Home electronic appliance management system and program

Abstract

To provide an appropriate method for responding to a concerned state of a home electronic appliance to a user.SOLUTION: When a state subjected to diagnosis is designated from among a plurality of concerned states of a home electronic appliance, methods for responding to the designated state are narrowed down using operation data of the home electronic appliance, and the plurality of narrowed-down responding methods is displayed on a screen. More specifically, a hole electronic appliance management system including a user terminal connected with the home electronic appliance and a diagnosis support device comprises: an input section for receiving an instruction of the state subjected to diagnosis in the plurality of concerned states of the home electronic appliance; a candidate narrow-down section for narrowing down candidates of the methods for responding to the state using the operation data of the home electronic appliance based on the instruction received by the input section; and a responding method arrangement section for determining an arrangement to display on the screen the plurality of responding methods narrowed down by the candidate narrow-down section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a home appliance management system and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Currently, various types of home appliances are used in homes and other places. When a user experiences a symptom of concern with such an appliance, it is common for the user to refer to an instruction manual or other documentation to find a solution. Furthermore, some home appliances have a technology that displays advice equivalent to the instruction manual using a diagnostic support device connected via a communication line. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that "a communication terminal displays a select screen having multiple keys, and when a user operates one of the keys, the display unit displays, on the same screen, specific advice for improving the contents of the operated key, which is specific advice corresponding to the data stored in the storage means that corresponds to the result of information transmission from the appliance, and general advice for improving the contents of the keys that is common to all the keys and does not correspond to the result of information transmission from the appliance" (Claim 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6875494 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In Patent Document 1, only one specific piece of advice is displayed in response to information from a home appliance. However, in reality, there are often multiple solutions to a symptom, and in such cases, it is not possible to suggest all possible solutions to the user. Furthermore, if multiple solutions are suggested at the same time, the user will not know which solution is most effective. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above problem, in the present invention, when a symptom to be diagnosed is specified from among multiple symptoms of concern in a home appliance, the operation data of the home appliance is used to narrow down the response methods for the specified symptom, and the multiple narrowed down response methods are displayed on the screen.

[0006] More specifically, the home appliance management system has a user terminal connected to a home appliance and a diagnostic support device, and is equipped with an input unit that receives instructions for a symptom to be diagnosed from among a plurality of worrisome symptoms of the home appliance, a candidate narrowing-down unit that uses operation data of the home appliance based on the instructions received by the input unit to narrow down candidate response methods for the symptom, and a response method placement unit that determines the layout for displaying the plurality of response methods narrowed down by the candidate narrowing-down unit on the screen.

[0007] Furthermore, the present invention also includes a program for causing a user terminal or a diagnostic support device to function as a computer, and a storage medium for storing the program.Furthermore, a diagnostic support method using these is also an aspect of the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide users with an appropriate method of dealing with a worrisome symptom of a home appliance. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a system configuration diagram of a home appliance management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a home appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a hardware configuration diagram of a diagnosis support device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing user management information used in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing candidate response method information (for a drum type washer-dryer with an automatic detergent dispensing function) used in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing candidate response method information (for a fully automatic washing machine without an automatic detergent dispensing function) used in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7A] 1 is a diagram showing operational data (for a drum type washer-dryer having an automatic detergent dispensing function) used in one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 7B] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing operational data (of a fully automatic washing machine without an automatic detergent dispensing function) used in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of a diagnostic process in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a selection screen for a symptom of concern (drum type washer-dryer with an automatic detergent dispensing function) displayed on an output unit of a user terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen displayed on the output section of a user terminal in one embodiment of the present invention, indicating that a diagnosis is in progress. [Figure 11A] 10 is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether or not it is necessary to propose "automatic detergent addition" as a possible response method used in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11B] 10 is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether or not a suggestion of "changing detergent, etc." is needed, which is a possible solution used in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11C] 10 is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether or not a "tub cleaning course" should be proposed as a possible response method used in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11D] 10 is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether or not to suggest "increasing the number of rinses," which is a possible response method used in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11E]10 is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether or not a "deodorizing course" should be suggested as a possible response method used in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing response method narrowing-down information used in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the diagnostic results screen displayed on the output unit of a user terminal in one embodiment of the present invention, before scrolling. [Figure 13B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen of diagnostic results displayed on the output unit of a user terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention, after scrolling. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In this embodiment, when one or more home appliances in a household exhibit some worrisome symptom, a diagnosis is performed based on the operation data of the home appliance in response to an instruction from a user.

[0011] <Configuration> First, the configuration of this embodiment will be described. Fig. 1 is a system configuration diagram of a home appliance management system in this embodiment. In Fig. 1, the home appliance management system has a user terminal 10 and a diagnostic support device 20, which are connected to a group of home appliances 30 to be diagnosed via a router 40 and a network 50. The user terminal 10 and the group of home appliances 30 may also be directly connected using short-range wireless communication or the like. Furthermore, the user terminal 10, the group of home appliances 30, the router 40, and the network 50 may be connected via wired or wireless connections. Each of these devices will be described below.

[0012] First, one or more home appliances 3n to be managed in this embodiment will be described. It is assumed that the home appliances 3n are used in one area (for example, within a home). The home appliances 3n in this embodiment include a microwave oven 31, a refrigerator 32, a vacuum cleaner 33, an induction cooker 34, an air purifier 35, and a washing machine 36. However, these are merely examples, and some of these may be omitted, or additional home appliances may be added. Each of these home appliances has various functions, such as cooking, freezing, and cleaning, as well as communication functions, such as near-field wireless communication. While the home appliances 3n are illustrated as a group 30 in FIG. 1, any one of the home appliances 3n or home appliances 3n other than those illustrated here may be managed.

[0013] Here, the configuration of the home appliance 3n will be described. Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram of the home appliance 3n in this embodiment. This block diagram is representative of each home appliance 3n. As shown in Fig. 2, the home appliance 3n has a control unit 301, a communication unit 304, a display / operation panel 305, an operating unit 306, and a sensor 307. These are connected to each other via a communication path. Each component will be described below.

[0014] First, the control unit 301 has a control signal generation unit 302 and an operation data acquisition unit 303. That is, the control unit 301 generates and outputs control signals for realizing the functions of the home appliance, such as laundry, to control the operation of the home appliance 3n, and also acquires operation data related to the operation of the home appliance. Here, the operation data acquisition unit 303 acquires operation data from the operation unit 306, the sensor 307, or the control signal generation unit 302. The operation data is information related to the home appliance 3n, including the operation date and time, operation (setting) details, operation status (environment), etc.

[0015] Also, as long as the operation data can be acquired, the sensor 307 may be omitted. The control unit 301 can be realized by an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), and each of the control signal generation unit 302 and the operation data acquisition unit 303 can be realized by dedicated hardware or software such as a program.

[0016] Furthermore, the communication unit 304 has a function of communicating via the router 40 and the network 50 and a function of short-range wireless communication. The communication unit 304 outputs acquired operation data and receives control instructions and instructions to collect operation data from the user terminal 10. The display operation panel 305 receives operations on the home appliances from the user and outputs the operation status of the home appliances.

[0017] Furthermore, the operation unit 306 executes various functions under the control of the control unit 301. For this purpose, for example, a control signal generated by the control signal generation unit 302 is used. The functions to be executed include cooking, freezing, cleaning, etc., and can be realized by a heater, a compressor, an electric fan, a motor, an actuator, etc. Furthermore, the sensor 307 acquires the usage status and / or operation status of the home appliance 3n. For example, the sensor 307 can be realized by a thermometer, a light meter, a camera, etc. The usage or operation status, such as the temperature inside the refrigerator 32 and the number of times the door has been opened and closed, is acquired.

[0018] In this embodiment, the diagnosis and the creation and output of information indicating the diagnosis results are performed by the home appliance management system, but at least a part of these may be performed by the home appliance 3n. In this case, the control unit 301 performs the diagnosis and / or creates the diagnostic information. Furthermore, the display / operation panel 305 may output the diagnostic information created by the home appliance management system.

[0019] This concludes the explanation of Figure 2, and we will return to the explanation of Figure 1. The user terminal 10 is used to manage each home appliance 3n, that is, the group of home appliances 30, and can be realized by a computer such as a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet, or PC. To this end, the user terminal 10 has a communication unit 11, an operation data collection unit 12, a response method narrowing down unit 13, a response method arrangement unit 14, an output unit 15, an input unit 16, and a storage unit 17.

[0020] The communication unit 11 has a function of communicating via the router 40 and the network 50 and a function of short-range wireless communication. The operation data collection unit 12 collects operation data notified from the group of home electric appliances 30. It is desirable that the operation data collection unit 12 collects operation data periodically, particularly at regular intervals (for example, periodically). Note that the operation data collection unit 12 may be omitted, and the group of home electric appliances 30 may actively notify the operation data.

[0021] Furthermore, the response method narrowing unit 13 narrows down the response methods to be proposed for the worrisome symptoms from response method candidate information (described later) based on the collected operation data, and creates response method narrowed down information (diagnosis information) which is the narrowed down result (diagnosis result). Furthermore, the response method placement unit 14 determines the placement of the response methods narrowed down by the response method narrowing unit 13. Note that at least one of the functions of the response method narrowing down unit 13 and the response method placement unit 14 may be provided in the diagnosis support device 20, and at least one of them may be omitted.

[0022] The output unit 15 outputs various information such as diagnostic information. The input unit 16 accepts various operations such as diagnostic instructions from the user to start the diagnosis. The output unit 15 and the input unit 16 can be configured as an integrated unit. The storage unit 17 stores various information used in the processing of the response method narrowing unit 13 and the response method placement unit 14.

[0023] Here, we will explain one implementation example of the user terminal 10. Fig. 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of the user terminal 10 in this embodiment. In Fig. 3, the user terminal 10 has a touch panel 101, a processing device 102, a communication device 103, and a storage device 104, which are connected to each other via a communication path.

[0024] First, touch panel 101 is configured to serve both as output unit 15 and input unit 16 in Fig. 1, and receives instructions and operations from the user and displays various information. Note that touch panel 101 may be configured as an input device and an output device. Furthermore, processing device 102 can be realized by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and performs calculations in accordance with home appliance management program 105 (integrated application) stored in storage device 104, which will be described later.

[0025] The home appliance management program 105 is configured, for each function, with an operation data collection module 106, a candidate narrowing down module 107, and a response method allocation module 108. Note that each of these modules may be realized as an individual program or a partial combination.

[0026] Here, the configuration shown in FIG. 1, which performs the same functions as each module, is as follows. Operation data collection module 106: Operation data collection unit 12 Response method narrowing module 107: Response method narrowing unit 13 Response method placement module 108: Response method placement unit 14 Therefore, the processing device 102 executes the processes of the operation data collection unit 12 , the response method narrowing unit 13 and the response method placement unit 14 in accordance with the home appliance management program 105 .

[0027] Storage device 104 also stores home appliance management program 105, response method candidate information 109, operation data 110, response method narrowing information 111, and owned appliance information 112. Here, home appliance management program 105 may be a program for managing home appliance group 30, or may be configured with multiple programs for each home appliance. In the latter case, a management program for each of microwave oven 31, refrigerator 32, vacuum cleaner 33, IH cooking appliance 34, air purifier 35, and washing machine 36 will be used.

[0028] The response method candidate information 109, the operational data 110, and the response method narrowing information 111 will be described later in the section <Information>. The storage device 104 may be realized by a main storage device such as a memory and a secondary storage device (storage medium) that is a so-called storage. The secondary storage device may be realized by an external HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), memory card, or the like. Furthermore, at least some of the home appliance management program 105, the response method candidate information 109, the operational data 110, and the response method narrowing information 111 may be omitted as long as they are held in the diagnostic support device 20 described later. Furthermore, at least some of the modules (functions) of the home appliance management program 105 may be provided in the diagnostic support device 20.

[0029] This concludes the explanation of Fig. 3, and we will return to the explanation of Fig. 1. The diagnostic support device 20 is designed to diagnose the group of home appliances 30, and can be realized by a computer such as a server or a cloud. To this end, the diagnostic support device 20 has a communication unit 21, an operation data collection unit 22, a response method narrowing unit 23, a response method arrangement unit 24, and a storage unit 25.

[0030] First, the communication unit 21 has a function of communicating via the router 40 and the network 50 and a function of short-range wireless communication. Furthermore, the operation data collection unit 22 realizes the same function as the operation data collection unit 12, and it is sufficient that at least one of the operation data collection unit 22 and the operation data collection unit 12 exists. Furthermore, the response method narrowing unit 23 similarly realizes the same function as the response method narrowing unit 13, and it is sufficient that at least one of them exists. Furthermore, the response method arrangement unit 24 similarly realizes the same function as the response method arrangement unit 14, and it is sufficient that at least one of them exists.

[0031] Furthermore, the storage unit 25 stores user management information 251, response method candidate information 252, operational data 253, and response method narrowing down information 254. Note that the response method candidate information 252, operational data 253, and response method narrowing down information 254 are the same in content as the response method candidate information 252, operational data 110, and response method narrowing down information 111 stored in the user terminal 10, and one of them may be omitted. Also, taking into consideration the resources of the user terminal 10, the information may be compressed or simplified. Note that each of these pieces of information will be described later in <Information>.

[0032] Here, an example of realizing the diagnostic support device 20 will be described. Fig. 4 is a hardware configuration diagram of the diagnostic support device 20 in this embodiment. In Fig. 4, the diagnostic support device 20 has a processing device 201, a communication device 202, a memory 203, and a secondary storage device 204, which are connected to each other via a communication path.

[0033] First, the processing device 201 can be realized by a processor such as a CPU, and executes calculations in accordance with a home appliance management program 205 stored in a sub-storage device 204, which will be described later. The home appliance management program 205 will be described later.

[0034] 1, is connected to the network 50, and communicates with other devices.

[0035] 1. The memory 203 and the secondary storage device 204 expand information used for processing by the home appliance management program 205 and the processing device 201, which are stored in the secondary storage device 204. The secondary storage device 204 can be realized as a so-called storage, and stores the home appliance management program 205, user management information 251, response method candidate information 252, operational data 253, and response method narrowing information 254. The secondary storage device 204 may be realized as various storage media such as an external hard disk drive (HDD), solid state drive (SSD), or memory card, or may be realized as a device separate from the diagnostic support device 20, such as a file server.

[0036] Here, the home appliance management program 205 is made up of an operation data collection module 206, a response method narrowing module 207, and a response method allocation module 208. Note that each of these modules may be realized as an individual program or a partial combination thereof.

[0037] Here, the configuration shown in FIG. 1, which performs the same functions as each module, is as follows. Operation data collection module 206: Operation data collection unit 22 Response method narrowing module 207: Response method narrowing unit 23 Response method placement module 208: Response method placement unit 24 Therefore, the processing device 201 executes the processes of the operation data collection unit 22, the response method narrowing unit 23, and the response method placement unit 24 in accordance with the program.

[0038] At least one of the home appliance management program 205 and the home appliance management program 105 executes the same calculations as the home appliance management program 205 and the home appliance management program 105, and in this case, the modules that make up these programs may also be present in at least one of them.

[0039] This concludes the explanation of Fig. 4, and we return to the explanation of Fig. 1. The router 40 has the function of connecting each device, and is preferably installed on the same premises as the group of home appliances 30. Note that the router 40 can be omitted or replaced with another communication device. The network 50 is a communication network such as the Internet or a public line network. This concludes the explanation of the configuration of this embodiment.

[0040] <Information> Next, various types of information used in this embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing user management information 251 used in this embodiment. This is information related to users of the home appliance group 30. As shown in FIG. 5, user management information 251 has the following fields: user name, address, contact information, and owned devices. Here, the user name may be information that identifies the user. The address and contact information may be omitted. Furthermore, the owned devices are information that identifies the home appliances owned or used by the user, i.e., the home appliance group 30, and are specifically serial numbers and models.

[0041] The user terminal 10 has owned device information 112 for managing the home appliances (home appliance group 30) owned by the user, which has the same configuration as the “owned device” item in the user management information 251.

[0042] The candidate response information defines the main symptoms that users are concerned about and one or more candidate responses to each symptom. This candidate response information differs for each home appliance and even for the same home appliance, for each model. The following describes washing machines, including drum-type washer-dryers and fully automatic washing machines, but it goes without saying that the information can also be applied to other home appliances.

[0043] 6A is a diagram showing the candidate countermeasure information (for a drum type washer-dryer with an automatic detergent dispenser function) used in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6A, the candidate countermeasure information for this drum type washer-dryer (sometimes referred to as Model A) lists "smell of laundry," "smell inside the drum," "vibration during washing and drying," and "dryness of laundry after drying" as troublesome symptoms.

[0044] Here, we will explain this in more detail using the example of "laundry odor." Five options for dealing with "laundry odor" in a model A drum-type washer-dryer are defined: "automatically dispense more detergent," "change detergent, etc.", "tub cleaning course," "increase the number of rinses," and "deodorizing course."

[0045] "More Detergent" is a method to reduce laundry odors by increasing the detergent concentration and eliminating the cause of odors attached to the fabric by setting the amount of detergent automatically dispensed by the automatic detergent dispenser to "more." "Changing Detergents" is a method to reduce laundry odors by using a weak alkaline liquid synthetic detergent or a liquid detergent or fabric softener that claims deodorizing and antibacterial properties. "Drum Cleaning" is a method to reduce laundry odors by cleaning the drum (washing tub) itself and preventing drum odors from transferring to the laundry. "Increasing Rinsing" is a method to reduce laundry odors by rinsing thoroughly. "Deodorizing" is a method to reduce laundry odors by washing with warm water.

[0046] 6B is a diagram showing candidate response method information used in this embodiment (for a fully automatic washing machine without a drying function and without an automatic detergent dispensing function). As shown in FIG. 6B, the candidate response method information for this fully automatic washing machine (sometimes referred to as Model B) lists "smell of laundry," "smell inside the washing tub," and "vibration during washing" as worrisome symptoms. Model B fully automatic washing machine does not have a drying function, so there are no symptoms caused by drying, and since it does not have an automatic detergent dispensing function, there are no candidate response methods related to the amount or type of detergent.

[0047] Furthermore, when there are multiple candidate solutions for a symptom, such as the "laundry odor" symptom in Figures 6A and 6B, the candidate solution information also defines the priority of each candidate. Solutions ranked higher in priority are predicted to be the most effective for the symptom. However, when prioritizing solutions, the disadvantages of adopting a solution are also taken into consideration. For example, setting the automatic detergent dispenser to "extra" has the disadvantage of increased detergent consumption; increasing the number of rinses has the disadvantage of increased water bills and time; and setting the deodorizing course has the disadvantage of increased electricity bills and time due to heater heating. It is desirable to lower the priority of solutions that have significant disadvantages, such as increased costs for water and electricity, time, and user workload. In other words, when displaying multiple effective solutions for a symptom on a screen, solutions with greater disadvantages than those displayed at the top of the screen should be placed at the bottom of the screen.

[0048] The candidate response method information is a collection of response methods that are predicted to be effective based on past experience, such as accumulated inquiries from users about past home appliances similar to the model of the appliance. In other words, the relationship between the symptom of concern and the response method in the candidate response method information can be said to be equivalent to that defined in the instruction manual. However, since the instruction manual also includes response methods that have already been performed, it can be difficult for users to distinguish between them, especially when there are many candidates. Therefore, in this embodiment, we use operational data to identify response methods that have already been performed and exclude them from the candidates, thereby improving usability for users.

[0049] FIG. 7A is a diagram showing operation data (model A: drum-type washer-dryer with an automatic detergent dispensing function) used in this embodiment. The operation data 253 for model A includes items such as the date and time, operation type, automatic detergent dispensing setting, type of detergent, number of rinses, tub cleaning course, and deodorizing course when a washing operation was performed, as details of operations performed within a certain period of time. The operation types include a washing operation, a washing and drying operation, and a drying operation. The automatic dispensing setting indicates whether the automatic detergent dispensing function was set to ON or OFF when the washing operation or the washing and drying operation was performed. The type of detergent, etc. indicates the brand of detergent or fabric softener selected by the user for the automatic detergent dispensing function. In addition to individual operation details, the operation data may also include information regarding operation frequency, such as the total or average operation results within a recent certain period (e.g., one month). In the example of FIG. 7A, a washing operation was performed at 8:00 AM on September 1, 2023, with the automatic detergent dispensing setting set to ON, the type of detergent, etc. selected to N1, and the number of rinses set to two. The historical data 110 stored in the user terminal 10 also has a similar configuration.

[0050] 7B is a diagram showing operation data (model B: fully automatic washing machine without automatic detergent dispensing function) used in this embodiment. Unlike model A, model B does not have the automatic detergent dispensing function, and therefore its operation data 253 does not include items such as automatic dispensing setting and type of detergent.

[0051] <Processing flow> Next, a processing flow of this embodiment will be described. In the following description, the processing of the user terminal 10 and the diagnosis support device 20 will be performed using the configuration shown in FIG.

[0052] First, in this embodiment, collection and accumulation of operational data for diagnosis is performed. First, the home appliance 3n operates under the control of the control unit 301. Furthermore, the operational data acquisition unit 303 of the home appliance 3n acquires the operational data of the home appliance 3n. Then, the communication unit 304 transmits the acquired operational data under the control of the control unit 301 to the user terminal 10. Note that this transmission may be performed periodically or in real time. Furthermore, this transmission may be actively performed by the control unit 301 or may be performed in response to an instruction from the operational data collection unit 12 of the user terminal 10. In other words, it may be performed by either so-called push transmission or pull transmission. Furthermore, this transmission may be performed from the home appliance 3n to the diagnostic support device 20.

[0053] The communication unit 11 of the user terminal 10 then transfers the transmitted operational data to the diagnostic support device 20. In this transfer, information identifying the user terminal 10 or the user, or information identifying the home appliance 3n, may be added. This transfer may be performed periodically, in real time, or in synchronization with transmission from the home appliance 3n. This transfer may be actively performed by the operational data collection unit 12, or may be performed in response to an instruction from the operational data collection unit 22 of the diagnostic support device 20. In other words, the transfer may be performed by either so-called push transmission or pull transmission.

[0054] Furthermore, the communication unit 21 of the diagnostic support device 20 receives the operational data transferred from the user terminal 10 or transmitted from the home appliance 3n. Then, the operational data collection unit 22 stores the received operational data in the storage unit 25 as operational data 253. This completes the explanation of the collection and storage of operational data.

[0055] Next, a diagnostic process using the operational data 253 will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the process flow of the diagnostic process in this embodiment. First, in step S11, a diagnostic instruction regarding a symptom of concern is received from the user via the input unit 16 of the user terminal 10. The following description will be given taking the above-mentioned drum type washer-dryer of model A as an example.

[0056] FIG. 9 shows a selection screen for a worrisome symptom (model A: drum type washer-dryer with an automatic detergent dispensing function) displayed on the output unit of the user terminal in this embodiment. When, for example, "the smell of laundry is worrisome" is selected as a diagnostic instruction on the screen shown in FIG. 9, the communication unit 11 transmits the diagnostic instruction to the diagnostic support device 20 in step S12. The diagnostic instruction also includes identification information for identifying the model A drum type washer-dryer to be diagnosed. If the diagnostic support device 20 can estimate, from the operation data of the drum type washer-dryer, which symptoms are likely to occur as worrisome symptoms, the symptoms with the highest probability may be displayed at the top, thereby improving usability for the user.

[0057] After step S12, the process is performed by the diagnostic support device 20, which requires a certain amount of processing time, so the response method placement unit 14 inserts and displays information that the specified symptom is being diagnosed, as shown in Fig. 10. This prevents the user from misunderstanding that the system has frozen.

[0058] Next, in step S13, the communication unit 21 of the diagnosis support device 20 receives the diagnostic instruction. Furthermore, in step S14, the candidate narrowing unit 23 reads out the response method candidate information 252 for the model linked to the identification information included in the diagnostic instruction, and identifies one or more candidate response methods for the symptom targeted by the diagnostic instruction.

[0059] Next, in step S15, the candidate narrowing unit 23 identifies the operational data 253 required to determine whether each candidate response method needs to be proposed from the secondary storage device 204. For example, to determine whether "automatic detergent dispensing more", which is one of the candidate response methods, needs to be proposed, operational data related to the setting of the amount of automatic detergent dispensing is required.

[0060] Next, in step S16, the candidate narrowing-down unit 23 excludes from the candidates, those of the candidate methods for dealing with the symptoms of the diagnosis target that can be confirmed to have already been dealt with based on the operational data. The processing in the candidate narrowing-down unit 23 in step S16 will be specifically described with reference to Figs. 11A to 11E.

[0061] 11A is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether or not the candidate response method "automatic detergent dispensing, more" needs to be proposed. The candidate narrowing unit 23 refers to the operation data 253 related to the setting of the automatic detergent dispensing amount identified in step S15 (step S101), and determines whether the automatic detergent dispensing setting is "more" (step S102). If the automatic detergent dispensing setting is already set to "more," "automatic detergent dispensing, more" is excluded from the candidate response methods (step S103). On the other hand, if the automatic detergent dispensing setting is not set to "more," that is, if "normal" or "less," "automatic detergent dispensing, more" remains as a candidate response method (step S104).

[0062] 11B is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether or not it is necessary to propose a candidate solution, "changing the detergent, etc." The candidate narrowing unit 23 refers to the operation data 253 relating to the type of detergent, etc., identified in step S15 (step S201), and determines whether or not the automatically dispensed detergent, etc., is a weakly alkaline liquid synthetic detergent, etc. (step S202). If it is a weakly alkaline liquid synthetic detergent, etc., "changing the detergent, etc." is excluded from the candidate solution (step S203). On the other hand, if it is not a weakly alkaline liquid synthetic detergent, etc., "changing the detergent, etc." remains as a candidate solution (step S204).

[0063] 11C is a flowchart showing the process for determining whether or not the candidate response method "tub cleaning course" needs to be proposed. The candidate narrowing unit 23 refers to the operational data 253 relating to the usage history of the tub cleaning course identified in step S15 (step S301), and determines whether or not the "tub cleaning course" has been used within a certain period of time (step S302). If the "tub cleaning course" has been used, the "tub cleaning course" is excluded from the candidate response methods (step S303). On the other hand, if the "tub cleaning course" has not been used, the "tub cleaning course" remains as a candidate response method (step S304).

[0064] 11D is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether or not to propose the candidate response method "increase the number of rinses." Candidate narrowing unit 23 references operation data 253 related to the "number of rinses" within a certain period identified in step S15 (step S401), and determines whether the average of the "number of rinses" within the certain period is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (step S402). If the average of the "number of rinses" is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, "increase the number of rinses" is excluded from the candidate response methods (step S403). On the other hand, if the average of the "number of rinses" is less than the predetermined value, "increase the number of rinses" remains as a candidate response method (step S404).

[0065] 11E is a flowchart showing the process for determining whether or not the candidate response method "deodorizing course" needs to be suggested. The candidate narrowing unit 23 references the operational data 253 relating to the usage history of the deodorizing course identified in step S15 (step S501), and determines whether or not the "deodorizing course" has been used within a certain period of time (step S502). If the "deodorizing course" has been used, the "deodorizing course" is excluded from the candidate response methods (step S503). On the other hand, if the "deodorizing course" has not been used, the "deodorizing course" remains as a candidate response method (step S504).

[0066] As a result of the narrowing down using the above-mentioned Figs. 11A to 11E, response method narrowing down information such as that shown in Fig. 12 is obtained. The response method narrowing down information includes information on whether each candidate response method for the symptom to be diagnosed can be suggested. In the example of Fig. 12, the candidates from "automatically dispense more detergent" to "increase number of rinses" are "suggestable", but the candidate "deodorizing course" is "not" to be offered because it has already been used.

[0067] Next, in step S17, the candidate narrowing-down unit 23 transmits the response method narrowing-down information 254 as a diagnosis result to the user terminal 10 using the communication unit 21. It is preferable that the candidate narrowing-down unit 23 stores the response method narrowing-down information 254 in the storage unit 17.

[0068] Next, in step S18, the response method arrangement unit 14 executes a display process for the response method narrowing information transmitted in step S17. That is, the response method arrangement unit 14 sequentially displays the transmitted response method narrowing information on the output unit 15. As a result, the touch panel 101, which is an example of the output unit 15 of the user terminal 10, displays the information as shown in Figs. 13A and 13B.

[0069] Fig. 13A shows the screen displaying an example of a diagnosis result before scrolling, and Fig. 13B shows the screen displaying an example of a diagnosis result after scrolling. The response method placement unit 14 places the response methods with the highest priority at the top based on the response method narrowing information shown in Fig. 12. Note that if there are only a few suggested response methods and they can be displayed on one screen of the touch panel 101, it is possible to display all of the response methods on one screen without scrolling up and down.

[0070] 8 is finished, but at least a part of the response method placement unit 14 may be executed by the response method placement unit 24 of the diagnostic support device 20, and the response method placement unit 14 may execute display on the output unit 15 accordingly. Note that if the user actually executes a response method and inputs the successful response method via the user terminal 10 and transmits the result to the diagnostic support device 20, the priority order of the candidate response methods can be set with high accuracy.

[0071] This concludes the description of this embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the above-described processing may be performed by the home appliance 3n alone or in cooperation with the user terminal 10 or the diagnostic support device 20, or may be performed by the user terminal 10 or the diagnostic support device 20 alone. In particular, when the processing is performed by the diagnostic support device 20, it is desirable to provide or connect an input device or an output device to the diagnostic support device 20.

[0072] Furthermore, the diagnosis targets include devices other than the home appliances 3n, such as production devices in factories and various industrial devices used in buildings, etc. Service devices such as those for transportation are also included in the diagnosis targets. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 10...user terminal, 11...communication unit, 12...operation data collection unit, 13...candidate narrowing down unit, 14...response method arrangement unit, 15...output unit, 16...input unit, 17...storage unit, 105...home appliance management program, 106...operation data collection module, 107...candidate narrowing down module, 108...response method arrangement module, 109...response method candidate information, 110...operation data, 111...response method narrowing down information, 112...owned appliance information , 20...diagnosis support device, 21...communication unit, 22...operation data collection unit, 23...candidate narrowing unit, 24...response method arrangement unit, 25...storage unit, 251...user management information, 252...response method candidate information, 253...operation data, 254...response method narrowing information, 30...group of home appliances, 31...microwave oven, 32...refrigerator, 33...vacuum cleaner, 34...induction cooking appliance, 35...air purifier, 36...washing machine 36, 40...router, 50...network

Claims

1. A home appliance management system having a user terminal and a diagnostic support device connected to home appliances, An input unit that receives an instruction for a symptom to be diagnosed among a plurality of symptoms of concern of the home appliance; a candidate narrowing-down unit that narrows down candidates of a method for dealing with the symptom by using operation data of the home appliance based on the instruction received by the input unit; and a solution arrangement unit that determines an arrangement for displaying the plurality of solution methods narrowed down by the candidate narrowing down unit on a screen.

2. In claim 1, The home appliance management system according to claim 1, wherein the countermeasure placement unit places countermeasures that are highly effective against the symptoms at an upper portion of the screen.

3. In claim 2, A home appliance management system characterized in that countermeasures that are effective against the symptoms but have greater disadvantages than the countermeasures arranged in the upper part of the screen are arranged in the lower part of the screen.

4. In claim 3, A home appliance management system characterized in that the disadvantage is an increase in economic burden.

5. In claim 4, 2. A home appliance management system, wherein the increase in economic burden is an increase in electricity bills.

6. In claim 4, The home appliance management system according to claim 1, wherein the increase in economic burden is an increase in water charges.

7. In any one of claims 3 to 6, The home appliance management system is characterized in that the response method placement unit displays a message on a screen indicating that a diagnosis is in progress after the input unit receives the instruction and before the candidate narrowing down unit completes narrowing down.

8. In claim 1, A home appliance management system characterized in that, among a plurality of symptoms of concern, symptoms that are estimated to be likely to occur from the operational data of the home appliance are displayed at the top of the screen.

9. A user terminal is a computer that is connected to home appliances and diagnostic support devices. An input unit that receives an instruction for a symptom to be diagnosed among a plurality of symptoms of concern of the home appliance; a candidate narrowing-down unit that narrows down candidates of a method for dealing with the symptom by using operation data of the home appliance based on the instruction received by the input unit; a program that functions as a solution method arrangement unit that determines an arrangement for displaying the plurality of solution methods narrowed down by the candidate narrowing down unit on a screen;

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