SECURE REMOTE TESTING OF WASHING MACHINE APPLIANCES

Abstract

A washing machine appliance and methods for the same may include authorizing a user of the washing machine appliance and loading testing software into a partitioned memory of a controller. The testing software may include a testing sequence. The method may further include receiving a single testing prompt from a remote device following loading testing software and executing the testing sequence of the testing software from the partitioned memory in response to receiving the single testing prompt, whereby a mechanical component of the washing machine appliance is operated. The method may still further include exiting a remote testing mode after executing the testing software and deleting the testing software from the partitioned memory when exiting the remote testing mode.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to washing machine appliances, and more particularly to methods of securely remotely testing a washing machine appliance.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Washing machine appliances generally include a tub for containing water or wash liquid (e.g., water and detergent, bleach, or other wash additives). A basket is rotatably mounted within the tub and defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing. During normal operation of such washing machine appliances, the wash liquid is directed into the tub and onto articles within the wash chamber of the basket. The basket or an agitation element can rotate at various speeds to agitate articles within the wash chamber, to wring wash fluid from articles within the wash chamber, etc.

Recently, some washing machine appliances have tried to incorporate features for connecting to and communicating wirelessly with a remote database or server, e.g., the cloud. Such appliances may even be remotely operable, where one or more mechanical components of the washing machine appliance, such as a motor, pump, valve, etc., can be activated or manipulated in response to a remote command, such as a command received over the internet or from the cloud (e.g., in tandem with in-person engagement actions).

The ability to remotely operate a washing machine appliance provides several benefits, such as permitting the user to change or monitor settings on the washing machine appliance while the user is not physically present at the same location as the washing machine appliance. As another example, when a diagnostic test of the appliance is desired, such testing may be performed remotely at the user's convenience without having to wait for a technician to be available in person or may reduce the total amount of time the technician has to spend at the household. However, the ability to remotely operate a washing machine appliance also entails a potential for exploitation by unauthorized parties. For example, it may be possible for an unauthorized user to remotely access a washing machine appliance and cause the appliance to take actions that are undesirable to the owner of the washing machine appliance. Moreover, new or relatively inexperienced remote technicians may have a harder time knowing what testing actions should be performed (e.g., without being physically present with the washing machine appliance).

Accordingly, washing machine appliances and methods of testing such appliances which provide remote access with improved security are desirable. Additionally or alternatively, it may be useful to provide a washing machine appliance or method wherein remote testing could be reliably and effectively performed even by relatively inexperienced technicians.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a method of testing a washing machine appliance is provided. The method may include authorizing a user of the washing machine appliance and loading testing software into a partitioned memory of a controller. The testing software may include a testing sequence. The method may further include receiving a single testing prompt from a remote device following loading testing software and executing the testing sequence of the testing software from the partitioned memory in response to receiving the single testing prompt, whereby a mechanical component of the washing machine appliance is operated. The method may still further include exiting a remote testing mode after executing the testing software and deleting the testing software from the partitioned memory when exiting the remote testing mode.

In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine appliance is provided. The washing machine appliance may include a tub, a basket, a nozzle, a motor, a drain pump, and a controller. The basket may be rotatably mounted within the tub. The nozzle may be in fluid communication with the tub to selectively flow liquid thereto. The motor may be in mechanical communication with the basket to selectively rotate the basket within the tub. The drain pump may be in fluid communication with the tub to selectively motivate wash fluid therefrom. The controller may be in operative communication with the motor and the drain pump. The controller may have a partitioned memory. The controller may be configured to initiate a testing operation. The testing operation may include authorizing a user of the washing machine appliance, loading testing software into the partitioned memory of the controller, the testing software include a testing sequence, receiving a single testing prompt from a remote device following loading testing software, executing the testing sequence of the testing software from the partitioned memory in response to receiving the single testing prompt, whereby a mechanical component of the washing machine appliance is operated, exiting a remote testing mode after executing the testing software, and deleting the testing software from the partitioned memory when exiting the remote testing mode.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a washing machine appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 provides a schematic chart illustrating testing a washing machine appliance in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 provides a flow chart illustrating a method of testing a washing machine appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 provides a schematic chart illustrating testing a washing machine appliance, including a testing sequence, in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “includes” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). In addition, here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined or interchanged. Such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise. For example, all ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the endpoints, and the endpoints are independently combinable with each other. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “generally,” “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value, or the precision of the methods or machines for constructing or manufacturing the components or systems. For example, the approximating language may refer to being within a 10 percent margin (i.e., including values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value). In this regard, for example, when used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction (e.g., “generally vertical” includes forming an angle of up to ten degrees in any direction, such as, clockwise or counterclockwise, with the vertical direction V).

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” In addition, references to “an embodiment” or “one embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may. Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “an embodiment” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Moreover, each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary washing machine appliance 100. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of washing machine appliance 100. As illustrated, washing machine appliance 100 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is defined. Washing machine appliance 100 includes a cabinet 102 that extends between a top 104 and a bottom 106 along the vertical direction V, between a left side 108 and a right side 110 along the lateral direction L, and between a front 112 and a rear 114 along the transverse direction T.

A wash tub 124 is positioned within cabinet 102 and is generally configured for retaining wash fluids during an operating cycle. As used herein, “wash fluid” may refer to water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable wash additive or combination thereof. Wash tub 124 is substantially fixed relative to cabinet 102 such that it does not rotate or translate relative to cabinet 102.

A wash basket 120 is received within wash tub 124 and defines a wash chamber 126 that is configured for receipt of articles for washing. More specifically, wash basket 120 is rotatably mounted within wash tub 124 such that it is rotatable about an axis of rotation A. According to the illustrated embodiments, the axis of rotation A is substantially parallel (e.g., within 30°) relative to the transverse direction T. In this regard, washing machine appliance 100 is generally referred to as a “horizontal axis” or “front load” washing machine appliance 100. However, it is noted that the illustrated embodiments are provided merely as non-limiting examples and the present disclosure may be applicable to any other suitable washing machine appliance configuration, including “vertical axis” or “top load” washing machine appliances, as would be understood.

Wash basket 120 may define one or more agitator features that extend into wash chamber 126 to assist in agitation and cleaning articles disposed within wash chamber 126 during operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a plurality of ribs 128 extends from basket 120 into wash chamber 126. In this manner, for example, ribs 128 may lift articles disposed in wash basket 120 during rotation of wash basket 120.

Washing machine appliance 100 includes a motor assembly 122 that is in mechanical communication with wash basket 120 to selectively rotate wash basket 120 (e.g., during an agitation cycle, a rinse cycle, or a testing sequence of washing machine appliance 100). According to the illustrated embodiments, motor assembly 122 is a pancake motor. However, it should be appreciated that any suitable type, size, or configuration of motor may be used to rotate wash basket 120 according to alternative embodiments.

Cabinet 102 also includes a front panel 130 that defines an opening 132, which generally permits user access to wash basket 120 of wash tub 124. More specifically, washing machine appliance 100 includes a door 134 that is selectively positioned over opening 132 and is rotatably mounted to front panel 130 (e.g., about a door axis that is substantially parallel to the vertical direction V). In this manner, door 134 permits selective access to opening 132 by being movable between an open position facilitating access to a wash tub 124 and a closed position prohibiting access to wash tub 124. In exemplary embodiments, a lock assembly 182 is fixed to cabinet 102 to selectively lock or hold a free end of the door 134 to cabinet 102 when door 134 is in the closed position (e.g., during certain operations or wash cycles).

In some embodiments, a central body 136 of door 134 is provide on a perimeter rim 135 that extends about (e.g., radially about) at least a portion of central body 136. In optional embodiments, central body 136 is provided as a window and permits viewing of wash basket 120 when door 134 is in the closed position (e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 100). Generally, door 134 defines a footprint 170 on a front portion of cabinet 102 (e.g., in a plane defined by the lateral direction L and the transverse direction T). For instance, when door 134 is in the closed position, central body 136 and perimeter rim 135 may extend across footprint 170 and thus cover the area of the front panel 130 within footprint 170 (e.g., when viewed along the transverse direction T directly in front of washing machine appliance 100). As shown, footprint 170 may extend radially outward from opening 132. Thus, footprint 170 may encompass and define a larger width (e.g., diameter) than opening 132. In some such embodiments, central body 136 extends across and, optionally, within opening 132. Perimeter rim 135 may extend radially outward from opening 132 and define the radial extrema of footprint 170.

In certain embodiments, central body 136 is provided as a non-permeable body, which blocks or prevents wash fluid or air from passing therethrough. In alternative embodiments, central body 136 defines one or more air aperture therethrough. Additionally or alternatively, door 134 may also include a handle (not shown) that, for example, a user may pull when opening 132 and closing door 134. Further, although door 134 is illustrated as mounted to front panel 130, it should be appreciated that door 134 may be mounted to another side of cabinet 102 or any other suitable support according to alternative embodiments.

A front gasket or baffle 138 may extend between tub 124 and the front panel 130 about the opening 132 covered by door 134, further sealing tub 124 from cabinet 102. For example, when door 134 is in the closed position, baffle 138 may contact central body 136 in sealing engagement therewith and within footprint 170.

As shown, wash basket 120 defines a plurality of perforations 140 in order to facilitate fluid communication between an interior of basket 120 and wash tub 124. A sump 142 is defined by wash tub 124 at a bottom of wash tub 124 along the vertical direction V. Thus, sump 142 is configured for receipt of, and generally collects, wash fluid during operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, during operation of washing machine appliance 100, wash fluid may be urged (e.g., by gravity) from basket 120 to sump 142 through plurality of perforations 140. A pump assembly 144 is located beneath wash tub 124 for gravity assisted flow when draining wash tub 124 (e.g., via a drain 146). Pump assembly 144 may also be configured for recirculating wash fluid within wash tub 124.

In some embodiments, washing machine appliance 100 includes an additive dispenser or spout 150. For example, spout 150 may be in fluid communication with a water supply in order to direct fluid (e.g., clean water) into wash tub 124. For instance, one or more water valves 151 may be mounted or within cabinet 102 in fluid communication with a building water system to selectively open/close and thereby release/restrict water to the spout 150 or wash tub 124 generally. Spout 150 may also be in fluid communication with the sump 142. For example, pump assembly 144 may direct wash fluid disposed in sump 142 to spout 150 in order to circulate wash fluid in wash tub 124.

As illustrated, a detergent drawer 152 may be slidably mounted within front panel 130. Detergent drawer 152 receives a wash additive (e.g., detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable liquid or powder) and directs the fluid additive to wash chamber 126 during certain operations or wash cycle phases of washing machine appliance 100. According to the illustrated embodiment, detergent drawer 152 may also be fluidly coupled to spout 150 to facilitate the complete and accurate dispensing of wash additive.

In optional embodiments, a bulk reservoir 154 is disposed within cabinet 102. Bulk reservoir 154 may be configured for receipt of fluid additive for use during operation of washing machine appliance 100. Moreover, bulk reservoir 154 may be sized such that a volume of fluid additive sufficient for a plurality or multitude of wash cycles of washing machine appliance 100 (e.g., five, ten, twenty, fifty, or any other suitable number of wash cycles) may fill bulk reservoir 154. Thus, for example, a user can fill bulk reservoir 154 with fluid additive and operate washing machine appliance 100 for a plurality of wash cycles without refilling bulk reservoir 154 with fluid additive. A reservoir pump 156 is configured for selective delivery of the fluid additive from bulk reservoir 154 to wash tub 124.

In optional embodiments, a heating element 155 (e.g., resistive heating element) is mounted within the appliance 100. For instance, heating element 155 may be positioned inside, or otherwise in thermal communication with, wash tub 124. Optionally, heating element 155 may be mounted within a bottom portion (e.g., sump) of wash tub 124 beneath wash basket 120. Moreover, heating element 155 may be in operable communication (e.g., electrical communication or wireless communication) with the controller 166. In turn, controller 166 may selectively activate heating element 155, thereby generating or directing additional heat energy to a volume of liquid within wash tub 124.

In some embodiments, a control panel 160 including a plurality of input selectors 162 is coupled to front panel 130. Control panel 160 and input selectors 162 may collectively form a user interface input for operator selection of machine cycles and features. For example, in exemplary embodiments, a display 164 indicates selected features, a countdown timer, or other items of interest to machine users.

Operation of washing machine appliance 100 is generally controlled by a controller 166 or processing device 166. In some embodiments, controller 166 is in operative communication with (e.g., electrically or wirelessly connected to) control panel 160 for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and features. In response to user manipulation of control panel 160, controller 166 operates the various components of washing machine appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features.

Controller 166 may include a memory (e.g., non-transitive memory) and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with a wash operation. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively, controller 166 may be constructed without using a microprocessor (e.g., using a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuitry, such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.

Control panel 160 and other components of washing machine appliance 100, such as motor assembly 122, a fan 198, and a vent damper 210, may be in operative communication with controller 166 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses. Additionally or alternatively, other features, such as electronic lock assembly 182 for door 134 may be in operative communication with controller 166 via one or more other signal lines or shared communication busses.

In optional embodiments, one or more temperature sensors 172 are included within cabinet 102. For instance, a temperature sensor 172 may be mounted on or within wash tub 124 (e.g., to detect a temperature of water to or within wash chamber 126). Temperature sensor 172 may be provided as any suitable temperature-detecting element (e.g., thermistor, thermocouple, etc.). Moreover, temperature sensor 172 may be in operable communication with (e.g., electrically connected to) controller 166. Thus, temperature sensor 172 may detect the temperature of water or wash fluid within wash chamber 126. Moreover, signals relating to the detected temperature may be communicated with controller 166.

In additional or alternative embodiments, one or more turbidity sensors 174 are included within cabinet 102. For instance, a turbidity sensor 174 may be mounted on or within wash tub 124 (e.g., to detect the effluent or total suspended solids in water within wash chamber 126). Turbidity sensor 174 may be provided as any suitable turbidity-detecting element (e.g., light emitter and light receiver configured to measure light reflected from the emitter). Moreover, turbidity sensor 174 may be in operable communication with (e.g., electrically connected to) controller 166. Thus, temperature sensor 172 may detect the reflections of light from effluent in water or wash fluid within wash chamber. Moreover, signals relating to the detected reflections or effluent (e.g., turbidity) may be communicated with controller 166.

In certain embodiments, one or more measurement device 178s may be provided in the washing machine appliance 100 for measuring movement of the tub 124. For instance, a measurement device 178 in accordance with the present disclosure may include an accelerometer which measures translational motion, such as acceleration along one or more directions. Additionally or alternatively, a measurement device 178 may include a gyroscope, which measures rotational motion, such as rotational velocity about an axis. A measurement device 178 in accordance with the present disclosure is mounted to the tub 124 (e.g., a bottom wall or a cylindrical sidewall thereof) to sense movement of the tub 124 relative to the cabinet 102 by measuring uniform periodic motion, non-uniform periodic motion, or excursions of the tub 124 during appliance 100 operation. During use, movement may be detected or measured as discrete identifiable components (e.g., in a predetermined plane or direction).

In some embodiments, a pressure sensor 176 is provided in operative communication with tub 124. For instance, pressure sensor 176 may communicate with the tub 124 through a sidewall thereof. Pressure sensor 176 may be configured to detect or measure pressure within the tub 124. In particular, pressure sensor 176 may detect or measure pressure generated by the liquid held within tub 124 (e.g., during a wash cycle). In some such embodiments, pressure signals detected at pressure sensor 176 may be transmitted to and received by controller 166. Controller 166 may be configured to determine the pressure within tub 124 (or the volume of liquid therein) based on the received pressure signals. As would be understood, pressure sensor 176 may be formed as any suitable pressure detecting device, such as a piezoresitive, capacitive, electromagnetic, piezoelectric, or optical pressure detecting device.

In optional embodiments, one or more temperature sensor 172s are included within cabinet 102. For instance, a temperature sensor 172 may be mounted on or within wash tub 124 (e.g., to detect a temperature of water to or within wash chamber 126). Temperature sensor 172 may be provided as any suitable temperature-detecting element (e.g., thermistor, thermocouple, etc.). Moreover, temperature sensor 172 may be in operable communication with (e.g., electrically connected to) controller 166. Thus, temperature sensor 172 may detect the temperature of water or wash fluid within wash chamber. Moreover, signals relating to the detected temperature may be communicated with controller 166.

In exemplary embodiments, during operation of washing machine appliance 100, laundry items are loaded into wash basket 120 through opening 132, and a wash cycle is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 162. For example, a wash cycle may be initiated such that wash tub 124 is filled with water, detergent, or other fluid additives (e.g., via additive dispenser 150 during a fill phase). One or more valves 151 can be controlled by washing machine appliance 100 to provide for filling wash basket 120 to the appropriate level for the amount of articles being washed or rinsed. By way of example, once wash basket 120 is properly filled with fluid, the contents of wash basket 120 can be agitated (e.g., with ribs 128) for an agitation phase of laundry items in wash basket 120. During the agitation phase, the basket 120 may be motivated about the axis of rotation A at a set speed (e.g., first speed or tumble speed). As the basket 120 is rotated, articles within the basket 120 may be lifted and permitted to drop therein.

After the agitation phase of the washing operation or wash cycle is completed, wash tub 124 can be drained (e.g., through a drain phase). Laundry articles can then be rinsed (e.g., through a rinse phase) by again adding fluid to wash tub 124, depending on the particulars of the wash cycle selected by a user. Ribs 128 may again provide agitation within wash basket 120. One or more spin phases may also be used. In particular, a spin phase may be applied after the wash cycle or after the rinse cycle in order to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed. During a spin phase, basket 120 is rotated at relatively high speeds. For instance, basket 120 may be rotated at one set speed (e.g., second speed or pre-plaster speed) before being rotated at another set speed (e.g., third speed or plaster speed). As would be understood, the pre-plaster speed may be greater than the tumble speed and the plaster speed may be greater than the pre-plaster speed. Moreover, agitation or tumbling of articles may be reduced as basket 120 increases its rotational velocity such that the plaster speed maintains the articles at a generally fixed position relative to basket 120.

After articles disposed in wash basket 120 are cleaned (or the wash cycle otherwise ends), a user can remove the articles from wash basket 120 (e.g., by opening door 134 and reaching into wash basket 120 through opening 132).

In some embodiments, a rear ventilation line 190 is provided within washing machine appliance 100. In particular, rear ventilation line 190 may be enclosed within cabinet 102. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, exemplary embodiments include rear ventilation line 190 at a position in fluid communication between tub 124 and the surrounding region (e.g., the ambient environment outside of or immediately surrounding cabinet 102, the enclosed volume of cabinet 102 surrounding tub 124, etc.). Generally, it is understood that rear ventilation line 190 may be provided as any suitable pipe or conduit (e.g., having non-permeable wall) for directing air therethrough. When assembled, rear ventilation line 190 defines an air path (e.g., an output air path 192) from tub 124 and within or through cabinet 102 (e.g., to the ambient environment outside of cabinet 102). Specifically, output air path 192 extends from a ventilation inlet 194, through cabinet 102, and to a ventilation outlet 196. In some embodiments, ventilation inlet 194 is defined through a top portion of wash tub 124 and ventilation outlet 196 is defined through an upper portion of cabinet 102. Thus, output air path 192 may extend from the top portion of tub 124 to an upper portion of cabinet 102. Optionally, ventilation inlet 194 may be positioned below ventilation outlet 196 along a vertical direction V. Advantageously, a convective airflow may be naturally motivated from wash tub 124, through output air path 192, and to the ambient environment. Additionally or alternatively, splashing of wash fluid and the collection of moisture within output air path 192 may be prevented. However, any other suitable configuration may be provided to facilitate the flow of air from tub 124 and, for example, to the ambient environment.

Although a convective airflow may be facilitated, optional embodiments further include a fan or blower 198 (indicated in phantom lines). Specifically, fan 198 may be provided in fluid communication with rear ventilation line 190 to motivate an active airflow therethrough. For instance, fan 198 may be mounted within rear ventilation line 190 to selectively rotate and draw air from wash tub 124, through ventilation inlet 194, and to ventilation outlet 196 (e.g., to output an airflow from tub 124 to the ambient environment).

In certain embodiments, a front ventilation line 200, separate and spaced apart from rear ventilation line 190, is provided in fluid communication with wash tub 124. For instance, front ventilation line 200 may be any suitable pipe or conduit in fluid communication (e.g., upstream fluid communication) with wash tub 124 and rear ventilation line 190. As shown, in exemplary embodiments, front ventilation line 200 extends from front panel 130 to wash tub 124. When assembled, front ventilation line 200 defines an air path (e.g., intake air path 208) from front panel 130 to wash tub 124 (e.g., upstream of output air path 192). Specifically, intake air path 208 extends from an intake inlet 202, through cabinet 102, and to an intake outlet 206. In some embodiments, A cabinet aperture 204 may be defined through front panel 130 as intake inlet 202. Thus, intake air path 208 may extend from front panel 130 to, for example, a top portion of tub 124. Optionally, intake inlet 202 may be positioned above intake outlet 206 along a vertical direction V.

In some embodiments, cabinet aperture 204 is defined within the footprint 170 of door 134. Thus, when door 134 is in the closed position, cabinet aperture 204 may be generally covered and hidden from view. As shown, even though door 134 is in the closed position, a gap 254 may be defined between at least a portion of door 134 and cabinet aperture 204 to permit an ambient airflow 230 from the ambient environment to cabinet aperture 204. In other words, one portion of door 134 (e.g., perimeter rim 135) may be spaced apart from cabinet aperture 204 while another portion of door 134 (e.g., central body 136) blocks opening 132 and contacts baffle 138.

In additional or alternative embodiments, one or more secondary apertures 256 (FIG. 1—shown in phantom lines) may be defined through door 134 (e.g., through perimeter rim 135 along the transverse direction T) and in alignment with cabinet aperture 204. In such embodiments, air may pass between secondary aperture 256 and cabinet aperture 204 (e.g., from the ambient environment) when door 134 is in the closed position.

Although exemplary embodiments may provide cabinet aperture 204 and intake inlet 202 within the footprint 170 of door 134 above opening 132, it is noted that alternative embodiments may include cabinet aperture 204 and intake inlet 202 at another suitable location.

FIG. 3 provides a flowchart of an exemplary washing machine appliance test according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 3, a local user 1000 of the washing machine appliance may be connected to a remote technician 1002 via a phone 1010. The remote technician 1002 may access the washing machine appliance remotely, e.g., via the cloud 1020, and may perform cloud-side operations, e.g., operations 310, 320, and 330, as will be explained in more detail below. The local user 1000 may be physically present at the same location as the washing machine appliance, e.g., in the household, and the local user 1000 may thereby access the washing machine appliance directly, such as by physically touching controls or input devices of the washing machine appliance, e.g., pushing buttons, touchpads, or touchscreens physically connected to the washing machine appliance. Thus, local operations, e.g., operations 312, 322, and 332, which will be described in more detail below, may be performed by the washing machine appliance in response to direct inputs from the local user 1000.

As may be seen in FIG. 3, the testing software may be modular in design (e.g., each step of the test process may include a cloud-side module and a local module). Also, the testing software may be partitioned from a main or control partition 166A (e.g., partitioned from the main appliance software and partitioned from other partitions of the memory of controller 166 other than a testing partition 166B—FIG. 2). Such modularity and partitioning may advantageously provide improved security in that even if an unauthorized user were to gain access to the washing machine appliance remotely, e.g., via the internet, such user would not be thereby able to gain access to controls of the washing machine appliance other than the dedicated testing partition of the controller memory.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the test may begin with a two-step user confirmation, e.g., as shown at 310 and 312 in FIG. 3. The remote technician may generate a security code on the cloud side, e.g., as shown at 310 in FIG. 3, and the security code may be transmitted to the washing machine appliance, e.g., embedded or encoded in a signal that is relayed to the washing machine appliance via the internet. The remote technician may then communicate the security code to the local user, e.g., over the phone 1010 connection illustrated in FIG. 3. As shown at 312 in FIG. 3, the local user may then enter the code directly into the washing machine appliance to complete the two-step user confirmation. As denoted by the double arrow between 310 and 312 in FIG. 3, the security code entered by the local user must match the security code created by and received from the cloud side in order to complete the user confirmation.

Still referring to FIG. 3, the test may continue by verifying a personality of the washing machine appliance. The personality of the washing machine appliance may include the specific appliance and model, as well as the serial number of the particular individual washing machine appliance to be tested. For example, the personality of the washing machine appliance may also include specifying a type or kind of one or more components of the washing machine appliance, such as a motor of the washing machine appliance or other similar components. The component type information may be correlated with the serial number of the washing machine appliance. For instance, different units of the same model washing machine appliance may have different components, such as different motor types, and the motor type (or other component type) may be verified as part of the appliance personality verification. As denoted by the double arrow between 320 and 322 in FIG. 3, the appliance personality data on the washing machine appliance, e.g., stored in a local memory of the washing machine appliance, must match the washing machine appliance personality data stored in the cloud side in order to complete the appliance personality verification. For example, the local user may provide the appliance serial number to the remote technician, e.g., by reading the serial number over the phone, and the remote technician may then enter the serial number into the cloud database, whereupon the cloud database returns an appliance personality value (e.g., as shown at 320 in FIG. 3) that is matched against a local appliance personality value (e.g., as shown at 322 in FIG. 3) in order to verify the personality of the washing machine appliance.

As illustrated at 330 in FIG. 3, after confirming the user and verifying the personality of the washing machine appliance, the testing software maybe loaded into the washing machine appliance, e.g., into a testing partition of a memory thereof. The testing software may then be executed over the air by the washing machine appliance, e.g., as illustrated at 332 in FIG. 3. Executing the testing software may include running a testing sequence or algorithm, and causes at least one mechanical component of the washing machine appliance to be operated. For example, the mechanical component may be a motor (e.g., motor 122), a fan (e.g., fan 198), a movable damper (e.g., ventilation damper 210), water valve (e.g., valve 151), pump (e.g., pump assembly 144), among other possible example mechanical components of a washing machine appliance. Also, operating the mechanical component includes changing a physical status of the component, e.g., a speed, position, etc. of the component, such as accelerating the motor, fan, etc., e.g., from a zero starting speed, opening a damper or valve, or other changes in the physical state of one or more mechanical components of the washing machine appliance.

For instance, and turning briefly to FIG. 5, an exemplary testing sequence 500 is illustrated. Generally, the testing sequence 500 provides a predetermined or fixed series of testing routines to be automatically performed by the washing machine appliance (e.g., without direct input from a user or technician, except to initiate the testing sequence). Notably, such routines may performed in response to a single input or instruction and output as a single diagnostic report without requiring specialized information or training on the part of the person initiating the testing sequence. As shown, the exemplary testing sequence 500 may include multiple discrete routine modules, each operating at least one mechanical component. Optionally, the discrete routine modules may be initiated separately (e.g., by a technician with greater experience or specialized training), such as when a full test or diagnostic is not desired.

In some embodiments, a pre-wash routine module 510 is provided. As shown, the pre-wash routine module 510 may generally test or check initial water-supply or water-treatment features. For instance, the water valves (e.g., valve(s) 151) may be opened (e.g., for a predetermined period of time or until a set volume of water is supplied) before being closed such that a volume of water is supplied to the wash tub. One or more water sensors may then be tested. For instance, testing signal may be transmitted to or received from a temperature sensor (e.g., temperature sensor 172), a turbidity sensor (e.g., turbidity sensor 174), or a pressure sensor (e.g., pressure sensor 176). Testing of the water sensors may confirm operation of such sensors, generally, or use such reading for one or more diagnostic decisions—as would be understood in light of the present disclosure.

In additional or alternative embodiments, a wash routine module 520 is provided. As shown, the wash routine module 520 may generally test or check features for treating articles (e.g., during a wash cycle or while a volume of water is present within the wash tub). For instance, a water heater (e.g., heating element 155) may be activated (e.g., for a predetermined period of time) before being deactivated to heat the wash chamber or water therein. Optionally, an agitator or agitating element (e.g., as may be provided in a vertical axis washing machine appliance) may be tested, such as by directing a motor to turn or oscillate an agitator post or impeller within the wash chamber. Additionally or alternatively, a drain pump (e.g., pump assembly 144) may be activated (e.g., for a predetermined period of time or until no further water is detected) before being closed such that the volume of water is exhausted from the wash tub.

In further additional or alternative embodiments, a post-wash routine module 530. As shown, the post-wash routine module 530 may generally test or check features for maintaining articles after a wash cycle (e.g., to prevent soaking or mildewing). For instance, a fan may be activated (e.g., fan 198) to motivate an airflow, such as while a damper (e.g., ventilation damper 210) is open (e.g., for a predetermined period of time). Subsequently, the fan may be deactivated (e.g., while the damper is closed). Optionally, a mode shifter (e.g., clutch) may be tested, such as to switch a motor from an agitator mode to a spin mode (e.g., in a vertical axis washing machine, as would be understood). In some embodiments, a lock assembly (e.g., lock assembly 182) is tested, such as by being directed to lock a door of the washing machine appliance (e.g., for a predetermined period of time or until completion of the testing sequence). Additionally or alternatively, the motor (e.g., motor 122) may be directed to rotate or spin the basket (e.g., for a predetermined period). While the basket is rotated, one or more tub sensors (e.g., measurement device 178) may be tested, such as to measure movement of the tub or speed of the basket rotation. Testing of the tub sensors may confirm operation of such sensors, generally, or use such reading for one or more diagnostic decisions—as would be understood in light of the present disclosure.

It is noted that although exemplary routine modules are described and illustrated with respect to FIG. 5, other embodiments may provide various other suitable modules. For example, such modules may be organized by discrete parts or sub-assemblies and include any tests corresponding to such parts or sub-assemblies (e.g., a water valve module, a motor module, or a miscellaneous module testing all or various other features of a washing machine appliance)

Returning generally to FIG. 3, after running the testing sequence, the washing machine appliance then exits the remote testing mode, e.g., as illustrated at 340. For example, exiting the remote testing mode may include disconnecting a remote connection to the washing machine appliance or removing (deleting) the testing software from the memory of the controller of the washing machine appliance. Deleting the testing software at the same time as exiting the remote test mode may also advantageously provide additional security for the washing machine appliance. For example, if an unauthorized user were to subsequently gain access to the washing machine appliance remotely, such user would be prevented or limited from operating the appliance remotely when the testing software is not loaded, e.g., has been deleted from the memory. In some embodiments, the remote testing mode may also be exited automatically, e.g., independently of the test being completed. For example, if the connection is interrupted before the test is completed or the test does not complete for some other reason, the remote testing mode may be automatically exited after a timeout period has elapsed. For example, the timeout period may be between about five minutes and about thirty minutes, such as between about ten minutes and about twenty minutes, such as about fifteen minutes.

Turning now to FIG. 4, an exemplary method 400 of operating a washing machine appliance (e.g., appliance 100) is described. Such a method 400 may generally provide for remote testing of the appliance. Advantageously and in particular, such remote testing could be reliably and effectively performed even by relatively inexperienced technicians.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the method 400 may include a step 410 of authorizing a user of the washing machine appliance. In some exemplary embodiments, the user authorization may be a two-step user authorization, e.g., as described above with respect to FIG. 5. For example, authorizing the user of the washing machine appliance may include generating a security code, by a remote device, such as a remote database or remote server, e.g., in the cloud. Authorizing the user of the washing machine appliance may further include receiving the security code by the washing machine appliance via a user interface physically connected to the washing machine appliance.

In optional embodiments, 410 includes verifying a personality of the washing machine appliance. For example, as discussed above regarding FIG. 3, the personality of the washing machine appliance may be based on a serial number of the appliance and may include information such as a motor type or other component type information. Thus, the personality of the appliance may ensure compatibility of the washing machine appliance with the testing software, such as verifying that the mechanical component of the washing machine appliance is compatible with the testing software, e.g., ensuring the proper voltage is supplied to the motor, that the operating speed range coincides with the capabilities of the motor or other mechanical component, etc. Further, the personality of the appliance may also serve as a verification and authentication check, e.g., ensuring that the person or entity attempting to remotely access the washing machine appliance is properly authorized by ensuring that the serial number information and the component type information in the appliance personality match on the local side and the cloud side.

Method 400 may further include a step 420 of loading testing software into the testing partition of the memory of the controller (e.g., following 410). For example, the testing software may be loaded into the testing partition from a remote device, e.g., the cloud, as mentioned above.

At 430, the method 400 may include receiving a single testing prompt from a remote device (e.g., remote server or other device apart from the appliance that is controlled by the remote technician). For instance, a remote technician may provide a single command to start the testing sequence. Notably, the remote technician may be able to select and request the start of the testing sequence generally (e.g., by pressing or engaging with a corresponding input, button, or icon), without specialized knowledge or training of the features to be tested or the order in which the features are tested. The testing prompt may follow 420 and only be permitted once the software is loaded or installed at the appliance.

At step 440, the method 400 may include executing a testing sequence. For instance, one or more portion, test, or routine module of the above-described testing sequence may be executed by the appliance (e.g., FIG. 5). Thus, the testing software will cause a mechanical component of the washing machine appliance to be operated, such as by the controller, e.g., activating a motor, activating fan, opening a valve, opening a damper, activating a pump assembly, etc.

The method 400 further includes a step 450 of exiting remote testing mode after executing the testing software, such as after the test has been completed. Also, when, e.g., at the same time as, the appliance exits the remote testing mode, the testing software is deleted from the partitioned memory of the controller, e.g., as illustrated at 460 in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the remote testing mode is exited automatically when (as soon as) the test has been completed. In instances where the test may be interrupted, such as due to a lost internet connection or phone connection, the step 450 of exiting the remote testing mode (and simultaneously the step 460 of deleting the testing software) may be performed automatically after a timeout period has elapsed. As noted above, the timeout period may be about fifteen minutes.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

1. A method of testing a washing machine appliance, the washing machine appliance comprising a controller having a partitioned memory, the method comprising:

authorizing a user of the washing machine appliance;

loading testing software into the partitioned memory of the controller, the testing software include a testing sequence;

receiving a single testing prompt from a remote device following loading testing software;

executing the testing sequence of the testing software from the partitioned memory in response to receiving the single testing prompt, whereby a mechanical component of the washing machine appliance is operated;

exiting a remote testing mode after executing the testing software; and

deleting the testing software from the partitioned memory when exiting the remote testing mode.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein authorizing the user of the washing machine appliance comprises generating a security code, by the remote device, and receiving the security code by the washing machine appliance via a user interface physically connected to the washing machine appliance.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising verifying a personality of the washing machine appliance prior to loading testing software.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein verifying the personality of the washing machine appliance comprises verifying a serial number of the washing machine appliance.

5. The method of claim 3, wherein verifying the personality of the washing machine appliance comprises verifying that the washing machine appliance is compatible with the testing software.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein verifying that the washing machine appliance is compatible with the testing software comprises verifying that the mechanical component of the washing machine appliance is compatible with the testing software.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the partitioned memory comprises a testing partition and a control partition, wherein loading testing software comprises loading the testing software into the testing partition of the memory of the controller.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the step of loading the testing software into the testing partition of the memory of the controller comprises loading the testing software from a remote device into the testing partition of the memory of the controller.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein the control partition of the partitioned memory is configured to only respond to command from a user interface physically connected to the washing machine appliance.

10. A washing machine appliance comprising:

a tub;

a basket rotatably mounted within the tub;

a nozzle in fluid communication with the tub to selectively flow liquid thereto;

a motor in mechanical communication with the basket to selectively rotate the basket within the tub;

a drain pump in fluid communication with the tub to selectively motivate wash fluid therefrom; and

a controller in operative communication with the motor and the drain pump, the controller having a partitioned memory, the controller being configured to initiate a testing operation, the testing operation comprising authorizing a user of the washing machine appliance, loading testing software into the partitioned memory of the controller, the testing software include a testing sequence, receiving a single testing prompt from a remote device following loading testing software, executing the testing sequence of the testing software from the partitioned memory in response to receiving the single testing prompt, whereby a mechanical component of the washing machine appliance is operated, exiting a remote testing mode after executing the testing software, and deleting the testing software from the partitioned memory when exiting the remote testing mode.

11. The washing machine appliance of claim 10, wherein authorizing the user of the washing machine appliance comprises generating a security code, by the remote device, and receiving the security code by the washing machine appliance via a user interface physically connected to the washing machine appliance.

12. The washing machine appliance of claim 10, further comprising verifying a personality of the washing machine appliance prior to loading testing software.

13. The washing machine appliance of claim 12, wherein verifying the personality of the washing machine appliance comprises verifying a serial number of the washing machine appliance.

14. The washing machine appliance of claim 12, wherein verifying the personality of the washing machine appliance comprises verifying that the washing machine appliance is compatible with the testing software.

15. The washing machine appliance of claim 12, wherein verifying that the washing machine appliance is compatible with the testing software comprises verifying that the mechanical component of the washing machine appliance is compatible with the testing software.

16. The washing machine appliance of claim 10, wherein the partitioned memory comprises a testing partition and a control partition, wherein loading testing software comprises loading the testing software into the testing partition of the memory of the controller.

17. The washing machine appliance of claim 16, wherein the step of loading the testing software into the testing partition of the memory of the controller comprises loading the testing software from a remote device into the testing partition of the memory of the controller.

18. The washing machine appliance of claim 16, wherein the control partition of the partitioned memory is configured to only respond to command from a user interface physically connected to the washing machine appliance.