Recording and / or monitoring the stress on a fabric during a treatment cycle

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates, inter alia, to a method and a textile piece device which enable the loading of a textile piece to be stored and / or monitored during one or more treatment cycles. Background of the invention

[0002] International patent application WO04 / 055256 discloses a method for managing textiles or textile items. For this purpose, textile items are equipped with an identification means (e.g., an RFID tag), which can contain, in particular, a unique identification code, information on the fiber type, dye, color, and washing history. To read the information, a sensor is provided, for example, at the opening of a washing machine, with a writing device also being considered for writing information onto the identification means. The information obtained can be used to compile a program for controlling a washing machine or a dosing device. However, this method relies on the washing machine having a corresponding sensor for reading the information.

[0003] In other prior art methods, the selection of the type (color, white, with bleach, with fragrance trap) and dosage of detergent, as well as the selection and control of the wash program (temperature, duration, spin speed, etc.), are performed manually. This is tedious and can lead to the selection of an inappropriate wash program for one of the items, especially when washing several items together.

[0004] Document US9280148B1 describes a system and method for reading information from a garment label. This information is used to determine acceptable settings for performing a cleaning process by an appliance. Document DE4309914 A1 describes a method for reading information stored on a garment label to assist a user in selecting an appropriate cleaning program for a household appliance. Document EP2568077 A1 describes the use of an RFID tag on a garment to write information about cleaning parameters selected in an appliance that performs a cleaning process. Document EP0548697A1 describes a method for reading a code on an item to be cleaned to determine appropriate cleaning parameters for that item.

[0005] None of the known methods record and / or monitor the actual load on the textile pieces. General description of some exemplary embodiments of the invention

[0006] Against the background of the prior art described, it is therefore an object of the invention to at least partially reduce or avoid the problems described, for example to enable monitoring of the load on a piece of textile during a treatment cycle.

[0007] This object is achieved by a method according to claim 1, a textile piece device according to claim 12, a device according to claim 14 and a computer program product according to claim 15.

[0008] The method according to the invention is a method for storing and / or monitoring the load of a textile piece during one or more treatment cycles.

[0009] According to the invention, a textile piece device for a textile piece is further disclosed, wherein the textile piece device is arranged to carry out and / or control the method according to the invention and comprises respective means for carrying out and / or controlling the steps of the method according to the invention.

[0010] The textile piece device comprises at least one processor and at least one memory with program instructions of a computer program (e.g., the computer program according to the first aspect of the invention). A processor is understood to mean, for example, a control unit, a microprocessor, a microcontrol unit such as a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0011] In addition, the textile article device comprises at least one sensor configured to detect and / or determine a value of a washing parameter before and / or during a washing cycle of the textile article.

[0012] The textile piece device is arranged on and / or in a label of a textile piece.

[0013] According to the invention, a computer program product according to claim 15 is further disclosed.

[0014] Furthermore, a computer-readable storage medium is disclosed which contains a computer program according to the first aspect. A computer-readable storage medium can be designed, for example, as a magnetic, electrical, electromagnetic, optical and / or other type of storage medium. Such a computer-readable storage medium is preferably tangible (i.e., "tangible"), for example, it is designed as a data storage device. Such a data storage device is, for example, portable or permanently installed in a device. Examples of such a data storage device are volatile or non-volatile random access memories (RAM), such as NOR flash memories, or sequential access memories, such as NAND flash memories, and / or read-only or read-write memories (ROM). Computer-readable should be understood, for example, to mean that the storage medium can be read by a computer orcan be read and / or written by a data processing system, for example by a processor.

[0015] In the following, further exemplary properties and embodiments of the textile piece device, the textile piece of the method and the computer program product according to the invention are described.

[0016] A textile item, for example, is defined as a product that is made of at least 80% of its weight from textile raw materials. Textile raw materials include, for example, fibers, including animal hair, that can be spun or processed into textile fabrics.

[0017] A textile item is a piece of laundry, specifically a piece of clothing. Other examples of textile items include curtains, towels, bed linen, tablecloths, or cleaning cloths.

[0018] The fact that the textile device is for a textile item should be understood to mean that the textile device is designed such that it remains functional even during a treatment cycle of the textile item. For example, the textile device is designed such that it can withstand the usual stresses in a washing machine during a washing program or in a dryer during a drying program without being damaged. For example, the textile device is designed to be waterproof (e.g., waterproof up to a pressure of 5 to 10 bar, preferably waterproof up to a pressure of 10 to 20 bar).

[0019] The textile piece device can be arranged and / or is arranged on and / or in a label of the textile piece.

[0020] A treatment cycle for a textile item is understood to mean washing the textile item by hand or in a washing machine. Furthermore, subsequent drying of the textile item in the air or in a dryer can also be considered part of the treatment cycle. Washing in the washing machine can, for example, be carried out according to a washing program of the washing machine, and drying in the dryer can, for example, be carried out according to a drying program of the dryer.

[0021] The treatment parameter value detected and / or determined by the sensor represents a value of a treatment parameter characteristic of the load on the textile during treatment. The treatment parameter is characteristic of a load on the textile during the treatment cycle, for example a mechanical and / or chemical load on the textile during the treatment cycle. The load on the textile during washing in a washing machine depends on the washing program (e.g. washing temperature, washing time, water level, spin speed, etc.), the detergent and its dosage, the load in the washing drum, and the other textile items. Excessive load on the textile can lead to damage, excessive wear and aging, and / or unwanted discoloration of the textile.

[0022] According to the invention, the method further comprises detecting and / or determining the treatment parameter value.

[0023] The recorded and / or determined value of the washing parameter represents a value of a variable characteristic of the load on the textile during the treatment cycle. Accordingly, recording a treatment parameter value should be understood as measuring a value of a variable characteristic of the load on the textile during the treatment cycle. Determining a treatment parameter value should be understood, for example, as determining (e.g., calculating) the treatment parameter value based on one or more measured values ​​of one or more variables.

[0024] The treatment parameter value is detected and / or determined before and / or during the treatment. This should be understood, for example, to mean that the treatment parameter value is detected when the textile item is in a washing machine and / or dryer. For example, the washing machine or dryer causes the sensor to detect and / or determine the treatment parameter value before and / or during the treatment cycle (e.g., a washing program and / or a drying program).

[0025] For example, additional treatment parameter values ​​from at least partially different treatment cycles are stored in the memory of the textile device. By storing multiple treatment parameter values ​​from different treatment cycles of the textile, a treatment cycle history (e.g., a wash history) of the textile can be obtained. This is advantageous, for example, for drawing conclusions about the age of the textile, the treatment frequency of the textile, and / or the load on the textile during the different treatment cycles.

[0026] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the sensor by which the treatment parameter value is detected and / or determined is part of the textile device. In this case, receiving the treatment parameter at the textile device should be understood, for example, to mean that the treatment parameter is detected and / or determined by the sensor of the textile device. For example, the sensor of the textile device is configured to detect and / or determine the treatment parameter value as soon as the textile device is activated. For example, the textile device can be activated manually and / or by the washing machine or dryer.

[0027] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the sensor by which the treatment parameter value is detected and / or determined is part of a device other than the textile device (e.g., a washing machine and / or a dryer). In this case, receiving the treatment parameter at the textile device is understood to mean, for example, that the treatment parameter value or information comprising the treatment parameter value is received through a communication interface of the textile device (e.g., received by the sensor or the device comprising the sensor).

[0028] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, multiple treatment parameter values ​​are obtained at the textile piece device. For example, at least one treatment parameter value is detected and / or determined by a sensor that is part of the textile piece device, and at least one further treatment parameter value is detected and / or determined by a sensor that is part of a device different from the textile piece device.

[0029] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the treatment parameter value is indicative of a temperature, a treatment duration, an acceleration, a pressure, a vibration, an electromagnetic field, an electromagnetic radiation (e.g. visible or non-visible electromagnetic radiation), a sound frequency, a sound pressure level, a pH value, a conductivity, a redox potential, an odor, an ozone concentration, a NOX concentration, an SO2 concentration, a color, a white fraction, a germ load, a location, an air humidity, an air pressure, a wind speed, a wind direction, a light intensity, a Rayleigh scattering and / or a dust concentration.

[0030] Each of these parameters is, for example, characteristic of the load on the textile during a treatment cycle.

[0031] An impermissibly high temperature of the washing solution in the vicinity of the textile item can, for example, promote bleeding of the textile item, causing the color of the textile item to fade and discolor other textile items washed at the same time. The ambient temperature is therefore a characteristic parameter for the stress on a colored textile item during washing during a treatment cycle. For example, the ambient temperature of the textile item is recorded and / or determined. For this purpose, the textile item device comprises, for example, a temperature sensor (e.g., a Pt100 measuring resistor and / or a semiconductor temperature sensor). Alternatively or additionally, it is also conceivable for the washing machine or dryer to comprise a corresponding temperature sensor.

[0032] The acceleration of the textile item and / or the pressure acting on the textile item are, for example, characteristic of mechanical stress on the textile item during spinning during a treatment cycle. Inadmissible acceleration and / or inadmissible pressure can lead to damage to the textile item. The acceleration acting on the textile item and / or the textile item device can be detected and / or determined, for example, by an acceleration sensor in the textile item device. An acceleration sensor can, for example, be a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) based on the spring-mass principle and in which acceleration can be determined indirectly through a change in capacitance. The pressure can be detected and / or determined by a pressure sensor (e.g., a capacitive pressure sensor) in the textile item device.Alternatively or additionally, it is also conceivable that the washing machine or dryer comprises a corresponding acceleration sensor and / or a corresponding pressure sensor.

[0033] The color of the wash liquor and / or other textile items in the vicinity of the textile item and / or the textile item device can also be characteristic of stress on the textile item during the treatment cycle. For example, discoloration of the wash liquor and / or different colors in the vicinity of the textile item and / or the textile item device can indicate a risk of discoloration of the textile item. Alternatively or additionally, the contrast and / or the white component in the vicinity of the textile item and / or the textile item device can also be characteristic of such stress on the textile item during the treatment cycle. Accordingly, the sensor by which the treatment parameter value is detected and / or determined can be, for example, an optical sensor for detecting and / or determining the color, the white component and / or the contrast.For example, such an optical sensor comprises at least one photodiode and optionally one light-emitting diode. Alternatively or additionally, the optical sensor is, for example, an image sensor such as a CCD sensor and / or a CMOS sensor.

[0034] Electromagnetic radiation (e.g. visible or non-visible electromagnetic radiation) or a light intensity can, for example, be characteristic of a load on the textile item during drying during the treatment cycle. For example, strong sunlight can lead to the fading of a colored textile item. Such electromagnetic radiation or a light intensity can also be detected by an optical sensor. For example, the optical sensor comprises a spectrometer (e.g. a UV / VIS spectrometer). For example, the optical sensor is designed to detect visible or non-visible electromagnetic radiation. For example, the optical sensor is designed to detect UV radiation, for example UV-A, UV-B and / or UV-C radiation. For example, the sensor is designed to detect infrared radiation, for example NIR, MIR and / or FIR radiation.

[0035] Other variables that are characteristic of the load on the textile item are, for example, a pH value, a conductivity and / or a redox potential of the wash liquor. These parameters depend, for example, on the water hardness and / or the chemical composition of the wash liquor and / or the detergent and / or the dosage of the detergent during the washing treatment cycle. An inadmissible dosage and / or an inadmissible chemical composition of the detergent can, for example, lead to damage, fading and / or discoloration of the textile item. Inadmissible water hardness can also be harmful to the textile item. To detect and / or determine these variables, the sensor can, for example, be a chemical sensor (e.g. an ion-selective electrode) such as a pH value sensor (e.g. a pH electrode), a redox potential sensor and / or a conductivity sensor.

[0036] The duration of the treatment cycle and / or a section of the treatment cycle can also be characteristic of the load on the textile during the treatment cycle. For example, the textile may only be exposed to high acceleration for a short period of time, but to lower acceleration for a longer period. The duration of the treatment cycle and / or a section of the treatment cycle can be recorded and / or determined, for example, by a timer.

[0037] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises wirelessly communicating with a device other than the textile piece device.

[0038] The device other than the textile piece device is a washing machine and / or a dryer (e.g., a household washing machine for textiles and / or a household dryer for textiles), for example, a washing machine and / or a dryer in which the textile piece device and / or the textile piece for washing and / or drying is located. Furthermore, the device other than the textile piece device can also be another textile piece device and / or a mobile user device, such as, for example, a smartphone, a tablet computer, and / or a laptop computer. The device other than the textile piece device is a device according to the invention.

[0039] Wireless communication includes, for example, sending and / or receiving information via a wireless communication connection. For example, one or more pieces of information are sent to the device other than the textile piece device via such a wireless communication connection and / or one or more pieces of information are received from this device via such a wireless communication connection.

[0040] Wireless communication can, for example, be based on a wireless radio communication technology. An example of a wireless radio communication technology is Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and / or Near Field Communication (NFC) and / or Bluetooth (e.g., Bluetooth version 2.1 and / or 4.0) and / or Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). RFID and NFC, for example, are specified according to ISO standards 18000, 11784 / 11785, and ISO / IEC standards 14443-A and 15693. The Bluetooth specifications are available at www.bluetooth.org. WLAN, for example, is specified in the IEEE 802.11 family of standards.

[0041] For example, the textile piece device comprises a wireless communication interface configured to communicate with a device different from the textile piece device via a wireless communication connection. For example, the wireless communication interface comprises a transmitter, a receiver, and / or a transceiver. Alternatively or additionally, the wireless communication interface comprises one or more antennas. The wireless communication interface is, for example, a Bluetooth interface, a WLAN interface, an NFC interface, and / or an RFID interface.

[0042] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method comprises transmitting (e.g., transmitting via a wireless communication connection) a piece of textile treatment information from the textile piece device to a device different from the textile piece device, wherein the textile piece treatment information is indicative of a permissible treatment parameter value and / or a permissible treatment parameter value range for the textile piece.

[0043] By sending the treatment parameter information from the textile piece device to the device different from the textile piece device, this device is enabled, for example, to analyze and / or monitor the load on the textile piece. For example, the other device can determine the condition of the textile piece based on a treatment cycle history of the textile piece and / or determine whether the treatment parameter value is permissible for the textile piece (e.g., at least partially dependent on textile piece treatment information also received from the textile piece device).

[0044] As disclosed above, a device other than the textile device is, for example, a washing machine and / or a dryer. Furthermore, the device other than the textile device can also be a user device.

[0045] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises transmitting (e.g., transmitting via a wireless communication connection) textile item treatment information from the textile item device to a device different from the textile item device, wherein the textile item treatment information represents a permissible treatment parameter value and / or a permissible treatment parameter value range for the textile item.

[0046] The textile item washing information is stored, for example, in a memory of the textile item device. For example, several textile item washing information items are stored in a memory of the textile item device.

[0047] A piece of textile treatment information should be understood, for example, as treatment information for the textile item. Such treatment information can, for example, represent a (e.g., minimum or maximum) permissible treatment parameter value and / or a permissible treatment parameter value range for the textile item, with which the textile item may be exposed under practical conditions permanently or for a specific duration during a treatment cycle without damaging the textile. Several pieces of textile treatment information can, for example, represent care instructions for the textile item. This is advantageous, for example, to determine a washing program and / or a drying program permissible for the textile item (e.g.,a washing and / or drying program in which the permissible values ​​and / or permissible value ranges of one or more washing parameters for the textile item are not exceeded) and / or to prevent an inadmissible washing program and / or an inadmissible drying program from being started.

[0048] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises determining whether the treatment parameter value detected and / or determined by the sensor is permissible for the textile item. For example, this determination is performed by the textile item device. However, it is also conceivable for the determination to be performed by a device other than the textile item device based on information received from the textile item device.

[0049] The determination of whether the specific treatment parameter value is permissible for the textile piece can be made at least partially depending on textile piece treatment information stored in a memory of the textile piece device. As disclosed above, such textile piece treatment information can represent a permissible treatment parameter value range for the textile piece, with which the textile piece may be exposed under practical conditions permanently or for a specific duration during a treatment cycle without damaging the textile. If the detected and / or specific treatment parameter value is impermissible (e.g., outside a permissible treatment parameter value range) according to textile piece treatment information stored in a memory of the textile piece device, the result of the determination is, for example, that the treatment parameter value is impermissible for the textile piece.This is advantageous, for example, to be able to monitor the load on the textile piece.

[0050] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises initiating a change in a treatment of the textile article and / or notifying a user if the determination reveals that the treatment parameter value for the textile article is not permissible.

[0051] For example, initiating the change in the treatment of the textile item and / or notifying a user comprises sending (e.g., sending via a wireless communication link) treatment parameter change information from the textile item device to a device other than the textile item device, if the determining is made by the textile item device. As disclosed above, the device other than the textile item device is, for example, a washing machine and / or a dryer. Furthermore, the device other than the textile item device may also be a user device.

[0052] If the device other than the textile item device is, for example, a washing machine or a dryer, the treatment parameter change information causes the washing machine or dryer, for example, to adjust or interrupt a running washing and / or drying program such that the treatment parameter value subsequently changes (e.g., the treatment parameter value is changed to a permissible value). For example, the treatment parameter change information can cause a change in the washing temperature, the spin speed, the water level of a washing program of the washing machine, and / or the drying temperature of a drying program of the dryer.

[0053] Alternatively or additionally, if the device other than the textile item device is a user device, the treatment parameter change information can, for example, cause a notification to be triggered by the user device to alert the user to the impermissible treatment parameter value and / or to cause the user to manually change the value. The notification can, for example, be a text notification on a screen of the user device and / or an acoustic notification to the user (e.g., by means of a warning tone). This is advantageous, for example, if no communication is possible between the textile item device and the washing machine and / or the dryer.

[0054] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises negotiating a ranking and / or prioritization with one or more further textile piece devices. For example, the textile piece devices form an autonomous mesh network and negotiate a ranking and / or prioritization of the textile piece devices and / or various textile piece treatment information, washing parameter information, and / or washing parameter change information. The negotiation can be carried out, for example, by exchanging corresponding information via the mesh network. For example, the negotiation is carried out based on a priority list. Alternatively or additionally, information that is permissible for all textile pieces is prioritized during the negotiation.For example, only prioritized textile devices may communicate with a washing machine, dryer, and / or user device, and / or only prioritized information may be communicated to a washing machine, dryer, and / or user device. This is advantageous, for example, to prevent the washing machine, dryer, and / or user device from receiving conflicting information from different textile devices.

[0055] Alternatively or additionally, a textile item device can also be specified to be prioritized (e.g., by the device according to the second aspect of the invention and / or a user). For example, corresponding information is received at the textile item devices.

[0056] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the textile device is configured, for example, to wirelessly receive energy for operating the textile device and / or for charging an energy storage device (e.g., a battery, an accumulator, and / or a capacitor) of the textile device. Standards for wireless energy transmission include, for example, the standard developed by the Airfuel Alliance (www.airfuel.org) or the standard developed by the Wireless Power Consortium.

[0057] (www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com) developed the so-called Qi standard. For example, the textile device is configured to receive energy according to one of these standards for wireless energy transfer. Another example of wireless energy transfer is passive RFID transponders. For example, the textile device is configured as such a passive RFID transponder.

[0058] For example, a sensor of the textile piece device is configured to detect and / or determine the value of the washing parameter only when it wirelessly receives power to operate the textile piece device of the textile piece device. For example, the textile piece device is only activated when it wirelessly receives power to operate the textile piece device of the textile piece device.

[0059] For example, the energy from a washing machine and / or dryer can be transferred wirelessly to the textile device. For example, the washing machine and / or dryer generates a corresponding energy transfer field in at least a portion of the washing drum and / or the drying drum. This is advantageous, for example, to ensure a power supply to the textile device at least partially during the treatment cycle.

[0060] The exemplary embodiments of the present invention described above in this specification are also to be understood as disclosed in all combinations with one another. In particular, exemplary embodiments are to be understood as disclosed with respect to the various aspects.

[0061] In particular, the preceding or following description of method steps according to preferred embodiments of a method is intended to also disclose corresponding means for carrying out the method steps by preferred embodiments of a device. Likewise, the disclosure of means of a device for carrying out a method step is intended to also disclose the corresponding method step.

[0062] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in the following detailed description of some embodiments of the present invention, particularly in conjunction with the figures. However, the figures are intended only for the purpose of illustration and not to define the scope of the invention. The figures are not to scale and are intended merely to reflect the general concept of the present invention by way of example. In particular, features contained in the figures should in no way be considered a necessary part of the present invention. Short description of the characters

[0063] The drawing shows Fig. 1a is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a system according to the third aspect of the invention; Fig. 1b is a block diagram of an embodiment of a textile piece device according to the first aspect of the invention; Fig. 1c is a block diagram of an embodiment of a device according to the second aspect of the invention; Fig. 2 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the first aspect of the invention; Fig. 3 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the second aspect of the invention; and Fig. 4 shows different embodiments of a storage medium. Detailed description of some exemplary embodiments of the invention

[0064] Fig. 1a shows an exemplary system 1. System 1 comprises a textile piece 10, on whose label a textile piece device 11 is arranged. Textile piece device 11 is a textile piece device according to the invention. System 1 further comprises a device 12. In Fig. 1aSeveral embodiments of the device 12 are shown. For example, the device 12 can be a washing machine (e.g., a household washing machine for textiles) or part of a washing machine. Alternatively, the device 12 can be a smartphone or part of a smartphone, for example.

[0065] The textile piece device 11 and the device 12 can wireless

[0066] Communication interfaces to enable wireless communication with each other. This is Fig. 1a indicated by the exemplary wireless communication links 13 and 14.

[0067] A wide variety of parameters are responsible for the load on the textile item 10 in a washing cycle, such as: a. Washing temperature b. Washing time c. Detergent d. Washing mechanism

[0068] The combined effect of these factors results in a load on the textile item 10 during the washing or drying process of the washing cycle. The textile item device 11, with which the textile item 10 is equipped, can measure at least one value of a critical washing parameter for the textile item, and can derive action strategies from the measured values. Furthermore, the textile item device 11 can store properties of the textile item with regard to composition, color, and fabric type.

[0069] Fig. 1b shows a block diagram of the textile piece device 11 according to the invention. Textile piece device 11 comprises at least a processor 110, a main memory 111, a program memory 112, a communication interface 113, and a sensor 114.

[0070] A processor is understood to mean, for example, a microprocessor, a microcontrol unit, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). It is understood that textile piece device 11 may also comprise multiple processors 110.

[0071] Processor 110 executes program instructions stored in program memory 112 and stores, for example, intermediate results or the like in main memory 111. The program memory 112 contains, for example, program instructions of a computer program according to the first aspect of the invention, which includes program instructions that cause the processor 110 to execute the method according to the first aspect of the invention (e.g., the method according to the Fig. 2flowchart 200 shown) when the processor 110 executes these program instructions stored in program memory 112. In addition, further information such as washing parameter information and / or textile piece information and / or information regarding properties of the textile piece such as composition, color, and fabric type may be stored in program memory 112.

[0072] Program memory 112 further contains, for example, the operating system of the textile device 11, which is at least partially loaded into main memory 111 upon startup of the textile device 11 and executed by the processor 110. In particular, upon startup of the textile device 11, at least a portion of the core of the operating system is loaded into main memory 111 and executed by the processor 110.

[0073] An example of an operating system is a Windows, UNIX, Linux, Android, Apple iOS, and / or MAC OS operating system. The operating system enables, in particular, the use of the device for data processing. For example, it manages resources such as main memory and program memory, provides basic functions to other computer programs through programming interfaces, among other things, and controls the execution of computer programs.

[0074] A program memory is, for example, a non-volatile memory such as flash memory, magnetic memory, EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), and / or optical memory. A main memory is, for example, a volatile or non-volatile memory, in particular a random access memory (RAM) such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FeRAM), and / or magnetic random access memory (MRAM).

[0075] Main memory 111 and program memory 112 can also be designed as one memory.

[0076] Alternatively, main memory 111 and / or program memory 112 can each be formed by multiple memories. Furthermore, main memory 111 and / or program memory 112 can also be part of processor 110.

[0077] Processor 110 controls the wireless communication interface 113, which is designed, for example, as a Bluetooth interface, WLAN interface, NFC interface and / or RFID interface. The communication interface 113 is particularly configured to establish a wireless communication connection of the textile piece device 11 with other devices and to communicate with them. A communication interface can, for example, receive information (via a wireless communication connection such as communication connections 13 and 14) and forward it to the processor and / or receive information from the processor and (via a wireless

[0078] Communication connection such as communication connections 13 and 14).

[0079] Furthermore, processor 110 can control at least one sensor 114. Sensor 114 is configured, for example, to detect and / or determine a value of a washing parameter before and / or during a washing cycle of textile article 10. For example, sensor 114 is an acceleration sensor, a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, an optical sensor, and / or a chemical sensor (e.g., a pH sensor).

[0080] The components 110 to 114 of the textile piece device are communicatively connected to one another, for example, via one or more bus systems (e.g., one or more serial and / or parallel bus connections).

[0081] It is understood that the textile piece device may comprise further components (e.g. further sensors) in addition to the components 110 to 114.

[0082] Fig. 1c shows a block diagram of the device 12 according to the invention.

[0083] Device 12 comprises at least a processor 120, a main memory 121, a program memory 122, a communication interface 123 and an optional user interface 124.

[0084] It is understood that device 12 may also include multiple processors 120.

[0085] Processor 120 executes program instructions stored in program memory 122 and stores, for example, intermediate results or the like in main memory 121. The program memory 122 contains, for example, program instructions of a computer program according to the second aspect of the invention, which includes program instructions that cause the processor 120 to execute the method according to the second aspect of the invention (e.g., the method according to the Fig. 3 flowchart 300 shown) when the processor 120 executes these program instructions stored in program memory 122.

[0086] Program memory 122 further contains, for example, the operating system of the device 12, which is at least partially loaded into main memory 121 when the device 12 is started and executed by the processor 120.

[0087] Main memory 121 and program memory 122 can also be configured as a single memory. Alternatively, main memory 121 and / or program memory 122 can each be formed by multiple memories. Furthermore, main memory 121 and / or program memory 122 can also be part of processor 120.

[0088] Processor 120 controls wireless communication interface 123, which is configured, for example, as a Bluetooth interface, WLAN interface, NFC interface, and / or RFID interface. Communication interface 123 is configured, in particular, to establish a wireless communication connection (like communication connections 13 and 14) between device 12 and other devices and to communicate with them.

[0089] Furthermore, processor 120 can control at least one user interface 124. Such a user interface can, for example, include one or more buttons, a keyboard (e.g., an alphanumeric keyboard or a numeric keyboard such as a keypad), a touch-sensitive screen (e.g., a touch display), a microphone, and / or a camera. User interface 124 can be used for communication with a user, e.g., for inputting and / or outputting user information. For example, user interface 124 is the standard user interface of device 12.

[0090] The components 120 to 124 of the textile piece device are communicatively connected to one another, for example, via one or more bus systems (e.g., one or more serial and / or parallel bus connections).

[0091] It is understood that the textile piece device may comprise further components in addition to components 120 to 124.

[0092] Fig. 2 shows a flowchart 200 of an embodiment of a method according to the invention. In the following, it is assumed, by way of example, that steps 201 to 205 of flowchart 200 are executed by the textile piece device 11 in the system 1.

[0093] In an optional step 201, the textile piece device 11 sends textile piece treatment information to the device 12. For example, the textile piece information is stored in program memory 112 of the textile piece device 11.

[0094] The textile treatment information represents a permissible value and / or a permissible value range of a washing parameter for the textile. Such washing information can, for example, represent a (e.g., minimum or maximum) permissible value and / or a permissible value range of a washing parameter for the textile, with which the textile may be subjected under realistic conditions, permanently or for a specific period of time, without damaging the textile.

[0095] As disclosed above, the washing parameter is, for example, characteristic of a load on the textile item during the washing cycle of the textile item, for example a mechanical and / or chemical load on the textile item during the washing cycle of the textile item. The load on the textile item during washing in a washing machine depends, for example, on the washing program (e.g., washing temperature, washing time, water level, spin speed, etc.), the detergent and its dosage, the load of the washing drum, and the other textile items. Examples of a washing parameter are, for example, a temperature, an acceleration, a color, a whiteness level, a contrast, a chemical composition, a dosage, a pH value, and / or a duration. For example, the textile item treatment information represents a permissible (e.g.,minimum and / or maximum) value and / or a permissible range of values ​​of such a washing parameter for the textile item during a washing cycle.

[0096] For example, the textile treatment information represents a maximum temperature value (e.g. 30°C, 40°C, 60°C or 95°C) of the washing solution with which the textile item may be washed. Alternatively, the textile treatment information can represent a maximum value for the acceleration or pressure that may act on the textile item during the wash cycle. This maximum acceleration or pressure value can, for example, correspond to the expected acceleration or pressure when spinning the textile item at the maximum permissible spin speed (e.g. 60 rpm, 600 rpm, 1,200 rpm or 1,600 rpm). For example, the textile treatment information represents a color range of the washing solution and / or other textile items with which the textile item may be washed.

[0097] It is understood that several items of textile treatment information, which represent, for example, washing and / or care instructions for the textile item, can also be sent to the device 12 in step 201.

[0098] This is advantageous, for example, so that device 12 can determine a washing program and / or a drying program permissible for the textile item (e.g. a washing and / or drying program in which the permissible value and / or permissible value range of one or more washing parameters for the textile item are not exceeded) and / or can prevent an inadmissible washing program and / or an inadmissible drying program from being started.

[0099] In a step 202, the textile device 11 detects and / or determines a value of the washing parameter before and / or during a washing cycle of the textile. For example, the value of the washing parameter is measured by the sensor 114 of the textile device 11 in step 202.

[0100] Optionally, washing parameter information representing the value of the washing parameter detected and / or determined in step 202 may be stored in program memory 112 and / or sent to device 12.

[0101] In an optional step 203, the textile item device 11 determines whether the value of the washing parameter detected and / or determined in step 202 is permissible for the textile item. For this purpose, the detected and / or determined value of the washing parameter can be compared, for example, with a permissible value and / or permissible value range of the washing parameter represented by textile item treatment information for the textile item (e.g., minimum or maximum).

[0102] If the determination in step 203 shows that the detected and / or determined value of the washing parameter is permissible for the textile article, the flowchart is terminated in step 202, for example, or jumps to step 202, for example. Otherwise, the flowchart continues with an optional step 205.

[0103] In optional step 205, the textile item device 11 initiates a change in the value of the washing parameter and / or a notification to a user. "Initiating" is understood to mean, for example, that the textile item device sends washing parameter change information to the device 12 in step 205. If the device 12 is a washing machine, the washing parameter change information causes the washing machine, for example, to adjust or interrupt a running washing program such that the value of the washing parameter changes (e.g., the value of the washing parameter changes to a permissible value due to the adjustment).Alternatively or additionally, the washing parameter change information may, for example, cause a notification to be sent to a user through the user interface 124 of the device 12 to alert the user to the inadmissible value and / or to cause the user to manually change the value.

[0104] Fig. 3 shows a flowchart 300 of an embodiment of a method according to the invention. In the following, it is assumed, by way of example, that steps 301 to 302 of flowchart 300 are executed by device 12 in system 1.

[0105] In a step 301, the device 12 receives information from the textile piece device 11.

[0106] For example, in step 301, the device 12 receives the textile item treatment information(s) sent in step 201. Alternatively or additionally, in step 301, the device 12 receives, for example, washing parameter change information sent in step 205.

[0107] In a step 302, the device 12 determines a program for a washing cycle for the textile item at least partially depending on the received information and / or adapts a program for a washing cycle for the textile item at least partially depending on the received information.

[0108] Determining a program for a washing cycle for the textile item should be understood, for example, as determining a permissible washing program for the textile item in which a permissible value and / or permissible value range of a washing parameter for the textile item is not exceeded. This permissible value and / or permissible value range is represented, for example, by textile item information received in step 301. It is understood that multiple items of textile item information received in step 301 can also be taken into account in step 302.

[0109] If the device 12 is a washing machine, the device 12 can, for example, prevent the user from starting a washing program that is not permitted for the textile item and / or automatically select and / or start a washing program determined to be permitted for the textile item. If the device 12 is a smartphone, however, the device 12 can communicate the washing program determined to be permitted for the textile item and the associated washing parameters to the user through the user interface 124 (e.g., display it on a screen).

[0110] Adapting a program for a washing cycle for the textile item can be performed, for example, based on washing parameter change information received in step 301. If the device 12 is a washing machine, the device 12 can, for example, adapt a running washing program such that the value of the washing parameter changes to a permissible value due to the adaptation (e.g., by adjusting the washing temperature or the spin speed). This can also include, for example, interrupting and / or stopping the washing program.

[0111] Some advantages and exemplary applications of the invention are further explained below using examples. However, the invention is not limited to these examples and applications. Example textile piece made of wool:

[0112] In general, it is not recommended to expose woolen items to higher temperatures and, in particular, to stronger mechanical stress during a wash cycle. A textile device for a woolen textile could therefore, for example, contain at least one acceleration sensor and / or a temperature sensor. Furthermore, corresponding textile treatment information, including information on the maximum acceleration and maximum temperature, could be stored in the program memory of the textile device.

[0113] The textile device is connected, for example, to a washing machine and / or a smartphone via a wireless communication link and sends the textile treatment information to the washing machine and / or the smartphone (see step 201). This allows the textile device to proactively prevent a user from selecting a washing program with an inadmissible load (e.g., an inadmissible mechanical load). Instead, the user is guided to an optimal program adapted to the textile properties.

[0114] Alternatively or additionally, the textile device can detect on the textile, for example during the washing cycle in the machine, that a washing program with an inadmissible mechanical load has been selected (see steps 202 and 203). In this case, the textile device can, for example, inform the user and / or cause the user to be informed (see step 205) and, for example, request manual (remote) intervention. Alternatively or additionally, the textile device can, for example, immediately stop the washing program or cause such a stop (see step 205) in order to protect the laundry item from harmful effects. The textile device can, for example, carry out these activities independently of the accompanying remaining load of textile items. Example of a colored piece of textile:

[0115] It is recommended to separate colored textiles from white textiles because bleeding from colored textiles and transfer of the dye from the wash liquor to other textiles can cause them to become discolored. The lower the washing temperature, the lower the effect. Therefore, the textile item device for a colored textile item could, for example, contain at least one optical sensor for detecting the surrounding color in both the dry and wet state. This sensor could, for example, be set up to determine the white component of its surrounding textiles. Furthermore, corresponding textile item treatment information with details of permissible colors of other textiles that may be washed together with the textile item could be stored in a program memory of the textile item device.

[0116] The textile device is connected to a washing machine and / or a smartphone via a wireless communication link, for example, and prevents the user from starting a program with strongly color-differentiated textiles. For example, it prevents the textile prone to bleeding from damaging other textiles.

[0117] Alternatively or additionally, the textile item device can determine whether the textile item is actually bleeding by measuring the ambient color or the change in the color of the liquor in the machine using the optical sensor (see steps 202 and 203). If this is the case, the textile item device can, as described above, for example, inform the user and / or cause the user to be informed (see step 205) and, for example, request manual (remote) intervention. Alternatively or additionally, the textile item device can, for example, stop the washing program immediately or cause such a stop (see step 205) to protect the laundry item from harmful effects. The textile item device can also perform these activities, for example, independently of the accompanying remaining load of textile items. Example of interaction of different sensors:

[0118] It may happen that several textile items are being washed with one textile item device in one wash load. In this case, it may be advantageous if the textile item devices use the available information (e.g.

[0119] Textile treatment information, washing parameter information, etc.) can communicate and exchange. The following options are among those considered: a. The textile devices form an autonomous mesh network, for example, and negotiate the prioritized information among themselves based on a priority list. b. The textile sensors communicate their information, for example, to a central decision-making point, which determines the prioritized information automatically or through user intervention. c. The user can predetermine which textile device will assume the control function. All other textile devices, for example, are subordinate and can optionally continue to record and / or determine washing parameters or go into sleep mode. Example of data collection and utilization:

[0120] The repeated recording, storage, targeted analysis, and derivation of insights, including future ones, from the information obtained provides additional value beyond simply protecting textiles from harmful influences. This enables the user, for example, to create a textile or washing history for the first time. They can see, for example, the age, frequency of washing, and the detergent used, and can determine the textile's condition at each stage. The degree of preservation can be assigned manually, for example, using a points system (e.g., in an app). The user can draw conclusions as to whether the washing process used or the detergent has a positive or negative effect on the textile's condition.If the user allows it, the information can also be transferred to the product manufacturer, for example, so that the manufacturer can analyze and optimize the washing and care effects of its products by combining a large amount of data.

[0121] Fig.4Finally, FIG. 1 shows different exemplary embodiments of storage media on which an exemplary embodiment of a computer program product according to the invention can be stored. The storage medium can, for example, be a magnetic, electrical, optical, and / or other type of storage medium. The storage medium can, for example, be part of a processor (e.g., processor 110 of textile piece device 11), for example, a (non-volatile or volatile) program memory of the processor or a part thereof (such as program memory 112 of textile piece device 11). Exemplary embodiments of a storage medium are a flash memory 410, an SSD hard drive 411, a magnetic hard drive 412, a memory card 413, a memory stick 414 (e.g., a USB stick), a CD-ROM or DVD 415, or a floppy disk 416.

Claims

1. A method comprising: - obtaining, on a textile piece apparatus (11) for a textile piece (10), at least one treatment parameter value detected and / or determined by a sensor (114), the treatment parameter value being characteristic of a load on the textile piece during a treatment cycle, the treatment cycle being washing or drying of the textile piece, and - storing the treatment parameter value in a memory of the textile piece device of the textile piece, wherein the textile piece is part of a wash load, wherein the wash load comprises a plurality of textile pieces with a textile piece device, and wherein the textile piece devices communicate and exchange the detected and / or determined treatment parameter values, wherein the textile piece device can be arranged and / or is arranged on and / or in a label of the textile piece.

2. Method according to patent claim 1, wherein the sensor is part of the textile piece device.

3. Method according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is part of a device other than the textile piece device.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the treatment parameter value is indicative of a temperature, a treatment duration, an acceleration, a pressure, a vibration, an electromagnetic field, an electromagnetic radiation, a sound frequency, a sound pressure level, a pH value, a conductivity, a redox potential, an odor, an ozone concentration, a NOX concentration, an SO2 concentration, a color, a whiteness level, a microbial load, a location, an air humidity, an air pressure, a wind speed, a wind direction, a light intensity, a Rayleigh scattering, and / or a dust concentration.

5. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the method further comprising: - sending a treatment parameter information to a device other than the textile piece device, wherein the treatment parameter information comprises the treatment parameter value and / or represents a treatment cycle history of the textile piece.

6. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, the method further comprising: - sending a textile piece treatment information from the textile piece device (11) to a device other than the textile piece device, wherein the textile piece treatment information is indicative of an allowable treatment parameter value and / or an allowable treatment parameter value range for the textile piece.

7. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the method further comprising: - determining (203) whether the treatment parameter value is acceptable for the textile piece (10).

8. Method according to claim 7, the method further comprising: - causing (205) a change in treatment of the textile piece and / or notification of a user when the determination indicates that the treatment parameter value for the textile piece (11) is invalid.

9. Method according to claim 8, wherein causing the change of treatment of the textile piece and / or the notification of a user comprises sending treatment parameter change information from the textile piece device (11) to a device other than the textile piece device.

10. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising: - receiving (301) information from a textile piece device (11) of a textile piece (10) - determining and / or adapting (302) a treatment programme for the textile piece (10) at least partly depending on the received information.

11. Method according to claim 10, wherein the received information is a treatment parameter information comprising a treatment parameter value and / or representing a treatment cycle history of the textile piece, a textile piece treatment information indicative of an allowable treatment parameter value and / or an allowable treatment parameter value range for the textile piece, and / or a treatment parameter change information.

12. A textile piece device (11) for a textile piece (12) adapted to execute and / or control the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising at least one processor (110) and at least one memory (111) for executing and / or controlling the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

13. Textile piece device (11) according to claim 12, the textile piece device (11) comprising: - at least one sensor (114), wherein the sensor (114) is arranged to detect and / or determine a treatment parameter value, wherein the treatment parameter value is characteristic of a load on the textile piece during a treatment cycle.

14. A device (12) adapted to execute and / or control the method according to any one of claims 10 and 11, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory for executing and / or controlling the steps of the method according to any one of claims 10 and 11.

15. A computer program product comprising program instructions executed on a processor of a device according to any one of claims 12, 13 or 14 for executing and / or controlling the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, 10 and 11.