JP6715444B2 - Washing machine communication system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a washing machine communication system in which an external database that provides various data related to operation control of a washing machine is connected via a communication network, and in particular, information corresponding to the type of detergent or softener used is washed. The present invention relates to a washing machine communication system that can be displayed on a machine.

2. Description of the Related Art A technique for connecting home electric appliances such as a washing machine to a communication network and allowing the network terminal device to check the operation status thereof has been known. There is also known a system in which a washing machine is connected to a communication network and operation control data or the like according to items to be washed can be acquired from an external database. A washing machine communication system via these communication networks is configured to handle the following situations, for example.

For example, in the case of a washer/dryer, control for washing or drying the laundry is performed according to an operation control program stored in the memory of the washer/dryer itself. The operation control program is selected from a plurality of courses that meet the needs of the user, and may be changed depending on the situation. The washing and the change of the course from a plurality of courses are performed by the user by directly operating the operation switches of the washer/dryer.

Meanwhile, in the washing and drying machine, the types of laundry are diversified, the detergents and softeners are diversified, the washing methods are diversified, and the practical knowledge in washing and drying is diversified. Therefore, in order to store various washing conditions, operation control programs, practical knowledge, etc. in the memory of the operation control means of the washer/dryer as in the conventional case, a large memory capacity is required. Providing a large-capacity memory in the washer/dryer itself causes an increase in the price of the washer/dryer. In addition, various washing conditions and practical knowledge often change over time, but it is actually difficult to frequently change the program data initially stored in the memory, and it is not possible to cope with such changes. It was a reality.

On the other hand, for example, in Patent Documents 1 and 2, it is possible to reduce the storage amount of the operation control program in the laundry machine and to simplify the operation control means such as a microcomputer and the display device. There is disclosed a laundry system capable of responding to the laundry conditions and practical knowledge of.

That is, the laundry system disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 includes a laundry machine, a home terminal, and an external data providing unit (database). The laundry machine includes a communication means for terminals in addition to an operation control means for washing or drying the laundry according to an operation control program. The home terminal includes a display unit, an input unit, a control unit, and the like, as well as a communication unit for laundry for communicating with a laundry machine, and an external communication unit for communicating with an external data providing unit. The control unit of the home terminal displays the item to be washed on the display unit, and when the item to be washed is selected by the input unit, the control data such as operation control data and various data according to the selected item to be washed is displayed. Acquired from the external data providing means and transferred to the laundry machine.

According to this laundry system, if operation control information such as control data and practical knowledge is stored in the external data supply means, by selecting an item to be washed from the home terminal, operation control information corresponding to this can be obtained. It can be captured at the home terminal and the control data can be retained in the laundry machine when needed. As a result, it is possible to reduce the amount of control data stored in the laundry machine, simplify the operation control means such as a microcomputer, and simplify the display device, and easily deal with the latest laundry conditions and practical knowledge.

Also, conventionally, a washing machine having a function of performing an operation depending on the type of detergent is known. For example, Patent Document 3 discloses a washing machine capable of setting a washing time and a rinsing time according to the detergent used. That is, the washing machine disclosed in Patent Document 3 includes a permeability detection unit that detects the permeability of the wash water and the rinse water in the wash tub, and determines the value of the permeability of the wash water before the detergent is added and the detergent. The type of the detergent introduced is determined from the value of the transmittance before the washing operation is started. Thereby, the washing time and the rinsing time can be appropriately set according to the determined detergent type.

JP 2002-85885A JP, 2003-210887, A JP-A-07-124374

In the configuration of the conventional example disclosed in Patent Document 3, only the type of detergent prepared in advance can be selected, and naturally, it cannot correspond to the newly released detergent. Further, before starting the washing operation, the type of detergent is selected by a switch operation, but there is a problem that the operability is poor because there are many types of detergent.

On the other hand, according to the laundry systems disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, various information regarding the operation control of the washing machine is provided from the external data providing means, but how the detergent type is set in the washing machine. However, there is a problem that it is inconvenient because the external data providing means must be confirmed.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine communication system in which setting information of detergents and softeners can be confirmed in a washing machine.

In order to solve the conventional problems, a washing machine communication system of the present invention is a washing machine communication system including a washing machine and a mobile terminal, wherein the washing machine includes a washing machine operation unit for setting a washing course. A washing machine control section for controlling the laundry course, a washing machine communication section for wireless communication, a washing machine display section for displaying washing information , and a washing machine storage section for storing detergent or softening agent information. and, wherein the portable terminal includes an end end display portion, information of the the terminal operation unit for setting the information of the detergent or softener are used in washing machines, the terminal operation unit set with the detergent or softener by wireless communication anda terminal communication unit that transmits, the washing machine display unit, when the information of the detergent or softener has been set at sub et beforehand said mobile terminal, displaying the information of the detergent or softener If the setting is not made on the mobile terminal, the information on the detergent or the softening agent is not displayed .

Accordingly, even when there are a plurality of persons who use one washing machine, it is possible to know whether the brand of the detergent or the softening agent is designated through the display unit of the washing machine.

The washing machine communication system of the present invention can inform the user on the display unit of the washing machine whether or not the type of detergent or softener is set.

The schematic block diagram of the washing machine communication system in Embodiment 1 of this invention. Conceptual diagram of the process during the same washing operation Configuration diagram of the same washing machine communication system Diagram showing the detergent database for each detergent brand on the same washing machine information server A diagram showing a detergent/softening agent-related setting database for each user on the washing machine information server Flowchart of the same washing machine communication system Flowchart of the same washing machine communication system Flowchart of the same washing machine communication system Flowchart of the same washing machine communication system Flowchart of the same washing machine communication system Flowchart of the same washing machine communication system Flowchart of the same washing machine communication system Diagram showing the amount of detergent/softening agent input in the washing machine Diagram showing the amount of detergent/softening agent input in the washing machine Diagram showing the amount of detergent/softening agent input in the washing machine Diagram showing the amount of detergent/softening agent input in the washing machine A diagram showing a communication instruction screen on the information terminal The figure which shows the equipment operation menu screen in the same information terminal Figure showing the detergent/softening agent setting menu screen on the same information terminal Figure showing the detergent selection screen on the same information terminal Diagram showing the detergent-related screen on the same information terminal Figure showing a softener selection screen on the same information terminal Figure showing the initial display screen on the same washing machine Figure showing the menu screen on the same washing machine Figure showing the screen for changing the number of rinses in the washing machine The figure which shows the setting initialization confirmation screen in the same washing machine The figure which shows the setting initialization confirmation screen in the same washing machine Flowchart for initializing settings in the same washing machine

A first aspect of the present invention is a washing machine communication system including a washing machine and a mobile terminal, wherein the washing machine includes a washing machine operation unit that sets a washing course, and a washing machine control unit that controls the washing course. washers communication unit for wireless communication, a washing machine display unit for displaying the washing information, and a washing machine storage unit for storing information of the detergent or softener, said portable terminal, and the end-terminal display unit, A terminal operation unit for setting information on the detergent or softener used in the washing machine, and a terminal communication unit for transmitting information on the detergent or softener set on the terminal operation unit by wireless communication, washing machine display unit, when the information of the detergent or softener has been set at sub et beforehand said mobile terminal, to display information of the detergent or softener, if not set by the mobile terminal The washing machine communication system is characterized in that the information on the detergent or the softening agent is not displayed .

Accordingly, even when there are a plurality of persons who use one washing machine, it is possible to know whether the brand of the detergent or the softening agent is designated through the display unit of the washing machine.

In a second aspect of the present invention, in particular, in the washing machine display section of the first aspect of the invention, when the type of detergent or softening agent is set in advance on the mobile terminal, the type of detergent or softening agent is designated. It is a washing machine communication system that displays that there is.

As a result, the fact that the brand of the detergent or the softening agent is designated is notified, so that even when there are a plurality of persons who use one washing machine, the user can know through the display unit of the washing machine. .. For this reason, it is possible to put an appropriate amount according to the brand being used for washing.

A third aspect of the invention is a washing machine communication system in which the washing machine operating section of the first or second aspect of the invention can initialize the information of the detergent and the softening agent stored in the washing machine storage section. ..

Thus, even if the information set in the washing machine is desired to be initialized but cannot be initialized through the mobile terminal for some reason, it can be easily initialized.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to this embodiment.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a washing machine communication system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. This system includes a washing machine 1, which is an electric device, an information terminal 10, and a server 300.

A device capable of communicating with a reader/writer by an RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) or an NFC (Near Field Communication). The washing machine 1 communicates with the information terminal 10 via short-range wireless communication via the loop antenna 27. The washing operation of the washing machine 1 is a washing operation of immersing clothes in washing water and rotating the washing tub to remove dirt, a rinsing operation of rinsing clothes soaked in detergent water with water, and dehydration of clothes containing water. It is configured to include at least one of a driving operation and a drying operation of applying warm air to dry the clothes. Then, each operation is to further perform various steps. For example, in the case of a washing operation, a cloth amount determination process, a detergent amount display process, a water supply process, a push washing process, a rice rinsing process...

FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of steps during the washing operation in the first embodiment of the present invention. This washing operation is an operation for executing each operation (washing, rinsing, dehydration, and drying).

The information terminal 10 is composed of, for example, a communication device such as a mobile phone, communicates with the washing machine 1 using short-range wireless communication via the loop antenna 106, and is communicably connected to the server 300 via the network 200. Has been done. The information terminal 10 may be any device as long as it has a reader/writer capable of communicating with the RFID or NFC of the washing machine 1, but a portable device is more preferable.

The server 300 is composed of a known server computer and the like, and is communicatively connected to the information terminal 10 via the network 200.

FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of the washing machine communication system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

The information terminal 10 includes a first communication unit 101 (terminal communication unit), a second communication unit 102, a notification unit 103 (terminal display unit), an operation unit 104 (terminal operation unit), a control unit 105, and a loop antenna 106.

The first communication unit 101 communicates with the washing machine 1 by using near field communication via the loop antenna 106.

The loop antenna 106 is an antenna for performing near field communication. In the present embodiment, high-frequency RFID or NFC that uses, for example, the 13.56 MHz band is assumed as the near field communication, but the present invention is not limited to this frequency band. The frequency band of close proximity wireless communication may be the UHF band of 90 MHz to 1 GHz or the frequency band exceeding the 2 GHz band.

The proximity wireless communication has a short communication distance, and it is necessary to bring the loop antennas of two wireless communication devices that perform communication close to each other. A mark indicating the position of the loop antenna is attached to the surface of the wireless communication device on which the loop antenna is mounted, and the user brings the marks of the two wireless communication devices close to each other, and the mark is displayed between the two wireless communication devices. To communicate. Since the RFID built into the mobile phone cannot increase the power output to the loop antenna, it is necessary to align the loop antennas in units of several mm, for example, and it is necessary to bring the loop antennas close to each other accurately. is there.

When a current is passed through the loop antenna 106 by the first communication means of the information terminal 10, a magnetic flux passing through the loop antenna 106 is generated. When the loop antenna 106 and the loop antenna 27 of the washing machine 1 are sufficiently close to each other, the magnetic flux passing through the loop antenna 106 passes through the loop antenna 27 of the washing machine 1. As a result, the loop antenna 27 and the loop antenna 106 are magnetically coupled. When the first communication means of the information terminal 10 changes the current of the loop antenna 106, the magnetic flux passing through the loop antenna 106 changes, and the magnetic flux passing through the loop antenna 27 also changes accordingly, and the communication means 22 of the washing machine 1 changes. Information is transmitted from the information terminal 10 to the washing machine 1 by detecting the change by the (washing machine communication unit).

Further, by changing the load impedance of the feeding point of the loop antenna 27 by the communication means 22 of the washing machine 1, the magnetic flux passing through the loop antenna 27 changes. This change in the magnetic flux results in a change in the current flowing through the loop antenna of the loop antenna 106. Therefore, when the first communication means of the information terminal 10 detects the change in the current, information from the washing machine 1 to the information terminal 10 is transferred. The transmission is done.

As described above, the transmission and reception of the washing machine 1 and the information terminal 10 are realized by the magnetic coupling between the loop antenna 106 and the loop antenna 27, and the generation of the magnetic flux for the magnetic coupling is generated by the information terminal 10. Since it is realized by feeding power to the loop antenna 106 and the output of the feeding cannot be increased, it is necessary to bring the loop antenna 106 and the loop antenna 27 close to each other.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the first communication unit 101 communicates with the washing machine 1 using the short-range wireless communication via the loop antenna 106, but the present invention is not particularly limited to this. Other wireless communication using radio waves or light other than the distance wireless communication may be used.

The second communication unit 102 communicates with the server 300 using the network 200.
The network 200 is, for example, a mobile communication network.

The notification unit 103 instructs the user to display a screen for the user to select and set the detergent or softener used in the washing machine 1 and to send information about the set detergent or softener to the washing machine 1. And a communication instruction screen to be displayed. The operation means 104 is composed of, for example, a touch panel or operation keys, receives an input operation by a user, and is used for an input operation on a screen for selecting and setting a brand of a detergent or a softening agent displayed by the notification means 103. ..

The control unit 105 controls the entire information terminal 10 and includes a display control unit 105a, a first communication control unit 105b, and a second communication control unit 105c.

The display control unit 105a switches the display screen displayed on the notification unit 103. For example, after the selection/setting on the screen for selecting/setting the detergent or the softener is completed, the screen is switched to the communication instruction screen. The first communication control unit 105b controls the first communication unit 101. The second communication control unit 105c controls the second communication unit 102.

In the present embodiment, the communication instruction screen is a screen for instructing the user to bring the first communication unit 101 and the washing machine 1 closer to each other so that the first communication unit 101 and the washing machine 1 communicate with each other. is there. The first communication unit 101 transmits information about the detergent or the softening agent to the washing machine 1 after the first communication unit 101 and the washing machine 1 are close to each other in a communicable distance.

The second communication unit 102 receives the wording to be displayed which is determined by the server 300. The wording to be displayed is the wording output to the screen for allowing the user to select and set the detergent or softener used in the washing machine 1, or the setting of the detergent or softener already selected is output to the screen. Or a word that instructs the user to bring the washing machine 1 and the information terminal 10 close to each other. The second communication unit 102 further receives information determined by the server 300 to be transmitted to the washing machine 1. The information to be transmitted to the washing machine 1 is information used for controlling and displaying the washing machine 1 corresponding to the detergent or softener selected by the user.

The washing machine 1 includes washing/rinsing, dehydration/drying means 21 (hereinafter referred to as washing means 21) for performing washing, rinsing, dehydration, drying, etc., which are the original functions of the washing machine, a communication means 22, a control means 23, The storage means 24, the operation means 25 (washing machine operation section), the display means 26 (washing machine display section), and the loop antenna 27 are provided.

The washing means 21 realizes each function of washing, rinsing, dehydration, and drying, and is a motor for rotating a washing tub, a water supply valve for adjusting a water supply amount, a drain valve for draining water, and a circulation of washing and rinsing water. It is composed of a circulation pump for causing the bath water, a pass pump used for drawing the bath water into the washing machine 1, a heater for generating warm air for drying, a sending fan for circulating the pump, and the like.

The communication means 22 bidirectionally transmits and receives various kinds of information to and from the information terminal 10 through close proximity wireless communication via the loop antenna 27. The loop antenna 27 is an antenna for performing near field communication. The communication unit 22 corresponds to an example of the receiving unit and the transmitting unit.

The control means 23 is a microcomputer, and is provided with a memory (not shown) that stores programs and data created in advance for causing the washing machine 1 to function.

The process management unit 23a manages the process performed in each operation (washing, rinsing, dehydration, and drying) and controls the washing means 21. Controlling the washing means 21 means controlling the rotation of the motor while detecting the shaking of the washing tub, detecting the water level supplied to the washing tub to open and close the water supply valve, open and close the drain valve, and control the temperature. It is to turn on/off the heater while detecting the temperature of the wind.

The control unit 23 includes a cloth amount detection unit 23d that controls the washing unit 21 to detect the amount of clothes put into the washing machine. The cloth amount detection unit 23d controls the washing means 21 to drive a motor that rotates the laundry tub into which the clothes have been loaded with a constant torque, and monitors the number of rotations of the laundry tub to detect the clothes loaded into the laundry tub. Detect the amount. The method for detecting the amount of clothes is not particularly limited to the above method, and it is sufficient that the amount of clothes put into the washing machine can be detected. A method of observing the displacement speed of the water level in the washing tub at the time of water supply or a method of using a weight scale provided in a mechanical component for indicating the washing tub may be used.

The control unit 23 includes a water level determination unit 23b that determines the water level to be supplied to the washing tub during the washing operation. The water level determination unit 23b determines the water level based on the amount of clothes detected by the cloth amount detection unit 23d. If the amount of cloth is large, raise the water level, and if the amount is small, lower the water level. By doing so, it is possible to obtain the required cleaning performance and rinsing performance according to the clothes thrown into the washing machine 1 without using water unnecessarily. Further, when the user has instructed the water level setting by the operation means 25, the water level determination unit 23b follows the water level setting.

The response content determination unit 23c is a processing unit that, when receiving an inquiry about the washing machine specifying information from the information terminal 10 via the communication unit 22, determines the response content to the inquiry. When a signal for inquiring information about the washing machine 1 such as the current state of the washing machine main body of the washing machine 1 is received, the processing unit determines the response content to the inquiry signal.

The storage unit 24 includes a washing machine specific information storage unit 24a, a detergent amount display data storage unit 24b, a softener amount display data storage unit 24c, and a rinse count setting storage unit 24d.

The washing machine specifying information storage unit 24a stores in advance the washing machine specifying information for specifying the washing machine 1, such as the model number and serial number of the washing machine 1. The washing machine specifying information is stored in advance at the time of manufacturing or the like.

The detergent amount display data storage means 24b stores the amount of detergent to be added to the detergent designated by the user on the information terminal 10 based on the water level determined by the water level determination unit 23b when washing with the washing machine 1. Store information to make decisions.

In the softener amount display data storage means 24c, the softener which is specified by the user in the information terminal 10 and which should be put into the softener based on the water level determined by the water level determination unit 23b when washing in the washing machine 1. Information for determining the dose is stored.

The rinsing number setting storage means 24d stores how many times the washing machine 1 performs rinsing at the time of washing. The process control unit 23a determines how many times to perform rinsing in the rinsing operation described in FIG. 2 based on the information stored in the rinsing number setting storage unit 24d, and controls the washing unit 21.

The operation unit 25 is composed of, for example, operation buttons and receives an input operation by the user.

The display unit 26 is composed of, for example, a 7-segment LED, and digitally displays the water level setting, the washing time, the number of rinses, the dehydration time, the detergent amount display, the softener amount display, the remaining time, the reserved time, and the like. Here, the operation unit 25 is an operation button and the display unit 26 is a display corresponding to a 7-segment LED, but the display is not limited to this.

The display means 26 may be composed of a liquid crystal panel, and the operation means 25 may be composed of a touch panel. If the display means 26 is composed of a dot matrix type liquid crystal panel and a part or all of the operation means 25 is composed of a touch panel combined with this liquid crystal panel, information can be given to the user by using sentences, photographs, figures and the like. It is possible to display the buttons for presenting the options as a figure on the liquid crystal panel while providing the above, and to detect the selection by the user of the button area on the touch panel. This makes it possible to provide more intuitive and easy-to-understand information provision and operation means.

The server 300 includes a communication unit 301, a storage unit 302, and a control unit 303.

The communication unit 301 communicates with the information terminal 10 using the network 200.

The storage unit 302 stores the menu screen displayed on the information terminal 10 for each product of the washing machine 1. Further, the storage unit 302 stores the types of detergents and softeners displayed on the information terminal 10, and the amounts of detergents and softeners to be added to the reference amount of cloth for each type (information necessary for washing operation). And information on the number of times of rinsing recommended for each type of detergent depending on the characteristics of the detergent (information necessary for washing operation) are stored.

The control unit 303 includes a CPU and the like, controls the operation of the communication unit 301, and communicates with the information terminal 10 based on the information received via the communication unit 301 and the information stored in the storage unit 302. Generate information to be sent via.

Next, the operation of the electric device according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. 6 to 12 are flowcharts of the washing machine communication system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 6 to 11 are for explaining the operation of selecting and setting the detergent and/or the softening agent by the user, and FIG. 12 is the operation of the washing machine for the set detergent and/or the softening agent. It is for explaining.

6 will be described.

First, in step S601, the control unit 105 of the information terminal 10 activates an application for displaying a screen for controlling the washing machine 1 on the notification unit 103. At this time, the operation unit 104 receives a user's instruction to start the application. The control unit 105 activates the application based on the accepted activation instruction.

Next, in step S602, the display control unit 105a displays a screen for allowing the user to input the user information. The user information is information including an ID number for identifying the user and a password, and is information set by the user before this step and recorded in the server 300. The notification means 103 of the information terminal 10 displays a screen for inputting the ID number and password, and the user inputs the ID number and password through the operation means 104.

Next, in step S603, the information terminal 10 transmits the input ID number and password to the server 300.

The server 300 receives the transmitted ID number and password in step S631, compares the ID number and password previously recorded in the server 300 in step S632 with the one received in step S631, and determines whether they match. Whether or not the user is a pre-registered user is authenticated depending on whether or not the result is transmitted to the information terminal 10 in step S633.

The information terminal 10 receives the authentication result for the user in step S604, returns to step S606 if the authentication result is OK in step S605, returns to step S602 if authentication is not performed, and uses it. The user information input screen is displayed again, and the user is prompted to enter the correct ID number and password again.

Next, in step S606, a communication instruction screen for instructing the user to bring the first communication unit 101 and the washing machine 1 into close proximity so that the first communication unit 101 and the washing machine 1 communicate with each other is displayed. The notification means 103 is controlled. The notification means 103 displays a communication instruction screen. In addition, more specifically, the communication instruction screen is a screen for instructing the user to bring the loop antenna 106 of the information terminal 10 and the loop antenna 27 of the washing machine 1 close to each other. Further, the communication instruction screen is stored in advance in a storage unit (not shown) included in the information terminal 10, and the display control unit 105a reads the communication instruction screen from the storage unit and displays it.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a communication instruction screen on the information terminal according to the first embodiment.

In the communication instruction screen G1 shown in FIG. 17, for example, a message “Please touch a compatible home appliance” is displayed. The communication instruction screen G1 is a screen that guides the user to bring the information terminal 10 closer to the washing machine 1. When the communication instruction screen G1 is displayed on the notification means 103 of the information terminal 10, the user can set the loop antenna of the information terminal 10 so that the communication distance between the information terminal 10 and the washing machine 1 is close to each other. 106 and the loop antenna 27 of the washing machine 1 are brought close to each other.

The use of close proximity wireless communication in which the user can perform communication by bringing the loop antenna 106 of the information terminal 10 and the loop antenna 27 of the washing machine 1 close to each other requires the user's operation during communication, The feature is that the user clearly selects the target. Thus, even if the user owns a plurality of devices to be operated, it is possible to intuitively specify the device to be operated.

Next, in step S607, the first communication control unit 105b sends to the washing machine 1 request information requesting the washing machine identification information for identifying the washing machine 1 after the communication instruction screen is displayed on the notification unit 103. The first communication means 101 is controlled to transmit. The first communication unit 101 transmits the request information to the washing machine 1 after the communication instruction screen is displayed on the notification unit 103. The first communication unit 101 starts transmitting the request information to the washing machine 1 in synchronization with the display of the communication instruction screen on the notification unit 103.

Next, in step S671, the communication unit 22 of the washing machine 1 is transmitted by the first communication unit 101 of the information terminal 10 after being brought close to the communicable distance between the first communication unit 101 and the washing machine 1. Receive request information.

Next, in step S672, the response content determination unit 23c of the washing machine 1 reads the washing machine specifying information from the washing machine specifying information storage unit 24a.

Next, in step S673, the response content determination unit 23c controls the communication unit 22 to transmit the washing machine specifying information to the information terminal 10. The communication unit 22 transmits the washing machine specifying information to the information terminal 10. The request information includes address information for specifying the information terminal 10, and the communication unit 22 transmits the washing machine specifying information to the information terminal 10 based on the address information included in the request information.

In addition, the response content determination unit 23c may transmit the state information such as the usage history and the error information of the washing machine 1 to the information terminal 10 together with the washing machine specifying information. The error information is detected, for example, by monitoring the load state of the motor, the heater, etc., and the sensing information of the water level sensor and the temperature sensor by the washing means 21.

Next, in step S608, the first communication unit 101 of the information terminal 10 receives the washing machine identification information transmitted by the communication unit 22 of the washing machine 1.

The processing after step S608 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S701, the second communication control unit 105c controls the second communication unit 102 so as to transmit the washing machine specifying information received by the first communication unit 101 to the server 300. The second communication unit 102 transmits the washing machine specifying information received by the first communication unit 101 to the server 300. The washing machine identification information transmitted by the washing machine 1 is transmitted together with the address information for identifying the server 300, and the second communication unit 102 is based on the address information transmitted together with the washing machine identification information. Is transmitted to the server 300.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the address information for identifying the server 300 is transmitted together with the washing machine identification information transmitted by the washing machine 1, but the present invention is not particularly limited to this, and the information terminal 10 operates as a server. Address information for specifying 300 may be stored.

Next, in step S711, the communication unit 301 of the server 300 receives the washing machine specifying information transmitted by the second communication unit 102 of the information terminal 10.

Next, in step S712, the control unit 303 creates menu screen information corresponding to the washing machine 1 specified by the washing machine specifying information. Here, the control unit 303 reads from the storage unit 302 a menu screen corresponding to the washing machine 1 specified by the washing machine specifying information.

Next, in step S713, the communication unit 301 transmits menu screen information for displaying a menu screen specific to the washing machine 1 to the information terminal 10.

Next, in step S702, the second communication unit 102 of the information terminal 10 receives the menu screen information transmitted by the communication unit 301 of the server 300.

Next, in step S703, the display control unit 105a switches the display screen to the menu screen based on the menu screen information received by the second communication unit 102. The notification unit 103 displays the menu screen based on the menu screen information received by the second communication unit 102.

In the above, regarding the display of the menu screen of the electric device, the method of specifying the electric device by transmitting the request information from the information terminal 10 to the electric device and transmitting the response from the electric device to the request is described. However, the method is not limited to this. For example, the information terminal 10 acquires the list information of the menu screen unique to each available electric device with respect to the server 300 after the user authentication is completed in step S605 of FIG. 6, and notifies the list. The information terminal 10 transmits to the server 300 which list has been selected by the user selecting the washing machine displayed on the means 103 and using the operating means 104. The second communication unit 102 receives the menu screen information transmitted by the communication unit 301 of the server 300 (step S702), and the display control unit 105a displays based on the menu screen information received by the second communication unit 102. The screen may be switched to the menu screen (step S703). In this way, the menu screen can be displayed without causing the information terminal 10 and the washing machine 1 to communicate with each other in order to display the menu screen.

While the menu screen is displayed, the operation unit 104 receives the selection of the item displayed on the menu screen by the user, displays the screen according to the selected item, and performs the laundry according to the selected item. The control of the machine 1 is performed.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a device operation menu screen on the information terminal according to the first embodiment.

On the menu screen G2 shown in FIG. 18, a product name 50 representing the product name and product number of the washing machine 1 is displayed.
1. Eco information display button 502 for displaying information about the energy saving state of the washing machine 1, support information display button 503 for displaying support information of the washing machine 1, status confirmation display for inquiring the current state of the washing machine body A button 504 and a setting display button 505 for setting detergent and softening agent information (information necessary for washing) of the washing machine are displayed.

The eco information display button 502, the support information display button 503, the status confirmation display button 504, and the setting display button 505 can be selected via the operation unit 104. When the eco information display button 502 is selected, a screen showing information regarding energy saving such as power consumption of the washing machine 1 is displayed, and when the support information display button 503 is selected, information for supporting the washing machine 1 is displayed. When the screen for displaying is displayed and the status confirmation display button 504 is selected, a communication instruction screen for allowing the information terminal 10 and the washing machine 1 to communicate in order to inquire about the current state of the washing machine body is displayed.

The items displayed on the menu screen G2 are not limited to the items shown in FIG. 18, and various items can be displayed.

The description of the flowchart of FIG. 7 will be resumed. When the setting display button 505 is accepted on the menu screen G2 of FIG. 18 in step S704, the setting explanation screen is displayed on the information terminal 10 in the next step S705. Although the setting explanation screen is not shown in particular, it is an explanation screen that describes the method of setting the detergent and the softening agent to the user, and after confirming the explanation contents, the user accepts the shift to the next step. Has a button.

When the shift to the next step is accepted as an instruction from the user (step S706), a request for setting screen information is transmitted to the server 300 in step S707.

In the server 300, after receiving the setting screen information request from the information terminal 10 in step S771, the setting contents regarding the detergent and the softening agent stored in the storage unit 302 for each user are read out in step S772, and the information terminal Setting screen information to be displayed in 10 is created and transmitted to the information terminal in step S773.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a detergent/softening agent-related setting database for each user on the washing machine information server according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. One line is shown for each user. For example, for the user A, the detergent is stored as the detergent A, the softener is the softener A, and the rinsing frequency is stored twice as the set value. Become. The user is specified by the ID number for specifying the user, which is input by the user in step S602 of the flowchart of FIG.

The information terminal 10 displays the setting screen based on the setting screen information transmitted from the server 300 in step S708.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a detergent selection screen on the information terminal according to the first embodiment.

The screen G4 shown in FIG. 19 displays a detergent brand set by the user in the past, and a button 701 for calling a screen for selecting a detergent brand when selected, and a softener brand similarly. , A button 703 which calls a screen for selecting a brand of the softening agent when selected, a display 702 which displays a setting of how many times the rinsing is performed in the washing operation, and information related to the detergent and the softening agent are washed. A button 704 for executing processing for setting the machine 1.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the process on the screen G4.

When the button 704 for setting the information relating to the detergent and the softening agent in the washing machine 1 is selected in the washing machine 1 in step S801, the process proceeds to the process described in the flowchart of FIG. Next, when the button 701 is selected to select the brand of detergent in step S802, the process shifts to the process described in the flowchart of FIG. Next, when the button 703 for selecting the brand of the softening agent is selected in step S803, the process proceeds to the process for selecting the brand of the softening agent, which is almost the same as the process when selecting the brand of the detergent. Therefore, the flow chart will not be described in this embodiment.

A series of processes for setting the brand of the detergent will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S1001, the information terminal 10 transmits a request for displaying the detergent setting screen.

The server 300 receives the request for the detergent setting screen from the information terminal 10 in step S1011 and generates the detergent setting screen information in step S1012. The detergent setting screen information is generated from the information on the detergent brand database recorded in the storage unit 302 and the information on the selected detergent brand setting database recorded for each user.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a detergent database for each detergent brand on the washing machine information server according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. For each detergent setting, the detergent name, the coefficient of the amount of detergent to be added to the reference water amount, and the number of rinses recommended for the detergent brand are recorded. Since this database is recorded in the server 300, even if a detergent is newly released, by modifying the database of the server 300, it is possible to easily cope with the entire washing machine communication system.

The amount of detergent to be added in the washing operation will be described. If the amount of detergent to be added at the time of washing is too large, a large amount of bubbles may be generated and overflow from the washing machine. In addition, there is a risk of overflow from the drain when draining. Further, if dehydration is performed in a state where a large amount of bubbles are generated, there is also a problem that the load of the motor applied during dehydration increases. On the other hand, if the amount of detergent is too small, there is a problem that proper cleaning performance cannot be obtained.

In order to avoid the above problems, it is necessary to add an appropriate amount of detergent, but the appropriate amount depends on the amount of water in the washing machine when the detergent is added. In the case of a drum type washing machine, since the amount of water used is small, excessive foaming may occur especially when a large amount of detergent is added. Many detergent packages have a label indicating the proper dosage, but it assumes a certain amount of water and displays the appropriate amount by weight for that amount of water. However, even if it is displayed by weight, it is not easy to measure the weight at each washing, so it is recommended to include a measuring instrument such as a spoon in the detergent and also display the number of cups with the measuring instrument. It is common. Since different sizes of detergents are included in different kinds of detergents, the display of the number of cups differs depending on the detergents even if the standard amount of water is the same.

The detergent dose coefficient for the standard water amount in Fig. 4 is a coefficient for properly displaying the number of cups for each detergent in the washing machine, and for the standard water amount, the meter attached to the detergent is used. Indicates how many bowls are appropriate. In the example of FIG. 4, the detergent input coefficient with respect to the standard amount of water for the detergent A is 100, which is 100/100=1 cup with the measuring instrument included in the detergent with respect to the standard amount of water. It indicates that the addition is appropriate, and since the coefficient of the detergent C is 80, it indicates that the addition of 80/100=0.8 cup is appropriate.

Note that FIG. 4 is an example of a database for detergents, and in the present embodiment, a similar database is also provided for softeners (not shown. Note that information on the recommended number of rinses is stored in the softener database. Unnecessary).

As described above, the user specifies the brand of the detergent or the softening agent on the information terminal 10 and transmits the coefficient of the detergent or the softening agent stored in the server 300 to the washing machine 1 to determine the amount of the detergent. It is possible to set information necessary for washing operation, such as the amount of softening agent and the number of rinses.

The server 300 transmits the detergent setting screen information generated in step S1012 to the information terminal 10 in step S1013.

After receiving the detergent setting screen information in step S1002, the information terminal displays the detergent setting screen information in step S1003.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a detergent selection screen on the information terminal according to the first embodiment. On the screen G5, a detergent name of each detergent brand stored in the server 300 and a button for selecting the detergent are displayed. When the detergent A is selected, the button 801 is selected, and when the detergent B is selected, the button 802 is selected by using the operation means of the information terminal 10. In the screen G5 of this example, only the button 801 is painted out among the buttons for selecting a detergent, which indicates that the detergent currently selected by the user is the detergent A.

When the user selects another button in step S1004 in the flowchart of FIG. 10, the process proceeds to step 1005 and the detergent selection display is changed. For example, when the user selects the button 802 on the screen G5, the button 801 becomes a display similar to that of other detergents, and the button 802 becomes a filled display instead.

If the screen G5 does not contain the detergent used by the user, the button 803 is selected. The button 804 is selected when the information regarding the detergent of the user stored in the server 300 is returned to the initial setting.

When the button 805 is selected on the screen G5 in FIG. 20, it means that the detergent setting operation on the screen G5 is completed and the detergent is determined. If there is a detergent determining operation in step S1006 of the flowchart of FIG. 10, the process is the same as the process proceeds to the next step S1007. If the detergent determination operation is not particularly performed in step S1006, the process returns to step S1004, and the display of the detergent setting screen and the process of accepting the operation by the user are continued.

The information terminal 10 transmits the information specifying the detergent selected in step S1007 to the server 300, the server 300 receives the information in step S1071, and the detergent information is stored in step S1072 for each user in the storage unit 302. The information to be displayed on the information terminal 10 in relation to the detergent selected in step S1073 is transmitted. The information terminal 10 receives the information in step S1008, and displays the information in step S1009.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a detergent-related screen on the information terminal according to the first embodiment, which is an example of the selected detergent-related screen displayed in step S1009 of the flowchart of FIG. The screen G6 shown in FIG. 21 includes a display 901 indicating that the number of rinses recommended by the detergent manufacturer is one, and a display asking the user whether or not the number of rinses should be one recommended. 902, and a rinse once setting button 904 and a twice setting button 903 as buttons to be selected by the user.

FIG. 11 is a processing flow chart when the detergent selected by the user is recommended once for rinsing.

The one-time rinsing recommended detergent is a detergent with good defoaming, and the detergent that requires two rinsing steps is the mainstream in normal washing operation, whereas the rinsing solution can be used only once if the rinsing is performed once. Rinsing is possible. The basic operation of the washing machine 1 is to repeat the rinsing process twice in accordance with many detergents that require two rinsing processes. In the example of the diagram of the washing process in FIG. 2, the rinsing operation is repeated twice for the rinsing times. On the other hand, with the one-time rinsing recommended detergent, it is recommended that the rinsing is repeated once.

Therefore, when the user selects the one-time rinsing recommended detergent, a screen for displaying the recommended rinsing frequency to the user and selecting how many times rinsing is performed is displayed in step S1009 in relation to the detergent-related information terminal. It is displayed as information to be displayed in 10.

After the screen G6 shown in FIG. 21 is displayed, in step S1101, the process continues to wait until the user selects the number of rinses.

When the user selects the rinsing frequency on the information terminal 10, the rinsing frequency information selected in step S1102 is transmitted to the server 300.

After receiving the selection information of the number of rinses in step S1121, the server 300 updates and stores the information of the number of rinses in the detergent/softening agent-related setting database for each user in the storage unit 302 in step S1122. Then, the transmission for notifying that the reception of the rinse count information is completed is performed in step S1123. In the information terminal 10, after receiving the reception completion notification of the rinse count information from the server 300 in step S1103, the process proceeds to step S707 of the flowchart in FIG.

Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 8, a process when the setting change of the softening agent is received in step S803 will be described. The basic processing flow is the same as the detergent setting flow described with reference to FIG. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a softener selection screen in the information terminal according to the first embodiment. After accepting the setting change of the softener, the softener displayed on the information terminal 10 is selected and set. It is an example of a screen for changing.

Similar to the screen G5 of FIG. 20 for the detergent, the screen G7 displays the softener name of each softener brand stored in the server 300 and a button for selecting the softener. When selecting the softening agent A, the button 1001 is selected, and when selecting the softening agent B, the button 1002 is selected using the operating means of the information terminal 10. On the screen G7 of this example, only the button 1001 is filled in among the softener selection buttons, which indicates that the softener currently selected by the user is the softener A. When the user selects another button, the softener selection display is changed. For example, when the user selects the button 1002 on the screen G7, the button 1001 becomes a display similar to that of other softening agents, and the button 1002 becomes a filled display instead.

If there is no softening agent used by the user on the screen G7, the button 1003 is selected. The button 1004 is selected when the information regarding the softener of the user stored in the server 300 is returned to the initial setting.

When the button 1005 is selected on the screen G7 in FIG. 22, it means that the softener setting operation on the screen G7 is completed and the detergent is determined.

Next, with reference to FIG. 9, a process of setting the detergent and the softening agent set by the user and the setting of the number of rinses determined in association with the detergent in the washing machine 1 will be described. This process is executed when it is accepted in step S801 in FIG. 8 to transfer the detergent and softener-related settings to the washing machine 1. In other words, it is the processing when the button 704 is selected on the screen G4 of FIG.

First, the information terminal 10 performs transmission in step S901 in order to request the server 300 to generate a setting command to be transmitted in order to carry out setting in the washing machine 1.

When the server 300 receives the request to generate the setting command in step S911, the server 300 generates the setting command in step S912. The setting command includes a parameter indicating the coefficient of the dosage for the detergent brand selected by the user, the setting of the number of rinses additionally selected when the detergent is selected, and the coefficient for the dosage of the softener brand selected by the user. Be done. Next, in step S913, the setting command generated in step S912 is transmitted to the information terminal 10.

After receiving the setting command in step S902, the information terminal 10 displays a screen instructing the user to bring the washing machine 1 and the information terminal 10 closer to each other in step S903 to enable communication. After that, the information terminal 10 transmits a setting command to the washing machine 1.

When the washing machine 1 receives the setting command in step S941, the storage unit 24 stores the information included in the command in step S942. The coefficient of the input amount for the detergent brand selected by the user is stored in the detergent amount display data storage means 24b, and the rinse count setting additionally selected when the detergent is selected is stored in the rinse count setting storage means 24d. The coefficient of the input amount for the agent brand is stored in the softener amount display data storage means 24c. Next, in step S943, the information terminal 10 is transmitted to notify that the reception of the setting command is completed.

After receiving the command reception completion notice from the washing machine 1 in step S905, the information terminal 10 displays a screen notifying the user that the setting is completed (step S906). As a result, the process of setting the information related to the detergent and the softening agent by the user in the washing machine 1 is completed.

The information stored in the detergent/softening agent-related setting database for each user in the storage unit 302 is stored in the server from the information terminal 10 immediately after the user selects the detergent or the softening agent and/or immediately after selecting the rinsing frequency. Immediately after the communication to 300, it is not limited to this. For example, it may be after communication from the information terminal 10 to the server 300 after selecting the detergent and softener set by the user and selecting to set the washing machine 1. Alternatively, a flow for transmitting a notification that the setting to the washing machine 1 is completed from the information terminal 10 to the server 300 is added, and after the server 300 receives the notification that the setting to the washing machine 1 is completed, the storage unit It may be stored in the detergent/softening agent-related setting database 302 for each user. Since the setting of the detergent and the softening agent is updated by the user setting the washing machine 1, the setting of the detergent and the softening agent for each user of the washing machine 1 and the server 300 may be the same. it can.

Next, with reference to FIG. 12, a process of using the information related to the detergent and the softening agent set in the washing machine 1 during the washing operation will be described.

The user turns on the washing machine 1 to start the processing.

First, in step S1201, processing for the user to set the washing operation in the washing machine 1 using the display means 26 and the operation means 25 is performed. Specific examples of settings related to the washing operation include designation of a course in which the washing operation is significantly changed, designation of time for washing in the set course, designation of rinsing frequency, designation of dehydration time, presence/absence of a drying process, and the like. Designation of time, designation of water level to determine the amount of water used at the time of washing, etc.

When the user has instructed the operation start by the operation means 25 in step S1202, a step for determining the amount of cloth is executed in the next step S1203. The cloth amount determination operation is performed by controlling the washing unit 21 by the cloth amount detection unit 23d of the control unit 23.

When the implementation of the cloth amount determination step in step S1203 is completed, the process branches depending on whether or not the water level is designated in step S1204. If the water level has been specified by the user in step S1201 before acceptance of the start of operation, the process proceeds to step S1205, and the specified water level is set as the water level during the washing operation. If the water level has not been designated, the process proceeds to step S1206, and the water level is determined according to the amount of laundry put into the washing machine 1 determined in step S1203. When the amount of cloth is small, the water level is lowered, and when the amount is large, the water level is raised to determine the water level to minimize the amount of water used while ensuring the required cleaning and rinsing performance. ..

Next, in step S1207, the process branches depending on whether or not the detergent amount display data storage means 24b stores the detergent amount information for the detergent designated by the user. Whether the information is stored or not, the process branches depending on whether the softener amount display data storage means 24c stores the softener amount information for the softener designated by the user. (Step S1208 and step S1209). As a result, when both the detergent amount information and the softener amount information are stored, the detergent and softener display D1 is displayed in step S1211. If there is detergent amount information and no soft material information, display D2 is displayed in step S1210. If there is no detergent amount information and softener amount information, display D3 is displayed in step S1212, and detergent amount information. If neither the softener amount information is stored, the display D4 is displayed in step S1213.

After displaying the input amount (steps S1210 to S1213) for a predetermined time, the actual washing operation such as washing and rinsing is performed in step S1214, and then the operation is finished.

The input amount display from step S1210 to step S1213 will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 16 are views showing a detergent/softening agent input amount display in the washing machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that these displays are performed by the display means 26 of the washing machine 1.

FIG. 13 is an example of display D1 in step S1211 in the first embodiment of the present invention. Since the detergent is designated by the user, a display 1301 indicating that the display is for the designated detergent and a display 1302 indicate the amount of detergent to be added. The amount of detergent to be added is calculated by calculating the amount of water used for washing from the water level setting determined in step S1205 or step S1206 to obtain the ratio to the reference water amount, and stored in the detergent amount display data storage means 24b. It can be determined by multiplying the reference water amount by the detergent input coefficient. Thus, the meter attached to the designated detergent can display how many cups of the designated detergent should be added.

Similarly, for the softening agent, a display 1303 indicating that the designated softening agent is displayed and the amount of the softening agent to be input are displayed on the display 1304. The amount of the softening agent to be added can be determined in the same manner as in the case of the detergent amount.

FIG. 14 is an example of the display D2 in step S1210. Since the detergent is designated by the user, the amount of detergent to be added is displayed while showing that the display is for the designated detergent as in FIG. Since the softening agent is not specified by the user and it is not essential to add the softening agent in the washing, the amount of the softening agent to be added is not particularly indicated.

FIG. 15 is an example of the display D3 in step S1212. Although the detergent is not specified by the user, it is assumed that the detergent is always added in normal washing, and therefore the detergent input amount effective for many detergents is displayed. The designated detergent corresponding to the display 1301 in FIG. 13 is displayed. Is not displayed. The display of the softening agent is the same as in the case of FIG.

FIG. 16 is an example of the display D4 in step S1213. Similar to FIG. 15, the detergent is not specified by the user, but it is assumed that the detergent is always thrown in normal laundry, so the detergent dose effective for many detergents is displayed. No display is made for the designated detergent corresponding to 1301. Regarding the softening agent, the input amount is not displayed as in the display of FIG.

In the initial state when the user starts using the washing machine communication system of the present embodiment, the detergent or the softening agent is not designated. In this state, the dosage display is as shown in FIG. 16, only the dosage of the detergent is displayed, and the information on the softening agent is not presented. When the user uses the softening agent, it is necessary for the user to determine the input amount according to the instructions attached to the softening agent and the washing machine. This is because whether or not the softener is used varies depending on the user.Some users use the softener, and some users do not use the softener.Therefore, the softener information may cause confusion due to information overload. is there. However, since it is possible to present the softener input amount information to the user who has designated the softener by the washing machine communication system of the present embodiment, it is possible to present the softener to the user who uses the softener. Only the softener information can be presented. In this way, the display according to the actual usage of the user can be performed.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an initial display screen of the washing machine according to the first embodiment. The display means 26 is composed of a dot matrix type liquid crystal, and the operation means 25 is composed of a touch panel. The display unit 26 displays a course selection button 2301, 2302, 2303 for the user to select the operation course of the washing machine 1 and a menu screen separately for allowing the user to select the setting of the washing machine 1. A menu call button 2304 is displayed. When the user touches the button area, the touch panel of the operation unit 25 detects the selection operation by the user.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a menu screen of the washing machine in the first embodiment, and is an example of a menu screen displayed when the user selects button 2304 on the screen of FIG. A display 2401 indicates that the currently displayed screen is the menu screen. The button 2402 is for displaying a screen for changing the information on the number of times of rinsing among the settings of the washing machine 1. A button 2403 is for displaying a screen for returning the settings of the washing machine 1 to the initial state. The operation when the button 2403 is selected will be described separately with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a screen for changing the number of rinses in the washing machine according to the first embodiment, and is an example of a screen displayed when the user selects button 2402 on the touch panel of operation means 25. A display 2501 indicates that the currently displayed screen is for changing the setting of the number of rinses. The text of the display 2502 suggests that the number of rinses whose setting is changed on the screen of FIG. 25 is reflected when driving using a specific course. Buttons 2503 and 2504 are buttons for designating the number of rinses to be set. When the button 2503 is selected, the rinse is selected once, and when the button 2504 is selected, the rinse is selected twice. In order to present the user with the currently selected setting, the color of the button corresponding to the selected setting is changed. The example of FIG. 25 shows a state in which the button 2503 is selected to be rinsed once. The button 2505 is for determining the number of rinses selected by the buttons 2503 and 2504 as a setting of the washing machine 1.

When the rinse count is set on the screen of FIG. 25, the control means 23 stores the setting in the rinse count setting storage means 24d in the storage means 24.

Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 28, an operation will be described in the case where the user makes a selection to return the settings to the initial settings on the menu screen of FIG. FIG. 28 is a flowchart at the time of setting initialization in the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

When the user selects the button 2403 on the menu screen of FIG. 24, a process of returning the setting content of the washing machine 1 to the initial state is started in step S2801 of the flowchart of FIG.

Next, in step S2802, the control means 23 of the washing machine 1 stores the settings relating to the detergent or softener amount display data in the detergent amount display data storage means 24b and the softener amount display data storage means 24c in the storage means 24. It is determined. If the setting related to the display data of the detergent or the softening agent is stored, the process proceeds to step S2802, and if not, the process proceeds to step S2806.

Next, in step S2803, the control means 23 of the washing machine 1 displays on the display means 26 a display D8 for confirming to the user that the setting of the washing machine 1 is returned to the initial state.

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a setting initialization confirmation screen in the washing machine according to the first embodiment, and is an example of a display D8 for confirming to the user that the initial state is restored. A display 2601 presents that the screen is a screen for selecting to return to the initial state. Further, on the display 2602, the user is informed that the settings of the detergent and the softening agent are returned to the initial state together with the setting contents that can be set by the washing machine 1. A button 2603 is for the user to select to return to the initial state. A button 2604 is for canceling returning to the initial state. A button 2605 is a button for deciding the operation selected by the user with the button 2603 or the button 2604 and ending the screen operation of FIG. The user selects the button 2603, the button 2604, or the button 2605 by touching the touch panel of the operation unit 25.

Description will be returned to the flowchart of FIG. If the user decides to return to the initial state in step S2804, the process proceeds to step S2805, and if the user decides not to return to the initial state, the process proceeds to step S8209 to end the series of operations for returning to the initial state. The case of proceeding to step S2805 corresponds to the case where the user selects the button 2605 while the user has selected the button 2603 on the screen of FIG.

Next, in step S2805, the control means 23 initializes the settings relating to the detergent and softener amount display data stored in the detergent amount display data storage means 24b and the softener amount display data storage means 24c in the storage means 24. To do.

Next, in step S2808, the settings of the other washing machines 1 are initialized. In the present embodiment, the rinse count setting stored in the rinse count setting storage means 24d is initialized. The other settings of the washing machine 1 may be set to be changeable by the user, and their contents may be initialized. For example, it may be set whether or not to perform buzzing of a buzzer that notifies the user of the end of the washing operation.

When the process proceeds from step S2802 to step S2806, which is branched (NO in step S2806), the control unit 23 of the washing machine 1 asks the display unit 26 to confirm to the user that the setting of the washing machine 1 is returned to the initial state. A display D9 for displaying is displayed.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a setting initialization confirmation screen in the washing machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. A display 2701 indicates that the screen is a screen (display D9) for selecting to return to the initial state. Further, on the display 2702, the user is instructed to return the setting contents that can be set in the washing machine 1 to the initial state. The button 2703 is for the user to select to return to the initial state. The button 2704 is for canceling returning to the initial state. The button 2705 is a button for deciding the operation selected by the user with the button 2703 or the button 2704 and ending the screen operation of FIG. 27. The user selects the button 2703, the button 2704, and the button 2705 by touching the touch panel of the operation unit 25.

Description will be returned to the flowchart of FIG. If the user decides to return to the initial state in step S2807, the process proceeds to step S2808, and if the user decides not to return to the initial state, the process proceeds to step S8209 to end a series of operations for returning to the initial state. The case of proceeding to step S2808 corresponds to the case of selecting the button 2705 in the state where the user has selected the button 2703 on the screen of FIG. 27.

The operation after step S2808 will be omitted because it is as described above.

Due to the difference between the display 2602 on the screen for confirming the user to return to the initial state in FIG. 26 and the display 2702 on the screen for confirming the user to return to the initial state in FIG. 27, Before the execution of the initialization, the person does not only perform the operation/setting on the main body of the washing machine 1 but also the settings on the detergent and the softening agent by the operation/setting on the information terminal 10 when operating the washing machine 1. You can know. Further, the setting by the operation/setting of the information terminal 10 can be initialized only by the operation/setting of the washing machine 1 without using the information terminal 10. As a result, even if the information terminal 10, the network 200, and the server 300 are unavailable for some reason, the settings of the washing machine 1 can be returned to the initial state. In addition, even if there are a plurality of users, the initialization can be performed regardless of the presence or absence of the information terminal 10, and the convenience for the users is further enhanced.

In the present embodiment, screen information to be displayed on the information terminal 10 is transmitted from the server 300 to the information terminal 10, and the setting contents relating to the detergent and the softening agent selected by the user on the screens are displayed on the server. It is assumed that the server 300 stores a setting command for transmitting the setting regarding the selected detergent and the softening agent to the washing machine 1 and transmits the setting command to the information terminal 10, but is not limited to this. ..

For example, the storage unit 107 of the information terminal 10 stores information for generating screens to be displayed on the information terminal 10, and the setting contents relating to the detergent and the softener selected by the user on the screens also store the storage unit 107 of the information terminal 10. Further, the control means 105 of the information terminal 10 may generate a setting command for transmitting the setting related to the selected detergent and softener to the washing machine 1. Even with such a configuration, when a new brand of detergent or softener is released, it is possible to deal with it by updating the information stored in the storage unit 107. As an updating method, for example, the data may be acquired from an information server on the network by connecting to the network 200 only at the time of updating, or the data may be acquired via an external storage unit such as a memory card. ..

With the above-described configuration, the information terminal is used during a series of operations for the user to select the detergent and the softener by operating the information terminal 10 and to transmit the selection result to the washing machine 1. The communication between 10 and the server 300 becomes unnecessary. That is, a series of operations can be performed even when the information terminal 10 is in an out-of-range state where it cannot access the network 200 of the mobile communication network. Further, since the setting contents relating to the detergent and the softening agent selected by the user are also stored in the storage unit 107 of the information terminal 10, the user is not required to perform the authentication procedure for the server 300 before the series of operations. Furthermore, since it is not essential for the information terminal 10 to connect to the network 200 in the first place, the configuration of the information terminal 10 can be simplified.

In the present embodiment, the communication between the information terminal 10 and the washing machine 1 is short-distance wireless communication via the loop antenna, but the communication is not limited to this. Communication between the information terminal 10 and the washing machine 1 may be performed by a method capable of communication between a plurality of terminals via a wireless LAN such as Wi-Fi, or a one-to-one communication method such as infrared communication may be used. good.

The communication for connecting the information terminal 10 to the network 200 may be a wireless LAN such as Wi-Fi.

As described above, in the washing machine communication system according to the present invention, the detergent or the softening agent used by the user can be easily set, and the washing sequence such as the number of rinses can be appropriately and easily changed according to the setting. In addition, the amount of the detergent or softening agent added can be displayed appropriately and easily. In addition to the washing machine communication system, the present invention can be applied to various washing devices such as a dishwasher system using a detergent and a vehicle washing machine system.

1 Washing machine 10 Information terminal (mobile terminal)
21 washing means 22 communication means (washing machine communication section)
23 Control means (Washing machine control unit)
23a Process management unit 23b Water level determination unit 23c Response content determination unit 23d Cloth amount detection unit 24 Storage means (washing machine storage unit)
24a Washing machine specific information storage unit 24b Detergent amount display data storage unit 24c Softener amount display data storage unit 24d Rinsing frequency setting storage unit 25 Operating unit (washing machine operating unit)
26 Display means (washing machine display)
27 loop antenna 101 first communication means (terminal communication unit)
102 second communication means 103 notification means (terminal display section)
104 Operation means (terminal operation unit)
105 control means 105a display control section 105b first communication control section 105c second communication control section 106 loop antenna 107 storage means 200 network 300 server 301 communication means 302 storage means 303 control means

Claims (3)

In a washing machine communication system including a washing machine and a mobile terminal,
The washing machine includes a washing machine operating section for setting a washing course, a washing machine control section for controlling the washing course, a washing machine communication section for wireless communication, a washing machine display section for displaying washing information , and a detergent. Or having a washing machine storage unit that stores information on the softening agent,
The portable terminal transmits an end-terminal display unit, and a terminal operation unit for setting the information of the detergent or softener are used in the washing machine, the wireless communication information detergent or softener set in the terminal operation unit And a terminal communication unit that
The washing machine display unit, when the information of the detergent or softener has been set at sub et beforehand said mobile terminal, to display information of the detergent or softener, if not set by the mobile terminal Is a washing machine communication system characterized in that it does not display information on detergents or softeners . The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the washing machine display section displays that the type of the detergent or the softening agent is designated when the type of the detergent or the softening agent is set in advance on the mobile terminal. Communications system. The washing machine communication system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the washing machine operation unit can initialize the information on the detergent and the softener stored in the washing machine storage unit.

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