Clothing treatment device rental management system, clothing treatment device, and use charge calculation method

Abstract

To provide a clothing treatment device rental management system, a clothing treatment device, and a use charge calculation method, which enable necessary and sufficient charge to be collected.SOLUTION: A clothing treatment device rental management system according to the disclosure lends a clothing treatment device to a borrower, calculates use charge based on a use status of the clothing treatment device, and charges a user of the clothing treatment device. The clothing treatment device rental management system comprises: an operation status management section to manage an operation status of the clothing treatment device; and a use charge calculation section to calculate the use charge based on an operation load of the clothing treatment device that is calculated using the operation status.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a clothing processing device rental management system, a clothing processing device, and a usage fee calculation method. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an energy consuming appliance that charges according to user merit. This energy consuming appliance includes a billing amount calculation means that calculates a user merit that indicates the user's satisfaction level from operating conditions and operating information, and calculates a billing amount based on the user merit.

[0003] Patent Document 2 discloses a rental product management system that calculates rental fees based on the usage status of the rental product. This rental product management system calculates rental fees based on the usage time and number of times of the rental product, and the usage fees for optional software.

[0004] Patent Document 3 discloses a vehicle transfer suggestion device that aims to improve vehicle usage manners by users. This vehicle transfer suggestion device provides an incentive for users with good vehicle usage manners to improve their vehicle usage manners by suggesting to the users that they transfer to another vehicle with a higher rank. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-304515

[0006] [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-49680

[0007] [Patent Document 3] Patent Publication No. 2021-125159 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] The present disclosure provides a clothing processing device rental management system, a clothing processing device, and a usage fee calculation method that enable the collection of necessary and sufficient fees. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The clothing processing device rental management system of the present disclosure is a clothing processing device rental management system that rents out a clothing processing device to a borrower, calculates a usage fee based on the usage status of the clothing processing device, and charges the user of the clothing processing device, and is equipped with an operating status management unit that manages the operating status of the clothing processing device, and a usage fee calculation unit that calculates the usage fee from the operating load of the clothing processing device calculated using the operating status.

[0010] The clothing processing device of the present disclosure is a clothing processing device used in a clothing processing device rental management system that rents out a clothing processing device to a borrower and charges the user a usage fee based on the usage status of the clothing processing device, and is characterized by comprising an operating status management unit that manages the operating status of the clothing processing device, a usage fee calculation unit that calculates the usage fee from the operating load of the clothing processing device calculated using the operating status, and a clothing processing device communication control unit that transmits the usage fee calculated by the usage fee calculation unit to a billing management server.

[0011] The usage fee calculation method in the present disclosure is a usage fee calculation method by a clothing processing device rental management system that rents out a clothing processing device to a borrower, calculates a usage fee based on the usage status of the clothing processing device, and charges the user of the clothing processing device, and obtains the operating status of the clothing processing device, calculates the operating load of the clothing processing device using the operating status, and calculates the usage fee using the calculated operating load. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] The clothing processing device rental management system, clothing processing device, and usage fee calculation method disclosed herein can easily calculate usage fees that reflect the operating load of the clothing processing device, thereby making it possible to collect a necessary and sufficient fee while taking into account fluctuations in operating costs associated with maintenance and repair risks that vary depending on how the clothing processing device is used. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a washing machine rental management system according to a first embodiment; [Figure 2] Block diagram showing the configuration of a washing machine [Figure 3] A diagram showing the basic data flow for calculating the washing machine usage fee between the washing machine and the management server. [Figure 4] A chart showing the relationship between the operating time and operating load factor for one washing machine operation [Figure 5] Block diagram showing the management server configuration [Figure 6] Block diagram showing the configuration of a terminal device [Figure 7] An example of the previous results screen [Figure 8] An example of the current results screen [Figure 9] Flowchart showing the operation of the washing machine, the management server, and the terminal device [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a current result screen according to another embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time when the inventors came up with the idea for this disclosure, in the technology of a clothing processing device rental management system, as shown in Patent Documents 1 and 2, it was common to charge fees mainly according to the user's profits. However, the inventors have discovered that even if a usage fee is collected based on the user's benefit, depending on the method of use and maintenance of the clothing treatment device, the operating costs may increase due to a shortened lifespan of the clothing treatment device or an increased frequency of repairs, and it may be difficult to collect a necessary and sufficient fee.The inventors have come up with the subject matter of the present disclosure in order to solve this problem. The present disclosure provides a clothing processing device rental management system, a clothing processing device, and a usage fee calculation method that make it easy to collect a necessary and sufficient fee.

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessary detailed description may be omitted. For example, detailed description of well-known matters or redundant description of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoid unnecessary redundancy in the following description and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0016] (Embodiment 1) [1-1.Configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a washing machine rental management system 1000.

[0017] The washing machine rental management system 1000 is a system that manages the washing machine 1 rented to the user U. The washing machine rental management system 1000 charges the user U a usage fee F according to the operation load L of the washing machine 1. In this embodiment, the washing machine rental management system 1000 charges the user U a usage fee F according to the operation load L of the washing machine 1 and a monthly fee that does not vary according to the operation load L of the washing machine 1. The user U is configured to pay the usage fee F and the monthly fee once a month. If the washing machine 1 used by the user U breaks down, the user U can receive maintenance and repair of the washing machine 1 from the operator of the washing machine rental management system 1000 free of charge or at a low cost (for example, only the cost of a service technician's visit). In this embodiment, when the washing machine rental management system 1000 determines that the washing machine 1 has broken down or is abnormal, it transmits request information to a maintenance and repair server (not shown) requesting that a service technician be dispatched. The washing machine 1 corresponds to an example of a "clothing processing device" in this disclosure. The washing machine rental management system 1000 corresponds to an example of a "clothing processing device rental management system" in the present disclosure. A user U in this embodiment corresponds to both a "borrower" and a "user."

[0018] The washing machine rental management system 1000 includes a washing machine 1. The washing machine 1 is a device for washing laundry in a washing tub 156. In this embodiment, a drum-type washing machine is exemplified as washing machine 1. FIG. 1 illustrates an example in which two washing machines 1A and 1B are installed inside facility H, and washing machine 1C is installed outside facility H. When washing machines 1A, 1B, and 1C are not particularly distinguished from one another, they are referred to as washing machine 1.

[0019] The washing machine 1 communicates with a management server 3 connected to a network NW via a communication device 5. The network NW includes the Internet, a telephone network, and other communication networks.

[0020] The communication device 5 is connected to the network NW and communicates with devices connected to the network NW. The communication device 5 functions as an interface device for connecting the washing machine 1 and the terminal device 4 to the network NW. The communication device 5 establishes a local network in the facility H.

[0021] The washing machine rental management system 1000 includes a terminal device 4. The terminal device 4 is a PC (Personal Computer) such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal. An application program related to the washing machine 1 is installed on the terminal device 4, and the terminal device 4 communicates with the management server 3 using the function of this application program. In the following description, the application program is referred to as a "terminal APP" and is appropriately represented as "terminal APP 431" by adding the reference number "431."

[0022] The washing machine rental management system includes a management server 3. Management server 3 is a server device that manages washing machine 1. Management server 3 is connected to network NW and performs information processing with washing machine 1 and terminal device 4 as clients. Management server 3 corresponds to an example of a "billing management server" in the present disclosure.

[0023] [1-1-1. Washing machine configuration] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the washing machine 1. The washing machine 1 includes a washing machine control device 100. The washing machine control device 100 includes a washing machine processor 110 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a washing machine memory 130, and an interface circuit to which other devices and sensors are connected.

[0024] Washing machine memory 130 is a memory that stores programs and data. Washing machine memory 130 stores control program 131, washing machine ID (Identification) 132, and other data processed by washing machine processor 110. Washing machine memory 130 has a non-volatile storage area. Washing machine memory 130 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute a work area for washing machine processor 110. Washing machine memory 130 is composed of, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0025] The washing machine ID 132 is identification information for identifying the washing machine 1. The washing machine ID 132 may be, for example, the serial number of the washing machine 1.

[0026] The washing machine memory 130 stores load coefficient data 133. The load coefficient data 133 is a capacity load coefficient l C (t), and maintenance reserve load factor l M This is the data used to calculate (t).

[0027] Washing machine memory 130 stores fee setting 134. Fee setting 134 is data including a fee f per unit load, which will be described later.

[0028] Washing machine memory 130 stores display content information 135. Display content information 135 stores information from the previous operation of washing machine 1. Display content information 135 includes content to be displayed on a previous result screen V1, which will be described later.

[0029] Washing machine control device 100 is connected to washing machine communication unit 151, display operation unit 152, water supply valve 154, drain valve 155, each unit of washing tub 156, water level sensor 158, temperature sensor 160, and compressor 161. Note that washing machine control device 100 may also be connected to devices other than those described above.

[0030] The washing tub 156 is composed of an outer tub and an inner tub (not shown). The outer tub is a generally cylindrical member that stores wash water. The inner tub is a generally cylindrical member that is rotatably mounted inside the outer tub and can accommodate laundry. The outer tub may be called a water tub, and the inner tub may be called a drum.

[0031] Drive motor 157 is a motor that drives the inner tub to rotate. Drive motor 157 also functions as a means for detecting the weight of laundry put into washing tub 156. Note that washing machine 1 may detect the weight of laundry put into washing tub 156 by a weight sensor instead of drive motor 157. Washing tub 156 further includes a vibration sensor 159 .

[0032] Vibration sensor 159 is a sensor that measures a displacement value of washing tub 156 in a certain direction. The certain direction is, for example, the direction of the rotation axis of washing tub 156. Vibration sensor 159 is a means for detecting a deviation in the position of the laundry. The deviation in the position of the laundry can also be called an imbalance of washing tub 156. Note that vibration sensor 159 may be an acceleration sensor that measures a displacement value of the acceleration of the rotation of washing tub 156.

[0033] Water level sensor 158 is a sensor that measures the water level inside washing tub 156. Water level sensor 158 may be of any type. Also, instead of water level sensor 158, a weight sensor that measures the weight of water inside washing tub 156 may be used.

[0034] Temperature sensor 160 measures the temperature of the location where washing machine 1 is installed. In the present embodiment, this temperature corresponds to the room temperature inside facility H for washing machines 1A and 1B, and corresponds to the outside air temperature outside facility H for washing machine 1C. Temperature sensor 160 is preferably placed in a position where it is not affected by the heat generated by washing machine 1.

[0035] Washing machine 1 has a function of drying laundry stored in washing tub 156. A circulation air passage (not shown) provided in washing machine 1 exhausts and dehumidifies the air in washing tub 156, and then heats and dries the air and blows it back into washing tub 156. The circulation air passage is separated from washing tub 156 by a breathable drying filter. The drying filter prevents dust, lint, and the like generated by the laundry in washing tub 156 from entering the circulation air passage.

[0036] Along the circulation air path, there are provided a heat pump unit to which a compressor 161, a condenser, or other dehumidifying means are connected by piping, and a blower fan 162, which serves as a blower. The blower fan 162 is, for example, an axial flow fan, and includes an impeller that is rotated by driving a motor.

[0037] Washing machine communication unit 151 includes hardware such as a communication circuit that complies with a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with management server 3 under the control of washing machine processor 110.

[0038] Display operation unit 152 is a panel having washing machine touch panel 153, which is a touch panel, operation buttons, etc. Display operation unit 152 is disposed, for example, on the top of washing machine 1. Note that display operation unit 152 may have any display device, such as a liquid crystal panel, that is not a touch panel, instead of washing machine touch panel 153.

[0039] Washing machine processor 110 has, as functional units, washing machine communication control unit 111, operation control unit 112, washing machine display control unit 113, operation status management unit 114, usage fee calculation unit 115, operation load coefficient calculation unit 116, and operation time measurement unit 119. These functional units are realized by cooperation of hardware and software when washing machine processor 110 reads and executes control program 131 stored in washing machine memory 130.

[0040] Washing machine communication control unit 111 communicates with management server 3 via washing machine communication unit 151.

[0041] Operation control unit 112 controls mechanisms related to washing, such as water supply valve 154, drive motor 157, and drain valve 155, to perform washing. Washing mainly consists of a washing process, a rinsing process, a spin-drying process, and a drying process. Water supply valve 154 supplies water to washing tub 156 when it is open, and stops the water supply when it is closed. Drain valve 155 drains water from inside washing tub 156 when it is open, and stops the draining when it is closed.

[0042] There are multiple courses for washing that the operation control unit 112 can perform. The courses include, for example, an automatic course, a towel-only course, and a blanket course. The automatic course is suitable when there is little bias in the types of fabrics being washed. The towel-only course is particularly suitable for washing towels, and is characterized by, for example, supplying more water during the washing process. The blanket course is particularly suitable for washing large fabrics such as blankets, sheets, and curtains, and is characterized by, for example, performing the washing process with a high concentration of detergent.

[0043] Washing machine display control unit 113 uses display operation unit 152 to display information related to washing machine 1. Information related to washing machine 1 is, for example, text information notifying of an error. Washing machine display control unit 113 is also configured to use display operation unit 152 to display a previous result screen V1 and a current result screen V2, which will be described later, that present the usage fee F for washing machine 1 to user U. Washing machine display control unit 113 in this embodiment corresponds to an example of a "fee display unit" in the present disclosure.

[0044] [1-1-1-1. Basic data flow] 3 is a diagram showing a basic data flow for calculating the usage fee F of the washing machine 1 in the washing machine 1 and the management server 3. Below, the basic data flow will be explained using FIG. 3, and then each functional unit will be explained in detail.

[0045] The operational state management unit 114 acquires data relating to the operational state of the washing machine 1. As shown in Fig. 3, the operational state management unit 114 transfers the acquired data relating to the operational state of the washing machine 1 to the operational load coefficient calculation unit 116.

[0046] The operational load coefficient calculation unit 116 uses the data received from the operational state management unit 114 and the load coefficient data 133 to calculate the operational load coefficient l(t).

[0047] The operating load coefficient l(t) is the operating load L imposed on the washing machine 1 per unit time while the washing machine 1 is operating. The operating load coefficient l(t) can take on different values ​​for each operating time t, which is the time during which the washing machine 1 is operating.

[0048] The operating load L is a dimensionless quantity that quantifies the degree of deterioration of the state of the washing machine 1 due to the operation of the washing machine 1. If the operating load L is a large value, the degree of deterioration of the state of the washing machine 1 is large, and if the operating load L is a small value, the degree of deterioration of the state of the washing machine 1 is small. In this embodiment, the operating load L is a capacity load L C , and maintenance reserve load L M Handles:

[0049] Capacitive load L C is a type of operational load L, which is an operational load L that reduces the design life of the washing machine 1. In detail, the capacity load L C is a dimensionless quantity that quantifies the degree to which the design life of the washing machine 1 is lost due to operation of the washing machine 1. In the following, the capacity load L C The operating load coefficient l(t) corresponding to C (t) is called the capacity load factor l C (t) is the capacity load L applied to washing machine 1 per unit time when washing machine 1 is running. C This is what I mean.

[0050] Maintenance reserve load L Mis a type of operational load L, and is an operational load L that occurs when a user U postpones maintenance of the washing machine 1. In detail, the postponed maintenance load L M is a dimensionless quantity that quantifies the degree to which the condition of the washing machine 1 deteriorates when the user U operates the washing machine 1 while the maintenance of the washing machine 1 is suspended. In the following, the maintenance suspension load L M The corresponding operating load coefficient l(t) is expressed as the maintenance pending load coefficient l M (t) is called the maintenance reserve load factor l M (t) is the maintenance load L applied to washing machine 1 per unit time while washing machine 1 is operating. M This is what I mean.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 3, the operation load coefficient calculation unit 116 includes a capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 and a pending maintenance load coefficient estimation unit 118 . The operation load coefficient calculation unit 116 calculates the capacity load coefficient l by the capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117. C (t) is calculated. Then, the calculated capacity load coefficient l C (t) is passed to the usage fee calculation unit 115. In addition, the operation load coefficient calculation unit 116 calculates the above-mentioned pending maintenance load coefficient l by the pending maintenance load coefficient estimation unit 118. M (t) is calculated. Then, the calculated maintenance reserve load coefficient l M (t) is passed to the usage fee calculation unit 115.

[0052] Furthermore, operation time measurement unit 119 measures operation time t, which is the elapsed time from the start of operation of washing machine 1. As shown in FIG. 3, operation time measurement unit 119 transfers the measured operation time t to usage fee calculation unit 115.

[0053] The usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the fee setting 134 and the received capacity load coefficient l C (t) and maintenance reserve load factor l M(t) and calculates the usage fee F of the washing machine 1. Usage fee calculation unit 115 transfers the calculated usage fee F to washing machine communication control unit 111 and washing machine display control unit 113.

[0054] Washing machine display control unit 113 displays usage fee F passed from usage fee calculation unit 115 using washing machine touch panel 153. Furthermore, washing machine communication control unit 111 transmits usage fee F received from usage fee calculation unit 115 to management server 3 using washing machine communication unit 151. In this embodiment, usage fee F received by management server 3 is further transmitted to terminal device 4 via network NW, and is presented to user U by terminal device 4.

[0055] Next, the operational status management unit 114, the operational load coefficient calculation unit 116, and the usage fee calculation unit 115 will be described in detail.

[0056] [1-1-1-2. Operational Status Management Unit] Operational state management unit 114 manages the operation state of washing machine 1. In detail, operation state management unit 114 monitors the states of various actuators in washing machine 1, such as water supply valve 154, drain valve 155, drive motor 157, compressor 161, and blower fan 162. For example, operation state management unit 114 can acquire the value of current flowing through the motor of blower fan 162 and drive motor 157. Operational state management unit 114 also monitors the measurement values ​​of various sensors, such as water level sensor 158, vibration sensor 159, and temperature sensor 160. Furthermore, operation state management unit 114 monitors which process is being executed by operation control unit 112, whether or not operation control unit 112 has performed balance correction, which will be described later, and the like.

[0057] [1-1-1-3. Operating load coefficient calculation section] The operation load coefficient calculation unit 116 calculates the capacity load coefficient l, which is a type of the operation load coefficient l(t). C (t) and maintenance reserve load factor l MSpecifically, the operation load coefficient calculation unit 116 includes a capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 and a pending maintenance load coefficient estimation unit 118.

[0058] [1-1-1-3-1. Capacity Load Coefficient Estimation Unit] The capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 calculates the capacity load coefficient l at each operation time t during operation of the washing machine 1. C (t) is calculated using the information acquired by the operation status management unit 114 and the load coefficient data 133. In detail, the capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 calculates the capacity load L C Taking into account the various types of loads classified into the following, the capacity load factor l C The predetermined time Δt is set to be sufficiently shorter than the time required for each process during operation of the washing machine 1. The predetermined time Δt is, for example, 10 seconds.

[0059] In this embodiment, the capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 estimates the capacity load L C As the four types of capacity load L C,1 , L C,2 , L C,3 , L C,4 The capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 also estimates the type-specific capacity load L C,1 ~L C,4 For each of these, the capacity load L by type per unit time during operation time t C,1 ~L C,4 The type-specific capacity load factor l C,1 (t), l C,2 (t), l C,3 (t), l C,4 Then, the capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 calculates the type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,1 (t)~l C,4 The sum of (t) is the capacity load coefficient l at operating time t. C Let (t). In addition, the capacitive load L C The type-specific capacity loads treated as such can be any number of types as long as they are one or more, and the type-specific capacity loads L C,1 , L C,2 , L C,3 , LC,4 It may include loads other than those.

[0060] The first type of capacity load L C,1 is a dimensionless quantity that quantifies the degree of wear and tear of the design life of the washing machine 1 according to the weight of laundry in the washing tub 156 when the washing machine 1 is in operation. C,1 The larger the weight of the laundry in the washing tub 156, the larger the value becomes, and the smaller the weight of the laundry in the washing tub 156, the smaller the value becomes. The capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 uses the weight of the laundry in the washing tub 156 and the load coefficient data 133 to calculate the type-specific capacity load coefficient l of the first type at the operation time t. C,1 Find (t).

[0061] Specifically, capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 estimates the weight of the laundry in washing tub 156 using the current value of drive motor 157 at the start of washing, etc., acquired by operation status management unit 114. Capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 estimates that when the current value of drive motor 157 is large, the weight of the laundry in washing tub 156 is a large value, and when the current value is small, the weight of the laundry in washing tub 156 is a small value.

[0062] The capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 also estimates the first type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,1 The value of (t) is calculated using the estimated laundry weight, data included in load coefficient data 133, and the operating state of washing machine 1 including the current value of drive motor 157 during operating time t.

[0063] For example, the load coefficient data 133 may be a data set that expresses the operating status of the washing machine 1, including the current value of the drive motor 157 during the operating time t, as a function of a type-specific capacity load coefficient l according to the weight of the laundry in the washing tub 156. C,1 In this case, capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 converts the operation state of washing machine 1 at operation time t acquired from operation state management unit 114 according to the weight of laundry using the table or function included in load coefficient data 133, and calculates the type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,1 Find the value of (t).

[0064] The second type of capacity load L C,2 is a dimensionless quantity that quantifies the degree of wear and tear of the design life of the washing machine 1 due to vibration of the washing tub 156 when the washing machine 1 is in operation. C,2 The larger the vibration of washing tub 156, the larger the value, and the smaller the vibration of washing tub 156, the smaller the value. Capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 uses the magnitude of vibration of washing tub 156 during operation time t and load coefficient data 133 to calculate the type-specific capacity load L per unit time during operation time t. C,2 The value of is calculated and the calculated value is used as the second type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,2 Let (t).

[0065] Specifically, capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 calculates the magnitude of vibration of washing tub 156 during operation time t from the detected value by vibration sensor 159 acquired by operation status management unit 114. In addition, capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 calculates the second type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,2 The value of (t) is estimated using the estimated vibration magnitude of washing tub 156 and data included in load coefficient data 133. Load coefficient data 133 estimates the vibration magnitude of washing tub 156 using the second type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,2 In this case, capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 converts the estimated vibration magnitude of washing tub 156 by the table or function, etc., to obtain the type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,2 Find the value of (t).

[0066] The third type of capacity load L C,3 is a dimensionless quantity that quantifies the degree of wear and tear of the design life of the washing machine 1 according to the type of each process, such as the washing process, rinsing process, spin-drying process, and drying process, that the washing machine 1 performs. C,3 The capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 uses the type of process being executed during the operation time t and the data included in the load coefficient data 133 to calculate the type-specific capacity load coefficient l during the operation time t. C,3 Find (t).

[0067] Specifically, the capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 acquires the type of process being executed during the operating time t from the operating status management unit 114. The capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 also acquires the third type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,3 The value of (t) is estimated using the type of process being executed during the operation time t obtained from the operation status management unit 114 and data included in the load coefficient data 133. The load coefficient data 133 includes the type of process being executed, as a third type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,3 In this case, the capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 converts the type of process being executed during the acquired operating time t using the table or the like to obtain the type-specific capacity load coefficient l for the operating time t. C,3 Find the value of (t).

[0068] The fourth type of capacity load L C,4 is a dimensionless quantity that quantifies the degree of wear and tear on the design life of the washing machine 1 due to balance correction in the spin-drying process. C,4 The capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 uses the presence or absence of a process to start balance correction during the operation time t and the data included in the load coefficient data 133 to calculate the capacity load L by type per unit time during the operation time t. C,4 The value of is calculated and the calculated value is used as the fourth type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,4 Let (t).

[0069] Specifically, the capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 acquires information on whether or not a process for starting balance correction has been performed between the operating time t and the time when a predetermined time Δt has elapsed since the operating time t from the operating state management unit 114. The capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 calculates the fourth type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,4The value of (t) is estimated using the acquired information on whether or not a process to start balance correction has been performed and the data included in the load coefficient data 133. The load coefficient data 133 includes the information on whether or not a process to start balance correction has been performed as a fourth type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,4 In this case, the capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 converts the acquired information on whether or not the process of starting the balance correction has been performed using the table or the like to obtain the type-specific capacity load coefficient l. C,4 (t) is calculated. In this case, the type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,4 (t) is the fourth type of capacitive load L C,4 Assuming that all of the above occurred during a given time Δt, the capacity load L by type per unit time is C,4 corresponds to the calculated value.

[0070] The balance correction in the spin-drying process is an operation performed to eliminate imbalance in the position of the laundry inside washing tub 156. In the spin-drying process, operation control unit 112 rotates washing tub 156 at high speed to spin-dry the laundry by centrifugal force, but if the position of the laundry inside washing tub 156 is imbalanced, the vibration of washing tub 156 increases. To prevent this, if the vibration of washing tub 156 detected by vibration sensor 159 during the spin-drying process is greater than a predetermined value, operation control unit 112 performs balance correction by temporarily stopping the rotation of washing tub 156 or reducing the rotation speed, thereby eliminating the imbalance in the position of the laundry inside washing tub 156. After the balance correction, operation control unit 112 rotates washing tub 156 at high speed again to spin-dry the laundry.

[0071] The capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 calculates the capacity load coefficient l at each operating time t. C (t) is the capacity load coefficient by type obtained as above, l C,1 (t)~l C,4 (t) is calculated as the sum of the calculated capacity load coefficient l C(t) is passed to the usage fee calculation unit 115.

[0072] [1-1-1-3-2. Maintenance reserve load estimation section] The pending maintenance load coefficient estimation unit 118 estimates the pending maintenance load coefficient l at each operation time t during operation of the washing machine 1. M (t) is calculated using the information acquired by the operation status management unit 114 and the load coefficient data 133. In detail, the pending maintenance load coefficient estimation unit 118 calculates the pending maintenance load L M Taking into account the loads classified into various types, the maintenance reserve load coefficient l M Find (t).

[0073] In this embodiment, the maintenance reserve load L M As a result, there are three types of maintenance reserve load L M,1 , L M,2 , L M,3 The pending maintenance load coefficient estimation unit 118 handles the pending maintenance load by type L M,1 ~L M,3 For each of these, the maintenance reserve load L by type per unit time during operation time t M,1 ~L M,3 The maintenance load factor by type is l M,1 (t), l M,2 (t), l M,3 Then, the maintenance pending load coefficient estimation unit 118 calculates the type-specific maintenance pending load coefficient l M,1 (t)~l M,3 The sum of (t) is the maintenance reserve load factor l at operating time t. M Let (t). In addition, the maintenance reserve load L M The type-specific maintenance reserve loads treated as such may be any number of types as long as they are one or more, and the type-specific maintenance reserve loads L M,1 , L M,2 , L M,3 It may include other than.

[0074] First type of maintenance reserve load L M,1 is a dimensionless quantity that quantifies the deterioration of the condition of the washing machine 1 that occurs when the washing machine 1 is operated with the user U suspending maintenance of the drying filter. If the user U continues to suspend maintenance of the drying filter, the drying filter will become clogged with lint and the like generated from the laundry. If the washing machine 1 is operated in this condition, for example, a large torque is required for the blower fan 162 to blow air, and the condition of the blower fan 162 and the like will easily deteriorate. First type of maintenance reserve load L M,1 and maintenance reserve load factor by type M,1 A means for reducing (t) is to clean the drying filter and remove clogging.

[0075] Specifically, the maintenance pending load coefficient estimation unit 118 calculates the first type-specific maintenance pending load coefficient l by using the current value of the motor of the blower fan 162 acquired by the operation state management unit 114 during the operation time t and the load coefficient data 133. M,1 Find (t).

[0076] For example, the load coefficient data 133 is a data set that calculates the current value of the motor of the blower fan 162 during the operation time t by dividing the current value by the first maintenance type-specific load coefficient l M,1 In this case, the maintenance pending load coefficient estimation unit 118 may include a table or function for converting the current value of the motor of the blower fan 162 acquired by the operation state management unit 114 during the operation time t into the type-specific maintenance pending load coefficient l by using the table or function. M,1 Find (t).

[0077] Second type of maintenance reserve load L M,2is a dimensionless quantity that quantifies the deterioration of the condition of washing machine 1 that occurs when washing machine 1 is operated while user U has suspended maintenance of washing tub 156. If user U continues to suspend maintenance of washing tub 156, dirt accumulates in washing tub 156. If washing machine 1 is operated in this state, for example, the condition of washing tub 156 is likely to deteriorate. Second type of maintenance reserve load L M,2 and maintenance reserve load factor by type M,2 The reduction means for reducing (t) is to have washing machine 1 execute a tub cleaning course to clean washing tub 156. In the present embodiment, operating status management unit 114 is configured to be able to acquire, from washing machine memory 130, the timing when washing machine 1 last executed the tub cleaning course.

[0078] Specifically, the maintenance suspension load coefficient estimation unit 118 uses the operating state of the washing machine 1 during the operating time t, including the current value of the drive motor 157, the timing when the tub cleaning course was last executed, and the load coefficient data 133 to calculate the second type-specific maintenance suspension load coefficient l M,2 Find (t).

[0079] For example, the load coefficient data 133 is calculated by taking into account the operating state of the washing machine 1 during the operating time t, including the current value of the drive motor 157, and the elapsed time since the last tub cleaning course was executed, and calculating the second type-specific maintenance pending load coefficient l M,2 In this case, the maintenance pending load coefficient estimation unit 118 converts the operation state of the washing machine 1 acquired by the operation state management unit 114 at the operation time t and the elapsed time since the tub cleaning course was last executed, using the table or the function, and calculates the type-specific maintenance pending load coefficient l M,2 Find (t).

[0080] Third type of maintenance reserve load L M,3is a dimensionless quantity that quantifies the deterioration of the condition of washing machine 1 caused by user U operating washing machine 1 with drain filter maintenance suspended. If user U continues to postpone drain filter maintenance, the drain filter will become clogged with lint and the like from the laundry. If washing machine 1 is operated in this state, for example, during the washing and rinsing processes, it becomes difficult for water in washing tub 156 to drain even with drain valve 155 open. Therefore, the state of clogging of the drain filter can be determined by the rate at which the water level in washing tub 156 decreases when drain valve 155 is open. Third type of maintenance reserve load L M,3 and maintenance reserve load factor by type M,3 A means for reducing (t) is for the user U to clean the drainage filter and unclog it.

[0081] In detail, the maintenance pending load coefficient estimation unit 118 uses the operation state of the washing machine 1 for the operation time t including the measurement value of the water level sensor 158 and the load coefficient data 133 to calculate the third type-specific maintenance pending load coefficient l M,3 Find (t).

[0082] For example, the load coefficient data 133 may be a third type of load coefficient l for type-specific maintenance, which may be a load coefficient for the operation time t including the measurement value of the water level sensor 158. M,3 In this case, the operation status management unit 114 converts the operation status of the washing machine 1 for the operation time t including the measurement value of the water level sensor 158 using the table or the function, and calculates the type-specific maintenance pending load coefficient l. M,3 Find (t).

[0083] The maintenance pending load coefficient estimation unit 118 calculates the maintenance pending load coefficient l at each operating time t. M (t) is the maintenance reserve load coefficient l by type obtained as above. M,1 (t)~l M,3Then, as shown in Figure 3, the calculated maintenance reserve load coefficient l M (t) is passed to the usage fee calculation unit 115.

[0084] In this embodiment, the capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 estimates the calculated type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,1 (t)~l C,4 The value of (t) itself is also passed to the usage fee calculation unit 115 . Similarly, in this embodiment, the pending maintenance load coefficient estimation unit 118 estimates the pending maintenance load coefficient by type l M,1 (t)~l M,3 The value of (t) itself is also passed to the usage fee calculation unit 115 .

[0085] [1-1-1-4. Usage Fee Calculation Section] The usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the operational load L using the operational load coefficient l(t) received from the operational load coefficient calculation unit 116.

[0086] [1-1-1-4-1. Calculation of operating load] In this embodiment, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the capacity load coefficient l handed over from the capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117. C Using (t), the capacitive load L C The usage fee calculation unit 115 also calculates the pending maintenance load coefficient l handed over from the pending maintenance load coefficient estimation unit 118. M Using (t), the maintenance reserve load L M Calculate.

[0087] As described above, the operating load coefficient l(t) is the value of the operating load L per unit time. Therefore, the value of the operating load L can be obtained by integrating the operating load coefficient l(t) over the operating time t of the washing machine 1.

[0088] Similarly, the capacitive load L C is the capacitance load factor l C(t) can be obtained by integrating the operating time t of the washing machine 1. Also, the maintenance pending load L M is the maintenance reserve load factor l M (t) can be obtained by integrating it over the operating time t.

[0089] 4 is a graph showing the relationship between the operation time t and the operation load coefficient l(t) in one operation of the washing machine 1. In FIG. C (t), and graph G2 plots the capacity load coefficient l C (t) and maintenance reserve load factor l M This is a graph plotting the sum of (t).

[0090] As mentioned above, the capacitive load L C is the capacitance load factor l C (t) can be obtained by integrating the load capacity L C is the area of ​​the shaded area between the graph G1 and the operating time t axis. Also, the maintenance pending load L M is the maintenance reserve load factor l M (t) can be obtained by integrating the operating time. Therefore, in Figure 3, the maintenance reserve load L M is the area of ​​the white parts of graph G2 and graph G1.

[0091] As described above, in this embodiment, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the capacity load coefficient l for the operating time t for each predetermined time Δt calculated by each of the load coefficient estimation units 117 and 118. C (t), and maintenance reserve load factor l M Therefore, the usage fee calculation unit 115 receives the capacity load coefficient l C (t), and maintenance reserve load factor l M (t) is regarded as a function of the operating time t discretized in predetermined time intervals Δt, and the maintenance reserve load L M, and the capacitive load L C Find the value of . That is, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the maintenance pending load L M , and the capacitive load L C The value of is calculated using the following equations (1) and (2).

[0092]

number

[0093]

number

[0094] Although details will be described later, in this embodiment, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the value of the usage fee F for one operation of the washing machine 1 each time the washing machine 1 operates. Therefore, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the pending maintenance load L for one operation of the washing machine 1 each time the washing machine 1 operates. M The value of the capacitance load L C Calculate the value of

[0095] Note that one operation of the washing machine 1 is, for example, a series of operations including one or more steps from when the washing machine 1 starts to when it stops. For example, when the washing machine 1 washes laundry, one operation of the washing machine 1 includes a washing step, a rinsing step, a spin-drying step, and a drying step. Also, for example, when the washing machine 1 executes a drying course that includes only a drying step in response to an operation by the user U, one operation of the washing machine 1 includes only the drying step.

[0096] [1-1-1-4-2. Calculation of usage fees] Furthermore, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the usage fee F using the operating load L and the fee per unit load f included in the fee setting 134. The fee per unit load f is the usage fee F charged to the user U per value of the operating load L.

[0097] In this embodiment, the pricing 134 is set based on the total operating load L Total The charge per unit load f corresponds to the maintenance cost per unit load f M Includes the total operating load L Total is a type of operational load L, and is a type of capacity load L C and maintenance reserve load L M It is the harmony of.

[0098] Maintenance cost per unit load f M The value of is stored in advance in the washing machine memory 130. In this embodiment, the maintenance cost per unit load f M The value of is the total operating load L in one operation during standard use of washing machine 1. Total L std The number of times the washing machine 1 is operated before maintenance by the administrator of the washing machine rental management system 1000 is N M,std and the cost required for one maintenance by the administrator of the washing machine rental management system 1000 is M, the cost is given by the following formula (3). Note that standard use of the washing machine 1 refers to, for example, when the washing machine 1 is used in accordance with the method of use of the washing machine 1 recommended by the manufacturer of the washing machine 1.

[0099]

number

[0100] The usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the capacity load L using the formulas (1) and (2). C and maintenance reserve load L M Using the above, the total operating load L Total Then, calculate the calculated total operating load L Total and maintenance cost per unit load f M Calculate the product of and and use the calculated value as the maintenance cost burden F M Let's say.

[0101] Maintenance cost burden F Mis the fee incurred when user U operates washing machine 1 while suspending maintenance of washing machine 1. Maintenance cost burden F M is collected by the operator of the washing machine rental management system 1000 to cover the cost of maintaining the washing machine 1.

[0102] In this embodiment, the fee setting 134 is set based on the capacity load L C The per-unit-load charge f corresponds to the per-unit-load equipment value consumption charge f C Contains:

[0103] Equipment value consumption cost per unit load f C The value of is stored in advance in the washing machine memory 130. In this embodiment, the equipment value consumption cost per unit load f C The value of is the capacity load L during one operation of washing machine 1 under standard use. C L C,std Let N be the number of times washing machine 1 is operated under standard use until its design life is over. L,std Let P be the price for acquiring washing machine 1, then it is given by the following equation (4).

[0104]

number

[0105] The usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the capacity load L C and the equipment value consumption cost per unit load f C The product of and is calculated as the equipment value loss burden F C Let's say.

[0106] Equipment Value Loss Burden F C is a type of usage fee F, and is a fee incurred when the designed life of the washing machine 1 is worn out when the user U operates the washing machine 1. C is collected by the operator of the washing machine rental management system 1000 to cover the cost of purchasing or manufacturing the washing machine 1.

[0107] In this embodiment, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the usage fee F to be presented to the user U as the equipment value loss burden F C and maintenance costs F M The total usage fee F Total That is, the total usage fee F Total is given by the following equation (5):

[0108]

number

[0109] [1-1-1-4-3. Calculation of contribution amount] As described above, in this embodiment, the usage fee calculation unit 115 receives the type-specific maintenance pending load coefficient l from the operation load coefficient calculation unit 116. M,1 (t)~l M,3 Receive the value of (t) respectively. Therefore, the maintenance reserve load factor by type l M,1 (t)~l M,3 (t) is the maintenance reserve load coefficient l in equation (1), M By substituting into (t), the maintenance reserve load by type L M,1 ~L M,3 The value of can be calculated.

[0110] Similarly, in this embodiment, the usage fee calculation unit 115 receives the type-specific capacity load coefficient l from the operation load coefficient calculation unit 116. C,1 (t)~l C,4 Receive the value of (t) respectively. For this reason, the type-specific capacity load factor l C,1 (t)~l C,4 (t) is the capacity load coefficient l in equation (2), C By substituting into (t), the capacity load by type L C,1 ~L C,4 The value of can be calculated.

[0111] As mentioned above, the maintenance reserve load by type L M,1~L M,3 The sum of the maintenance reserve load L M In addition, the type of capacity load L C,1 ~L C,4 The sum of the capacitive load L C Therefore, equation (5) can be transformed into the following equation (6). However, F in equation (6) M,1 ~F M,3 are the maintenance reserve loads L M,1 ~L M,3 and maintenance cost per unit load f M and the product of. Also, F C,1 ~F C,4 are the type-specific capacity loads L C,1 ~L C,4 and the equipment value consumption cost per unit load f C and maintenance cost per unit load f M It is the sum of and the product of.

[0112]

number

[0113] F in equation (6) M,1 ~F M,3 and F C,1 ~F C,4 is the total usage fee F Total Maintenance reserve load L for each type M,1 ~L M,3 and type-specific capacity load L C,1 ~L C,4 is the contribution of F M,1 ~F M,3 , F C,1 ~F C,4 In this way, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the contribution F M,1 ~F M,3 , F C,1 ~F C,4 The configuration is such that the above can be calculated.

[0114] [1-1-1-4-4. Calculation of the benefit amount] Furthermore, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the contribution F M,1~F M,3 , F C,1 ~F C,4 The corresponding load factor l M,1 (t)~l M,3 (t), l C,1 (t)~l C,4 Assuming that user U takes measures to reduce (t), the total usage fee F Total The amount of benefit E is the extent to which M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 In this embodiment, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the benefit amount E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 is the value corresponding to one operation of washing machine 1.

[0115] For example, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the contribution F corresponding to the reduction measure assumed to be implemented by the user U. M,1 ~F M,3 , F C,1 ~F C,4 In this case, the usage fee calculation unit 115 may treat the amount of the contribution F corresponding to the reduction means as 0. M,1 ~F M,3 , F C,1 ~F C,4 The value of the effect corresponding to the mitigation measure is E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 Treated as the amount of

[0116] Also, for example, the load coefficient data 133 includes a load coefficient l corresponding to the reduction measure assumed to be executed by the user U. M,1 (t)~l M,3 (t), l C,1 (t)~l C,4 In this case, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the contribution F corresponding to the reduction means. M,1 ~F M,3 , F C,1 ~F C,4 The raw value of and the contribution F corresponding to the reduction measures M,1~F M,3 , F C,1 ~F C,4 The difference between the value obtained by reducing the amount by the value corresponding to the reduction rate and the amount of effect E corresponding to the reduction measure M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 Treated as the amount of

[0117] [1-1-1-5. Operating load coefficient calculation section] The operation time measurement unit 119 measures the operation time t of the washing machine 1. In detail, the operation time measurement unit 119 counts a fixed period using a clock and supplies the counted period as the operation time t to the operation load coefficient calculation unit 116. This allows the operation load coefficient calculation unit 116 to calculate the operation load coefficient for each predetermined time Δt, and the usage fee calculation unit 115 to perform numerical integration using the above-mentioned formulas (1) and (2).

[0118] [1-1-2. Management Server Configuration] Next, the configuration of the management server 3 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the management server 3. As shown in FIG.

[0119] The management server 3 includes a server control device 300 and a server communication unit 351 .

[0120] The server control device 300 includes a server processor 310 such as a CPU or MPU, a server memory 330, and an interface circuit to which other devices and sensors are connected.

[0121] The server memory 330 is a memory that stores programs and data. The server memory 330 stores a control program 331, a management DB (database) 332, and other data processed by the server processor 310. The server memory 330 has a non-volatile storage area. The server memory 330 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute a work area for the server processor 310. The server memory 330 is constituted by, for example, a ROM or a RAM.

[0122] The management DB 332 is a database that manages information related to the washing machine 1. Each record R stored in the management DB 332 has one washing machine ID 132. Among the records R managed by the management DB 332, each washing machine ID 132 has a unique value.

[0123] Furthermore, each record R in management DB 332 has a dedicated ID 432. The dedicated ID 432 is information that identifies a terminal device 4. In other words, by referring to each record R, it is possible to identify the terminal device 4 corresponding to each washing machine 1. One record R may have any number of dedicated IDs 432. Furthermore, for example, when information on multiple washing machines 1 is displayed on one terminal device 4, the values ​​of the dedicated IDs 432 will be the same among multiple records R.

[0124] Each record R in the management DB 332 has one user ID 333. The user ID 333 is information that identifies the user U who is to be charged the usage fee F. That is, by referring to each record R, it is possible to identify the user U of each washing machine 1. For example, if one user U rents multiple washing machines 1, the value of the user ID 333 will be the same among multiple records R.

[0125] Record R also stores a billed fee DR. The billed fee DR includes information about the usage fee F for the washing machine 1 corresponding to the washing machine ID 132 in the same record R. In other words, by referring to each record R, it is possible to identify the usage fee F for the use of each washing machine 1 and the user U to whom the fee will be billed.

[0126] Server communication unit 351 includes hardware such as a communication circuit that complies with a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with washing machine 1 and terminal device 4 under the control of server control device 300.

[0127] The server processor 310 reads and executes a control program 331 stored in the server memory 330 , thereby functioning as a server communication control unit 311 and a management unit 312 .

[0128] Server communication control unit 311 communicates with washing machine 1 and terminal device 4 via server communication unit 351. Server communication control unit 311 receives the total usage fee F Total The value of is received via the server communication unit 351.

[0129] Management unit 312 performs processing related to management DB 332. In particular, management unit 312 updates management DB 332. Management unit 312 receives the total usage fee F Total When receiving the value of , the total usage fee F received is calculated against the billing fee DR of record R corresponding to the sending washing machine 1. Total Reflect the value of

[0130] [1-1-3. Terminal device configuration] Next, the configuration of the terminal device 4 will be described. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the terminal device 4. As shown in FIG. The terminal device 4 includes a terminal control device 400, a terminal communication unit 451, and a terminal touch panel 452.

[0131] The terminal control device 400 includes a terminal processor 410 such as a CPU or MPU, a terminal memory 430, and an interface circuit to which other devices and sensors are connected. A terminal communication unit 451 and a terminal touch panel 452 are connected to the terminal control device 400. Note that other devices such as sensors may also be connected to the terminal control device 400.

[0132] The terminal memory 430 is a memory that stores programs and data. The terminal memory 430 stores a terminal APP 431, a dedicated ID 432, a washing machine ID 132 linked to the dedicated ID, and other data to be processed by the terminal processor 410. The terminal memory 430 has a non-volatile storage area. The terminal memory 430 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute a work area for the terminal processor 410. The terminal memory 430 is constituted by, for example, a ROM or a RAM. The dedicated ID 432 is unique identification information that identifies each terminal device 4. The dedicated ID 432 is used, for example, when the management server 3 identifies the terminal device 4 that displays various information about each washing machine 1.

[0133] The terminal communication unit 451 includes hardware such as a communication circuit that complies with a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the management server 3 under the control of the terminal processor 410 . The terminal touch panel 452 is a touch panel. Note that instead of the terminal touch panel 452, the terminal device 4 may have any display device such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel, and any input device such as a button, a switch, a keyboard, or a mouse.

[0134] The terminal processor 410 reads and executes the terminal APP 431 stored in the terminal memory 430, thereby functioning as a terminal communication control unit 411, a terminal display control unit 412, and a reception unit 413. The terminal display control unit 412 corresponds to an example of a notification unit.

[0135] The terminal communication control unit 411 communicates with the management server 3 via the terminal communication unit 451 . Terminal display control unit 412 controls terminal touch panel 452 to display various information. Terminal display control unit 412 is also configured to be able to display a current result screen V2, which will be described later, using terminal touch panel 452 to present usage fee F for washing machine 1 to user U. Terminal display control unit 412 in the present embodiment corresponds to an example of a "fee display unit" in the present disclosure. The reception unit 413 receives various inputs made by the user U via the terminal touch panel 452 .

[0136] [1-1-4. Screen Configuration] [1-1-4-1. Configuration of the previous results screen] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the previous result screen V1. The previous result screen V1 is a screen presented to a user U who is about to operate the washing machine 1. The previous result screen V1 is displayed on the washing machine touch panel 153 by the washing machine display control unit 113.

[0137] The previous result screen V1 has previous operation summary information IF1 that shows a summary of the previous operation of the washing machine 1. The previous operation summary information IF1 includes information such as the start date and time, operation course, and required time when the washing machine 1 was last operated.

[0138] The previous result screen V1 has previous usage fee information IF2 indicating the usage fee F for the previous operation of the washing machine 1. In this embodiment, the previous usage fee information IF2 includes the usage fee F for the previous operation, which is the total usage fee F for the previous operation. Total The washing machine display control unit 113 displays the total usage fee F for the previous operation included in the display content information 135 stored in the washing machine memory 130. Total The previous usage fee information IF2 is displayed by referring to the value of .

[0139] The previous result screen V1 has previous reduction means information IF3. The previous reduction means information IF3 includes information on reduction means that can reduce the operation load coefficient l(t), the operation load L, or the usage fee F when the washing machine 1 is in operation. In this embodiment, the type-specific capacity load L for the previous operation included in the display content information 135 is C,1 ~L C,4 The corresponding benefit amount E C,1 ~E C,4 If any of the above values ​​is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference value, the previous reduction means information IF3 is C,1 ~L C,4The display includes information on the reduction measures that can reduce the above.

[0140] For example, in the example of FIG. 7, the effect amount E for the previous operation included in the display content information 135 is C,1 ~E C,4 The first type of capacity load L C,1 The corresponding benefit amount E C,1 7, the previous reduction measure information IF3 is the text "Please keep the amount of laundry put in 10 kg or less." As a result, the previous reduction measure information IF3 indicates the type-specific capacity load L, which is to reduce the weight of laundry put into the washing tub 156. C,1 The user U is prompted to take measures to reduce the

[0141] The previous result screen V1 has previous benefit amount information IF4. The previous benefit amount information IF4 is the benefit amount E of the previous operation corresponding to the reduction means indicated by the previous reduction means information IF3. C,1 ~E C,4 The amount of benefit E indicated by the previous benefit information IF4 is included. C,1 ~E C,4 This information is information included in the display content information 135. For example, in the example of Fig. 7, the previous effect amount information IF4 is the characters "10 yen."

[0142] [1-1-4-2. Configuration of this result screen] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the current result screen V2. Current result screen V2 is a screen presented to user U after washing machine 1 has performed one operation. Hereinafter, the operation that ended immediately before current result screen V2 is presented will be referred to as the current operation. Current result screen V2 is displayed on washing machine touch panel 153 by washing machine display control unit 113. In this embodiment, current result screen V2 is also displayed on terminal touch panel 452 by terminal display control unit 412.

[0143] The current result screen V2 has current operation summary information IF11 that shows a summary of the current operation of the washing machine 1. The current operation summary information IF11 includes information such as the start date and time of the current operation of the washing machine 1, the operation course, and the required time.

[0144] The current result screen V2 has current usage fee information IF12 indicating the usage fee F for the current operation of the washing machine 1. In this embodiment, the current usage fee information IF12 indicates the total usage fee F for the current operation as the usage fee F for the current operation. Total The washing machine display control unit 113 displays the total usage fee F for this operation calculated by the usage fee calculation unit 115. Total Receive the value of F Total The value is displayed as the current usage fee information IF12.

[0145] The current result screen V2 has current reduction means information IF13. The current reduction means information IF13 includes information on reduction means that can reduce the operation load coefficient l(t), the operation load L, or the usage fee F when the washing machine 1 is in operation. In this embodiment, the type-specific maintenance pending load L for the current operation calculated by the usage fee calculation unit 115 is M,1 ~L M,3 The corresponding benefit amount E M,1 ~E M,3 If any of the loads exceeds a predetermined reference value, the current reduction means information IF13 will M,1 ~L M,3 The display includes information on the reduction measures that can reduce the above.

[0146] For example, in the example of FIG. 8, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the benefit amount E M,1 ~E M,3 In the example of FIG. 8, the current reduction means information IF13 indicates the amount of effect E that exceeds the predetermined reference value. M,1 ~E M,3 All types of maintenance reserve load L M,1 ~L M,3Specifically, in the example of FIG. 8, the current reduction measure information IF13 includes the characters "clean the drying filter," "run the tank cleaning course," and "clean the drain filter," respectively. As a result, the current reduction measure information IF13 indicates the maintenance pending load L by type, which includes cleaning the drying filter, running the tank cleaning course, and cleaning the drain filter. M,1 ~L M,3 The user U is prompted to take measures to reduce the above.

[0147] The current result screen V2 has current benefit information IF14. The current benefit information IF14 indicates the benefit amount E of the current operation corresponding to the reduction means indicated by the current reduction means information IF13. M,1 ~E M,3 This time, the benefit amount information IF14 shows the benefit amount E M,1 ~E M,3 This information is calculated by the usage fee calculation unit 115. For example, in the example of Fig. 8, the current benefit amount information IF14 is "8 yen", "5 yen", and "3 yen", respectively.

[0148] [1-2. Operation] The operation of the washing machine rental management system 1000 configured as above will be described below.

[0149] 9 is a flowchart showing the operations of washing machine 1, management server 3, and terminal device 4. Flowchart YA shows the operation of washing machine 1. Flowchart YB shows the operation of management server 3. Flowchart YC shows the operation of terminal device 4. The operations in FIG. 9 are started, for example, when user U starts an input operation on washing machine touch panel 153, or when user U opens the lid that closes washing tub 156, or the like.

[0150] At the beginning of the operation of FIG. 9, in step SA1, the washing machine display control unit 113 refers to the display content information 135 and calculates the type-specific capacity load L C,1 ~LC,4 The amount of benefit E corresponding to the reduction measures C,1 ~E C,4 In step SA1, it is determined whether or not there is any benefit amount E that is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference value. C,1 ~E C,4 If any one of these is equal to or greater than the predetermined reference value (step SA1: YES), the process proceeds to step SA2.

[0151] In step SA1, the benefit amount E C,1 ~E C,4 If none of the values ​​is equal to or greater than the predetermined reference value (step SA1: NO), the process proceeds to step SA3 after receiving an operation by user U to start operation of washing machine 1 on display operation unit 152 (step SD1).

[0152] In step SA2, the washing machine display control unit 113 displays the above-mentioned previous result screen V1 on the washing machine touch panel 153. This notifies the user U of the amount of benefit E that exceeded a predetermined reference value in the previous operation. C,1 ~E C,4 , and the corresponding reduction means are presented as previous benefit amount information IF4 and previous reduction means information IF3.

[0153] In this embodiment, the type-specific capacity load L indicated by the previous reduction means information IF3 C,1 ~L C,4 The reduction means includes a reduction means that can be executed by the user U immediately before starting the operation of the washing machine 1, such as reducing the weight of laundry put into the washing tub 156. Therefore, by presenting the previous result screen V1 including the previous reduction means information IF3 to the user U in step SA2, which is immediately before starting the operation of the washing machine 1, the user U can easily execute the reduction means.

[0154] After step SA2 is executed, the process proceeds to step SA3 by accepting an operation (step SD1) performed by user U on display operation unit 152 to start operation of washing machine 1.

[0155] In step SA3, operation control unit 112 starts the operation of washing machine 1.

[0156] In step SA4, the operation status management unit 114 acquires various operation statuses of the washing machine 1 in operation as described above.

[0157] In step SA5, operation control unit 112 ends the operation of washing machine 1 when all the processes have been completed.

[0158] In step SA6, operation load coefficient calculation unit 116 and usage fee calculation unit 115 calculate the total usage fee F in the above-described manner using the various operation states of washing machine 1 acquired by operation state management unit 114 in step SA4. Total Calculate.

[0159] In step SA7, the operation load coefficient calculation unit 116 and the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculate the effect amount E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 are calculated respectively.

[0160] In step SA8, washing machine communication control unit 111 calculates the total usage fee F calculated in steps SA6 and SA7. Total The value of each effect E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 The value data is sent to the management server 3.

[0161] In step SA9, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the total usage fee F Total The value of each effect E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 The data of the value of is stored as display content information 135. As a result, the next time user U tries to operate washing machine 1, the total usage fee F calculated in steps SA6 and SA7 will be displayed.Total , each effect amount E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 This information can be displayed on the previous result screen V1 in the next step SA2.

[0162] In step SA10, the washing machine display control unit 113 displays the current result screen V2 described above on the washing machine touch panel 153. As a result, the total usage fee F Total The value of E, the amount of effect that exceeded the specified standard value in this operation M,1 ~E M,3 , and the benefit amount E M,1 ~E M,3 The corresponding reduction means are presented as current benefit amount information IF14 and current reduction means information IF13.

[0163] In step SB1, the server communication control unit 311 of the management server 3 uses the server communication unit 351 to receive the total usage fee F transmitted in step SA8. Total The value of each effect E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 Receives the value data.

[0164] In step SB2, the management unit 312 receives the total usage fee F Total The billed fee DR of the record R corresponding to the source washing machine 1 is updated using the value of Total The value is reflected in the billing fee DR.

[0165] In step SB3, the server communication control unit 311 uses the server communication unit 351 to receive the total usage fee F received in step SB1. Total The value of each effect E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 The data of the value of is transmitted to the terminal device 4 corresponding to the washing machine 1 that transmitted the data.

[0166] In step SC,1, the terminal communication control unit 411 of the terminal device 4 uses the terminal communication unit 451 to receive the total usage fee F transmitted in step SB3. Total The value of each effect E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 Receives the value data.

[0167] In step SC,2, the terminal display control unit 412 uses the data received in step SC,1 to display the current result screen V2 described above on the terminal touch panel 452. As a result, the total usage fee F Total The value of E, the amount of effect that exceeded the specified standard value in this operation M,1 ~E M,3 , and the benefit amount E M,1 ~E M,3 The corresponding reduction means are presented as current benefit amount information IF14 and current reduction means information IF13.

[0168] In this embodiment, the type-specific maintenance pending load L indicated by the current reduction means information IF13 is M,1 ~L M,3 The reduction means, i.e., the maintenance contents, include reduction means that can be performed by the user U after the operation of the washing machine 1 is completed, such as cleaning the drying filter or the drain filter or running a tub cleaning course. Therefore, by presenting the current result screen V2 including the current reduction means information IF13 to the user U in steps SA10 and SC2 after the operation of the washing machine 1 is completed, the user U can easily perform the reduction means.

[0169] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in this embodiment, the washing machine rental management system 1000 is a system that rents out the washing machine 1 to the user U who is the borrower, calculates the usage fee F based on the usage status of the washing machine 1, and charges the user U who is the user of the washing machine 1, and includes an operation status management unit 114 that manages the operation status of the washing machine 1, and a usage fee calculation unit 115 that calculates the usage fee F from the operation load L of the washing machine 1 calculated using the operation status. This makes it easier to calculate the usage fee F that reflects the operating load L of the washing machine 1. This makes it possible to collect a necessary and sufficient fee, taking into account the fluctuations in operating costs associated with maintenance and repair risks that vary depending on how the washing machine 1 is used.

[0170] As in this embodiment, the washing machine rental management system 1000 may be configured to include an operation load coefficient calculation unit 116 that calculates an operation load coefficient l(t) indicating the magnitude of the operation load L per hour based on the operation status obtained from the operation status management unit 114, and the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the usage fee F from the operation load L calculated using the operation load coefficient l(t) calculated by the operation load coefficient calculation unit 116. This makes it easier to calculate the usage fee F that accurately reflects the operating load L of the washing machine 1. This makes it possible to collect a necessary and sufficient fee, taking into account the fluctuations in operating costs associated with maintenance and repair risks that vary depending on how the washing machine 1 is used. In particular, in this embodiment, the operation load coefficient calculation unit 116 calculates the operation load coefficient l(t) for each predetermined time Δt that is sufficiently shorter than each process executed by the washing machine 1. Furthermore, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the operation load L by numerically integrating the operation load coefficient l(t) for each predetermined time Δt calculated by the operation load coefficient calculation unit 116 over the operation time t. This makes it easier to accurately reflect the time fluctuation of the operation load coefficient l(t) in the operation load L, and makes it easier to collect a necessary and sufficient usage fee.

[0171] As in the present embodiment, the operating load L is a capacity load L that reduces the design life of the washing machine 1. Cand the maintenance pending load L generated due to the pending maintenance of washing machine 1. M The usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the capacity load L of the washing machine 1. C and maintenance reserve load L M The operating load L may be calculated from the above and the usage fee F may be calculated. This makes it easier to calculate the usage fee F that accurately reflects the operating load L of the washing machine 1. This makes it possible to collect a necessary and sufficient fee, taking into account the fluctuations in operating costs associated with maintenance and repair risks that vary depending on how the washing machine 1 is used.

[0172] As in this embodiment, the maintenance pending load L calculated by the usage fee calculation unit 115 M may be reduced when maintenance is performed. As a result, the usage fee F is reduced by performing maintenance on the washing machine 1, which makes it easier to encourage the user U to perform maintenance on the washing machine 1. This makes it easier to reduce the operating costs of the washing machine rental management system 1000.

[0173] In the washing machine rental management system 1000 according to the present embodiment, the capacity load L C The capacity load coefficient l indicates the magnitude per unit time of C (t), and a capacity load coefficient estimation unit 117 for calculating the maintenance pending load L M Maintenance reserve load coefficient l, which indicates the hourly magnitude of M and a maintenance pending load coefficient estimating unit 118 for deriving the capacity load coefficient l (t). C (t) and maintenance reserve load factor l M Using (t), the capacitive load L C and maintenance reserve load L M The configuration may be such that: This makes it easier to calculate the usage fee F that accurately reflects the operating load L of the washing machine 1. This makes it possible to collect a necessary and sufficient fee, taking into account the fluctuations in operating costs associated with maintenance and repair risks that vary depending on how the washing machine 1 is used. In particular, in this embodiment, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the capacity load L C Equipment value loss burden F C and maintenance reserve load L M Maintenance costs related to F M The total usage fee F is calculated by dividing it into two parts. Total This allows, for example, the equipment value loss burden F C and maintenance costs F M Therefore, when the user U purchases the washing machine 1 that is currently being rented, the amount that the user U will pay for the purchase of the washing machine 1 can be calculated by subtracting, for example, the price P of the washing machine 1 from the equipment value wear and tear burden F that the user U has paid up to now. C The price may be deducted from the above.

[0174] As in this embodiment, the washing machine rental management system 1000 may be configured to include a washing machine display control unit 113 and a terminal display control unit 412 that present the usage fee F calculated by the usage fee calculation unit 115 to the user U along with a reduction means for reducing the operating load L. This allows the user U to be presented with a reduction measure for reducing the operation load L of the washing machine 1, making it easier to encourage the user U to implement the reduction measure. This makes it easier to reduce the operating costs of the washing machine rental management system 1000. In particular, in this embodiment, washing machine display control unit 113 can display the reduction measures on washing machine touch panel 153 of washing machine 1, and terminal display control unit 412 can also display the reduction measures on terminal touch panel 452. This makes it particularly easy to encourage user U to implement the reduction measures.

[0175] As in the present embodiment, washing machine rental management system 1000 includes washing machine display control unit 113 and terminal display control unit 412 that present usage fee F calculated by usage fee calculation unit 115 to user U, and washing machine display control unit 113 and terminal display control unit 412 display the pending maintenance load coefficient l to user U. M (t) type, maintenance reserve load factor l M A configuration may be adopted in which a recommendation is made to implement a reduction measure to reduce (t). This will increase the maintenance reserve load factor l M Since the user can be presented with a reduction means for reducing (t), it becomes easier to reduce the operation load L of the washing machine 1. Therefore, it becomes easier to reduce the operation cost of the washing machine rental management system 1000.

[0176] In the washing machine rental management system 1000 as in this embodiment, the washing machine display control unit 113 and the terminal display control unit 412 notify the user U of the maintenance pending load coefficient l M For each type of (t), the benefit amount E indicates the extent to which the usage fee F will be reduced if the reduction measures are implemented. M,1 ~E M,3 The configuration may be such that the following is presented. This allows the user U to understand that if the reduction measure is implemented, the usage fee can be reduced by the amount of the effect, making it easier for the user U to implement the reduction measure. This makes it easier to reduce the operating costs of the washing machine rental management system.

[0177] As in this embodiment, the system may be configured to include a washing machine display control unit 113 and a terminal display control unit 412 that present the usage fee F calculated by the usage fee calculation unit 115 to the user U, and the washing machine display control unit 113 and the terminal display control unit 412 present reduction means for reducing the operating load L at a timing according to the type of reduction means. This makes it easier for the user U to remember to implement the reduction means and to reduce the operation load L of the washing machine 1. This makes it easier to reduce the operation cost of using the washing machine rental management system 1000. In particular, in this embodiment, the capacity load coefficient l C(t) and capacitive load L C The reduction means capable of reducing is presented to the user U by the washing machine display control unit 113 before the washing machine 1 is operated. M (t) and maintenance reserve load L M The reduction means capable of reducing the amount of electricity consumed is presented to the user U by the washing machine display control unit 113 and the terminal display control unit 412 immediately after the operation of the washing machine 1 is finished. Therefore, the reduction means can be presented to the user U at a timing when it is easy for the user U to implement the reduction means.

[0178] In this embodiment, the washing machine 1 is a washing machine 1 used in a washing machine rental management system 1000 that rents out the washing machine 1 to a user U and charges the user U a usage fee F based on the usage status of the washing machine 1, and may be configured to include an operation status management unit 114 that manages the operation status of the washing machine 1, a usage fee calculation unit 115 that calculates the usage fee F from the operation load L of the washing machine 1 calculated using the operation status, and a washing machine communication control unit 111 that transmits the usage fee F calculated by the usage fee calculation unit 115 to the management server 3. This makes it easier to calculate the usage fee F that reflects the operating load L of the washing machine 1. This makes it possible to collect a necessary and sufficient fee, taking into account the fluctuations in operating costs associated with maintenance and repair risks that vary depending on how the washing machine 1 is used.

[0179] (Other embodiments) As described above, the first embodiment has been described as an example of the technology disclosed in the present application. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made. Furthermore, it is also possible to combine the components described in the first embodiment above to create new embodiments. Therefore, other embodiments will be exemplified below.

[0180] In the first embodiment, the washing machine 1 having a drying function has been described as an example of a clothing processing device, but this is just one example. The washing machine 1 may be configured without a drying function. Furthermore, the clothing processing device may be a dryer that has a function of drying clothes but does not have a function of washing clothes. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the washing machine rental management system 1000 has been described as an example of a clothing processing device rental management system, but this is just one example. The clothing processing device rental management system may be configured to manage a washing machine that does not have a drying function or a dryer that does not have a function of washing clothes. Furthermore, the clothing processing device managed by the clothing processing device rental management system may include both the washing machine 1 and a dryer. Note that the items washed and dried by the clothing processing device are not limited to clothes, and may also be bedding such as futons.

[0181] In the first embodiment, the benefit amount E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 It was explained that the amount of reduction in the usage fee F for one operation of washing machine 1 when each reduction measure is implemented is the amount of reduction in the usage fee F for one operation of washing machine 1. M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 It is sufficient if the amount of benefit E can indicate the extent to which the usage fee F is reduced by the reduction means. M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 is not limited to a value corresponding to one operation of the washing machine 1.

[0182] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a current result screen V3 according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, the washing machine display control unit 113 and the terminal display control unit 412 present the user U with a current result screen V3 different from the current result screen V2 of the first embodiment in steps SA10 and SC,3. As shown in FIG. 10, the current result screen V3 according to this embodiment has monthly benefit information IF24 corresponding to the reduction measures indicated by each current reduction measure information IF13, instead of the current benefit information IF14. The monthly benefit information IF24 includes a contribution F corresponding to the operation of the washing machine 1 for one month if the user U had not implemented the reduction measures. M,1 ~F M,3 The monthly benefit D is the amount that will be reduced if user U implements the reduction measures. M,1 ~D M,3 In the example of FIG. 10, the monthly benefit information IF24 is text such as "You will save 248 yen this month," "You will save 175 yen this month," and "You will save 123 yen this month." One month corresponds to an example of the "first period" in this disclosure. Monthly benefit D M,1 ~D M,3 corresponds to an example of the "first period effect amount" in this disclosure.

[0183] In this case, for example, if the user U does not execute the reduction means, that is, if the maintenance is continued to be suspended, the washing machine memory 130 stores the suspended maintenance load L for each type in the current operation of the washing machine 1. M,1 ~L M,3 The usage fee calculation unit 115 may store a maintenance pending load increase model that estimates how the monthly maintenance pending load L for each type will increase, for example, in step SA7 of FIG. M,1 ~L M,3 The monthly benefit amount D is calculated from the estimated result. M,1 ~D M,3 It may be configured to calculate

[0184] That is, as in the other embodiments, the washing machine display control unit 113 and the terminal display control unit 412 are provided to present the usage fee F calculated by the usage fee calculation unit 115 to the user U, and the washing machine display control unit 113 and the terminal display control unit 412 calculate a monthly benefit D that indicates the degree to which the usage fee F for one month will be reduced if the maintenance is performed, based on the usage fee F in the case where the maintenance is continued to be postponed for one month. M,1 ~D M,3 The configuration may be such that the following is presented. As a result, when maintenance is performed, user U can reduce the monthly usage fee F to a monthly benefit D M,1 ~D M,3 This makes it easier for the user U to perform maintenance. This makes it easier to reduce the operating costs of the washing machine rental management system 1000.

[0185] In the above embodiment, the previous result screen V1 displays the amount of effect E that exceeds a predetermined reference value. C,1 ~E C,4 and the amount of effect E that exceeds a predetermined standard value. C,1 ~E C,4 The previous effect amount information IF4 showing the effect amount E that exceeded the predetermined standard value is displayed. M,1 ~E M,3 This time reduction means information IF13 indicating the reduction means corresponding to the above, and the effect amount E exceeding the predetermined standard value M,1 ~E M,3 However, this is just an example. For example, each result screen V1, V2 shows the amount of effect E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 Select any number of the largest amount from the list and calculate the amount of the selected effect E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4 The reduction means information IF3 and IF13 indicating the reduction means corresponding to the selected benefit amount E M,1 ~E M,3 , E C,1 ~E C,4Alternatively, the configuration of each of the result screens V1 and V2 may be modified as desired.

[0186] In the above embodiment, the maintenance reserve load L M is the maintenance reserve load factor l M (t) is calculated by numerically integrating it over the operating time t, and the capacitance load L C is the capacitance load factor l C It has been explained that the load (t) can be calculated by numerically integrating (t) with respect to the operation time t. However, this is just an example. For example, the usage fee calculation unit 115 calculates the product of the numerical value assigned to each process of the washing machine 1 and the coefficient according to the operation status acquired by the operation status management unit 114, and calculates the sum of the calculated products as the pending maintenance load L M or capacitive load L C In this case, a table or a function that associates the numerical values ​​assigned to each process and the operation status acquired by operation status management unit 114 with the coefficients may be stored in washing machine memory 130.

[0187] For example, the operating time t is the capacity load L C,1 The operation load coefficient l(t) may be the operation time calculated according to the weight of clothes, etc., put into washing tub 156, which is a factor that determines the operation load L, and the set operation course. The operation load coefficient l(t), which is the magnitude of the operation load L per hour, may be considered to be constant for each operation course. In other words, the usage fee F may be calculated from the operation load L calculated using the weight of clothes, etc., detected as being in operation, and the identifier of the set operation course. If the operation load coefficient l(t) is constant or can be considered to be constant, the operation load L in each process can be calculated as the product of the operation load coefficient l(t), which is a constant value, and the length of time for each process of washing machine 1 measured by operation time measurement unit 119. The operation load L may also be calculated as a value that does not depend on the operation time t. For example, the capacity load L C may be calculated using the weight of laundry put into washing tub 156, the amount of water used for washing, etc., regardless of the operating time t.

[0188] In addition, the type of load to be considered when calculating the operating load L is the type-specific capacity load L described in the first embodiment. C,1 ~L C,4 , and maintenance reserve load by type L M,1 ~L M,3 It is not necessary to include all of the above, and other types of loads may be included. For example, the operating load L is the load on the drive motor 157, which is the type-specific capacity load coefficient l C,1 The operating load may be calculated by integrating only (t). The wear on the drive motor 157 can be predicted from the load on the drive motor 157, and the load on the drive motor 157 can be calculated from the current value of the drive motor 157. Also, for example, the type-specific capacity load coefficient l, which is the load due to balance correction C,4 The operating load L may be calculated using only (t). In this case, for example, a value that increases with the number of balance corrections is calculated as the type-specific operating load coefficient l by multiplying or adding a predetermined value by the number of balance corrections. C,4 The operating load L may be calculated as (t).

[0189] In the first embodiment, the maintenance pending load L M is the maintenance reserve load by type L M,1 ~L M,3 However, this is just an example. For example, the maintenance reserve load L M may be a value calculated using a maintenance notification function that the washing machine 1 has conventionally had. The maintenance notification function is a function that notifies the user U that maintenance of the washing machine 1 is recommended when maintenance of the washing machine 1 is recommended. Specifically, the maintenance pending load L M may be determined depending on whether or not a notification prompting maintenance of the washing machine 1 is given. For example, when a notification prompting maintenance is not given, the maintenance pending load L M The value of is set to 0, and when a maintenance notification is being issued, the maintenance pending load L MThe value of may be set to a value greater than 0. In addition, when a maintenance prompt notification is being given, the maintenance pending load coefficient l M (t) is the maintenance pending load coefficient l when no maintenance notification is given. M (t) is a value greater than the maintenance reserve load L M Furthermore, if the user repeatedly operates the washing machine 1 without performing maintenance while the notification prompting maintenance is being continuously performed, the maintenance pending load coefficient l may be calculated in stages according to, for example, the number of times the washing machine 1 is operated. M (t) may be increased.

[0190] In the first embodiment, the management server 3 has been described as an example of a billing management server, but this is merely an example. The billing management server does not necessarily have to be composed of a single server device, but may be composed of multiple server devices. For example, the billing management server may be composed of a server device functioning as a management server and a server device functioning as a billing server. In this case, the management server outputs information regarding the billing fee DR, which includes information regarding the usage fee F, and the billing server bills the user U for the usage fee F based on the received information regarding the billing fee DR.

[0191] Record R also stores a billed fee DR. The billed fee DR includes information about the usage fee F for the washing machine 1 corresponding to the washing machine ID 132 in the same record R. In other words, by referring to each record R, it is possible to identify the usage fee F for the use of each washing machine 1 and the user U to whom the fee will be billed.

[0192] In the first embodiment, user U is described as both a borrower who is rented washing machine 1 and a user who uses washing machine 1 to do laundry, but this is just an example. For example, in washing machine rental management system 1000, the borrower and the user may be different people or entities. Also, the user of one washing machine 1 may be multiple people or entities. In this case, for example, a borrower who rents washing machine 1 provides the rented washing machine 1 to the user in a usable state. That is, washing machine rental management system 1000 may be configured to rent washing machine 1 to the user by the hour. In this case, usage fee F is charged to the user, and the user pays usage fee F for the amount of use of washing machine 1. Note that usage fee F may be a total amount for one month. Note that a system in which the borrower pays a monthly fee that does not vary according to the operational load L, and the user pays a fee that varies according to the operational load L, may also be used.

[0193] Furthermore, when the washing machine rental management system 1000 is configured to rent the washing machine 1 to a user by the hour, the user may be charged the total amount of the usage fee F for the first period, or may be charged each time the actual user uses the washing machine 1. In this case, the user is charged the usage fee F according to the operating load for the time period to be charged.

[0194] Furthermore, when washing machine rental management system 1000 is configured to rent washing machine 1 to a user by the hour, it may be configured to notify the user to perform maintenance before operating washing machine 1 in order to ensure the user's cooperation in maintenance. This makes it easier to resolve the pending state of washing machine 1 maintenance.

[0195] In addition, if the washing machine rental management system 1000 is configured to rent out washing machines 1 to multiple users by the hour, it may be configured to increase the usage fee F of the user at the time of the previous operation if it detects or determines that the user has postponed maintenance at the time of the previous operation.

[0196] Washing machine processor 110, terminal processor 410, and server processor 310 may be configured with a single processor or multiple processors. These processors may be hardware programmed to realize the corresponding functional units. That is, these processors may be configured with, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0197] The configurations of washing machine 1, management server 3, and terminal device 4 shown in Figures 2, 5, and 6 are merely examples, and specific implementation forms are not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessarily necessary to implement hardware corresponding to each unit individually, and it is also possible to configure each unit to realize its function by having one processor execute a program. Also, some of the functions realized by software in the above-described embodiments may be implemented by hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be implemented by software. For example, the usage fee calculation unit 115, the operation load coefficient calculation unit 116, etc. may be functional units of the server processor 310.

[0198] The step units of the operation shown in Figure 9 are divided according to the main processing content to make the operation easier to understand, and the operation is not limited by the way the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. The operation may be divided into more step units depending on the processing content. Furthermore, one step unit may be divided so that it includes more processing. Furthermore, the order of the steps may be changed as appropriate within the scope that does not interfere with the purpose of this disclosure.

[0199] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are intended to illustrate the technology of the present disclosure, and various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. may be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0200] (Addendum) The above description of the embodiments discloses the following techniques. (Technology 1) A clothing processing device rental management system that rents out a clothing processing device to a borrower, calculates a usage fee based on the usage status of the clothing processing device, and charges the user of the clothing processing device, characterized in that it comprises an operating status management unit that manages the operating status of the clothing processing device, and a usage fee calculation unit that calculates the usage fee from the operating load of the clothing processing device calculated using the operating status. This makes it easier to calculate usage fees that reflect the operating load of the clothing processing device, making it possible to collect a necessary and sufficient fee that takes into account fluctuations in operating costs associated with maintenance and repair risks that vary depending on how the clothing processing device is used.

[0201] (Technology 2) A clothing processing device rental management system as described in claim 1, further comprising an operational load coefficient calculation unit that calculates an operational load coefficient indicating the magnitude of the operational load per hour based on the operational status obtained from the operational status management unit, and the usage fee calculation unit calculates the usage fee from the operational load calculated using the operational load coefficient calculated by the operational load coefficient calculation unit. This makes it easier to calculate usage fees that accurately reflect the operating load of the clothing processing device, making it possible to collect a necessary and sufficient fee that takes into account fluctuations in operating costs associated with maintenance and repair risks that vary depending on how the clothing processing device is used.

[0202] (Technology 3) A clothing processing device rental management system described in Technology 1 or 2, in which the operating load includes a capacity load that reduces the design life of the clothing processing device and a maintenance pending load that occurs due to maintenance of the clothing processing device being suspended, and the usage fee calculation unit calculates the operating load from the capacity load and the maintenance pending load of the clothing processing device and calculates the usage fee. This makes it easier to calculate usage fees that accurately reflect the operating load of the clothing processing device, making it possible to collect a necessary and sufficient fee that takes into account fluctuations in operating costs associated with maintenance and repair risks that vary depending on how the clothing processing device is used.

[0203] (Technology 4) The clothing processing device rental management system according to Technology 3, wherein the maintenance pending load calculated by the usage fee calculation unit is reduced when the maintenance is performed. This allows the user to receive a discount on the usage fee for performing maintenance on the clothing processing device, making it easier to encourage users to perform maintenance on the clothing processing device, which makes it easier to reduce the operating costs of the clothing processing device rental management system.

[0204] (Technology 5) A clothing processing device rental management system according to Technology 3 or 4, characterized in that it comprises a capacity load coefficient estimation unit that calculates a capacity load coefficient indicating the magnitude of the capacity load per hour, and a maintenance pending load coefficient estimation unit that calculates a maintenance pending load coefficient indicating the magnitude of the maintenance pending load per hour, and the usage fee calculation unit calculates the capacity load and the maintenance pending load using the calculated capacity load coefficient and maintenance pending load coefficient. This makes it easier to calculate usage fees that accurately reflect the operating load of the clothing processing device, making it possible to collect a necessary and sufficient fee that takes into account fluctuations in operating costs associated with maintenance and repair risks that vary depending on how the clothing processing device is used.

[0205] (Technology 6) A clothing processing device rental management system described in any of technologies 1 to 5, characterized in that it is equipped with a fee display unit that presents the usage fee calculated by the usage fee calculation unit to the user along with a reduction means for reducing the operating load. This allows the user to be presented with measures to reduce the operating load of the clothing processing device, making it easier to encourage the user to implement the measures, and therefore easier to reduce the operating costs of the clothing processing device rental management system.

[0206] (Technology 7) A clothing processing device rental management system as described in Technology 5 or 6, which includes a fee display unit that presents the usage fee calculated by the usage fee calculation unit to the user, and the fee display unit presents to the user a recommendation to implement reduction measures to reduce the maintenance pending load coefficient according to the type of maintenance pending load coefficient. This allows the user to be presented with a means for reducing the maintenance pending load coefficient, making it easier to reduce the operating load of the clothing processing device, and therefore easier to reduce the operating costs of the clothing processing device rental management system.

[0207] (Technology 8) The clothing processing device rental management system described in Technology 7, wherein the fee display unit presents the user with an effective amount indicating the degree to which the usage fee will be reduced if the reduction means is implemented, for each type of maintenance pending load coefficient. This allows the user to understand that if the reduction measures are implemented, the user will be able to save the usage fee by the amount of the effect, making it easier for the user to implement the reduction measures, which makes it easier to reduce the operating costs of the clothing processing device rental management system.

[0208] (Technology 9) The clothing processing device rental management system described in Technology 8 is characterized in that the fee display unit presents a first period effect amount indicating the extent to which the usage fee for the first period will be reduced if the maintenance is performed, based on the usage fee if the maintenance is continued on hold for the first period. This allows the user to understand that if maintenance is performed, the usage fee for the first period can be reduced by the amount of the first period effect amount, making it easier for the user to perform maintenance, which makes it easier to reduce the operating costs of the clothing processing device rental management system.

[0209] (Technology 10) A clothing processing device rental management system described in any of technologies 6 to 9, characterized in that the fee display unit presents the reduction means at a timing according to the type of reduction means. This makes it easier for the user to remember to implement the reduction measures and to reduce the operating load of the clothing processing device, which in turn makes it easier to reduce the operating costs of the clothing processing device rental management system.

[0210] (Technology 11) A clothing processing device used in a clothing processing device rental management system that rents out a clothing processing device to a borrower and charges the user a usage fee based on the usage status of the clothing processing device, characterized in that it comprises an operating status management unit that manages the operating status of the clothing processing device, a usage fee calculation unit that calculates the usage fee from the operating load of the clothing processing device calculated using the operating status, and a clothing processing device communication control unit that transmits the usage fee calculated by the usage fee calculation unit to a billing management server. This makes it easier to calculate usage fees that reflect the operating load of the clothing processing device, making it possible to collect a necessary and sufficient fee that takes into account fluctuations in operating costs associated with maintenance and repair risks that vary depending on how the clothing processing device is used.

[0211] (Technology 12) A usage fee calculation method using a clothing processing device rental management system that rents out a clothing processing device to a borrower, calculates a usage fee based on the usage status of the clothing processing device, and charges the user of the clothing processing device, characterized in that the usage fee calculation method obtains the operating status of the clothing processing device, calculates the operating load of the clothing processing device using the operating status, and calculates the usage fee using the calculated operating load. This makes it easier to calculate usage fees that reflect the operating load of the clothing processing device, making it possible to collect a necessary and sufficient fee that takes into account fluctuations in operating costs associated with maintenance and repair risks that vary depending on how the clothing processing device is used. [Industrial Applicability]

[0212] The present disclosure is applicable to a washing machine rental management system and a washing machine. Specifically, the present disclosure is applicable to a washing machine rental management system that charges according to the operating load of a washing machine. [Explanation of symbols]

[0213] 1, 1A, 1B, 1C Washing machine (clothing treatment device) 3 Management server (billing management server) 4 Terminal Devices 5. Communications equipment 100 Washing machine control device 110 Washing Machine Processor 111 Washing machine communication control unit 112 Operation control unit 113 Washing machine display control unit (fee display unit) 114 Operational Status Management Unit 115 Usage Fee Calculation Department 116 Operational load coefficient calculation unit 117 Capacity Load Coefficient Estimation Unit 118 Maintenance Reserve Load Coefficient Estimation Unit 119 Operating time measurement unit 130 Washing Machine Memory 131 Control Program 132 Washing machine ID 133 Load Factor Data 134 Pricing 135 Display content information 151 Washing Machine Communication Unit 152 Display operation section 153 Washing machine touch panel 154 Water supply valve 155 Drain valve 156 Washing machine tub 157 Drive motor 158 Water level sensor 159 Vibration Sensor 160 Temperature Sensor 161 Compressor 162 Blower fan 300 Server control device 310 Server Processor 311 Server communication control unit 312 Management Department 330 Server Memory 331 Control Program 332 Management DB 333 User ID 351 Server Communication Department 400 Terminal control device 410 Terminal Processor 411 Terminal communication control unit 412 Terminal display control unit (charge display unit) 413 Reception Department 430 terminal memory 431 Terminal APP 432 Dedicated ID 451 Terminal Communication Unit 452 Terminal Touch Panel 1000 Washing machine rental management system (clothing processing device rental management system) DR billing fee H Facility NW Network R record U User (borrower, user)

Claims

1. A clothing processing device rental management system that rents out a clothing processing device to a borrower, calculates a usage fee based on a usage status of the clothing processing device, and charges the user of the clothing processing device, an operating status management unit that manages the operating status of the clothing processing device; a usage fee calculation unit that calculates the usage fee from the operating load of the clothing processing device calculated using the operating status, A clothing processing device rental management system.

2. an operational load coefficient calculation unit that calculates an operational load coefficient indicating the magnitude of the operational load per hour based on the operational status obtained from the operational status management unit; the usage fee calculation unit calculates the usage fee from the operational load calculated using the operational load coefficient obtained by the operational load coefficient calculation unit. The rental management system for a clothing processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The operational load includes a capacity load that reduces the design life of the clothing treatment device and a maintenance pending load that occurs due to pending maintenance of the clothing treatment device; The usage fee calculation unit calculates the operating load from the capacity load and the maintenance pending load of the clothing processing device, and calculates the usage fee. The rental management system for a clothing processing device according to claim 1 .

4. The maintenance pending load calculated by the usage fee calculation unit is reduced when the maintenance is performed. The clothing processing device rental management system according to claim 3 .

5. a capacity load coefficient estimation unit for calculating a capacity load coefficient indicating the magnitude of the capacity load per unit time; a maintenance pending load coefficient estimation unit that calculates a maintenance pending load coefficient indicating the magnitude of the maintenance pending load per unit time, the usage fee calculation unit calculates the capacity load and the maintenance pending load using the calculated capacity load coefficient and the maintenance pending load coefficient. The rental management system for a clothing processing device according to claim 3 .

6. a fee display unit that displays the usage fee calculated by the usage fee calculation unit to the user together with a reduction unit that reduces the operational load; 6. The rental management system for a clothing processing device according to claim 1.

7. a fee display unit that displays the usage fee calculated by the usage fee calculation unit to the user; the fee display unit presents to the user a recommendation to execute a reduction method for reducing the maintenance pending load coefficient for each type of the maintenance pending load coefficient. The rental management system for a clothing processing device according to claim 5 .

8. the fee display unit presents to the user an amount of benefit indicating the degree to which the usage fee will be reduced when the reduction means is executed, for each type of the maintenance pending load coefficient. The clothing processing device rental management system according to claim 7.

9. the fee display unit presents a first period benefit amount indicating the degree to which the usage fee for the first period will be reduced if the maintenance is performed, based on the usage fee if the maintenance is continued to be suspended for a first period. The rental management system for a clothing processing device according to claim 8 .

10. The fee display unit displays the reduction means at a timing according to the type of the reduction means. The rental management system for a clothing processing device according to claim 6.

11. A clothing processing device used in a clothing processing device rental management system that rents out a clothing processing device to a borrower and charges the user a usage fee based on the usage status of the clothing processing device, an operating status management unit that manages the operating status of the clothing processing device; a usage fee calculation unit that calculates the usage fee from the operational load of the clothing processing device calculated using the operational status; a clothing processing device communication control unit that transmits the usage fee calculated by the usage fee calculation unit to a charge management server, A clothing processing device characterized by:

12. A method for calculating a usage fee for a clothing processing device rental management system that rents out a clothing processing device to a borrower, calculates a usage fee based on a usage status of the clothing processing device, and charges the user of the clothing processing device, comprising: Acquire the operating status of the clothing treatment device; Calculating the operating load of the laundry treatment device using the operating status; Calculating the usage fee using the calculated operational load. A usage fee calculation method characterized by:

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