U.S. patent application number 15/987992 was filed with the patent office on 2019-11-28 for washing machine appliance having a selective ventilation damper.
The applicant listed for this patent is Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.. Invention is credited to Thomas Earl McKeehan, JR., Nathaniel Lee Min Sheeran, Aaron Lee Welch.
Application Number | 20190360144 15/987992 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 68613866 |
Filed Date | 2019-11-28 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190360144 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sheeran; Nathaniel Lee Min ;
et al. |
November 28, 2019 |
WASHING MACHINE APPLIANCE HAVING A SELECTIVE VENTILATION DAMPER
Abstract
A washing machine appliance, including methods of operation
therefor, are provided herein. The washing machine appliance may
include a cabinet, a tub positioned within the cabinet, a wash
basket, a ventilation line, and a vent damper. The wash basket may
be rotatably mounted within the tub. The wash basket may define a
wash chamber for receiving articles for washing. The ventilation
line may define an air path from the tub to an ambient environment
outside of the cabinet. The vent damper may be positioned along
ventilation line in fluid communication therewith. The vent damper
may be selectively movable between a first position restricting
airflow through the ventilation line and a second position
permitting airflow through the ventilation line.
Inventors: |
Sheeran; Nathaniel Lee Min;
(Louisville, KY) ; McKeehan, JR.; Thomas Earl;
(Lexington, KY) ; Welch; Aaron Lee; (Louisville,
KY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc. |
Wilmington |
DE |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
68613866 |
Appl. No.: |
15/987992 |
Filed: |
May 24, 2018 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 2103/40 20200201;
D06F 2212/02 20130101; D06F 21/04 20130101; D06F 39/12 20130101;
D06F 2103/68 20200201; D06F 2105/44 20200201; D06F 33/00 20130101;
D06F 33/48 20200201; D06F 39/14 20130101 |
International
Class: |
D06F 39/14 20060101
D06F039/14; D06F 21/04 20060101 D06F021/04; D06F 33/02 20060101
D06F033/02 |
Claims
1. A washing machine appliance comprising: a cabinet including a
front panel, the front panel defining an opening; a tub positioned
within the cabinet; a wash basket rotatably mounted within the tub,
the wash basket defining a wash chamber for receiving articles for
washing; a ventilation line defining an air path from the tub
through the cabinet; and a vent damper positioned along ventilation
line in fluid communication therewith, the vent damper being
selectively movable between a first position restricting airflow
through the ventilation line and a second position permitting
airflow through the ventilation line.
2. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein the vent
damper comprises a non-permeable restrictor plate movably mounted
along the ventilation line to block the air path in the first
position.
3. The washing machine appliance of claim 2, wherein the vent
damper further comprises a resilient foam layer fixed to the
non-permeable restrictor plate to seal the air path in the first
position.
4. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, further comprising: a
motor mechanically coupled to the non-permeable restrictor plate;
and a controller in operative communication with the motor, wherein
the controller is configured to direct the motor to selectively
move the vent damper between the first position and the second
position.
5. The washing machine appliance of claim 4, wherein the controller
is configured to direct the motor to place the vent damper in the
first position in response to initiation of a wash cycle.
6. The washing machine appliance of claim 4, wherein the controller
is configured to direct the motor to place the vent damper in the
second position in response to completion of a wash cycle.
7. The washing machine appliance of claim 4, wherein the controller
is configured to direct the motor to place the vent damper in the
first position in response to initiation of a fill phase, an
agitation phase, or a spin phase of the washing machine
appliance.
8. The washing machine appliance of claim 4, wherein the controller
is configured to direct the motor to place the vent damper in the
first position in response to a predetermined washing machine wake
condition being met.
9. The washing machine appliance of claim 4, wherein the controller
is configured to direct the motor to place the vent damper in the
second position in response to a predetermined washing machine
standby condition being met.
10. The washing machine appliance of claim 4, wherein the
controller is configured to direct the motor to place the vent
damper in the first position in response to a door lock condition
being met.
11. The washing machine appliance of claim 4, wherein the
controller is configured to direct the motor to place the vent
damper in the second position in response to a door unlock
condition being met.
12. A method for operating a washing machine appliance, the washing
machine appliance comprising a cabinet, a tub positioned within the
cabinet, a ventilation line defining an air path from the tub
through the cabinet, and a vent damper positioned along ventilation
line in fluid communication therewith, the method comprising:
receiving a user input at the washing machine appliance;
determining a noise state of the washing machine appliance
following receiving the user input; and directing the vent damper
between a first position and a second position based on the
determined noise state, the first position restricting airflow
through the ventilation line and the second position permitting
airflow through the ventilation line.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the noise state
comprises determining initiation of a wash cycle, and wherein
directing the vent aperture comprises placing the vent damper in
the first position in response to initiation of the wash cycle.
14. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the noise state
comprises determining completion of a wash cycle, and wherein
directing the vent aperture comprises placing the vent damper in
the second position in response to completion of the wash
cycle.
15. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the noise state
comprises determining initiation of an audible phase of a wash
cycle, and wherein directing the vent aperture comprises placing
the vent damper in the first position in response to initiation of
the audible phase.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the audible phase comprises a
fill phase, an agitation phase, or a spin phase of the washing
machine appliance.
17. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the noise state
comprises determining a wake condition is met, and wherein
directing the vent aperture comprises placing the vent damper in
the first position in response to determining the wake condition is
met.
18. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the noise state
comprises determining a standby condition is met, and wherein
directing the vent aperture comprises placing the vent damper in
the second position in response to determining the standby
condition is met.
19. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the noise state
comprises determining a door lock condition is met, and wherein
directing the vent aperture comprises placing the vent damper in
the first position in response to determining the door lock
condition is met.
20. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the noise state
comprises determining a door unlock condition is met, and wherein
directing the vent aperture comprises placing the vent damper in
the second position in response to determining the door unlock
condition is met.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to washing
machine appliances, and more particularly to washing machine
appliances having selective ventilation features.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Washing machine appliances generally include a wash tub for
containing water or wash fluid (e.g., water and detergent, bleach,
or other wash additives). A basket is rotatably mounted within the
wash tub and defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for
washing. During normal operation of such washing machine
appliances, the wash fluid is directed into the wash tub and onto
articles within the wash chamber of the basket. The basket or an
agitation element can rotate at various speeds to agitate articles
within the wash chamber, to wring wash fluid from articles within
the wash chamber, etc.
[0003] Some existing washing machine appliances, such as horizontal
axis washing machines, are provided with one or more ventilation
features. Such features may allow washing machine appliance to
exchange air between the wash tub and the ambient environment. The
exchange of air may be necessary to prevent moisture from
accumulating within the tub. For example, if the tub is not
ventilated, mold or mildew may form within the washing machine. In
turn, undesirable odors may be generated.
[0004] Although ventilation features may ensure that moisture does
not accumulate within the washing machine appliance while the
washing machine appliance is not in use, such features may provide
certain disadvantages. For example, while the washing machine
appliance is in use (e.g., during a wash cycle) ventilation
features may provide a path through which noise is conveyed or
amplified. Generally, noise generated by washing machine appliance
during use is undesirable.
[0005] As a result, it would be desirable to provide a washing
machine appliance or methods of operation that address one or more
of the above identified issues. In particular, it would be useful
to minimize noise that is audible to a user outside of the washing
machine appliance during certain operations.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0006] 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.
[0007] In exemplary aspects of the present disclosure, a washing
machine appliance is provided. The washing machine appliance may
include a cabinet including a front panel defining an opening, a
tub positioned within the cabinet, a wash basket, a ventilation
line, and a vent damper. The wash basket may be rotatably mounted
within the tub. The wash basket may define a wash chamber for
receiving articles for washing. The ventilation line may define an
air path from the tub through the cabinet. The vent damper may be
positioned along ventilation line in fluid communication therewith.
The vent damper may be selectively movable between a first position
restricting airflow through the ventilation line and a second
position permitting airflow through the ventilation line.
[0008] In other exemplary aspects of the present disclosure, a
method for operating a washing machine appliance is provided. The
washing machine appliance may include a cabinet, a tub positioned
within the cabinet, a ventilation line defining an air path from
the tub through the cabinet, and a vent damper positioned along
ventilation line in fluid communication therewith. The method may
include receiving a user input at the washing machine appliance.
The method may also include determining a noise state of the
washing machine appliance following receiving the user input. The
method may further include directing the vent damper between a
first position and a second position based on the determined noise
state. The first position may restrict airflow through the
ventilation line and the second position permitting airflow through
the ventilation line.
[0009] 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
[0010] 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.
[0011] FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a washing machine
appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present
disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary
washing machine appliance of FIG. 1.
[0013] FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of a damper assembly
according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 4 provides a cross-sectional schematic view of the
exemplary damper assembly of FIG. 3 in a closed first position.
[0015] FIG. 5 provides a cross-sectional schematic view of the
exemplary damper assembly of FIG. 3 in an open second position.
[0016] FIG. 6 provides a flow chart of a method of operating a
washing machine appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the
present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] 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.
[0018] In order to aid understanding of this disclosure, several
terms are defined below. The defined terms are understood to have
meanings commonly recognized by persons of ordinary skill in the
arts relevant to the present invention. The terms "includes" and
"including" are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the
term "comprising." Similarly, the term "or" is generally intended
to be inclusive (i.e., "A or B" is intended to mean "A or B or
both"). The terms "first," "second," and "third" may be used
interchangeably to distinguish one element from another and are not
intended to signify location or importance of the individual
elements.
[0019] Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1 is a perspective view
of an exemplary horizontal axis washing machine appliance 100, and
FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of washing machine appliance
100. As illustrated, washing machine appliance 100 generally
defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a
transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular,
such that an orthogonal coordinate system is defined. Washing
machine appliance 100 includes a cabinet 102 that extends between a
top 104 and a bottom 106 along the vertical direction V, between a
left side 108 and a right side 110 along the lateral direction L,
and between a front 112 and a rear 114 along the transverse
direction T.
[0020] Referring to FIG. 2, a wash tub 124 is positioned within
cabinet 102 and is generally configured for retaining wash fluids
during an operating cycle. As used herein, "wash fluid" may refer
to water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable
wash additive or combination thereof. Wash tub 124 is substantially
fixed relative to cabinet 102 such that it does not rotate or
translate relative to cabinet 102.
[0021] A wash basket 120 is received within wash tub 124 and
defines a wash chamber 126 that is configured for receipt of
articles for washing. More specifically, wash basket 120 is
rotatably mounted within wash tub 124 such that it is rotatable
about an axis of rotation A. According to the illustrated
embodiments, the axis of rotation A is substantially parallel to
the transverse direction T. In this regard, washing machine
appliance 100 is generally referred to as a "horizontal axis" or
"front load" washing machine appliance 100.
[0022] Wash basket 120 may define one or more agitator features
that extend into wash chamber 126 to assist in agitation and
cleaning articles disposed within wash chamber 126 during operation
of washing machine appliance 100. For example, as illustrated in
FIG. 2, a plurality of ribs 128 extends from basket 120 into wash
chamber 126. In this manner, for example, ribs 128 may lift
articles disposed in wash basket 120 during rotation of wash basket
120.
[0023] Washing machine appliance 100 includes a motor assembly 122
that is in mechanical communication with wash basket 120 to
selectively rotate wash basket 120 (e.g., during an agitation or a
rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 100). According to the
illustrated embodiments, motor assembly 122 is a pancake motor.
However, it should be appreciated that any suitable type, size, or
configuration of motor may be used to rotate wash basket 120
according to alternative embodiments.
[0024] Referring generally to FIGS. 1 and 2, cabinet 102 also
includes a front panel 130 that defines an opening 132 that permits
user access to wash basket 120 of wash tub 124. More specifically,
washing machine appliance 100 includes a door 134 that is
positioned over opening 132 and is rotatably mounted to front panel
130 (e.g., about a door axis that is substantially parallel to the
vertical direction V). In this manner, door 134 permits selective
access to opening 132 by being movable between an open position
(not shown) facilitating access to a wash tub 124 and a closed
position (FIG. 1) prohibiting access to wash tub 124. Optionally, a
lock assembly 182 may be fixed to cabinet 102 to selectively lock
or hold a free end of the door 134 to cabinet 102 when door 134 is
in the closed position (e.g., during certain operations or wash
cycles).
[0025] In some embodiments, a window 136 in door 134 permits
viewing of wash basket 120 when door 134 is in the closed position
(e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 100). Door 134
also includes a handle (not shown) that, for example, a user may
pull when opening and closing door 134. Further, although door 134
is illustrated as mounted to front panel 130, it should be
appreciated that door 134 may be mounted to another side of cabinet
102 or any other suitable support according to alternative
embodiments. Additionally or alternatively, a front gasket or
baffle may extend between tub 124 and the front panel 130 about the
opening 132 covered by door 134, further sealing tub 124 from
cabinet 102.
[0026] As shown, wash basket 120 defines a plurality of
perforations 140 in order to facilitate fluid communication between
an interior of basket 120 and wash tub 124. A sump 142 is defined
by wash tub 124 at a bottom of wash tub 124 along the vertical
direction V. Thus, sump 142 is configured for receipt of, and
generally collects, wash fluid during operation of washing machine
appliance 100. For example, during operation of washing machine
appliance 100, wash fluid may be urged (e.g., by gravity) from
basket 120 to sump 142 through plurality of perforations 140. A
pump assembly 144 is located beneath wash tub 124 for gravity
assisted flow when draining wash tub 124 (e.g., via a drain 146).
Pump assembly 144 may also be configured for recirculating wash
fluid within wash tub 124.
[0027] In some embodiments, washing machine appliance 100 includes
an additive dispenser or spout 150. For example, spout 150 may be
in fluid communication with a water supply (not shown) in order to
direct fluid (e.g., clean water) into wash tub 124. Spout 150 may
also be in fluid communication with the sump 142. For example, pump
assembly 144 may direct wash fluid disposed in sump 142 to spout
150 in order to circulate wash fluid in wash tub 124.
[0028] As illustrated, a detergent drawer 152 may be slidably
mounted within front panel 130. Detergent drawer 152 receives a
wash additive (e.g., detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any
other suitable liquid or powder) and directs the fluid additive to
wash chamber 126 during certain operations or wash cycle phases of
washing machine appliance 100. According to the illustrated
embodiment, detergent drawer 152 may also be fluidly coupled to
spout 150 to facilitate the complete and accurate dispensing of
wash additive.
[0029] In optional embodiments, a bulk reservoir 154 is disposed
within cabinet 102. Bulk reservoir 154 may be configured for
receipt of fluid additive for use during operation of washing
machine appliance 100. Moreover, bulk reservoir 154 may be sized
such that a volume of fluid additive sufficient for a plurality or
multitude of wash cycles of washing machine appliance 100 (e.g.,
five, ten, twenty, fifty, or any other suitable number of wash
cycles) may fill bulk reservoir 154. Thus, for example, a user can
fill bulk reservoir 154 with fluid additive and operate washing
machine appliance 100 for a plurality of wash cycles without
refilling bulk reservoir 154 with fluid additive. A reservoir pump
156 is configured for selective delivery of the fluid additive from
bulk reservoir 154 to wash tub 124.
[0030] In some embodiments, a ventilation line 190 is provided
within washing machine appliance 100. In particular, ventilation
line 190 may be enclosed within cabinet 102. As shown in FIG. 2,
exemplary embodiments include ventilation line 190 at a position in
fluid communication between tub 124 and the surrounding region
(e.g., the ambient environment outside of or immediately
surrounding cabinet 102, the enclosed volume of cabinet 102
surrounding tub 124, etc.). Generally, it is understood that
ventilation line 190 may be provided as any suitable pipe or
conduit (e.g., having non-permeable wall) for directing air
therethrough. When assembled, ventilation line 190 defines an air
path 192 from tub 124 and within or through cabinet 102 (e.g., to
the ambient environment outside of cabinet 102). In optional
embodiments, air path 192 extends from the top portion of tub 124
to an upper portion of cabinet 102. However, any other suitable
configuration may be provided to facilitate the flow of air from
tub 124 and, for example, to the ambient environment (e.g., when
washing machine appliance 100 is not in use).
[0031] A ventilation assembly or vent damper 210 is positioned
along ventilation line 190 in exemplary embodiments. Generally,
vent damper 210 is in communication with ventilation line 190
(i.e., in fluid communication with air path 192). In certain
embodiments, vent damper 210 is enclosed, at least in part, within
cabinet 102. As will be described in detail below, vent damper 210
may be selectively controlled or operated to limit the flow of air
through ventilation line 190 or air path 192 during certain
operations (e.g., one or more predetermined phases or cycles). Thus
vent damper 210 may selectively limit airflow between tub 124 and
the ambient environment.
[0032] In certain embodiments, one or more secondary ventilation
lines 191 are provided within washing machine appliance 100. In
particular, a secondary ventilation line 191 may be enclosed within
cabinet 102. As shown in FIG. 2, exemplary embodiments include
secondary ventilation line 191 at a position in fluid communication
between tub 124 and the ambient environment (e.g., the region
outside of or immediately surrounding cabinet 102). Generally, it
is understood that ventilation line 190 may be provided as any
suitable pipe or conduit (e.g., having non-permeable wall) for
directing air therethrough. When assembled, secondary ventilation
line 191 defines an air path 193 from tub 124 that is distinct and
separated from the air path 192. As illustrated, secondary
ventilation line 191 attaches to tub 124 at a location that is
spaced apart from the attachment location or point of ventilation
line 190 (e.g., along the transverse direction T). In optional
embodiments, air path 193 extends from the top portion of tub 124
to an upper portion of cabinet 102. However, any other suitable
configuration may be provided to facilitate the flow of air from
tub 124 and, for example, to the ambient environment (e.g., when
washing machine appliance 100 is not in use).
[0033] When air path 192 is unobstructed (e.g., when vent damper
210 is in an open second position), air may flow through tub 124
and between air paths 192 and 193. In other words, an airflow
circuit with the ambient environment may be formed by the
ventilation lines 190, 191 and tub 124. Moreover, when washing
machine appliance 100 is in use or air path 192 is obstructed,
secondary ventilation line 191 may permit pressure within tub 124
to equalize relative to the ambient environment.
[0034] In some embodiments, a control panel 160 including a
plurality of input selectors 162 is coupled to front panel 130.
Control panel 160 and input selectors 162 may collectively form a
user interface input for operator selection of machine cycles and
features. For example, in exemplary embodiments, a display 164
indicates selected features, a countdown timer, or other items of
interest to machine users.
[0035] Operation of washing machine appliance 100 is generally
controlled by a controller or processing device 166. In some
embodiments, controller 166 is in operative communication with
(e.g., electrically or wirelessly connected to) control panel 160
for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and
features. In response to user manipulation of control panel 160,
controller 166 operates the various components of washing machine
appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features.
[0036] Controller 166 may include a memory (e.g., non-transitive
memory) and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose
microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or
micro-control code associated with a wash operation. The memory may
represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory
such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes
programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a
separate component from the processor or may be included onboard
within the processor. Alternatively, controller 166 may be
constructed without using a microprocessor (e.g., using a
combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuitry, such as
switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND
gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of
relying upon software. Control panel 160 and other components of
washing machine appliance 100, such as motor assembly 122 and vent
damper 210, may be in operative communication with controller 166
via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.
Additionally or alternatively, other features, such as an
electronic lock assembly 182 for door 134 may be in operative
communication with controller 166 via one or more other signal
lines or shared communication busses.
[0037] In exemplary embodiments, during operation of washing
machine appliance 100, laundry items are loaded into wash basket
120 through opening 132, and a wash cycle is initiated through
operator manipulation of input selectors 162. For example, a wash
cycle may be initiated such that wash tub 124 is filled with water,
detergent, or other fluid additives (e.g., via additive dispenser
150 during a fill phase). One or more valves (not shown) can be
controlled by washing machine appliance 100 to provide for filling
wash basket 120 to the appropriate level for the amount of articles
being washed or rinsed. By way of example, once wash basket 120 is
properly filled with fluid, the contents of wash basket 120 can be
agitated (e.g., with ribs 128) for an agitation phase of laundry
items in wash basket 120. During the agitation phase, the basket
120 may be motivated about the axis of rotation A at a set speed
(e.g., first speed or tumble speed). As the basket 120 is rotated,
articles within the basket 120 may be lifted and permitted to drop
therein.
[0038] After the agitation phase of the washing operation or wash
cycle is completed, wash tub 124 can be drained (e.g., through a
drain phase). Laundry articles can then be rinsed (e.g., through a
rinse phase) by again adding fluid to wash tub 124, depending on
the particulars of the wash cycle selected by a user. Ribs 128 may
again provide agitation within wash basket 120. One or more spin
phases may also be used. In particular, a spin phase may be applied
after the wash cycle or after the rinse cycle in order to wring
wash fluid from the articles being washed. During a spin phase,
basket 120 is rotated at relatively high speeds. For instance,
basket 120 may be rotated at one set speed (e.g., second speed or
pre-plaster speed) before be rotated at another set speed (e.g.,
third speed or plaster speed). As would be understood, the
pre-plaster speed may be greater than the tumble speed and the
plaster speed may be greater than the pre-plaster speed. Moreover,
agitation or tumbling of articles may be reduced as basket 120
increases its rotational velocity such that the plaster speed
maintains the articles at a generally fixed position relative to
basket 120.
[0039] After articles disposed in wash basket 120 are cleaned (or
the wash cycle otherwise ends), a user can remove the articles from
wash basket 120 (e.g., by opening door 134 and reaching into wash
basket 120 through opening 132).
[0040] Turning now to FIGS. 3 through 5, various views are provided
of a damper assembly (e.g., vent damper 210) according to exemplary
embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, vent damper 210
may include a rigid, non-permeable housing or chute 212. Chute 212
may define an opening 214 to selectively permit air therethrough
and communicate with air path 192. Thus, chute 212 may extend about
opening 214, and opening 214 may extend through chute 212. In
certain embodiments, an interior lip 216 extends radially inward
from chute 212 toward opening 214 (e.g., coaxial or concentric with
opening 214), thus defining a perimeter (or perimeter portion) of
opening 214.
[0041] When assembled, chute 212 may be positioned along within
ventilation line 190. Ventilation line 190 may be mated to chute
212. For instance, the walls ventilation line 190 may connect
directly or indirectly to chute 212. Opening 214 may thus be
aligned with air path 192. It is understood that when assembled
airflow through the air path 192 is restricted through opening 214.
Thus, any air passing between tub 124 and the ambient environment
through ventilation line 190 may be forced to flow through opening
214. This may be especially true when door 134 (FIG. 2) of the
washing machine appliance 100 is in the closed position.
[0042] In some embodiments, vent damper 210 includes a
non-permeable restrictor plate 218. Generally, restrictor plate 218
is movably attached to chute 212. For example, restrictor plate 218
may be rotatably mounted to chute 212 to selectively pivot about a
predefined pivot axis P. During use, restrictor plate 218 may be
selectively moved (e.g., rotated) in front of or behind opening
214. Thus, restrictor plate 218 may selectively block air passage
through opening 214. Moreover, restrictor plate 218 may selectively
permit air passage through opening 214.
[0043] In certain embodiments, restrictor plate 218 is configured
to move between a discrete first position and second position. As
illustrated in FIG. 4, the first position generally restricts
airflow through opening 214 (e.g., and thereby through ventilation
line 190). In the first position, restrictor plate 218 may extend
across opening 214. By contrast, and as illustrated in FIG. 5, the
second position may generally permit airflow through opening 214
(e.g., and thereby through ventilation line 190). In the second
position, restrictor plate 218 may be moved away from opening 214
(e.g., to a positioning that is parallel or nonorthogonal to air
path 192).
[0044] In certain embodiments, a resilient foam layer 220 is
provided on restrictor plate 218. For instance, resilient foam
layer 220 may be fixed to a surface of restrictor plate 218 between
opening 214 and restrictor plate 218 (e.g., relative to or along
air path 192). When restrictor plate 218 is in the first position,
resilient foam layer 220 may contact at least a portion of chute
212. For instance, resilient foam layer 220 may be positioned in
contact with interior lip 216. Optionally, resilient foam layer 220
may be at least partially compressed against chute 212, sealing air
path 192 to prevent air from passing through opening 214. It is
understood that resilient foam layer 220 may be provided as any
suitable resilient or elastic foam material that can be compressed
before returning to its uncompressed state or shape.
[0045] In exemplary embodiments, a motor 222 is mechanically
coupled to non-permeable restrictor plate 218. Motor 222 may be
attached at any suitable location on or near chute 212 to move
restrictor plate 218 relative to opening 214. For instance, motor
222 may be configured to selectively rotate restrictor plate 218
about the pivot access P. Moreover, motor 222 may be provided as
any suitable electromechanical device (e.g., gear assembly,
solenoid, actuator, etc.) for moving restrictor plate 218 or
holding restrictor plate 218 in a directed position. In certain
embodiments, motor 222 is in operative communication with (e.g.,
electrically or wirelessly connected to) controller 166. Controller
166 may be configured to direct motor 222 to move or hold
restrictor plate 218 in a selected position (e.g., according to a
selected wash cycle or phase). In other words, controller 166 may
be configured to move or rotate vent damper 210 between the first
position and the second position.
[0046] Referring now to FIG. 6, various methods may be provided for
use with washing machine appliances in accordance with the present
disclosure. In general, the various steps of methods as disclosed
herein may, in exemplary embodiments, be performed by the
controller 166, which may receive inputs and transmit outputs from
various other components of the appliance 100. In particular, the
present disclosure is further directed to methods, as indicated by
reference number 600, for operating a washing machine appliance
100, as described above. Such methods advantageously facilitate
selectively limiting the audible noise transmitted outside of
washing machine appliance (e.g., outside of cabinet 102 in the
surrounding ambient environment) during a wash cycle.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 6, at 610, the method 600 includes
receiving a user input at the washing machine appliance. For
instance, the controller may receive a signal in response to user
command provided at the user interface (e.g., to activate the
washing machine appliance from a sleep state, select a wash cycle,
etc.). Optionally, a wash cycle may be initiated, as discussed
above. Additionally or alternatively, the door the washing machine
appliance may be locked or unlocked (e.g., at the lock assembly)
depending on the received user input.
[0048] At 620, the method 600 includes determining a noise state of
the washing machine appliance following receiving the user input
(i.e., following 610). Moreover, 620 may be based on (or otherwise
contingent upon) the user input at 610.
[0049] As an example, the noise state may generally correspond to
the initiation or completion of a wash cycle. In some such
embodiments, 620 includes determining initiation of a wash cycle
(i.e., when a wash cycle has begun or is otherwise imminent) such
that significant noise can be expected from within the washing
machine appliance. In additional or alternative embodiments, 620
includes determining completion of a wash cycle (i.e., when a wash
cycle has ended) such that significant noise is no longer being
generated by the basket motor, water valves, or basket within the
washing machine appliance. Optionally, the method 600 may include
multiple noise state determinations. For instance one noise state
determination may be made upon determining initiation of a wash
cycle, while another noise state determination may be made upon
determining completion of the wash cycle.
[0050] As another example, the noise state may generally correspond
to one or more sub-portions or phases of a wash cycle during which
significant noise is expected. In some such embodiments, 620
includes determining initiation of an audible phase of the wash
cycle (i.e., when an audible phase has begun, is beginning, or is
otherwise imminent). In additional or alternative embodiments, 620
includes determining completion of an audible phase of a wash cycle
(i.e., when an audible phase has ended) such that significant noise
is no longer being generated by the basket motor, water valves, or
basket within the washing machine appliance. The audible phase may
include one or more of the fill phase, agitation phase, or spin
phase, as discussed above. Optionally, the method 600 may include
multiple noise state determinations. For instance one noise state
determination may be made upon determining initiation of an audible
phase of a wash cycle, while another noise state determination may
be made upon determining completion of the audible phase of the
wash cycle.
[0051] As yet another example, the noise state may generally
correspond to a standby condition or a wake condition. Generally,
the standby condition may be provided as a low-power state wherein
at least a portion of washing machine appliance (e.g., the user
interface or the display) is inactive, such as after a
predetermined amount of time during which no user input is received
and no wash cycle is being performed. The wake condition may be
provided as a condition that prompts the washing machine appliance
out of a standby condition (e.g., engagement of a predetermined
user input at the input selectors). In some such embodiments, 620
includes determining a wake condition is met. For instance,
determining the wake condition is met may include determining that
the washing machine appliance has received a user input prompting
the washing machine appliance to activate one or more elements that
were rendered inactive during a standby condition. In additional or
alternative embodiments, 620 includes determining a standby
condition is met. For instance, determining that the standby
condition is met may include determining that the washing machine
appliance has deactivated one or more elements in response to a
predetermined time period of non-use. Optionally, the method 600
may include multiple noise state determinations. For instance one
noise state determination may be made upon determining a wake
condition is met, while another noise state determination may be
made upon determining a standby condition is met.
[0052] As still another example, the noise state may generally
correspond to a lock condition or unlock condition for the door of
the appliance (e.g., at the lock assembly). Generally, the lock
condition may hold door in the closed position as the lock assembly
secures the door to the cabinet. The unlock condition may permit
the door to move between a closed position and an open position as
the lock assembly releases a free end of the door from the cabinet.
In some such embodiments, 620 includes determining a lock condition
is met. For instance, determining the lock condition is met may
include determining that the lock assembly has been or is actively
being directed to hold the door of washing machine appliance closed
(e.g., against the cabinet). In additional or alternative
embodiments, 620 includes determining an unlock condition is met.
For instance, determining that the unlock condition is met may
include determining that the lock assembly has been or is actively
being directed to release the free end of the door from the
cabinet. Optionally, the method 600 may include multiple noise
state determinations. For instance one noise state determination
may be made upon determining a lock condition is met, while another
noise state determination may be made upon determining an unlock
condition is met.
[0053] At 630, the method 600 includes directing the vent damper
between a first position and a second position based on the
determined noise state, as described above.
[0054] As an example, if the noise state corresponds to the wash
cycle, the vent damper may be directed accordingly. In some such
embodiments, 630 includes placing the vent damper in the first
position (e.g., moving the vent damper to or holding the vent
damper at the first position) in response to initiation of the wash
cycle. In additional or alternative embodiments, 630 includes
placing the vent damper in the second position (e.g., moving the
vent damper to or holding the vent damper at the second position)
in response to completion of the wash cycle.
[0055] As another example, if the noise state corresponds to the
audible phase, the vent damper may be directed accordingly. In some
such embodiments, 630 includes placing the vent damper in the first
position (e.g., moving the vent damper to or holding the vent
damper at the first position) in response to initiation of the
audible phase. In additional or alternative embodiments, 630
includes placing the vent damper in the second position (e.g.,
moving the vent damper to or holding the vent damper at the second
position) in response to completion of the audible phase.
[0056] As yet another example, if the noise state corresponds to
the wake condition or standby condition, the vent damper may be
directed accordingly. In some such embodiments, 630 includes
placing the vent damper in the first position (e.g., moving the
vent damper to or holding the vent damper at the first position) in
response to the wake condition being met. In additional or
alternative embodiments, 630 includes placing the vent damper in
the second position (e.g., m moving the vent damper to or holding
the vent damper at the second position) in response to the standby
condition being met.
[0057] As still another example, if the noise state corresponds to
the door lock condition or door unlock condition, the vent damper
may be directed accordingly. In some such embodiments, 630 includes
placing the vent damper in the first position (e.g., moving the
vent damper to or holding the vent damper at the first position) in
response to the door lock condition being met. In additional or
alternative embodiments, 630 includes placing the vent damper in
the second position (e.g., moving the vent damper to or holding the
vent damper at the second position) in response to the door unlock
condition being met.
[0058] 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.
* * * * *