Maytag Corporation

Gregory K Harmelink

Michael D Lafrenz

John C Mellinger

J Christopher Millet

Pamela M Kuecker

A microprocessor controlled clothes dryer wherein the posture of a switch in the lint filter system is monitored and a signal to CHECK FILTER is displayed if the switch posture has not changed. The switched is a reed switch mounted stationary on the lint filter assembly and a magnet operator is attached to the removable filter screen. Movement of the filter screen into and out of filtering position in the lint filter assembly of the exhaust duct changes the posture of the magnet operated reed switch. Change of posture of the switch through its cycle impresses a change of voltage on the microprocessor. The microprocessor effects control over the CHECK FILTER signal that is visually illuminated on a VFD tube; such that, if the microprocessor sees the cycling of the switch the CHECK FILTER signal is extinguished.

Lint filter signal for automatic clothes dryer

A control system is provided for a fabric washing machine including a controller for controlling the machine through a predetermined cycle of operations and having a first state at which the cycle may be initiated and a second state at the end of the cycle. A lid actuated switch is in circuit with a power supply and the controller and is operable between first and second conductive postures by movement of the lid. First circuitry is connected to the first conductive posture of the switch for energizing the controller in the first state to control the machine through the cycle and terminate operation at the second controller state at the end of the cycle. Second circuitry is connected to the second conductive posture of the switch and is operable with the controller in the second state for initiating modification of the controller to the first state to condition the controller for initiation of a new cycle of operations. Operability of the switch to the second conductive posture is a prerequisite to initiating a new cycle of operations.

Control system

A control system is provided for a fabric washing machine including first and second lid actuated switches and washing fluid level detecting apparatus. A lockout device is in circuit with a conductive path of the second switch so that, if upon operation of the lid, the first switch is failed, a circuit is completed through the lockout device and level detecting apparatus to prevent reenergization of the fabric washing machine. Switch mounting apparatus is provided which is adjustably movable for providing concurrent adjustment of at least the first and second switches with respect to a lid actuated switch actuator mechanism.

Growing community of inventors

Newton, IA, United States of America

Gregory K Harmelink