DETECTING AND PREVENTING RUST OF ONE OR MORE WASHING MACHINE APPLIANCES

Description

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present subject matter relates generally to laundry appliances, and more particularly, to methods of controlling use of commercial laundry appliances.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Laundry appliances generally include washing machine appliances and dryer appliances. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular to provide features and methods that allow such laundry appliances to communicate with owners and users. For instance, a user may wish to receive updates related to their laundry and a specific washing machine appliance used to clean said laundry. A customer may wish to know, prior to completing a washing cycle, that an issue relating to water quality has arisen. Furthermore, an owner may wish to automatically deactivate a plurality of laundry appliances upon detecting such issues.

Some laundry appliances are publicly available, such as commercial laundry appliances available for rent or temporary use. For example, such multiple laundry appliances may be installed in a laundromat, dormitory, or apartment building, etc. As a result, such laundry appliances will often be used by multiple people throughout a single day, most of whom do not know each other and are not the owner of the machine. The laundry appliances may all receive water from the same source such that the water supply source may occasionally contain rust water. The use of rust water in a wash cycle may permanently stain a customer's laundry, which may lead to the customer requesting reimbursement from the owner of the machine. Thus, the owner of the laundry appliances may wish to quickly detect rust water and remotely deactivate the laundry appliances before any laundry becomes damaged.

As a result, a method of remotely controlling a plurality of laundry appliances based on measured water quality may be useful.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

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

In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating a washing machine appliance is provided. The method may include receiving a cycle-initiation request to start a new wash cycle. The method may also include receiving, in response to receiving the cycle-initiation request, a water-condition signal from a water sensor associated with the washing machine appliance. The method may further include determining a rust-potential state based on the received water-condition signal. The method may also include initiating a rust notification at a user interface in response to determining the rust-potential state. The method may further include receiving a user-response signal following the rust notification. The method may still further include directing the washing machine appliance based on the received user-response signal and the determined rust-potential state.

In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine appliance operating in a commercial laundromat is provided. The washing machine appliance may include a wash tub positioned within a cabinet. The washing machine appliance may also include a wash basket rotatably mounted within the wash tub and defining a wash chamber. The washing machine appliance may further include a motor assembly mechanically coupled to the wash basket for selectively rotating the wash basket. The washing machine appliance may also include a controller operably coupled to the motor assembly. The controller may be configured to direct an appliance operation. The appliance operation may include receiving a cycle-initiation request to start a new wash cycle. The appliance operation may also include receiving, in response to receiving the cycle-initiation request, a water-condition signal from a water sensor associated with the washing machine appliance. The appliance operation may further include determining a rust-potential state based on the received water-condition signal. The appliance operation may also include initiating a rust notification at a user interface in response to determining the rust-potential state. The appliance operation may further include receiving a user-response signal following the rust notification. The appliance operation may still further include directing the washing machine appliance based on the received user-response signal and the determined rust-potential state.

In yet another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating a plurality of washing machine appliances is provided. The method may include receiving a first cycle-initiation request to start a new wash cycle at a first washing machine appliance of the plurality of washing machine appliances. The method may also include receiving, in response to receiving the first cycle-initiation request, a first water-condition signal from a first water sensor associated with the first washing machine appliance. The method may further include determining a rust-potential state based on the received first water-condition signal. The method may also include initiating a rust notification at a first user interface associated with the first washing machine appliance in response to determining the rust-potential state. The method may further include receiving a user-response signal following the rust notification. The method may still further include directing the plurality of washing machine appliances based on the received user-response signal and the determined rust-potential state.

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

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of an exemplary system, including a laundry appliance, according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

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

FIG. 3 provides a flow chart illustrating a method of operating a washing machine appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 provides a flow chart illustrating a method of operating a plurality of washing machine appliances according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

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

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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

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

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

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

Referring now to the figures, an exemplary laundry appliance that may be used to implement aspects of the present subject matter will be described. Specifically, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary horizontal axis washing machine appliance 100 and FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of washing machine appliance 100. As illustrated, washing machine appliance 100 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is generally defined.

According to exemplary embodiments, washing machine appliance 100 includes a cabinet 102 that is generally configured for containing or supporting various components of washing machine appliance 100 and which may also define one or more internal chambers or compartments of washing machine appliance 100. In this regard, as used herein, the terms “cabinet,” “housing,” and the like are generally intended to refer to an outer frame or support structure for washing machine appliance 100, e.g., including any suitable number, type, and configuration of support structures formed from any suitable materials, such as a system of elongated support members, a plurality of interconnected panels, or some combination thereof. It should be appreciated that cabinet 102 does not necessarily require an enclosure and may simply include open structure supporting various elements of washing machine appliance 100. By contrast, cabinet 102 may enclose some or all portions of an interior of cabinet 102. It should be appreciated that cabinet 102 may have any suitable size, shape, and configuration while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

As illustrated, cabinet 102 generally extends between a top 104 and a bottom 106 along the vertical direction V, between a first side 108 (e.g., the left side when viewed from the front as in FIG. 1) and a second side 110 (e.g., the right side when viewed from the front as in FIG. 1) along the lateral direction L, and between a front 112 and a rear 114 along the transverse direction T. In general, terms such as “left,” “right,” “front,” “rear,” “top,” or “bottom” are used with reference to the perspective of a user accessing washing machine appliance 100.

Referring to FIG. 2, a wash basket 120 is rotatably mounted within cabinet 102 such that it is rotatable about an axis of rotation A. A motor 122, e.g., such as a pancake motor, is in mechanical communication with wash basket 120 to selectively rotate wash basket 120 (e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 100). Wash basket 120 is received within a wash tub 124 and defines a wash chamber 126 that is configured for receipt of articles for washing. The wash tub 124 holds wash and rinse fluids for agitation in wash basket 120 within wash tub 124. As used herein, “wash fluid” may refer to water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable wash additive or combination thereof. Indeed, for simplicity of discussion, these terms may all be used interchangeably herein without limiting the present subject matter to any particular “wash fluid.”

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

Referring generally to FIGS. 1 and 2, cabinet 102 also includes a front panel 130 which defines an opening 132 that permits user access to wash basket 120 of wash tub 124. More specifically, washing machine appliance 100 includes a door 134 that is positioned over opening 132 and is rotatably mounted to front panel 130. In this manner, door 134 permits selective access to opening 132 by being movable between an open position (not shown) facilitating access to a wash tub 124 and a closed position (FIG. 1) prohibiting access to wash tub 124.

A window 136 in door 134 permits viewing of wash basket 120 when door 134 is in the closed position, e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 100. Door 134 also includes a handle (not shown) that, e.g., a user may pull when opening and closing door 134. Further, although door 134 is illustrated as mounted to front panel 130, it should be appreciated that door 134 may be mounted to another side of cabinet 102 or any other suitable support according to alternative embodiments. Washing machine appliance 100 may further include a latch assembly 138 (see FIG. 1) that is mounted to cabinet 102 or door 134 for selectively locking door 134 in the closed position or confirming that the door is in the closed position. Latch assembly 138 may be desirable, for example, to ensure only secured access to wash chamber 126 or to otherwise ensure and verify that door 134 is closed during certain operating cycles or events.

Referring again to FIG. 2, wash basket 120 also defines a plurality of perforations 140 in order to facilitate fluid communication between an interior of basket 120 and wash tub 124. A sump 142 is defined by wash tub 124 at a bottom of wash tub 124 along the vertical direction V. Thus, sump 142 is configured for receipt of and generally collects wash fluid during operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, during operation of washing machine appliance 100, wash fluid may be urged by gravity from basket 120 to sump 142 through plurality of perforations 140.

A drain pump assembly 144 is located beneath wash tub 124 and is in fluid communication with sump 142 for periodically discharging soiled wash fluid from washing machine appliance 100. Drain pump assembly 144 may generally include a drain pump 146 which is in fluid communication with sump 142 and with an external drain 148 through a drain hose 150. During a drain cycle, drain pump 146 urges a flow of wash fluid from sump 142, through drain hose 150, and to external drain 148. More specifically, drain pump 146 includes a motor (not shown) which is energized during a drain cycle such that drain pump 146 draws wash fluid from sump 142 and urges it through drain hose 150 to external drain 148.

Washing machine appliance 100 may further include a wash fluid dispenser that is generally configured for dispensing a flow of water, wash fluid, etc. into wash tub 124. For example, a spout 152 is configured for directing a flow of fluid into wash tub 124. For example, spout 152 may be in fluid communication with a water supply 154 (FIG. 2) in order to direct fluid (e.g., clean water or wash fluid) into wash tub 124. Spout 152 may also be in fluid communication with the sump 142. For example, pump assembly 144 may direct wash fluid disposed in sump 142 to spout 152 in order to circulate wash fluid in wash tub 124.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, a detergent drawer 156 is slidably mounted within front panel 130. Detergent drawer 156 receives a wash additive (e.g., detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable liquid or powder) and directs the fluid additive to wash tub 124 during operation of washing machine appliance 100. According to the illustrated embodiment, detergent drawer 156 may also be fluidly coupled to spout 152 to facilitate the complete and accurate dispensing of wash additive. It should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, these wash additives could be dispensed automatically via a bulk dispensing unit (not shown). Other systems and methods for providing wash additives are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter.

In addition, a water supply valve 158 may provide a flow of water from a water supply source (such as a municipal water supply 154) into detergent dispenser 156 and into wash tub 124. In this manner, water supply valve 158 may generally be operable to supply water into detergent dispenser 156 (e.g., detergent drawer 156) to generate a wash fluid, e.g., for use in a wash cycle, or a flow of fresh water, e.g., for a rinse cycle. It should be appreciated that water supply valve 158 may be positioned at any other suitable location within cabinet 102. In addition, although water supply valve 158 is described herein as regulating the flow of “wash fluid,” it should be appreciated that this term includes, water, detergent, other additives, or some mixture thereof.

During operation of washing machine appliance 100, laundry items are loaded into wash basket 120 through opening 132, and washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation of one or more input selectors or using a remote device (see below). Wash tub 124 is filled with water, detergent, or other fluid additives, e.g., via spout 152 or detergent drawer 156. One or more valves (e.g., water supply valve 158) can be controlled by washing machine appliance 100 to provide for filling wash basket 120 to the appropriate level for the amount of articles being washed or rinsed. By way of example for a wash mode, once wash basket 120 is properly filled with fluid, the contents of wash basket 120 can be agitated (e.g., with ribs 128) for washing of laundry items in wash basket 120.

After the agitation phase of the wash cycle is completed, wash tub 124 can be drained. Laundry articles can then be rinsed by again adding fluid to wash tub 124, depending on the particulars of the cleaning cycle selected by a user. Ribs 128 may again provide agitation within wash basket 120. One or more spin cycles may also be used. In particular, a spin cycle may be applied after the wash cycle or after the rinse cycle in order to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed. During a final spin cycle, basket 120 is rotated at relatively high speeds and drain assembly 144 may discharge wash fluid from sump 142. After articles disposed in wash basket 120 are cleaned, washed, or rinsed, the user can remove the articles from wash basket 120, e.g., by opening door 134 and reaching into wash basket 120 through opening 132.

Referring again to FIG. 1, washing machine appliance 100 may include a control panel 160 that may represent a general-purpose Input/Output (“GPIO”) device or functional block for washing machine appliance 100. In some embodiments, control panel 160 may include or be in operative communication with one or more user input devices 162, such as one or more of a variety of digital, analog, electrical, mechanical, or electro-mechanical input devices including rotary dials, control knobs, push buttons, toggle switches, selector switches, and touch pads. Additionally, washing machine appliance 100 may include a display 164, such as a digital or analog display device generally configured to provide visual feedback regarding the operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, display 164 may be provided on control panel 160 and may include one or more status lights, screens, or visible indicators. According to exemplary embodiments, user input devices 162 and display 164 may be integrated into a single device, e.g., including one or more of a touchscreen interface, a capacitive touch panel, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display panel (PDP), a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, or other informational or interactive displays.

Washing machine appliance 100 may further include or be in operative communication with a processing device or a controller 166 that may be generally configured to facilitate appliance operation. In this regard, control panel 160, user input devices 162, and display 164 may be in communication with controller 166 such that controller 166 may receive control inputs from user input devices 162, may display information using display 164, and may otherwise regulate operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, signals generated by controller 166 may operate washing machine appliance 100, including any or all system components, subsystems, or interconnected devices, in response to the position of user input devices 162 and other control commands. Control panel 160 and other components of washing machine appliance 100 may be in communication with controller 166 via, for example, one or more signal lines or shared communication busses. In this manner, Input/Output (“I/O”) signals may be routed between controller 166 and various operational components of washing machine appliance 100.

As used herein, the terms “processing device,” “computing device,” “controller,” or the like may generally refer to any suitable processing device, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor, a microcontroller, an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a logic device, one or more central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), processing units performing other specialized calculations, semiconductor devices, etc. In addition, these “controllers” are not necessarily restricted to a single element but may include any suitable number, type, and configuration of processing devices integrated in any suitable manner to facilitate appliance operation. Alternatively, controller 166 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, OR gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.

Controller 166 may include, or be associated with, one or more memory elements or non-transitory computer-readable storage mediums, such as RAM, ROM, EEPROM, EPROM, flash memory devices, magnetic disks, or other suitable memory devices (including combinations thereof). These memory devices may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. In addition, these memory devices can store information or data accessible by the one or more processors, including instructions that can be executed by the one or more processors. It should be appreciated that the instructions can be software written in any suitable programming language or can be implemented in hardware. Additionally, or alternatively, the instructions can be executed logically or virtually using separate threads on one or more processors.

For example, controller 166 may be operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with an operating cycle of washing machine appliance 100. In this regard, the instructions may be software or any set of instructions that when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform operations, such as running one or more software applications, displaying a user interface, receiving user input, processing user input, etc. Moreover, it should be noted that controller 166 as disclosed herein is capable of and may be operable to perform any methods, method steps, or portions of methods of appliance operation. For example, in some embodiments, these methods may be embodied in programming instructions stored in the memory and executed by controller 166.

The memory devices may also store data that can be retrieved, manipulated, created, or stored by the one or more processors or portions of controller 166. The data can include, for instance, data to facilitate performance of methods described herein. The data can be stored locally (e.g., on controller 166) in one or more databases or may be split up so that the data is stored in multiple locations. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more database(s) can be connected to controller 166 through any suitable network(s), such as through a high bandwidth local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN). In this regard, for example, controller 166 may further include a communication module or interface that may be used to communicate with one or more other component(s) of washing machine appliance 100, controller 166, an external appliance controller, or any other suitable device, e.g., via any suitable communication lines or network(s) and using any suitable communication protocol. The communication interface can include any suitable components for interfacing with one or more network(s), including for example, transmitters, receivers, ports, controllers, antennas, or other suitable components.

Referring again to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of an external communication system 180 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. In general, external communication system 180 is configured for permitting interaction, data transfer, and other communications between washing machine appliance 100 and one or more external devices. For example, this communication may be used to provide and receive operating parameters, user instructions or notifications, performance characteristics, user preferences, or any other suitable information for improved performance of washing machine appliance 100. In addition, it should be appreciated that external communication system 180 may be used to transfer data or other information to improve performance of one or more external devices or appliances or improve user interaction with such devices.

For example, external communication system 180 permits controller 166 of washing machine appliance 100 to communicate with a separate device external to washing machine appliance 100, referred to generally herein as an external (i.e., remote) device 182. As described in more detail below, these communications may be facilitated using a wired or wireless connection, such as via a network 184.

In general, external device 182 may be any suitable device separate from washing machine appliance 100 that is configured to provide or receive communications, information, data, or commands from a user. In this regard, external device 182 may be, for example, a personal phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop or personal computer, a wearable device, a smart home system, or another mobile or remote device.

Optionally, the external device 182 may include or be able to access a software application for interacting with the laundromat appliances. For instance, the external device 182 may be provided or associated with a particular user account or profile to interact with and operate each of the laundromat appliances. Such a profile may be designated as an owner account that is associated, for instance, with multiple appliances owned or managed by a common user. In turn, the profile may permit a greater degree of control (e.g., in comparison to other accounts, such as a customer account) for performing one or more cycles of the various washers and dryers within a laundromat.

In addition, a remote server 186 may be in communication with washing machine appliance 100 or external device 182 through network 184. In this regard, for example, remote server 186 may be a cloud-based server 186, and is thus located at a distant location, such as in a separate state, country, etc. According to an exemplary embodiment, external device 182 may communicate with a remote server 186 over network 184, such as the Internet, to transmit/receive data or information, provide user inputs, receive user notifications or instructions, interact with or control washing machine appliance 100, etc. In addition, external device 182 and remote server 186 may communicate with washing machine appliance 100 to communicate similar information.

In general, communication between washing machine appliance 100, external device 182, remote server 186, or other user devices or appliances may be carried using any type of wired or wireless connection and using any suitable type of communication network, non-limiting examples of which are provided below. For example, external device 182 may be in direct or indirect communication with washing machine appliance 100 through any suitable wired or wireless communication connections or interfaces, such as network 184. For example, network 184 may include one or more of a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a personal area network (PAN), the Internet, a cellular network, any other suitable short-or long-range wireless networks, etc. In addition, communications may be transmitted using any suitable communications devices or protocols, such as via Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, Zigbee®, wireless radio, laser, infrared, Ethernet type devices and interfaces, etc. In addition, such communication may use a variety of communication protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP, SMTP, FTP), encodings or formats (e.g., HTML, XML), or protection schemes (e.g., VPN, secure HTTP, SSL).

External communication system 180 is described herein according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. However, it should be appreciated that the exemplary functions and configurations of external communication system 180 provided herein are used only as examples to facilitate description of aspects of the present subject matter. System configurations may vary, other communication devices may be used to communicate directly or indirectly with one or more associated appliances, other communication protocols and steps may be implemented, etc. These variations and modifications are contemplated as within the scope of the present subject matter.

While described in the context of a specific embodiment of horizontal axis washing machine appliance 100, using the teachings disclosed herein it will be understood that horizontal axis washing machine appliance 100 is provided by way of example only. Other washing machine appliances having different configurations, different appearances, or different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well, e.g., vertical axis washing machine appliances.

Referring still to FIG. 1, washing machine appliance 100 may be utilized as a commercial washer in a laundromat or another commercial setting. In this regard, as used herein, discussion of the use of laundry appliances in a commercial setting may generally refer to the use of the appliance in any location where two or more appliances are provided for use by consumers. These commercial settings are commonly laundromats that include a large number of washers and dryers that are configured for pay-per-use operation, e.g., via cash, coins, digital currency, or other forms of payment.

For example, as shown in FIG. 1, washing machine appliance 100 may be located in a laundromat (e.g., as identified generally by reference numeral 190) along with other washing machine appliances, dryer appliances, etc. In general, each of the laundry appliances (e.g., washers or dryers) may all be in operative communication with each other and a remote server 186 through a network 184, as described above. In this manner, these network-connected appliances may communicate with each other to facilitate implementation of the various methods described herein. For example, each washing machine appliance within the laundromat 190 may communicate operating statuses or conditions to the remaining appliances, e.g., to facilitate determination of the actual operating capacity of the laundromat 190, as described in more detail below.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the washing machine appliance 100 may house a water sensor 192 capable of measuring certain characteristics of the water. The water sensor 192 may be associated with a single washing machine appliance 100. In one embodiment, the water sensor 192 is positioned within a tub (e.g., wash tub 124) of a washing machine appliance 100. In such embodiment, the water sensor 192 measures water once the water has entered the tub of the washing machine appliance 100. Thus, the wash cycle may need to start and water may need to come into contact with the laundry before the water sensor 192 can measure a characteristic of the water. In an additional or alternative embodiment, the water sensor 192 is positioned along a water supply line within the washing machine appliance 100. Thus, the water may be measured as it flows through the water supply line, but before the water exits a spout connected to the tub. In some such embodiments, the water supply may be stopped before the water comes into contact with the laundry. In another additional or alternative embodiment, the water sensor 192 is positioned along a water supply line outside of the washing machine appliance 100. The water supply line may supply water to one or more washing machine appliances 100 and the water sensor 192 may be positioned at any point along the water supply line. Thus, the exact location of the water sensor 192 may determine how far the water may reach before it is measured. For instance, the water may be measured before it enters the washing machine appliance 100, but after the water has already been directed to the washing machine appliance 100. Furthermore, the water supply line may branch off to multiple washing machine appliances 100, so the water may be measured before the water supply line branches. Thus, the water sensor 192 may be responsible for measuring the water associated with multiple washing machine appliances 100. In yet another additional or alternative embodiment, the water sensor 192 may be positioned within a water storage tank (e.g., water supply 154). Thus, the water sensor 192 may be associated with a plurality of washing machine appliances 100, as well as any other appliances that utilize a water supply. In such embodiment, the water characteristic would be measured before water has entered any appliance.

The water sensor 192 may be capable of measuring multiple characteristics of the water (e.g., temperature, turbidity, conductivity, flowrate, any combination of said listed characteristics, etc.). For instance, the water sensor 192 may include or be provided as an optical sensor, a conductivity sensor, a turbidity sensor, a rotation sensor, etc. The conductivity sensor may apply a voltage and determine the water hardness by measuring a conductivity value of said water. The conductivity value may be measured in units of micro siemens per centimeter (μS/cm) (e.g., such as 0.1 μS/cm, 1.0μS/cm, 10μS/cm, 100μS/cm, 1000μS/cm, etc.). The turbidity sensor may visually measure a transparency of water, which may be related to water hardness. For example, a turbidity sensor may measure how light is affected by the water (e.g., transmitted light or scattered light). The turbidity value may be measured in Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU) (e.g., such as 0.1 NTU, 1.0 NTU, 10 NTU, 100 NTU, 1000 NTU, etc.). The rotation sensor may measure water flow and water level in order to determine the amount of water entering a washing machine appliance 100. Such measurements may be necessary to determine a ratio of water hardness to the amount of water present. The flow rate may be measured in gallons per minute (GPM) (e.g., such as 0.1 GPM, 1 GPM, 10 GPM, etc.) and the water level may be measured in gallons (e.g., such as 1 gallon, 10 gallons, etc.). In some embodiments, the water sensor 192 is provided in (e.g., electrical or wireless) communication with the controller 166. In turn, one or more signals (e.g., water-condition signals) may be transmitted between the water sensor 192 and controller 166. For instance, the water sensor 192 may be configured to transmit one or more water-condition signals corresponding to a state or characteristic of water at the water sensor 192. Such characteristics may generally correspond to water quality or one or more contaminant levels.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 4, the present disclosure may further be directed to methods (e.g., method 300 or 400) of operating one or more washing machine appliances (e.g., washing machine appliance 100—either individually or collectively within laundromat 190). In exemplary embodiments, the controller 166 may be operable to perform various steps of a method in accordance with the present disclosure.

The methods (e.g., 300 or 400) may occur as, or as part of, a washing or diagnostic operation. In particular, the methods (e.g., 300 or 400) disclosed herein may advantageously alert one or more users of the possibility of rust water in order to protect laundry of the one or more users from damage, as well as protecting an owner of a commercial laundromat from having to provide compensations to one or more users for said damaged laundry. Furthermore, the ability to remotely control one or more washing machine appliances may allow an owner more freedom, such that the owner need not be present in the laundromat in case of a rust-based issue.

It is noted that the order of steps within methods 300 and 400 are for illustrative purposes. Moreover, none of the methods 300 and 400 are mutually exclusive. In other words, methods within the present disclosure may include one or more of methods 300 and 400. All may be adopted or characterized as being fulfilled in a common operation. Except as otherwise indicated, one or more steps in the below method 300 or 400 may be changed, rearranged, performed in a different order, or otherwise modified without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

At step 310, the method 300 includes receiving a cycle-initiation request to start a new wash cycle. In optional embodiments within a laundromat or other public area containing one or more washing machine appliances available to the public, upon entering the laundromat or other public area, a user may be required to select a particular available washing machine appliance in order to wash their laundry. In one embodiment, the selected washing machine appliance is not owned by the user and requires payment of a fee to use said selected washing machine appliance. Thus, a user may need to approach the washing machine appliance and insert money into a receiver of the washing machine appliance. The user may also need to verify themselves in order to associate themselves with the washing machine appliance, such that an account associated with the user may be charged for using the washing machine appliance. In an additional or alternative embodiment, the user may have access to the washing machine appliance without needing to pay a fee or associate themselves with the washing machine appliance each time the washing machine appliance is used (e.g., an apartment washing machine, a dormitory washing machine, etc.). Thus, the user may bypass certain steps and begin loading the washing machine appliance with the laundry to be washed. Furthermore, the washing machine appliance may refer to a single washing machine appliance owned by a user and positioned within a user's home, wherein the user has unlimited access to said washing machine appliance.

In either embodiment, once the washing machine appliance has been loaded with the laundry, the washing machine appliance requires a selection of the new wash cycle. The new wash cycle may be selected physically or electronically. In one embodiment, the user selects the wash cycle by altering one or more dials associated with characteristics of wash cycles (e.g., load size, wash cycle time, water temperature, etc.). In another embodiment, the user sends a signal via an interface of the washing machine appliance, or via a user device associated with the washing machine appliance. Thus, the cycle initiation request may comprise a signal to start the new wash cycle, as well as specifics regarding preferred characteristics of the new wash cycle.

At step 320, method 300 includes receiving (e.g., in response to receiving the cycle-initiation request) a water-condition signal from a water sensor (e.g., water sensor 192) associated with the washing machine appliance. Thus, following the cycle initiation request, the water sensor may be instructed to measure a predetermined characteristic of the water (e.g., conductivity, temperature, turbidity, or flowrate—such as described above) and send a water-condition signal indicating the predetermined characteristic of the water. Notably, the water-condition signal may include a water conductivity value. In one embodiment, the water sensor automatically measures and sends the conductivity value via the water-condition signal. Thus, a new water-condition signal may be received every time the water sensor measures a conductivity value. Furthermore, a new water-condition signal may be received based on a repeated set interval or timer. For instance, a new water-condition signal may be received following passage of an instance of the set interval (e.g., 30 seconds, 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, etc.). In an additional or alternative embodiment, after the cycle-initiation request is received, a signal is sent to the water sensor requesting a conductivity value. Upon receiving the request, the water sensor may send the measured conductivity value via the water-condition signal.

At step 330, method 300 includes determining a rust-potential state (e.g., based on the received water-condition signal). As previously discussed, the water-condition signal may include a conductivity value associated with the water. Based on the measured conductivity value, a determination may be made regarding the rust-potential state. Said determination may be made based on one or more determination methods (e.g., a predetermined threshold value, K-means clustering, averaging, etc.), as will be described below.

Upon receiving the conductivity measurements from the water sensor in the form of the water-condition signal, step 330 may include analyzing the measurements. Optionally, a rust-potential state may be selected or ascertained based on the received water-condition signal. For instance, step 330 may include comparing the conductivity values of the measured water to a threshold conductivity value in order to determine the rust-potential state. Based on or in response to a conductivity value being above the predetermined threshold value, a first outcome may be determined as a positive rust-potential state. Based on or in response to a conductivity value less than or equal to the predetermined threshold value, a second outcome may be determined as a negative rust-potential state.

In optional embodiments, the predetermined threshold value can be adjusted based on or according to a geographical area or region in which the appliance is installed. For instance, a relatively large predetermined threshold value (e.g., from a plurality of predetermined threshold values) may be applied based on or in response to the appliance being installed within a mid-west region (e.g., Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Utah, etc.) of the United States. A relatively small predetermined threshold value may be applied based on or in response to the appliance being installed within an eastern costal region (e.g., North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Massachusetts, etc.) of the United States. Thus, depending on the geographical location of the washing machine appliance and source of the water used in said washing machine appliance, the predetermined threshold value used to compare against the measured conductivity value may need to be adjusted.

The first outcome may be determined based on a plurality of comparison techniques. As previously discussed, one embodiment utilizes a K-means clustering algorithm to determine the rust-potential state. For example, a water sensor may measure the conductivity of water as it passes a corresponding point or location in the washing machine appliance and save the measured conductivity value for a set amount of time (e.g., about 1 second to about 10 seconds, such as about 3 seconds to about 5 seconds). Within the set amount of time, the measured conductivity value is compared to a predetermined threshold value using K-means clustering. Thus, if the measured conductivity value is within a certain range (e.g., +/−0.1 μS/cm, +/−1.0 μS/cm, +/−10 μS/cm, +/−100 μS/cm, +/−1000 μS/cm, etc.) above or below the predetermined threshold value, the measured conductivity value may be “clustered” in with the predetermined threshold value. In the case that the measured conductivity value is clustered with the predetermined threshold value, that water sample may be determined as having a relatively high (e.g., greater than 50%) likelihood of containing rust. Thus, measuring a value that is within the cluster range may cause a positive rust-potential state to be determined. Furthermore, the water sensor may be required to measure a certain number of “clustered” values within a time period (e.g., such as 5 values within a minute, 10 values within a minute, etc.). The water sensor may also be required to measure a certain percentage of “clustered” values. Thus, if enough measurements can be clustered with the predetermined threshold value, a positive rust-potential state may be determined. In an additional or alternative embodiment, measured conductivity values over a specified period of time are recorded and an average (e.g., mean) measured conductivity value is determined. If the average measured conductivity value is above the predetermined threshold value, a positive rust-potential state may be determined.

A similar determination may be made for the second outcome. If a measured conductivity value is outside of the required range or below or equal to the predetermined threshold value, the measured conductivity values may not be “clustered,” and a negative rust-potential state may be determined. Alternatively, if the average measured conductivity value is below the predetermined threshold value, a negative rust-potential state may be determined.

At step 340, the method 300 includes initiating a rust notification at a user interface (e.g., in response to determining the rust-potential state). Upon determining the rust-potential state (e.g., positive rust-potential state or negative rust-potential state), a user of the associated washing machine appliance may be notified of the determination. In one embodiment, the user interface is an interface of a user device. A user device may include a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, laptop, etc. Thus, the notification may be delivered to the user device in the form of a text message, phone call, or a push notification from an application associated with the washing machine appliance (e.g., a downloadable application provided by a laundromat). In the case of the text message notification, an automated text message may be sent to a phone number associated with the user. The text message may contain a predetermined message informing the user of the determined rust-potential state. Similarly, the phone call notification may contain a pre-recorded voice or AI generated voice that informs the user of the determined rust-potential state. The push notification from the application associated with the washing machine appliance or associated with an owner of the washing machine appliance may include text informing the user of the determined rust-potential state. Furthermore, the push notification may include a graphic indicative of the determination (e.g., such as a warning symbol for a positive rust-potential state or a green check for a negative rust-potential state). In an additional or alternative embodiment, the user interface is an interface of a device built into the washing machine appliance. Thus, a user may be visually or audibly notified by the washing machine appliance device via text displayed on the device, a graphic displayed on the device, or a pre-recorded audio message informing the user of the determined rust-potential state. Alternatively, the user may only be notified (e.g., via the user device or washing machine appliance device) when a positive rust-potential state is determined, and no notification is delivered if a negative rust-potential state is determined.

At step 350, the method 300 includes receiving a user-response signal (e.g., following the rust notification). Upon the user receiving the rust notification containing the determined rust-potential state, the user may be prompted to confirm or deny the rust-potential state. In order to confirm or deny the rust-potential state, the user may be asked to inspect (e.g., visually or olfactorily) water present in the washing machine appliance. In the case of a text message notification, a user may be asked to inspect the water and send a text responding “YES” to confirm the rust-potential state or “NO” to contradict the rust-potential state. In the case of the phone call, the user may be asked to verbally respond “yes” to confirm the rust-potential state or verbally respond “no” to contradict the rust-potential state. In the case of the push notification from an application, the user may be prompted with “yes” and “no” icons (e.g., interactive user interface elements) to confirm or contradict the rust-potential state. Similarly, the washing machine appliance device may also prompt the user with “yes” or “no” icons. Thus, the user-response signal may include a confirmation signal indicating confirmation of the rust-potential state. Furthermore, the user-response signal may include a contradiction signal indicating absence of the rust-potential state. Based on the above embodiments, a plurality of scenarios are possible.

In embodiments wherein a notification containing a positive rust-potential state is sent to a user interface, a user can inspect the water and conclude that the water in the washing machine appliance is rusty (i.e., rust-contaminated). The user may come to said conclusion by noticing that the water present in the washing machine appliance has a brown or orange coloring. Additionally or alternatively, a user may rely on olfactory senses to smell a metallic odor coming from the water. Upon concluding that the water is rusty, the user may confirm (e.g., by text, phone call, or application interface) the positive rust-potential state and cause a confirmation signal to be transmitted (e.g., to the controller or a remote server). Thus, some embodiments include receiving a user-confirmation signal following transmission of a notification containing a positive rust-potential state.

In an additional or alternative embodiment wherein the notification containing the positive rust-potential state is sent to the user interface, the user can inspect the water and conclude that the water in the washing machine appliance is not rusty (i.e., not rust-contaminated). Upon concluding that the water is not rusty, the user may contradict (e.g., by text, phone call, or application interface) the positive rust-potential state and cause a contradiction signal to be transmitted (e.g., to the controller or remote server). Thus, some embodiments include receiving a user-contradiction signal following transmission of a notification containing a positive rust-potential state.

In embodiments wherein a notification containing a negative rust-potential state is sent to the user interface, the user can inspect the water and conclude that the water in the washing machine is rusty (i.e., rust-contaminated). Upon concluding that the water is rusty, the user may contradict (e.g., by text, phone call, or application interface) the negative rust-potential state and cause a contradiction signal to be transmitted (e.g., to the controller or remote server). Thus, some embodiments include receiving a user-contradiction signal following transmission of a notification containing a negative rust-potential state.

In an additional or alternative embodiment wherein the notification containing the negative rust-potential state is sent to the user interface, the user can inspect the water and conclude that the water is not rusty (i.e., not rust-contaminated). Upon concluding that the water is not rusty, the user may confirm (e.g., by text, phone call, or application interface) the negative rust-potential state and cause a confirmation signal to be transmitted (e.g., to the controller or remote server). Thus, some embodiments include receiving a user-confirmation signal following transmission of a notification containing a negative rust-potential state.

In another additional or alternative embodiment, once the negative rust-potential state is determined, no notification is sent to the user interface. Instead, the washing machine appliance may continue operation of the selected wash cycle (e.g., allow water to continue to enter the tub of the washing machine appliance, perform one or more operations associated with the selected wash cycle, etc.).

At step 360, the method 300 includes directing the washing machine appliance based on the received user-response signal and the determined rust-potential state. As previously mentioned, the user interface may send a user-response signal either confirming or contradicting the determined rust-potential state (e.g., as prompted by a user).

In embodiments wherein a positive rust-potential state is confirmed by the user, (e.g., the water is determined as having a relatively high—e.g., greater than 50%—likelihood of containing rust and the user inspects the water and concludes that the water is rusty—i.e., rust-contaminated), step 360 may include directing the washing machine appliance to halt operation. For instance, directing the washing machine appliance may include deactivating the washing machine appliance. Optionally, deactivating the washing machine appliance may include halting a water supply to the washing machine appliance. Additionally or alternatively, deactivating the washing machine may include halting a power supply to the washing machine appliance. Furthermore, deactivating the washing machine appliance may include preventing the user (or a future user) from accessing the washing machine appliance and requesting a new wash cycle (e.g., by locking one or more dials associated with the washing machine appliance, by locking a door (e.g., door 134) associated with the washing machine appliance, by restricting the user device from selecting operations of the washing machine appliance, etc.). Upon deactivating the washing machine appliance, a user may be allowed to remove the laundry from the washing machine appliance and prompted to access a different washing machine appliance or notified that the current washing machine appliance is out of order.

In an additional or alternative embodiment wherein a positive rust-potential state is contradicted by the user (e.g., the water is determined as having a relatively high—e.g., greater than 50%—likelihood of containing rust, but the user inspects the water and concludes that the water is not rusty—i.e., not rust-contaminated), step 360 may include issuing a second prompt asking the user to recheck the water and verify the user-response signal. In addition, the user may be prompted that operation of the washing machine appliance may continue, however the user may be responsible for any damaged laundry articles. In the event that the user verifies the original contradiction (e.g., sends a second contradiction signal), the washing machine appliance may continue operation as if the user confirmed a negative rust-potential state and the wash cycle may complete. If the user instead confirms the positive rust-potential state in the second prompt (e.g., sends a confirmation signal after sending the original contradiction signal), the washing machine appliance may be deactivated.

In embodiments wherein a negative rust-potential state is contradicted by the user (e.g., the water is determined as having a relatively low—e.g., less than 50%—likelihood of containing rust, but the user inspects the water and concludes that the water is rusty—i.e., rust-contaminated), step 360 may include issuing a second prompt asking the user to recheck the water and verify the user-response signal. In the event that the user verifies the original contradiction (e.g., sends a second contradiction signal), the washing machine appliance may be deactivated. Thus, despite the water sensor not measuring rust in the water, a user-response signal may single-handedly deactivate the washing machine appliance. If the user instead confirms the negative rust-potential state in the second prompt (e.g., sends a confirmation signal after sending the original contradiction signal), the washing machine appliance may continue the selected wash cycle.

In an additional or alternative embodiment, wherein a negative rust-potential state is confirmed by the user (e.g., the water is determined as having a relatively low—e.g., less than 50%—likelihood of containing rust, and the user inspects the water and concludes that the water is not rusty—i.e., not rust-contaminated), step 360 may include directing operation of the washing machine appliance and the selected wash cycle to continue. Alternatively, in the case of a negative rust-potential state, no notification may be triggered, and operation of the washing machine appliance may continue without requesting a user-response signal.

In embodiments wherein the washing machine appliance is deactivated following a rust-positive user response signal (e.g., a positive rust-potential state confirmed by the user or a negative rust-potential state contradicted by the user), an owner, manager, other third party (e.g., outside of the direct user), or direct user (e.g., wherein the direct user is the owner of the washing machine appliance) associated with the washing machine appliance may be notified of the deactivation. The notification may be sent to a device of the owner to inform the owner that the washing machine appliance has been deactivated. The owner of the washing machine appliance may then be given the option to remotely reactivate the washing machine appliance. Similarly to the method of deactivating the washing machine appliance via the user-response signal, the washing machine appliance may be reactivated via an owner-response signal. The notification may include a prompt asking if the owner would like to activate the washing machine appliance. The notification may also include interactive user interface elements in the form of a “Yes” icon and a “No” icon. Once clicked, the “Yes” icon may cause a signal to be sent to the component of the washing machine appliance that is responsible for deactivating the washing machine appliance (e.g., water valve, power supply, controller, locking mechanism, etc.), wherein the signal includes instructions to reactivate the washing machine appliance. Alternatively, the “No” icon, once clicked, may send no signal, such that the washing machine appliance remains deactivated.

In one embodiment, before reactivating the washing machine appliance, the water conductivity level may need to be altered such that any rust contamination is removed from the water used in the washing machine appliance. This may require the owner to purchase and install one or more water softening systems. Once the water no longer measures values of conductivity considered to be in a positive rust-potential state, the owner may reactivate the washing machine appliance through the owner-response signal (e.g., by the controller resupplying a power source, starting a water flow, unlocking a door, unrestricting one or more dials or buttons, etc.). In an additional or alternative embodiment, the notification is sent to the owner in order to inform the owner of the deactivation, and the owner is required to manually reactivate the washing machine appliance (e.g., by manually adjusting one or more components responsible for deactivating the washing machine appliance such as the water valve, power supply, controller, locking mechanism, etc.).

Upon the owner reactivating the washing machine appliance, the washing machine appliance may be considered as fully functioning and safe to use for the next user. Thus, the method 300 may restart at step 310, wherein once a user selects a new wash cycle for the washing machine appliance, the water sensor measures the water conductivity level and makes a new determination about the rust-potential state.

Referring now to FIG. 4, method 400 represents a method of operating a plurality of washing machine appliances. Method 400 may involve an owner, manager, or other third party (e.g., outside of the direct user) associated with a plurality of washing machine appliances, such as a commercial laundromat. The plurality of washing machine appliances may be made available for public use via a “pay-per-use” method. The plurality of washing machine appliances may also be made available via a subscription method, wherein a user may pay a weekly, monthly, or yearly rate to access a washing machine appliance of the plurality of washing machine appliances. The plurality of washing machine appliances may be provided as two washing machine appliances, ten washing machine appliances, one hundred washing machine appliances, etc.

At step 410, the method 400 includes starting a new wash cycle. In optional embodiments within a laundromat or other public area containing one or more washing machine appliances available to the public, upon entering the laundromat or other public area, a user may be required to select a particular available washing machine appliance in order to wash their laundry. In one embodiment, the selected washing machine appliance is not owned by the user and requires payment of a fee to use said selected washing machine appliance. Thus, a user may need to approach the selected washing machine appliance and insert money into a receiver of the washing machine appliance (e.g., selected washing machine appliance). The user may also need to verify themselves in order to associate themselves with the washing machine appliance, such that an account associated with the user may be charged for using the washing machine appliance. In an additional or alternative embodiment, the user may have access to the washing machine appliance without needing to pay a fee or associate themselves with the washing machine appliance each time the washing machine appliance is used (e.g., an apartment washing machine, a dormitory washing machine, etc.). Thus, the user may bypass certain steps and begin loading the washing machine appliance with the laundry to be washed.

In either embodiment, once the washing machine appliance has been loaded with the laundry, the washing machine appliance requires a selection of the new wash cycle. The new wash cycle may be selected physically or electronically. In one embodiment, the user selects the wash cycle by altering one or more dials associated with characteristics of wash cycles (e.g., load size, wash cycle time, water temperature, etc.). In another embodiment, the user sends a signal via an interface of the washing machine appliance, or via a user device associated with the washing machine appliance. Thus, the cycle initiation request may comprise a signal to start the new wash cycle, as well as specifics regarding preferred characteristics of the new wash cycle. Each washing machine appliance of the plurality of washing machine appliances may asynchronously run different wash cycles based on user selections.

At step 420, the method 400 includes a determination of a water sensor (e.g., supplied or originating from a suitable sensor supplier, such as emz-Hanauer™) detecting rust water (e.g., based on, in response to, or upon water supply commencement at 410). Thus, following the start of the wash cycle, the water sensor (e.g., water sensor 192) may be instructed to measure a predetermined characteristic of the water (e.g., conductivity of the water) and send a water-condition signal indicating the predetermined characteristic of the water. Notably, the water-condition signal may include a water conductivity value. In one embodiment, the water sensor automatically measures and sends the conductivity value via the water-condition signal. Thus, a new water-condition signal may be sent every time the water sensor measures a conductivity value. Furthermore, a new water-condition signal may be sent based on a timer, such that a new water-condition signal is sent once an interval of time passes (e.g., 30 seconds, 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, etc.). In an additional or alternative embodiment, after the cycle-initiation request is received, a signal is sent to the water sensor requesting a conductivity value. Upon receiving the request, the water sensor may send the measured conductivity value via the water-condition signal.

As previously mentioned, the water sensor may be associated with a single washing machine appliance. Thus, a laundromat may have a plurality of washing machine appliances and a plurality of water sensors, wherein each washing machine appliance has an associated water sensor. In one embodiment, the water sensor is positioned within a tub of a washing machine appliance. In such embodiment, the water sensor measures water once the water has entered the tub of the washing machine appliance. Thus, the wash cycle may need to start, and water may need to come into contact with the laundry before the water sensor can determine the conductivity level of the water. In an additional or alternative embodiment, the water sensor is positioned along a water supply line within the washing machine appliance. Thus, the water may be measured as it flows through the water supply line, but before the water exits a spout connected to the tub. In such embodiment, the water supply may be stopped before the water comes into contact with the laundry. In another additional or alternative embodiment, the water sensor is positioned along a water supply line outside of the washing machine appliance. The water supply line may supply water to one or more washing machine appliances and the water sensor may be positioned at any point along the water supply line. Thus, the exact location of the water sensor may determine how far the water may reach before it is measured. For instance, the water may be measured before it enters the washing machine appliance, but after the water has already been directed to the washing machine appliance. Furthermore, the water supply line may branch off to multiple washing machine appliances, so the water may be measured before the water supply line branches. Thus, the water sensor may be responsible for measuring the water associated with multiple washing machine appliances. In yet another additional or alternative embodiment, the water sensor may be positioned within a water storage tank. Thus, the water sensor may be associated with a plurality of washing machine appliances, as well as any other appliances that utilize a water supply. In such embodiment, the water conductivity level would be measured before water has entered any appliance.

Upon receiving the conductivity measurements from the water sensor in the form of the water-condition signal, step 420 may include analyzing the measurements. Optionally, a rust-potential state may be selected or ascertained based on the received water-condition signal. For instance, step 420 may include comparing the conductivity values of the measured water to a predetermined threshold value in order to determine the rust-potential state. Based on or in response to a measured conductivity value being above the predetermined threshold value, a first outcome may be determined as a positive rust-potential state. Based on or in response to a measured conductivity value less than or equal to the predetermined threshold value, a second outcome may be determined as a negative rust-potential state. Furthermore, depending on the location of where the water is sourced, the predetermined threshold value may need to be adjusted. For instance, a relatively large predetermined threshold value (e.g., from a plurality of predetermined threshold values) may be applied based on or in response to the appliance being installed within a mid-west region (e.g., Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Utah, etc.) of the United States. A relatively small predetermined threshold value may be applied based on or in response to the appliance being installed within an eastern costal region (e.g., North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Massachusetts, etc.) of the United States. Thus, depending on the location of the plurality of washing machine appliances and source of the water used in said washing machine appliances, the predetermined threshold value used to compare against the measured conductivity value may vary.

As previously mentioned, the first outcome may be concluded by comparing the measured conductivity value to the predetermined threshold value determined based on the geographic location of the washing machine appliances and the sourced water. Due to the configuration of the water sensor and the measurement techniques used by the water sensor, comparison of a measured value to a predetermined threshold value may offer the most reliable results. For example, there may be no upper limit to the conductivity values caused by rust in the water, and thus, water measuring conductivity values above the normal water hardness level may be likely (e.g., greater than 50% likelihood) to contain rust. In one embodiment, water is supplied to the washing machine appliance and enters a tub of the washing machine appliance. As the water begins to accumulate at the bottom of the tub, the water sensor may measure a conductivity value of the water for an interval of time (e.g., about 1 second to about 3 seconds). If the water sensor measures a conductivity value greater than the predetermined threshold value, then a positive rust-potential state is determined. Furthermore, if the positive rust-potential state is determined, the method 400 follows a first “Yes” path 422 and may proceed to step 430. Thus, if rust water is detected, a user may be prompted to confirm the presence of rust water, as will be discussed below.

A similar determination may be used for the second outcome. If the measured conductivity value is equal to or below the predetermined threshold, a negative rust-potential state may be determined. If the negative rust-potential state is determined, method 400 follows a first “No” path 424 and may proceed to step 440. Thus, if no rust water is detected, the washing machine appliance may continue operation, as will be discussed below.

At step 430, method 400 includes a determination of receiving a user confirmation signal. In one embodiment, an act of confirming the rust water is completable through the use of an application associated with the plurality of washing machine appliances. Such application may also be utilized to aid in completing the steps of selecting an available washing machine appliance or selecting and starting a new wash cycle as discussed in step 410. The application may be downloadable to a user device. The user device may include a phone, laptop, tablet, smartwatch, etc. Furthermore, the application may have access to multiple components of the plurality of washing machine appliances such as, but not limited to, the water sensor, a water supply valve, a wash cycle initiator, a power supply source, a door locking mechanism, etc. Upon the wash cycle starting and the water sensor measuring the conductivity value to determine that rust water has been detected, a push notification from the application may be sent to the user device informing the user that rust water has been detected. Upon the user receiving the push notification containing the warning of a positive rust-potential state, the user may be prompted to confirm or contradict the positive rust-potential state. In order to confirm or contradict the positive rust-potential state, the user may be asked to inspect (e.g., visually or olfactorily) water present in the selected washing machine appliance. The user may then be prompted with “yes” and “no” icons to confirm or contradict the positive rust-potential state.

If the user inspects the water present in the selected washing machine appliance and concludes that the water is not rusty (i.e., not rust-contaminated), the user may select the “no” icon within the application to contradict the positive rust-potential state. Following the contradiction, the method 400 follows a second “No” path 432, and similarly to the first “No” path 424, the method 400 proceeds to step 440. Thus, if a user concludes that no rust water is present despite the notification that rust water has been detected, the user may disregard the notification and cause the selected washing machine appliance to continue operation. For example, the water sensor may have malfunctioned, or the water sensor may have only measured high conductivity values for a very concentrated amount of water, yet the rest of the water appears to not contain rust. In such a scenario, the user may further be prompted by the application that any damages caused to the laundry will be the responsibility of the user if the user elects to continue operation despite the warning. Electing to continue operation will cause the selected washing machine appliance to continue the selected wash cycle regardless of the water sensor measurements until completion of the selected wash cycle. Following the end of the selected wash cycle, the user may remove the washed laundry, and the selected washing machine appliance may await a new cycle request.

If the user inspects the water present in the selected washing machine appliance and concludes that the water is rusty (i.e., rust-contaminated), the user may select the “yes” icon within the application to confirm the positive rust-potential state. Following the confirmation, the method 400 follows a second “Yes” path 434 and may proceed to step 450.

At step 450, a plurality of washing machine appliances of the commercial laundromat may be deactivated. Since many laundromats tend to supply the plurality of the washing machine appliances from the same water source, the detection and confirmation of rust water in one washing machine appliance may be indicative that rust water may be present in the plurality of washing machine appliances. Once the user selects the “yes” icon to confirm that rust water is present in a washing machine appliance of the plurality of washing machine appliances, the application may send a signal to deactivate every washing machine appliance of the plurality of washing machine appliances. Notably, laundry in all the washing machine appliances may be protected from rust exposure. Additionally or alternatively, the chance of informing users of rust water before laundry becomes damaged may be increased (e.g., in comparison to embodiments directed only to a single appliance) and risks that a single water sensor of the plurality of water sensors may be defective or inaccurate may be mitigated.

In one embodiment, the application has direct access to components of the plurality of washing machine appliances such that the application directly controls one or more operations of one or more components. For example, upon receiving a confirmation signal of a positive rust-potential state from a user, the application may send direct instructions to each of the plurality of washing machine appliances to deactivate. The application may deactivate a washing machine appliance in a plurality of different means. The application may be capable of directly cutting a power supply to each washing machine appliance, without cutting power to the laundromat as a whole. The application may also be capable of halting a water supply for each washing machine appliance. The application may halt the water supply by instructing a water valve in each washing machine appliance to close. Additionally or alternatively, the application may have access to a water valve that controls a water supply for a plurality of washing machine appliances. Thus, by instructing one water valve to close, the water supply for a plurality of washing machine appliances may be halted. Furthermore, the application may be able to restrict user access to the plurality of washing machine appliances without removing functionality from a necessary component of the washing machine appliances needed to function. For instance, the application may have access to lock each tub door of the plurality of washing machine appliances, or physically restrict any dials or buttons from selecting wash cycles for the washing machine appliances. Thus, a single user confirmation signal may automatically deactivate every washing machine appliance of the plurality of washing machine appliances in the laundromat.

In another embodiment, the application does not have direct access to components of the plurality of washing machine appliances. Alternatively, the application may send a notification to a user device of an owner of the laundromat, wherein the notification alerts the owner that rust water has been detected and confirmed. The application may also suggest that the owner deactivate the plurality of washing machine appliances in the laundromat. The owner may then manually deactivate the plurality of washing machines through any of the above proposed means (e.g., halting water supply, disconnecting power source, locking tub doors, restricting user access to dials, etc.). Furthermore, the owner may give the application permission to remotely deactivate the plurality of washing machine appliances.

Deactivating the plurality of washing machine appliances may protect the laundry of users and allow the owner time to restore the water quality. As previously mentioned, rust water is known to be associated with high water “hardness.” Thus, in order to restore the water quality, an owner may need to install, provide, or otherwise use a water softener system. In order to further assist the owner, the application may recommend that the owner purchase a water softener system via a push notification. The push notification may also include a link to purchase one or more water softener systems.

At step 460, the method 400 includes receiving an owner reactivation signal. Upon resolving the rust water issue, the owner of the plurality of washing machine appliances may wish to reactivate the plurality of washing machine appliances. Similarly to the method of deactivating the washing machine appliances, the owner may reactivate the plurality of washing machine appliances through the application associated with the plurality of washing machine appliances. In one embodiment, before reactivating the plurality of washing machine appliances, the water conductivity level may need to be altered such that any rust contamination is removed from the water used in the plurality of washing machine appliances. Thus, the application may advise an owner away from reactivating the plurality of washing machine appliances. Once the water no longer measures values of conductivity above the predetermined threshold value, the owner may be advised to manually reactivate the plurality of washing machine appliances (e.g., by resupplying a power source, starting a water flow, unlocking a door, unrestricting one or more dials or buttons, etc.).

In an additional or alternative embodiment, the step of treating the water and reactivating the plurality of washing machine appliances involves the use of the application. As previously mentioned, the application may be associated with and have direct access to components of the plurality of washing machine appliances. Thus, the application may require that a water sensor measures a conductivity value below the predetermined threshold value before the plurality of washing machine appliances may be reactivated. If a negative rust-potential state is measured, the application may be capable of automatically reactivating the plurality of washing machine appliances. Alternatively, upon measuring the negative rust-potential state, the application may prompt the owner (e.g., through a push notification to the user device) to reactivate the plurality of washing machine appliances. The push notification may include a prompt asking if the owner would like to reactivate the plurality of washing machine appliances. The push notification may also include interactive user interface elements in the form of a “Yes” icon and a “No” icon. Once selected, the “Yes” icon may cause a signal to be sent to the component of each washing machine appliance that is responsible for deactivating the washing machine appliance (e.g., water valve, power supply, controller, locking mechanism, etc.), wherein the signal includes instructions to reactivate the washing machine appliance. Alternatively, the “No” icon, once selected, may send no signal, such that the plurality of washing machine appliances remain deactivated.

At step 470, method 400 includes permitting activation of the plurality of washing machine appliances, such that the washing machine appliances may be considered as fully functioning and safe to use for new users. Thus, method 400 may restart at step 410, wherein once a new user selects a new wash cycle for a washing machine appliance of the plurality of washing machine appliances, a water sensor measures the water conductivity level and makes a new determination about the rust-potential state.

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