Patent Publication Number: US-2023143380-A1

Title: System and method for authorizing appliance access

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present subject matter relates generally to appliances, or more specifically, to methods of operating commercial appliances to prevent unauthorized use or tampering. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Certain conventional laundry appliances are becoming more connected with features that involve financial transactions or which may otherwise require owner approval to perform an operating cycle. For example, certain commercial appliances, such as washing machines and clothes dryers at a laundromat, might have currency-based operating systems that require a user to pay some form of currency before an operating cycle will begin. Similarly, purchasers of residential appliances may purchase an appliance with hopes of recouping some of the purchase price by charging for appliance usage. This may be common particularly in light of the rise of shared living arrangements, home rental services, and other shared appliance situations. For example, a homeowner who rents their house on a rental website might wish to charge renters for their use of the appliance, a tenant who purchases an appliance may wish to charge their roommates for appliance use, or an appliance owner may wish to generate a revenue steam from owned appliances in other situations as well. 
     Such pay-per-use commercial appliances may be exposed to an increased likelihood of appliance tampering. For example, conventional commercial appliances such as a washer or dryer may include an external service port, such as an RJ45 connection, that may be used for programming, data collection, and load control during development. This connection point can create a security risk in a commercial environment where the public or another unauthorized user has access to the appliance and RJ45 port. By contrast, in some cases, the owner or a service technician may need to use the RJ45 to update firmware on the appliance, e.g., when the update is not standard or is not widely distributed through a wireless network. 
     Accordingly, systems and methods for regulating access of an appliance through the service RJ45 port would be desirable. More specifically, a system for identifying and authenticating authorized versus unauthorized usage of an appliance or access to the appliance operating software would be particularly beneficial. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention. 
     In one exemplary embodiment, an appliance is provided including a cabinet, an external communication port positioned on the cabinet, a wireless communication module in wireless communication with a remote server through an external network, and a controller in operative communication with the external communication port and the wireless communication module. The controller is configured to receive, using the wireless communication module, a secure unlock command from a remote server, the secure unlock command being generated when a remote service device transmits appliance identification data to the remote server, and unlock the external communication port to permit the remote service device to access operating software through the external communication port. 
     In another exemplary embodiment, a method of operating an appliance is provided. The appliance includes an external communication port, a wireless communication module in wireless communication with a remote server through an external network, and a controller in operative communication with the external communication port and the wireless communication module. The method includes receiving, using the wireless communication module, a secure unlock command from the remote server, the secure unlock command being generated when a remote service device transmits appliance identification data to the remote server, and unlocking the external communication port to permit the remote service device to access operating software through the external communication port. 
     In another exemplary embodiment, a method of using a remote server to authenticate access to an external communication port of an appliance is provided. The method includes receiving a request to access operating software of the appliance, the request including appliance identification data from a remote service device, verifying the authenticity of the remote service device, and transmitting a secure unlock command to the appliance through a wireless communication module, the secure unlock command requesting that the appliance unlock an external communication port to permit the remote service device to access the operating software. 
     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 washing machine appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. 
         FIG.  2    provides a side cross-sectional view of the exemplary washing machine appliance of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  3    illustrates a method for operating a washing machine appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  4    provides a schematic representation of an appliance software access process using an appliance external communication system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. 
         FIG.  5    provides a schematic representation of another appliance software access process using an appliance external communication system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. 
     
    
    
     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 or spirit 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 and/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 and/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 and/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  and/or door  134  for selectively locking door  134  in the closed position and/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  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. 
     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), a 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 and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND/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 and/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 and/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 as disclosed herein. For example, in some embodiments, methods disclosed herein 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 and/or may be split up so that the data is stored in multiple locations. In addition, 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  170  will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. In general, external communication system  170  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  170  may be used to transfer data or other information to improve performance of one or more external devices or appliances and/or improve user interaction with such devices. 
     For example, external communication system  170  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 device  174 . As described in more detail below, these communications may be facilitated using a wired or wireless connection, such as via a network  172 . In general, external device  174  may be any suitable device separate from washing machine appliance  100  that is configured to provide and/or receive communications, information, data, or commands from a user. In this regard, external device  174  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. 
     In addition, a remote server  176  may be in communication with washing machine appliance  100  and/or external device  174  through network  172 . In this regard, for example, remote server  176  may be a cloud-based server  176 , and is thus located at a distant location, such as in a separate state, country, etc. According to an exemplary embodiment, external device  174  may communicate with a remote server  176  over network  172 , 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  174  and remote server  176  may communicate with washing machine appliance  100  to communicate similar information. 
     In general, communication between washing machine appliance  100 , external device  174 , remote server  176 , and/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  174  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  172 . For example, network  172  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), and/or protection schemes (e.g., VPN, secure HTTP, SSL). 
     External communication system  170  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  170  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. 
     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 input selectors  162 . Wash tub  124  is filled with water, detergent, and/or other fluid additives, e.g., via spout  152  and/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 and/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 and/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, and/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 briefly to  FIGS.  4  and  5   , washing machine appliance  100  may be coupled to a remote server and/or a remote service device using any suitable wired or wireless connection. Specifically, as illustrated, washing machine appliance  100  may generally include an external communication port  190  that is positioned on cabinet  102  or which is otherwise accessible through cabinet  102 . In general, external communication port  190  may be any suitable communications interface for interacting with an external source or device (identified herein generally as remote service device  192 ). For example, according to exemplary embodiments, external communication port  190  may be an RJ45 network interface, a universal serial bus (“USB”) interface, or any other suitable communications interface. According to exemplary embodiments, external communication port  190  is directly electrically and communicatively coupled to an appliance control board (e.g., controller  166 ). 
     External communication port  190  may generally be configured for facilitating wired communications between an external device, such as remote service device computer  192  and the associated appliance (e.g., such as washing machine appliance  100 ). For example, external communication port  190  may be used facilitate appliance programming, to perform appliance maintenance, to adjust operating parameters, to modify the operating software, or to perform any other action using washing machine appliance  100 . While common uses of external communication port  190  may include appliance maintenance or manufacturer programming, this port may also inadvertently provide a security weakness or potential access point that may be used by hackers or other unauthorized user for nefarious or unauthorized purposes. In this regard, as noted above, an unauthorized user may plug in an external device (such as a computer) to the RJ45 external communication port  190  using an electrical cable (not shown). In this manner, with the proper knowledge and skill, it may be possible for the unauthorized user to obtain undesirable access to the appliance control board. 
     Referring still to  FIG.  1   , washing machine appliance  100  may be in operative communication with a remote device such as a cell phone or other remote device  174  via a network  172 . In addition, network  172  may contain or be in communication with a remote server  176 . According to exemplary embodiments, external communication system  170  may be used to authorize access to the control software of the appliance, e.g., to perform specific operating cycles, make appliance adjustments, authorize credits, manage a payment system, charge for operation, or perform other suitable commercial operations using washing machine appliance  100 . 
     Notably, as explained briefly above, appliances such as washing machine appliance  100  may commonly be involved in financial transactions, such as where the owner of the appliance has placed the appliance in a shared environment where people may pay to use one or more features of the appliance. Notably, consumers may try to tamper with these appliances in order to perform appliance operations, enable features, or otherwise cause the appliance to perform certain functions for free. For example, a consumer may make unauthorized access to washing machine appliance  100 , e.g., via external communication port  190 , in order to obtain such appliance access and control. Accordingly, aspects of the present subject matter are directed to systems and methods for preventing such unauthorized appliance tampering. 
     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, and/or different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well, e.g., vertical axis washing machine appliances. In addition, aspects of the present subject matter may be utilized in any other suitable appliance, particularly those utilized in a commercial setting. For example, aspects of the present subject matter may be utilized in refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, etc. 
     Now that the construction of washing machine appliance  100  and the configuration of controller  166  and external communication system  170  have been presented according to exemplary embodiments, an exemplary method  200  of operating a washing machine appliance will be described. Although the discussion below refers to the exemplary method  200  of operating washing machine appliance  100 , one skilled in the art will appreciate that the exemplary method  200  is applicable to the operation of a variety of other washing machine appliances, such as vertical axis washing machine appliances. Moreover, method  200  may be used to prevent unauthorized access or use of any appliance, particularly commercial appliances. In exemplary embodiments, the various method steps as disclosed herein may be performed by controller  166  or a separate, dedicated controller. 
     According to various embodiments of the present subject matter, method  200  is generally intended to prevent unauthorized access to an appliance such as washing machine appliance  100 . For example, washing machine appliance  100  may include an external communication port, such as an RJ 45 port, through which authorized maintenance technicians may access and manipulate appliance operating software. However, this external communication port may also be exploited by parties seeking unauthorized access to the operating software, e.g., to adjust operating parameters, initiate unpaid operating cycles, or have other undesirable interactions with washing machine appliance  100 . Method  200  is generally directed to methods for restricting unauthorized access to washing machine appliance  100 . Although an exemplary implementation of method  200  is described below, it should be appreciated that variations and modifications to this method may be made while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  3   , method  200  includes, at step  210 , receiving, using a wireless communication module of the appliance, a secure unlock command from a remote server. In this regard, for example, a wireless communication module  196  of controller  166  of washing machine appliance  100  may be in secure wireless communication with a remote server  176  through network  172 . Remote server  176  may generate the secure unlock command that is transmitted to washing machine appliance  100  in a secure, encrypted manner. Specifically, as described in more detail below, this secure unlock command may be a request to unlock an external communication port  190  of washing machine appliance  100  to facilitate interaction with a maintenance technician (e.g., via remote service device  192 ) or otherwise permit manipulation of appliance operating software through external communication port  190 . 
     In general, the secure unlock command may be generated in a variety of circumstances where authentic, authorized interaction with the external communication port  190  is desired. For example, according to exemplary embodiments, the secure unlock command may be generated when a remote service device belonging to an authorized maintenance technician transmits an unlock request to remote server  176  along with appliance identification data suitable for identifying the appliance to be serviced. Once the appliance is properly identified using the appliance identification data and the requesting party is authorized or authenticated, remote server  176  may send the secure unlock command. 
     As used herein, the term “appliance identification data” is generally intended to refer to any identifying information or data related to an appliance to be serviced or an appliance where interaction with an external communication port is desired. For example, the appliance identification data may include one or more of the appliance model number, serial number, or other unique identifying code. Other means for identifying appliances and other appliance identification data may be used while remaining within scope the present subject matter. 
     In addition, it should be appreciated that the appliance identification data may be obtained by parties seeking access to the appliance in any suitable manner. For example, continuing the example above, the maintenance technician or remote service device  192  may obtain the appliance identification data by inspecting washing machine appliance  100 . In this regard, the appliance identification data may be any suitable visual identifier displayed on a cabinet  102 , such as a barcode, a QR code, or the alphanumerical serial number of the appliance. In addition, or alternatively, remote service device  192  may obtain the appliance identification data from the maintenance request. In this regard, when the owner of washing machine appliance  100  requests a maintenance visit, they may input suitable appliance identification data along with that request. Other suitable manners of obtaining the appliance identification data are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter. 
     Once the appliance identification data and request from the remote service device  192  are obtained, remote server  176  may perform an authentication or authorization process whereby the remote service device  192  and/or the maintenance technician or other party seeking access to the external communication port  190  are verified as approved parties. For example, remote server  176  may crosscheck the remote service device  192  with a list of authorized accessing parties, may ensure that the maintenance visit was a requested or scheduled maintenance visit, or may authorize the accessing party in any other suitable manner. 
     Step  220  includes unlocking an external communication port of the appliance to permit the remote service device to access operating software through the external communication port. In this regard, once washing machine appliance  100  receives the secure unlock command from remote server  176 , it may unlock external communication port  190  to permit interaction between the appliance and external parties. Although the terms “lock” and “unlocked” are used herein to describe the states of external communication port  190 , it should be appreciated that these states are not necessarily intended to mean a physical locking of the port but instead are intended to refer to the ability of an external party to access washing machine appliance  100  through external communication port  190 . For example, if external communication port  190  is in a locked state, remote service device  192  (or other devices) may transmit data or requests to washing machine appliance  100 , but these requests may simply be ignored or discarded. 
     According to exemplary embodiments, remote server  176  and/or washing machine appliance  100  may provide a notification when the external communication port  190  is unlocked an available for interaction. For example, display  164  of washing machine appliance may provide an audible notification or display a message indicating that external communication port  190  is unlocked and awaiting communications or data. In addition, or alternatively, remote server  176  may transmit a notification to a remote service device  192  when the secure unlock command is sent to the washing machine appliance  100  or when the external communication port  190  has been unlocked. 
     Notably, method  200  may further include steps for locking external communication port  190  to prevent unauthorized access after an authorized maintenance session. In this regard, step  230  may include determining that the remote service device has disconnected from the external communication port, that the service session has ended, or that a timeout occurred. Moreover, step  240  may include locking the external communication port to prevent further access to the operating software. In this regard, if washing machine appliance  100  detects that remote service device  192  has removed the electrical cable or connector from external communication port  190 , it may assume that the service session has ended and may lock the external communication port  190  to prevent further interaction with the operating software. Alternatively, an end service notification may be transmitted from remote service device  192  directly to washing machine appliance  100  or to the remote server  176  when the authenticated service session has ended, after which washing machine appliance  100  may lock the external communication port  190 . According to still other embodiments, washing machine appliance  100  may be configured to lock the external communication port  190  a predetermined amount of time after unlocking the external communication port  190  (e.g., after 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 24 hours, etc.). 
       FIG.  3    depicts steps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and discussion. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, will understand that the steps of any of the methods discussed herein can be adapted, rearranged, expanded, omitted, or modified in various ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, although aspects of method  200  are explained using washing machine appliance  100  as an example, it should be appreciated that this method may be applied to the operation of any other appliance, particularly any commercial appliance. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  4   , a schematic system and communication protocols for implementing an exemplary method  300  of authenticating a maintenance access request and unlocking an external communication port to permit access by a maintenance computer will be described. For purposes of discussion,  FIG.  4    illustrates interactions with washing machine appliance  100 , so like references may be used to refer to the same or similar features. 
     As illustrated, when remote service device  192  arrives on site to perform a maintenance visit for washing machine appliance  100 , at step  302 , the service tool or the maintenance technician may directly inspect washing machine appliance  100  for appliance identification data. Specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, remote service device  192  may scan the QR code on cabinet  102  of washing machine appliance  100  to obtain the appliance identification data. According to alternative embodiments, remote service device  192  may obtain the appliance identification data in any other suitable manner, e.g., such as directly through a maintenance request order. 
     Step  304  may include transmitting to remote server  176  via a network  172  a request to unlock external communication port  190  of washing machine appliance  100 . Remote server  176  may authenticate remote service device  192  and at step  306 , transmit the secure unlock command directly to wireless communication module  196  of washing machine appliance  100 . Notably, this transmission may be encrypted and secure such that the potential for tampering is negligible. Upon receiving the secure unlock command, controller  166  may unlock the external communication port  190  at step  308 . 
     According to exemplary embodiments, external communication port  190 , washing machine appliance  100 , and/or remote server  176  may, at step  310 , transmit a notification to remote service device  192  when external communication port  190  is unlocked. Step  312  may include facilitating full communications between washing machine appliance  100  and remote service device  192  through external communication port  190 , e.g., to facilitate a maintenance process, to access operating software, to adjust operating parameters, or to make any other changes interactions with controller  166  of washing machine appliance  100 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  5   , a schematic system and communication protocols for implementing an exemplary method  400  of authenticating a maintenance access request and unlocking an external communication port to permit access by a maintenance computer will be described. For purposes of discussion,  FIG.  5    illustrates interactions with washing machine appliance  100 , so like references may be used to refer to the same or similar features. In addition, method  400  may include many of the same or similar steps as methods  200  and  300 . 
     As shown, method  400  may include, at step  402 , obtaining appliance identification data of washing machine appliance  100  (e.g., in a manner similar to step  302 ). Step  404  may include transmitting the appliance identification data along with a request for a service key that permits access to external communication port  190 . Upon receiving the request from an authenticated remote service device  192 , remote server  176  may generate an encrypted service key. This key may be automatically generated upon request, may be a rolling key that is reproduced at predetermined time periods, may be associated with one appliance or a suite of appliances belonging to the same owner, or may be generated in any other suitable manner. Step  406  may include transmitting the encrypted service key directly to remote service device, e.g., through an encrypted connection. In addition, step  408  may include transmitting the encrypted service key directly to washing machine appliance  100 , e.g., via wireless communication module  196 . 
     Step  410  may include transmitting from the remote service device  192  the encrypted service key along with the request to access the external communication port  190  directly to washing machine appliance  100 . Upon receiving the access request and encrypted service key, washing machine appliance  100  may compare the encrypted service key received from remote service device  192  with the encrypted service key received from remote server  176 . If these keys do not match, washing machine appliance  100  may deny access to the external communication port  190 . By contrast, if the encrypted service keys match, step  412  may include unlocking external communication port and step  414  may include permitting full communication between remote service device  192  and operating software of washing machine appliance  100 . 
     Aspects of the present subject matter are generally directed to a washing machine providing a means for securing an external communication port/bus after production. For example, appliances commonly include an external RJ45 port that is accessible and is commonly used for engineering development such as software updates, reading data and controlling the appliance for product development, production test loop, or software qualification. Accordingly, this external port is important to the development lifecycle of an appliance. However, this port also creates a security concern after the product has been produced and is out in the field, specifically when used in a commercial field. In this regard, the washing machines built with the external RJ45 used for development, testing, and manufacturing process creates a security risk when used for paid services and is located in a public setting. However, eliminating RJ45 would create a manufacturing and development issues and so a solution is desirable to properly secure the external communication bus after production. 
     Accordingly, aspects of the present subject matter are generally directed to solutions for securing an appliance external communication bus after production. This solution may include halting the communication of firmware through the external communication bus by blacklisting commands, dropping messages, or disabling the communication bus altogether. Securing the external communication bus can be done at runtime using any combinations of conditions like number of cycles completed, a predetermined time after power up, or storing a command sent during the appliance manufacturing process or control board manufacturing process in a non-volatile memory, or upon connection of the washing machine to the cloud, or entering key sequence through an user interface that will be performed during product installation or by owner action through an app or cloud portal. 
     In addition, aspects of the present subject matter are directed to methods for remotely unlocking the washing machine external communication bus through a secure remote server, e.g., owned, operated, or controlled by the appliance manufacturer. Specifically, the secure remote server may have a secure, encrypted connection with the appliance wireless communication module. The external communication port may remain locked until an unlock command is securely sent from the secure remote server to the appliance. For example, the remote server may send the unlock command upon verifying the authenticity of the actor and purpose of accessing the appliance, such as when a service technician needs access to the appliance software to perform a software update. 
     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.