WO2019040976A1 - Cleaning quality assurance system - Google Patents

Cleaning quality assurance system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2019040976A1
WO2019040976A1 PCT/AU2018/050913 AU2018050913W WO2019040976A1 WO 2019040976 A1 WO2019040976 A1 WO 2019040976A1 AU 2018050913 W AU2018050913 W AU 2018050913W WO 2019040976 A1 WO2019040976 A1 WO 2019040976A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
cleaning
quality assurance
cleaner
cleaning quality
image
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2018/050913
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
John Harold Kilroy
Original Assignee
John Harold Kilroy
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AU2017903467A external-priority patent/AU2017903467A0/en
Application filed by John Harold Kilroy filed Critical John Harold Kilroy
Publication of WO2019040976A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019040976A1/en
Priority to AU2020200949A priority Critical patent/AU2020200949A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06T—IMAGE DATA PROCESSING OR GENERATION, IN GENERAL
    • G06T7/00—Image analysis
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/06—Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
    • G06Q10/063—Operations research, analysis or management
    • G06Q10/0639—Performance analysis of employees; Performance analysis of enterprise or organisation operations
    • G06Q10/06395—Quality analysis or management
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/06—Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/10—Office automation; Time management
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q50/00—Systems or methods specially adapted for specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
    • G06Q50/10—Services
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/06—Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
    • G06Q10/063—Operations research, analysis or management
    • G06Q10/0631—Resource planning, allocation, distributing or scheduling for enterprises or organisations
    • G06Q10/06311—Scheduling, planning or task assignment for a person or group
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/06—Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
    • G06Q10/063—Operations research, analysis or management
    • G06Q10/0639—Performance analysis of employees; Performance analysis of enterprise or organisation operations
    • G06Q10/06398—Performance of employee with respect to a job function
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q50/00—Systems or methods specially adapted for specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
    • G06Q50/10—Services
    • G06Q50/12—Hotels or restaurants
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q50/00—Systems or methods specially adapted for specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
    • G06Q50/10—Services
    • G06Q50/22—Social work
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06T—IMAGE DATA PROCESSING OR GENERATION, IN GENERAL
    • G06T2207/00—Indexing scheme for image analysis or image enhancement
    • G06T2207/10—Image acquisition modality
    • G06T2207/10016—Video; Image sequence
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06V—IMAGE OR VIDEO RECOGNITION OR UNDERSTANDING
    • G06V20/00—Scenes; Scene-specific elements
    • G06V20/10—Terrestrial scenes
    • G06V20/176—Urban or other man-made structures
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06V—IMAGE OR VIDEO RECOGNITION OR UNDERSTANDING
    • G06V20/00—Scenes; Scene-specific elements
    • G06V20/35—Categorising the entire scene, e.g. birthday party or wedding scene
    • G06V20/36—Indoor scenes
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G16—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SPECIFIC APPLICATION FIELDS
    • G16H—HEALTHCARE INFORMATICS, i.e. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR THE HANDLING OR PROCESSING OF MEDICAL OR HEALTHCARE DATA
    • G16H40/00—ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities; ICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices
    • G16H40/20—ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities; ICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities, e.g. managing hospital staff or surgery rooms

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to a cleaning quality assurance system.
  • the present invention has particular, although not exclusive application to hospitals, retirement homes, the hospitality industry (hotels, hostels or accommodation providers), real estate (reporting on rental properties), and restaurants including cafes and food production areas.
  • a hospital or hotel room is cleaned in between one occupant departing, and another occupant then occupying the freshly cleaned room.
  • a cleaner will typically perform a thorough review of the entire room, and then remove any stains, empty rubbish bins, and replace used products such as towels or soap for example.
  • a human cleaner manually inspecting the entire room may overlook cleaning tasks to be performed in which case the new occupant is dissatisfied with the standard of the room.
  • the preferred embodiment minimises overlooking of cleaning tasks.
  • a known system enables a supervisor to manually check that the cleaning tasks have been performed, but still they are often missed by the supervisor as well.
  • An embodiment provides end-to-end virtual-electronic photographic-recognition removing or reducing the need for human intervention to identify cleaning errors.
  • a cleanliness benchmark is set at perfect and the system identifies any imperfections, including any missing replacements, with exactitude.
  • the cleaner will spend a large amount of time looking for cleaning tasks to perform whereas some occupants spend little time messing up the room.
  • the preferred embodiment minimizes redundant time spent looking for cleaning tasks.
  • a cleaning quality assurance system including:
  • a camera for capturing at least one image of a space to be cleaned
  • a processor for determining at least one cleaning region to be cleaned in the captured image
  • a reporter for reporting the determined cleaning region for cleaning by at least one cleaner.
  • reporting the determined cleaning region may assist the cleaner and minimise the potential for cleaning tasks in the cleaning region to be overlooked. Further, the reporting of the determined cleaning region minimizes redundant time otherwise spent looking for cleaning tasks.
  • the processor may determine the cleaning region using image processing.
  • the image processing may involve comparing an image of a clean space with the captured image.
  • the camera may be a fixed camera (e.g. security camera) with improved resolution when compared with a phone camera.
  • the system may include a detector (e.g. infrared sensor) for activating the camera responsive to the detection of a person in the space.
  • the reporter may highlight the at least one cleaning region on the captured image to assist with determining the number of cleaners required.
  • the reporter may electronically message the cleaner to perform the task.
  • the system may verify acceptable cleaning of the space by the cleaner before enabling the cleaner to sign out.
  • the camera may further recapture an image of the space after cleaning.
  • the processor may further determine whether cleaning was successfully completed.
  • the processor may keep a tally of cleaning efforts to successful completion.
  • the system may further include a database including a performance log of the cleaner.
  • the performance may include the time to complete cleaning and the tally.
  • the database may include cleaning product inventory numbers, which are updated after cleaning, to assist in stocktaking to keep the cleaner accountable and reduce the possibility of wastage or theft.
  • the step of determining may involve using image processing.
  • the image processing may involve comparing an image of a clean space (i.e. fully set and ready for service) with the captured image of the space to be cleaned (i.e. with used supplies).
  • the method may further involve allocating a cleaning time associated with the cleaning task.
  • the step of reporting may involve highlighting at least one cleaning region or object on the captured image.
  • the method may further involve electronically messaging the cleaner to perform the task.
  • the method may further involve recapturing an image of the space after cleaning.
  • the method may further involve determining whether cleaning was successfully completed.
  • the method may involve keeping a tally of cleaning efforts to successfully completion.
  • the method may involve logging performance of the cleaner.
  • performance may include the time to complete the task and the tally.
  • Figure 1 is a block diagram of a cleaning quality assurance system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is a schematic view of captured images of a space before and after cleaning
  • Figure 3 is a flowchart of a cleaning quality assurance method performed using the system of figure 1 ;
  • Figure 4 is a schematic view of captured images of a restaurant space before and after cleaning in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • a cleaning quality assurance system 100 as shown in Figure 1 .
  • the system 100 includes a camera of a cleaner's smartphone 1 02 for capturing at least one image 200a of an unclean space (e.g. room) to be cleaned as shown in Figure 2.
  • a server processor 1 04 is provided for determining at least one cleaning region 202 to be cleaned in the captured image 200a.
  • the system 1 00 also includes a reporter, including supervisor display 106 and ultimately the display of the cleaner's phone 102, for reporting the determined cleaning region for cleaning by at least one cleaner 108.
  • reporting the determined cleaning region 202 assists the cleaner 108 and minimises the potential for cleaning tasks in the region 202 to be overlooked. Further, the reporting of the determined cleaning region 202 minimizes redundant time otherwise spent, by the cleaner 1 08, aimlessly looking for cleaning tasks.
  • the system 1 00 includes a network 1 10, including the internet and phone network, connecting the processor 104 and phone 102 in communication.
  • a cleaning supervisor 1 12 using the system 1 00 also co-ordinates the cleaners 1 08.
  • the system 100 further includes a database 1 14 including a performance log of the cleaners 108, and further storing a supply tally of items (e.g. linen, cutlery, glassware etc.) in inventory stock.
  • the supervisor 1 12 can obtain cleaner performance reports 1 16 generated using data in the database 1 14.
  • a cleaning quality assurance method for cleaning the space in captured image 200a is now described with reference to Figure 3. Initially, the cleaner 108 has signed onto the system 100 which is moitoring the cleaner's progress.
  • the camera of the phone 1 02 captures the image 200a of an unclean space (e.g. room) to be cleaned.
  • the sole cleaner 108 is sent to the space by the supervisor 1 1 2 and captures the photographic image 200a which is then stored in the database 1 14.
  • At least one reference or benchmark image 200b of the clean space is also stored in the database 1 14.
  • the benchmark image can include images taken from multiple cameras in various locations. The images may include walls, floors, windows, ceilings, benches, settings, chairs, linen, cutlery, and glassware.
  • the benchmark image is associated with supply inventory tallies relating to cutlery, glassware, chairs etc. to achieve the cleanliness benchmark.
  • the processor 1 04 determines at least one cleaning region 202 to be cleaned in the captured image 200a using image processing techniques.
  • the captured image 200a before cleaning is compared with the benchmark image 200b of the clean space after cleaning to identify differences.
  • the image processing techniques involve comparing different captured image angles at different times. Variations in wall and glass markings that require wiping are identified.
  • the processor 104 determines from the image comparison what is clean, and what is not.
  • the processor 1 04 also determines from the image comparison any resetting requirements. For example, the resetting determination involves determing chairs that are out of position and that need to be relocated. The processor 1 04 also identifies any chattels (linen, glassware, plates, cutlery, etc) that are required from the central inventory.
  • chattels linen, glassware, plates, cutlery, etc
  • the system 1 00 reports the determined cleaning action including the region 202 for cleaning, by highlighting it on the captured image 200a of the unclean space. Highlighting typically involves encircling, coloring or otherwise marking an unclean region in the image 200a to assist with determining the number of cleaners 1 08 required.
  • the processor 104 of the system 100 identifies the cleaning tasks that need to be performed using the reported captured image 200a, and allocates a cleaning time associated with the cleaning tasks. In some cases where the cleaning time is excessive, multiple cleaners 108 can be allocated to the cleaning tasks. The determined chattels to bring the space to benchmark are also requested from the inventory by the processor 104.
  • the reporter electronically messages the cleaner's phone 102 to perform the cleaning task and obtain any replenishment chattels.
  • the message is sent by the supervisor 1 12 who can also include any specific instructions.
  • the phone 1 02 then displays the captured image 200a of the unclean space showing the cleaning regions 202 to assist the cleaner 108.
  • the system 1 00 itemizes any replacement chattels, cutlery, glassware, linen etc required to complete the "reset" of the space or essentially complete the room cleaning as shown in image 200b.
  • the cleaner 108 obtains the required items from the central inventory and uses them during resetting.
  • a third pary e.g. storeman
  • the database 1 14 provides an audit trail of all items and chattels coming into, and being removed from, the inventory as the inventory tallies are updated based on usage and removal.
  • Staff are kept accountable as the stored inventory tallies and actual inventory items in stock can be compared, and theft and wastage of items is minimized.
  • the cleaner's phone 102 recaptures an image 200b of the space after cleaning and resetting. Cleaning includes wiping any dirty surfaces as well as resetting which involves the replacement of any supplies which are taken from inventory.
  • the processor 104 queries whether the space is adequately cleaned and reset to benchmark requirements whereby the processor 1 04 compares the recaptured image 200b of the cleaned space with the stored reference benchmark image 200b to determine if there are any remaining cleaning regions 202 or resetting requirements.
  • the reporter can report the newly processed image, with any determined cleaning region 202 for cleaning, to the supervisor 1 1 2 for verification and approval.
  • step 314 processor 104 increments a tally of failed cleaning attempts and the supervisor 1 14 redirects the cleaner 1 08 to return to remedy the cleaning deficiency in the space at step 308.
  • the processor 1 04 logs the performance of the cleaner 108 in the database 1 14 at step 316. In particular, a log of the time to clean the space, the cleaning tasks performed and the tally of failed cleaning attempts are stored.
  • the system 100 automatically verifies acceptable cleaning of the space by the cleaner 1 08, before enabling the cleaner 108 to sign out and complete the job. The method then begins again at step 302 in relation to the cleaner 108 cleaning another space.
  • the system 1 00 provides end-to-end virtual-electronic photographic- recognition removing or reducing the need for human intervention to identify cleaning errors.
  • a cleanliness benchmark is set at perfect and the system identifies any imperfections, including any missing replacements, with exactitude.
  • the supervisor can generate a performance report 1 16 in connection with the cleaner 108 using the logged and stored data.
  • the cleaning method 300 described above can be performed in a restaurant space as shown in Figure 4.
  • the restaurant may be fitted with fixed cameras, or utilize existing security cameras, for capturing imaged to provide improved image resolution when compared with the phone cameras previously described.
  • tasks requiring attention by the cleaner 108 e.g. waitress
  • steps 304 are more likely to be detected at step 304, because some tasks such as cleaning of marks on a wall are difficult to detect by the cleaner 1 08 at various times of the day owing to lighting conditions.
  • the camera may be a fixed camera capturing video images of an occupant in the space to assist in determining the cleaning region.
  • the system may include an infrared sensor or motion detector for activating the camera responsive to the detection of a person in the space.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cleaning quality assurance system. The system includes a camera for capturing at least one image of a space to be cleaned. A processor is provided for determining at least one cleaning region to be cleaned in the captured image. The system also includes a reporter for reporting the determined cleaning region for cleaning by at least one cleaner. Advantageously, reporting the determined cleaning region assists the cleaner, minimises the potential for cleaning tasks in the cleaning region to be overlooked and minimizes redundant time otherwise spent looking for cleaning tasks.

Description

CLEANING QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention generally relates to a cleaning quality assurance system. The present invention has particular, although not exclusive application to hospitals, retirement homes, the hospitality industry (hotels, hostels or accommodation providers), real estate (reporting on rental properties), and restaurants including cafes and food production areas.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.
[0003] A hospital or hotel room is cleaned in between one occupant departing, and another occupant then occupying the freshly cleaned room. A cleaner will typically perform a thorough review of the entire room, and then remove any stains, empty rubbish bins, and replace used products such as towels or soap for example.
[0004] In practice, a human cleaner manually inspecting the entire room may overlook cleaning tasks to be performed in which case the new occupant is dissatisfied with the standard of the room. The preferred embodiment minimises overlooking of cleaning tasks. A known system enables a supervisor to manually check that the cleaning tasks have been performed, but still they are often missed by the supervisor as well.
[0005] Additionally, there are human to human variations in attention to cleaning detail. An embodiment provides end-to-end virtual-electronic photographic-recognition removing or reducing the need for human intervention to identify cleaning errors. A cleanliness benchmark is set at perfect and the system identifies any imperfections, including any missing replacements, with exactitude. [0006] In practice, the cleaner will spend a large amount of time looking for cleaning tasks to perform whereas some occupants spend little time messing up the room. The preferred embodiment minimizes redundant time spent looking for cleaning tasks.
[0007] In contrast, some occupants create such a large mess that the cleaner will be unable to complete cleaning tasks by a deadline for arrival of the new occupant. The preferred embodiment assists with resource allocation to cleaning tasks.
[0008] In addition, other environments such as restaurants and aged care facilities can be similarly subject to below-standard cleaning.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cleaning quality assurance system including:
a camera for capturing at least one image of a space to be cleaned;
a processor for determining at least one cleaning region to be cleaned in the captured image; and
a reporter for reporting the determined cleaning region for cleaning by at least one cleaner.
[00010] Advantageously, reporting the determined cleaning region may assist the cleaner and minimise the potential for cleaning tasks in the cleaning region to be overlooked. Further, the reporting of the determined cleaning region minimizes redundant time otherwise spent looking for cleaning tasks.
[00011 ] The processor may determine the cleaning region using image processing. The image processing may involve comparing an image of a clean space with the captured image.
[00012] The camera may be a fixed camera (e.g. security camera) with improved resolution when compared with a phone camera. The system may include a detector (e.g. infrared sensor) for activating the camera responsive to the detection of a person in the space. [00013] The reporter may highlight the at least one cleaning region on the captured image to assist with determining the number of cleaners required. The reporter may electronically message the cleaner to perform the task. The system may verify acceptable cleaning of the space by the cleaner before enabling the cleaner to sign out.
[00014] The camera may further recapture an image of the space after cleaning. The processor may further determine whether cleaning was successfully completed. The processor may keep a tally of cleaning efforts to successful completion.
[00015] The system may further include a database including a performance log of the cleaner. The performance may include the time to complete cleaning and the tally. The database may include cleaning product inventory numbers, which are updated after cleaning, to assist in stocktaking to keep the cleaner accountable and reduce the possibility of wastage or theft.
[00016] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cleaning quality assurance method involving electronically:
capturing at least one image of a space to be cleaned;
determining at least one cleaning region to be cleaned in the captured image; and
reporting the determined cleaning region for cleaning by at least one cleaner.
[00017] The step of determining may involve using image processing. The image processing may involve comparing an image of a clean space (i.e. fully set and ready for service) with the captured image of the space to be cleaned (i.e. with used supplies). The method may further involve allocating a cleaning time associated with the cleaning task.
[00018] The step of reporting may involve highlighting at least one cleaning region or object on the captured image.
[00019] The method may further involve electronically messaging the cleaner to perform the task.
[00020] The method may further involve recapturing an image of the space after cleaning. The method may further involve determining whether cleaning was successfully completed. The method may involve keeping a tally of cleaning efforts to successfully completion.
[00021 ] The method may involve logging performance of the cleaner. The
performance may include the time to complete the task and the tally.
[00022] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00023] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:
[00024] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a cleaning quality assurance system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and
[00025] Figure 2 is a schematic view of captured images of a space before and after cleaning;
[00026] Figure 3 is a flowchart of a cleaning quality assurance method performed using the system of figure 1 ; and
[00027] Figure 4 is a schematic view of captured images of a restaurant space before and after cleaning in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[00028] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cleaning quality assurance system 100 as shown in Figure 1 . The system 100 includes a camera of a cleaner's smartphone 1 02 for capturing at least one image 200a of an unclean space (e.g. room) to be cleaned as shown in Figure 2. A server processor 1 04 is provided for determining at least one cleaning region 202 to be cleaned in the captured image 200a. The system 1 00 also includes a reporter, including supervisor display 106 and ultimately the display of the cleaner's phone 102, for reporting the determined cleaning region for cleaning by at least one cleaner 108.
[00029] Advantageously, reporting the determined cleaning region 202 assists the cleaner 108 and minimises the potential for cleaning tasks in the region 202 to be overlooked. Further, the reporting of the determined cleaning region 202 minimizes redundant time otherwise spent, by the cleaner 1 08, aimlessly looking for cleaning tasks.
[00030] The system 1 00 includes a network 1 10, including the internet and phone network, connecting the processor 104 and phone 102 in communication. A cleaning supervisor 1 12 using the system 1 00 also co-ordinates the cleaners 1 08. The system 100 further includes a database 1 14 including a performance log of the cleaners 108, and further storing a supply tally of items (e.g. linen, cutlery, glassware etc.) in inventory stock. The supervisor 1 12 can obtain cleaner performance reports 1 16 generated using data in the database 1 14.
[00031 ] A cleaning quality assurance method for cleaning the space in captured image 200a is now described with reference to Figure 3. Initially, the cleaner 108 has signed onto the system 100 which is moitoring the cleaner's progress.
[00032] At step 302, the camera of the phone 1 02 captures the image 200a of an unclean space (e.g. room) to be cleaned. In particular, the sole cleaner 108 is sent to the space by the supervisor 1 1 2 and captures the photographic image 200a which is then stored in the database 1 14. At least one reference or benchmark image 200b of the clean space is also stored in the database 1 14. The benchmark image can include images taken from multiple cameras in various locations. The images may include walls, floors, windows, ceilings, benches, settings, chairs, linen, cutlery, and glassware. The benchmark image is associated with supply inventory tallies relating to cutlery, glassware, chairs etc. to achieve the cleanliness benchmark.
[00033] At step 304, the processor 1 04 determines at least one cleaning region 202 to be cleaned in the captured image 200a using image processing techniques. In particular, the captured image 200a before cleaning is compared with the benchmark image 200b of the clean space after cleaning to identify differences. The image processing techniques involve comparing different captured image angles at different times. Variations in wall and glass markings that require wiping are identified.
Accordingly, the processor 104 determines from the image comparison what is clean, and what is not.
[00034] At step 305, the processor 1 04 also determines from the image comparison any resetting requirements. For example, the resetting determination involves determing chairs that are out of position and that need to be relocated. The processor 1 04 also identifies any chattels (linen, glassware, plates, cutlery, etc) that are required from the central inventory.
[00035] At step 306, the system 1 00 reports the determined cleaning action including the region 202 for cleaning, by highlighting it on the captured image 200a of the unclean space. Highlighting typically involves encircling, coloring or otherwise marking an unclean region in the image 200a to assist with determining the number of cleaners 1 08 required.
[00036] The processor 104 of the system 100 identifies the cleaning tasks that need to be performed using the reported captured image 200a, and allocates a cleaning time associated with the cleaning tasks. In some cases where the cleaning time is excessive, multiple cleaners 108 can be allocated to the cleaning tasks. The determined chattels to bring the space to benchmark are also requested from the inventory by the processor 104.
[00037] At step 308, the reporter electronically messages the cleaner's phone 102 to perform the cleaning task and obtain any replenishment chattels. In particular, the message is sent by the supervisor 1 12 who can also include any specific instructions. The phone 1 02 then displays the captured image 200a of the unclean space showing the cleaning regions 202 to assist the cleaner 108. Additionally, the system 1 00 itemizes any replacement chattels, cutlery, glassware, linen etc required to complete the "reset" of the space or essentially complete the room cleaning as shown in image 200b.
[00038] At step 309, the cleaner 108 obtains the required items from the central inventory and uses them during resetting. A third pary (e.g. storeman) then decrements the associated supply inventory tallies that are stored in the database 1 14 so as to perform a stocktake. Advantageously, the database 1 14 provides an audit trail of all items and chattels coming into, and being removed from, the inventory as the inventory tallies are updated based on usage and removal. Staff are kept accountable as the stored inventory tallies and actual inventory items in stock can be compared, and theft and wastage of items is minimized.
[00039] At step 310, the cleaner's phone 102 recaptures an image 200b of the space after cleaning and resetting. Cleaning includes wiping any dirty surfaces as well as resetting which involves the replacement of any supplies which are taken from inventory.
[00040] At query step 312, the processor 104 queries whether the space is adequately cleaned and reset to benchmark requirements whereby the processor 1 04 compares the recaptured image 200b of the cleaned space with the stored reference benchmark image 200b to determine if there are any remaining cleaning regions 202 or resetting requirements. The reporter can report the newly processed image, with any determined cleaning region 202 for cleaning, to the supervisor 1 1 2 for verification and approval.
[00041 ] If the space is not adequately cleaned to the becnchmark at step 312 as there are remaining cleaning regions 202 in the recaptured image 200b, the method proceeds to step 314 where processor 104 increments a tally of failed cleaning attempts and the supervisor 1 14 redirects the cleaner 1 08 to return to remedy the cleaning deficiency in the space at step 308.
[00042] If the space is adequately cleaned to the becnchmark at step 312, whereby there are no remaining cleaning regions 202 in the recaptured image 200b, the processor 1 04 logs the performance of the cleaner 108 in the database 1 14 at step 316. In particular, a log of the time to clean the space, the cleaning tasks performed and the tally of failed cleaning attempts are stored. The system 100 automatically verifies acceptable cleaning of the space by the cleaner 1 08, before enabling the cleaner 108 to sign out and complete the job. The method then begins again at step 302 in relation to the cleaner 108 cleaning another space.
[00043] The system 1 00 provides end-to-end virtual-electronic photographic- recognition removing or reducing the need for human intervention to identify cleaning errors. A cleanliness benchmark is set at perfect and the system identifies any imperfections, including any missing replacements, with exactitude.
[00044] At any time, the supervisor can generate a performance report 1 16 in connection with the cleaner 108 using the logged and stored data.
[00045] A person skilled in the art will appreciate that many embodiments and variations can be made without departing from the ambit of the present invention.
[00046] In one embodiment, the cleaning method 300 described above can be performed in a restaurant space as shown in Figure 4. The restaurant may be fitted with fixed cameras, or utilize existing security cameras, for capturing imaged to provide improved image resolution when compared with the phone cameras previously described. In this manner, tasks requiring attention by the cleaner 108 (e.g. waitress) are more likely to be detected at step 304, because some tasks such as cleaning of marks on a wall are difficult to detect by the cleaner 1 08 at various times of the day owing to lighting conditions.
[00047] In another embodiment, the camera may be a fixed camera capturing video images of an occupant in the space to assist in determining the cleaning region. Using a fixed camera enables consistency between captured images throughout the day when compared with a phone camera which would otherwise capture images at different angles. The system may include an infrared sensor or motion detector for activating the camera responsive to the detection of a person in the space.
[00048] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect.
[00049] Reference throughout this specification to One embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

Claims

The claims defining the invention are as follows:
1 . A cleaning quality assurance system including:
a camera for capturing at least one image of a space to be cleaned;
a processor for determining at least one cleaning region to be cleaned in the captured image; and
a reporter for reporting the determined cleaning region for cleaning by at least one cleaner.
2. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein reporting the determined cleaning region assists the cleaner, minimises the potential for cleaning tasks in the cleaning region to be overlooked and/or minimizes redundant time otherwise spent looking for cleaning tasks.
3. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the processor determines the cleaning region using image processing.
4. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the image processing involves comparing an image of a clean space with the captured image.
5. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the camera is a fixed camera, or security camera, with improved resolution when compared with a phone camera.
6. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 , further including a detector, or infrared sensor, for activating the camera responsive to the detection of a person in the space.
7. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the reporter highlights the at least one cleaning region on the captured image to assist with determining the number of cleaners required.
8. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the reporter electronically messages the cleaner to perform a task.
9. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 , configured to verify acceptable cleaning of the space by the cleaner before enabling the cleaner to sign out.
10. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the camera can further recapture an image of the space after cleaning.
1 1 . A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 0, wherein the processor further determines whether cleaning was successfully completed.
12. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 1 , wherein the processor keeps a tally of cleaning efforts to successful completion.
13. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 2, further including a database including a performance log of the cleaner.
14. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 3, wherein
performance include a time to complete cleaning and the tally.
15. A cleaning quality assurance system as claimed in claim 1 3, wherein the database includes cleaning product inventory numbers, which are updated after cleaning, to assist in stocktaking to keep the cleaner accountable and reduce the possibility of wastage or theft.
16. A cleaning quality assurance method involving electronically:
capturing at least one image of a space to be cleaned;
determining at least one cleaning region to be cleaned in the captured image; and
reporting the determined cleaning region for cleaning by at least one cleaner.
17. A cleaning quality assurance method as claimed in claim 16, wherein the step of determining involves using image processing.
18. A cleaning quality assurance method as claimed in claim 17, wherein the image processing involves comparing an image of a clean space, preferably fully set and ready for service, with the captured image of the space to be cleaned, preferably with used supplies.
19. A cleaning quality assurance method as claimed in claim 16, involving allocating a cleaning time associated with a cleaning task.
20. A cleaning quality assurance method as claimed in claim 16, wherein the step of reporting involves highlighting at least one cleaning region or object on the captured image.
21 . A cleaning quality assurance method as claimed in claim 16, further involving electronically messaging the cleaner to perform a task.
22. A cleaning quality assurance method as claimed in claim 16, further involving recapturing an image of the space after cleaning.
23. A cleaning quality assurance method as claimed in claim 22, further involving determining whether cleaning was successfully completed.
24. A cleaning quality assurance method as claimed in claim 23, further involving keeping a tally of cleaning efforts to successfully completion.
25. A cleaning quality assurance method as claimed in claim 24, further involving logging performance of the cleaner, the performance including the time to complete a task and the tally.
PCT/AU2018/050913 2017-08-28 2018-08-28 Cleaning quality assurance system WO2019040976A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2020200949A AU2020200949A1 (en) 2017-08-28 2020-02-10 Cleaning quality assurance system

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2017903467 2017-08-28
AU2017903467A AU2017903467A0 (en) 2017-08-28 Cleaning quality assurance system

Related Child Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
AU2020104477A Division AU2020104477A4 (en) 2017-08-28 2020-02-10 Cleaning quality assurance system
AU2020200949A Division AU2020200949A1 (en) 2017-08-28 2020-02-10 Cleaning quality assurance system

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2019040976A1 true WO2019040976A1 (en) 2019-03-07

Family

ID=65524581

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/AU2018/050913 WO2019040976A1 (en) 2017-08-28 2018-08-28 Cleaning quality assurance system

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2019040976A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20220284795A1 (en) * 2021-03-08 2022-09-08 Sensormatic Electronics, LLC Surveillance system for automatic sanitation verification

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20120075464A1 (en) * 2010-09-23 2012-03-29 Stryker Corporation Video monitoring system
US20120116803A1 (en) * 2009-07-23 2012-05-10 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Method and system to detect that a device has been cleaned
US20140168427A1 (en) * 2012-12-18 2014-06-19 Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Notify associates of cleanup jobs

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20120116803A1 (en) * 2009-07-23 2012-05-10 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Method and system to detect that a device has been cleaned
US20120075464A1 (en) * 2010-09-23 2012-03-29 Stryker Corporation Video monitoring system
US20140168427A1 (en) * 2012-12-18 2014-06-19 Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Notify associates of cleanup jobs

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20220284795A1 (en) * 2021-03-08 2022-09-08 Sensormatic Electronics, LLC Surveillance system for automatic sanitation verification

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US10004823B2 (en) Method and system to detect that a device has been cleaned
US20050222889A1 (en) Method and system for facility management
US20170323319A1 (en) Systems and methods for providing ai-based cost estimates for services
US6725181B2 (en) Method and system for collecting and monitoring shop floor information
US20150120388A1 (en) Work and quality management system, device and method
WO2018146999A1 (en) Seating display device, seating display program, and seating display system
US20140108275A1 (en) Property management system
US20210097478A1 (en) Real-time shelf inventory and notification
WO2019040976A1 (en) Cleaning quality assurance system
AU2020200949A1 (en) Cleaning quality assurance system
US20170011331A1 (en) Guest Interface For Generating Work Order in a Work Order Management System
US20130311194A1 (en) Misleading message detection
JP6402488B2 (en) Information processing apparatus, information processing system, proposed method, and program
JP2018073297A (en) Endoscope inspection operation support system
US11982630B2 (en) Method and apparatus for cleanliness determination of areas and objects via video monitoring
CN110232488A (en) Worksheet method, system and equipment
US20210341395A1 (en) Method and Apparatus for Cleanliness Determination of Areas and Objects via Video Monitoring
CN113673820A (en) Internet-based hotel service management method and system
JP2005339057A (en) Sanitation management system
CN117252399B (en) Digital ecological cleaning data processing method and system
JP7020731B1 (en) Cleaning work support program, cleaning work support server and cleaning work support method
TWM637798U (en) Management system for environment cleaning and article inventory
CN115277388B (en) Network equipment management method and device, storage medium and electronic equipment
US20240078812A1 (en) Automated robotic ground-truth, checklists, and physical traceability
JP2004070516A (en) System for controlling work flow

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 18850296

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 18850296

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1