Notification systems, notification methods, and notification programs

Abstract

This disclosure provides a notification system that can support the continuation of operation using another device even if an abnormality occurs during the operation of one device. [Solution] The notification system in this disclosure comprises a plurality of devices, each performing an operation including a predetermined process, an information output unit, and a notification unit. The information output unit outputs suggestion information regarding the use of a second device, which is different from the first device, if an abnormality occurs in the first device among the plurality of devices during the execution of the operation. The notification unit notifies the suggestion information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a notification system, a notification method, and a notification program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a coin laundry notification system technology for quickly handling claims of coin laundry users. The coin laundry notification system of Patent Document 1 has a storage means for transmitting and storing trouble data generated in coin laundry equipment to a server, a search means for searching maintenance information corresponding to the trouble data in the server, and a transmission means for transmitting the searched maintenance information to a data server via the Internet. Further, the coin laundry notification system of Patent Document 1 has a display means for displaying on a touch panel device constantly connected via the Internet and a restoration means for restoring the trouble of the coin laundry equipment via the touch panel device based on the displayed maintenance information.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides a notification system, a notification method, and a notification program that can assist in continuing the operation of another device even when an abnormality occurs during the operation of a device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The notification system in this disclosure comprises a plurality of devices, each performing an operation including a predetermined process, an information output unit, and a notification unit. The information output unit outputs suggestion information regarding the use of a second device, which is different from the first device, if an abnormality occurs in the first device among the plurality of devices during the execution of the operation. The notification unit notifies the suggestion information.

[0006] Furthermore, the notification method in this disclosure is such that, if an abnormality occurs in a first device among a plurality of devices, each of which performs an operation including a predetermined process, the computer outputs suggestion information regarding the use of a second device different from the first device among the plurality of devices, and notifies the user of the suggestion information.

[0007] Furthermore, the notification program in this disclosure causes a computer to output suggestion information regarding the use of a second device, which is different from the first device, among a plurality of devices, if an abnormality occurs in the first device during the execution of the operation, and to notify the computer of the suggestion information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The notification system, notification method, and notification program described in this disclosure can help continue operation with another device even if an abnormality occurs during the operation of the device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] An explanatory diagram illustrating the outline of the notification system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Diagram illustrating the setting and registration of a room according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 3] An explanatory diagram illustrating notifications to terminal devices in the notification system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] An explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a viewable device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5]Block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the notification system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Block diagram showing an example of a computer configuration according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 7] Sequence diagram showing an example of operation of the notification system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] An explanatory diagram illustrating an example of notification to a terminal device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] A diagram illustrating the determination of equipment according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] A diagram showing an example of notification of proposed information according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] A diagram showing an example of notification of countermeasure information according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of the display for transitioning to maintenance mode according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of how maintenance information is displayed on the administrator's terminal device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of the display on the washing machine's operation screen according to Embodiment 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (Knowledge and other information that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors conceived this disclosure, there was a technology that displayed maintenance information corresponding to trouble data occurring in coin laundry machines on a touch panel device. However, the inventors discovered that with the conventional technology, if a user tried to continue operation using a different machine than the one experiencing the trouble, the user had to find the machine themselves. To solve this problem, the subject matter of this disclosure was established.

[0011] Therefore, this disclosure provides a notification system, notification method, and notification program that allow operation to be easily continued on another device even if an abnormality occurs during the operation of one device.

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, there may be cases where a more detailed description than necessary is omitted. For example, there may be cases where the detailed description of already well-known matters or the redundant descriptions of substantially the same configurations are omitted. Note that the accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0013] In addition, in the description of the present disclosure, alphanumeric characters etc. may be appended to the end of the reference numerals to distinguish and describe the components having the same or similar functions. Also, in the description of the present embodiment, the alphanumeric characters etc. at the end of the reference numerals may be omitted to describe a plurality of components having the same or similar functions without distinction. For example, in FIG. 1, when not particularly distinguished, rooms 2a, 2b, 2c are referred to as room 2. Also, when not particularly distinguished, users 6a, 6b,... are referred to as user 6. Also, when not particularly distinguished, terminal devices 7a, 7b... are referred to as terminal device 7.

[0014] In the description of the present disclosure, explanations may be given using common abbreviations. For example, LAN is an abbreviation for Local Area Network, PC is an abbreviation for Personal Computer, "app" is an abbreviation for application program, and API is an abbreviation for Application Programming Interface. Also, CPU is an abbreviation for Central Processing Unit, RAM is an abbreviation for Random Access Memory, ROM is an abbreviation for Read Only Memory, HDD is an abbreviation for Hard Disk Drive, and SSD is an abbreviation for Solid State Drive. Also, DVD is an abbreviation for Digital Versatile Disk, and USB is an abbreviation for Universal Serial Bus. Also, IH is an abbreviation for Induction Heating, and SNS is an abbreviation for Social Networking Service. GPS is an abbreviation for Global Positioning System, GUI is an abbreviation for Graphical User Interface, and LED is an abbreviation for Light-Emitting Diode.

[0015] (Embodiment 1) [1-1. Configuration] [1-1-1. Overview of the Notification System] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the overview of the notification system according to Embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 1, in the notification system 1, a plurality of clothing processing devices 3, a laundry sharing server 5 that manages these clothing processing devices 3, and a terminal device 7 are connected via a network 8 such as the Internet or a LAN. The laundry sharing server 5 is an example of an information output unit. The terminal device 7 is an example of a notification unit.

[0016] The clothing processing devices 3 include washing machines 3a, 3b and a dryer 3c. The washing machines 3a, 3b are devices that execute a washing operation including each process related to washing clothing etc. (such as water injection, washing, rinsing, dehydration, drying, etc.) and wash the clothing etc. placed in the washing tub. The dryer 3c is a device that executes an operation including a drying process. The garment processing apparatus 3 is an example of equipment that performs an operation including a predetermined process.

[0017] Each garment processing device 3 is installed in a room 2 accessible to user 6 and is shared by user 6. For example, the garment processing devices 3 are installed in rooms 2a to 2c in the common areas on each floor (odd-numbered or even-numbered floors) of an apartment building, condominium, or house. The apartment building, condominium, or house may be a so-called shared house.

[0018] Rooms 2a to 2c may be provided in multiple locations on each floor, or they may be distributed across multiple buildings. For example, rooms 2a to 2c may be located in each wing of an apartment building or condominium (e.g., East Wing, West Wing, etc.).

[0019] Each garment processing device 3 has users 6a, who are administrators responsible for the maintenance and management of the garment processing device 3, and users 6b, 6c, 6d, etc., who are general users who only use the garment processing device 3.

[0020] For example, user 6a, acting as an administrator, is the owner of the apartment or condominium where Room 2 is located. Users 6b, 6c, 6d, etc., acting as general users, are residents of the same apartment or condominium where Room 2 is located.

[0021] User 6a, acting as an administrator, connects to the laundry share server 5 via a terminal device 7a such as a smartphone or PC that they own, and manages each garment processing device 3.

[0022] Users 6b, 6c, 6d, etc., acting as general users, connect their own smartphones or other terminal devices 7b, 7c, 7d, etc., to the Laundry Share Server 5 when using each garment processing device 3 to check the operating status of each garment processing device 3. In addition, if users 6b, 6c, 6d, etc., acting as general users, set up notifications regarding each garment processing device 3 on the Laundry Share Server 5, they will receive those notifications from the Laundry Share Server 5 via their terminal devices 7b, 7c, 7d, etc.

[0023] User 6a, acting as the administrator, pre-configures information about each garment processing device 3 installed in each room 2 on the laundry share server 5 via terminal device 7a. Specifically, information such as identification information (device ID, communication address, etc.), administrator information (administrator's user ID, etc.), affiliated group (group ID indicating the room 2 in which it is installed, etc.), installation location (floor level of the room 2 in which it is installed, the location of the room 2, etc.), and specifications (types of processes that can be executed, and the capabilities of the processes that can be executed) are set on the laundry share server 5 as configuration information for each garment processing device 3.

[0024] Users 6b, 6c, 6d, etc., as general users, register in advance with the laundry share server 5 the group to which they belong, i.e., the room 2 they will be using, i.e., the clothing processing device 3 they will be using, via terminal devices 7b, 7c, 7d, etc. Specifically, user 6's identification information (user ID) and user information (administrator / general user type, gender, age, address, communication address, etc.), along with the group ID indicating room 2, are registered with the laundry share server 5 as user 6's registration information.

[0025] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the setup and registration of Room 2 according to Embodiment 1. As shown on the left side of Figure 2 with respect to the vertical lines in the figure, user 6a, acting as the administrator, pre-configures the information of each garment processing device 3 installed in Rooms 2a, 2b, and 2c in the Laundry Share Server 5 via terminal device 7a. As a result, the Laundry Share Server 5 associates each garment processing device 3 with Rooms 2a, 2b, and 2c, corresponding to the installation status of each garment processing device 3.

[0026] Furthermore, as shown on the right side of Figure 2 with the vertical lines in the diagram as a reference, general users 6b, 6c, 6d… register their user information and other details, along with the rooms 2a, 2b, and 2c they will use, with the laundry share server 5 via terminal devices 7b, 7c, 7d…. For example, user 6b registers rooms 2a and 2b, which are close to their room and convenient, with the laundry share server 5 using terminal device 7b. Similarly, user 6c registers rooms 2b and 2c as rooms they will use using terminal device 7c. User 6d also registers rooms 2a and 2c as rooms they will use using terminal device 7d. By pre-registering in this way, users 6b, 6c, 6d… can receive only notifications regarding the clothing processing device 3 for the rooms they have registered, and avoid receiving unnecessary notifications such as notifications regarding the clothing processing device 3 for unregistered rooms.

[0027] The laundry share server 5 acquires operating data indicating the operating status of each garment processing device 3 and manages the operating status of each garment processing device 3. Specifically, the laundry share server 5 acquires operating data from each garment processing device 3 through notifications from the device or by periodic polling of each garment processing device 3. The laundry share server 5 stores the acquired operating data in association with the identification information (device ID) of each garment processing device 3.

[0028] In response to a viewing request from the terminal device 7, the laundry share server 5 generates a web page displaying the operating status of each garment processing device 3 it manages, based on the operating data of each device, and sends it to the requesting device. As a result, the terminal device 7 can check the operating status of each garment processing device 3 on the web page.

[0029] Furthermore, the laundry share server 5 determines whether a predetermined event (such as operation completion or an abnormality occurring) has occurred in each garment processing device 3 based on the operating data of each garment processing device 3 it manages. If the laundry share server 5 determines that a predetermined event has occurred, it notifies the terminal device 7 of the garment processing device 3 in which the event occurred and the details of the event. Specifically, the laundry share server 5 notifies the terminal device 7 of the user 6 who has registered for notification of the garment processing device 3 in which the event occurred and the details of the event. This notification is sent to the user 6's terminal device 7 via a pre-registered chat room, for example, using the notification message function (notification message API) of a messaging app.

[0030] Here, an abnormality in the garment processing apparatus 3 could be, for example, in the washing / rinsing process, an abnormality in the water level sensor, an abnormality in the water temperature sensor, or detection of a water leak. In the dewatering process, an abnormal vibration may be detected. In the drying process, an abnormality may occur in the circulation fan motor. In addition, throughout the entire process, an abnormality could be caused by a short circuit in the power relay or detection of an abnormally high voltage.

[0031] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating notifications to the terminal device 7 in the notification system 1 according to Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 3, the laundry share server 5 acquires and manages operating data indicating the operating status of each garment processing device 3.

[0032] User 6, using the terminal device 7, checks notifications from the laundry share server 5 and the operating status of each garment processing device 3 within the room 2 they have registered to use, via the portal screen 700 of the talk room opened through user registration, etc.

[0033] Specifically, the portal screen 700 displays various announcements and notifications 701a to 701c from the laundry share server 5, such as washing completion / errors in the clothing processing device 3, in chronological order from top to bottom. This allows user 6 to view notifications 701a to 701c from the laundry share server 5 in chronological order.

[0034] In the following explanation, when distinguishing between notifications from user 6a as an administrator to terminal device 7a and notifications from users 6b, 6c, 6d, etc. as general users to terminal devices 7b, 7c, 7d, etc., alphanumeric characters will be added to the end of the reference code 701. For example, notifications from user 6a as an administrator to terminal device 7a will be prefixed with uppercase letters, such as notification 701A, 701B, etc. Notifications from users 6b, 6c, 6d, etc. as general users to terminal devices 7b, 7c, 7d, etc. will be prefixed with lowercase letters, such as notification 701a, 701b, etc. Furthermore, the examples given below of notifications from user 6a as an administrator to terminal device 7a (with uppercase letters at the end) and notifications from users 6b, 6c, 6d, etc. as general users to terminal devices 7b, 7c, 7d, etc. (with lowercase letters at the end) are merely illustrative examples. For example, the notification intended for administrators in the following explanation may be given to general users, or the notification intended for general users may be given to administrators.

[0035] Additionally, the portal screen 700 displays operation buttons 702a for checking the operating status and setting notifications for each garment processing device 3, and operation buttons 702b for checking and registering Room 2.

[0036] By operating the operation button 702a on the portal screen 700, the terminal device 7 requests the laundry share server 5 to display a room screen 710 that allows the user to check the operating status and notification settings of each garment processing device 3 in the registered room 2. Upon receiving this request, the laundry share server 5 checks the registration information of user 6 linked to the talk room and identifies the room 2 in which the user registration is set. Next, based on the operating data of each garment processing device 3 in the identified room 2, the laundry share server 5 generates display data that displays the operating status of each garment processing device 3 in room 2 as a website and sends it to the terminal device 7. This display data displays a room screen 710 on the terminal device 7 that lists the device information 711a to 711c of each garment processing device 3 in the registered room 2. This room screen 710 allows user 6 to easily check the status of each garment processing device 3 in the registered room 2.

[0037] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a viewable clothing processing device 3 according to Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 4, a user 6b who has registered to use rooms 2a and 2b can view the status of the clothing processing devices 3 installed in rooms 2a and 2b via the room screen 710. Similarly, a user 6c who has registered to use rooms 2b and 2c can view the status of the clothing processing devices 3 installed in rooms 2b and 2c via the room screen 710. If multiple rooms 2 are registered, the user may be prompted to select the room 2 to view before the room screen 710 is displayed.

[0038] Returning to Figure 3, the equipment information 711a to 711b on the room screen 710 includes items such as the operating status of each garment processing device 3, the remaining time until operation is complete, and whether or not notification settings are configured.

[0039] The "Operating Status" section displays the current status of the garment processing device 3 (operating status, presence of abnormalities, availability, etc.). For example, if not in operation, it will show "Available," and if in operation, the current operating stage will be displayed in the "Operating Status" section, such as "Washing," "Rinsing," "Spinning," or "Drying." If an abnormality (error) occurs in the garment processing device 3, "Abnormality Found" will be displayed in the "Operating Status" section, along with the corresponding error number. Furthermore, if the garment processing device 3 is set to unavailable for maintenance or other purposes, it will be displayed in the "Operating Status" section as unavailable, such as "Under Maintenance."

[0040] The "Notification Settings" section indicates whether notifications are sent when a predetermined event (such as completion of operation or an abnormality) occurs in each garment processing device 3. This notification setting is configured in the laundry share server 5, linked to the user 6's identification information (user ID) for each garment processing device 3. For example, if user 6's identification information (user ID) is linked, notifications are set to "enabled," and if not, notifications are set to "disabled." User 6 can set whether or not to receive notifications by operating the toggle button in this section.

[0041] The laundry share server 5 manages the garment processing device 3 that has been set to have notification enabled by the operation of this toggle button, by associating it with the user's identification information (user ID). Then, when a predetermined event (such as completion of operation or occurrence of an abnormality) occurs in the garment processing device 3, the laundry share server 5 notifies the terminal device 7 of user 6, to which the user's identification information (user ID) is associated, of the event that occurred.

[0042] Specifically, the laundry share server 5 sends a notification 701 corresponding to the event that occurred via the portal screen 700 of the aforementioned talk room. This notification 701 allows the user 6 to easily check the event that occurred in the garment processing device 3 for which notification settings have been configured.

[0043] By operating the operation button 702b on the portal screen 700, the terminal device 7 displays the group screen 720 for confirming and registering the group (registered room 2) associated with user 6. Specifically, the terminal device 7 queries the laundry share server 5 for the group associated with user 6. The laundry share server 5 identifies the room 2 set up in association with user 6's identification information (user ID) and sends it to the terminal device 7. As a result, the terminal device 7 displays the group associated with user 6 in the group list on the group screen 720.

[0044] If there are no groups associated with user 6 (as shown in the example), nothing will be displayed in the group list on the group screen 720. Additionally, a registration button 721 for creating a new group will be displayed on the group screen 720.

[0045] Upon operation of the registration button 721 on the portal screen 700, the terminal device 7 obtains the identification information (group ID) of the group (room 2 to be registered) and displays the scan screen 730 for group registration. On the scan screen 730, the terminal device 7 reads the group identification information from the image captured by the built-in camera and registers the group for use.

[0046] Specifically, terminal device 7 reads the group registration code 731 included in the image captured by the built-in camera and obtains the group identification information included in the registration code 731. Then, terminal device 7 notifies the laundry share server 5 of the obtained group identification information (group ID). Laundry share server 5 manages the group identification information (group ID) notified by terminal device 7 by linking it to the user's identification information (user ID).

[0047] [1-1-2. Functional Configuration of the Notification System] Here, the functional configuration of the notification system 1 will be described in detail. Figure 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the notification system 1 according to Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 5, the notification system 1 includes a clothing processing device 3, an operation information management server 4, a laundry share server 5, and a terminal device 7.

[0048] The operation information management server 4 periodically polls each garment processing device 3 based on the communication address and other information included in the identification information of each garment processing device 3, and obtains operation data 41 from each garment processing device 3. The operation information management server 4 may also obtain operation data 41 through voluntary notifications from each garment processing device 3. The operation information management server 4 manages the obtained operation data 41 together with the device ID included in the identification information of each garment processing device 3. When there is an update to the operation data 41, or upon request, the operation information management server 4 provides (transmits) the operation data 41 of each garment processing device 3 under its management to the laundry share server 5.

[0049] The laundry share server 5 includes a website processing unit 51, a communication and notification processing unit 52, an available device determination unit 53, an available device suggestion unit 54, an anomaly handling method suggestion unit 55, a device and user management unit 56, a notification setting management unit 57, and a device anomaly information management unit 58.

[0050] The website processing unit 51 is a processing unit that generates and returns website display data in response to a website viewing request from the terminal device 7.

[0051] Specifically, the website processing unit 51 receives a request from the terminal device 7 to view the room screen 710, which allows users 6 to check the operating status and notification settings of each garment processing device 3 within Room 2 that they have registered to use. Upon receiving this request, the website processing unit 51 checks the user management information 562 based on the user's identification information (user ID) linked to the user's chat room and identifies Room 2, which is registered as a registered group ID (hereinafter referred to as the registered group ID). Next, the website processing unit 51 obtains the operating data 41 of the garment processing device 3 linked to the group identification information (group ID) of the identified Room 2 from the equipment management information 561. Based on the obtained operating data 41, the website processing unit 51 generates display data to display the operating status of each garment processing device 3 within Room 2 as a website and sends it to the terminal device 7.

[0052] The communication and notification processing unit 52 is a processing unit that handles communication with external devices such as the driving information management server 4 and terminal devices 7 via the network 8, as well as processing various notifications to the terminal devices 7.

[0053] The communication and notification processing unit 52 monitors the operation data 41 of the equipment management information 561 and determines whether a predetermined event (such as operation completion or an abnormality occurring) has occurred in each garment processing device 3. If a predetermined event occurs, the communication and notification processing unit 52 sends a notification corresponding to the event to the terminal device 7 of the user 6 who has set up notifications for the garment processing device 3 in which the event occurred.

[0054] Specifically, the communication and notification processing unit 52 refers to user management information 562 and notification management information 571 based on the identification information (device ID) of the clothing processing device 3 where the event occurred, and determines whether or not it is the clothing processing device 3 associated with the user 6's identification information (user ID) according to the notification settings.

[0055] For example, in user management information 562, the clothing processing device 3 to which a user has set up notifications is managed by associating the device ID with the user ID that identifies user 6. Similarly, in notification management information 571, user 6 who has set up notifications for the clothing processing device 3 is managed by associating the user ID with the device ID that identifies the clothing processing device 3. Therefore, the communication and notification processing unit 52 can determine whether or not notification settings have been set from either user 6's side or the clothing processing device 3's side by referring to user management information 562 and notification management information 571 to confirm the association (correspondence) between the user ID and the device ID.

[0056] If there is a user 6 associated with the clothing processing device 3 where an event occurred through notification settings, the communication and notification processing unit 52 sends a notification 701 corresponding to the event to the terminal device 7 of the user 6's identification information (user ID) via the portal screen 700 of the talk room described above.

[0057] Here, if the event that occurred is an abnormality that occurred during operation, the communication and notification processing unit 52 notifies the terminal device 7 of suggested information regarding the use of a different garment processing device 3 (also called the second device) from the garment processing device 3 where the abnormality occurred (also called the first device), thereby notifying the user 6 of the terminal device 7 of suggested information. In addition, if the event that occurred is an abnormality that occurred during operation, the communication and notification processing unit 52 notifies the terminal device 7 of suggested information regarding countermeasures for dealing with the abnormality that occurred in the garment processing device 3, thereby notifying the user 6 of the terminal device 7 of suggested information.

[0058] Specifically, the communication and notification processing unit 52 issues abnormality management information 581 corresponding to the abnormality if the operation data 41 includes an abnormality that occurred in a predetermined process. The abnormality management information 581 includes identification information (abnormality ID) for the abnormality that occurred, the equipment ID and group ID of the garment processing device 3 where the abnormality occurred, and abnormality information indicating the content of the abnormality that occurred. Here, the abnormality information is based on the operation data 41 at the time the abnormality occurred and includes the error number, operation settings, and operation details at the time the abnormality occurred.

[0059] The error number is a diagnosis made by the garment processing device 3 regarding the type of abnormality (e.g., motor abnormality, sensor abnormality, foreign object contamination, etc.). The operation settings are the settings made when the garment processing device 3 is in operation and include the operation course (wash, rinse, spin, dry, or a combination thereof), water volume (set or sensor detected), and fabric volume (set or sensor detected). The operation details at the time the abnormality occurred include the process in which the abnormality occurred (rinse, wash, spin, dry, etc.) and the progress of the operation (e.g., 3 minutes after the wash cycle in a wash, rinse, spin course, with 35 minutes remaining).

[0060] Next, the communication and notification processing unit 52 notifies the available equipment determination unit 53 and the available equipment suggestion unit 54 of the abnormality ID of the issued abnormality management information 581, thereby obtaining suggestion information from the available equipment suggestion unit 54. The communication and notification processing unit 52 also notifies the abnormality countermeasure method suggestion unit 55 of the abnormality management information 581 of the issued abnormality management information 581, thereby obtaining countermeasure information from the abnormality countermeasure method suggestion unit 55. The communication and notification processing unit 52 then notifies the terminal device 7 of the obtained suggestion information and countermeasure information.

[0061] The available equipment determination unit 53 is a processing unit that determines whether a different garment processing unit 3 from the one that experienced the malfunction is available, and determines which garment processing unit 3 is available. For example, the available equipment determination unit 53 obtains the equipment ID of the garment processing unit 3 that experienced the malfunction by referring to the malfunction management information 581 based on the malfunction ID notified by the communication and notification processing unit 52. Then, the available equipment determination unit 53 refers to the equipment management information 561 and determines which garment processing units (equipment IDs) other than the one that experienced the malfunction have operating data 41 that is not in operation (available) as available garment processing units 3.

[0062] Furthermore, the available equipment determination unit 53 determines that the garment processing device 3 corresponding to the operation in which the abnormality occurred is the available garment processing device 3. Specifically, the available equipment determination unit 53 obtains abnormality information, including operation settings and operation details at the time the abnormality occurred, by referring to abnormality management information 581 based on the abnormality ID notified by the communication / notification processing unit 52. Next, the available equipment determination unit 53 refers to the specification data of the equipment management information 561 and determines that the garment processing device 3 corresponding to the operation of the process after the process interrupted by the abnormality is the available garment processing device 3. Specifically, the available equipment determination unit 53 compares the operation settings in the abnormality information with the operation details (progress of operation) at the time the abnormality occurred and obtains the unoperated process, including the process interrupted by the abnormality. Next, the available equipment determination unit 53 determines that the garment processing device 3 is the one whose unoperated process is operable, based on the specification data of the equipment management information 561.

[0063] The available equipment determination unit 53 may refer to the specification data in the equipment management information 561 and designate a clothing processing device 3 that has a capacity sufficient to accommodate the amount of clothing that the clothing processing device 3 that has malfunctioned can accommodate as an available clothing processing device 3. The specification data shows the specifications of each clothing processing device 3 (name, operating specifications, amount of clothing that can be accommodated, etc.) and is an example of specification information.

[0064] Furthermore, the available equipment determination unit 53 may compare the location information of each garment processing device 3 included in the equipment management information 561 and determine the garment processing device 3 that is closer in distance from the garment processing device 3 where the abnormality occurred. In this embodiment, "closer in distance" means the one located on a closer floor where another garment processing device 3 is installed. For example, in order of proximity, the garment processing devices 3 would be: another garment processing device 3 in the same room, a garment processing device 3 in a different room on the same floor, a garment processing device 3 in a room on a closer floor, a garment processing device 3 in a room on a lower floor in a nearby building, and a garment processing device 3 in a room on a higher floor in a nearby building.

[0065] Furthermore, the available equipment determination unit 53 may determine which garment processing device 3 is the one in the group to which the malfunctioning garment processing device 3 belongs (for example, room 2 in which the garment processing device 3 is installed), based on the identification information of the group to which it belongs (group ID), etc.

[0066] Specifically, the available equipment determination unit 53 refers to the group ID in the equipment management information 561 based on the equipment ID of the garment processing device 3 where the malfunction occurred, and identifies the group of the garment processing device 3 where the malfunction occurred. Then, the available equipment determination unit 53 selects a garment processing device 3 from among the garment processing devices 3 with the same group ID as the identified group.

[0067] Furthermore, the group to which the malfunctioning garment processing device 3 belongs may be expanded to include the groups (Room 2) registered by user 6. Specifically, the available device determination unit 53 identifies the group registered by user 6 from the registered group ID item in the user management information 562. Then, the available device determination unit 53 determines the garment processing device 3 from among the garment processing devices 3 with the same group ID as the identified group. In this way, the available device determination unit 53 can determine the garment processing device 3 from among the multiple Room 2 registered by user 6.

[0068] The available equipment suggestion unit 54 is a processing unit that generates suggestion information for using a different garment processing device 3 from the garment processing device 3 that experienced the malfunction, based on the decision of the available equipment determination unit 53.

[0069] Specifically, the available equipment suggestion unit 54 refers to the equipment management information 561 of the garment processing device 3 that the available equipment determination unit 53 has determined to be available, and generates suggestion information that guides the user 6 to the garment processing device 3. As an example, the available equipment suggestion unit 54 creates suggestion information that presents the location of the garment processing device 3 based on the location information of the equipment management information 561, the name of the garment processing device 3 included in the specification data, etc.

[0070] Furthermore, the available equipment suggestion unit 54 may include in the suggestion information information information regarding the setting input for the operation content corresponding to the operation of the garment processing device 3 in which the abnormality occurred. Specifically, the available equipment suggestion unit 54 obtains the operation settings of the garment processing device 3 in which the abnormality occurred and the operation content at the time the abnormality occurred by referring to the abnormality information in the abnormality management information 581 based on the abnormality ID notified by the communication and notification processing unit 52. Then, based on the acquired operation settings, the available equipment suggestion unit 54 includes in the suggestion information information setting input information that can reproduce the operation content of the garment processing device 3 in which the abnormality occurred.

[0071] Furthermore, the available equipment suggestion unit 54 may include in the suggestion information information setting input that includes only the processes that were not in operation, including the processes that were interrupted due to the abnormality, based on the results of comparing the operation settings with the operation content (progress of operation) at the time the abnormality occurred.

[0072] The abnormality handling method proposal unit 55 is a processing unit that receives an abnormality ID notified by the communication and notification processing unit 52 and generates handling information related to the handling of abnormalities that have occurred in the clothing processing device 3.

[0073] Specifically, the abnormality handling method proposal unit 55 obtains the error number included in the abnormality information of the clothing processing device 3 by referring to the abnormality management information 581 based on the abnormality ID notified by the communication and notification processing unit 52. Then, based on the obtained error number, the abnormality handling method proposal unit 55 obtains the corrective action information corresponding to the abnormality that occurred in the clothing processing device 3 by referring to the corrective action management information 582 which manages corrective action information for each error number.

[0074] The response management information 582 includes, for each type of anomaly identified by the error number, administrator response information that is notified to user 6a as an administrator, and user response information that is notified to user 6b as a general user.

[0075] The abnormality handling method proposal unit 55 obtains, based on the above-mentioned handling management information 582, administrator handling information, which is handling information to be notified to user 6a as an administrator, and user handling information, which is handling information to be notified to user 6b as a general user, in response to an abnormality that occurred in the clothing processing device 3.

[0076] The communication and notification processing unit 52 notifies the terminal device 7b of user 6b corresponding to the user ID mentioned above of the user handling information obtained from the abnormality handling method proposal unit 55. The communication and notification processing unit 52 also notifies the administrator's terminal device 7a of the administrator's handling information obtained from the abnormality handling method proposal unit 55, along with the details of the abnormality. Specifically, the communication and notification processing unit 52 identifies the user ID of the administrator in the user information of the user management information 562. Then, the communication and notification processing unit 52 notifies the terminal device 7a related to the identified administrator's user ID of the details of the abnormality and the administrator handling information obtained from the abnormality handling method proposal unit 55.

[0077] Furthermore, the communication and notification processing unit 52 may refer to the maintenance history included in the notification management information 571 of each garment processing device 3 and notify (notify) of maintenance information at predetermined intervals. Specifically, if the communication and notification processing unit 52 finds in the maintenance history that there is a maintenance information notification for which a predetermined period has elapsed since the most recent notification, it will notify at least one of the garment processing device 3 or the terminal device 7a of the user 6a acting as the administrator of that maintenance information.

[0078] The Equipment / User Management Unit 56 is a processing unit that manages equipment management information 561 and user management information 562. Specifically, based on the settings registered by user 6a as an administrator, the Equipment / User Management Unit 56 manages various information (group ID, location information, specification data) related to each garment processing device 3 in the Equipment Management Information 561, linking it to identification information (equipment ID). The Equipment / User Management Unit 56 also acquires operation data 41 for each garment processing device 3 from the operation information management server 4 and manages it in the Equipment Management Information 561, linking it to identification information (equipment ID). The Equipment / User Management Unit 56 may update the Equipment Management Information 561 and user management information 562 as new information is provided. For example, the Equipment / User Management Unit 56 may update the location information in the Equipment Management Information 561 based on the location information acquired by the GPS of each device (garment processing device 3).

[0079] Furthermore, the equipment / user management unit 56 manages various information about each user 6 (user information, registered group ID, notification device ID) in the user management information 562, linking it to identification information (user ID) based on user registration by user 6. Here, the registered group ID item shows the identification information of the group (room 2) that user 6 has registered to use. The notification device ID item shows the identification information (device ID) of the clothing processing device 3 that the user has set to notify.

[0080] The notification setting management unit 57 is a processing unit that manages notification management information 571 and maintenance management information 572. The notification management information 571 manages information for each garment processing device 3 (registered user, maintenance history) linked to the identification information (device ID) of the garment processing device 3. The maintenance management information 572 manages maintenance information indicating the content of maintenance linked to the identification information (maintenance ID).

[0081] Here, in the registered user section of the notification management information 571, the user who set up notifications for the garment processing device 3, indicated by the garment processing device's identification information (device ID), is shown using the user's identification information (user ID), etc. Furthermore, the maintenance history section shows the maintenance history for the garment processing device 3, indicated by the garment processing device's identification information (device ID), using the maintenance date and time, maintenance ID, etc.

[0082] The equipment malfunction information management unit 58 is a processing unit that manages malfunction management information 581 and countermeasure management information 582.

[0083] Terminal device 7 has an application 71 such as a messaging application for notifications and viewing as described above. Terminal device 7 displays screens such as the portal screen 700, room screen 710, group screen 720, and scan screen 730 as described above, using the functions of this application 71.

[0084] The various functions of the garment processing device 3, operation information management server 4, laundry share server 5, and terminal device 7 described above can be realized through a computer configuration. Here, an example of a computer configuration will be described.

[0085] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an example of a computer configuration according to Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 6, the computer 1000 has a CPU 1010, ROM 1020, RAM 1030, storage unit 1040, I / F unit 1050, input unit 1060, and output unit 1070, and each of these units is connected via a bus 1080.

[0086] The CPU 1010 is an example of a processor that oversees and controls the operation of the computer 1000. The ROM 1020 stores boot programs and initial settings. The RAM 1030 functions as the work area for the CPU 1010. The memory unit 1040 is a storage device such as an HDD or SSD, and stores memory units 1040 related to the processing of various functional units. In the case of the laundry share server 5, the memory unit 1040 stores the notification program 1041.

[0087] The I / F unit 1050 is a communication interface that connects various parts within the device (e.g., drive unit, sensors, etc.) and external devices via the network 8. For example, in the computer 1000 within the garment processing device 3, the water supply valve, drain valve, drive motor, supply unit that supplies detergent etc. to the washing tub, and various sensors that measure the temperature and water level inside the washing tub are all connected to the computer 1000 via the I / F unit 1050.

[0088] The input unit 1060 is an input device that accepts various input operations such as keyboards and touch panels. The output unit 1070 is a display device such as an LCD or an audio output device such as a speaker, and outputs information in display and audio formats under the control of the CPU 1010.

[0089] The CPU 1010 of the laundry share server 5 reads the notification program 1041, loads it into the work area of ​​RAM 1030, and executes it sequentially, thereby executing processing related to various functional units such as the website processing unit 51, communication and notification processing unit 52, available equipment determination unit 53, available equipment suggestion unit 54, abnormality handling method suggestion unit 55, equipment and user management unit 56, notification setting management unit 57, and equipment abnormality information management unit 58. As a result, the computer 1000 realizes various functional units such as the website processing unit 51, communication and notification processing unit 52, available equipment determination unit 53, available equipment suggestion unit 54, abnormality handling method suggestion unit 55, equipment and user management unit 56, notification setting management unit 57, and equipment abnormality information management unit 58.

[0090] This notification program 1041 is provided as an installable or executable file recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a DVD or other optical recording medium, a USB memory stick, or a semiconductor memory device such as an SSD. Alternatively, the notification program 1041 may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided or distributed by downloading it via the network. Furthermore, the notification program 1041 may be pre-installed in a ROM 1020 or the like.

[0091] [1-2. Operation] Next, the operation of the notification system 1 will be described. Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the notification system 1 according to Embodiment 1. In the operation example described with reference to Figure 7, it is assumed that all initial settings, such as various settings by user 6a as an administrator and user registration by user 6b as a general user, have already been completed. Terminal device 7a is the terminal device of user 6a as an administrator. Terminal device 7b is the terminal device of user 6b as a general user who has already configured notifications for the clothing processing device 3. Furthermore, the operation of some devices, such as the operation information management server 4, will be omitted.

[0092] As shown in Figure 7, if an abnormality occurs in the garment processing device 3, the laundry share server 5 is notified of the abnormality via operation data 41 (S1). At this point, the garment processing device 3 stops any ongoing operations and switches the display on the operation screen and other displays to an abnormality display (S2, S3).

[0093] The communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5 notifies the terminal device 7b of user 6b, who has enabled notification settings, of an abnormality in the clothing processing device 3 (S4). On terminal device 7b, the operating status display on the room screen 710 is switched to an abnormality display (S5). Also, on terminal device 7b, the abnormality in the clothing processing device 3 is notified on the portal screen 700, and an abnormality display indicating the abnormality of the clothing processing device 3 is shown (S6).

[0094] Furthermore, the abnormality handling method proposal unit 55 of the laundry share server 5 receives an abnormality ID corresponding to the abnormality in the clothing processing device 3 and generates handling information regarding the handling of the abnormality that occurred in the clothing processing device 3. Specifically, the abnormality handling method proposal unit 55 obtains user handling information corresponding to the abnormality in the clothing processing device 3 by referring to the handling management information 582 based on the error number associated with the abnormality ID.

[0095] Furthermore, the communication and notification processing unit 52 notifies the terminal device 7b of the user response information generated by the abnormality response method proposal unit 55 (S7). Note that the processing of S4 and S7 in the communication and notification processing unit 52 does not have to be in the order of S4 then S7 as described above. For example, the processing of S4 and S7 may be executed simultaneously, or S7 may be executed before S4. Next, the terminal device 7b is notified of the method for dealing with the abnormality in the clothing processing device 3 on the portal screen 700, and the user 6b is presented with emergency measures, equipment shutdown, or recovery methods (S8).

[0096] Furthermore, the communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5 notifies the terminal device 7a of user 6a, who is acting as an administrator, of the occurrence of an abnormality in the clothing processing device 3 (S9). This allows user 6a, acting as an administrator, to recognize the abnormality in the clothing processing device 3.

[0097] Next, the available equipment determination unit 53 of the laundry share server 5 determines whether a different garment processing device 3 from the garment processing device 3 that caused the malfunction (the first device) is available, and searches for an available garment processing device 3 (the second device) (S10).

[0098] Next, the available equipment suggestion unit 54 of the laundry share server 5 generates suggestion information regarding the use of the clothing processing device 3 (second device) obtained through the search by the available equipment determination unit 53. The communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5 notifies the terminal device 7b of the user 6b who has set up notifications of the suggestion information generated by the available equipment suggestion unit 54 (S11). As a result of this notification, the terminal device 7b is notified of the suggestion information regarding the abnormality in the clothing processing device 3 on the portal screen 700, and a suggestion is made to move the device to be used (S12).

[0099] Specifically, the proposal in S12 may include location information of the garment processing device 3 based on location information of the equipment management information 561. Furthermore, this proposal may include setting information (operation settings) of the garment processing device 3 (first device) where the malfunction occurred. Additionally, this proposal may include recommended operation settings determined from the remaining processes of the ongoing operation of the garment processing device 3 (first device) where the malfunction occurred. More specifically, the above proposal may include setting input information that specifies operation content consisting only of unoperated processes, including processes interrupted due to the malfunction of the garment processing device 3 (first device).

[0100] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of notification to the terminal device 7b according to Embodiment 1. In Figure 8, the following are illustrated in chronological order from left to right: abnormality display of the garment processing device 3, suggestion to move the device in response to the abnormality in the garment processing device 3, and suggestion of recommended operating settings.

[0101] As shown on the left of Figure 8, if an abnormality occurs in the garment processing device 3, the terminal device 7b will display a notification 701d of the abnormality in the garment processing device 3 on the portal screen 700. At this time, the terminal device 7b may also display a notification 701e on the portal screen 700 indicating the progress of the operation (completed processes, remaining time, etc.) based on the operation data 41 of the garment processing device 3 at the time the abnormality occurred.

[0102] Regarding the above-mentioned notification of an abnormality 701d, some abnormalities can be resolved by the user, allowing operation to be resumed. Examples of such abnormalities that allow operation to be resumed include abnormalities due to clogging of the drying filter (abnormality of the temperature sensor) and abnormalities due to accumulation of debris in the drain filter (e.g., abnormality of the water level sensor). The abnormality resolution method suggestion unit 55 identifies whether or not the abnormality can be resolved by the user, based on the error number indicating the type of error. If the abnormality can be resolved by the user, the abnormality resolution method suggestion unit 55 generates user action information indicating how to resolve the issue. For example, if the abnormality resolution method suggestion unit 55 identifies an abnormality in the temperature sensor in the drying process based on the error number, it generates user action information prompting the user to check the drying filter.

[0103] Next, as shown in the middle of Figure 8, the terminal device 7b displays a notification 701f on the portal screen 700 that suggests an available garment processing device 3 (second device) to replace the malfunctioning garment processing device 3 (first device). Specifically, the notification 701f includes the name of the available garment processing device 3 (second device), "No. 1 Dryer," along with the device's location information, "Room B," etc. This allows user 6b to easily identify the available garment processing device 3 (second device).

[0104] Next, on terminal device 7b, notifications 701g and 701h regarding the confirmation of device movement are displayed on the portal screen 700, and a notification 701i indicating the confirmation result (movement) is displayed.

[0105] Based on this confirmation result (movement), terminal device 7b proposes setting input information (recommended operating settings) for the equipment after the move. Specifically, the portal screen 700 of terminal device 7b displays notifications 701k such as the progress of the operation, along with notifications 701l for setting input (such as "automatic" or "timer drying") for the operation content of the unoperated process (including the interrupted process). This allows user 6b to easily set the unoperated process, including the process that was interrupted due to an abnormality, on the clothing processing device 3 (second equipment).

[0106] Figure 9 illustrates the determination of equipment according to Embodiment 1. In Figure 9, it is assumed that an abnormality has occurred in the clothing processing device 3 in room 2a.

[0107] As shown in Figure 9, the available equipment determination unit 53 determines the clothing processing device 3 (second device) to be the one that is closer in distance from the clothing processing device 3 (first device) in room 2a where the abnormality occurred, if there is a clothing processing device 3 that can perform the remaining process that was interrupted due to the abnormality and has a capacity that can fill the capacity of the clothing processing device 3 where the abnormality occurred. Specifically, the available equipment determination unit 53 determines the clothing processing device 3 (second device) in the following order: firstly, a device that is available (empty) in room 2a, secondly, a device that is available in room 2b, and thirdly, a device that is available in room 2c. By determining the second device in this way, the notification system 1 can reduce the burden of movement for the user 6 when continuing to operate the clothing processing device 3 (second device).

[0108] For example, the available equipment determination unit 53 may search for a garment processing device 3 capable of performing the remaining process and determine the garment processing device 3 (second device) in order of proximity to the garment processing device 3 (first device) in the room 2a where the abnormality occurred. Alternatively, the available equipment determination unit 53 may search for several garment processing devices 3 capable of performing the remaining process in order of proximity to the garment processing device 3 (first device) in the room 2a where the abnormality occurred, and notify the user 6's terminal device 7b of a list of the searched devices. Then, the available equipment determination unit 53 may receive the device selected by the user 6 from the list of devices from the terminal device 7b and determine it as the garment processing device 3 (second device).

[0109] Figure 10 shows an example of notification of proposed information according to Embodiment 1. In Figure 10, it is assumed that user 6b has set up notifications for washing machine 3a (first device). Case C1 is a case in which an abnormality occurs in the spin-drying process during automatic (washing (including washing, rinsing, and spin-drying processes) and drying) operation of washing machine 3a (first device). Case C2 is a case in which an abnormality occurs in washing machine 3a (first device) immediately after the start of the drying process during an arbitrary wash-and-dry course operation. Washing machine 3b and dryer 3c are other devices (second devices) for which the use of alternatives to washing machine 3a (first device) was proposed in cases C1 and C2.

[0110] As shown in Figure 10, in cases C1 and C2, other available equipment (washing machine 3b, dryer 3c) that can be used in response to the malfunctioning operation is notified to the terminal device 7b and suggested to the user 6b.

[0111] Specifically, in case C1, since the rinsing process has been completed during the automatic (wash (including washing, rinsing, and spin-drying) and drying) cycle, a washing machine 3b capable of performing the remaining spin-drying and drying processes is proposed. In addition, the notification on the terminal device 7b presents the settings for the remaining washing processes (wash 0 minutes, rinse 0 minutes, spin-dry 15 minutes) in the automatic wash-and-dry cycle. These presentations allow user 6b to easily continue the remaining operations on the washing machine 3b.

[0112] Furthermore, in Case C2, an abnormality occurs immediately after the start of the drying process, and the remaining process is drying only. Therefore, in Case C2, a dryer 3c that only has a drying function is proposed. In this proposal, the laundry share server 5 determines, based on the specification data, that a dryer 3c that allows the operating settings of the washing machine 3a, such as the amount of fabric, is available as usable equipment. Therefore, user 6b can accurately continue operation with a dryer 3c that allows the operating settings of the washing machine 3a.

[0113] Returning to Figure 7, we will explain the cases (A1-A3) in which, when an abnormality (error) occurs in the garment processing device 3 or when maintenance is performed on the garment processing device 3, information on how to deal with the situation is notified to the terminal device 7a of user 6a, who is acting as the administrator.

[0114] Here, Case A1 is a case in which, if an abnormality occurs in the garment processing device 3, the terminal device 7a of user 6a, acting as the administrator, is notified of the necessary action. Case A2 is a case in which, if an abnormality occurs in the garment processing device 3, the terminal device 7a of user 6a, acting as the administrator, puts the garment processing device 3 into maintenance mode (unavailable mode). Case A3 is a case in which the terminal device 7a of user 6a, acting as the administrator, is notified of the need for regular maintenance.

[0115] As shown in Case A1, if an abnormality occurs in the garment processing device 3, the abnormality handling method proposal unit 55 of the laundry share server 5 obtains administrator handling information corresponding to the abnormality in the garment processing device 3 by referring to the handling management information 582 based on the error number associated with the abnormality ID of the abnormality. Then, the communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5 notifies the terminal device 7a of the administrator handling information (S21).

[0116] This notification alerts terminal device 7a on the portal screen 700 that administrator action is required regarding an abnormality in the clothing processing device 3 (S22).

[0117] Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of notification of corrective action information according to Embodiment 1. The upper part of Figure 11 shows an example of notification of corrective action information on terminal device 7b of user 6b as a general user. The lower part of Figure 11 shows an example of notification of corrective action information on terminal device 7a of user 6a as an administrator.

[0118] As shown in Figure 11, on the terminal device 7b of user 6b, a general user, notifications 701m regarding the malfunctioning equipment and the nature of the malfunction, notifications 701n regarding the recovery method, and notifications 701o regarding how to contact the administrator are displayed on the portal screen 700. This allows user 6b to identify the malfunctioning equipment and easily take action to address the malfunction (recovery, contacting the administrator).

[0119] In cases where it is difficult for user 6b, as a general user, to resolve the issue, no notification regarding recovery methods will be provided. Instead, a notification 701p regarding the affected equipment and the nature of the abnormality, and a notification 701q regarding how to contact the administrator will be provided.

[0120] On the terminal device 7a of user 6a, who is acting as an administrator, notifications 701A regarding the malfunctioning equipment and the nature of the malfunction, notifications 701B regarding recovery methods, and notifications 701C regarding maintenance of the malfunctioning part are displayed on the portal screen 700. This allows user 6a to identify the malfunctioning equipment and easily take action to address the malfunction (recovery, maintenance of the malfunctioning part).

[0121] Furthermore, on the terminal device 7a of user 6a acting as an administrator, the portal screen 700 does not offer any alternative equipment to replace the malfunctioning garment processing device 3 (first device); only notifications 701A to 701C regarding how to deal with the malfunction are displayed. Therefore, user 6a acting as an administrator can concentrate on dealing with the malfunction that occurred in the garment processing device 3 (first device).

[0122] Returning to Figure 7, in S22, the communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5 further notifies the terminal device 7a of a maintenance mode transition request in order to switch the abnormal clothing processing device 3 into maintenance mode. Next, the communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5 confirms with the terminal device 7a whether or not to switch to maintenance mode (S23).

[0123] As shown in Case A2, it is assumed that the user 6a, acting as an administrator, issued an instruction to switch to maintenance mode from terminal device 7a (S31).

[0124] Upon receiving an instruction to switch to maintenance mode, the communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5 notifies the terminal device 7a to switch the display of the operating status of the malfunctioning garment processing device 3 to maintenance mode (S32).

[0125] Specifically, on the room screen 710 of terminal device 7b, the operating status of the equipment information 711 corresponding to the garment processing device 3 where the malfunction occurred is changed during maintenance (S33).

[0126] Next, the communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5 instructs the garment processing device 3, which has experienced an abnormality, to switch to maintenance mode (S34). Upon receiving the instruction to switch to maintenance mode, the garment processing device 3 switches its operating mode from a mode in which it can operate to maintenance mode and displays on the operation screen that it is in maintenance mode (S35).

[0127] Figure 12 shows an example of the display for transitioning to maintenance mode according to Embodiment 1. Case C3 is a case in which, when an abnormality occurs in the garment processing device 3, the need to transition to maintenance mode is checked on the terminal device 7a of user 6a acting as an administrator. Case C4 is a case in which, after transitioning to maintenance mode, the room screen 710 is displayed on the terminal device 7b of user 6b acting as a general user.

[0128] As shown in Figure 12, in case C3, on the portal screen 700 of terminal device 7a, following notification 701D regarding an abnormality that occurred in the clothing processing device 3, notifications 701E and 701F confirming the transition to maintenance mode are displayed. In response to notifications 701E and 701F, an operation instruction (yes) to transition to maintenance mode is given, and notification 701G regarding that operation instruction is displayed on the portal screen 700. In this way, since notifications 701D to 701G are displayed on the portal screen 700 in chronological order, user 6a as an administrator can easily confirm the equipment abnormality and the countermeasure (transition to maintenance mode).

[0129] In case C4, after transitioning to maintenance mode, the operation status (operating status) of the equipment information 711c corresponding to the malfunctioning garment processing device 3 on the room screen 710 of terminal device 7b is changed to "Under Maintenance (Unavailable)". This allows user 6b, as a general user, to easily confirm that the malfunctioning garment processing device 3 is unavailable.

[0130] Returning to Figure 7, we will explain Case A3, in which a notification of periodic maintenance is sent to the terminal device 7a of user 6a, who is acting as an administrator. As shown in Case A3, the communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5 notifies (informs) the terminal device 7a of user 6a, who is acting as an administrator, of the implementation of periodic maintenance based on the maintenance history included in the notification management information 571 of each garment processing device 3 (S41).

[0131] Specifically, if the communication and notification processing unit 52 finds a garment processing device 3 in the maintenance history for which a predetermined period has elapsed since the most recent maintenance information notification, it will notify the terminal device 7a of the need to perform periodic maintenance on that garment processing device 3. Furthermore, if the maintenance history includes a history of maintenance performed, the notification and notification processing unit 52 may periodically notify the terminal device 7a of the need to perform maintenance on a garment processing device 3 for which a predetermined period has elapsed since the maintenance was performed. The above periodic notifications may be based on a time period or on the number of operations.

[0132] Upon receiving this notification, terminal device 7a will be notified of maintenance information for the garment processing device 3 on the portal screen 700 (S42). The maintenance information notified here is predefined to be provided periodically and includes, for example, an estimate of when maintenance should be performed, maintenance methods, and suggestions for related care courses.

[0133] Figure 13 shows an example of the display of maintenance information on the administrator's terminal device 7a according to Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 13, on the terminal device 7a of user 6a as an administrator, notifications 701H and 701K indicating the equipment to be maintained, notifications 701I and 701L indicating the maintenance content, and notifications 701J and 701M indicating the specific maintenance method are displayed on the portal screen 700.

[0134] Furthermore, as indicated in notification 701L, a guideline for maintenance timing may be provided. In addition, if maintenance involves the replacement of items, notification 701N may be provided regarding how to purchase those items and the guideline for replacement. By providing such notifications 701H to 701N, user 6a, as an administrator, can easily perform regular maintenance.

[0135] Next, when the communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5 receives notification from the garment processing device 3 that the abnormality has been resolved (S51), it changes the operation data 41 in the equipment management information 561 to abnormality resolved (normal) and notifies the administrator user 6a's terminal device 7a that the abnormality has been resolved (S52). In addition, the garment processing device 3 clears the abnormality display, maintenance display, etc. on the operation screen and returns to the normal screen display (S53).

[0136] Furthermore, the notification of the above-mentioned proposal information may be sent not only to the terminal device 7b but also to the garment processing device 3. Specifically, the communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5 may notify the garment processing device 3 (first device) where the abnormality occurred of the above-mentioned proposal information. In addition, if the communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5 receives an operation instruction to accept the proposal on the operation screen of the garment processing device 3 that was notified of the proposal information, it may notify the garment processing device 3 (second device) to which the proposal regarding use was made of proposal information regarding operation settings, etc.

[0137] Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of the display on the operation screen 300 of the garment processing device 3 according to Embodiment 1. More specifically, Figure 14 shows an example of the display on the operation screen 300 of the garment processing device 3 (second device) when an operation instruction to accept a proposal is given on the operation screen of the garment processing device 3 (first device) where an abnormality has occurred.

[0138] As shown in Figure 14, the operation screen 300 of the garment processing device 3 (second device) for which a suggestion for use has been made displays notifications 301a and 301b from the communication and notification processing unit 52 of the laundry share server 5. Specifically, the operation screen 300 displays notification 301a of the operation settings suggested by the laundry share server 5, and notification 301b to confirm whether to accept or reject those operation settings. These notifications 301a and 301b allow user 6b to easily confirm the operation settings for continued operation of the garment processing device 3 (second device) and to execute those operation settings.

[0139] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, the notification system 1 comprises a plurality of devices, each performing an operation that includes a predetermined process, an information output unit, and a notification unit. The information output unit outputs suggestion information regarding the use of a second device, which is different from the first device, if an abnormality occurs in the first device during operation, and the notification unit notifies the suggestion information.

[0140] According to this, if an abnormality occurs during the operation of the garment processing device 3, the user 6 of the garment processing device 3 that experienced the abnormality can be assisted in continuing operation using a different garment processing device 3. In this way, the notification system 1 can easily assist in continuing operation with a different garment processing device 3 even if an abnormality occurs during the operation of the garment processing device 3.

[0141] Furthermore, the second device is determined based on the location information of each of the multiple devices.

[0142] According to this, it is possible to support the continued operation of the garment processing device 3 in the vicinity of the garment processing device 3 where the malfunction occurred. Therefore, the notification system 1 can reduce the burden of travel for the user 6.

[0143] Furthermore, the second device is determined based on the device information of each of the multiple devices, as well as information on abnormalities in the operation of the first device, to be the device corresponding to the operation in which the abnormality occurred in the first device.

[0144] According to this, it is possible to support the continuation of operation in the clothing processing device 3 that corresponds to the operation in which the abnormality occurred.

[0145] Furthermore, the second device is determined to be capable of performing the process after the process that was interrupted due to a malfunction in the first device.

[0146] According to this, it is possible to support the continuation of the process after the interrupted process in the garment processing device 3 where the malfunction occurred. For example, if the drying process in a washing process that proceeds from washing → rinsing → spinning → drying is interrupted, the equipment corresponding to the process after the interrupted process (drying) (e.g., dryer 3c) is notified in the suggested information. In this example, user 6 can continue the remaining process (drying) with dryer 3c.

[0147] Furthermore, the second device is determined to be one that allows the operating settings set for the operation of the first device, based on specification information that shows the specifications of each of the multiple devices.

[0148] According to this, it is possible to support the continuation of operation on another garment processing device 3 using the operating settings of the garment processing device 3 that experienced an abnormality. For example, suppose the operating setting of the garment processing device 3 that experienced an abnormality is for washing (washing, rinsing, and spinning) a load of 5 kg of fabric. In this case, based on the specification data, the suggested information will notify the user of a garment processing device 3 that allows washing (washing, rinsing, and spinning) a load of 5 kg of fabric (for example, one that can wash up to 8 kg of fabric). Therefore, in this example, the user 6 can continue operation on the notified other garment processing device 3 using the same operating settings for washing a load of 5 kg of fabric.

[0149] Furthermore, multiple devices are divided into multiple groups, and the second device is determined from among the devices within the group to which the first device belongs.

[0150] According to this, when user 6 operates on a different device in the event of an abnormality, it is possible to prevent them from moving across groups (for example, moving to another room 2). Therefore, the notification system 1 can reduce the burden on user 6 when operation continues on another garment processing device 3 in the event of an abnormality.

[0151] Furthermore, the proposed information includes information regarding the input of settings for operation corresponding to the operation in which an abnormality occurred in the first device.

[0152] According to this, based on the setting input information included in the proposed information, it is possible to support the continuation of the operation content corresponding to the operation of the garment processing device 3 where an abnormality occurred in another garment processing device 3.

[0153] Furthermore, the information output unit outputs information regarding countermeasures for abnormalities that have occurred in the first device, and the notification unit notifies the countermeasure information.

[0154] According to this, it is possible to assist in dealing with the malfunction of the clothing processing device 3 when an abnormality occurs.

[0155] Furthermore, the system includes an administrator's terminal device associated with the first device. The information output unit outputs information regarding countermeasures for the abnormality that occurred in the first device when an abnormality occurs, and the administrator's terminal device notifies the administrator of the countermeasures information.

[0156] According to this, user 6a, acting as an administrator, can deal with the abnormality that occurred in the garment processing device 3 where the abnormality occurred. Furthermore, if the administrator's terminal device associated with the garment processing device 3 where the abnormality occurred does not notify the administrator 6a, the inconvenience they will experience can be reduced.

[0157] Furthermore, when the information output unit receives an instruction from the administrator's terminal device to disable the first device, it outputs information indicating that the first device is unavailable, and the notification unit notifies the system of the unavailable information.

[0158] According to this, users 6b, 6c, 6d, etc., who are general users, can be notified that the clothing processing device 3 that has malfunctioned is unavailable.

[0159] Furthermore, the device is a garment processing device.

[0160] According to this, even if an abnormality occurs in the operation of one garment processing device, it is possible to continue operation with another garment processing device.

[0161] (Other embodiments) As described above, Embodiment 1 has been presented as an example disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited to this and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, it is possible to create new embodiments by combining the components described in Embodiment 1. Therefore, other embodiments are illustrated below.

[0162] For example, in Embodiment 1 described above, a garment processing device 3 is given as an example of equipment, but the equipment is not limited to the garment processing device 3. The equipment may also be a dishwasher that washes dishes in processes such as washing and rinsing, or a cooking appliance (microwave oven, induction cooker) that cooks food in processes such as heating (e.g., high heat, medium heat, low heat) and keeping warm.

[0163] Furthermore, in the above embodiment 1, a configuration was illustrated in which the computer 1000 related to the laundry share server 5 executes processing related to various functional units such as the website processing unit 51, the communication and notification processing unit 52, the available equipment determination unit 53, the available equipment suggestion unit 54, the abnormality handling method suggestion unit 55, the equipment and user management unit 56, the notification setting management unit 57, and the equipment abnormality information management unit 58. However, some or more of the processing related to the above various functional units may be executed by the computer 1000 related to the clothing processing unit 3 or the terminal device 7. For example, the computer 1000 of the clothing processing unit 3 equipped with a server function that manages each clothing processing unit 3 may execute the processing related to the above various functional units. Alternatively, a terminal device 7a owned by user 6a as an administrator may execute the processing related to the above various functional units. Furthermore, in the above embodiment 1, a case was illustrated in which the laundry share server 5 functions as an "information output unit" and the terminal device 7 functions as a "notification unit," but the clothing processing unit 3 or the terminal device 7 may also function as an "information output unit." Furthermore, the "notification unit" may be the clothing processing device 3, a monitor / speaker installed in the room, or a monitor / speaker installed somewhere outside the room (for example, in each individual room). For example, if the clothing processing device 3 functions as the notification unit, the information output by the laundry share server 5, which acts as the "information output unit," can be displayed and announced via the operation screen (GUI), LEDs, and speakers of the clothing processing device 3.

[0164] In the above embodiment 1, a configuration was shown in which the operation information management server 4 that manages the operation data 41 and the laundry share server 5 that provides notifications based on the operation data 41 are separated. However, the above management and notification may be performed by a single server device. Thus, the configuration of the server devices that perform management and notification may be changed (distributed or integrated) as appropriate according to the specifications of the server devices.

[0165] Furthermore, while the above-described embodiment 1 illustrates a configuration in which notifications are sent to the terminal device 7 using the notification message function of a messaging application, the notification to the terminal device 7 is not limited to the above configuration. For example, the notification to the terminal device 7 may be sent via SNS, email, or short message. Also, the notification method on the terminal device 7 may be not limited to notifications on the portal screen 700, but may also be pop-up notifications, push notifications, LED illumination, voice notifications, etc.

[0166] Furthermore, the above notifications are not limited to individual notifications addressed to specific terminal devices 7. For example, the laundry share server 5 may send notifications to all terminal devices 7, not just specific terminal devices 7. A notification to all terminal devices 7 may also be a notification directed to an unspecified number of users, such as monitors / speakers installed in the room or monitors / speakers installed somewhere outside the room (e.g., in each individual's room).

[0167] Furthermore, while the above-described embodiment 1 illustrates a configuration in which notifications are sent to a terminal device 7 owned by user 6, the laundry share server 5 may also send notifications to a terminal device 7 (e.g., a monitoring device) installed in room 2. For example, if an abnormality occurs during the operation of the garment processing device 3, the laundry share server 5 sends a notification of suggestion information to a monitoring device linked to the room 2 in which the garment processing device 3 is installed. This allows user 6 to receive notifications of suggestion information via a terminal device 7 installed in room 2, even if they do not own a terminal device 7 themselves.

[0168] Furthermore, the laundry share server 5 may notify the garment processing device 3 itself if an abnormality occurs during its operation. In this case, since the notification of suggested information will be displayed on the operation screen 300 of the garment processing device 3, user 6 can receive such notifications via the operation screen 300 of the garment processing device 3, even if they do not own a terminal device 7. Moreover, this notification only needs to be sent to at least one of the terminal device 7 or the garment processing device 3.

[0169] Since the embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes of the technology described herein, various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the claims or their equivalents.

[0170] (Note) Based on the above description of embodiments, the following technologies are disclosed.

[0171] (Technology 1) A notification system comprising a plurality of devices, each performing an operation including a predetermined process, an information output unit, and a notification unit, wherein the information output unit outputs suggestion information regarding the use of a second device different from the first device among the plurality of devices if an abnormality occurs in the first device among the plurality of devices during the execution of the operation, and the notification unit notifies the suggestion information. According to this, if an abnormality occurs during the operation of the first device, it is possible to support operation using a second device that is different from the first device that experienced the abnormality.

[0172] (Technology 2) The notification system according to Technology 1, wherein the second device is determined based on the location information of each of the plurality of devices. According to this, it is possible to support the continued operation of equipment near the first equipment where the malfunction occurred.

[0173] (Technology 3) The notification system according to Technology 1 or Technology 2, wherein the second device is determined to be the device corresponding to the operation in which the abnormality occurred in the first device, based on the device information of each of the plurality of devices and the information of the abnormality in the operation of the first device. According to this, it is possible to support the continuation of operation using equipment that can handle the malfunction.

[0174] (Technical 4) The notification system according to Technical 3, wherein the second device is determined to be a device capable of performing the process after the process interrupted by the abnormality of the first device. According to this, it is possible to support the continuation of the operation of processes after the process that was interrupted in the first equipment where the malfunction occurred, using another piece of equipment.

[0175] (Technical 5) The notification system according to Technical 3 or Technical 4, wherein the second device is determined to be a device that allows the operating settings set for the operation of the first device, based on specification information indicating the specifications of each of the plurality of devices. According to this, it is possible to support the continuation of operation on another device using the operating settings of the first device that experienced a malfunction.

[0176] (Technology 6) The notification system according to any one of Technology 1 to Technology 5, wherein the plurality of devices are divided into a plurality of groups, and the second device is determined from among the devices in the group to which the first device belongs. This allows users to avoid moving between groups when operating a different device in the event of a malfunction. Therefore, the notification system can reduce the burden on users when continuing to operate a different device in the event of a malfunction.

[0177] (Technical 7) The proposed information includes information relating to the setting input of the operation content corresponding to the operation in which the abnormality occurred in the first device, as described in any one of Technical 1 to Technical 6. According to this, based on the information regarding the setting inputs included in the proposed information, it is possible to support the continuation of the operation of the first device that has experienced a malfunction using another device.

[0178] (Technical 8) The notification system according to any one of Technical 1 to Technical 7, wherein the information output unit further outputs information relating to dealing with the abnormality that occurred in the first device, and the notification unit notifies the information relating to dealing with the abnormality. According to this, it is possible to assist in addressing the malfunction of the first piece of equipment where the malfunction occurred.

[0179] (Technical 9) A notification system according to any one of Technical 1 to Technical 8, further comprising an administrator's terminal device associated with the first device, wherein the information output unit outputs information regarding countermeasures for dealing with the abnormality that occurred in the first device when the abnormality occurs, and the administrator's terminal device notifies the countermeasures information. According to this, the user acting as an administrator can address the anomaly that occurred in the first device where the anomaly occurred. Furthermore, if the administrator's terminal device associated with the first device where the anomaly occurred does not notify the administrator, it is possible to reduce the inconvenience experienced by the user acting as an administrator.

[0180] (Technical 10) When the information output unit receives an instruction from the administrator's terminal device to disable the first device, it outputs information indicating that the first device is unavailable. The notification unit is a notification system according to Technical Reference 9 that notifies the information that the service is unavailable. According to this, it is possible to inform general users that the first device experiencing a malfunction is unavailable.

[0181] (Technical 11) The notification system according to any one of Technical 1 to Technical 10, wherein the device is a clothing processing device. According to this, even if an abnormality occurs in the operation of one garment processing device, it is possible to continue operation with another garment processing device.

[0182] (Technical 11) A notification method in which, when a computer experiences an abnormality in a first device among a plurality of devices, each of which performs an operation including a predetermined process, the computer outputs suggestion information regarding the use of a second device different from the first device among the plurality of devices, and notifies the computer of the suggestion information. According to this, it will have the same effect as the notification system described in Technology 1.

[0183] (Technical 12) A notification program that, when an abnormality occurs in a first device among a plurality of devices, each of which performs an operation including a predetermined process, outputs suggestion information regarding the use of a second device different from the first device among the plurality of devices, notifies the computer of the suggestion information, and causes the computer to execute processing. According to this, it will have the same effect as the notification system described in Technology 1. [Industrial applicability]

[0184] The notification system, notification method, and notification program described herein are applicable to notifying suggested information regarding the use of equipment other than the equipment in which the malfunction occurred. [Explanation of symbols]

[0185] 1. Notification System Rooms 2a-2c 3. Garment processing equipment 3a washing machine 3b washing machine 3c dryer 4. Operation Information Management Server 5. Laundry Share Server 6, 6a~6d Users 7, 7a~7d Terminal devices 8 Networks 41. Driving Data 51 Website Processing Section 52 Notification Processing Unit 53 Available device determination section 54 Available equipment proposal department 55 Department for Proposing Methods for Handling Abnormalities 56 User Management Department 57 Notification Settings Management Department 58 Equipment abnormality information management department 71 apps 300 operation screen 301a, 301b notification 561 Device management information 562 User Management Information 571 Notification management information 572 Maintenance Management Information 581 Abnormality management information 582 Response Management Information 700 Portal screen 701, 701A~701N Notification 701a~701q Notification 702a, 702b operation buttons 710 Room Screen 711, 711a~711c device information 720 Group Screen 721 Register button 730 Scan screen 731 Registration code 1000 computers 1010 CPU 1020 ROM 1030 RAM 1040 Storage section 1041 Notification Program 1050 I / F section 1060 Input Section 1070 Output section 1080 Bus A1 Case A2 Case A3 Case C1 Case C2 Case C3 Case C4 Case

Claims

1. It comprises multiple devices, each performing an operation that includes a predetermined process, an information output unit, and a notification unit. If an abnormality occurs in the first of the multiple devices during the execution of the operation, the information output unit outputs suggestion information regarding the use of a second device, which is different from the first device, among the multiple devices. The aforementioned notification unit notifies the proposed information. Notification system.

2. The second device is determined based on the location information of each of the plurality of devices. The notification system according to claim 1.

3. The second device is determined to be the device corresponding to the operation in which the abnormality occurred in the first device, based on the device information of each of the plurality of devices and the information of the abnormality in the operation of the first device. The notification system according to claim 1.

4. The second device is determined to be a device capable of performing the process after the process that was interrupted due to the malfunction of the first device. The notification system according to claim 3.

5. The second device is determined to be a device that allows the operating settings set for the operation of the first device, based on specification information indicating the specifications of each of the plurality of devices. The notification system according to claim 3.

6. The aforementioned devices are divided into multiple groups, The second device is determined from among the devices in the group to which the first device belongs. The notification system according to claim 1.

7. The proposed information includes information regarding the setting input of the operation content corresponding to the operation in which the abnormality occurred in the first device, The notification system according to claim 1.

8. The information output unit further outputs information regarding countermeasures for dealing with the abnormality that occurred in the first device, The notification unit notifies the countermeasure information. The notification system according to claim 1.

9. The system further comprises an administrator's terminal device associated with the first device, When the aforementioned abnormality occurs, the information output unit outputs information regarding countermeasures for dealing with the abnormality that occurred in the first device. The administrator's terminal device will notify the aforementioned action information. The notification system according to claim 1.

10. When the information output unit receives an instruction from the administrator's terminal device to disable the first device, it outputs information indicating that the first device is unavailable. The notification unit notifies the information that the service is unavailable. The notification system according to claim 9.

11. The aforementioned apparatus is a garment processing apparatus. The notification system according to claim 1.

12. Computers If an abnormality occurs in the first of several devices, each of which performs an operation including a predetermined process, during the execution of the said operation, then suggested information regarding the use of a second device, which is different from the first device, will be output. The aforementioned proposed information will be communicated. Notification method.

13. On the computer, If an abnormality occurs in the first of several devices, each of which performs an operation including a predetermined process, during the execution of the said operation, then suggested information regarding the use of a second device, which is different from the first device, will be output. The proposed information is notified, and processing is executed. Notification program.

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