JP6921122B2 - Water purifier system, water purifier management system and water purifier usage status detection method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a water purifier system , a water purifier management system, and a water purifier usage status detection method.
This application applies to Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-254765 filed in Japan on December 28, 2016, Japanese Patent Application No. 2017-143928 filed in Japan on July 25, 2017, and December 20, 2017. The priority is claimed based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2017-2444887 filed in Japan on the same day, and the contents thereof are incorporated herein by reference.

With the spread of the Internet and smartphones, the so-called IoT (internet of thing) technology that connects things and people and provides information is rapidly spreading. For example, in Patent Document 1, information indicating the degree of wear of the filter based on the number of times the lid is opened / closed detected by the lid open / close detection unit provided on the lid of the water purifier is transmitted to the mobile terminal device, and the mobile terminal device is used. A technique for displaying information prompting filter replacement according to the degree of wear is disclosed. For example, Patent Document 2 describes a water purifier including a detection unit for detecting a state in which water purification treatment is being performed and a beacon device. In this water purifier, the beacon device transmits a signal notifying the filter replacement time to the user's mobile terminal device based on the total time during which the water purification process is detected detected by the detection unit.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2015-219688 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2016-96421

In the techniques described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, in each case, a communication device is provided in the water purifier, and the communication device transmits information related to deterioration of the filter of the water purifier at predetermined time intervals. However, in the case of such a configuration, since the power consumed by the communication device is enormous, a power supply device is required, which poses a problem in terms of cost and arrangement space. For example, in the case of a water purifier directly connected to a faucet, power is often supplied by a button battery stored inside the water purifier, but it is not realistic to cover the power consumed by the communication device with the button battery. ..

The present invention provides a water purifier system , a water purifier management system, and a water purifier usage status detection method that can solve the above-mentioned problems.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the water purifier system is a faucet direct connection type water purifier including a short-range wireless communication device powered by another device, and has a sensor for detecting cartridge usage information. , The control unit that records the usage information of the cartridge detected by the sensor in the storage unit, and the short-range wireless communication device that supplies the usage information recorded in the storage unit from the other device. It includes a first communication unit that transmits to the other device by near field communication (NFC), and a button battery that supplies power for detection processing by the sensor and recording processing to the storage unit. The first communication unit supplies power to the upper surface of the water purifier, the front slope of the upper surface, or the faucet direct connection type water purifier built in the front side, and the first communication unit by short-range wireless communication. The display control unit includes a second communication unit that receives the usage amount information from the first communication unit and a display control unit that outputs information prompting the replacement of the cartridge. The second communication unit is the display control unit. A portable communication device that outputs information prompting the reception of the usage amount information when a predetermined period elapses after receiving the usage amount information.

The water purifier directly connected to the faucet according to the second aspect of the present invention is characterized by not including a display unit for displaying the usage amount information.

In the water purifier system according to the third aspect of the present invention, the display control unit outputs information for guiding the product information of the cartridge corresponding to the faucet direct connection type water purifier.

In the water purifier system according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the display control unit outputs the usage amount information.

Further, in the water purifier system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the mobile communication device includes a display unit that displays information output by the display control unit.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the water purifier system according to any one of the above and an analysis server device that communicates with the mobile communication device are provided, and the analysis server device includes the mobile communication device. A third communication unit that performs communication and a determination unit that determines the replacement time of the cartridge based on the usage amount information received from the mobile communication device are provided, and the determination unit has reached the replacement time of the cartridge. If it is determined, the third communication unit is a water purifier management system that transmits information indicating the arrival of the cartridge replacement time to the mobile communication device.

In the water purifier management system according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the analysis server device further includes a prediction unit that predicts the replacement time of the cartridge based on the usage amount information received from the mobile communication device. When the cartridge replacement time predicted by the prediction unit arrives, the third communication unit transmits information indicating the arrival of the cartridge replacement time to the mobile communication device.

In the water purifier management system according to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the prediction unit predicts the replacement time of the cartridge based on the past history of the usage amount information related to the cartridge.

In the water purifier management system according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the prediction unit predicts the replacement time of the cartridge based on the usage amount information of other cartridges used in the area where the cartridge is used. To do.

According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, it is a faucet direct connection type water purifier including a short-range wireless communication device powered by another device, and a sensor for detecting cartridge usage information and the sensor for detecting the cartridge usage information. A control unit that records the usage information of the cartridge in the storage unit, and a short-range wireless communication using the short-range wireless communication device by supplying power from the other device to the usage information recorded in the storage unit. The first communication unit includes a first communication unit that transmits to the other device by (NFC: Near Field Communication), and a button battery that supplies power for detection processing by the sensor and recording processing to the storage unit. The unit supplies power to the first communication unit to the upper surface of the water purifier, the front slope of the upper surface, or the water purifier directly connected to the faucet built in the front side, and the usage information is obtained by short-range wireless communication. The display control unit includes a second communication unit that receives the message from the first communication unit and a display control unit that outputs information prompting the replacement of the cartridge. This is a water purifier usage status detection method in which a portable communication device that outputs information prompting the reception of the usage amount information is brought close to the device when a predetermined period of time elapses after the reception to detect the usage amount information.

According to the above-mentioned water purifier, water purifier system, water purifier management system, and water purifier usage status detection method, power consumption by communication is consumed by equipping the water purifier with a short-range wireless communication device powered by another device. The power consumption of the water purifier can be reduced and the frequency of battery replacement can be reduced. In addition, it is possible to determine the replacement time of the cartridge and present the replacement time to the user.

It is the schematic of the water purifier management system 1 in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view of the water purifier 10 in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a functional block diagram of the water purifier management system 1 in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the communication of the usage amount information between the water purifier 10 and the portable communication device 20 in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the relationship between the usage amount information stored in the water purifier 10 and the reading process of the usage amount information by the mobile communication device 20 in one embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the communication processing of the usage amount information in one Embodiment of this invention. It is the first figure which shows an example of the usage amount information recorded in the storage part 406 in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the guidance information which a mobile communication apparatus 20 displays in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the reset process of the usage amount information at the time of cartridge exchange in one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 2 is a second diagram showing an example of usage amount information recorded in the storage unit 406 in one embodiment of the present invention. It is the first figure which shows an example of the water purifier 10A in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a 2nd figure which shows an example of the water purifier 10A in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the mounting example of the control device 100 in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the water purifier management system 1 in one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 1 is a first diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display unit 201 by the display control unit 202 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a second diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display unit 201 by the display control unit 202 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a third diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display unit 201 by the display control unit 202 according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the activation screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is the first figure which shows an example of the initial registration screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a 2nd figure which shows an example of the initial registration screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a 3rd figure which shows an example of the initial registration screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is the first figure which shows an example of the water purifier status display screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a 2nd figure which shows an example of the water purifier status display screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a 3rd figure which shows an example of the water purifier status display screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a 4th figure which shows an example of the water purifier status display screen in one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 5 is a fifth diagram showing an example of a water purifier status display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a sixth diagram showing an example of a water purifier status display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a 7th figure which shows an example of the water purifier status display screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure 8 which shows an example of the water purifier status display screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the menu screen of cartridge exchange in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the cartridge purchase screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is the first figure which shows an example of the cartridge exchange method display screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a 2nd figure which shows an example of the cartridge exchange method display screen in one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 3 is a third diagram showing an example of a cartridge replacement method display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the battery exchange method display screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the setting screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the push notification display screen in one Embodiment of this invention.

<Embodiment>
Hereinafter, the water purifier management system according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10.
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a water purifier management system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The water purifier management system 1 is a system that monitors the usage status of the water purifier 10 and thereby guides the user to the replacement time of the cartridge of the water purifier 10. The water purifier management system 1 includes a water purifier 10, a mobile communication device 20, a PC (Personal Computer) terminal 30, an analysis server device 40, and an EC (Electronic Commerce) server device 50. The mobile communication device 20, the PC terminal 30, the analysis server device 40, and the EC server device 50 are communicably connected to each other via a network such as the Internet. Further, the mobile communication device 20 and the water purifier 10 are communicably connected by short-range wireless communication. The water purifier 10 is provided with a device for short-range wireless communication by supplying power from another device.
The short-range wireless communication in the present application refers to NFC (Near Field Communication), which is a 13.56 MHz short-range wireless communication technology approved as an international standard, and is ISO / IEC18092 (NFC IP-1) and ISO / IEC21418 (NFC IP). -2) IC card and RFID wireless communication technology. Five types of NFC (Near Field Communication) communication technology: Type1 (TOPAZ), Type2 (MIFARE Ultralight), Type3 (Felica), Type4 (ISO / IEC14443), Type 5 (ISO / 15693 base), Technologies such as NDEF (NFC Data Exchange Format), which is a common data format for NFC tags, and record types used for communication can be mentioned.

The water purifier 10 is, for example, a direct-attached water purifier attached to the faucet of the faucet of the user's house 60. The water purifier 10 can switch between purified water, raw water, a shower, and the like to discharge water. The water purifier 10 has a function of detecting one or both of the flow rate of purified water when used in the water purification mode and the flow rate of raw water flowing into the cartridge 4, and storing the result (usage amount information). ing. Further, the water purifier 10 has a built-in NFC communication module (hereinafter, NFC chip) as a device for short-range wireless communication by supplying power from another device, and stores it in the portable communication device 20 using short-range wireless communication. Send usage information. The mobile communication device 20 is, for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone equipped with an NFC function owned by the user. The mobile communication device 20 has functions necessary for NFC communication. The mobile communication device 20 supplies power to the NFC chip of the water purifier 10 and receives usage information from the NFC chip. Further, the mobile communication device 20 transmits the usage amount information received from the water purifier 10 to the analysis server device 40 via the network.

The PC terminal 30 is, for example, a computer installed in the user's house 60. The user uses the mobile communication device 20 or the PC terminal 30 to access the analysis server device 40 and the EC server device 50.
The analysis server device 40 accumulates usage information received from the mobile communication device 20 and analyzes the usage status of the water purifier 10. Then, the analysis server device 40 determines or predicts the replacement time of the cartridge of the water purifier 10 based on the analyzed usage data. The EC server device 50 accepts a user's order for a cartridge.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the water purifier 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention.
The water purifier 10 illustrated in FIG. 2 is mainly composed of a substantially octagonal columnar water purifier main body 2 and a substantially columnar cartridge 4, with respect to one end of the water purifier main body 2 along a substantially horizontal direction. The lower parts of the cartridge 4 along the substantially vertical direction are combined to form a substantially L-shape. Further, the water purifier 10 is formed so as to be plane-symmetrical in a central cross section (hereinafter, simply referred to as a central cross section) in the front-rear direction thereof. Here, in this embodiment, the front-rear direction means the front surface of the faucet 3, that is, the arm 3a, in a state where the water purifier 10 is attached so that the longitudinal direction of the water purifier 10 is perpendicular to the arm 3a of the faucet 3. The front-back direction as seen by the user standing on the extension line. The water purifier main body 2 is not limited to a substantially octagonal columnar shape.

The water purifier 10 is covered with a case body 5 that is plane-symmetrical with respect to the central cross section. A receiving port (raw water receiving port) 7 for receiving tap water which is raw water from the faucet 3 is formed at substantially the center of the upper part of the case body 5, and the receiving port 7 is connected to the faucet 3 via a ring-shaped mounting jig 8. It is attached to the discharge port. The water purifier main body 2 is provided with a switching operation unit 6. The switching operation unit 6 is formed so as to be rotatable in the front-rear direction around a rotation shaft along the longitudinal direction of the water purifier main body 2. By operating the switching operation unit 6, the flow path of tap water supplied to the receiving port 7 is switched, and the raw water outlet or shower outlet provided at the bottom of the water purifier main body 2 or the lower part of the cartridge 4 is used. It can be discharged from any one of the water purification outlets provided in. For example, when the switching operation unit 6 is rotated to the back side in the front-rear direction, the purified water filtered by the filter material in the cartridge 4 is discharged from the water purification outlet. Further, when the switching operation unit 6 is rotated toward the front side in the front-rear direction, the raw water is directly discharged from the raw water outlet. Further, when the switching operation unit 6 is rotated to an intermediate position in the front-rear direction, shower-shaped raw water is discharged from the shower outlet. The switching positions of the switching operation unit 6 corresponding to each outlet are referred to as a water purification position, a shower position, and a raw water position, respectively.

The water purifier main body 2 includes a flow rate detection unit 120 for detecting the flow rate of raw water flowing into the cartridge 4, a control device 100 composed of a control circuit board including an NFC chip, and a power supply unit 110 for supplying electric power to them. Is built-in.
The flow rate detection unit 120 has an axial flow impeller (not shown) that has a magnet inside and rotates at a speed corresponding to the flow rate of the fluid flowing from the upstream to the downstream, and the impeller rotates with the rotation of the impeller. It is configured to include a rotation speed detection unit (not shown) that detects the displacement magnetic flux density and a calculation unit (not shown) that calculates a flow rate based on the detection result of the rotation speed detection unit. The impeller of the flow rate detection unit 120 is provided in a flow path for sending the raw water flowing in from the receiving port 7 to the cartridge 4 when the switching position of the switching operation unit 6 is set to the water purification position. The flow rate detection unit 120 outputs the detected flow rate information to the control device 100. As a recording process, the control device 100 acquires the flow rate information and records it in the built-in storage unit 103. Further, the control device 100 transmits usage information to the mobile communication device 20 by NFC communication led by the mobile communication device 20. The details of the control device 100 will be described next with reference to FIG. Further, a battery storage unit (not shown) is provided inside the case body 5 on the back side (back side of the paper surface) of the water purifier main body 2, and a button battery (power supply unit 110) is stored in the battery storage unit. There is. The power supply unit 110 supplies electric power to the flow rate detection unit 120 and the control device 100.

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of the water purifier management system 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.
The functions of the water purifier 10, the mobile communication device 20, and the analysis server device 40 shown in FIG. 3 indicate the functions related to the present embodiment, and may have other functions.
As shown in FIG. 3, the water purifier 10 includes a control device 100, a power supply unit 110, and a flow rate detection unit 120. As described with reference to FIG. 2, the flow rate detection unit 120 detects the flow rate of the raw water flowing into the cartridge 4. The power supply unit 110 is a button battery that supplies electric power to the flow rate detection unit 120 and the control device 100. The button battery supplies power for the detection process of outputting the flow rate information detected by the flow rate detection unit 120 to the control device 100 and the recording process of acquiring the flow rate information and recording it in the storage unit 103 of the write control unit 102. However, this power is not used for NFC communication.
The control device 100 includes an input unit 101, a write control unit 102, a storage unit 103, and a communication unit 104. The control device 100 includes an NFC chip.
The input unit 101 inputs information on the flow rate detected by the flow rate detection unit 120. The input unit 101 outputs the flow rate information to the writing control unit 102.
The write control unit 102 writes the flow rate information acquired from the input unit 101 to the storage unit 103. Further, the write control unit 102 deletes the usage amount information including the flow rate information transmitted to the mobile communication device 20 from the storage unit 103.
The storage unit 103 is, for example, a storage medium included in the NFC chip, and stores the usage amount information acquired from the flow rate detection unit 120. The usage amount information is information indicating the usage status of the cartridge based on the flow rate information detected by the flow rate detection unit 120. The specific content of the usage amount information will be described later, but for example, the flow rate for one day detected by the flow rate detection unit 120 is one of them.
The communication unit 104 transmits the usage amount information stored in the storage unit 103 to the mobile communication device 20. The communication unit 104 is, for example, an antenna in the NFC chip.
The NFC chip requires operation at a close distance of several centimeters (up to about 10 cm) in order to communicate with the mobile communication device 20 and wirelessly supply power from the mobile communication device 20, but for this reason, the water purifier 10 The NFC chip is arranged in consideration of the positional relationship between the water purifier 10 and the mobile communication device 20.
When the NFC chip is built in the upper surface of the water purifier 10, the front slope of the upper surface, or the front side, when the user communicates with the water purifier 10 in close proximity to the mobile communication device 20, the mobile communication device 20 Since the communication operation can be performed while the display unit 201 is visible, it is easy to perform the communication operation. Further, in order to make the communication operation more reliable, the water purifier 10 is provided with a mark indicating the place where the NFC chip is built in (the place where the mobile communication device 20 is brought close to), or the communication operation is performed normally. When the information indicating that is displayed on the display unit 201 of the mobile communication device 20, if the NFC chip is built in the upper surface of the water purifier 10, the front slope of the upper surface, or the front side, the user Is suitable because it is easy to see. In particular, when it is the upper surface of the water purifier 10 or the slope on the front side of the upper surface, the place where the NFC chip is built in the display unit 201 of the mobile communication device 20 or the water purifier 10 due to the positional relationship of the user's eyes ( The mark indicating the place where the mobile communication device 20 is brought close to) becomes easy to see.
On the other hand, due to the design and structural restrictions of the water purifier 10, it is not always possible to incorporate the NFC chip on the upper surface of the water purifier 10, the front slope of the upper surface, or the front side. In this case, the NFC chip may be built in the side surface side or the lower surface side of the water purifier. When the water purifier 10 and the mobile communication device 20 are brought close to each other for communication, the user does not always perform the communication operation in a non-contact state, and there is a possibility that the user will be in a contact state. Since the faucet 3 to which the water purifier 10 is attached usually rotates in the left-right direction, if an NFC chip is built in the side surface side of the water purifier 10, the water purifier 10 and the mobile communication device 20 will be connected. Since the faucet 3 swings to the left and right when the faucet 3 is in contact with each other, it is possible to prevent the faucet 3 from being loaded. Further, on the lower surface side, the mobile communication device 20 is lifted from the bottom to the top. Therefore, when the water purifier 10 and the mobile communication device 20 are in contact with each other, the load applied to the faucet 3 is water purification. It is smaller than the case where the NFC chip is built in the upper surface of the vessel 10, the front slope of the upper surface, or the front side.
The above-mentioned communication operation has been normally performed so that the user can recognize that the communication is normally performed in the non-contact state so that the water purifier 10 and the mobile communication device 20 are not in the contact state. In addition to displaying the indicated information on the display unit 201 of the mobile communication device 20, the water purifier 10 may be provided with a notification means by light or sound, or the mobile communication device 20 may be provided with a notification method by light, sound or vibration.

As shown in FIG. 3, the mobile communication device 20 includes a display unit 201, a display control unit 202, an NFC function unit 203, and a communication unit 204.
The display unit 201 is a display having an input function such as a touch panel.
The display control unit 202 is usually composed of a calculation unit (processor, CPU, control unit, processing device, etc.) and a storage unit (main memory such as RAM, storage such as HDD / SDD, register, cache memory, etc.). When the user purchases the water purifier 10, for example, the user can install the application on the mobile communication device 20 by accessing the manufacturer's server or site. The application is executed by the display control unit 202. The arithmetic unit (processor, CPU, control unit, processing device, etc.) and storage unit (main memory such as RAM, storage such as HDD / SDD, register, cache memory, etc.) constituting the display control unit 202 execute the application. As a result, information for displaying a message prompting the replacement of the cartridge 4 is output to the display unit 201. Alternatively, the display control unit 202 outputs information that guides the type (product number) of the cartridge 4 that the user should purchase, or outputs information on the purchase destination.
It is also possible to acquire usage information from the water purifier 10 and control transmission of the acquired usage information to the analysis server device 40.
The NFC function unit 203 is an NFC module that communicates with the water purifier 10 by NFC and has a reader / writer unit having a read / write function. The NFC function unit 203 supplies electric power to the NFC chip of the control device 100 via a communication signal (carrier wave) to the water purifier 10, and uses the usage information recorded in the storage unit 103 via the communication unit 104 (antenna). Receive. As a method of supplying power to the NFC chip of the control device 100 from another device, as described above, the NFC function unit 203 is brought close to the NFC chip of the control device 100, and the NFC function unit 203 to the control device 100 is subjected to an electromagnetic induction method. Wireless power supply to the NFC chip. As the power supply method, not only wireless power supply by electromagnetic induction but also radio wave reception method or magnetic resonance method wireless power supply may be adopted.
The communication unit 204 communicates with the analysis server device 40 and the EC server device 50 via a network such as the Internet by wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Communication between the communication unit 204, the analysis server device 40, and the EC server device 50 is performed via a network by wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or via a communication network of a mobile communication company, as appropriate. It is selectable.

As shown in FIG. 3, the analysis server device 40 includes a data collection unit 401, a data update unit 402, a determination unit 403, a prediction unit 404, an analysis unit 405, a storage unit 406, and a communication unit 407. .. The analysis server device 40 is installed in, for example, a data center managed by the manufacturer of the water purifier 10, collects usage information from mobile communication devices 20 owned by users nationwide, and accumulates the collected usage information. do. The analysis server device 40 determines whether or not the replacement time of the cartridge 4 has arrived for each water purifier 10 from the collected usage amount information, and predicts the replacement time of the cartridge 4.
The data collection unit 401 acquires usage information received by the communication unit 407 from the mobile communication device 20. The data collection unit 401 outputs the acquired usage information to the data update unit 402.
The data update unit 402 records the usage amount information acquired by the data collection unit 401 in the storage unit 406.
Based on the usage amount information acquired by the data collecting unit 401, the determination unit 403 determines whether or not the cartridge 4 of the water purifier 10 corresponding to the usage amount information has reached the replacement time.
The prediction unit 404 predicts the replacement time of the cartridge 4 based on the analysis of the usage amount information stored in the storage unit 406.
The analysis unit 405 analyzes the usage amount information stored in the storage unit 406 by using various statistical methods, machine learning, and the like. For example, the analysis unit 405 builds a prediction model for predicting the replacement time of the cartridge 4 in consideration of seasonal fluctuations, etc., based on the past usage record of purified water. Further, the analysis unit 405 analyzes, for example, the tendency of the degree of consumption of the cartridge 4 for each region based on the usage amount information stored in the storage unit 406.
The storage unit 406 is a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The storage unit 406 stores usage information acquired from the plurality of mobile communication devices 20.
The communication unit 407 communicates with the mobile communication device 20 and the PC terminal 30 via the network.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating communication of usage amount information between the water purifier 10 and the portable communication device 20 according to the embodiment of the present invention.
In FIG. 4, the faucet main body 9 is installed on the sink 11. A water purifier 10 is attached to the tip of the faucet 3 provided on the faucet main body 9. When the user uses purified water, the flow rate of the raw water flowing into the cartridge 4 is detected by the flow rate detection unit 120 and recorded in the control device 100 (storage unit 103).
When the user starts the application, the NFC function unit 203 starts transmitting the communication signal according to the instruction of the application. In that state, the user brings the mobile communication device 20 close to the water purifier 10. Then, the NFC function unit 203 communicates with the communication unit 104 and reads the usage amount information from the water purifier 10. Further, the application is instructed to transmit the read usage information to the analysis server device 40 via the communication unit 204, and the transmission is performed. In this way, the usage amount information of the cartridge in the water purifier 10 used by each user is collected in the analysis server device 40.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the usage amount information stored in the water purifier 10 and the reading process of the usage amount information by the mobile communication device 20 according to the embodiment of the present invention.
The left three columns of the table shown in FIG. 5 show a part of the usage amount information recorded in the storage unit 103 of the water purifier 10. The value in the "days" column is the number of days since the cartridge 4 was started to be used. For example, a circuit for counting the number of days is mounted on the control device 100, and the writing control unit 102 acquires the number of days elapsed since the start of use of the cartridge 4 from this circuit, and stores the storage unit together with the usage amount information of purified water. Record in 103. The value in the "actual usage amount" column is the daily flow rate of raw water flowing into the cartridge 4. The write control unit 102 acquires the flow rate information detected by the flow rate detection unit 120 on each day, and records it in the storage unit 103 in association with the number of days information. The value in the "main unit integrated usage amount" column is the integrated value (cumulative value) of the actual usage amount of the cartridge 4. The writing control unit 102 integrates the daily flow rate information (“actual usage amount”) and records it in the storage unit 103 in association with the number of days information.
For example, in the data in the row where the value of "days" is "2", the actual usage amount on the second day from the start of use of the cartridge 4 is 15L, and the integrated value of the actual usage amount between 1 and 2 days is 25L ( 1st day: 10L, 2nd day 15L).

The fourth and fifth columns from the left of the table shown in FIG. 5 show the reading process of the usage information by the mobile communication device 20 and the resetting process of the integrated value performed for each reading process. The reading process means that the mobile communication device 20 and the control device 100 communicate with each other by the power supply of the mobile communication device 20, and the mobile communication device 20 receives the usage information of the storage unit 103.
The value "P" in the "NFC" column of the data in the row of the number of days "3" indicates that the user brought the mobile communication device 20 closer to the water purifier 10 and read the usage information. The value "0L" in the "reset" column of the same line indicates that the integrated value of the storage unit 103 is reset to 0.
For example, in the data in the row where the value of "days" is "3", the actual usage amount on the third day from the start of use of the cartridge 4 is 20L, and the integrated value of the actual usage amount between 1 to 3 days is 45L ( It indicates that the user has brought the mobile communication device 20 closer to the water purifier 10 and performed the reading process. When the reading process is performed, the NFC function unit 203 of the mobile communication device 20 uses the actual usage amount (1st day: 10L, 2nd day: 15L, 3rd day: 20L) and the total usage amount (45L) of the number of days 1 to 3. ) Read the information. In the control device 100 of the water purifier 10, when the transmission of such information is completed, the writing control unit 102 erases the information of the actual usage amount and the total usage amount of the main body recorded in the storage unit 103 on the 1st to 3rd days. .. As a result, as the value in the "reset" column indicates, the value of "main unit integration" becomes "0L".

On the other hand, in the mobile communication device 20, the application is instructed to transmit the information of the actual usage amount on the 1st to 3rd days read from the storage unit 103 and the total amount of the main body to the analysis server device 40 via the communication unit 204. , The transmission is done. In the analysis server device 40, the data collection unit 401 acquires the information and records it in the storage unit 406. That is, the value of the main body integration of the water purifier 10 is cleared, but the value of the main body integration remains in the analysis server device 40.
Next, looking at the data in the row of the number of days "4", the value of "main unit integration" starts from 0 again, so it is the same value as the actual usage amount "5L" on the 4th day.

Next, looking at the data in the row of the number of days "5", the value of "P" indicating that the reading process was performed is described in the "NFC" column. As a result of the reading process, the main body integrated value 15L on the 4th to 5th days is transmitted to the analysis server device 40, and 60L (45L + 15L) is recorded in the analysis server device 40.

Next, the flow of usage information between the water purifier 10, the mobile communication device 20, and the analysis server device 40 will be described.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of communication processing of usage information according to the embodiment of the present invention.
As a premise, in the water purifier 10, the flow rate detecting unit 120 detects the flow rate of the water flowing into the cartridge 4 (step S11). Further, in the control device 100, the input unit 101 periodically acquires the usage amount information detected by the flow rate detection unit 120, and outputs the value to the write control unit 102. The write control unit 102 records the usage amount information for one day in the storage unit 103 in association with the number of days of use of the cartridge 4 for each day. Further, the write control unit 102 totals the daily usage information for each day and calculates the integrated value of the usage information since the previous reading process was performed. The write control unit 102 records the integrated value in the storage unit 103 in association with the number of days of use of the cartridge 4.

Next, the user starts an application for reading usage information from the water purifier 10 installed in the mobile communication device 20 (step S12). When the application is started, the NFC function unit 203 starts sending a communication signal by the NFC according to the instruction of the application. The user brings the mobile communication device 20 closer to the position (the position of the NFC chip) in which the control device 100 of the water purifier 10 is built. On the water purifier 10 side, the communication unit 104 receives wireless power supply by the communication signal transmitted by the NFC function unit 203 and starts communication. The communication unit 104 transmits the usage information of the storage unit 103 (step S13). Here, the usage amount information includes the identification information of the water purifier 10, the number of days after the start of use of the cartridge 4, the flow rate information associated with the number of days, and the integrated value of the flow rate. When the usage information is transmitted, the writing control unit 102 deletes the usage information recorded in the storage unit 103 (step S14).

On the other hand, in the mobile communication device 20, the NFC function unit 203 receives the usage amount information. Here, the application may further add the identification information of the mobile communication device 20 and the position information of the mobile communication device 20 to the received usage information. The position information of the mobile communication device 20 is, for example, positioned by the GPS function of the mobile communication device 20. The application is instructed by the communication unit 204 to transmit the usage information received by the NFC function unit 203 to the analysis server device 40 via the network, and the transmission is performed (step S15).

In the analysis server device 40, the data collection unit 401 acquires the usage amount information transmitted by the mobile communication device 20 via the communication unit 407. The data collection unit 401 outputs usage information to the data update unit 402. The data update unit 402 writes usage information in the storage unit 406 and stores it (step S16). At this time, as described with reference to FIG. 5, the data update unit 402 identifies the latest data corresponding to the identification information of the water purifier 10, and integrates the flow rate acquired this time with the integrated value of the flow rate of the data. Add the values. The value after addition is the cumulative usage.
As an embodiment, the example of recording the usage information on a daily basis has been described, but if the usage information is recorded on the control device 100 every hour, the usage information may be read from the water purifier 10 multiple times a day. , The actual daily usage amount of the cartridge 4 can be more accurately recorded in the analysis server device 40. Further, if the usage amount information is recorded in the control device 100 each time the purified water is used, and the information is read as it is from the water purifier 10 and recorded in the analysis server 40, the user's water purification usage status can be recorded more accurately. Alternatively, the data update unit 402 may record the cumulative number of days of use, which is the cumulative number of days of use. The data update unit 402 transmits the cumulative usage amount and the cumulative usage days to the mobile communication device 20 via the communication unit 407 (step S17). In the mobile communication device 20, the communication unit 204 receives information such as the cumulative usage amount. The display control unit 202 outputs information such as the cumulative usage amount and the cumulative usage days to the display unit 201. From these displays, the user can grasp the usage status of the cartridge 4. The user terminates the application of the mobile communication device 20 (step S18).

Next, the determination unit 403 of the analysis server device 40 reads the latest integrated value of the flow rate from the storage unit 406, and determines whether or not the cartridge 4 of the water purifier 10 related to the acquired usage information has reached the replacement time ( Step S19). More specifically, the determination unit 403 determines that the cartridge 4 has reached the replacement time when the integrated value of the latest flow rate recorded for the water purifier 10 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. Further, if the integrated value of the latest flow rate is less than a predetermined threshold value, the determination unit 403 determines that the cartridge 4 has not yet reached the replacement time.
For example, the analysis unit 405 may calculate the average flow rate (L / min) and calculate the current flow rate reduction rate with respect to the current flow rate at the start of use of the cartridge 4. Further, for example, the analysis unit 405 may convert the usage amount of purified water into, for example, the number of 500 ml PET bottles or an amount corresponding to the number of bottles based on the usage amount information.
When it is determined that the exchange time has come, the determination unit 403 transmits the determination result to the mobile communication device 20 via the communication unit 407. That is, the analysis server device 40 notifies the mobile communication device 20 of the arrival of the replacement time, for example, by push notification (step S20). Alternatively, the analysis server device 40 may transmit the arrival of the exchange time to the user of the mobile communication device 20 by e-mail. Further, the analysis server device 40 may transmit the above-mentioned average flow rate, flow rate reduction rate, or converted value of PET bottle.

In the mobile communication device 20, the communication unit 204 receives this notification. Upon receiving the notification that the replacement time has come, an application that displays information prompting the replacement of the cartridge 4 is started. This application is started by, for example, the OS (operating system) of the mobile communication device 20. The application executed by the display control unit 202 outputs information prompting the replacement of the cartridge 4 to the display unit 201, and the display unit 201 displays the information (step S21). For example, the information received by the communication unit 204 indicating the arrival of the replacement time includes information such as the product name of the cartridge 4 corresponding to the identification information of the water purifier 10, and the application executed by the display control unit 202. May output information that prompts the replacement of the cartridge 4 and guides the cartridge 4 to be purchased, and the display unit 201 may display the information. When displaying a prompt to replace the cartridge, as information to support the replacement of the cartridge, information on the replacement method of the cartridge such as the replacement procedure and precautions may be displayed, and the method of disposing of the used cartridge (how to dispose of the used cartridge). For example, information about whether or not it is combustible waste may be displayed. As for the disposal method, the location information of the mobile communication device 20 and the information about the residential area registered in advance by the user may be linked to guide the disposal method peculiar to the area. This allows the user to undoubtedly replace the cartridge, further improving convenience.
Further, when the analysis server device 40 transmits the flow rate reduction rate, the application executed by the display control unit 202 is provided to remove dust under the packing unit connecting the faucet and the water purifier main body. Even if the display unit 201 outputs a message prompting the cleaning of the metal mesh), a message prompting the cartridge to be replaced, or a message notifying that the cartridge replacement time is approaching, the display unit 201 displays the information. good. Further, when the analysis server device 40 transmits the PET bottle conversion value, the application executed by the display control unit 202 purchases the number of PET bottles corresponding to the amount of purified water used and the number of PET bottles. The required amount of money may be output to the display unit 201 as eco-information, and the display unit 201 may display the information. By displaying the PET bottle conversion value, the user can be notified of the saving effect by using the water purifier. Further, when the analysis server device 40 transmits the average flow rate, the application executed by the display control unit 202 outputs the optimum flow rate mark to the display unit 201 and displays it, for example, when the average flow rate is 2.9 L / min or less. Part 201 displays the information, and when the average flow rate is 3.0 L / min or more, it outputs information such as "Please squeeze the faucet a little more" to encourage the use of purified water at the optimum flow rate. good.

FIG. 7 is a first diagram showing an example of usage amount information recorded in the storage unit 406 in one embodiment of the present invention.
The data table (cumulative usage management table) shown in FIG. 7 is associated with the identification information (for example, serial number) of the water purifier 10 and the identification information (for example, MAC address) of the mobile communication device 20, and the water purifier 10 is associated with the identification information (for example, MAC address). The cumulative usage amount (integrated value of the flow rate) and the cumulative usage days of the cartridge 4 are recorded.
As described in the flowchart of FIG. 6, the determination unit 403 compares the cumulative usage amount with the threshold value, and determines whether or not the cartridge 4 is replacement time. Alternatively, the determination unit 403 uses the cumulative number of days of use to determine that it is the replacement time of the cartridge 4 if the cumulative number of days of use exceeds the number of days of use indicating the replacement time of the cartridge, and the cumulative number of days of use determines the replacement time. If it is less than the indicated number of days of use, it may be determined that it is not yet time to replace the cartridge.
Further, the determination unit 403 may determine the replacement time by utilizing the property that the cartridge 4 is clogged and the flow rate decreases as the usage period becomes longer. For example, the flow rate per unit time detected by the flow rate detection unit 120 is transmitted to the analysis server device 40, and the determination unit 403 causes the flow rate per unit time detected by the flow rate detection unit 120 to be smaller than a predetermined threshold value. If so, it may be determined that it is time to replace the cartridge.
In the storage unit 406, the threshold value of the cumulative usage amount and the threshold value of the cumulative usage days are recorded in advance in association with the identification information of the water purifier 10, and the determination unit 403 reads out the threshold value and makes the above determination. I do.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of guidance information displayed by the mobile communication device 20 in one embodiment of the present invention.
The left figure of FIG. 8 is an example of an image that prompts the replacement of the cartridge displayed on the display unit 201 according to the instruction of the application. The application generates an image displaying a message such as "The amount of purified water used has exceeded XXXL. We recommend replacing the cartridge." When the user touches the position of "see in detail" with respect to the image illustrated in the left figure of FIG. 8, the application outputs the image information illustrated in the middle figure of FIG. 8 to the display unit 201, and the display unit 201 Is displayed in.

The middle figure of FIG. 8 is an example of an image that guides the cartridge to be purchased for replacement to be displayed on the display unit 201 by the application. The application generates an image showing the product name of the cartridge to be purchased, the package of the product, and the like. When the user touches the "purchase" position with respect to the image illustrated in the middle figure of FIG. 8, the application causes the display unit 201 to display the image illustrated in the right figure of FIG.

The right figure of FIG. 8 is an example of an image of a cartridge purchase screen displayed on the display unit 201 by the application. From this screen, the user can easily purchase a cartridge suitable for the water purifier 10 he / she is using at an appropriate timing.
The user may purchase a new cartridge 4 at the store by referring to the product information shown in the middle figure of FIG.
Further, FIG. 8 shows an example of an image displayed on the display unit 201 of the mobile communication device 20, but the user describes information prompting the replacement of the cartridge transmitted by the analysis server device 40 using the PC terminal 30. You may purchase the cartridge by referring to the e-mail and following the guidance information contained in the e-mail.

Next, the process when the user replaces the cartridge 4 that has reached the replacement time with a new cartridge 4 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the reset processing of the usage amount information at the time of cartridge replacement according to the embodiment of the present invention.
For convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the cartridge 4 of the water purifier 10 has reached the replacement time. First, it is assumed that the application has displayed the guide information of the cartridge 4 suitable for the water purifier 10 and that the cartridge 4 has reached the replacement time (step S31). The user performs an operation of purchasing a new cartridge 4 according to the guidance information. For example, the user performs an operation of touching the position of "to purchase procedure" with respect to the image illustrated in the right figure of FIG. Then, the application causes the EC server device 50 to transmit the purchase instruction information of the target product (“AAA”) via the communication unit 204 (step S32). The EC server device 50 performs payment and shipping processing of the product (step S33), and the manufacturer ships the cartridge "AAA" to the user.

When the user receives the delivered new cartridge 4, the user attaches the new cartridge 4 to the water purifier 10. For example, a magnetic or electrical switch mechanism is provided in the mounting portion of the cartridge 4 or the water purifier 10 at the mounting portion of the cartridge 4, and the user installs a new cartridge 4 or resets the water purifier 10. When the operation is performed, the signal due to the switching of the switch mechanism is input to the input unit 101 of the control device 100. When the input unit 101 inputs the switching signal, the write control unit 102 erases the usage amount information recorded in the storage unit 103 (step S34). That is, 0 is set for each value of "days", "actual usage", and "total usage of the main body". As a result, the update of the "days", "actual usage amount", and "total usage amount of the main body" of the new cartridge 4 after replacement can be started from the state of 0. In addition, when a new cartridge 4 is attached, it shall include the first use.
In addition, the setting to start updating the "days", "actual usage amount", and "total usage amount of the main body" of the control device 100 (storage unit 103) from the state of 0 is set from the application via the NFC function unit 203 to purify water. Reset instruction information may be sent to the vessel 10.

The user who has completed the replacement of the cartridge 4 starts the application (step S35). The user inputs a reset operation to the application. For example, the application causes the display unit 201 to display a button image displayed as "reset operation", and the user touches the position of the button image. When the usage information of the storage unit 103 of the water purifier 10 has been reset, the application accepts the input of the reset operation (step S36). Then, the application causes the analysis server device 40 to transmit the reset instruction information via the communication unit 204 (step S37). If the usage amount information of the storage unit 103 of the water purifier 10 has not been reset, it may be displayed to that effect.
In the analysis server device 40, the data collection unit 401 acquires the reset instruction information via the communication unit 407 and outputs the reset instruction information to the data update unit 402. The data update unit 402 records the reset instruction information and the reception date thereof in the storage unit 406. Further, the data update unit 402 resets the usage amount information based on the identification information of the water purifier 10 included in the reset instruction information (step S38). For example, when the identification information of the target water purifier 10 is "001", the data update unit 402 sets 0 for the cumulative usage amount and the cumulative usage days of the cumulative usage amount management table illustrated in FIG. 7. As a result, the update of the "cumulative usage amount" and the "cumulative usage days" of the new cartridge 4 after replacement in the analysis server device 40 can be started from the state of 0.

In the conventional notification system for cartridge replacement time in a water purifier, a communication device provided in the water purifier is configured to actively transmit a beacon signal or the like including cartridge usage information at predetermined time intervals. Regular communication consumes a lot of power and often requires a power supply. Frequent notification reception was exhausting the battery level of the mobile terminal. On the other hand, the control device 100 included in the water purifier 10 of the present embodiment communicates by the NFC chip. In the case of this configuration, since communication is performed by supplying power from the mobile communication device 20, power consumption due to communication is eliminated. Therefore, the water purifier 10 of the present embodiment can supply sufficient electric power only with the built-in button battery, and the water purifier 10 can be used for a long time without battery replacement. Since a power supply device for electric power by communication is not required, merits such as miniaturization of the water purifier 10, cost reduction, and increased degree of freedom in installation space can be obtained. Therefore, the water purifier 10 is suitable for a water purifier directly connected to a faucet. Since the water purifier 10 and the mobile communication device 20 can be brought close to each other for communication at the convenience of the user, it is possible to suppress significant battery consumption of the mobile terminal due to frequent notification reception.
In the sink of the sink, not only water but also hot water may be used. Especially in the case of a water purifier directly connected to a faucet, when hot water is used in the sink, the entire water purifier is exposed to steam. In cold weather, tap water passes through the water purifier body, which tends to cause dew condensation on the water purifier body. If the battery is replaced when the water purifier body is exposed to steam or condensation is formed on the surface of the water purifier body, moisture will enter the battery compartment when the battery lid, which has been kept liquidtight, is removed. , Causes deterioration of electrical components in the battery compartment. By reducing the frequency of battery replacement, deterioration of electrical components in the battery housing can be reduced. It is particularly suitable for water purifiers that are directly connected to the faucet.
Further, in the case of the conventional beacon communication method, it is necessary to set the pairing, which is troublesome. According to the water purifier 10 of the present embodiment, communication can be performed only by holding the portable communication device 20 over the water purifier 10, so that there is no need to perform complicated work.
The water purifier 10 is provided with a display unit (liquid crystal panel, etc.) for displaying the remaining amount of the button battery or the remaining amount is low, or the water purifier 10 is provided with an LED lamp or the like to reduce the remaining amount of the button battery. The user may be notified of the battery replacement timing by turning on the LED lamp when the number of batteries is low. As a result, the user can use the water purifier 10 for a long period of time with peace of mind while replacing the button battery and the cartridge 4 at an appropriate timing.

Further, according to the present embodiment, information such as the amount of purified water used can be displayed on the display unit 201 of the mobile communication device 20. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide the water purifier 10 with a display for displaying the usage amount. As a result, the water purifier 10 can be downsized and the cost can be reduced. Further, by not providing the display in the water purifier 10, the electric power used for displaying the information on the display can be reduced, so that the consumption of the button battery can be reduced.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the analysis server device 40 notifies the replacement timing of the cartridge 4. Therefore, the user can grasp the optimum timing for cartridge replacement, and does not have to worry about the replacement timing of the cartridge 4. Further, by exchanging the cartridge 4 at the exchange timing notified by the analysis server device 40, it is possible to always use the appropriately filtered purified water. Further, since the analysis server device 40 provides the purchase guidance information of the cartridge 4 suitable for the user, the user can purchase the appropriate cartridge without worrying about which cartridge to purchase. Further, by purchasing an appropriate cartridge from an EC site on the Internet using the mobile communication device 20 or the PC terminal 30, the trouble of purchasing the cartridge can be saved.

The application records the date and time when the reading process is performed in the storage unit (not shown) of the mobile communication device 20, and when a predetermined period (for example, one week) elapses, "the mobile communication device 20 is stored in the water purifier 10". You may instruct the display unit 201 to display a message such as "Please bring it closer to read the usage information". By doing so, it is possible to prompt the user to execute the reading process and collect usage data on a regular basis.
As a method of urging the user to bring the mobile communication device 20 close to the water purifier 10 to read the usage information, in addition to the above, a method of increasing the motivation of the user to execute the reading process is used to ensure the execution of the reading process. Let the user do it.
For example, points that can be used on the EC site are added to the user each time the reading process is executed within a predetermined period. Within a predetermined period, it can be appropriately set for a period of every day to a maximum of about one week. At each execution of the read process, a user who frequently performs the read process may appear, or if the period exceeds one week, the period may be too long and the user may forget to execute the read process. In addition, when the reading process is performed, the user is motivated to perform the reading process by displaying a video, animation, message, etc. on the mobile communication device 20 so that the user can enjoy it, or by linking with training software such as a game application. It is also possible to improve it.

So far, an embodiment of determining the replacement time of the cartridge 4 based on the usage amount information transmitted from the water purifier 10 has been described. For example, a user who brings the mobile communication device 20 closer to the water purifier 10 every day to execute a reading process can notify an appropriate replacement time only by the above functions. However, the user tends to forget to perform the reading process. The analysis server device 40 has a function of predicting the cartridge replacement time so that such a user can be notified to replace the cartridge at an appropriate time.

FIG. 10 is a second diagram showing an example of usage amount information recorded in the storage unit 406 in one embodiment of the present invention.
The cumulative usage management table of FIG. 7 illustrates information necessary for determining the cartridge replacement deadline for usage information transmitted from a user's water purifier 10 (control device 100) through the mobile communication device 20. bottom.
FIG. 10 shows an example of a data table (usage history table) for accumulating the history of usage information transmitted from the mobile communication device 20. The usage history table is log data of usage information transmitted from water purifiers 10 nationwide. For example, in the usage history table, "identification information of the water purifier", "region" in which the water purifier 10 is used, "identification information of the mobile communication device", "reception date", "days", "actual" Information such as "usage" and "total usage of the main unit" is recorded. The "water purifier identification information" is, for example, the serial number of the water purifier 10, the identification number of the NFC module, or the like, and is used to identify the type of cartridge. If it is the identification number of the NFC module, it can be diverted as it is without adding new information to the water purifier, which is efficient. The "region" is included in the transmission target information instructed by the application running on the mobile communication device 20, and may be positioned by a GPS function or the like, or may be a mobile communication when a new water purifier 10 is purchased. The user may be asked to enter regional information when installing the application on the device 20. Further, the area information may be input in advance by user registration and recorded in the analysis server device 40. The "identification information of the mobile communication device" is information (MAC address, UDID, etc.) that can uniquely identify the mobile communication device 20 in which the application is installed. The “reception date” is the date on which the analysis server device 40 receives the usage information from the mobile communication device 20. The "days", "actual usage amount", and "total usage amount of the main body" are information recorded in the storage unit 103 of the control device 100 included in the water purifier 10 as described with reference to FIG.

Using the information in the usage history table illustrated in FIG. 10, the analysis unit 405 determines the replacement time of the cartridge 4 for the water purifier 10 of the user who uses the mobile communication device 20 for each identification information of the mobile communication device. Build a prediction model that predicts what time it will be. For example, the analysis unit 405 calculates how much purified water is used per day by using the "days" and the "actual usage amount" of the past usage amount information recorded in the usage amount history table. The number of days until the cumulative usage reaches the threshold value is obtained from the calculated daily usage, and this may be used as a prediction model. Alternatively, the analysis unit 405 calculates the month or season in which the "actual usage" indicates the actual usage from the "reception date" and the "days", and the number of days until the cumulative usage reaches the threshold value for each season. May be calculated.
By constructing such a prediction model, even if a user who has been performing the reading process periodically for a while after purchasing the water purifier 10 does not perform the reading process and cannot detect the usage status in the past, By using the prediction model constructed based on the collected usage information, the user can be notified of the replacement time of the cartridge 4.
Specifically, when the cartridge replacement time estimated based on the past usage record is X days after the start of using the new cartridge 4, the prediction unit 404 finally receives the reset instruction information from the mobile communication device 20. X days are added to the day when the cartridge is received to predict the cartridge replacement time. When the predicted replacement time approaches, the prediction unit 404 notifies the mobile communication device 20 of information indicating the arrival of the replacement time. As a result, even a user who is far from the water purifier 10 can be encouraged to replace the cartridge at an appropriate timing.

Further, the analysis unit 405 may further analyze the tendency of the degree of consumption of the cartridge for each region by using the information of the "region" and reflect it in the prediction model. For example, for a water purifier 10 of a certain type α (cartridge 4 of the same type), it is assumed that the average number of days until the cumulative usage in region A reaches the threshold value is “X1” days. In addition, it is assumed that the average number of days for region B is "X2". In such a situation, when the water purifier 10 of the type β which has been used in the area A but has not been used in the area B starts to be used in the area B, for example, the analysis unit 405 is a water purifier of the type β. A prediction model may be constructed in which the 10 cartridge replacement times are corrected in consideration of the difference between the region A and the region B with respect to the prediction model constructed based on the usage record in the region A. (For example, when the threshold value in the area A is the Y day, the area B is set to Y × (X2 ÷ X1).)
Further, for example, until one year ago, the number of days until the cumulative usage amount analyzed by the analysis unit 405 for the water purifier 10 of a certain type α (cartridge 4 of the same type) reaches the threshold value is both in region A and region B. It is assumed that the average is "X1" days. However, it is assumed that the average "X1" days for region A is currently "X1" days, but the average "X2" days for region B is shorter than "X1". In such a case, the manufacturer of the water purifier 10 should take measures such as calling on the user in the area B to replace the cartridge 4 earlier than before, or adjusting the inventory in preparation for the replacement. Can be done.

In the above embodiment, the determination unit 403 is provided in the analysis server device 40, but the cumulative usage management table illustrated in FIG. 7 is stored in the storage unit of the mobile communication device 20 and stored in the display control unit 202. A functional unit similar to the determination unit 403, a threshold value used for determining the cartridge replacement time, and product information of the cartridge to be replaced may be mounted, and the cartridge replacement time may be determined on the mobile communication device 20 side. The water purifier system including the water purifier 10 and the portable communication device 20 configured in this way can notify the cartridge replacement time of each water purifier 10 and guide the appropriate cartridge.

Further, in the above embodiment, an example in which the control device 100 is mounted on the faucet direct connection type water purifier 10 is described, but the type of the water purifier is not limited to this. For example, the control device 100 may be mounted on a stationary water purifier installed on the sink. Further, for example, the control device 100 may be mounted on the lid of the pot-type water purifier.

Further, for example, it may be applied to a built-in type water purifier such as an undersink type, a spout-in type, and a counter-on type. Specifically, in the case of the undersink type, the control device 100 may be mounted inside the lever handle of the faucet, the water inlet or tip of the faucet spout, or the hose for connecting the cartridge. In the case of the spout-in type, the control device 100 may be mounted inside the faucet lever handle, inside the front lever, between the shower head and the main body of the spout, and in the drawer hose of the shower head. In the case of the counter-on type, the control device 100 may be mounted inside the lever handle, between the faucet spout and the main body, and at the water inlet portion or the tip portion of the faucet spout.

In the case of the alkaline water purifier type, the control device 100 may be mounted inside the lever handle of the faucet, the water inlet and the tip of the faucet spout, the hose for connecting the cartridge, and the inside of the alkaline water conditioner main body. In the case of a stationary type, undersink type, pot type, or built-in type water purifier, for example, a household single-phase 100V power supply can be used as the power source.

The water purifier 10 of the present embodiment may have the following functions. For example, a water quality analyzer (chlorine meter, pH meter, TDS (total dissolved solids) meter, etc.) and its detection unit are installed on the downstream side of the cartridge 4. Then, the analysis result of the analyzer is recorded in the storage unit 103, and when the user brings the mobile communication device 20 close to the water purifier 10, the analysis result is transmitted to the mobile communication device 20. This makes it possible to notify the user of the water quality status of purified water. In addition, the user can grasp the state of water quality and can take detailed measures. In addition, the user can grasp the state of the water quality of purified water, and can get a more secure feeling.
Further, for example, the water purifier 10 may be configured to include a solar power generation device, an LED power generation device, a hydroelectric power generation device (for example, an impeller is provided in the flow path of raw water), and a power storage device for storing the electric power generated by them. good. As a result, it is possible to configure the configuration without a button battery or to use the button battery as a backup power source, and it is possible to save energy in the water purifier 10.

<Example>
Hereinafter, a specific example of the embodiment will be described, but the present embodiment is not limited to the following description.
FIG. 11 is a first diagram showing an example of the water purifier 10A according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a second diagram showing an example of the water purifier 10A according to the embodiment of the present invention.
The water purifier 10A illustrated in FIG. 11 is composed of a water purifier main body 2A and a columnar cartridge 4A. The water purifier 10A is a so-called faucet direct connection type water purifier having a structure in which the raw water receiving port 7A is detachably connected to the water faucet. There is. An NFC antenna and an LED (light emitting diode) 106A are arranged on the panel portion 105A. The water purifier main body 2A includes a flow rate detection unit 120, a control device 100, and a power supply unit 110 that supplies electric power to them. In addition to the functions described with reference to FIG. 2, the control device 100 determines whether the flow rate per unit time (for example, L / min) of the purified water detected by the flow rate detection unit 120 is appropriate, and the LED 106A is turned on based on the result. It has a function to turn off the lights. For example, if the flow rate is within an appropriate range, the control device 100 turns on the LED 106A, and if the flow rate is inappropriate (the flow rate is too large, etc.), it turns off. Further, the user brings the mobile communication device 20 close to the panel portion 105A of the water purifier 10A while the application is activated. Then, NFC communication is started, and the portable communication device 20 reads the usage amount information from the water purifier 10A. The control device 100 is provided in a case that ensures waterproofness, which is provided on the back side of the panel portion 105A inside the water purifier main body 2A.

The middle figure of FIG. 12 shows the water purifier 10A viewed from above (faucet side), the lower figure shows the water purifier 10A viewed from below (outlet side of raw water, purified water, etc.), and the upper figure of FIG. 12 shows water purification. A cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of the vessel 10A is shown. As shown in the middle figure of FIG. 12, the water purifier main body 2A has a substantially L-shape, and the tap water supplied from the raw water receiving port 7A is provided at the bottom of the water purifier main body 2A by the operation of the switching operation unit 6A. It flows out from any one of the purified water outlet 9A, the shower outlet 9B, and the raw water outlet 9C. When the switching operation unit 6A is switched to the water purification position, tap water is supplied to the cartridge 4A via the flow path indicated by the arrow 122a in the middle figure and the arrow 122b in the upper figure. The purified water filtered by the filter material of the cartridge 4A is discharged from the purified water outlet 9A via the flow paths indicated by the arrows 122c and 122d shown in the above figure. A flow rate detection unit 120 is provided in the middle of the flow path indicated by the arrows 122c and 122d. Specifically, an impeller that rotates in one direction by the water flow passing through the flow path through which purified water passes is provided, and a magnet is mounted in the shaft of this impeller, and the rotation speed of the magnet is magnetically detected by a reed switch or the like. It is configured to be detected by means. Since the rotation speed of the magnet is proportional to the rotation speed of the impeller and reflects the increase or decrease in the flow rate, the control device 100 calculates the rotation speed detected by the reed switch and calculates necessary information such as the flow rate and the integrated flow rate. , Record it in the storage unit 103. Further, as shown in the figure below, a battery storage unit 111A is provided on the back side of the water purifier main body 2A, and a button battery (power supply unit 110) is stored in the battery storage unit 111A. The power supply unit 110 supplies electric power to the flow rate detection unit 120 and the control device 100.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an implementation example of the control device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.
The control device 100 includes a microcomputer A10, a battery storage unit 111A (battery case), a flow rate detection unit 120 (flow rate sensor), an NFC chip A14 (NFC module), and an LED 106A. A button battery (power supply unit 110) is stored in the battery storage unit 111A. Further, the microcomputer A10 includes a data flash ROM (read only memory) corresponding to the input unit 101, the write control unit 102, and the storage unit 103. Further, the microcomputer A10 controls turning on / off of the LED 106A according to the flow rate of the purified water detected by the flow rate detecting unit 120. Further, the microcomputer A10 has a function of detecting a power supply voltage (voltage of a button battery) and outputting voltage information to the NFC chip A14 when the detected voltage is equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold value (low voltage). The NFC chip A14 includes a communication unit 104.

When the switching operation unit 6A is in the water purification position, the magnet A13 included in the flow rate detection unit 120 rotates, and the reed switch A15 included in the flow rate detection unit 120 turns on and off. The flow rate detection unit 120 outputs a sensor signal having a duty ratio and frequency according to the flow rate of purified water, and the microcomputer A10 acquires this sensor signal and calculates the flow rate of purified water from the frequency of the sensor signal and the like, and the flow rate is calculated. Determine if it is appropriate. If the flow rate is appropriate, the microcomputer A10 turns on the LED 106A. Further, the microcomputer A10 integrates the flow rates indicated by the acquired sensor signals to calculate the amount of purified water used for one day, and stores this value. In addition to this, the microcomputer A10 calculates and stores the number of days elapsed after the replacement of the cartridge 4A, the integrated flow rate, and the like. Further, when the user brings the mobile communication device 20 close to the NFC chip A14, the microcomputer A10 uses the usage amount information (identification information of the water purifier 10A, the number of days of use of the cartridge 4A, and the daily flow rate) via the NFC chip A14. Information and the integrated value of the flow rate) are transmitted to the mobile communication device 20. Further, when the power supply voltage becomes low, the microcomputer A10 notifies the mobile communication device 20 via the NFC chip A14 that the power supply voltage has become low. The threshold value for determining that the power supply voltage is low is set in multiple stages (for example, three stages), and the microcomputer A10 notifies the mobile communication device 20 of which stage the threshold value has fallen below. do. As will be described later, in the mobile communication device 20, the display control unit 202 outputs information according to the remaining amount of the button battery, and the display unit 201 displays the information. From this display, the user can grasp the degree of the remaining amount of the button battery.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a water purifier management system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
As described with reference to FIG. 6 and the like, when the user brings the mobile communication device 20 close to the NFC chip A14, the mobile communication device 20 acquires usage information from the water purifier 10A and transfers the usage information to the analysis server device 40. Send. In the analysis server device 40, usage information is accumulated, and the replacement time of the cartridge 4A is predicted for each water purifier 10A. Then, when the replacement time is approaching, the prediction unit 404 notifies the mobile communication device 20 of the user using the cartridge with information indicating that the replacement time is approaching. At that time, you may use a service that performs push notifications that is generally provided. Specifically, the prediction unit 404 registers information such as information for identifying the user to be notified, the date and time of push notification, and the notification content (message) in the push notification server 41 of the company that provides the push notification service. .. The push notification server 41 notifies the mobile communication device 20 of the target user of a message such as "the exchange time is approaching" at the designated date and time.

FIG. 15 is a first diagram showing an example of an image output by the display control unit 202 to the display unit 201 and displayed by the display unit 201 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a second diagram showing an example of an image output by the display control unit 202 to the display unit 201 and displayed by the display unit 201 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a third diagram showing an example of an image output by the display control unit 202 to the display unit 201 and displayed by the display unit 201 according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 15 shows the transition of the image (screen) displayed on the display unit 201 by the application. When the user starts the application, the start screen is displayed (screen 1). On the startup screen, a so-called splash display or the like is performed, and the screen transitions to the next screen. First, the purchase shop registration screen is displayed at the first startup after purchase or after cartridge replacement (screen 2). An example of the purchase shop registration screen is shown in the left figure of FIG. The user selects whether to purchase at the EC site or the actual store, and clicks the "Purchase at EC site" button when purchasing at the EC site, and "Enter the store where the purchase is made" when purchasing at the actual store. Press the button. When the "Purchase store entry" button is pressed, the application causes the display control unit 202 to output information for displaying a screen for entering the store name and the like, and the display unit 201 displays the information. The user fills in and registers the name of the store.

The information display screen (main screen) is displayed when it is not the first time to start up or when the registration of the purchasing store or the like is completed on the purchasing store registration screen (screen 3). The measurement data is displayed on the information display screen. An example of the information display screen is shown in the right figure of FIG. As shown in the figure, on the information display screen, the model number of the water purifier 10A and cartridge 4A used, the amount of purified water used (how many PET bottles were used, or the amount of money when purchasing that amount of PET bottles) (Converted and displayed), cartridge remaining amount (displays how many L can be used), cartridge replacement date, battery remaining amount (displayed in 4 stages), and finally the user brings the mobile communication device 20 closer to the water purifier 10A. Display the date and time of the operation. The remaining battery level may be displayed in different colors according to the remaining amount. For example, when the remaining amount falls below the minimum level, it may be displayed in red. Further, on the information display screen, information for prompting an operation for communicating with the water purifier 10 and the mobile communication device 20 in close proximity to each other, such as "touch the water purifier to update the information", is displayed, and the user communicates. When the operation is performed, the above information such as the amount of purified water used and the remaining amount of the battery is updated.

In addition, information (buttons, links, etc.) that guides users to the screen for purchasing consumables such as "cartridge / battery replacement" is displayed on the information display screen, and when the user presses this display location, the cartridge or battery is displayed. The purchase guidance screen (screen 4) for purchasing the product is displayed. An example of the purchase guidance screen is shown in FIG. The left figure of FIG. 17 is a purchase guidance screen displayed when an EC site is selected at the first startup. The purchase guidance screen displays a selection of cartridges suitable for the water purifier 10A used by the user. The user presses the "Go to Online Store" button and purchases a cartridge selected from the options. The right figure of FIG. 17 is a purchase guidance screen displayed when a purchase store is registered at the first startup. The purchase guidance screen displays a selection of cartridges suitable for the water purifier 10A used by the user. Further, on the purchase guidance screen, the store name registered by the user on the purchase store registration screen (screen 2) and a message recommending to purchase at that store are displayed. Further, on the purchase guidance screen, a "go to online store" button is displayed so that the user can also purchase from the EC site.
Although the screen relating to the purchase of the cartridge is illustrated in FIG. 17, a screen for inducing the purchase of the button battery may be displayed.
Further, when the push notification described in FIG. 14 is displayed, when the user taps the message displayed by the push notification, the screen illustrated in FIG. 17 is displayed.

When the user purchases the cartridge 4A on the purchase guidance screen, the purchased cartridge 4A is attached to the water purifier 10A. Further, on the screen displayed after purchasing the cartridge on the purchase guidance screen, information (such as a "next" button) for guiding the replacement method of the cartridge 4A or guiding to the next screen is displayed. The user who has replaced the cartridge 4A presses the "Next" button. Then, the display control unit 202 controlled by the application outputs the information of the post-replacement reset screen (screen 5) that guides the operation after the cartridge replacement, and the display unit 201 displays the information. On the reset screen after replacement, information prompting the water purifier 10 and the mobile communication device 20 to communicate with each other after the cartridge replacement is completed (for example, "touch the mobile terminal device to the water purifier for 1 second or longer". Etc.) is displayed. When the user performs a touch operation according to this guidance, a reset command is notified to the water purifier 10A via the NFC chip A14, and the reset process described with reference to FIG. 9 is executed.

For example, a call button for the setting screen may be arranged at the upper right corner of the information display screen, and when this button is pressed, the setting screen may be displayed. On the setting screen, the model numbers of the water purifier 10A and the cartridge 4A in use can be confirmed. In addition, it is possible to display information on the change of the store where the water purifier 10A is purchased, the terms of use of the application, and the license of OSS (Open Source Software) used in the application (Screen 6).

Next, the effect of reducing power consumption by this embodiment will be described.
When the current consumption (battery consumption) of the water purifier 10A was examined, the following results were obtained. When the amount of purified water used is set to a certain predetermined value, the current consumption by the flow rate detection unit 120 and LED106A is about 0.28 mAh per day, and the current consumption by the NFC chip A14 when the touch operation is performed 20 times a day. The amount was found to be about 0.005 mAh. Assuming that the purified water is used continuously under the same conditions, the life of the button battery (battery capacity 210 mAh) is about 2.1 years. As described above, the influence of the NFC communication by the touch operation of the present embodiment has almost no influence on the current consumption of the button battery.

On the other hand, for comparison, battery consumption when a Beacon transmitter is attached to the water purifier 10A for the purpose of transmitting usage information by BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication instead of the NFC chip A14. Consider the amount. For example, assume that the advertisement signal is always transmitted (at intervals of 100 msec). Assuming that the current when transmitting the advertisement signal is 6 mA, the operating time per operation is 0.02 sec, the current during sleep is 0.0008 mA, etc., the current consumption by the Beacon transmitter is about 2.89 mAh per day. .. Assuming that the amount of purified water used is the same as above, the amount of current consumed by the flow rate detection unit 120 and the LED 106A is about 0.28 mAh per day. In this case, the life of the button battery is 0.18 years (about 2 months).
In addition, the number of times of use of purified water per day was set to 20 times, and the amount of current consumption was calculated assuming that the advertisement signal was transmitted for 5 minutes only when the purified water was used (the amount of current consumption during transmission and sleep is the same as above). Then, the amount of current consumed by the Beacon transmitter was about 0.21 mAh per day. In this case, the life of the above button battery is 1.18 years.

From these facts, it can be seen that in the water purifier 10A of the present embodiment, the power consumption of the button battery is limited to the consumption by the operation of the flow rate detection unit 120 and the LED 106A, and can be used for a long period of time (for example, 2 years). In particular, the water purifier 10A of the present embodiment does not have a display unit such as a liquid crystal display for displaying usage information, and is configured to display usage information only on the mobile communication device 20, so that the power consumption as described above can be achieved. Suppression is improved.

Hereinafter, specific examples of images to be displayed on the display unit 201 will be shown.
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a startup screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. The transition of the startup screen illustrated in FIG. 18 is a specific example of the startup screen display of “screen 1” in FIG. When the application is started, a logo mark may be displayed to notify the update information of the program.
FIG. 19 is a first diagram showing an example of the initial registration screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a specific example of a registration screen performed at the time of initial registration such as when purchasing the water purifier 10. On the registration screen, a touch operation to the water purifier 10 may be guided.
FIG. 20 is a second diagram showing an example of the initial registration screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. The screen transition illustrated in FIG. 20 is a specific example of the purchase shop registration screen of “screen 2” in FIG. The registration of the purchase shop is performed, for example, following the registration of the water purifier 10. On this screen, information on the official online shop or retailer of the manufacturer may be registered. FIG. 21 is a third diagram showing an example of the initial registration screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. When the purchase shop is registered on the screen shown in FIG. 20, for example, the screen transitions to the screen showing the completion of registration shown in FIG. Further, when the purchase shop is registered, for example, the status display screen of the water purifier 10 may be displayed as shown in FIGS. 22 and 22 onward.

Subsequently, examples of the status display screen of the water purifier are shown in FIGS. 22 to 29.
22 to 24 are FIGS. 1 to 3 showing an example of a water purifier status display screen according to the embodiment of the present invention, respectively.
The left figure of FIG. 22 shows an outline of the status display screen of the water purifier. As shown in the figure, the status display screen of the water purifier 10 displays the remaining amount of the cartridge, the period of use, the expected date of replacement of the cartridge, and the remaining amount of the battery. The right figure of FIG. 22 shows a display example of each item of the estimated replacement date of the cartridge, the remaining battery level, and the usage period. The left figure of FIG. 23 shows an example of displaying the remaining amount of the cartridge. The display control unit 202 outputs these information to the display unit 201 in various modes depending on the period until the replacement time, and the display unit 201 displays the information. For example, the status of each item is displayed in blue or green, which means a safe state at the beginning, and is displayed in yellow, which calls attention as the replacement deadline approaches, and when the replacement time is finally reached, or When the deadline is approaching, it may be displayed in red, which means a warning. By referring to these displays, the user can grasp the usage status of the cartridge and the battery at a glance. The user can update the value of each item by bringing the mobile communication device 20 close to the water purifier 10.
The right figure of FIG. 23 shows an example of a dialog screen displayed according to the usage status of the cartridge and the battery. When it is time to replace the cartridge or the like, the display control unit 202 may display a dialog and output information notifying the user that the replacement time has come.

FIG. 24 shows an example of a background image that changes according to the remaining amount of the cartridge. In this example, it is shown that the waveform of the water surface representing the remaining amount of the cartridge decreases as the remaining amount of the cartridge decreases. As in this example, the display control unit 202 may output information for visualizing and notifying the remaining amount of the cartridge by using the entire background image.

FIG. 25 is a fourth diagram showing an example of a water purifier status display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. An example of FIG. 25 is a display example for prompting to enable the push notification when the push notification for notifying the cartridge replacement time and the like is disabled.

FIG. 26 is a fifth diagram showing an example of a water purifier status display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. An example of FIG. 26 is a dialog screen displayed when the integrated flow rate is 0 even if a touch operation is performed.

FIG. 27 is a sixth diagram showing an example of a water purifier status display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. The series of screens illustrated in FIG. 27 is displayed when a touch operation is performed on the water purifier 10 different from the one initially registered.

FIG. 28 is a seventh diagram showing an example of a water purifier status display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 28 shows an example of a dialog screen prompting the user to perform the touch operation again when the touch process with the water purifier 10 fails.

FIG. 29 is an eighth diagram showing an example of a water purifier status display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29 shows various display examples of the status display screen that changes as the remaining amount of the cartridge decreases. The status display screen immediately after the cartridge replacement is shown on the leftmost side of the upper part of FIG. 29. When the remaining amount of cartridge gradually decreases from the left side to the right side of the upper row, the screen changes to the screen illustrated on the leftmost side of the lower row, and the remaining amount of cartridge decreases further from the left side to the right side of the lower row. Shows the status display screen of. When the cartridge is finally exhausted, the second screen from the right side of the lower row is displayed, and in that case, a dialog prompting the replacement of the cartridge may be displayed as shown on the far right side of the lower row.

Next, an example of a display screen used when it is time to replace the cartridge or battery is shown.
FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of a cartridge replacement menu screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. On the menu screen, a button for transitioning to a screen for guiding each of the cartridge purchase method, the cartridge replacement method, and the battery replacement method is displayed. When the user presses the cartridge purchase method button, the screen of FIG. 31 is displayed, when the user presses the cartridge replacement method button, the screen of FIG. 32 is displayed, and when the user presses the battery replacement method button, FIG. 35 Screen is displayed.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of a cartridge purchase screen according to an embodiment of the present invention.
On the screen shown in FIG. 31, a button for displaying an enlarged image of the package of the product to be exchanged, a button for the online store (official store) where the product can be purchased, the name of the store where the product was initially registered, and the like are displayed. Will be done.

FIG. 32 is a first diagram showing an example of a cartridge replacement method display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 32 shows a screen for explaining the cartridge replacement method.
FIG. 33 is a second diagram showing an example of a cartridge replacement method display screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 33 shows a screen for explaining the confirmation work after the cartridge is replaced.
FIG. 34 is a third diagram showing an example of a cartridge replacement method display screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 34 shows a screen displayed when the touch operation to the water purifier 10 fails during the confirmation work after the cartridge is replaced.

FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of a battery replacement method display screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 35 shows a screen for explaining how to replace the button battery.

FIG. 36 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen according to an embodiment of the present invention.
When the setting button on the upper right of the menu screen of FIG. 30 is pressed, the setting screen of the water purifier or the cartridge illustrated in FIG. 36 is displayed. On the setting screen, the part number of the water purifier 10 in use, the part number of the cartridge in use, the store where the water purifier 10 or the cartridge is purchased may be referred to, or the setting may be reset.

FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of a push notification display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention.
For example, when a message notifying that the cartridge replacement time is approaching is notified by a push notification, the display control unit 202 displays "There is a notification from the water purifier. Cartridge" as illustrated in the left figure of FIG. 37. The replacement time is approaching. ”Is output to the display unit 201, and the display unit 201 may display the information. The same applies when a message notifying that the cartridge replacement time has passed or a message prompting the touch operation of the water purifier is notified by the push notification. Display examples when these push notifications are received are shown in the middle and right figures of FIG. 37, respectively.

Although various embodiments have been described above, the following embodiments may also be used.
For example, in the above example, the case where the replacement time of the cartridge is determined based on the flow rate flowing through the cartridge has been described as an example, but the description is not limited to this. For example, based on the elapsed time from mounting the cartridge, it may be determined that the replacement time of the cartridge for which a predetermined period has passed has been reached. Alternatively, the time during which the purified water flows may be measured, and if this time exceeds the threshold value, it may be determined that the cartridge replacement time has been reached. Alternatively, the flow rate per unit time (for example, L / min) may be measured, and when the flow rate falls below a predetermined threshold value, it may be determined that the cartridge replacement time has been reached. Alternatively, based on the frequency of use of purified water (for example, the number of times of use of purified water per day), when the cumulative number of times of use exceeds a predetermined threshold value, it may be determined that the cartridge replacement time has been reached. Alternatively, the replacement time of the cartridge may be determined by combining the flow rate flowing through the cartridge with the usage time and frequency of use. As a result, the replacement time of the cartridge can be predicted more accurately.

Further, for example, a water quality meter may be provided in the water purifier 10, the quality of at least one of the raw water and the purified water may be measured, and the water quality information may be transmitted to the mobile communication device 20. The water quality is, for example, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) indicating the total amount of inorganic ions (calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, manganese, etc.) contained in water, and TOC indicating the amount of total organic carbon. (Total Organic Carbon), a water quality index such as residual chlorine. Further, for example, a water temperature gauge may be provided in the water purifier 10, the temperature of at least one of the raw water and the purified water may be measured, and the water temperature information may be transmitted to the mobile communication device 20. Further, for example, a water pressure gauge may be provided in the water purifier 10 to measure the water pressure of at least one of the raw water and the purified water, and the water pressure information may be transmitted to the mobile communication device 20. As a result, the user can grasp the water quality of raw water and purified water. Further, in addition to the flow rate, the usage time, and the frequency of use flowing through the cartridge, the replacement time of the cartridge may be determined in consideration of water quality, water temperature, water pressure, and the like.
The flow rate detection unit 120 is an example of the sensor of the present application, and a water quality meter or a water pressure gauge may be used as a sensor in addition to the flow rate detection unit. This makes it possible to determine the cartridge replacement time based on not only the flow rate but also the water quality and water pressure information.

In addition, information including the URL of the website of the store may be displayed on the package of the water purifier 10 or the cartridge (such as attaching a sticker displaying a QR code (registered trademark)). For example, the user may be able to perform the initial registration by reading the QR code (registered trademark) using the mobile communication device 20 on the registration screen of the purchase shop illustrated in FIG. 20. As a result, the cartridge manufacturer can secure a store by encouraging purchases at the store and improving sales at the store. In addition, the convenience of the user of the water purifier 10 is improved.

Further, the cartridge may be provided with an NFC chip or an IC tag that stores the product number, life, and the like. Then, when the cartridge and the main body of the water purifier 10 communicate with each other, the water purifier 10 may recognize the product number, the life of the cartridge, and the like. Further, the mobile communication device 20 may directly communicate with the NFC chip or the IC tag of the cartridge by a touch operation so that the product number and the life of the cartridge can be recognized by the mobile communication device 20. For example, when the portable communication device 20 stores the cartridge product number and life information, the mobile communication device 20 first recognizes the cartridge product number, and then the period indicated by the life information read from the NFC chip elapses. , You may display a message that it is time to replace the cartridge. This allows the user to know when to replace the cartridge, even if the water purifier 10 does not have a flow sensor or NFC chip. Further, when the NFC chip or the like stores information indicating that the cartridge is a genuine product and the water purifier 10 or the mobile communication device 20 reads the information of the NFC chip, if the cartridge is not a genuine product, the mobile communication device 20 In addition, the analysis server device 40 may be notified that a non-product is being used, or the water purifier 10 may be able to control the flow of purified water.

Further, the water purifier 10 is provided with unique identification information, and based on this identification information, various information such as a flow rate, water quality, and cartridge replacement time may be managed on the analysis server device 40 side. This makes it possible to notify the cartridge replacement without collecting the user's personal information.
In addition, ID linkage (Single Sign On or ID Federation) is performed between an external Web page that collects user's personal information such as SNS (social networking service) and provides the service on the Web and the analysis server device 40. Therefore, the manufacturer of the water purifier 10 may provide a service of extracting only the information of the cartridge used by each user from the analysis server device 40 and providing a Web page for each user. As a result, the user can grasp the usage status of the water purifier 10 and the cartridge used by himself / herself on this individual Web page without providing personal information to the manufacturer of the water purifier 10.

Further, the determination of the cartridge replacement time may be performed by the mobile communication device 20 without depending on the analysis server device 40.

Further, the mobile communication device 20 may receive information on the climate and weather of the user's living area. For example, when another device transmits information on measuring the temperature and humidity of the room to the mobile communication device 20 and the temperature becomes higher than a predetermined temperature, the display control unit 202 says, "Drink water because it is hot." Information for displaying a message may be output to the display unit 201. Similarly, when the humidity is high, a message prompting hydration may be displayed. Further, the weather information may be transmitted from the external server to the mobile communication device 20, and if the sunlight is strong, the application 202 may output the information displaying the message "Because it is hot, let's drink water diligently".

Further, the water purifier 10 may include a wireless module applied to various low power consumption wireless standards / technologies. Low power consumption wireless standards / technologies include BLE, EnOcean, LPWA (SIGFOX, LoRa, Wi-Fi HaLow, RPMA, Flexnet, IM92), Wi-SUN, etc. The above-mentioned wireless module may be activated by touching the water purifier 10 on the mobile communication device 20, and usage information or the like may be transmitted to the mobile communication device 20 or the direct analysis server device 40 via the wireless module.
Further, the NFC may enable pairing of the wireless module of the water purifier. This facilitates the setting of various wireless modules and facilitates the transmission of various data such as usage information.
Further, the above-mentioned wireless module may be activated by pushing the attached button of the water purifier 10 or touching the display of the water purifier 10 with a finger to perform data communication. In particular, if the above operation is performed after the water purifier is attached, it is troublesome and the user's usability is improved.
Further, by providing the above-mentioned wireless module, a plurality of water purifiers 10 can be managed by one of the water purifiers 10. By providing the above-mentioned wireless module, communication is possible between a plurality of water purifiers 10, and therefore, various data communication such as usage amount information is performed between one of the water purifiers 10 and the portable communication device 20. By performing the above, it becomes possible to collectively acquire various data such as usage information of a plurality of water purifiers 10, and it becomes easier to acquire and manage various data of the user.

Further, the data communication of the wireless module uses the above-mentioned solar power generation device, LED power generation device, hydroelectric power generation device (for example, an impeller is provided in the flow path of raw water), and a power storage device for storing the electric power generated by them. You may.
By doing so, the battery life of the water purifier main body can be extended.

In addition, the type of information that the wireless module of the water purifier and NFC communicate with (for example, cartridge purchase destination, usage start date, cartridge price, cartridge replacement scheduled date, comment, name, personal information, data transmission to SNS, etc.) You may write to the control device 100 of the water purifier 10 via the NFC chip of the mobile communication device 20.
By doing so, it is possible to easily set the information to be communicated.

Further, the water purifier may be provided with a solenoid valve (switching between purified water, raw water, etc.) so that the solenoid valve can be switched by supplying power from NFC.
By doing so, the switching lever can be omitted, and the size can be further reduced.

Further, when the water purifier 10 and the portable communication device 20 are brought close to each other for communication, a notification means by sound, light or the like may be provided so that the user can confirm that the communication or the power supply has been surely performed. Further, the sound or light may be changed according to the life of the cartridge so that the user can more easily recognize the life of the cartridge.
Further, the water purifier 10 may be provided with a display unit, and the water temperature, TDS, chlorine concentration, pH, etc. may be displayed on the display unit of the water purifier 10 at the time of communication or power supply. By doing so, it is possible to display on the display unit of the water purifier 10 without using the battery in the water purifier 10 for the display unit, and the amount of batteries in the water purifier 10 can be reduced. Therefore, the frequency of battery replacement can be reduced by reducing the size of the water purifier 10 and by making the battery last longer, so that the risk of failure of the water purifier 10 can be reduced.

Further, when the user connects to the download site of the application in order to install the application in the mobile communication device 20, the download site information is stored in the NFC chip in advance, and the download site is stored when the user communicates with the NFC chip at the time of initial setting. You may automatically connect to. This makes it easy to install and configure the application.
Alternatively, the application may be stored in the NFC chip in advance so that the application is installed when communicating with the NFC chip at the time of initial setting. By doing so, it becomes possible to install the application more easily.

In addition, it is possible to replace the components in the above-described embodiment with well-known components as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Further, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the analysis server device 40, the storage unit 406 can be replaced with an external storage device.
The flow rate detection unit 120 is an example of a sensor, the communication unit 104 is an example of a first communication unit, the communication unit 204 is an example of a second communication unit, and the communication unit 407 is an example of a third communication unit. The mobile communication device 20 is an example of another device.

According to the above-mentioned water purifier, water purifier system, water purifier management system, and water purifier usage status detection method, power consumption by communication is consumed by equipping the water purifier with a short-range wireless communication device powered by another device. The power consumption of the water purifier can be reduced and the frequency of battery replacement can be reduced. In addition, it is possible to determine the replacement time of the cartridge and present the replacement time to the user.

1 Water purifier management system 2, 2A Water purifier body 3 Faucet 3a Arm 4, 4A Cartridge 5 Case body 6, 6A Switching operation unit 7, 7A Inlet 8 Mounting jig 9A Water purification outlet 9B Shower outlet 9C Raw water outlet 10, 10A Water purification Device 100 Control device 101 Input unit 102 Write control unit 103 Storage unit 104 Communication unit 105A Panel unit 106A LED
110 Power supply unit 111A Battery storage unit 120 Flow detection unit 20 Mobile communication device 201 Display unit 202 Display control unit 203 NFC function unit 204 Communication unit 30 PC terminal 40 Analysis server device 401 Data collection unit 402 Data update unit 403 Judgment unit 404 Prediction unit 405 Analysis unit 406 Storage unit 407 Communication unit 41 Push notification server 50 EC server device 60 House A10 Microcomputer A13 Magnet A14 NFC chip A15 Read switch

Claims (10)

A faucet-directed water purifier equipped with a short-range wireless communication device powered by another device.
A sensor that detects cartridge usage information and
A control unit that records cartridge usage information detected by the sensor in a storage unit, and a control unit.
The usage amount information recorded in the storage unit is transmitted to the other device by short-range wireless communication (NFC: Near Field Communication) using the short-range wireless communication device by supplying power from the other device. 1 communication unit and
A button battery that supplies electric power for the detection process by the sensor and the recording process to the storage unit is provided.
The first communication unit includes a water purifier directly connected to a faucet, which is built in the upper surface of the water purifier, the front slope of the upper surface, or the front side .
A second communication unit that supplies power to the first communication unit and receives the usage amount information from the first communication unit by short-range wireless communication, and a display control unit that outputs information prompting the replacement of the cartridge are provided. ,
The display control unit outputs information prompting the reception of the usage amount information when a predetermined period elapses after the second communication unit receives the usage amount information.
With mobile communication devices
Water purifier system equipped with. Water purifier system of claim 1 wherein the faucet type water purifier, which is characterized by not comprising a display unit, for displaying the usage information. The display control unit outputs information that guides product information of the cartridge corresponding to the water purifier directly connected to the faucet.
The water purifier system according to claim 1 or 2. The display control unit outputs the usage amount information.
The water purifier system according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The mobile communication device includes a display unit that displays information output by the display control unit.
The water purifier system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
The water purifier system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.
An analysis server device that communicates with the mobile communication device,
With
The analysis server device
A third communication unit that communicates with the mobile communication device,
A determination unit for determining the replacement time of the cartridge based on the usage amount information received from the mobile communication device is provided.
When the determination unit determines that the cartridge replacement time has arrived, the third communication unit transmits information indicating the cartridge replacement time to the mobile communication device.
Water purifier management system. The analysis server device
A prediction unit that predicts the replacement time of the cartridge based on the usage information received from the mobile communication device.
With more
When the cartridge replacement time predicted by the prediction unit arrives, the third communication unit transmits information indicating the arrival of the cartridge replacement time to the mobile communication device.
The water purifier management system according to claim 6. The prediction unit predicts the replacement time of the cartridge based on the past history of usage information related to the cartridge.
The water purifier management system according to claim 7. The prediction unit predicts the replacement time of the cartridge based on the usage amount information of other cartridges used in the area where the cartridge is used.
The water purifier management system according to claim 7 or 8. A faucet-directed water purifier equipped with a short-range wireless communication device powered by another device.
A sensor that detects cartridge usage information and
A control unit that records cartridge usage information detected by the sensor in a storage unit, and a control unit.
The usage amount information recorded in the storage unit is transmitted to the other device by short-range wireless communication (NFC: Near Field Communication) using the short-range wireless communication device by supplying power from the other device. 1 communication unit and
A button battery for supplying electric power for detection processing by the sensor and recording processing to the storage unit is provided, and the first communication unit is built in the upper surface portion of the water purifier, the front slope of the upper surface, or the front side. For a water purifier that is directly connected to the faucet
A second communication unit that supplies power to the first communication unit and receives the usage amount information from the first communication unit by short-range wireless communication, and a display control unit that outputs information prompting the replacement of the cartridge are provided. When a predetermined period of time elapses after the second communication unit receives the usage information, the display control unit brings a portable communication device that outputs information prompting the reception of the usage information close to the display control unit, and uses the display control unit. Detect quantity information,
Water purifier usage status detection method.

Images