Whirlpool Corporation

Warren Richard Hafstrom

Edward H Getz

Roger J Cartier

Albert T Braga

Harold S Stacik

A latch mechanism is provided for an automatic washer/dryer combination unit which positively latches the lid of the washer unit upon rotation of the washer lid to an open position. The latch mechanism operates automatically by gravitational action after rotation of the lid past the latch pin. No mechanical or magnetic forces are required for the latching action. Further, the latch mechanism is adaptable to latch differently sized lids in different mounting arrangements.

Open lid latching mechanism for automatic washer

An agitator thruster is provided for an automatic washer for increasing the rollover of clothes during the agitation portion of a washing cycle wherein the thruster moves in a vertical reciprocating motion by using inner and outer reversely spiraled cam surfaces and a driving barrel having a driving pin which alternately transfers to the inner and outer cam surfaces.

Agitator thruster for an automatic washer

A power switch module for use in controlled-sequence devices such as a domestic laundry appliance has switches arranged in a pattern about a central portion of the module selectively closeable to connect circuitry associated with each switch to a source of electric potential. Each switch has an associated actuator movable to open and close the switch, and each actuator is operated by a hammer having a striking surface for depressing an actuator to open a switch and a camming surface for raising an actuator to close a switch. The hammer is mounted for rotation on a shaft and is axially movable by a solenoid. A disc encoder on the shaft derives hammer-position information which is transmitted to a microprocessor which controls sequential operation of the device and energizes the solenoid to open or close a switch at appropriate times during operation.

Power switch module

A signal device signals cycle changes in a dryer by sounding a bell assembly upon acceleration and/or deceleration of the motor shaft. When the rotational speed of the flywheel is synchronized with the rotational speed of the motor shaft there is no striking contact between the bell assembly and the clapper of the flywheel assembly. A one-way spring clutch is employed to limit signaling to either acceleration or deceleration of the motor shaft. The device also may be constructed in a reverse manner, with the bell acting as a flywheel journaled on the shaft and the clapper assembly rotatable with the motor shaft.

Growing community of inventors

Stevensville, MI, United States of America

Warren Richard Hafstrom