Presentation method, presentation system, and program

Abstract

A presentation method carried out by a presentation system (1) comprises: acquiring a first detergent amount based on laundry disposed in a washing tub provided in a washing machine (30) and / or a service course to be executed by the washing machine (30); acquiring detergent information related to characteristics of the detergent disposed in the washing tub; calculating a second detergent amount by correcting the first detergent amount on the basis of the detergent information; and outputting presentation information for presenting the calculated second detergent amount to a user.

Description

Presentation method, presentation system, and program

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

[0002] Patent Literature 1 discloses a technique for calculating and displaying the amount of detergent in an app according to the detergent name selected by the user from a list of detergent names.

[0003] International Publication No. 2013 / 035242

[0004] The present disclosure provides a presentation method that can present to a user an effective amount of detergent for washing laundry in a washing machine.

[0005] A presentation method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a presentation method using a presentation system, which obtains a first detergent amount based on at least one of laundry loaded into a washing tub of a washing machine and an operating course being executed by the washing machine, obtains detergent information relating to characteristics of the detergent to be loaded into the washing tub, calculates a second detergent amount by correcting the first detergent amount based on the detergent information, and outputs presentation information for presenting the calculated second detergent amount to a user.

[0006] In addition, a presentation system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires a first detergent amount based on laundry loaded into a washing tub of a washing machine and at least one of an operating program executed by the washing machine, and detergent information regarding characteristics of the detergent loaded into the washing tub; a calculation unit that calculates a second detergent amount based on the first detergent amount and the detergent information; and an output unit that outputs presentation information for presenting the calculated second detergent amount to a user.

[0007] These general or specific aspects may be realized by a device, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a non-transitory recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or by any combination of a device, an integrated circuit, a computer program, and a non-transitory recording medium.

[0008] The presentation methods and the like of the present disclosure can present to a user an effective amount of detergent to wash laundry in a washing machine.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a presentation system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of an information terminal according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of a server according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a hardware configuration diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the presentation system according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a presentation method in the presentation system according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a UI for accepting designation of an operating course for a washing machine. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a first detergent amount for a washing machine. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a UI (User Interface) for accepting input from a user on an information terminal. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of input for designating a detergent brand. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of presented information. FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a presentation method in a presentation system according to a modified example. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a first detergent amount for a washing machine. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a UI for accepting a detergent brand. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of presented information.

[0010] (Knowledge Forming the Basis of the Present Disclosure) Washing machines are known to have a function (automatic dispensing function) that automatically dispenses an appropriate amount of detergent for the amount of laundry loaded into the washing machine and the operation mode planned to be executed by the washing machine, based on the amount (weight) of laundry loaded into the washing machine and the operation mode planned to be executed by the washing machine. Washing machines with an automatic dispensing function can easily dispense the appropriate amount of detergent. However, the detergent to be automatically dispensed must be pre-loaded into a dedicated tank provided in the washing machine. As such, the types of detergent that can be automatically dispensed are limited by the number of tanks. Therefore, if a user wishes to use different detergents depending on the family or purpose, they must measure the amount of detergent using the cap attached to the detergent bottle without using the automatic dispensing function of the washing machine. In this case, a problem arises in that the user has to go through the trouble of calculating the amount of detergent recommended by the detergent manufacturer based on the amount of detergent (number of cups) displayed on the washing machine itself and the amount of water used in the operation mode.

[0011] In order to solve the above problem, the present inventors have discovered a method for presenting to a user the amount of detergent that is effective for washing laundry in a washing machine.

[0012] A presentation method according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a presentation method using a presentation system, which obtains a first detergent amount based on at least one of laundry loaded into a washing tub of a washing machine and an operating program run by the washing machine, obtains detergent information related to characteristics of the detergent to be loaded into the washing tub, calculates a second detergent amount by correcting the first detergent amount based on the detergent information, and outputs presentation information for presenting the calculated second detergent amount to a user.

[0013] According to this, the second detergent amount can be calculated based on the detergent information, and the calculated second detergent amount can be presented to the user, allowing the user to easily know the effective amount of detergent for washing laundry in the washing machine.

[0014] A presentation method according to a second aspect of the present disclosure is the presentation method according to the first aspect, wherein the detergent is a liquid detergent, and the presentation information includes a diagram showing the position of the liquid level when the second amount of the detergent is poured into a specified container.

[0015] Therefore, the user can easily measure the appropriate amount of detergent by adjusting the position of the liquid surface relative to the container.

[0016] A presentation method according to a third aspect of the present disclosure is the presentation method according to the second aspect, wherein the specified container has a different shape depending on the brand or type of detergent, and the presentation information includes a diagram showing the position of the liquid level when the second amount of detergent is poured into the container of the different shape.

[0017] Therefore, even when using different containers for different types of detergent, the user can easily measure the appropriate amount of detergent by adjusting the displayed liquid level relative to the container.

[0018] A presentation method according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure is a presentation method according to any one of the first to third aspects, in which the detergent information is acquired by accepting text input to receive the brand of the detergent, and the detergent information is acquired based on the brand.

[0019] Therefore, the characteristics of the detergent can be identified according to the brand name input by the user.

[0020] A presentation method according to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure is the presentation method according to the fourth aspect, in which the text input is input by incremental search.

[0021] Therefore, the user can select a detergent brand from candidate brands that are displayed after partially entering the brand, and can easily enter the detergent brand.

[0022] A presentation method according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure is a presentation method according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the first detergent amount is obtained by accepting an operation course to be executed in the washing machine, and the operation course is a course for washing with a constant amount of water regardless of the weight of the laundry.

[0023] Therefore, the second detergent amount can be calculated based on the first detergent amount according to the operation mode.

[0024] A presentation method according to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure is a presentation method according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the first amount of detergent is obtained by accepting a numerical value indicating the amount of detergent displayed on the washing machine.

[0025] Therefore, the second amount of detergent can be calculated based on the first amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of laundry.

[0026] A presentation system according to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires a first detergent amount based on laundry loaded into a washing tub of a washing machine and at least one of an operating program run by the washing machine, and detergent information related to characteristics of the detergent loaded into the washing tub; a calculation unit that calculates a second detergent amount by correcting the first detergent amount based on the detergent information; and an output unit that outputs presentation information for presenting the calculated second detergent amount to a user.

[0027] According to this, the second amount of detergent is calculated by correcting the first amount of detergent based on the detergent information, and the calculated second amount of detergent is presented to the user, so that the user can easily know the effective amount of detergent for washing laundry in the washing machine.

[0028] A program according to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing a computer to execute the laundry amount calculation method according to any one of the first to seventh aspects.

[0029] These general or specific aspects may be realized by a device, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a non-transitory recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or may be realized by any combination of a device, a method, a system, an integrated circuit, a computer program, and a non-transitory recording medium.

[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, more detailed explanation than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed explanation of well-known matters or redundant explanation of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoid unnecessary redundancy in the following explanation and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0031] The inventors have provided the accompanying drawings and the following description to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and do not intend for them to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0032] (Embodiment) [Configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a presentation system according to an embodiment.

[0033] 1 illustrates an information terminal 10, a server 20, a washing machine 30, a network 60, and a router 61. For example, the presentation system 1 includes the information terminal 10, the server 20, and the washing machine 30 among these components.

[0034] In addition, the above components of presentation system 1 do not necessarily need to be hardware, and may be realized by executing necessary software among software stored in information terminal 10, software stored in server 20, and software stored in washing machine 30 by one or more processors provided in at least one of information terminal 10, server 20, and washing machine 30 corresponding to the necessary software. Information terminal 10, server 20, and washing machine 30 are communicatively connected to each other via network 60. Router 61 is a device that mediates communication between information terminal 10 and washing machine 30 and network 60. Information terminal 10 may be communicatively connected to network 60 via another router (not shown), or may be communicatively connected to network 60 by communicating with a base station of a mobile phone communication line.

[0035] Presentation system 1 is a system for presenting to a user presentation information including a second detergent amount appropriate for a first detergent calculated in washing machine 30 based on characteristic information related to the characteristics of the detergent used for laundry in washing machine 30. Presentation system 1 may store, in server 20, device information for identifying washing machine 30 and user information for identifying the user, in association with each other. The user information includes destination information for transmitting information to information terminal 10 owned by the user. This enables server 20 to associate washing machine 30 with information terminal 10, and to transmit information generated based on information received from washing machine 30 to information terminal 10, or to transmit information generated based on information received from information terminal 10 to washing machine 30.

[0036] In the present disclosure, the detergent may contain a fabric softener or a bleaching agent. The effects of using a detergent may include not only removing stains from laundry (clothing, towels, bedding, and other fabric products) but also softening, adding fragrance to, and bleaching the laundry.

[0037] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of an information terminal according to an embodiment.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 2, the information terminal 10 includes, as its hardware configuration, a processor 101, a main memory 102, a storage 103, a communication IF (Interface) 104, an input device 105, and a display 106.

[0039] The processor 101 is a processor that executes a program stored in the storage 103 or the like.

[0040] The main memory 102 is a volatile storage area that is used to temporarily store data generated during processing by the processor 101, used as a work area used when the processor 101 executes a program, and used to temporarily store data received by the communication IF 104.

[0041] The storage 103 is a non-volatile storage area that holds various data such as programs, etc. The storage 103 stores, for example, various data generated as a result of processing by the processor 101 and various data received by the communication IF 104.

[0042] Communication IF 104 is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information to and from server 20 or washing machine 30 via network 60. Communication IF 104 may be an interface for wireless communication, such as a wireless LAN interface or a Bluetooth (registered trademark) interface. Communication IF 104 may be an interface for wired communication, such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) or a wired LAN interface.

[0043] The input device 105 is an interface for receiving input from a person. The input device 105 may be a pointing device such as a mouse, a touchpad, a touch panel, or a trackball, or may be a keyboard.

[0044] The display 106 is a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like.

[0045] FIG. 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of a server according to an embodiment.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 3, the server 20 includes, as its hardware configuration, a processor 201, a main memory 202, a storage 203, and a communication IF (Interface) 204.

[0047] The processor 201 is a processor that executes a program stored in the storage 203 or the like.

[0048] The main memory 202 is a volatile storage area that is used to temporarily store data generated during processing by the processor 201, used as a work area used when the processor 201 executes a program, and used to temporarily store data received by the communication IF 204.

[0049] The storage 203 is a non-volatile storage area that holds various data such as programs, etc. The storage 203 stores, for example, various data generated as a result of processing by the processor 201 and various data received by the communication IF 204.

[0050] Communication IF 204 is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information to and from information terminal 10 or washing machine 30 via network 60. Communication IF 204 may be an interface for wireless communication, such as a wireless LAN interface or a Bluetooth (registered trademark) interface. Communication IF 204 may be an interface for wired communication, such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) or a wired LAN interface.

[0051] FIG. 4 is a hardware configuration diagram of the washing machine according to the embodiment.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 4 , the washing machine 30 includes a control circuit 301 , a communication IF (Interface) 302 , a display 303 , an input device 304 , a sensor 305 , and an actuator 306 .

[0053] The control circuit 301 controls the operation of the actuator 306. The control circuit 301 may control the operation of the actuator 306 based on a value detected by the sensor 305. For example, the control circuit 301 may control the operation of the actuator 306 so that the value detected by the sensor 305 approaches a target value. A memory (not shown) included in the control circuit 301 stores information (such as a program) used by the control circuit 301 to control the operation of the actuator 306.

[0054] The communication IF 302 communicates with the information terminal 10 or the server 20 via the network 60. The communication IF 302 may be a communication interface for transmitting data to or from the information terminal 10 or the server 20. The communication IF 302 may be an interface for wireless communication, such as a wireless LAN interface or a Bluetooth (registered trademark) interface. The communication IF 302 may be an interface for wired communication, such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) or a wired LAN interface.

[0055] The display 303 is a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like.

[0056] The input device 304 receives input from a person. The input device 304 is, for example, a touch panel. The input device 304 is not limited to a touch panel, and may be another input device such as a mechanical button.

[0057] Sensor 305 is a sensor for detecting the state of washing machine 30. Washing machine 30 is not limited to having one sensor 305, and may have multiple sensors 305. When washing machine 30 has multiple sensors 305, the multiple sensors 305 may be of different types or the same type. Sensor 305 may be, for example, a sensor that detects the amount of water, a sensor that detects the temperature, or a sensor that detects the current value for operating actuator 306.

[0058] Actuator 306 is a mechanical element that converts input energy into physical motion based on an electrical signal. Actuator 306 may be, for example, an electric motor, a hydraulic cylinder, or a pneumatic actuator. Washing machine 30 is not limited to having one actuator 306, but may also have multiple actuators 306. When washing machine 30 has multiple actuators 306, the multiple actuators 306 may be of different types or the same type.

[0059] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a presentation system according to an embodiment.

[0060] The presentation system 1 includes an information terminal 10, a server 20, and a washing machine 30. In Fig. 5, the router 61 is not shown.

[0061] The information terminal 10 includes an acquisition unit 11, a transmission unit 12, a storage unit 13, a display unit 14, and a reception unit 15. The information terminal 10 is realized, for example, as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like.

[0062] Acquisition unit 11 receives information from at least one of server 20 and washing machine 30 via network 60. Specifically, acquisition unit 11 receives presentation information including the second detergent amount from server 20. Acquisition unit 11 is realized by communication IF 104.

[0063] Transmitting unit 12 transmits information to at least one of server 20 and washing machine 30 via network 60. Specifically, transmitting unit 12 may transmit the first detergent amount and detergent information displayed on washing machine 30 to server 20. The first detergent amount is calculated by washing machine 30 based on at least one of the laundry put into a washing tub provided in washing machine 30 and the operation program executed by washing machine 30. The first detergent amount will be described later. Transmitting unit 12 is realized by communication IF 104.

[0064] The detergent information is information about the characteristics of the detergent to be put into the washing tub of the washing machine 30. The characteristics of the detergent are, for example, the ratio of the effective amount of detergent to the amount of water used in washing. This ratio may be determined for each operation program. The detergent information may be information indicating the characteristics of the detergent. Furthermore, since the characteristics of the detergent can be identified by, for example, identifying the brand of the detergent, the detergent information may be information indicating the brand of the detergent.

[0065] The storage unit 13 stores user information for identifying a user. The user information may be information generated in the information terminal 10 based on an input by the user accepted by the accepting unit 15 (described later). The storage unit 13 also stores a program for realizing the functions of the information terminal 10. The storage unit 13 is realized by, for example, the storage 103.

[0066] The display unit 14 displays an image or a UI (User Interface) generated by the information terminal 10. Specifically, the display unit 14 displays the second detergent amount based on the presented information. The display unit 14 is realized by, for example, the display 106.

[0067] The reception unit 15 receives input from the user. Specifically, the reception unit 15 receives input to a UI displayed on the display unit 14. The reception unit 15 receives, for example, a first detergent amount. The reception unit 15 may receive a numerical value indicating the first detergent amount displayed on the washing machine 30. The reception unit 15 may receive the first detergent amount by receiving an operation course to be executed by the washing machine 30. There are two types of operation courses: a course in which a constant amount of water is used to wash the laundry regardless of the weight of the laundry, and a course in which a water amount is used in accordance with the weight of the laundry. When the course in which a constant amount of water is used to wash the laundry is selected as the operation course, the amount of water used for operation is calculated regardless of the weight of the laundry. Therefore, the washing machine 30 can calculate the detergent amount corresponding to the constant amount of water as the first detergent amount without using the weight of the laundry.

[0068] The first detergent amount may be calculated based on, for example, the weight of laundry placed in the washing tub of the washing machine 30. The first detergent amount may be calculated based on, for example, the operation program. The first detergent amount may be calculated based on, for example, the weight of laundry placed in the washing tub of the washing machine 30 and a combination of the operation program.

[0069] When a wash course that uses a water volume corresponding to the weight of the laundry is selected as the operation course, the amount of water used for the operation is calculated based on the selected operation course and the weight of the laundry loaded in the washing tub. Therefore, washing machine 30 can calculate the first detergent amount based on the selected operation course and the weight of the laundry loaded in the washing tub. The first detergent amount is a standard amount of detergent determined based on the amount of water used in the wash, regardless of the brand or type of detergent.

[0070] Furthermore, the receiving unit 15 receives, for example, the brand or type of detergent used in the washing machine 30. The receiving unit 15 acquires detergent information by receiving the brand or type of detergent. The receiving unit 15 may receive the brand or type of detergent by receiving text input. The text input may be input by incremental search. The receiving unit 15 is realized by, for example, the input device 105.

[0071] The server 20 includes an acquisition unit 21 , a calculation unit 22 , a storage unit 23 , and an output unit 24 .

[0072] Acquisition unit 21 acquires the first detergent amount. Specifically, acquisition unit 21 may acquire the first detergent amount from information terminal 10 or from washing machine 30. Acquisition unit 21 also acquires detergent information. In the present embodiment, acquisition unit 21 acquires the detergent information from information terminal 10. Acquisition unit 21 is realized by communication IF 204, for example.

[0073] Calculation unit 22 calculates the second detergent amount by correcting the first detergent amount based on the detergent information. The second detergent amount is an amount of detergent appropriate for washing laundry in washing machine 30. The second detergent amount is calculated based on the first detergent amount and a correction coefficient that is predetermined according to the brand or type of detergent. The second detergent amount may be calculated by multiplying the first detergent amount by the correction coefficient specified in the detergent information. The correction coefficient is determined for each brand or type of detergent and is stored in memory unit 23. The correction coefficient may also be determined for each operation mode. Calculation unit 22 is realized by, for example, processor 201, main memory 202, and storage 203.

[0074] The second detergent amount may be a predetermined ratio depending on the brand or type of detergent, and may be calculated by multiplying the ratio relative to the amount of water used for washing by the amount of water used for washing calculated from the first detergent amount. The ratio is a type of correction coefficient. The ratio is determined for each brand or type of detergent, and is stored in the memory unit 23. The ratio may also be determined for each operation mode.

[0075] The storage unit 23 stores correction coefficients that are determined in advance according to the brand or type of detergent. The storage unit 23 is realized by the storage 203, for example.

[0076] The output unit 24 outputs presentation information for presenting the second detergent amount calculated by the calculation unit 22 to the user. The output unit 24 may, for example, transmit the presentation information to the information terminal 10, causing the information terminal 10 to present the presentation information. The presentation information may include a diagram showing the liquid level when the second detergent amount is poured into a container of a predetermined shape. In this case, the detergent is liquid detergent. The container of a predetermined shape is the lid of a detergent bottle in which the liquid detergent is sealed. The predetermined shape may differ depending on the brand or type of detergent. The presentation information includes a diagram showing the liquid level position relative to a container of a predetermined shape corresponding to the detergent. In other words, the presentation information includes a diagram showing the liquid level position relative to containers of different shapes depending on the brand or type of detergent.

[0077] The washing machine 30 includes a communication unit 31, a calculation unit 32, a reception unit 33, and a display unit 34.

[0078] Communication unit 31 receives information from server 20 via network 60. Communication unit 31 transmits information to server 20 via network 60. Specifically, communication unit 31 may transmit a first amount of detergent to server 20. The first amount of detergent transmitted from communication unit 31 may include identification information for identifying washing machine 30. Communication unit 31 is realized by communication IF 302, for example.

[0079] Calculation unit 32 calculates the first detergent amount. Specifically, calculation unit 32 may calculate the first detergent amount based on the weight of laundry put into the washing tub, or may calculate the first detergent amount based on an operation program that is set in washing machine 30 and is to be executed, or may calculate the first detergent amount based on a combination of the weight of laundry put into the washing tub and the set operation program. Calculation unit 32 is realized by control circuit 301, for example.

[0080] The reception unit 33 receives input from the user. Specifically, the reception unit 33 receives input to the UI displayed on the display unit 34. The reception unit 33 is realized by an input device 304 such as a touch panel. Note that the reception unit 33 is not limited to a touch panel and may be another input device.

[0081] Display unit 34 displays an image or a UI (User Interface) generated in washing machine 30 or server 20. Display unit 34 is realized by display 303, for example.

[0082] [Operation] Next, the operation of the presentation system 1 will be described.

[0083] FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a presentation method in the presentation system according to the embodiment.

[0084] Washing machine 30 accepts an operation from a user (S1). For example, washing machine 30 receives a designation of an operating course from a user after laundry is placed in the washing tub of washing machine 30. For example, washing machine 30 displays a UI for selecting one operating course from three courses, course A, course B, and course C, as shown in Fig. 7, and accepts an input for selecting one operating course. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a UI for selecting an operating course for a washing machine.

[0085] Next, the washing machine 30 calculates the first amount of detergent (S2). For example, the washing machine 30 rotates the washing tub to detect the weight of the laundry, and calculates the first amount of detergent based on the detected weight of the laundry and the operation program specified in step S1.

[0086] Next, the washing machine 30 displays the first detergent amount (S3). For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the washing machine 30 may display that the first detergent amount is 0.5 cups. 0.5 cups is the amount per detergent container (lid). Note that the first detergent amount may be displayed as an absolute volume (e.g., in milliliters). Note that FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of how the first detergent amount is displayed in a washing machine.

[0087] If the operation course accepted in step S1 uses a fixed amount of water, washing machine 30 may calculate the first amount of detergent corresponding to the operation course without detecting the weight of the laundry. In this case, it is not necessary to calculate the first amount of detergent.

[0088] Next, upon seeing the first detergent amount displayed in step S3, the user inputs the first detergent amount and detergent information to the information terminal 10. That is, the information terminal 10 accepts input indicating the first detergent amount and detergent information (S4). Note that, if the operating program accepted in step S1 is an operating program that uses a fixed amount of water, the information terminal 10 may accept input indicating the operating program.

[0089] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a UI (User Interface) that accepts input from a user in an information terminal.

[0090] FIG. 9 shows three input fields: "1. Washing course to be used," "2. Amount of detergent displayed on the washing machine," and "3. Brand of detergent to be used." In "1. Washing course to be used," the user inputs the operating course set in the washing machine 30. If the operating course set in the washing machine 30 is an operating course that uses a fixed amount of water, the user can select "Course with fixed amount of detergent" and then select the corresponding operating course from the multiple operating course candidates below. If the operating course set in the washing machine 30 is an operating course other than an operating course that uses a fixed amount of water, the user selects "Other than the above."

[0091] In "2. Amount of detergent displayed on washing machine," if "Other than the above" is selected in "1. Washing course to be used," input of the first amount of detergent displayed on washing machine 30 is accepted. In FIG. 9, 0.5 cups is specified as the first amount of detergent.

[0092] In "3. Brand of detergent to be used", an input specifying the brand of detergent is accepted. In FIG. 9, "AAAA" is specified.

[0093] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of input for specifying a brand of detergent.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 10 , when the brand of detergent is entered in "3. Brand of detergent to be used," text input is accepted using incremental search. For example, when "AAAA" is entered, candidate detergent brands containing the character string "AAAA" are presented. This allows the user to select an appropriate brand from the candidate detergent brands containing "AAAA."

[0095] Returning to the description of FIG.

[0096] The information terminal 10 transmits the received first detergent amount or operating program and detergent information to the server 20 (S5). For example, in Fig. 9, when input into the three input fields "1. Washing program to be used," "2. Amount of detergent displayed on the washing machine," and "3. Brand of detergent to be used" is completed and the "Calculate" button is pressed, the information terminal 10 transmits the first detergent amount or operating program received in the three input fields and the detergent information indicated by the detergent brand to the server 20.

[0097] The server 20 calculates the second detergent amount by correcting the first detergent amount based on the detergent information (S6).

[0098] Next, the server 20 generates presentation information for presenting the second detergent amount to the user (S7), and transmits (outputs) the generated presentation information to the information terminal 10 (S8).

[0099] When the information terminal 10 receives the presentation information from the server 20, it presents the presentation information (S9).

[0100] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of presentation information.

[0101] When the information terminal 10 receives the presentation information, it displays a diagram showing the liquid level when the second amount of detergent is poured into the detergent bottle lid, as shown in FIG. 11 . The shape of the detergent bottle lid included in the presentation information matches the shape of the actual detergent bottle lid. In other words, different brands of detergent bottles use different bottle shapes, and the shapes of their lids also differ. Therefore, by presenting a diagram showing the liquid level when the second amount of detergent is poured into the lid used for the bottle specific to the detergent brand specified by the user, the user can intuitively measure the second amount of detergent using the detergent bottle lid.

[0102] Thereafter, the user pours the second amount of detergent into the washing machine 30 and presses a button to start the operation of the washing machine 30. As a result, the washing machine 30 receives the instruction to start the operation (S10) and executes the operation course specified in step S1 (S11).

[0103] [Effects, etc.] The presentation method according to the present embodiment is a presentation method by a presentation system, which obtains a first detergent amount based on at least one of the laundry loaded into the washing tub of washing machine 30 and the operating program run by the washing machine, and obtains detergent information related to the characteristics of the detergent loaded into the washing tub. Then, the presentation method corrects the first detergent amount based on the detergent information to calculate a second detergent amount, which is an amount of detergent effective for washing laundry in washing machine 30, and outputs presentation information for presenting the calculated second detergent amount to the user.

[0104] According to this, the second detergent amount can be calculated based on the detergent information, and the calculated second detergent amount can be presented to the user, allowing the user to easily know the effective amount of detergent for washing laundry in the washing machine.

[0105] In the presentation method according to the present embodiment, the detergent is a liquid detergent, and the presentation information includes a diagram showing the position of the liquid level when a second amount of the detergent is poured into a predetermined container.

[0106] Therefore, the user can easily measure the appropriate amount of detergent by adjusting the position of the liquid surface relative to the container.

[0107] In the presentation method according to the present embodiment, the predetermined containers have different shapes depending on the brand or type of detergent, and the presentation information includes a diagram showing the liquid level when the second amount of detergent is poured into the containers of different shapes.

[0108] Therefore, even when using different containers for different types of detergent, the user can easily measure the appropriate amount of detergent by adjusting the displayed liquid level relative to the container.

[0109] Furthermore, in the presentation method according to the present embodiment, when acquiring detergent information, the brand of the detergent is accepted by accepting text input, and the detergent information is acquired based on the brand.

[0110] Therefore, the characteristics of the detergent can be identified according to the brand name input by the user.

[0111] In the presentation method according to the present embodiment, text is input by incremental search.

[0112] Therefore, by inputting the brand partway, the detergent brand can be selected from the displayed brand candidates, making it easy to input the detergent brand.

[0113] In the present embodiment, the first detergent amount is acquired by receiving an operation program to be executed by the washing machine, which is a program that washes laundry with a constant amount of water regardless of the weight of the laundry.

[0114] Therefore, the second detergent amount can be calculated based on the first detergent amount according to the operation mode.

[0115] In the presentation method according to the present embodiment, the first detergent amount is obtained by accepting a numerical value indicating the detergent amount displayed on the washing machine.

[0116] Therefore, the second amount of detergent can be calculated based on the first amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of laundry.

[0117] [Modification] In the above embodiment, information terminal 10 accepts input of the first detergent amount or operating program and detergent information, and transmits the accepted first detergent amount or operating program and detergent information to server 20. However, this is not limited to this. Specifically, washing machine 30 may accept input of the first detergent amount or operating program and detergent information, and transmit the accepted first detergent amount or operating program and detergent information to server 20. In this case, presentation system 1 does not need to include information terminal 10.

[0118] FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a presentation method in a presentation system according to a modified example.

[0119] The washing machine 30 receives an operation from the user (S21). Note that step S21 is the same as step S1, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0120] Next, the washing machine 30 calculates the first detergent amount (S22). The washing machine 30 may display that the first detergent amount is 0.5 cups, as shown in FIG. 13. At this time, the washing machine 30 displays a link that accepts an input for "accurately calculating the detergent amount." Note that FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the display of the first detergent amount in the washing machine.

[0121] Next, when input to the link is accepted, washing machine 30 displays a UI for accepting input indicating detergent information (detergent brand) and accepts the detergent information (S23). Washing machine 30 accepts input of detergent brand by text, as shown in FIG. 14. In this case, too, text input by incremental search may be accepted, as described in FIG. 10. Note that FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a UI for accepting detergent brand.

[0122] Next, the washing machine 30 transmits the calculated first detergent amount or the input operation program and the detergent information to the server 20 (S24). For example, in Fig. 14, when an input is made to the OK button, the washing machine 30 transmits the first detergent amount or the operation program and the detergent information indicated by the detergent brand to the server 20.

[0123] The server 20 calculates the second detergent amount by correcting the first detergent amount based on the detergent information (S25).

[0124] Next, the server 20 generates presentation information for presenting the second amount of detergent to the user (S26), and transmits (outputs) the generated presentation information to the washing machine 30 (S27).

[0125] When the washing machine 30 receives the presentation information from the server 20, the washing machine 30 presents the presentation information (S28).

[0126] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of presentation information.

[0127] When the washing machine 30 receives the presentation information, it displays a diagram showing the liquid level when the second amount of detergent is poured into the lid of the detergent bottle, as shown in Fig. 15. This diagram is similar to the diagram in Fig. 11.

[0128] Thereafter, the user pours the second amount of detergent into the washing machine 30 and presses a button to start the operation of the washing machine 30. As a result, the washing machine 30 receives the instruction to start the operation (S29) and executes the operation course specified in step S21 (S30).

[0129] [Others] In the above embodiments, each component may be configured with dedicated hardware, or may be realized by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may be realized 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. Here, the software that realizes the system, information terminal, server, camera device, etc. of the above embodiments is a program that causes a computer to execute each step included in the flowcharts shown in the figures.

[0130] The following cases are also included in this disclosure:

[0131] (1) Specifically, each of the above devices is a computer system consisting of a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, hard disk unit, display unit, keyboard, mouse, etc. A computer program is stored in the RAM or hard disk unit. Each device achieves its function when the microprocessor operates in accordance with the computer program. Here, a computer program is composed of a combination of multiple instruction codes that indicate commands to a computer to achieve a specified function.

[0132] (2) Some or all of the components constituting each of the above devices may be configured as a single system LSI (Large Scale Integration). A system LSI is an ultra-multifunctional LSI manufactured by integrating multiple components on a single chip, and specifically, is a computer system configured to include a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. A computer program is stored in the RAM. The system LSI achieves its functions when the microprocessor operates in accordance with the computer program.

[0133] (3) Some or all of the components constituting each of the above devices may be configured as an IC card or a standalone module that can be attached to each device. The IC card or module may be a computer system configured with a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. The IC card or module may include the above-mentioned ultra-multifunctional LSI. The IC card or module achieves its functions when the microprocessor operates in accordance with a computer program. The IC card or module may be tamper-resistant.

[0134] (4) The present disclosure may be embodied as the methods described above, a computer program that implements these methods on a computer, or a digital signal that includes the computer program.

[0135] The present disclosure may also be a computer program or a digital signal recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, such as a flexible disk, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, a DVD, a DVD-ROM, a DVD-RAM, a BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc), a semiconductor memory, etc. Alternatively, the present disclosure may be a digital signal recorded on such a recording medium.

[0136] Furthermore, the present disclosure may involve transmitting the computer program or the digital signal via a telecommunications line, a wireless or wired communication line, a network such as the Internet, data broadcasting, or the like.

[0137] The present disclosure may also be a computer system including a microprocessor and a memory, the memory storing the computer program, and the microprocessor operating in accordance with the computer program.

[0138] The program or the digital signal may also be implemented by another independent computer system by recording it on the recording medium and transferring it, or by transferring it via the network or the like.

[0139] (5) The above-described embodiments and modifications may be combined with each other.

[0140] The present disclosure is useful as a presentation method that can present to a user the effective amount of detergent to wash laundry in a washing machine.

[0141] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Presentation system 10 Information terminal 11, 21 Acquisition unit 12 Transmission unit 13, 23 Storage unit 14, 34 Display unit 15, 33 Reception unit 20 Server 22, 32 Calculation unit 24 Output unit 30 Washing machine 31 Communication unit 60 Network 61 Router 101, 201 Processor 102, 202 Main memory 103, 203 Storage 104, 204, 302 Communication IF 105, 304 Input device 106, 303 Display 301 Control circuit 305 Sensor 306 Actuator

Claims

1. A presentation method using a presentation system, comprising: acquiring a first amount of detergent based on at least one of the laundry loaded into a washing tub of a washing machine and an operating program run by the washing machine; acquiring detergent information relating to the characteristics of the detergent loaded into the washing tub; calculating a second amount of detergent by correcting the first amount of detergent based on the detergent information; and outputting presentation information for presenting the calculated second amount of detergent to a user.

2. The presentation method according to claim 1, wherein the detergent is a liquid detergent, and the presentation information includes a diagram showing the position of the liquid surface when the second amount of the detergent is poured into a specified container.

3. The presentation method according to claim 2, wherein the specified container has a different shape depending on the brand or type of the detergent, and the presentation information includes a diagram showing the position of the liquid level when the second amount of the detergent is poured into the container of the different shape.

4. The presentation method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the detergent information is acquired by accepting a text input of the brand of the detergent, and the detergent information is acquired based on the brand.

5. The presentation method according to claim 4, wherein the text input is an input by incremental search.

6. The presentation method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first detergent amount is obtained by accepting an operation course to be executed in the washing machine, and the operation course is a course for washing with a constant amount of water regardless of the weight of the laundry.

7. The presentation method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first detergent amount is obtained by accepting a numerical value indicating the amount of detergent displayed on the washing machine.

8. A presentation system comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires a first detergent amount based on laundry placed in a washing tub of a washing machine and at least one of an operating course executed by the washing machine, and detergent information relating to the characteristics of the detergent placed in the washing tub; a calculation unit that calculates a second detergent amount by correcting the first detergent amount based on the detergent information; and an output unit that outputs presentation information to present the calculated second detergent amount to a user.

9. A program for causing a computer to execute the presentation method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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