Server, communication system, and communication method

A server for managing inspection information of one or more structures includes circuitry configured to store identification information uniquely assigned to an information source associated with a structure, and image data of the structure previously captured in association with each other as an inspection result of the structure; receive from a communication terminal, via a communication network, the identification information of the information source acquired by the communication terminal; create data of a screen used for displaying the image data of the structure previously captured corresponding to the identification information received from the communication terminal; and transmit the data of the screen used for displaying the image data of the structure previously captured to the communication terminal via the communication network.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119(a) to Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-141601, filed on Jul. 31, 2019 in the Japan Patent Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

This disclosure relates to a server for managing or controlling inspection information, a communication system, and a communication method.

Background Art

Infrastructure maintenance and inspection works are performed periodically to inspect or checks structures, such as bridges and tunnels. Inspection works of structures at inspection sites are performed by inspectors having expertise and skills, and assistants, such as part-time assistants, who do not have expertise knowledge and skills.

Typically, the inspectors perform inspection works to determine the level of deterioration of structures, and prepares assessment based on the inspection works while the assistants perform supporting or assisting works, such as image capturing operation of structures to record the current state of structures. For example, the assistants use communication terminals, such as smart devices, to capture current images of structures at the inspection sites, and uploads the captured images to a server. With this procedure, the server can accumulate past and current images of the same structure, which can be used to determine deterioration of the each structure over time. Therefore, it is preferable that the assistants capture current images of the structures with the same photography composition as the images of the structures captured in the past.

However, it is difficult for the inspectors to remember the photography composition of past images because a large number of inspection sites and structures have been inspected. Further, the assistants, such as part-time assistants, may not have any opportunities to see the images of the structures captured in the past.

Therefore, if the inspectors or assistants access the server using the smart devices or the like, and download the past images of the same structure from the server, the inspectors or assistants can determine the photography composition of the structures to be captured by referring to the past images of the structures.

However, because there are many inspection sites and structures, it is difficult for the inspectors or assistants to access the server using the smart devices or the like, and to find the past images of the same structure.

SUMMARY

As one aspect of the present disclosure, a server for managing inspection information of one or more structures is devised. The server includes circuitry configured to store identification information uniquely assigned to an information source associated with a structure, and image data of the structure previously captured in association with each other as an inspection result of the structure; receive from a communication terminal, via a communication network, the identification information of the information source acquired by the communication terminal; create data of a screen used for displaying the image data of the structure previously captured corresponding to the identification information received from the communication terminal; and transmit the data of the screen used for displaying the image data of the structure previously captured to the communication terminal via the communication network.

As another aspect of the present disclosure, a communication system is devised. The communication system includes a communication terminal; and a server for managing inspection information of one or more structures. The server includes circuitry configured to store identification information uniquely assigned to an information source associated with a structure, and image data of the structure previously captured in association with each other as an inspection result of the structure; receive from the communication terminal, via a communication network, the identification information of the information source acquired by the communication terminal; create data of a screen used for displaying the image data of the structure previously captured corresponding to the identification information received from the communication terminal; and transmit the data of the screen used for displaying the image data of the structure previously captured to the communication terminal via the communication network.

As another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of managing inspection information of one or more structures is devised. The method includes storing identification information uniquely assigned to an information source associated with a structure, and image data of the structure previously captured in association with each other as an inspection result of the structure; receiving from a communication terminal, via a communication network, the identification information of the information source acquired by the communication terminal; creating data of a screen used for displaying the image data of the structure previously captured corresponding to the identification information received from the communication terminal; and transmitting the data of the screen used for displaying the image data of the structure previously captured to the communication terminal via the communication network.

The accompanying drawings are intended to depict embodiments of the this disclosure and should not be interpreted to limit the scope thereof. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A description is now given of exemplary embodiments of the present inventions. It should be noted that although such terms as first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or units, it should be understood that such elements, components, regions, layers and/or units are not limited thereby because such terms are relative, that is, used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or unit from another region, layer or unit. Thus, for example, a first element, component, region, layer or unit discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or unit without departing from the teachings of the present inventions.

Hereinafter, a description is given of a communication system according to an embodiment in detail with reference to the drawings.

Hereinafter, a description is given of an outline of system configuration of a communication system1000.FIG. 1illustrates an example of system configuration of a communication system1000according to the embodiment of this disclosure.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, the communication system1000can be configured with, for example, a smart device2(communication terminal), a data management server4, an inspection information management server6, and a personal computer (PC)8. Hereinafter, the smart device2may be also referred to as the smart phone, the data management server4may be also referred to as the data server or server for managing data, and the inspection information management server6may be also referred to as the inspection information server or server for managing inspection information.

The smart device2can communicate with the data management server4, the inspection information management server6, and the PC8via a communication network100. The communication network100is configured with, for example, the Internet, mobile communication network, local area network (LAN), and the like. The communication network100is not limited to wired communication network, but can be wireless communication network, such as 3G (Third Generation), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX: registered trademark), Long Term Evolution (LTE), and the like.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, when an inspector A inspects or checks a structure Y at an inspection location (inspection site) X during a periodic inspection work, and an assistant B requests a registration screen used for registering an inspection result of the structure X by using the smart device2, the smart device2acquires, from information source10associated with the structure Y, information source identification (ID) identifying the information source10, and universal resource locator (URL) as access destination to which the registration screen is requested. In this description, the information source10provides information of identification (ID) identifying the information source10, and the information source10can be also referred to as the information provider, information indicator, or information identifier. To be described later, the information source10associated with the structure Y can be used to processing of data related to the structure Y, such as accessing, searching, retrieving, storing, registering the data related to the structure Y in the communication system.

The structure Y is, for example, bridge (bridge structure), tunnel or the like. The structure Y also includes, for example, piping or tubes used for transporting materials, such as gas, liquid, powder, and granular substance, and a vertical hole-shaped reinforced concrete structure object, such as a hoistway used as an elevator shaft in which a lift or an elevator travels. The structure Y also includes real estate, such as apartments and condominiums.

The information source10includes, for example, a seal printed with given code information, such as quick response (QR) code and bar code, an integrated circuit (IC) tag, a beacon transmitter, or the like. In a case of QR code, as illustrated inFIG. 5A, various information, such as information source ID, and URL as access destination, is embedded. When the seal having the QR code is attached to the structure, the QR code and structure are associated with each other. The smart device2acquires various information of the QR code using an application of QR code scanner installed on the smart device2.

In a case of the IC tag, the smart device2can communicate using short-range communication technology, such as Near Field Communication (NFC: registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark) or the like with the IC tag. When the IC tag is attached to the structure Y, the IC tag and the structure Y are associated with each other.

In a case of the beacon transmitter, when the smart device2enters a radio wave range of the beacon transmitter, the smart device2can communicate with the beacon transmitter using the radio wave transmitting from the beacon transmitter. When the beacon transmitter is attached to the structure Y, the beacon transmitter and the structure Y are associated with each other.

Further, the attachment of the information source10to the structure Y is not required to associate the information source10and the structure Y with each other. For example, the information source10may be attached or disposed at a position closer to the structure Y existing in the vicinity of the structure Y, which means the information source10is not attached on the structure Y directly.

Further, if a plurality of structures exists at one site, the information source10corresponding to each one of plurality of structures can be attached on one single guide board with photo images of each one of plurality of structures, or the information source10corresponding to each one of plurality of structures can be set on a guide board provided for each one of plurality of structures.

As described above, the smart device2acquires various information from the information source10, such as such as information source ID, and URL as access destination as illustrated inFIG. 5A.

Then, the assistant B accesses the data management server4using the smart device2, and requests a registration screen used for registering the inspection result of the structure X. Then, the data management server4requests the registration screen to the inspection information management server6. Then, the inspection information management server6transmits data of the registration screen to the smart device2. Then, at the inspection location X, the assistant B captures latest images of the structure Y using the smart device2, and inputs the inspection result under the instruction of the inspector A using the smart device2. Further, in some cases, the inspector A may perform the image capture operation and/or imputing of inspection result.

The smart device2uploads the image data and the inspection result data of the structure to the inspection information management server6to register the image data and the inspection result data of the structure in the inspection information management server6. With this configuration, an administrator C of an inspection contractor Z can access the inspection information management server6from the PC8to acquire and view the image data and the inspection result data of the registered structure.

Further, the data management server5and the inspection information management server6are configured with a single or a plurality of computers. The data management server4and the inspection information management server6configure an inspection management system3. The functions of the data management server4and the inspection information management server6can be included in the inspection management systems3.

Further, the smart device2is an example of communication terminal, such as mobile or portable communication terminal. The communication terminal includes, for example, tablet PC, laptop PC, smartwatch, portable game machine, or the like.

Hereinafter, with reference toFIGS. 2 and 3, a description is given of hardware configuration of the terminal and the server configuring the communication system1000.

(Hardware Configuration of Smart Device)

FIG. 2is an example of configuration of hardware block diagram of the smart device2. As illustrated inFIG. 2, the smart device2includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU)201, a read-only memory (ROM)202, a random access memory (RAM)203, an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM)204, a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS)205, an imaging element interface (I/F)206, an acceleration and orientation sensor207, a media interface (I/F)209, and a GPS receiver211.

The CPU201controls the operation of the smart device2entirely. The ROM202stores programs used for driving the CPU201, such as initial program loader (IPL). The RAM203is used as a work area of the CPU201. The EEPROM204reads and writes various data, such as programs for the smart device2under the control of the CPU201.

The complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS)205is a built-in type image capture unit or means, such as imaging sensor, that captures images of an object (e.g., self-image) and acquires image data of the captured images under the control of the CPU201. Further, the charge coupled device (CCD) sensor can be used as the image capture unit or means. The image element I/F206is a circuit that controls the driving of the CMOS205.

The acceleration and orientation sensor207includes various sensors such as an electronic magnetic compass, a gyrocompass, and an acceleration sensor to detect the geomagnetism.

The media I/F209controls reading and writing (storing) of data to a recording medium208, such as flash memory. The GPS receiver211receives GPS signals from GPS satellites.

As illustrated inFIG. 2, the smart device2further includes, for example, a long-range communication circuit212, a CMOS213, an imaging element I/F214, a microphone215, a speaker216, an audio input/output I/F217, a display218, an external device connection interface (I/F)219, a short-range communication circuit220, an antenna220aof the short-range communication circuit220, and a touch panel221.

The long-range communication circuit212is a circuit that communicates with other devices via the communication network100.

The CMOS213is a built-in type image capture unit or means that captures images of object and acquires image data of the captured images under the control of the CPU201. The imaging element I/F214is a circuit for controlling the drive of the CMOS213.

The microphone215includes a built-in type circuit that converts audio signals into electrical signals. The speaker216includes a built-in type circuit that generates audio, such as music and audio sounds, by converting the electric signals to physical vibration. The audio input/output I/F217is a circuit that processes the input and output of audio signals with the microphone215and the speaker216under the control of the CPU201. The display218is a display unit, such as liquid crystal or organic electro luminescence (EL) display, which displays images of object and various icons.

The external device connection I/F219is an interface for connecting various external devices. The short-range communication circuit220is a communication circuit, such as Near Field Communication (NFC: registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). The touch panel221is a type of input unit configured to operate the smart device2by performing pressing operation on the display218by a user.

The smart device2further includes a bus line210. The bus line210is an address bus and data bus for electrically connecting components illustrated inFIG. 2, such as the CPU201.

(Hardware Configuration of Data Management Server)

Hereinafter, with reference toFIG. 3, a description is given of hardware configuration of the data management server4.FIG. 3is an example of configuration of hardware block diagram of the data management server4.

As illustrated inFIG. 3, the data management server4is configured with a computer including, for example, a CPU401, a ROM402, a RAM403, a HD404, a hard disk drive (HDD) controller405, a media I/F407, a display408, a network I/F409, a bus line410, a keyboard411, a mouse412, and a digital versatile disk rewritable (DVD-RW) drive414.

The CPU401controls the operation of the data management server4entirely. The ROM402stores programs used for driving the CPU401, such as initial program loader (IPL). The RAM403is used as a work area of the CPU401.

The HD404stores various data, such as programs. The HDD controller405controls reading and writing of various data to the HD404under the control of the CPU401.

The display408displays various information, such as cursor, menu, window, characters, and image. The media I/F407controls reading and writing (storing) of data to a recording medium415, such as flash memory.

Further, the network I/F409is an interface for data communication using the communication network100. The bus line410is an address bus and a data bus for electrically connecting each component illustrated inFIG. 3, such as the CPU401.

The keyboard411is a type of input unit including a plurality of keys used for inputting, such as characters, numbers, and various instructions. The mouse412is a type of input unit used for selecting various instructions, performing various instructions, selecting process target, moving a cursor, or the like. The DVD-RW drive414controls reading and writing of various data to a DVD-RW413, which is an example of removable recording medium.

Further, instead of DVD-RW, DVD-R or Blu-ray Disc (registered trademark) can be used. The same applies to the inspection information management server6and the PC8.

(Hardware Configuration of Inspection Information Management Server)

Hereinafter, with reference toFIG. 3, a description is given of hardware configuration of the inspection information management server6.FIG. 3also illustrates a hardware configuration of the inspection information management server6.

As illustrated inFIG. 3, the inspection information management server6is configured with a computer including, for example, a CPU601, a ROM602, a RAM603, a HD604, a HDD controller605, a media I/F607, a display608, a network I/F609, a bus line610, a keyboard611, a mouse612, and a DVD-RW drive614.

Since these components employ the same configurations as those of the CPU401, the ROM402, the RAM403, the HD404, the HDD controller405, the media I/F407, the display408, the network I/F409, the bus line410, the keyboard411, the mouse412, and the DVD-RW drive414, the descriptions of thereof are omitted.

Further, as to the inspection information management server6, the media I/F607controls reading and writing (storing) of data to a recording medium615, such as flash memory. The DVD-RW drive614controls reading and writing of various data to a DVD-RW613, which is an example of removable recording medium.

(Hardware Configuration of PC)

Hereinafter, with reference toFIG. 3, a description is given of hardware configuration of the PC8.FIG. 3also illustrates a hardware configuration of the PC8.

As illustrated inFIG. 3, the PC8is configured with a computer including, for example, a CPU801, a ROM802, a RAM803, a HD804, a HDD controller805, a media I/F807, a display808, a network I/F809, a bus line810, a keyboard811, a mouse812, and a DVD-RW drive814.

Since these components employ the same configurations as those of the CPU401, the ROM402, the RAM403, the HD404, the HDD controller405, the media I/F407, the display408, the network I/F409, the bus line410, the keyboard411, the mouse412, and the DVD-RW drive414, the descriptions of thereof are omitted.

As to the PC8, the media I/F807controls reading and writing (storing) of data to a recording medium815, such as flash memory. The DVD-RW drive814controls reading and writing of various data to a DVD-RW813, which is an example of removable recording medium.

(Functional Configuration of Communication System)

Hereinafter, with reference toFIGS. 2 and 4, a description is given of functional configuration of the embodiment.FIG. 4is an example of configuration of functional block diagram of the communication system1000.

(Functional Configuration of Smart Device)

Hereinafter, with reference toFIG. 4, a description is given of functional configuration of the smart device2. As illustrated inFIG. 4, the smart device2includes, for example, a transmitting-receiving unit21, a reception unit22, an image capture unit23, a display control unit24, a communication unit28, and a writing-reading unit29. Each of these functions is a function or functional unit that is implemented by operating any one of the components ofFIG. 2under the instruction from the CPU201executing the programs for the smart device loaded on the RAM203from the EEPROM204. The smart device2further includes a storage unit2000, implemented by the RAM203and the EEPROM204illustrated inFIG. 2.

(Functional Configuration of Smart Device)

Hereinafter, with reference toFIG. 4, a description is given of functional configuration of the smart device2in detail.

The transmitting-receiving unit21, implemented by an instruction from the CPU201illustrated inFIG. 2, communicates with other device, such as server and terminal, via the communication network100.

The reception unit22, implemented by an instruction from the CPU201, receives, for example, an selection operation performed by a user (e.g., assistant B) via the touch panel221.

The image capture unit23is implemented the CMOS205and the imaging element I/F206, or the CMOS213and the imaging element I/F214under an instruction from the CPU201.

The display control unit24, implemented by an instruction from the CPU201, displays various screens (e.g., images, characters) on the display218.

The communication unit28, implemented by an instruction from the CPU201, performs short-range communication with the information source10, such as IC tag or beacon transmitter, via the short-range communication circuit220and the antenna220a.

The writing-reading unit29, implemented by an instruction from the CPU201, performs a process of writing various data to the storage unit2000and reading various data stored in the storage unit2000.

(Functional Configuration of Data Management Server)

Hereinafter, with reference toFIG. 4, a description is given of functional configuration of the data management server4. As illustrated inFIG. 4, the data management server4includes, for example, a transmitting-receiving unit41, a determination unit45, and a writing-reading unit49. Each of these functions is a function or functional unit that is implemented by operating any one of the components ofFIG. 3under the instruction from the CPU401executing the programs for the server loaded on the RAM403from the HD404. Further, the data management server4includes a storage unit4000, implemented the RAM403and the HD404illustrated inFIG. 3.

FIG. 5Bis an example of transfer destination management table. The storage unit4000stores a transfer destination management database (DB)4001including the transfer destination management table illustrated inFIG. 5B. The transfer destination management table stores various information, such as information source ID, passcode, uniform resource locator (URL) of transfer destination (redirect destination) in association with each other.

The information source ID is information provided by the information source10to the communication terminal, such as the smart device2. The information source ID is an information of identifying the information source10(an example of identification information identifying each information source10).

The passcode is a string of characters and numbers used for authenticating each user (e.g., inspector A, assistant B) or the smart device2. The passcode is an example of authentication information. The authentication information may also include a password. Further, if the attribute name (e.g., information source ID) is the same in various tables to be described in this disclosure, the same attribute name means the same content.

(Functional Configuration of Data Management Server)

Hereinafter, with reference toFIG. 4, a description is given of functional configuration of the data management server4in detail.

The transmitting-receiving unit41, implemented by an instruction from the CPU401illustrated inFIG. 3, communicates with other device, such as server and terminal, via the communication network100.

The determination unit45, implemented by an instruction from the CPU401illustrated inFIG. 3, performs various determinations.

The writing-reading unit49, implemented by an instruction from the CPU401, performs a process of writing various data to the storage unit4000and reading various data stored in the storage unit4000.

(Functional Configuration of Inspection Information Management Server)

Hereinafter, with reference toFIG. 4, a description is given of functional configuration of the inspection information management server6. As illustrated inFIG. 4, the inspection information management server6includes, for example, a transmitting-receiving unit61, a creation unit63, a determination unit65, and a writing-reading unit69. Each of these functions is a function or functional unit that is implemented by operating any one of the components ofFIG. 3under the instruction from the CPU601executing the programs for the server loaded on the RAM603from the HD604. Further, the inspection information management server6includes a storage unit6000, implemented the RAM603and the HD604illustrated inFIG. 4.

FIG. 6Ais an example of bibliographic information management table. The storage unit6000stores a bibliographic information management database (DB)6001(seeFIG. 4) including the bibliographic information management table illustrated inFIG. 6A. The bibliographic information management table stores various information, such as information source ID, and bibliographic information in association with each other.

The bibliographic information indicates bibliographic information on each structure. The bibliographic information includes various information, such as structure name, location of structure, and inspection contractor in charge of inspecting the structure. The bibliographic information is registered by the administrator C from the PC8to the inspection information management server6in advance, prior to step S21ofFIG. 7to be described later.

FIG. 6Bis an example of structure image management table. The storage unit6000stores a structure image management DB6002(seeFIG. 4) including the structure image management table illustrated inFIG. 6B. The structure image management table stores various information, such as information source ID, image capture date, and image data of structure in association with each other.

The image capture date indicates a date on which the image of structure was captured by the smart device2. The image data of structure is image data of each structure captured and acquired on the image capture date. In this example case, the image capture date indicates that the inspection is being performed every year. Further, a plurality of image data of the structure can be associated with one image capture date.

FIG. 6Cis an example of inspection result management table. The storage unit6000stores an inspection result management DB6003(seeFIG. 4) including the inspection result management table illustrated inFIG. 6C. The inspection result management table stores various information, such as information source ID, passcode, bibliographic information, inspection date, inspection result, review comment, and image data of structure in association with each other.

The inspection date indicates a date on which the structure Y was inspected by the inspector A and the assistant B. Since the image of the structure Y is captured on the inspection date, the inspection date is typically the same as the image capture date.

The inspection result is an inspection result of the structure determined by the inspector A. The review comment is a comment on the inspection result of the structure determined by the inspector A. Further, a plurality of image data of the structure can be associated with one inspection date (image capture date).

(Functional Configuration of Inspection Information Management Server)

Hereinafter, with reference toFIG. 4, a description is given of functional configuration of the inspection information management server6in detail.

The transmitting-receiving unit61, implemented by an instruction from the CPU601illustrated inFIG. 3, communicates with other device, such as server and terminal, via the communication network100.

The creation unit63, implemented by an instruction from the CPU601illustrated inFIG. 3, creates data on a search result registration screen, to be described later with reference toFIG. 10.

The determination unit65, implemented by an instruction from the CPU601illustrated inFIG. 3, performs various determinations.

The writing-reading unit69, implemented by an instruction from the CPU601, performs a process of writing various data to the storage unit6000and reading various data stored in the storage unit6000.

Hereinafter, with reference toFIGS. 1 and 7 to 11, a description is given of processing and operation of the embodiment. As illustrated inFIG. 1, hereinafter, a description is given of an example case where the inspector A and the assistant B has visited the inspection location X and approached the information source10of the structure Y (i.e., inspection target).FIG. 7is an example of sequence diagram illustrating a process of requesting a registration screen of inspection result.

(Request of Registration Screen of Inspection Result)

Hereinafter, with reference toFIGS. 7 and 8, a description is given of request processing of the registration screen of inspection result.

When the assistant B carrying the smart device2approaches the information source10of the structure Y (i.e., inspection target), the smart device2acquires the information source ID and the URL of access destination (seeFIG. 5A) from the information source10(step S21). Then, at the smart device2, the display control unit24displays a confirmation screen illustrated inFIG. 8Aon the display218of the smart device2.FIG. 8Ais an example of confirmation screen displayable on the smart device2.

Then, the reception unit22receives an access request to the access destination from the assistant B (step S22). When the smart device2acquires the URL of the access destination and then accesses the URL, in steps S44to S48to be described later inFIG. 9, a web browser installed on the smart device2can display an inspection result registration screen, receive an input of search result, and transmit image data, or the like on the smart device2.

With reference toFIGS. 8A and 8B, step S22is described in detail.FIG. 8Bis an example of passcode input screen displayable on the smart device2.

As to the confirmation screen displayed on the smart device2illustrated inFIG. 8A, an upper part of the confirmation screen displays the information source ID and the URL of access destination received in step S21from the information source10. Further, the confirmation screen displays “OK” button and “CANCEL” button at the bottom part of the confirmation screen. In this example case, if the assistant B presses the OK button, the reception unit22receives a selection of the OK button, and then the display control unit24switches a display to the passcode input screen illustrated inFIG. 8B.

The passcode input screen displays a passcode input field at the upper part, a numeric keypad at the middle part, and “ACCESS” button and “CANCEL” button at the bottom part of the passcode input screen. If the assistant B presses the numeric keypad to input the passcode, and then presses “ACCESS” button, the reception unit22receives the access request to the access destination. If the assistant B presses “CANCEL” button illustrated inFIGS. 8A and 8B, the access request is not received.

Then, when the reception unit22receives the pressing of “ACCESS” button (seeFIG. 8B), the transmitting-receiving unit21transmits a registration screen request indicating a request of the registration screen used for registering the inspection result of structure to the data management server4based on the URL of the access destination acquired in step S21(step S23). The registration screen request includes, for example, the information source ID acquired in step S21, the passcode and the terminal IP address indicating the IP address of the smart device2received in step S22. Then, the transmitting-receiving unit41of the data management server4receives the registration screen request from the smart device2.

Further, the transmitting-receiving unit21does not necessarily have to transmit the IP address of the smart device2. However, by transmitting the IP address, the smart device2can perform a bidirectional communication (e.g., real-time check, chat bot) with the PC8used by the administrator C at a later stage.

Then, at the data management server4, the writing-reading unit49uses a combination of the information source ID and the passcode received in step S23as a search key to search the transfer destination management DB4001(seeFIG. 4) to read out a URL of the corresponding transfer destination (step S24). The processing of step S24also serves as an authentication processing of the smart device2.

Then, the transmitting-receiving unit41transfers the registration screen request to the inspection information management server6based on the read-out URL of the transfer destination (step S25). The transferred registration screen request includes, for example, the information source ID, the passcode, and the terminal IP address received in step S23. Then, the transmitting-receiving unit61of the inspection information management server6receives the transferred registration screen request from the data management server4.

Hereinafter, with reference toFIGS. 9 to 11, a description is given of registration processing of the inspection result.FIG. 9is an example of sequence diagram illustrating a process of registering the inspection result.

When the inspection information management server6receives the registration request in step25(FIG. 7), the writing-reading unit69of the inspection information management server6uses the information source ID received in step S25as a search key to search the bibliographic information management DB6001(seeFIG. 4) to read out the corresponding bibliographic information (step S41).

Then, the writing-reading unit69uses the information source ID received in step S25as a search key to search the structure image management DB6002(seeFIG. 4) to read out a specific set of past or previous image data related to corresponding specific structure and corresponding image capture date, stored in the past or previously (step S42).

Further, the writing-reading unit69can be configured to read out the specific set of image data of past or previous image data related to corresponding specific structure and corresponding image capture date (inspection date), which corresponds to the information source ID, from the inspection result management DB6003instead of the structure image management DB6002. In this case, the structure image management DB6002can be omitted from the configuration illustrated inFIG. 4.

Then, the creation unit63creates data of inspection result registration screen, to be described later inFIG. 10, based on the processing in steps S41and S42(step S43).

FIG. 10is an example of inspection result registration screen displayable on the smart device2as an initial screen. The inspection result registration screen is an example of screen displayable on the communication terminal, such as the smart device2.

Then, the inspection information management server6transmits the data of inspection result registration screen, created in step S43, to the smart device2, which is a request source of the registration screen (step S44).

Then, in response to receiving the data of inspection result registration screen in step S44, at the smart device2, the display control unit24instructs the display218to display the inspection result registration screen illustrated inFIG. 10by executing a web browser (step S45). Hereinafter, with reference toFIG. 10, a description is given of the inspection result registration screen displayed on the smart device2as the initial screen.

As illustrated inFIG. 10, the inspection result registration screen displayed as the initial screen displays, for example, the URL of the inspection result registration screen, and instruction sections of “STEP1, STEP2, and STEP3.” A user (e.g., assistant B) perform given processing in accordance with the instructions displayed in “STEP1, STEP2, and STEP3.”

The section of “STEP1” displays, for example, the bibliographic information, such as structure name, location name, and inspection contractor name. The bibliographic information is received in step S44. Further, the section of “STEP1” displays an input field “a1” used for inputting inspection date, inspection result, and review comment. The inspection result can be selected by a pull-down menu or the like.

Further, the “inspection date” can be displayed as the bibliographic information in advance. In this case, the inspection date is also registered in advance as similar to the structure name, in which the inspection date indicates “expected or scheduled inspection date.”

Further, the section of “STEP2” displays the past or previous images of the structure Y, which is the current inspection target, as an initial displaying. The past or previous images are received in step S44.

Further, the section of “STEP2” displays a latest image display field “a2,” and an add button “a3.” The latest image display field “a2” is to be used to display the latest image of the structure Y to be captured by the assistant B. The add button “a3” is a button used for switching from the inspection result registration screen being displayed currently to an image capture screen.

Further, instead of using the add button “a3,” a sample image can be displayed in the latest screen display field “a2,” and the sample image can be used as a trigger to switch the display screen from the inspection result registration screen, being displayed currently, to the image capture screen. In this case, the add button “a3” is used as a button that is to be pressed at the time of the second and subsequent image capture operations.

Further, the section of “STEP3” displays “UPLOAD” button and “CANCEL” button. The “UPLOAD” button is a button used for uploading each data, input in “STEP1” and “STEP2,” to the inspection information management server6. The CANCEL button is a button used for cancelling the uploading of data.

At first, the assistant B checks the bibliographic information in the section of “STEP1” displayed on the inspection result registration screen.

Then, the reception unit22receives an input of inspection-related information, such as inspection date, inspection result, and review comment in the input field “a1” performed by the assistant B (step S46).

Since the inspection result and the determination of the review comment require expert knowledge, the assistant B inputs the inspection result and the determination of the review comment under the instruction of the inspector A. Further, since the inspection result can be selected by a pull-down menu or the like, the assistant B can select the inspection result under the instruction of the inspector A. Further, since the review comment can be input or described freely, the assistant B inputs the review comment under the instruction of the inspector A.

Then, the sequence proceeds to “STEP2,” in which the inspector A and the assistant B refer to the past or previous images of the structure to determine photography composition of the same structure to be captured at the current inspection work that is being performed at the current time.

Then, after the reception unit22receives the pressing of the add button “a3” performed by the assistant B, the display control unit24switches the display screen from the inspection result registration screen (seeFIG. 10) to the image capture screen, and then if the reception unit22receives an image capture operation performed by the assistant B, the image capture unit23captures one or more images of the structure, which is the current inspection target (step S47). Then, the display control unit24displays the image of the structure acquired by performing the image capture operation on the latest image display field “a2.”

Further, the image capture operation can be performed for a plurality of times during the display of the image capture screen.

Further, the image capture operation can be performed for a plurality of times by returning to the inspection result registration screen after the end of one image capture operation, receiving the pressing of the add button “a3” at the reception unit22again, and displaying the image capture screen for next image capture operation. In this case, the latest image display field “a2” displays a plurality of the latest images, and then the assistant B consults the inspector A to select a specific image from the captured images.

Then, the sequence proceeds to “STEP3” If the reception unit22receives the pressing of “UPLOAD” button performed by the assistant B, the transmitting-receiving unit21transmits the inspection result to the inspection information management server6(step S48). The inspection result includes, for example, the information source ID, the inspection-related information input in step S46(i.e., inspection date, inspection result, review comment), and the data of the latest image of the structure captured in step S47. Then, the transmitting-receiving unit61of the inspection information management server6receives the inspection result from the smart device2.

Further, if the image capture operation was performed for a plurality of times, among a plurality of the latest image data of the structure, the smart device2transmits at least one image data selected by the assistant B in step S48to the inspection information management server6. In this case, prior to step S48, the display control unit24displays a plurality of the latest image data of the structure (e.g., thumbnail images), and then the reception unit22receives a selection of the desired image data performed by the assistant B.

Alternatively, prior to step S48, the display control unit24can be configured to display a plurality of the latest image data of the structure (e.g., thumbnail images) one by one, and displays a screen prompting the assistant B to select whether or not to upload each image data, in which the reception unit22receives the selection of uploading or not uploading from the assistant B for each image data.

Then, at the inspection information management server6, the writing-reading unit69uses the information source ID received in step S48as a search key to search the structure image management DB6002(seeFIG. 4) to store the inspection date received in step S48in a recording area of a memory set for image capture date, and store the latest image data of structure received in step S48in a recording area of the memory set for image data of the corresponding structure (step S49).

Further, if the information source ID received in step S48is not yet stored in the structure image management DB6002(seeFIG. 4), the writing-reading unit69newly stores the information source ID, the image capture date (inspection date), and the latest image data of the structure received in step S48in association with each other in the structure image management DB6002. Further, if the information on the image capture date is attached as metadata of the latest image data of the structure, the attached information of the image capture date may be stored as the image capture date in the structure image management DB6002.

Then, the writing-reading unit69stores the information (i.e., information source ID, passcode) received in step S25(FIG. 7), the bibliographic information read out in step S41, and the inspection-related information (i.e., inspection date, inspection result, review comment, latest image data of structure) received in step S48in association with each other in the inspection result management DB6003(seeFIG. 4) as a new record (step S50).

Further, the writing-reading unit69can be configured not to store the passcode. In this case, in step S25(FIG. 7), the data management server4is not required to transfer the passcode to the inspection information management server6.

Further, the inspection result management DB6003(seeFIG. 4) may not employ a table-format illustrated inFIG. 6C. For example, the inspection result management DB6003can store the information source ID, passcode, and URL of the inspection result registration screen illustrated inFIG. 11in association with each other.

As to the above described embodiment, the information source10is associated with the structure Y, for example, by attaching the information source10on the structure Y existing at the inspection location (inspection site) X, and the inspection information management server6stores the information source ID (example of identification information) and the past or previous image data of the structure Y in association with each other. With this configuration, when the smart device2acquires the information source ID from the information source10, and transmits the acquired information source ID to the data management server4, the inspection information management server6can transmit the past or previous image data of the structure Y to the smart device2. With this configuration, the inspector A and the assistant B can easily acquire the past or previous image data of the structure Y, which is the current inspection target, with which the photography composition of the structure Y to be captured can be easily determined for the inspector A and the assistant B who are performing the inspection work currently.

As to the above described embodiment, images of specific structures can be acquired with the same or similar photography composition of the specific structures easily when the inspector and the assistant are performing the inspection work currently.

Further, if the structure Y is a real estate, such as condominium and apartment, a real estate agent (inspector A, assistant B) can perform an inspection of real estate for checking dirt or damage in a room just before a rent person moves into the room and immediately after the rent person moves out the room, and transmit captured image data of the inspected room to the inspection information management server6.

Further, the smart device2can acquire not only the information source ID, but also the URL of the access destination, illustrated inFIG. 5A, from the information source10. With this configuration, the assistant B does not have to consider which URL is required be accessed to register the inspection result of the structure Y, with which the assistant B can easily perform the registration of the latest image data of the structure Y at the inspection location (inspection site) X.

In the above described embodiment, the information source ID is information provided by the information source10to the communication terminal, such as the smart device2, and the information source ID is an example of identification information identifying the information source10, but is not limited thereto. For example, the information source ID provided by the information source10can include information that identifies something other than information that identifies the information source10itself. For example, if the information source10is a global positioning system (GPS) satellite, the identification information includes, for example, position information based on GPS signal.

Each function of the above-described embodiment can be implemented by one or more processing circuits. The “processing circuit” includes a processor which is programmed to perform each function by software such as a processor implemented by an electronic circuit, and device designed to perform each function described above, such as application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), digital signal processor (DSP), field programmable gate array (FPGA), conventional circuit module, and the like.

Numerous additional modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the disclosure of this specification can be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Any one of the above-described operations may be performed in various other ways, for example, in an order different from the one described above.