Telecontrol management system
18 claims: 1 independent, 17 dependent
- 1NYA PATENTKRAV 1. Fjärrhanteringssystem där en central styranordning (3) handhar en maskin (8) från en avlägsen plats på grundval av data, som avser maskinen (8) och som sänds från maskinen till nämnda centrala styranordning, kännetecknat av att nämnda centrala styranordning (3) innefattar arrangemangsinställningsorgan för inställning av ett maskinarrangemang, vilket visar ett arrangemang av maskiner i ett område (2) där maskinen (8) är installerad, och arrangemangsvisningsorgan för visning av en bild (31) av områdets (2) maskinarrangemang.
- 2Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 1, varvid den centrala styranordningen (3) handhar maskiner i ett flertal områden och nämnda arrangemangsinställningsorgan ställer in ett maskinarrangemang för vart och ett av nämnda områden, och varvid nämnda centrala styranordning vidare innefattar områdespecificeringsorgan för specificering av ett av nämnda flertal områden, och lagringsorgan (3e) för lagring av data rörande maskinarrangemanget för nämnda flertal områden (2), vilka data motsvarar data som specificerar vart och ett av nämnda områden, och varvid arrangemangsvisningsorganet innefattar organ för visning av en bild av maskinarrangemanget i ett specificerat område.
- 3Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 1, varvid maskinen (8) är en tvättinrättningsmaskin.
- 4Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 1, varvid nämnda arrangemangsvisningsorgan innefattar organ för visning av en bild av ett område som är indelat i ett flertal block, och varvid nämnda centrala styranordning (3) vidare innefattar 517 876 ΗΗνϋζ-ΠΙ första specificeringsorgan för specificering av en position på nämnda bild av nämnda område som visas av arrangemangsvisningsorganet, och lagringsorgan (3e) för lagring av data rörande nämnda maskinarrangemang i nämnda område, varvid arrangemangsinställningsorganet innefattar organ för att bringa nämnda lagringsorgan att lagra data rörande det specificerade området för indikering av maskinens position i det område där maskinen är installerad, och varvid nämnda arrangemangsvisningsorgan vidare innefattar organ för att skilja visningsmoden för nämnda specificerade block från den för övriga block på nämnda bild.
- 5Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 4, varvid den centrala styranordningen (3) vidare innefattar andra specificeringsorgan för specificering av en position kring nämnda flertal block, varvid nämnda arrangemangsinställningsorgan innefattar organ för inställning av ett arrangemang av ett element som utgör nämnda områdes kontur vid den position som specificerats av nämnda andra specificeringsorgan, och organ för att bringa nämnda lagringsorgan att lagra data rörande nämnda elements arrangemang, vilket inställts av nämnda inställningsorgan, och varvid nämnda arrangemangsvisningsorgan innefattar organ för visning av en bild av nämnda element vid den specificerade positionen kring nämnda visade flertal block.
- 6Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 4, varvid arrangemangsinställningsorganet innefattar första datainställningsorgan för inställning av första data som avser maskinen (8) på det block som specificeras av det första specificeringsorganet, och 517 876 organ för att bringa lagringsorganet (3e) att lagra nämnda första data som ställts in av det första datainställningsorganet, och varvid nämnda arrangemangsvisningsorgan innefattar organ för visning av nämnda första data som ställts in av det första datainställningsorganet på det block, vilket specificeras av det första specificeringsorganet bland nämnda flertal visade block.
- 7Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 6, varvid den centrala styranordningen (3) vidare innefattar organ för att bringa lagringsorganet (3e) att lagra andra data avseende maskinen, vilka är annorlunda än nämnda första data, genom att korrelera nämnda andra data med nämnda första data, och varvid arrangemangsvisningsorganet innefattar organ för visning av nämnda lagrade andra data, vilka är korrelerade med nämnda första data, för det block som specificeras av det första specificeringsorganet när blocket, bland nämnda flertal block som visar maskinarrangemanget, specificeras av nämnda första specificeringsorgan.
- 8Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 7, varvid den centrala styranordningen (3) vidare innefattar sändningsorgan (7) för att till maskinen (8) sända en sändningsinstruktion för nämnda första och andra data för inställning av maskinarrangemanget vid den centrala styranordningen (3), mottagningsorgan (7) för mottagning av nämnda första och andra data som sänds från maskinen (8) som svar på sändningsinstruktionen, och organ för att bringa lagringsorganet (3e) att lagra data som tas emot med hjälp av mottagningsorganet (7), varvid nämnda arrangemangsvisningsorgan visar nämnda lagrade första och andra data när nämnda flertal block visas.
- 9Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 8, varvid den centrala styranordningen (3) vidare innefattar 517 876 organ för att bringa lagringsorganet (3e) att lagra nämnda första och andra data genom att korrelera dessa data med data som specificerar det område (2) där maskinen (8) är installerad.
- 10Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 4, varvid maskinen (8) är en tvättinrättningsmaskin.
- 11Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 1, varvid nämnda arrangemangsvisningsorgan innefattar organ för visning av en bild av ett maskinarrangemang i nämnda område och ett arrangemang av ett element, som utgör nämnda områdes kontur, vilket område är indelat i ett flertal block, och varvid nämnda centrala styranordning (3) vidare innefattar första specificeringsorgan för specificering av en position på bilden av maskinarrangemanget, som visas av nämnda arrangemangsvisningsorgan, tredje specificeringsorgan för specificering av en arrangemangsposition på bilden av nämnda element, som visas av nämnda arrangemangsvisningsorgan, och lagringsorgan (3e) för lagring av data rörande nämnda maskinarrangemang och nämnda elementarrangemang, varvid nämnda arrangemanginställningsorgan innefattar organ för att bringa lagringsorganet (3e) att lagra data för det block som specificeras av det första specificeringsorganet såsom data som indikerar den för maskinen i nämnda område anordnade positionen, och organ för att bringa nämnda lagringsorgan att lagra data för det block som specificerats av nämnda tredje specificeringsorgan såsom data för indikering av elementets position kring nämnda område, och varvid nämnda arrangemangsvisningsorgan vidare innefattar organ för att särskilja visningsmoder för det block som specificeras av det första specificeringsorganet, det block som specificeras av det tredje specificeringsorganet och övriga block. 517 876
- 12Fjarrhanteringssystem enligt krav 11, varvid arrangemangsinställningsorganet innefattar första datainställningsorgan för inställning av första data som avser maskinen på det block som specificeras av det första specificeringsorganet, och varvid arrangemangsvisningsorganet innefattar organ för visning av nämnda första data, som ställts in av det första datainställningsorganet på det block bland nämnda visade flertal block, vilket specificeras av det första specificeringsorganet.
- 13Fjarrhanteringssystem enligt krav 11, varvid arrangemangsinställningsorganet innefattar tredje datainställningsorgan för inställning av tredje data som avser elementarrangemanget kring nämnda område, och organ för att bringa lagringsorganet (3e) att lagra nämnda tredje data som ställts in av det tredje datainställningsorganet, och varvid arrangemangvisningsorganet innefattar organ för visning av nämnda tredje data som ställts in av det tredje datainställningsorganet på det block bland nämnda visade flertal block, vilket specificeras av det tredje specificeringsorganet.
- 14Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 11, varvid det tredje specificeringsorganet innefattar till/frånspecificeringsorgan för specificering av tillståndet hos vart och ett av nämnda flertal block till att visa eller radera, varvid arrangemangsinställningsorganet innefattar organ för att bringa lagringsorganet (3e) att lagra nämnda data rörande nämnda tillstånd samt positionen för blocket när nämnda block och dess tillstånd specificeras av nämnda till/från-specificeringsorgan hos nämnda tredje specificeringsorgan, och varvid arrangemangsvisningsorganet innefattar organ för visning eller radering av det block som specificeras av det tredje specificeringsorganet i enlighet med det tillstånd som specificeras av nämnda 517 876 till/från-specificeringsorgan hos nämnda tredje specificeringsorgan.
- 15Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 12, varvid den centrala styranordningen (3) vidare innefattar organ för att bringa lagringsorganet (3e) att lagra andra data som avser maskinen som skiljer sig från nämnda första data genom att korrelera nämnda andra data med nämnda första data, och varvid arrangemangsvisningsorganet innefattar organ för visning av nämnda lagrade andra data som är korrelerade med nämnda första data för det block som specificeras av nämnda första specificeringsorgan når blocket, bland det flertal block som visar maskinarrangemanget, specificeras av nämnda första specificeringsorgan.
- 16Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 15, varvid den centrala styranordningen (3) vidare innefattar sändningsorgan (7) för att från detsamma till maskinen sända en sändningsinstruktion för nämnda första och andra data, mottagningsorgan (7) för att ta emot nämnda första och andra data, vilka som svar på sändningsinstruktionen sänds från maskinen, och organ för att bringa lagringsorganet (3e) att lagra data som tas emot av mottagningsorganet (7), varvid arrangemangsvisningsorganet visar nämnda första och andra data när nämnda flertal block visas.
- 17Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 16, varvid den centrala styranordningen (3) vidare innefattar organ för att bringa lagringsorganet (3e) att lagra nämnda första och andra data genom korrelering av dessa data med data som specificerar det område där maskinen är installerad.
- 18Fjärrhanteringssystem enligt krav 11, varvid maskinen (8) är en tvättinrättningsmaskin.
Independent claims18
136 paragraphs, as filed
Field of the invention
The present invention relates to a remote management system in which machines controlled by control units, such as microcomputers, are connected to a central control device, namely an arithmetic device such as a personal computer, via communication means, and the machines are operated from a remote location by the central control device.
Description of related technology
In a washing machine, for example, where a plurality of washing machines and dryers are installed and used with payment, namely with coins or advance cards, a control system is required to control such washing machine machines with respect to problems and payment in a uniform manner at a remote location to increase control efficiency. by reducing staff or by stopping washing rounds.
This type of control system has been proposed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Application No. Hei 6-205 900 by the applicant of the present invention. A number of washing machine machines, such as washing machines and dryers, are installed in each washing machine. Sensors, such as rotation sensors, a thermistor and a magnetic sensor, are arranged in different parts, such as a motor, a drum and a payment box of each washing machine, and the output signals from these sensors are sent to a microcomputer. In accordance with the signals from the sensors, the microcomputer controls the operation of the washing machine, stores data regarding operating conditions, remaining operating time, sales figures, etc. and sends the stored data together with an ID number (identification number) which has been entered in advance into the microcomputer for each machine. (hereinafter referred to as DTC) which is set up in each washing machine. Each DTC is
517 876 connected via the public telephone line to a central control device comprising a personal computer owned by the holder of a laundromat or a handling company entrusted with the handling of the holder's washing machine.
In accordance with an operator's instruction, the central control device sends a monitoring request via the public telephone line to each washing machine to monitor the machine operating conditions, remaining operating time, sales figures, function payment setting and operating time setting, etc. The DTC sends a command to the microcomputer installed in each machine. the washing machine to cause the microcomputer to transmit monitoring request data. The microcomputer sends the data to the DTC in accordance with the command sent, and the DTC receives and then sends the data to the central controller.
In the event of a problem, such as a machine fault, deviation or payment theft, the microcomputer for the corresponding washing machine stops the machine and sends a transmission request to the DTC. After receiving a response from the DTC, the microcomputer sends problem data such as the type of problem and the time of occurrence along with machine information such as the machine name and the ID number entered for the machine. The DTC calls the central control device to transmit the received problem data. After receiving a response from the central control device, the DTC sends the above-mentioned problem data together with the name of the washing machine in which the DTC is installed, as problem data to the central control device.
After receiving data regarding monitoring request or problem data, the central control device displays the name, ID number and corresponding machine model, data content, etc. of the washing machine on a monitoring display by using characters and numbers for • ·
517 876 • · ·· • · »·· • · · · · • ·· • · ·· · · knowledge of the owner of the washing machine company or the operator of the handling company.
However, in the case of conventional remote management systems, the central control device only uses characters and numbers when displaying the name of the washing machine, ID number and the name of the corresponding machine, etc. in accordance with the received data. Therefore, the holder or operator can not quickly recognize how the washing machine is arranged and the machine is located.
Summary of the invention
Thus, it is a principal object of the present invention to provide a remote management system capable of enabling insight into the floor arrangement of a washing machine and the locations of the machines in the washing machine by intuition by displaying schematic representations of the washing machine floor arrangement and locations of the machines in accordance with the floor arrangement information. the washing machine in which the machines are installed and the information regarding the locations of the machines.
A first object of the present invention is to provide a remote management system which has the capacity to increase the operator's processing speed in processing information concerning machines and also the capacity to take action quickly in case of emergencies such as machine problems.
A second object of the present invention is to provide a remote management system which has the capacity to easily set up information regarding machine locations.
A third object of the present invention is to provide a remote handling system which has the capacity to display more accurate machine locations by utilizing a scheme which is in close analogy with the design of the current floor arrangement of a washing machine in which machines are located.
A fourth object of the present invention is to provide a remote management system which enables
517 876 simple insight into the locations of the machines by indicating graphic figures showing the location and size of an entrance in the floor arrangement of a washing machine in which machines are located.
A fifth object of the present invention is to provide a remote management system which enables machines to be identified by indicating the floor arrangement and machine information such as machine ID numbers at the machine locations shown in the floor arrangement.
A sixth object of the present invention is to provide a remote management system for more accurately indicating the design of a floor arrangement area by representing the floor arrangement area by utilizing a set of block figures.
A seventh object of the present invention is to provide a remote management system having the capacity to obtain detailed machine information such as models, external appearances and communication specifications of the machines, as well as the locations of the machines in the floor arrangement area.
An eighth object of the present invention is to provide a remote management system which has the capacity to set up all the information regarding machine places and floor arrangements in a washing machine without omission.
The above object and further objects and features of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
Brief description of the drawings
Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a remote management system in accordance with the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a flow chart showing a floor arrangement setting procedure and a screen display procedure for the central control device of the remote management system in accordance with the present invention;
Fig. 3 is a flow chart showing a floor arrangement setting procedure and a screen display procedure for the central control device of the remote management system according to the present invention;
517 876
<td>FIG</td><td> 4</td><td>is</td><td>one</td><td>flow chart</td><td>as</td><td>shows</td><td>one</td><td>procedure</td><td>for</td>
<td>display.</td><td>of</td><td>one</td><td colspan="2">machine selection screen;</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>
<td>FIG</td><td> 5</td><td>is</td><td>one</td><td>flow chart</td><td>as</td><td>shows</td><td>one</td><td>machine selection</td><td> -</td>
<td>procedure</td><td>f</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>
<td>FIG</td><td> 6</td><td>is</td><td>one</td><td>flow chart</td><td>as</td><td>shows</td><td>one</td><td>procedure</td><td>for</td>
displaying a detailed problem information screen;
Fig. 7 is a view showing an arrangement drawing input screen;
Fig. 8 is a view showing the setting of machine locations;
Fig. 9 is a view showing a machine name input screen for each washing machine;
Fig. 10 is a view showing an example of the machine selection screen;
Fig. 11 is a view showing the detailed problem information screen;
Fig. 12 is a flow chart showing another floor arrangement setting procedure for the central control device shown in Fig. 1;
Fig. 13 is a flow chart showing another floor arrangement setting procedure for the central control device shown in Fig. 1;
Fig. 14 is a flow chart showing the setting procedure shown in Fig. 13;
Fig. 15 is a flow chart showing a procedure for displaying a floor arrangement fed into memory;
Fig. 16 is a view showing another floor arrangement diagram input screen;
Fig. 17 is a view showing a display screen obtained when the detailed machine data key shown in Fig. 16 is activated;
Fig. 18 is a view showing a screen that has been set;
517 876
Fig. 19 is a view showing a floor arrangement display screen; and
Fig. 20 is a view showing a display screen of the central control device at the time of trouble in a washing machine installed in a washing machine. Description of the Preferred Embodiments
Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a remote management system in accordance with the present invention. In Fig. 1, reference numeral 2 denotes a washing machine, and reference numeral 1 denotes a handling company for handling a plurality of washing machines 2, 2, .... located. In each washing machine 8 a microcomputer 8a is provided for controlling the operation of the machine. The microcomputer 8a is started by means of a payment entry command such as a coin entry and a start command, controls the corresponding machine in accordance with signals from the sensors 8b, 8b, ... such as a rotational speed sensor and a temperature sensor, and stores data regarding payment input, start command, rotational speed, temperature, deviating payment input, deviating rotational speed, deviating temperature, etc.
An HBS interface 9 (hereinafter referred to as I / F) based on a home bus system (hereinafter referred to as HBS) is connected to each microcomputer 8a, and provides a clock signal to the microcomputer 8a. Half-duplex series communication is performed between the HBS-I / F. 9 and the microcomputer 8a in synchronization with the clock signal. With this configuration, the HBS-I / F. 9 reads data stored in the microcomputer 8a and provides the data to a DTC 7 via twisted pair wires 10. The twisted pair wires 10 are connected to an HBS control unit 7b of the DTC 7. The HBS control unit 7b controls the transmission of a data transmission request to the washing machine 8, 8, ... and also controls the transmission of data from the washing machine 8, 8, .. to
DTC: n 7.
• · • · » · • · ··· · · · ·
517 876 'J.' :? j '
The HBS control unit 7b sends and receives the data transmission request and received data for the washing machine 8, 8, ... to and from the DTC control unit 7a which controls the operation of the DTC 7. The DTC control unit 7a is connected to an input device 7c which sets information regarding the name, telephone number, etc. of the washing machine provided with the DTC 7, a memory 7d which stores data received from the washing machine machines 8, 8, ... and a I / F 7g as an RS-232C interface. The communication between the HBS control unit 7b and the washing machine 8, 8, ... is performed according to a predetermined priority order. The DTC 7 sends the data transmission request to the washing machine 8, 8, ... at predetermined intervals in accordance with the predetermined priority order, and stores received data at predetermined addresses in the memory 7d.
The I / F 7g of the DTC 7 is connected to an I / F 3d provided in a central control device 3 which comprises a personal computer via a line control / data transmission unit 6 such as a modem, the public telephone line, and a line control / data transmission unit 4 on the management company's 1 page. Communication between the line control / data transmission unit 6 and the line control / data transmission unit 4 is performed in accordance with the MNP 5 protocol for data compression or the like. A telephone 12 is connected to the line control / data transmission unit 4 on the side of the washing machine 2, and a telephone 11 is connected to the line control / data transmission unit 6 on the side of the handling company 1 to be used for telephone communication.
The central control device 3 is provided with a display device 3b such as a CRT display, an input device 3c such as a keyboard and a mouse, and a control unit 3a such as a CPU. When a data transmission request, such as a request for sales figures or a function permit request, is input from the input device 3c, the control unit 3a sends the request to the DTC 7 of the washing machine 2 via the I / F 3d and the line control / data transmission unit 4,
517 876 and reads data transmitted from the DTC 7 and received by the line control / data transmission unit 4 via the I / F 3d, and then displays the data on the display device 3c.
In the event of a problem, such as an error, deviation or payment theft at one of the washing machine 8, 8, ..., the microcomputer 8a of the washing machine 8 stops the washing machine and delivers a transmission request to the DTC 7. After receiving a response from the DTC 7, the microcomputer 8a sends problem data such as the name and number of the machine and the type of problem. The DTC 7 calls the central control device 3 for transmitting the received problem data. After receiving a response from the central control device 3, the DTC 7 adds the name of the washing machine to the problem data and sends the entire data as problem data to the central control device 3 via the public telephone line 5. The central control device 3 shows the contents of the received problem data on the display device 3b.
As described later, the name and number of each washing machine 2, and the number and model of the washing machine 8, 8, ... installed in the washing machine 2 have been stored in the memory 3e of the central control device 3. In addition, the locations of the washing machines 8, 8, ... set according to operator inputs and stored in memory 3e. When a specific washing machine 2 is selected, the central control device 3 displays a floor arrangement screen indicating the locations of the washing machine 8, 8, ... which are installed in the washing machine on the display device 3b. By selecting a desired washing machine 8 on the floor arrangement screen, the above-mentioned data transmission request can be sent only to the selected washing machine 8. Furthermore, the central control device 3, after receiving problem data, shows a floor arrangement screen indicating the locations of the washing machine 8, 8, ... together with the name and number of the washing machine 2 »· · • · · · ·
517 876 C? '3 / :: = ='
Ί in which the problem arose to indicate the location of the washing machine 8 that caused the problem.
Figs. 2 and 3 are flow charts showing a floor arrangement setting procedure and a screen display procedure for the central control device 3 of the remote management system in accordance with the present invention. The central control device 3 determines whether the initial setting for information regarding the washing machines 2, 2, ... and the washing machine machines 8, 8, ... located therein has been selected (step S1). After determining that the initial setting has been selected, the central control device 3 stores in the memory 3e the names and telephone numbers of the several washing machines 2, 2, ... which have been entered from the input device 3c corresponding to the storage number (step S2).
After the setting regarding the washing machines
2, 2, ... is completed, the central control device 3 determines whether a floor arrangement diagram creation request has been entered (step S3). After determining that the request has been entered, the central control device 3 shows a floor arrangement diagram input screen (with reference to Fig. 8) which is described later (step S4). The central control device 3 then sets both the washing machine number counter value m and the machine number counter value n to 1, and displays the name of the washing machine stored as number 1 and machine number 1 in the corresponding predetermined display areas of the floor arrangement diagram input screen (steps S5, S6). When the model name, machine name such as water washer or dryer, the manufacturing number, etc. of the washing machine 8 corresponding to machine number 1 is entered from the input device 3c, the central control device 3 enters such information corresponding to machine number 1 in the memory 3e (step S7), and displays the information in a predetermined area on the floor arrangement diagram input screen.
Fig. 7 is a view showing the floor arrangement diagram input screen. On the upper left side of the screen to • ·
517 876 .: · .=.
ΙΟ a washing machine name display area 30 is provided for indicating the number and name of a washing machine. Below the washing machine name display area 30, a machine information display area 35 is provided for entering and indicating the above-mentioned machine number, model name, machine name and manufacturing number so that the model name, machine name and manufacturing number corresponding to the machine number indicated in the machine information display area 35 is set and entered. In addition, below the machine information display area 35, a model selection button 36 PREVIOUS MODEL and a model selection button 37 NEXT MODEL are displayed in the form of buttons. When the operator moves the pointer to the model selection button 36 or 37 and clicks on the button, the previous or next machine number is indicated with respect to the indicated machine number in the machine information display area 35.
On the right side of the machine information display area 35, a floor arrangement area 31 is provided for indicating the locations of the washing machine 8, 8, ... in the washing machine. The floor arrangement area 31 is provided with a plurality of machine blocks 32, 32, ... which are obtained by dividing a rectangular area into a matrix shape. The perimeter of the rectangular area is surrounded by wall surface blocks 33a, 33a, ..., each of which is provided for three machine blocks.
When the information concerning the washing machine 8 corresponding to machine number 1 is stored in step S7, the central control device 3 sets the location of the input of the washing machine 2 and the location of the washing machine 8 corresponding to machine number 1 according to operator operation (steps S8, S9). The central control device 3 determines whether or not a display request for the next machine number has been delivered (step S10). When the request has been delivered, the machine number counter value n is counted up to n + 1 (Step S11), and steps S6 to S10 are repeated.
When, on the other hand, a display request of the next machine number has not been delivered in step S10, determines
517 876 // the central control device 3 whether the end of the setting has been entered or not (step S12) and waits until the end of the setting has been entered. When the end of the setting is entered, the central control device 3 determines whether the washing machine number counter value m is the last washing machine number (step S13). When the value m is not the last number, the value m is counted up to m + 1 and the machine number counter value n is reset to 1 (step S14), the function sequence returns to step S6, and the information regarding the washing machine 8, 8, ... located in the washing machine stored and the locations of the machines are set in the same way as described above.
Fig. 8 is a view showing the setting of locations. When the model name, machine name and manufacturing number corresponding to the machine number indicated in the machine information display area 35 are entered, the input data corresponding to the washing machine name indicated in the washing machine name display area 30 is stored in the memory 3e by means of the control unit 3a. When the operator moves the pointer to one of the machine blocks 32, 32, ... and clicks on the block, the control unit 3a changes the color of the machine block 32 (for example from gray to yellow), and shows in the machine block 32 the machine number indicated in the machine information display area 35. As a result, the location of the washing machine corresponding to the machine number and machine number information in relation to each other. On the other hand, in the case where the machine number is set at an incorrect machine block 32, the control unit 3a deletes the machine number from the machine block 32 when the operator clicks the CANCEL button 40. The number is then set again at a correct machine block 32 by taking steps similar to those described above. .
After setting the location of the machine corresponding to the machine number indicated in the machine information display area 35, the operator clicks the NEXT MODEL button 37 to indicate the next machine number in the machine • · · ·
517 876 /2 • ·· •· 9
99
9 · the information display area 35. When the operator enters the model name, machine name and manufacturing number of the machine corresponding to the machine number indicated in the machine information display area 35 in the same manner as described above, the controller 3a stores the entered data in the memory 3e and sets the machine number to the machine block 32 designated by the operator. The above operation is repeated until the stored last machine number is reached.
When the operator further moves the pointer to one of the wall surface blocks 33a, 33a, ... and clicks on the block to set the input of the washing machine 2, the control unit 3a highlights the block or changes the color of the block to perform a preliminary setting. In the case where the preliminary setting at this time is incorrect, the operator clicks the DELETE button 40 to cancel the preliminary setting part and to restore the original indication. The operator then tentatively sets the input in the same way as described above. After the preliminary setting, the operator clicks the INPUT SETTING CHANGE button 39 provided between floor arrangement area 31 and the CANCEL button 40. The control unit 3a assigns the selected wall surface block 33a to the input block 33b, changes its indication from WALL WALL (and ROAD) for the wall surface blocks 33a, 33a, ... which have not been set.
After all the washing machine location settings indicated in the washing machine name display area 34 are completed, the operator clicks the icon of the button with the down arrow provided in washing machine selection area 34, and the controller 3a displays the washing machine name and machine number 1 corresponding to the next washing machine number stored in memory 3. . When the machine location settings for all the washing machine numbers stored in the memory 3e are completed, the operator clicks a FORWARD button 42 to close the floor arrangement setting screen.
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When the central control device 3 in step S13 determines that the washing machine number counter value m is the last washing machine number stored, the central control device 3 displays a machine name entry for washing machine (reference to Fig. 9) which is described later (step S15) to prompt the operator to confirm or change the names of the input washing machines 8, 8, .... When the operator enters a change, the central control device 3 enters the change (step S16). The central control device 3 then stores in the memory 3e the locations of the washing machine 8, 8, ... and the location of the entrance set on the floor arrangement diagram input screen, together with the numbers and names of the washing machines 8, 8, ... and the washing machine number and name having stored (step S17). This exits the initial setting and the main menu screen reappears (step S18). On the other hand, when the operator determines that no floor arrangement diagram is created in step S3, the function sequence is shifted to step S15. The central control device 3 shows the machine name entry screen for the washing machine and enters the numbers, names, etc. on the washing machine machines 8, 8, ... which are installed in each washing machine.
Fig. 9 is a view showing the screen for machine name entry in the washing machine. Fig. 9 indicates the name of the corresponding washing machine at the upper part of the screen for machine name entry in the washing machine. Under the washing machine name, model name, machine name, production number and renewal date are listed in order of machine number. In accordance with this list, the operator confirms the machine numbers, model names, etc. for the washing machine 8, 8, ... located in the washing machine. In the case where an input error is found, the operator designates the entry corresponding to the error by moving the pointer and entering the correct data.
After the initial setting is completed, the screen that displays characteristic information such as machine monitoring information and • ·
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Η detailed problem monitoring to the main menu screen (step S18), from which a desired menu item is selected. The central control device 3 determines whether the monitoring of the machine is selected (step S19). When the central control device 3 determines that the monitoring of machine has been selected, the device 3 displays a machine selection screen (step S20).
Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing a display procedure for the machine selection screen (with reference to Fig. 10). The central control device 3 shows the machine blocks 32, 32, ... in accordance with the data relating to a desired washing machine number which has been read from the memory 3e (step S201) and determines whether a machine place has been set at the first machine block 32 in a predetermined order (step S202). Once a location has been set at the machine block 32, the central control device 3 changes the color of the machine block 32 and displays the machine number that has been set (step S203). When no location is set for the machine block 32, the indication for the machine block 32 does not change. The central control device 3 determines whether the machine block 32 is the last block (step S204), and repeats steps S202 and S203 until the last block is reached. After the operation of the last block is completed, the central control device 3 shows the input block 33b at a predetermined position around the machine blocks 32, 32, ... (step S205).
Fig. 10 is a view showing an example of the machine selection screen. When the machine's monthly operating time monitoring screen is selected from the main menu screen, the title MONTHLY MACHINE OPERATING TIME is displayed corresponding to the selected menu item at the top of the screen as shown in Fig. 10. Under the title, the washing machine name corresponding to the first washing machine number is indicated. The locations of the washing machine machines installed in the washing machine are shown by means of the machine numbers indicated in colored machine blocks 32, 32, ... As is clearly shown in Fig. 10, it is seen that the washing machine machines of the washing machine are arranged in a square bracket.
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9 · / 5 and the entrance is provided opposite the open area of the square bracket. When the PREVIOUS MODEL button 36 or the NEXT button 37 is clicked, machine information such as model names, machine names, etc. for the washing machine machines located in the washing machine in order according to machine number in the machine information display area 35 is indicated. By indicating detailed information including machine numbers in the machine information display area 35, the size of the machine block 32 can be made compact so that the operator can easily pay attention to the locations of the machines and so that necessary detailed information can be provided to the operator using a single screen.
When an optional machine block is selected on the machine selection screen, the central control device 3 notices the selection. When a machine number has been set at the selected machine block 32, the machine number, model name, machine name and manufacturing number of the machine corresponding to the machine number in the machine information display area 35 are indicated (step S21). In addition, the central control device 3 obtains access to the washing machine according to the machine number of the selected washing machine and the washing machine number, and performs monitoring to send necessary data (step 22), when a monitoring request for the washing machine corresponding to the selected machine block 32 is entered.
Fig. 5 is a flow chart showing the above-mentioned machine selection procedure. The central control device 3 waits until a machine block 32 is designated on the machine selection screen (step S21). Furthermore, when the central control device 3 determines that a machine block 32 has been designated, the device 3 determines whether a machine number has been set at the machine block 32 (step S212). When the central control device 3 determines that a machine number has been set at the machine block 32, the device 3 identifies the machine number (step S213), and displays • ·
517 876 / b corresponding machine number, model name, machine name and serial number in the machine information display area 35 (step S214).
On the other hand, when the central control device 3 determines that the monitoring of machine is not selected, the device 3 further determines whether the detailed problem monitoring has been selected (step S23). When the device 3 determines that the detailed problem monitoring has been selected, the device 3 displays a detailed problem information screen (step S24).
Fig. 6 is a flow chart showing a display procedure for the detailed problem information screen (referring to Fig. 11). The central control device 3 reads data regarding the corresponding washing machine number from the means 3e in accordance with the problem data, and shows the machine blocks 32, 32, ... (step S241). The device 3 determines whether a machine location has been set at the first machine block 32 in a predetermined order. Once a location has been set at the machine block 32, the central control device 3 changes the color of the machine block 32 and displays the machine number that has been set (step S243). When no location has been set, the indication of the machine block 32 does not change. The central control device 3 determines whether the machine block 32 is the last block (step S244), and repeats steps S242 and S243 until the last block is reached. When the operation of the last block is completed, the central control device 3 shows the input block 33b at a predetermined position around the machine blocks 32, 32, ... (step S245). The central control device 3 then changes the indication for the machine block 32 provided with the same machine number as that included in the problem data, ie changes the color of the indication or flashes with the indication (step S246).
Fig. 11 is a view showing the detailed problem information screen. From the DTC 7 that is installed in a washing machine 2 in which an error occurred, information such as • *
517 876/7 includes the washing machine number and the machine numbers of the washing machine 8, 8, ... which caused problems were sent to the central control device 3. In accordance with the transmitted washing machine number, the central control device 3 shows the name of the washing machine 2 and also shows the locations of the washing machine 8, 8, ... which are installed in the washing machine at the machine blocks 32, 32, ... in the floor arrangement area 31 by indicating the machine numbers and staining the blocks. In addition, in accordance with the machine numbers of the washing machine machines 8, 8, ... which caused problems, the central control device 3 shows the machine blocks of the corresponding machines by emphasizing the indication of the machine numbers and / or by changing the color of the machine blocks 32, 32, ... As a result, the operator can draw attention to the locations and models of the washing machine machines 8, 8, ... which caused problems, simply by looking at the display screen.
When the operator uses the pointer and selects the machine blocks 32, 32, ... which indicate the machine numbers of the washing machine 8, 8, ..., about which detailed knowledge is desired, the central control device 3 pays attention to the selection, and performs problem solving for the washing machines 8, 8, .. corresponding to the selected machine numbers (step S25). On the other hand, when the central control device 3 determines that the detailed fault monitoring has not been selected, the device 3 performs a monitoring process, such as summing the sales figures in each washing machine and comparing sales figures for washing machines, which differ from machine monitoring (step S26).
Another embodiment in accordance with the present invention is described below.
Figs. 12 and 13 are flow charts showing other arrangement setting procedures for the central control device 3 shown in Fig. 1. In accordance with the information regarding the washing machine machines 8, 8, ... which • ·
517 876 / g is retrieved from the washing machine 2, the central control device 3 sets the locations of the machines, and sets and shows the floor design of the washing machine 2.
In the microcomputers 8a, 8a, ... of the washing machine 8, 8, ... installed in each washing machine 2, machine information such as the machine numbers and model names of the washing machines 8, 8, ... and classes representing communication specifications for the machines have been set. The central control device 3 determines whether the initial setting of the information regarding each washing machine 2 and the washing machine 8, 8, ... installed in it have been selected (step S30). When the central control device 3 determines that the initial setting has been selected, the device 3 further determines whether the washing machine information, such as the number, name and telephone number of the washing machine 2, has been entered from the feeding device 3c (step 31). When the device 3 determines that such washing machine information has been entered, the device 3 further determines whether the washing machine information is new (step 32). When the device 3 determines that the washing machine information is new, the device 3 calls the DTC 7 which is installed in the washing machine 2 via the public telephone line 5 (step S33).
The central control device 3 determines whether a response has been received from the DTC 7 (step S34) and repeatedly calls the DTC 7 until the device 3 determines that a response has been received. When the central control device 3 determines that a response has been received, the device 3 connects to the public telephone line 5 (step S35), and sends to the DTC 7 a command to cause the DTC 7 to send information regarding the washing machine machines 8, 8, ... (step S36). When
The DTC 7 receives the command from the central control device 3, interrogates (police '') the DTC 7 the microcomputers 8a, 8a, ... of the washing machine 8, 8, ... to receive the information regarding the washing machines * ·
<img file="SE517876C2_D0002.tif" />
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8, 8, ..., and sends the machine information to the central control device 3. When the central control device 3 receives the machine information transmitted from the DTC 7 (step S37), the device 3 stores the machine information together with the washing machine information in the memory 3e, and breaks connection (steps S38 and S39).
The central control device 3 determines whether an arrangement diagram creation request has been input from the input device 3c (step S40). When the device 3 determines that the request has been entered, the device 3 displays a floor arrangement input screen (with reference to Fig. 16) which is described later (step S41). The central control device 3 then sets in both the washing machine number counter value m and the machine number counter value n to 1 (step S42), and reads the washing machine information for washing machine number 1 and the machine information for machine number 1 from the memory 3e (step S43). The device 3 displays the washing machine information and machine information read on the floor arrangement input screen (step S44), and performs a setting process by setting and storing the machine locations and the washing machine floor arrangement as described later (step S45).
Fig. 16 is a view showing another arrangement diagram input screen.
On the upper left side of the screen, a washer name display area 30 is provided for indicating a washer number and name. Below the washing machine name display area 30, a machine information display area 35 is provided. In the machine information display area 35, machine number 1 is indicated, and the model name, machine name, manufacturing number, the class of the washing machine corresponding to machine number 1, as well as an image of the stored model. In addition, a model information button (IN DETAIL) 35a is provided to indicate detailed information relating to the model in a window. In addition, under the machine information display area 35, a model selection button 36 PREVIOUS MODEL and ·
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2.Ö a model selection button 37 NEXT MODEL. When the operator moves the pointer to model selection button 36 or 37 and clicks on the button, the previous or next machine number is indicated in relation to the indicated machine number in the machine information display area 35.
Fig. 17 is a view showing a display screen displayed when the model information button (IN DETAIL) 35a is clicked. The Model Information Button (IN DETAIL) 35a can be operated when necessary. When the button is clicked, detailed information regarding the washing machine corresponding to the machine number indicated in the machine information display area 35 shown in Fig. 16 is utilized using an enlarged model information window shown in Fig. 17. Fig. 17 shows the image of the model on the left side of the screen. The right side shows detailed information such as the model code, model name and class of the machine as well as the maximum coin storage capacity and range for lubricant change.
In addition, with reference to Fig. 16, a plurality of blocks 50, 50, ... are provided for adjusting the locations of the washing machine 8, 8, ... in the washing machine corresponding to the washing machine number in the form of a matrix on the right side of the machine information display area 35. On the right side of the blocks is provided a MACHINE setting button 52 for setting machines, an ENTRY setting button 53 for setting inputs, a WALL setting button 54 for setting walls, by using blocks 50, and a CANCEL button 55 for canceling these settings, vertically in the order described above. At the bottom of the screen is provided a STORE SELECT button 60 for displaying a washing machine list stored in memory 3e, a BACK button 41 for displaying the previous screen, the FORWARD button 42 for displaying the next screen and an EXIT button 43 for closing of the handling of the handling system from left to right in the order described above.
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Fig. 14 is a flow chart showing the setting procedure shown in Fig. 13, and Fig. 18 is a view showing a screen that has been set. After the pointer has moved to the INPUT setting button 53 and the button has been clicked, when the operator moves the pointer to any of the blocks 50, 50, ... depending on the locations and number of inputs of the washing machine and clicks the blocks, the central control device 3 blocks the blocks 50 , 50, ... (for example in bluish purple) and INPUT are indicated by reverse color display (step S451). After the pointer has moved to the WALL Setting button 54 and the button has been clicked, when the operator moves the pointer to any of the blocks 50, 50, ... depending on the design of the washbasin floor and clicks on the blocks, the central controller 3 assigns wall data to the blocks 50, 50, ... and deletes blocks 50, 50, ... (step S452).
After the pointer has been moved to the MACHINE setting button 52 and the button has been clicked, when the operator moves the pointer to any of the blocks 50, 50, ... depending on the installation locations in the washing machine and clicks the blocks, the central control device 3 colors blocks 50, 50 , ... depending on the type of block (reddish purple for vortex washers, green for drum washers, light red for gas dryers, light blue for dryers and yellow for electric dryers) and shows the machine numbers indicated in the machine information display area 35 (step S453).
After the pointer has been moved to the CANCEL button 55 and the button has been clicked, when the operator moves the pointer to a block 50 or the position in which a block 50 was displayed and clicks the block or position, on the other hand, the central controller 3 determines that a cancel command has been issued ( step S454). The device 3 then determines whether a machine has been set, an input has been set or a wall has been set (steps S455, S457 and S459). When the central control device 3 determines that a • ·
517 876 • · · · · · • · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · When the device 3 determines that an input has been set, the device 3 eliminates the color of the blocks and deletes the input data (step S458). When the device determines that a wall has been set, the device 3 deletes wall data and displays the blocks (step S460) and the operation sequence is shifted to step S46 (with reference to Fig. 13). In this way, the block information regarding the floor arrangement of the washing machine and the locations of the washing machine machines installed in the washing machine are obtained.
The central control device 3 determines whether the machine number indicated in machine information display area 35 is the last machine number of the washing machine 8, 8, ... which are located in the washing machine 2 (step S46). When the machine number is not the last number, the machine number counter value n is counted by only one (step S47), and the operation sequence returns to step S44. The central control device 3 repeats steps S44 to S47 until the device 3 in step S46 determines that the machine number is the last machine number.
When the central control device 3 in step S46 determines that the machine number is the last machine number, the device 3 further determines whether the washing machine number for the washing machine 2 displayed in the machine information display area 35 is the last washing machine number stored in the memory 3e (step S48). When the device 3 determines that the washing machine number is not the last washing machine number, the device 3 counts the washing machine number counter value m only by one, and resets the machine number counter value n to 1 (step S49), and the operation sequence returns to step S43. The device 3 repeats steps S43 to S49 until the device 3 in step S48 determines that the washing machine number is the last washing machine number. When the central control device 3 determines that the washing machine number is the last washing machine number, the device 3 enters block information • · • · · · · · · · · · · ·
517 876 tion used for the location setting in the memory 3e, with the block information relating to the machine information and the washing machine information (step S50).
Fig. 15 is a flow chart showing the display procedure for the floor arrangement fed into the memory 3e, and Fig. 19 is a view showing a floor arrangement display screen. When a display request for a washing machine 2 is issued, the central control device 3 reads the block information, the machine information and the washing machine information regarding the washing machine 2 from the memory 3e (step S51), and displays the washing machine information and machine information regarding machine number 1 in the machine information display area (step S52). The central control device 3 then shows the blocks 50, 50, ... in a predetermined order on the right side of the machine information display area 35.
The central control device 3 determines whether machine information has been set, whether an input has been set and whether a wall has been set in the block information to be displayed (steps S53, S55 and S57). Once machine information has been set, block 50 is colored depending on the model, and the block and machine number are displayed (step S54). When the device 3 determines that an input has been set, the block 50 is colored, and the block and the input are displayed (step S56). When the device 3 determines that a wall has been set, the block 50 is not displayed. When the device 3 determines that none of the above settings has been performed, only the block 50 is displayed (step S58). The operation sequence is then shifted to step S59, and the central controller 3 determines whether the block is the last block. The device 3 repeats steps S53 to S59 until the device 3 determines that the block is the last block.
Although the block 50 used for wall adjustment is not shown in Fig. 19, the invention is not limited to this method, but it is superfluous to point out that WALL can be shown and colored. In addition, FLOORS can be set in suitable blocks 50, 50, ... depending on floor design • ·
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2. The use of the washing machine to indicate only the blocks 50, 50, ... used for floor adjustment. In this case, the central control device 3 is intended to operate so that the machine number and inputs can also be set in the blocks 50, 50, ... which are used for floor adjustment. Although only entrances have been set in the washing machine floor arrangement, the invention is furthermore not limited to this setting, but windows, corridors, elevators, etc. can be set.
Fig. 20 is a view showing a display screen displayed by the central control device 3 when a washing machine installed in a washing machine causes problems. When problems arise in a washing machine, the problem information is sent from the DTC installed in the washing machine to the central control device. After receiving the information, the central control device displays such a detailed problem display as that shown in Fig. 20. Fig. 20 indicates machine information such as the machine number, model number, etc. of the washing machine which caused the problem and a problem code under the name of the washing machine which caused the problem. The washing machine and the locations of the washing machines installed in it are displayed, and the color (for example, dark red) of the washing machine that caused the problem is made differently from the color of other washing machines. In addition, the date and time of the problem are indicated on the right side of the machine location display area. With this screen, the operator can instantly pay attention to the location of the washing machine that caused the problem and the type of problem.
Therefore, since the present invention may be embodied in several ways without departing from the scope of its essential features, the present embodiment is illustrative and not restrictive, as the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims and not by the description preceding them, and any changes falling within the scope of the claims. , or equivalents
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to such limits thereof is therefore intended to be covered by the claims.
22 sheets
Sheet 1 Sheet 2 Sheet 3 Sheet 4 Sheet 5 Sheet 6 Sheet 7 Sheet 8 Sheet 9 Sheet 10 Sheet 11 Sheet 12 Sheet 13 Sheet 14 Sheet 15 Sheet 16 Sheet 17 Sheet 18 Sheet 19 Sheet 20 Sheet 21 Sheet 22
17 members in 6 offices
Priority claims8
| Document | Office | Kind | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12189395 | Japan | A | |
| 12189395 | Japan | A | |
| 5519596 | Japan | A | |
| 5519596 | Japan | A | |
| 07121893 | – | – | – |
| 0855195 | – | – | – |
| JP19950121893 | – | – | – |
| JP19960055195 | – | – | – |
Members17
| Document | Office | Kind | |
|---|---|---|---|
| SE9601798D0 | Sweden | D0 | |
| SE9601798L | Sweden | L | |
| KR960042381A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| JPH0946441A | Japan | A | |
| CN1144352A | China | A | |
| TW302083U | Taiwan Province of China | U | |
| JPH09186063A | Japan | A | |
| KR970049071A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| KR970049071A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| US5777895A | United States of America | A | |
| KR100200337B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| KR100207277B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| KR100207277B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| US6072185A | United States of America | A | |
| SE517876C2This record | Sweden | C2 | |
| JP3461076B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| CN1163828C | China | C |
Numbers
- Publication, DOCDB
- 517876
- Publication, EPODOC
- SE517876
- Application
- 9601798
- Application, DOCDB
- 9601798
- Application, EPODOC
- SE19960001798
Titles2
- Swedish
- Fjärrhanteringssystem
- English
- Remote Handling
Classification
- CPC, 2
- H04M11/00
- G06Q99/00
- IPC, 3
- D06F95 00
- G06Q99 00
- H04M11 00
