Whirlpool Corporation

Robert J Feldbruegge

Richard A McCoy

Matthew Peter Ebrom

Mark Eugene Glotzbach

Christopher S Moes

David John Kmet

Andrew D Whipple

A client having at least one memory location is provided for use with an appliance network. The client includes an arbitrary software component for performing a useful function, a software architecture or a software architecture driver configured to generate or enable transmission of messages, and means to communicate by message over a network. Thus, the client can have full capability to act as an accessory to an appliance to communicate with and to enhance or alter the operation of the appliance.

Client for an appliance network

A network system comprising a system of devices having a plurality of nodes defining a communications network. At least one identifier from a pre-determined group of identifiers is associated with each of the nodes and identifies the functionalities that are applicable to that node or device associated with that node. In one embodiment, at least one of the nodes can transmit the at least one identifier by a message sent over the communications network for receipt by at least one of the nodes to thereby publish the functionalities over the communications network.

Software architecture system and method for communication with, and management of, components within an appliance utilizing functionality identifiers

Growing community of inventors

Stevensville, MI, United States of America

Robert J Feldbruegge