) controlled under the original control plan. At this time, the control data includes the amount of change in color temperature. The first processing unit 210 calculates the color temperature Vc set by the remote controller 3b as a control value from the color temperature V(t36) and the amount of change in color temperature. Here, the color temperature Vc is higher than a predetermined upper limit.

[0116] The first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from time t36 onwards. At this time, the first processing unit 210 sets the brightness to be controlled by the control plan at time t36 using the following formula 12. Here, the value "a" is, as described above, a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, for example, "1".

[0117] [Formula 12] Vz(t36)=min(V(t36)+a·(Vc−V(t36)), upper limit)

[0118] Thereafter, for time tj from time t36 to time t34, the first processing unit 210 sets the temperature to be controlled by the control plan using Equation 10, in which time tg is replaced by time tj and time t32 is replaced by time t36. Here, b(t) is a time function, and as described above, outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1. Here, the time function b(t) outputs a value of "1" from time t36 to time t33, and outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1 from time t33 to time t34. For example, from time t33 to time t34, the value output by the time function b(t) decreases as time passes.

[0119] The temperature transition when the control plan is changed is represented by the polygonal line P6 in FIG. 12 . Because the value output by the time function b(t) is 1 from time t36 to time t33, the slope of the line segment P61 from time t36 to time t33, included in the polygonal line P6, is the same as the slope of the line segment P12. Furthermore, in this example, the line segment P61 is the same as the transition of the upper limit value from time t31 to time t33. From time t33 to time t34, the time function b(t) outputs a value greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1, which decreases over time. As a result, the slope of the line segment P62 from time t33 to time t34, included in the polygonal line P6, is smaller than the slope of the line segment P13. That is, at time t24 (when waking up), the color temperature in the facility 5 (the space in which the lighting device 2b is installed) controlled by the changed control plan can be made the same as the target value.

[0120] As described above, the first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the lighting device 2b so that the color temperature transition is as shown by the solid line of the polygonal line P1 from time t0 to time t36. The first processing unit 210 controls the operation of the lighting device 2b so that the color temperature transition is as shown by the polygonal line P6 from time t36 to time t4.

[0121] As described above, when a control target device is controlled by the remote controller 3 while a control plan is being executed, the first processing unit 210 operates as follows.

[0122] When the control value based on the infrared signal (control signal) output from the remote controller 3 is smaller than a predetermined lower limit value, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from the lower limit value onwards after the control-target device is controlled by the remote controller 3. When the control value is larger than a predetermined upper limit value, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from the upper limit value onwards after the control-target device is controlled by the remote controller 3. When the control value is equal to or greater than the lower limit value and equal to or less than the upper limit value, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from the control value onwards after the control-target device is controlled by the remote controller.

[0123] When the second processing unit 211 receives control instruction information representing a control instruction for the control-target device from the information terminal 30, it controls the control-target device via the network NT1 based on the received control instruction information.

[0124] When the electric appliance 2 is controlled based on the control plan, the second processing unit 211 may receive control instruction information for the electric appliance 2 from the information terminal 30. In this case, after the second processing unit 211 controls the electric appliance 2 (control target device) based on the control instruction information, the first processing unit 210 may change the control plan based on the control instruction information in the same manner as described above.

[0125] (3) Operation Here, the operation of the relay device 11 and the server 20 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0126] (3.1) Registration Process Here, the registration process performed by the repeater 11 when the operation mode of the repeater 11 is the registration mode will be described with reference to FIG.

[0127] The learning unit 113 acquires, as learning content, a control pattern to be registered from the information terminal 30 (step S1).

[0128] The signal acquisition unit 110 acquires the infrared signal (control signal) output by the remote controller 3 (step S2).

[0129] The learning unit 113 performs a storage process (step S3). Specifically, the learning unit 113 associates the infrared signal (control signal) acquired by the signal acquisition unit 110 with the acquired learning content and stores the associated information in a control correspondence table. Furthermore, the learning unit 113 stores control data corresponding to the acquired learning content (control pattern) in the control correspondence table, associating the control data with the control pattern.

[0130] (3.2) Relay Processing Here, the relay processing performed by the repeater 11 when the operation mode of the repeater 11 is the normal mode will be described with reference to FIG.

[0131] The signal acquisition unit 110 acquires an infrared signal (control signal) transmitted from the remote controller 3 to the device to be controlled (step S11).

[0132] The converter 111 performs a conversion process (step S12). The converter 111 converts the control signal into control data. Specifically, the converter 111 converts the control signal into control data that represents a control pattern corresponding to the control signal. More specifically, the converter 111 identifies the control pattern corresponding to the control signal using a control correspondence table, which is a table that associates multiple control patterns with multiple pattern signals. Furthermore, the converter 111 uses the control correspondence table to acquire control data that corresponds to the identified control pattern from the multiple control data.

[0133] The data transmitting unit 112 performs a transmission process (step S13). The data transmitting unit 112 transmits control data based on the infrared signal (control signal) acquired by the signal acquiring unit 110 to the server 20 via the network NT1. Specifically, the data transmitting unit 112 transmits the control data converted by the converting unit 111 to the server 20. More specifically, the data transmitting unit 112 transmits the control data acquired by the converting unit 111 using the control correspondence table to the server 20.

[0134] (3.3) First Control Plan Change Processing Here, the first control plan change processing in which the server 20 changes the control plan when the air conditioning equipment 2a is being controlled based on a control plan will be described with reference to FIG.

[0135] The first processing unit 210 determines whether the control data received from the repeater 11 includes an OFF operation (step S51).

[0136] When it is determined that the control data includes an OFF operation ("Yes" in step S51), the first processing unit 210 stops the control of the air conditioning equipment 2a according to the control plan (step S52).

[0137] If it is determined that the control data does not include an OFF operation ("No" in step S51), it is determined whether the control data represents a change in the set temperature (step S53).

[0138] If the first processing unit 210 determines that the control data does not represent a change in the set temperature ("No" in step S53), the processing ends.

[0139] If it is determined that the control data represents a change in the set temperature ("Yes" in step S53), the first processing unit 210 determines whether the temperature (set temperature) set by the remote controller 3a is smaller (lower) than a predetermined lower limit temperature (step S54).

[0140] If it is determined that the set temperature is not lower (not lower) than the predetermined lower limit temperature ("No" in step S54), the first processing unit 210 determines whether the set temperature is higher (or greater) than the predetermined upper limit temperature (step S55).

[0141] If the first processing unit 210 determines that the set temperature is not greater (higher) than the predetermined upper limit of the temperature ("No" in step S55), the first processing unit 210 performs a first air conditioning control process (step S56). Specifically, the first processing unit 210 uses Equation 1 to set the temperature to be controlled according to the control plan at the time the remote controller 3a is operated. Thereafter, the first processing unit 210 executes the control plan up to the end time of the control plan (here, the wake-up time) using Equation 2. That is, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan using Equation 2. Here, when setting the temperature using Equation 1, if the variable "a" is "1," the set temperature is the same as the set temperature. In this case, in step S56, if the control value (set temperature) based on the control signal is equal to or greater than the lower limit of the temperature and equal to or less than the upper limit of the temperature, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from the control value onward after the air conditioning equipment 2a, the controlled equipment, is controlled by the remote controller 3a.

[0142] If the first processing unit 210 determines that the set temperature is smaller (lower) than the predetermined lower limit temperature ("Yes" in step S54), the first processing unit 210 performs a second air conditioning control process (step S57). Specifically, the first processing unit 210 uses Equation 3 to set the temperature to be controlled according to the control plan at the time the remote controller 3a is operated. Thereafter, the first processing unit 210 executes the control plan up to the end time of the control plan (here, the wake-up time) using Equation 2. That is, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan using Equation 2. Here, when setting the temperature using Equation 3, if the variable "a" is "1," the set temperature is the lower limit temperature. In this case, in step S57, if the control value (set temperature) based on the control signal is smaller than the lower limit temperature, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from the lower limit temperature onward after the remote controller 3a has controlled the air conditioning equipment 2a, which is the controlled device, to the control plan.

[0143] If the first processing unit 210 determines that the set temperature is greater (higher) than the predetermined upper limit of the temperature ("Yes" in step S55), the first processing unit 210 performs a third air conditioning control process (step S58). Specifically, the first processing unit 210 uses Equation 4 to set the temperature to be controlled according to the control plan at the time the remote controller 3a is operated. Thereafter, the first processing unit 210 executes the control plan up to the end time of the control plan (here, the wake-up time) using Equation 2. That is, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan using Equation 2. When setting the temperature using Equation 4, if the variable "a" is "1," the set temperature is the upper limit of the temperature. In this case, in step S58, if the control value (set temperature) based on the control signal is greater than the upper limit of the temperature, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from the upper limit of the temperature onward after the remote controller 3a has controlled the air conditioning equipment 2a, which is the controlled device.

[0144] (3.4) Second Control Plan Change Processing Here, a second control plan change processing in which the server 20 changes the control plan when the lighting device 2b is being controlled based on a control plan will be described with reference to FIG. 16 .

[0145] The first processing unit 210 determines whether the control data received from the repeater 11 includes an OFF operation (step S101).

[0146] When determining that the control data includes an OFF operation ("Yes" in step S101), the first processing unit 210 stops the control of the lighting device 2b according to the control plan (step S102).

[0147] If it is determined that the control data does not include an OFF operation ("No" in step S102), it is determined whether the control data represents a change in brightness (step S103).

[0148] When it is determined that the control data represents a change in brightness ("Yes" in step S103), the first processing unit 210 performs a first control process (step S104).

[0149] When it is determined that the control data does not represent a change in brightness ("No" in step S103), the first processing unit 210 determines whether the control data represents a change in color temperature (step S105).

[0150] When it is determined that the control data represents a change in color temperature ("Yes" in step S105), the first processing unit 210 performs a second control process (step S106).

[0151] If the first processing unit 210 determines that the control data does not represent a change in color temperature ("No" in step S105), the processing ends.

[0152] (3.5) First Control Process Here, the first control process performed in step S104 shown in FIG. 16 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0153] The first processing unit 210 determines whether the brightness (setting value) set by the remote controller 3b is smaller (darker) than a predetermined lower limit of brightness (step S151).

[0154] If it is determined that the set value is not smaller than the predetermined lower limit of brightness (not dark) ("No" in step S151), the first processing unit 210 determines whether the set value is larger than the predetermined upper limit of brightness (bright) (step S152).

[0155] If the first processing unit 210 determines that the set value is not greater than the predetermined upper limit of brightness (is not bright) ("No" in step S152), the first processing unit 210 performs a first lighting control process (step S153). Specifically, the first processing unit 210 sets the brightness to be controlled by the control plan at the time the remote controller 3b is operated using Equation 5. Thereafter, the first processing unit 210 executes the control plan up to the end time of the control plan (here, the wake-up time) using Equation 6. That is, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan using Equation 6. Here, when setting brightness using Equation 5, if the variable "a" is "1," the set brightness is the same as the set value. In this case, in step S153, if the control value (set value) based on the control signal is equal to or greater than the lower limit of brightness and equal to or less than the upper limit of brightness, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from the control value onward after the remote controller 3b has controlled the lighting device 2b, which is the control target device.

[0156] If the first processing unit 210 determines that the set value is smaller (darker) than the predetermined lower limit of brightness ("Yes" in step S151), the first processing unit 210 performs a second lighting control process (step S154). Specifically, the first processing unit 210 sets the temperature to be controlled by the control plan at the time the remote controller 3b is operated using Equation 7. Thereafter, the first processing unit 210 executes the control plan up to the end time of the control plan (here, the wake-up time) using Equation 6. That is, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan using Equation 6. When setting brightness using Equation 7, if the variable "a" is "1," the set brightness is the lower limit of brightness. In this case, in step S154, if the control value (set value) based on the control signal is smaller than the lower limit of brightness, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from the lower limit of brightness onward after the remote controller 3b has controlled the lighting device 2b, which is the controlled device.

[0157] If the first processing unit 210 determines that the set value is greater than the predetermined upper limit of brightness (i.e., brighter) ("Yes" in step S152), the first processing unit 210 performs a third lighting control process (step S155). Specifically, the first processing unit 210 sets the brightness to be controlled by the control plan at the time the remote controller 3b is operated using Equation 8. Thereafter, the first processing unit 210 executes the control plan up to the end time of the control plan (here, the wake-up time) using Equation 6. That is, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan using Equation 6. When setting brightness using Equation 8, if the variable "a" is "1," the set brightness is the upper limit of brightness. In this case, in step S155, if the control value (set value) based on the control signal is greater than the upper limit of brightness, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from the upper limit of brightness onward after the remote controller 3b has controlled the lighting device 2b, which is the control target device.

[0158] (3.6) Second Control Processing Here, the second control processing performed in step S106 shown in FIG. 16 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0159] The first processing unit 210 determines whether the color temperature (color temperature setting value) set by the remote controller 3b is smaller (lower) than a predetermined lower limit value of the color temperature (step S201).

[0160] If it is determined that the color temperature setting value is not smaller (lower) than the predetermined lower limit of the color temperature ("No" in step S201), the first processing unit 210 determines whether the color temperature setting value is greater (higher) than the predetermined upper limit of the color temperature (step S202).

[0161] If it is determined that the color temperature setting value is not greater (higher) than the predetermined upper limit of the color temperature ("No" in step S202), the first processing unit 210 performs a fourth lighting control process (step S203). Specifically, the first processing unit 210 sets the color temperature to be controlled by the control plan at the time the remote controller 3b is operated using Equation 9. Thereafter, the first processing unit 210 executes the control plan up to the end time of the control plan (here, the wake-up time) using Equation 10. That is, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan using Equation 10. Here, when setting the color temperature using Equation 9, if the variable "a" is "1," the set color temperature is the same as the color temperature setting value. At this time, in step S203, if the control value (color temperature setting value) is equal to or greater than the lower limit of the color temperature and equal to or less than the upper limit of the color temperature, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from the control value onwards, after the lighting device 2b, which is the control target device, is controlled by the remote controller 3b.

[0162] If it is determined that the color temperature setting value is smaller (lower) than the predetermined lower limit of the color temperature ("Yes" in step S201), the first processing unit 210 performs a fifth lighting control process (step S204). Specifically, the first processing unit 210 sets the color temperature to be controlled by the control plan at the time the remote controller 3b is operated using Equation 11. Thereafter, the first processing unit 210 executes the control plan up to the end time of the control plan (here, the wake-up time) using Equation 10. That is, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan using Equation 10. Here, when setting the color temperature using Equation 11, if the variable "a" is "1," the set color temperature is the lower limit of the color temperature. At this time, in step S204, if the control value (color temperature setting value) based on the control signal is smaller than the lower limit value of the color temperature, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan for the lighting device 2b, which is the control target device, controlled by the remote controller 3b, starting from the lower limit value of the color temperature.

[0163] If the first processing unit 210 determines that the color temperature setting is greater (higher) than the predetermined upper limit of the color temperature ("Yes" in step S202), the first processing unit 210 performs a sixth lighting control process (step S205). Specifically, the first processing unit 210 sets the brightness to be controlled by the control plan at the time the remote controller 3b is operated using Equation 12. Thereafter, the first processing unit 210 executes the control plan up to the end time of the control plan (here, the wake-up time) using Equation 10. That is, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan using Equation 10. When setting the color temperature using Equation 12, if the variable "a" is "1," the set color temperature is the upper limit of the color temperature. In this case, in step S205, if the control value (color temperature setting) based on the control signal is greater than the upper limit of the color temperature, the first processing unit 210 changes the control plan from the upper limit of the color temperature onward after the remote controller 3b has controlled the lighting device 2b, which is the controlled device.

[0164] (4) Advantages As described above, the relay system 10 in this embodiment includes the signal acquisition unit 110 and the data transmission unit 112. The signal acquisition unit 110 acquires a control signal transmitted from the infrared remote controller 3 to the control target device (electrical device 2). The data transmission unit 112 transmits control data based on the control signal acquired by the signal acquisition unit 110 to the server 20 configured to be able to control the control target device via the network NT1.

[0165] According to this configuration, when the control target device (electrical device 2) is controlled by the remote controller 3, the server 20 can recognize the control content by the remote controller 3.

[0166] (5) Modifications Modifications are listed below. The modifications described below can be applied in appropriate combination with the above-described embodiment.

[0167] (5.1) Modification 1 The value set for the variable “a” included in Equations 1, 3, and 4 may be determined based on the temperature change operation. For example, if the frequency of the temperature change operation is low, the value set for the variable “a” is set to a value smaller than 1.

[0168] The value set for the variable “a” included in Equations 5, 7, and 8 may be determined based on the brightness change operation. For example, if the brightness change operation is performed infrequently, the value set for the variable “a” is set to a value smaller than 1.

[0169] The value set for the variable "a" included in Equations 9, 11, and 12 may be determined based on the operation of changing the color temperature. For example, if the frequency of the operation of changing the color temperature is low, the value set for the variable "a" is set to a value smaller than 1.

[0170] (5.2) Modification 2 Although the repeater 11 and the transmitter 12 are configured as separate entities, the present invention is not limited to this configuration.

[0171] The repeater 11 and the transmitter 12 may be configured in the same housing.

[0172] (Other Modifications) The above embodiment is merely one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. The above embodiment can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. Furthermore, functions similar to those of the relay system 10 may be embodied as a relay method, a computer program, a non-transitory recording medium on which a program is recorded, or the like. A relay method for the relay system 10 according to one aspect includes a signal acquisition step and a data transmission step. The signal acquisition step acquires a control signal transmitted from the infrared remote controller 3 to a control target device. The data transmission step transmits control data based on the control signal acquired in the signal acquisition step to a server 20 configured to be able to control the control target device via the network NT1. A program according to one aspect is a program for causing a computer system to function as the above-described relay system 10 or a relay method for the relay system 10.

[0173] The relay system 10 or the relay method of the relay system 10 according to the present disclosure includes a computer system. The computer system has a processor and memory as hardware. The processor executes a program stored in the memory of the computer system to realize the functions of the relay system 10 or the relay method of the relay system 10 according to the present disclosure. The program may be pre-stored in the memory of the computer system or provided via a telecommunications line. The program may also be provided by being recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive that is readable by the computer system. The processor of the computer system is composed of one or more electronic circuits, including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI). The integrated circuits, such as ICs and LSIs, are referred to by different names depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, very large-scale integration (VLSI), or ultra-large-scale integration (ULSI). Furthermore, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) that is programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or a logic device that allows the reconfiguration of the connections within the LSI or the reconfiguration of the circuit partitions within the LSI, can also be employed as a processor. Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated into a single chip or distributed across multiple chips. Multiple chips may be integrated into a single device or distributed across multiple devices.

[0174] Furthermore, it is not essential for the relay system 10 that multiple functions of the relay system 10 are concentrated in one housing, and the components of the relay system 10 may be distributed across multiple housings. Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the relay system 10 may be realized by the cloud (cloud computing) or the like.

[0175] Furthermore, functions similar to those of the device control system 1 may be embodied as a device control method, a computer program, or a non-transitory recording medium on which a program is recorded. The device control method of the device control system 1 according to one aspect includes a control step. When the control target device is controlled by the infrared remote controller 3 while the control target device is being controlled based on the control plan, the control step changes the control plan and controls the control target device based on the control of the control target device by the infrared remote controller 3. The program according to one aspect is a program for causing a computer system to function as the above-described device control system 1 or the device control method of the device control system 1.

[0176] The device control system 1 or the device control method of the device control system 1 according to the present disclosure includes a computer system. The computer system has a processor and memory as hardware. The processor executes a program stored in the memory of the computer system to realize the functions of the device control system 1 or the device control method of the device control system 1 according to the present disclosure. The program may be pre-stored in the memory of the computer system or provided via a telecommunications line. The program may also be provided by being recorded on a non-transitory recording medium readable by the computer system, such as a memory card, an optical disk, or a hard disk drive. The processor of the computer system is composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI). The integrated circuits, such as ICs or LSIs, are referred to by different names depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, VLSIs, or ULSIs. Furthermore, FPGAs, which are programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or logic devices capable of reconfiguring the connections within the LSI or the circuit partitions within the LSI can also be used as processors. The electronic circuits may be integrated into one chip or may be distributed across multiple chips, and the chips may be integrated into one device or may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0177] Furthermore, it is not essential for the device control system 1 that multiple functions are concentrated in one housing, and the components of the device control system 1 may be distributed across multiple housings. Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the device control system 1 may be realized by the cloud (cloud computing) or the like.

[0178] (Summary) As described above, the relay system (10) of the first aspect includes a signal acquisition unit (110) and a data transmission unit (112). The signal acquisition unit (110) acquires a control signal transmitted from the infrared remote controller (3) to a control target device. The data transmission unit (112) transmits control data based on the control signal acquired by the signal acquisition unit (110) to a server (20) configured to be able to control the control target device via a network (NT1).

[0179] According to this embodiment, when the control target device (electrical device 2) is controlled by the remote controller (3), the server (20) can recognize the control content by the remote controller (3).

[0180] The relay system (10) of the second aspect is the same as the relay system (10) of the first aspect, but further includes a conversion unit (111). The conversion unit (111) converts the control signal into control data. The data transmission unit (112) transmits the control data converted by the conversion unit (111) to the server (20).

[0181] According to this embodiment, the server (20) can recognize the control contents by the remote controller (3).

[0182] In the relay system (10) of the third aspect, in the second aspect, the infrared remote controller (3) transmits, as a control signal, a pattern signal corresponding to a user's operation from among a plurality of pattern signals corresponding to each of a plurality of control patterns that can be used to control the control target device, and the conversion unit (111) converts the control signal into control data representing the control pattern corresponding to the control signal.

[0183] According to this aspect, the control signal can be converted into control data that represents a control pattern according to the control signal.

[0184] In the relay system (10) of the fourth aspect, in the third aspect, the conversion unit (111) identifies a control pattern corresponding to a control signal by using a table in which a plurality of control patterns are associated with a plurality of pattern signals.

[0185] According to this aspect, the control pattern corresponding to the control signal can be easily identified.

[0186] In the relay system (10) of the fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the table further associates a plurality of pieces of the control data with a plurality of control patterns, and the conversion unit (111) uses the table to acquire the control data corresponding to the specified control pattern from among the plurality of pieces of control data.

[0187] According to this embodiment, the control data corresponding to the control pattern can be easily acquired.

[0188] A sixth aspect of the device control system (1) includes the relay system (10) of any one of the first to fifth aspects and a server (20). The server (20) controls the control target devices based on a control plan.

[0189] According to this embodiment, when the control target device (electrical device 2) is controlled by the remote controller (3), the server (20) can recognize the control content by the remote controller (3).

[0190] In the seventh aspect of the equipment control system (1), in the sixth aspect, when the server (20) is controlling the control target equipment based on the control plan, if the server (20) receives control data corresponding to the control target equipment from the relay system (10), the server (20) changes the control plan based on the control data.

[0191] According to this aspect, the control plan can be changed depending on the control content by the remote controller 3. Therefore, even if the control target device (electrical device 2) is controlled by the remote controller 3 while the control plan is being executed, the control target device can be appropriately controlled by changing the subsequent control plan.

[0192] An eighth aspect of the present invention provides a device control method for use in a device control system. The device control method includes a control step in which, if the control-target device is controlled by an infrared remote controller (3) while the control-target device is being controlled based on a control plan, the control step modifies the control plan and controls the control-target device based on the content of the control of the control-target device by the infrared remote controller (3).

[0193] According to this aspect, when the electric appliance (2) is controlled by the remote controller (3), the server (20) can recognize the control content by the remote controller (3), and can change the control plan according to the control content by the remote controller (3). Therefore, even if the control target appliance (electric appliance 2) is controlled by the remote controller (3) while the control plan is being executed, the control target appliance can be appropriately controlled by changing the subsequent control plan.

[0194] As described above, it is desirable to be able to control electrical appliances from a remote controller and from a server via a network without using the remote control priority mode or a mode that disables the remote control priority mode. However, if an electrical appliance is controlled from a remote controller while the server is controlling the electrical appliance, the server will control the electrical appliance without recognizing the control content from the remote controller. As a result, the server may not be able to properly control the electrical appliance.

[0195] On the other hand, in the present disclosure, the server can recognize the control content performed by the remote controller 3. Therefore, according to the eighth aspect, the server changes the control plan after recognizing the control content performed by the remote controller 3, so that the controlled device can be appropriately controlled.

[0196] In a ninth aspect of the device control method, in the eighth aspect, an infrared remote controller (3) transmits a control signal to a control target device as the content of control for the control target device. In the control step, if a control value based on the control signal is smaller than a predetermined lower limit value, the control plan after the control target device is controlled by the infrared remote controller (3) is changed starting from the lower limit value. In the control step, if the control value is larger than a predetermined upper limit value, the control plan after the control target device is controlled by the infrared remote controller (3) is changed starting from the upper limit value. In the control step, if the control value is equal to or greater than the lower limit value and equal to or less than the upper limit value, the control plan after the control target device is controlled by the infrared remote controller (3) is changed starting from the control value.

[0197] According to this embodiment, it is possible to more appropriately control the controlled device.

[0198] A program according to a tenth aspect is a program that causes a computer to execute the device control method according to the eighth aspect.

[0199] According to this aspect, when the electric device (2) is controlled by the remote controller (3), the server (20) can recognize the control content by the remote controller (3), and can change the control plan according to the control content by the remote controller (3). In other words, since the control plan is changed after recognizing the control content performed by the remote controller (3), the controlled device can be controlled appropriately.

[0200] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Device control system 2 Electrical device (controlled device) 2a Air conditioning device 2b Lighting device 3, 3a, 3b Infrared remote controller (remote controller) 10 Relay system 11 Relay 20 Server 110 Signal acquisition unit 111 Conversion unit 112 Data transmission unit

Claims

1. A device control system comprising a relay system and a server that controls control target devices based on a control plan, The relay system includes: a signal acquisition unit that acquires a control signal transmitted from an infrared remote controller to the control target device in order to control the control target device; a data transmission unit that transmits control data based on the control signal acquired by the signal acquisition unit to a server configured to be able to control the control target device via a network, When the control target device receives the control signal, the signal acquisition unit acquires the control signal; the control plan is an operation schedule for controlling the control-target device during a predetermined period so that, when the control-target device is operated during the predetermined period, an environment of a space in which the control-target device is installed becomes an environment corresponding to a target value at the end of the predetermined period; When the server receives the control data corresponding to the control-target device from the relay system while controlling the control-target device based on the control plan, the server changes the operation schedule, which is the control plan, based on the control data, and controls the operation of the control-target device in accordance with the changed operation schedule. Equipment control system.

2. The relay system comprises: a conversion unit that converts the control signal into the control data; the data transmission unit transmits the control data converted by the conversion unit to the server. The equipment control system according to claim 1 .

3. the infrared remote controller transmits, as the control signal, a pattern signal corresponding to a user's operation among a plurality of pattern signals corresponding to a plurality of control patterns that can be used to control the control target device; The conversion unit converts the control signal into the control data representing a control pattern corresponding to the control signal. The equipment control system according to claim 2 .

4. the conversion unit identifies a control pattern corresponding to the control signal using a table in which the plurality of control patterns are associated with the plurality of pattern signals, respectively. The equipment control system according to claim 3 .

5. In the table, the control patterns are further associated with a plurality of pieces of the control data, the conversion unit uses the table to acquire control data corresponding to the specified control pattern from among the plurality of control data. The equipment control system according to claim 4 .

6. A device control method used in a device control system including a relay system and a server that controls control target devices based on a control plan, comprising: a signal acquisition step in which the relay system acquires a control signal transmitted from an infrared remote controller to the control-target device in order to control the control-target device; a data transmitting step in which the relay system transmits control data based on the control signal acquired in the signal acquiring step to a server configured to be able to control the control target device via a network; a control step in which the server controls the control-target device based on a control plan, When the control target device receives the control signal, the control signal is acquired in the signal acquisition step; the control plan is an operation schedule for controlling the control-target device during a predetermined period so that, when the control-target device is operated during the predetermined period, an environment of a space in which the control-target device is installed becomes an environment corresponding to a target value at the end of the predetermined period; In the control step, if the control target device is controlled by an infrared remote controller while the control target device is being controlled based on the control plan, the control plan is changed based on the content of the control of the control target device by the infrared remote controller, and the control target device is controlled based on the changed operation schedule. Equipment control methods.

7. The infrared remote controller transmits a control signal to the control target device as the content of control for the control target device, In the control step, If the control value based on the control signal is smaller than a predetermined lower limit value, the control plan is changed from the lower limit value as a starting point to the control of the control target device by the infrared remote controller; If the control value is greater than a predetermined upper limit value, the control plan is changed from the upper limit value as a starting point to be used after the control target device has been controlled by the infrared remote controller; When the control value is equal to or greater than the lower limit value and equal to or less than the upper limit value, the control plan is changed from the control value as a starting point after the control target device has been controlled by the infrared remote controller. The device control method according to claim 6.

8. A program that causes a computer to execute the device control method described in claim 6 or 7.