JP2003125090A - Washing system for coin laundry and method for reporting operating conditions of washer for coin laundry - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a system for calling attention to the user of a washing and drying machine, so that the user returns to the coin laundry by in matching with the end of the operation of the machine. SOLUTION: At the starting of the machine 1, the user 6 of a washing and drying machine 1 makes the telephone number of a telephone possessed by the user entered into an input board 23 of the machine 1 to be used by the user. The machine 1 continuously monitors the remained time of operation and decides that a notification condition has been satisfied if the remaining time reaches the time, when there is ten minutes left before the end time. In this way, the machine 1 transmits a notifying command, consisting of a message code and the telephone number of destination, to a controller 9. Upon the receipt of the notification command, the controller 9 calls the portable telephone of the user, and outputs a voice message for noticing the completion, in a state that enables communication.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a laundry system for a coin laundry in which a washing machine such as a washing machine and a dryer is installed, and more specifically, it can notify a user of the operating status of the laundry machine installed in this coin laundry. Regarding the system.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, coin laundry equipped with an automatic washing machine, a dryer, or a dry washing machine (hereinafter referred to as a washing machine) is well known. In addition, recently, there is a coin laundry equipped with a large-sized washing machine that can wash even a futon that is difficult to wash with a domestic washing machine.

The operating time of the washing machine installed in the coin laundry depends on the processing course used by the user, but it is a relatively long time of about 60 to 100 minutes. Therefore, in the conventional washing machine, the operating time is displayed to notify the user. The display of the operating time is subtracted according to the progress of the processing. Therefore, the user determines the end time by looking at the operating time (remaining time), and if there is any other business, leaves the coin laundry and goes to the business destination to complete the business. Then, the user returns to the coin laundry at the end time.

[0004]

As described above, when leaving the coin laundry, the user needs to memorize the end time, and there is a possibility that the end time will pass while other tasks are completed. . Then, when the user returns to the coin laundry after the end time significantly, the washing machine cannot be used for a long time from the end of the operation of the washing machine to the time when the user takes out the laundry. For this reason, it will cause trouble to other users who are waiting in line. In addition, the operating rate of the washing machine also decreases, which leads to a decrease in profitability for the business operator. Furthermore, if the user forgets to do the laundry and goes home, these problems become more prominent.

By the way, the manager of the coin laundry is
It is necessary to collect sales and replenish consumable items such as detergents, so we regularly visit coin laundry.
However, there are variations in sales of coin-operated laundry and consumption of consumables, and regular visits made it difficult to deal with a sudden increase in operating rate. Also,
In order to improve sales, it is possible to give a privilege (novelty) to a frequently used user, but in an unmanned coin laundry, if you do not conduct a separate survey, you will know the user and the frequency of use. I couldn't. Therefore, it has been difficult to grant the privilege.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to warn a user who is using a washing machine to return to a coin laundry at the end of operation of the washing machine. It is intended to provide a laundry system for a coin laundry and a method for notifying the operating status of a laundry device for a coin laundry that can evoke the above.

[0007]

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been proposed in order to achieve the above-mentioned object. According to the first aspect of the present invention, a user who uses a washing machine installed in a coin laundry communicates with the user. A user contact input means capable of inputting a destination, a user contact storage means capable of storing the user contact input by the user contact input means, and a message output to a designated contact A message output means, and a notification command output means for acquiring the operation status of the washing machine used by the user and outputting a notification command when the acquired operation status satisfies the notification determination condition, The message output means outputs a message indicating the operating status of the washing machine in use to the user contact address based on the notification instruction from the notification instruction output means. Is Temu. Where "washing machine"
Means a device used by a user in a coin laundry, and is a superordinate concept including a washing machine, a dryer, and a dry washing machine. The "message" includes not only a voice message but also a text message. The "contact" is a destination to which a message can be output. For example, a mobile phone number, a home phone number,
The email address of the mobile phone is applicable.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the user contact information is a telephone number of the user, and the message output means is a calling means capable of calling the set telephone number and a telephone line. A voice output unit capable of outputting a message by voice is provided, and the operating state of the washing machine is called in a state where the user telephone number can be called based on the notification command from the notification command output unit and the user can talk to the user. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to claim 1, wherein a voice message indicating is output.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the notification command output means outputs an end notification command when the operation of the washing machine used by the user is completed, and the message output means outputs the completion notification. 3. An end message indicating that the operation has ended is output based on the command.
The laundry system for a coin-operated laundry described in 1.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the notice command output means outputs a notice notice command and outputs a message when the remaining operating time of the washing machine used by the user reaches the end notice time. 4. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to claim 1, wherein the means outputs a notice message to the effect that the operation will be terminated after the notice time for termination is passed based on the notice notice command.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, an end notice time storage means for rewritably storing the end notice time is provided,
5. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to claim 4, characterized in that the end notice time can be changed.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the laundry for coin laundry according to any one of the first to fifth aspects is characterized in that the user contact address input means is constituted by a portable small terminal device. System. here,
The "portable small terminal device" means a terminal device having a size that a user can hold and input a telephone number and the like, and is preferably a terminal device having a size that fits in a palm. .

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, an administrator contact address storage means capable of storing the contact information of the administrator of the coin laundry, and an equipment status detection means capable of detecting the status of various equipment installed in the coin laundry, A contact command output means for determining whether or not contact is required based on the detection information from the device state detecting means and outputting a contact command when contact is required, wherein the message output means outputs the contact command output. 7. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein an instruction message for directing to the coin-operated laundry is output to an administrator contact based on a contact command from the means. Here, the “administrator” is a person who actually manages the coin laundry (store), and includes, for example, a person who is entrusted with the management of the store by the owner of the store or a business. In addition to the above-mentioned washing machine (washing machine, dryer, dry washing machine), the "various equipment" also includes peripheral equipment such as a storage tank for storing detergents and softeners.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the equipment state detecting means is constituted by a consumable goods detecting means capable of detecting that the remaining quantity of the consumable goods has fallen below a judgment reference quantity, and the contact command outputting means. Outputs a consumables shortage command based on the detection information from the consumables detection means, and the message output means
The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to claim 7, wherein an instruction message for instructing replenishment of consumables is output. The "consumable supply shortage command" is a type of communication command.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the equipment state detecting means is constituted by a smoke detecting means capable of detecting smoke generated in the coin laundry, and the contact command output means is
8. The emergency command is output based on the detection information from the smoke sensing means, and the message output means outputs an instruction message indicating that an emergency has occurred.
The laundry system for a coin-operated laundry described in 1. The “emergency command” is a type of communication command.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, a call can be communicated between the sales storage means capable of storing the amount of sales by the washing machine, the incoming call means capable of receiving an external telephone call, and the outside. And an instruction information recognition means for recognizing the instruction information from the outside in a state where the instruction information recognition means outputs the sales information when the instruction information from the outside is the inquiry instruction information for instructing the amount inquiry. 10. The coin laundry washing system according to claim 1, wherein the message output means outputs a message indicating a sales amount based on the sales information.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the inquiry instruction information is personal identification information indicating a coin laundry manager.
11. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to claim 10, wherein the laundry system is configured with an inquiry command for instructing an inquiry about the amount of money.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, a communication device including the message output means is configured separately from the laundry device, and the laundry device sends and receives information to and from the communication device. And a sub-washing device that sends and receives information to and from the main washing device.
The laundry system for a coin laundry according to any one of 1 to 11.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the number-of-uses information storage means for accumulating the number-of-uses information acquired based on the storage operation in the user contact-address storage means for each user contact, and an external number-of-uses information storage means. When the instruction information is the usage number output instruction information for instructing the output of the usage number information, the usage number information output means for outputting the usage number information stored in the usage number information storage means is provided. Claim 1
13. The laundry system for a coin laundry according to any one of 1 to 12.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the contact information of the user who uses the washing machine installed in the coin laundry is acquired, the operating status of the washing machine used by the user is monitored, and A feature is that it is determined whether or not the operating status satisfies the notification determination condition, and when the operating status of the washing machine satisfies the determination condition, a message indicating the operating status of the washing machine in use is output to the user contact. This is a method for notifying the operating status of a coin laundry machine.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the notification determining condition is that the operation of the washing machine used by the user has ended, and when the notification determining condition is satisfied, the operation has ended. 15. The method for notifying the operating status of a laundry device for a coin laundry according to claim 14, wherein the message is output.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the notification determination condition is that the remaining operating time of the washing machine used by the user has reached the end notice time, and when the notification determination condition is satisfied. 15. The method of notifying the operating status of a laundry device for coin-operated laundry according to claim 14, wherein a message indicating that the operation is completed after the end notice time has elapsed is output.

[0023]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Here, FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining a schematic configuration of a coin laundry to which the present invention is applied and its contact information.

In the illustrated coin laundry, a plurality of dry washing machines 1 ..., a detergent tank 2 for storing liquid detergent supplied to each dry washing machine 1 ..., and a liquid supplied to each dry washing machine 1 ... Via the softening agent tank 3 storing the softening agent, the smoke detector 4 capable of detecting the smoke filled indoors, and the public telephone line 5, each of the other parties, that is, the user 6, the manager 7, the service center 8 A controller 9 for making a telephone call is installed. The manager 7 is a person who actually manages the coin laundry, and includes, for example, the owner of the store and a person who is entrusted with the management of the coin laundry by the business operator.

The dry washing machine 1 is a kind of the washing apparatus of the present invention, and is capable of performing both the washing step and the drying step in sequence or selectively performing each step. The drying and washing machine 1 includes a master machine 1A (corresponding to a main washing machine of the present invention) that transmits and receives information to and from a controller 9.
It is composed of a plurality of satellite machines 1B ... (corresponding to the sub-washing machine of the present invention) for transmitting and receiving information to and from the master machine 1A. Then, between the master machine 1A and the controller 9, and between the master machine 1A and each satellite machine 1
A communication line is connected to B ... In the present embodiment, for example, R is provided between the master machine 1A and the controller 9.
The communication line of the S-232C standard is used for connection, and the master unit 1A and each satellite unit 1B are connected by a communication line of the RS-485 standard, for example. Further, the master machine 1A is one, and the satellite machines 1B are three. In addition,
The dry washing machine 1 will be described in detail later.

The detergent tank 2 stores a liquid type detergent, and has a detergent detector 11 for detecting the remaining amount of the stored detergent. The detergent stored in the detergent tank 2 is a kind of consumable item in a coin laundry, and each drying and washing machine 1 (1A, 1B) is supplied through the detergent supply pipe.
Is supplied to. Further, the detergent detector 11 is a kind of device state detecting means of the present invention and functions as a consumable goods detecting means. The detergent detector 11 may have any configuration as long as it can detect the storage amount of the detergent, but in the present embodiment, it is configured by a weight detection type sensor that is turned on / off according to the weight of the detergent. For example, if the remaining weight of the detergent is heavier than the reference value, contact terminals (not shown)
Is closed and outputs an off-state detection signal. On the other hand, when the remaining weight of the detergent becomes equal to or less than the determination reference value, the contact terminal is opened and the ON state detection signal is output. Then, the detection signal (a type of detection information) output from the detergent detector 11 is input to the controller 9 through a signal line.

The softening agent tank 3 also stores a liquid type softening agent, and is provided with a softening agent detector 12 for detecting the remaining amount of the softening agent stored. This softener tank 3
The softener stored in the laundry is also a kind of consumable item in the coin laundry, and each drying and washing machine 1 is supplied through the softener supply pipe.
Is supplied to. The softening agent detector 12 is a kind of device state detecting means of the present invention and functions as a consumable goods detecting means. The softener detector 12 may have any configuration as long as it can detect the amount of detergent stored, but in the present embodiment, the weight detector that turns on and off according to the remaining weight of the softener, like the detergent detector 11. It is composed of a type of sensor. Then, the detection signal (a kind of detection information) output from the softener detector 12 is also input to the controller 9 through the signal line.

The smoke detector 4 detects smoke filled indoors, and is a kind of device state detecting means of the present invention and functions as smoke detecting means. This smoke detector is configured to output an alarm signal when the density of the filled smoke exceeds a predetermined density. Then, the output alarm signal (a type of detection information) is input to the controller 9 through a signal line.

The controller 9 is a kind of the communication device of the present invention. In this embodiment, the controller 9 has a calling function capable of calling a set telephone number and a message can be output to the other party through the public telephone line 5. A message output function, an incoming call function that makes an incoming call from an external device to enable communication, and an instruction that recognizes instruction information (personal identification information or instruction command) from the other party when the external communication is possible It has an information recognition function. The controller 9 will also be described in detail later.

Next, the above-mentioned dry washing machine 1 will be described in detail. First, the master machine 1A will be described.
Here, FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a control system in the master machine 1A.

The illustrated master machine 1A is a master machine 1
It has a control device 21 for controlling each part in A. The control device 21 includes a selection signal from the operation panel 22 used when selecting a processing course, and the input board 2
3, the user telephone number input from 3, the coin identification signal from the coin detector 24, the detection signal from the detection sensor 25 provided in each part of the master machine 1A, and the setting signal from the setting switch 26 are input. ing.

On the other hand, from the control device 21, a drive control signal to a rotary drum motor 31 for rotationally driving a rotary drum (not shown) housed in the processing chamber, and water, detergent, and a softening agent in the processing chamber. Drive control signal to the valve device 32 used when injecting air or discharging water and the like in the processing chamber, drive control signal to the blower fan 33 that is a blower source in the drying process, hot air and unheated air And a drive control signal to the mixing damper 34 for mixing and adjusting the temperature to obtain a warm air having a predetermined temperature.

In addition to this, the control device 21 outputs to the operation panel 22 a charge display signal indicating a charge corresponding to the processing course and a remaining time display signal indicating a remaining operation time.

The operation panel 22 is, for example, a course selection switch for selecting one course from a plurality of processing courses, a remaining time / charge display section capable of switching and displaying the remaining operating time and the charge, and coins and bills. It is provided with a money insertion slot (both not shown).

The course selection switch is, for example, a push button type switch and is provided for each processing course. Further, regarding the processing course, a washing / drying course in which washing and drying are continuously performed, a selective dehydration course from washing to dehydration, and a drying course only in drying are prepared. Then, the user 6 selects a desired processing course by pressing the corresponding course selection switch.

The remaining time / charge display section is composed of, for example, a 7-segment LED with a plurality of digits (for example, 5 digits), and when the processing course is selected, the fee corresponding to the selected course is displayed, and the washing process is performed. When the drying process is executed, the remaining operation time is displayed in units of minutes and seconds.

The input board 23 is one type of user contact address input means of the present invention, and functions as user telephone number input means. This input board 23 is a master device 1
It is a terminal device for inputting the telephone number of the user 6 who uses A (a kind of contact information of the present invention). Here, the user telephone number is, for example, the telephone number of a mobile phone (including a simple mobile phone) owned by the user 6 or the home phone number of the user 6. That is, after the drying and washing machine 1 is operated, the user 6 who moves to another business destination inputs the telephone number of the mobile phone, and the user 6 who returns home inputs the home telephone number.

The input board 23 also functions as a store name input means used when inputting the store name of the coin laundry. For example, when installing a coin laundry, a contractor or the like uses the input board 23 to input predetermined personal identification information and a registration command for registering a store name. And if the store name can be registered,
The contractor, etc. inputs the store name of the coin laundry. The inputted store name information is stored in the store name information storage area 51 of the work area 50 as described later, and
It is stored in the store name information storage area 85 of the EEPROM 79.

The input board 23 may be of any type as long as it can input a telephone number, a coin laundry store name, etc. However, since the input telephone number is the personal information of the user 6, it is portable. A small terminal device having is preferably used. This is because when the input board 23 is composed of a small terminal device, the user can input the telephone number at his / her hand, and by hiding the input board 23 with his / her own body, the input telephone number can be seen by others. This is because it can be made difficult. And input board 23 with one's own body
In consideration of hiding, it is more preferable that the size of the small terminal device is a palm size.

When the input board 23 is composed of a portable small terminal device, it may be connected to the main body via a communication cable or may be communicable with a wireless signal such as infrared rays. . Considering the possibility of being stolen by an unfaithful person, wired connection using a communication cable is preferable.

The coin purse 24 is a coin inserted into the coin slot, for example, a coin such as 100 yen or 500 yen, or 10 coins.
A bill such as a 00-yen bill is recognized, and a currency identification signal indicating the recognized currency is output.

Various types of detection sensors 25 are included. For example, a rotation detection sensor that detects the rotation of the rotating drum, a water amount detection sensor that detects the amount of water stored in the processing chamber, an introduced air temperature sensor that detects the temperature of warm air introduced into the processing chamber in the drying step, and A wind pressure sensor or the like for detecting the wind pressure of the warm air is included. And
The detection signal from the detection sensor 25 is input to the control device 21 (control unit 41) as a type of detection information.

As for the setting switch 26, the drying and washing machine 1 is used as the master machine 1A, or the satellite machine 1 is used.
It is a switch for determining whether or not it is used as B, and is configured by a DIP switch having SW1 to SW4 in the present embodiment. That is, as will be described later, in this embodiment, the master machine 1A and the satellite machine 1B have the same hardware configuration, but the operation program to be introduced and the contents of the work area in the RAM are different. Further, whether the setting switch 26 is the master device 1A or the satellite device 1 with respect to the control device 21 described above.
It functions as a type recognition means for recognizing whether it is B or, if it is the satellite machine 1B, what machine it is.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG.
1 = OFF, SW2 = OFF, SW3 = OFF, SW4
= OFF (hereinafter, [OFF, OFF, OFF, OFF]
As shown. ) Is the setting of the master machine 1A, and [O
N, OFF, OFF, OFF] is the first satellite machine 1B
The setting is -1. In addition, [OFF, ON, OFF, O
FF] is the setting of the second satellite machine 1B-2, and [O
N, ON, OFF, OFF] is the third satellite machine 1B-
3 setting. And [ON, ON, ON, ON]
Is set for the 15th satellite machine 1B-15. Therefore, the setting switch 26 of the master unit 1A is set to [OF
F, OFF, OFF, OFF]. Further, in this embodiment, a maximum of 16 units (master machine 1A = 1
, Washing machine 1 of satellite machine 1B = 15) can be installed.

The control device 21 includes a CPU, a ROM,
Also, a control unit 41 having a RAM, an external storage device 42 storing operation programs and various setting information, and a first input / output interface 43 for inputting various signals from the operation panel 22 and the input board 23. And a second input / output interface 44 for outputting a drive control signal to the rotary drum motor 31 and the valve device 32.
And a first serial interface 45 (RS-232C or the like) for communicating with the controller 9 and a second serial interface 46 (RS-485 or the like) for communicating with each satellite machine 1B. Prepare

The control unit 41 includes an external storage device 42 and a ROM.
It operates by the operation program stored in and controls each part. The control unit 41 functions as a notification command output unit of the present invention, acquires the operating status of the dry washing machine 1 used by the user 6, and the acquired operating status is a notification determination condition (for example, remaining operating time). When 10 minutes have passed, the notification command is output when the processing is completed. Also,
The control unit 41 also functions as a part of the contact command output unit of the present invention, determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the master machine 1A based on the detection signal from the detection sensor 25, and if it determines that there is an abnormality, then notifies the controller. And outputs a contact command to the controller 9 as is required. Further, the control unit 41 constitutes a part of the instruction information recognition means of the present invention, and the controller 9
When receiving the inquiry command from, the sales information indicating the sales amount is output to the controller 9. In addition, this control unit 41
The control operation by will be described in detail later.

Next, the work area 50 of the RAM included in the control unit 41 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, a part of the work area 50 is used as a plurality of information storage areas.

That is, a part of the work area 50 stores a store name information storage area 51 for storing store name information indicating a store name of a coin laundry and a personal identification number (a type of personal identification information) for authenticating the manager 7. PIN information storage area 52
A telephone number storage area 53 for storing a telephone number which is a kind of contact information, a telephone number input possible time storage area 54 for storing an input possible time when the user 6 inputs the telephone number, and the end. A user notification time storage area 55 for storing a user notification time as a notice time, and a drying washing machine 1
Sales information storage area 5 for storing information on sales amount in
6, a notification flag setting area 57 for setting a notification flag for determining whether or not to notify the user 6, and a trouble code indicating an abnormality when an abnormality or the like occurs in each drying and washing machine 1. Trouble code storage area 5 to be stored
8 and an inquiry flag set setting area 59 for setting an inquiry flag when the sales amount is inquired through the telephone line.
It is used as such.

The store name information stored in the store name information storage area 51 is composed of code information representing characters, for example. Therefore, when this store name information is output to the voice synthesis circuit (described later) of the controller 9, the store name can be output by voice. The store name information storage area 51 functions as store name information storage means.

The personal identification number stored in the personal identification information storage area 52 is used to determine whether or not the instruction information input from the outside through the public telephone line 5 is the information from the coin laundry manager 7. . The personal identification information storage area 52 functions as personal identification information storage means.

The telephone number storage area 53 includes an administrator telephone number storage area 53a for storing the telephone number of the administrator 7, a service center telephone number storage area 53b for storing the telephone number of the service center 8, and a user 6 storage area. It is composed of a user telephone number storage area 53c for storing a telephone number.
The administrator telephone number storage area 53a is one type of administrator contact address storage means of the present invention, the service center telephone number storage area 53b is one type of service center contact address storage means, and the user telephone number storage area 53c. Is one of the user contact address storage means of the present invention. Further, the user telephone number storage area 53c has one individual area (that is, a total of 16 areas) for each of the master machine 1A and each satellite machine 1B.
Individual individual areas) are set, and the telephone number of the user 6 in use is stored for each drying and washing machine 1. Then, in this user telephone number storage area 53c, the satellite device 1
The plurality of individual areas for B form a part of the sub-washing machine information storage area.

The inputtable time stored in the telephone number inputtable time storage area 54 defines the time when the user's telephone number can be input, and is referred to when the dry washing machine 1 starts to operate. For example, if the input available time is set to 3 minutes, the user 6 must input an instruction requiring notification within 3 minutes from the start of operation of the drying and washing machine 1, and then input a telephone number. , You can get the notice service of the end and the service of the end notice. On the other hand, when the notification-requiring instruction is not input within the available input time, the process is the same as the conventional one. The inputtable time is common to each of the drying and washing machines 1 and is 3 minutes as a standard, but can be rewritten by an operation by the manager 7 or a person in charge of the manufacturer. For example, it may be set to 10 minutes, or may be input at any time before the notification time to the user described below arrives.

The user-addressed notification time stored in the user-addressed notification time storage area 55 defines the time for executing the operation end notice of the drying and washing machine 1, and is referred to during the operation of the drying and washing machine 1. For example, when the notification time to the user is 10 minutes, the control unit 41 sequentially monitors the remaining operation time of the dry washing machine 1 used by the user 6, and the remaining operation time reaches 10 minutes. The pre-completion notification flag is set on the condition that this is done.

When this pre-completion notice flag is set, the control section 41 outputs a necessary message code and user telephone number to the controller 9 as a notice notice command, as will be described later. And the controller 9
Calls the telephone number specified by the user 6 (that is, the user's telephone number) and outputs a voice message such as "Washing will be completed in 10 minutes."

This user-addressed notification time storage area 55 functions as the end notice time storage means of the present invention. And
The user notification time stored in the user notification time storage area 55 is common to each of the drying and washing machines 1 ... And is 10 minutes as a standard. The notification time to the user can also be rewritten by the operation of the administrator 7 or the like. For example, 5 minutes to 15
You can set any time, such as minutes.

If the notification time to the user is changeable in this way, the notice time can be changed according to the installation environment of the coin laundry, and the convenience can be improved. For example, if a coin laundry is installed in a downtown area,
The user 6 is likely to be around the coin laundry. For this reason, even if the notification time to the user is set to a relatively short time such as 5 minutes, the user 6 can return sufficiently and come back. On the other hand, when the coin laundry is installed in the suburbs, the time to return to the coin laundry tends to be long, so set it to a relatively long time such as 15 minutes, and at the end of washing etc., the user 6 will just return. So that

The sales information storage area 56 functions as sales information storage means. In the sales information storage area 56, one individual area is set for each of the master machine 1A and each satellite machine 1B, and the sales information until the specified time is reached and cleared is displayed for each drying and washing machine 1 ... Store cumulatively in. In this embodiment, the control device 21 of the master machine 1A regularly
For example, once per hour, each satellite machine 1B
The sales information is acquired, and the acquired sales information is added and stored in the corresponding individual area. The sales information of the master machine 1A is updated every time the master machine 1A is used.
Then, in the sales information storage area 56, the plurality of individual areas for the satellite machine 1B constitute a part of the sub-washing machine information storage area.

The notification flag setting area 57 includes a before-end notification flag setting area 57a in which a before-end notification flag is set,
It is composed of an end notification flag setting area 57b in which an end notification flag is set. Here, the pre-end notification flag is a flag that is set when the remaining operating time of the dry washing machine 1 that the user 6 is using has reached the end notice time. In the pre-completion notice flag setting area 57a, one individual area is set for each of the master machine 1A and each satellite machine 1B. Therefore, in the pre-completion notification flag setting area 57a, the plurality of individual areas for the satellite machine 1B form a part of the sub-washing machine information storage area. The end notification flag is a flag that is set when a series of steps in the drying and washing machine 1 used by the user 6 is completed. Then, the end notification flag setting area 5
7b is also the master machine 1A and each satellite machine 1
One individual area is set for each B. Therefore, in the end notification flag setting area 57b, the satellite device 1B
The plurality of individual areas for use also form part of the sub-washing machine information storage area.

When the pre-completion notice flag is set, the controller 21 outputs the notice notice command to the controller 9 as described above. Similarly, when the end notification flag is set, the control device 21 outputs a necessary message code and the telephone number of the user 6 to the controller 9 as an end notification command.

The trouble code storage area 58 functions as trouble code storage means. In the trouble code storage area 58, one individual area is set for each of the master machine 1A and each satellite machine 1B, and a trouble code indicating the content of the abnormality that has occurred is stored for each dry washing machine 1. . In this embodiment, when an abnormality occurs in the satellite machine 1B, the satellite machine 1B immediately sends a trouble code to the master machine 1A. And master machine 1
Since the control device 21 of A continuously monitors the transmission information from the satellite machine 1B, the transmitted trouble code is received and stored in the corresponding trouble code storage area 58 (individual area), and the controller 9 is notified to the controller 9. The necessary message code and the telephone number of the user 6 are output as an emergency command. Also in the trouble code storage area 58, the plurality of individual areas for the satellite machine 1B constitute a part of the sub-washing machine information storage area.

By the way, in the present embodiment, as described above, the user telephone number storage area 53c, the sales information storage area 56, the notification flag setting area 57, and the trouble code storage area 5 of the work area 50 in the master machine 1A.
8 is provided with an individual area for the satellite machine 1B (that is, an auxiliary washing machine information storage area). Then, each individual area is the maximum number that can be connected to the master machine 1A.
It is provided for a vehicle. With this configuration, the master machine 1
Even if the number of satellite machines 1B connected to A is increased or decreased, a necessary individual area is secured in advance in the work area 50 of the master machine 1A, so that it is possible to deal with the software without making a large change. Therefore, the installation work can be facilitated and the efficiency can be improved, and the construction period can be shortened.

Next, the structure of the satellite machine 1B will be described. Here, FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a control system in the satellite machine 1B.

The satellite machine 1B has the same structure as the master machine 1A described above. The difference between the satellite machine 1B and the master machine 1A is mainly that the setting contents of the setting switch 26 (see FIG. 3), the contents of the operation program introduced into the external storage device 42 (that is, the control operation), and the RA
It is in the contents of the M work area 50 '. For this reason, the same components as those of the master machine 1A are designated by the same reference numerals, the description thereof will be omitted, and different points will be mainly described.

In this embodiment, three satellite machines 1B are used.
Is installed, and as shown in FIG. 1, the master machine 1A
The first satellite machine 1B-1, the second satellite machine 1B-2, and the third satellite machine 1B-3 are arranged from the side close to. Therefore, as described above, with respect to the setting switch 26, the first satellite machine 1B-1 is set to [ON, OFF, OF
F, OFF], the second satellite machine 1B-2 is set to [OFF, ON, OFF, OFF], and the third satellite machine 1B-3 is [ON, ON, OFF, OFF].
Is set to. With this setting, each satellite machine 1B ...
Control device 21 recognizes which satellite device 1B it is.

As shown in FIG. 6, a part of the work area 50 'of each satellite machine 1B is also used as a plurality of information storage areas. Regarding the work area 50 ', the difference between the satellite machine 1B and the master machine 1A is that the work area 50 of the master machine 1A has an area for storing common information and an area for storing information on each satellite machine 1B. On the other hand, the work area 50 'of the satellite device 1B is provided with an area for storing the information of the own device.

For example, in the work area 50 'of the satellite machine 1B, the notification time storage area 55 for the user, the sales information storage area 56' of the own machine, and the telephone number of the user 6 using the own machine. Storage area 53 ', pre-end notification flag setting area 57a' of itself, end notification flag setting area 57b
'And a trouble code storage area 58' are provided. The information stored in each of these areas is the same as the information described for the master machine 1A, and therefore the description thereof is omitted here.

Next, the structure of the controller 9 will be described. Here, FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of the controller 9, and FIG. 7A is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a control system,
(B) is a diagram for explaining the storage area of the EEPROM.

The illustrated controller 9 has a control device 71 for controlling each part of the controller 9. A detection signal from the detergent detector 11, a detection signal from the softening agent detector 12, and a detection signal from the smoke sensor 4 are input to the control device 71. On the other hand, from the control device 71, a voice synthesizing circuit 7 capable of synthesizing and outputting voice
2 is output, a communication control signal to a line circuit 73 that controls communication with the public telephone line 5, and a display control signal to an information display unit 74 that can display various types of information. . Further, the control device 71 is communicatively connected to the drying and washing machine 1 (master machine 1A) through a serial interface 75 (RS-485 or the like).

The speech synthesis circuit 72 is a part of the message output means of the present invention and functions as a speech output means, and is provided with a speech synthesis memory 76 storing speech information necessary for synthesis. . This voice synthesis circuit 72
In response to a command or the like from the master machine 1A, the necessary information is read from the voice synthesis memory 76 to generate a synthetic sound (that is, an electric signal). For example, when a notice notification command is sent from the master machine 1A, "This is a coin laundry XX store. It will take 10 minutes to finish the laundry. Please prepare." (A type of instruction message ) Is generated. If the master machine 1A sends an end notification command, "This is a coin laundry XX store. Your laundry is finished. Please come to pick it up." (A type of instruction message) Produces a sound.

The voice synthesis circuit 72 includes a line circuit 7
3 and the speaker 77 are electrically connected. When the synthetic sound is output to the line circuit 73, the synthetic sound is output to the other party through the public telephone line 5. Therefore,
A voice message is output to the other party. On the other hand, when the above synthesized sound is output to the speaker 77, the speaker 77
Will output a voice message. This speaker 77
Is used for a test or the like when the drying and washing machine 1 is installed.

Based on the communication control signal from the control device 71, the line circuit 73 makes a call to the telephone number set by the communication control signal. That is, this line circuit 73
Also functions as the calling means of the present invention. Further, the line circuit 73 outputs a synthetic sound (for example, a response message) from the voice synthesizing circuit 72 through the public telephone line 5 in a state where a call with the other party is possible. Therefore,
The line circuit 73 also functions as the message output means of the present invention together with the voice synthesis circuit 72. Further, the line circuit 73 has a function of receiving an incoming call from the outside and enabling a call with the other party. Therefore, the line circuit 73 also functions as an incoming call means of the present invention.

The information display section 74 displays various information such as the current time, the communication state, the telephone number of the called party, and is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display device.
The information display unit 74 is not limited to the liquid crystal display device as long as necessary information can be displayed.

The control device 71 has a CPU, a ROM,
Also, a control unit 78 having a RAM, an EEPROM 79 (setting information storage means) rewritably storing various setting information necessary for operation, and a first input / output for inputting a detection signal from the detergent detector 11 or the like. An interface 80, a second input / output interface 81 for outputting a control signal to the voice synthesis circuit 72 and the line circuit 73, and a serial interface 75 are provided.

The control section 78 operates according to the operation program stored in the ROM to control each section. The control unit 78 functions as a contact command output unit of the present invention, determines whether or not contact is required based on the detection signals from the detectors 4, 11, 12 and outputs a contact command when it is determined to be necessary. To do.

For example, when the detection signals from the detergent detector 11 and the softener detector 12 (that is, the expendables detector) are received, the control unit 78 outputs the necessary message code and the administrator telephone number. It outputs to the voice synthesis circuit 72 and the output line circuit 73 as a consumables shortage command. Further, when the detection signal from the smoke detector 4 (that is, smoke detecting means) is received, the voice synthesis circuit 72 uses the message code indicating that an emergency has occurred and the administrator's telephone number as an emergency command. To the output line circuit 73. Further, when the control unit 78 receives the contact command from the master machine 1A, the message synthesis code indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the drying and washing machine 1, the administrator telephone number, and the center telephone number are used as an emergency instruction for the voice synthesis circuit. It outputs to 72 and line circuit 73. In the above case, the control unit 41 of the master machine 1A and the control unit 78 of the controller 9 function as the contact command output means of the present invention. The control operation of the controller 78 will be described in detail later.

Next, the EEPROM 7 included in the control unit 78
The storage area 9 will be described. As shown in FIG. 7B, a part of this storage area is a store name information storage area 85 for storing store name information indicating the store name of the coin laundry, and a personal identification number (a type of personal identification information) for authenticating the manager 7. ) Is used as a password information storage area 86, an administrator telephone number storage area 87 for storing the telephone number of the administrator 7, and a center telephone number storage area 88 for storing the center telephone number. There is. The information stored in each of these areas is the same information stored in the work area 50 of the RAM in the master machine 1A described above,
It is updated in conjunction with the information on the work area 50 side.

The information stored in each of these areas is used by the voice synthesis circuit 72 and the line circuit 73. For example, when the amount of detergent is less than or equal to the reference amount, the control unit 78 acquires the administrator telephone number, store name information and message code as a contact command, and outputs the store name information and message code to the voice synthesis circuit 72. At the same time, the administrator telephone number is output to the line circuit 73. When an abnormality occurs in any of the dry washing machines 1, the control unit 7
8 obtains the manager telephone number, the center telephone number store name information and the message code as an emergency command, outputs the store name information and the message code to the voice synthesizing circuit 72, and the manager telephone number and the center telephone number in the line circuit 73. Output to.

Next, the operation of the coin laundry having the above structure will be described. First, the control of each unit described above will be described individually.

First, the main processing of the master machine 1A will be described with reference to FIG. In this main processing, first, it is monitored whether or not the setting operation of the processing course is completed (S1). During the period of this monitoring process, the user 6
Put the laundry in the rotating drum and close the door of the storage room. Then, press the course selection switch corresponding to the desired processing course. On the other hand, the control unit 41 monitors the switch operation signal from the course selection switch and determines whether or not one processing course is selected based on the switch operation signal. Then, the control unit 41 displays the usage charge corresponding to the pressed processing course on the remaining time / charge display unit.

The user 6 confirms the charge displayed on the remaining time / charge display section and puts in a use charge of a necessary amount.
At this time, the control unit 41 monitors whether or not the fee corresponding to the selected processing course has been paid (S2).
That is, the control unit 41 recognizes the currency identification signal from the coin inspector 24, recognizes the applied charge, and monitors whether the applied charge has reached the usage charge. Then, when the required fee is input, the control unit 41 additionally stores the usage fee in the individual area for the master machine 1A in the sales information storage area 56, and then starts the washing operation (S).
3). In this case, the currency identification signal also functions as a start signal for starting the washing operation.

When the washing operation is started, a confirmation message asking whether or not notification is required is output to the user 6. At this time, while the control unit 41 controls the washing operation,
Monitor for instructions requiring notification. That is, the signal from the input board 23 is monitored. When the instruction requiring notification is input, the control unit 41 prompts the user to input the telephone number. The input of this instruction and the monitoring of the input of the telephone number are performed during the period from the start of the washing operation to the elapse of the input available time (S4). Then, if the notification-needed instruction and the telephone number are input before the inputtable time elapses, the control unit 41 determines that there is input. Then, the control unit 41 stores the input telephone number in the user telephone number storage area 53c in the work area 50, specifically, in the individual area for the master machine 1A (S6). When the user telephone number is stored, the control unit 41 (operation mode setting means) sets the operation mode of the master machine 1A to the notification mode (S7).

Under this notification mode, the control section 41
The remaining operation time in the master machine 1A is monitored while controlling operations such as washing specified in the processing course (S
8). Then, when the remaining operation time reaches the notification time to the user, for example, when 10 minutes remain, the pre-completion notification flag is set to the individual area for the master machine 1A in the pre-completion notification flag setting area 57a. Set (S
9). The pre-completion notification flag is referred to in a transmission process described later.

On the other hand, if the instruction requiring notification has not been input even after the available input time has elapsed, the control section 41 (operation mode setting means) sets the operation mode of the master machine 1A to the normal mode, that is, Set to non notification mode (S1
0). In this normal mode, the user 6 is not notified as usual.

Thereafter, the control device 21 controls the operations such as washing and drying, and monitors whether or not a series of operations has been completed (S11). And when the series of operations is completed,
That is, when the remaining time is 0 minutes, it is determined whether or not the notification mode is set (S12), and if it is set, the end notification flag is set to the end notification flag setting area 57b. It is set in the individual area for the master machine 1A (S13). Note that this pre-end notification flag also
It will be referred to in the transmission process described later.

Next, the interrupt processing of the master machine 1A which is performed by interrupting the above main processing will be described.
This interrupt processing includes, for example, a satellite monitoring processing (FIG. 9), an abnormality detection processing (FIG. 10), and a transmission processing (FIG. 1).
1) and is executed at predetermined intervals (for example, several ms to 0 commas and several seconds).

In the satellite monitoring process, the control unit 41
Acquires various information from each satellite machine 1B ... And the controller 9. That is, in this satellite monitoring process,
First, it is confirmed whether or not there is transmission information from each satellite machine 1B ... in ascending order of the numbers, and if there is information being transmitted, this information is received (S21). Next, the controller 9
The presence or absence of the transmission information from is confirmed, and if there is the transmitted information, this information is received (S21).

Here, as the information transmitted from each satellite machine 1B, for example, the pre-completion flag set information and the completion notice flag which are transmitted when the satellite machine 1B sets the pre-completion notice flag are set. End flag set information transmitted at the time, or its satellite device 1
This is a trouble code output when something abnormal occurs in B. Further, the information transmitted from the controller 9 is, for example, an inquiry command output when a sales amount inquiry request is made.

When the information from the satellite machine 1B or the like is received, the received information is stored in the work area 50 of the RAM (S22). For example, when the received information is the pre-completion flag set information, the pre-completion notification flag is set in the individual area of the satellite device 1B in the pre-completion notification flag setting area 57a. Similarly, if the received information is the end-time flag set information,
The end notification flag is set in the individual area of the end notification flag setting area 57b. If the received information is the inquiry command from the controller 9, the inquiry flag is set in the inquiry flag setting area 59.

In S21, the satellite machine 1B
If the information from the sales information has not been transmitted, it is determined whether the sales information acquisition timing has come (S2).
3). For example, it is determined that the acquisition timing has come when 0 minute has come every hour. The determination timing is not limited to this example and can be set arbitrarily. Then, when the acquisition timing arrives, the control device 21 acquires the sales information stored in the sales information storage area 56 of each satellite machine 1B ... And the acquired sales information is used as the master machine 1
It is stored in the sales information storage area 56 of A, more specifically, in the individual area corresponding to the satellite machine 1B (S24).

The above-mentioned abnormality detection processing is processing for detecting an abnormality in the own machine (master machine 1A). In this abnormality detection process, the presence or absence of abnormality is determined based on the detection signal from the detection sensor 25 (rotation detection sensor, water amount detection sensor, etc.) (S31). When an abnormality is detected, the trouble code corresponding to the detected abnormality is stored in the individual area for the own machine (master machine 1A) in the trouble code storage area 58 (S32).

In the above transmission process, when a notification flag or trouble code is newly set, the message code corresponding to the set flag or trouble code and the destination telephone number to be notified are used as commands. This is a process of transmitting to the controller 9. In this transmission processing, the control unit 41 firstly, the notification flag setting area 57 and the trouble code storage area 58 in the work area 50.
With reference to the contents of, the presence or absence of the newly set notification flag or trouble code is determined (S41). Then, if there is a newly set notification flag or the like, the newly set notification flag or the like is acquired (S42), and the corresponding message code and destination telephone number (user telephone number or administrator A telephone number or the like) is transmitted to the controller 9 as command information (S43). The controller 9, which has received this command information, makes a call to the telephone number specified by the command information and outputs a message by voice when the call is enabled, as described later.

Next, based on FIG. 12, the satellite machine 1
The main processing performed by the control unit 41 of B will be described. This main process is basically the same as the main process of the master machine 1A (FIG. 8). Therefore, the same processing as that of the master machine 1A is given the same step number, the description thereof is omitted, and different processing will be described.

In the satellite machine 1B, when the washing operation is started (S3) and the telephone number of the user 6 is input within the input available time (S4), the input user telephone number is the satellite machine 1B first. Stored in the work area 50 (S
6). Then, the control unit 41 of the satellite machine 1B transmits the input user telephone number to the master machine 1A (S
51). The transmitted user telephone number is received by the master machine 1A in the satellite monitoring process (S2).
1) is stored in the work area 50 of the master machine 1A (S22).

If the notification mode is set in the satellite device 1B (S7) and the remaining operating time reaches the notification time, the control unit 41 first sets the pre-completion notification flag to the work area of the satellite device 1B. It is set to 50 (S9), and thereafter, flag set information indicating that the pre-completion notification flag is set is transmitted to the master machine 1A (S52). This flag set information is also received by the master machine 1A in the satellite monitoring process (S21),
As a result, the pre-completion notification flag is set in the work area 50 of the master machine 1A (individual area of the pre-completion notification flag setting area 57a) (S22). Therefore, the master machine 1A also transmits the command information to the controller 9 by setting the pre-completion notification flag (S41 to S43).

Further, when the washing operation is completed in the notification mode, the completion notification flag is first set to the satellite device 1.
It is set in the work area 50 of B (S13), and thereafter, flag set information indicating that the end notification flag is set is transmitted to the master machine 1A (S53). Along with this, the end notification flag is set in the work area 50 of the master machine 1A (individual area of the end notification flag setting area 57b) (S22). And master machine 1
A also sends the command information to the controller 9 by setting the end notification flag (S41 to S43).

Next, the satellite machine 1B will be described with reference to FIG.
The abnormality detection processing in will be described. This abnormality detection process is performed by the master unit 1A (see FIG. 1).
The process is the same as that of 0), the presence or absence of an abnormality is detected based on the detection signal from the detection sensor 25 (S31), and if there is an abnormality, the work area 50 of the satellite machine 1B is
The corresponding trouble code is stored (S32). Then, in the abnormality detection processing of the satellite machine 1B, after storing the trouble code in the work area 50 of the own machine, the same trouble code is transmitted to the master machine 1A (S61). This trouble code is also received by the master machine 1A in the satellite monitoring process (S21), and the trouble code is stored in the work area 50 of the master machine 1A (individual area of the trouble code storage area 58) ( S
22).

Next, the operation of the controller 9 will be described. First, based on FIG. 14, a notification process for calling a destination and outputting a voice message will be described.

In this notification processing, the control section 78 of the controller 9 judges whether or not there is an abnormality based on the detection signals from the smoke detector 4, the detergent detector 11, the softener detector 12, etc. (S7).
1) and the determination as to whether notification to the user 6 is necessary based on the message code from the master machine 1A (S72) are repeated.

When the message code from the master machine 1A is received, that is, when some notification is given to the user 6, the other party is set as the user 6 (S73), and the line circuit 73 is controlled and designated. The user telephone number is called (S74). If the other party does not answer the telephone, the calling operation (S74) is repeated up to three times (S75, S76). Even if it is repeated 3 times, user 6
If is not answered, the notification is stopped and the processing of S71 and S72 is executed.

When the user 6 answers the telephone and becomes able to talk, the control unit 78 controls the voice synthesizing circuit 72 to output a synthetic sound corresponding to the message code (S7).
7). Then, the synthesized sound from the speech synthesis circuit 72 is output to the other party through the telephone line. For example, if it is a notification that the operation of the dry washing machine 1 being used is to be terminated, "This is a coin laundry XX store. The laundry will be finished in 10 minutes. Please prepare. A voice message such as "." Is output. If it was a notification at the end of operation, "This is a coin laundry ×
× Store. The laundry is finished, so please come and pick it up. A voice message such as "is output.

On the other hand, if there is an abnormality, the other party is set as the manager 7 (S78), the line circuit 73 is controlled, and the manager telephone number is called (S79). In the case of this abnormality, there is a high possibility that urgency is required, so the calling operation is repeated until the manager 7 answers the telephone (S80). Then, when the manager 7 answers the telephone and the call becomes possible, the control unit 78 controls the voice synthesizing circuit 72 to output a synthetic sound corresponding to the message code (S81). And
The synthesized sound from the speech synthesis circuit 72 is output to the other party through the telephone line. For example, if there is an abnormality based on the detection signal from the smoke detector 4, for example, "This is a coin laundry XX store. Smoke has occurred in the store. Please go to the store and check it." A voice message is output.

When there is an abnormality, if this abnormality is an abnormality of the washing machine 1, a similar voice message is output to the service center 8 in addition to the above processing. In the output processing to the service center 8, the telephone number of the other party is used as the center telephone number, and the above S78 is performed.
The process is similar to that of S81.

Next, the sales notification processing when the manager 7 calls the coin laundry to confirm the sales will be described with reference to FIG.

In this sales notification process, the control unit 78 of the controller 9 first monitors the incoming call of the outside line (S91),
When there is an incoming call, the personal computer waits for the transmission of the personal identification number (personal identification information forming a part of the inquiry instruction information of the present invention) (S92).
If the personal identification number has not been entered even after the stipulated time has elapsed, a voice message stating, "Since the personal identification number has not been entered, the line will be disconnected." Is output (S9
4) The telephone line is disconnected (S95).

On the other hand, if the administrator 7 who has called the telephone transmits the personal identification number, for example, dialing the telephone (for example,
When the personal identification number is transmitted by operating the tone signal), the control unit 78 checks whether or not the personal identification number matches the pre-stored personal identification number (S96). Here, if the transmitted personal identification number and the stored personal identification number do not match, a voice message saying "The personal identification number is different, please re-enter" is output (S97), Prompt you to re-enter your PIN. Furthermore, if different PINs are transmitted three times in a row, the telephone line is disconnected (S
95).

Then, when the transmitted personal identification number and the stored personal identification number match, it is determined that the person who made the call is the administrator 7, and the sales information is acquired (S99). ). In this acquisition process, the control unit 78 of the controller 9 communicates with the control unit 41 of the master machine 1A to acquire the sales information stored on the master machine 1A side.

For example, the controller 78 of the controller 9 is
The inquiry command (a part of the inquiry instruction information of the present invention) inputted by the dial of the telephone from the administrator 7 is translated (decoded) and transmitted to the master machine 1A. Master machine 1
The control unit 41 of A receives this inquiry command in the satellite monitoring process (S21) and sets an inquiry flag in the work area 50 (S22). Furthermore, the control unit 41 of the master machine 1A executes
Based on the set inquiry flag, the sales information in the work area 50 is read and transmitted to the controller 9 (S
43). In this case, since the telephone line is already in a callable state, the destination telephone number is not transmitted. Then, the control unit 78 of the controller 9 controls the master machine 1A.
Receives sales information sent from.

When the sales information is acquired, the controller 78 of the controller 9 outputs a voice message indicating the sales amount (S100). In this case, the control unit 78 controls the voice synthesis circuit 72 and outputs a voice message indicating the sales amount. This voice message is, for example, “Sales at a coin laundry XX store is the total of XX hours and XX minutes.
○○○○ yen. ". When the voice message of the sales amount is output, the telephone line is disconnected (S9
5).

In the coin-operated laundry having such a structure, the user 6 of the drying / washing machine 1 desires a notification by telephone (S4), and a predetermined time before the end of the processing (S8).
Then, the mobile phone of the user 6 or the telephone at home is automatically called (S74), and a voice message indicating that the processing is about to end is output (S77). Therefore, user 6
Can recognize that even if he / she is away from the coin laundry and stays at his / her office or home, the washing will be completed soon. Therefore, attention is called and the user 6 can return to the coin laundry at the end of operation of the washing machine. As a result, it is possible to collect the laundry to be washed at a timing without waste, and the operating time of the washing machine can be effectively used for other purposes. In addition, since the articles to be washed are collected at the end of the operation of the washing machine, other users who are waiting for an empty space 6
Can use the empty dry washing machine 1 immediately and eliminates the inconvenience of being kept waiting for a long time. Further, from the viewpoint of the coin laundry manager 7, it is possible to prevent the inconvenience of the laundry being left in the dry washing machine 1 for a long time, so that the operating rate can be improved and the profitability can be improved.

At the end of processing (S11),
The mobile phone of the user 6 or the telephone at home is automatically called (S74), and a voice message indicating that the processing is completed is output (S77). That is, the notification is given twice before the end and at the end. Therefore, the certainty of the notification is enhanced, and it is possible to reliably prevent the inconvenience that the laundry is left unattended for a long time.

Further, since the above notification is made by voice message, the user 6 directly hears the requirement through the telephone. Also in this respect, the certainty of the notification can be increased.

When the detergent or the like used in the coin laundry is consumed and needs to be replenished (S71) or smoke is generated in the coin laundry (S71), the manager 7's home telephone is used. Alternatively, the mobile phone is automatically called (S79), and a voice message for instructing inspection is output (S81). In this way, when an inspection or the like is needed, the instruction by the voice message can be received, so that the administrator 7 does not have to visit the coin laundry regularly, and can effectively use the time. Further, even when an emergency occurs or the operating rate sharply rises and the expendable supplies and the like sharply decrease, it is possible to quickly respond.

Further, the administrator 7 calls the coin-operated laundry, inputs the personal identification number (S91, S92), and inputs the inquiry command from the telephone (S99).
You can hear the sales amount by voice message (S10
0). As a result, the sales can be confirmed while staying at home or the like without having to go to the coin laundry to check each of the drying and washing machines 1. Therefore, the manager 7 may go to the coin laundry at an appropriate timing to collect the sales money. Also in this respect, the manager 7 can effectively use the time.

By the way, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, but various modifications can be made based on the description of the claims.

For example, as shown in FIG. 16, a part of the work area 50 of the master machine 1A is used as a usage count information storage area 60, and the usage count for each user contact is stored in this usage count information storage area 60. You may allow it.
The number-of-uses information storage area 60 is a kind of the number-of-uses information storage means of the present invention, and one individual area is provided for each user 6, that is, for each user contact.

The control unit 41 (user contact information acquisition means) stores the user contact information in the user telephone number storage area 53c.
Get this user contact, and then
Each individual area in the number-of-uses information storage area 60 is searched to determine whether the stored user contact information is already registered. Here, when the user contact information has already been registered, the control unit 41 (usage number updating means) increments the use number information stored in the corresponding individual area in the use number information storage area 60 by +1. Update. On the other hand, when the user contact information is not registered, the control unit 41 (individual area setting means)
Sets a new individual area in the usage count information storage area 60. Therefore, the number of times of use of the coin laundry user 6 is cumulatively stored for each user telephone number in each individual area of the number-of-uses information storage area 60.

The number-of-uses information stored in the number-of-uses information storage area 60 is used when the coin laundry operator returns profits to the user 6. For example,
It is used when a privilege is given to the user 6 who is frequently used.

In this case, the coin laundry manager 7
Is the control unit 4 of the master unit 1A through the input board 23.
1 is requested to output the usage count information. For example, a usage count inquiry command (a type of usage count output instruction information) is output. The control unit 41 that has received this usage count inquiry command
Functions as the number-of-uses information output unit of the present invention, and outputs the number-of-uses information stored in each individual area of the number-of-uses information storage area 60. This output may be performed by any method as long as the administrator 7 can recognize it. From the viewpoint of using data, it is preferable to print it out on a recording paper or store it in an electric storage medium (for example, a flexible disk) in a data format.

Then, the administrator grasps the frequency of use of the user 6 based on the acquired number-of-uses information and gives a privilege to the user 6 if necessary. For example, the corresponding user 6
I will contact you and send a novelty. As a result, it is possible to provide a service that promotes the use of coin laundry, which has been difficult to perform in the past, and to differentiate from other stores.

In the above embodiment, the message is output by voice, but it may be output by electronic mail. Recently, mobile phones have a high penetration rate, and many mobile phones having an electronic mail function have also become popular. Therefore, the above-mentioned notification before the end or the notification at the time of the end may be transmitted to the mobile phone by e-mail.

In this case, the user telephone number storage area 53c
The mail address (a kind of user contact information of the present invention) may be generated by adding the domain of the mobile phone company to the telephone number of the user 6 stored in the input board 23.
You may make it input a mail address from. The mail address is not limited to the mail address of the mobile phone, but may be the mail address of the Internet service provider or the like with which the user 6 has a contract.

When the controller 9 (message output means) receives the notification command from the master machine 1A,
Output a text message to the specified email address. That is, the electronic mail is transmitted. And user 6
By receiving this e-mail, the user can know that the processing of the drying and washing machine 1 used by himself is about to end, or that the processing has ended.

Further, a telephone number of a facsimile installed at home or the like may be input as a contact, and various messages may be output in a documented state.

Further, in the above embodiment, the dry washing machine 1 is described as an example of the washing apparatus of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can be applied to a washing machine or a dryer. This is the same even when the dry washing machine 1 of the present embodiment is used as a dedicated washing machine or a dedicated drying machine by changing the operation program.

The user contact address input means is used by the user 6
It can also be configured by a mobile phone owned by.
That is, since a mobile phone is generally provided with a caller number notification function, by calling the coin laundry controller 9 with the caller number notification function enabled, the controller 9 allows the user 6 You can get the phone number of your mobile phone.

[0126]

As described above, the present invention has the following effects. That is, the notification command output means acquires the operation status of the washing machine used by the user, outputs a notification command when the acquired operation status satisfies the notification determination condition, and the message output means outputs the notification command output. Based on the notification command from the means, a message indicating the operating status of the washing machine in use is output to the user contact information, so even if you leave the coin laundry and stay at your office or home, the operating status of the washing machine is automatically Is output to the user contact information. And this message prompts the user to
Even at the work place, the operating status of the washing machine can be recognized, and attention is called. As a result, it is possible to return to the coin laundry at the end of the operation of the washing machine. As a result, the user can collect the clothes to be washed at a timing without waste, and can effectively use the time during which the washing machine is operating for other purposes. Further, since the laundry to be washed is collected at the end of the operation of the washing machine, other users waiting for an empty room can immediately use the empty washing machine.
Therefore, it is possible to prevent the inconvenience of being kept waiting for a long time. Further, since the coin laundry operator can prevent the inconvenience of the laundry being left in the washing machine for a long time, the operating rate can be improved and the profitability can be increased.

A voice message indicating the operating status of the washing machine when the message output means calls the user telephone number based on the notification command from the notification command output means and the user can talk with the user. In the case of outputting the message, since the user hears the message directly by voice, the certainty of the notification can be increased.

Further, the notification command output means is configured to output the end notification command when the operation of the washing machine used by the user is completed, and the message output means is informed that the operation is completed based on the end notification command. When the end message is output, the message will be output when the washing machine finishes operating, so the user will be alerted by checking this message, and the location away from the coin laundry You can go back immediately when you are at home.

Further, the notification command output means is configured to output the notification notification command when the remaining operating time of the washing machine used by the user reaches the end notification time, and the message output means outputs the notification notification command. If the configuration is such that a notice message indicating that the operation will end after the end notice time has elapsed is output based on By confirming this message, you can call your attention and return to the timing when the operation ends even if you are away from the coin laundry.

When the end notice time can be changed, the output timing of the notice message can be changed according to the installation environment of the coin laundry, so that the convenience can be improved.

Further, when the user contact address input means is constituted by a portable small terminal device, the user can operate it at hand, which is suitable for protecting personal information.

Further, the contact command output means is configured to judge the necessity of contact based on the detection information from the device state detection means and output the contact command when contact is required,
When the message output means is configured to output an instruction message to the manager's contact information for directing to the coin laundry based on the contact instruction from the contact instruction output means, when the coin laundry needs to be inspected, etc. , As the instruction message is output to the administrator contact,
The manager can respond appropriately even if an unexpected event occurs. Also, the administrator only needs to go to the coin laundry when receiving the instruction message, so that the time can be effectively used.

Further, an instruction information recognizing means for recognizing instruction information from the outside in a state where the telephone call is possible with the outside is provided, and the instruction information recognizing means instructs the money inquiry by the instruction information from the outside. When the sales information is output when the information is the inquiry instruction information and the message output means outputs the message indicating the sales amount based on the sales information, the administrator does not have to go to the coin laundry. Can also confirm sales. Therefore, time can be used effectively.

Further, the number-of-uses information storage means for cumulatively storing the number-of-uses information obtained based on the storing operation in the user-contact-address storage means and the number-of-uses information storage means are stored in the usage-number information storage means. When the number-of-uses information output means for outputting the number-of-uses information is provided, the frequency of use of the user can be known. Then, by using the known frequency of use, it is possible to provide a service for promoting use in a coin laundry, which has been difficult to perform in the past, and to differentiate from other stores.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a coin laundry to which the present invention is applied and a contact information thereof.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a control system in the master machine.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating setting contents of a setting switch.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a work area of a RAM in the master machine.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a control system in a satellite machine.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a work area of a RAM in a satellite machine.

7A and 7B are explanatory diagrams of a controller, FIG. 7A is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a control system, and FIG. 7B is EEPRO.
It is a figure explaining the memory area of M.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a main process of a master machine.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a satellite monitoring process of the master machine.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an abnormality detection process of a master machine.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a transmission process of a master machine.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating main processing of the satellite machine.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a satellite device abnormality detection process.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a notification process of a controller.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating sales notification processing of a controller.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a usage count information storage area added in a modification.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 dry washing machine 1A master machine 1B satellite machine 2 detergent tank 3 Softener tank 4 smoke detector 5 public telephone lines 6 users 7 Owner 8 service centers 9 Controller 11 Detergent detector 12 Softener detector 21 Drying and washing machine control device 22 Operation handle 23 Input board 24 money checker 25 detection sensor 26 Setting switch 31 Rotary drum motor 32 valve device 33 Blower fan 34 Mixing damper 41 Control unit 42 external storage device 43 First Input / Output Interface 44 Second input / output interface 45 First serial interface 46 Second serial interface 50 RAM work area 51 Store name information storage area 52 PIN information storage area 53 Telephone number storage area 54 Phone number input period storage area 55 User notification time storage area 56 Sales information storage area 57 Notification flag setting area 58 Trouble code storage area 59 Inquiry flag setting area 60 Usage count storage area 71 Controller control device 72 voice synthesis circuit 73 line circuit 74 Information display section 75 serial interface 76 Speech synthesis memory 77 speakers 78 Control unit 79 EEPROM 80 First input / output interface 81 Second input / output interface 85 Store name information storage area 86 PIN information storage area 87 Administrator phone number storage area 88 Center telephone number storage area

Claims (16)

[Claims] 1. A user contact input means capable of inputting contact information of a user who uses a washing machine installed in a coin laundry, and user contact information input by the user contact input means can be stored. User contact information storage means, a message output means capable of outputting a message to a designated contact, the operating status of the washing machine used by the user is acquired, and the acquired operating status is the notification determination condition. And a notification command output means for outputting a notification command when the message is satisfied, the message output means, based on the notification command from the notification command output means, a message indicating the operating status of the washing machine in use is communicated to the user. A laundry system for coin-operated laundry, which outputs first. 2. The user contact information is a user's telephone number, and the message output unit can output a message by voice through a calling unit that can call the set telephone number. A voice output unit is provided, and the user telephone number is called based on the notification command from the notification command output unit, and a voice message indicating the operating status of the washing machine is output in a state where the user can talk with the user. The laundry system for a coin laundry according to claim 1, wherein: 3. The notification command output means outputs an end notification command when the operation of the washing machine used by the user has ended, and the message output means ends the operation based on the end notification command. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to claim 1 or 2, which outputs an end message to the effect. 4. The notice command output means outputs a notice notice command when the remaining operating time of the washing machine used by the user reaches the notice end time, and the message output means outputs the notice notice command. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a notice message indicating that the operation is finished is output after the notice time for termination is passed based on the above. 5. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to claim 4, further comprising an end notice time storage means for rewritably storing the end notice time so that the end notice time can be changed. 6. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to claim 1, wherein the user contact address input means is constituted by a portable small terminal device. 7. An administrator contact storage means capable of storing contact information of an administrator of a coin laundry, an equipment state detection means capable of detecting states of various equipments installed in the coin laundry, and an equipment state detection means A contact instruction output means for determining whether or not contact is required based on the detected information and outputting a contact instruction when contact is required, and the message output means is based on the contact instruction from the contact instruction output means. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein an instruction message for directing the laundry to the coin-operated laundry is output to the administrator contact information. 8. The equipment state detecting means is constituted by a consumable goods detecting means capable of detecting that the remaining amount of the consumable goods is below a judgment reference quantity, and the communication command output means is constituted by the consumable goods detecting means. 8. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to claim 7, wherein the consumable item shortage command is output based on the detection information of, and the message output unit outputs an instruction message for instructing to replenish the consumable item. 9. The equipment state detection means is constituted by smoke detection means capable of detecting smoke generated in a coin laundry, and the contact command output means outputs an emergency command based on detection information from the smoke detection means. 8. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to claim 7, wherein the message output means outputs an instruction message indicating that an emergency has occurred. 10. A sales storage unit capable of storing the sales amount of money by the washing machine, an incoming call unit capable of receiving an external telephone call, and an external call-enabled state from the outside. Instruction information recognition means for recognizing instruction information, wherein the instruction information recognition means outputs sales information when the instruction information from the outside is inquiry instruction information for instructing an amount inquiry, and the message output means, The coin laundry laundry system according to claim 1, wherein a message indicating a sales amount is output based on the sales information. 11. The laundry system for coin-operated laundry according to claim 10, wherein the inquiry instruction information is composed of secret code information indicating an administrator of the coin laundry and an inquiry command instructing inquiry of the amount of money. 12. A main washing device for transmitting and receiving information to and from the communication device, wherein the communication device including the message output means is configured separately from the washing device, and the main washing device. A sub-laundry device for transmitting and receiving information between the two.
The laundry system for a coin laundry according to any one of 1. 13. A number-of-uses information storage unit for cumulatively storing, for each user contact, number-of-uses information obtained based on a storage operation in the user-contact-address storage unit, and instruction information from the outside is used as the number-of-uses information. 13. Use number information output means for outputting the use number information stored in the use number information storage means when the use number output instruction information for instructing output is provided. The laundry system for a coin laundry according to any one of 1. 14. The contact information of a user who uses a washing machine installed in a coin laundry is acquired, the operating status of the washing machine used by the user is monitored, and the operating status indicates a notification determination condition. It is determined whether or not it is satisfied, and when the operating status of the washing machine satisfies the determination condition, a message indicating the operating status of the washing machine in use is output to the user contact information. Operation status notification method. 15. The notification determination condition is that the operation of the washing machine used by the user has ended, and when the notification determination condition is satisfied, a message indicating that the operation has ended is output. The method of notifying the operating status of a laundry device for a coin laundry according to claim 14. 16. The notification determination condition is that the remaining operating time of the washing machine used by the user has reached the end notice time, and when the notice determination condition is satisfied, the end notice time elapses. The method of notifying the operating status of a coin laundry washing machine according to claim 14, wherein a message indicating that the operation is completed is output.