DETERMINATION METHOD, RECORDING MEDIUM, DETERMINATION SYSTEM, AND INFORMATION TERMINAL

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a determination method, etc. for determining the state of a washing machine.

BACKGROUND ART

For example, Patent Literature (PTL) 1 discloses a fully automatic washer dryer. The fully automatic washer dryer includes: a housing; an outer tub elastically supported within the housing; a washing and spin-drying tub rotatably placed within the outer tub to contain laundry; a drive unit that rotates the washing and spin-drying tub; an acceleration sensor capable of detecting vibration that tilts the housing when the washing and spin-drying tub rotates, which is caused due to the installation state of the fully automatic washer dryer; a controller; and a buzzer. The controller causes the drive unit to rotate the washing and spin-drying tub, and causes the buzzer to issue an alarm when the vibration that tilts the housing exceeds an allowable magnitude.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

[PTL 1]

Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2020-069260

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

The present disclosure provides a determination method, etc. that ease understanding of the installation environment of a washing machine.

Solution to Problem

A determination method according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a first process, a second process, a third process, a fourth process, a fifth process, and a sixth process. In the first process, a washing tub in a washing machine including a plurality of feet is rotated without containing laundry. In the second process, a rotation speed of the washing tub is increased from a first rotation speed to a second rotation speed in a predetermined time period during execution of the first process. In the third process, acceleration data of the washing tub in each of three axial directions perpendicular to each other in the predetermined time period is obtained from an acceleration sensor attached to the washing tub. In the fourth process, determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions is calculated based on the acceleration data in each of the three axial directions obtained. In the fifth process, whether the washing machine is in a lifted state in which one or more feet out of the plurality of feet are separated from an installation surface of the washing machine is determined using the determination data calculated and a determination condition set in advance. In the sixth process, a determination result in the fifth process is output.

A program according to an aspect of the present disclosure causes one or more processors to execute the above-described determination method.

A determination system according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a controller, an obtainer, a calculator, a determiner, and an outputter. The controller rotates a washing tub in a washing machine including a plurality of feet without containing laundry, and increases a rotation speed of the washing tub from a first rotation speed to a second rotation speed in a predetermined time period during operation of the washing tub. The obtainer obtains, from an acceleration sensor attached to the washing tub, acceleration data of the washing tub in each of three axial directions perpendicular to each other in the predetermined time period. The calculator calculates determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions, based on the acceleration data in each of the three axial directions obtained. The determiner determines whether the washing machine is in a lifted state in which one or more feet out of the plurality of feet are separated from an installation surface of the washing machine, using the determination data calculated and a determination condition set in advance. The outputter outputs a determination result in the determiner.

An information terminal according to an aspect of the present disclosure is an information terminal capable of communicating with a washing machine that includes: a plurality of feet; a driver that rotates a washing tub in the washing machine without containing laundry; and a controller that increases a rotation speed of the washing tub from a first rotation speed to a second rotation speed in a predetermined time period during operation of the washing tub. The information terminal includes a calculator, a determiner, and an outputter. The calculator calculates, based on acceleration data of the washing tub in each of three axial directions perpendicular to each other in the predetermined time period, determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions, the acceleration data being obtained from an acceleration sensor attached to the washing tub. The determiner determines whether the washing machine is in a lifted state in which one or more feet out of the plurality of feet are separated from an installation surface of the washing machine, using the determination data calculated and a determination condition set in advance. The outputter outputs a determination result in the determiner.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

The determination method, etc. according to the present disclosure have the advantage of easing understanding of the installation environment of a washing machine.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an overall structure including a determination system in an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is an external view of a washing machine.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the determination system in the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating time series data of the rotation speed when the washing machine is running empty.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the distribution of each feature value in a predetermined time period.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first main condition in determination conditions.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a second main condition in the determination conditions.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an overall structure including a determination system in Variation 1 of the embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating an overall structure including a determination system in Variation 2 of the embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

1. Underlying Knowledge Forming Basis of the Present Disclosure

First, the inventors'viewpoint will be explained below.

The main reason why users request repairs to their washing machines is vibration or noise during spin-drying. Such vibration or noise during spin-drying can be caused by either a failure of the washing machine or the installation environment of the washing machine. It is, however, difficult to determine whether the cause is a failure of the washing machine or the installation environment of the washing machine.

While there is a method of determining whether a washing machine has a failure based on vibration data of the washing machine detected by an acceleration sensor, there is currently no method of determining whether the installation environment of a washing machine is inadequate based on vibration data of the washing machine. Therefore, currently, a repair service provider visits the site and determines whether the washing machine has a failure or the installation environment of the washing machine is inadequate according to a manual. This method in which the repair service provider visits the site to determine the cause is problematic in that the repair service provider is required to visit the site and thus is under a heavy burden and also human error may occur.

In the fully automatic washer dryer disclosed in PTL 1, the acceleration sensor detects vibration that tilts the housing when the washing and spin-drying tub rotates, but the cause of the detected vibration cannot be determined. The fully automatic washer dryer disclosed in PTL 1 thus has the problem in that the repair service provider is required to determine the cause of the vibration as mentioned above.

In view of the above, the inventors have come to create the presently disclosed technology.

An embodiment will be described in detail below, with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described below shows a general or specific example. The numerical values, shapes, materials, structural elements, the arrangement and connection of the structural elements, steps, the order of steps, etc. shown in the following embodiment are mere examples, and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. Of the structural elements in the embodiment described below, the structural elements not recited in any one of the independent claims are described as optional structural elements.

Each drawing is a schematic, and does not necessarily provide precise depiction. In the drawings, structural elements that are substantially the same are given the same reference marks, and repeated description may be omitted or simplified.

EMBODIMENT

2. Structure

[2-1. Overall Structure]

First, an overall structure including determination system 1 in an embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the overall structure including determination system 1 in the embodiment. Determination system 1 is a system for determining the state of washing machine 2, specifically, whether washing machine 2 is in a lifted state.

The “lifted state” herein refers to a state in which one or more feet 20 out of a plurality of feet 20 (see FIG. 2) of washing machine 2 are separated from (i.e. are not in contact with) the installation surface such as the floor. When washing machine 2 is in the lifted state, the vibration of washing machine 2 or the noise caused by the vibration tends to be greater, and the user may mistakenly determine that washing machine 2 fails (breaks).

In the embodiment, determination system 1 includes part of the functions installed in washing machine 2 and part of the functions installed in information terminal 3. Specifically, in the embodiment, determination system 1 includes processor 21 in washing machine 2 (described later), processor 31 in information terminal 3 (described later), and display 33 in information terminal 3 (described later). In the embodiment, washing machine 2 and information terminal 3 can communicate with each other via external network NT1 such as the Internet. Thus, in the embodiment, determination system 1 performs the functions by transmitting and receiving data between washing machine 2 and information terminal 3 via external network NT1.

[2-2. Washing Machine]

Next, the structure of washing machine 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 2 is an external view of washing machine 2. (a) in FIG. 2 illustrates washing machine 2 installed on the floor. (b) in FIG. 2 illustrates washing machine 2 installed on the floor via installation stand 4. Installation stand 4 has, for example, a function of absorbing the vibration of washing machine 2 and a function of making washing machine 2 movable with a plurality of casters. In the embodiment, washing machine 2 has four feet 20 as illustrated in FIG. 2. Hence, in the embodiment, washing machine 2 is in the lifted state if any one of four feet 20 is separated from the installation surface (floor or one surface of installation stand 4).

As illustrated in FIG. 1, washing machine 2 includes processor 21, driver 22, operator 23, display 24, communicator 25, storage 26, acceleration sensor 27, and washing tub 28. In the embodiment, washing machine 2 is a front-loading washing machine as an example. Washing machine 2 is not limited to a front-loading washing machine, and may be, for example, a top-loading washing machine.

Processor 21 executes various functions of washing machine 2. In the embodiment, processor 21 has a washing function of executing a washing operation to wash the laundry contained in washing tub 28, and a drying function of executing a drying operation to dry the laundry contained and washed in washing tub 28. In other words, washing machine 2 is a washing machine with a drying function in the embodiment. The washing operation involves washing, rinsing, and/or spin-drying the laundry contained in washing tub 28 by rotating washing tub 28, for example. The drying operation involves drying the laundry contained and washed in washing tub 28 by sending dry air dehumidified by a heat pump, for example. The “laundry” herein may include not only clothes but also dirty items such as towels that are not worn by people.

Processor 21 also has a function of executing an empty run (operation). The “empty run” herein refers to a washing operation or drying operation in a state in which no laundry is contained in washing tub 28, that is, when washing tub 28 is empty. In the embodiment, the empty run is a spin-drying operation with washing tub 28 empty. Processor 21 executes an empty run, for example, upon receiving predetermined input from a user via operator 23 in washing machine 2 or operator 32 in information terminal 3 (described later). Here, the user makes the predetermined input after making sure that washing tub 28 is empty.

Processor 21 is implemented by, for example, a processor or a dedicated circuit. Processor 21 achieves various functions as a result of hardware such as a processor executing a computer program (software) stored in storage 26. The computer program may be stored in memory included in the hardware. Processor 21 executes a function corresponding to an operation received by operator 23. Processor 21 may also communicate with information terminal 3 owned by the user and execute a function corresponding to the user's input received by operator 32 in information terminal 3, for example. Information terminal 3 will be described in detail later.

Driver 22 includes a motor, etc., and rotates washing tub 28 under control of processor 21. Driver 22 also changes the rotation speed of washing tub 28 under control of processor 21.

Operator 23 receives input by the user's operation. For example, operator 23 includes push buttons, etc. for receiving various inputs. Operator 23 receives, for example, input for selecting an operation to be executed by processor 21, input for selecting the details of the operation (for example, an operation mode, etc.), input for starting the operation, and input for pausing the operation. If display 24 includes a touch panel display, display 24 may also serve as part of operator 23.

Display 24 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays various information regarding washing machine 2. For example, during the washing operation, display 24 displays a character string and/or an image indicating that the washing operation is in progress, a character string indicating an estimated washing time, etc. Moreover, during the drying operation, display 24 displays a character string and/or an image indicating that the drying operation is in progress, a character string indicating an estimated drying time, etc. Display 24 may include a lamp that turns on or off depending on information, in addition to the liquid crystal display.

Communicator 25 communicates with communicator 34 in information terminal 3 via external network NT1. The communication between communicator 25 and communicator 34 in information terminal 3 may be wired communication or wireless communication. The standard of the communication between communicator 25 and communicator 34 in information terminal 3 is not particularly limited. Communicator 25 may communicate with communicator 34 in information terminal 3 via a repeater such as a router.

Storage 26 is a storage device that stores information necessary for the processing executed by processor 21. The information stored in storage 26 includes the computer program executed by processor 21. Storage 26 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory. Storage 26 stores the obtained acceleration data in each of the three axial directions, the calculated determination data, etc., which are used in the below-described determination process.

Acceleration sensor 27 is attached to washing tub 28, and detects the acceleration of washing tub 28 in each of the three axial directions perpendicular to each other. The detection results of acceleration sensor 27 are transmitted to and obtained by processor 21 as acceleration data. The “three axial directions” herein refer to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction in the XY plane (i.e. a plane parallel to the installation surface) when washing tub 28 is seen from above, and the Z-axis direction perpendicular to the XY plane. In the embodiment, acceleration sensor 27 is a sensor capable of detecting acceleration in three axial directions. The number of acceleration sensors 27 is not limited to one, and may be two or more. For example, three acceleration sensors 27 each capable of detecting acceleration in one axial direction may be provided.

[2-3. Information Terminal]

Next, the structure of information terminal 3 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. Information terminal 3 may include, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a desktop or laptop personal computer. In the embodiment, information terminal 3 is a smartphone. Information terminal 3 includes processor 31, operator 32, display 33, communicator 34, and storage 35.

Processor 31 is implemented by, for example, a processor or a dedicated circuit. Processor 31 achieves various functions as a result of hardware such as a processor executing a computer program (software) stored in storage 35. The computer program may be stored in memory included in the hardware. Processor 31 executes a function corresponding to an operation received by operator 32. Processor 31 may also communicate with washing machine 2 and execute a function corresponding to the user's input received by operator 23 in washing machine 2, for example.

Operator 32 receives input by the user's operation. For example, operator 32 includes a touch panel display. Operator 32 receives, for example, input for selecting an operation to be executed by processor 21 in washing machine 2, input for selecting the details of the operation (for example, an operation mode, etc.), input for starting the operation, and input for pausing the operation. In the embodiment, operator 32 is integral with display 33.

Display 33 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays various information received from washing machine 2. For example, during the washing operation, display 33 displays information related to the washing operation. Moreover, during the drying operation, display 33 displays information related to the drying operation. Display 33 also displays the processing results of processor 31. For example, display 33 displays the processing results of the below-described determination process.

Communicator 34 communicates with communicator 25 in washing machine 2 via external network NT1. The communication between communicator 34 and communicator 25 in washing machine 2 may be wired communication or wireless communication. The standard of the communication between communicator 34 and communicator 25 in washing machine 2 is not particularly limited. The communication between communicator 34 and communicator 25 in washing machine 2 may be wireless communication according to a short-range wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy (BLE) without going through external network NT1.

Storage 35 is a storage device that stores information necessary for the processing executed by processor 31. The information stored in storage 35 includes the computer program executed by processor 31. Storage 35 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory. Storage 35 stores the determination conditions used in the below-described determination process, the determination results of the determination process, and the like.

3. Operation

The operation (i.e. determination method) of determination system 1 in the embodiment will be described below mainly with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of determination system 1 in the embodiment. The operation of determination system 1 described below is executed, for example, in response to the user making predetermined input to operator 23 in washing machine 2 or operator 32 in information terminal 3.

First, processor 21 in washing machine 2 starts an empty run in which washing tub 28 rotates without containing laundry (S1). Step S1 corresponds to the first process in the determination method. During the empty run of washing machine 2, processor 21 in washing machine 2 changes the rotation speed of washing tub 28 as illustrated in FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating time series data of the rotation speed when washing machine 2 is running empty. In FIG. 4, the vertical axis represents the rotation speed of washing tub 28, and the horizontal axis represents time.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the execution period of the empty run is composed of start period T1, normal rotation period T2, high rotation period T3, and end period T4. Start period T1 includes initial period T10 in which the rotation speed of washing tub 28 gradually increases as the initial motion of washing tub 28, and increase period T11 in which the rotation speed of washing tub 28 increases at an approximately constant rate after initial period T10.

In increase period T11 (i.e. the predetermined time period during the execution of the first process), processor 21 in washing machine 2 increases the rotation speed of washing tub 28 from first rotation speed r1 to second rotation speed r2 (S2). Step S2 corresponds to the second process in the determination method. First rotation speed r1 is, for example, several hundred rpm, and second rotation speed r2 is about several hundred rpm higher than first rotation speed r1. Increase period T11 is, for example, several tens of seconds.

In normal rotation period T2, processor 21 in washing machine 2 maintains the rotation speed of washing tub 28 constant (second rotation speed r2 in this example). In high rotation period T3, processor 21 in washing machine 2 changes the rotation speed of washing tub 28 to a rotation speed higher than second rotation speed r2. In end period T4, processor 21 in washing machine 2 gradually decreases the rotation speed of washing tub 28 and ends the empty run.

In the embodiment, processor 21 in washing machine 2 corresponds to controller 11 in determination system 1. In other words, controller 11 (processor 21) rotates washing tub 28 without containing laundry, and increases the rotation speed of washing tub 28 from first rotation speed r1 to second rotation speed r2 in the predetermined time period (increase period T11) while washing tub 28 is in operation.

Returning to FIG. 3, in the predetermined time period (increase period T11), processor 21 in washing machine 2 obtains acceleration data in each of the three axial directions (X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, and Z-axis direction) from acceleration sensor 27 (S3). Step S3 corresponds to the third process in the determination method. Here, processor 21 in washing machine 2 obtains acceleration data for each sampling time.

In the embodiment, processor 21 in washing machine 2 corresponds to obtainer 12 in determination system 1. In other words, obtainer 12 (processor 21) obtains acceleration data of washing tub 28 in each of the three mutually perpendicular axial directions in the predetermined time period (increase period T11) from acceleration sensor 27 attached to washing tub 28.

Next, processor 21 in washing machine 2 and processor 31 in information terminal 3 calculate determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions based on the obtained acceleration data in each of the three axial directions (S4). Step S4 corresponds to the fourth process in the determination method. In the embodiment, processor 21 in washing machine 2 executes Step S41 in Step S4, and then processor 31 in information terminal 3 executes Step S42 in Step S4.

In Step S41 (fourth process), processor 21 in washing machine 2 calculates determination data including maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time in each of the three axial directions. Specifically, for each of the three axial directions, processor 21 in washing machine 2 integrates the obtained acceleration data twice to calculate amplitude data for each sampling time, and then extracts, from the amplitude data for each sampling time, maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time (e.g. several seconds) and uses the maximum amplitude data as determination data. The predetermined time is longer than the sampling time.

By extracting maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time from a large number of items of amplitude data and using it as determination data in this way, the processing load of the determination process is reduced while securing the determination data necessary to determine whether washing machine 2 is in the lifted state. Processor 21 in washing machine 2 transmits the extracted maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time in each of the three axial directions to communicator 34 in information terminal 3 via communicator 25.

In Step S42 (fourth process), processor 31 in information terminal 3 obtains the maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time in each of the three axial directions via communicator 34, and calculates the mean (average) value of the maximum amplitude data in each of the three axial directions. Specifically, processor 31 in information terminal 3 calculates mean_X, which is the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction, mean_Y, which is the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction, and mean_Z, which is the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction. In the embodiment, processor 31 in information terminal 3 also calculates var_X, which is the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction, var_Y, which is the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction, and var_Z, which is the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction.

Moreover, in Step S42 (fourth process), processor 31 in information terminal 3 calculates, for each of the three combinations of two axial directions selected from the three axial directions, the ratio of the mean values of the maximum amplitude data in the two axial directions. Specifically, processor 31 in information terminal 3 calculates mean_X/Y, which is the ratio between the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction and the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction, mean_X/Z, which is the ratio between the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction and the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction, and mean_Y/Z, which is the ratio between the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction and the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction. In the embodiment, processor 31 in information terminal 3 also calculates var_X/Y, which is the ratio between the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction and the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction, var_X/Z, which is the ratio between the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction and the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction, and var_Y/Z, which is the ratio between the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction and the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction.

In Step S42 (fourth process), processor 31 in information terminal 3 sets mean_X, mean_Y, and mean_Z, which are the calculated respective mean values in the three axial directions, and mean_X/Y, mean_X/Z, and mean_Y/Z, which are the calculated respective ratios of the mean values of the three combinations, as determination data. In the embodiment, processor 31 in information terminal 3 also sets var_X, var_Y, and var_Z, which are the calculated respective variances in the three axial directions, and var_X/Y, var_X/Z, and var_Y/Z, which are the calculated respective ratios of the variances of the three combinations, as determination data.

In the embodiment, processor 21 in washing machine 2 and processor 31 in information terminal 3 correspond to calculator 13 in determination system 1. In other words, calculator 13 (processor 21 in washing machine 2 and processor 31 in information terminal 3) calculates determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions based on the obtained acceleration data in each of the three axial directions. In the embodiment, processor 21 in washing machine 2 corresponds to first calculator 131 that executes Step S41 in calculator 13, and processor 31 in information terminal 3 corresponds to second calculator 132 that executes Step S42 in calculator 13.

The reason for using, for each of the three combinations of two axial directions selected from the three axial directions, the ratio of the mean values and the ratio of the variances of the maximum amplitude data in the two axial directions as determination data will be explained with reference to FIG. 5.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the distribution of each feature value in the predetermined time period (increase period T11). In the scatter diagram illustrated in (a) in FIG. 5, the vertical axis represents mean_Y/Z, which is the ratio between the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction and the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction, and the horizontal axis represents mean_X/Y, which is the ratio between the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction and the mean value of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction. In the scatter diagram illustrated in (b) in FIG. 5, the vertical axis represents var_Y/Z, which is the ratio between the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction and the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Z-axis direction, and the horizontal axis represents var_X/Y, which is the ratio between the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the X-axis direction and the variance of the maximum amplitude data in the Y-axis direction. In FIG. 5, the black circles indicate data when washing machine 2 is in the lifted state, and the white circles indicate data when washing machine 2 is not in the lifted state.

As illustrated in (a) and (b) in FIG. 5, whether washing machine 2 is in the lifted state can be distinguished roughly based on the boundary line indicated by the dashed line. The inventors of the present application have thus found that whether washing machine 2 is in the lifted state can be determined by using the ratio of the mean values and the ratio of the variances of the maximum amplitude data in the two axial directions as determination data.

Returning to FIG. 3, processor 31 in information terminal 3 executes a determination process. In detail, processor 31 in information terminal 3 determines whether washing machine 2 is in the lifted state using the calculated determination data and determination conditions set in advance (S5). Step S5 corresponds to the fifth process in the determination method.

Specifically, if the calculated determination data satisfies a first main condition (see FIG. 6), processor 31 in information terminal 3 determines that washing machine 2 is wobbly, that is, the installation environment of washing machine 2 is unstable. Herein, the state in which washing machine 2 is wobbly means that washing machine 2 is in the lifted state or washing machine 2 is likely to shake due to being installed on installation stand 4. If the calculated determination data satisfies both the first main condition and a second main condition (see FIG. 7), processor 31 in information terminal 3 determines that washing machine 2 is in the lifted state. If the calculated determination data does not satisfy any of the first main condition and the second main condition, processor 31 in information terminal 3 determines that washing machine 2 is not wobbly, that is, the installation environment of washing machine 2 is stable.

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

Processor 31 in information terminal 3 determines that the first main condition is satisfied if any one of the first to seventh sub conditions illustrated in FIG. 6 is satisfied. Processor 31 in information terminal 3 determines that the second main condition is satisfied if any one of the eighth to eleventh sub conditions illustrated in FIG. 7 is satisfied. Whether the second main condition is satisfied is determined only when the first main condition is satisfied.

In the embodiment, the determination conditions (the first to eleventh sub conditions) are set using a trained machine learning model. The trained machine learning model has been trained to output the determination conditions using, as training data, the determination data obtained by executing Step S1 (first process), Step S2 (second process), Step S3 (third process), and Step S4 (fourth process) on washing machine 2 that is in the lifted state. In the embodiment, the trained machine learning model has been trained using decision tree analysis. In the embodiment, processor 31 in information terminal 3 corresponds to determiner 14 in determination system 1. In other words, determiner 14 (processor 31 in information terminal 3) determines whether washing machine 2 is in the lifted state using the calculated determination data and the determination conditions set in advance.

Display 33 in information terminal 3 then outputs the determination result in Step S5 (fifth process) by displaying the determination result on the display (S6). Step S6 corresponds to the sixth process in the determination method. For example, if the determination result is that washing machine 2 is in the lifted state, display 33 in information terminal 3 displays a character string such as “One or more feet of the washing machine may be lifted. This can be remedied by adjusting the length of the feet. Wobbling may also be detected if the installation environment is prone to shaking, such as when a raising stand is used.” on the display. For example, if the determination result is that washing machine 2 is not in the lifted state, display 33 in information terminal 3 displays a character string such as “The installation environment of the washing machine is stable.” on the display.

The user can know whether washing machine 2 is in the lifted state, that is, whether there is a problem with the installation environment of washing machine 2, by checking the determination result.

In the embodiment, display 33 in information terminal 3 corresponds to outputter 15 in determination system 1. In other words, outputter 15 (display 33 in information terminal 3) outputs the determination result of determiner 14 (processor 31 in information terminal 3).

In the embodiment, Step S41 (part of the fourth process), Step S5 (fifth process), and Step S6 (sixth process) are executed in information terminal 3 outside washing machine 2, as described above.

4. Effects, etc.

As described above, determination system 1 (determination method) according to the embodiment can determine whether washing machine 2 is in the lifted state in which one or more of the plurality of feet 20 of washing machine 2 are separated from the installation surface of washing machine 2, based on the acceleration data of washing tub 28 in each of the three mutually perpendicular axial directions during the predetermined time period (increase period T11). This has the advantage that, by checking the determination result of determination system 1 (determination method), the user can easily know whether washing machine 2 is in the lifted state, that is, easily understand the installation environment of washing machine 2.

Once the user can understand the installation environment of washing machine 2, for example, the user can easily determine whether the vibration or noise during spin-drying is caused by the installation environment of washing machine 2 or a failure of washing machine 2. Only when the user determines that the vibration or noise is caused by a failure of washing machine 2, the user requests a repair service provider to determine the failure of washing machine 2. Thus, the use of determination system 1 (determination method) according to the embodiment is advantageous in that the number of times the repair service provider is required to visit the site can be reduced to reduce the burden on the repair service provider and also reduce human error.

5. Other Embodiments

Although an embodiment has been described above to illustrate the presently disclosed technology, the present disclosure is not limited to such. Changes, replacements, additions, omissions, etc. may be made to the embodiment as appropriate, and structural elements described in the embodiment may be combined as a new embodiment.

Variations of the embodiment will be described below.

Although controller 11, obtainer 12, calculator 13, determiner 14, and outputter 15 in determination system 1 are distributed between washing machine 2 and information terminal 3 in the above embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to such. Variations 1 and 2 of the determination system of the embodiment will be described below.

<Variation 1>

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an overall structure including determination system 1A in Variation 1 of the embodiment. Determination system 1A in Variation 1 differs from determination system 1 in the embodiment in that processor 51 in server 5 functions as obtainer 12, calculator 13, and determiner 14 in determination system 1A. In other words, determination system 1A in Variation 1 differs from determination system 1 in the embodiment in that it includes processor 21 in washing machine 2, display 33 in information terminal 3, and processor 51 in server 5 (described later). Below, the description of the same parts as those in determination system 1 in the embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

Server 5 is installed, for example, at a location away from the facility where washing machine 2 is installed, and is capable of communicating with each of washing machine 2 and information terminal 3 via external network NT1. Server 5 includes processor 51, communicator 52, and storage 53.

Processor 51 is implemented by, for example, a processor or a dedicated circuit. Processor 51 achieves various functions as a result of hardware such as a processor executing a computer program (software) stored in storage 53. The computer program may be stored in memory included in the hardware. Processor 51 functions as obtainer 12, calculator 13, and determiner 14 in determination system 1A by transmitting and receiving data to and from each of washing machine 2 and information terminal 3 via external network NT1.

Communicator 52 communicates with each of communicator 25 in washing machine 2 and communicator 34 in information terminal 3 via external network NT1. The communication between communicator 52 and communicator 25 in washing machine 2 and the communication between communicator 52 and communicator 34 in information terminal 3 may each be wired communication or wireless communication. The standard of the communication between communicator 52 and communicator 25 in washing machine 2 and the standard of the communication between communicator 52 and communicator 34 in information terminal 3 are not particularly limited. Communicator 52 may communicate with each of communicator 25 in washing machine 2 and communicator 34 in information terminal 3 via a repeater such as a router.

Storage 53 is a storage device that stores information necessary for the processing executed by processor 51. The information stored in storage 53 includes the computer program executed by processor 51. Storage 53 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory. Storage 53 stores the obtained acceleration data in each of the three axial directions, the calculated determination data, the determination conditions, etc., which are used in the determination process. Storage 53 also stores the determination results of the determination process, etc.

In determination system 1A in Variation 1, Steps S1 and S2 (i.e. the first and second processes) illustrated in FIG. 3 are executed by processor 21 in washing machine 2, Steps S3 to S5 (i.e. the third to fifth processes) are executed by processor 51 in server 5, and Step S6 (i.e. the sixth process) is executed by display 33 in information terminal 3.

<Variation 2>

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating an overall structure including determination system 1B in Variation 2 of the embodiment. Determination system 1B in Variation 2 differs from determination system 1 in the embodiment in that processor 21 in washing machine 2 functions as controller 11, obtainer 12, calculator 13, and determiner 14 and display 24 in washing machine 2 functions as outputter 15. In other words, determination system 1B in Variation 2 differs from determination system 1 in the embodiment in that it includes washing machine 2. Below, the description of the same parts as those in determination system 1 in the embodiment will be omitted.

In Variation 2, storage 26 stores the obtained acceleration data in each of the three axial directions, the calculated determination data, the determination conditions, etc., which are used in the determination process. In Variation 2, storage 26 also stores the determination results of the determination process, etc.

In determination system 1B in Variation 2, Steps S1 to S5 (i.e. the first to fifth processes) illustrated in FIG. 3 are executed by processor 21 in washing machine 2, and Step S6 (i.e. the sixth process) is executed by display 24 in washing machine 2.

<Other Variations>

In the above embodiment, processor 31 in information terminal 3 may execute the functions of obtainer 12 and first calculator 131, instead of processor 21 in washing machine 2.

Although the maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time is used as the determination data in the above embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to such. For example, the amplitude data for each sampling time may all be used as the determination data.

Although the trained machine learning model that outputs the determination conditions is generated using decision tree analysis in the above embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to such. As one example, the trained machine learning model may be generated using logistic regression analysis or random forest analysis. As another example, the trained machine learning model may be generated using a neural network.

Although the determination result in the fifth process is output by displaying the determination result as a character string on a display in the above embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to such. As one example, the determination result in the fifth process may be output by displaying the determination result as an image on a display. As another example, the determination result in the fifth process may be output by outputting the determination result as audio from a speaker. The determination result may be output by combining audio output from a speaker and display on a display.

The method of communication between the devices in the above embodiment is not particularly limited. When two devices communicate in the above embodiment, a relay device (not illustrated) may be interposed between the two devices.

The orders of processes described in the above embodiment are merely examples. A plurality of processes may be changed in order, and a plurality of processes may be performed in parallel. A process performed by any specific processing unit may be performed by another processing unit. Part of digital signal processing described in the above embodiment may be implemented by analog signal processing.

Each of the structural elements in the above embodiment may be implemented by executing a software program suitable for the structural element. Each of the structural elements may be implemented by means of a program executing unit, such as a CPU or a processor, reading and executing the software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

Each of the structural elements may be implemented by hardware. For example, the structural elements may be circuits (or integrated circuits). These circuits may constitute one circuit as a whole, or may be separate circuits. These circuits may each be a general-purpose circuit or a dedicated circuit.

The general or specific aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented using a system, a device, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a computer-readable recording medium such as CD-ROM, or any combination of systems, devices, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs, and recording media. For example, the presently disclosed technology may be implemented as a voice processing method executed by a computer, or implemented as a program for causing the computer to execute the voice processing method. The presently disclosed technology may be implemented as a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium having the program recorded thereon. The program herein includes an application program for causing a general-purpose information terminal to function as the voice processing system in the above embodiment.

Other modifications obtained by applying various changes conceivable by a person skilled in the art to each embodiment and any combinations of the structural elements and functions in each embodiment without departing from the scope of the present disclosure are also included in the present disclosure.

SUMMARY

As described above, a determination method according to a first aspect includes a first process (S1), a second process (S2), a third process (S3), a fourth process (S4), a fifth process (S5), and a sixth process (S6). In the first process, washing tub 28 in washing machine 2 including a plurality of feet 20 is rotated without containing laundry. In the second process, a rotation speed of washing tub 28 is increased from first rotation speed r1 to second rotation speed r2 in a predetermined time period (increase period T11) during execution of the first process. In the third process, acceleration data of washing tub 28 in each of three axial directions perpendicular to each other in the predetermined time period is obtained from acceleration sensor 27 attached to washing tub 28. In the fourth process, determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions is calculated based on the acceleration data in each of the three axial directions obtained. In the fifth process, whether washing machine 2 is in a lifted state in which one or more feet 20 out of the plurality of feet 20 are separated from an installation surface of washing machine 2 is determined using the determination data calculated and a determination condition set in advance. In the sixth process, a determination result in the fifth process is output.

This has the advantage of easing understanding of the installation environment of washing machine 2.

In a determination method according to a second aspect, in the first aspect, in the fourth process, the determination data including maximum amplitude data for each predetermined time in each of the three axial directions is calculated.

This has the advantage of reducing the processing load of the determination process while securing the determination data necessary to determine whether washing machine 2 is in the lifted state.

In a determination method according to a third aspect, in the second aspect, the fourth process includes: calculating a mean value and a variance of the maximum amplitude data in each of the three axial directions; calculating, for each of three combinations of two axial directions selected from the three axial directions, a ratio of mean values and a ratio of variances of the maximum amplitude data in the two axial directions; and setting the mean value and the variance in each of the three axial directions and the ratio of the mean values and the ratio of the variances for each of the three combinations, as the determination data.

This has the advantage of further easing determination of whether washing machine 2 is in the lifted state.

In a determination method according to a fourth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, the determination condition is set using a trained machine learning model, and the trained machine learning model has been trained to output the determination condition using, as training data, the determination data obtained by executing the first process, the second process, the third process, and the fourth process on washing machine 2 that is in the lifted state.

This has the advantage of further easing determination of whether washing machine 2 is in the lifted state.

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

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

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

This has the advantage of easing understanding of the installation environment of washing machine 2.

Determination system 1, 1A, or 1B according to a seventh aspect includes controller 11, obtainer 12, calculator 13, determiner 14, and outputter 15. Controller 11 rotates washing tub 28 in washing machine 2 including a plurality of feet 20 without containing laundry, and increases a rotation speed of washing tub 28 from first rotation speed r1 to second rotation speed r2 in a predetermined time period during operation of washing tub 28. Obtainer 12 obtains, from acceleration sensor 27 attached to washing tub 28, acceleration data of washing tub 28 in each of three axial directions perpendicular to each other in the predetermined time period. Calculator 13 calculates determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions, based on the acceleration data in each of the three axial directions obtained. Determiner 14 determines whether washing machine 2 is in a lifted state in which one or more feet 20 out of the plurality of feet 20 are separated from an installation surface of washing machine 2, using the determination data calculated and a determination condition set in advance. Outputter 15 outputs a determination result in determiner 14.

This has the advantage of easing understanding of the installation environment of washing machine 2.

Information terminal 3 according to an eighth aspect is an information terminal capable of communicating with washing machine 2 that includes: a plurality of feet 20 ; driver 22 that rotates washing tub 28 in washing machine 2 without containing laundry; and controller 11 that increases a rotation speed of washing tub 28 from first rotation speed r1 to second rotation speed r2 in a predetermined time period during operation of washing tub 28. Information terminal 3 includes calculator 13, determiner 14, and outputter 15. Calculator 13 calculates, based on acceleration data of washing tub 28 in each of three axial directions perpendicular to each other in the predetermined time period, determination data including amplitude data in each of the three axial directions, the acceleration data being obtained from acceleration sensor 27 attached to washing tub 28. Determiner 14 determines whether washing machine 2 is in a lifted state in which one or more feet 20 out of the plurality of feet 20 are separated from an installation surface of washing machine 2, using the determination data calculated and a determination condition set in advance. Outputter 15 outputs a determination result in determiner 14.

This has the advantage of easing understanding of the installation environment of washing machine 2.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The determination method according to the present disclosure can be used in systems that determine the state of a washing machine, etc.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

• • 1, 1A, 1B determination system
  • 11 controller
  • 12 obtainer
  • 13 calculator
  • 131 first calculator
  • 132 second calculator
  • 14 determiner
  • 15 outputter
  • 2 washing machine
  • 20 feet
  • 21 processor
  • 22 driver
  • 23 operator
  • 24 display
  • 25 communicator
  • 26 storage
  • 27 acceleration sensor
  • 28 washing tub
  • 3 information terminal
  • 31 processor
  • 32 operator
  • 33 display
  • 34 communicator
  • 35 storage
  • 4 installation stand
  • 5 server
  • 51 processor
  • 52 communicator
  • 53 storage
  • r1 first rotation speed
  • r2 second rotation speed
  • NT1 external network