Detergent ordering system, detergent ordering system control method, and management device

Abstract

To provide a detergent ordering system allowing a setter to easily perform setting related to detergent ordering.SOLUTION: A detergent ordering system according to the disclosure has a washing machine and a terminal device and orders a detergent to be automatically supplied in a washing tub of the washing machine. The washing machine has a tank to store the detergent and receives setting of type of the detergent stored in the tank. The terminal device displays a setting screen for performing setting related to ordering of the detergent based on the type of the detergent received by the washing machine.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a drug ordering system, a control method for a drug ordering system, and a management device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for ordering a laundry treatment liquid set on a screen displayed on a terminal device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2022-130756 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure provides a drug ordering system that allows a user to easily perform settings related to ordering drugs, a control method for the drug ordering system, and a management device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The agent ordering system of the present disclosure comprises a cleaning machine and a terminal device, and is an agent ordering system that orders an agent to be automatically supplied to the cleaning tank of the cleaning machine, wherein the cleaning machine has a tank for storing the agent and accepts settings for the type of agent to be stored in the tank, and the terminal device displays a setting screen for making settings related to ordering the agent based on the type of agent accepted by the cleaning machine.

[0006] In addition, the control method of an agent ordering system in the present disclosure is a control method of an agent ordering system that orders an agent to be automatically supplied to the cleaning tank of a cleaning machine, which accepts settings for the type of agent to be stored in the tank of the cleaning machine, and displays a setting screen for making settings related to ordering the agent based on the accepted type of agent.

[0007] In addition, the management device of the present disclosure is a management device that manages the ordering of an agent to be automatically supplied to a cleaning tank of a cleaning machine equipped with a tank for storing the agent, and is equipped with a communication unit that communicates with the cleaning machine, which accepts settings of the type of agent, and a terminal device that displays a setting screen for making settings related to ordering the agent, and the communication unit receives agent type information indicating the type of agent for the type of agent accepted by the cleaning machine from the cleaning machine, and transmits the received agent type information to the terminal device. Effect of the Invention

[0008] The drug ordering system, the control method for the drug ordering system, and the management device according to the present disclosure enable a user to easily perform settings related to drug ordering. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a configuration of a drug ordering system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an automatic agent supply unit according to a first embodiment; [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a washing machine according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a terminal device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a washing machine management server according to a first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an order management server according to a first embodiment. [Figure 8] A sequence diagram showing the operation of the washing machine and the washing machine management server in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] A sequence diagram showing the operations of a terminal device, a washing machine management server, and an order management server in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 shows an example of a remaining amount setting screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 11]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a brand setting screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 shows an example of a brand selection screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] A sequence diagram showing the operations of a terminal device, a washing machine, and a washing machine management server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a washing machine screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 15] A sequence diagram showing the operations of a washing machine, a terminal device, a washing machine management server, and an order management server in the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 shows an example of a notification mode in the first embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] (The knowledge and other information that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time when the inventors came up with the present disclosure, there was a technology for ordering a laundry treatment liquid set on a screen displayed by a terminal device. Meanwhile, a tank equipped with a cleaning machine such as a cleaning machine or a dishwasher generally stores one type of agent, but in recent years, a tank capable of storing one type of agent selected from among a plurality of types of agents has been considered. However, when the tank of the cleaning machine can store one type of agent selected from a plurality of types of agents, the inventors discovered a problem that if the type of agent set in the cleaning machine cannot be easily grasped on the screen displayed by the terminal device, the person setting the agent may not be able to easily perform settings related to ordering the agent. In order to solve this problem, the inventors came up with the subject of the present disclosure. In view of the above, the present disclosure provides a drug ordering system that allows a setter to easily perform settings related to drug ordering, a control method for the drug ordering system, and a management device.

[0011] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, in some cases, more detailed explanations than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or duplicate explanations of substantially the same configurations may be omitted. It should be noted that the accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) [1-1. Configuration] [1-1-1. Configuration of the drug ordering system] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a drug ordering system 1000. The agent ordering system 1000 is a system that automatically orders an agent to be automatically supplied to the washing tub 11 of the washing machine 1. Examples of types of agents ordered by the agent ordering system 1000 include detergent, fabric softener, bleach, and neutral detergent. Examples of automatic ordering include ordering without inquiring of the user P as to whether the order can be executed, ordering when the user P inquires of whether the order can be executed and does not indicate an intention not to purchase, ordering when the user P inquires of whether the order can be executed and indicates an intention to purchase, and so on. The washing machine 1 is an example of a "cleaning machine." The washing tub 11 is an example of a "cleaning tub."

[0013] The agent ordering system 1000 includes a washing machine 1. The washing machine 1 is a device that washes the laundry LA in the washing tub 11. The washing machine 1 may have a function of drying the washed laundry LA. In this embodiment, a drum type washing machine is exemplified as the washing machine 1. FIG. 1 illustrates a case where the washing machine 1 is installed inside the facility H, but the washing machine 1 may be installed outside the facility H.

[0014] The washing machine 1 communicates with a washing machine management server 3 connected to a network NW via a communication device 2. The network NW includes the Internet, a telephone network, and other communication networks.

[0015] The communication device 2 is connected to the network NW and communicates with devices connected to the network NW. The communication device 2 functions as an interface device for connecting the washing machine 1 and the terminal device 4 to the network NW. The communication device 2 establishes a local network in the facility H.

[0016] The drug ordering system 1000 includes a terminal device 4. The terminal device 4 is a PC (Personal Computer) such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal. An application program related to the washing machine 1 is installed in the terminal device 4, and the terminal device 4 communicates with the washing machine management server 3 by the function of the application program. In addition, the terminal device 4 has an application program related to setting an order for an agent installed in it, and the terminal device 4 communicates with the order management server 5 by the function of the application program. The order management server 5 is an example of a "management device."

[0017] In the following description, an application program related to setting agent ordering is called a "setting APP" and appropriately expressed as "setting APP421" with the reference number "421". Also, in the following description, an application program related to the washing machine 1 is called a "washing machine APP" and appropriately expressed as "washing machine APP422" with the reference number "422".

[0018] 1, a user P who is inside facility H is indicated by a solid line, and a user P who is outside facility H is indicated by a dotted line. When the terminal device 4 is used by the user P who is inside facility H, it communicates with a device connected to the network NW via the communication device 2 or without the communication device 2. When the terminal device 4 is used by the user P who is outside facility H and cannot establish a communication connection with the communication device 2, it communicates with a device connected to the network NW without the communication device 2.

[0019] The agent ordering system 1000 includes a washing machine management server 3. The washing machine management server 3 is a server device that manages the washing machine 1. An example of an object managed by the washing machine management server 3 is the type of agent stored in the tank 130. The washing machine management server 3 is connected to the network NW, and processes information with the washing machine 1, the terminal device 4, and the order management server 5 as clients. Washing machine management server 3 is an example of the “external”.

[0020] The drug ordering system 1000 includes an order management server 5. The order management server 5 is a server device that manages the ordering of drugs. The order management server 5 manages the type of drug to be ordered, the brand of the drug to be ordered, the remaining amount of drug owned by the user P, and the like.

[0021] The order management server 5 places an order for the medicine. When placing the order for the medicine, the order management server 5 performs payment for the purchase of the medicine using the payment method designated by the user P, and also makes a delivery request for the medicine to the delivery company. For example, the order management server 5 sends an email of the delivery request to the delivery company. Upon receiving the delivery request from the order management server 5, the delivery company obtains the medicine to be delivered from the warehouse W and delivers it to the user P.

[0022] [1-1-2. Washing machine configuration] Next, the configuration of the washing machine 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic diagram of the washing machine 1. As shown in FIG.

[0023] The washing machine 1 includes a housing 10, a washing tub 11, a driving motor 12, and an automatic agent supplying unit 13.

[0024] Housing 10 is a member that forms the exterior of washing machine 1. An opening 14 is formed in the front of housing 10. A door 15 for opening and closing opening 14 is provided in the front of housing 10. A water supply port 16 is formed in the upper part of housing 10. Water supply port 16 is a connection port for connecting a hose that supplies water to washing tub 11 via automatic agent supply unit 13. A drain valve 17 is provided in the lower part of housing 10. Drain valve 17 is a valve for draining the washing water stored in washing tub 11 through opening 24.

[0025] The washing tub 11 is composed of an outer tub 18 and an inner tub 19. The outer tub 18 is provided inside the housing 10 and is a substantially cylindrical member having a function of storing washing water. The outer tub 18 may be called a water tub. The outer tub 18 includes a tubular portion 20 and a bottom portion 21 that closes one end of the tubular portion 20. The central axis CA of the outer tub 18 passes through the center of the bottom portion 21 and is an axis that is inclined with respect to the installation surface. The outer tub 18 has an opening 22 formed at a position opposite to the opening 14 of the housing 10. The outer tub 18 has openings 23 and 24 for passing water. The opening 23 is an opening connected to a flow path 25 that connects the automatic agent supply unit 13 and the washing tub 11. The opening 24 is a drain port for draining the washing water in the washing tub 11 to the outside.

[0026] The inner tub 19 is provided inside the outer tub 18 so as to be rotatable about a central axis CA as a rotation axis. The inner tub 19 is a substantially cylindrical member capable of accommodating the laundry LA. The inner tub 19 may be referred to as a drum. The inner tub 19 has a number of through holes 26 formed on its circumferential surface. The through holes 26 connect the inner tub 19 and the outer tub 18, allowing the wash water to move between the inner tub 19 and the outer tub 18. The inner tub 19 has an opening 27 formed at a position opposite the opening 14 of the housing 10 and the opening 22 of the outer tub 18.

[0027] Drive motor 12 is a motor that rotates inner tub 19. Drive motor 12 is driven under the control of washing machine control device 100, which will be described later.

[0028] The automatic agent supply unit 13 is a unit that automatically supplies a predetermined amount of agent from a tank 130 that stores the agent to the washing tub 11. The automatic agent supply unit 13 is provided above the outer tub 18 inside the housing 10. An upper portion of the automatic agent supply unit 13 faces an openable and closable cover 28 provided on the housing 10.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the automatic agent supply unit 13. As shown in FIG. The automatic agent supply unit 13 includes three tanks 130 , a case 131 , three agent supply devices 132 , an agent supply flow path 133 , a water supply valve 134 , and an input part 135 .

[0030] The case 131 is a member that houses the first tank 130A, the second tank 130B, the third tank 130C, and the input portion 135. Each of the first tank 130A, the second tank 130B, and the third tank 130C is removable from the case 131.

[0031] The first tank 130A, the second tank 130B, and the third tank 130C store different types of agents. In other words, in this embodiment, it is not permitted for the first tank 130A, the second tank 130B, and the third tank 130C to store the same type of agent. For example, in this embodiment, it is not permitted for the first tank 130A to store a detergent, the second tank 130B to store a fabric softener, and the third tank 130C to store a detergent.

[0032] The agent supplying device 132 is a device that sucks a predetermined amount of agent from the tank 130 and discharges it to the agent supplying flow path 133. The first agent supplying device 132A is connected to the first tank 130A, sucks a predetermined amount of agent from the first tank 130A, and discharges it to the agent supplying flow path 133. The second agent supplying device 132B is connected to the second tank 130B, sucks a predetermined amount of agent from the second tank 130B, and discharges it to the agent supplying flow path 133. The third agent supplying device 132C is connected to the third tank 130C, sucks a predetermined amount of agent from the third tank 130C, and discharges it to the agent supplying flow path 133.

[0033] The agent supply flow path 133 is a flow path member that supplies water supplied from the water supply port 16 and the agent discharged by the agent supply device 132 to the outer tub 18 via the case 131. The agent supply flow path 133 is connected to a first agent supply device 132A, a second agent supply device 132B, and a third agent supply device 132C.

[0034] The water supply valve 134 is a valve that controls the inflow of water from the water supply port 16. The water that flows in from the water supply port 16 flows into the outer tank 18 via the case 131.

[0035] The dispenser 135 is a mechanism for allowing the user P to dispense an amount of agent for one wash. The agent dispensed in the dispenser 135 flows from the case 131 through the flow path 25 into the outer tub 18.

[0036] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the washing machine 1. The washing machine 1 is equipped with a washing machine control device 100. The washing machine control device 100 includes a washing machine processor 110 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a washing machine memory 120, and an interface circuit to which other devices and sensors are connected.

[0037] Washing machine memory 120 is a memory that stores programs and data. Washing machine memory 120 stores control program 121, first tank information 122, second tank information 123, third tank information 124, first history information 125, second history information 126, third history information 127, washing machine ID (Identification) 128, and other data processed by washing machine processor 110. Washing machine memory 120 has a non-volatile storage area. Washing machine memory 120 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute a work area for washing machine processor 110. Washing machine memory 120 is constituted by, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0038] The first tank information 122 is information in which contents related to the first tank 130A are recorded. The first tank information 122 has tank number information and agent type information regarding the first tank 130A. The tank number information is information indicating a tank number for identifying the tank 130 in the washing machine 1. The agent type information is information indicating the type of agent.

[0039] The second tank information 123 is information in which contents related to the second tank 130B are recorded. Regarding the second tank 130B, the second tank information 123 includes tank number information and agent type information.

[0040] The third tank information 124 is information in which contents related to the third tank 130C are recorded. The third tank information 124 has tank number information and agent type information regarding the third tank 130C.

[0041] The first history information 125 is information indicating the setting history of the type of agent stored in the first tank 130A. Each time the type of agent stored in the first tank 130A is set, the first history information 125 records the date and time when the type of agent was set and the type of agent after the setting.

[0042] The second history information 126 is information indicating the setting history of the type of agent stored in the second tank 130B. Every time the type of agent stored in the second tank 130B is set, the second history information 126 records the date and time when the type of agent was set and the type of agent after the setting.

[0043] The third history information 127 is information indicating the history of the setting of the type of agent stored in the third tank 130C. Each time the type of agent stored in the third tank 130C is set, the third history information 127 records the date and time when the type of agent was set and the type of agent after the setting.

[0044] The washing machine ID 128 is identification information for identifying the washing machine 1. An example of the washing machine ID 128 is the serial number of the washing machine 1.

[0045] The washing machine control device 100 is connected to the washing machine communication unit 101, the operation panel 102, the water supply valve 134, the drive motor 12, the drain valve 17, the first agent supply device 132A, the second agent supply device 132B, and the third agent supply device 132C as devices included in the washing machine 1. Note that other devices such as sensors may also be connected to the washing machine control device 100.

[0046] Washing machine communication unit 101 includes hardware such as a communication circuit conforming to a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with washing machine management server 3 under the control of washing machine processor 110.

[0047] Operation panel 102 is a panel having washing machine touch panel 103, which is a touch panel, operation buttons, etc. Operation panel 102 is disposed above door 15 in housing 10, for example.

[0048] The washing machine processor 110 reads and executes the control program 121 stored in the washing machine memory 120, thereby functioning as a washing machine communication unit 111, a washing execution unit 112, an automatic agent supply unit 113, and an agent type setting unit 114.

[0049] Washing machine communication section 111 communicates with washing machine management server 3 via washing machine communication unit 101.

[0050] The washing execution unit 112 controls mechanisms related to washing, such as the water supply valve 134, the drive motor 12, and the drain valve 17, to execute washing.

[0051] When the washing execution unit 112 automatically supplies an agent in the washing, the automatic agent supply unit 113 controls the agent supply device 132 to automatically supply the agent to the washing tub 11.

[0052] The agent type setting unit 114 accepts the setting of the type of agent stored in the tank 130 for each tank 130. The setting of the agent type also includes changing the type of agent. The agent type setting unit 114 displays a screen for accepting the setting of the agent type for each tank 130 (hereinafter referred to as the "agent type setting screen") on the washing machine touch panel 103.

[0053] When the agent type setting unit 114 receives a setting of the type of agent stored in the first tank 130A on the agent type setting screen, it changes the type of agent recorded in the first tank information 122 to the received type of agent. In addition, when the agent type setting unit 114 receives a setting of the type of agent stored in the first tank 130A on the agent type setting screen, it records the setting date and time and the type of agent after setting in the first history information 125.

[0054] Furthermore, when the agent type setting unit 114 receives, on the agent type setting screen, the setting of the type of agent stored in the second tank 130B, it changes the type of agent recorded in the second tank information 123 to the received type of agent. Furthermore, when the agent type setting unit 114 receives, on the agent type setting screen, the setting of the type of agent stored in the second tank 130B, it records, in the second history information 126, the setting date and time and the type of agent after the setting.

[0055] Furthermore, when the agent type setting unit 114 receives a setting of the type of agent to be stored in the third tank 130C on the agent type setting screen, it changes the type of agent recorded in the third tank information 124 to the received type of agent. Furthermore, when the agent type setting unit 114 receives a setting of the type of agent to be stored in the third tank 130C on the agent type setting screen, it records the setting date and time and the type of agent after setting in the third history information 127.

[0056] [1-1-3. Terminal device configuration] Next, the configuration of the terminal device 4 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the terminal device 4. As shown in FIG. The terminal device 4 includes a terminal control device 400 , a terminal communication unit 401 , and a terminal touch panel 402 .

[0057] The terminal control device 400 includes a terminal processor 410 such as a CPU or MPU, a terminal memory 420, and an interface circuit to which other devices and sensors are connected. A terminal communication unit 401 and a terminal touch panel 402 are connected to the terminal control device 400. Other devices such as sensors may also be connected to the terminal control device 400.

[0058] The terminal memory 420 is a memory that stores programs and data. The terminal memory 420 stores a washing machine APP 422, a setting APP 421, a dedicated ID 423, a washing machine ID 128, and other data to be processed by the terminal processor 410. The terminal memory 420 has a non-volatile storage area. The terminal memory 420 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute a work area for the terminal processor 410. The terminal memory 420 is constituted by, for example, a ROM or a RAM. The dedicated ID 423 is dedicated identification information for accessing the order management server 5 .

[0059] Terminal communication unit 401 includes hardware such as a communication circuit conforming to a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with washing machine management server 3 and order management server 5 under the control of terminal processor 410. The terminal touch panel 402 is a touch panel.

[0060] The terminal processor 410 reads out and executes a setting APP 421 stored in the terminal memory 420, thereby functioning as a first terminal communication unit 411, a first display control unit 412, and a first reception unit 413.

[0061] The first terminal communication section 411 communicates with the order management server 5 via the terminal communication unit 401 . The first display control unit 412 causes a screen related to setting of ordering a drug to be displayed on the terminal touch panel 402. In the following description, the screen related to setting of ordering a drug will be referred to as a "setting screen" and will be denoted by the symbol "SG". The first reception unit 413 receives various inputs from the user P via the setting screen SG.

[0062] Terminal processor 410 reads out and executes washing machine APP 422 stored in terminal memory 420, thereby functioning as second terminal communication section 414, second display control section 415, and second reception section 416.

[0063] Second terminal communication section 414 communicates with washing machine management server 3 via terminal communication unit 401. Second display control unit 415 causes a screen related to washing machine 1 to be displayed on terminal touch panel 402. In the following description, the screen related to washing machine 1 is referred to as a "washing machine screen" and is denoted by the symbol "LG." The second reception unit 416 receives various inputs from the user P via the washing machine screen LG.

[0064] [1-1-4. Configuration of washing machine management server] Next, the configuration of the washing machine management server 3 will be described. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the washing machine management server 3.

[0065] The washing machine management server 3 includes a first server control device 300 and a first server communication unit 301.

[0066] The first server control device 300 includes a first server processor 310 such as a CPU or MPU, a first server memory 320, and an interface circuit to which other devices and sensors are connected.

[0067] First server memory 320 is a memory that stores programs and data. First server memory 320 stores control program 321, washing machine management DB (database) 322, and other data processed by first server processor 310. First server memory 320 has a non-volatile storage area. First server memory 320 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute a work area of ​​first server processor 310. First server memory 320 is constituted by, for example, a ROM or a RAM.

[0068] Washing machine management DB 322 is a database that manages information related to washing machine 1. One record R1 stored in washing machine management DB 322 has a client ID. Record R1 also has washing machine ID 128 for the client ID. Record R1 also has tank number information and agent type information for each tank 130 of washing machine 1 for washing machine ID 128. The client ID is identification information used for the washing machine management server 3 and the order management server 5 to cooperate with each other.

[0069] The first server communication unit 301 includes hardware such as a communication circuit conforming to a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the washing machine 1, the terminal device 4, and the order management server 5 under the control of the first server control device 300.

[0070] The first server processor 310 reads out and executes a control program 321 stored in the first server memory 320, thereby functioning as a first server communication unit 311 and a first server processing unit 312.

[0071] The first server communication section 311 communicates with the washing machine 1, the terminal device 4, and the order management server 5 via the first server communication unit 301. First server processing unit 312 performs processing relating to washing machine management DB 322.

[0072] [1-1-5. Order Management Server Configuration] Next, the configuration of the order management server 5 will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the order management server 5. As shown in FIG.

[0073] The order management server 5 includes a second server control device 500 and a second server communication unit 501 .

[0074] The second server control device 500 includes a second server processor 510 such as a CPU or MPU, a second server memory 520, and an interface circuit to which other devices and sensors are connected.

[0075] The second server memory 520 is a memory that stores programs and data. The second server memory 520 stores a control program 521, a user management DB 522, an order setting management DB 523, a stock management DB 524, and other data processed by the second server processor 510. The second server memory 520 has a non-volatile storage area. The second server memory 520 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute a work area of ​​the second server processor 510. The second server memory 520 is constituted by, for example, a ROM or a RAM.

[0076] User management DB 522 is a database that manages information related to user P. One record R2 stored in user management DB 522 has a client ID. Record R2 also has delivery destination information for client ID 423. Record R2 also has notification information for client ID. Record R2 also has payment method information for client ID. Record R2 also has washing machine ID 128 for client ID.

[0077] The delivery destination information is information indicating the delivery destination, such as the address of facility H. The notification information is information for notifying the user P of a certain content, and is, for example, an address for communicating with an external server that provides a notification service. Examples of such an external server include a server that provides a push notification service and a server that provides an email transmission service. The payment method information is information that indicates the payment method for purchasing the drug.

[0078] Order setting management DB 523 is a database that manages settings related to ordering of agents. One record R3 stored in order setting management DB 523 has a client ID. Record R3 also has a washing machine ID 128 for the client ID. Record R3 also has agent type information, brand information, and remaining amount information for each tank 130 of washing machine 1 for washing machine ID 128.

[0079] The brand information is information that indicates the brand of the agent. Note that the brand information included in the record R3 is information used for automatic ordering, and is not information used for automatic supply to the washing machine 1. The remaining amount information is information indicating the remaining amount of agent that the user P possesses.

[0080] The brand management DB 524 is a database for managing information related to the brand of medicine. The brand management DB 524 has a record R4 for each type of medicine. Each record R4 has information on the type of medicine and one or more pieces of brand information.

[0081] The second server communication unit 501 includes hardware such as a communication circuit conforming to a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the terminal device 4 and the washing machine management server 3 under the control of the second server control device 500.

[0082] The second server processor 510 reads out and executes a control program 521 stored in the second server memory 520, thereby functioning as a second server communication unit 511, a second server processing unit 512, and an order processing unit 513. The second server communication unit 511 is an example of a "communication unit."

[0083] Second server communication section 511 communicates with terminal device 4 and washing machine management server 3 via second server communication unit 501.

[0084] The second server processing unit 512 performs processes related to the user management DB 522 , the order setting management DB 523 , and the stock management DB 524 .

[0085] The order processing unit 513 performs processing related to ordering of medicines. That is, the order processing unit 513 determines whether or not to order medicines, and orders medicines when it determines to order medicines.

[0086] Here, the process for ordering the medicine will be described in detail. The order processing unit 513 identifies record R2 to be processed from the user management DB 522. For example, the order processing unit 513 identifies record R2 in which the cumulative usage amount has been updated as the record to be processed. Next, the order processing unit 513 identifies, from the order setting management DB 523, a record R3 having the client ID of the identified record R2. Next, the order processing unit 513 refers to the identified record R3 and determines whether or not to order the drug for each type of drug. More specifically, the order processing unit 513 determines whether or not the remaining amount of the drug recorded in the record R3 for each type of drug is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. Then, the order processing unit 513 determines to order the drug for the type for which the remaining amount of the drug is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold, and determines not to order the drug for the type for which the remaining amount of the drug is not equal to or less than the predetermined threshold.

[0087] When it is determined that the order processing unit 513 should place an order for the medicine, the order processing unit 513 acquires, from the identified record R3, brand information of the type of medicine that has been determined to be ordered. Next, the order processing unit 513 performs payment for the purchase of the drug of the brand indicated by the acquired brand information based on the payment method recorded in the identified record R2. The order processing unit 513 also makes a delivery request to the delivery company. The delivery request includes the delivery destination information in the identified record R2 and the brand information acquired from record R3.

[0088] [1-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each unit of the drug ordering system 1000 will be described.

[0089] [1-2-1. Operation related to notification of drug type] In the present embodiment, the type of agent is set for each tank 130 in the washing machine 1. Then, in the present embodiment, the type of agent set in the washing machine 1 is notified to the washing machine management server 3. First, the operation of each unit of the drug ordering system 1000 related to this notification will be described.

[0090] FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram showing the operations of the washing machine 1 and the washing machine management server 3.

[0091] When a predetermined trigger occurs, washing machine communication unit 111 of washing machine 1 transmits washing machine related information to washing machine management server 3 (step SA1). Here, examples of the predetermined trigger include the arrival of a predetermined period for transmitting washing machine related information, or the agent type setting unit 114 accepting the setting of the agent type, etc.

[0092] The washing machine related information includes washing machine ID 128 stored in washing machine memory 120. The washing machine related information also includes a combination of tank number information and agent type information included in first tank information 122, a combination of tank number information and agent type information included in second tank information 123, and a combination of tank number information and agent type information included in third tank information 124.

[0093] When first server communication unit 311 of washing machine management server 3 receives the washing machine-related information, first server processing unit 312 updates washing machine management DB 322 based on the received washing machine-related information (step SA2).

[0094] Step SA2 will now be described in detail. The first server processing unit 312 identifies the record R1 of the washing machine ID 128 included in the washing machine related information from the washing machine management DB 322. Next, the first server processing unit 312 refers to the identified record R1 and the washing machine-related information, and, assuming that the agent type information corresponding to the same tank number information is in an update relationship, updates each of the agent type information held by the identified record R1 to each of the agent type information included in the washing machine-related information.

[0095] [1-2-2. Operations related to drug ordering settings] In this embodiment, in order to automatically order medicines, the user P operates the terminal device 4 to make settings related to ordering medicines. Next, the operation of each unit of the drug ordering system 1000 involved in setting an order for a drug will be described.

[0096] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing operations of terminal device 4, washing machine management server 3, and order management server 5.

[0097] When a predetermined trigger occurs, the first terminal communication unit 411 of the terminal device 4 transmits first transmission request information to the order management server 5 (step SB1). Here, an example of the predetermined trigger is the launching of the setting APP 421.

[0098] The first transmission request information is information requesting the order management server 5 to transmit various information related to the drug. The first transmission request information includes a dedicated ID 423 stored in the terminal memory 420. Note that an access token may be recorded in the first transmission request information instead of the dedicated ID 423.

[0099] When second server communication unit 511 of order management server 5 receives the first transmission request information from terminal device 4, it transmits second transmission request information to washing machine management server 3 (step SB2).

[0100] The second transmission request information is information requesting the washing machine management server 3 to transmit various information related to the agent. The second transmission request information includes a client ID corresponding to the dedicated ID 423 included in the received first transmission request information. The correspondence between the dedicated ID 423 and the client ID is stored in the order management server 5.

[0101] Next, when first server communication unit 311 of washing machine management server 3 receives the second transmission request information, it identifies record R1 of the client ID included in the second transmission request information from washing machine management DB 322 (step SB3).

[0102] Next, the first server communication unit 311 transmits the first response information to the order management server 5 (step SB4).

[0103] The first response information is information indicating a response to the second transmission request information, and includes the washing machine ID 128 of the record R1 identified in step SB3 and all of the agent type information of the record R1 identified in step SB3.

[0104] Upon receiving the first response information, the second server communication unit 511 of the order management server 5 transmits second response information to the terminal device 4 (step SB5).

[0105] The second response information is information indicating a response to the first transmission request information. The second response information includes the washing machine ID 128 included in the first response information. The second response information also includes all of the agent type information included in the first response information.

[0106] Upon receiving the second response information from the order management server 5, the first terminal communication unit 411 of the terminal device 4 transmits third transmission request information to the order management server 5 (step SB6). The third transmission request information is information that requests the order management server 5 to transmit brand information.

[0107] When the second server communication unit 511 of the order management server 5 receives the third transmission request information from the terminal device 4, it reads out all records R4 from the stock management DB 524 (step SB7).

[0108] Next, the second server communication unit 511 transmits the third response information to the terminal device 4 (step SB8). The third response information is information indicating a response to the third transmission request information, and includes all of the records R4 read out in step SB7.

[0109] When the first terminal communication unit 411 of the terminal device 4 receives the third response information from the order management server 5, the first display control unit 412 displays the remaining amount setting screen SG1 based on the received second response information and third response information (step SB9).

[0110] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the remaining amount setting screen SG1. The remaining amount setting screen SG1 is a setting screen SG for setting the remaining amount of the agent.

[0111] The remaining amount setting screen SG1 is a screen in which a first remaining amount input screen SG11 and a second remaining amount input screen SG12 are arranged in a hierarchical structure. The first remaining amount input screen SG11 is a screen in a higher hierarchy than the second remaining amount input screen SG12. On the remaining amount setting screen SG1, it is possible to switch between the first remaining amount input screen SG11 and the second remaining amount input screen SG12.

[0112] The first remaining amount input screen SG11 has a first remaining amount input area A1. The first remaining amount input area A1 is an area for inputting the remaining amount of the agent set in the washing machine 1. The first remaining amount input area A1 displays the type of agent (hereinafter referred to as the "first type") that the washing machine 1 has most recently notified the washing machine management server 3. The first remaining amount input area A1 also displays an input field L for inputting the remaining amount of the agent for each first type.

[0113] The first remaining amount input area A1 displays a switch button B1 for switching the display screen from the first remaining amount input screen SG11 to the second remaining amount input screen SG12. In Fig. 10, a software button having a character string "Other" is the switch button B1. When the second reception unit 416 receives an operation of the switch button B1, the second display control unit 415 switches the display screen from the first remaining amount input screen SG11 to the second remaining amount input screen SG12.

[0114] When the display target of the first remaining amount input area A1 cannot be accommodated in the display area of ​​the first remaining amount input area A1, the first remaining amount input area A1 displays a scroll bar BR1 as shown in FIG.

[0115] The second remaining amount input screen SG12 has a second remaining amount input area A2. The second remaining amount input area A2 is an area for setting the remaining amount of the agent that has not been set in the washing machine 1. The second remaining amount input area A2 displays the type of agent (hereinafter referred to as the "second type") that has not been accepted most recently by the washing machine 1. The second remaining amount input area A2 also displays an input field L for each second type.

[0116] When the display object of the second remaining amount input area A2 cannot be accommodated in the display area of ​​the second remaining amount input area A2, the second remaining amount input area A2 displays a scroll bar BR2 as shown in FIG.

[0117] 10, the first remaining amount input screen SG11 and the second remaining amount input screen SG12 each have a Confirm button B2. The Confirm button B2 is a software button for confirming the remaining amount of the agent input on the remaining amount setting screen SG1.

[0118] The first display control unit 412 generates the first remaining amount input screen SG11 based on the second response information received from the order management server 5. That is, the first display control unit 412 generates the first remaining amount input screen SG11 for the type of agent recorded in the second response information.

[0119] Furthermore, the first display control unit 412 generates the second remaining amount input screen SG12 based on the second response information and the third response information received from the order management server 5. That is, the first display control unit 412 generates the second remaining amount input screen SG12 for the types of drugs recorded in the third response information other than the types of drugs recorded in the second response information.

[0120] In this way, in order to generate the first remaining amount input screen SG11, the terminal device 4 can display, in setting the remaining amount of agent, a type of agent that is likely to be set in the washing machine 1. In addition, in order to generate the second remaining amount input screen SG12, the terminal device 4 can display, in setting the remaining amount of agent, a type of agent that is unlikely to be set in the washing machine 1, i.e., a type of agent that is likely not set in the washing machine 1.

[0121] On the remaining amount setting screen SG1, the user P inputs the remaining amount of agent held by the user P for each type of agent set in the washing machine 1. Note that the remaining amount held by the user P includes not only the remaining amount of agent stored in the tank 130, but also the remaining amount of agent not stored in the tank 130. After inputting the remaining amounts of agent for the three types of agent, the user P operates the confirm button B2 to end the setting of the remaining amounts of agent on the remaining amount setting screen SG1.

[0122] Returning to the explanation of the sequence diagram of FIG. 9, when the confirm button B2 is operated on the remaining amount setting screen SG1, the first terminal communication unit 411 transmits remaining amount setting request information to the order management server 5 (step SB10).

[0123] The remaining amount setting request information is information requesting the setting of the remaining amount of the agent. The remaining amount setting request information includes the washing machine ID 128 stored in the terminal memory 420. In addition, the remaining amount setting request information includes, for each type of agent whose remaining amount is input in the input field L, agent type information and remaining amount information indicating the remaining amount input in the input field L.

[0124] When the second server communication unit 511 of the order management server 5 receives the remaining amount setting request information, the second server processing unit 512 updates the user management DB 522 and the order setting management DB 523 based on the received remaining amount setting request information (step SB11).

[0125] Step SB11 will now be described in detail. Second server processing unit 512 identifies record R2 having washing machine ID 128 of the remaining amount setting request information from user management DB 522. Next, the second server processing unit 512 resets the cumulative usage amount recorded in the identified record R2 to zero.

[0126] Step SB11 will now be described in detail. The second server processing unit 512 identifies, from the order setting management DB 523, record R3 having the washing machine ID 128 included in the remaining amount setting request information. Next, the second server processing unit 512 updates each of the agent type information in the identified record R3 to each of the agent type information included in the remaining amount setting request information, and also updates each of the remaining amount information in the identified record R3 to each of the remaining amount information included in the remaining amount setting request information. Note that the second server processing unit 512 performs this update while maintaining the correspondence between the remaining amount type information and the remaining amount information in the remaining amount setting request information.

[0127] In this manner, by updating step SB11, each time the remaining amount of the agent is set on the remaining amount setting screen SG1, the cumulative amount of the agent used is reset to zero, and the remaining amount of the agent managed by the order management server 5 is also updated. This allows the order processing unit 513 to properly order the agent.

[0128] When the confirm button B2 is operated on the remaining amount setting screen SG1, the first display control unit 412 displays the brand setting screen SG2 based on the received second response information and third response information (step SB12).

[0129] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the brand setting screen SG2. The brand setting screen SG2 is a setting screen SG for setting the brand of the agent. The brand setting screen SG2 includes a first type selection screen SG21, a second type selection screen SG22, and a brand selection screen SG23.

[0130] In the brand setting screen SG2, a first type selection screen SG21 and a second type selection screen SG22 are arranged in a hierarchy. The first type selection screen SG21 is a screen in a higher hierarchy than the second type selection screen SG22. In the brand setting screen SG2, it is possible to switch between the first type selection screen SG21 and the second type selection screen SG22.

[0131] In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between the first remaining amount input screen SG11 and the first type selection screen SG21, they will be referred to as the "first screen", and will be given the reference number "SG3" and expressed as the "first screen SG3". In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between the second remaining amount input screen SG12 and the second type selection screen SG22, they will be referred to as the "second screen" and will be given the reference number "SG4" and expressed as the "second screen SG4".

[0132] The first type selection screen SG21 has a first type selection area A3. The first type selection area A3 is an area for selecting one type from the types of agents set in the washing machine 1. The first type selection area A3 displays a first selection icon IC1 for selecting the type of agent for each first type. At least the name of the corresponding agent type is displayed in the first selection icon IC1.

[0133] The first type selection area A3 displays a switching icon IC2 for switching the display screen from the first type selection screen SG21 to the second type selection screen SG22. In Fig. 11, the icon displaying the character string "Other" is the switching icon IC2. When the first reception unit 413 receives an operation of the switching icon IC2, the first display control unit 412 switches the display screen from the first type selection screen SG21 to the second type selection screen SG22.

[0134] When the display objects of the first type selection area A3 cannot all fit within the display area of ​​the first type selection area A3, the first type selection area A3 displays a scroll bar BR3 as shown in FIG.

[0135] The second type selection screen SG22 has a second type selection area A4. The second type selection area A4 is an area for selecting one type from the types of agents that are not set in the washing machine 1. The second type selection area A4 displays a first selection icon IC1 for each second type.

[0136] When the display objects in the second type selection area A4 cannot all fit in the display area of ​​the second type selection area A4, the second type selection area A4 displays a scroll bar BR4 as shown in FIG.

[0137] When the first reception unit 413 receives an operation of the first selection icon IC1 on the first type selection screen SG21 or the second type selection screen SG22, the first display control unit 412 switches the display screen on the stock setting screen SG2 from the first type selection screen SG21 or the second type selection screen SG22 to the stock selection screen SG23.

[0138] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the stock selection screen SG23. The brand selection screen SG23 is a screen for selecting a brand of a medicine. The brand selection screen SG23 is a screen that displays a list of brands of the type of medicine indicated by the operated first selection icon IC1. The brand selection screen SG23 in the example of FIG. 12 displays a list of brands of "Medicine A."

[0139] The stock selection screen SG23 has a stock selection area A5. The brand selection area A5 is an area for selecting a brand of medicine. The brand selection area A5 displays a second selection icon IC3 for selecting a brand of medicine for each brand of medicine. When the second selection icon IC3 is selected on the brand selection screen SG23, the display screen on the brand setting screen SG2 switches from the brand selection screen SG23 to the screen before transition to the brand selection screen SG23. When a brand of medicine is selected by selecting the second selection icon IC3, the name of the brand of medicine selected on the brand selection screen SG23 is further displayed on the first selection icon IC1 corresponding to the selected brand of medicine.

[0140] If the display objects of the stock selection area A5 cannot all fit within the display area of ​​the stock selection area A5, the stock selection area A5 displays a scroll bar BR5 as shown in FIG.

[0141] The brand setting screen SG2 has a Confirm button B3. The Confirm button B3 is a software button for confirming the brand of the agent selected on the brand setting screen SG2.

[0142] The first display control unit 412 generates the first type selection screen SG21 based on the second response information received from the order management server 5. That is, the first display control unit 412 generates the first type selection screen SG21 for the type of drug recorded in the second response information.

[0143] Furthermore, the first display control unit 412 generates a second type selection screen SG22 based on the second response information and the third response information received from the order management server 5. That is, the first display control unit 412 generates the second type selection screen SG22 for drug types other than the drug types recorded in the second response information, among the drug types recorded in the third response information.

[0144] In this way, in order to generate the first type selection screen SG21, the terminal device 4 can display, in setting the brand of agent, a type of agent that is likely to be set in the washing machine 1. In addition, in order to generate the second type selection screen SG22, the terminal device 4 can display, in setting the brand of agent, a type of agent that is unlikely to be set in the washing machine 1.

[0145] Furthermore, the first display control unit 412 generates the brand selection screen SG23 based on the third response information received from the order management server 5. That is, the first display control unit 412 generates the brand selection screen SG23 that displays the second selection icon IC3 for each brand of drug for each type of drug recorded in the third response information.

[0146] On the brand setting screen SG2, the user P selects the brand of each of the types of agents stored in the first tank 130A, the second tank 130B, and the third tank 130C. After selecting the brands of the three types of agents, the user P operates the Confirm button B3 to finish setting the agent brands on the brand setting screen SG2.

[0147] Returning to the explanation of the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 9, when the Confirm button B3 is operated on the brand setting screen SG2, the first terminal communication unit 411 transmits brand setting request information to the order management server 5 (step SB13).

[0148] The brand setting request information is information requesting setting of the brand of the agent. The brand setting request information includes washing machine ID 128 stored in terminal memory 420. In addition, the brand setting request information includes agent type information and brand information for each agent whose brand is selected on brand selection screen SG23.

[0149] When the second server communication unit 511 of the order management server 5 receives the brand setting request information from the terminal device 4, the second server processing unit 512 updates the order setting management DB 523 based on the received brand setting request information (step SB14).

[0150] Step SB14 will now be described in detail. The second server processing unit 512 identifies, from the order setting management DB 523, record R3 of the washing machine ID 128 included in the brand setting request information. Next, the second server processing unit 512 refers to the identified record R3 and the brand setting request information, and, assuming that brand information corresponding to the same drug type information is in an update relationship, updates each piece of brand information held by the identified record R3 to each piece of brand information included in the brand setting request information.

[0151] By updating in step SB14, the brand of the drug set on the brand setting screen SG2 is automatically ordered.

[0152] [1-2-3. Operations related to displaying setting history] The terminal device 4 of this embodiment can display the setting history of the type of agent received by the washing machine 1. Next, the operation of the drug ordering system 1000 relating to the display of the setting history will be described. FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram showing operations of the terminal device 4, the washing machine 1, and the washing machine management server 3.

[0153] When a predetermined trigger occurs, the second terminal communication unit 414 of the terminal device 4 transmits the first history request information to the order management server 5 (step SC1). Here, an example of the predetermined trigger is the start-up of the washing machine APP 422.

[0154] The first history request information is information requesting transmission of the setting history to washing machine management server 3. The first history request information includes washing machine ID 128 stored in terminal memory 420.

[0155] When first server communication unit 311 of washing machine management server 3 receives the first history request information, it transmits second history request information to washing machine 1 (step SC2). The second history request information is information requesting washing machine 1 to transmit the setting history. The second history request information includes washing machine ID 128 included in the first history request information.

[0156] When washing machine communication section 111 of washing machine 1 receives the second history request information from washing machine management server 3, washing machine communication section 111 reads first history information 125, second history information 126, and third history information 127 from washing machine memory 120 (step SC3).

[0157] Next, washing machine communication unit 111 transmits fourth response information to washing machine management server 3 (step SC4). The fourth response information is information indicating a response to the second history request information, and includes the three pieces of history information read out in step SC3.

[0158] Next, upon receiving the fourth response information, first server communication unit 311 of washing machine management server 3 transmits fifth response information to terminal device 4 (step SC5). The fifth response information is information indicating a response to the first history request information, and includes the three pieces of history information included in the fourth response information.

[0159] Next, when the second terminal communication unit 414 of the terminal device 4 receives the fifth response information from the washing machine management server 3, the second display control unit 415 displays the washing machine screen LG based on the three pieces of history information included in the received fifth response information (step SC6).

[0160] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the washing machine screen LG. The washing machine screen LG includes a first washing machine screen LG1, a second washing machine screen LG2, and a third washing machine screen LG3. The first washing machine screen LG1 is a screen in a higher hierarchy than the second washing machine screen LG2. The second washing machine screen LG2 is a screen in a higher hierarchy than the third washing machine screen LG3.

[0161] The first washing machine screen LG1 corresponds to the top screen in the washing machine screen LG. The first washing machine screen LG1 has a switching button B4 for displaying the setting history. When the first reception unit 413 receives the operation of the switching button B4, the second display control unit 415 switches the display screen from the first washing machine screen LG1 to the second washing machine screen LG2.

[0162] The second washing machine screen LG2 is a screen for selecting a tank 130 for displaying the setting history. The second washing machine screen LG2 has a third selection icon IC4 for selecting the tank 130 for each tank 130. The tank number is displayed on the third selection icon IC4. When the second reception unit 416 receives an operation of the third selection icon IC4, the second display control unit 415 changes the display screen from the second washing machine screen LG2 to the third washing machine screen LG3.

[0163] The third washing machine screen LG3 is a screen for displaying a list of the setting history. The third washing machine screen LG3 displays a list of the setting history for the tank 130 corresponding to the third selection icon IC4 operated on the second washing machine screen LG2.

[0164] Because the setting history can be displayed in this manner, if an inconvenience occurs, such as the ordering of medication not being executed at the appropriate time, User P can easily check the cause of the inconvenience by viewing the setting history, such as whether an incorrect setting was made on the setting screen SG.

[0165] [1-2-4. Operations related to sending usage information] In this embodiment, the washing machine 1 transmits usage information to the order management server 5. Then, the order management server 5 cumulatively counts the usage amount of the agent indicated by the received usage information, and places an order for the agent based on the counted cumulative usage amount.

[0166] Next, the operation of the drug ordering system 1000 related to the transmission of usage information will be described. FIG. 15 is a sequence diagram showing operations of the washing machine 1, the terminal device 4, the washing machine management server 3, and the order management server 5.

[0167] As shown in FIG. 15, when washing machine 1 and washing machine management server 3 are communicatively connected to each other, washing machine communication unit 111 of washing machine 1 transmits agent-related information every time an agent is automatically supplied (step SD1).

[0168] The agent-related information includes washing machine ID 128 stored in washing machine memory 120. The agent-related information also includes all information contained in tank information corresponding to the type of agent most recently automatically supplied among the tank information stored in washing machine memory 120. The agent-related information also includes usage amount information indicating the usage amount of the agent most recently automatically supplied.

[0169] Next, when the first server communication unit 311 of the washing machine management server 3 receives the agent-related information from the washing machine 1, the first server communication unit 311 transmits the received agent-related information to the order management server 5 (step SD2).

[0170] Next, when the second server communication unit 511 of the order management server 5 receives the agent-related information from the washing machine management server 3, the second server processing unit 512 determines whether the type of agent set in the washing machine 1 is set as the type of agent to be ordered (step SD3).

[0171] Step SD3 will now be described in detail. The second server processing unit 512 identifies the record R3 of the washing machine ID 128 included in the agent-related information from the order setting management DB 523. Next, the second server processing unit 512 determines whether the agent type information in the identified record R3 includes the agent type information in the agent-related information. If the second server processing unit 512 determines that the agent type set in the washing machine 1 is set as the agent type to be ordered, the second server processing unit 512 determines that the agent type set in the washing machine 1 is not set as the agent type to be ordered, if the second server processing unit 512 determines that the agent type set in the washing machine 1 is not set as the agent type to be ordered.

[0172] If it is determined in step SD3 that the type of agent set in the washing machine 1 is set as the type of agent to be ordered, the second server processing unit 512 updates the user management DB 522 based on the received agent-related information (step SD4).

[0173] Step SD4 will now be described in detail. The second server processing unit 512 identifies, from the order setting management DB 522, record R3 having the washing machine ID 128 included in the agent-related information. Next, the second server processing unit 512 refers to the identified record R3 and the drug-related information, and, assuming that the remaining amount information and usage amount information corresponding to the same drug type information are in an update relationship, updates the remaining amount of drug indicated by the remaining amount information in the identified record R3 to an amount obtained by subtracting the usage amount indicated by the usage amount information.

[0174] If it is determined in step SD3 that all of the agent types set in the washing machine 1 are not set as agent types to be ordered, the second server communication unit 511 transmits notification request information to an external server that provides a notification service (step SD5). The notification request information is information requesting a notification that the type of agent most recently received by the washing machine 1 is not set as the type of agent to be ordered.

[0175] In step SD5, second server communication unit 511 identifies record R2 having washing machine ID 128 included in the received agent-related information from user management DB 522. Then, second server communication unit 511 transmits notification request information to an external server providing a notification service, based on the notification information of identified record R2.

[0176] When the order management server 5 transmits the notification request information, the first display control unit 412 notifies the user that the type of agent most recently received by the washing machine 1 is not set as the type of agent to be ordered (step SD6).

[0177] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the notification mode in step SD6. FIG. 16 illustrates an example in which a notification is sent in the form of a push notification to the effect that the type of agent most recently received by the washing machine 1 is not set as the type of agent to be ordered. 16, the first display control unit 412 displays the notification information TJ on the terminal touch panel 402. The notification information TJ is information notifying that the type of agent most recently received by the washing machine 1 is not set as the type of agent to be ordered.

[0178] In this way, by sending a notification in step SD6, user P can easily understand that no settings related to ordering drugs have been made on the setting screen SG, thereby reducing the occurrence of drugs not being ordered at the appropriate time.

[0179] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, the agent ordering system 1000 includes the washing machine 1 and the terminal device 4, and orders an agent to be automatically supplied to the washing tub 11 of the washing machine 1. The washing machine 1 includes a tank 130 for storing an agent, and accepts settings for the type of agent to be stored in the tank 130. The terminal device 4 displays a setting screen SG for making settings related to ordering the agent, based on the type of agent accepted by the washing machine 1.

[0180] According to this, the type of agent received by the washing machine 1 can be reflected on the setting screen SG for making settings related to ordering of the agent, so that the person setting the agent can easily grasp the type of agent set on the setting screen SG in the washing machine 1. Therefore, the person setting the agent can easily make settings related to ordering of the agent.

[0181] The washing machine 1 notifies the washing machine management server 3 of the accepted type of agent. The terminal device 4 changes the display mode of a first type, which is the type of agent most recently notified to the washing machine management server 3 by the washing machine 1, from a second type, which is a type of agent other than the first type, on the setting screen SG.

[0182] According to this, since the type of agent that is likely to be set in the washing machine 1 and the type of agent that is likely not set in the washing machine 1 can be displayed in a distinguishable manner, the setter can more easily grasp the type of agent that is set in the washing machine 1 on the setting screen SG. Therefore, the setter can more easily perform settings related to ordering of agents. In addition, since all corresponding types of agents are displayed, even if the type of agent notified by the washing machine 1 is not the latest or a malfunction occurs in communication between the washing machine 1 and the washing machine management server 3, and the type of agent is not properly reflected on the setting screen SG, the setter can perform settings related to ordering of agents for the type of agent set in the washing machine 1. Note that the case where the type of agent is not properly reflected on the setting screen SG refers to a case where the first type of agent displayed on the setting screen SG does not include the type of agent most recently set on the washing machine 1. The first type of agent displayed on the setting screen SG does not necessarily correspond to the type set on the washing machine 1 because the type of agent notified by the washing machine 1 is not the latest or a malfunction occurs in communication between the washing machine 1 and the washing machine management server 3. Therefore, in this embodiment, all corresponding types of agents are displayed. As a result, even if a case occurs in which the type of agent is not properly reflected on the setting screen SG, the person setting the agent can properly set the agent ordering settings for the type of agent set in the washing machine 1.

[0183] The setting screen SG is a screen in which a first screen SG3 displaying a first type and a second screen SG4 displaying a second type are hierarchically arranged. The first screen SG3 is a screen in a higher hierarchy than the second screen SG4.

[0184] According to this, since the first type can be preferentially displayed, the setter can more easily grasp the type of agent set in the washing machine 1 on the setting screen SG. Therefore, the setter can more easily perform settings related to ordering of agents.

[0185] The terminal device 4 displays the setting history of the type of agent received by the washing machine 1.

[0186] This allows the setting history to be displayed, so if an inconvenience occurs, such as the ordering of medication not being executed at the appropriate time, user P can easily check the cause of the inconvenience by viewing the setting history, such as whether an incorrect setting was made on the setting screen SG.

[0187] The washing machine 1 includes a plurality of tanks 130. The terminal device 4 displays the setting history for each tank 130.

[0188] According to this, if a problem occurs, such as an agent not being ordered at the appropriate time, the user P can easily check the cause of the problem for each tank 130.

[0189] When the type of agent most recently received by the washing machine 1 differs from the type of agent set as the agent to be ordered on the setting screen SG, the terminal device 4 notifies the washing machine 1 that the type of agent most recently received by the washing machine 1 is not set as the agent to be ordered.

[0190] This allows the user P to easily understand that settings related to ordering medicine have not been made on the settings screen SG, thereby reducing the occurrence of medicine being ordered at an inappropriate time.

[0191] The agent ordering system 1000 includes an order management server 5 that manages orders of agents. The washing machine 1 transmits agent-related information, in which the received type of agent and the amount of agent used that was automatically supplied to the washing tub 11 are recorded, to the order management server 5. The order management server 5 orders the agent based on the type and amount of agent recorded in the received agent-related information and the settings related to ordering the agent made on the setting screen SG.

[0192] According to this, since medicines can be automatically ordered based on settings related to ordering of medicines, settings related to ordering of medicines can be easily made, and a system capable of automatically ordering medicines can be constructed.

[0193] In the control method of the agent ordering system 1000 that orders an agent to be automatically supplied to the washing tub 11 of the washing machine 1, the washing machine 1 having a tank 130 that stores an agent receives a setting of the type of agent to be stored in the tank 130. Also, in the control method of the agent ordering system 1000, the terminal device 4 displays a setting screen SG for making settings related to ordering the agent based on the type of agent received by the washing machine 1.

[0194] This provides the same effects as those of the drug ordering system 1000 described above.

[0195] The order management server 5, which manages the ordering of an agent to be automatically supplied to the washing tub 11 of the washing machine 1 equipped with the tank 130 for storing the agent, includes the washing machine 1, a terminal device 4 that displays a setting screen SG for making settings related to ordering the agent, and a second server communication unit 511 that communicates with the washing machine 1. The second server communication unit 511 receives, from the washing machine 1, agent type information indicating the type of agent for the type of agent accepted by the washing machine 1, and transmits the received agent type information to the terminal device 4.

[0196] This provides the same effects as those of the drug ordering system 1000 described above.

[0197] (Other embodiments) As described above, the above-mentioned first embodiment has been described as an example disclosed in the present application. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made. In addition, it is also possible to combine the components described in the above-mentioned first embodiment to create a new embodiment. Therefore, other embodiments will be exemplified below.

[0198] In the above embodiment, the washing machine 1 is exemplified as the "cleaning machine", but the "cleaning machine" may be a machine that cleans objects with a cleaning agent, such as a dishwasher. If the "cleaning machine" is a dishwasher, the "cleaning tank" corresponds to a tank in which dishes are washed.

[0199] In the above embodiment, a drum type washing machine is exemplified as the washing machine 1, but the washing machine 1 may be a vertical washing machine.

[0200] In the above-described embodiment, the washing machine management server 3 and the order management server 5 are described as separate server devices, but these servers may be configured as the same server device. In addition, the washing machine management server 3 and the order management server 5 may be configured as multiple server devices having different processing contents.

[0201] In the embodiment described above, the remaining amount of the agent is subtracted each time the agent is automatically supplied, and the agent is ordered when the remaining amount falls below a threshold. In another embodiment, the order management server 5 may cumulatively manage the amount of agent used, and may order the agent when the cumulative amount of agent used reaches a predetermined threshold or more.

[0202] In the above-described embodiment, the amount of agent used is notified every time the agent is automatically supplied. In another embodiment, the washing machine 1 may store the usage amount information and transmit the stored usage amount information to the washing machine management server 3 at a predetermined timing.

[0203] In the above-described embodiment, the washing machine 1 is configured to accept the setting of the type of agent stored in the tank 130. In other embodiments, the terminal device 2 may accept the setting of the type of agent stored in the tank 130 by the function of the setting APP 421.

[0204] In the above-described embodiment, the terminal device 4 uses the function of an external notification service to notify the terminal device 4 that the type of agent most recently received by the washing machine 1 is not set as the type of agent to be ordered. In another embodiment, the order management server 5 does not use an external notification service, but transmits notification request information to the terminal device 4, and the terminal device 4 notifies the terminal device 4 that the type of agent most recently received by the washing machine 1 is not set as the type of agent to be ordered based on the received notification request information. In this other embodiment, the terminal device 4 is not limited to a smartphone or a tablet terminal, and may be a non-portable device such as a television.

[0205] In the above-described embodiment, the display manner of the first type and the second type on the setting screen SG is made different by making the screens into different hierarchical layers. In other embodiments, the display manner of the first type and the second type may be made different by other manners such as decoration or emphasis. In this case, the screen displaying the first type and the second type may be the same screen.

[0206] In the above embodiment, a dedicated application program to be installed is exemplified as a program for implementing each functional unit of the terminal processor 410, but the program may be a browser or the like.

[0207] In the above-described embodiment, the "management device" is exemplified as an order management server 5 connected to a wide area network. In other embodiments, the "management device" may be a device connected to a local network. An example of this device is a device that centrally manages washing machines 1 in a coin laundry.

[0208] In the embodiment described above, the washing machine 1 is configured to include three tanks 130, but the number of tanks 130 included in the washing machine 1 may be two or less, or four or more.

[0209] In the embodiment described above, a push notification is sent by the function of the setting APP 421 to inform the user that the type of agent most recently received by the washing machine 1 is not set as the type of agent to be ordered. However, the manner of sending the notification is not limited to a push notification, and may be other manners such as a notification by e-mail.

[0210] Washing machine processor 110, first server processor 310, terminal processor 410, and second server processor 510 may be configured by a single processor or by multiple processors. These processors may be hardware programmed to realize the corresponding functional units. That is, these processors may be configured by, for example, ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) or FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays).

[0211] The configurations of washing machine 1, washing machine management server 3, terminal device 4, and order management server 5 shown in Figures 4 to 7 are merely examples, and the specific implementation form is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessarily necessary to implement hardware corresponding to each part individually, and it is also possible to implement a configuration in which one processor executes a program to realize the functions of each part. Also, some of the functions realized by software in the above-mentioned embodiment may be hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be software.

[0212] The step units of the operations shown in Figures 8, 9, 13, and 15 are divided according to the main processing contents in order to make the operations easier to understand, and the operation is not limited by the way in which the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. The operations may be divided into more step units according to the processing contents. Furthermore, one step unit may be divided so as to include more processing. Furthermore, the order of the steps may be appropriately changed within a range that does not interfere with the purpose of this disclosure.

[0213] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are intended to illustrate the technology of the present disclosure, and various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, and the like can be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0214] (Additional Note) The above description of the embodiments discloses the following techniques.

[0215] (Technology 1) A chemical agent ordering system comprising a cleaning machine and a terminal device, which orders a chemical agent to be automatically supplied to the cleaning tank of the cleaning machine, wherein the cleaning machine has a tank for storing the chemical agent and accepts settings for the type of chemical agent to be stored in the tank, and the terminal device displays a setting screen for making settings related to ordering the chemical agent based on the type of chemical agent accepted by the cleaning machine. According to this, the type of agent received by the cleaner can be reflected on the setting screen for making settings related to ordering of the agent, so that the user can easily grasp the type of agent set in the cleaner on the setting screen. Therefore, the user can easily make settings related to ordering of the agent.

[0216] (Technology 2) A drug ordering system as described in Technology 1, in which the cleaning machine notifies the outside of the type of drug that has been received, and the terminal device changes the display manner on the setting screen of a first type, which is the type of drug that the cleaning machine has notified the outside, and a second type, which is a type of drug that is not the first type. According to this, since the types of agents that are likely to be set in the cleaner and the types of agents that are not set in the cleaner can be displayed in a distinguishable manner, the setter can more easily grasp the types of agents that are set in the cleaner on the setting screen. Therefore, the setter can more easily perform settings related to ordering of agents. In addition, since all corresponding types of agents are displayed, even if the types of agents notified by the cleaner are not the latest or a problem occurs in communication between the cleaner and the outside and the type of agent is not properly reflected on the setting screen, the setter can perform settings related to ordering of agents for the types of agents set in the cleaner.

[0217] (Technology 3) The drug ordering system described in Technology 2, wherein the setting screen is a hierarchical screen having a first screen displaying the first type and a second screen displaying the second type, and the first screen is a screen at a higher level than the second screen. According to this, since the first type can be preferentially displayed, the setter can more easily grasp the type of agent set in the cleaning machine on the setting screen. Therefore, the setter can more easily perform settings related to ordering of agents.

[0218] (Technology 4) The agent ordering system according to any one of Technology 1 to Technology 4, wherein the terminal device displays a setting history of the type of agent received by the cleaning machine. This makes it possible to display the setting history, so that if an inconvenience occurs, such as an order for medication not being placed at the appropriate time, the user of the terminal device can easily investigate the cause of the inconvenience by viewing the setting history, such as whether an incorrect setting was made on the setting screen.

[0219] (Technology 5) The agent ordering system according to Technology 4, wherein the cleaning machine is provided with a plurality of the tanks, and the terminal device displays the setting history for each of the tanks. This allows the user of the terminal device to easily investigate the cause of the problem for each tank if a problem occurs, such as an agent not being ordered at the appropriate time.

[0220] (Technology 6) A drug ordering system described in any one of Technology 1 to Technology 5, wherein, if the type of drug most recently received by the cleaning machine differs from the type of drug set as an order target on the setting screen, the terminal device notifies the user that the type of drug most recently received by the cleaning machine is not set as an order target. This allows the person setting up the settings to easily understand that settings related to ordering drugs have not been made on the settings screen, thereby reducing the occurrence of drugs not being ordered at the appropriate time.

[0221] (Technology 7) A drug ordering system according to any one of Technology 1 to Technology 6, comprising a management device for managing the ordering of the drug, wherein the cleaning machine transmits drug-related information to the management device, in which the received type of drug and the amount of drug used that was automatically supplied to the cleaning tank are recorded, and the management device orders the drug based on the type of drug and the amount of drug recorded in the received drug-related information and settings related to ordering the drug made on the setting screen. According to this, since medicines can be automatically ordered based on settings related to ordering of medicines, settings related to ordering of medicines can be easily made, and a system capable of automatically ordering medicines can be constructed.

[0222] (Technology 8) A control method for an agent ordering system that orders an agent to be automatically supplied to the cleaning tank of a cleaning machine, the control method comprising: receiving a setting for the type of agent to be stored in the tank of the cleaning machine; and displaying a setting screen for making settings related to ordering the agent based on the received type of agent. This provides the same effects as those of the drug ordering system of Technology 1.

[0223] (Technology 9) A management device that manages the ordering of agents to be automatically supplied to the cleaning tank of a cleaning machine equipped with a tank for storing agents, the management device comprising: the cleaning machine that accepts settings for the type of agent; a terminal device that displays a setting screen for making settings related to ordering the agent; and a communication unit that communicates with the cleaning machine, the communication unit receiving agent type information indicating the type of agent for the type of agent accepted by the cleaning machine from the cleaning machine, and transmitting the received agent type information to the terminal device. This provides the same effects as those of the drug ordering system of Technology 1. [Industrial Applicability]

[0224] As described above, the agent ordering system, the control method for the agent ordering system, and the management device according to the present invention can be used to make settings related to ordering of agents to be stored in a tank equipped in a cleaning machine. [Explanation of symbols]

[0225] 1. Washing machine (cleaning machine) 3. Washing machine management server 4 Terminal Equipment 5. Order management server (management device) 11 Washing tub (cleaning tub) 13. Automatic agent supply unit 110 Washing Machine Processor 111 Washing Machine Communication Unit 112 Laundry Department 113 Automatic agent supply unit 114 Agent type setting section 120 Washing Machine Memory 121 Control Program 122 First Tank Information 123 Second Tank Information 124 3rd Tank Information 125 First History Information 126 Second History Information 127 Third History Information 128 Washing machine ID 130 Tank 130A First Tank 130B No. 2 Tank 130C 3rd Tank 310 First Server Processor 311 First Server Communication Department 312 First server processing section 320 First Server Memory 321 Control Program 322 Washing machine management DB 410 Terminal Processor 411 First terminal communication unit 412 First display control unit 413 First Reception Section 414 Second terminal communication unit 415 Second display control unit 416 Second Reception Section 420 Terminal Memory 421 Settings APP 422 Washing machine APP 423 Dedicated ID 510 Second Server Processor 511 Second Server Communication Department (Communication Department) 512 Second Server Processing Unit 513 Order Processing Unit 520 Second Server Memory 521 Control Program 522 User Management DB 523 Order Setting Management DB 524 Stock Management DB 1000 Drug ordering system SG settings screen SG1 remaining capacity setting screen SG11 1st remaining amount input screen (1st screen) SG12 Second remaining amount input screen (Second screen) SG2 Stock setting screen SG21 1st type selection screen (1st screen) SG22 2nd type selection screen (2nd screen) SG23 Stock Selection Screen SG3 1st screen SG4 2nd screen

Claims

1. A cleaning agent ordering system including a cleaning machine and a terminal device, the system ordering a cleaning agent to be automatically supplied to a cleaning tank of the cleaning machine, The cleaning machine includes a tank for storing the agent, and receives a setting of the type of the agent to be stored in the tank; the terminal device displays a setting screen for making settings related to ordering the agent based on the type of the agent received by the cleaning machine. Medication ordering system.

2. The cleaning machine notifies an outside of the type of the received agent, The terminal device changes a display mode of a first type, which is a type of the agent notified to the outside by the cleaning machine, and a second type, which is a type of the agent other than the first type, on the setting screen. The drug ordering system according to claim 1.

3. the setting screen is a screen in which a first screen displaying the first type and a second screen displaying the second type are hierarchically arranged, The first screen is a screen at a higher level than the second screen. The drug ordering system according to claim 2.

4. The terminal device displaying a setting history of the type of agent received by the cleaning machine; The drug ordering system according to claim 1.

5. The cleaning machine includes a plurality of the tanks, The terminal device displays the setting history for each tank. The drug ordering system according to claim 4.

6. The terminal device When the type of agent most recently received by the cleaning machine is different from the type of agent set as an order target on the setting screen, a notification is given that the type of agent most recently received by the cleaning machine is not set as an order target. The drug ordering system according to claim 1.

7. A management device for managing orders of the agent, The cleaning machine transmits, to the management device, agent-related information in which the type of the received agent and the amount of the agent automatically supplied to the cleaning tank are recorded; The management device orders the drug based on the type and amount of the drug recorded in the received drug-related information and the setting related to ordering the drug performed on the setting screen. The drug ordering system according to claim 1.

8. A method for controlling an agent ordering system that orders an agent to be automatically supplied to a cleaning tank of a cleaning machine, comprising: Accepting a setting of the type of agent to be stored in a tank of the cleaning machine; displaying a setting screen for making settings related to ordering the drug based on the received type of the drug; A method for controlling a drug ordering system.

9. A management device for managing an order for an agent to be automatically supplied to a cleaning tank of a cleaning machine having a tank for storing the agent, The cleaning device includes a communication unit that communicates with the cleaning machine that receives settings for the type of agent and a terminal device that displays a setting screen for setting the order for the agent, The communication unit is receiving, from the cleaning machine, agent type information indicating the type of agent received by the cleaning machine, and transmitting the received agent type information to the terminal device; Management device.

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