Washing system, control program, and control method

Abstract

To provide a washing system capable of improving convenience of a user of a washing machine, a control program, and a control method.SOLUTION: A terminal device or a control device built in a washing machine includes an operation course reception part, a history acquisition part, and a history presentation part. The operation course reception part receives the designation of the operation course which is executed by the washing machine from a user. The history acquisition part acquires history information including the history of the operation course executed by the washing machine. The history presentation part presents the operation course included in the history information acquired from the history acquisition part so that a user can designate.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a laundry system, a control program, and a control method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in order to automatically control the operation of a washing machine, an operation course in which the manner of operation is regulated is provided (for example, see Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine that changes the display manner according to the operation history of an operation course when a course pattern suggesting an operation course is displayed on a display device in order to receive a designation of the operation course from a user. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-150999 A Summary of the Invention

[0004] In such a washing machine, it is desirable to further improve the convenience of the user interface for receiving the operation program designation from the user.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a laundry system, a control program, and a control method that can improve the convenience of users of washing machines.

[0006] The laundry system of the present disclosure is a laundry system comprising a washing machine that controls each process according to a set operating course, and a terminal device, wherein the washing machine comprises an operating course setting unit that sets a specified operating course, a setting history storage unit that stores information regarding a history of the operating course being set and executed, and a receiving unit that receives information regarding the operating course specified by the terminal device, and the terminal comprises a history acquisition unit that acquires history information stored in the setting history storage unit of the washing machine, a history presentation unit that presents the operating course included in the history information so that the user can specify it, and an information transmission unit that transmits information regarding the operating course specified by the history presentation unit.

[0007] The control program of the present disclosure causes a computer to function as a history acquisition unit that acquires history information regarding the history of when the operating course stored in the washing machine has been set and executed, a history presentation unit that presents the operating course included in the history information so that the user can specify it, and an information transmission unit that transmits information regarding the specified operating course so that the operating course specified by the history presentation unit can be set in the washing machine.

[0008] The control method of the present disclosure has a computer execute the steps of acquiring historical information stored in the washing machine regarding the history of when the operating course was set and executed in the past, presenting the operating course included in the historical information so that the user can specify it, and transmitting information regarding the operating course whose specification has been accepted, thereby setting the specified operating course in the washing machine.

[0009] Any combination of the above components, and conversion of the present disclosure into a method, device, system, recording medium, computer program, etc. are also valid aspects of the present disclosure.

[0010] The laundry system, control program, and control method of the present disclosure can improve the convenience of users of washing machines. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a laundry system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a configuration of the washing machine in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is an external view of the automatic detergent dispenser of the washing machine according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a functional configuration diagram of the control device of the washing machine according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of the configuration of internal data of the setting history storage unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a functional configuration diagram of the terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen displayed on the display device of the terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a history screen displayed on the display device of the terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing a procedure of the control process of the laundry system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen displayed on the operation display unit of the washing machine according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a procedure of the control process of the washing machine according to the first embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, more detailed description than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed description of already well-known matters or duplicate description of substantially the same configuration may be omitted.

[0013] 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.

[0014] As an embodiment of the present disclosure, a technique for improving the convenience when a user of the washing machine 100 sets an operation course will be described. In a washing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a control device according to the embodiment acquires a history of operation courses executed in the washing machine 100, and presents an operation course included in the acquired history information so that the user can specify it. Then, the control device according to the embodiment sets the operation course specified by the user in the washing machine 100. This allows the user to easily reset an operation course previously set in the washing machine 100.

[0015] (Embodiment 1) Hereinafter, the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0016] [1-1. Configuration] [1-1-1. Washing system configuration] 1 shows a configuration of a laundry system 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The laundry system 1 includes a washing machine 100, a terminal device 200, a laundry assistance server 300, and the Internet 2 which is an example of a communication network connecting these devices. The terminal device 200 is capable of executing an application for setting an operation course of the washing machine 100, etc. The laundry assistance server 300 is a server that supports washing by the washing machine 100.

[0017] The washing machine 100 can be set to a number of operation courses for automatically controlling operations such as the washing process, rinsing process, spin-drying process, and drying process. In each operation course, the operation mode of each process is specified by parameters such as time, amount of laundry, amount of water, standard amount of detergent to be added, temperature, drum rotation speed, rotation torque, and rotation pattern. The washing machine 100 can be controlled by a touch panel, etc. The washing machine 100 receives a designation of an operation course from a user via the user interface. The washing machine 100 sets the operation course designated by the user and controls each process according to parameters defined in the set operation course. The washing machine 100 stores history information of the executed operation courses.

[0018] The terminal device 200 executes an application functioning as a user interface for specifying an operation course of the washing machine 100 instead of or in addition to the user interface of the washing machine 100. The terminal device 200 acquires history information stored in the washing machine 100 and presents the operation course included in the acquired history information so that the user can select it. The terminal device 200 notifies the washing machine 100 of the operation course specified by the user. The washing machine 100 sets the operation course notified from the terminal device 200. In this way, the operation course specified by the user is set in the washing machine 100 from the terminal device 200. In other words, it can be said that the terminal device 200 executes an application functioning as a user interface for setting an operation course of the washing machine 100. The terminal device 200 may communicate with the washing machine 100 via the laundry support server 300. In this case, the terminal device 200 requests the washing machine 100 to transmit the history information via the laundry support server 300, and the laundry support server 300 transmits the history information received from the washing machine 100 to the terminal device 200. Furthermore, the terminal device 200 notifies the laundry support server 300 of the operation course designated by the user, and the laundry support server 300 notifies the washing machine 100 of the notified operation course. The terminal device 200 may directly communicate with the washing machine 100.

[0019] The control device of the present disclosure may be built into the washing machine 100 (control device 81 described later), or may be realized by an application executed in the terminal device 200. Alternatively, the control device of the present disclosure may be realized by both the control device 81 built into the washing machine 100 and an application executed in the terminal device 200.

[0020] The laundry support server 300 provides information on operation courses to the washing machine 100 or the terminal device 200. In addition, the laundry support server 300 provides data on operation courses that can be executed in the washing machine 100 to the washing machine 100.

[0021] [1-1-2. Washing machine configuration] Fig. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a configuration of washing machine 100 in embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the vertical direction when washing machine 100 is installed as shown in Fig. 2 may be described as the up-down direction. The side on which lid body 52 of washing machine 100 exists (left side in Fig. 2) may be described as the front side of washing machine 100, and the opposite side (right side in Fig. 2) may be described as the rear side of washing machine 100.

[0022] 2, washing machine 100 is provided with operation display unit 79 on the upper front portion, and washing machine communication unit 230 is provided near operation display unit 79. Operation display unit 79 is configured as a touch panel equipped with an input device capable of specifying (selecting) modes such as operation courses and various functions, and a display device that displays information input to the input device. An input unit 104 such as a power button is also provided on the upper front portion of washing machine housing 41. A user can specify modes such as operation courses and various functions via operation display unit 79 and input unit 104.

[0023] A control device 81 is provided at the upper part inside washing machine housing 41.

[0024] A water tub unit 49 is provided inside washing machine housing 41 of washing machine 100. Water tub unit 49 includes a water tub 42, a rotating drum 43, and a first motor 101.

[0025] Water tub 42 is arranged inside washing machine housing 41 by a suspension structure so as to be able to swing freely. The suspension structure is composed of a plurality of vibration-proof dampers 51 attached to the lower part of washing machine housing 41 and a plurality of spring bodies 50 provided between the upper part of washing machine housing 41 and water tub 42, and supports water tub 42 in a vibration-proof manner so as to be able to swing freely.

[0026] A rotating drum 43 formed in a cylindrical shape with a bottom is rotatably disposed inside water tub 42. A horizontally extending rotation shaft (rotation center shaft) 44 is provided at the rotation center of rotating drum 43. A first motor 101 disposed near the rear side of water tub 42 is connected to rotation shaft 44 via belt 46. Rotating drum 43 is driven to rotate in the forward or reverse direction by first motor 101.

[0027] The inner wall surface of the rotating drum 43 is provided with several protruding plates 47 for agitating the laundry, and the outer circumferential wall of the rotating drum 43 is provided with a large number of water passage holes 48.

[0028] Further, washing machine housing 41 is provided with housing opening 45 at a position facing clothing entrance 53 of rotating drum 43. Lid 52 is provided to openably and closably cover housing opening 45. By opening lid 52, laundry can be put in and taken out of rotating drum 43 through clothing entrance 53.

[0029] In addition, inside washing machine housing 41, there are provided a water supply path 54 that supplies washing water (e.g., tap water) into water tub 42, and a drainage path 55 that discharges the washing water in water tub 42 to the outside of washing machine housing 41.

[0030] The water supply path 54 is made up of a first water supply hose 59, a second water supply hose 60, an automatic detergent dispenser 61, a water injection hose 62, and the like.

[0031] The first water supply hose 59 is provided with a first water supply valve 57. The second water supply hose 60 is provided with a second water supply valve 58. The automatic detergent dispenser 61 can store a predetermined amount of detergent.

[0032] By opening the first water supply valve 57, water is supplied from a first water supply hose 59 through a water inlet (not shown) to the water tank 42.

[0033] In addition, by opening the second water supply valve 58, water flows from the second water supply hose 60 into the automatic detergent dispensing device 61, and is supplied into the water tub 42 from the water injection hose 62 together with a predetermined amount of detergent ejected from the detergent valve (not shown) of the automatic detergent dispensing device 61.

[0034] The drainage path 55 is composed of a drainage pipe 64, a filter 65, a drainage pump 63, and a drainage hose 66.

[0035] Drain pipe 64 is connected to drain outlet 95 provided in recess 71 at the bottom of water tub 42, and to filter 65. Filter 65 collects lint in the wash water, and is configured to be removable from the outside.

[0036] A heater 72 for heating the wash water is provided in the recess 71, and a temperature detector 73 for detecting the temperature of the wash water is provided near the heater 72.

[0037] Drain pump 63 is connected to filter 65 and drain hose 66. Drain hose 66 is provided so as to extend from inside washing machine housing 41 to above the outside of washing machine housing 41. Drain pump 63 is operated at a predetermined timing such as at the end of a washing process or a rinsing process. When the washing machine 3 is driven, the wash water in the water tub 42 passes through the drain pipe 64, the filter 65, the drain pump 63, and the drain hose 66 in this order, and is drained to the outside.

[0038] In addition, an air trap 74 is formed on the side wall at the rear of the bottom of water tub 42 so as to communicate with drain pipe 64. Air trap 74 is connected to air pipe 75, which is connected to water level detection unit 85 provided at the upper part inside washing machine housing 41. Water level detection unit 85 is composed of, for example, a pressure sensor, and detects the water level of the wash water in water tub 42 based on the water pressure of the wash water inside water tub 42, i.e., the pressure inside the corresponding air trap 74.

[0039] Furthermore, a vibration detection unit 78 that detects vibrations of aquarium unit 49 is disposed on the rear part of the upper surface of aquarium 42. In this embodiment, an acceleration sensor is used as vibration detection unit 78, which detects not only vibrations in one direction but also vibration components in three dimensional directions, namely, the front-back direction (X-axis direction), the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), and the up-down direction (Z-axis direction).

[0040] Here, each axis in the three-dimensional directions detected by vibration detection unit 78 is referred to as a "detection axis." Since actual vibration of aquarium unit 49 does not necessarily occur only in one direction, an acceleration sensor that detects vibration in multiple directions is used as vibration detection unit 78, so that the vibration of aquarium unit 49 can be detected with high accuracy. Control device 81 controls operation based on the detection result of vibration detection unit 78.

[0041] FIG. 3 shows the appearance of the automatic detergent dispenser 61 of the washing machine 100 according to the first embodiment. The automatic detergent dispenser 61 includes three tanks (first tank 86a, second tank 86b, and third tank 86c) capable of storing a treating agent therein, and an automatic dispenser unit 87 that automatically dispenses the treating agent stored in each tank into the water tub 42. The automatic dispenser unit 87 is configured with a piston, a cylinder, a pump, a motor, a valve, and the like. At least one of the three tanks 86 is capable of changing the type of treating agent stored therein. For example, a treating agent such as a detergent, a neutral detergent, a fabric softener, or a bleaching agent may be changeably stored in one of the three tanks 86. The remaining two of the three tanks 86 may be configured to store a predetermined type of treating agent, or may be capable of storing any type of treating agent. In the former case, for example, a tank dedicated to the detergent and a tank dedicated to the fabric softener may be provided.

[0042] Fig. 4 shows a functional configuration of the control device 81 of the washing machine 100 according to the first embodiment. This diagram mainly shows a functional configuration for setting an operation course of the washing machine 100. The control device 81 includes a processing device 120 and a storage device 160. Note that the storage device 160 may be a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a cloud storage, or the like.

[0043] The storage device 160 stores data, programs, parameters, etc. used by the processing device 120. The storage device 160 includes an operating course information storage unit 161, an operating course data storage unit 162, and a setting history storage unit 163.

[0044] The operation course information storage unit 161 stores information about operation courses that can be set by the washing machine 100. The operation course information storage unit 161 stores, for each operation course, information such as identification information for uniquely identifying the operation course, the name of the operation course, an overview, a required time, a capacity of a washable laundry object, a type of a washable laundry object, a type or degree of dirt that can be washed, a display priority, and a set number of times.

[0045] The operating course data storage unit 162 stores parameter values ​​and the like defined in the operating courses.

[0046] The setting history storage unit 163 stores information related to the history of operation courses set in the washing machine 100. The setting history storage unit 163 stores information such as the name of the set operation course, whether or not the treatment agents stored in the three tanks 86 are automatically dispensed and the amounts of the agents dispensed, the setting date and time, the contents of the changed settings, and the contents of the option settings.

[0047] FIG. 5 shows the configuration and an example of the internal data of the setting history storage unit 163. As shown in FIG. 5, the setting history storage unit 163 stores a number, an operation course name, and an automatic supply mode, which is a setting content of the automatic supply mode, in association with each other for each setting history. The number is a history number for identifying each setting history, and in the present embodiment, as an example, consecutive natural numbers starting from 1 are assigned in the order of registration of the setting history (the order of execution of the operation course). That is, it can be said that the number indicates the order of execution of the operation course related to each setting history. The operation course name is the name of the set operation course. Identification information of the operation course may be stored instead of or in addition to the name of the operation course. The setting content of the automatic supply mode includes the presence or absence of automatic supply to each of the first tank 86a in which a detergent is stored, the second tank 86b in which a fabric softener is stored, and the third tank 86c in which a neutral detergent is stored. If the type of treatment agent stored in at least one of the three tanks 86 is changeable, the type of treatment agent automatically added may be stored as the setting history. The setting history stored in the setting history storage unit 163 does not have to include the setting contents of the automatic charging mode. In Fig. 5, for example, the operating course name of the setting history numbered "1" is "Course A", the automatic charging mode is "Yes" for the first tank and the second tank, and "No" for the third tank, which indicates that automatic charging was performed from the first tank 86a and the second tank 86b.

[0048] The processing device 120 includes a display control unit 121, an operating course setting unit 122, an option setting unit 123, a history presentation unit 124, a setting history recording unit 125, a history information transmission unit 126, and a setting information reception unit 127. These configurations can be realized in terms of hardware by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, and other LSIs (Large Scale Integration) of any computer. In terms of software, these configurations are realized by programs loaded into memory, etc. FIG. 4 shows, as an example, the configuration of the processing device 120 realized by cooperation between hardware and software, using functional blocks. Therefore, it is understood by those skilled in the art that these functional blocks can be realized in various forms by hardware alone or a combination of hardware and software. Note that the programs executed by the CPU are not limited to those recorded in advance in memory, but may be recorded in a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card and provided, or may be provided through an electric communication line such as the Internet 2.

[0049] The display control unit 121 generates a display screen to be displayed on the operation display unit 79 , and displays it on the operation display unit 79 .

[0050] The operating course setting unit 122 receives an operating course specification from the user via the operation display unit 79, and reads out data of the specified operating course from the operating course data storage unit 162 and sets it.

[0051] The option setting unit 123 receives from the user the designation of options that can be set in the operation course. The option setting unit 123 receives from the user the setting of whether or not to automatically dispense the treatment agent stored in the three tanks 86 and the amount to be dispensed. The option setting unit 123 further receives from the user the setting of the time, number of times, water level, water temperature, etc. of the washing process, rinsing process, spin-drying process, and drying process.

[0052] The history presentation unit 124 displays the operation code included in the history information stored in the setting history storage unit 163. The operation display unit 79 displays the operation courses so that the user can specify them. Note that, although the history presentation unit 124 displays them on the operation display unit 79 here, they may also be displayed on the operation display unit 79 via the display control unit 121. When the user specifies one of the operating courses displayed on the operation display unit 79, the operating course setting unit 122 reads out data of the specified operating course from the operating course data storage unit 162 and sets it.

[0053] The setting history recording unit 125 records the set operation course and information on automatic feeding of the treatment agent in the setting history holding unit 163. The setting history holding unit 163 may hold the setting history of the operation course for a predetermined number of times. In this case, when the number of times the operation course is set exceeds the predetermined number of times, the setting history recording unit 125 may overwrite the oldest setting history stored in the setting history holding unit 163 with the latest setting history. When the same operation course as an operation course already stored in the setting history holding unit 163 is set, the setting history recording unit 125 may record the overlapping operation course as a separate setting history in the setting history holding unit 163, or may omit recording of the overlapping operation course. The setting history recording unit 125 may further record related information such as the day of the week, weather conditions, and the user's schedule when the operation course was set in the setting history holding unit 163. The setting history recording unit 125 may further record information indicating whether the operation course was set by the operation display unit 79 of the washing machine 100 or by the terminal device 200 in the setting history holding unit 163.

[0054] The history information transmission unit 126 transmits history information including the setting history of the operation course stored in the setting history storage unit 163 to the terminal device 200 via the laundry assistance server 300. The history information transmission unit 126 may transmit the history information when requested to transmit the history information by the terminal device 200 or the laundry assistance server 300, or may transmit the history information at a predetermined timing, for example, periodically at a predetermined time interval. As described above, the history information includes the setting history (see FIG. 5), but may also include other information, such as information related to time (for example, date, etc.).

[0055] The setting information receiving unit 127 receives setting information including information on an operating course and options specified by a user, transmitted from the terminal device 200, and sets the operating course and options included in the setting information. The setting information receiving unit 127 may receive identification information of the operating course as information indicating the specified operating course. In this case, the setting information receiving unit 127 refers to the operating course information storage unit 161, identifies the operating course from the received identification information, and sets it.

[0056] [1-1-3. Terminal device configuration] 6 shows a functional configuration of terminal device 200 according to the first embodiment. This diagram mainly shows a functional configuration for setting an operation course of washing machine 100 among applications executed in terminal device 200. Terminal device 200 includes communication device 201, input device 202, display device 203, processing device 220, and storage device 260. Terminal device 200 may be a terminal device such as a personal computer, a mobile terminal device such as a mobile phone terminal, a smartphone, or a tablet terminal, a home terminal, a television receiver, an in-vehicle device, or the like.

[0057] The communication device 201 controls communication with other devices. The communication device 201 may perform communication by any wired or wireless communication method. The input device 202 transmits an instruction input by a user of the terminal device 200 to the processing device 220. The input device 202 may be a mouse, a keyboard, a touch pad, or the like. The display device 203 displays a screen generated by the processing device 220. The display device 203 may be a liquid crystal display device, an organic EL display device, or the like. The input device 202 and the display device 203 may be implemented as a touch panel.

[0058] The storage device 260 stores programs, data, etc. used by the processing device 220. The storage device 260 may be a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a cloud storage, or the like.

[0059] The processing device 220 includes a display control unit 221, an operating course reception unit 222, a history acquisition unit 223, a history presentation unit 224, a setting information transmission unit 225, and an operating course registration unit 226. These configurations can be realized in terms of hardware by the CPU, memory, and other LSIs of any computer, and in terms of software by programs loaded into the memory. FIG. 6 shows, as an example, the configuration of the processing device 220 realized by cooperation between hardware and software, using functional blocks. Therefore, it is understood by those skilled in the art that these functional blocks can be realized in various forms by hardware alone or a combination of hardware and software. Note that the program executed by the CPU is not limited to one that is previously recorded in the memory, but may be provided by being recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card, or may be provided through an electric communication line such as the Internet 2.

[0060] The display control unit 221 generates a display screen to be displayed on the display device 203 , and displays it on the display device 203 .

[0061] The operation course reception unit 222 receives, from the user, a designation of an operation course to be executed by the washing machine 100. The operation course reception unit 222 displays information on settable operation courses on the display device 203, and receives a designation from the user via the input device 202. Note that, although the operation course reception unit 222 displays on the display device 203 here, it may also display on the display device 203 via the display control unit 221.

[0062] The history acquisition unit 223 acquires history information including a history of an operation course executed in the washing machine 100. The history acquisition unit 223 requests the laundry assistance server 300 to acquire the history information, and acquires the history information from the laundry assistance server 300 which has acquired the history information from the washing machine 100. The history acquisition unit 223 may acquire the history information directly from the washing machine 100. The history acquisition unit 223 may acquire the history information when displaying the history information, or may acquire the history information at a predetermined timing. In the former case, the latest history information can be acquired and the communication load can be reduced. In the latter case, the display speed can be improved.

[0063] The history presentation unit 224 displays on the display device 203 the driving courses included in the history information acquired by the history acquisition unit 223 so that the user can specify them. Note that, although the history presentation unit 224 displays on the display device 203 here, the driving courses may be displayed on the display device 203 via the display control unit 221. When the user specifies one of the driving courses displayed on the display device 203, the driving course acceptance unit 222 accepts the specification of the driving course by the user.

[0064] The operation course may include a terminal operation-permitted course that can be set to the washing machine 100 from the terminal device 200, and a terminal operation-prohibited course that cannot be set to the washing machine 100 from the terminal device 200. The terminal operation-prohibited course may include, for example, an operation course in which a treatment agent that is not currently stored in the three tanks 86 is used, an operation course that requires a specific treatment agent that needs to be manually added, an operation course that ends within a predetermined time, an operation course that requires a prior setting for the washing machine 100, a course in which a setting from the terminal device 200 should not be accepted due to functional or manufacturing reasons of the washing machine 100, and a course in which data of the operation course must be downloaded to the washing machine 100. The history presentation unit 224 may display all operation courses included in the history information regardless of whether the terminal can be operated. The history presentation unit 224 may present the terminal operation-prohibited course in a manner different from the terminal operation-permitted course. Specifically, the terminal operation-prohibited course and the terminal operation-permitted course may be displayed by changing at least one of, for example, the color, font, size, and background color of the characters.

[0065] The setting information transmitting unit 225 transmits setting information including information on the specified operating course to the washing machine 100 via the laundry assistance server 300 so that the operating course designated by the operating course receiving unit 222 from the user is set in the washing machine 100.

[0066] Specifically, when the operation course designated by the user is a terminal-operable course, the setting information transmission unit 225 transmits the setting information to the washing machine 100 via the laundry support server 300 and instructs the washing machine 100 to execute the operation course designated by the user. When the operation course designated by the user is a terminal-operation-prohibited course, the setting information transmission unit 225 does not instruct the washing machine 100 to execute the operation course designated by the user. In other words, when the operation course is a terminal-operation-prohibited course, the setting information transmission unit 225 does not transmit the setting information.

[0067] The setting information transmission unit 225 may transmit the identification information of the specified driving course as information indicating the specified driving course. In this case, the terminal device 200 holds a correspondence relationship between a plurality of driving courses and identification information for uniquely identifying each driving course. The setting information transmission unit 225 transmits the identification information of the specified driving course by referring to the correspondence relationship between the driving courses and the identification information.

[0068] The operation course registration unit 226 registers an operation course customized by the user. The operation course registration unit 226 accepts the contents and name of a new operation course from the user and transmits it to the washing machine 100 via the laundry support server 300. The washing machine 100 registers the received information of the operation course in the operation course information storage unit 161 and the operation course data storage unit 162. The operation course registered by the user can be set by the operation course setting unit 122 of the washing machine 100 as well as the existing operation courses, and can also be set by the operation course reception unit 222 of the terminal device 200. Also, when the operation course registered by the user is executed, the setting history is recorded in the setting history storage unit 163, and the history presentation unit 224 displays the setting history on the display device 203 so that the user can specify it. The washing machine 100 may have a function of registering an operation course. In this case, the control device 81 of the washing machine 100 further includes an operation course registration unit that registers an operation course customized by the user.

[0069] FIG. 7 shows an example of a display screen displayed on display device 203 of terminal device 200 according to the first embodiment. The display screen shown in FIG. 7 is top screen 400 displayed after an application for setting an operation course of washing machine 100 is started on terminal device 200. Top screen 400 displays areas 401 to 403 and buttons 404 and 405. Area 401 is an area for receiving a designation of the type of operation course. Area 402 is an area for receiving a setting related to automatic feeding of a treatment agent. Area 403 is an area for setting an execution time of the operation course. Button 404 is a button for displaying the execution history of the operation course. Button 405 is a button for starting the execution of the designated operation course.

[0070] Area 401 scrolls through the types of operation programs for washing, washing and drying, and drying only. Area 402 displays the types of treatment agents stored in each of the three tanks 86, and allows the user to set whether or not to automatically dispense each treatment agent. When button 405 is pressed, operation program reception unit 222 receives the specified type of operation program and settings related to the automatic dispensing of treatment agents. Setting information transmission unit 225 transmits setting information to washing machine 100 via laundry assistance server 300.

[0071] When the button 404 is pressed, the history acquisition unit 223 acquires history information. A screen 224 transitions to a history screen that displays history information.

[0072] FIG. 8 shows an example of a history screen 410 displayed on the display device 203 of the terminal device 200 according to the first embodiment. The history screen 410 displays a history 411 of operation courses executed in the washing machine 100. Each of the histories 411a, 411b, 411c, and 411d displays the name of the operation course, the type of the operation course (wash only, wash and dry, dry only), and the setting content of the automatic loading mode. As the setting content of the automatic loading mode, the presence or absence of automatic loading of the first tank 86a in which detergent is stored, the second tank 86b in which fabric softener is stored, and the third tank 86c in which neutral detergent is stored is displayed. Note that the setting content of the automatic loading mode may not be included in the history of the operation courses 411. When the button 405 is input with one of the multiple operation courses displayed on the history screen 410 specified, the operation course receiving unit 222 receives the type of the specified operation course. The setting information transmitting unit 225 transmits the setting information to the washing machine 100 via the laundry assistance server 300. 7 may be displayed with the settings of the selected operating course reflected, when any one of the multiple operating courses displayed on the history screen 410 is selected. In this case, after the automatic supply of the treatment agent, the execution time of the operating course, and the like are set or changed as necessary, the setting information may be transmitted by pressing the button 405.

[0073] When the history information includes information on option settings in addition to the type of operation course executed in the washing machine 100, the information may be displayed on the history screen 410. The information on option settings includes the amount of treatment agent automatically dispensed, the time, number of times, water level, water temperature, etc., of the washing process, rinsing process, spin-drying process, and drying process, which were set when the operation course was executed. In this case, the setting information transmitting unit 225 may transmit setting information including these option settings when transmitting the setting information. Alternatively, the setting information transmitting unit 225 may transmit setting information in which the option settings are reset to default settings, or may transmit setting information including the option settings newly received from the user.

[0074] When the same operating course is included multiple times in the history information, the history presentation unit 224 may display the same operating course multiple times, or may display it only once. In the former case, it is possible to easily find an operating course that has been performed multiple times. In the latter case, it is possible to increase the number of types of operating courses that are displayed at the same time.

[0075] The history presentation unit 224 may display the driving courses in a display order according to the frequency of the driving courses included in the history information. For example, the history presentation unit 224 may display the driving courses in descending order of frequency of the driving courses included in the history information. This makes it easier to set a driving course that is executed frequently.

[0076] The history presentation unit 224 may determine the display order of the driving courses included in the history information based on related information such as the date and time, day of the week, weather conditions, and the user's schedule when the driving courses were executed. The history presentation unit 224 may preferentially display driving courses executed in a situation similar to the current situation. For example, if the current weather is rainy, driving courses executed on a rainy day may be preferentially displayed among the driving courses included in the history information. Also, if the user went out the previous day, driving courses executed after the user went out may be preferentially displayed among the driving courses included in the history information. This makes it possible to preferentially display driving courses that are likely to be set by the user.

[0077] The history presentation unit 224 may classify driving courses by machine learning based on related information when the driving courses included in the history information were executed, and may preferentially display driving courses that suit the situation. For example, if the tendency to set driving courses differs depending on the day of the week, Of the driving programs, a driving program suited to the day of the week may be preferentially displayed, thereby enabling a driving program that is likely to be set by the user to be preferentially displayed.

[0078] The history presentation unit 224 may display information indicating whether the operation course included in the history information is set by the operation display unit 79 of the washing machine 100 or the terminal device 200. The history presentation unit 224 may display the operation course set by the operation display unit 79 of the washing machine 100 and the operation course set by the terminal device 200 separately. For example, a button for displaying the operation course set by the operation display unit 79 of the washing machine 100 and a button for displaying the operation course set by the terminal device 200 may be provided. Furthermore, the history presentation unit 224 may display the operation course set by the operation display unit 79 of the washing machine 100 and the operation course set by the terminal device 200 in separate tabs. The history information may include information indicating whether the operation course is set by the operation display unit 79 of the washing machine 100 or the terminal device 200, or the washing machine 100 and the terminal device 200 may each hold the history information separately. In the latter case, the terminal device 200 may further include a setting history recording unit and a setting history holding unit.

[0079] [1-2. Operation] The operation and function of the laundry system 1 configured as above will be described below.

[0080] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing the procedure of the control process of the laundry system 1 according to the first embodiment. When an application is started in the terminal device 200 (step S10), the display control unit 221 displays the top screen 400 on the display device 203 (step S12). When the button 404 for displaying the execution history of the operation course is input (step S14), the history acquisition unit 223 requests the laundry support server 300 to acquire the history information (step S16). The laundry support server 300 requests the washing machine 100 to acquire the history information (step S18). The history information transmission unit 126 of the washing machine 100 transmits the history information including the setting history stored in the setting history storage unit 163 to the laundry support server 300 (step S20). The laundry support server 300 transmits the history information received from the washing machine 100 to the terminal device 200 (step S22). The history presentation unit 224 of the terminal device 200 displays, on the display device 203, the operation course included in the history information received from the laundry assistance server 300 so that the user can specify the operation course (step S24).

[0081] When the user designates one of the operation courses displayed on the display device 203, the operation course reception unit 222 accepts the designation of the operation course by the user (step S30). The setting information transmission unit 225 transmits setting information including information of the operation course designated by the operation course reception unit 222 to the laundry assistance server 300 (step S32). When the operation course is designated from the history information, the setting information transmission unit 225 may transmit the history number or the identification information of the operation course to the laundry assistance server 300. The laundry assistance server 300 transmits the setting information received from the terminal device 200 to the washing machine 100 (step S34). When the laundry assistance server 300 receives the history number or the identification information of the operation course from the terminal device 200, it may transmit the history number or the identification information of the operation course to the washing machine 100. Alternatively, the laundry assistance server 300 may transmit to the washing machine 100 the name of the operation course corresponding to the history number or the identification information of the operation course and the setting contents of the automatic loading mode of each of the three tanks 86.

[0082] Although the above describes a case where the terminal device 200 accepts a designation of an operating course from the history information, the same applies to a case where the washing machine 100 accepts a designation of an operating course from the history information.

[0083] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display screen displayed on the operation display unit 79 of the washing machine 100 according to the first embodiment. An example is shown. The display screen shown in FIG. 10 is a top screen 500 that is displayed after the power button of the washing machine 100 is turned on. A header area 505 is always displayed on the top screen 500. The header area 505 includes a menu button 501, a top screen button 502, a search button 503, and a notification button 504. The menu button 501 is a button for transitioning to a menu screen. The top screen button 502 is a button for transitioning to the top screen 500 when a screen other than the top screen 500 is displayed. The search button 503 is a button for transitioning to a search screen for an operation course. The notification button 504 is a button for displaying a notification to the user. When each button of the header area 505 is input, the content corresponding to the input button is displayed. The header area 505 may be displayed not only on the top screen 500 but also on a screen other than the top screen 500.

[0084] The history presentation unit 124 displays a history 506 of the operation courses executed in the washing machine 100 on the top screen 500. In each of the histories 506a, 506b, and 506c, the name of the operation course, the type of the operation course (wash only, wash and dry, dry only), and the setting of the automatic loading mode are displayed. As the setting of the automatic loading mode, the presence or absence of automatic loading of the first tank 86a in which detergent is stored, the second tank 86b in which fabric softener is stored, and the third tank 86c in which neutral detergent is stored are displayed. When any one of the multiple operation courses displayed in the history 506 is specified, the operation course setting unit 122 sets the specified operation course.

[0085] 11 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the control process of the washing machine 100 according to the first embodiment. When the washing machine 100 is powered on (step S50), the display control unit 121 displays the top screen 500 on the operation display unit 79 (step S52). The history presentation unit 124 displays the operation course history 506 on the top screen 500 (step S54). When one of the operation courses displayed in the history 506 is specified, the operation course setting unit 122 accepts and sets the specified operation course (step S56). The setting history recording unit 125 records the set operation course and information related to the automatic supply of the treatment agent in the setting history holding unit 163 (step S58).

[0086] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in the present embodiment, the terminal device 200 is an example of a control device in the present disclosure, and includes an operation course reception unit 222, a history acquisition unit 223, and a history presentation unit 224. The operation course reception unit 222 receives, from a user, a designation of an operation course to be executed by the washing machine 100. The history acquisition unit 223 acquires history information including a history of an operation course executed by the washing machine 100. The history presentation unit 224 presents an operation course included in the history information acquired by the history acquisition unit 223 so that the user can specify the operation course. In addition, in the present embodiment, the control device 81 includes an operation course setting unit 122 and a history presentation unit 124. The operation course setting unit 122 receives, from a user, a designation of an operation course to be executed by the washing machine 100. The history presentation unit 124 acquires history information including a history of an operation course executed by the washing machine 100, and presents an operation course included in the acquired history information so that the user can specify the operation course. Here, the operation course setting unit 122 corresponds to an example of an operation course reception unit in the present disclosure. Moreover, the history presentation unit 124 corresponds to the history acquisition unit and the history presentation unit in the present disclosure. This allows the user to easily reset the operation course previously set in the washing machine 100, so that the terminal device 200 and the control device 81 can improve the convenience of the user of the washing machine 100.

[0087] In the present embodiment, the terminal device 200 sets the operation course designated by the operation course reception unit 222 from the user to the washing machine 100. In the present embodiment, the operation course setting unit 122 sets the operation course designated by the user to the washing machine 100. This allows the user to easily set the operation course previously set to the washing machine 100. Since the settings can be reset, the terminal device 200 and the control device 81 can improve the convenience for the user of the washing machine 100.

[0088] In the present embodiment, the terminal device 200 and the washing machine 100 hold a correspondence relationship between a plurality of operation courses and identification information for uniquely identifying each operation course. The terminal device 200 notifies the washing machine 100 of the identification information of the operation course designated by the operation course reception unit 222 received from the user. This allows the terminal device 200 to reduce the amount of communication between the terminal device 200 and the washing machine 100.

[0089] In the present embodiment, the washing machine 100 has a function of automatically dispensing one or more treating agents into the water tub 42 while an operating course is being executed, and the history information includes information related to the automatic dispensing of the treating agent. This allows the automatic dispensing of the treating agent to be easily reconfigured in association with an operating course, so that the terminal device 200 and the control device 81 can improve the convenience of the user of the washing machine 100.

[0090] In the present embodiment, the information on automatic feeding of the treatment agent is setting information on whether or not to automatically feed the treatment agent. This allows the user of the terminal device 200 and the control device 81 to easily reset whether or not to automatically feed the treatment agent in association with the operation course, thereby improving the convenience of the user of the washing machine 100.

[0091] In the present embodiment, the washing machine 100 includes three tanks 86 for storing three treating agents, and the history information includes information regarding the automatic dispensing of each of the treating agents stored in the three tanks 86. This allows the automatic dispensing of the treating agents stored in the three tanks 86 to be easily reconfigured in association with the operating course, so that the terminal device 200 and the control device 81 can improve the convenience of the user of the washing machine 100.

[0092] In the present embodiment, the history information includes the execution history of the operation course registered by the user. This allows the operation course registered by the user to be easily reset, so that the terminal device 200 and the control device 81 can improve the convenience of the user of the washing machine 100.

[0093] In the present embodiment, the control program causes the terminal device 200 to function as an operating course reception unit 222, a history acquisition unit 223, and a history presentation unit 224. The operating course reception unit 222 receives, from the user, a designation of an operating course to be executed by the washing machine 100. The history acquisition unit 223 acquires history information including a history of the operating courses executed by the washing machine 100. The history presentation unit 224 presents the operating course included in the history information acquired by the history acquisition unit 223 so that the user can designate it. In the present embodiment, the control program causes the control device 81 to function as an operating course setting unit 122 and a history presentation unit 124. The operating course setting unit 122 receives, from the user, a designation of an operating course to be executed by the washing machine 100. The history presentation unit 124 acquires history information including a history of the operating courses executed by the washing machine 100, and presents the operating course included in the acquired history information so that the user can designate it. This allows the user to easily reconfigure the operating course previously set in the washing machine 100, and therefore these control programs enable the terminal device 200 and the control device 81 to improve the convenience for the user of the washing machine 100.

[0094] In the present embodiment, the control method causes the terminal device 200 or the control device 81 to execute a step of acquiring history information including a history of operation courses executed by the washing machine 100. The control method also causes the terminal device 200 or the control device 81 to execute a step of presenting operation courses included in the acquired history information so that the user can specify the operation courses. The control method also includes: The terminal device 200 or the control device 81 is caused to execute a step of receiving, from the user, a designation of an operation course to be executed by the washing machine 100. This allows the user to easily reset an operation course previously set in the washing machine 100, so that the terminal device 200 or the control device 81 can improve the convenience of the user of the washing machine 100 by these control methods.

[0095] In the present embodiment, washing machine 100 includes rotating drum 43, which is an example of a storage section in the present disclosure, history information transmission unit 126, and setting information receiving unit 127. Rotating drum 43 stores an object to be washed. History information transmission unit 126 transmits history information including a history of operation courses to terminal device 200, which receives from a user a designation of an operation course for washing the object to be washed stored in rotating drum 43. Setting information receiving unit 127 receives and sets setting information including the operation course designated by the user from terminal device 200. This allows the user to easily reset an operation course previously set in washing machine 100, so that washing machine 100 can improve the user's convenience.

[0096] As described above, the embodiments have been described as examples of the technology in the present disclosure. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to these, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, replacements, additions, omissions, etc. are made. In addition, it is also possible to combine the components described in the above embodiments to create new embodiments.

[0097] As the presentation of the operation course by the control device in the present disclosure, in the embodiment, an example of displaying information on the operation course has been described. This is one example, and the presentation of the operation course in the present disclosure is not limited to a screen display, and may be, for example, a voice output from a speaker or the like. In this case, the operation course that cannot be set in the washing machine in the present disclosure from the control device in the present disclosure may be output as a voice in a manner different from the operation course that can be set in the washing machine in the present disclosure from the control device in the present disclosure. Specifically, the operation course that cannot be set in the washing machine in the present disclosure from the control device in the present disclosure and the operation course that can be set in the washing machine in the present disclosure from the control device in the present disclosure may be output as a voice by changing at least one of, for example, the volume, frequency, etc. It is also possible to allow the user to select whether the method of presenting the operation course is to be a screen display or a voice output.

[0098] In addition, in the embodiment, an example of the user designating an operating program in the present disclosure is described in which the user selects the operating program from the operation display unit 79 or the input unit 104. This is just one example, and the user may designate an operating program in the present disclosure by voice input via a microphone or the like.

[0099] In addition, although the embodiment has been described taking three tanks 86 as an example of the multiple tanks provided in the control device in the present disclosure, the number of multiple tanks in the present disclosure does not have to be three, and may be two, four or more. Note that it is not an essential requirement that the control device in the present disclosure be provided with multiple tanks, and the control device in the present disclosure may not be provided with a tank, or may be provided with one tank instead of multiple tanks. [Industrial Applicability]

[0100] The present disclosure can be used to control various types of washing machines (for example, top-loading washing machines, drum-type washing machines, twin-tub washing machines, etc.). [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 1. Washing System 2. Internet 41 Washing machine housing 42 Aquarium 43 Rotating Drum 44 Rotational Axis 45 Housing opening 46 Belt 47 Projection plate 48 Water Vent 49 Aquarium Unit 50 Spring body 51 Vibration damper 52 Lid 53 Clothing Entrance 54 Water Supply Route 55 Drainage route 57 First water supply valve 58 Second water supply valve 59 First Water Supply Hose 60 Second water supply hose 61 Automatic detergent dispenser 62 Water injection hose 63 Drainage Pump 64 Drain pipe 65 Filters 66 Drain hose 71 Recess 72 Heater 73 Temperature detection unit 74 Air Trap 75 Air Pipe 78 Vibration detection unit 79 Operation display section 81 Control device 85 Water level detector 86 3 Tanks 86a First Tank 86b Second Tank 86c Third Tank 87 Automatic insertion unit 95 Drain port 100 Washing Machine 101 First Motor 104 Input section 120 Processing equipment 121 Display control unit 122 Operation course setting section 123 Option Settings 124 History Presentation Section 125 Setting history record section 126 History information transmission unit 127 Setting information receiver 160 Storage device 161 Driving course information storage unit 162 Driving course data storage unit 163 Setting history storage unit 200 Terminal Equipment 201 Communication equipment 202 Input Device 203 Display device 220 Processing equipment 221 Display control unit 222 Driving Course Reception 223 History Acquisition Department 224 History Presentation Section 225 Setting information transmission unit 226 Driving Course Registration Department 230 Washing Machine Communication Unit 260 Storage device 300 Laundry support server 400 Top screen 401 area 402 area 403 area 404 button 405 Button 410 History Screen 411 History 411a History 411b History 411c History 411d History 500 Top screen 501 Menu button 502 Top screen button 503 Search button 504 Notification button 505 Header Area 506 History 506a History 506b History 506c History

Claims

1. A laundry system including a washing machine that controls each process according to a set operation course and a terminal device, The washing machine comprises: an operation course setting unit for setting a specified operation course; a setting history storage unit that stores information regarding a history of setting and execution of the operating program; a receiving unit that receives information regarding the operation course designated by the terminal device; Equipped with The terminal device a history acquisition unit that acquires history information stored in the setting history storage unit of the washing machine; a history presentation unit that presents the operating course included in the history information in a manner that allows a user to specify the operating course; an information transmission unit that transmits information about the driving course designated by the history presentation unit; Equipped with Laundry system.

2. The history presentation unit of the terminal device presents the operation course included in the history information of the washing machine acquired by the history acquisition unit, an operation course setting unit of the washing machine sets the operation course designated by the history presentation unit, The washing machine controls the operation of each process according to a set operation course. The laundry system of claim 1 .

3. The terminal device further includes a history display request unit that receives an input for displaying an execution history of an operating course, When the history acquisition unit receives an input for displaying an execution history of the operation course, the history acquisition unit acquires the history information directly from the washing machine or from a server that acquires the history information from the washing machine. The laundry system of claim 1 .

4. When the terminal device receives an input for displaying the execution history of the driving course, the terminal device requests transmission of the history information; When the washing machine is requested to transmit the history information, the washing machine transmits the history information. The laundry system of claim 3.

5. The laundry system includes the server, The washing machine includes a history information transmission unit that transmits the history information, The history information transmission unit transmits the history information to the server at a predetermined timing. The laundry system of claim 3.

6. a history acquisition unit that acquires history information regarding a history of setting and execution of the operation program stored in the washing machine; a history presentation unit that presents the operating course included in the history information in a manner that allows a user to specify the operating course; an information transmitting unit that transmits information regarding the operation course designated in order to set the operation course designated by the history presenting unit in the washing machine; A control program that makes a computer function as a

7. acquiring history information, which is stored in the washing machine, regarding a history of the operation program being set and executed in the past; presenting the driving course included in the history information in a manner that allows a user to specify it; transmitting information about the operation course that has been designated and causing the designated operation course to be set in the washing machine; A control method for causing a computer to execute the above.

Images