Rice cooking system, rice cooking control method, and server

Abstract

To provide a rice cooking system or the like having high convenience.SOLUTION: A rice cooking system 100 includes: a rice cooker 10; and an integrated management server 20 that performs communication with the rice cooker 10 and performs communication with an information terminal 30 of a user who uses the rice cooker 10. When preference information of the user related to finish of rice cooking is updated on the basis of operation of the information terminal 30 by the user, the integrated management server 20, the information terminal 30, and the rice cooker 10 change a rice cooking parameter on the basis of the updated preference information, and the rice cooker 10 performs rice cooking on the basis of the changed rice cooking parameter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a rice cooking system and the like.

Background Art

[0002] As a technique for reflecting a user's preference when cooking rice in a rice cooker, for example, the technique described in Patent Document 1 is known. That is, Patent Document 1 describes that "when the user inputs a finished evaluation by the evaluation input means after the cooking is completed, the parameters stored in the storage means are changed based on the finished evaluation, and a flow having the changed parameters is executed at the next cooking to perform the cooking."

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the technique described in Patent Document 1, the user evaluates the finished state by pressing a predetermined switch of the rice cooker, but there is room for improvement in terms of convenience.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The rice cooking system according to the present disclosure includes a rice cooker and a server that communicates with the rice cooker and also communicates with an information terminal of a user who uses the rice cooker. When user preference information regarding the cooking of rice is updated based on an operation of the information terminal by the user, the server, the information terminal, or the rice cooker changes a predetermined rice cooking parameter based on the updated preference information, and the rice cooker cooks rice based on the changed rice cooking parameter. If the lid of the rice cooker is opened for the first time after the rice cooking process is complete, a lid open signal is sent to the server. If a predetermined time has elapsed since the server received the open signal from the rice cooker, the server sends a preference information update request signal to the information terminal. If the information terminal receives the update request signal from the server, it displays an input screen for updating the preference information. It was made like this. Further details will be explained within the embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of the rice cooker included in the rice cooking system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of the rice cooker in the first embodiment of the rice cooking system with the lid open. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view of a rice cooker included in the rice cooking system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the rice cooking system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5A] This is an example of a display screen showing the current softness setting of the rice being cooked in the rice cooker in the rice cooking system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5B] This is an example of the display of the selection screen used to update the setting for the softness of the rice in the rice cooking system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a time chart of the rice cooking system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a time chart of a rice cooking system according to a first modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a time chart of a rice cooking system according to a second modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the rice cooking system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a time chart of the rice cooking system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the rice cooking system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a time chart of the rice cooking system according to the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] ≪First Embodiment≫ <Rice cooker configuration> Figure 1 is a perspective view of the rice cooker 10 included in the rice cooking system according to the first embodiment. The rice cooker 10 shown in Figure 1 is a cooking device for cooking rice. As shown in Figure 1, the rice cooker 10 comprises a main body 1, a lid 2, an operation unit 3, a display unit 4, a hook button 5, and a power plug 6. The main body 1 is a housing that houses various components, such as the inner pot 7 (see Figure 2), which will be described later. The lid 2 closes the opening of the main body 1 and is rotatable via an outer lid pivot shaft 8 (see Figure 3). The rice cooker 10 is also equipped with a lid switch (not shown) that outputs a signal indicating the open or closed state of the lid 2 to a control circuit 16 (see Figure 3). A steam vent H1 is provided at the rear of the lid 2 to release steam to the outside during cooking.

[0008] The control unit 3 accepts predetermined operations from the user and is located on the surface of the lid 2. For example, buttons for selecting the cooking course, setting the timer, and starting or canceling cooking are provided as part of the control unit 3. The display unit 4 is a display that shows predetermined information based on user operations via the control unit 3 and is located on the surface of the lid 2. The hook button 5 is a button that the user presses to open the lid 2. The power plug 6 is a connection device used to supply power to the rice cooker 10.

[0009] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the rice cooker 10 with the lid 2 open. As shown in Figure 2, the rice cooker 10 is equipped with an inner pot 7. The inner pot 7 is a metal pot into which rice and water to be cooked are placed, and it has a bottomed cylindrical shape with an open top. The main body 1 has an opening (not shown in the reference numerals) that corresponds to the shape of the inner pot 7.

[0010] Furthermore, the rice cooker 10 includes an outer lid 2a, an inner lid 2b, and a gasket 2c as components included in the lid 2 described above. The outer lid 2a is a lid member that, together with the main body 1, constitutes the outer casing of the rice cooker 10. The inner lid 2b is a lid member that, together with the inner pot 7, forms a sealed space and is installed on the inside (inner pot 7 side) relative to the outer lid 2a. The gasket 2c is an annular resin member for sealing the space between the inner lid 2b and the inner pot 7 and is installed on the periphery of the inner lid 2b.

[0011] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the rice cooker 10. In addition to each of the above-described components, the rice cooker 10 shown in Figure 3 includes an outer lid rotation shaft 8, a dew condensation tray 9, a heating unit 11, and an inverter circuit 12. Further, the rice cooker 10 includes a temperature detection unit 13, a blower unit 14, a pressure regulating valve 15, and a control circuit 16. The outer lid rotation shaft 8 pivotally supports the lid 2 (see Figure 2) so that it can rotate freely. The dew condensation tray 9 is a tray for receiving dew condensation water generated during rice cooking, and is disposed on the lower side (inner pot 7 side) of the inner lid 2b. Note that the dew condensation water dripping onto the dew condensation tray 9 turns into steam again and is discharged outside through the steam passage H2 and the steam port H1 in sequence.

[0012] The heating unit 11 is, for example, an induction heating coil for heating the inner pot 7, and is installed on the lower side of the bottom of the inner pot 7. Assume that the inner pot 7 contains a predetermined magnetic metal for generating eddy currents by electromagnetic induction. The inverter circuit 12 is a circuit that performs a predetermined power conversion on the AC power supplied via the power plug 6 (see Figure 1). The power converted by the inverter circuit 12 is output to the heating unit 11, the blower unit 14, and the control circuit 16.

[0013] The temperature detection unit 13 is a sensor that detects the temperature of the inner pot 7, and is installed on the lower side of the bottom of the inner pot 7. The blower unit 14 is a fan for circulating air around the inner pot 7, and is installed on the rear side of the inner pot 7. The pressure regulating valve 15 is a valve for adjusting the pressure inside the inner pot 7, and is installed near the center of the upper surface of the inner lid 2b.

[0014] Although not shown in the figure, the control circuit 16 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and various interfaces. Then, it reads out the program stored in the ROM and expands it in the RAM so that the CPU can execute various processes. The control circuit 16 executes rice cooking in a predetermined manner based on the cooking parameters received from the integrated management server 20 (see FIG. 4) via the network N1 (see FIG. 4) in addition to the operations via the operation unit 3 (see FIG. 1). Note that the control circuit 16 is assumed to have a communication circuit (not shown) for transmitting and receiving information to and from the integrated management server 20 (see FIG. 4) via the network N1 (see FIG. 4).

[0015] <Configuration of the rice cooking system> FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of the rice cooking system 100. As shown in FIG. 4, the rice cooking system 100 includes a rice cooker 10, an integrated management server 20 (server), and an information terminal 30. The integrated management server 20 is a server that communicates with the rice cooker 10 via the network N1 and communicates with the information terminal 30 via the network N2. Note that data associating the identification information of the rice cooker 10 and the identification information of the information terminal 30 is stored in the integrated management server 20. Also, a router or the like (not shown) for relaying communication between the rice cooker 10 and the integrated management server 20 may be provided near the rice cooker 10.

[0016] The information terminal 30 is a terminal of a user who uses the rice cooker 10. As such an information terminal 30, for example, in addition to a smartphone and a mobile phone, a tablet and a personal computer are used. A predetermined application related to the setting of rice cooking is downloaded to the information terminal 30.

[0017] Then, when a user who has eaten rice cooked in the rice cooker 10 inputs predetermined preference information, such as "I would prefer the rice to be a little softer," into the information terminal 30, the preference information is transmitted from the information terminal 30 to the integrated management server 20 via the network N2. The integrated management server 20 changes the cooking parameters of the rice cooker 10 to predetermined values ​​based on the user's preference information. Examples of such cooking parameters include, but are not limited to, the soaking time of the rice before cooking, as well as the heating time, heating temperature, and steaming time during cooking.

[0018] The rice cooking parameters changed on the integrated management server 20 are sent to the rice cooker 10 via the network N1. The rice cooker 10 then performs rice cooking based on the rice cooking parameters received from the integrated management server 20. In this way, the user's preferences are reflected when the rice is cooked in the rice cooker 10.

[0019] Figure 5A is an example of a display screen showing the current softness setting for rice cooked in a rice cooker. Prior to inputting preference information regarding the cooked rice, a display screen like that shown in Figure 5A is first shown on the information terminal 30 (see Figure 4). In the example in Figure 5A, the current setting of the preference information is indicated at point M1 on axis L1, which has "chewy" at one end and "firm" at the other. Note that "chewy" in Figure 5A represents the setting that results in the highest degree of softness of the rice within the range that the user can change. Also, "firm" in Figure 5A represents the setting that results in the lowest degree of softness of the rice within the range that the user can change.

[0020] In this way, the information terminal 30 (see Figure 4) displays an axis L1 associated with the softness of the rice (type of preference information), and indicates the current preference information at the position of point M1 on axis L1. This allows the user to understand the current settings regarding the degree of softness of the rice.

[0021] As the position of point M1 on axis L1 moves closer to "chewy" than "firm," the degree of softness of the rice increases in stages. For example, the numerical value indicating the degree of softness of the rice could be "+6" for "chewy" in Figure 5A, "-6" for "firm," and "0" for the intermediate position P1. In this case, the softness of the rice can be changed in 13 stages. In the example in Figure 5A, the cooked rice is set to be softer than the intermediate position P1. In the first embodiment, the user who has checked the current softness of the rice at the position of point M1 on axis L1 operates the "Go to preference information selection screen" button B1 and updates the softness setting of the rice on the selection screen shown in Figure 5B.

[0022] Figure 5B shows an example of the selection screen used to update the rice softness setting. In the example shown in Figure 5B, four options are displayed on the information terminal 30 (see Figure 4) based on the current softness of the rice: "a little chewier," "even chewier," "a little firmer," and "even firmer." The change in the degree of rice softness relative to the current state is, for example, "+2" for "even chewier," "+1" for "a little chewier," "-1" for "a little firmer," and "-2" for "even firmer."

[0023] In this way, the information terminal 30 (see Figure 4) displays multiple options based on the amount of change when the user changes their preference information (see Figure 5A), using the current preference information as a reference (see Figure 5B). The reference "current preference information" is the softness of the rice corresponding to the position of point M1 on axis L1 in Figure 5A, and is also the softness of the rice the user most recently ate. When a predetermined option is selected by the user through operation of the information terminal 30 (see Figure 4) from among the multiple options (four options in the example of Figure 5B), the integrated management server 20 changes the rice cooking parameters based on the preference information corresponding to this option.

[0024] For example, if "a little chewier" is selected on the information terminal 30 (see Figure 4), and the "update preference information" button B2 is also pressed, the integrated management server 20 (see Figure 4) performs the following process. Specifically, the integrated management server 20 increases the numerical value indicating the degree of rice softness by "+1" from the current value (position of point M1 in Figure 5A) based on the updated preference information received from the information terminal 30, and stores the changed numerical value in association with the rice cooker 10. Then, the integrated management server 20 (see Figure 4) converts the updated preference information into predetermined rice cooking parameters. The rice cooking parameters calculated by the integrated management server 20 are transmitted to the rice cooker 10 (see Figure 4) via the network N1 (see Figure 4). As a result, the updated preference information is reflected in subsequent rice cooking.

[0025] Figure 6 is a time chart of the rice cooking system (see also Figure 4 as appropriate). When the rice cooker 10 finishes cooking (the rice is cooked), in step S101, the rice cooker 10 sends a cooking completion signal to the integrated management server 20 via the network N1. Also, if the lid 2 of the rice cooker 10 (see Figure 2) is opened for the first time after the rice cooker 10 has finished cooking, in step S102, the rice cooker 10 sends an open lid signal to the integrated management server 20 (server). The "open signal" is a signal indicating that the lid 2 of the rice cooker 10 (see Figure 2) has been opened.

[0026] If a predetermined time has elapsed since the rice cooker 10 received an open signal, in step S103, the integrated management server 20 (server) sends a feedback request signal (a signal requesting an update of preference information) to the information terminal 30 via the network N2. The aforementioned "predetermined time" is set in advance based on the average time from when the user opens the lid 2 until they finish eating the rice. For example, the feedback request signal may be sent to the information terminal 30 some time after the user has finished eating the rice. The feedback request from the integrated management server 20 to the information terminal 30 may also be a push notification.

[0027] In step S104, the integrated management server 20 transmits the current preference information to the information terminal 30 via the network N2. Specifically, the integrated management server 20 transmits the current preference information, which indicates the setting for the softness of the rice (for example, one of 13 levels of softness), to the information terminal 30. When the information terminal 30 receives a feedback request signal (update request signal) from the integrated management server 20 (server) in this way, it displays an input screen for updating the preference information (Figures 5A and 5B).

[0028] In step S105, the user's preference information regarding the softness of the rice is updated based on the user's operation of the information terminal 30. In the example in Figure 5B, "a little chewier" is selected. In step S106, the information terminal 30 transmits the updated preference information, which indicates the softness of the rice selected by the user, to the integrated management server 20 via the network N2.

[0029] In step S107, the integrated management server 20 calculates the rice cooking parameters (rice cooking parameter change step). That is, the integrated management server 20 changes one or more rice cooking parameters to predetermined values ​​based on the updated preference information. For example, the integrated management server 20 appropriately changes rice cooking parameters such as soaking time, heating time, and steaming time. In this way, when the user's preference information regarding the finished rice is updated based on the user's operation of the information terminal 30, the integrated management server 20 (server) changes predetermined rice cooking parameters based on the updated preference information.

[0030] Furthermore, the types of rice cooking parameters and how to change them based on user preference information are pre-configured as a predetermined program and stored in the integrated management server 20. Although not shown in Figure 6, the integrated management server 20 (server) also stores user preference information and rice cooking parameters related to the desired rice texture, associating them with the rice cooker 10 and the information terminal 30.

[0031] In step S108, the integrated management server 20 transmits the modified rice cooking parameters to the rice cooker 10 via the network N1. Although not shown in Figure 6, the rice cooker 10 then performs the next rice cooking based on the modified rice cooking parameters (rice cooking step).

[0032] Furthermore, if the rice cooker 10 has not been used for cooking even once since its purchase, it is preferable that the information terminal 30 not transition to the preference information update screen (see Figure 5B) when displaying a predetermined screen regarding preference information. This prevents the preference information update screen from being displayed on the information terminal 30 even though rice has not been cooked even once (i.e., the user does not know the current softness of the rice), thereby reducing any discomfort for the user. For example, even if the user operates the button B1 labeled "Go to preference information selection screen" (see Figure 5A) on the display screen showing the current settings regarding the softness of the rice (see Figure 5A), this operation may not be reflected in the screen transition, or a predetermined error message may be displayed. Alternatively, the button B1 labeled "Go to preference information selection screen" may not be displayed on the display screen in Figure 5A.

[0033] Furthermore, it is preferable that the integrated management server 20 or the like prohibits further updates of the preference information from the time the preference information is updated by the user's operation of the information terminal 30 until the rice cooker 10 completes cooking based on the updated preference information. If multiple updates of preference information (sequential updates) were permitted, for example, the user might change the degree of rice softness to "+2" (selecting "More Chewy" in Figure 5B), and then change it to "+2" again. Changing the degree of rice softness so rapidly in this way may result in rice that is softer than the user expected. As mentioned above, by limiting the number of preference information updates to once per cooking cycle, it is possible to prevent rapid changes in the rice softness setting.

[0034] Furthermore, when the rice cooker 10 is replaced with a new rice cooker of a different model (not shown), the integrated management server 20 (server) should perform the following processing when it receives identification information of the new rice cooker from the information terminal 30. Specifically, the integrated management server 20 should convert the rice cooking parameters corresponding to the preference information used in the rice cooker 10 before replacement into predetermined rice cooking parameters that are compatible with the new rice cooker, and then send the converted predetermined rice cooking parameters to the new rice cooker. In this case, the new rice cooker will cook rice based on the predetermined rice cooking parameters received from the integrated management server 20. As a result, even if a user replaces their rice cooker with a new model (not shown), the new rice cooker can cook rice that reflects the most recent preference information based on the compatibility of the rice cooking parameters.

[0035] <Effects> According to the first embodiment, the integrated management server 20 updates the user's preference information regarding the doneness of the rice based on the user's operation of the information terminal 30, and changes the cooking parameters based on the updated preference information. This allows the user's preferences to be reflected when cooking rice in the rice cooker 10. Furthermore, since the user only needs to operate the information terminal 30 to update the preference information, user convenience is enhanced.

[0036] Furthermore, before the user updates their preference information, the current setting regarding the softness of the rice (see Figure 5A) is displayed on the information terminal 30. This allows the user to understand the current setting and update their preference information as needed to reflect their own preferences. In addition, since the control circuit 16 (see Figure 3) of the rice cooker 10 only needs to be equipped with a predetermined communication circuit (not shown), it does not lead to any significant increase in the structure of the rice cooker 10. Therefore, it is possible to improve convenience for the user while suppressing an increase in the manufacturing cost of the rice cooker 10.

[0037] ≪First Modification of the First Embodiment≫ Figure 7 is a time chart of a rice cooking system according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. The first modified example shown in Figure 7 differs from the first embodiment (see Figure 6) in that the information terminal 30 calculates the rice cooking parameters based on preference information. The configuration of the rice cooking system 100 (see Figure 4) is the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, we will explain the parts that differ from the first embodiment, and omit the explanation of the overlapping parts.

[0038] In step S105 of Figure 7, after preference information regarding the softness of the rice is entered, the information terminal 30 proceeds to step S206. In step S206, the information terminal 30 calculates the rice cooking parameters based on the preference information. In other words, if the user's preference information regarding the doneness of the rice is updated based on the user's operation of the information terminal 30, the information terminal 30 changes the rice cooking parameters based on the updated preference information (rice cooking parameter change step).

[0039] In step S207, the information terminal 30 transmits the modified rice cooking parameters to the integrated management server 20 via the network N2 (see Figure 4). The integrated management server 20 stores the modified rice cooking parameters in association with the rice cooker 10 and the information terminal 30. In step S208, the integrated management server 20 transmits the modified rice cooking parameters to the rice cooker 10 via network N1 (see Figure 4). Although not shown in Figure 7, the rice cooker 10 then performs the next rice cooking based on the modified parameters (rice cooking step). In this way, by having the information terminal 30 calculate the rice cooking parameters based on preference information, the processing load on the integrated management server 20 can be reduced even when there are many rice cookers 10 to be managed.

[0040] ≪Second Modification of the First Embodiment≫ Figure 8 is a time chart of a rice cooking system according to a second modified example of the first embodiment. The second modified example shown in Figure 8 differs from the first embodiment (see Figure 6) in that the rice cooker 10 calculates the rice cooking parameters based on preference information. The configuration of the rice cooking system 100 (see Figure 4) is the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, we will explain the parts that differ from the first embodiment, and omit the explanation of the overlapping parts.

[0041] In step S106 of Figure 8, after the preference information indicating the softness of the rice after the update is entered, the integrated management server 20 proceeds to step S307. In step S307, the integrated management server 20 transmits the updated preference information to the rice cooker 10 via the network N1. Next, in step S308, the rice cooker 10 calculates the cooking parameters based on the updated preference information. That is, if the user's preference information regarding the doneness of the rice is updated based on the user's operation of the information terminal 30, the rice cooker 10 changes the cooking parameters based on the updated preference information (cooking parameter change step). Then, although not shown in Figure 8, the rice cooker 10 performs cooking from the next time onward based on the changed cooking parameters (cooking step). In this way, by having the rice cooker 10 calculate the cooking parameters based on the preference information, the processing load on the integrated management server 20 can be reduced.

[0042] Furthermore, when the start button for rice cooking is pressed on the rice cooker 10, the rice cooker 10 should obtain preference information from the integrated management server 20 and then calculate the rice cooking parameters based on that preference information. This reduces the effort required from the user compared to when the user launches an application on the information terminal 30 to calculate the rice cooking parameters.

[0043] ≪Second Embodiment≫ The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the rice cooking system 100A (see Figure 9) includes a weather information server 40 (see Figure 9). Furthermore, the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the integrated management server 20 (see Figure 9) uses weather information in addition to user preference information when calculating rice cooking parameters. Other aspects are the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, we will explain the differences from the first embodiment, and omit explanations of overlapping parts.

[0044] Figure 9 is a diagram showing the configuration of the rice cooking system 100A according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 9, the rice cooking system 100A consists of a rice cooker 10, a central management server 20, an information terminal 30, and a weather information server 40. The weather information server 40 is a server that provides weather information to the central management server 20 and is connected to the central management server 20 via network N3.

[0045] The weather information provided by the weather information server 40 includes information on the weather (e.g., sunny, cloudy, rainy, or snowy), temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure for a predetermined date specified by the integrated management server 20. For example, if the cooking of rice is affected by the weather, or if the softness of rice that a user finds delicious changes depending on the weather on that day, it is effective to reflect the weather information in the calculation of the rice cooking parameters. It is assumed that information for identifying the region, including the location where the rice cooker 10 is installed, is provided to the integrated management server 20 in advance based on the user's operation of the information terminal 30.

[0046] Figure 10 is a time chart of the rice cooking system (see also Figure 9 as needed). Steps 101 to S106 in Figure 10 are the same as in the first embodiment (see Figure 6), so their explanation will be omitted. After receiving the updated preference information (updated rice softness) in step S106, the integrated management server 20 proceeds to step S407. In step S407, the integrated management server 20 sends a weather information request signal to the weather information server 40 via the network N3. The integrated management server 20 estimates the date of the next rice cooking based, for example, on the average number of days between the current rice cooking and the next rice cooking in the rice cooker 10. Then, the integrated management server 20 sends a weather information request signal to the weather information server 40 to obtain weather information for the estimated date.

[0047] In step S408, the weather information server 40 transmits predetermined weather information to the integrated management server 20 via the network N3 in response to a weather information request. In step S409, the integrated management server 20 calculates the rice cooking parameters. That is, the integrated management server 20 (server) changes the rice cooking parameters based on the weather information at the time the rice cooker 10 is cooking and the updated preference information. For example, if there is statistical data that users often find firmer rice tastier on rainy days, the integrated management server 20 calculates (corrects) the rice cooking parameters so that the rice is cooked firmer than if the preference information were simply reflected. In step S410, the integrated management server 20 transmits cooking parameters to the rice cooker 10 via the network N1.

[0048] <Effects> According to the second embodiment, the integrated management server 20 reflects not only the user's preference information but also the weather information at the time of cooking in the cooking parameters. Therefore, it can appropriately handle cases where the softness of rice that a user finds delicious changes depending on the weather.

[0049] ≪Third Embodiment≫ The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the rice cooking system 100B (see Figure 11) includes a food ingredient management server 50 (see Figure 11). Furthermore, the third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the integrated management server 20 (see Figure 11) uses rice purchase information in addition to user preference information when calculating rice cooking parameters. Other aspects are the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, we will explain the parts that differ from the first embodiment, and omit explanations of overlapping parts.

[0050] Figure 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of the rice cooking system 100B according to the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 11, the rice cooking system 100B consists of a rice cooker 10, a central management server 20, an information terminal 30, and a food ingredient management server 50. The food ingredient management server 50 is a server that provides user rice purchase information to the central management server 20 and is connected to the central management server 20 via network N4. The food ingredient management server 50 manages rice purchase sites and stores user rice purchase information (purchase history). The rice purchase information provided from the food ingredient management server 50 to the central management server 20 includes information such as the amount of rice purchased by the user, as well as the type of rice and the date of manufacture.

[0051] Each time rice is cooked in the rice cooker 10, the integrated management server 20 (server) calculates the amount of rice used in that cooking. If the estimated remaining amount of rice owned by the user falls below a predetermined value, the server displays a screen on the information terminal 30 that directs the user to a rice purchase site. The integrated management server 20 then updates the amount of rice owned by the user based on the estimated remaining amount of rice and the amount of rice newly purchased from the designated purchase site.

[0052] During the initial setup, a predetermined value indicating the amount of rice owned by the user is entered into the information terminal 30 through the user's operation, and this value is then transmitted from the information terminal 30 to the integrated management server 20 via the network N2. Furthermore, if the user purchases new rice from a source other than the aforementioned purchase site (for example, a supermarket), information such as the amount of rice and the manufacturing date is entered into the information terminal 30 through the user's operation. This information can also be entered manually by the user.

[0053] Figure 12 is a time chart of the rice cooking system (see also Figure 11 as appropriate). Steps S101 to S106 in Figure 12 are the same as in the first embodiment (see Figure 6), so their explanation will be omitted. After receiving the updated preference information (updated rice softness) in step S106, the integrated management server 20 proceeds to step S507. In step S507, the integrated management server 20 sends a signal requesting rice purchase information to the food management server 50 via the network N4.

[0054] In step S508, the food management server 50, in response to a request for rice purchase information, transmits rice purchase information to the integrated management server 20 via the network N4. As described above, the rice purchase information includes not only the amount of rice newly purchased by the user, but also information such as the type of rice and the manufacturing date.

[0055] In step S509, the integrated management server 20 calculates the rice cooking parameters. For example, the integrated management server 20 (server) changes the rice cooking parameters based on the manufacturing date of the rice purchased from the purchase site and the user's preference information. To give a specific example, if the rice newly purchased by the user is old rice and there is a high possibility that this old rice will be used for the next cooking, the integrated management server 20 changes the rice cooking parameters to predetermined values, such as increasing the soaking time of the rice compared to when it is new rice. In step S510, the integrated management server 20 sends cooking parameters to the rice cooker 10 via the network N1. If there is a high probability that old rice will be used for the next cooking cycle, advice such as "Please use a little more water than usual" may be displayed on the information terminal 30. This ensures that even when old rice is used for cooking, fluffy and delicious rice can be produced.

[0056] <Effects> According to the third embodiment, the integrated management server 20 calculates cooking parameters based on user preference information and the age of the rice included in the purchase information. This allows the rice cooker 10 to cook the rice according to the cooking parameters appropriate to the condition of the rice. Furthermore, if the remaining amount of rice falls below a predetermined value, the integrated management server 20 displays a screen on the information terminal 30 indicating that the amount of rice is low. This prevents users from forgetting to buy rice, further enhancing convenience for the user.

[0057] ≪Variations≫ Although the rice cooking systems 100, 100A, and 100B related to this disclosure have been described in detail in each embodiment, the system is not limited to these descriptions, and various modifications can be made. For example, in each embodiment, a case was described in which the integrated management server 20 sends a push notification of a feedback request to the information terminal 30 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the user first opened the lid 2 of the rice cooker 10 after the rice cooking is complete, but the invention is not limited to this. That is, when the user operates the information terminal 30 in a predetermined manner and opens the screen of a predetermined application related to rice cooking, the feedback request screen (see Figures 5A and 5B) may be displayed. In addition, for example, if a predetermined cooking start signal is sent from the rice cooker 10 to the integrated management server 20 after the current cooking cycle is complete and the next cooking cycle is about to begin, the integrated management server 20 may send a feedback request to the information terminal 30. Also, if a predetermined number of days have elapsed since the rice cooker 10 last cooked rice, the integrated management server 20 may send a feedback request to the information terminal 30. Furthermore, the integrated management server 20 may send feedback requests to the information terminal 30 periodically or irregularly. In addition, if a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the most recent use of the rice cooking application on the information terminal 30, the integrated management server 20 may send a feedback request to the information terminal 30.

[0058] Furthermore, while each embodiment describes a case where a screen showing the current settings regarding the softness of the rice (see Figure 5A) is displayed on the information terminal 30, the system is not limited to this. In other words, the process of displaying the current settings on the information terminal 30 may be omitted, and the user may operate the information terminal 30 in a predetermined manner to run a rice cooking application and input preference information such as "a little chewier" or "firmer" regarding the current softness of the rice.

[0059] Furthermore, while each embodiment describes a case where the user's current preference information is transmitted from the integrated management server 20 to the information terminal 30, the invention is not limited to this. For example, the integrated management server 20 may transmit the current rice cooking parameters to the information terminal 30. In this case, the information terminal 30 converts the rice cooking parameters into preference information (for example, a numerical value indicating the degree of softness of the rice) and displays it in a predetermined manner.

[0060] Furthermore, while each embodiment describes a case where the softness of the cooked rice is used as an indicator of the finished product, the invention is not limited to this. For example, indicators such as the soaking time and steaming time of the rice may be added to the preference information as appropriate. The information terminal 30 may then display a plurality of axes associated with the types of preference information and indicate the current preference information by its position on the axes. As an example of using the plurality of axes described above, the current magnitude of each indicator may be displayed on the information terminal 30 as a radar chart, and the user may be able to change the values ​​of each axis (the values ​​of each indicator) of the radar chart by operating it.

[0061] Furthermore, while each embodiment describes a case where the current softness of the rice is displayed by the position of point M1 on axis L1 in Figure 5A, the system is not limited to this. For example, the position of point M1 on axis L1 may be movable by user operation, allowing the user to change the setting of the rice's softness by moving the position of point M1.

[0062] Furthermore, while the second embodiment described a case where the rice cooking parameters are changed based on user preference information and weather information, the invention is not limited to this. For example, in addition to weather information, the rice cooking parameters may be calculated based on statistical information between the user's preferences regarding the softness of the rice, etc., and information such as the user's residential area, current season, age, gender, and family structure. The aforementioned statistical information can be obtained, for example, through a prior statistical survey. It is also possible to use machine learning in calculating the rice cooking parameters.

[0063] Furthermore, each embodiment may be combined as appropriate. For example, the second embodiment (see Figure 9) and the third embodiment (see Figure 11) may be combined so that the rice cooking system 100 includes a rice cooker 10, a general management server 20, and an information terminal 30, as well as a weather information server 40 and a food ingredient management server 50. In this case, the general management server 20 calculates rice cooking parameters based on user preference information, weather information obtained from the weather information server 40 (second embodiment), and rice purchase information obtained from the food ingredient management server 50 (third embodiment).

[0064] Furthermore, for example, the first modified example of the first embodiment (see Figure 7) and the second embodiment (see Figure 9) may be combined so that the information terminal 30 calculates cooking parameters based on preference information and weather information. Also, for example, the second modified example of the first embodiment (see Figure 8) and the third embodiment (see Figure 11) may be combined so that the rice cooker 10 calculates cooking parameters based on preference information and rice purchase information. Many other combinations are also possible.

[0065] Furthermore, although the embodiment described the case in which the heating method used in the rice cooker 10 is IH (Induction Heating), it is not limited to this. For example, the inner pot 7 may be heated by a heater (not shown). Furthermore, although each embodiment has described a rice cooking system 100 including a rice cooker 10, it is also applicable to other automatic cooking appliances. Furthermore, the program for causing a computer to execute the rice cooking control method described in each embodiment can be provided via a communication line, or it can be stored in memory, a recording device such as a hard disk or SSD (Solid State Drive), or a recording medium such as an IC card, SD card, or DVD. In addition, various information about the rice cooking system 100 may reside on the cloud.

[0066] Furthermore, each embodiment is described in detail for the purpose of clearly illustrating this disclosure and is not necessarily limited to having all the configurations described. In addition, it is possible to add, delete, or replace some of the configurations in the embodiments with other configurations. Furthermore, the mechanisms and configurations described above are those deemed necessary for explanatory purposes and do not necessarily represent all of the mechanisms and configurations shown in the actual product. Furthermore, the control lines and information lines shown are those deemed necessary for explanatory purposes, and not all control lines and information lines are necessarily shown in the actual product. In reality, it can be assumed that almost all components are interconnected. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0067] 1 Main unit 2 lid 3 Control section 4 Display 5 Hook buttons 6 Power plug 7. Inner pot 8. Outer cover pivot shaft 9. Condensation tray 10 Rice cooker 11 Heating section 12 Inverter Circuit 13 Temperature detection unit 14. Air blower 15 Pressure Regulating Valve 16 Control circuits 20. Integrated Management Server (Server) 30 Information terminals 40 Weather Information Server 50 Food Ingredient Management Server 100, 100A, 100B Rice Cooking System L1 axis M1 point N1, N2, N3, N4 Networks

Claims

1. Rice cooker and The system includes a server that communicates with the rice cooker and with the information terminal of the user using the rice cooker, If the user's preference information regarding the doneness of the rice is updated based on the user's operation of the information terminal, the server, the information terminal, or the rice cooker will change predetermined cooking parameters based on the updated preference information. The rice cooker performs rice cooking based on the modified rice cooking parameters, and when the lid of the rice cooker is opened for the first time after the rice cooking is completed, it sends a lid open signal to the server. When a predetermined time has elapsed since the server received the open signal from the rice cooker, the server transmits a preference information update request signal to the information terminal. The aforementioned information terminal, upon receiving the update request signal from the server, displays an input screen for updating the preference information, as part of a rice cooking system.

2. Rice cooker and The system includes a server that communicates with the rice cooker and with the information terminal of the user using the rice cooker, If the user's preference information regarding the doneness of the rice is updated based on the user's operation of the information terminal, the server, the information terminal, or the rice cooker will change predetermined cooking parameters based on the updated preference information. The rice cooker performs rice cooking based on the changed rice cooking parameters. The server stores the preference information and the rice cooking parameters in association with the rice cooker and the information terminal. When the aforementioned rice cooker is replaced with a new rice cooker of a different model, and the server receives identification information of the new rice cooker from the information terminal, the server converts the rice cooking parameters corresponding to the preference information used with the previous rice cooker into predetermined rice cooking parameters suitable for the new rice cooker, and transmits the converted predetermined rice cooking parameters to the new rice cooker. The aforementioned new rice cooker is a rice cooking system that performs rice cooking based on predetermined rice cooking parameters.

3. Rice cooker and The system includes a server that communicates with the rice cooker and with the information terminal of the user using the rice cooker, If the user's preference information regarding the doneness of the rice is updated based on the user's operation of the information terminal, the server, the information terminal, or the rice cooker will change predetermined cooking parameters based on the updated preference information. The rice cooker performs rice cooking based on the changed rice cooking parameters. The server calculates the amount of rice used for cooking each time rice is cooked in the rice cooker, and when the estimated amount of rice remaining owned by the user falls below a predetermined value, it displays a screen on the information terminal directing the user to a rice purchase site, and updates the amount of rice owned by the user based on the estimated amount of rice remaining and the amount of rice newly purchased from the purchase site, in a rice cooking system.

4. Rice cooker and The system includes a server that communicates with the rice cooker and with the information terminal of the user using the rice cooker, If the user's preference information regarding the doneness of the rice is updated based on the user's operation of the information terminal, the server, the information terminal, or the rice cooker will change predetermined cooking parameters based on the updated preference information. The rice cooker performs rice cooking based on the changed rice cooking parameters. The server calculates the amount of rice used for cooking each time rice is cooked in the rice cooker, and if the estimated amount of rice remaining owned by the user falls below a predetermined value, it displays a screen on the information terminal directing the user to a rice purchase site, and changes the rice cooking parameters based on the manufacturing date of the rice purchased from the purchase site and the user's preference information.

5. The information terminal displays one or more axes associated with the type of preference information in a predetermined manner, and indicates the current preference information at a position on the axes. A rice cooking system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the above.

6. The information terminal displays multiple options based on the amount of change when the user changes the preference information, using the current preference information as a reference. If a user selects a predetermined option from among several options through the operation of the information terminal, the rice cooking parameters are changed based on the preference information corresponding to that option. A rice cooking system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the above.

7. When the information terminal displays a predetermined screen regarding the preference information in the case that the rice cooker has not been used for cooking even once since its purchase, it shall not transition to the preference information update screen. A rice cooking system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the above.

8. From the time the preference information is updated until the rice cooker completes cooking based on the updated preference information, further updates of the preference information are prohibited. A rice cooking system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the above.

9. The server modifies the rice cooking parameters based on the weather information at the time the rice cooker is cooking and the updated preference information. A rice cooking system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the above.

10. A rice cooking control method executed in a rice cooking system that includes a server that communicates with a rice cooker and with an information terminal of a user using the rice cooker, If user preference information regarding the doneness of cooked rice is updated based on the user's operation of the information terminal, the server, the information terminal, or the rice cooker changes predetermined cooking parameters based on the updated preference information in a cooking parameter change step. The rice cooker includes a cooking step in which it cooks rice based on the changed cooking parameters, When the lid of the rice cooker is opened for the first time after the rice cooking process is complete, the rice cooker sends a lid open signal to the server. When a predetermined time has elapsed since the server received the open signal from the rice cooker, the server transmits a preference information update request signal to the information terminal. A rice cooking control method comprising: when the information terminal receives the update request signal from the server, it displays an input screen for updating the preference information.

11. A rice cooking control method executed in a rice cooking system that includes a server that communicates with a rice cooker and with an information terminal of a user using the rice cooker, If user preference information regarding the doneness of cooked rice is updated based on the user's operation of the information terminal, the server, the information terminal, or the rice cooker changes predetermined cooking parameters based on the updated preference information in a cooking parameter change step. The rice cooker includes a cooking step in which it cooks rice based on the changed cooking parameters, The server stores the preference information and the rice cooking parameters in association with the rice cooker and the information terminal. When the aforementioned rice cooker is replaced with a new rice cooker of a different model, and the server receives identification information of the new rice cooker from the information terminal, the server converts the rice cooking parameters corresponding to the preference information used with the previous rice cooker into predetermined rice cooking parameters suitable for the new rice cooker, and transmits the converted predetermined rice cooking parameters to the new rice cooker. The new rice cooker includes a rice cooking control method that performs rice cooking based on predetermined rice cooking parameters.

12. A server that communicates with a rice cooker and also communicates with the information terminal of a user using the rice cooker, If the user's preference information regarding the doneness of the rice is updated based on the user's operation of the information terminal, the server changes the predetermined cooking parameters based on the updated preference information and transmits the changed cooking parameters to the rice cooker. The server calculates the amount of rice used for cooking each time rice is cooked in the rice cooker, and when the estimated amount of rice the user owns falls below a predetermined value, it displays a screen on the information terminal that directs the user to a rice purchase site, and updates the amount of rice the user owns based on the estimated amount of rice remaining and the amount of rice newly purchased from the purchase site.

13. A server that communicates with a rice cooker and also communicates with the information terminal of a user using the rice cooker, If the user's preference information regarding the doneness of the rice is updated based on the user's operation of the information terminal, the server changes the predetermined cooking parameters based on the updated preference information and transmits the changed cooking parameters to the rice cooker. The server calculates the amount of rice used for cooking each time the rice cooker is used, and if the estimated amount of rice remaining owned by the user falls below a predetermined value, it displays a screen on the information terminal directing the user to a rice purchase site, and changes the rice cooking parameters based on the manufacturing date of the rice purchased from the purchase site and the user's preference information.

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