Appliance Software Framework for Dynamic Theme Rendering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Household appliances have closed internal networks that are difficult to modify, limiting their expandability and user customization, requiring inconvenient service access and potentially damaging the appliance.
Innovation Solution
An appliance with a software framework that dynamically renders a graphical user interface, allowing users to select themes and interact with control boards, enabling the addition of external components and personalization through a software framework that associates theme definitions with resources and dynamically transforms the user interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hard-wired connectors are used to form a closed internal network, then the appliance structure is stable and reliable, but the expandability and adaptability of the appliance is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the internal network into two parts: a stable hard-wired core network for reliable communication, and a separable external interface layer that can be dynamically connected or disconnected. This allows the core network to maintain reliability while the external interface provides expandability through removable connectors and modular components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary components such as removable communication modules and external interface adapters that act as mediators between the stable internal network and external devices. These intermediaries enable expansion and customization without compromising the stability of the core network architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If service personnel access the interior of the appliance to connect external devices, then external components can be coupled to the internal network, but the process requires specialized tools, may damage the appliance, and is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service capabilities by providing user-friendly external interfaces and plug-and-play connectivity options that allow end users to connect and configure additional components without requiring service personnel. The system includes automated detection and configuration features that guide users through the connection process, eliminating the need for specialized tools and technical expertise.
3Reliability
If the internal network is closed and hard-wired, then the appliance maintains structural integrity and reliability, but the user cannot personalize the operation of the appliance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic configurability to the appliance by allowing the user interface and operational parameters to be modified through software and external connections while maintaining the static, reliable hardware network. Users can personalize operations through programmable controllers, customizable display options, and configurable settings that adapt the appliance's behavior without altering the underlying network structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables personalization by allowing users to change operational parameters, control settings, and interface configurations through software-based adjustments. These parameter changes affect the appliance's operation and user experience without requiring physical modifications to the hard-wired network, thus maintaining network integrity while providing extensive customization options.
Data Source
AI summary
An appliance includes one or more control boards having control software to control a cycle of operation of the appliance, a graphical user interface in communication with the control boards for allowing a user to observe and interact with the appliance regarding the cycle of operation, and a software framework configured to run in a processor having memory in communication with the graphical user interface. The software framework has theme definitions and access to builder content containing information with which it associates a theme definition with one or more resources. The software framework dynamically renders the graphical user interface at runtime based on the resources in response to selection of a theme so that a user can cause the control board to control the cycle of operation via the selected theme in the graphical user interface.