Garment processing device setting system, garment processing device setting method, and program

Abstract

This disclosure enables the garment processing device to perform garment processing operations that are consistent with the user's intended purpose for garment processing. [Solution] The setting system for the garment processing apparatus of the present disclosure comprises: a garment processing request recognition unit that recognizes a garment processing request, which is a user's request for garment processing to be performed by the garment processing apparatus; a candidate operation course generation unit that generates a candidate operation course corresponding to the garment processing request based on predetermined operation course generation conditions when the garment processing request recognition unit recognizes the garment processing request; a candidate operation course information output unit that performs a candidate operation course information output process to output information about the candidate operation course; and a garment processing operation instruction unit that causes the garment processing apparatus to perform garment processing based on the candidate operation course.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a setting system for a clothing treatment apparatus, a method for setting a clothing treatment apparatus, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which, in a washing machine having a communication function with an external device, washing information including control information regarding parameters for controlling the operation of a washing machine functional unit and order information regarding the order in which a plurality of pieces of control information are to be executed is received from the external device, the washing information is corrected based on rules regarding the washing order, and an operation based on the corrected washing information is executed by the washing machine functional unit.

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 setting system for a clothing treatment apparatus that can cause the clothing treatment apparatus to execute a clothing treatment operation that matches the purpose of clothing treatment intended by the user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The setting system for the garment processing device in this disclosure includes: a garment processing request recognition unit that recognizes a garment processing request, which is a user's request for garment processing to be performed by the garment processing device; a candidate operation course generation unit that generates a candidate operation course corresponding to the garment processing request based on predetermined operation course generation conditions when the garment processing request recognition unit recognizes the garment processing request; a candidate operation course information output unit that performs a candidate operation course information output process to output information about the candidate operation course; and a garment processing operation instruction unit that causes the garment processing device to perform garment processing based on the candidate operation course.

[0006] The method for setting up a garment processing device in this disclosure is a method for setting up a garment processing device performed by a computer, and includes: a garment processing request recognition step of recognizing a garment processing request, which is a request from a user for garment processing to be performed by the garment processing device; a candidate operation course generation step of generating a candidate operation course corresponding to the garment processing request based on predetermined operation course generation conditions when the garment processing request is recognized by the garment processing request recognition step; a candidate operation course information output step of performing a candidate operation course information output process that outputs information about the candidate operation course; and a garment processing operation instruction step of causing the garment processing device to perform garment processing based on the candidate operation course.

[0007] The program in this disclosure causes the computer to function as: a clothing processing request recognition unit that recognizes a clothing processing request, which is a user's request for clothing processing to be performed by a clothing processing device; a candidate driving course generation unit that generates a candidate driving course corresponding to the clothing processing request based on predetermined driving course generation conditions when the clothing processing request recognition unit recognizes the clothing processing request; a candidate driving course information output unit that performs a candidate driving course information output process to output information about the candidate driving course; and a clothing processing operation instruction unit that causes the clothing processing device to execute clothing processing operations based on the candidate driving course. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The garment processing apparatus setting system of this disclosure allows the garment processing apparatus to perform garment processing operations that are consistent with the user's intended purpose for garment processing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Configuration diagram of the setting system for the garment processing device in the embodiment. [Figure 2] First flowchart of the candidate driving course generation process in the embodiment [Figure 3] Second flowchart of the candidate driving course generation process in the embodiment [Figure 4] Third flowchart of the candidate driving course generation process in the embodiment [Figure 5] Diagram illustrating the clothing processing request input screen in the embodiment. [Figure 6] Diagram illustrating the process of generating candidate driving courses based on input text in the embodiment. [Figure 7] Diagram illustrating the first example of a combination table of candidate driving courses in the embodiment. [Figure 8] Diagram illustrating a second example of a combination table of candidate driving courses in the embodiment. [Figure 9] Diagram illustrating the execution condition comparison screen in the embodiment. [Figure 10] Diagram illustrating the operating condition element screen in the embodiment. [Figure 11] Diagram illustrating the selection parameter change information screen in the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (Knowledge and other information that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the present inventors conceived of this disclosure, there was a technology for a washing machine having a communication function with an external device that received washing information from an external device, which included control information relating to parameters that control the operation of the washing machine function unit and sequence information relating to the order in which multiple pieces of control information are executed, modified the washing information based on rules relating to the washing sequence, and caused the washing function unit to execute an operation based on the modified washing information. This made it possible to provide a washing machine that can execute a wide variety of control programs.

[0011] However, in the above technology, the control program for the washing machine is defined by combining several pre-prepared functional blocks (blocks that drive actuators or heaters). As a result, it is difficult for the user to set the washing machine course (control method) they intend, and the inventors discovered that there is room for improvement in terms of supporting the execution of the garment processing desired by the user. To solve this problem, the subject matter of this disclosure was established. Therefore, this disclosure provides a setting system for a garment processing device that allows the garment processing device to perform garment processing operations that match the user's intended purpose for garment processing.

[0012] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessary details may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid the following explanation becoming unnecessarily verbose and to facilitate understanding for those skilled in the art. The attached drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0013] (Embodiment) The embodiments will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 11. [1. Configuration of the garment processing system] Referring to FIG. 1, the configuration of the setting system 2 of the clothing treatment apparatus in the present embodiment will be described. The setting system 2 of the clothing treatment apparatus is configured as a function of the communication terminal 1 that communicates with the washing machine 100. Here, the washing machine 100 is an example of the clothing treatment apparatus of the present disclosure. In addition to the washing machine, the clothing treatment apparatus of the present disclosure includes apparatuses that perform various treatments on clothing, such as a clothes dryer, a clothes drying and dehumidifying machine, and a steam apparatus. Further, the clothing treatment operations executed by the clothing treatment apparatus include various operations performed on clothing, such as a washing operation, a drying operation, a steam operation, and a scenting operation.

[0014] The washing machine 100 is a drum-type washing machine provided with a drum 111 for accommodating laundry, and has a drying function and a warm water washing function. On the upper front surface of the washing machine 100, there are provided an operation display unit 120 with a touch panel specification, a power switch 121, and a start / temporary stop switch 122. Further, the washing machine 100 includes a control unit 110 that controls the operation of the washing machine 100. The control unit 110 has a function of communicating with a washing machine support server 510, a communication terminal 1, etc. that support the use of the washing machine 100 via a communication network 500, and a function of performing short-range wireless communication (for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark)) with the communication terminal 1 without passing through the communication network 500.

[0015] Furthermore, the washing machine 100 includes a heat pump 112 for generating warm air supplied to the drum 111 in the drying process, an electric motor 113 for rotating the drum 111, and an electric heater 114 for heating the water supplied to the washing machine 100 to generate warm water.

[0016] The communication terminal 1 is, for example, a smartphone, mobile phone, or tablet device. The communication terminal 1 includes a processor 10, memory 20, a communication unit 30, a touch panel display 31 (corresponding to the first display device, second display device, and third display device in this disclosure), a microphone 32, and a speaker 32, etc. The communication terminal 1 communicates with the washing machine 100, a washing machine support server 510 that supports the use of the washing machine 100, etc., via the communication network 500 using the communication unit 30. Communication between the communication terminal 1 and the washing machine 100 can also be performed via short-range wireless communication without going through the communication network 500.

[0017] Memory 20 stores the program 21 of the remote control application (application program) for the washing machine 100, and the data 22 of the generation table used to generate candidate operating courses for the washing machine 100, which will be described later. By using the remote control application, user U can set an operating course that matches user U's requirements and have the washing machine 100 execute it.

[0018] The processor 10 reads and executes the program 21 and functions as a clothing processing request recognition unit 11, a clothing quantity recognition unit 12, a candidate operation course generation unit 13, a candidate operation course information output unit 14, a selected parameter change unit 15, a selected parameter change information output unit 16, and a clothing processing operation instruction unit 17.

[0019] The processing performed by the garment processing request recognition unit 11 corresponds to the garment processing request recognition step in the garment processing device setup method of this disclosure, the processing performed by the candidate operation course generation unit 13 corresponds to the candidate operation course generation step in the garment processing device setup method of this disclosure, the processing performed by the candidate operation course information output unit 14 corresponds to the candidate operation course information output step in the garment processing device setup method of this disclosure, and the processing performed by the garment processing operation instruction unit 17 corresponds to the garment processing operation instruction step in the garment processing device setup method of this disclosure.

[0020] Details of the processing performed by the clothing processing request recognition unit 11, the amount of clothing to be stored recognition unit 12, the candidate operation course generation unit 13, the candidate operation course information output unit 14, the selected parameter change unit 15, the selected parameter change information output unit 16, and the clothing processing operation instruction unit 17 will be described later.

[0021] [2. Candidate Driving Course Generation Process] The procedure for generating candidate driving courses, which is performed by the communication terminal 1, will be explained according to the flowcharts shown in Figures 2 to 4. When user U launches the remote control application for the washing machine 100 installed on the communication terminal 1, the communication terminal 1 executes the process shown in the flowcharts in Figures 2 to 4.

[0022] Steps S1-S3, S20, S21, S22, S30, S31, and S32 in Figure 2 are processes performed by the clothing processing request recognition unit 11. In step S1, the clothing processing request recognition unit 11 displays the clothing processing request input screen 200 shown in Figure 5 on the display 31. The clothing processing request input screen 200 includes a number of selection buttons 201, each displaying a request element prepared based on the user U's requests for clothing processing; a free text input button 202 for instructing the user to switch to a free text input mode that accepts requests for clothing processing via free text; and a voice input button 203 for instructing the user to switch to a voice input mode that accepts requests for clothing processing via voice.

[0023] Through the loop processing of steps S2, S20, and S30, the clothing processing request recognition unit 11 proceeds to step S3 when the request element selection button 201 is operated, to step S21 when the free text input button 202 is operated, and to step S31 when the voice input button 203 is operated.

[0024] In step S3, the clothing processing request recognition unit 11 recognizes clothing processing requests in response to the operation of the selection buttons 201 for the request elements. In the example in Figure 5, the selection buttons 201 for "deodorize clothes" and "thoroughly remove oil stains" selected by user U are shown in white. In this case, the clothing processing request recognition unit 11 recognizes "deodorize clothes" and "thoroughly remove oil stains" as two clothing processing requests and proceeds to step S4 in Figure 3.

[0025] In step S21, the clothing processing request recognition unit 11 displays a text input screen (such as a screen displaying a keyboard) on the display 31 and accepts text input from user U. In the following step S22, the clothing processing request recognition unit 11 recognizes the clothing processing request by extracting keywords related to clothing processing from the text input by user U, and proceeds to step S4 in Figure 3.

[0026] In step S31, the clothing processing request recognition unit 11 displays a voice input screen (a screen prompting the user U to input a request for clothing processing by voice) on the display 31 and accepts voice input from the user U. In the following step S32, the clothing processing request recognition unit 11 recognizes the clothing processing request by extracting keywords related to clothing processing from the voice of the user U input into the microphone 32, and proceeds to step S4 in Figure 3.

[0027] Here, referring to Figure 6, we will explain the details of the process of recognizing clothing processing requests from text or voice input by user U. Table 210 in Figure 6 shows the process of extracting keywords by interpreting four input phrases using AI (Artificial Intelligence). For example, the phrase "I want to remove the stains from my child's sweater" is interpreted by the AI ​​as "the sweater is a fashionable garment," and two keywords, "fashionable garment" and "mud stains," are extracted.

[0028] The clothing processing request recognition unit 11 recognizes the extracted keywords as clothing processing requests (e.g., "I want to wash delicate clothes," "I want to remove mud stains"). Regarding the use of AI by the clothing processing request recognition unit 11, if the AI ​​program is implemented in the communication terminal 1, the AI ​​program implemented in the communication terminal 1 is used. If the AI ​​program is not implemented in the communication terminal 1, the AI ​​program implemented on an external server such as the washing machine support server 510 is used through communication with the server. Alternatively, keywords may be extracted using a pre-prepared correspondence table between words and keywords, without using AI.

[0029] Step S4 in Figure 3 is a process performed by the garment capacity recognition unit 12. The garment capacity recognition unit 12 communicates with the washing machine 100 to operate the washing machine 100's electric motor 113 and receives load information of the electric motor 113 from the washing machine 100, thereby recognizing the amount of clothing stored in the drum 111 (garment capacity). If there is no clothing in the drum 111 yet, a screen prompting the user U to input an approximate amount of clothing (e.g., small, medium, large) may be displayed on the display 31, and the garment capacity recognition unit 12 may recognize the input amount of clothing as the garment capacity.

[0030] The following steps S5-S7 and S40 are processes performed by the candidate operation course generation unit 13. In step S6, the candidate operation course generation unit 13 determines whether the amount of clothing to be stored, recognized by the clothing storage amount recognition unit 12, conforms to the clothing processing request recognized by the clothing processing request recognition unit 11, by referring to pre-prepared incongruence information. Incongruence information is information about clothing storage amounts and clothing processing requests that are not compatible, such as "delicate clothes do not conform to a clothing storage amount greater than a certain amount." The incongruence information data may be stored in memory 20 or in the washing machine support server 510.

[0031] In the next step S6, the candidate driving course generation unit 13 proceeds to step S7 if the amount of clothing to be stored matches the clothing processing request, and proceeds to step S40 if the amount of clothing to be stored does not match the clothing processing request. In step S40, the candidate driving course generation unit 13 displays a screen on the display 31 suggesting a change to the clothing processing request because the amount of clothing to be stored does not match the clothing processing request (corresponding to the output of the clothing processing request change suggestion information in this disclosure), and proceeds to step S1 in Figure 2.

[0032] In step S7, the candidate driving course generation unit 13 applies the clothing processing request to the candidate driving course generation table to generate multiple candidate driving courses. In this embodiment, course generation consists of a combination of a "base course" which is the basis for the courses to be generated and "modification elements" which are added to the base course. Alternatively, courses may be generated by subtracting the modification elements from the base course. The base courses include, for example, the automatic course, the home cleaning course, the blanket course, and the drum cleaning course. Note that the base courses may or may not correspond to existing courses stored in the washing machine. The elements that are added include, for example, pre-washing, steam generation, soaking, hot water washing, and sterilization. The elements that are subtracted include, for example, washing, rinsing, spinning, and draining. Furthermore, parameters may be modified during the course generation process. These parameters include, for example, washing time, number of rinses, spin-drying time, water temperature, drum rotation speed, water level, and automatic detergent dispensing amount.

[0033] In step S7, the candidate driving course generation unit 13 applies the clothing processing request to the candidate driving course generation table and generates multiple candidate driving courses in the following order of priority (1) → priority (2) → priority (3). Priority (1)... Existing courses will be designated as candidate driving courses. Priority (2)... In response to user U's request, a new course is generated by combining multiple existing courses and designated as a candidate driving course. Priority (3)... For the course generated by Priority (2), further parameters such as hot water and operating time are modified to more closely match the user U's requests to generate a candidate operating course. The existing course is given priority (1) because it is the course recommended and guaranteed to perform by the manufacturer of the washing machine 100.

[0034] Here, Figures 7 and 8 show examples of candidate operation course generation tables that associate combinations of clothing types (cotton, synthetic fibers, futons, wool, etc.) and types of stains (mud stains, oil stains, yellowing, chemicals, etc.) extracted from clothing processing requests with operating condition elements (clothing, stains, hot water, washing method, rinsing, spinning, drying, performance).

[0035] Figure 7 shows the points for each combination of hot water temperature in relation to "type of clothing and type of stain," with higher points indicating greater suitability for the "type of clothing and type of stain." Based on the clothing processing request, combinations of clothing and stains that can satisfy the request through hot water modification are selected in order of points. Figure 8 shows the points for each combination of washing methods in relation to "clothing and stain." Based on Figure 8, combinations that can satisfy the request through washing methods are selected in order of points. Similarly, combination tables showing the points for each combination of "clothing and stain" are also provided for other operating condition elements. The candidate operating course generation unit 13 refers to the combination tables of all operating condition elements and generates the combination of operating condition elements for "clothing and stain" that has the highest total points for each operating condition element, and the combination of operating condition elements for "clothing and stain" that has the second highest total points for each operating condition element, as candidate operating courses based on the priority order (1) to priority order (3) described above.

[0036] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 6, keywords extracted from text entered via free text or voice may be applied to a keyword-matching course table 211, which associates keywords related to clothing processing with pre-prepared operating courses for the washing machine 100, to generate corresponding operating courses as candidate operating courses.

[0037] The next steps, S7 to S10, are processed by the candidate operating course information output unit 14. In step S7, the candidate operating course information output unit 14 displays the execution condition comparison screen 230 shown in Figure 9 on the display 31. The execution condition comparison screen 230 displays the operating conditions for the two candidate operating courses generated by the candidate operating course information output unit 14: "40°C soak" and "40°C soak + steam". In the example in Figure 9, the "40°C soak" course on the left is an existing course suggested based on the request. The "40°C soak + steam" course on the right is a new course that satisfies the request but does not currently exist, generated by combining the existing course "40°C soak" and the existing course "steam". The existing courses are courses recommended by the manufacturer of the washing machine 100, and their performance is guaranteed.

[0038] In the example shown in Figure 9, the operating conditions display (a) operating time, (b) cleaning power, (c) power consumption, and (d) water usage. The user U can compare the advantages and disadvantages of "40°C soaking" and "40°C soaking + steam" on the execution condition comparison screen 230 and decide which course to select.

[0039] In the next step S9, when the candidate driving course information output unit 14 recognizes the user U's operation to select a candidate driving course, it proceeds to step S10. In step S10, the candidate driving course information output unit 14 displays the driving condition element screen 240 shown in Figure 10, which corresponds to the selected candidate driving course, on the display 31.

[0040] The Driving Condition Elements screen 240 displays a list of selectable parameters for the Driving Condition Elements, namely "Clothing," "Dirt," "Hot Water," "Washing Method," "Rinsing," "Spin-drying," "Drying," and "Performance," in a manner that distinguishes between the selected parameters in the candidate driving course and those not selected in the candidate driving course. In Figure 10, the selected parameters in the candidate driving course are displayed in white, and the selected parameters not selected in the candidate driving course are displayed in black, making them distinguishable. Driving Condition Elements include, for example, modification elements and parameters used in course generation. Driving Condition Elements may also include modification elements and parameters not used in course generation.

[0041] For example, for "clothing," the selection parameters are listed as cotton, synthetic fiber, blanket, towel, thick, futon, fashionable, wool, and multiple, and cotton, which is the selection parameter selected in the candidate driving course, is displayed in white. By checking the driving condition elements screen 240, user U can recognize the content of the candidate driving course selected by user U and the selection parameters for each driving condition element.

[0042] Steps S11, S50, and S51 in Figure 4 represent processing by the selection parameter change unit 15. The selection parameter change unit 15 executes the loop processing of steps S11 and S50, and when it recognizes the operation of the confirm button 241 on the driving condition element screen 240, it proceeds from step S11 to step S12, and when a button for any of the selection parameters displayed on the driving condition element screen 240 is operated, it proceeds from step S50 to step S51.

[0043] In step S51, the selected parameter change unit 15 performs the process of changing the selected parameter to the one selected by the button operation. The following step S52 is processing by the selected parameter change information output unit 16. The selected parameter change information output unit 16 displays the selected parameter change information screen 250 shown in Figure 11 on the display 31 and proceeds to step S11. The selected parameter change information screen 250 displays the benefits (positive information) or disadvantages (negative information) that result from changing the selected parameter. The selected parameter change information screen 250 may be displayed on the display 31 alongside the driving condition element screen 240, superimposed on the driving condition element screen 240, or displayed on the display 31 in a switchable manner from the driving condition element screen 240.

[0044] In the selection parameter change information screen 250 shown in Figure 11, display 251 is shown as an example of the benefits, and displays 252, 253, and 254 are shown as examples of the disadvantages. Display 251 corresponds to the case where the selection parameter is changed to "60℃" and indicates that "cleaning power will increase." Display 252 corresponds to the case where the selection parameter is changed to "60℃" and indicates that "power will be consumed more than usual." Display 253 corresponds to the case where the selection parameter is changed to "soaking" and indicates that "operating time will be extended." Display 254 corresponds to the case where the selection parameters are changed to "soaking" and "double washing" and indicates that "soaking and double washing have similar effects, and selecting both will increase the required time." By checking the selection parameter change information screen 250, user U can consider the benefits and disadvantages of changing the selection parameter and decide whether to keep the changed selection parameter or change it back to another selection parameter.

[0045] Step S12 is a process performed by the garment processing operation instruction unit 17. The garment processing operation instruction unit 17 transmits information about the candidate operation course (information about the execution conditions of the candidate operation course) that was determined in step S11 to the washing machine 100. As a result, the washing machine 100 performs a garment processing operation according to the candidate operation course.

[0046] [3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in this embodiment, user U can input the desired clothing processing details using a remote control application for the washing machine 100 installed on the communication terminal 1 via the clothing processing request input screen 200 shown in Figure 5, by selecting a selection button 201, using free text, or by voice. The clothing processing request corresponding to the input is recognized by the clothing processing request recognition unit 11. The candidate operation course generation unit 13 then generates a candidate operation course corresponding to the clothing processing request, and the candidate operation course information output unit 14 displays the operation condition element screen 240 shown in Figure 10 on the display 31. This generates a candidate operation course that matches user U's request and allows user U to confirm the contents of the candidate operation course. The clothing processing operation instruction unit 17 then transmits the candidate operation course information to the washing machine 100 in response to user U's instructions, causing the washing machine 100 to perform a clothing processing operation that matches the purpose of clothing processing intended by user U.

[0047] By displaying the execution condition comparison screen 230 shown in Figure 9 on the display 31, the execution conditions of multiple candidate driving courses can be shown in comparison, thereby supporting the selection of a candidate driving course that is more suitable to the user U's needs.

[0048] The driving condition element screen 240 shown in Figure 10 allows for the modification of the selection parameters for each driving condition element, thereby changing the content of candidate driving courses to suit the diverse needs of user U.

[0049] By displaying the selection parameter change information screen 250 shown in Figure 11 on the display 31 in response to the operation to change the selection parameters, useful information can be provided to the user U when selecting the selection parameters.

[0050] (Other mechanisms) As described above, the above embodiments have been explained as examples of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, replaced, added, or omitted. Therefore, other embodiments will be illustrated below.

[0051] In the above embodiment, the clothing disposal request recognition unit 11 is configured to accept input of the user U's clothing disposal request in three ways: (1) selecting the selection button 201 on the clothing disposal request input screen 200 shown in Figure 5, (2) entering text using free text, and (3) entering text using voice. As an alternative configuration, input may be accepted using one or two of the methods (1) to (3).

[0052] In the above embodiment, the candidate driving course generation unit 13 generated candidate driving courses corresponding to two clothing processing requests recognized by the clothing processing request recognition unit 11 using the combination tables 220 and 221 illustrated in Figures 7 and 8. In another embodiment, the candidate driving course generation unit 13 may generate candidate driving courses corresponding to one clothing processing request, or three or more clothing processing requests, recognized by the clothing processing request recognition unit 11. In this case, a candidate driving course generation table is set up that associates one clothing processing request with a candidate driving course, or a candidate driving course generation table is set up that associates three or more clothing processing requests with candidate driving courses.

[0053] In the above embodiment, the garment storage amount recognition unit 12 is provided, and in steps S4 to S6 and S40 of Figure 3, it is determined whether the garment storage amount conforms to the garment disposal request, and if it does not conform, a process is performed to propose a change to the garment disposal request. Alternatively, the garment storage amount recognition unit 12 may be omitted, and the above process may not be performed.

[0054] In the above embodiment, a selection parameter changing unit 15 is provided to allow changes to the selection parameters of each driving condition element of the candidate driving course. However, a configuration in which the selection parameter changing unit 15 is omitted is also possible.

[0055] In the above embodiment, a selection parameter change information output unit 16 is provided, and when user U performs an operation to change the selection parameter, a selection parameter change information screen 250 showing the advantages or disadvantages of the change is displayed on the display 31. However, the configuration may be made without the selection parameter change information output unit 16. Alternatively, the advantages or disadvantages of the change may be output by voice from the speaker 32.

[0056] In the above embodiment, the garment processing device setting system of the present disclosure is configured as part of the functions of a remote control application for the washing machine 100 executed by the communication terminal 1. In another embodiment, the garment processing device setting system of the present disclosure may be configured as part of the functions of a control unit 110 provided in the washing machine 100. In this case, the processor constituting the control unit 110 executes the program of the garment processing device setting system stored in the memory constituting the control unit 110, thereby functioning similarly to the garment processing device setting system 2 shown in Figure 1, accepting operations on the touch panel operation display unit 120 and displaying various screens on the operation display unit 120.

[0057] Furthermore, the garment processing device setting system of this disclosure may be configured as part of the functions of the washing machine support server 510. In this case, the processor constituting the washing machine support server 510 executes the program for the garment processing device setting system stored in the memory constituting the washing machine support server 510, thereby functioning similarly to the garment processing device setting system 2 shown in Figure 1. It accepts operations on the display 31 through communication with the communication terminal 1 and displays various screens on the display 31, and accepts operations on the operation display unit 120 through communication with the washing machine 100 and displays various screens on the operation display unit 120.

[0058] Furthermore, the garment processing device setting system of this disclosure may be configured as part of the functions of the washing machine 100. In this case, the processor constituting the control unit 110 of the washing machine 100 executes the program of the garment processing device setting system stored in the memory of the control unit 110, thereby functioning similarly to the garment processing device setting system 2 shown in Figure 1, displaying various screens on the operation display unit 120, and accepting operations on the operation display unit 120. Alternatively, the garment processing device setting system of this disclosure may be configured as a standalone system, with the washing machine 100 performing all the processing. For example, the screen display may be shown on the display 31 of the communication terminal 1 through communication with the communication terminal 1.

[0059] The control board provided in the subject equipment (washing machine support server 1, washing machine 100, communication terminal 1) in this disclosure may be any controller capable of controlling the operation of the subject equipment. When expressing the subject matter of the invention, in addition to the control board, other similar terms such as control means, control unit, or controller may be used to describe the device that controls the operation of the subject equipment. The control board can be realized in various forms. For example, the control board may use a processor as the control entity. If a processor is used as the control entity, it becomes possible to perform various processes by having the processor read a program from a storage medium containing the program and executing the program using the processor. Therefore, since the processing content can be changed by changing the program stored in the storage medium, the degree of freedom in changing the control content can be increased. Examples of processors include CPUs (Central Processing Units) and MPUs (Micro-Processing Units). Examples of storage mediums include hard disks, flash memory, and optical discs. Furthermore, wired logic, which cannot be rewritten, may be used as the control entity of the control board. Using wired logic as the control entity of the control board is effective in improving processing speed. Examples of wired logic include ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits). Alternatively, a controller may be implemented by combining a processor and wired logic. Implementing the control entity of a control board by combining a processor and wired logic increases the flexibility of software design while improving processing speed. Furthermore, the control entity of a control board and a circuit with a different function may be constructed from a single semiconductor element. An example of a circuit with a different function is an A / D / D / A conversion circuit. The control entity may also be constructed from a single semiconductor element or from multiple semiconductor elements. When constructed from multiple semiconductor elements, each control described in the claims may be implemented from different semiconductor elements. Additionally, the control board may be constructed from a configuration including semiconductor elements and passive components such as resistors or capacitors.

[0060] The communication circuit (communication unit, communication interface) provided as a communicator in the subject devices in this disclosure only needs to enable communication between the subject devices in this disclosure. When expressing the subject matter of the invention, in addition to the communicator, communication means, communication unit, transmitting / receiving means, transmitting / receiving unit, or similar terms may be used to describe something that enables communication between the elements constituting the subject devices in this disclosure. Communicators can be implemented in various forms. Examples of communicators include wireless connections with external devices via base stations, etc., or direct wireless connections with external devices. Examples of wireless connections with external devices via base stations, etc. include IEEE 802.11 compliant wireless LANs that communicate wirelessly with WiFi® routers, third-generation mobile communication systems (commonly known as 3G), fourth-generation mobile communication systems (commonly known as 4G), IEEE 802.16 compliant WiMax (registered trademark), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area). Using a communicator that directly wirelessly connects the device disclosed herein with external devices is effective in improving the security of communications, and the device disclosed herein can communicate with external devices even in locations where relay devices such as Wi-Fi routers are not present. Examples of communicators that directly wirelessly connect the device disclosed herein with external devices include Bluetooth communication, NFC (Near Field Communication) communication via a loop antenna, or infrared communication.

[0061] 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 scope of the claims or equivalents thereof.

[0062] (Note) Based on the above description of embodiments, the following technologies are disclosed.

[0063] (Technology 1) A setting system for a garment processing device, comprising: a garment processing request recognition unit that recognizes a garment processing request, which is a user's request for garment processing to be performed by a garment processing device; a candidate operation course generation unit that generates a candidate operation course corresponding to the garment processing request based on predetermined operation course generation conditions when the garment processing request recognition unit recognizes the garment processing request; a candidate operation course information output unit that performs a candidate operation course information output process to output information about the candidate operation course; and a garment processing operation instruction unit that causes the garment processing device to perform garment processing based on the candidate operation course. This configuration generates candidate operating courses based on the user's clothing processing requests. The user recognizes the content of the candidate operating course through the output of the course information, and the clothing processing device then executes the clothing processing operation based on the candidate operating course. Therefore, the clothing processing device can be made to execute a clothing processing operation that matches the user's intended purpose for clothing processing.

[0064] (Technology 2) The garment processing apparatus setting system according to Technology 1, wherein the candidate operation course generation unit generates a candidate operation course corresponding to a combination of the multiple garment processing requests when the garment processing request recognition unit recognizes a multiple garment processing requests. This configuration generates candidate operating courses that correspond to combinations of multiple garment processing requests from the user. Therefore, it is possible to generate candidate operating courses that meet the diverse needs of the user.

[0065] (Technology 3) The garment processing request recognition unit displays a plurality of selection buttons on a first display device with touch panel specifications, each displaying different request elements for garment processing individually, and recognizes the garment processing request according to the operation of the selection buttons. This is a setting system for a garment processing device according to Technology 1 or Technology 2. This configuration allows users to input their clothing disposal requests by operating selection buttons that display the request elements that match their needs. Therefore, it makes it easier for users to input their clothing disposal requests.

[0066] (Technology 4) A setting system for a garment processing device according to any one of the technologies 1 to 3, wherein the garment processing request recognition unit recognizes the garment processing request by extracting words indicating the request for garment processing from the user's voice input to the microphone. This configuration allows users to input their clothing disposal requests by speaking into the microphone. Therefore, it makes it easy for users to input their clothing disposal requests.

[0067] (Technology 5) A setting system for a clothing processing apparatus according to any one of the technologies 1 to 4, wherein the candidate operating course information output unit performs a process to output candidate operating course information, which involves displaying on a second display device an operating condition element screen in a manner that allows identification of the selected parameters for the operating condition element, which is one of the following: the type of clothing targeted by the candidate operating course, the purpose of clothing processing by the candidate operating course, and the execution conditions of the processes included in the candidate operating course, the selected parameters selected in the candidate operating course and the selected parameters not selected in the candidate operating course. This configuration allows the selection parameters for the driving conditions elements to be displayed on the driving conditions element screen, distinguishing between the selected parameters for the candidate driving course and other unselected parameters, making them easily visible to the user. Therefore, the user can be made aware of the selection status of the selection parameters in the driving conditions elements.

[0068] (Technical 6) A setting system for a garment processing apparatus according to Technical 5, comprising a selection parameter changing unit that changes the selection parameter of the operating condition element selected in the candidate operating course in accordance with the selection operation of the selection parameter of the operating condition element displayed on the operating condition element screen. This configuration allows users to change the selection parameters of the operating condition elements. Therefore, it can support users in changing the execution conditions for clothing processing.

[0069] (Technical 7) A setting system for a garment processing apparatus according to Technical 6, comprising a selection parameter change information output unit that outputs information on the advantages or disadvantages the user will receive as a result of the selection parameter being changed by the selection parameter change unit. This configuration allows us to provide users with information on the advantages and disadvantages of changing the selected parameters. Therefore, it makes it easier for users to make informed decisions about which parameters to choose.

[0070] (Technology 8) A setting system for a garment processing apparatus according to any one of the technologies 5 to 7, wherein when a plurality of operating condition elements are set for the candidate operating course, the candidate operating course information output unit displays the operating condition element screen on the second display device in a manner that allows for identification of the selected parameter selected for the candidate operating course, the selected parameter selected for the candidate operating course, and the selected parameter not selected for the candidate operating course, for each operating condition element. This configuration allows the user to visually distinguish between selected and unselected parameters for multiple driving condition elements of a candidate driving course. Therefore, the user can recognize the selection status of parameters for multiple driving condition elements.

[0071] (Technology 9) A setting system for a clothing processing apparatus according to any one of the technologies from Technology 1 to Technology 8, wherein the candidate driving course generation unit generates a plurality of candidate driving courses, and the candidate driving course information output unit performs a process to display an execution condition comparison screen on a third display device, which displays the execution conditions of the plurality of driving courses in comparison, as the candidate driving course information output process. This configuration displays an execution condition comparison screen on the third display device, which shows the execution conditions of multiple candidate driving courses in comparison. As a result, users can compare the execution conditions of multiple candidate driving courses and select the candidate driving course that best suits their needs.

[0072] (Technical 10) A setting system for a garment processing device according to any one of Technical 1 to Technical 9, comprising a garment storage amount recognition unit that recognizes the amount of garments stored in the garment processing device or the amount of garments to be stored in the garment processing device, wherein the candidate operation course generation unit outputs garment processing request change proposal information that proposes a change to the garment processing request to the user when it is not possible to generate a candidate operation course suitable for the combination of the garment processing request recognized by the garment processing request recognition unit and the garment storage amount recognition unit. This configuration allows us to suggest to users that they switch to more appropriate garment processing using garment processing equipment. (Technical 11) A method for setting up a garment processing device performed by a computer, comprising: a garment processing request recognition step of recognizing a garment processing request, which is a user's request for garment processing to be performed by the garment processing device; a candidate operation course generation step of generating candidate operation courses corresponding to the multiple garment processing requests based on predetermined operation course generation conditions when a plurality of garment processing requests are recognized by the garment processing request recognition step; a candidate operation course information output step of performing a candidate operation course information output process that outputs information about the candidate operation courses; and a garment processing operation instruction step of causing the garment processing device to perform garment processing based on the candidate operation courses. By executing the setting method of the garment processing device of Technology 11 using a computer, the same effects and advantages as the setting system of the garment processing device of Technology 1 can be obtained.

[0073] (Technical 12) A program that causes a computer to function as: a clothing processing request recognition unit that recognizes a clothing processing request, which is a user's request for clothing processing to be performed by a clothing processing device; a candidate operating course generation unit that, when a plurality of clothing processing requests are recognized by the clothing processing request recognition unit, generates candidate operating courses corresponding to the plurality of clothing processing requests based on predetermined operating course generation conditions; a candidate operating course information output unit that performs candidate operating course information output processing to output information about the candidate operating courses; and a clothing processing operation instruction unit that causes the clothing processing device to perform clothing processing operations based on the candidate operating courses. By executing the program of Technology 12 on a computer, the configuration of the garment processing device setting system of Technology 1 can be realized. [Industrial applicability]

[0074] This disclosure is applicable to enabling a garment processing device to perform garment processing operations that are consistent with the user's intended purpose for garment processing. Specifically, this disclosure is applicable to supporting the setting operation of garment processing operations in washing machines, clothes dryers, and the like. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0075] 1. Communication terminal 2. Garment Processing Device Setting System 10 processors 11. Clothing Disposal Request Recognition Unit 12. Clothing volume recognition unit 13 Candidate Driving Course Generation Unit 14. Candidate Driving Course Information Output Unit 15. Selected Parameter Change Section 16. Output section for selected parameter change information 17. Garment Processing Operation Instruction Unit 20 memory 21 Programs 22 Candidate Driving Course Generation Table 30 Communication Units 31 displays 32 Mike 33 speakers 100 Washing Machines (Clothing Processing Units) 110 Control Unit 120 Operation display section 121 Power switch 122 Start / Pause Switch 200 Clothing Disposal Request Input Screen 201 Select button 202 Free text input button 203 Voice input button 210 Keyword Extraction Explanation Table 211 Keyword-Compatible Course Table 220 Combination Table (1) 221 Combination Table (2) 230 Execution Condition Comparison Screen 240 Driving Conditions Elements Screen 250 Parameter Change Information Screen 500 Communication Networks 510 Washing Machine Support Server U User

Claims

1. A clothing processing request recognition unit recognizes the user's request for clothing processing to be performed by the clothing processing device, When the garment processing request is recognized by the garment processing request recognition unit, a candidate driving course generation unit generates a candidate driving course corresponding to the garment processing request based on predetermined driving course generation conditions, A candidate driving course information output unit that performs candidate driving course information output processing to output information on the aforementioned candidate driving course, A garment processing operation instruction unit that causes the garment processing device to perform garment processing based on the candidate operation course, A setting system for a garment processing device.

2. The candidate driving course generation unit generates a candidate driving course corresponding to a combination of the multiple clothing processing requests when the clothing processing request recognition unit recognizes multiple clothing processing requests. A setting system for a garment processing device according to claim 1.

3. The garment processing request recognition unit displays a number of selection buttons on a first touch panel display device, each individually displaying different request elements for garment processing, and recognizes the garment processing request in response to the operation of the selection buttons. A setting system for a garment processing device according to claim 1.

4. The garment disposal request recognition unit recognizes the garment disposal request by extracting words indicating the request from the user's voice input to the microphone. A setting system for a garment processing device according to claim 1.

5. The candidate driving course information output unit performs a process to output candidate driving course information, which involves displaying a driving condition element screen on the second display device, displaying a list of selection parameters for driving condition elements, which are any of the following: the type of clothing targeted by the candidate driving course, the purpose of the clothing processing by the candidate driving course, and the execution conditions of the processes included in the candidate driving course, in a manner that allows for the identification of the selection parameters selected in the candidate driving course and the selection parameters not selected in the candidate driving course. A setting system for a garment processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The system includes a selection parameter changing unit that changes the selection parameter of the driving condition element selected in the candidate driving course in accordance with the selection operation of the selection parameter of the driving condition element displayed on the driving condition element screen. The setting system for the garment processing apparatus according to claim 5.

7. The system includes a selection parameter change information output unit that outputs information about the advantages or disadvantages the user will experience as a result of the selection parameter being changed by the selection parameter change unit. The setting system for the garment processing apparatus according to claim 6.

8. When multiple driving condition elements are set for the candidate driving course, the candidate driving course information output unit displays the driving condition element screen on the second display device in a manner that allows for identification of the selected parameters selected for the candidate driving course and the selected parameters not selected for the candidate driving course, for each driving condition element. The setting system for the garment processing apparatus according to claim 5.

9. The candidate driving course generation unit generates a plurality of candidate driving courses, The candidate driving course information output unit performs a process to display an execution condition comparison screen on the third display device, which displays a comparison of the execution conditions of multiple driving courses, as part of the candidate driving course information output process. A setting system for a garment processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

10. The garment processing device is equipped with a garment storage quantity recognition unit that recognizes the amount of garments currently stored in the garment processing device, or the amount of garments that are to be stored in the garment processing device. If the candidate driving course generation unit cannot generate a candidate driving course suitable for the combination of the clothing processing request recognized by the clothing processing request recognition unit and the amount of clothing that can be stored recognized by the clothing storage amount recognition unit, it outputs clothing processing request change proposal information to the user, suggesting a change to the clothing processing request. A setting system for a garment processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

11. A method for setting up a garment processing device that is executed by a computer, A garment processing request recognition step recognizes the garment processing request, which is the user's request for garment processing to be performed by the garment processing device. When the clothing processing request is recognized in the clothing processing request recognition step, a candidate driving course generation step is performed to generate a candidate driving course corresponding to the clothing processing request based on predetermined driving course generation conditions, A candidate driving course information output step is performed to output candidate driving course information, A garment processing operation instruction step that causes the garment processing device to perform a garment processing operation based on the candidate operation course, A method for setting up a garment processing device, including the following.

12. Computers, A clothing processing request recognition unit recognizes the user's request for clothing processing to be performed by the clothing processing device, When the garment processing request is recognized by the garment processing request recognition unit, a candidate driving course generation unit generates a candidate driving course corresponding to the garment processing request based on predetermined driving course generation conditions, A candidate driving course information output unit that performs candidate driving course information output processing to output information on the aforementioned candidate driving course, A garment processing operation instruction unit that causes the garment processing device to perform garment processing based on the candidate operation course, A program that makes something work.

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