U.S. patent application number 13/080942 was filed with the patent office on 2012-10-11 for magnifying door for a washing machine appliance.
This patent application is currently assigned to GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY. Invention is credited to Alexander Boris Leibman.
Application Number | 20120255328 13/080942 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46965036 |
Filed Date | 2012-10-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120255328 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Leibman; Alexander Boris |
October 11, 2012 |
MAGNIFYING DOOR FOR A WASHING MACHINE APPLIANCE
Abstract
The present invention relates to a lid or a door for a washing
machine and, more particularly, to a door that provides
magnification of the interior of the washing machine. The door
provides a magnified view of the washing chamber of the appliance
to improve consumer perception of the capacity of the washing
chamber while also allowing the consumer to view the washing
chamber when the machine is operating.
Inventors: |
Leibman; Alexander Boris;
(Prospect, KY) |
Assignee: |
GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
Schenectady
NY
|
Family ID: |
46965036 |
Appl. No.: |
13/080942 |
Filed: |
April 6, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
68/131 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 13/08 20130101;
D06F 39/14 20130101; D06F 37/28 20130101; D06F 23/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
68/131 |
International
Class: |
D06F 13/08 20060101
D06F013/08 |
Claims
1. A washing machine, comprising: a cabinet defining an opening; a
wash chamber for containing articles to be washed, said wash
chamber accessed by the opening through which articles are placed
into said wash chamber; an agitation device present in said wash
chamber for moving the articles to be washed within said wash
chamber; and, a door that is attached to said cabinet, said door
being selectively movable between an open position and a closed
position whereby said door closes the opening defined by said
cabinet, said door comprising a window through which said wash
chamber is visible when said door in the closed position, said
window configured to magnify the appearance of said wash chamber
through said window.
2. A washing machine as in claim 1, wherein said window is
constructed as a magnifying glass having a convex shape.
3. A washing machine as in claim 1, wherein said window is
constructed from tempered glass.
4. A washing machine as in claim 1, wherein said window is
constructed from poly(methyl methacrylate).
5. A washing machine as in claim 1, wherein said window is
constructed from a polycarbonate.
6. A washing machine as in claim 1, wherein said door further
comprises a frame into which said window is received.
7. A washing machine as in claim 1, wherein said window is larger
than the opening in said cabinet.
8. A washing machine as in claim 1, wherein the washing machine is
a vertical axis washing machine defining the opening on top of the
cabinet.
9. A washing machine as in claim 1, wherein said washing machine is
a horizontal axis washing machine defining the opening on a side of
the cabinet.
10. A door for a washing machine, the washing machine having a wash
chamber accessible through an opening defined by the cabinet of the
washing machine, the door comprising: a window configured for
selective placement over the opening of the washing machine whereby
a user may open or close access to the wash chamber through the
opening, said window providing a magnification of the wash chamber
when said window is placed in a closed position over the opening of
the washing machine.
11. A door for a washing machine as in claim 10, further comprising
a frame configured for a hinged connection to the washing machine,
wherein said window is received into said frame.
12. A door for a washing machine as in claim 10, wherein said
window is constructed as a magnifying glass having a convex
shape.
13. A door for a washing machine as in claim 10, wherein said
window is constructed from tempered glass.
14. A door for washing machine as in claim 10, wherein said window
is constructed from poly(methyl methacrylate).
15. A door for a washing machine as in claim 10, wherein said
window is constructed from a polycarbonate.
16. A door for a washing machine as in claim 10, wherein said
window is larger than the opening in the cabinet of the washing
machine.
17. A door for washing machine as in claim 10, wherein said window
further comprises at least one hinge for attachment to the washing
machine.
18. A door for washing machine as in claim 10, wherein said window
is illuminated.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to lid or door for a washing
machine and, more particularly, to a lid that provides
magnification of the interior of the washing machine.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Washing machine appliances are a common purchase for
residential use among consumers. When shopping for a washing
machine appliance, consumers may consider a variety of factors in
their purchasing decision. For example, consumers may consider
energy efficiency, user selectable features such as cycles for
different articles being washed, the size and color of the
appliance, and still other factors as well.
[0003] For washing machine purchases, one important factor in
consumer decision making is the capacity of the washing machine. A
washing machine typically includes a wash chamber where articles
are received for cleaning. The size of the wash chamber determines
the amount or volume or articles that can be washed in a single
wash load. The size is generally provided as a capacity
specification in advertising to consumers. The capacity is also
available in product manuals that are usually provided with the
appliance. For example, modern washing machines may have capacities
of 3.4, 3.7, 4.3, and 5.1 cubic feet. Still other capacities may be
available as well. Smaller units, such as compact or stacked units
may have a capacity, for example, of 1.5 cubic feet.
[0004] When consumers compare washing machine products, they may
not rely solely on product manuals and advertising to compare the
capacities of different washing machines. Instead, consumers can
also compare photographs of various washing machines as well as
compare models on display e.g., in a retail store. More
specifically, with regard to capacity, consumers can visually
inspect the wash chambers of each washing machine to compare the
relative capacities of different machines.
[0005] Accordingly, in addition to the reported capacity, the
capacity of the wash chamber as perceived by the consumer can have
a substantial impact on the consumer's purchasing decision. In
addition, while the capacities between two different washing
machines may be substantially the same, the perceived capacity of
one unit may seem larger than another. For example, the size of the
door, the size of the agitator positioned within the washing
chamber, and other factors may affect the perceived capacity of the
washing machine.
[0006] Another factor that can affect a consumer's purchasing
decision is the ability to see inside the washing machine. Some
consumers may prefer washing machines having e.g., a viewing glass
through which the consumer can view the operation of the machine.
As such, the consumer can visually inspect the agitation of the
articles, the water level, and other aspects of the operation of
the washing machine.
[0007] Accordingly, a device that improves a consumer's perception
of a washing machine would be useful. More particularly, a device
that improves a consumer's perception of the capacity of a washing
machine relative to other appliances would be beneficial. Such a
device that also allows a consumer to view the interior of the
washing machine and see the wash chamber even when the machine is
operating would also be particularly useful.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0008] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in
part in the following description, or may be obvious from the
description, or may be learned through practice of the
invention.
[0009] In one exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides
a washing machine having a cabinet defining an opening and a wash
chamber for containing articles to be washed. The wash chamber is
accessed by the opening through which articles are placed into the
wash chamber. An agitation device is present in the wash chamber
for moving the articles to be washed within the wash chamber. A
door is attached to the cabinet. The door is selectively movable
between an open position and a closed position whereby the door
closes the opening defined by the cabinet. The door includes a
window through which the wash chamber is visible when the door is
in the closed position. The window is configured to magnify the
appearance of the wash chamber through the window.
[0010] In another exemplary embodiment, the present invention
provides a door for a washing machine, the washing machine having a
wash chamber accessible through an opening defined by the cabinet
of the washing machine. The door includes a window configured for
selective placement over the opening of the washing machine whereby
a user may open or close access to the wash chamber through the
opening. A window provides a magnification of the wash chamber when
the window is placed in a closed position over the opening of the
washing machine.
[0011] 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
[0012] 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, in which:
[0013] FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of an exemplary
embodiment of a washing machine of the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a partial, top view of the exemplary embodiment of
a washing machine shown in FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of the door or lid
of the exemplary embodiment of a washing machine in FIG. 1, taken
along line 3-3 of FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0016] The present invention relates to a lid or a door for a
washing machine and, more particularly, to a door that provides
magnification of the interior of the washing machine. The door
provides a magnified view of the washing chamber of the appliance
to improve consumer perception of the capacity of the washing
chamber while also allowing the consumer to view the washing
chamber when the machine is operating. 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.
[0017] As used herein, the term "article" may refer to but need not
be limited to fabrics, textiles, garments (or clothing), and
linens. Furthermore, the term "load" or "wash load" refers to the
combination of articles that may be washed together in a washing
machine and may include a mixture of different or similar articles
of different or similar types and kinds of fabrics, textiles,
garments and linens within a particular laundering process. Also,
the term "door" or "lid" can be used interchangeably herein, it
being understood that the present invention may be used with both
vertical axis and horizontal axis washing machines.
[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary vertical axis
washing machine 10 as may be used with the present invention. FIG.
2 provides a partial, top view of washing machine 10 where the
interior is more visible than in FIG. 1. Washing machine 10
includes a cabinet 12 having a cover 14. A backsplash 16 extends
from cover 14. A variety of appliance control input selectors 20
are coupled to backsplash 16. Input selectors can be of a touch
type such as touchpad as shown or may include more traditional
knobs and dials. Regardless, input selectors 20 provide an
interface whereby the user may operate the machine and select
various operation features of the appliance. A display may also be
provided on backsplash 16 for notifying the user of various aspect
of the machine's operation including e.g., the mode of operation,
water temperature selected, and other information as well.
[0019] A wash chamber 30 is located within cabinet 12. Wash chamber
30 is accessed through opening 35, which is used to insert or
remove articles of a wash load. Wash basket 32 is rotatably mounted
within wash chamber 30. Basket 32 includes a plurality of apertures
or perforations 33 therein to facilitate fluid communication
through wash basket 32. As such, perforations 33 allow water to be
e.g., removed from wash basket 32 by draining as part of a wash,
spin, or rinse cycle. An agitator, impeller, or oscillatory basket
mechanism 34 is disposed in basket 32 to impart an oscillatory
motion to articles and liquid in basket 32. A motor (not shown)
provides for the movement of agitator 34. Wash chamber 30 is also
in fluid communication with one or more pumps and/or drains for the
removal of water, such as grey water, from chamber 30 such as e.g.,
after a wash or rinse cycle.
[0020] Washing machine 10 is controlled by a processing device or
other controller, such as a microprocessor (not shown), according
to user preference via manipulation of control input selectors 20
mounted on backsplash 16. As used herein, processing device may
refer to one or more microprocessors or semiconductors devices and
is not restricted necessarily to a single element. The processing
device can be programmed to operate washing machine 10 according to
features desired by the consumer.
[0021] As illustrated in FIG. 1, agitator 34 is oriented to rotate
about a vertical axis. It is contemplated, however, that the
benefits of the present invention can also apply to horizontal axis
washing machines as well. More specifically, the washing machine of
FIGS. 1 and 2 is provided by way of example only. Using the
teachings disclosed herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will
understand the present invention may be used with washing machines
of various other configurations in both residential and commercial
applications.
[0022] As also shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, washing machine 10 is
equipped with a door 40 that attached to the cover 14 of cabinet
12. Preferably, door 40 is connected by one or more hinges or other
suitable mechanism that allows door 40 to be selectively moved
between the closed position shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and an open
position whereby articles may be placed through opening 35 and into
wash chamber 30. Although opening 35 and door 40 are positioned on
the top of vertical axis washing machine 10, using the teachings
disclosed herein one of ordinary skill in the art will understand
that a horizontal axis washing machine may be equipped with an
opening and door on the side of the washing machine in an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
[0023] Door 40 includes a window 42 through which wash chamber 30
is visible when door 40 is in the closed position shown in FIGS. 1
and 2. Window 42 is constructed in a manner such that it provides
magnification of the wash chamber 30 when viewed through window 42
in the closed position shown. More specifically, window 42 operates
in a manner similar to a magnifying glass. In fact, as shown in
FIG. 3, window 42 may indeed have a convex shape similar to a
traditional magnifying glass although such is not necessarily
required by the present invention.
[0024] Because the appearance of wash chamber 30 is magnified, the
perceived capacity of washing machine 10 is increased. This
increased perceived capacity can provide for an improved perception
of washing machine 10 by e.g., a potential consumer comparing
machine 10 with other products. In addition, window 42 provides a
magnified view of the contents of wash chamber 30 during operation
of washing machine 10, which can also be a desirable feature to
certain consumers. Door 40 can also be equipped with a light for
illuminating the opening 35, window 42, and/or wash chamber 30.
[0025] Referring now to FIGS. 1 through 3, door 40 includes a frame
44 into which window 42 is received. More particularly, frame 44 is
provided with a groove 46 or other feature for receiving and fixing
the position of window 42 in frame 44. The configuration shown in
FIG. 3 is provided by way of example only. A variety of other
mounting configurations for window 42 into frame 44 may be used as
well. Adhesives, seals, gaskets, and combinations thereof may also
be used to for fixing window 42 within frame 44. In addition, door
40 may also be constructed without frame 44. More specifically,
door 40 can also be constructed entirely from window 42. As such,
window 42 may be larger than opening 35. Conversely, door 40 can
also be constructed with a larger frame such that window 42 is much
smaller than shown in FIGS. 1 through 3. Again, using the teachings
disclosed herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate
that a variety of configurations may be applied.
[0026] A variety of materials may be used for the construction of
window 42. Preferably, such material will be compatible with the
detergents and temperatures used in washing machine 10. In
addition, the material used for window 42 is preferably either
shatter proof or constructed from material that, if broken, creates
pieces with a minimal amount of sharp edges. For example, window 42
might be constructed from a transparent polycarbonate, which is a
very durable material that is sometime used in the manufacture of
bullet resistant panes or windows and is also sometimes used in the
manufacture of eyeglasses.
[0027] Window 42 could also be constructed from poly(methyl
methacrylate), or PMMA, which is a transparent thermoplastic that
is sometimes used as a lighter, and more shatter resistant
alternative to glass. PMMA is also sometimes referred to as acrylic
glass and has been sold e.g., under the trademark Plexiglas.RTM..
Tempered glass can also be used for the construction of window 42.
Tempered glass is manufactured by process that gives the glass
strength while also causing the glass to break into small fragments
instead of shards if the glass is shattered. Other materials
capable of providing a magnification of wash chamber 30 may be used
as well.
[0028] 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.
* * * * *