Agent recommendation system and agent recommendation method

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a agent recommendation system capable of recommending a useful agent to a user of a washing machine including a limited number of tanks.SOLUTION: A agent recommendation system according to the present disclosure includes: a washing machine including a tank that stores an agent to be supplied to a washing tub; and a recommendation unit that recommends, to a user of the washing machine, a type of the agent that differs from a type of the agent stored in the tank in at least one of category and brand.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a drug recommendation system and a drug recommendation method. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a system for providing free samples of consumer goods in the same product category as those used in home appliances, and also cites a washing machine as an example of the home appliance. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-156677 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure provides an agent recommendation system and agent recommendation method that can recommend useful agents to a user of a washing machine having a limited number of tanks. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The agent recommendation system of the present disclosure comprises a cleaning machine having a tank for storing an agent to be supplied to a cleaning tank, and a recommendation unit that recommends to a user of the cleaning machine a type of agent that differs in at least one of category and brand from the type of agent stored in the tank.

[0006] In addition, the agent recommendation method disclosed herein recommends to a user of the cleaning machine a type of agent that differs in at least one of category and brand from the type of agent stored in a tank that stores the agent to be supplied to the cleaning tank of the cleaning machine. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The agent recommendation system and agent recommendation method of the present disclosure can recommend useful agents to a user of a washing machine having a limited number of tanks. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a drug recommendation system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a washing machine according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an automatic agent supply unit according to a first embodiment; [Figure 4] A block diagram showing the configuration of a washing machine according to a first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a terminal device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a washing machine management server according to a first embodiment. [Figure 7] Block diagram showing the configuration of a drug management server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] A sequence diagram showing operations of a washing machine, a washing machine management server, a terminal device, and a chemical agent management server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] A sequence diagram showing the operations of the terminal device, the washing machine management server, and the agent management server in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a purchase screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a purchase screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a purchase screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a purchase screen in the first embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors conceived the present disclosure, there was a technology that recommended to users agents in the same category as those used in cleaning machines such as washing machines and dishwashers. Recently, cleaning machines equipped with multiple tanks capable of storing any one of a variety of agents have been considered. Therefore, for users of these cleaning machines, being able to recommend as many types of agents as possible leads to the recommendation of useful agents. However, in conventional technologies, the types of agents that can be recommended are limited to those in the same category as those used in the cleaning machine, which limits the types of agents that can be recommended. Therefore, the inventors discovered a problem in that useful agents could not be recommended in the past. Furthermore, the inventors discovered a problem in that cleaning machines equipped with tanks are limited by the number of tanks and the number of agents that can be stored in the tanks, and therefore it is necessary to more effectively recommend more useful agents. To solve this problem, the subject matter of the present disclosure constitutes the subject matter of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure provides an agent recommendation system and an agent recommendation method that can recommend useful agents to a user of a cleaning machine equipped with a limited number of tanks.

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, in some cases, more detailed explanation than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed explanation of already well-known matters or redundant explanation of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. 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.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) [1-1.Configuration] [1-1-1. Configuration of the agent recommendation system] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a medicine recommendation system 1000. The detergent recommendation system 1000 is a system that recommends to a user P of the washing machine 1 the type of detergent to be automatically supplied to the washing tub 11 of the washing machine 1. In this embodiment, the type of detergent is a type defined by a combination of a category and a brand. The category of an agent refers to a classification such as detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or neutral detergent. The brand of an agent is the name used in commerce, such as a product name. The washing machine 1 is an example of a "washing machine." The washing tub 11 is an example of a "cleaning tub."

[0012] The detergent recommendation system 1000 includes a washing machine 1. The washing machine 1 is a device that washes laundry LA in a washing tub 11. The washing machine 1 may also have a function of drying the washed laundry LA. In this embodiment, a drum-type washing machine is exemplified as the washing machine 1. FIG. 1 illustrates a case where the washing machine 1 is installed inside a facility H, but the washing machine 1 may also be installed outside the facility H.

[0013] Washing machine 1 communicates with washing machine management server 3 connected to a WAN (Wide Area Network) NW via communication device 2. Network NW includes the Internet, a telephone network, and other communication networks.

[0014] The communication device 2 is connected to the network NW and communicates with devices connected to the network NW. The communication device 2 functions as an interface device for connecting the washing machine 1 and the terminal device 4 to the network NW. The communication device 2 establishes a local network in the facility H.

[0015] The drug recommendation system 1000 includes a terminal device 4 . The terminal device 4 is a PC (Personal Computer) such as a smartphone or tablet terminal. An application program related to drugs is installed in the terminal device 4, and the terminal device 4 communicates with the drug management server 5 using the function of this application program. Note that the terminal device 4 is not limited to devices equipped with a touch panel such as a smartphone or tablet terminal, and may be a device without a touch panel such as a laptop or desktop type.

[0016] In the following description, the application program related to the agent will be referred to as "APP" and will be appropriately expressed as "APP421" with the number "421" added.

[0017] 1, a user P who is inside facility H is indicated by a solid line, and a user P who is outside facility H is indicated by a dotted line. When used by user P who is inside facility H, terminal device 4 communicates with a device connected to network NW via communication device 2 or without via communication device 2. When used by user P who is outside facility H and cannot establish a communication connection with communication device 2, terminal device 4 communicates with a device connected to network NW without via communication device 2.

[0018] The detergent recommendation system 1000 includes a washing machine management server 3. Washing machine management server 3 is a server device that manages washing machine 1. Examples of objects managed by washing machine management server 3 include the type of agent stored in tank 130 and the number of times an operating course has been run. Washing machine management server 3 is connected to network NW and processes information using washing machine 1, terminal device 4, and agent management server 5 as clients. The number of times an operating course has been executed is an example of "operating course execution record."

[0019] The drug recommendation system 1000 includes a drug management server 5. The drug management server 5 is a server device that manages information related to drugs. The drug management server 5 manages the remaining amount of drugs that the user P possesses.

[0020] The drug management server 5 places an order for the drug. When placing the order for the drug, the drug management server 5 makes a payment for the purchase of the drug using the payment method designated by the user P, and also makes a delivery request for the drug to the delivery company. For example, the drug management server 5 sends an email of the delivery request to the delivery company. Upon receiving the delivery request from the drug management server 5, the delivery company obtains the drug to be delivered from the warehouse W and delivers it to the user P.

[0021] [1-1-2. Washing machine configuration] Next, the configuration of the washing machine 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the washing machine 1. As shown in FIG.

[0022] The washing machine 1 includes a housing 10, a washing tub 11, a drive motor 12, and an automatic agent supply unit 13.

[0023] Housing 10 is a component that forms the exterior of washing machine 1. Opening 14 is formed in the front of housing 10. Door 15 for opening and closing opening 14 is provided on the front of housing 10. Water inlet 16 is formed in the upper part of housing 10. Water inlet 16 is a connection port for connecting a hose that supplies water to washing tub 11 via automatic agent supply unit 13. Drain valve 17 is provided in the lower part of housing 10. Drain valve 17 is a valve for draining the wash water stored in washing tub 11 through opening 24.

[0024] The washing tub 11 is composed of an outer tub 18 and an inner tub 19. Outer tub 18 is a substantially cylindrical member provided inside housing 10 and functions to store wash water. Outer tub 18 may also be referred to as a water tub. Outer tub 18 includes a tubular portion 20 and a bottom portion 21 that closes one end of tubular portion 20. A central axis CA of outer tub 18 passes through the center of bottom portion 21 and is an axis that is inclined relative to the installation surface. Outer tub 18 has opening 22 formed in a position opposite opening 14 of housing 10. Outer tub 18 has openings 23 and 24 formed therein for water passage. Opening 23 is an opening connected to flow path 25 that connects automatic agent supply unit 13 and washing tub 11. Opening 24 is a drain port for draining wash water from washing tub 11 to the outside.

[0025] The inner tub 19 is provided inside the outer tub 18 and is rotatable about a central axis CA as a rotation axis. The inner tub 19 is a substantially cylindrical member capable of accommodating laundry LA. The inner tub 19 may also be referred to as a drum. The inner tub 19 has a number of through-holes 26 formed on its circumferential surface. The through-holes 26 connect the inner tub 19 and the outer tub 18, allowing wash water to move between the inner tub 19 and the outer tub 18. The inner tub 19 has an opening 27 formed in a position opposite the opening 14 of the housing 10 and the opening 22 of the outer tub 18.

[0026] Drive motor 12 is a motor that rotates and drives inner tub 19. Drive motor 12 is driven under the control of washing machine control device 100, which will be described later.

[0027] Automatic agent supply unit 13 is a unit that automatically supplies a predetermined amount of agent from tank 130 that stores the agent to washing tub 11. Automatic agent supply unit 13 is provided above outer tub 18 inside housing 10. An upper portion of automatic agent supply unit 13 faces an openable and closable cover 28 provided on housing 10.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the automatic agent supply unit 13. As shown in FIG. The automatic agent supply unit 13 includes three tanks 130, a case 131, three agent supply devices 132, an agent supply flow path 133, a water supply valve 134, and an input section 135. The automatic agent supply unit 13 in this embodiment includes only three tanks 130, and therefore cannot simultaneously store more than three types of agent. In other words, a washing machine 1 including the automatic agent supply unit 13 can store agents up to the number of tanks 130. Generally, the number of tanks 130 is a finite number according to the specifications of the washing machine 1. A user may use a number of tanks 130 fewer than the number of tanks 130 installed. Note that the tanks 130 are not limited to those pre-installed in the washing machine from the time of manufacture, but may be tanks 130 replaceable by the user or tanks 130 that the user purchases and installs later. Even in the case of tanks 130 not pre-installed from the time of manufacture, the number of tanks 130 is finite according to the specifications of the washing machine 1.

[0029] The case 131 is a member that houses the first tank 130A, the second tank 130B, the third tank 130C, and the input portion 135. Each of the first tank 130A, the second tank 130B, and the third tank 130C is removable from the case 131.

[0030] The agent supply device 132 is a device that sucks a predetermined amount of agent from the tank 130 and discharges it to the agent supply flow path 133. The first agent supply device 132A is connected to the first tank 130A, sucks a predetermined amount of agent from the first tank 130A, and discharges it to the agent supply flow path 133. The second agent supply device 132B is connected to the second tank 130B, sucks a predetermined amount of agent from the second tank 130B, and discharges it to the agent supply flow path 133. The third agent supply device 132C is connected to the third tank 130C, sucks a predetermined amount of agent from the third tank 130C, and discharges it to the agent supply flow path 133.

[0031] The agent supply flow path 133 is a flow path member that supplies water supplied from the water supply port 16 and the agent discharged by the agent supply device 132 to the outer tub 18 via the case 131. The agent supply flow path 133 is connected to a first agent supply device 132A, a second agent supply device 132B, and a third agent supply device 132C.

[0032] The water supply valve 134 is a valve that controls the inflow of water from the water supply port 16. The water that flows in from the water supply port 16 flows into the outer tub 18 via the case 131.

[0033] The dispenser 135 is a mechanism for allowing the user P to dispense an amount of agent for one wash. The agent dispensed in the dispenser 135 flows from the case 131 through the flow path 25 into the outer tub 18.

[0034] FIG. 4 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 120, and an interface circuit to which other devices and sensors are connected.

[0035] Washing machine memory 120 is a memory that stores programs and data. Washing machine memory 120 stores control program 121, tank information 122, washing machine ID (Identification) 123, and other data processed by washing machine processor 110. Washing machine memory 120 has a non-volatile storage area. Washing machine memory 120 also has a volatile storage area and constitutes a work area for washing machine processor 110. Washing machine memory 120 is constituted by, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0036] The tank information 122 includes a set of tank number information and agent type information J2 (see FIG. 10) for each tank 130. The tank number information is information indicating a tank number for identifying the tank 130 within the washing machine 1. The agent type information J2 is information indicating the type of agent. The correspondence between the tank number information in the tank information 122 and the agent type information J2 is established by the user P operating the operation panel 102. The correspondence between the tank number information in the tank information 122 and the agent type information J2 is reflected in the washing machine management DB 322, which will be described later.

[0037] The washing machine ID 123 is identification information for identifying the washing machine 1. An example of the washing machine ID 123 is the serial number of the washing machine 1.

[0038] The washing machine control device 100 is connected to the washing machine communication unit 101, operation panel 102, water supply valve 134, drive motor 12, drain valve 17, first agent supply device 132A, second agent supply device 132B, and third agent supply device 132C as devices included in washing machine 1. Note that other devices such as sensors may also be connected to the washing machine control device 100.

[0039] Washing machine communication unit 101 includes hardware such as a communication circuit conforming to a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with washing machine management server 3 under the control of washing machine processor 110.

[0040] The operation panel 102 is a panel having a touch panel, operation buttons, etc. The operation panel 102 is disposed above the door 15 in the housing 10, for example.

[0041] Washing machine processor 110 reads and executes control program 121 stored in washing machine memory 120, thereby functioning as washing machine communication unit 111, washing execution unit 112, and agent supply control unit 113.

[0042] Washing machine communication section 111 communicates with washing machine management server 3 via washing machine communication unit 101.

[0043] The washing execution unit 112 controls mechanisms related to washing, such as the water supply valve 134, the drive motor 12, and the drain valve 17, to perform washing.

[0044] When the washing execution unit 112 automatically supplies the agent in the washing, the agent supply control unit 113 controls the agent supply device 132 to automatically supply the agent to the washing tub 11.

[0045] [1-1-3. Terminal device configuration] Next, the configuration of the terminal device 4 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the terminal device 4. As shown in FIG. The terminal device 4 includes a terminal control device 400 , a terminal communication unit 401 , and a terminal touch panel 402 .

[0046] The terminal control device 400 includes a terminal processor 410 such as a CPU or MPU, a terminal memory 420, and an interface circuit to which other devices and sensors are connected. A terminal communication unit 401 and a terminal touch panel 402 are connected to the terminal control device 400. Note that other devices such as sensors may also be connected to the terminal control device 400.

[0047] The terminal memory 420 is a memory that stores programs and data. The terminal memory 420 stores the APP 421, the dedicated ID 422, the washing machine ID 123, and other data to be processed by the terminal processor 410. The terminal memory 420 has a non-volatile storage area. The terminal memory 420 also has a volatile storage area and constitutes a work area for the terminal processor 410. The terminal memory 420 is constituted by, for example, a ROM or a RAM. The dedicated ID 422 is dedicated identification information for accessing the agent management server 5.

[0048] The terminal communication unit 401 includes hardware such as a communication circuit conforming to a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the washing machine management server 3 and the agent management server 5 under the control of the terminal processor 410. The terminal touch panel 402 is a touch panel.

[0049] The terminal processor 410 reads and executes the APP 421 stored in the terminal memory 420, thereby functioning as a terminal communication control unit 411, a display control unit 412, and a reception unit 413. Display control unit 412 is an example of a "recommendation unit."

[0050] The terminal communication control unit 411 communicates with the agent management server 5 via the terminal communication unit 401. The display control unit 412 displays a screen related to the medication on the terminal touch panel 402. In the following description, the screen related to the medication will be referred to as an "medication screen" and will be denoted by the symbol "ZG". The reception unit 413 receives various inputs from the user P via the medication screen ZG.

[0051] [1-1-4. Washing machine management server configuration] Next, the configuration of the washing machine management server 3 will be described. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the washing machine management server 3.

[0052] The washing machine management server 3 includes a first server control device 300 and a first server communication unit 301.

[0053] The first server control device 300 includes a first server processor 310 such as a CPU or MPU, a first server memory 320, and an interface circuit to which other devices and sensors are connected.

[0054] First server memory 320 is a memory that stores programs and data. First server memory 320 stores control program 321, washing machine management DB (database) 322, and other data processed by first server processor 310. First server memory 320 has a non-volatile storage area. First server memory 320 also has a volatile storage area, and constitutes a work area of ​​first server processor 310. First server memory 320 is constituted by, for example, ROM or RAM.

[0055] The washing machine management DB 322 is a database that manages information related to the washing machine 1. Each record R1 stored in the washing machine management DB 322 has a client ID. Furthermore, the record R1 has a washing machine ID 123 for the client ID. Furthermore, the record R1 has tank number information and agent type information J2 for each tank 130 of the washing machine 1 for the washing machine ID 123. Furthermore, the record R1 has operating course execution count information for the washing machine ID 123. The operating course execution count information includes, for each operating course that can be executed by the washing machine 1, a set of operating course information indicating the operating course and execution count information indicating the number of times it has been executed.

[0056] The client ID is identification information used for the washing machine management server 3 and the agent management server 5 to cooperate with each other.

[0057] The first server communication unit 301 includes hardware such as a communication circuit that complies with a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the washing machine 1, the terminal device 4, and the agent management server 5 under the control of the first server control device 300.

[0058] The first server processor 310 functions as a first server communication control unit 311 and a first server processing unit 312 by reading and executing a control program 321 stored in the first server memory 320 .

[0059] The first server communication control unit 311 communicates with the washing machine 1, the terminal device 4, and the agent management server 5 via the first server communication unit 301. The first server processing unit 312 performs processing related to the washing machine management DB 322.

[0060] [1-1-5. Configuration of the Agent Management Server] Next, the configuration of the agent management server 5 will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the agent management server 5. As shown in FIG.

[0061] The agent management server 5 includes a second server control device 500 and a second server communication unit 501.

[0062] The second server control device 500 includes a second server processor 510 such as a CPU or MPU, a second server memory 520, and an interface circuit to which other devices and sensors are connected.

[0063] The second server memory 520 is a memory that stores programs and data. The second server memory 520 stores a control program 521, a user management DB 522, a drug management DB 523, a drug type DB 524, and other data processed by the second server processor 510. The second server memory 520 has a non-volatile storage area. The second server memory 520 also has a volatile storage area and constitutes a work area for the second server processor 510. The second server memory 520 is constituted by, for example, a ROM or a RAM.

[0064] The user management DB 522 is a database that manages information related to a user P. Each record R2 stored in the user management DB 522 has a dedicated ID 422 and a client ID. The record R2 also has delivery address information for the client ID. The record R2 also has notification information for the client ID. The record R2 also has payment method information for the client ID. The record R2 also has a washing machine ID 123 for the client ID.

[0065] The delivery destination information is information indicating the delivery destination, such as the address of facility H. The notification information is information for notifying the user P of predetermined content, and is, for example, the address of the terminal device 4. The payment method information is information indicating the payment method for purchasing the drug.

[0066] The agent management DB 523 is a database for managing agents. Each record R3 stored in the agent management DB 523 includes a dedicated ID, a client ID, and a washing machine ID. For each washing machine ID 123, the record R3 includes a set of tank number information, agent type information J2, and remaining amount information for each tank 130 of the washing machine 1. The remaining amount information is information indicating the remaining amount of agent that the user P possesses.

[0067] The association between the tank number information and the agent type information J2 in record R3 is performed by user P operating terminal device 4 for each tank 130. Therefore, if there is an unused tank 130, user P does not associate the tank number information and agent type information J2 with the unused tank 130. In this case, in record R3, the agent type information J2 associated with the tank number information of the unused tank 130 and the remaining amount information are blank.

[0068] The drug type DB 524 is a database that manages drug type information J2 for each drug that the drug management server 5 can order.

[0069] The second server communication unit 501 includes hardware such as a communication circuit conforming to a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the terminal device 4 and the washing machine management server 3 under the control of the second server control device 500.

[0070] The second server processor 510 functions as a second server communication control unit 511, a second server processing unit 512, a determination unit 513, and a drug ordering unit 514 by reading and executing a control program 521 stored in the second server memory 520.

[0071] Second server communication control unit 511 communicates with terminal device 4 and washing machine management server 3 via second server communication unit 501.

[0072] The second server processing unit 512 performs processing related to the user management DB 522 and the agent management DB 523 .

[0073] The determination unit 513 determines the type of agent that the terminal device 4 recommends to the user P. As will be described in detail later, the determination unit 513 can determine a type of agent that is different in brand, category, or brand from the type of agent stored in the tank 130.

[0074] The drug ordering unit 514 performs processing related to ordering the drug that user P has instructed to purchase. More specifically, the drug ordering unit 514 performs payment related to the purchase of the drug that user P has instructed to purchase. The drug ordering unit 514 also makes a delivery request to a delivery company. This delivery request includes delivery destination information, the type of drug to be delivered, etc.

[0075] [1-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each unit of the drug recommendation system 1000 will be described.

[0076] [1-2-1. Operation when washing machine 1 is running] First, the operation of each part of the detergent recommendation system 1000 when the washing machine 1 is operating will be described.

[0077] FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram showing the operations of the washing machine 1, the washing machine management server 3, the terminal device 4, and the agent management server 5.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 8, washing machine communication unit 111 of washing machine 1 transmits washing machine operation information to washing machine management server 3 every time an agent is automatically supplied (step SA1).

[0079] The washing machine operation information is information related to the operation of the washing machine 1. The washing machine operation information includes the washing machine ID 123 stored in the washing machine memory 120. The washing machine operation information also includes, for each tank 130 that stores the agent automatically supplied in the most recent operation, a set of tank number information and supply amount information indicating the amount of the automatically supplied agent supplied. The washing machine operation information also includes operation course information indicating the most recent operation course performed by the washing machine 1.

[0080] Next, when first server communication control unit 311 of washing machine management server 3 receives the washing machine operation information from washing machine 1, first server communication control unit 311 transmits the received washing machine operation information to agent management server 5 (step SA2).

[0081] Next, first server processing unit 312 updates record R1 of washing machine management DB 322 based on the received washing machine operation information (step SA3).

[0082] Step SA3 will now be described. The first server processing unit 312 identifies, from the washing machine management DB 322, the record R1 having the washing machine ID 123 included in the washing machine operation information. Next, first server processing unit 312 refers to the identified record R1 and identifies, from the plurality of pieces of execution count information, the execution count information that corresponds to the operation program information included in the washing machine operation information. Then, the first server processing unit 312 increments the number of executions indicated by the identified number of executions information by one.

[0083] When the second server communication control unit 511 of the agent management server 5 receives the washing machine operation information from the washing machine management server 3, the second server processing unit 512 updates record R3 of the agent management DB 523 based on the received washing machine operation information (step SA4).

[0084] Step SA4 will now be described in detail. The second server processing unit 512 identifies, from the agent management DB 523, the record R3 having the washing machine ID 123 included in the washing machine operation information. Next, the second server processing unit 512 refers to the identified record R3 and the washing machine operation information, and, assuming that the remaining amount information and supply amount information corresponding to the same tank number information are in an update relationship, updates the remaining amount of agent indicated by the remaining amount information in the identified record R3 to an amount obtained by subtracting the supply amount indicated by the supply amount information in the washing machine operation information.

[0085] Next, the second server communication control unit 511 refers to the record R3 updated in step SA4, and determines for each tank 130 whether or not there is a tank 130 whose remaining amount has fallen below a predetermined threshold (step SA5).

[0086] If it is determined in step SA5 that there are no tanks 130 whose remaining amount is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold, the agent recommendation system 1000 terminates the process. Note that if the remaining amount in the tanks 130 is large, changing the agent is a burden for the user P. Therefore, if the remaining amount is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold in step SA5, the agent recommendation system 1000 can prevent unnecessary burden on the user P by terminating the process.

[0087] On the other hand, if it is determined in step SA5 that there is a tank 130 whose remaining amount has fallen below the predetermined threshold, the second server communication control unit 511 can regard the tank 130 as a tank 130 where there is an opportunity to change the agent, and therefore transmits recommendation request information to the terminal device 4 (step SA6). The recommendation request information is information requesting a recommendation to purchase an agent.

[0088] In step SA6, the second server communication control unit 511 identifies a record R2 having the washing machine ID 123 included in the received washing machine operation information from the user management DB 522, and transmits the recommended request information based on the notification destination information of the identified record R2.

[0089] When the terminal communication control unit 411 of the terminal device 4 receives the recommendation request information, the display control unit 402 displays recommendation information recommending the purchase of a drug (step SA7). In step SA7, the display control unit 402 may display the recommendation information on the drug screen ZG, or may display the recommendation information in the form of a push notification. The recommendation information may be, for example, a character string such as "The tank is low on water. We recommend purchasing a drug."

[0090] [1-2-2. Actions related to recommending types of agents] Next, the operation of each unit of the drug recommendation system 1000 involved in recommending a type of drug will be described.

[0091] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing the operations of the terminal device 4, the washing machine management server 3, and the agent management server 5.

[0092] The terminal communication control unit 411 of the terminal device 4 transmits first request information (step SB1). After the display of step SA7, the terminal communication control unit 411 performs step SB1 when the reception unit 413 receives an instruction to start displaying a drug screen ZG (hereinafter, designated by symbol KG and referred to as a "purchase screen KG") related to the purchase of a drug.

[0093] The first request information is information requesting information on the type of medicine, and includes the dedicated ID 422 stored in the terminal memory 420.

[0094] When the second server communication control unit 511 of the agent management server 5 receives the first request information, the second server processing unit 512 identifies the record R3 having the dedicated ID included in the first request information from the agent management DB 523 (step SB2).

[0095] When the second server communication control unit 511 of the agent management server 5 receives the first request information from the terminal device 4, the second server communication control unit 511 transmits second request information to the washing machine management server 3 (step SB3).

[0096] The second request information is information requesting a set of operating course information and execution count information, and includes the client ID of record R3 identified in step SB2.

[0097] When first server communication control unit 311 of washing machine management server 3 receives the second request information, first server processing unit 312 identifies record R1 of the client ID included in the first request information from washing machine management DB 322 (step SB4).

[0098] Next, the first server communication control unit 311 transmits the first response information to the agent management server 5 (step SB5).

[0099] The first response information is information indicating a response to the second request information, and includes a set of operating program information and execution count information included in the record R1 identified in step SB4.

[0100] When the second server communication control unit 501 of the agent management server 5 receives the first response information, the determination unit 513 determines the type of agent to be recommended to the user P (step SB6).

[0101] Step SB6 will now be described in detail. The determining unit 513 refers to the record R3 identified in step SB2 and identifies the type of agent whose remaining amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. Then, the determination unit 513 performs the following process for each type of agent identified.

[0102] First, the determination unit 513 determines the identified type of drug as one of the types of drug to be recommended to the user P. For example, if it is identified from record R3 that the type of drug whose remaining amount has fallen below a predetermined threshold is type B, the determination unit 513 determines type B as one of the types of drug to be recommended to the user P.

[0103] Next, the determination unit 513 further determines the type of drug to recommend to the user P based on the type of drug identified from record R3 and the received first response information. More specifically, the determination unit 513 identifies the operating course that has been executed the most frequently based on each piece of execution count information included in the first response information. The determination unit 513 determines whether the category of the agent used in the identified operating course is the same as the category indicated by the type of agent identified from record R3. For example, if the identified operating course is a course that uses a neutral detergent, the determination unit 513 determines whether the category indicated by the type of agent identified from record R3 is a neutral detergent. The type of agent used in the operating course is stored in advance as data in the second server memory 520.

[0104] If the determination unit 513 determines that the category of the agent used in the identified driving course is the same as the category indicated by the type of agent identified from record R3, it identifies from the agent type DB 524 a type of agent that has the same category as the type of agent identified from record R3 but a different brand, and determines the identified type of agent as the type of agent to be recommended to user P.

[0105] On the other hand, if the category of the agent used in the identified driving course differs from the category indicated by the type of agent identified from record R3, the determination unit 513 identifies from the agent type DB 524 a type of agent that indicates the same category as the agent used in the identified driving course, and determines the identified type of agent as the type of agent to recommend to user P. For example, if the identified driving course is a driving course that uses a neutral detergent, and the category indicated by the type of agent identified from record R3 is bleach, the determination unit 513 determines the type of agent whose category is neutral detergent as the type of agent to recommend to user P.

[0106] Next, when the type of medicine is determined in step SB6, the second server communication control unit 511 transmits second response information to the terminal device 4 (step SB7).

[0107] The second response information is information indicating a response to the first request information. The second response information includes, for each tank number information of the record R3 identified in step SB2 whose remaining amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the tank number information and agent type information J2 indicating the type of agent determined in step SB2.

[0108] When the terminal communication control unit 411 of the terminal device 4 receives the second response information, the display control unit 412 displays the purchase screen KG based on the received second response information (step SB8). The display control unit 412 generates and displays a purchase screen KG for each piece of tank number information included in the second response information. In other words, if the second response information includes multiple pieces of tank number information, the display control unit 412 displays multiple purchase screens KG. The display mode of the multiple purchase screens KG may be switchable or may be displayed side by side on a single screen.

[0109] Here, the purchase screen KG will be explained. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the purchase screen KG. 10, the purchase screen KG displays tank number information J1 in which the remaining amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. The tank number information displayed on the purchase screen KG is the tank number information included in the second response information.

[0110] The purchase screen KG also displays a pair of radio buttons L and drug type information J2. The drug type information J2 displayed on the purchase screen KG is the drug type information J2 included in the second response information. The radio buttons L are UI components for selecting the type of drug indicated by the corresponding drug type information J2 as a candidate for purchase. The UI component for selecting a drug as a candidate for purchase is not limited to the radio buttons L, and may be another UI component.

[0111] On the purchase screen KG, a pair of a radio button L and medicine type information J2 is displayed for each type of medicine determined in step SB6. In more detail, the purchase screen KG displays a set of agent type information J2 indicating the type of agent whose remaining amount is below a predetermined threshold and a radio button L. In FIG. 10, "Detergent, Brand 1" is the type of agent whose remaining amount is below the predetermined threshold. The purchase screen KG also displays agent type information J2 that differs from the type of agent whose remaining amount is below the predetermined threshold, or the brand, or category and brand. In FIG. 10, "Neutral detergent, Brand 2" and "Neutral detergent, Brand 3" correspond to the agent type information J2.

[0112] The purchase screen KG displays a first button B1 and a second button B2. The first button B1 is a software button that accepts an instruction to hide the purchase screen KG. The second button B2 is a software button that accepts an instruction to purchase the type of drug selected on the purchase screen KG. The second button B2 may be configured as a software button that cannot be operated if no type of drug has been selected on the purchase screen KG.

[0113] Returning to the explanation of FIG. 9, when the acceptance unit 413 accepts the operation of the first button B1, the display control unit 412 hides the purchase screen KG (step SB9).

[0114] On the other hand, when the accepting unit 413 accepts the operation of the second button B2, the terminal communication control unit 411 transmits purchase request information to the drug management server 5 (step SB10).

[0115] The purchase request information is information requesting the purchase of a medicine. The purchase request information includes a dedicated ID stored in the terminal memory 420 and medicine type information J2 indicating the type of medicine selected on the purchase screen KG.

[0116] When the second server communication control unit 511 of the agent management server 5 receives the purchase request information, the agent ordering unit 514 performs processing related to ordering the agent (step SB11).

[0117] In step SB11, the drug ordering unit 514 identifies record R2 having the dedicated ID included in the purchase request information from the user management DB 522. Next, in step SB11, the drug ordering unit 514 performs processing related to payment for the type of drug indicated by the drug type information included in the received purchase request information, using the payment method indicated by the payment method information in the identified record R2. Next, in step SB11, the drug ordering unit 514 makes a delivery request based on the delivery address information in the identified record R2 and the drug type information included in the received purchase request information.

[0118] [1-2-3. Recommendations for other types of agents] In the explanation using Figure 9, the type of agent recommended to user P is based on the number of times the operating course has been performed, but the type of agent recommended to user P is not limited to the type based on the number of times the operating course has been performed.

[0119] For example, the type of agent recommended to the user P may be a type of agent that can be combined with the type of agent stored in the tank 130. First, this example will be described.

[0120] [1-2-3-1. Combination] In a configuration in which a type of agent to be combined with the type of agent stored in the tank 130 is recommended, steps SB3, SB4, and SB5 may be omitted in the operation related to the recommendation of the type of agent.

[0121] In step SB6, the determination unit 513 refers to record R3 identified in step SB2, and identifies the types of medicines whose remaining amounts exceed a predetermined threshold and the types of medicines whose remaining amounts are equal to or less than the predetermined threshold.

[0122] Next, the determination unit 513 determines the type of agent whose remaining amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold as one of the types of agent to be recommended to the user P in step SB6.

[0123] Furthermore, in step SB4, the determination unit 513 identifies drug types that can be combined with drug types whose remaining amounts exceed a predetermined threshold. This identification is performed by referring to statistical information regarding drug combinations. The statistical information includes, for each combination of two drugs, the number of users P who have adopted the combination and drug type information J2 for the two drugs. The statistical information is created in advance and stored in a storage area accessible by the second server processor 510 (e.g., the second server memory 520 or a predetermined storage area on the network NW). The determination unit 513 refers to the statistical information and identifies N (N is an integer greater than or equal to 1) drug types that correspond to drug types whose remaining amounts exceed the predetermined threshold, in descending order of the number of users P who have adopted the combination.

[0124] Then, the display control unit 412 displays a purchase screen KG as shown in FIG. 11, and recommends to the user P types of agents that can be combined with the types of agents stored in the tank 130.

[0125] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the purchase screen KG. 11, the purchase screen KG displays tank number information J1 for tanks whose remaining amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value. The purchase screen KG also displays a combination of a radio button L and agent type information J2.

[0126] The purchase screen KG displays agent type information J2 indicating the type of agent whose remaining amount is below a predetermined threshold. In Fig. 11, "Detergent, Brand 1" is the type of agent whose remaining amount is below the predetermined threshold.

[0127] The purchase screen KG also displays agent type information J2, which indicates the types of agents that can be combined with the types of agents whose remaining amount exceeds a predetermined threshold. In FIG. 11, “Fabric softener, brand 4” and “Fabric softener, brand 5” correspond to the agent type information J2.

[0128] In the above, the determination unit 513 determines the type of drug that can be combined with the type of drug whose remaining amount exceeds a predetermined threshold by referring to statistical information, but the determination unit 513 may also refer to recommended information instead of statistical information.

[0129] The recommended information is information indicating a combination of agents recommended by at least one manufacturer of the agent and the washing machine 1. The recommended information is information including two types of agent type information J2 for each combination of agents. The recommended information is created in advance by the agent manufacturer and stored in a storage area accessible by the second server processor 510.

[0130] The determination unit 513 refers to the recommendation information and identifies N (N is an integer equal to or greater than 1) types of agents that correspond to the type of agent whose remaining amount exceeds a predetermined threshold. Then, the display control unit 412 displays a purchase screen KG as shown in FIG. 12 to recommend to the user P types of agents that can be combined with the type of agent stored in the tank 130.

[0131] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the purchase screen KG. In the description of FIG. 12, differences from FIG. 11 will be described.

[0132] The purchase screen KG displays agent type information J2, which indicates the types of agents that can be combined with the type of agent whose remaining amount exceeds a predetermined threshold and are recommended by the manufacturer. In FIG. 12, "Fabric softener brand 6" and "Fabric softener brand 7" correspond to this agent type information J2.

[0133] [1-2-3-2. Statistical information] Furthermore, for example, the type of drug recommended to user P may be a type based on statistical information regarding drug use. This statistical information differs from the above-described statistical information in that it includes, for each type of drug, drug type information J2 and the number of users P using the drug. In other words, this statistical information does not include combinations of drug type information J2.

[0134] In a configuration in which the type of medicine is recommended based on statistical information regarding the use of the medicine, steps SB3, SB4, and SB5 may be omitted in the operation related to the recommendation of the type of medicine.

[0135] In step SB6, the determination unit 513 refers to the record R3 identified in step SB2, and identifies the type of agent whose remaining amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold.

[0136] Next, the determination unit 513 determines the type of agent whose remaining amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold as the type of agent to be recommended to the user P in step SB6.

[0137] Furthermore, the determination unit 513 refers to statistical information regarding the use of the drug, and identifies N (N is an integer of 1 or more) types of drug that are at least a different brand from the type of drug whose remaining amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, in descending order of the number of users P using the drug. The statistical information regarding the use of the drug is created in advance and stored in a storage area accessible by the second server processor 510.

[0138] In this example, the display control unit 412 displays a purchase screen KG as shown in FIG. 11, and recommends to the user P a type of medicine based on statistical information regarding the use of the medicine.

[0139] [1-2-3-3. Recommended Information] Furthermore, for example, the type of agent recommended to user P may be recommendation information recommended by at least one manufacturer of the agent and washing machine 1. Compared with the above-mentioned recommendation information, this recommendation information includes agent type information J2 recommended as a new product by at least one manufacturer of the agent and washing machine 1. Compared with the above-mentioned statistical information, this recommendation information does not include a combination of agent type information J2.

[0140] In a configuration in which the type of agent is recommended based on recommendation information recommended by the manufacturer, steps SB3, SB4, and SB5 may be omitted in the operation related to the recommendation of the type of agent.

[0141] In step SB6, the determination unit 513 refers to the record R3 identified in step SB2, and identifies the type of agent whose remaining amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold.

[0142] Next, the determination unit 513 determines the type of agent whose remaining amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold as one of the types of agent to be recommended to the user P in step SB6.

[0143] Furthermore, the determination unit 513 refers to the recommendation information and identifies N (N is an integer equal to or greater than 1) types of medicine that are at least a different brand from the type of medicine whose remaining amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. The recommendation information is created in advance and stored in a storage area accessible by the second server processor 510.

[0144] In this example, the display control unit 412 displays a purchase screen KG as shown in FIG. 12 and recommends to the user P the types of agents recommended by at least one of the manufacturers of the agent and the washing machine 1.

[0145] [1-2-3-4. Status of tanks related to agents] The types of agent recommended to the user P described above relate to agents to be stored in the tank 130 when the remaining amount falls below a predetermined threshold. The agent recommendation system 1000 may recommend to the user P a type of agent for a tank 130 that does not store an agent or a tank 130 that uses an agent infrequently.

[0146] The determination unit 513 refers to the record R3 identified in step SB2, identifies the type of agent whose remaining amount is below a predetermined threshold, and determines the type of agent to recommend to the user P for the tank 130 whose remaining amount is below a predetermined threshold, as described in Figure 9.

[0147] Next, the determination unit 513 determines the type of agent to recommend to the user P based on the record R3 identified in step SB2 and the first response information, the number of times the operating course has been executed, and the status of the tank 130 related to the agent.

[0148] More specifically, the determination unit 513 identifies the tank number of at least one of the tanks 130 that do not store an agent and the tanks 130 that store an agent and that are used infrequently.

[0149] If there is blank remaining amount information in record R3, the determining unit 513 identifies the tank number indicated by the tank number information associated with the blank remaining amount information as the tank number of the tank 130 that does not store the agent. The determination unit 513 also estimates the frequency of use of each type of agent based on the operating program information and execution count information included in the first response information. Because the type of agent to be used is determined for each operating program, the determination unit 513 can estimate the frequency of use of each type of agent by referencing the execution count information. The determination unit 513 then identifies the least frequently used type of agent and identifies the tank number of the tank 130 that stores the identified type of agent.

[0150] After identifying the tank number, the determination unit 513 identifies the operating course that has been executed the most frequently based on each of the execution count information included in the first response information. Then, the determination unit 513 identifies, from the agent type DB 524, a type of agent that is at least a different brand from the agent used in the identified operating course, and determines the identified type of agent as the type of agent to be recommended to the user P.

[0151] Then, in step SB7, the second server communication control unit 511 transmits second response information to the terminal device 4. Here, the transmitted second response information includes the various information described in Fig. 9, as well as tank number information J1 indicating the tank number of at least one of the tanks 130 that do not store an agent and the tanks 130 that store an agent that is infrequently used, and agent type information J2 indicating the type of agent determined for the tank 130 with that tank number.

[0152] Then, the display control unit 412 displays a purchase screen KG as shown in FIG. 13, and recommends types of agents to the user P even for tanks 130 that do not store agents or tanks 130 that are used infrequently.

[0153] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the purchase screen KG. As shown in Fig. 13, the purchase screen KG displays tank number information J1 for tanks 130 that do not store a drug or tanks 130 that are infrequently used. Fig. 13 illustrates an example in which tank number information J1 for a tank 130 that does not store a drug is displayed. Furthermore, the purchase screen KG displays a pair of a radio button L and drug type information J2.

[0154] On the purchase screen KG, a pair of a radio button L and medicine type information J2 is displayed for each type of medicine determined in step SB6.

[0155] The purchase screen KG displays agent type information J2 indicating the types of agents recommended to the user P. In FIG. 13, “Neutral Detergent, Brand 8,” “Bleach, Brand 9,” and “Bleach, Brand 10” correspond to the agent type information J2.

[0156] [1-2-3-5. Other recommended timings] In the above description, a type of agent is recommended to the user P when the user P displays the purchase screen KG. However, the timing at which a type of agent is recommended to the user P is not limited to the timing at which the user P displays the purchase screen KG. For example, the timing at which a type of agent is recommended to the user P may be the timing at which the user P displays an agent screen ZG other than the purchase screen KG, or may be the timing at which a manufacturer of the agent and washing machine 1 introduces a new agent product to the market.

[0157] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, the agent recommendation system 1000 includes a washing machine 1 having a plurality of tanks 130 for storing agents to be supplied to the washing tub 11. The agent recommendation system 1000 also includes a display control unit 412 that recommends to the user P of the washing machine 1 types of agents that are different in brand, category, or brand from the types of agents stored in the tanks 130.

[0158] This allows a wide variety of agents to be recommended to user P compared to the types of agents stored in tank 130, making it possible to recommend useful agents to user P of a washing machine 1 equipped with a limited number of tanks 130.

[0159] The agent recommendation system 1000 includes a determination unit 513 that determines the type of agent to be recommended by the display control unit 412 based on the number of times the operating program has been executed by the washing machine 1. The display control unit 412 recommends the type of agent determined by the determination unit 513.

[0160] This allows the type of agent recommended to user P to take into account the usage status of user P's operating course, making it possible to recommend a more useful agent to user P of a washing machine 1 that has a limited number of tanks 130.

[0161] The determination unit 513 determines the type of agent recommended by the display control unit 412 based on the number of times the operating course has been executed and the status of the tank 130 related to the agent.

[0162] This allows the type of agent recommended to the user P, taking into account the usage status of the operation program of the user P, for tanks 130 that do not store an agent or tanks 130 that use the agent infrequently. Therefore, it is possible to recommend a more useful agent to the user P of a washing machine 1 that has a limited number of tanks 130.

[0163] The agent recommendation system 1000 includes a determination unit 513 that determines the type of agent to be combined with the type of agent stored in the tank 130. The display control unit 412 recommends the type of agent determined by the determination unit 513.

[0164] This allows the user P to be recommended types of agents that can be used in combination with the types of agents stored in the tank 130, making it possible to recommend more useful agents to the user P of a washing machine 1 that has a limited number of tanks 130.

[0165] The determination unit 513 determines the type of medicine based on statistical information regarding the combination of medicines.

[0166] This allows popular types of agents that can be used in combination with the types of agents stored in the tank 130 to be recommended to the user P, making it possible to recommend more useful agents to the user P of a washing machine 1 that has a limited number of tanks 130.

[0167] The determination unit 513 determines the type of agent based on recommendation information indicating a combination of agents recommended by at least one manufacturer of the agent and the washing machine 1.

[0168] This allows the type of agent that can be used in conjunction with the type of agent stored in the tank 130 and is recommended by the manufacturer to be recommended to the user P, making it possible to recommend a more useful agent to the user P of a washing machine 1 that has a limited number of tanks 130.

[0169] The drug recommendation system 1000 includes a determination unit 513 that determines the type of drug to be recommended by the display control unit 412 based on statistical information regarding drug use. The display control unit 412 recommends the type of drug determined by the determination unit 513.

[0170] This allows popular types of agents to be recommended to the user P, so that more useful agents can be recommended to the user P of the washing machine 1 having a limited number of tanks 130.

[0171] The agent recommendation system 1000 includes a determination unit 513 that determines the type of agent recommended by at least one manufacturer of the agent and the washing machine 1 as the type of agent to be recommended by the display control unit 412. The display control unit 412 recommends the type of agent determined by the determination unit 513.

[0172] According to this, the type of agent recommended by the manufacturer can be recommended to the user P, so that a more useful agent can be recommended to the user P of the washing machine 1 having a limited number of tanks 130.

[0173] The drug recommendation system 1000 includes a reception unit 413 that receives an instruction to purchase the type of drug recommended by the display control unit 412, and a drug ordering unit 514 that orders the type of drug recommended by the display control unit 412 when the reception unit 413 receives the instruction.

[0174] This allows the user P to easily obtain the recommended type of agent by simply performing the simple action of issuing a purchase instruction.

[0175] The agent recommendation method recommends to a user P of the washing machine 1 a type of agent that is different in brand or category and brand from the type of agent stored in a tank 130 that stores the agent to be supplied to the washing tub 11 of the washing machine 1.

[0176] This provides the same effects as the agent recommendation system 1000 described above.

[0177] (Other embodiments) As described above, the above-mentioned first embodiment has been described as an example disclosed in the present application. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made. Furthermore, it is also possible to combine the components described in the above-mentioned first embodiment to create new embodiments. Therefore, other embodiments will be exemplified below.

[0178] In the above-described embodiment, the type of medication is recommended by display. In other embodiments, the type of medication may be recommended by audio output or printing. In this configuration, the "recommendation unit" recommends the type of medication by speaker if the recommendation mode is audio output, or by sending print data to a printing device to print the type of medication if the recommendation mode is printing.

[0179] In the above-described embodiment, the drug recommendation system 1000 is configured to be able to order drugs. In other embodiments, the drug recommendation system 1000 may not be able to order drugs.

[0180] In the above-described embodiment, the determination unit 513 is configured to function as the second server processor 500. In other embodiments, the terminal processor 400 may function as the determination unit 513. In this configuration, the terminal device 4 communicates with the drug management server 5 to obtain information used by the determination unit 513 when making a determination.

[0181] In the above-described embodiment, the washing machine 1 is configured to include three tanks 130, but the number of tanks 130 included in the washing machine 1 may be one, two, four or more. However, the number of tanks 130 is finite, i.e., a limited number.

[0182] In the above-described embodiment, the washing machine 1 is used as an example of the "washing machine", but the "washing machine" may be a device that cleans items using a cleaning agent, such as a dishwasher. If the "washing machine" is a dishwasher, the "washing tub" corresponds to a tub in which dishes are washed.

[0183] In the above-described embodiment, a drum-type washing machine is exemplified as the washing machine 1, but the washing machine 1 may also be a vertical washing machine.

[0184] In the above-described embodiment, the washing machine management server 3 and the agent management server 5 are described as separate server devices, but these servers may be configured as the same server device. Moreover, the washing machine management server 3 and the agent management server 5 may be configured as multiple server devices with different processing contents.

[0185] In the above-described embodiment, the number of times an operating course is executed is used as an example of the "operating course execution record," but the "operating course execution record" may also be the frequency with which the operating course is executed, the amount of agent consumed in the operating course, etc.

[0186] In the above-described embodiment, a dedicated application program to be installed is exemplified as a program for realizing each functional unit of the terminal processor 410, but the program may be a browser or the like.

[0187] Washing machine processor 110, first server processor 310, terminal processor 410, and second server processor 510 may be configured by a single processor or by multiple processors. These processors may be hardware programmed to realize the corresponding functional units. That is, these processors may be configured by, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0188] The configurations of the components of the drug recommendation system 1000 shown in Figures 4, 5, 6, and 7 are merely examples, and the specific implementation form is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessary to implement hardware corresponding to each component individually, and it is also possible to implement a configuration in which a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of each component. Furthermore, 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.

[0189] The step units of the operations shown in Figures 8 and 9 are divided according to the main processing content to make the operations 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 operations 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.

[0190] 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.

[0191] (Addendum) The above description of the embodiments discloses the following techniques.

[0192] (Technology 1) A cleaning agent recommendation system comprising a cleaning machine equipped with a tank for storing a cleaning agent to be supplied to a cleaning tank, and a recommendation unit for recommending to a user of the cleaning machine a type of cleaning agent that is different in brand or category and brand from the type of cleaning agent stored in the tank. This allows a wide variety of agents to be recommended to users in relation to the types of agents stored in the tank, making it possible to recommend useful agents to users of washing machines with a limited number of tanks.

[0193] (Technology 2) The agent recommendation system described in Technology 1 includes a determination unit that determines the type of agent to be recommended by the recommendation unit based on the execution record of the operating course executed by the cleaning machine, and the recommendation unit recommends the type of agent determined by the determination unit. This allows the type of agent to be recommended to the user taking into account the usage status of the user's operating course, making it possible to recommend a more useful agent to a user of a washing machine 1 that has a limited number of tanks.

[0194] (Technology 3) The agent recommendation system described in Technology 2, wherein the determination unit determines the type of agent to be recommended by the recommendation unit based on the number of times the operating course is executed and the status of the tank related to the agent. This allows the system to recommend a type of agent to a user for a tank that does not store an agent or a tank that is used infrequently, taking into account the user's usage of the operating program. Therefore, it is possible to recommend a more useful agent to a user of a washing machine equipped with multiple tanks.

[0195] (Technology 4) The cleaning machine is provided with a plurality of tanks, and a determination unit that determines the type of agent to be combined with the type of agent stored in the tank, and the recommendation unit recommends the type of agent determined by the determination unit, in the agent recommendation system described in Technology 1. This allows the user to be recommended the types of agents that can be used in combination with the types of agents stored in the tank, making it possible to recommend more useful agents to users of washing machines with a limited number of tanks.

[0196] (Technology 5) The drug recommendation system described in Technology 4, wherein the determination unit determines the type of drug based on statistical information regarding the drug combination. This allows the system to recommend popular types of agents that can be used in combination with the types of agents stored in the tanks, thereby making it possible to recommend more useful agents to users of washing machines with a limited number of tanks.

[0197] (Technology 6) The agent recommendation system described in Technology 4, wherein the determination unit determines the type of agent based on recommendation information indicating a combination of the agent recommended by at least one manufacturer of the agent and the cleaning machine. This allows the type of agent recommended by the manufacturer to be recommended to the user, which can be used in conjunction with the type of agent stored in the tank, making it possible to recommend more useful agents to users of washing machines with a limited number of tanks.

[0198] (Technology 7) A drug recommendation system as described in Technology 1, comprising a determination unit that determines the type of drug to be recommended by the recommendation unit based on statistical information regarding the use of the drug, and the recommendation unit recommends the type of drug determined by the determination unit. This allows popular types of agents to be recommended to users, making it possible to recommend more useful agents to users of washing machines with a limited number of tanks.

[0199] (Technology 8) The agent recommendation system described in Technology 1 includes a determination unit that determines the type of agent recommended by at least one manufacturer of the agent and the cleaning machine as the type of agent recommended by the recommendation unit, and the recommendation unit recommends the type of agent determined by the determination unit. This allows the type of agent recommended by the manufacturer to be recommended to the user, making it possible to recommend a more useful agent to a user of a washing machine having a limited number of tanks.

[0200] (Technology 9) A drug recommendation system according to any one of Technology 1 to Technology 8, comprising: a reception unit that receives an instruction to purchase the type of drug recommended by the recommendation unit; and a drug ordering unit that orders the type of drug recommended by the recommendation unit when the reception unit receives the instruction. This allows the user to easily obtain the recommended types of medicine by simply performing the action of issuing a purchase instruction.

[0201] (Technology 10) A method for recommending a type of agent to a user of a cleaning machine, the type of agent being different in brand or category and brand from the type of agent stored in a tank that stores the agent to be supplied to the cleaning tank of the cleaning machine. This provides the same effects as the drug recommendation system described in Technique 1. [Industrial Applicability]

[0202] As described above, the agent recommendation system and agent recommendation method according to the present invention can be used to recommend to a user the type of agent to be used in a cleaning machine equipped with a tank. [Explanation of symbols]

[0203] 1 Washing machine (cleaning machine) 2. Communications equipment 3 Washing machine management server 4 Terminal Devices 5. Drug management server 10. Cabinet 11 Washing tub (cleaning tub) 12 Drive motor 13. Automatic agent supply unit 14 Aperture 15 Doors 16 Water inlet 17 Drain valve 18 Outer tank 19 Inner tank 20 Cylinder part 21 Bottom 22, 23, 24, 27 aperture 25 flow path 26 Through hole 28 Cover 100 Washing Machine Processor 101 Washing machine communication unit 102 Operation Panel 110 Washing Machine Processor 111 Washing Machine Communication Unit 112 Laundry Department 113 Agent supply control unit 120 washing machine memory 121 Control Program 122 Tank Information 123 Washing machine ID 130 Tank 130A First Tank 130B Second Tank 130C 3rd Tank 131 cases 132 Agent supply device 132A First agent supply device 132B Second agent supply device 132C Third agent supply device 133 Agent supply channel 134 Water supply valve 135 Input section 300 First server control device 301 First server communication unit 310 first server processor 311 First server communication control unit 312 First server processing section 320 First Server Memory 321 Control Program 322 Washing machine management DB 400 Terminal control device 401 Terminal communication unit 402 Terminal Touch Panel 410 Terminal Processor 411 Terminal communication control unit 412 Display control section (recommended section) 413 Reception Department 420 terminal memory 421 APP 422 Dedicated ID 423 Client ID 500 Second Server Processor 500 Second server control device 501 second server communication unit 501 Second server communication control unit 510 Second Server Processor 511 Second server communication control unit 512 Second Server Processing Unit 513 Decision Section 514 Drug Ordering Department 520 Second Server Memory 521 Control Program 522 User Management DB 523 Drug Management DB 524 Agent Type DB 1000 Drug Recommendation System B1 First button B2 Second button CA center axis H Facility J1 Tank Number Information J2 Drug Type Information KG purchase screen L Radio Button LA Laundry NW Network W Warehouse ZG agent screen

Claims

1. a cleaning machine having a tank for storing an agent to be supplied to the cleaning tank; a recommendation unit that recommends to a user of the cleaning machine a type of agent that is different in brand or category and brand from the type of agent stored in the tank, Drug recommendation system.

2. a determination unit that determines the type of agent to be recommended by the recommendation unit based on the execution record of an operating course executed by the cleaning machine, The recommendation unit recommends the type of agent determined by the determination unit. The agent recommendation system according to claim 1 .

3. The determination unit determining the type of agent to be recommended by the recommendation unit based on the number of times the operating course has been executed and the status of the tank related to the agent; The agent recommendation system according to claim 2 .

4. The cleaning machine includes a plurality of the tanks, a determination unit that determines a type of agent to be combined with a type of agent stored in the tank; The recommendation unit recommends the type of agent determined by the determination unit. The agent recommendation system according to claim 1 .

5. the determination unit determines the type of agent based on statistical information regarding the combination of agents. The agent recommendation system according to claim 4.

6. the determination unit determines the type of agent based on recommendation information indicating a combination of the agent recommended by at least one manufacturer of the agent and the cleaning machine; The agent recommendation system according to claim 4.

7. a determination unit that determines the type of the agent to be recommended by the recommendation unit based on statistical information regarding the use of the agent; The recommendation unit recommends the type of agent determined by the determination unit. The agent recommendation system according to claim 1 .

8. a determination unit that determines the type of agent recommended by at least one manufacturer of the agent and the cleaning machine as the type of agent recommended by the recommendation unit; The recommendation unit recommends the type of agent determined by the determination unit. The agent recommendation system according to claim 1 .

9. a receiving unit that receives an instruction to purchase the type of agent recommended by the recommendation unit; a medicine ordering unit that orders the type of medicine recommended by the recommendation unit when the reception unit receives the instruction. The agent recommendation system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. Recommending to a user of the cleaning machine a type of agent whose brand or category and brand differs from the type of agent stored in a tank that stores the agent to be supplied to a cleaning tank of the cleaning machine; Recommended method of application.

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