WiFi-Enabled Laundry Machine Setup for Remote Function Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laundry machines and home appliances face challenges in extending their functions without modifying the existing control panel or hardware, due to space and cost constraints, and users often struggle to access and control these appliances remotely, especially when they are not in the same location.
Innovation Solution
A laundry machine equipped with a WiFi communication module and a separate display controller allows for remote management services through an external terminal, enabling communication with a server for extended functions and convenient operation without the need for physical access, using a setting mode for initial connection and a use mode for ongoing communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional functions are added to the laundry machine by modifying the control panel or hardware, then the functionality is extended, but the production cost increases and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the system into three independent parts: the existing laundry machine (with its original control panel), a separate communication module (WiFi module), and an external terminal (smartphone). This segmentation allows the laundry machine to gain smart functions without modifying its original control panel or hardware structure, thus extending functionality while avoiding increased device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an external terminal (smartphone) as an intermediary between the user and the laundry machine. The terminal handles all interactions for extended functions, while the laundry machine only needs a simple communication module. This intermediary approach enables functionality extension without complicating the laundry machine's control system.
2Ease of operation
If remote management service is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but the device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service remote management system where the external terminal (smartphone) autonomously handles all communication and control operations. The laundry machine's communication module only needs to provide basic network connectivity and receive commands, without requiring complex processing or interface capabilities. This self-service approach enables remote management while keeping the laundry machine's complexity minimal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive, widely available smartphones as the remote interface instead of building expensive dedicated remote control hardware into the laundry machine. The smartphone, being a common consumer device, provides all necessary communication and interface capabilities at minimal additional cost to the laundry machine system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the control panel is modified to support new functions, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the function extension capability from the original control panel by using an independent communication module and external terminal. This segmentation allows the laundry machine to be manufactured with its original simple control panel, while smart functions are added through the separate communication module, thus maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a home appliance which can communicate with an outside of the home appliance, an online system including the same and a method for using an online system. According to embodiments of the present invention, a home appliance, an online system and a method for using an online system may be provided, each including a WiFi communication module mounted or connected to the home appliance for supporting a setting mode for making communication connection and a use mode for enabling communication, and a particular input unit provided to run the setting mode by user's selection, wherein the home appliance is changed to the use mode upon reception of SSID (Service Set Identifier; a name of a wireless LAN) information of an access point AP desired to access and user information required for registration of the home appliance through an external terminal after access to the setting mode through the external terminal provided separate from the home appliance.