Apparatus and method for controlling cycles of operation of a dryer

Abstract

The dryer apparatus includes a cabinet that rotatably supports a drum therein. A door on the cabinet is operable between an open position to permit access to the drum and a closed position. A motor is provided for rotating the drum and cycle changing apparatus is provided for changing the cycle of operation of the dryer between a normal tumble dry operation and a static dry operation. Included is control means for operating the cycle changing apparatus and for simultaneously deenergizing the motor as the dryer is switched from one cycle of operation to another cycle of operation. The control means comprises a switch movable to a closed state in response to movement of the door to the closed position to connect the motor with a source of energy. The control means further includes an actuating shaft and an operating lever on the actuating shaft that is connected to the cycle changing apparatus for effecting the change in cycle of operation of the dryer as the shaft is moved from a first to a second position. A mounting bracket mounts the shaft adjacent the door so that the shaft is accessible only when the door is in the open position whereby movement of the door to the open position permits access to the actuating shaft and causes movement of the switch to an open position to simultaneously deenergize the motor. A novel method of operation similarly is disclosed.