U.S. patent application number 13/072043 was filed with the patent office on 2011-07-14 for washing appliance.
Invention is credited to James Osgood, Mario Rabaiotti, Andrew Reason.
Application Number | 20110167877 13/072043 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39878012 |
Filed Date | 2011-07-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110167877 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Reason; Andrew ; et
al. |
July 14, 2011 |
Washing Appliance
Abstract
A washing machine or other laundry appliance has a drum that
rotates during washing cycles of the appliance. The appliance
further incorporates a ballast system including a reservoir having
means for permitting water to flow between said reservoir and the
drum, an inlet for enabling said reservoir to be filled with water,
and an outlet for enabling water to be drained from said reservoir.
The appliance further incorporates means for filling said reservoir
and maintaining said reservoir substantially full of water during
the washing cycles. Weight of the reservoir when it is
substantially full of water acts to counter balance vibrations
generated by the rotation of the drum during the washing cycles of
the appliance.
Inventors: |
Reason; Andrew; (Withybush,
GB) ; Rabaiotti; Mario; (Withybush, GB) ;
Osgood; James; (Withybush, GB) |
Family ID: |
39878012 |
Appl. No.: |
13/072043 |
Filed: |
March 25, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12094930 |
Jan 26, 2009 |
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PCT/GB2006/004406 |
Nov 24, 2006 |
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13072043 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
68/139 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 37/02 20130101;
D06F 37/00 20130101; D06F 39/02 20130101; D06F 39/022 20130101;
D06F 39/04 20130101; D06F 37/30 20130101; D06F 39/125 20130101;
D06F 39/001 20130101; D06F 23/065 20130101; D06F 33/00 20130101;
D06F 37/265 20130101; D06F 37/04 20130101; D06F 37/20 20130101;
D06F 37/225 20130101; D06F 34/28 20200201 |
Class at
Publication: |
68/139 |
International
Class: |
D06F 25/00 20060101
D06F025/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 25, 2005 |
GB |
0523974.4 |
Nov 25, 2005 |
GB |
0523978.5 |
Nov 25, 2005 |
GB |
0523980.1 |
Nov 25, 2005 |
GB |
0523981.9 |
Jun 27, 2006 |
GB |
0612666.8 |
Jul 12, 2006 |
GB |
0613782.2 |
Claims
1. A ballast system for a washing machine having a drum, wherein
the drum rotates during washing cycles of the washing machine, the
ballast system comprising: a reservoir having means for permitting
water to flow between said reservoir and the drum, the reservoir
further comprising an inlet for enabling said reservoir to be
filled with water and an outlet for enabling water to be drained
from said reservoir; and means for filling said reservoir and
maintaining said reservoir substantially full of water during the
washing cycles; wherein weight of said reservoir when it is
substantially full of water acts to counter balance vibrations
generated by the rotation of the drum during the washing
cycles.
2. A ballast system according to claim 1, further comprising:
pumping means for pumping water between said reservoir and the
drum.
3. A ballast system according to claim 1, wherein: said ballast
system is controlled by a control program that controls said
washing machine.
4. A washing machine comprising: a drum that rotates during washing
cycles of the washing machine; a ballast system including a
reservoir having means for permitting water to flow between said
reservoir and the drum, an inlet for enabling said reservoir to be
filled with water and an outlet for enabling water to be drained
from said reservoir, and means for filling said reservoir and
maintaining said reservoir substantially full of water during the
washing cycles; wherein weight of said reservoir when it is
substantially full of water acts to counter balance vibrations
generated by the rotation of the drum during the washing
cycles.
5. A washing machine according to claim 4, further comprising:
heating means for heating water from said reservoir for supply to
said drum.
6. A washing machine according to claim 5, wherein: said heating
means is provided in a flow path between said reservoir and said
drum.
7. A washing machine according to claim 5, wherein: said heating
means is contained within said reservoir and operates to heat water
held within said reservoir.
8. A washing machine according to claim 7, wherein: said reservoir
is divided into a plurality of sub-reservoirs.
9. A washing machine according to claim 8, wherein: at least one of
said sub-reservoirs contain said heating means to heat water held
therein.
10. A washing machine according to claim 5, wherein: said heating
means comprises at least one heat generating resistance
element.
11. A washing machine according to claim 5, wherein: said heating
means comprises at least one microwave heating means.
12. A washing machine according to claim 4, further comprising: a
base with a plurality of recesses defined therein, the base adapted
to rest on a support surface; and transport members mounted via
compressible means relative to respective recesses in said base
such that when said reservoir is filled with water, the weight
thereof acts to compress said compressible means and cause said
base to be lowered towards said support surface such that at least
said compressible means enters said respective recesses and said
base rests on said support surface, and said transport members
positioned by said compressible means below said base when said
reservoir is empty such that said transport members interface to
said support surface.
13. A washing machine according to claim 12, wherein: said
transport members comprise at least one castor wheel.
14. A washing machine according to claim 13, wherein: said
transport members comprise a plurality of castor wheels, being
mounted via a respective plurality of compressible means relative
to said respective recesses in said base.
15. A washing machine according to claim 12, wherein: said
compressible means comprises at least one spring.
16. A washing machine according to claim 12, further comprising: a
set of pads provided on said base to increase friction between said
base and said support surface.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/094,930, filed on May 23, 2008, which is a
national stage application of International Appl. No.
PCT/GB2006/004406, filed on Nov. 24, 2006 with a priority date of
Nov. 25, 2005, and which claims priority from GB Patent Appl. No.
0523974.4 filed on Nov. 25, 2005, GB Patent Appl. No. 0523980.1
filed on Nov. 25, 2005, GB Patent Appl. No. 0523978.5 filed on Nov.
25, 2005, GB Patent Appl. No. 0523981.9 filed on Nov. 25, 2005, GB
Patent Appl. No. 0612666.8 filed on Jun. 27, 2006, and GB Patent
Appl. No. 0613782.2 filed on Jul. 12, 2006, all herein incorporated
by reference in their entireties.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention generally relates to washing
apparatus, and more specifically a laundry appliance.
[0004] 2. Related Art
[0005] The first aspect of the present invention relates generally
to a drum for a laundry appliance, and more specifically to an
improved drainage system for a laundry appliance.
[0006] In general, a washing machine follows a sequence of pre-set
actions depending on a program selected by a user. Typically, a
washing machine comprises a drum into which laundry is placed.
During a wash program the drum fills with water and is then caused
to rotate so as to cause an agitating fin therein to `agitate` the
laundry. Next, the dirty water (and detergent) is drained and the
drum spins to remove most of the water. The drum then refills with
clean water and is again caused to rotate so as to agitate the
laundry and ensure it is thoroughly rinsed. Finally, the drum is
again drained and caused to spin at high speed so as to remove as
much water as possible from the laundry at the end of the
cycle.
[0007] In conventional washing machines, a drum generally comprises
two main parts, the first being an inner perforated cylinder, into
which the laundry is placed, housed within a larger water-tight
cylinder, arranged such that the inner cylinder can rotate therein.
Clearly the usable capacity of such a drum is limited by the need
for co-axial cylinders with a gap therebetween.
[0008] A second aspect of the present invention relates generally
to laundry appliances and more specifically to a means for
supplying water for use in a wash cycle of a laundry appliance.
[0009] In general, when a wash cycle is initiated in a washing
machine, cold water is drawn into the rotational drum and heated
therein to the required temperature prior to commencing the wash
cycle. Hot, dirty water that has been used during the wash cycle is
then drained out of the drum, to be replaced by a further quantity
of cold water from the mains supply. Not only is this process
wasteful of water, but it also requires a significant amount of
energy to heat the very cold water being pumped directly from the
mains supply in respect of every wash cycle. Furthermore, because
the cold water is heated in the drum (with the laundry) the choice
of heating means is limited to means that can be provided in the
drum and can be used in close proximity to the laundry without
damage to either the laundry or the heating means. Thus, it has not
always been possible to use the most energy efficient water heating
means in conventional laundry appliances.
[0010] A third aspect of the present invention generally relates to
consumer appliances and more specifically to a programming system
suitable for such appliances.
[0011] Consumer appliances have evolved in recent years from simple
machines into feature-rich complex products. For example, current
washing machines have several user-selectable options to tailor a
wash to an individual's needs, including numerous temperature
settings, material types, spin speed, in addition to a large number
of special functions such as easy iron, extra rinse and even a
child lock facility. With such a wide range of functions and
features, everyday use of modern appliances has become somewhat
arduous.
[0012] A fourth aspect of the present invention relates generally
to a rotating drive linkage, suitable for a variety of applications
including washing machines.
[0013] Many machines include parts or components that rotate about
an axis, these parts often being driven by motorized means. In many
cases, the component to be rotated is directly driven by a motor,
via some gearing, but this is only feasible when there is a
capacity for the motor and the component to be situated adjacent to
one another. If there is a distance between the motor and the point
of contact of the component then an intermediate linkage, or drive
linkage, is used to span the gap and ensure that the force
generated by one is applied to the other, and this can be in the
form of a belt, shaft, chain or the like. The constraints imposed
by drive linkage are that they generally are not designed to
accommodate relative movement between the components they link.
FIG. 12 of the accompanying drawings shows a belt system 300
utilized to link two components 302, 304 laterally. Such a system
generally uses a tensioning pulley 306 to ensure there is no slack
in the system. This allows a certain amount of relative movement
between the input 302 and output 304 components, as demonstrated by
moving the output 304b and accordingly moving the position of the
tensioning pulley 306b. However, this certainly cannot be done
during operation. Referring now to FIG. 13, a shaft orientated
drive linkage 310 is shown, commonly used to link components
longitudinally. An example is a prop shaft in a four-wheel drive
car. Here there is the possibility for a small degree of elliptical
movement between the two 312, 314, providing either one or the
other is not fixed in space and further providing either end of the
shaft 316 has a connection 318 allowing for multiple degrees of
freedom. This movement is however primarily lateral and there is no
provision for pure longitudinal separation.
[0014] A fifth aspect of the present invention relates generally to
dispensing apparatus for a washing appliance, and more
particularly, to an automatic dispensing apparatus for liquid
substances, such as detergent and fabric softener, used in washing
appliances including washing machines and dishwashers.
[0015] The drawer of a washing appliance, such as a washing
machine, is designed to accept consumable substances such as
washing powder, tablets or liquid detergent, as well as liquid
fabric softener. When pouring liquid or particulate substances into
the above-mentioned draw, it is possible to dispense too much or
too little or to spill the substance and mix detergent and
softener. When using a consumable in a form other than tablet, such
that the user has to gauge a dosage of the substance to be
introduced to the wash, it is often difficult to determine the
correct amount that is required relative to the amount and type of
laundry being performed, which can lead to an inadequate wash, or
unnecessary wastage.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a
washing machine drum of increased capacity, without proportionately
increasing the overall size of the appliance.
[0017] In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention
there is provided a drum for a washing machine, the drum comprising
generally cylindrical receptacle which is rotatably mounted within
a washing machine housing and has an opening for loading and
unloading laundry. The receptacle is defined by a substantially
solid outer wall having at least one aperture therein, and means
for guiding liquid purged from said laundry upon rotation of said
drum towards said at least one aperture such that said liquid is
expelled from said receptacle via said at least one aperture.
[0018] Preferably, the means for guiding liquid purged from the
laundry upon rotation of the drum towards said at least one
aperture comprises a channel, preferably having a proximal deep end
and a distal shallower end, relative to said at least one aperture,
such that rotation of the drum forces the liquid from the shallower
end to the deep end and said liquid is expelled from the receptacle
via said at least one aperture.
[0019] Beneficially, a plurality of said channels are provided in
respect of said at least one aperture. Beneficially, said drum is
provided with a plurality of apertures and one of more respective
channels are preferably provided to guide said liquid purged from
said laundry upon rotation of said drum towards each of said
plurality of apertures. Preferably, a plurality of said channels
guide said liquid purged from said laundry upon rotation of said
drum towards said plurality of apertures. A plurality of said
channels may be provided in a herringbone configuration.
[0020] Preferably, a valve is provided within said at least one
aperture to control the flow of said liquid through said aperture
and in the case where said drum comprises a plurality of apertures,
each said aperture is beneficially provided with a valve. The
valve(s) may be actuated by mains water pressure or by a
centrifugal force generated by the rotation of said generally
cylindrical receptacle, providing the significant benefit of being
able to release water from the drum when stationary and/or when
spinning. This enables improved control of the evacuation of water
from the drum, such that evacuation may be actuated both when the
drum is rotating and when the drum is stationary.
[0021] Beneficially, said opening comprises a hatch, said hatch
being liquid light when in a closed position and permitting the
loading and unloading of laundry when in an open position.
[0022] Thus the above mentioned object is achieved by providing a
drum consisting of a single cylinder that is generally
substantially water-tight under normal conditions, yet can purge
water therefrom both during a `spin cycle` and when the drum is
stationary, thereby removing the need for co-axial cylinders as
described with reference to the prior art and as such increasing
the usable capacity of the drum, although co-axial cylinders may
still be used under some circumstances.
[0023] The present invention extends to a washing machine
comprising a drum according to any one of the preceding claims,
rotatably mounted in a housing, drive means for rotating said drum
during a wash cycle, and control means for controlling one or more
parameters of a wash cycle, wherein said control means comprises
means for interrupting a wash cycle and permitting access to said
opening in said drum.
[0024] Preferably, said opening is provided in a side wall of said
drum and said control means is arranged and configured to halt
rotation of said drum so as to interrupt a wash cycle when said
opening is at or close to top dead centre (TDC) of said drum, such
that access to said opening can be permitted whilst retaining
liquid within said drum.
[0025] Thus, the configuration of an exemplary embodiment of the
invention enables a user to pause a wash cycle and open the drum,
which is not possible with conventional designs.
[0026] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
water supply system for a laundry appliance which overcomes at
least some of the problems of the prior art outlined above, and can
significantly improve the energy efficiency of a laundry appliance
relative to the prior art.
[0027] In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention
there is provided a water supply system for a washing machine
having a rotational drum for receiving laundry, the water supply
system comprising a reservoir having means for permitting water to
flow between said reservoir and said drum, the reservoir further
comprising an inlet for enabling said reservoir to be filled with
water and an outlet for enabling water to be drained from said
reservoir, the system further comprising means for filling said
reservoir and maintaining said reservoir substantially full of
water between washing cycles of said washing machine, and means for
transferring water from said reservoir into said drum for use in a
wash cycle.
[0028] Thus the above-mentioned object is achieved by providing a
reservoir, separate from the washing machine drum, that is filled
with cold water (from the mains supply) between wash cycles. The
water, which is held in the reservoir between washes will often
have time to be heated to a temperature approaching the ambient
temperature of the surroundings, so that it requires less energy to
heat the water up to the correct temperature for the selected wash
cycle. In one exemplary embodiment, means may be provided for
delaying commencement of a wash cycle until the water in the
reservoir is at least a predetermined temperature. Preferably,
heating means are provided for heating the water in the reservoir
prior to transfer thereof to said drum. Because the water is heated
in the reservoir and not in the drum, any energy efficient heating
means can be used, e.g. microwave heating means. Such heating means
may be provided in the flow path between said reservoir and said
washing machine drum, or said reservoir may contain heating means,
to heat water held therein. In the latter case, said reservoir may
be divided into a plurality of sub-reservoirs, wherein one or more
of said sub-reservoirs beneficially contain a heating means to heat
water held therein.
[0029] Beneficially, pumping means are provided for pumping water
between said reservoir and the drum of said washing machine.
[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the weight of the reservoir when
it is substantially full of water acts to counter balance
vibrations generated by rotation of said drum during a wash cycle.
Thus, the water supply system can conveniently double up as a
ballast system for the washing machine. The water supply system is
beneficially controlled by the control program of the washing
machine.
[0031] Beneficially, the reservoir is mounted on or adjacent the
outer wall of said drum, such that heat from the water therein
during the wash cycle is transferred to the water in the reservoir,
to aid in raising the temperature thereof.
[0032] The second aspect of the present invention extends to a
washing machine having a drum and a water supply system as defined
above.
[0033] The second aspect of the present invention further extends
to a laundry appliance having a rotatable drum and a ballast system
comprising a reservoir having an inlet for enabling said reservoir
to be filled with water such that the weight thereof acts to
counter-balance vibrations generated by rotation of said drum
during a laundry cycle and an outlet to enable water to be drained
from said reservoir, said laundry appliance further comprising
transport members extending from the base thereof and resting on a
support surface when said reservoir is empty, said transport
members being mounted via compressible means relative to respective
recesses in said base of said laundry appliance such that when said
reservoir is filled with water, the weight thereof acts to compress
said compressible means and cause said base of said laundry
appliance to be lowered towards said support surface such that at
least said compressible means enters said respective recesses and
the base of said laundry appliance rests on said support
surface.
[0034] Thus, by mounting a washing machine on a set of selectively
contractible and extendable transport members, such as rollers, the
rollers will protrude from the base of the machine when the weight
of the ballast is below that required to counter-balance the
rotation of the drum, in use, thereby allowing the machine to be
moved easily on the rollers. When the weight of the ballast is
increased to counterbalance rotation of the drum during use, a
large downward force is created in respect of the washing machine,
and the machine is lowered towards the ground, for stability during
use. The washing machine is pushed down over the rollers so that
they are retracted into respective recesses in the base of the
machine.
[0035] Beneficially, said roller means comprises at least one
castor wheel, and more preferably a plurality of castor wheels.
[0036] Preferably, said compressible means comprises at least one
spring.
[0037] Beneficially, a set of pads or the like are provided on the
base of the machine to increase friction between said machine and
said support surface.
[0038] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a programming system, for an appliance, that is simpler to control
accurately as compared to the prior art.
[0039] In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention
there is provided a programming system for controlling an appliance
comprising: [0040] a single manual control means; [0041] display
means; [0042] a plurality of actionable events; [0043] wherein,
said actionable events are represented graphically on said display
means, said manual control means providing a means of selecting in
combination a plurality of said plurality of actionable events.
[0044] Preferably, said plurality of actionable events are divided
into executing events, master events and sub events, said master
events defining a number of said sub events and said executing
events executing said master event and said master events may be
configured, using said manual control means, to contain any number
of non mutually exclusive said sub events.
[0045] Beneficially, said programming system remembers a plurality
of previously selected configurations of said actionable
events.
[0046] Preferably, said single manual control means comprises a
multi-functional button.
[0047] Beneficially, said display means comprises a single LCD
array, and/or an array of LEDs, each of said LEDs in said array of
LEDs being identifiable as to associating with a respective said
actionable event and said array of LEDs is configured as two
concentric ovals, an inner oval and an outer oval, with textual
annotation identifying a respective said actionable event for each
LED in said outer oval, said inner oval proving a cursor function
to identify which LED of said outer oval is currently selected,
said cursor function being manipulated by said manual control means
or said array of LEDs is configured as two concentric ovals, an
inner oval and an outer oval, with textual annotation identifying a
respective said actionable event for each LED in said inner oval,
said outer oval proving a cursor function to identify which LED of
said inner oval is currently selected, said cursor function being
manipulated by said manual control means.
[0048] The third aspect of the present invention further extends to
a washing machine, being controllable by a programming system
according to a system as described. Preferably, said washing
machine comprises a recess and said programming system is provided
in a module arranged and configured to be retained within said
recess and selectively retracted therefrom for use.
[0049] Thus the above mentioned object is achieved by utilizing one
button operation for selecting features by way of a cursor to
control the state of the appliance.
[0050] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a drive linkage in respect of two or more components that allows
for longitudinal relative movement between the components.
[0051] In accordance with the fourth aspect of the present
invention there is provided a drive linkage for linking at least
one rotatable input means and at least one rotatably mounted output
means, such that rotation of said input means causes corresponding
rotation of said output means via said drive linkage, wherein said
drive linkage comprises at least one linkage member configured to
enable longitudinal relative movement between said at least one
input means and said at least one output means.
[0052] It will be understood that the longitudinal relative
movement is in a direction substantially parallel to the axis of
rotation of said input and said output means.
[0053] In one exemplary embodiment of the fourth aspect of the
present invention, the linkage member may comprise an extendable
and retractable linkage member for enabling said longitudinal
movement. Alternatively, the linkage member may comprise means for
selectively decoupling and recouping said at least one input means
and said at least one output means. Preferably, in this case, the
linkage member comprises means for selectively disconnecting and
reconnecting said input means (i.e. the drive) relative to the
output means.
[0054] Preferably, the drive linkage comprises at least one linkage
arm pivotally connected at one end to said input means and at the
other end to said output means, the linkage arm comprising a pair
of substantially rigid, elongate bars, rotatably connected
together. The drive linkage may comprise a plurality of said
linkage arms. The linkage arm is beneficially configured such that
in its contracted position it fits against or within the contours
of a face of the input and/or output means.
[0055] Alternatively, said resiliently flexible linkage means may,
for example, comprise a spring or one or more telescopic
members.
[0056] Preferably, said at least one input means comprises a
rotatably mounted shaft.
[0057] Preferably, said at least one output means comprises a
rotatably mounted drum of an appliance such as a washing machine.
In fact, the present invention extends to a laundry appliance
having a rotatably mounted drum linked to a rotatable shaft via a
drive linkage as defined above, and means for rotating said shaft
so as to rotate said drum via said drive linkage.
[0058] Thus the above mentioned object is achieved by providing a
linkage, such as a resiliently flexible linkage, connecting at
least one input means to at least one output means, that
efficiently communicates a rotational force therebetween, yet
permits a degree of longitudinal movement relative to one another
in the allowed plane.
[0059] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a dispensing apparatus for automatically dispensing a
suitable quantity of a washing substance so as to alleviate at
least some of the problems outlined above.
[0060] In accordance with the fifth aspect of the present invention
there is provided a dispensing system for use in a washing
apparatus. The system comprises at least one reservoir for holding
a number of doses of a washing substance, regulating means for
selectively opening said reservoir to release a pre-determined
quantity of said washing substance held therein in response to a
control signal, said control signal defining said predetermined
quantity and causing said regulating means to open said reservoir
for a period of time sufficient to release said predetermined
quantity of said washing substance.
[0061] The system preferably further comprises means to determine
the weight of the contents of the drum, such that said
predetermined quantity of washing substance is calculated based on
the weight of the contents of the drum. The predetermined quantity
of washing substance is preferably additionally dependent on the
washing program selected.
[0062] Preferably, the dispensing system comprises a plurality of
reservoirs, for holding respective different types of washing
substance.
[0063] Beneficially, said regulating means comprises a valve, or
more preferably, a plurality of valves, the state of which are
actuated by a control signal.
[0064] Preferably, said control signal is generated by a control
program.
[0065] Said at least one reservoir may be supplied with a pump for
pumping a washing substance from within said reservoir to said
regulating means, said pump preferably being controlled by a
control program. The control program is preferably arranged and
configured to control the parameters of a cycle of said washing
apparatus, said parameters being at least partially definitive of
said predetermined quantity of said washing substance.
Alternatively, a gravity-controlled feed system may be used instead
of a pump.
[0066] Preferably, said at least one reservoir has a re-sealable
hatch, for allowing the ingress of liquid, said at least one
reservoir which may be of a transparent or translucent material,
and preferably being removable and replaceable, to allow for
cleaning of said reservoir, possibly by hand or in a dishwasher,
for example. In a different embodiment, said at least one reservoir
may be disposable and may be removed and discarded for
bio-degrading, to be replaced by a further disposable reservoir.
There is preferably further provided a receptacle for receiving a
washing substance, said receptacle being in fluidic communication
with said reservoir and said pump. This feature provides the
benefit that the pump will not empty of washing substance thereby
preventing the pump having to be purged every time the reservoir is
emptied.
[0067] The fifth aspect of the present invention further extends to
a washing apparatus having a receptacle for receiving a load of
laundry and a dispensing system as defined above, wherein means are
provided for causing said predetermined quantity of said washing
substance released from said reservoir to be introduced into said
receptacle.
[0068] Thus, the above mentioned object is achieved by providing at
least one, and more preferably two reservoirs for disposal in or on
a washing apparatus, wherein electronic dosage regulation means,
beneficially linked into the main control program of a washing
apparatus and the laundry weight determining means, determines a
quantity of liquid or particulate detergent and/or liquid fabric
softener required for a particular size and/or type of laundry
load, and automatically administers the substance accordingly
during a laundry cycle. In addition, this arrangement eliminates
the need for a user to manually administer detergent(s) in respect
of every laundry cycle.
[0069] These and other aspects of the present inventions will be
apparent from, and elucidated with reference to, the embodiment
described herein.
[0070] Embodiments of the aspects of the present inventions will
now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0071] FIG. 1 is a representation of a flat, unassembled drum
according to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect of the
present invention.
[0072] FIG. 2a shows a cross-sectional representation of the sum
gradient of the channels.
[0073] FIG. 2b is a schematic representation of the drum from FIG.
1 as assembled.
[0074] FIG. 3 is a schematic drawing of a first exemplary dump
valve for use in an arrangement according to an exemplary
embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.
[0075] FIGS. 4a and 4b are schematic front and cross-sectional
views respectively of a second exemplary dump valve for use in an
arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the first
aspect of the present invention.
[0076] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a drum and ballast tank of a
washing machine according to a first exemplary embodiment of the
second aspect of the present invention.
[0077] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a divided ballast chamber
according to a second exemplary embodiment of the second aspect of
the present invention.
[0078] FIGS. 7a and 7b are schematic diagrams illustrating a set of
spring-loaded castor wheels that operate in relation to the ballast
tanks in an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect of the
present invention.
[0079] FIG. 8 is a diagram of a menu arrangement of a programming
system according to a first exemplary embodiment of the third
aspect of the present invention.
[0080] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a pull-out programming module
according to a first exemplary embodiment of the third aspect of
the present invention, including a display carrying the menu of
FIG. 8.
[0081] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a programming system according to a
second embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention.
[0082] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of the information that may be
displayed on a screen according to first and/or second embodiment
of the third aspect of the present invention.
[0083] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrative of a drive
linkage according to the prior art comprising a belt.
[0084] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrative of a drive
linkage according to the prior art comprising a shaft.
[0085] FIG. 14 is a schematic side view illustrating a variable
drive linkage according to an exemplary embodiment of the fourth
aspect of the present invention, shown in its closed
configuration.
[0086] FIG. 15 is a schematic side view of the drive linkage of
FIG. 14 shown in its open configuration.
[0087] FIG. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the drive
linkage of FIG. 14 shown in its open configuration.
[0088] FIG. 17 is a representation of the system according to a
first exemplary embodiment of the fifth aspect of the present
invention.
[0089] FIG. 18 is a representation of the system according to a
second exemplary embodiment of the fifth aspect of the present
invention.
[0090] FIG. 19 is a representation of the system according to a
third embodiment of the fifth aspect of the present invention,
being characterized by removable pods.
[0091] FIG. 20 is a representation of the system of the third
embodiment of the fifth aspect of the present invention including
further beneficial features.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0092] Referring to FIG. 1 of the accompanying drawings, a drum 1
according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention is formed of
an elongate rectangular piece of metal, which is bent round and the
ends joined together to form an open cylinder. There is a suitably
sized, possibly, but not necessarily, substantially rectangular
aperture 2 located approximately centrally in terms of the length
and width of the metal piece forming the drum 1, that provides an
opening for placing laundry into and removing laundry from, the
drum 1 when assembled 3. A plurality of elongate drain channels 5
are provided in the piece of metal 1, which channels 5 run
laterally across the piece of metal.
[0093] Referring to FIG. 2a of the drawings, the drain channels 5,
when viewed cross-sectionally all slope in the same direction from
a shallow start point 7 to a distal deep end point 9. Each deep end
point 9 defines a valve housing 8 comprising a circular purging
aperture 13 located centrally in an offset circular recess 15, such
that if the piece of metal were to be held in a substantially
horizontal orientation and a quantity of liquid were introduced to
a drain channel 5 at the shallow start point 7 (or indeed at any
intermediate point along its length), it would flow due to gravity
from the point of introduction to the deep end point 9 and through
the circular purging aperture 13 located centrally in an offset
circular recess 15. In FIG. 2a, the sum gradient that is defined by
the configuration of all the drain channels 5 can clearly be seen.
A tapered portion 17 of the drain channel 5, located behind the
purging aperture 13 (relative to the shallow start point 7),
provides a reverse gradient that ensures that most liquid that is
directed towards the purging aperture 13 exits at that point.
[0094] Referring back to FIG. 1, the elongate drain channels 5 are
each fed by a respective plurality of elongate, parallel guide
channels 19, arranged in banks and having substantially the same
sum gradient as the drain channels 5. The guide channels 19 run
into a respective drain channel 5 at an angle of substantially say,
45.degree. and any two adjacent banks of guide channels 19 are
arranged in a herring-bone configuration as shown. Such a
herring-bone configuration provides increased performance over an
arrangement whereby water is directed in an opposing direction to a
purging aperture 13 located within the spine of the herring-bone.
Utilizing a channel along the spine of the herring-bone directing
water to an outlet at the point at the tip of the chevron or
herring-bone would also provide reasonable water purging, however,
through the angle and increasing depth of the guide channels 19 and
drain channels 5 directed towards apertures 13 provides increased
water purging efficiency. For the available surface area with which
to direct water from the drum 1, the use of such a herring-bone
arrangement directing water to a cornermost purging aperture 13
leads to significant water purging of the drum 1, in particular
along the spin cycle.
[0095] Referring now to FIG. 2b, the drum 1 is shown, in its
assembled form, i.e. a cylindrical drum 3. As the drum 3 rotates
about its central axis 21 with an angular velocity 23, a
centrifugal force 25 (F) is created, as shown. It will be apparent
from FIG. 2b that this force 25 acts perpendicular to a plane on
the circumference of the cylinder 3 and will cause any liquid
inside the drum to move to the inner walls thereof and into the
guide channels 19. The water then flows from the guide channels 19
into the respective drain channels 5 and then the valve housing 11.
Thus, water inside the drum 3 is directed, during a spin cycle, to
specific points, i.e. the valve housings 11 provided at the wall
thereof, and as such, means such as a dump valve can be provided at
these points to expel the directed liquid as a by-product of the
spin-cycle.
[0096] Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 4 of the accompanying drawings,
a cross-sectional perspective representation of two respective
exemplary embodiments of a dump valve 27 are shown. The dump valve
27 comprises an upper section and a lower section separated by a
cylinder separator within which is provided a stem seal 29a,
through which passes a valve stem 31. In the upper half of the
valve, the piston head 33 is provided with a piston head seal 33a
that provides a liquid-tight seal between itself and the
surrounding inner face of the wall 35 of the upper section. The
cylinder separator 29 may be formed integrally with the wall 35, as
shown in FIG. 4 of the drawings. A fluid inlet/outlet port 37 is
provided in the cylinder wall 41, as shown in FIG. 4a of the
drawings. At the top of the upper section there is provided a lid
39 that substantially follows the contours of a side wall 41 and
further provides a limit point for how far the piston 43, 45, 47
may travel in that direction. An aperture 49 is provided in the
side wall 51, which provides an external connection to the mains
water supply. A compressible spring 53 provided in cooperation with
the piston which acts to return the piston to its equilibrium
position when the valve is closed.
[0097] The valve piston stem 45 extends downwardly into the lower
section of the valve and terminates in a plug 55, the lower outer
edges of which are tapered inwardly to provide a seal between the
piston and the drum wall when the valve is closed. The seal may be
broken and the valve opened by raising the piston. As shown in FIG.
3, a concentric collar 57 may be provided around the lower end of
the valve, the collar 57 surrounding the piston head 59 and being
connected to the underside of the piston stem seal 29a at the top
and connected to the inner face of the drum 3 at the bottom. A
plurality of generally arch shaped apertures 61 are formed around
the bottom of the collar 57 to allow ingress of water from the drum
3 when the piston 43, 45, 63 is raised and the valve is therefore
open. This opening action is facilitated by mains water pressure
entering the upper section of the valve through the aperture 49,
thereby exerting pressure on the lower face of the piston head seal
33a that provides a liquid-tight seal between itself and the
surrounding inner face of the wall 51 of the upper section so as to
force the piston 43, 45, 63 upwards towards its limit at the lid
39. Whilst in this position water may pass from inside the drum 3,
through the plurality of arch shaped apertures 61 and be purged
from the drum 3 through the purging aperture 13. When the mains
pressure is no longer present the spring 53 causes the piston to
return to its closed position. A dump valve 27 as described is
particularly beneficial as may be actively controlled, rather than
functioning passively, and may be activated when the drum is
stationary as well as when the drum is spinning. This provides an
increased amount of control of the washing machine. When the drum
is rotating at a critical speed, during a spin cycle, for example,
the valve opens by the piston 43, 45, 47 lifting upwards (in
relation to the diagram of FIG. 3) such that arch shaped apertures
61 formed around the bottom of the collar enable water
therethrough. Additionally, when the drum is stationary, the valve
can be opened through the application of water pressure through
aperture 49.
[0098] Referring to FIG. 5 of the drawings, a washing machine
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
comprises a drum 101 anchored to a base 103 via four separate
damping means. As the drum 101 is actuated round its axis of
rotation 105 it causes lateral vibrations that would, if anchored
to the base 103 alone, cause the washing machine to fall over. A
heater unit 107 is provided under the drum 101 for heating cold
water for use during a wash cycle. Ballasting means 109 are
provided comprising one or more interconnected hollow containers of
a strong yet light material, such as a high density polymer. The
ballasting means 109 is connected to the cold water source at its
inlet point and further connected to the drum at its outlet point,
such that cold water enters via the inlet, fills the ballasting
means 109 to a desirable level and may further overflow into the
drum itself or be pumped there. There is a facility for the outlet
of the ballasting means 109 to pass directly to the heater 107
prior to entering the drum 101, or alternatively the heater 107 may
be provided within the ballasting means 109.
[0099] The heater unit 107 could comprise standard resistance
elements, or possibly microwave heating means.
[0100] Referring now to FIG. 6, a divided ballast tank according to
a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a
ballast tank 111 divided into three chambers 111a, 111b, 111c, each
chamber being separate from one another, with the exception of a
valve 113 that provides a connection between adjacent chambers.
Each chamber 111a, 111b, 111c has an independent energy source
115a, 115b, 115c as well as an outlet pipe 117a, 117b, 117c through
which water may pass to the drum. There is also provided a water
input means 119a, 119b, 119c to each chamber 111a, 111b, 111c, so
that cold water from the mains can be introduced to the chambers.
Alternatively, there could be one water input per cluster of three
chambers 111a, 111b, 111c and the internal valves 113 could be used
to distribute the water therebetween. In this embodiment, the water
contained in each chamber 111a, 111b, 111c can be heated
independently from one another, such that if a wash cycle is chosen
by a user that only requires a small quantity of water, a single
chamber, say 111a, could be heated and pumped (not shown) to the
drum by way of the outlet pipe 117a, rather than heating an
equivalent chamber three times its volume and then only using a
third of it. The programming system 210 of the washing machine
controls when the energy sources 115a, 115b, 115c are turned on and
off as well as the outlet functions 117a, 117b, 117c, in relation
to a chosen input by a user. This presents obvious energy saving
benefits as only the water required for an imminent wash is heated,
thereby saving the energy necessary to heat the unused water.
[0101] The internal valves 113 help to maintain the stability of
the machine by letting water flow between the ballast chambers
111a, 111b, 111c, such that there is no uneven weight distribution
that could cause the machine to fall over as it operates. Ensuring
the tanks are symmetrically drawn down also helps in this
regard.
[0102] The chambers 111a, 111b, 111c may be of equal size or may be
provided in different sizes to suit different wash cycles chosen by
the user.
[0103] Referring now to FIG. 7, in a further aspect of the present
invention a set of four spring-loaded castor wheel arrangements are
incorporated into the base of the washing machine body 125, being
arranged with one in each corner. The spring loaded castor wheel
arrangements each comprise a castor wheel 127, the top end of which
is connected to a strong compressible spring 129 that sits within,
and may be fixed to, the top inner face of a substantially vertical
hole, recessed in the base of the washing machine body 125. Castor
wheels are stated by way of example and may be replaced by any
transport means that are not directionally fixed, to increase the
maneuverability of the washing machine.
[0104] The strength of each spring is such that when the ballast of
the machine is empty the castor wheels 127 protrude from the base
of the washing machine body 125 and are in communication with the
floor 131, allowing the machine to be easily movable across the
floor 131 (as shown in FIG. 3a). When the ballast within the
machine is filled with liquid, the extra weight compresses the
springs 129 such that the machine drops downwardly towards the
floor 131 and engages the floor 131 with four protruding rubber
studs 133 (see FIG. 3b). Although springs 129 are stated for use in
the system, it should be noted that any means that provides a
similar action may be used alternatively or in combination. A set
of rubber, (or any material with a reasonable coefficient of
friction), studs 133 are provided on the base of the machine, to
provide friction that opposes any lateral movement generated when
the machine is in use.
[0105] When it is required to move the washing machine, the ballast
may be drained, thereby reducing the overall weight acting on the
springs 129 and as such the wheels 127 deploy from the base of the
washing machine body 125 causing the washing machine body to raise
from the floor 131 (and with it the rubber studs 133) so that the
machine may be freely `wheeled` to its desired position.
[0106] Because each castor wheel 127 is independently
spring-loaded, it allows for any uneven areas in the floor to be
compensated for, both when moving the machine and when it is
stationary. The system described could be replaced by having a
common connection between the four castor wheels 127 that is itself
spring loaded, but this would require a stronger spring and reduce
the ability to compensate for uneven surfaces.
[0107] Referring to FIG. 8, a schematic drawing of a menu
arrangement 200 is shown. It comprises essentially three concentric
ovals, the inner two being formed by a plurality of Light Emitting
Diodes (LEDs) 201, 203, or Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs)
with an equal number in each oval. The outer oval takes the form of
textual annotations relating to respective pairs of LEDs 201, 203
such that for each inner LED 201, there is an intermediate LED 203
and an associated outer sentence of text 205 representative of a
function.
[0108] The inner oval of LEDs represents a `selection cursor` 203
that can be shifted, ideally in either direction, in accordance
with the manual rotation of a multi-functional button. The cursor
aspect is achieved by lighting only one of the LEDs at a time, so
manually rotating the button will cause the lighted LED to appear
to move around the oval accordingly.
[0109] The intermediate oval of LED's provide a `selected
indicator` 201, corresponding to which of the functions have been
selected by moving the cursor 203 such that it is as close to the
indicator 201 as can be, then selecting that function by pressing
the same multi-functional button. This will illuminate the
indicator 201, and subsequently ensure that when the selection
process is complete and the appliance is started the function
associated with the text 205 corresponding to the indicator 201
will run. Unlike the cursor 203 level, the indicator 201 level is
not limited to a single LED being lit at any one time, but is
constrained in that only one 201 may light within mutually
exclusive sub-groups (for example temperature).
[0110] Once all the required functions have been indicated 201 by
the cursor 203 the start function may be initiated to begin the
appliance cycle in the same way that functions are selected.
[0111] At the end of a complete operation the appliance stores
details of the completed operation in an internal task memory. The
task memory always contains the details of the last 3 operations,
such that if it is desired to repeat the last operation again, or
the third from last for that matter, it could be achieved by simply
selecting a single command rather than having to indicate 201 each
separate function again. It is very simple to `tweak` an operation
from task memory should it be desirable to complete an almost
identical operation with some adjustment.
[0112] Some of the functions contain inherent data for some other
functions, that is automatically applied when they themselves are
selected. An example would be if selecting the function "wool" from
within the materials sub-group. This would automatically select a
low temperature to stop the wool shrinking during the wash. The
arrangement of the menu system is such that the most often used
functions are nearest to the cursor starting point and the least
often used the furthest away, contributing to a simple
selection.
[0113] The appliance may also be paused during operation, turned on
and turned off by pressing the multi-functional button 207.
[0114] Referring now to FIG. 9, a pull out module or "drawer" 209
is shown that is housed at the front of the machine in a convenient
and easily accessible position. The lit menu arrangement 201 is
shown as situated on the upper face 211 of the drawer, such that
when the drawer 209 is retracted from the machine the lit menu
arrangement 201 becomes visible to the user. A multi-functional
button 207 is provided on the front face 213 of the draw to control
the programming system. As well as using the lit menu arrangement
200 to view selections when controlling the appliance, there is
further provided a display panel in the form of an LCD screen 215
situated on the front face 213 of the drawer 209. The screen 215 is
normally visible, regardless of the position of the drawer 209, and
can display a limited quantity of information (e.g. the last one or
more programs selected by the user) such that it is not always
necessary to retract the draw 209 in order to select a wash
function. This can save the menu arrangement 201 and module 209
from getting as dirty as they might otherwise get.
[0115] The system delivers two key benefits--simplicity and ease of
use through one button operation and task memory as well as the
ability to easily customize operations to the exact need of the
user. The dual display means can for example, be configured to help
the user to view and easily select the last three washes they used
(and/or most popular washes), the stage of the wash cycle while in
operation and easily customize any element of it in terms of
temperature, spin speed, start time and so on. Additionally for
example, a user can over-ride the system such that the wash can be
paused at any time.
[0116] Referring now to FIG. 10 of the accompanying drawings, a
diagram of a programming system according to a second embodiment of
the present invention is shown, embodied as a washing machine. The
system comprises a front screen 220 that is built in to the front
face of the washing machine, at a convenient height to be viewed by
a user, that displays a program code that can be changed and
manipulated by use of a multi-functional button 222. The front
screen may comprise an LCD array, OLED display or any other means
capable of displaying text and numbers in relation to an electrical
signal. A program menu 224 is provided on the top of the washing
machine's drum (although it may be provided anywhere that is easily
accessible to the user), providing a comprehensive list of all the
user-definable program choices available to the user. The program
menu 224 is either printed on the top of the drum 226 or may be a
liquid-resistant sticker or sheet of a material that is adhered to
its location. The multi-functional button 222 is utilized by
rotation to scroll through the available program menu 224 options
as its elements are displayed in sequence on the front screen 220.
Pressing the button 222 will result in a `select` function that
chooses whatever program is represented by the text appearing on
the front screen 220 at the time it is pressed. Depending on which
program is itself `selected`, further options may be available to
be either selected or not and so on. In this way all the possible
programs and their associated sub-options may be scrolled-through
and selected as desired to initiate a wash. FIG. 11 indicates an
exemplary embodiment of the display on the front screen utilizing a
layered menu suitable for manipulation by the multi-functional
button 222.
[0117] Referring now to FIG. 11 in detail, pressing the button 222
for the first time turns the front screen 220 on and activates the
first display 230. Rotation of the button 222 causes scrolling
through the pre-set program menu 220. The first screen also
provides an indication, for example, of the levels of detergent
and/or conditioner. Options for highlighting deficiencies in these
levels can be achieved by displaying the respective text
highlighted with the appropriate information, or providing flashing
LEDs for example.
[0118] Depressing the button 222, once the required program is
selected, takes the user to the next selection menu 232, through
which further options are provided. Scrolling to "back" and
depressing the button 222 takes the user to first (or previous)
display 230, "start" takes the user to further display 234, and
scrolling to "options" then pressing button 222 takes the user to
another display 236. Display 232 indicates the details of the
program. If "start" is selected on the display 232 by scrolling to
"start" and pressing button 222, display 234 appears indicating the
time left, the details of the program selected, and options for
cancelling and/or pausing the program. If "pause" is selected by
scrolling to this option, pressing button 222 pauses the program
and display 238 appears.
[0119] Depressing button 222 when the "options" choice is scrolled
to on display 232 activates a further display 236 providing more
detailed options for the program. Examples are control of
detergent, conditioner, energy save, rinse hold, prewash, spin
speed and delay. If button 222 is scrolled to "delay", and pressed,
scrolling of button 222 can then vary the delay time period.
[0120] A user can again choose to replicate any of a finite number
(say three) of his/her last defined wash programs with a single
action using program memory as is described above.
[0121] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16 of the accompanying drawings, a
drive linkage 330 according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention is illustrated in which the input and output
components are a rotating shaft 332 and a washing machine drum 333
respectively. The rotating shaft 332 passes through a bearing 334,
contained in a bearing housing 334a, to a hub 336 having a door
closing mechanism 338 formed integrally therewith. The input
linkage arms 340a are generally in the form of a back to front `S`
shape when viewed at a plane parallel to the back face of the drum
333, the `S` having an elongated start and finish line and the two
angles defining the middle section being inwardly angled at
substantially 90 degrees. When viewed from a plane parallel to the
side of the drum 333 the input linkage arms 340a again have a
generally `chicane` shape, to follow the surface contours of the
circular depression formed centrally at the rear of the drum. At
either end of the input-end linkage arms 340a there is formed a
lateral circular aperture for receiving a linkage shaft that
ultimately forms a hinge joint when mated with corresponding
output-end linkage arms 340b.
[0122] The input-end linkage arms 340a, in use, sit adjacent to a
equal plurality of output-end linkage arms 340a, of substantially
similar shape such that they fit side by side allowing a single
common linkage shaft to pass through one of the concentric lateral
circular apertures 342a, 342b of a pair such that they may rotate
in this permitted plane relative to one another and as such form a
hinge 344. As stated above the distal end of each input-end linkage
arm 340a is connected to the hub 336. The distal end of an
output-end linkage arms 340a is mounted to the rear face of the
drum 333, therefore giving a configuration such that the rotating
shaft 302 and the drum 310 are in rotatable communication in
accordance with the input, yet the two are permitted to move
longitudinally relative to one another.
[0123] It is the manner in which the arms 340a, 340b interact that
enables the movement of the drum 333 relative to the drive
arrangement, i.e. the hinge 344 permits the longitudinal
displacement. The manner in which the arms 340a, 340b are
configured means also that there is no permitted relative movement
(bar play) in terms of rotation and this is essential to the
invention. Similarly, in another exemplary embodiment, the linkage
arms 340a, 340b could be replaced by a rotatably-rigid spring, that
permitted separation between its two ends but was rigid enough to
translate any applied rotation at one end to the other. In a
further embodiment the linkage arms 340a, 340b could be replaced by
a number of strong telescopic members, that would allow for
longitudinal separation but contemporaneously were strong enough to
provide the rotational translation.
[0124] Referring in particular to FIGS. 15 and 16, the drive
linkage is shown in its open configuration 350, where the drive
shaft 332 and the drum 333 are no longer immediately proximal.
Whereas in the configuration of FIG. 14, the two sets of linkage
arms 340a, 340b are adjacent along their length, in the illustrated
configuration, they are now only so at the point where the common
linkage shaft passes through one of the concentric lateral circular
apertures 342a, 342b of a pair. The distal ends 352, 354 of the
linkage arms 340a, 340b are thus separated through longitudinal
movement of the drum 333, thereby providing a permanent linkage
that allows a longitudinal separation between the input and output
components.
[0125] In an alternative embodiment, the drive may be coupled
directly to the drum by means of a coupling that can be selectively
disconnected and reconnected to enable the required longitudinal
movement of the drum relative to the drive.
[0126] Referring to FIG. 17 of the accompanying drawings, a
dispensing system 400 according to a first exemplary embodiment of
the fifth aspect of the present invention, comprises a detergent
pod 402 containing liquid detergent 404 and a liquid fabric
softener pod 406 containing liquid fabric softener 108. The two
pods 402, 406 may be made of a rigid, light weight polymer, however
any similar material, resistant to the intended contents would be
suitable and the present invention is not necessarily intended to
be limited in this regard. The pods 402, 406 are mounted in or on a
washing machine at a suitable location. The size of the pods 402,
406 are limited by the free space available, but beneficially, each
pod 402, 406 might be large enough to hold enough of the respective
substance for several washes. The two pods 402, 406 are commonly
connected to a regulating means 410 by way of a detergent transfer
pipe 412 and a softener transfer pipe 414 respectively. A
respective motor 416, 418 (in communication with an internal pump
(not shown)) at the back of each reservoir 402, 406 enables the
contents of each to be introduced to the drum 420 in accordance
with a control signal generated by the regulating means 410.
[0127] The regulating means 410 is a valve that is, by default,
closed such that neither the detergent 404 or the softener 408
flow. The regulating means 410 has a first input to which the
detergent transfer pipe is connected and a second input to which
the softener transfer pipe 414 is connected, as well as an outlet
channel 422 leading into the drum 420 of the washing machine. The
regulating means 410 may be an actuated valve or any other means
for ensuring that the respective substances 404, 408 do not enter
the drum 420 when it is not desired. The regulating means 410, in
the case of it being an actuated valve, is connected to and
controlled by the programming system 424 that signals when and for
how long the valve 410 should be open and accordingly, how long the
motors 416, 418 should be driven to dispense a desired quantity of
consumable 404, 408, based on the specific size and/or type of load
to be washed (as indicated by the program selected by the user
and/or any additional information input by the user and/or the
weight of the load to be washed). In a preferred embodiment,
information provided on the weight of the laundry and program
selected are used by the system 424 to determine the optimum
quantity of detergent and/or conditioner required. Voice
recognition means may be provided for this purpose, so that a user
who may be visually impaired or otherwise disabled may provide the
required information to the programming system controlling the
regulating means 410.
[0128] Feedback means is present both at a software and hardware
level, with an integral computer program that checks the state of
components, such as the valve 410 and motors 416, 418 to ensure
compliance with the program states, and buoyant means may be
provided inside the pods 402, 406 that can register a decrease in
the level of the respective substances 404, 408, as well as signal
the programming system 424 when a pod is nearly empty, so that a
warning signal, such as an indicator light visible to the user, can
be switched on.
[0129] The system 400 dispenses the correct quantity of liquid
detergent 404 and/or liquid softener 408 directly into the wash at
the correct times in accordance with the programming system 424
that operates the underlying components 416, 418, 410. Means are
provided 425 to measure or otherwise input the weight of the load
to be washed, and it is this weight that the programming system
uses to determine the quantity of laundry substance to be
dispensed.
[0130] The weight of the washing may be determined by a variety of
means 425, such as displacement of the damper (not shown) which
provides support to the drum, or alternatively displacement of the
drum itself. The weight of the contents of the drum may then be
calculated. Without such a measurement and calculation, the system
cannot be fully automatic and as such would require an additional
input value, most commonly at a user interface. This measurement
and the value derived dictates the volume of water (and
inadvertently the quantity of energy required to heat the water),
the volume of detergent, the volume of conditioner and the amount
of any other washing substances required to be added to the wash.
It will therefore be appreciated that efficiency is optimized,
whilst additionally the optimum quantities of additives to be wash
may be used, increasing economy and improving the quality of the
wash. Information received from the measuring device by the
programming system 424 is then fed to the regulating means 410 (for
example the internal pump (not shown)) to administer the correct
quantities. Information embedded in the system 400 at manufacture
stage, or at least before sale to an end user, and selectable
during a special "set up" program allows for the quantities to be
manipulated depending on geographical location regarding hardening
of the water.
[0131] Referring now to FIG. 18, as second exemplary embodiment of
the present invention shows a similar system 400 to that described
in FIG. 1. The system 400 again comprises two pods 402, 406,
containing consumable substances 404, 408 as in the previous
embodiment. In this embodiment, however, no motors are used to
convey the respective substances 404, 408 into the drum 420. The
detergent transfer pipe 412 and a softener transfer pipe 414 each
terminate in an actuated valve 430, 432, controlled by a signal
generated by the programming system 424 that signals when they
should open and for how long. Both valves 430, 432 are closed by
default, therefore allowing no substance 404, 408 to pass into the
drum 420. When a signal is sent by the programming system 424, in
relation to an input derived from the weighing means 425, the
relevant valves 430, 432 will open, resulting in a quantity of
substance 404, 408 flowing, by way of gravity, through the open
valve and into the drum. The quantity dispensed is determined by
the viscosity of the substance and the duration that the valve is
open. The programming system 424 will have information relating to
the viscosity of the substances 404, 408, and thereby stipulates
the correct time for the valve(s) to remain in an open state again
dependent on the program cycle, weight of the laundry etc. The
programming system may have a range of such values so that
different types of substance 404, 408 can be used and the user is
not restricted in this regard to one particular type/brand. The
user may manually identify the type of substance 404, 408 is being
used to fill the pods 402, 406 at the time of doing so.
[0132] Feedback means is again included, both at a software and
hardware level, with an integral computer program that checks the
state of the valves 430, 432 to ensure compliance with the program
states, and buoyant means may be provided inside the pods 402, 406
that can register a decrease in the level of the respective
substances 404, 408, as well as signal the programming system 424
when a pod is nearly empty, so that a warning signal, such as an
indicator light visible to the user, can be switched on. As there
are no motors included in this embodiment, the integral computer
program receives signals from the buoyant means as a check that the
levels are indeed decreasing as the valves 430, 432 are open to
ensure an alarm is sounded if `no flow` is detected.
[0133] Referring now to FIG. 19 of the drawings, a system is shown
according to a third embodiment of the fifth aspect of the present
invention. The system in this embodiment is essentially the same as
that of embodiment 1 (and also applicable to embodiment 2) with the
exception that the pods 406, 402, in this instance, are not fixed
within the machine. The pods 406, 402 here are designed to be
removable from the washing machine with a view to allowing them to
be washed out before refilling to prevent the substance within
congealing and hindering the dispensing capability. The pods 406,
402 are accepted into an orifice in the body of the washing machine
(not shown) which is of similar dimension to the circumference, or
general outer dimensions, of the pods 406, 402, such that they are
comfortably accepted therein. The orifice in the body of the
washing machine is located on the front face of the machine in a
preferred embodiment. This enables the machine to be either
free-standing or located under worktops. A dispensing nozzle at one
end of the pod 406, 402 interfaces with a housing 440 (within the
orifice in the exterior of the washing machine) that has a further
small orifice 442 within that clamps the nozzle and may act as an
interlock, enabling power to be supplied to the system pumps 416,
418 and valve 410 as well as signaling the programming system 424
that a pod is in place. An alternative embodiment of this specific
arrangement is described with reference to FIG. 4. The nozzle at
one end of the pod 406, 402 may incorporate a special valve
arranged and configured such that free flow of washing substances
are enabled when installed, however washing substances do not leak
out on removal and installation. The pods 406, 402 can be of
different shape to one another so that there is no confusion when
filling them with substance, as it is known that when liquid
detergent and fabric softener are mixed it provides a solution
extremely habitable for bacterial growth. If this is the case then
the respective orifices in the washing machine body for accepting
the pods 406, 402 will be of corresponding shape. It is preferable
that the pods 406, 402 comprise of a clear or transparent material
to aid a user to see the color of the substance inside, to further
reduce the chance of confusion when re-filling. To additionally
avoid confusion, these pods also reside on different sides of the
machine. In a preferred alternative embodiment, the system pumps
416, 418 may be metering pumps that actually meter the amount of
respective substance being dispensed. In this case, the valve could
be omitted and there may be two dispensing tubes to avoid
cross-contamination between laundry substances, or a separating
valve may be provided for the same purpose, thereby reducing
bacterial growth, dirt and congealing. Additionally, after the
washing substance is administered through the valve 410 and into
the system, water which may or may not be heated is flushed through
under pressure to wash the substance into the drum.
[0134] Referring to FIG. 20, a fourth embodiment of the fifth
aspect of the present invention is described which may be utilized
in conjunction with or excluding features of the first to third
embodiment, and in particular provides additional beneficial
features to the third embodiment of the present invention.
[0135] Water enters the drum through hot and cold water channels
450, 452, and inlets to channels 450, 452 are provided to enable
detergent and/or conditioner to pass therethrough. It will be
appreciated that alternatively a single channel may be utilized.
The pump 416, 418 pumps the required volume of detergent or
conditioner into the channel 450, 452 dependent on the information
received from the programming system 424, which in turn receives
information including the weight of laundry in the drum thereby
ensuring the correct volume of detergent and/or conditioner is
administered. In this embodiment of the present invention, an
additional docking module 454 is provided between the pods 406, 402
and pump 416, 418. This docking module 454 is a fixed reservoir
located at the rear of the washing apparatus behind, and in
communication with, pods 406, 402. The docking module 454 contains
a female mating valve 456 having an automatic opening and closing
device when linked to pods 406, 402. When in use, the docking
module 454 always contains a quantity of washing fluid
(detergent/conditioner) when the pods 406, 402 are empty. This
enables pods 406, 402 to be removed and cleared by a user, and also
ensures that the pump 416, 418 never dries out thereby preventing
the pump having to be purged every time the pod 406, 402 is empty.
This therefore removes the mismatch of quantity of laundry
substance delivered compared to the quantity required based on the
program selected and weight of laundry. The docking module 454 can
further detect when the pod 406, 402 is out of laundry substance
and provides and indication of this fact to a user, and
additionally allows for a fully automated operation.
[0136] The pods may be off the shelf items that are disposable once
empty, removing the need for any cleaning and also reducing the
probability of cross-contamination. Again, these pods may be of a
different shape to one another to further reduce the possibility of
confusion between them, and are sealed after filling on production
to avoid drying out. These may be disposed of to be
biodegraded.
[0137] Although the above-described embodiments include two pods,
it will be appreciated that any number of pods may be provided,
depending on the type and number of substances, required to be
administered during a laundry cycle. In conclusion, each of the
embodiments described may optionally provide the significant
benefit that the optimum amount of washing substances such as
detergent and softener at the correct time are provided in the wash
cycle according to the weight of the clothes and the wash program
selected. This enables optimal amount of detergent and softener to
be used at the optimal time, thereby maximizing wash performance
minimizing waste, and negating the need to fill the washing
apparatus with liquids each time a program is run.
[0138] It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments of
the various aspects of the present invention illustrates rather
than limits the invention, and that those skilled in the art will
be capable of designing many alternative embodiments without
departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the
appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed in
parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claims. The word
"comprising" and "comprises", and the like, does not exclude the
presence of elements or steps other than those listed in any claim
or the specification as a whole. The singular reference of an
element does not exclude the plural reference of such elements and
vice-versa. The invention may be implemented by means of hardware
comprising several distinct elements. In a device claim enumerating
several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and
the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are
recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate
that a combination of these measures cannot be used to
advantage.
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