Determination method, program, determination system, and information terminal

Abstract

A determination method has a first step (S1), a second step (S2), a third step (S3), a fourth step (S4), a fifth step (S5), and a sixth step (S6). In the first step, a washing tub is caused to rotate without containing laundry. In the second step, the rotation speed of the washing tub is increased from a first rotation speed to a second rotation speed for a prescribed time period. In the third step, acceleration rate data for each of three axial directions in a prescribed time period is acquired from an acceleration rate sensor. In the fourth step, determination data including amplitude data for each of the three axial directions is calculated on the basis of the acceleration rate data for each of the three axial directions. In the fifth step, a determination is made, using the determination data and a determination condition, as to whether or not one or more of a plurality of foot parts is in a floating state of being separated from an installation surface of a washing machine. In the sixth step, a determination result is outputted.

Description

Determination method, program, determination system, and information terminal

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a determination method for determining the state of a washing machine.

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a fully automatic washer-dryer. This fully automatic washer-dryer includes a housing, an outer tub elastically supported within the housing, a washing and spin-drying tub rotatably disposed within the outer tub and containing laundry, a drive unit for rotating the washing and spin-drying tub, an acceleration sensor capable of detecting vibrations that cause the housing to tilt when the washing and spin-drying tub rotates, which are caused by the installation state of the fully automatic washer-dryer, a control unit, and a buzzer. The control unit rotates the washing and spin-drying tub using the drive unit, and causes the buzzer to issue an alert when vibrations that cause the housing to tilt exceed an allowable magnitude occur.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-069260

[0004] The present disclosure provides a determination method and the like that makes it easy to understand the installation environment of a washing machine.

[0005] A determination method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first step, a second step, a third step, a fourth step, a fifth step, and a sixth step. In the first step, a washing machine having a plurality of feet is rotated without laundry being loaded. In the second step, the rotation speed of the washing machine is increased from a first rotation speed to a second rotation speed during a predetermined time period during the first step. In the third step, acceleration data in each of three mutually perpendicular axial directions of the washing machine during the predetermined time period is acquired from an acceleration sensor attached to the washing machine. In the fourth step, determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions is calculated based on the acquired acceleration data in each of the three axial directions. In the fifth step, the calculated determination data and preset determination conditions are used to determine whether one or more of the plurality of feet are in a floating state, i.e., are separated from the installation surface of the washing machine. In the sixth step, the determination result of the fifth step is output.

[0006] A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure causes one or more processors to execute the determination method.

[0007] A determination system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a control unit, an acquisition unit, a calculation unit, a determination unit, and an output unit. The control unit rotates a washing tub without laundry in a washing machine having multiple feet, and increases the rotation speed of the washing tub from a first rotation speed to a second rotation speed during a predetermined time period while the washing tub is running. The acquisition unit acquires acceleration data in three mutually orthogonal axial directions of the washing tub during the predetermined time period from an acceleration sensor attached to the washing tub. The calculation unit calculates determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions based on the acquired acceleration data in each of the three axial directions. The determination unit uses the calculated determination data and preset determination conditions to determine whether one or more of the multiple feet are in a floating state, i.e., are separated from the surface on which the washing machine is placed. The output unit outputs the determination result obtained by the determination unit.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an information terminal is capable of communicating with a washing machine having a plurality of feet, a drive unit for rotating a washing tub without laundry, and a control unit for increasing the rotation speed of the washing tub from a first rotation speed to a second rotation speed during a predetermined time period while the washing tub is operating. The information terminal includes a calculation unit, a determination unit, and an output unit. The calculation unit calculates determination data including amplitude data in each of three mutually orthogonal axial directions of the washing tub during the predetermined time period, based on acceleration data in each of the three axial directions acquired from an acceleration sensor attached to the washing tub. The determination unit uses the calculated determination data and preset determination conditions to determine whether one or more of the plurality of feet are in a floating state, i.e., are separated from the surface on which the washing machine is placed. The output unit outputs the determination result of the determination unit.

[0009] The determination method and the like in the present disclosure have the advantage of making it easier to understand the installation environment of the washing machine.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration including a determination system in an embodiment. FIG. 2 is an external view of a washing machine. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the determination system in an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing time series data of the rotation speed when the washing machine is running empty. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the distribution of feature quantities in a predetermined time period. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a first main condition in the determination conditions. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a second main condition in the determination conditions. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration including a determination system in a first modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration including a determination system in a second modified example of the embodiment.

[0011] [1. Findings that Form the Basis of the Present Disclosure] First, the inventor's point of view will be explained below.

[0012] The majority of users request washing machine repairs due to vibrations or noise during the spin cycle. These vibrations or noises during the spin cycle can be caused by either a malfunction of the washing machine or an issue with the washing machine's installation environment. However, it can be difficult to distinguish between the two.

[0013] While there are methods for determining whether a washing machine is malfunctioning based on vibration data detected by an acceleration sensor, there are currently no methods for determining whether the washing machine's installation environment is improperly equipped using vibration data. Therefore, currently, repair service providers visit the site and determine whether the washing machine is malfunctioning or whether the washing machine's installation environment is improperly equipped according to a manual. However, this method of having the service provider visit the site places a heavy burden on the service provider, and there is also the risk of human error.

[0014] In the fully automatic washer-dryer disclosed in Patent Document 1, an acceleration sensor detects vibrations that cause the housing to tilt when the washing and spin-drying tub rotates, but the cause of the detected vibrations cannot be determined. Therefore, with the fully automatic washer-dryer disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is still a problem in that the repair service provider must determine the cause of the vibrations, as described above.

[0015] In view of the above, the inventors have come up with the present disclosure.

[0016] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, component placement and connection forms, steps, step order, etc. shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Furthermore, among the components in the following embodiments, components not recited in independent claims will be described as optional components.

[0017] It should be noted that the drawings are schematic diagrams and are not necessarily strict illustrations. In addition, in the drawings, substantially the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and overlapping descriptions may be omitted or simplified.

[0018] (Embodiment) [2. Configuration] [2-1. Overall Configuration] First, the overall configuration including the determination system 1 in the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration including the determination system 1 in the embodiment. The determination system 1 is a system for determining the state of the washing machine 2, in this case, whether or not the washing machine 2 is in a foot-floating state.

[0019] The term "floating feet state" as used herein refers to a state in which one or more of the multiple feet 20 (see FIG. 2) of the washing machine 2 are separated from the installation surface such as the floor. When the washing machine 2 is in this floating feet state, the vibration of the washing machine 2 or the noise caused by the vibration tends to increase, and the user may mistakenly determine that the washing machine 2 has broken down.

[0020] In the embodiment, determination system 1 is configured by some functions installed in washing machine 2 and some functions installed in information terminal 3. Specifically, in the embodiment, determination system 1 is configured by a processing unit 21 (described later) of washing machine 2, a processing unit 31 (described later) of information terminal 3, and a display unit 33 (described later) of information terminal 3. In the embodiment, communication is possible between washing machine 2 and information terminal 3 via an external network NT1 such as the Internet. Therefore, in the embodiment, determination system 1 performs the functions of each unit by transmitting and receiving data between washing machine 2 and information terminal 3 via external network NT1.

[0021] [2-2. Washing Machine] Next, the configuration of the washing machine 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 2 is an external view of the washing machine 2. FIG. 2(a) shows a case where the washing machine 2 is installed on the floor, and FIG. 2(b) shows a case where the washing machine 2 is installed on the floor via an installation stand 4. The installation stand 4 has a function of absorbing vibrations of the washing machine 2, for example, or a function of allowing the washing machine 2 to be freely moved using a plurality of casters. As shown in FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the washing machine 2 has four feet 20. Therefore, in this embodiment, when any one of the four feet 20 is separated from the installation surface (the floor or one surface of the installation stand 4), the washing machine 2 is in a floating state.

[0022] 1, washing machine 2 includes processing unit 21, drive unit 22, operation unit 23, display unit 24, communication unit 25, storage unit 26, acceleration sensor 27, and washing tub 28. In the embodiment, washing machine 2 is a drum-type washing machine, for example. Of course, washing machine 2 is not limited to a drum-type washing machine, and may be, for example, a vertical washing machine.

[0023] Processing unit 21 executes various functions of washing machine 2. In the embodiment, processing unit 21 has a washing function that executes a washing operation to wash laundry contained in washing tub 28, and a drying function that executes a drying operation to dry the laundry contained in washing tub 28 and washed. That is, in the embodiment, washing machine 2 is a washing machine with a drying function. In the washing operation, laundry is washed by, for example, rotating washing tub 28 and performing washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying on the laundry contained in washing tub 28. In the drying operation, laundry contained in washing tub 28 and washed is dried by, for example, supplying dry air dehumidified by a heat pump. Here, "laundry" may include not only clothes but also soiled items that are not worn by people, such as towels.

[0024] Processing unit 21 also has a function of executing an empty run. The "empty run" here refers to a washing run or a drying run when there is no laundry in washing tub 28, that is, when washing tub 28 is empty. In the embodiment, the empty run is a spin run when washing tub 28 is empty. Processing unit 21 executes an empty run when, for example, the user accepts a predetermined input via operation unit 23 of washing machine 2 or operation unit 32 (described later) of information terminal 3. In this case, the user confirms that washing tub 28 is empty before making the predetermined input.

[0025] The processing unit 21 is realized by, for example, a processor or a dedicated circuit. The processing unit 21 realizes various functions by causing hardware such as a processor to execute a computer program (software) stored in the storage unit 26. The computer program may be stored in a memory provided in the hardware. The processing unit 21 executes a function in response to an operation received by the operation unit 23. The processing unit 21 can also execute a function in response to a user input received by the operation unit 32 of the information terminal 3, for example, by communicating with an information terminal 3 owned by the user. Details of the information terminal 3 will be described later.

[0026] Drive unit 22 is configured with a motor and the like, and rotates washing tub 28 under the control of processing unit 21. Drive unit 22 also changes the rotation speed of washing tub 28 under the control of processing unit 21.

[0027] The operation unit 23 accepts inputs from a user. The operation unit 23 is configured, for example, by push buttons that accept various inputs. The operation unit 23 accepts, for example, an input to select an operation to be performed by the processing unit 21, an input to select the operation content (for example, an operation mode, etc.), an input to start an operation, and an input to temporarily stop an operation. Note that, if the display unit 24 is configured as a touch panel display, the display unit 24 may also serve as part of the operation unit 23.

[0028] Display unit 24 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays various information related to washing machine 2. For example, when a washing operation is in progress, display unit 24 displays at least one of a character string and an image indicating that the washing operation is in progress, and a character string indicating an estimated washing time. Also, when a drying operation is in progress, display unit 24 displays at least one of a character string and an image indicating that the drying operation is in progress, and a character string indicating an estimated drying time. Note that display unit 24 may have, in addition to the liquid crystal display, a lamp that turns on or off depending on the information.

[0029] The communication unit 25 communicates with the communication unit 34 of the information terminal 3 via the external network NT1. The communication between the communication unit 25 and the communication unit 34 of the information terminal 3 may be wired communication as well as wireless communication. Furthermore, the standard of communication between the communication unit 25 and the communication unit 34 of the information terminal 3 is not particularly limited. Furthermore, the communication unit 25 may communicate with the communication unit 34 of the information terminal 3 via a repeater such as a router.

[0030] The storage unit 26 is a storage device that stores information necessary for the processing performed by the processing unit 21. The information stored in the storage unit 26 includes computer programs executed by the processing unit 21. The storage unit 26 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 26 stores the acquired acceleration data in each of the three axial directions, calculated determination data, etc., which are used in the determination processing described below.

[0031] Acceleration sensor 27 is attached to washing tub 28 and detects the acceleration of washing tub 28 in three mutually perpendicular axial directions. The detection result of acceleration sensor 27 is transmitted to processing unit 21 as acceleration data and acquired by processing unit 21. Here, the "three axial directions" refer to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction in the XY plane (i.e., a plane parallel to the installation surface) when washing tub 28 is viewed from above, and the Z-axis direction perpendicular to the XY plane. In this embodiment, acceleration sensor 27 is a sensor capable of detecting three axial directions. Note that the number of acceleration sensors 27 is not limited to one, and multiple sensors may be used. For example, acceleration sensor 27 may be three sensors capable of detecting one axial direction.

[0032] [2-3. Information Terminal] Next, the configuration of the information terminal 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. The information terminal 3 may include, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a desktop or laptop personal computer. In the embodiment, the information terminal 3 is a smartphone. The information terminal 3 includes a processing unit 31, an operation unit 32, a display unit 33, a communication unit 34, and a storage unit 35.

[0033] The processing unit 31 is realized by, for example, a processor or a dedicated circuit. The processing unit 31 realizes various functions by causing hardware such as a processor to execute a computer program (software) stored in the storage unit 35. The computer program may be stored in a memory provided in the hardware. The processing unit 31 executes a function in response to an operation received by the operation unit 32. The processing unit 31 can also execute a function in response to a user input received by the operation unit 23 of the washing machine 2, for example, by communicating with the washing machine 2.

[0034] Operation unit 32 accepts inputs from a user. Operation unit 32 is configured, for example, by a touch panel display. Operation unit 32 accepts, for example, an input to select an operation to be performed by processing unit 21 of washing machine 2, an input to select the operation content (for example, an operation mode, etc.), an input to start an operation, an input to pause an operation, etc. In the embodiment, operation unit 32 is configured integrally with display unit 33.

[0035] The display unit 33 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays various information received from the washing machine 2. For example, the display unit 33 displays information about the washing operation when the washing operation is in progress, and displays information about the drying operation when the drying operation is in progress. The display unit 33 also displays the processing result of the processing unit 31. For example, the display unit 33 displays the processing result of the determination process described below.

[0036] Communication unit 34 communicates with communication unit 25 of washing machine 2 via external network NT1. Communication between communication unit 34 and communication unit 25 of washing machine 2 may be wired communication as well as wireless communication. Furthermore, the standard of communication between communication unit 34 and communication unit 25 of washing machine 2 is not particularly limited. Note that communication between communication unit 34 and communication unit 25 of washing machine 2 may be wireless communication in accordance with a short-range wireless communication standard such as BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) without going through external network NT1.

[0037] The storage unit 35 is a storage device that stores information necessary for the processing executed by the processing unit 31. The information stored in the storage unit 35 includes computer programs executed by the processing unit 31. The storage unit 35 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 35 stores determination conditions used in the determination processing described below, determination results of the determination processing, and the like.

[0038] [3. Operation] The operation of the determination system 1 in the embodiment (i.e., the determination method) will be described below mainly with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the determination system 1 in the embodiment. The operation of the determination system 1 shown below is executed when a user makes a predetermined input on, for example, the operation unit 23 of the washing machine 2 or the operation unit 32 of the information terminal 3.

[0039] First, processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 starts an empty run in which washing tub 28 rotates without laundry being placed inside (S1). Step S1 corresponds to the first step in the determination method. While washing machine 2 is running an empty run, processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 changes the rotation speed of washing tub 28 as shown in Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing time-series data of the rotation speed during an empty run of washing machine 2. In Fig. 4, the vertical axis represents the rotation speed of washing tub 28, and the horizontal axis represents time.

[0040] 4, the idle operation period is composed of a start-up period T1, a steady rotation period T2, a high-speed rotation period T3, and an end period T4. The start-up period T1 includes an initial movement period T10 during which the rotation speed of washing tub 28 gradually increases, and an increase period T11 during which the rotation speed of washing tub 28 increases at a generally constant rate after the initial movement period T10.

[0041] During the increase period T11 (i.e., a predetermined time period during execution of the first step), the processing unit 21 of the washing machine 2 increases the rotation speed of the washing tub 28 from the first rotation speed r1 to the second rotation speed r2 (S2). Step S2 corresponds to the second step in the determination method. The first rotation speed r1 is, for example, several hundred rpm, and the second rotation speed r2 is several hundred rpm higher than the first rotation speed r1. The increase period T11 is, for example, several tens of seconds.

[0042] During the steady rotation period T2, processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 maintains the rotation speed of washing tub 28 constant (here, second rotation speed r2). During the high rotation period T3, processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 changes the rotation speed of washing tub 28 to a rotation speed higher than second rotation speed r2. Then, during the termination period T4, processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 gradually reduces the rotation speed of washing tub 28 to terminate the dry run.

[0043] In the embodiment, processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 corresponds to control unit 11 of determination system 1. That is, control unit 11 (processing unit 21) rotates washing tub 28 without placing laundry therein, and increases the rotation speed of washing tub 28 from first rotation speed r1 to second rotation speed r2 during a predetermined time period (increase period T11) while washing tub 28 is in operation.

[0044] 3 , during a predetermined time period (rising period T11), processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 acquires acceleration data in each of the three axial directions (X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, and Z-axis direction) from acceleration sensor 27 (S3). Step S3 corresponds to the third step in the determination method. Here, processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 acquires acceleration data at each sampling time.

[0045] In the embodiment, processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 corresponds to acquisition unit 12 of determination system 1. That is, acquisition unit 12 (processing unit 21) acquires acceleration data of washing tub 28 in three mutually orthogonal axial directions during a predetermined time period (rising period T11) from acceleration sensor 27 attached to washing tub 28.

[0046] Next, processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 and processing unit 31 of information terminal 3 calculate determination data including amplitude data for each of the three axial directions based on the acquired acceleration data for each of the three axial directions (S4). Step S4 corresponds to the fourth step in the determination method. In this embodiment, processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 executes step S41 in step S4, and then processing unit 31 of information terminal 3 executes step S42 in step S4.

[0047] In step S41 (fourth step), the processing unit 21 of the washing machine 2 calculates determination data including maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time in each of the three axial directions. Specifically, the processing unit 21 of the washing machine 2 calculates amplitude data for each sampling time by integrating the acquired acceleration data twice for each of the three axial directions. Then, the processing unit 21 of the washing machine 2 extracts maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time (e.g., several seconds) from the amplitude data for each sampling time for each of the three axial directions and uses the extracted data as determination data. The predetermined time is longer than the sampling time.

[0048] In this way, by extracting the maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time from a large number of amplitude data and using the extracted maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time as the determination data, the processing load of the determination process is reduced while ensuring the determination data necessary to determine whether or not the foot is floating. Processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 transmits the extracted maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time in each of the three axial directions to communication unit 34 of information terminal 3 via communication unit 25.

[0049] In step S42 (fourth step), the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 acquires the maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time period in each of the three axial directions via the communication unit 34, and then calculates the average value of the maximum amplitude data in each of the three axial directions. Specifically, the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 calculates mean_X, which is the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction, mean_Y, which is the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction, and mean_Z, which is the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction. In addition, in this embodiment, the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 further calculates var_X, which is the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction, var_Y, which is the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction, and var_Z, which is the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction.

[0050] Furthermore, in step S42 (fourth step), the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 calculates the ratio of the average values ​​of the maximum amplitude data in the two axes for each of three combinations obtained by selecting two of the three axes. Specifically, the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 calculates mean_X / Y, which is the ratio between the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction and the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction, mean_X / Z, which is the ratio between the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction and the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction, and mean_Y / Z, which is the ratio between the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction and the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction. Furthermore, in the embodiment, the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 further calculates var_X / Y, which is the ratio between the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction and the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction, var_X / Z, which is the ratio between the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction and the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction, and var_Y / Z, which is the ratio between the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction and the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction.

[0051] Then, in step S42 (fourth step), the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 sets, as determination data, mean_X, mean_Y, and mean_Z, which are the calculated average values ​​in the three axial directions, and mean_X / Y, mean_X / Z, and mean_Y / Z, which are the ratios of the calculated average values ​​for each of the three combinations. In the embodiment, the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 further sets, as determination data, var_X, var_Y, and var_Z, which are the calculated variances in the three axial directions, and var_X / Y, var_X / Z, and var_Y / Z, which are the ratios of the calculated variances for each of the three combinations.

[0052] In the embodiment, processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 and processing unit 31 of information terminal 3 correspond to calculation unit 13 of determination system 1. That is, calculation unit 13 (processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 and processing unit 31 of information terminal 3) calculates determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions based on the acquired acceleration data in each of the three axial directions. Also, in the embodiment, processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 corresponds to first calculation unit 131 that executes step S41 in calculation unit 13, and processing unit 31 of information terminal 3 corresponds to second calculation unit 132 that executes step S42 in calculation unit 13.

[0053] Here, the reason why the ratio of the average values ​​and the ratio of the variances of the maximum amplitude data in the two axial directions are used as judgment data for each of the three combinations obtained by selecting two axial directions from the above three axial directions will be explained using FIG. 5 .

[0054] 5 is a diagram showing an example of the distribution of feature quantities during a predetermined time period (rise period T11). In the scatter diagram shown in FIG. 5(a), the vertical axis represents mean_Y / Z, which is the ratio between the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction and the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction, and the horizontal axis represents mean_X / Y, which is the ratio between the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction and the average value of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction. In the scatter diagram shown in FIG. 5(b), the vertical axis represents var_Y / Z, which is the ratio between the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction and the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction, and the horizontal axis represents var_X / Y, which is the ratio between the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction and the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction. In addition, the black circles in FIG. 5 represent data when the washing machine 2 is in a foot-lifted state, and the white circles represent data when the washing machine 2 is not in a foot-lifted state.

[0055] 5(a) and 5(b), whether the washing machine 2 is in a foot-lifting state can be determined by the boundary line indicated by the dashed line. Therefore, the inventors of the present application have found that it is possible to determine whether the washing machine 2 is in a foot-lifting state by using the ratio of the average values ​​and the ratio of the variances of the maximum amplitude data in the two axial directions as determination data.

[0056] 3, the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 executes a determination process. That is, the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 determines whether the washing machine 2 is in a floating state by using the calculated determination data and a predetermined determination condition (S5). Step S5 corresponds to the fifth step in the determination method.

[0057] Specifically, when the calculated determination data satisfies the first main condition (see FIG. 6 ), the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 determines that the washing machine 2 is wobbly, in other words, that the installation environment of the washing machine 2 is unstable. Here, a state in which the washing machine 2 is wobbly refers to a state in which the washing machine 2 is floating on its legs or is prone to shaking when placed on the installation stand 4. Furthermore, when the calculated determination data satisfies both the first main condition and the second main condition (see FIG. 7 ), the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 determines that the washing machine 2 is floating on its legs. On the other hand, when the calculated determination data does not satisfy both the first main condition and the second main condition, the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 determines that the washing machine 2 is not wobbly, in other words, that the installation environment of the washing machine 2 is stable.

[0058] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a first main condition in the determination conditions. As shown in FIG. 6, the first main condition includes first to seventh sub-conditions. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a second main condition in the determination conditions. As shown in FIG. 7, the second main condition includes eighth to eleventh sub-conditions. "a1, a2," "b1 to b3," "c1," "d1, d2," "e1 to e3," "f1, f2," "g1, g2," "h1," "i1," and "j1" in FIGS. 6 and 7 are all real numbers.

[0059] The processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 determines that the first main condition is satisfied if any one of the first to seventh sub-conditions shown in Fig. 6 is satisfied. Furthermore, the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 determines that the second main condition is satisfied if any one of the eighth to eleventh sub-conditions shown in Fig. 7 is satisfied. The determination of the second main condition is performed only when the first main condition is satisfied.

[0060] In the embodiment, the determination conditions (the above-described first to eleventh sub-conditions) are set using a trained model that has been machine-learned. The trained model has been machine-learned to output a determination condition using, as training data, determination data obtained by performing step S1 (first step), step S2 (second step), step S3 (third step), and step S4 (fourth step) on a washing machine 2 that is in a foot-fluttering state. In the embodiment, the trained model has been machine-learned using decision tree analysis.

[0061] In the embodiment, the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 corresponds to the determination unit 14 of the determination system 1. In other words, the determination unit 14 (processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3) determines whether or not the foot is in a lifted state by using the calculated determination data and a predetermined determination condition.

[0062] Then, the display unit 33 of the information terminal 3 outputs the determination result by displaying the determination result in step S5 (fifth step) on the display (S6). Step S6 corresponds to the sixth step in the determination method. For example, if the display unit 33 of the information terminal 3 determines that the feet are floating, it displays a string of text such as "The feet of the washing machine may be floating. In this case, this can be improved by adjusting the length of the feet. Note that wobble may also be detected in installation environments that are prone to shaking, such as when a platform is used." Also, for example, if the display unit 33 of the information terminal 3 determines that the feet are not floating, it displays a string of text such as "The installation environment of the washing machine is stable."

[0063] By checking the above-mentioned determination result, the user can know whether the washing machine 2 is in a floating state, in other words, whether there is a problem with the installation environment of the washing machine 2.

[0064] In the embodiment, the display unit 33 of the information terminal 3 corresponds to the output unit 15 of the determination system 1. That is, the output unit 15 (the display unit 33 of the information terminal 3) outputs the determination result of the determination unit 14 (the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3).

[0065] As described above, in the embodiment, step S41 (part of the fourth step), step S5 (fifth step), and step S6 (sixth step) are executed by information terminal 3 outside washing machine 2.

[0066] [4. Effects, etc.] As described above, the determination system 1 (determination method) according to the embodiment can determine whether or not one or more of the multiple feet 20 of the washing machine 2 are in a foot-floating state, that is, away from the installation surface of the washing machine 2, based on the acceleration data of the washing tub 28 in each of three mutually orthogonal axial directions during a predetermined time period (rise period T11). Therefore, by checking the determination result of the determination system 1 (determination method), the user can easily determine whether or not the washing machine 2 is in a foot-floating state, that is, the user can easily determine the installation environment of the washing machine 2, which is an advantage.

[0067] If the user can understand the installation environment of washing machine 2, it becomes easier for the user to determine whether, for example, vibrations or noise during a spin-drying operation are caused by the installation environment of washing machine 2 or a malfunction of washing machine 2. The user will then request a repair service provider to determine whether washing machine 2 is malfunctioning only if the user determines that the vibrations or noise are caused by a malfunction of washing machine 2. Therefore, employing determination system 1 (determination method) according to the embodiment has the advantage of reducing the number of times a repair service provider must visit the site, thereby reducing the burden on the repair service provider and reducing human error.

[0068] [5. Other Embodiments] As described above, the embodiments have been described as examples of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited to these, and can be applied to embodiments in which appropriate modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made. Furthermore, it is also possible to combine the components described in the above embodiments to create new embodiments.

[0069] Therefore, modifications of the embodiment will be exemplified below.

[0070] In the above embodiment, the control unit 11, the acquisition unit 12, the calculation unit 13, the determination unit 14, and the output unit 15 of the determination system 1 are realized in a distributed manner in the washing machine 2 and the information terminal 3, but this is not limited to this. Below, aspects of the determination system that differ from the embodiment will be described in first and second modified examples.

[0071] <First Modification> Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing an overall configuration including a determination system 1A in a first modification of the embodiment. The determination system 1A in the first modification differs from the determination system 1 in the embodiment in that a processing unit 51 of the server 5 functions as the acquisition unit 12, the calculation unit 13, and the determination unit 14 of the determination system 1A. That is, the determination system 1A in the first modification differs from the determination system 1 in the embodiment in that it is configured by a processing unit 21 of the washing machine 2, a display unit 33 of the information terminal 3, and a processing unit 51 (described later) of the server 5. Below, explanations of points common to the determination system 1 in the embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0072] Server 5 is installed, for example, at a location away from the facility where washing machine 2 is installed, and is configured to be able to communicate with washing machine 2 and information terminal 3 via external network NT1. Server 5 includes a processing unit 51, a communication unit 52, and a storage unit 53.

[0073] The processing unit 51 is realized by, for example, a processor or a dedicated circuit. The processing unit 51 realizes various functions by hardware such as a processor executing a computer program (software) stored in the storage unit 53. The computer program may be stored in a memory provided in the hardware. The processing unit 51 transmits and receives data to and from each of the washing machine 2 and the information terminal 3 via the external network NT1, thereby fulfilling the functions of the acquisition unit 12, calculation unit 13, and determination unit 14 of the determination system 1A.

[0074] Communication unit 52 communicates with communication unit 25 of washing machine 2 and communication unit 34 of information terminal 3 via external network NT1. Communication between communication unit 52 and communication unit 25 of washing machine 2 and communication between communication unit 52 and communication unit 34 of information terminal 3 may be wired communication as well as wireless communication. Furthermore, the standards for communication between communication unit 52 and communication unit 25 of washing machine 2 and communication between communication unit 52 and communication unit 34 of information terminal 3 are not particularly limited. Furthermore, communication unit 52 may communicate with communication unit 25 of washing machine 2 and communication unit 34 of information terminal 3 via a repeater such as a router.

[0075] The storage unit 53 is a storage device that stores information necessary for the processing executed by the processing unit 51. The information stored in the storage unit 53 includes a computer program executed by the processing unit 51. The storage unit 53 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 53 stores the acquired acceleration data in each of the three axial directions, the calculated determination data, the determination conditions, etc., which are used in the determination processing. The storage unit 53 also stores the determination results of the determination processing, etc.

[0076] In the determination system 1A in the first modification, steps S1 and S2 (i.e., the first and second steps) shown in Fig. 3 are executed by the processing unit 21 of the washing machine 2, and steps S3 to S5 (i.e., the third to fifth steps) are executed by the processing unit 51 of the server 5. Then, step S6 (i.e., the sixth step) is executed by the display unit 33 of the information terminal 3.

[0077] <Second Modification> Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration including a determination system 1B in a second modification of the embodiment. Determination system 1B in the second modification differs from determination system 1 in the embodiment in that processing unit 21 of washing machine 2 functions as control unit 11, acquisition unit 12, calculation unit 13, and determination unit 14, and display unit 24 of washing machine 2 functions as output unit 15. In other words, determination system 1B in the second modification differs from determination system 1 in the embodiment in that it is configured by washing machine 2. Below, a description of the points common to determination system 1 in the embodiment will be omitted.

[0078] In the second modified example, the storage unit 26 stores the acquired acceleration data in each of the three axial directions, the calculated determination data, the determination conditions, etc., which are used in the determination process. Also, in the second modified example, the storage unit 26 stores the determination results of the determination process, etc.

[0079] In determination system 1B in the second modified example, steps S1 to S5 (i.e., first step to fifth step) shown in Fig. 3 are executed by processing unit 21 of washing machine 2. Then, step S6 (i.e., sixth step) is executed by display unit 24 of washing machine 2.

[0080] <Other Modifications> In the above-described embodiment, the processing unit 31 of the information terminal 3 may further execute the functions of the acquisition unit 12 and the first calculation unit 131 instead of the processing unit 21 of the washing machine 2 .

[0081] In the above embodiment, the maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time period is used as the determination data, but this is not limiting. For example, all amplitude data for each sampling time period may be used as the determination data.

[0082] In the above embodiment, a trained model that outputs a judgment condition is generated by machine learning using decision tree analysis, but this is not limited to this. For example, a trained model may be generated by machine learning using logistic regression analysis, random forest analysis, or the like. Also, for example, a trained model may be generated by machine learning using a neural network.

[0083] In the above embodiment, the determination result in the fifth step is output by displaying the determination result as a character string on the display, but this is not limited to this. For example, the determination result in the fifth step may be output by displaying the determination result as an image on the display. Furthermore, the determination result may be output by outputting the determination result in the fifth step as audio from a speaker. Furthermore, the determination result may be output by combining audio output from a speaker and display on the display.

[0084] Furthermore, the communication method between the devices in the above-described embodiments is not particularly limited. When two devices communicate with each other in the above-described embodiments, a relay device (not shown) may be interposed between the two devices.

[0085] The order of the processes described in the above embodiments is merely an example. The order of multiple processes may be changed, or multiple processes may be executed in parallel. Furthermore, a process executed by a specific processing unit may be executed by another processing unit. Furthermore, part of the digital signal processing described in the above embodiments may be realized by analog signal processing.

[0086] In the above-described embodiments, each component may be realized by executing a software program suitable for that component, or by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0087] Furthermore, each component may be realized by hardware. For example, each component may be a circuit (or integrated circuit). These circuits may form a single circuit as a whole, or each may be a separate circuit. Furthermore, each of these circuits may be a general-purpose circuit or a dedicated circuit.

[0088] Furthermore, the general or specific aspects of the present disclosure may be realized as a system, an apparatus, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM. Also, they may be realized as any combination of a system, an apparatus, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, and a recording medium. For example, the present disclosure may be implemented as a speech processing method executed by a computer, or may be realized as a program for causing a computer to execute such a speech processing method. Also, the present disclosure may be realized as a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium on which such a program is recorded. Note that the program here includes an application program for causing a general-purpose information terminal to function as the speech processing system of the above-described embodiment.

[0089] In addition, this disclosure also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to each embodiment that a person skilled in the art would think of, or forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of each embodiment within the scope that does not deviate from the intent of this disclosure.

[0090] (Summary) As described above, the determination method according to the first aspect includes a first step (S1), a second step (S2), a third step (S3), a fourth step (S4), a fifth step (S5), and a sixth step (S6). In the first step, the washing tub 28 is rotated without laundry being placed in the washing machine 2 having a plurality of feet 20. In the second step, the rotation speed of the washing tub 28 is increased from a first rotation speed r1 to a second rotation speed r2 during a predetermined time period (a rise period T11) during the first step. In the third step, acceleration data in each of three mutually orthogonal axial directions of the washing tub 28 during the predetermined time period is acquired from the acceleration sensor 27 attached to the washing tub 28. In the fourth step, determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions is calculated based on the acquired acceleration data in each of the three axial directions. In the fifth step, the calculated determination data and preset determination conditions are used to determine whether or not one or more of the plurality of feet 20 are in a floating state, i.e., away from the installation surface of the washing machine 2. In the sixth step, the determination result in the fifth step is output.

[0091] This has the advantage that it becomes easier to understand the installation environment of the washing machine 2.

[0092] In the determination method according to the second aspect, in the first aspect, the fourth step calculates determination data including maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time in each of the three axial directions.

[0093] This has the advantage of reducing the processing load of the determination process while ensuring the determination data necessary to determine whether or not the foot is in a lifted position.

[0094] In the determination method according to the third aspect, in the second aspect, in the fourth step, the average value and variance of the maximum amplitude data in each of the three axial directions are calculated, and for each of three combinations obtained by selecting two of the three axial directions, the ratio of the average value and the ratio of the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the two axial directions are calculated. In the fourth step, the average value and variance of each of the three axial directions and the ratio of the average value and the ratio of the variance of each of the three combinations are used as determination data.

[0095] This has the advantage that it becomes easier to determine whether the washing machine 2 is in a foot-floating state.

[0096] In addition, in the determination method according to a fourth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, the determination conditions are set using a trained model that has been machine-learned. The trained model has been machine-learned to output the determination conditions as training data using determination data obtained by performing the first step, the second step, the third step, and the fourth step on the washing machine 2 that is in a floating foot state.

[0097] This has the advantage that it becomes easier to determine whether the washing machine 2 is in a foot-floating state.

[0098] In addition, in the determination method according to the fifth aspect, in any one of the first to fourth aspects, at least a part of the fourth step, the fifth step, and the sixth step are executed on an information terminal 3 external to the washing machine 2.

[0099] This has the advantage that the user can easily understand the installation environment of the washing machine 2 without going to the installation location of the washing machine 2.

[0100] A program according to a sixth aspect causes one or more processors to execute the determination method according to any one of the first to fifth aspects.

[0101] This has the advantage that it becomes easier to understand the installation environment of the washing machine 2.

[0102] Furthermore, determination systems 1, 1A, and 1B according to a seventh aspect include a control unit 11, an acquisition unit 12, a calculation unit 13, a determination unit 14, and an output unit 15. In a washing machine 2 having a plurality of feet 20, the control unit 11 rotates a washing tub 28 without laundry inside, and increases the rotation speed of the washing tub 28 from a first rotation speed r1 to a second rotation speed r2 during a predetermined time period while the washing tub 28 is in operation. The acquisition unit 12 acquires acceleration data in three mutually orthogonal axial directions of the washing tub 28 during the predetermined time period from an acceleration sensor 27 attached to the washing tub 28. The calculation unit 13 calculates determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions based on the acquired acceleration data in each of the three axial directions. The determination unit 14 uses the calculated determination data and preset determination conditions to determine whether one or more of the plurality of feet 20 are in a floating state, i.e., are separated from the installation surface of the washing machine 2. The output unit 15 outputs the determination result from the determination unit 14 .

[0103] This has the advantage that it becomes easier to understand the installation environment of the washing machine 2.

[0104] Furthermore, an information terminal 3 according to an eighth aspect is an information terminal capable of communicating with a washing machine 2 having a plurality of feet 20, a drive unit 22 that rotates a washing tub 28 without laundry being placed inside, and a control unit 11 that increases the rotation speed of the washing tub 28 from a first rotation speed r1 to a second rotation speed r2 during a predetermined time period while the washing tub 28 is in operation. The information terminal 3 includes a calculation unit 13, a determination unit 14, and an output unit 15. The calculation unit 13 calculates determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions based on acceleration data in each of three mutually orthogonal axial directions of the washing tub 28 during the predetermined time period, the acceleration data being acquired from an acceleration sensor 27 attached to the washing tub 28. The determination unit 14 uses the calculated determination data and preset determination conditions to determine whether one or more of the plurality of feet 20 are in a floating state, i.e., away from the installation surface of the washing machine 2. The output unit 15 outputs the determination result of the determination unit 14.

[0105] This has the advantage that it becomes easier to understand the installation environment of the washing machine 2.

[0106] The determination method of the present disclosure can be applied to a system for determining the state of a washing machine, etc.

[0107] 1, 1A, 1B Determination system 11 Control unit 12 Acquisition unit 13 Calculation unit 131 First calculation unit 132 Second calculation unit 14 Determination unit 15 Output unit 2 Washing machine 20 Foot unit 21 Processing unit 22 Driving unit 23 Operation unit 24 Display unit 25 Communication unit 26 Memory unit 27 Acceleration sensor 28 Washing tub 3 Information terminal 31 Processing unit 32 Operation unit 33 Display unit 34 Communication unit 35 Memory unit 4 Installation stand 5 Server 51 Processing unit 52 Communication unit 53 Memory unit r1 First rotation speed r2 Second rotation speed NT1 External network

Claims

1. A first step of rotating a washing machine having a plurality of legs with an empty washing tub without containing laundry; A second step of increasing a rotation speed of the washing tub from a first rotation speed to a second rotation speed during execution of the first step; a third step of acquiring acceleration data in three mutually orthogonal axial directions of the washing tub from an acceleration sensor attached to the washing tub during a time period during which the rotation speed increases from the first rotation speed to the second rotation speed; a fourth step of calculating determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions based on the acquired acceleration data in each of the three axial directions; a fifth step of determining whether or not one or more of the plurality of feet are in a floating state in which the one or more feet are separated from a surface on which the washing machine is placed, using the calculated determination data and a predetermined determination condition; A sixth step of outputting a result of the determination in the fifth step. Judgment method.

2. In the fourth step, the judgment data including maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time in each of the three axial directions is calculated. The method according to claim 1 .

3. In the fourth step, Calculating an average value and a variance of the maximum amplitude data in each of the three axial directions; For each of three combinations obtained by selecting two of the three axial directions, a ratio of average values ​​and a ratio of variances of the maximum amplitude data in the two axial directions are calculated; The average value and the variance in each of the three axial directions, and the ratio of the average value and the ratio of the variance in each of the three combinations are set as the judgment data. The method according to claim 2 .

4. The predetermined judgment condition is: a first main condition including a plurality of first sub-conditions each configured by a first judgment formula using at least two of the judgment data; a second main condition including a plurality of second sub-conditions each configured by a second judgment formula using at least two of the judgment data; The fifth step is a first determination step of determining that the first main condition is satisfied when any one of the plurality of first sub-conditions is satisfied; a second determination step of determining that the second main condition is satisfied when the first main condition is satisfied and any one of the plurality of second sub-conditions is also satisfied; When the second main condition is satisfied, it is determined that the foot is in the lifted state. The method according to claim 3.

5. The judgment condition is set using a machine-learned model, The trained model is machine-learned to output the judgment condition as the judgment data obtained by executing the first step, the second step, the third step, and the fourth step on the washing machine in the foot floating state, The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. At least a part of the fourth step, the fifth step, and the sixth step are executed in an information terminal external to the washing machine. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. The washing machine is installed on a floor via an installation stand, The installation surface is one surface of the installation stand. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

8. One or more processors, Executing the determination method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, program.

9. A control unit for rotating a washing tub in an empty state without storing laundry in the washing machine having a plurality of legs and increasing a rotation speed of the washing tub from a first rotation speed to a second rotation speed while the washing tub is being driven; an acquisition unit that acquires, from an acceleration sensor attached to the washing tub, acceleration data in each of three mutually orthogonal axial directions of the washing tub during a time period until the rotation speed increases from the first rotation speed to the second rotation speed; a calculation unit that calculates determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions based on the acquired acceleration data in each of the three axial directions; a determination unit that determines whether or not one or more of the plurality of feet are in a floating state in which the one or more feet are separated from a surface on which the washing machine is placed, using the calculated determination data and a preset determination condition; An output unit that outputs a determination result by the determination unit. Judging system.

10. An information terminal capable of communicating with a washing machine having a plurality of legs, a drive unit that rotates a washing tub in an empty state without laundry being placed therein, and a control unit that increases a rotation speed of the washing tub from a first rotation speed to a second rotation speed while the washing tub is being driven, a calculation unit that calculates determination data including amplitude data in each of three axial directions perpendicular to each other of the washing tub based on acceleration data in each of three axial directions of the washing tub during a time period from the first rotation speed to the second rotation speed, the acceleration data being acquired from an acceleration sensor attached to the washing tub; a determination unit that determines whether or not one or more of the plurality of feet are in a floating state in which the one or more feet are separated from a surface on which the washing machine is placed, using the calculated determination data and a preset determination condition; An output unit that outputs a determination result by the determination unit. Information terminal.