Household Appliance Program Upload with Trial-Based Software Upgrade
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing household appliances lack sufficient modifiability in their program sequences, limiting user flexibility and efficiency, as they are restricted to pre-programmed settings stored in permanent memory, necessitating a solution to allow for user-initiated, arbitrary program modifications while ensuring cost-effective testing and potential for upgraded software.
Innovation Solution
A domestic appliance that allows users to load and test free, occasion-based technical programs, which can be upgraded to paid, unrestricted versions, using external memory devices like USB sticks or Internet downloads, with features like battery-backed storage to prevent data loss and efficient energy management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-programmed settings are used in permanent memory, then appliance reliability is improved, but program sequence adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the program storage into two segments: permanent memory for core reliable programs and removable memory for additional user-programmable sequences. This segmentation allows the appliance to maintain reliability from pre-tested programs while gaining adaptability through user-added programs that can be loaded as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to execute programs from multiple sources - both the permanent memory and removable memory devices. This multi-functionality allows the same control unit to handle both reliable pre-programmed sequences and user-customizable sequences, achieving both reliability and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If user-programmable sequences are added, then program sequence adaptability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a removable memory device as an intermediary between the user and the control unit. This intermediary handles the complexity of program storage and retrieval, allowing users to add programmable sequences without directly complicating the control unit's internal structure. The removable memory acts as a buffer that manages the adaptability complexity externally.
3Ease of operation
If free trial programs are offered, then user motivation for upgrading is improved, but loss of information deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a trial period mechanism where users can load and test programs from removable memory before committing to permanent installation. During this trial period, programs can be tested and evaluated, and if satisfactory, they can be transferred to permanent storage. This preliminary action allows users to verify program effectiveness before permanent adoption, reducing the risk of information loss.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a household appliance which can be operated by means of a technical program to make an automatic program sequence of the household appliance initiated by random inputs of the user possible. Actuators of the household appliance are controlled by the program sequence and allow an effect on items to be treated, especially when at least one treating agent that can be activated by at least one actuator is used. At least part of the technical program can be uploaded or installed by a user of the household appliance. An event-related technical program is associated with the at least part of the technical program that can be uploaded or installed, said event-related program being available free of charge until a number of program sequences have been run or a predetermined period has expired. The invention further relates to a method for operating such a household appliance and to a computer program product.