System and method

Abstract

A system according to the present disclosure: receives, on architectural drawing data of a prescribed building, an input of a layout of logical devices and an input of intended uses from a first terminal; registers the placement positions and operation settings of the logical devices on the basis of the architectural drawing data with which the layout and intended uses of the logical devices are associated; receives, from a second terminal, identification information of physical devices scheduled to be installed in the building and identification information of hubs scheduled to be installed in the building, wherein labels capable of identifying the identification information of the physical devices are attached to the physical devices, and labels capable of identifying the identification information of the hubs are attached to the hubs; registers the identification information of the physical devices and the identification information of the hubs and furthermore pairs the physical devices and the hubs; displays, on a third terminal, a floor plan image of the building representing the placement positions of the logical devices, after the physical devices and the hubs are installed in the building; when a placement position in the floor plan image is specified via the third terminal, displays, on the third terminal, a request for the physical device or hub installed at the placement position; and associates identification information read from the physical device or hub by the third terminal in response to the request with a logical device placed on the floor plan image.

Description

Systems and methods

[0001] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods.

[0002] There is technology that makes it easy to introduce smart home devices into large buildings with multiple rooms with similar layouts.

[0003] The technology of Patent Document 1 aims to speed up the commissioning process, which is the process of associating the physical location of installed building technology equipment with a logical address. Specifically, Patent Document 1 relates to the commissioning of lighting, sensors, actuators, and control networks, and describes software that can create reference copies of planned logical equipment and logical functions for overlapping sections in large buildings or complexes without directly binding them to physical equipment.

[0004] US Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0250575

[0005] While Patent Literature 1 aims to expedite the commissioning process for buildings with overlapping sections, there is a need to further reduce the amount of work required for the series of tasks from the design stage of a property where smart home devices are to be installed, to installation, setup, and operational verification.

[0006] The purpose of the present disclosure is to reduce the costs and effort involved in a series of tasks, from the design stage of a property where smart home devices will be installed, to installation, configuration, and operation verification.

[0007] A system having one or more information processing devices, wherein the one or more information processing devices have a processing circuitry, the processing circuitry receives from a first terminal an input of a layout of logical devices and an input of a use purpose on architectural drawing data of a predetermined building, registers a layout position of the logical devices and an operating setting based on the architectural drawing data in which the layout of the logical devices and the use purpose are associated, receives from a second terminal identification information of physical devices to be attached to the building and identification information of hubs to be attached to the building, the physical devices are provided with labels that allow identification information of the physical devices to be identified, and the hubs are provided with a label that allows identification information of the hubs to be identified. and registering identification information of the physical device and identification information of the hub, each of which is given a label that allows identification information to be identified separately, and pairing the physical device with the hub; after the physical device and the hub are installed in the building, displaying on a third terminal a floor plan image of the building showing the placement position of the logical device; when the placement position is specified on the floor plan image via the third terminal, displaying on the third terminal a request for the physical device or hub installed in that placement position; and associating identification information read from the physical device or hub by the third terminal in response to the request with the logical device placed on the floor plan image.

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to reduce the costs and effort involved in a series of tasks from the design stage of a property where smart home devices will be installed, to installation, configuration, and operation verification.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the system 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first terminal device 10 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the second terminal device 30 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the third terminal device 40 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the server 20 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the data structure of a floor plan table 2021. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the data structure of a logical device table 2022. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the data structure of a physical device table 2023. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the data structure of a hub management table 2024. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the data structure of a dwelling unit table 2025. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the data structure of a correspondence table 2026. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the overall processing flow according to the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the first terminal device 10 and the server 20 when generating logical device registration information. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the server 20 and the second terminal device 30 when performing a process of pairing a physical device with a hub. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the third terminal device 40 and the server 20 when associating a physical device actually installed in a dwelling unit with a logical device arranged on the dwelling unit's floor plan data. FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of information about a dwelling unit included in a building specified by a third user, displayed on the third terminal device 40. FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the third terminal device 40, showing a floor plan and a list of logical devices. FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the third terminal device 40 for receiving an instruction to verify the operation of associated physical devices. FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of a computer 90.

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals. The names and functions of the components are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated.

[0011] <Overview> The system according to this embodiment is a technology related to a device setup framework. During the design stage, the system accepts placement specifications for logical devices on architectural drawing data for a building and sets the placement and usage of the logical devices. Before shipping the physical devices to the building, the system registers the physical devices to be installed in the building and performs pairing between the physical devices. After the physical devices are installed in the building, the system associates the physical devices actually installed in the building with the logical devices placed in the architectural drawing data. This reduces the cost and effort required to introduce smart home devices into a building.

[0012] In this embodiment, the physical devices represent physically existing devices, such as lighting fixtures, sensors, controllers, actuators, switches, and hubs, that may be installed in a smart home. In other words, the physical devices are so-called smart home appliances, each having a unique network address, such as an IP address or a MAC address. The physical devices may also be compatible with short-range wireless communication, such as ZigBee (registered trademark). In this embodiment, the hub represents, for example, a device that manages multiple physical devices connected to a network. The hub, for example, accepts user operations and controls the corresponding physical devices in accordance with the accepted operations. The hub, for example, receives specified data from physical devices and controls the corresponding physical devices based on the received data. In this embodiment, the logical device represents an independent device recognized by a program. The logical device is virtually placed on architectural drawing data of a building, simulating the layout of the physical devices. In this embodiment, the architectural drawing data of a building is, for example, data used when constructing a building. The architectural drawing data is realized, for example, using 3D CAD data, BIM (Building Information Modeling) data, or the like. In the following description, architectural drawing data for a building may be simply referred to as drawing data.

[0013] <1. Overall System Configuration Diagram> Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a system 1. The system 1 shown in Fig. 1 includes, for example, a first terminal device 10, a server 20, a second terminal device 30, and a third terminal device 40. The first terminal device 10, the server 20, the second terminal device 30, and the third terminal device 40 are connected for communication via, for example, a network 80.

[0014] In this embodiment, the number of each of the first terminal device 10, the second terminal device 30, and the third terminal device 40 included in the system 1 may be one or more. Furthermore, one terminal device may realize the functions of at least two of the first terminal device 10, the second terminal device 30, and the third terminal device 40.

[0015] In this embodiment, a collection of multiple devices may be considered as one server. The allocation of multiple functions required to realize the server 20 according to this embodiment to one or more pieces of hardware can be determined appropriately in consideration of the processing capacity of each piece of hardware and / or the specifications required for the server 20.

[0016] The first terminal device 10 shown in FIG. 1 is an information processing device operated by, for example, a staff member when determining the placement and configuration of physical devices within a building. The first terminal device 10, for example, determines the placement of physical devices by placing logical devices on architectural drawing data of a building in response to operations from the staff member. The first terminal device 10 also sets the intended use of the logical devices placed on the architectural drawing data in response to operations from the staff member. In this embodiment, physical devices installed in a smart home automatically operate based on the results of sensing the resident or the environment using sensors, for example, without requiring operations from the resident. Setting the intended use in this embodiment refers to, for example, setting how the physical devices will operate and what the ambience within the building will be.

[0017] The first terminal device 10 is realized by, for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet. The first terminal device 10 may be a desktop personal computer (PC) or a laptop PC. The first terminal device 10 may also be a wearable terminal such as a head mounted display (HMD) or a wristwatch terminal.

[0018] The first terminal device 10 includes a communication IF (Interface) 12, an input device 13, an output device 14, a memory 15, a storage 16, and a processor 19. The input device 13 is a device for receiving input operations from a user (e.g., a touch panel, a touch pad, a pointing device such as a mouse, a keyboard, etc.). The output device 14 is a device for presenting information to the user (e.g., a display, a speaker, etc.).

[0019] The second terminal device 30 shown in FIG. 1 is an information processing device operated by a staff member when pairing physical devices to be installed in a building before the devices are shipped to the building. For example, the second terminal device 30 acquires information about the physical devices to be installed in the building in response to an operation by the staff member, performs predetermined processing, and sets up pairing between the physical devices. The second terminal device 30 is realized, for example, by a desktop personal computer (PC) or a laptop PC. The first terminal device 10 may be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet. The second terminal device 30 may be a wearable terminal such as a head-mounted display (HMD) or a wristwatch-type terminal.

[0020] The third terminal device 40 shown in FIG. 1 is an information processing device operated by a staff member when associating physical equipment actually installed in a building with virtually arranged logical equipment. For example, the third terminal device 40 associates physical equipment installed in a building with logical equipment set in architectural drawing data in response to operations by the staff member. Furthermore, for example, the third terminal device 40 tests whether the associated physical equipment operates normally in response to operations by the staff member. The third terminal device 40 is realized by, for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or tablet. The third terminal device 40 may be a desktop personal computer (PC) or a laptop PC. The third terminal device 40 may also be a wearable terminal such as a head-mounted display (HMD) or a wristwatch-type terminal.

[0021] The server 20 shown in FIG. 1 is an information processing device that accepts connections from the first terminal device 10, the second terminal device 30, the third terminal device 40, and predetermined physical devices, and executes processing requested by each device.

[0022] The server 20 is, for example, an information processing device realized by a computer connected to the network 80. As shown in Fig. 1, the server 20 includes a communication IF 22, an input / output IF 23, a memory 25, a storage 26, and a processor 29. The processor 29 is an example of a processing circuitry. The input / output IF 23 functions as an input device for receiving input operations from a user and as an interface with an output device for outputting information to the user.

[0023] Each information processing device is configured by a computer equipped with an arithmetic unit and a storage device. The basic hardware configuration of the computer and the basic functional configuration of the computer realized by the hardware configuration will be described later. For each of the first terminal device 10, the server 20, the second terminal device 30, and the third terminal device 40, descriptions that overlap with the basic hardware configuration and basic functional configuration of the computer will be omitted.

[0024] <1.1 Configuration of First Terminal Device> Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the first terminal device 10 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the first terminal device 10 includes a communication unit 120, an input device 13, an output device 14, an audio processing unit 17, a microphone 171, a speaker 172, a camera 160, a position information sensor 150, a storage unit 180, and a control unit 190. The blocks included in the first terminal device 10 are electrically connected by, for example, a bus or the like.

[0025] The communication unit 120 performs processing such as modulation and demodulation for the first terminal device 10 to communicate with other devices. The communication unit 120 performs transmission processing on signals generated by the control unit 190 and transmits the signals to an external device (e.g., the server 20). The communication unit 120 performs reception processing on signals received from an external device and outputs the signals to the control unit 190.

[0026] The input device 13 is a device through which a user operating the first terminal apparatus 10 inputs instructions or information. The input device 13 is realized, for example, by a touch-sensitive device 131 through which instructions are input by touching the operation surface. If the first terminal apparatus 10 is a PC or the like, the input device 13 may be realized by a keyboard, a mouse, or the like. The input device 13 converts instructions input by the user into electrical signals and outputs the electrical signals to the control unit 190. Note that the input device 13 may include, for example, a receiving port that receives electrical signals input from an external input device.

[0027] The output device 14 is a device for presenting information to a user operating the first terminal apparatus 10. The output device 14 is realized, for example, by a display 141. The display 141 displays data according to the control of the control unit 190. The display 141 is realized, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.

[0028] The audio processing unit 17 performs, for example, digital-to-analog conversion processing of an audio signal. The audio processing unit 17 converts a signal provided from the microphone 171 into a digital signal and provides the converted signal to the control unit 190. The audio processing unit 17 also provides the audio signal to the speaker 172. The audio processing unit 17 is realized, for example, by a processor for audio processing. The microphone 171 receives audio input and provides an audio signal corresponding to the audio input to the audio processing unit 17. The speaker 172 converts the audio signal provided from the audio processing unit 17 into audio and outputs the audio to the outside of the first terminal device 10.

[0029] The camera 160 is a device that receives light with a light receiving element and outputs the light as a photographing signal.

[0030] The position information sensor 150 is a sensor that detects the position of the first terminal device 10, and is, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) module. The GPS module is a receiving device used in a satellite positioning system. The satellite positioning system receives signals from at least three or four satellites and detects the current position of the first terminal device 10 equipped with the GPS module based on the received signals. The position information sensor 150 may detect the current position of the first terminal device 10 from the position of the wireless base station to which the first terminal device 10 is connected.

[0031] The storage unit 180 is realized by, for example, the memory 15 and the storage 16, and stores data and programs used by the first terminal apparatus 10. The storage unit 180 stores, for example, user information 181 and device information 182.

[0032] The user information 181 includes, for example, information about the user who uses the first terminal apparatus 10. The information about the user includes, for example, a user ID.

[0033] The device information 182 includes, for example, information about physical devices that can be installed in a building, such as the device type, device name, and manufacturer.

[0034] The control unit 190 is realized by the processor 19 reading a program stored in the storage unit 180 and executing instructions included in the program. The control unit 190 controls the operation of the first terminal apparatus 10. By operating in accordance with the program, the control unit 190 fulfills the functions of an operation reception unit 191, a transmission / reception unit 192, and a presentation control unit 194.

[0035] The operation reception unit 191 performs processing for receiving instructions or information input from the input device 13. Specifically, for example, the operation reception unit 191 receives instructions or information input from the touch-sensitive device 131 or the like. More specifically, for example, the operation reception unit 191 receives an operation for adjusting the arrangement of logical devices on the architectural drawing data. Also, for example, the operation reception unit 191 receives a selection of a type of logical device. Also, for example, the operation reception unit 191 receives an operation for setting the intended use of logical devices arranged on the architectural drawing data. The architectural drawing data in which the arrangement and intended use of logical devices have been set becomes so-called master data in subsequent processing.

[0036] The operation acceptance unit 191 also accepts voice instructions input from the microphone 171. Specifically, for example, the operation acceptance unit 191 receives a voice signal that is input from the microphone 171 and converted into a digital signal by the voice processing unit 17. The operation acceptance unit 191 acquires instructions from the user, for example, by analyzing the received voice signal and extracting predetermined nouns.

[0037] The transmitting / receiving unit 192 performs processing for the first terminal apparatus 10 to transmit and receive data to and from an external device such as the server 20 in accordance with a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the transmitting / receiving unit 192 transmits information input by the user or instructions from the user to the server 20. The transmitting / receiving unit 192 also receives information provided by the server 20.

[0038] The presentation control unit 194 controls the output device 14 to present predetermined information to the user. Specifically, for example, the presentation control unit 194 acquires architectural drawing data of a building and displays an image based on the acquired architectural drawing data on the display 141. The architectural drawing data of the building may be stored in the first terminal device 10, the server 20, or another server (not shown) that manages architectural information. The presentation control unit 194 also outputs information for setting a logical device on the architectural drawing data from the speaker 172.

[0039] <1.2 Configuration of Second Terminal Device> Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the second terminal device 30 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the second terminal device 30 includes a communication unit 320, an input device 33, an output device 34, an audio processing unit 37, a microphone 371, a speaker 372, a camera 360, a position information sensor 350, a storage unit 380, and a control unit 390. The blocks included in the second terminal device 30 are electrically connected by, for example, a bus or the like.

[0040] The communication unit 320 performs processes such as modulation and demodulation for the second terminal device 30 to communicate with other devices. The communication unit 320 performs transmission processing on signals generated by the control unit 390 and transmits the signals to an external device (e.g., the server 20). The communication unit 320 performs reception processing on signals received from an external device and outputs the signals to the control unit 390.

[0041] The input device 33 is a device through which a user operating the second terminal device 30 inputs instructions or information. The input device 33 is realized, for example, by a keyboard 331, a mouse 332, and a reader 333. The reader 333 is realized, for example, by an optical reader. The reader 333 reads data from codes such as two-dimensional barcodes or barcodes. The input device 33 may also be realized by a touch-sensitive device or the like. The input device 33 converts instructions input by the user into electrical signals and outputs the electrical signals to the control unit 390. Note that the input device 33 may also include, for example, a receiving port that receives electrical signals input from an external input device.

[0042] The output device 34 is a device for presenting information to a user operating the second terminal device 30. The output device 34 is realized, for example, by a display 341. The display 341 displays data according to the control of the control unit 390. The display 341 is realized, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. The output device 34 may be an output port that outputs information to the outside. The output port is connected, for example, to a printer and causes the printer to print a predetermined image.

[0043] The audio processing unit 37 performs, for example, digital-to-analog conversion processing of an audio signal. The audio processing unit 37 converts a signal provided from the microphone 371 into a digital signal and provides the converted signal to the control unit 390. The audio processing unit 37 also provides the audio signal to the speaker 372. The audio processing unit 37 is realized, for example, by a processor for audio processing. The microphone 371 receives audio input and provides an audio signal corresponding to the audio input to the audio processing unit 37. The speaker 372 converts the audio signal provided from the audio processing unit 37 into audio and outputs the audio to the outside of the second terminal device 30.

[0044] The camera 360 is a device that receives light with a light receiving element and outputs the light as an image capturing signal.

[0045] The location information sensor 350 is a sensor, such as a GPS (Global Positioning System) module, that detects the location of the second terminal device 30. The location information sensor 350 may detect the current location of the second terminal device 30 from the location of the wireless base station to which the second terminal device 30 is connected.

[0046] The storage unit 380 is realized by, for example, the memory 35, the storage 36, etc., and stores data and programs used by the second terminal device 30. The storage unit 380 stores, for example, user information 381.

[0047] The user information 381 includes, for example, information about the user who uses the second terminal device 30. The information about the user includes, for example, a user ID.

[0048] The control unit 390 is realized by the processor 39 reading a program stored in the storage unit 380 and executing instructions included in the program. The control unit 390 controls the operation of the second terminal device 30. By operating in accordance with the program, the control unit 390 fulfills the functions of an operation reception unit 391, a transmission / reception unit 392, and a presentation control unit 394.

[0049] The operation acceptance unit 391 performs processing for accepting instructions or information input from the input device 33. Specifically, for example, the operation acceptance unit 391 accepts instructions or information input from the keyboard 331 or the like. More specifically, for example, the operation acceptance unit 391 accepts information about physical devices to be installed in the building, which is read by the reader 333. Furthermore, for example, the operation acceptance unit 391 accepts an operation for pairing the physical devices whose information has been read.

[0050] The operation acceptance unit 391 also accepts voice instructions input from the microphone 371. Specifically, for example, the operation acceptance unit 391 receives a voice signal that is input from the microphone 371 and converted into a digital signal by the voice processing unit 37. The operation acceptance unit 391 acquires instructions from the user, for example, by analyzing the received voice signal and extracting predetermined nouns.

[0051] The transmission / reception unit 392 performs processing for the second terminal device 30 to transmit and receive data to and from an external device such as the server 20 in accordance with a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the transmission / reception unit 392 transmits information input by a user or instructions from a user to the server 20. The transmission / reception unit 392 also receives information provided by the server 20. The transmission / reception unit 392 also reads information from a physical device using a communication protocol such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The transmission / reception unit 392 may also read information from a physical device using short-range wireless communication.

[0052] The presentation control unit 394 controls the output device 34 to present predetermined information to the user. Specifically, for example, the presentation control unit 394 displays an image for pairing physical devices on the display 341. The presentation control unit 394 also outputs information for pairing physical devices from the speaker 372. 1.3 Configuration of the Third Terminal Device FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the third terminal device 40 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the third terminal device 40 includes a communication unit 420, an input device 43, an output device 44, an audio processing unit 47, a microphone 471, a speaker 472, a camera 460, a position information sensor 450, a storage unit 480, and a control unit 490. The blocks included in the third terminal device 40 are electrically connected, for example, by a bus or the like.

[0053] The communication unit 420 performs processing such as modulation and demodulation for the third terminal device 40 to communicate with other devices. The communication unit 420 performs transmission processing on the signal generated by the control unit 490 and transmits it to the outside (for example, the server 20). The communication unit 420 performs reception processing on the signal received from the outside and outputs it to the control unit 490.

[0054] The input device 43 is a device for a user operating the third terminal device 40 to input instructions or information. The input device 43 is realized, for example, by a touch-sensitive device 431 or the like. If the third terminal device 40 is a PC or the like, the input device 43 may be realized by a keyboard, a mouse, or the like. The input device 43 converts instructions input by the user into electrical signals and outputs the electrical signals to the control unit 490. Note that the input device 43 may include, for example, a receiving port that receives electrical signals input from an external input device.

[0055] The output device 44 is a device for presenting information to a user operating the third terminal device 40. The output device 44 is realized, for example, by a display 441 or the like. The display 441 displays data according to the control of the control unit 490. The display 441 is realized, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display or the like.

[0056] The audio processing unit 47 performs, for example, digital-to-analog conversion processing of an audio signal. The audio processing unit 47 converts a signal provided from the microphone 471 into a digital signal and provides the converted signal to the control unit 490. The audio processing unit 47 also provides the audio signal to the speaker 472. The audio processing unit 47 is realized, for example, by a processor for audio processing. The microphone 471 accepts audio input and provides an audio signal corresponding to the audio input to the audio processing unit 47. The speaker 472 converts the audio signal provided from the audio processing unit 47 into audio and outputs the audio to the outside of the third terminal device 40.

[0057] The camera 460 is a device that receives light with a light receiving element and outputs the light as an image capturing signal.

[0058] The location information sensor 450 is a sensor, such as a GPS (Global Positioning System) module, that detects the location of the third terminal device 40. The location information sensor 450 may detect the current location of the third terminal device 40 from the location of the wireless base station to which the third terminal device 40 is connected.

[0059] The storage unit 480 is realized by, for example, the memory 45, the storage 46, etc., and stores data and programs used by the third terminal device 40. The storage unit 480 stores, for example, user information 481.

[0060] The user information 481 includes, for example, information about the user who uses the third terminal device 40. The information about the user includes, for example, a user ID.

[0061] The control unit 490 is realized by the processor 49 reading a program stored in the storage unit 480 and executing instructions included in the program. The control unit 490 controls the operation of the third terminal device 40. The control unit 490 functions as an operation reception unit 491, a transmission / reception unit 492, and a presentation control unit 494 by operating in accordance with the program.

[0062] The operation reception unit 491 performs processing for receiving instructions or information input from the input device 43. Specifically, for example, the operation reception unit 491 receives instructions or information input from the touch-sensitive device 431 or the like. More specifically, for example, the operation reception unit 491 receives an operation for associating a physical device with a logical device. Furthermore, for example, the operation reception unit 491 receives an operation for checking the operation of the physical device associated with the logical device.

[0063] Furthermore, the operation acceptance unit 491 accepts voice instructions input from the microphone 471. Specifically, for example, the operation acceptance unit 491 receives a voice signal that is input from the microphone 471 and converted into a digital signal by the voice processing unit 47. For example, the operation acceptance unit 491 acquires instructions from the user by analyzing the received voice signal and extracting predetermined nouns.

[0064] Furthermore, the operation acceptance unit 491 accepts instructions input from the camera 460. Specifically, for example, the operation acceptance unit 491 receives information obtained by capturing an image by the camera 460 and decoding the captured image. The operation acceptance unit 491 recognizes the attached physical device based on the received information, for example.

[0065] The transmitting / receiving unit 492 performs processing for the third terminal device 40 to transmit and receive data to and from an external device such as the server 20 in accordance with a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the transmitting / receiving unit 492 transmits information input by the user or instructions from the user to the server 20. The transmitting / receiving unit 492 also receives information provided by the server 20.

[0066] The presentation control unit 494 controls the output device 44 to present predetermined information to the user. Specifically, for example, the presentation control unit 494 causes the display 441 to display an image for associating physical devices and logical devices attached to the building. The presentation control unit 494 also causes the display 441 to display an image for confirming the operation of the physical devices associated with the logical devices. The presentation control unit 494 also causes the speaker 472 to output information for associating physical devices and logical devices attached to the building.

[0067] 5 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the server 20. As shown in FIG. 5, the server 20 functions as a communication unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a control unit 203.

[0068] The communication unit 201 performs processing for the server 20 to communicate with external devices.

[0069] The storage unit 202 has, for example, a floor plan table 2021, a logical device table 2022, a physical device table 2023, a hub management table 2024, a dwelling unit table 2025, and a correspondence table 2026. The tables stored in the storage unit 202 are not limited to these. For example, the storage unit 202 may store a table that stores information about buildings and a table that stores information about users.

[0070] The floor plan table 2021 is a table that stores information about floor plans, the details of which will be described later.

[0071] The logical device table 2022 is a table that stores information about logical devices, the details of which will be described later.

[0072] The physical device table 2023 is a table that stores information about physical devices, the details of which will be described later.

[0073] The hub management table 2024 is a table that stores information about hubs, the details of which will be described later.

[0074] The dwelling unit table 2025 is a table that stores information about dwelling units. Details will be described later.

[0075] The correspondence table 2026 is a table that stores information relating to the correspondence between logical devices and physical devices, as will be described in detail later.

[0076] The control unit 203 is realized by the processor 29 reading a program stored in the storage unit 202 and executing instructions included in the program. By operating in accordance with the program, the control unit 203 performs functions indicated as a reception control module 2031, a transmission control module 2032, a generation module 2033, a pairing module 2034, an association module 2035, a progress management module 2036, and a presentation control module 2037.

[0077] The reception control module 2031 controls the process in which the server 20 receives signals from external devices in accordance with a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the reception control module 2031 receives information about logical devices placed on architectural drawing data from the first terminal device 10. Furthermore, for example, the reception control module 2031 receives information about physical devices for which pairing has been completed from the second terminal device 30 or a hub. Furthermore, for example, the reception control module 2031 receives information about associated physical devices and logical devices from the third terminal device 40. Furthermore, for example, the reception control module 2031 receives the results of a confirmation process for the physical devices associated with the logical devices from the third terminal device 40.

[0078] The transmission control module 2032 controls the process in which the server 20 transmits signals to external devices in accordance with a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the transmission control module 2032 transmits information for ordering physical devices to be installed in a building to a supplier of the physical devices, based on the logical devices placed in the architectural drawing data. Also, for example, the transmission control module 2032 transmits information about the logical devices placed in the architectural drawing data to the third terminal device 40.

[0079] The generation module 2033 generates the operational modes of physical devices to be installed in a building based on architectural drawing data in which the logical devices are arranged. Specifically, the generation module 2033 acquires, based on the architectural drawing data, the type of logical device, the location coordinates where the logical device is arranged, information about the building, and the intended use of the logical device. In other words, the generation module 2033 converts the architectural drawing data into logical information that can be used in subsequent processing. Hereinafter, the logical information converted from the architectural drawing data will be referred to as registration information. At this time, the generation module 2033 may select physical devices to be actually installed and include them in the logical information. The registration information associates, for example, logical device identification information, logical device type, logical device name, information about the building, location information, etc.

[0080] Furthermore, the generation module 2033 calculates how to operate the physical devices based on the registration information. For example, the generation module 2033 calculates the time period during which the physical devices will operate, the ambience to be realized (behavior of each device, time period during which the physical devices will operate), the activity mode, and the like, based on logical information. The generation module 2033 also creates a floor plan image based on architectural drawing data in which the logical devices are arranged. In the floor plan image, for example, the logical devices arranged relative to the architectural drawing data are displayed on a two-dimensional image of the floor.

[0081] The pairing module 2034 controls processing related to the pairing of physical devices based on the registration information. Specifically, for example, the pairing module 2034 assigns a predetermined floor plan to a hub, which is an example of a physical device. The pairing module 2034 acquires information about physical devices to be installed in a building and registers the acquired information. The information about physical devices to be installed in a building is, for example, the MAC address set for the physical device. If a predetermined code is affixed to the physical device, the pairing module 2034 acquires information read from the code by the reader 333 as information about the physical device. If a predetermined code is not affixed to the physical device, the pairing module 2034 acquires information read from the physical device using a predetermined communication protocol as information about the physical device. After acquiring information about the physical device from the physical device, the pairing module 2034 creates a predetermined code based on the acquired information. The pairing module 2034 outputs information about the created code from, for example, a predetermined printer.

[0082] The association module 2035 associates logical devices arranged on the architectural drawing data with physical devices actually installed in the building. Specifically, for example, the association module 2035 acquires identification information of a logical device arranged at a predetermined position on the architectural drawing data and a physical device installed at a corresponding position. The association module 2035 associates the acquired identification information of the physical device with the identification information of the logical device arranged at the corresponding position. For example, the association module 2035 associates the ID of a physical device installed at a predetermined position on the building with the ID of a logical device arranged at the corresponding position on the architectural drawing data.

[0083] The association module 2035 also performs processing to verify the operation of a physical device associated with a logical device. Specifically, the association module 2035 transmits an instruction to operate the physical device associated with the logical device to the hub paired with the physical device. The hub transmits a signal to the physical device to operate the physical device based on the instruction. Whether the physical device has operated is confirmed, for example, by a user operating the third terminal device 40. The association module 2035 accepts input of information regarding whether the physical device has operated normally and stores the information in the storage unit 202 as a verification result.

[0084] The progress management module 2036 manages the progress of associating logical devices with physical devices. Specifically, it manages unassociated logical devices, associated logical devices, associated logical devices that have encountered a problem during verification, and verified logical devices. For example, the progress management module 2036 stores information about logical devices in the storage unit 202 so that unassociated logical devices and associated logical devices can be distinguished. The progress management module 2036 may also store information about logical devices in the storage unit 202 so that associated logical devices that have encountered a problem during verification can be distinguished from verified logical devices. The progress management module 2036 updates information about the progress of the association of logical devices stored in the storage unit 202 at predetermined times.

[0085] Furthermore, the progress management module 2036 may tally up the number of unassociated logical devices, the number of associated logical devices, the number of associated logical devices that have failed in verification, or the number of verified logical devices for each predetermined group, and transmit the tally results to another information processing device. For example, the progress management module 2036 may tally up the number of unassociated logical devices, the number of associated logical devices, the number of associated logical devices that have failed in verification, or the number of verified logical devices for each one or more dwelling units, one or more floors, or one or more buildings, and transmit the tally results to another information processing device.

[0086] The presentation control module 2037 presents to the user information extracted from the storage unit 202. Specifically, for example, the presentation control module 2037 presents to the user information to be referenced when associating logical devices arranged on the architectural drawing data with physical devices that are actually installed. For example, the presentation control module 2037 displays a floor plan image on the display 441 of the third terminal device 40.

[0087] 6 to 11 are diagrams showing the data structures of tables stored in the server 20. Note that Figures 6 to 11 are merely examples and do not exclude data that is not listed. Furthermore, even data listed in the same table may be stored in separate storage areas in the storage unit 202.

[0088] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the data structure of the floor plan table 2021. The floor plan table 2021 shown in Fig. 6 is a table having a floor plan ID as a primary key and columns for floor plan name, drawing data, and dwelling unit information.

[0089] The floor plan ID is an item that stores an ID that identifies the floor plan. The drawing data is an item that stores architectural drawing data for the corresponding floor plan. The architectural drawing data includes, for example, information regarding at least one of the location, type, and operation settings of the logical devices placed on the drawing data. The "drawing data" item may also store reference information (links) to data files placed in other locations. The dwelling unit information is an item that stores information regarding the dwelling units to be constructed based on the floor plan. The dwelling unit information may include, for example, at least one of the building name, building address, number of dwelling units to which the floor plan applies, and room numbers of the dwelling units to which the floor plan applies.

[0090] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the data structure of the logical device table 2022. The logical device table 2022 shown in Fig. 7 is a table having a logical device ID as a primary key and columns of type, name, floor plan ID, location information, and setting information.

[0091] The logical device ID is an item that stores an ID that identifies a logical device. The type is an item that stores the type of the logical device. For example, the type may store a character string that indicates the type of device, such as sensor, light, or switch. The name is an item that stores the name of the logical device. For example, the name may store a character string that indicates the product name of the logical device. The floor plan ID stores the floor plan ID of the floor plan on which the logical device is placed. The location information is an item that stores the position on the floor plan where the logical device is placed. The item "location information" stores, for example, the position coordinates where the logical device is placed on the floor plan.

[0092] The setting information is an item that stores information about the operation settings of the logical device. The item "setting information" may store information about the operation settings based on input by a user to the device. User input includes, for example, input by direct operation of a button, switch, etc. on the device, voice input, and input by operating a remote control device.

[0093] The "setting information" item may also store information about operation settings based on the state of the external environment of the device. The external environment may include time. The "setting information" item stores, for example, settings that cause a predetermined operation to be performed when a predetermined time arrives.

[0094] The external environment may also include temperature. The device related to the item "setting information" may acquire a temperature measured by a specified sensor. The sensor may acquire the temperature inside the dwelling unit, or the temperature outside the dwelling unit. The item "setting information" stores, for example, a setting that causes a specified operation to be performed when the temperature acquired by the sensor reaches a specified temperature.

[0095] The external environment may also include humidity. The device related to the item "setting information" may acquire humidity measured by a specified sensor. The sensor may acquire humidity inside the dwelling unit, or may acquire humidity outside the dwelling unit. The item "setting information" stores, for example, a setting that causes a specified operation to be performed when the humidity acquired by the sensor reaches a specified humidity.

[0096] The external environment may also include brightness. The device related to the item "setting information" may acquire brightness measured by a specified sensor. The sensor may acquire brightness inside the dwelling unit, or may acquire brightness outside the dwelling unit. The item "setting information" stores, for example, a setting that causes a specified operation to be performed when the brightness acquired by the sensor reaches a specified brightness.

[0097] The external environment may also include information about movement. Information about movement is, for example, information about changes in temperature distribution in a space due to human movement. A device related to the item "setting information" may acquire information about an action detected by a specified sensor. The sensor may detect an action inside the dwelling unit, or may detect an action outside the dwelling unit. The item "setting information" stores, for example, a setting that causes a specified action to be performed when a sensor detects a specified movement.

[0098] The item "setting information" may also store information about operation settings based on the operation of other devices. For example, the item "setting information" stores settings for performing a predetermined operation in conjunction with the performance of a predetermined operation by another device.

[0099] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the data structure of the physical device table 2023. The physical device table 2023 shown in Fig. 8 is a table having a physical device ID as a primary key and columns for type, name, identification information, communication standard, and pairing information.

[0100] The physical device ID is an item that stores an ID for identifying a physical device. The type is an item that stores the type of the physical device. For example, the type may store a character string indicating the type of the device, such as sensor, light, or switch. The name is an item that stores the name of the physical device. For example, the name may store a character string indicating the product name of the logical device. The identifier is an item that stores an identifier assigned to the physical device. For example, the identifier may store information related to the physical address of the physical device. The communication standard is an item that stores information for identifying the communication standard used when the physical device communicates. For example, the communication standard may store a character string indicating the name of the communication standard of the physical device, such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Zigbee (registered trademark). The pairing information is an item that stores information related to other devices paired with the physical device. For example, the pairing information may store information for identifying a hub paired with the physical device. For example, the pairing information may store at least one of a hub ID and an identifier of the hub paired with the physical device. The pairing information is not limited to the pairing between a physical device and a hub, but may be the pairing between physical devices. Specifically, for example, lighting devices may be paired with each other.

[0101] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing the data structure of the hub management table 2024. The hub management table 2024 shown in Fig. 9 is a table having columns of an identifier and a floor plan ID, with the hub ID as the primary key.

[0102] The hub ID is an item that stores an ID that identifies a hub for operating a connected physical device. The identifier is an item that stores an identifier assigned to a hub. The identifier may store information about the physical address of the hub, for example. The floor plan ID is an item that stores the floor plan ID of a floor plan associated with the hub.

[0103] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing the data structure of the dwelling unit table 2025. The dwelling unit table 2025 shown in Fig. 10 is a table having a dwelling unit ID as a primary key and columns of a building ID, a building name, a floor number, a dwelling unit number, and a floor plan ID.

[0104] The dwelling unit ID is an item that stores an ID that identifies the dwelling unit. The building ID is an item that stores the building ID of the building in which the dwelling unit is located. The building ID is an ID that identifies the building in a building table that manages building information (not shown). The building name is an item that stores the building name of the building in which the dwelling unit is located. The floor is an item that stores the floor number on which the dwelling unit is located in the building. The dwelling unit number is an item that stores the number assigned to the dwelling unit. The floor plan ID is an item that stores the floor plan ID of the floor plan associated with the dwelling unit.

[0105] 11 is a diagram showing the data structure of the correspondence table 2026. The correspondence table 2026 shown in Fig. 11 is a table having a correspondence ID as a primary key and columns for dwelling unit ID, logical device ID, physical device ID, status, and responsible user. The correspondence table 2026 may also store information regarding the details of the malfunction of the device that is the subject of the correspondence.

[0106] The correspondence ID is an item that stores an ID that identifies the correspondence. The dwelling unit ID is an item that stores an ID that identifies the dwelling unit. The logical device ID is an item that stores an ID that identifies the logical device. The physical device ID is an item that stores an ID that identifies the physical device. If the correspondence has not yet been performed, the physical device ID stores blank, null, or other information indicating that the correspondence has not been performed. The status is an item that stores information regarding the progress of the correspondence process. Specifically, the status stores information for identifying whether the correspondence process has not yet started, is in progress, or has been completed. The status may store information indicating, for example, a state in which the correspondence has not been performed, a state in which the correspondence has been performed, or a state in which the correspondence has been performed but a problem has occurred during operational verification. In the present disclosure, the status stores information indicating one of the following states: an incomplete state in which the correspondence has not yet been performed, a scanned state in which the code of the physical device has been read and correspondence has been performed, a reported state in which a problem has been reported during operational verification, and a verified state in which operational verification has been completed. The responsible user is an item for storing the user ID of the user who is in charge of operating the terminal related to the association.

[0107] <3. Operation> The operations of the first terminal device 10, the server 20, the second terminal device 30, and the third terminal device 40 will be described.

[0108] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processing according to the present disclosure.

[0109] 12 , a user operates a predetermined terminal to design architectural drawings of a building. The first terminal device 10 arranges logical devices on the drawing data and sets the operation of the logical devices in response to the user's operation. The server 20 generates registration information based on the drawing data, the arrangement of the logical devices, and the operation settings of the logical devices.

[0110] The second terminal device 30 acquires registration information from the server 20. The second terminal device 30 performs pairing settings for the physical devices to be installed in the building according to the registration information generated in the design stage before the physical devices are delivered to the building. The server 20 registers the physical devices to be installed in the building. The paired physical devices are delivered to the construction site.

[0111] The delivered physical equipment is installed in the installation location according to the building floor plan.

[0112] The third terminal device 40 acquires the registration information and floor plan image from the server 20. The server 20 associates the logical devices arranged on the drawing data with the physical devices actually installed in the building based on the information on the installed physical devices transmitted from the third terminal device 40. After the association work has been completed for all physical devices that require association, the building is delivered to the client.

[0113] (Registration Information Generation Process) FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the first terminal apparatus 10 and the server 20 when generating registration information of a logical device.

[0114] First, the first user operating the first terminal device 10 operates the input device 13 to launch an application for setting logical devices for architectural drawing data. Upon receiving a request from the first user, the control unit 190 of the first terminal device 10 executes the requested application.

[0115] In step S11, the first terminal device 10 acquires information necessary for setting up logical devices. Specifically, for example, the transmitting / receiving unit 192 acquires architectural drawing data of a floor plan for a specific dwelling unit in response to an operation by the first user. The transmitting / receiving unit 192 may acquire the architectural drawing data from the server 20 or from an external server. The presentation control unit 194 acquires information regarding candidates for logical devices to be placed on the architectural drawing data from the device information 182 stored in the storage unit 180.

[0116] In step S12, the first terminal device 10 presents to the first user a UI for arranging logical devices in the architectural drawing data. Specifically, for example, the presentation control unit 194 displays the architectural drawing data on the display 141. The presentation control unit 194 displays an input interface for determining the type of logical device along with the architectural drawing data. For example, the presentation control unit 194 causes the display 141 to display a list of types of logical devices that can be arranged. The presentation control unit 194 may also cause the display 141 to display the input interface for determining the logical device along with the architectural drawing data. For example, the presentation control unit 194 causes the display 141 to display a list of logical devices that can be arranged.

[0117] The presentation control unit 194 also displays an input interface for determining the placement position of the logical device together with the architectural drawing data. For example, the presentation control unit 194 causes the display 141 to display selectable positions at which the logical device can be placed. The presentation control unit 194 also displays an input interface for setting the intended use of the logical device together with the architectural drawing data. For example, the presentation control unit 194 displays a list of configurable intended uses on the display 141.

[0118] In step S13, the first terminal device 10 receives from the first user a designation of a type of logical device to be placed on the acquired architectural drawing data. Specifically, for example, the first user operates the input device 13 to designate a predetermined type from a list of logical device types (e.g., bedroom light, light, sensor, controller, etc.) displayed on the display 141. The operation reception unit 191 receives the designation of the type input by the first user. Note that the first terminal device 10 may receive from the first user a designation of a logical device, not just a designation of a logical device type.

[0119] In step S14, the first terminal device 10 receives, from the first user, a designation for the placement of the logical device whose type has been designated. Specifically, for example, the first user operates the input device 13 to select a predetermined position on the architectural drawing data. The operation reception unit 191 receives the designation for the placement position of the logical device input by the first user.

[0120] In step S15, the first terminal device 10 receives from the first user the intended use of the logical device whose type and location have been specified. Specifically, for example, the first user operates the input device 13 to specify a predetermined intended use from a list of intended uses displayed on the display 141. The intended use includes, for example, an intended use corresponding to the specified type. The operation receiving unit 191 receives the intended use specification input by the first user.

[0121] The first terminal device 10 executes steps S13 to S15 for all physical devices to be installed, places the corresponding logical devices in the architectural drawing data, and sets their intended use. As a result, the type, location, and intended use of the logical devices corresponding to the physical devices to be installed are stored in association with the architectural drawing data.

[0122] The first terminal device 10 transmits architectural drawing data in which the type, location, and intended use of a logical device are associated to the server 20. The first terminal device 10 may also associate information related to the building with the architectural drawing data. Note that if the first terminal device 10 associates the type, location, intended use, etc. of a logical device by using an API without downloading the architectural drawing data, the first terminal device 10 does not need to transmit the architectural drawing data to the server 20. In this case, the first terminal device 10 transmits, for example, information on the type, location, intended use, etc. of a logical device associated with the architectural drawing data to the server 20.

[0123] In step S16, the server 20 receives information transmitted from the first terminal device 10. Specifically, the reception control module 2031 receives architectural drawing data in which the type, location, and intended use of logical devices are associated. The generation module 2033 stores the received architectural drawing data in a new record in the floor plan table 2021. The architectural drawing data in which the type, location, and intended use of logical devices are associated is treated as so-called master data in subsequent processing.

[0124] The generation module 2033 converts the architectural drawing data and generates registration information including the type of logical device, the location coordinates where the logical device is located, information about the building, and the intended use set for the logical device. The generation module 2033 determines, for example, the name of the logical device based on the type of logical device. The physical device to be installed is, for example, set in advance. The generation module 2033 determines a name associated with the set type based on the set type. The registration information associates, for example, logical device identification information, the logical device type, information about the building, location information, and intended use. The generation module 2033 stores the newly generated registration information in a new record in the logical device table 2022. The generation module 2033 stores a floor plan ID corresponding to the architectural drawing data received from the first terminal device 10 in the floor plan ID field of the record.

[0125] The generation module 2033 also calculates configuration information that indicates how the physical devices are to be operated based on the registration information, and creates a floor plan image based on architectural drawing data in which the logical devices are arranged.

[0126] (Pairing Process) FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the server 20 and the second terminal device 30 when pairing a physical device with a hub.

[0127] First, the second user operating the second terminal device 30 operates the input device 33 to launch an application for pairing the hub with the physical device. Upon receiving a request from the second user, the control unit 390 of the second terminal device 30 executes the requested application.

[0128] In step S21, the second terminal device 30 acquires information necessary for pairing the hub and the physical device. Specifically, for example, the transmitting / receiving unit 392 requests a list of floor plans from the server 20 in response to an operation by the second user. In response to the request from the second terminal device 30, the control unit 203 of the server 20 transmits information stored in each record of the floor plan table 2021 to the second terminal device 30. The transmitting / receiving unit 392 receives the list of floor plans transmitted from the server 20.

[0129] In step S22, the second terminal device 30 presents a UI for pairing the hub and the physical device to the second user. Specifically, for example, the presentation control unit 394 causes the display 341 to display a list of floor plans.

[0130] In step S23, the second terminal device 30 accepts a floor plan designation from the second user. Specifically, the second user operates the input device 33 to designate one floor plan from the list of floor plans displayed on the display 341. The operation accepting unit 391 accepts the floor plan designation input by the second user.

[0131] In step S24, the second terminal device 30 accepts input of the hub identifier. Specifically, for example, the second user may input the hub identifier to the second terminal device 30 by communicating with the hub via the communication unit 320. The hub identifier is, for example, the MAC address of the hub.

[0132] In step S25, the second terminal device 30 generates a second identifier conforming to a predetermined standard based on the identifier of the hub. The second identifier is an identifier for the physical device for operating services according to the same standard. Specifically, for example, the control unit 390 generates the second identifier based on the type of physical device and its MAC address, etc. By standardizing the identifier format in this way, the task of associating physical devices with logical devices, which will be described later, becomes easier. The control unit 390 transmits the floor plan ID of the floor plan specified by the second user and the second identifier of the hub to the server 20.

[0133] The control unit 390 generates a two-dimensional code by encoding the generated second identifier. The control unit 390 transmits information for printing the two-dimensional code to the printer. The printer prints a label displaying the two-dimensional code according to the information received from the second terminal device 30. The second user attaches the printed label to the physical device whose identifier was read. In this case, it is preferable that the label be attached in a position where the two-dimensional code can be seen when the physical device is actually installed.

[0134] A label displaying a two-dimensional code representing a second identifier may be pre-attached to a physical device. For example, some physical devices already comply with a standard when shipped. In such cases, the control unit 390 reads the two-dimensional code displayed on the label using the reader 333, but it is not necessary to generate a second identifier or to have a printer print the label. On the other hand, a label displaying a two-dimensional code conforming to a different standard may be pre-attached to a physical device. In this case, the control unit 390 communicates with the physical device using the communication unit 320 to read the identifier of the physical device and generate a second identifier based on the read identifier. The control unit 390 causes the printer to print a label displaying a two-dimensional code that encodes the generated second identifier. The second user then affixes the printed label in place of an existing label. Note that the second user may also affix the printed label over the existing label.

[0135] In step S26, the server 20 associates the hub with the floor plan. Specifically, for example, the pairing module 2034 associates the floor plan ID received from the second terminal device 30 with the second identifier and stores them in a new record in the hub management table 2024. Note that the second identifier may be generated by the server 20.

[0136] In step S27, the pairing module 2034 extracts information about the logical devices arranged in the floor plan associated with the hub. Specifically, for example, the pairing module 2034 searches the logical device table 2022 based on the floor plan ID associated with the hub and obtains information in the "Name" field. The transmission control module 2032 transmits a list of the names of the extracted logical devices, i.e., a list of the names of the physical devices to be paired with the hub, to the second terminal device 30.

[0137] In step S28, the second terminal device 30 receives the list of names of the physical devices from the server 20 and stores the list in the storage unit 380. The second terminal device 30 may present the list of names of the physical devices received from the server 20 to the user via the display 341.

[0138] In step S29, the second terminal device 30 accepts input of identifiers of the physical devices to be installed in the hub and the building. Specifically, for example, once the placement of the logical devices in the architectural drawing data is completed, the physical devices to be actually installed are ordered based on the placed logical devices. The ordered physical devices are delivered to the second user. The second user may input the identifiers of the physical devices to the second terminal device 30, for example, by communicating with the physical devices via the communication unit 320. The identifiers of the physical devices are, for example, the MAC address of the hub.

[0139] In step S210, the second terminal device 30 generates a second identifier conforming to a predetermined standard based on the identifier of the physical device. The control unit 390 transmits the second identifier of the physical device to the server 20.

[0140] The control unit 390 generates a two-dimensional code by encoding the generated second identifier. The control unit 390 transmits information for printing the two-dimensional code to the printer. The printer prints a label displaying the two-dimensional code according to the information received from the second terminal device 30. The second user attaches the printed label to the physical device whose identifier was read. In this case, it is preferable that the label be attached in a position where the two-dimensional code can be seen when the physical device is actually installed.

[0141] In step S210, the second terminal device 30 may determine whether the physical device whose identifier has been input is a physical device that should be paired with the hub. Specifically, for example, the control unit 390 acquires the name of the physical device along with the identifier. The control unit 390 compares the acquired name with a list of names provided by the server 20 and determines whether the physical device from which the identifier has been read is included in the list. If included, the control unit 390 proceeds with the pairing process to the next step. If not included, the control unit 390 notifies the second user that the physical device is not a target for pairing, and the pairing process does not proceed to the next step.

[0142] In step S211, the server 20 registers a physical device. Specifically, for example, the pairing module 2034 associates the second identifier with the floor plan ID and stores them in a new record in the physical device table 2023. The pairing module 2034 may also associate the newly registered physical device with the second identifier of the bus to be paired and store them.

[0143] Once the hub and physical device are registered, the second user pairs the hub and physical device. Specifically, for example, the second user presses a predetermined button to transition the hub and physical device into pairing mode. The second user then brings the hub and physical device, which are in pairing mode, close to each other. This causes pairing requests to be automatically exchanged between the hub and the physical device using the Zigbee (registered trademark) protocol, and information necessary for the hub and physical device to detect and communicate with each other is exchanged. The hub stores the received information in its storage unit, thereby setting up pairing between itself and the physical device. The hub then transmits information indicating that pairing with the physical device has been completed to the second terminal device 30. The second terminal device 30 then displays on the display 341 that pairing between the physical device and the hub has been completed.

[0144] The second user repeats the hub code reading operation in step S24 and the physical device code reading operation in step S29 until pairing is completed for all physical devices included in the list acquired by the second terminal device 30 in step S28. The second terminal device 30 and the server 20 repeat the operations from step S23 to step S211 in response to the second user's operation of the second terminal device 30.

[0145] After the pairing of each physical device to be paired with the hub is completed, the paired hub and physical device are packaged and delivered to the construction site. In other words, in this embodiment, pairing between the hub and physical device is completed at the shipping stage before installation in the building, so there is no need to pair the physical device with the hub at the construction site. This reduces the amount of work required at the construction site.

[0146] As described above, the pairing process pairs a physical device with a hub for each floor plan. Therefore, if a building has multiple dwelling units with a common floor plan, the hub and physical device can be delivered to the construction site without distinguishing between the dwelling units with the common floor plan. This reduces the effort required to deliver the physical devices. It also reduces the amount of work required at the construction site.

[0147] After the delivery of the physical equipment is complete, the workers in charge of installing the physical equipment install the hub and physical equipment at the installation location according to the floor plan and electrical wiring plan. At this time, the workers can install the hub and physical equipment without distinguishing between dwelling units that share the same floor plan, just as they did during delivery. This reduces the amount of work required at the construction site.

[0148] 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the third terminal device 40 and the server 20 when associating a physical device actually installed in a dwelling unit with a logical device arranged on the drawing data of the dwelling unit. The association process described in FIG. 15 is performed after a worker installs the physical device in the building.

[0149] The control unit 203 of the server 20 stores information about each dwelling unit in the building in the storage unit 202 at any timing before executing the association process. Specifically, for example, the control unit 203 stores a building ID, dwelling unit number, and floor plan ID corresponding to each dwelling unit in a new record in the dwelling unit table 2025 for each dwelling unit in the building. The information stored in the dwelling unit table may be transmitted to the server 20 by a predetermined user operating a predetermined terminal device. The control unit 203 also stores information about logical devices that require association in the storage unit 202 at any timing before executing the association process. Specifically, for example, the control unit 203 stores an association ID, dwelling unit ID, logical device ID, and status in a new record in the association table 2026 for each logical device that requires association.

[0150] In step S31, the third terminal device 40 authenticates a third user who is a staff member who associates logical devices with physical devices. Specifically, the third user causes the third terminal device 40 to execute an application for performing the association. When the third terminal device 40 executes the application, the control unit 490 causes the display 441 to display a login screen for authenticating the user.

[0151] The third user inputs, for example, a user ID and a password on the login screen. The information input by the third user on the login screen is not limited to a user ID and a password. When the user authentication is complete, the control unit 490 connects to the server 20 in association with the user ID.

[0152] In step S32, the control unit 203 acquires information about the dwelling unit stored in the storage unit 202. Specifically, for example, the control unit 203 acquires information stored in each record of the dwelling unit table. The control unit 203 transmits the acquired information to the third terminal device 40.

[0153] In step S33, the control unit 490 receives the information transmitted from the server 20. The control unit 490 displays a list of building names received from the server 20 on the display 441. The third user designates a building to be associated from the list of buildings displayed on the display 441. When the control unit 490 receives the designation of a building, it displays information about the dwelling units included in the building on the display 441.

[0154] 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of information about dwelling units included in a building specified by a third user, displayed on the third terminal device 40. The screen shown in Fig. 16 displays a list of dwelling units on the 15th floor of an apartment building named ABC Apartments. The screen shown in Fig. 16 displays an object 4411 indicating the name of the building.

[0155] 16 displays an object 4412 indicating the floor on which the dwelling unit displayed on the current screen is located. When the user presses object 4412, a screen is displayed for specifying another floor of the building displayed in object 4411. The user can change the floor on which the dwelling unit information is displayed by specifying a specific floor from the displayed screen.

[0156] The screen shown in FIG. 16 displays an area 4413 indicating the progress of association for each dwelling unit located on the floor indicated by object 4412. In FIG. 16, area 4413 displays that a total of 30 pieces of physical equipment to be associated are installed in each dwelling unit. In FIG. 16, area 4413 displays that there are 18 pieces of physical equipment in an unstarted state in Unit 1503. In FIG. 16, area 4413 displays that there are 5 pieces of physical equipment in a scanned state in Unit 1503. In FIG. 16, area 4413 displays that there are 5 pieces of physical equipment in a reported state in Unit 1503. In FIG. 16, area 4413 displays that there are 2 pieces of physical equipment in a verified state in Unit 1503.

[0157] In FIG. 16, area 4413 displays an object 44131 indicating that the association and operation verification of all physical devices in a dwelling unit has been completed for the dwelling unit for which the association and operation verification of all physical devices has been completed.

[0158] The screen shown in Fig. 16 displays an area 4414 that indicates the progress of associating physical equipment for all of the dwelling units located on the floor displayed in object 4412. The screen shown in Fig. 16 displays in area 4414 the total number of physical equipment installed in the dwelling units on the 15th floor, the total number of physical equipment that has not yet been started, the total number of physical equipment that has been scanned, the total number of physical equipment that has been reported, and the total number of physical equipment that has been verified.

[0159] The third terminal device 40 accepts the third user's designation of the dwelling unit to be associated. Specifically, for example, the third user presses an item indicating the dwelling unit to be associated from among the dwelling units included in the area 4413 shown in Fig. 16. The third terminal device 40 transmits the dwelling unit ID, floor plan ID, and user ID of the third user of the designated dwelling unit to the server 20.

[0160] In step S34, the control unit 203 acquires information about the floor plan and information about the logical devices associated with the dwelling unit specified by the third user from the storage unit 202. Specifically, for example, the control unit 203 searches the floor plan table 2021 and the logical device table 2022 based on the floor plan ID received from the third terminal device 40, and acquires information about the corresponding record.

[0161] Based on the information obtained from the memory unit 202, the control unit 203 transmits information to the third terminal device 40 to cause the third terminal device 40 to display a floor plan of the apartment showing the placement locations of the logical devices.

[0162] The control unit 203 also searches the correspondence table 2026 using the dwelling unit ID received from the third terminal device 40, and stores the user ID of the third user in the "responsible user" field of the corresponding record. This allows other third users to be notified that the third user is in charge of the correspondence process for the dwelling unit.

[0163] In step S35, the third terminal device 40 displays on the display 441 the floor plan of the dwelling unit specified by the third user and a list of logical devices associated with the floor plan.

[0164] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the third terminal device 40, showing a floor plan and a list of logical devices. The screen illustrated in FIG. 17 includes an area 4417 displaying an image of the floor plan of the dwelling unit specified by the third user. The image of the floor plan displays an icon indicating that physical devices need to be installed at positions corresponding to the location coordinates stored in the "Location Information" field of the logical device table 2022. The appearance of the icon may change depending on the progress of the physical device association. For example, in the screen illustrated in FIG. 17, the icons are displayed in different colors and shapes for the not-started, scanned, reported, and verified states.

[0165] The screen shown in Fig. 17 includes an area 4415 that displays a list of logical devices arranged on the drawing data specified by the third user. In Fig. 17, area 4415 displays a list of logical devices arranged on the floor plan image displayed in area 4417. In the list of logical devices displayed in area 4415, the item for each logical device displays the same icon as the icon that indicates the position of the logical device displayed on the floor plan image in area 4417. In the list of logical devices displayed in area 4415, the item for each logical device is displayed in a different color depending on the progress of the association of the logical devices.

[0166] The screen shown in Fig. 17 includes an area 4416 that displays the number of logical devices for each status of association progress in the dwelling unit specified by the third user. In Fig. 17, area 4416 displays that there are a total of 30 physical devices to be associated, 18 physical devices in an unstarted state, 5 physical devices in a scanned state, 5 physical devices in a reported state, and 2 physical devices in a verified state.

[0167] The third terminal device 40 accepts a designation of the placement position of the logical device from the third user. Specifically, for example, the third user presses an icon indicating the placement position of the logical device from the image of the floor plan included in the area 4417 shown in FIG. 17 . When the placement position is designated, the third terminal device 40 displays on the display 441 an instruction to read information related to the association of the logical device with the physical device attached to the designated placement position. The third terminal device 40 may display on the display 441 at least one of the type, name, and progress of the association of the logical device related to the designated position.

[0168] Instead of accepting the designation of the placement position of the logical device, the third terminal device 40 may accept the selection of the logical device to be associated from a list of logical devices. Specifically, for example, the third user may press the item of the logical device to be associated from the list of logical devices included in the area 4415 shown in FIG. 17 . Upon accepting the selection of the logical device, the third terminal device 40 displays the position of the selected logical device on the floor plan so that it can be distinguished from other logical devices. Specifically, for example, the third terminal device 40 displays an icon indicating the position of the logical device designated by the third user by surrounding it with icon 44171 on the floor plan image shown in FIG. 17 .

[0169] In step S36, the third terminal device 40 accepts input of information identifying the physical device. Specifically, for example, the third user inputs the second identifier of the physical device into the third terminal device 40 by reading a code assigned to the physical device with the camera 460 of the third terminal device 40. The third terminal device 40 transmits to the server 20 the logical device ID of the logical device specified in step S35, the acquired second identifier, and the user ID of the third user.

[0170] In step S37, the control unit 203 causes the association module 2035 to associate the installed physical devices with the logical devices arranged on the architectural drawing data based on the information read by the third terminal device 40. Specifically, for example, the association module 2035 searches the association table 2026 based on the logical device ID received from the third terminal device 40, and stores the second identifier received from the third terminal device 40 in the physical device ID field. This binds the physical devices installed on the building with the logical devices logically arranged at the locations where the physical devices are installed. The physical devices are operated according to the specifications set for the logical devices.

[0171] Furthermore, the control unit 203 changes the progress status item to "scanned" by the progress management module 2036. This allows the progress status of the association between logical devices and physical devices to be shared with users other than the third user.

[0172] The control unit 203 transmits information about the association of the physical device with the logical device to the third terminal device 40 .

[0173] In step S38, the third terminal device 40 displays on the display 441 a screen for receiving an instruction to perform operation verification on the associated physical device.

[0174] Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the third terminal device 40 for receiving an instruction for operation verification of associated physical devices. The screen shown in Fig. 18 is displayed, for example, as an overlay on the screen shown in Fig. 17. The screen shown in Fig. 18 includes an area 4418 for displaying buttons for receiving input from the third user regarding operation verification.

[0175] 18 , a button 44181 for transmitting a signal to drive a physical device is displayed in the area 4418. When the third user presses the button 44181, the third terminal device 40 transmits an instruction for operational verification to the server 20. The control unit 203, for example, refers to the logical device table 2022 and the association module 2035 to identify a physical device associated with a logical device located at a specific position on the floor plan image based on the logical device's position. The control unit 203 refers to the physical device table 2023 to acquire the hub ID of the hub paired with the identified physical device. The association module 2035 refers to the hub management table 2024 to identify the hub paired with the associated physical device based on the acquired hub ID. The association module 2035 instructs the identified hub to perform operational verification of the physical device.

[0176] When the hub receives an instruction from the server 20, it transmits a signal to the physical device that is the target of verification to perform a predetermined operation. The physical device receives the signal from the hub and performs the operation according to the instruction.

[0177] In step S38, the third terminal device 40 accepts input of the verification result of the operation of the associated physical device and stores the accepted verification result in the storage unit 480. Specifically, for example, if the third user confirms that the associated physical device is operating correctly, the third user presses button 44182 displayed on the screen shown in FIG. 18. In this case, the third terminal device 40 stores information indicating that the associated physical device is operating correctly in the storage unit 480. Furthermore, if the third user is unable to confirm the response of the associated physical device, the third user presses button 44183 displayed on the screen shown in FIG. 18. In this case, the third terminal device 40 stores information indicating that the associated physical device is not operating correctly in the storage unit 480.

[0178] The third terminal device 40 transmits to the server 20 information relating to the verification result of the operation of the physical device received from the third user.

[0179] In step S39, the control unit 203 receives the results of the physical device operation verification using the reception control module 2031. The control unit 203 updates the progress status of the association using the progress management module 2036. Specifically, for example, the progress management module 2036 searches the association table based on the physical device ID received from the third terminal device 40 and updates the value of the progress status item. The control unit 203 transmits information indicating that the progress status of the association has been updated to the third terminal device 40 using the transmission control module 2032.

[0180] In step S310, upon receiving the notification, the third terminal device 40 changes the appearance of the icon indicating the logical device to be associated, which is included in areas 4415 and 4416 on the screen shown in Fig. 17, according to the progress of the association. For example, if the physical device operates correctly in the operation verification, the third terminal device 40 changes the appearance of the icon of the corresponding logical device to correspond to a verified state. For example, if the physical device does not operate correctly in the operation verification, the third terminal device 40 changes the appearance of the icon of the corresponding logical device to correspond to a reported state.

[0181] This completes the association of the logical device specified in step S35 with the physical device. Once the association of the logical device with the physical device is complete, the third user selects a logical device that has not yet been associated with a physical device from area 4415 shown in Fig. 17. The third terminal device 40 and server 20 repeat the processes of steps S35 to S310, for example, until there are no more logical devices in area 4415 that have not yet been associated.

[0182] As described above, in the above embodiment, the control unit 203 receives input of the layout of logical devices and input of their intended uses on architectural drawing data for a specific building from the first terminal device 10. The control unit 203 registers the layout positions and operating settings of the logical devices based on the architectural drawing data in which the layout of the logical devices and their intended uses are associated. The control unit 203 receives identification information of physical devices to be installed in the building and identification information of hubs to be installed in the building from the second terminal device 30. The physical devices are assigned labels that allow identification information of the physical devices to be identified, and the hubs are assigned labels that allow identification information of the hubs to be identified. The control unit 203 registers the identification information of the physical devices and the identification information of the hubs, and pairs the physical devices with the hubs. After the physical devices and the hubs are installed in the building, the control unit 203 causes the third terminal device 40 to display a floor plan image of the building showing the layout positions of the logical devices. When a placement position is specified on the floor plan image via the third terminal device 40, the control unit 203 causes a request for the physical device or hub attached to the placement position to be displayed on the third terminal device 40. The control unit 203 associates identification information read from the physical device or hub by the third terminal device 40 in response to the request with the logical device to be placed on the floor plan image.

[0183] In order to minimize on-site work, it is desirable to complete as many executable processes as possible before installation. In conventional technologies, for example, physical device configuration, such as pairing of physical devices, is performed on-site, which places a heavy burden on the installer. In this embodiment, on-site commissioning is minimized. That is, in this embodiment, part of the commissioning (pairing and registration of physical devices) is completed before the physical devices are shipped, and only the location information of the physical devices needs to be registered on-site. This makes it possible to reduce on-site uncertainty, labor costs, and the like.

[0184] Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the cost and effort involved in a series of tasks from the design stage of a property where smart home devices are to be installed to installation, configuration, and operation verification.

[0185] In addition, by determining the placement of logical devices on architectural drawing data and using that architectural drawing data as master data, it becomes impossible to make changes to the design on-site. This prevents unintentional changes to the design and enables stable construction schedules. Furthermore, building information can be created from a single source based on the master data, making work more efficient.

[0186] In the above embodiment, the control unit 203 displays a list of logical devices that need to be associated with physical devices, and when a logical device is selected from the list, the control unit 203 displays the corresponding position on the floor plan image so that it can be distinguished from positions corresponding to other logical devices. This allows the system to easily and correctly guide staff to positions that need to be associated with physical devices.

[0187] In the above embodiment, when the control unit 203 receives the selection of a predetermined position on the floor plan image, it displays the name of the logical device corresponding to the selected position, thereby preventing the staff from mistaking the physical device to be associated.

[0188] In the above embodiment, when the control unit 203 receives an instruction to verify the operation of an installed physical device, it transmits a signal to the location where the physical device is installed to drive the physical device. This makes it possible to associate the physical device with its installation location and simultaneously verify the operation of the physical device. This allows work to proceed more efficiently.

[0189] In the above embodiment, the control unit 203 receives an input indicating whether or not the attached physical device has been activated, and stores the result. This allows accurate storage of the verification result for each physical device.

[0190] In the above embodiment, the control unit 203 manages unmapped logical devices, mapped logical devices, mapped logical devices that have encountered a problem during verification, and verified logical devices, thereby enabling physical devices to be installed in a building as envisioned at the time of design.

[0191] In the above embodiment, the control unit 203 displays the number of unmapped logical devices, the number of mapped logical devices, the number of mapped logical devices that have encountered problems during verification, or the number of verified logical devices, thereby enabling the construction period to be accurately determined.

[0192] <Modifications> In the above embodiment, the system 1 performs the processes described in the above embodiment on a building that has dwelling units for people to live in. However, there is no particular limitation on the buildings that are the targets of the processes performed by the system 1. For example, the system 1 can also process buildings where people work, buildings where people stay for some purpose, and buildings for storing specified items.

[0193] In the above embodiment, the first terminal device 10 receives a designation of the placement of logical devices on floor plan drawing data from a user. However, the first terminal device 10 may, for example, use the presentation control unit 194 to propose a placement of logical devices based on a building floor plan. Specifically, for example, when acquiring architectural drawing data, the presentation control unit 194 acquires information about room characteristics included in the architectural drawing data. The information about the room characteristics may be, for example, information about the room layout, room dimensions, room shape, furniture placement, or at least any combination thereof. The presentation control unit 194 receives a designation of logical devices from a user. The presentation control unit 194 proposes a placement of the specified logical devices based on the acquired information about the room characteristics. The presentation control unit 194 may propose a placement of the specified logical devices based on a predetermined table or a trained model. The trained model is trained, for example, by supervised learning or reinforcement learning, to output a placement of selected logical devices when the logical devices and architectural drawing data are input, based on the relationship between the room characteristics and the physical devices installed in the room. The presentation control unit 194, for example, inputs architectural drawing data and a logical device designated by a user into the learning model, and outputs a layout suitable for the logical device. The user may accept or reject the presented proposal. Alternatively, the user may modify the presented proposal and then adopt it.

[0194] In the above embodiment, the first terminal device 10 accepts a logical device designation from the first user. However, the first terminal device 10 may, for example, use the presentation control unit 194 to propose logical devices that can be arranged on a floor plan based on architectural drawing data. Specifically, for example, after acquiring architectural drawing data, the presentation control unit 194 acquires information on room characteristics included in the architectural drawing data. Based on the acquired information, the presentation control unit 194 identifies logical device candidates to be arranged in the room and candidate placement locations, and proposes them to the first user. The presentation control unit 194 may propose logical device candidates and candidate placement locations based on a predetermined table or a trained model. The trained model is trained, for example, by supervised learning or reinforcement learning, to output logical device candidates when architectural drawing data is input, based on the relationship between the room characteristics and the physical devices installed in the room. The user may accept or reject the presented proposal. Alternatively, the user may modify the presented proposal and adopt it.

[0195] The first terminal device 10 may also propose logic devices that can be placed at a location specified by the user on the architectural drawing data. Specifically, for example, the presentation control unit 194 receives, from the user, a specification of a desired location on the architectural drawing data where the logic device is to be placed. The presentation control unit 194 identifies logic device candidates to be installed at the specified location based on information about the room's characteristics and the specified location, and proposes the logic device candidates to the user. The presentation control unit 194 may propose logic device candidates to be installed at the specified location based on a predetermined table or a trained model. The trained model is trained, for example, by supervised learning or reinforcement learning, to output logic device candidates when architectural drawing data and locations within the architectural drawing data are input, based on the relationship between the room's characteristics and the physical devices installed in the room. The user may accept or reject the presented proposal. The user may also modify the presented proposal and adopt it.

[0196] Furthermore, the first terminal device 10 may, for example, use the presentation control unit 194 to propose a use of a logical device based on the logical device and the location of the logical device specified by the user. Specifically, for example, when the presentation control unit 194 receives a logical device designation and a location designation for the logical device from the user, the presentation control unit 194 proposes a use of the specified logical device at the specified location based on architectural drawing data. The presentation control unit 194 may propose a use of the logical device based on a predetermined table or a trained model. The trained model is trained, for example, by supervised learning or reinforcement learning, to output a use of the logical device when inputting logical devices, their locations, and architectural drawing data, based on the relationship between room characteristics, physical devices attached to the room, and the uses of the attached physical devices. The user may accept or reject the presented proposal. The user may also modify the presented proposal and adopt it.

[0197] Furthermore, the first terminal device 10 may, for example, use the presentation control unit 194 to propose a location for a logical device and a use purpose based on a logical device designation from the user. The first terminal device 10 may, for example, use the presentation control unit 194 to propose a logical device and a use purpose based on a location designation in architectural drawing data. The user may accept or reject the proposed proposal. The user may also modify the proposed proposal and then adopt it.

[0198] In the above embodiment, the system 1 executes pairing and association processes based on the registration information. Additionally, the system 1 may generate order information for ordering necessary physical equipment based on the registration information. Specifically, for example, the control unit 203 of the server 20 searches the logical equipment table 2022 based on a specific floor plan ID and acquires information for the "Name" item. The control unit 203 then acquires a list of physical equipment required for the dwelling unit constructed based on the floor plan. The control unit 203 then generates order information including the names and quantities of the physical equipment based on the acquired list of physical equipment. This reduces the effort required to generate order information. Furthermore, parts ordering and other tasks can be performed from a single source based on master data, improving work efficiency.

[0199] In the above embodiment, the third terminal device 40 does not particularly limit the destination to which the logical device information is displayed. However, the third terminal device 40 may be configured not to display information about logical devices to staff members other than a designated staff member. Specifically, when a process related to association of a designated logical device is being performed, information for associating the logical device may not be displayed to non-assigned staff members other than the staff member in charge of associating the logical device. For example, if an item related to the logical device is selected on the screen shown in FIG. 17 on a terminal device of a non-assigned staff member while a process related to association of the logical device is being performed on the terminal device of the designated staff member, instead of displaying information for associating the logical device, a message may be displayed indicating that operations related to the association of the logical device have been locked by another staff member.

[0200] Furthermore, the third terminal device 40 may be configured to prevent a third user operating the device from accessing the screen shown in FIG. 17 for a specific dwelling unit if another third user is accessing the screen shown in FIG. 17 for that dwelling unit. For example, when a third user operating the device requests processing for a specific dwelling unit, the third terminal device 40 determines whether another third user is performing association processing for that dwelling unit. For example, the third terminal device 40 accesses the server 20 to determine whether the other third user is stored as the responsible user in the record for that dwelling unit in the association table 2026. If another third user is performing association processing for that dwelling unit, the third terminal device 40 may be configured to prevent access to the screen shown in FIG. 17 for that dwelling unit until the processing is completed. In other words, when association between physical devices and logical devices is being performed through a specific third terminal device 40 among multiple third terminal devices 40, the control unit 203 prevents other third terminal devices 40 from performing processing. This restricts the display of information about logical devices associated with that dwelling unit to other staff members. It also makes it possible to avoid the site being congested by multiple personnel.

[0201] 19 is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of a computer 90. The computer 90 includes at least a processor 91, a main storage device 92, an auxiliary storage device 93, and a communication IF (interface) 99. These components are electrically connected to one another by a bus.

[0202] The processor 91 is hardware for executing an instruction set written in a program, and is composed of an arithmetic unit, registers, peripheral circuits, and the like.

[0203] The main storage device 92 is for temporarily storing programs, data to be processed by the programs, etc. For example, it is a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0204] The auxiliary storage device 93 is a storage device for saving data and programs, such as a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a semiconductor memory.

[0205] The communication IF 99 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals for communicating with other computers via a network using a wired or wireless communication standard. The network is composed of the Internet, a LAN, various mobile communication systems constructed using wireless base stations, etc. For example, the network includes 3G, 4G, and 5G mobile communication systems, LTE (Long Term Evolution), and wireless networks (e.g., Wi-Fi (registered trademark)) that can connect to the Internet via a predetermined access point. In the case of a wireless connection, communication protocols include, for example, Z-Wave (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), and Bluetooth (registered trademark). In the case of a wired connection, the network also includes a network that is directly connected using a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable, etc.

[0206] It should be noted that the computer 90 can be virtually realized by distributing all or part of each hardware configuration across multiple computers 90 and interconnecting them via a network. In this way, the concept of the computer 90 includes not only a computer 90 housed in a single housing or case, but also a virtualized computer system.

[0207] <Basic Functional Configuration of Computer 90> A description will be given of the functional configuration of the computer realized by the basic hardware configuration of the computer 90 shown in Fig. 19. The computer includes at least the functional units of a control unit, a storage unit, and a communication unit.

[0208] The functional units of the computer 90 can also be realized by distributing all or part of the functional units among multiple computers 90 interconnected via a network. The computer 90 is a concept that includes not only a single computer 90 but also a virtualized computer system.

[0209] The control unit is realized by the processor 91 reading various programs stored in the auxiliary storage device 93, expanding them in the main storage device 92, and executing processing in accordance with the programs. The control unit can realize functional units that perform various types of information processing depending on the type of program. In this way, the computer is realized as an information processing device that performs information processing.

[0210] The storage unit is realized by a main storage device 92 and an auxiliary storage device 93. The storage unit stores data, various programs, and various databases. Furthermore, the processor 91 can allocate a storage area corresponding to the storage unit in the main storage device 92 or the auxiliary storage device 93 in accordance with the programs. Furthermore, the control unit can cause the processor 91 to execute processes for adding, updating, and deleting data stored in the storage unit in accordance with the various programs.

[0211] The term "database" refers to a relational database, which manages data sets called tables in a tabular format structurally defined by rows and columns, by associating them with one another. In a database, a table is called a table, a column in a table, and a row in a table a record. In a relational database, relationships between tables can be set and associated. Typically, each table has a column set as a key to uniquely identify a record, but setting a key to a column is not required. The control unit can cause the processor 91 to add, delete, or update records in specific tables stored in the storage unit according to various programs.

[0212] The communication unit is realized by the communication IF 99. The communication unit realizes the function of communicating with other computers 90 via a network. The communication unit can receive information transmitted from other computers 90 and input the information to the control unit. The control unit can cause the processor 91 to execute information processing on the received information in accordance with various programs. Furthermore, the communication unit can transmit information output from the control unit to other computers 90.

[0213] Although several embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, these embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and modifications are intended to be included in the scope of the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the inventions.

[0214] <Supplementary Notes> The matters described in the above embodiments are supplemented below. (Supplementary Note 1) A system having one or more information processing devices, wherein the one or more information processing devices have a processing circuitry, wherein the processing circuitry: accepts, from a first terminal, an input of the layout of logical devices and an input of their intended uses on architectural drawing data of a predetermined building; registers the layout positions and operating settings of the logical devices based on the architectural drawing data in which the layout of the logical devices and the intended uses are associated; accepts, from a second terminal, identification information of physical devices to be attached to the building and identification information of hubs to be attached to the building, and attaches labels that make the identification information of the physical devices identifiable to the physical devices and labels that make the identification information of the hubs identifiable to the hubs; registers the identification information of the physical devices and the identification information of the hubs and pairs the physical devices with the hubs; and displays, on a third terminal, a floor plan image of the building showing the layout positions of the logical devices after the physical devices and the hubs have been attached to the building. A system that, when a placement position is specified on a floor plan image via a third terminal, displays on the third terminal a request for a physical device or a hub attached to the placement position, and associates identification information read from the physical device or hub by the third terminal in response to the request with a logical device to be placed on the floor plan image. (Supplementary Note 2) A system according to Supplementary Note 1, in which the Processing Circuitry proposes a placement of logical devices based on a building floor plan. (Supplementary Note 3) A system according to Supplementary Note 1 or Supplementary Note 2, in which the Processing Circuitry proposes logical devices that can be placed based on the building floor plan. (Supplementary Note 4) A system according to any of Supplements 1 to 3, in which the Processing Circuitry proposes logical devices that can be placed at a specified position on architectural drawing data. (Supplementary Note 5) A system according to any of Supplements 1 to 4, in which the Processing Circuitry generates ordering information for ordering required physical devices based on architectural drawing data associated with the placement of logical devices and their intended uses.(Supplementary Note 6) The system according to any one of Supplements 1 to 5, wherein the processing circuitry displays a list of logical devices that need to be associated with physical devices, and upon receiving a selection of a logical device from the list, displays the corresponding position on the floor plan image in a manner that allows it to be distinguished from corresponding positions of other logical devices. (Supplementary Note 7) The system according to any one of Supplements 1 to 6, wherein the processing circuitry, upon receiving a selection of a predetermined position on the floor plan image, displays the name of the logical device that corresponds to the selected position. (Supplementary Note 8) The system according to any one of Supplements 1 to 7, wherein the processing circuitry, when associating a physical device with a logical device via a predetermined third terminal among a plurality of third terminals, does not allow processing to be performed via other third terminals. (Supplementary Note 9) The system according to any one of Supplements 1 to 8, wherein the processing circuitry, upon receiving an instruction to verify the operation of an installed physical device, transmits a signal to the position where the physical device is installed to drive the physical device. (Supplementary Note 10) The system according to Supplementary Note 9, wherein the processing circuitry accepts input as to whether or not an attached physical device has been operated, and stores the result. (Supplementary Note 11) The system according to Supplementary Note 10, wherein the processing circuitry manages unmapped logical devices, mapped logical devices, mapped logical devices that have failed in verification, or verified logical devices. (Supplementary Note 12) The system according to Supplementary Note 11, wherein the processing circuitry displays the number of unmapped logical devices, mapped logical devices, mapped logical devices that have failed in verification, or verified logical devices.(Supplementary Note 13) A method executed by a processing circuitry of one or more information processing devices in a system having one or more information processing devices, wherein the processing circuitry: accepts from a first terminal an input of the layout of logical devices and an input of usage on architectural drawing data of a predetermined building; registers the layout positions and operating settings of the logical devices based on the architectural drawing data in which the layout of the logical devices and the usage are associated; accepts from a second terminal identification information of physical devices to be attached to the building and identification information of hubs to be attached to the building, and attaches labels that make the identification information of the physical devices identifiable to the physical devices and labels that make the identification information of the hubs identifiable to the hubs; registers the identification information of the physical devices and the identification information of the hubs and pairs the physical devices with the hubs; and displays, on a third terminal, a floor plan image of the building showing the layout positions of the logical devices after the physical devices and the hubs have been attached to the building; A method for, when a placement position is specified on a floor plan image via a third terminal, displaying on the third terminal a request for a physical device or a hub attached to the placement position, and associating identification information read by the third terminal from the physical device or hub in response to the request with a logical device to be placed on the floor plan image. (Supplementary Note 14) The method of Supplementary Note 13, in which the processing circuitry displays a list of logical devices that require association with physical devices, and, upon receiving a selection of a logical device displayed on the list, displays the corresponding position on the floor plan image in a manner distinguishable from corresponding positions of other logical devices. (Supplementary Note 15) The method of Supplementary Note 13 or Supplementary Note 14, in which, upon receiving a selection of a predetermined position on the floor plan image, the processing circuitry displays the name of the logical device corresponding to the selected position. (Supplementary Note 16) The method of any of Supplements 13 to 15, in which, when association between physical device and logical device is being performed via a predetermined third terminal among multiple third terminals, the processing circuitry does not allow processing to be performed via other third terminals.(Supplementary Note 17) The method according to any one of Supplementary Note 13 to Supplementary Note 16, wherein, upon receiving an instruction to verify the operation of an attached physical device, the processing circuitry transmits a signal to the location where the physical device is attached to drive the physical device. (Supplementary Note 18) The method according to Supplementary Note 17, wherein the processing circuitry receives an input indicating whether the attached physical device has been driven or not, and stores the result. (Supplementary Note 19) The method according to Supplementary Note 18, wherein the processing circuitry manages unmapped logical devices, mapped logical devices, mapped logical devices that have failed in verification, or verified logical devices. (Supplementary Note 20) The method according to Supplementary Note 19, wherein the processing circuitry displays the number of unmapped logical devices, mapped logical devices, mapped logical devices that have failed in verification, or verified logical devices.

[0215] 1: System 10: First terminal device 15: Memory 16: Storage 19: Processor 20: Server 25: Memory 26: Storage 29: Processor 30: Second terminal device 35: Memory 36: Storage 39: Processor 40: Third terminal device 45: Memory 46: Storage 49: Processor

Claims

1. A system having one or more information processing devices, wherein the one or more information processing devices have a processing circuitry, the processing circuitry: accepts from a first terminal an input of a logical device layout and an input of an intended use on architectural drawing data of a specified building; registers the layout position and operating setting of the logical device based on the architectural drawing data in which the layout of the logical device and the intended use are associated; accepts from a second terminal identification information of a physical device to be attached to the building and identification information of a hub to be attached to the building, the physical device is given a label that makes it possible to identify the identification information of the physical device, and the hub is given a label that makes it possible to identify the identification information of the hub; registers the identification information of the physical device and the identification information of the hub, and pairs the physical device with the hub; and after the physical device and the hub are attached to the building, displays on a third terminal a floor plan image of the building showing the layout positions of the logical devices; When the placement position is specified in the floor plan image via the third terminal, a request for a physical device or hub attached to the placement position is displayed on the third terminal, and identification information read from the physical device or hub by the third terminal in response to the request is associated with the logical device placed on the floor plan image.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein said processing circuitry proposes an arrangement of said logical devices based on a floor plan of said building.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry suggests logical devices that can be placed based on the layout of the building.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein said processing circuitry proposes a logical device that can be placed at a specified position on said architectural drawing data.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein said processing circuitry generates ordering information for ordering required physical equipment based on said architectural drawing data associated with the layout and use of said logical equipment.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry displays a list of logical devices that need to be associated with physical devices, and when a selection of a logical device displayed in the list is accepted, the system displays the corresponding position on the floor plan image in a manner that makes it distinguishable from the corresponding positions of other logical devices.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein said processing circuitry, when accepting a selection of a predetermined position on said floor plan image, displays a name of a logical device corresponding to said selected position.

8. A system as described in claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry does not allow processing to be performed via other third terminals when the correspondence between the physical device and the logical device is being performed via a specific third terminal among a plurality of third terminals.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein said processing circuitry, upon receiving an instruction to verify the operation of an attached physical device, transmits a signal to a location where said physical device is attached, for driving said physical device.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein said processing circuitry receives an input as to whether or not said attached physical device has been operated, and stores the result.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the processing circuitry manages logical devices that are not associated, logical devices that are associated, logical devices that are associated but have a failure during verification, or logical devices for which verification has been completed.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the processing circuitry displays the number of unmapped logical devices, the number of mapped logical devices, the number of mapped logical devices but which have failed during verification, or the number of logical devices for which verification has been completed.

13. A method executed by a processing circuitry of one or more information processing devices in a system having one or more information processing devices, wherein the processing circuitry: accepts from a first terminal an input of a logical device layout and an input of an intended use on architectural drawing data of a specified building; registers the layout position and operating setting of the logical device based on the architectural drawing data in which the layout of the logical device and the intended use are associated; accepts from a second terminal identification information of a physical device to be attached to the building and identification information of a hub to be attached to the building, and the physical device is given a label that makes it possible to identify the identification information of the physical device, and the hub is given a label that makes it possible to identify the identification information of the hub; registers the identification information of the physical device and the identification information of the hub, and pairs the physical device with the hub; and displays, on a third terminal, a floor plan image of the building showing the layout positions of the logical devices after the physical device and the hub have been attached to the building; When the placement position is specified in the floor plan image via the third terminal, a request for a physical device or a hub attached to the placement position is displayed on the third terminal, and identification information read from the physical device or the hub by the third terminal in response to the request is associated with the logical device placed on the floor plan image.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the processing circuitry displays a list of logical devices that need to be associated with physical devices, and when a selection of a logical device displayed in the list is accepted, the processing circuitry displays the corresponding position on the floor plan image in a manner distinguishable from the corresponding positions of other logical devices.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein said processing circuitry, upon receiving a selection of a predetermined position on said floor plan image, displays a name of a logical device corresponding to said selected position.

16. The method according to claim 13, wherein the processing circuitry does not allow processing to be performed via other third terminals when the correspondence between the physical device and the logical device is being performed via a specific third terminal among a plurality of third terminals.

17. The method according to claim 13, wherein the processing circuitry, upon receiving an instruction to verify the operation of an attached physical device, transmits a signal to a location where the physical device is attached, for driving the physical device.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein said processing circuitry receives an input indicating whether or not said attached physical device has been driven, and stores the result.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the processing circuitry manages logical devices that are not associated, logical devices that are associated, logical devices that are associated but have failed during verification, or logical devices for which verification has been completed.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the processing circuitry displays the number of logical devices that are not mapped, the number of logical devices that are mapped, the number of logical devices that are mapped but failed verification, or the number of logical devices for which verification has been completed.

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