WO2025223651A1

WO2025223651A1 - Facilitating operation of a household appliance

Info

Publication number: WO2025223651A1
Application number: PCT/EP2024/061177
Authority: WO
Inventors: Igor PERELYGIN
Original assignee: Electrolux Appliances AB
Current assignee: Electrolux Appliances AB
Priority date: 2024-04-24
Filing date: 2024-04-24
Publication date: 2025-10-30
Anticipated expiration: 2026-10-24

Abstract

A system comprises a server and a household appliance comprising communications circuitry operable to receive control data via a communications network. The household appliance is operable, responsive to receipt of control data via the communications network, to perform one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance. First data comprising an accessory identifier is received, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance. The first data and second data are transmitted to the server, the second data for identifying the household appliance. The server is configured to, in response to receiving the first data and the second data, cause control data to be transmitted to the household appliance via the communications network to enable the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance.

Description

FACILITATING OPERATION OF A HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE

Technical Field

The present disclosure concerns a household appliance. In particular, but not exclusively, the present disclosure concerns measures, including apparatus, systems, methods and computer programs, for controlling and/or facilitating operation of a household appliance.

Background

Household appliances, also referred to as domestic or home appliances, are used to perform household tasks such as cooking, cleaning, storing food, etc. Examples of such household appliances include ovens, refrigerators, freezers, hobs, dishwashers, washing machines, tumble dryers, air conditioning units and vacuum cleaners.

Some household appliances may be associated with accessories. Such accessories may be acquired (e.g. purchased) by a user separately from the appliance. An accessory of a household appliance may have a specific purpose or function that is related to the operation of the household appliance. The household appliance and the accessory may be configured to interoperate with one another. For example, a cooking appliance such as a hob or an oven may be able to interoperate with an accessory such as a wireless temperature sensor or a timer. While the appliance is still able to perform its primary function (e.g. a household task) without the accessory, the addition of the accessory may provide the appliance with enhanced functionality.

It is desirable to provide an improved household appliance and/or improved systems and methods for controlling a household appliance.

Summary

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system comprising: a server; a household appliance comprising communications circuitry operable to receive control data via a communications network, wherein the household appliance is operable, responsive to receipt of control data via the communications network, to perform one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance; and one or more controllers configured to: receive first data comprising an accessory identifier, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance; and cause transmittal of the first data and second data to the server, the second data for identifying the household appliance, wherein the server is configured to: receive the first data and the second data; and in response to receiving the first data and the second data, cause control data to be transmitted to the household appliance via the communications network to enable the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance.

In embodiments, the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance comprise one or more functions for interoperating with the accessory.

In embodiments, the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance enable the household appliance to interoperate with the accessory.

In embodiments, the second data comprises a user account identifier identifying a user account associated with a user of the household appliance.

In embodiments, the system comprises a sensor configured to: obtain the first data by scanning a barcode and/or a quick response, QR, code associated with the accessory; and output the first data to the one or more controllers.

In embodiments, the system comprises a Near Field Communication, NFC, reader configured to: transmit an interrogation signal to an NFC tag associated with the accessory; receive, from the NFC tag, a response signal generated in response to the interrogation signal; determine the first data based on the received response signal; and output the first data to the one or more controllers.

In embodiments, the server is configured to identify the household appliance based on the second data.

In embodiments, the server is configured to: identify a user account associated with a user of the household appliance based on the second data; and identify the household appliance on the basis of the identified user account.

In embodiments, the server is configured to register, based on the first data and the second data, the accessory to a user account associated with a user of the household appliance and/or to the household appliance.

In embodiments, the server is configured to: determine, based on the first data and the second data, whether the accessory has previously been registered to a user other than a current user of the household appliance; and register the accessory to the current user of the household appliance in response to a negative determination.

In embodiments, the server is configured to, in response to a positive determination, perform an authentication check to authenticate the current user of the household appliance. In embodiments, the server is configured to: identify a further household appliance based on the second data; and cause control data to be transmitted to the further household appliance to enable one or more enhanced functions of the further household appliance.

In embodiments, the one or more enhanced functions of the further household appliance comprise one or more functions, of the further household appliance, for interoperating with the accessory.

In embodiments, the household appliance comprises at least one of the one or more controllers. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the one or more controllers may be comprised in a user device or in the accessory.

In embodiments, the at least one of the one or more controllers is configured to: receive the control data via the communications circuitry; and in response to receipt of the control data, enable the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance.

In embodiments, the system comprises a user device. In some such embodiments, the user device comprises at least one of the one or more controllers.

In embodiments, the household appliance is configured to receive the control data from the server.

In embodiments, the household appliance is configured to receive the control data via a user device.

In embodiments, the control data comprises software update data for an over-the-air software update process for the household appliance.

In embodiments, the household appliance is configured to install, update and/or activate software on the household appliance in response to receipt of the control data.

In embodiments, the installing, updating and/or activating the software on the household appliance comprises enabling the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance.

In embodiments, the accessory comprises a constrained device.

In embodiments, the accessory comprises an end device.

In embodiments, the accessory comprises an appliance operating parameter sensor for sensing an operating parameter of the household appliance.

In embodiments, the accessory comprises a wireless temperature sensor, a utensil, a kitchen scales, a wireless control device, cookware, a baking tray, a baking stone, a filter, an air quality sensor, a humidity sensor, a water quality sensor, and/or a dust sensor. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of facilitating operation of a household appliance, the household appliance comprising communications circuitry operable to receive control data via a communications network, wherein the household appliance is operable, responsive to receipt of control data via the communications network, to perform one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance, the method comprising: receiving first data comprising an accessory identifier, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance; and causing transmittal of the first data and second data to a server, the second data for identifying the household appliance, whereby the server enables the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance by causing control data to be transmitted to the household appliance via the communications network.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer program comprising a set of instructions which, when executed by a computerised device, cause the computerised device to perform a method of facilitating operation of a household appliance, the household appliance comprising communications circuitry operable to receive control data via a communications network, wherein the household appliance is operable, responsive to receipt of control data via the communications network, to perform one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance, the method comprising: receiving first data comprising an accessory identifier, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance; and causing transmittal of the first data and second data to a server, the second data for identifying the household appliance, whereby the server enables the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance by causing control data to be transmitted to the household appliance via the communications network.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a user device for facilitating operation of a household appliance, the user device comprising: communications circuitry operable to transmit data via a communications network; and a controller configured to: receive first data comprising an accessory identifier, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance; and transmit, via the communications network, the first data and second data to a server, the second data for identifying the household appliance, to cause the server to enable one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an accessory configured to interoperate with a household appliance, the accessory comprising: communications circuitry operable to transmit data via a communications network; and a controller configured to: obtain first data comprising an accessory identifier identifying the accessory; receive second data for identifying the household appliance; and transmit, via the communications network, the first data and the second data to a server, to cause the server to enable one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system comprising: a household appliance comprising communications circuitry operable to receive control data via a communications network, wherein the household appliance is operable, responsive to receipt of control data via the communications network, to perform one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance; and one or more controllers configured to: receive first data comprising an accessory identifier, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance; and cause transmittal of the first data and second data to a server, the second data for identifying the household appliance, on the basis of which the server enables the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance by causing control data to be transmitted to the household appliance via the communications network.

In embodiments, the household appliance comprises at least one of the one or more controllers.

In embodiments, the household appliance is configured to receive the control data and to enable the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance in response to receiving the control data.

It will of course be appreciated that features described in relation to one aspect of the present invention may be incorporated into other aspects of the present invention. For example, a method of the invention may incorporate any of the features described with reference to an apparatus of the invention and vice versa.

Brief description of the drawings

Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a household appliance according to embodiments;

Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a system including a household appliance according to embodiments;

Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a household appliance according to embodiments; Figure 4 is a flow diagram showing a method according to embodiments;

Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a system according to embodiments;

Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an accessory according to embodiments;

Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a user device according to embodiments; and

Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a computing device according to embodiments.

Detailed Description

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a household appliance, according to embodiments. The household appliance 100, and/or components thereof, may be used to implement the methods described herein. A household (or “domestic”) appliance may be configured to perform one or more household tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, or storing food. As such, the household appliance 100 may comprise a cooking appliance, a cleaning appliance, a food storage appliance, etc. In the example shown in Figure 1, the household appliance 100 comprises an oven. Other examples of household appliances (which may be used to implement the presently-described methods) include, but are not limited to, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioning appliances, heating appliances, washing machines, tumble dryers, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners, hobs, microwaves, and toasters. The one or more household tasks performed by the household appliance 100 may be considered the primary function of the household appliance 100, which may additionally have one or more secondary functions.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 1, the household appliance 100 comprises a door 140. Opening the door 140 allows an internal cavity (not shown) of the household appliance 100 to be accessed. The door 140 may be opened and closed using a door opening mechanism 145, e.g. a handle. In alternative embodiments, for example where the household appliance 100 comprises a hob or an air conditioning unit, the household appliance 100 does not include a door or a door opening mechanism.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 1, the household appliance 100 comprises a display device 110. The display device 110 is an example of an output device. The display device 110 is operable to provide an output for a user, e.g. in the form of one or more displayed content items. In embodiments, the display device 110 comprises a liquid crystal display (LCD) device, such as a thin-film-transistor LCD (TFT LCD). In alternative embodiments, the household appliance 100 does not comprise the display device 110. In embodiments, the household appliance 100 comprises other output devices additionally or alternatively to the display device 110, such as a speaker, a haptic output device, etc. The household appliance may also comprise a user input device (not shown). The user input device may comprise one or more controls, knobs, dials, buttons, soft keys, microphones and/or other means for allowing a user to input instructions. The display device 110 may comprise a touch screen which also provides at least part of said user input device.

Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a system 200, according to embodiments. The system 200 comprises the household appliance 100 described above with reference to Figure 1. The household appliance 100 is operable to send and receive data via a communications network 240 which may comprise one or more different communication networks. The communications networks 240 may, for example, comprise a wireless communications network, such as a wireless local area network (WLAN), and one or more other networks, such as the Internet. The WLAN may be a Wi-Fi network. The communications network may additionally, or as an alternative to a Wi-Fi WLAN, comprise a Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) such as a Bluetooth™ network. Specifically, it may comprise a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) network. The communications network 240 may comprise one or more gateways such as a Wi-Fi router and/or a home hub. The communications network may additionally, or as an alternative to the WLAN or WPAN, comprise a cellular network such as a 4G, 5G or 6G network.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 2, the household appliance 100 comprises communications circuitry 205. In embodiments, the communications circuity 205 comprises a wireless communications unit, such as a wireless transceiver. For example, the communications circuitry 205 may comprise one or more wireless antennas. The communications circuitry 205 may comprise a printed circuit board (PCB) including both a transmitter and a receiver, or may comprise separate transmitter and receiver PCBs. The household appliance 100 can send and/or receive data via the communications network 240 through use of the communications circuitry 205. That is, the household appliance 100 may be able to send data, receive data, or both send and receive data. The communications circuitry 205 may further be operable to exchange data with the user device via a direct link to the user device and/or exchange data with the accessory via a direct link to the accessory. In embodiments, operation of the household appliance 100 may be controlled remotely based on control data received via the communications circuitry 205.

In embodiments, the communications unit 205 comprises a Wi-Fi unit operable to receive control data for controlling the household appliance 100 via the Internet. For example, the communications circuitry 205 may be configured to communicate with a gateway, e.g. a Wi-Fi router. As mentioned above, the network 240 may comprise the Internet and/or a home network. In alternative embodiments, the household appliance 100 comprises communications circuitry that is not configured to perform wireless communications. For example, such communications circuitry may be configured to allow control of the household appliance 100 via an Ethernet connection, or other wired communications mechanism. The methods described herein may also be implemented using such wired communications circuitry. In embodiments, the communications circuitry 205 is operable to transmit and/or receive signals via a short- range wireless communications network such as a BLE network. That is, the communications circuitry 205 may comprise BLE communications circuitry. The BLE communications circuitry is operable to transmit and/or receive BLE signals. For example, the BLE communications circuitry may comprise one or more antennas for transmitting and/or receiving BLE signals. The BLE signals transmitted and/or received may be used to remotely control the household appliance 100. In embodiments, the communications circuitry 205 comprises more than one wireless communication unit, each operable to communicate using a different communication technology. As a specific example, it may include one Wi-Fi unit and one BLE unit.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 2, the system 200 also comprises a server 220. The server 220 is remotely located from the household appliance 100. The server 220 is operable to send and/or receive data via the communications network 240. In particular, the server 220 is operable to transmit control data to the household appliance 100, for controlling operation of the household appliance 100. In some cases, the control data is transmitted indirectly to the household appliance 100, e.g. via a further entity such as a user device. This will be discussed further below. In some embodiments, the server 220 is also operable to receive data from the household appliance 100. In embodiments, the server 220 comprises a controller (not shown) capable of controlling the household appliance 100. In embodiments, the controller of the server 220 is configured to control the transmission of control data to the appliance 100 via the communications network 240. Such transmission of control data to the appliance 100 may be controlled on the basis of received data, as will be discussed below. In some embodiments, the server 220 is operable to communicate with the household appliance 100 without the use of the communications network 240. For example, the server 220 and the household appliance 100 may communicate with one another via one or more cables and/or wires. As such, the communications network 240 may be omitted in some embodiments. In embodiments, the server 220 comprises or is configured to communicate with a database (not shown) for storing data for use in various methods described herein. Such data may indicate appliances and/or accessories associated with particular users, functions associated with particular appliances, etc. In alternative embodiments, the system 200 does not comprise a server. Although throughout the description will refer to a server, it will be understood that the server could comprise at least parts of one or more distinct servers communicatively connected in a computing cloud. The functions of the server could be distributed across one or more of the servers of the computing cloud.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 2, the system 200 comprises an accessory 250. The accessory 250 is configured to interoperate with the household appliance 100. That is, the accessory 250 is configured to be used with the appliance 100. For example, the primary function of the accessory 250 may be associated with operation of the appliance 100, such that when the accessory 250 is used with the appliance 100, the primary function of the accessory 250 may be performed. The interoperability between the household appliance 100 and the accessory 250 may or may not involve the communication of data between the household appliance 100 and the accessory 250. The interoperability between the household appliance 100 and the accessory 250 is depicted by a dashed line in Figure 2. In embodiments, the accessory 250 is configured to interoperate with the household appliance 100 to provide one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100. The enhanced functions may comprise, for example, one or more functions for interoperating with the accessory 250 and/or one or more functions that the appliance 100 cannot perform without the accessory 250. In embodiments, the household appliance 100 is able to interoperate with the accessory 250 only when the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100 are enabled. In alternative embodiments, the household appliance 100 is able to interoperate with the accessory 250 regardless of whether or not the one or more enhanced functions have been enabled. The one or more enhanced functions of the appliance 100 may be for a purpose other than for interoperating with the accessory 250, for example. For example, the one or more enhanced functions may comprise one or more operating settings, programs, or features of the appliance 100 that are only available when the one or more enhanced functions have been enabled.

It will be understood that an accessory of the household appliance 100, as described herein, is different from a user device such as a mobile phone or smart watch. For example, an accessory of the household appliance 100 may have a specific purpose or function that is related to the operation of the household appliance 100. The household appliance 100 and the accessory 250 may be configured to interoperate with one another, such that the appliance 100 can perform one or more enhanced functions and/or such that the accessory 250 can perform its primary function. In examples where the appliance 100 comprises a cooking appliance such as a hob or an oven, for example, the accessory 250 may comprise a wireless temperature sensor such as a food thermometer, a timer, a cooking utensil, an item of crockery or cutlery, a kitchen scales, a baking tray, etc. Other examples of accessories include, but are not limited to, a filter, an air quality sensor, a humidity sensor, a water quality sensor, a dust sensor and a baking stone. In embodiments, the accessory 250 comprises communications circuitry (not shown in Fig. 2) operable to transmit data via a communications network such as communications network 240. In alternative embodiments, the accessory 250 does not comprise such communications circuitry. For example, the interoperability between the accessory 250 and the appliance 100 may not involve the communication of data and/or signals, in some cases.

In embodiments, the accessory 250 comprises a BLE accessory device, such as an Internet of Things, loT, accessory device. Such a device may be capable of short-range wireless communications via BLE, but may not have any other type of wireless communication circuitry. As such, it may not be capable of directly accessing a home network, such as a WiFi network, to communicate, via the Internet, with a remote server and/or other device. In embodiments, the accessory 250 comprises single wireless communications circuitry (not shown). The single wireless communications circuitry is configured to transmit BLE signals to the household appliance 100 and/or to receive BLE signals from the household appliance 100, e.g. to and/or from the communications circuitry 205 of the household appliance 100. That is, the single wireless communications circuitry may comprise BLE communications circuitry. “Single” wireless communications circuitry is used herein to denote that the accessory 250 may be able to communicate via a single type of wireless communications, for example BLE communications, and is not able to additionally communicate using different wireless communications technology, such as with a Wi-Fi or other wireless communication network and/or via wireless communication with a base station in a cellular network. In alternative embodiments, the accessory 250 does not comprise wireless communications circuitry. In embodiments, the accessory 250 comprises a constrained device. Such a constrained device may be for handling a particular application purpose (e.g. an loT application such as a sensing application) without having intrinsic (or ‘built-in’) connectivity to a wider network such as the Internet. In embodiments, the accessory 250 comprises an end device. Such an end device may serve as a source or destination device in a networked system, and may be interacted with directly by a user. In alternative embodiments, the accessory 250 lacks any wireless connectivity.

In embodiments, the accessory 250 comprises an appliance operating parameter sensor (not shown) for sensing an operating parameter of the household appliance 100. For example, the accessory 250 may comprise a temperature sensor for sensing a current operating temperature of the household appliance 100. As such, the accessory 250 is configured to interoperate with the household appliance 100 in order to provide enhanced functionality of the household appliance 100, e.g. to sense various operating parameters of the household appliance 100 and optionally advise the user accordingly.

In embodiments, the accessory 250 is configured to communicate data with the household appliance 100, where the communicated data has a proprietary data format of a manufacturer of the household appliance 100. Such data may comprise sensor data, configuration data, user account data, etc. As such, the accessory 250 may communicate with the appliance 100 in a manner that is bespoke to and/or dictated by the manufacturer of the appliance 100 (which may, optionally, be the same as the manufacturer of the accessory 250). This is in contrast with a user device such as a mobile phone, which may be configured to communicate data with the appliance 100 having a standard data format, i.e. a data format conforming to one or more communications standards. In other embodiments, the accessory 250 is configured to communicate data with a standard data format with the household appliance 100. In alternative embodiments, the accessory 250 is not configured to communicate data with the household appliance 100.

In embodiments, the accessory 250 is associated with an accessory identifier. The accessory identifier may be used to identify the accessory 250. In embodiments, the accessory identifier is operable to uniquely identify the accessory 250. That is, the accessory identifier may be operable to distinguish the accessory 250 from other accessories of the same accessory type. For example, two wireless temperature sensors of the same model and/or having the same manufacturer may have two different accessory identifiers. The accessory identifier of the accessory 250 may be represented by a code. The code may be a unique code for the accessory 250, such as a hash code. Such a code may be embodied as a quick response, QR, code or a barcode, for example. The QR code or barcode may be arranged on (e.g. displayed on) the accessory 250 itself, or may be arranged on packaging or other materials associated with the accessory 250, for example. The QR code could, for example, be etched on the accessory or provided on a sticker on the accessory. Alternatively, it could be digitally displayed on a display of the accessory. Additionally or alternatively, the code may comprise an alphanumeric or plain text code. Again, such a code may be provided on the accessory 250 itself or on packaging of the accessory 250. In embodiments, the accessory identifier is used to register the accessory 250 to a particular user and/or to one or more appliances associated with the user, such as the household appliance 100. Additionally or alternatively, the accessory identifier may be used to enable one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100, e.g. to allow the appliance 100 to interoperate with the accessory 250. This will be described in more detail below.

The accessory 250 may also comprise other components for realising the function(s) of the accessory 250, such as one or more sensors, a user interface including a display device and/or a user input device, a power source, etc.. The accessory 250 is described further with reference to Figure 6 below. In alternative embodiments, the system 200 does not comprise an accessory.

In embodiments, the system 200 comprises a user device 230. A user device is different from an accessory of the appliance 100. For example, whereas an accessory has a particular purpose for use with the household appliance 100, a user device can also be used for a variety of general data processing and/or computing purposes unrelated to the household appliance 100. Such a user device may be referred to as a “personal device” of a user of the household appliance 100. For example, the user device 230 may comprise a mobile phone, smartwatch device, tablet computer, etc. In embodiments, the user device 230 comprises an image sensor. Such an image sensor may be part of an onboard camera, for example. The image sensor may be used to obtain an accessory identifier of an accessory, e.g. by scanning a QR code associated with the accessory, as mentioned above. The user device 230 may be remotely located from the household appliance 100, although it will be understood that in some embodiments (or during some time periods) the user device 230 is not located remotely from the appliance 100. The user device 230 may be operable to send and/or receive data via the communications network 240. For example, the user device 230 may be operable to send data to the server 220. As such, the user device 230 may be able to communicate with the household appliance indirectly via the server. The user device 230 may also be able to send and/or receive data directly to/from the appliance via a separate direct communication link as shown in Figure 2. In embodiments, the user device 230 may be used to control (e.g. remotely control) operation of the household appliance 100 via at least one out of a direct and an indirect communication link. Such a user device may be operable to transmit and/or receive BLE signals to and/or from the household appliance 100, for example. Accordingly, in embodiments, the household appliance 100 is configured to communicate with the user device 230 directly, additionally or alternatively to communicating via the server 220. For example, the household appliance 100 may be configured to communicate with the user device 230 via a short-range wireless communications network, e.g. via Bluetooth. For example, the household appliance 100 may communicate directly with the user device 230 using WLAN technology or WPAN technology and may also communicate with the server 220, and indirectly with the user device 230, using WLAN technology and the Internet. In alternative embodiments, the household appliance 100 is configured to communicate with the user device 230 via the server 220 but is not able to communicate with the user device 230 directly. The user device may be able to communicate with the server 220 using a Wi-Fi network and the Internet or using cellular technology, such as via a 4G, 5G or 6G network, and the Internet. The user device 230 is further described with reference to Figure 7 below. In alternative embodiments, the system 200 does not comprise a user device.

In embodiments, the system 200 comprises a further household appliance (not shown). The further household appliance may be configured to communicate with the first household appliance 100, with the server 220, with the user device 230 and/or with the accessory 250. The first household appliance 100 and the further household appliance may comprise different types of household appliance. For example, the first household appliance 100 may comprise an oven and the further household appliance may comprise a hob. In embodiments, the accessory 250 is configured to interoperate with both the first household appliance 100 and the further household appliance. In alternative embodiments, the system 200 does not comprise a further household appliance.

In embodiments, the system 200 comprises a sensor 235 configured to scan a barcode and/or a quick response, QR, code, associated with the accessory 250. Such a sensor may comprise an image sensor (e.g. comprised in a camera or scanner device). In the embodiments shown in Figure 2, the sensor is comprised in the user device 230. Alternatively, however, the sensor may be comprised in the household appliance 100 or in a further entity. In embodiments in which the system 200 comprises the sensor, the sensor is configured to scan a barcode and/or QR code associated with the accessory 250 to obtain an accessory identifier identifying the accessory 250. As such, the barcode and/or QR code may be used to identify the accessory 250. For example, the barcode and/or QR code may uniquely identify the accessory 250 (e.g. distinguishing the accessory 250 from other accessories of the same or of different accessory types). In alternative embodiments, the system 200 does not comprise such a sensor 235 and/or the accessory 250 does not have an associated barcode or QR code.

In embodiments, the system 200 comprises a Near Field Communication, NFC, reader 237. In the embodiments shown in Figure 2, the NFC reader is comprised in the user device 230. However, alternatively the NFC reader 237 may be comprised in the household appliance 100. For example, when the NFC reader is in the household appliance, the communication circuitry 205 of the household appliance could comprise the NFC reader. Alternatively, the NFC reader 237 may be comprised in a further entity separate from the user device 230 or the household appliance 100. In embodiments in which the system 200 comprises the NFC reader 237, the NFC reader 237 is configured to transmit an interrogation signal to an NFC tag (not shown) associated with the accessory 250. The NFC tag may be comprised in the accessory 250 itself, or may be comprised in packaging or other material associated with the accessory 250 (e.g. packaging containing the accessory 250 when the accessory 250 is purchased). The NFC reader 237 is configured to receive, from the NFC tag, a response signal generated in response to the interrogation signal. Based on the received response signal, an accessory identifier identifying the accessory 250 may be determined. For example, the response signal may include the accessory identifier. As such, the NFC tag may identify the accessory 250. For example, the NFC tag may uniquely identify the accessory 250 (e.g. distinguishing the accessory 250 from other accessories of the same or of different accessory types). In alternative embodiments, the system 200 does not comprise an NFC reader 237 and/or the accessory 250 does not have an associated NFC tag.

Figure 3 shows a schematic block diagram of the household appliance 100, according to embodiments.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 3, the household appliance 100 comprises a controller 310. The controller 310 is operable to perform various data processing and/or control functions, as will be described in more detail below. The controller 310 may comprise one or more components. The one or more components may be implemented in hardware and/or software. The one or more components may be co-located or may be located remotely from each other in the household appliance 100. The controller 310 may be embodied as one or more software functions and/or hardware modules. In embodiments, the controller 310 comprises one or more processors configured to process instructions and/or data. Operations performed by the one or more processors may be carried out by hardware and/or software. In embodiments, the controller 310 is operable to output control signals for controlling one or more components of the household appliance 100. In embodiments, the controller 310 is operable to receive signals from one or more components of the household appliance 100, and to control one or more components of the household appliance 100 based on such received signals. The controller 310 may be configured to implement at least some of the methods described herein. In alternative embodiments, at least some of the methods described herein are implemented by a controller that is not comprised in the household appliance 100. For example, the relevant methods may be implemented by a controller of a user device or of an accessory, such as the user device 230 or accessory 250 described above with reference to Figure 2. The controller of the user device 230 or accessory 250 may be implemented in a similar manner to that described with respect to the controller 310 of the appliance 100. Accordingly, the controller 310 of the household appliance 100, or at least the controller functionality associated with the relevant methods described herein, may be omitted in some embodiments.

In embodiments, the household appliance 100 comprises communications circuitry 205, such as a Wi-Fi communication circuitry and/or BLE communications circuitry, as described with reference to Figure 2 above. The controller 310 is operable to control the communications circuitry 205. In particular, the controller 310 is operable to cause the communications circuitry 205 to transmit signals via a communications network 240. For example, the controller 310 may be operable to send signals to the communications circuitry 205 to enable communication with the remote server 220 and/or the user device 230. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 310 may be operable to receive signals from the communications circuitry 205. Such signals may be received via the communications circuitry 205 from the server 220 and/or from the user device 230, for example.

In embodiments, the household appliance 100 comprises a display device 110, as described with reference to Figure 1 above. The controller 310 is operable to control the display device 110, e.g. to cause the display device 110 to display an output for a user. In embodiments, the controller 310 is operable to control the content displayed by the display device 110. For example, the controller 310 may be operable to cause predetermined content to be displayed or not displayed by the display device 110, and/or to adjust the content displayed by the display device 110.

In embodiments, the household appliance 100 comprises a door 140, as described with reference to Figure 1 above. In embodiments, the household appliance 100 comprises a user input device 320. The user input device 320 may, for example, at least partly be provided by a touch screen device forming part of the display device 110. The controller 310 is operable to receive signals generated in response to a user interacting with the user input device 320, e.g. by such an operation being sensed by one or more sensors. The controller 310 may be operable to control the appliance 100 in response to receipt of such a signal.

In embodiments, the household appliance 100 comprises a heating element 330. The heating element 330 may, for example, be operable to convert electrical energy into heat. The heating element 330 may be controlled by a user of the household appliance, e.g. by activating the heating element 330 and/or setting a desired operating temperature of the household appliance 100. In embodiments, the controller 310 is operable to receive a signal generated in response to a user attempting to control the heating element 330, e.g. by such an operation being sensed by one or more sensors and/or being detected upon actuation of a user input device and/or communicated via the communication circuitry 205. The controller 310 may be operable to control the household appliance 100 in response to receipt of such a signal. In embodiments, the controller 310 is operable to control the heating element. For example, the controller 310 may be operable to apply energy (e.g. electrical energy) to the heating element 330, e.g. via one or more control signals generated by the controller 310.

In embodiments, the household appliance 100 comprises a timer 340. The timer 340 may be controlled by a user of the household appliance 100, e.g. to set a desired time after which an alarm may sound and/or operation of the household appliance 100 may start or stop. In embodiments, the controller 310 is operable to receive a signal generated in response to a user attempting to control the timer 340, e.g. by such an operation being sensed by one or more sensors and/or being detected upon actuation of a user input device and/or communicated via the communication circuitry 205. The controller 310 is operable to control the household appliance 100 in response to receipt of such a signal. In embodiments, the controller 310 is operable to control the timer 340, e.g. via one or more control signals generated by the controller 310.

In embodiments, the household appliance 100 also comprises one or more operating sensors 350. The one or more operating sensors 350 may be arranged to sense performance and/or operation of the household appliance 100. The one or more operating sensors 350 may comprise heat sensors, motion sensors, image sensors, etc. In embodiments, the one or more operating sensors 350 are configured to output sensor data to the controller 310, to enable the controller 310 to control the household appliance 100 on the basis of sensor data. As such, the controller 310 may be operable to receive sensor data (e.g. signals comprising the sensor data) from the one or more operating sensors 350. In embodiments, the controller 310 is operable to control the one or more operating sensors 350, e.g. via one or more control signals generated by the controller 310.

The household appliance 100 also comprises a memory 360. The memory 360 is operable to store various data according to embodiments. The memory may comprise at least one volatile memory, at least one non-volatile memory, and/or at least one data storage unit. The volatile memory, non-volatile memory and/or data storage unit may be configured to store computer-readable information and/or instructions for use/execution by the controller 310. For example, the memory 360 may be configured to store an identifier of the appliance.

The household appliance 100 may comprise more, fewer and/or different components in alternative embodiments. In particular, at least some of the components of the household appliance 100 shown in Figures 1, 2 and/or 3 may be omitted (e.g. may not be required) in some embodiments. For example, at least one of the display device 110, door 140, door opening mechanism 145, communications circuitry 205, user input device 320, heating element 330, timer 340, operating sensors 350 and memory 360 may be omitted in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the household appliance 100 does not comprise the controller 310 or at least some of the components of the controller 310. For example, the controller 310, or components of the controller, may be comprised in the user device 230, the server 220, the accessory 250 and/or in a further entity (e.g. a further household appliance or server etc.) that is capable of communicating with and optionally controlling the household appliance 100. The household appliance 100 may also comprise other components, in addition to or instead of for example the heating element, for realising the function(s) of the household appliance 100, such as one or more of the following components: a pump arrangement, a drum drive arrangement, a heat-pump arrangement, condensers, compressors, motors, fans and/or ionisers. In embodiments, the controller 310 is operable to receive a signal generated in response to a user attempting to control such components, for example by selection of a particular household appliance program or cycle. Such a selection, or attempted control by other means, may be sensed by one or more sensors and/or detected upon actuation of a user input device and/or communicated via the communication circuitry 205. The controller 310 may be operable to control the household appliance 100 in response to receipt of such a signal. In embodiments, the controller 310 is operable to control the components for realising the function(s) of the household appliance via one or more control signals generated by the controller 310.

Figure 4 shows a method 400 of facilitating operation of a household appliance, according to embodiments. The method 400 may be used to facilitate operation of the household appliance 100 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 3. The household appliance 100 comprises communications circuitry 205 operable to receive control data via a communications network 240. The household appliance 100 is operable, responsive to receipt of control data via the communications network 240, to perform one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100. In embodiments, the method 400 is performed at least in part by the controller 310 of the household appliance 100. That is, the controller 310 is configured to perform at least some of the steps of the method 400. In alternative embodiments, the method 400 is performed at least in part by a controller that is separate from the household appliance 100. For example, the method 400 may be performed at least in part by a controller of the user device 230, the accessory 250 and/or the server 220. In alternative embodiments, some of the steps of the method 400 are performed by the controller 310 of the household appliance 100 and some other steps of the method 400 are performed by a controller of the user device 230, the accessory 250 and/or the server 220.

In step 410, first data is received. The first data comprises an accessory identifier. The accessory identifier identifies an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance 100. The accessory may comprise the accessory 250 described above with reference to Figure 2, for example.

Step 420 comprises causing transmittal of the first data and second data to a server. The second data is for identifying the household appliance 100. On the basis of the first data and the second data, the server enables the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100 by causing control data to be transmitted to the household appliance 100 via the communications network 240. The server may comprise the server 220 described above with reference to Figure 2, for example.

As such, one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100 are enabled by the server 220 on the basis of an accessory identifier and data for identifying the household appliance 100. The enhanced functions of the appliance 100 are thus enabled automatically, without the need for a user to manually enable the enhanced functions by configuring the appliance 100 in a particular manner. This provides an improved user experience, e.g. in terms of efficiency and comfort. Additionally, enabling enhanced functions of the appliance 100 provides an improved appliance 100, e.g. in terms of utility, compared to a case in which enhanced functions are not enabled. Moreover, providing the server 220 with an accessory identifier and data for identifying the household appliance 100 enables the server 220 to link (e.g. register) the accessory 250 with the appliance 100 and/or with the user of the appliance 100. This may allow the appliance 100 to perform functions that are specific to the accessory 250. Additionally or alternatively, this may ensure that the enhanced functions of the appliance 100 are for use only by the user of the accessory 250. Thus the accessory 250 (which may be acquired by a user separately from the appliance 100) may be linked with enhanced features of the appliance 100, such that acquisition of the accessory 250 includes (or enables) the enhanced features of the appliance 100.

In embodiments, the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100 comprise one or more functions for interoperating with the accessory 250. For example, the household appliance 100 may, in some cases, require the one or more enhanced functions to be enabled in order to interoperate with the accessory 250. That is, in embodiments, the one or more enhanced functions enable the household appliance 100 to interoperate with the accessory 250. In other cases, however, the household appliance 100 may be able to interoperate with the accessory 250 without the one or more enhanced functions being enabled. For example, the appliance 100 may interoperate with the accessory 250 in a first manner without the one or more enhanced functions, and may interoperate with the accessory 250 in a second (e.g. more sophisticated or advanced) manner with the one or more enhanced functions. In alternative embodiments, the one or more enhanced functions of the appliance 100 are not for interoperating with the accessory 250. That is, the appliance 100 may be able to interoperate with the accessory 250 in the same manner regardless of whether or not the one or more enhanced functions are enabled. For example, the one or more enhanced functions may allow the appliance 100 to be operated with one or more operating programs, settings or modes that are not available if the one or more enhanced functions are not enabled. Such enhanced functions may correspond to ‘premium’ or ‘advanced’ features of the appliance 100, for example. Such features may become available to a user when the user acquires and/or registers the accessory 250. In embodiments, the one or more enhanced functions comprise software functions of the appliance 100. The one or more enhanced functions may be distinct from the primary function(s) of the appliance 100. The primary function(s) may be for performing a household task. The primary function(s) may include one or more functions already enabled and/or available upon purchase and/or manufacture of the appliance 100. As such, the primary function(s) are available in the absence of the accessory 250. Where the appliance 100 is an oven, the primary function(s) may comprise cooking food using a heating element. Where the appliance 100 is a refrigerator, the primary function(s) may comprise keeping food cool, etc. The one or more enhanced functions may comprise additional functions and/or features that are separate from the primary function(s) of the appliance 100. Alternatively, the one or more enhanced functions may comprise an enhanced mode for performing the primary function(s), e.g. an enhanced cooking mode. Examples of enhanced functions could include, but are not limited to, when the accessory is a temperature sensor, automatic control of a heating element of the appliance; when the accessory is a camera, automated browning control or dish recognition; when the accessory is a new grill pan, functions related to improved grilling on the hob. Other examples of enhanced functions include, when the accessory is an air quality sensor, smarter and/or automatic air quality control functions for an air conditioner and/or humidifier/dehumidifier and, when the accessory is a soil level sensor, smarter washing programs for a more sustainable wash and/or longer-lasting clothes.

As mentioned above, the first data and the second data are transmitted to the server 220, on the basis of which the server enables the enhanced functions of the appliance 100. The transmitting of the first data and the second data may be performed by the appliance 100, by a user device (e.g. the user device 230), or by the accessory. The first data and second data may be transmitted via the communication networks 240. Causing transmittal of the first data and the second data to the server 220 may, in some cases, comprise a first entity (e.g. the appliance 100) causing a second entity (e.g. the user device 230) to transmit the first data and the second data to the server 220. This may be performed on the basis of signals sent from the first entity to the second entity, for example. Alternatively, causing transmittal of the first data and the second data to the server 220 may comprise a first entity (e.g. the user device 230 or the appliance 100) causing its own communications circuitry to transmit the data to the server 220.

In embodiments, the second data comprises a user account identifier identifying a user account associated with a user of the household appliance 100. This enables the server 220 to link the accessory 250 with the user of the household appliance 100. In alternative embodiments, the second data does not comprise a user account identifier. For example, the second data may comprise an identifier of the household appliance 100 itself, which does not identify a user or a user account.

In embodiments, the server 220 identifies the household appliance 100 based on the second data. Hence the server 220 is able to link the accessory 250 with the household appliance 100. In embodiments, the server 220 identifies a user account associated with a user of the household appliance 100 based on the second data, and identifies the household appliance on the basis of the identified user account. That is, the server 220 may first identify a user associated with the accessory 250 (e.g. the user responsible for sending the first and second data to the server 220), and may then identify the appliance 100 (and optionally also other appliances) belonging to that user. This enables the server 220 to link the accessory 250 with the user and/or with the appliance 100 of the user.

In embodiments, the server 220 registers, based on the first data and the second data, the accessory 250 to a user account associated with a user of the household appliance 100 and/or to the household appliance 100. This may ensure that the enhanced features of the appliance 100 are available only to the user account to which the accessory 250 is registered. In some cases, a given household appliance may have a plurality of users, each having a different user account. As such, by registering the accessory 250 to a particular user account, the enhanced features of the appliance 100 may be made available to a given user (e.g. the user who has acquired the accessory 250) but not to other users. Alternatively, a given household appliance may have a plurality of users, all associated with the same or linked user accounts, and by registering the accessory 250 to a particular user account, the enhanced features of the appliance 100 may be made available to all users associated with the particular user account or with user accounts linked to the particular user account. Moreover, by registering the accessory 250 to a user account associated with the user of the appliance 100, the link between the accessory 250 and the user may be maintained. This means that, for example, when the user acquires a new appliance, enhanced functionality of the new appliance may be automatically enabled because the accessory 250 is already linked to the user account of the user to whom the new appliance belongs. Similarly, if the user operates a different appliance (e.g. in a new environment), the enhanced functionality of that appliance may be enabled on the basis of the accessory 250 being registered to the user account of the user, even if the use of that appliance by the user is only temporary. Accordingly, the enabling of enhanced functionality on the basis of the accessory 250 is not limited to the household appliance 100, but may also be extended to other appliances associated with and/or used by the user. In alternative embodiments, the server 220 does not register the accessory 250 to a user account.

In embodiments, the server 220 registers the accessory 250 to the appliance 100. This may be in addition to or instead of registering the accessory 250 to the user. For example, where the appliance 100 has multiple users, the accessory 250 may be registered to the appliance 100 such that the enhanced functionality of the appliance 100 is enabled for all users of the appliance 100. If the appliance 100 passes from one user to another user along with the accessory 250, the enhanced functionality of the appliance 100 may be retained by the appliance 100, since the accessory 250 is registered to the appliance 100. Alternatively, e.g. where the accessory 250 is registered to a user rather than to the appliance 100, the enhanced functionality may be disabled if the appliance 100 passes to a different user. In alternative embodiments, the server 220 does not register the accessory 250 to the appliance 100 or to a user.

In embodiments, the server 220 determines, based on the first data and the second data, whether the accessory 250 has previously been registered to a user other than a current user of the household appliance 100. This may correspond to a validation step, wherein the server 220 validates the accessory identifier to determine whether the accessory 250 has been registered before. In such embodiments, the server 220 registers the accessory 250 to the current user of the household appliance 100 in response to a negative determination (i.e. a determination that the accessory 250 has not previously been registered to a user other than the current user). Thus, in some cases, the accessory 250 may only be registered to one user at a time.

In embodiments, the server 220 performs, in response to a positive determination, an authentication check to authenticate the current user of the household appliance 100. Such an authentication check may comprise contacting the user to whom the accessory 250 has previously been registered, for example. Additionally or alternatively, the authentication check may comprise a secondary authentication (e.g. a two-factor authentication) of the current user. Performing an authentication check if it is determined that the accessory 250 has previously been registered to another user helps to ensure that the enhanced functions of the appliance 100 are made available only to an appropriate and authentic user. For example, a user coming into possession of an accessory that actually belongs to another user could try to register the accessory themselves (and thus obtain unauthorised access to the enhanced appliance functions). Performing a validation of the accessory identifier and authentication of the user if it is determined that the accessory has previously been registered to another user helps to prevent such misuse.

In embodiments, the method 400 comprises scanning a barcode and/or a quick response, QR code associated with the accessory 250 to obtain the first data. Scanning a barcode and/or QR code provides an improved user experience, and is more reliable, compared to a case in which a user is required to manually enter a code for the accessory 250 into a user input device. The barcode and/or QR code may be arranged on the accessory 250, or on packaging of the accessory 250, for example. In embodiments, the barcode and/or QR code are unique to the accessory 250. That is, the barcode and/or QR code may be useable to uniquely identify the accessory 250. The barcode and/or QR code may be scanned using a sensor in the appliance 100 or in a user device. In alternative embodiments, obtaining the first data does not involve scanning a barcode or a QR code.

In embodiments, the method 400 comprises transmitting, by an NFC reader, an interrogation signal to an NFC tag associated with the accessory 250, and receiving, from the NFC tag, a response signal generated in response to the interrogation signal. In such embodiments, the first data is determined based on the received response signal. The response signal generated in response to the interrogation signal may be useable to uniquely identify the accessory 250. Using an NFC reader and tag to obtain the accessory identifier provides an improved user experience, and is more reliable, compared to a case in which a user is required to manually enter a code for the accessory 250 into a user input device. The NFC tag may be comprised in the accessory 250, or in packaging of the accessory 250. The NFC reader may be comprised in the appliance 100 or in a user device. In alternative embodiments, obtaining the first data does not involve the use of an NFC reader or tag.

In embodiments, the method 400 comprises receiving the second data. The second data may be received based on user input at a user input device. Such a user input device may be comprised in the appliance 100 or in the user device 230, for example. Alternatively, the second data may be received by scanning a QR code associated with the appliance 100. The QR code may provide an identifier identifying the appliance 100. In alternative embodiments, the second data is retrieved from a memory, e.g. of the user device 230 or the appliance 100. For example, when the transmitting of the first data and second data is carried out by the user device, the second data may comprise a user account identifier retrieved from memory of the user device 230. Alternatively, when the transmitting of the first data and second data is carried out by the household appliance, the second data may comprise an identifier of the household appliance itself retrieved from memory of the household appliance 100.

In embodiments, the server 220 identifies a further household appliance based on the second data. In some such embodiments, the server 220 causes control data to be transmitted to the further household appliance to enable one or more enhanced functions of the further household appliance. Both the first appliance 100 and the further appliance may be associated with the same user and/or user account. For example, both appliances may be located in the same environment. The second data may indicate the identity of the user and/or the first appliance 100, and the server 220 may use this data to identify the further appliance (e.g. since the further appliance and the first appliance 100 have a common user). In embodiments, the server 220 determines whether or not the further appliance is able to interoperate with the accessory 250. The one or more enhanced functions of the further household appliance may be enabled in response to a determination that the further household appliance can interoperate with the accessory 250. Alternatively, the one or more enhanced functions of the further household appliance may be enabled by the server 220 regardless of whether or not the further household appliance can interoperate with the accessory 250. Accordingly, enhanced functionality of multiple appliances may be enabled based on data identifying a single accessory. In embodiments, the one or more enhanced functions of the further household appliance comprise one or more functions, of the further household appliance, for interoperating with the accessory 250. For example, the one or more enhanced functions of the further household appliance may enable the further household appliance to interoperate with the accessory 250. As such, the first and second data may allow both the first appliance 100 and the further appliance to interoperate with the accessory 250. The one or more enhanced functions of the further household appliance may be similar to or different from the one or more enhanced functions of the first household appliance 100.

In embodiments, the method 400 comprises receiving the control data at the household appliance 100, and enabling the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100 in response to receiving the control data. As such, the enhanced functions of the appliance 100 are enabled on the basis of the first data and the second data. In embodiments, the household appliance 100 receives the control data from the server 220. For example, the control data may be transmitted from the server 220 to the appliance 100 via the Internet. In embodiments, the household appliance 100 receives the control data via a user device. The user device may be the same as or different from the user device that may (optionally) be used to transmit the first and second data to the server 220. The user device may receive the control data from the server 220 and forward the control data to the appliance 100. For example, the user device may send the control data to the appliance 100 via a BLE connection. Alternatively, the user device may receive first control data from the server 220 and, in response, may transmit second control data to the appliance 100, the second control data being based on the first control data. In embodiments, the control data comprises software update data for an over-the-air software update process for the household appliance 100. The software update data may trigger an over-the-air software update on the household appliance 100. The software update may thus be triggered by the server 220 on the basis of the first data and the second data. The software update process causes the one or more enhanced functions of the appliance 100 to be enabled. In embodiments, updating software on the appliance 100 comprises updating firmware on the appliance 100. That is, the over-the-air software update process may comprise an over-the-air firmware update process. In alternative embodiments, the software update process relates to software other than firmware. The software update data may be transmitted by the server 220 or by another dedicated over-the-air update server. In some cases, the software update data is received at the appliance 100 directly from the user device 230, e.g. via short-range wireless communications between the user device 230 and the appliance 100. In embodiments, the software update data comprises all or part of a new software package for the appliance 100. For example, such a software package may be delivered to the appliance 100 in a single message, or may be delivered in chunks, across multiple messages. In alternative embodiments, the software update process involves activating software that has been previously received and stored on the appliance 100. As such, the software update data may comprise data other than a new software package. For example, the software update data may comprise an instruction to activate software already stored on the appliance 100. In alternative embodiments, the control data does not comprise software update data.

In embodiments, the household appliance 100 installs software on the household appliance 100 in response to receipt of the control data. The software installed may comprise a new software package, for example, enabling enhanced functionality of the appliance 100. In embodiments, the household appliance 100 updates software on the appliance 100 in response to receipt of the control data. For example, the software may be updated to a latest version of the software or a version associated with the accessory. Updating the software to a latest version may enable enhanced functionality of the appliance 100, e.g. to allow the appliance 100 to interoperate with the accessory 250. In embodiments, the household appliance 100 activates software on the appliance 100 in response to receipt of the control data. For example, software that has previously been received, stored and/or installed on the appliance 100 may be inactive until the household appliance 100 receives the control data. Accordingly, the software only becomes active (and thus may be used) when triggered by the server 220 on the basis of the first data and the second data. Activating the software may enable enhanced functionality of the appliance 100, e.g. to allow the appliance 100 to interoperate with the accessory 250. In embodiments, in response to receipt of the control data, the appliance 100 performs more than one of installing, updating and activating software on the appliance 100. For example, the appliance 100 may both install new software and activate the new software. In alternative embodiments, the appliance 100 both receives and installs a new software package and additionally activates a previously- stored (but inactive) software package, for example.

In embodiments, the installing, updating and/or activating the software on the household appliance 100 comprises enabling the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100. For example, the appliance 100 may perform a firmware update, wherein the enhanced functions are comprised in (and thus enabled by) the updated firmware. In alternative embodiments, the installing, updating and/or activating the software on the household appliance 100 does not comprise enabling the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100. For example, in response to receipt of the control data, the appliance 100 may both enable the one or more enhanced functions and, additionally, install, update and/or activate other software on the appliance 100. In alternative embodiments, the appliance 100 does not install, update or activate software in response to receiving the control data.

Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of a system 500, according to embodiments. The system 500 comprises the household appliance 100, the server 220 and the user device 230. Each of the household appliance 100 and the user device 230 is configured to communicate with the server 220 via a communications network (not shown).

In the embodiments shown in Figure 5, the user device 230 is configured to receive first data comprising an accessory identifier, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance 100. The user device 230 may receive the first data by scanning a barcode or QR code associated with the accessory, for example. Alternatively, the user device 230 may receive the first data based on user input at the user device 230. For example, a user may input an alphanumeric code representing the accessory identifier into a user interface of the user device 230. The user device 230 is configured to transmit the first data to the server 220, along with second data for identifying the household appliance 100. The second data may comprise an identifier of the appliance 100 and/or an identifier of a user of the appliance 100. The user device 230 may obtain the second data based on user input at the user device 230, or by retrieving the second data from a memory of the user device 230, for example. For example, the user device 230 may store a user profile of a user of the household appliance 100, and the second data may be associated with the stored user profile. Additionally or alternatively, the user device 230 may receive the second data from the household appliance 100 and/or may obtain the second data by scanning a code (e.g. a QR code) on the household appliance 100.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 5, the server 220 is configured to receive the first data and the second data from the user device 230. In response to receiving the first data and the second data, the server 220 is configured to transmit control data to the household appliance 100 to enable one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100. Responsive to receipt of the control data from the server 220, the household appliance 100 is operable to perform the one or more enhanced functions, e.g. to interoperate with the accessory. In alternative embodiments, the server 220 is configured to transmit the control data to the household appliance 100 via the user device 230. For example, the server 220 may transmit first control data to the user device 230, which, in response, transmits second control data to the appliance 100. The first control data may be the same as or different to the second control data. Figure 6 shows a schematic block diagram of the accessory 250, according to embodiments. The accessory 250 is configured to interoperate with a household appliance, such as the household appliance 100 described above.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 6, the accessory 250 comprises a controller 610. The controller 610 is operable to perform various data processing and/or control functions. The controller 610 may be implemented in a similar manner as the controller 310 of the household appliance 100 described above. The controller 610 may comprise one or more components. The one or more components may be implemented in hardware and/or software. The one or more components may be co-located or may be located remotely from each other in the accessory 250. The controller 610 may be embodied as one or more software functions and/or hardware modules. In embodiments, the controller 610 comprises one or more processors configured to process instructions and/or data. Operations performed by the one or more processors may be carried out by hardware and/or software. The controller 610 may be configured to implement at least some of the methods described herein. In embodiments, the controller 610 is operable to output control signals for controlling one or more components of the accessory 250. In embodiments, the controller 610 is operable to receive signals from one or more components of the accessory 250, and to control one or more components of the accessory 250 based on such received signals. In the embodiments shown in Figure 6, the accessory 250 comprises communications circuitry 620. The communications circuitry 620 may be operable to transmit data via a communications network, such as the communications network 240 described above with reference to Figure 2. The communications circuitry 620 may further be operable to exchange data with the user device via a direct link to the user device and/or exchange data with the household appliance via a direct link to the household appliance. The communications circuitry 620 may be operable to send and/or receive data via a short-range wireless communications network. For example, the communications circuitry 620 may comprise BLE communications circuitry. Alternatively, the communications circuitry 620 may comprise a Wi-Fi unit capable of sending and/or receiving data to/from a Wi-Fi router and the Internet. In other embodiments, the communications circuity is not able to communicate directly with communications network 240. However, the communications circuitry may still be operable to set up a direct communication link with the household appliance 100 or the user device 100. The communication circuitry may comprise BLE communication circuitry for setting up such a link. The controller 610 is operable to control the communications circuitry 620. In particular, the controller 610 is operable to cause the communications circuitry 620 to transmit signals to a household appliance 100, to a user device 230 and/or to a server 220. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 610 may be operable to receive signals from the communications circuitry 620. Such signals may be received from the user device 230, the household appliance 100 and/or the server 220, for example.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 6, the accessory also comprises a memory 660. The memory 660 is operable to store various data according to embodiments. The memory may comprise at least one volatile memory, at least one non-volatile memory, and/or at least one data storage unit. The volatile memory, non-volatile memory and/or data storage unit may be configured to store computer-readable information and/or instructions for use/execution by the controller 610. For example, the memory may be configured to store an accessory identifier identifying the accessory.

In embodiments, the controller 610 of the accessory 250 is configured to obtain first data comprising an accessory identifier identifying the accessory 250. The accessory identifier may be retrieved from a memory of the accessory 250, for example.

In embodiments, the controller 610 is configured to receive second data for identifying the household appliance 100. The second data may comprise an identifier of the appliance 100 and/or an identifier of a user of the appliance 100. The second data may be received based on user input at the accessory 250, or by scanning a QR code associated with the appliance 100, for example.

In embodiments, the controller 610 is configured to cause transmittal, via the communications network 240 to a server 220, of the first data and the second data, to cause the server 220 to enable one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100. In embodiments, when the accessory has direct access to the communications network 240, the controller 610 is configured to cause the accessory 250 to transmit the first data and the second data to the server 220. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 610 may be configured to cause the first and second data to be transmitted to the server 220 from another entity, such as the appliance 100 or a user device. In other embodiments, the controller 610 of the accessory does not retrieve/receive the first and second data and/or cause transmittal of the first and the second data and, instead, this is carried out by a controller of the appliance 100 and/or a user device.

It will be understood that the accessory 250 may comprise more, fewer and/or different components in other embodiments. For example, one or more of the controller 610, the communications circuitry 620 and the memory 660 may be omitted in some embodiments.

Figure 7 shows a schematic block diagram of the user device 230, according to embodiments. The user device 230 may be used to facilitate operation of a household appliance, such as the household appliance 100, as described above. Such methods may be performed at least in part by a software application running on the user device 230.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 7, the user device 230 comprises a controller 710. The controller 710 is operable to perform various data processing and/or control functions. The controller 710 may be implemented in a similar manner as the controller 310 of the household appliance 100 described above. The controller 710 may comprise one or more components. The one or more components may be implemented in hardware and/or software. The one or more components may be co-located or may be located remotely from each other in the user device 230. The controller 710 may be embodied as one or more software functions and/or hardware modules. In embodiments, the controller 710 comprises one or more processors configured to process instructions and/or data. Operations performed by the one or more processors may be carried out by hardware and/or software. The controller 710 may be configured to implement at least some of the methods described herein. In embodiments, the controller 710 is operable to output control signals for controlling one or more components of the user device 230. In embodiments, the controller 710 is operable to receive signals from one or more components of the user device 230, and to control one or more components of the user device 230 based on such received signals.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 7, the user device 230 comprises communications circuitry 720, e.g. Wi-Fi circuitry, BLE circuitry and/or cellular communication circuitry including a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM). The communications circuity 720 is operable to transmit data via a communications network 240. The communications circuitry 720 may further be operable to exchange data with the household appliance via a direct link to the household appliance and/or exchange data with the accessory via a direct link to the accessory. The controller 710 is operable to control the communications circuitry 720. In particular, the controller 710 is operable to cause the communications circuitry 720 to transmit signals to a household appliance 100, to an accessory 250 and/or to a server 220. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 710 may be operable to receive signals from the communications circuitry 720. Such signals may be received from the appliance 100, the accessory 250 and/or the server 220, for example.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 7, the user device 230 also comprises a memory 760. The memory 760 is operable to store various data according to embodiments. The memory may comprise at least one volatile memory, at least one non-volatile memory, and/or at least one data storage unit. The volatile memory, non-volatile memory and/or data storage unit may be configured to store computer-readable information and/or instructions for use/execution by the controller 710. The memory may store a user account identifier identifying a user account associated with a user of the household appliance.

In embodiments, the controller 710 is configured to receive first data comprising an accessory identifier, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory 250 configured to interoperate with the household appliance 100. The accessory identifier may be received by scanning a barcode and/or QR code associated with the accessory 250, for example.

In embodiments, the controller 710 is configured to transmit, via the communications network 240, the first data and second data to a server 220, the second data for identifying the household appliance 100, to cause the server 220 to enable one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance 100. The second data may be retrieved from the memory 760 of the user device 230, for example.

In other embodiments, the controller 610 of the accessory does not retrieve/receive the first and second data and/or cause transmittal of the first and the second data and, instead, this is carried out by a controller of the appliance 100 and/or the accessory. It will be understood that the user device 230 may comprise more, fewer and/or different components in other embodiments. For example, one or more of the controller 710, the communications circuitry 720 and the memory 760 may be omitted in some embodiments.

Embodiments described herein provide a mechanism for enabling (e.g. activating and/or upgrading) enhanced functions of household appliances. When a user acquires a new accessory it includes a unique code. This could be included in a QR code or other code or may be plain text. In a specific example, in an application on a user device, a user enters or scans the unique code of the accessory. The user device then sends a message to a server. The server validates the unique code to make sure that the accessory has not been registered before. If the accessory is determined not to have been registered before, the server identifies the user that sent the request. The server identifies appliances belonging to the appropriate user domain and which may be able to interoperate with the accessory. The server then activates functions (e.g. software) in the identified appliances. Such activation may include activating software previously installed but hidden on the appliance, or may include sending an OTA software update to the appliance to provide the appliance with additional software.

It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment and/or aspect may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments and/or aspects, or any combination of any other of the embodiments and/or aspects.

Although BLE has been described as an example of a short-range communication technology that can be used to exchange data in the described system, it will be appreciated that other types of short-range communication technologies can be used instead of BLE.

In embodiments of the present disclosure, the household appliance 100 comprises a controller 310. The controller 310 may be configured to perform various methods described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the methods described herein may be performed by a controller comprised in an entity other than the household appliance 100, e.g. the user device 230 or the accessory 250. In any case, the controller may comprise a processing system. Such a processing system may comprise one or more processors and/or memory. Each device, component, or function as described in relation to any of the examples described herein, for example the user device 230, accessory 205, or server 220, may similarly comprise a processor or may be comprised in apparatus comprising a processor. One or more aspects of the embodiments described herein comprise processes performed by apparatus. In some examples, the apparatus comprises one or more processors configured to carry out these processes. In this regard, embodiments may be implemented at least in part by computer software stored in (non- transitory) memory and executable by the processor, or by hardware, or by a combination of tangibly stored software and hardware (and tangibly stored firmware). Embodiments also extend to computer programs, particularly computer programs on or in a carrier, adapted for putting the above described embodiments into practice.

Embodiments of the disclosure include at least some of the methods described above performed on a computing device, such as the computing device 800 shown in Figure 8. In embodiments, the computing device 800 comprises a data interface 801, through which data can be sent or received, for example over a network. The data interface 801 may comprise an NFC reader or a QR scanner, for example. Additionally or alternatively, the data interface 801 may comprise communications circuitry. The computing device 800 further comprises a processor 802 in communication with the data interface 801, and memory 803 in communication with the processor 802. In this way, the computing device 800 can receive data, e.g. data identifying an accessory, and the processor 802 can store the received data in the memory 803, and process it so as to perform the methods described herein. In embodiments, the memory 803 is used to store a computer program comprising a set of instructions which, when executed by the computerised device 800, cause the computerised device 800 to perform at least some of the methods described herein.

The one or more processors of processing systems may comprise a central processing unit (CPU). The one or more processors may comprise a graphics processing unit (GPU). The one or more processors may comprise one or more of a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic device (PLD), or a complex programmable logic device (CPLD). The one or more processors may comprise an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). It will be appreciated by the skilled person that many other types of device, in addition to the examples provided, may be used to provide the one or more processors. The one or more processors may comprise multiple co-located processors or multiple disparately located processors. Operations performed by the one or more processors may be carried out by one or more of hardware, firmware, and software. It will be appreciated that processing systems may comprise more, fewer and/or different components from those described.

The techniques described herein may be implemented in software or hardware, or may be implemented using a combination of software and hardware. They may include configuring an apparatus to carry out and/or support any or all of techniques described herein. Although at least some aspects of the examples described herein with reference to the drawings comprise computer processes performed in processing systems or processors, examples described herein also extend to computer programs, as already indicated above, for example computer programs on or in a carrier, adapted for putting the examples into practice. The carrier may be any entity or device capable of carrying the program. The carrier may comprise a computer readable storage media. Examples of tangible computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, an optical medium (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD-ROM or Blu-ray), flash memory card, hard disk or any other medium capable of storing computer-readable instructions such as firmware or microcode in at least one ROM or RAM or Programmable ROM (PROM) chips.

Where in the foregoing description, integers or elements are mentioned which have known, obvious or foreseeable equivalents, then such equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually set forth. Reference should be made to the claims for determining the true scope of the present disclosure, which should be construed so as to encompass any such equivalents. It will also be appreciated by the reader that integers or features of the present disclosure that are described as preferable, advantageous, convenient or the like are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims. Moreover, it is to be understood that such optional integers or features, whilst of possible benefit in some embodiments of the present disclosure, may not be desirable, and may therefore be absent, in other embodiments.

Claims

1. A system comprising: a server; a household appliance comprising communications circuitry operable to receive control data via a communications network, wherein the household appliance is operable, responsive to receipt of control data via the communications network, to perform one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance; and one or more controllers configured to: receive first data comprising an accessory identifier, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance; and cause transmittal of the first data and second data to the server, the second data for identifying the household appliance, wherein the server is configured to: receive the first data and the second data; and in response to receiving the first data and the second data, cause control data to be transmitted to the household appliance via the communications network to enable the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance.

2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance comprise one or more functions for interoperating with the accessory.

3. A system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance enable the household appliance to interoperate with the accessory.

4. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the second data comprises a user account identifier identifying a user account associated with a user of the household appliance.

5. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system comprises a sensor configured to: obtain the first data by scanning a barcode and/or a quick response, QR, code associated with the accessory; and output the first data to the one or more controllers.

6. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system comprises a Near Field Communication, NFC, reader configured to: transmit an interrogation signal to an NFC tag associated with the accessory; receive, from the NFC tag, a response signal generated in response to the interrogation signal; determine the first data based on the received response signal; and output the first data to the one or more controllers.

7. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the server is configured to identify the household appliance based on the second data.

8. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the server is configured to: identify a user account associated with a user of the household appliance based on the second data; and identify the household appliance on the basis of the identified user account.

9. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the server is configured to register, based on the first data and the second data, the accessory to a user account associated with a user of the household appliance and/or to the household appliance.

10. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the server is configured to: determine, based on the first data and the second data, whether the accessory has previously been registered to a user other than a current user of the household appliance; and register the accessory to the current user of the household appliance in response to a negative determination.

11. A system according to claim 10, wherein the server is configured to, in response to a positive determination, perform an authentication check to authenticate the current user of the household appliance.

12. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the server is configured to: identify a further household appliance based on the second data; and cause control data to be transmitted to the further household appliance to enable one or more enhanced functions of the further household appliance.

13. A system according to claim 12, wherein the one or more enhanced functions of the further household appliance comprise one or more functions, of the further household appliance, for interoperating with the accessory.

14. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the household appliance comprises at least one of the one or more controllers.

15. A system according to claim 14, wherein the at least one of the one or more controllers is configured to: receive the control data via the communications circuitry; and in response to receipt of the control data, enable the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance.

16. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system comprises a user device, and wherein the user device comprises at least one of the one or more controllers.

17. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the household appliance is configured to receive the control data from the server.

18. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the household appliance is configured to receive the control data via a user device.

19. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the control data comprises software update data for an over-the-air software update process for the household appliance.

20. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the household appliance is configured to install, update and/or activate software on the household appliance in response to receipt of the control data.

21. A system according to claim 20, wherein the installing, updating and/or activating the software on the household appliance comprises enabling the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance.

22. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the accessory comprises a constrained device.

23. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the accessory comprises an end device.

24. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the accessory comprises an appliance operating parameter sensor for sensing an operating parameter of the household appliance.

25. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the accessory comprises a wireless temperature sensor, a utensil, a kitchen scales, a wireless control device, cookware, a baking tray, a baking stone, a filter, an air quality sensor, a humidity sensor, a water quality sensor, and/or a dust sensor.

26. A method of facilitating operation of a household appliance, the household appliance comprising communications circuitry operable to receive control data via a communications network, wherein the household appliance is operable, responsive to receipt of control data via the communications network, to perform one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance, the method comprising: receiving first data comprising an accessory identifier, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance; and causing transmittal of the first data and second data to a server, the second data for identifying the household appliance, whereby the server enables the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance by causing control data to be transmitted to the household appliance via the communications network.

27. A computer program comprising a set of instructions which, when executed by a computerised device, cause the computerised device to perform a method of facilitating operation of a household appliance, the household appliance comprising communications circuitry operable to receive control data via a communications network, wherein the household appliance is operable, responsive to receipt of control data via the communications network, to perform one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance, the method comprising: receiving first data comprising an accessory identifier, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance; and causing transmittal of the first data and second data to a server, the second data for identifying the household appliance, whereby the server enables the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance by causing control data to be transmitted to the household appliance via the communications network.

28. A user device for facilitating operation of a household appliance, the user device comprising: communications circuitry operable to transmit data via a communications network; and a controller configured to: receive first data comprising an accessory identifier, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance; and transmit, via the communications network, the first data and second data to a server, the second data for identifying the household appliance, to cause the server to enable one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance.

29. An accessory configured to interoperate with a household appliance, the accessory comprising: communications circuitry operable to transmit data via a communications network; and a controller configured to: obtain first data comprising an accessory identifier identifying the accessory; receive second data for identifying the household appliance; and transmit, via the communications network, the first data and the second data to a server, to cause the server to enable one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance.

30. A system comprising: a household appliance comprising communications circuitry operable to receive control data via a communications network, wherein the household appliance is operable, responsive to receipt of control data via the communications network, to perform one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance; and one or more controllers configured to: receive first data comprising an accessory identifier, the accessory identifier identifying an accessory configured to interoperate with the household appliance; and cause transmittal of the first data and second data to a server, the second data for identifying the household appliance, on the basis of which the server enables the one or more enhanced functions of the household appliance by causing control data to be transmitted to the household appliance via the communications network.