Laundry system

Abstract

To provide a laundry system that offers convenience to users.SOLUTION: There is provided a laundry system 1 which is equipped with a plurality of laundry devices 20, each having at least one of washing and drying functions, wherein a display on a display unit provided on the laundry devices changes depending on whether the system is being used by a general user or by a manager or owner of the laundry devices 20.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a laundry system that uses a mobile terminal, and more particularly to a technology that provides convenience to users. [Background technology]

[0002] When a user visits a coin-operated self-service laundry (a so-called coin laundry), they insert coins into the coin slot and then operate the various setting and start buttons attached to the washing machine and dryer to wash and dry the clothes according to the amount and type of clothes (see Patent Document 1). While waiting for the washing machine or dryer to finish operating, the user may go to an outside store or restaurant to do some shopping or have a meal (see Patent Document 2).

[0003] However, the conventional coin laundries described above have various problems that need to be improved, as listed below.

[0004] When a user's washing machine or dryer does not work due to a clogged coin slot or other reason, the user calls the installer in the store to request a refund, but dealing with such complaints takes a great deal of time and effort.

[0005] Since a relatively large number of coins accumulate in washing machines and dryers, there is a risk of them becoming victims of theft, etc. Female users are reluctant to leave the store while the dryer is running because they are concerned that their underwear or other items might be seen through the glass window in the lid or stolen while they are drying.

[0006] Since users who are outside the store cannot know when the washing or drying has finished, the laundry machines are left unattended for a long time, resulting in a decrease in the operating rate of the laundry machines. To solve these problems, the inventor devised a system that allows users to install dedicated application software on their mobile devices, allowing them to perform various laundry equipment operations on the mobile devices and notifying the mobile devices when washing and drying are complete.

[0007] However, even in such a system, in large coin laundries, many users operate many laundry machines simultaneously, so there is a risk that multiple users may try to operate the same laundry machine due to input errors on a mobile terminal, etc.

[0008] In response to such problems, Patent Document 3 discloses a technology in which a linking section is provided on the surface of at least one laundry device, and a control device uses the linking section to link a user's mobile terminal to one of the laundry devices, and then outputs an operation command to the laundry device linked to the mobile terminal based on an operation request signal from the mobile terminal. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-129300 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-262942 [Patent Document 3] Patent Publication No. 2021-168815 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] Conventionally, many facilities, such as hot spring facilities, public baths, and lodging facilities, have laundry machines installed or attached to them for general users. In such facilities, employees and other related parties sometimes wash towels, bathrobes, and other facility-owned equipment. In such cases, if the laundry machine is being used by an employee or other related party, general users often wonder whether they can use the laundry machine.

[0011] In addition, when the manager or owner of a laundry machine for general users (a person related to a hot spring facility, public bath, accommodation facility, etc.) uses the laundry machine for general users (to wash their own equipment), the manager or owner of the laundry machine finds it inconvenient because they have to insert coins into the laundry machine, operate the laundry machine, and then collect the coins.

[0012] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a laundry system that can improve convenience for users. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] The laundry system of the present invention is a laundry system equipped with a plurality of laundry machines having at least one of a washing function and a drying function, and is characterized in that the display on the display unit provided on the laundry machine is changed depending on whether it is used by a general user or by the manager or owner of the laundry machine.

[0014] Preferably, the use of the laundry equipment is free of charge when used by the caretaker or owner of the laundry equipment.

[0015] In addition, the laundry system of the present invention is a laundry system that includes a plurality of laundry devices each having at least one of a washing function and a drying function, and a control device that communicates with a plurality of users' mobile terminals and controls the operation of the laundry devices according to the communication results, and the control device prohibits general users from operating the laundry devices that are set in a state that can be used by the management or owner of the laundry devices.

[0016] Furthermore, the laundry system of the present invention is a laundry system comprising a plurality of laundry machines each having at least one of a washing function and a drying function, and a control device that communicates with a plurality of users' mobile terminals and controls the operation of the laundry machines according to the communication results, wherein a linking unit is provided on the surface of at least one of the laundry machines, and the control device comprises: a linking means that uses the linking unit to link one of the users' mobile terminals with one of the laundry machines, and an operation command output means that, after linking by the linking means, outputs an operation command to the laundry machine linked to the mobile terminal based on an operation request signal from the mobile terminal, and the linking means prohibits linking of the laundry machine that has been set in a state where it can be used by the manager or owner of the laundry machine with a mobile terminal in which the user is a general user. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the present invention, the laundry machine can be used by both general users and businesses, which provides convenience to users. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a device control system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of a server according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure for a facility owner to control preparation for use of a laundry machine in an embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure for control of preparation for use of a laundry machine for a general user in an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a mobile terminal displaying an application download web page in an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a mobile terminal displaying a usage instructions web page in an embodiment. [Figure 7] 4 is a first flowchart showing a procedure for operation mode setting control in the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a mobile terminal displaying a password entry screen in an embodiment. [Figure 9] 4 is a first flowchart showing a procedure for operation determination and operation command output control in the embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a second flowchart showing the procedure of operation determination and operation command output control in the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an image displayed on a message display of the laundry machine in the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a facility owner's mobile terminal receiving a recognition signal in an embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a facility owner's mobile terminal that receives an operation course signal in the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a facility owner's mobile terminal receiving a fee signal in an embodiment. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of an end notice process in the embodiment. [Figure 16] 10 is a front view showing the facility owner's mobile terminal that has received a first end notice signal in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a front view showing the facility owner's mobile terminal that has received a second end notice signal in the embodiment. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure for error processing in an embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a facility owner's mobile terminal that has received an error signal in the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] [Embodiment] An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 1 to 19. In this embodiment, the laundry machine can be used by both general users and facility owners (those involved in hot spring facilities, public baths, accommodation facilities, etc.).

[0020] <Configuration of the embodiment> FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a laundry system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of a server according to the embodiment.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1, the laundry system 1 according to the embodiment has a number of laundry appliances 20 (20a, 20b, 20c, etc.) consisting of washing machines, dryers, etc. installed in a laundry store 2, and a server 27 (control device) that controls the operation of these laundry appliances 20.

[0022] Laundry store 2 is located adjacent to or within a facility such as a hot spring facility, public bath, or accommodation facility, and the facility owner is the same as the hot spring facility, public bath, or accommodation facility.

[0023] Each laundry machine uses Plasmacluster for washing. Each laundry machine 20 is equipped with a manually opened / closed lid 22 having a transparent glass window 21. Each laundry machine 20 is equipped with an electric locking mechanism (not shown) for locking the lid 22, and locks the lid 22 in the closed position in response to a command from the server 27. The glass window 21 is an instantaneous dimming type that uses a liquid crystal display, and can be instantly switched between transparent and opaque in response to a command from the server 27.

[0024] A label (hereinafter simply referred to as identification code) 23 (23a, 23b, 23c, etc.) with a unique identification code (QR code) printed on it is attached to the upper right corner of the surface of each laundry machine 20, and a password display 24 is installed to display a one-time password 24a as a unique identification display for each machine.

[0025] The one-time password 24a is a randomly generated combination of four digits that changes at a predetermined time interval (for example, every 30 seconds). On the front of the laundry machine 20, below the identification code 23, there is a message 25 saying, "Please read the QR code with your smartphone."

[0026] In the case of a highly secure system, a one-time password is not necessarily required.

[0027] A message display 26 is provided on the upper left of the surface of each laundry machine 20 to display messages to prospective users and users.

[0028] A wireless LAN 28 based on the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) standard is installed in laundry store 2. A mobile device (such as a smartphone, hereinafter referred to as the equipment owner's mobile device) 31 of an equipment owner (user) within laundry store 2 and a mobile device (such as a smartphone, hereinafter referred to as the general user's mobile device) 32 of a general user (user) within laundry store 2 are connected to the Internet 30 via this wireless LAN 28 (or a 4G line or a 5G line).

[0029] The server 27 (control device) has registered therein a facility owner mobile terminal 31 of the facility owner and general user mobile terminals 32 of a plurality of general users (users).

[0030] The server 27 is connected to the Internet 30 and communicates via the Internet 30 with the facility owner's mobile terminal 31, the general user's mobile terminal 32, and the laundry store 2 manager's terminal (personal computer, smartphone, etc.: hereinafter referred to as the manager's terminal) 33.

[0031] When the equipment owner is outside the laundry store 2, the equipment owner mobile terminal 31 is connected to the Internet 30 via a 4G line or a 5G line.

[0032] When a general user is outside the laundry store 2, the general user mobile terminal 32 is connected to the Internet 30 via a 4G line or a 5G line.

[0033] As shown in Figure 2, the server 27 has a memory unit 27a that stores operation modes, user information, etc., a processing unit 27b that performs judgment processing and signal output based on input signals from the general user mobile terminal 32, and a signal generation unit 27c that generates operation command signals to the laundry equipment 20 and signals to the general user mobile terminal 32 and the administrator terminal 33 based on the judgment results of the processing unit 27b.

[0034] <Operation of the embodiment> FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a procedure for a facility owner to control preparation for use of a laundry machine in an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a procedure for controlling preparation for use of a laundry machine for a general user in this embodiment. FIG. 5 is a front view showing a mobile terminal displaying an application download web page in the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a front view showing a mobile terminal displaying a usage instructions web page in the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a first flowchart showing the procedure of the operation mode setting control in the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a front view showing a mobile terminal displaying a password entry screen in the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a first flowchart showing the procedure of operation determination and operation command output control in the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a second flowchart showing the procedure for operation determination and operation command output control in the embodiment. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an image displayed on the message display of the laundry machine in the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a front view showing a facility owner's mobile terminal that receives a recognition signal in the embodiment. FIG. 13 is a front view showing the facility owner's mobile terminal that receives the operating course signal in the embodiment. FIG. 14 is a front view showing a facility owner's mobile terminal receiving a fee signal in an embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the termination notice process in the embodiment. FIG. 16 is a front view showing the facility owner's mobile terminal that has received the first end notice signal in the embodiment. FIG. 17 is a front view showing the facility owner's mobile terminal that has received the second end notice signal in the embodiment. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the procedure of error processing in the embodiment. FIG. 19 is a front view showing a facility owner's mobile terminal that has received an error signal in the embodiment.

[0035] In FIG. 3, when an equipment owner of laundry store 2 uses laundry machine 20, the equipment owner visits laundry store 2 and selects laundry machine 20 according to the type and amount of laundry to be washed or dried.

[0036] In laundry store 2, as shown in step S1 of FIG. 3, the identification code 23 of the selected laundry machine 20 is read by the camera of facility owner mobile terminal 31. As a result, facility owner mobile terminal 31 transmits identification code data indicating the read identification code to server 27 via wireless LAN 28 (or a 4G or 5G line) and the Internet 30 as shown in step S2 of FIG. 3.

[0037] As a result, in step S3 of FIG. 3, the server 27 receives the identification code data from the facility owner's mobile terminal 31 and stores the identification code data.

[0038] Next, in step S4 of FIG. 3, the server 27 identifies the user based on the communication data from the facility owner's mobile terminal 31 and stores the information.

[0039] Thereafter, in step S5 of Fig. 3, server 27 determines whether or not dedicated application software (hereinafter referred to as the dedicated app) corresponding to laundry system 1 has been downloaded based on the stored determination result of the user. If the dedicated app has been downloaded, the determination result of step S5 becomes Yes, and server 27 proceeds to the processing of step S10 of Fig. 3, whereas if the dedicated app has not been downloaded, the determination result of step S5 becomes No, and server 27 proceeds to the processing of step S6 of Fig. 3.

[0040] In step S6 of FIG. 3, the server 27 transmits the application download web page display data to the facility owner mobile terminal 31 as the application download web page display data transmission process, and then proceeds to the process of step S10 of FIG.

[0041] When the facility owner mobile terminal 31 receives the application download web page display data from the server 27, it performs application download web page display processing in step S7 of FIG. 3, and displays the application download web page 46 shown in FIG. 5 on the screen 31a.

[0042] The app download webpage 46 shown in Figure 5 displays an icon 47 of the system's dedicated app, an image 48 of the text "You can use the laundry by using the app," an app download button 49, an image 50 of the text "Download the app," and a "Back" button 51.

[0043] Thereafter, when the user touches the application download button 49, the facility owner's mobile terminal 31 downloads the dedicated application as an application download process in step S8 of FIG.

[0044] Thereafter, the user performs facility owner registration using the facility owner mobile terminal 31. As a result, the facility owner mobile terminal 31 performs facility owner registration processing in step S9 of Fig. 3, and proceeds to processing in step S10. Facility owner registration involves registering the facility name and address of the facility owner, the names and addresses of staff members, mobile phone numbers, and payment information (credit card information) with the server 27.

[0045] In step S10 of FIG. 3, the server 27 transmits to the facility owner's mobile terminal 31 display data for a web page showing how to use the laundry machine 20.

[0046] As a result, in step S11 of FIG. 3, the facility owner's mobile terminal 31 displays the usage instruction web page display data showing how to use the laundry machine 20 on the usage instruction web page 52 shown in FIG.

[0047] In FIG. 4, when a general user visits laundry store 2 and uses laundry machine 20, the general user selects laundry machine 20 according to the type and amount of clothes to be washed or dried.

[0048] Within the laundry store 2, as shown in step S21 of Fig. 4, the identification code 23 of the selected laundry device 20 is read by the camera of the general user mobile terminal 32. As a result, as shown in step S22 of Fig. 4, the general user mobile terminal 32 transmits identification code data indicating the read identification code to the server 27 via the wireless LAN 28 (or a 4G line or a 5G line) and the Internet 30.

[0049] As a result, in step S23 of FIG. 4, the server 27 receives the identification code data from the general user portable terminal 32 and stores the identification code data.

[0050] Next, in step S24 of FIG. 4, the user is identified based on the communication data from the general user portable terminal 32 and stored.

[0051] Thereafter, in step S25 of Fig. 4, server 27 determines whether or not dedicated application software (hereinafter referred to as the dedicated app) corresponding to laundry system 1 has been downloaded based on the stored determination result of the user. If the dedicated app has been downloaded, the determination result of step S25 becomes Yes, and server 27 proceeds to the processing of step S30 of Fig. 4, whereas if the dedicated app has not been downloaded, the determination result of step S25 becomes No, and server 27 proceeds to the processing of step S26 of Fig. 4.

[0052] In step S26 of FIG. 4, the server 27 transmits the application download web page display data to the general user portable terminal 32 as the application download web page display data transmission process, and then proceeds to the process of step S30 of FIG.

[0053] When the general user portable terminal 32 receives the application download web page display data from the server 27, it performs an application download web page display process in step S27 of FIG. 4, and displays an application download web page 46 shown in FIG. 5 on the screen 31a.

[0054] The app download webpage 46 shown in Figure 5 displays an icon 47 of the system's dedicated app, an image 48 of the text "You can use the laundry by using the app," an app download button 49, an image 50 of the text "Download the app," and a "Back" button 51.

[0055] Thereafter, when the user touches the application download button 49, the general user portable terminal 32 downloads the dedicated application as an application download process in step S28 of FIG.

[0056] Thereafter, the user performs general user registration using the general user portable terminal 32. As a result, the general user portable terminal 32 performs general user registration processing in step S29 of Fig. 4, and proceeds to processing in step S30. General user registration involves registering the general user's name, address, mobile phone number, and payment information (credit card information) with the server 27.

[0057] In step S30 of FIG. 4, the server 27 transmits to the general user portable terminal 32 display data for a usage instruction web page showing how to use the laundry machine 20.

[0058] As a result, in step S31 of FIG. 4, the general user portable terminal 32 displays the usage instruction web page display data showing how to use the laundry machine 20 on the usage instruction web page 52 shown in FIG.

[0059] The usage web page 52 shown in Figure 6 displays an image 53 indicating that one way to use the laundry equipment 20 is to enter the one-time password 24a displayed on the password display 24 of the laundry equipment 20 using the equipment owner mobile terminal 31 or the general user mobile terminal 32.

[0060] Meanwhile, the server 27 sets the operation mode of each laundry machine 20 by the operation mode setting control shown in FIG.

[0061] 7, in step S41, the server 27 performs a machine number input process for the laundry machine 20 for which the operation mode is to be set by the facility owner or a staff member of the laundry store 2 operating an input means such as a mouse or keyboard of the server 27, or a personal computer or mobile terminal connected to the server 27. This causes the server 27 to select the laundry machine 20 for which the operation mode is to be set.

[0062] Thereafter, in step S42, the server 27 performs a mode input process to select either the free mode or the general user mode as the operation mode by the facility owner or a staff member of the laundry store 2 operating an input means such as a mouse or keyboard of the server 27, or a personal computer or mobile terminal connected to the server 27. As a result, the server 27 selects the operation mode of the laundry machine 20 selected in step S41, and proceeds to the process of step S43.

[0063] In step S43 of FIG. 9, the server 27 determines whether the operation mode input in step S42 of the laundry device 20 selected in step S41 is the no-charge mode.

[0064] If the input driving mode is the free mode, the server 27 judges Yes in step S43 and proceeds to processing in step S44, and if the input driving mode is the general user mode, the server 27 judges No in step S43 and proceeds to processing in step S47 in Figure 9.

[0065] In step S44, the server 27 determines whether the laundry machine 20 is empty or has become empty, and then proceeds to step S45. Whether the laundry machine 20 is empty can be easily determined by the server 27 by controlling the operation of the laundry machine 20 and by opening and closing the lid 22, etc.

[0066] In step S45, server 27 sets laundry machine 20 selected in step S41 to free mode. Thereafter, in step S46, server 27 transmits a facility owner-only signal to laundry machine 20 selected in step S41, thereby terminating the current process. As a result, message display 26 of laundry machine 20 selected in step S41 displays message image 26a with the text "Facility Owner Only," as shown in FIG. 11(a). In addition, since laundry machine 20 has been set to free mode, it disinfects (cleans with Plasmacluster) the empty laundry storage compartment (washing drum, drying drum, etc.).

[0067] In step S47, the server 27 determines that the laundry machine 20 is empty or has become empty, and then proceeds to step S48.

[0068] In step S48, the server 27 sets the laundry machine 20 selected in step S41 to the general user mode. Then, in step S49, the server 27 transmits a general user-only signal to the laundry machine 20 selected in step S41, thereby terminating the current process. As a result, a message image 26b with the text "For general users only" is displayed on the message display 26 of the laundry machine 20 selected in step S41, as shown in FIG. 11(b). Furthermore, when the laundry machine 20 is set to the general user mode, the empty laundry compartment is not disinfected.

[0069] In this embodiment, the display on the display unit of the laundry equipment changes between a general user mode when used by a general user and a free mode when used by the equipment owner, and when used by the equipment owner, the laundry storage section of the laundry equipment (washing drum, drying drum, etc.) is disinfected (cleaned with Plasmacluster).

[0070] 3 or 4, the equipment owner or general user in laundry store 2 connects to the Internet via wireless LAN 28 using equipment owner mobile terminal 31 or general user mobile terminal 32 and launches the dedicated app. Then, as shown in FIG. 8, a password entry screen 54 is displayed on screen 31a of equipment owner mobile terminal 31 or general user mobile terminal 32, and the user enters the one-time password 24a displayed on password display 24 of laundry equipment 20 into equipment owner mobile terminal 31 or general user mobile terminal 32.

[0071] As a result, an identification signal Si corresponding to the facility owner mobile terminal 31 or the general user mobile terminal 32 and the laundry equipment 20 is transmitted from the facility owner mobile terminal 31 or the general user mobile terminal 32, and this identification signal Si is input to the server 27 via the wireless LAN 28 (or a 4G line or a 5G line) and the Internet 30.

[0072] When the server 27 receives the identification signal Si from the facility owner's mobile terminal 31 or the general user's mobile terminal 32, the server 27 executes the operation determination and operation command output control shown in the flowchart of FIG.

[0073] When the operation determination and operation command output control is started, the server 27 determines in step S51 of FIG. 9 whether the laundry device 20 corresponding to the identification signal Si is in free mode (in step S42 of FIG. 7, the free mode remains set as the operation mode).

[0074] If the laundry device 20 is in the free mode, the server 27 judges Yes in step S51 and proceeds to the processing of step S52 in Figure 9. If the laundry device 20 is not in the free mode (if the general user mode remains set as the operating mode in step S42 in Figure 7), the server 27 judges No in step S51 and proceeds to the processing of step S54 in Figure 9.

[0075] In step S52 of FIG. 9, the server 27 identifies the mobile terminal (facility owner mobile terminal 31 or general user mobile terminal 32) that transmitted the identification signal Si, and determines from the result of this identification whether the app on the mobile terminal is registered by the facility owner or the general user.

[0076] If the app on the mobile terminal is registered by the facility owner (if the person wishing to use the app is the facility owner), the result of the determination in step S52 becomes Yes and the server 27 proceeds to processing in step S54 of Figure 9, and if the app on the mobile terminal is registered by a general user (if the person wishing to use the app is the facility owner), the result of the determination in step S52 becomes No and the server 27 proceeds to processing in step S53 of Figure 9.

[0077] In step S53 of Fig. 9, the server 27 transmits an unavailable signal to the laundry device 20 corresponding to the identification signal Si. As a result, a message image 26c with the text "This device is for the exclusive use of the device owner and is unavailable to general users" is displayed on the message display 26 of the laundry device 20 corresponding to the identification signal Si, as shown in Fig. 11(c).

[0078] When the process of step S53 in FIG. 9 is completed, the server 27 ends the current operation determination and operation command output control as shown in FIG.

[0079] Next, when the server 27 proceeds to processing of step S54 in Figure 9, in step S3 in Figure 3 or step S23 in Figure 4, it receives identification code data from the facility owner mobile terminal 31 or the general user mobile terminal 32, links the facility owner mobile terminal 31 or the general user mobile terminal 32 with the laundry equipment 20 based on the stored identification code data and the identification signal Si, and in step S55 transmits an identification signal to the facility owner mobile terminal 31 or the general user mobile terminal 32 via wireless LAN 28.

[0080] On the equipment owner's mobile terminal 31 that has received the recognition signal from the processing in step S54 of FIG. 9, a message 71 saying "Mr. / Ms. ABC, you would like to use the washer / dryer number XX. If this is OK, please touch YES" and a "YES" button 72 are displayed on the screen 31a, as shown in FIG. 12.

[0081] On the general user portable terminal 32 that receives the recognition signal from the processing in step S54 of FIG. 9, a message saying "Welcome. You would like to use the washer-dryer number XX, right? If so, please touch YES" and a "YES" button are displayed on the screen, although not shown.

[0082] In step S56 of FIG. 9, the server 27 determines whether the facility owner or a general user has touched the "YES" button (in the case of the facility owner, the "YES" button 72), and if this determination is Yes, proceeds to processing of step S57 of FIG. 10.

[0083] If the app on the mobile terminal is registered by the facility owner (if the person wishing to use is the facility owner), the result of the determination in step S57 becomes Yes and the server 27 proceeds to processing in step S58 of Figure 10, and if the app on the mobile terminal is registered by a general user (if the person wishing to use is a general user), the result of the determination in step S57 becomes No and the server 27 proceeds to processing in step S59 of Figure 10.

[0084] In step S58 of Fig. 10, server 27 transmits an operation program signal for the equipment owner to equipment owner mobile terminal 31. On equipment owner mobile terminal 31 that has received the operation program for the equipment owner, "operation program" buttons 73 (73a to 73d) corresponding to the selected laundry appliance 20 and an "ENTER" button 74 are displayed on screen 31a, as shown in Fig. 13. The equipment owner selects the desired "operation program" button 73 according to the type and amount of laundry, and then touches "ENTER" button 74.

[0085] In step S59 of Fig. 10, the server 27 transmits a general user operation program signal to the general user portable terminal 32. Although not shown, the general user portable terminal 32 that has received the general user operation program signal displays an "operation program" button corresponding to the selected laundry device 20 and an "ENTER" button on its screen. The general user selects the desired "operation program" button according to the type and amount of laundry, and then touches the "ENTER" button.

[0086] In step S60 of FIG. 10, the server 27 determines whether the facility owner or a general user has touched the "ENTER" button (in the case of the facility owner, the "ENTER" button 74), and if this determination is YES, proceeds to processing in step S61.

[0087] In step S61 of FIG. 10, the server 27 determines whether the application of the mobile terminal that transmitted the identification signal Si is registered by the facility owner or by a general user.

[0088] If the application of the mobile terminal that transmitted the identification signal Si is registered by the facility owner (if the person wishing to use the service is the facility owner), the result of the determination in step S61 becomes Yes, and the server 27 proceeds to the processing of step S62 in Figure 10; if the application of the mobile terminal is registered by a general user (if the person wishing to use the service is a general user), the result of the determination in step S62 becomes No, and the server 27 proceeds to the processing of step S63 in Figure 10.

[0089] In step S62, the server 27 transmits a free signal to the facility owner's mobile terminal 31. On the facility owner's mobile terminal 31 that has received the fee signal, a message 75 saying "The usage fee is 0 yen. Please put in your clothes and close the lid," a "Lid Lock" button 76, and an "Opaque Window" button 77 are displayed on the screen 31a, as shown in Fig. 14. If the facility owner wants to lock the lid 22 or make the glass window 21 opaque while the laundry machine 20 is running, the facility owner selects (touches) the "Lid Lock" button 76 or the "Opaque Window" button 77.

[0090] In step S63, server 27 transmits a general user fee signal to general user portable terminal 32. On general user portable terminal 32 that receives the fee signal, a message "The usage fee is XXX yen. Please put in your clothes and close the lid" is displayed on the screen, along with a "Lid Lock" button and an "Opaque Window" button, although these are not shown. If a general user wants to lock lid 22 or make glass window 21 opaque while laundry machine 20 is running, the general user selects (touches) the "Lid Lock" button or the "Opaque Window" button.

[0091] When the facility owner or general user has confirmed the usage fee and selected the "Lid Lock" button ("Lid Lock" button 76 in the case of the facility owner) or the "Window Opaque" button ("Window Opaque" button 77 in the case of the facility owner), an operation request signal Sd is transmitted from the facility owner mobile terminal 31 or the general user mobile terminal 32, and this operation request signal Sd is input to the server 27 via the wireless LAN 28 or the Internet 30.

[0092] In step S64, the server 27 determines whether or not the facility owner has input an operation request signal Sd, and if the determination is YES, the server 27 proceeds to step S67 without performing billing processing.

[0093] In step S65, the server 27 determines whether or not a general user has input a driving request signal Sd, and if the determination is YES, performs billing processing in step S66. The billing processing is performed by communicating with the credit card company via the Internet 30 based on the payment information described above. When billing in step S66 is completed, the server 27 proceeds to processing in step S67.

[0094] In step S67, the server 27 determines whether the "Lid Lock" button (in the case of the facility owner mobile terminal 31, the "Lid Lock" button 76) on the facility owner mobile terminal 31 or the general user mobile terminal 32 has been touched, and if the determination is Yes, in step S68, it outputs a lid lock command to the laundry appliance 20. Next, in step S69, the server 27 determines whether the "Window Opaque" button (in the case of the facility owner mobile terminal 31, the "Window Opaque" button 77) on the facility owner mobile terminal 31 or the general user mobile terminal 32 has been touched, and if the determination is Yes, it outputs a window opaque command to the laundry appliance 20 in step S70.

[0095] Thereafter, in step S71, server 27 outputs an operation start command to laundry appliance 20, and ends the operation start command control. Upon receiving the operation start command, laundry appliance 20 starts operating in the operation mode selected by the equipment owner or general user, and locks lid 22 or makes glass window 21 opaque based on the request of the equipment owner or general user.

[0096] Here, the operating mode selected by the facility owner (the free mode set in step S45 of FIG. 7) and the operating mode selected by a general user (the general user mode set in step S48 of FIG. 7) have different chemicals used and different fees. For example, the operating mode selected by the facility owner uses a chemical with stronger sterilizing power than the operating mode selected by a general user, and the fee is higher.

[0097] The server 27 sequentially transmits the operation determination and operation command output control commands and the results of the billing process to the manager terminal 33. This allows the manager to recognize the operating status and sales of the laundry machines 20 in the laundry store 2 in real time.

[0098] (End of notice processing) When laundry machine 20 starts operation, server 27 executes an end notice process, the steps of which are shown in the flowchart of Fig. 15. When the end notice process starts, server 27 repeatedly determines at predetermined time intervals whether it is 10 minutes before the operation end time in step S71 of Fig. 15. If the determination is Yes, server 27 transmits a first end notice signal to facility owner mobile terminal 31 or general user mobile terminal 32 via Internet 30 in step S72.

[0099] On the equipment owner's mobile terminal 31 that receives the first end notice signal, as shown in Figure 16, a message 91 saying "10 minutes left" indicating that there are 10 minutes left until the end of operation is displayed on the screen 31a, and a ringtone sounds at a low volume.

[0100] When the general user portable terminal 32 receives the first end notice signal, a message "10 minutes left" indicating that there are 10 minutes left until the end of the drive is displayed on the screen, and a ringtone sounds at a low volume.

[0101] Furthermore, even if the equipment owner or general user is outside the laundry store 2, the termination warning signal is received by the equipment owner's mobile terminal 31 or the general user's mobile terminal 32 via the Internet 30 via a 4G line, a 5G line, or an outside-store wireless LAN.

[0102] Next, in step S73, the server 27 repeatedly determines at predetermined time intervals whether it is five minutes before the operation end time. If the determination is Yes, the server 27 transmits a second end notice signal to the facility owner mobile terminal 31 or the general user mobile terminal 32 in step S74.

[0103] On the equipment owner's mobile terminal 31 that receives the second end notice signal, as shown in Figure 17, a message 92 saying "5 minutes left" flashes on the screen 31a, indicating that there are 5 minutes left until the end of operation, and the ringtone and vibrator functions are activated.

[0104] On the general user portable terminal 32 that has received the second end notice signal, a message "5 minutes left" flashes on the screen, indicating that there are 5 minutes left until the end of the drive, and the ringtone and vibrator function are activated.

[0105] This allows the equipment owner or general user who has been to an external store or restaurant to finish their shopping, meal, or work and return to the laundry store 2 before the laundry equipment 20 finishes operating, thereby improving the operating rate of the laundry equipment 20.

[0106] When a predetermined time has passed since the start of operation and washing or drying is completed, laundry machine 20 stops rotating the washing drum and drying drum, drains the water if rinsing has been completed, and then unlocks lid 22. This allows the equipment owner or general user to remove clothes from laundry machine 20.

[0107] After this, if the next mode is set to the free mode, the laundry machine 20 disinfects (cleans with Plasmacluster) the laundry storage section (washing drum, drying drum, etc.). Note that if the next mode is set to the general user mode, the laundry machine 20 does not disinfect the laundry storage section.

[0108] The server 27 constantly executes error processing, the procedure of which is shown in the flowchart of FIG. 18, in parallel with the operation determination and operation command output control.

[0109] (Error handling) When error processing starts, the server 27 repeatedly determines at predetermined time intervals whether or not an error signal has been input from the laundry machine 20 in the laundry store 2 in step S81 of FIG.

[0110] If an error occurs in the laundry equipment 20 and the judgment in step S81 is Yes, error information (which laundry equipment 20 and which error occurred in) is sent to the administrator terminal 33 and the maintenance company terminal (not shown) in step S82, and an error signal is sent to the equipment owner mobile terminal 31 or the general user mobile terminal 32 in step S83.

[0111] On the facility owner's mobile terminal 31 that receives the error signal, a message 101 saying "An error has occurred. Please cancel and remove the clothes" and a "Cancel" button 102 are displayed on the screen 31a, as shown in FIG. 19.

[0112] When the general user portable terminal 32 receives the error signal, a message saying "An error has occurred. Please cancel and remove the clothes" and a "Cancel" button are displayed on the screen.

[0113] In response to the error information, the manager or maintenance company will go to the laundry store 2 and take measures such as suspending use of the laundry machine 20 or repairing it. In addition, the facility owner or general user touches the "Cancel" button ("Cancel" button 102 in the case of the facility owner mobile terminal 31) according to the screen display on the facility owner mobile terminal 31 or the general user mobile terminal 32.

[0114] Next, server 27 determines whether the "Cancel" button has been touched in step S84, and repeats the determination in step S84 while this determination is No. When the "Cancel" button is touched by the facility owner or a general user and the determination in step S84 becomes Yes, server 27 transmits an operation stop signal to laundry machine 20 in step S85, and proceeds to step S86.

[0115] In step S86, the server 27 determines whether the general user mode is set, and if the general user mode is set, the determination is Yes and the process proceeds to step S87, whereas if the free mode is set, the determination is No and the error process is terminated.

[0116] In step S87, the server 27 cancels (i.e., refunds) the charge made in the above-mentioned charging process, and ends the error process.

[0117] When laundry machine 20 receives the operation stop signal, it stops the rotation of the washing drum and drying drum, drains the water if it is in the middle of washing or rinsing, and then unlocks lid 22. This allows the facility owner or general user to remove the clothes from laundry machine 20 and wash or dry them in another laundry machine 20.

[0118] After this, if the next mode is set to the free mode, the laundry machine 20 disinfects (cleans with Plasmacluster) the laundry storage section (washing drum, drying drum, etc.) and ends the error processing.

[0119] In the operation mode setting control shown in Figure 7, the operation mode is switched by the equipment owner or staff of laundry store 2 using the mouse or keyboard of server 27 or a personal computer or mobile terminal connected to server 27 when laundry machine 20 is empty or has become empty. However, the operation mode can also be switched by time reservation or automatic switching, for example. When switching to free mode from 3:00 PM by time reservation, a message image 26d with the text "This facility will be reserved for the equipment owner from 3:00 PM" is displayed on message display 26 of laundry machine 20, as shown in Figure 11(d).

[0120] Therefore, the operation mode can be switched by operation by the equipment owner or staff of laundry store 2, automatic switching when various conditions are met, or scheduled switching. If laundry equipment 20 is empty, the operation mode will be switched immediately after operation at the set time for automatic switching or scheduled switching. If laundry equipment 20 is not empty, the operation mode will be switched after operation, when various conditions are met, after the scheduled time, or when it becomes empty.

[0121] In the first and second modified examples, the facility owner is used as the business that uses the laundry machine 20, but the business that uses the laundry machine 20 may also be the manager or owner of the laundry machine 20.

[0122] The configuration and operation of this embodiment of the present invention will be summarized below. The laundry system 1 of this embodiment of the present invention is a laundry system equipped with a plurality of laundry devices 20 each having at least one of a washing function and a drying function, and the display on the display unit provided on the laundry device changes depending on whether it is used by a general user or by the manager or owner of the laundry device 20.

[0123] Preferably, the use of the laundry equipment is free of charge when used by the caretaker or owner of the laundry equipment.

[0124] Furthermore, the laundry system 1 of the present invention is a laundry system that includes a plurality of laundry appliances 20 each having at least one of a washing function and a drying function, and a control device (server 27) that communicates between a plurality of users' mobile terminals (equipment owner mobile terminal 31 or general user mobile terminal 32) and controls the operation of the laundry appliances 20 according to the results of the communication, and the control device prohibits general users from operating the laundry appliances that are set in a state that allows them to be managed or used by the owner.

[0125] Furthermore, the laundry system 1 of the present invention is a laundry system comprising a plurality of laundry appliances 20 each having at least one of a washing function and a drying function, and a control device (server 27) that communicates with a plurality of users' mobile terminals (equipment owner mobile terminal 31 or general user mobile terminal 32) and controls the operation of the laundry appliances 20 according to the results of the communication, wherein a linking unit is provided on the surface of at least one of the laundry appliances, and the control device comprises: a linking means (a program that executes steps S51 to S54 of the server 27 and FIG. 9) that uses the linking unit to link one of the users' mobile terminals with one of the laundry appliances 20, and an operation command output means (a program that executes steps S67 to S71 of the server 27 and FIG. 9) that outputs an operation command to the laundry appliance 20 linked to the mobile terminal based on an operation request signal from the mobile terminal after linking by the linking means, and the linking means prohibits the linking of the laundry appliance 20 that has been set in a state where it can be used by the manager or owner of the laundry appliance with a mobile terminal where the user is a general user.

[0126] According to the laundry system 1 configured in this way, by changing the display on the display unit of the laundry equipment when it is used by a general user and when it is used by the manager or owner of the laundry equipment, even if some of the laundry equipment is being used by employees or other related parties, general users will not have to worry about whether they are allowed to use the laundry equipment.The same laundry equipment can be used by the manager or owner of the laundry equipment and general users, allowing for effective use of the equipment.

[0127] Furthermore, according to laundry system 1, the use of laundry equipment is free of charge when used by the manager or owner of the laundry equipment, eliminating the need to insert and retrieve coins to pay for the laundry equipment, and providing convenience to the manager or owner.

[0128] Furthermore, when a business uses the laundry equipment, the laundry storage area of ​​the laundry equipment is disinfected (cleaned with Plasmacluster), allowing general users and the manager or owner of the laundry equipment to use the laundry equipment 20 in a hygienic manner, thereby providing convenience to users.

[0129] Furthermore, according to the laundry system 1 of this embodiment, the laundry equipment 20 that has been set to be available for use by the manager or owner of the laundry equipment is prohibited from being operated by general users, so that the laundry equipment 20 can be used by both general users and businesses, which is convenient for users.

[0130] Furthermore, in the laundry system 1 of this embodiment, smart laundry (= technology for controlling coin laundry machines with a mobile phone) is used to prevent the management or owner of the laundry equipment from using the laundry equipment 20 (linking is not possible).

[0131] Furthermore, in the laundry system 1 of this embodiment, when the laundry machine is being used by the caretaker or owner, the lid locking system prevents anyone other than the cleaner from opening or closing the lid until the caretaker or owner has finished using the laundry machine. This prevents general users from using the laundry machine, stealing or removing laundry, or putting in unwanted items (dirty items) until the caretaker or owner has finished using the laundry machine.

[0132] Furthermore, the message display 26 used in each laundry machine 20 notifies the user that the machine is being used by a business (equipment owner), thereby clearly indicating to general users that the laundry machine 20 is currently being used by a business, and at that moment it is being used by a dry cleaner.

[0133] Furthermore, in the laundry system 1 of this embodiment, the washing mode (chemicals used) is handled differently depending on whether the user is a general user or the manager or owner of the laundry machine.

[0134] In this embodiment, cleaning with Plasmacluster eliminates hygiene issues when the laundry equipment manager or owner uses the laundry equipment 20, but as a first variant of this embodiment, a more powerful sterilization system may be used.

[0135] For example, in a first variation of this embodiment, highly concentrated alkaline ionized water, acidic water, or other cleaning and disinfecting agents are poured in to clean the inside, clearly switching between use by general users and use as a dry cleaner. In this first variation of this embodiment, a route for pouring in disinfectants, etc., and a control section for cleaning when switching are provided.

[0136] Unlike use by general users, cleaning by the equipment owner does not have to be completed as a top priority (it is okay to pause the cleaning, remove the laundry, and then put it back in when it is empty), so as a second variation of this embodiment, when a general user visits laundry store 2, the cleaning may be stopped midway, laundry machine 20 may be opened, and priority may be given to the general user. For example, the transition from spin-drying to drying is a turning point, and if the laundry is relatively dry during drying, it is easier to pause the drying.

[0137] Furthermore, in this embodiment and the first and second variants, the business using laundry equipment 20 is the equipment owner, but the business using laundry equipment 20 is not limited to the equipment owner, and can be any of a variety of businesses, such as a business that operates laundry store 2 of laundry system 1, a business that operates a laundry store (coin laundry) separate from laundry store 2, a cleaning / linen supply business (a combined service of leasing and cleaning in which a professional business rents out linen items prepared for customers and then launders and returns them after use), a cleaning business, etc.

[0138] In addition, in this embodiment and the first and second variants, laundry equipment 20 installed in laundry store 2 is used as the laundry equipment, but other commercial laundry equipment, such as laundry equipment installed in accommodation facilities or factories, can also be used as the laundry equipment.

[0139] The business operator is, for example, the manager or owner of the laundry machine 20 . The laundry storage section of the laundry machine may be disinfected when the manager or owner (business owner) of the laundry machine 20 uses the laundry machine.

[0140] In particular, when the laundry equipment 20 is transferred from a state in which it has been used by a general user to a state in which it is used by the caretaker or owner, the caretaker or owner of the laundry equipment 20 will be entrusted with laundry from customers and will be using (washing) it, so doing this is particularly effective in order to ensure hygiene at that time.

[0141] Of course, it goes without saying that the laundry machine 20 may be disinfected when it is returned from a state in which it has been used by the caretaker or owner to a state in which it can be used by a general user.

[0142] The laundry machine 20 may be switched between a management or owner usage state and a general user usage state, for example, when the selected factory is closed (at night, on a holiday, or on a regular day off).

[0143] This concludes the description of specific embodiments and variations, but the present invention is not limited to these. For example, while in the embodiments, billing is performed by credit card, it may also be performed by prepaid card, debit card, mobile phone usage fee, etc. Furthermore, the facility owner or general user may connect to the Internet at home, launch a dedicated app, and check availability information for laundry machines. Additionally, the specific configuration of the laundry system and the specific procedures for determining operation and controlling operation command output may also be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0144] 1. Laundry System 2 Laundry stores 20 Laundry Equipment 21 Glass Window 21 Glass Windows 22 Lid 23 Identification Code 23 20 Identification Code 24 Password display 24a One-time password 25 displays 26 Message display 26a Image 26b Image 26c Image 27 Servers 27a Storage section 27b Processing section 27c Signal generation section 28 Wireless LAN 30 Internet 31 Equipment Owner Mobile Terminal 31a screen 32 General user mobile terminals 33 Administrator terminal 46 App download webpage 47 Icons 48 images 49 App download button 50 images 51 "Back" button 52 How to Use Webpage 53 images 54 Password entry screen 71 Messages 72 "YES" button 73 "Driving Course" button 74 "ENTER" button 75 Messages 76 "Lid lock" button 77 "Window opacity" button 91 Messages 92 Messages 101 Messages 102 "Cancel" button

Claims

1. A laundry system including a plurality of laundry machines each having at least one of a washing function and a drying function, The display on the display unit provided on the laundry machine is changed depending on whether the laundry machine is used by a general user or by a manager or owner of the laundry machine. A laundry system characterized by:

2. The laundry equipment is free of charge when used by the person in charge or owner of the equipment. The laundry system according to claim 1 .

3. a plurality of laundry machines each having at least one of a washing function and a drying function; A laundry system including a control device that communicates with mobile terminals of multiple users and controls the operation of the laundry equipment in accordance with the communication results, The laundry system is characterized in that the control device prohibits general users from operating the laundry equipment that has been set to a state where it can be used by the manager or owner of the laundry equipment.

4. a plurality of laundry machines each having at least one of a washing function and a drying function; A laundry system including a control device that communicates with mobile terminals of multiple users and controls the operation of the laundry equipment in accordance with the communication results, a stringing portion is provided on at least one surface of the laundry device; The control device a linking unit that links one of the user's mobile terminals with one of the laundry devices using the linking unit; an operation command output means for outputting an operation command to the laundry device linked to the mobile terminal based on an operation request signal from the mobile terminal after the linking by the linking means; Preparation, The laundry system is characterized in that the linking means prohibits linking of the laundry equipment, which has been set to a state where it can be used by the manager or owner of the laundry equipment, with a mobile terminal whose user is a general user.

Images