DE3018404A1 - Washing machine having upright drum - Google Patents

Abstract

Washing machine has an upright perforated drum mounted on a vertical axle which can be displaced from the axis of a vertical drive spindle by a horizontal distance (d) considerably smaller than the drum radius. During the washing process the motion of the drum is such that the axis of the drum describes a circle of radius d around the drive spindle, whilst the drum is locked to prevent rotation about its own axis. Liquid is expelled from the load by moving the drum axis into coincidence with that of the drive spindle, where by the drum can be rotated about its axis.

Description

General Electric Company, 1 River Road, Schenectady, New York 12305 (USA)

Washing machine and method of washing laundry

The invention relates to a washing machine for laundry items and a method of washing laundry in a washing machine.

Common vertical axis type washing machines are typically large and complex. Such Washing machines generally have a housing that surrounds an outer water-receiving tub in which an inner basket that holds the laundry items is. A circulating device is fastened in the inner basket. The circulating device and the basket are with coupled to a suitable gearbox driven by an electric motor. The transmission sets the high speed of the .Motors to the speed suitable for the centrifugal extraction of the water and the oscillating movement around that for the agitation during the wash cycle is appropriate. These washing machines generally have a water pump for circulating the water inside of the machine and a filter to filter lint and other particles from the circulating water. The pump and filter device include an abundance of pipes and hoses. The use of large amounts of water is inherent in such machines. In addition, they have a strongly energy-consuming interface between the laundry items to be washed and the reciprocating circulation device. Lots of machines also suffer from vibrations and a

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Wandering, these problems arise from imbalances in the washing machine during centrifugal extraction of the water or the spin operation. Other washing machines use complex suspension systems with counterweights, and common is the Basket for the laundry items also provided with a circular balancing ring, which, in order to reduce these problems, at one point around its circumferential surface of the basket runs around.

A number of attempts have been made to simplify these washing machines and, in particular, their drive means; the "wobble" or "stagger" type is one of those attempts. US Pat. No. 2,555,400 describes a "wobble" type washing machine which has a non-revolving, inclined shaft that at rests inverted, conical walls of a gyro and is moved on a conical orbit so that the axis of the washing basket describes a cone, the tip of which is below the basket. Helical ribs on the wall of the basket give the laundry a helical movement as well as a movement around the rotor axis, in the opposite direction to the direction of movement of the water and the direction of rotation of the top. A resilient centering force and the gyroscopic forces cause that for the centrifugal operation During the washing process, the shaft axis is converted into a vertical position.

A number of other "wobble" type washing machines are known, such as the washing machine disclosed in US Pat. No. 2,549 where the axis of the basket or tub is on a / cone-shaped path wobbles while the tub itself oscillates on its own axis. The washing movement will achieved by an inclined pin and a ball joint, the pin in a preloaded, eccentric bearing

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is extended in a worm gear. A planned Sliding lever results in an angular movement of the pin about its axis. Most "wobble" type washing machines common the difficulty of an expensive complex suspension and such constructions great demands on the systems.

In US-PS 2,432,766 a washing machine is described, in which the tub receiving the laundry items performs an orbital or orbital movement while it is revolves around its own axis at the same time. This movement is made possible through the use of a nested Arrangement of matching sleeves or sleeves achieved, in which a drive shaft is mounted eccentrically. The rotation of the drive shaft causes the rotation of the vat on its own axis. Although the amount of gyration that occurs is much less than in real washing machines of the "wobble" type, this is Movement is still a nutation or "wobble".

Other washing machines are known for which the Vat. Oscillates, as is shown, for example, in the U.S. Patent 3 738 130, in which an oscillating tub is arranged in a washing machine container is. To effect washing, two ribs are eccentrically attached to the tub. A pretty old device for generating the washing effect in a washing machine with a vertical axis, in which the Washing forces through the vat movement instead of the Movement of a circulating device are generated, is described, for example, in US Pat. No. 1,688,555 the two or more laundry-receiving chambers revolve around the center of an outer water container and rotate simultaneously on their own axis.

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In some known washing machines of the "wobble" type are therefore provided to the vat to revolve in a position which is inclined to a predetermined vertical axis, wherein During the entire orbital movement, the position of the tub is constantly changed in order to achieve a washing movement produce. The well-known washing machines with rotating Baskets move these around their vertical axis, while the basket itself moves to generate a washing movement the basket axis rotates. In these known washing machines there are no really effective devices to isolate the vibrations caused by the gyroscopic forces or the inertia of the suspended ones Use machine assemblies to generate the forces required to move the vat to balance.

The object of the invention is therefore a washing machine in the design with a vertical axis to create a relatively simple and uncomplicated drive mechanism and does not require expensive and complicated vibration dampers or compensating devices. It is also an object of the invention to create a simple and energy-saving washing process.

The washing machine according to the invention is used to solve this problem by the features of claim T and the invention Method by the features of the claim 23 marked. ■

The washing machine according to the invention has the advantage that the wash tub moves so that the laundry items to be washed predominantly through the tub side wall be moved. The washing machine also uses the bulk of the suspended container and drive assemblies used to both the washing and the spinning

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to promote the operation. The gear used is proportionate easy and inexpensive, while the washing machine tub with normal washing and spin speeds can work and. both large and small loads gently, with minimal wear and tear on the laundry processed. The washing machine according to the invention also manages with a low water consumption. at it is also the supply of energy to those to be washed Items of laundry are a function of the load capacity. In addition, the washing machine according to the invention has an effective Detergent concentration with minimal total consumption of detergent. After all, it consists of a few Divide, whereby the individual components are exposed to a low load so that it works reliably. The drive device is constructed symmetrically, during the Wash tub enables excellent tumbling of the laundry and consequently good washing performance. In the end the washing machine according to the invention has an advantageous pass-through washing system in which constantly with fresh water is washed and that constantly the water with the washed out lint, the dirt and the Wash foam down the drain.

A preferred embodiment is a fresh water washing machine of the design with vertical axis, whose dynamic system is a single, perforated wash tub which is continuously driven in such a way that its central axis is in orbit about an axis running around.

During the orbital or orbital movement, the water becomes added to the tub, this movement for washing the loaded items of laundry of the constant 'movement evokes. The tub cannot rotate on its own axis while it is revolving on the track. The container and other active assemblies of the suspended

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Systems give the vat an essentially stable one Base. After washing, the axis of the tub is essentially aligned with the axis, around which it previously circulated and then rotates around its axis so that the water is centrifuged out of the laundry will. The wash tub carries a series of ribs and guide vanes, around a helical one To support movement and a circular movement of the laundry items during washing. The transmission for driving of the wash tub has a first circumferential and through one in the direction of rotation reversible electric motor acted upon drive assembly, a second and a third revolving drive assembly, the second drive assembly eccentric to the axis of the first rotating drive assembly is mounted and driven by this in such a way that it is about the axis of rotation the first revolving drive assembly revolves while the third revolving drive assembly or output assembly eccentric to the axis of the second revolving Drive assembly is mounted and driven by this so that it revolves around the axis of rotation of the first rotating drive assembly. The wash tub is attached to the third revolving drive assembly for revolving with it. A neutral clutch between the first and the second revolving drive assembly serves to control the relative rotation between them to limit both drive assemblies to a first and a second relative angular position to each other. The axis of rotation of the third revolving drive assembly is eccentric to the axis of rotation of the first revolving drive assembly, if for the orbital washing movement of the tub, the first and the second revolving drive assembly in their first angular position to each other stand. The axis of rotation of the third revolving drive assembly is essentially concentric to that Axis of rotation of the first revolving drive assembly, if

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opt for the rotation of the vat to get the water out Centrifuge out the laundry, the first and the second revolving drive assembly in their second Relative position to each other .. ■ Because of the lost motion clutch causes the rotation of the first rotating one Drive assembly in a first direction of rotation that the first and the second revolving drive assembly assume their first relative position for the orbital movement, while the rotation of the first revolving Drive assembly in a second direction also caused by the lost motion clutch for the rotational movement the first and the second rotating drive assembly assume their second relative position.

The gearbox lets the central axis of the vat around the Rotate axis of the input drive assembly at a predetermined distance therefrom during washing such that the "central axis" essentially describes a cylinder, whose radius is equal to this predetermined distance. When washing, the energy is mainly on the laundry items transferred by friction between the tub wall and the laundry. The tenon and the bottom of the Vats generate the remaining energy, usually in a division according to the ones listed Series. Consequently, the reference to the wall of the vat or receptacle is to be understood as that all three surfaces, namely the side wall, the External surface of a central spigot and the tub bottom are included. When the web speed is above a predetermined minimum value, there is a periodic change in the contact force between the loaded laundry and the side wall, namely -depending on the frequency and the amplitude the orbit, also depending on which part of the Orbit the tub goes through and ultimately depends on the inertia of the loaded laundry. if

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thus the side wall of the tub of the filled As laundry approaches, the touch forces increase while it is decrease as the wall recedes. This periodically changing force and the coefficient of friction on the The interface between the tub wall and the laundry that has been filled in has the effect that the laundry is circular in a Moved direction opposite to the direction of web movement of the tub. A roughness on the tub wall, for example, through a surface design in the form of ribs Uidgl. increases the coefficient of friction and thus reinforces it the transfer of energy from the tub wall to the laundry. This energy transfer shows up as a strong circular movement of the loaded laundry inside the tub. An excessive The amount of liquid in the tub would create the effective friction between the laundry and the tub wall reduce and thus also the energy transport from the tub wall to the laundry items. Because of the planet-like Orbital or circular movement there is also an internal movement between the individual items of laundry the washing machine filling. This internal scrubbing is in addition to the scrubbing that occurs at the interface between the wall of the tub and the laundry items! occurs, creates the mechanical washing effect for the. Laundry items.

Because gravity causes the loaded laundry is more compressed at the bottom of the vat than above, a more violent washing effect occurs near the bottom of the tub. Consequently, it is useful to the laundry items to give a helical overturning motion, which is superimposed on the circular motion, so that all Parts of the loaded laundry get into the bottom area of the tub. This is achieved in part by that a central pin with a conical lower section is arranged in the tub, which the gravity

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Force effect is used to move the laundry outwards, in the direction of the tub side wall move. In the conical section of the pin, spiral ribs are provided, which are part of the energy from the circular motion and convert the laundry items push outwards towards the tub wall. They are also inclined along the tub side wall Ramps or ribs are formed that hold the items of laundry capture and improve the circulation. With this vat design the items of laundry move helically ^ while they revolve in a circle, with the Items of laundry run inwards at the top of the washing machine filling and outwards at the bottom. the spiral baffles and ribs on the tub side wall also result in a certain turbulence in the laundry, which tends to open the laundry items so that heavy dirt and dust can settle. A limited pool of water at the bottom of the vat increases this settling process or the removal of dirt particles.

In this preferred embodiment, rotates and the vat circulates in a container. The container is a water warine that surrounds the vat, and on the Washing machine frame or housing is attached by a suitable vibration isolation system. The container carries the motor, the pump and the gearbox of the washing machine, with the tub from the output shaft of the Transmission is worn. In the ideal case, this suspension takes the described orbital evasive movement and Rotational movement of the tub with minimal power transmission to the supporting components (the washing machine housing) on. The container and the structural elements carried by it represent an inertial resistance against that the tub works when it rotates, with the container and components as the tub rotates

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an unbalanced, the yielding movement limiting ^r represent mass. Many known types of suspensions can be used in the washing machine of the present invention. However, it is convenient to suspend the container structure (including the active washing machine components) so that each is induced due to the unbalanced mass of the moving tub. Secondary movement is limited so that the above-described orbital or circular movement of the tub is not significantly impaired.

A preferred device for generating the circulation. and the rotation function mainly involves an arrangement of nested cranks or cylinders. A feature of this device is the ease with which the eccentricity of the parts either add up or cancel each other out to either the orbital movement for washing or the rotational movement around the axis to obtain. Control of these eccentricities is through the use of a lost motion clutch between the Reached eccentric parts, the lost motion clutch is used to generate the orbital or rotational movement by reversing the direction of rotation of the drive motor. Furthermore, a feature of the-illustrated embodiment, that the revolving and the rotation of the wash tub take place at the same speed. This becomes a Avoid gears that are otherwise used to drive the relatively slow drive function with usual To achieve washing machines.

As already mentioned, the one supplied to the wash tub Measure the amount of water so that the good washing performance is increased. -The explained washing machine works with Fresh water, during a time interval the A small amount of water is added to the wash tub. The water flows through the laundry and the

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Tub and exits through openings in the bottom and side wall of the tub. At least periodically water collects, so that the lower area of the tub and the loaded laundry in a limited or shallow pool of water is submerged. This improves the removal of dirt particles such as sand, while still a minimal water consumption is possible is.

The washing machine also includes a two-way water inlet device, in which part of the incoming water is diverted for a detergent dispenser to add detergent gradually during washing. Fresh water run washing at the Machine results together with the gradual addition of detergent a very effective high concentration of detergent during the wash, although much less Detergent than conventional liquid bath washing machines is used with Umwälzeinriohtungen.

Further developments of the invention are the subject of subclaims. .

In the; Drawings are exemplary embodiments of the subject of the invention shown. Show it:

Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a washing machine according to of the invention, in a cut. Side ■ looks,

FIG. 2 shows the washing tub of the washing machine according to FIG. 1, partially cut in a perspective view,

Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of the transmission for the washing machine according to Fig. 1 with a mutual

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Position of the parts for washing the washing machine / in simplified form and in a longitudinal section,

4 shows the rotating drive assemblies for the transmission according to FIG. 3, partially in section a perspective exploded view,

Fig. 5 shows the transmission of FIG. 3 with the mutual Position of the drive assemblies during the spinning process of the washing machine in a longitudinal section,

FIG. 6 shows two individual parts of the drive assemblies according to FIG. 4 in the relative position during spinning as in Fig. 5 in an enlarged perspective exploded view,

7A shows a further exemplary embodiment of a coupling device for the transmission of the washing machine according to FIG. 1 in a partial representation and in longitudinal section,

7B individual parts of the coupling device according to FIG. 7A, partially in section, in a perspective Exploded view,

8 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a transmission for the washing machine according to FIG. 1, in a longitudinal section,

9 individual parts of the transmission according to FIG. 8 in a perspective exploded view,

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Fig. 10A a further embodiment of a coupling device for the transmission of the washing machine according to Fig. 1, in the cutout and in one Longitudinal section,

10B shows a part of the coupling device according to FIG. 1OA in a perspective exploded view,

11 shows the circuit diagram of the electromechanical control circuit for an embodiment of the sequence control of the washing machine according to FIG. 1 and

Fig. 12 the timing diagram of the timer-operated switches according to Fig. 12 with a conventional washing and drying program of the washing machine according to Fig.

's

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In Fig. 1, a washing machine 10 is of the type with vertical axis illustrates a housing 12 with a lower housing cover 14 and an upper Housing cover 16 contains. Such a machine can be equipped with leveling feet to adapt them to different floor surfaces and align them, however, these are omitted for the sake of simplicity. The upper section 16 of the Housing 12 carries a control panel 18, which is used for control the washing machine operation by the user with a number of switches and controls is provided. .

The upper housing cover 16 also has a hinged one Access cover 24 on, between a closed Position, as shown, and an open position is reciprocable in the access to the interior of the washing machine 10 is possible. The lid 24 is provided with a water-absorbing Channel or chamber 26 is provided which has a liquid inlet opening 28 and a pouring spout 30.

According to FIGS. 1 and 2, within an outer, unperforated container or tub 36, a single perforated wash tub or container 32 holding items of clothing is arranged, in the side wall 56 of which openings 34 are formed. The vat or receptacle takes the items to be washed, such as laundry and the washing medium, usually water _r. The wash tub 32 is said to be fairly lightweight and, for example, may be molded from a plastic material such as polypropylene. The tub 32 has a two-piece construction with a central pin 38 being separately molded and attached to an upstanding collar 40 of the central portion of the tub 32. It's him-

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It is evident that the tub 32 is also made in one piece can be. The middle pin 38 carries an in cup-shaped cup 48 pressed into it, its ring-shaped Edge 48a rests on the upwardly projecting cylindrical side surface of the central pin 38. Of the · Bowl; 48 is designed so that it can contain detergent and / or absorbs and distributes other washing additives.

The tub 32 is on by means of a number of bolts 4 2 a mounting flange or collar 44 of a mounting hub 45 attached. As explained below, the mounting hub is from a gearbox of the washing machine 10 driven and given the tub 32 both a orbital orbital motion as well as a rotary motion.

The tub 32 has three major wall sections, namely: A conical portion 50 extending downwardly outward from the central collar 40, a annular, relatively flat bottom section 52 with a number of openings 54 and finally an outer, substantially cylindrical, perforated side wall 56 extending from the bottom portion 52 upward protrudes. The tub 32 can be fitted with an on-top edge Appropriate stiffening member or hoop 46 extending along the outer surface of sidewall 56 is provided be,; In the illustrated embodiment, the lower end of the pin 38 carries an overhanging or conical edge 38a which rests on the conical section 50 of the tub 32. The edge 38a has a number of curved or spiral ribs 39 formed thereon. The ribs 39 run radially outwards and lower along the conical edge; 38a counterclockwise downwards, this spiral direction being the direction in which, as will be described in detail below, the

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Items of laundry are moved during washing.

The bottom portion 52 of the tub 32 carries a number radially spaced and upwardly projecting circular ribs or rings 53 between which openings 54 are arranged. The rings 53 serve to keep heavy pollution particles can settle from the filled laundry in channels 53a between the rings 53 and then through the openings 54 can be discharged from the tub 32. To do this, lift the upper surfaces 53b of the rings 53 on the laundry items in order to prevent them from clogging the openings 54. The rings 53 also serve to support the tub wall assemblies as a circular motion is imparted to them to support the filled items of laundry / liquid.

The outer wall 56 is shown cylindrical and generally vertical, although other shapes of the side wall 56 can also be used. For example, the side wall 56 may be substantially in the shape of a truncated cone directed from the bottom upwards inwards be beveled. The side wall 56 is provided with a number of vertically extending ribs 58, which protrude radially inwards. The ribs 58 serve to give the laundry a substantially circular shape To give movement that is opposite to the orbital orbital movement of the tub 32. There the axis of the tub 32 in this embodiment revolves around an offset vertical axis, the axis of the tub 32 follows a vertical cylinder and each point of the tub 32 describes a substantially circular path. The radius of the orbit is much smaller than the radius of the tub 32 and those parts of the side wall 56 that of the filled Laundry are adjacent to it.

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move away from it and hit the laundry again. The repeated impact causes that the laundry is circular, in the opposite one In the direction of orbital movement of the tub along the inside thereof. Ribs 58 increase the driving effect of the sidewall contact with the laundry. To generate friction or surface roughness on the inside of the Of course, tubs 32 can also have other means, for example a number of humps, used on the inside to provide driving contact to reinforce the side wall 56 with the filled items of laundry. Any such, increasing the entrainment Device preferably has a radial dimension which is smaller than ls the orbital movement amplitude, so that the entrainment contact between the side wall 56 and the laundry is interrupted.

On the side wall 56 are a number of others, inwardly in the tub 32 protruding ribs or ramps 60 so integrally formed odei attached, which, based on the bottom portion 52, in are inclined to the direction in which the items of laundry forcibly move, namely opposite in this case clockwise to roll that way or To assist turning over the laundry items in a helical fashion. The ribs 60 are wider, i. E. she protrude further into the tub 32 than the ribs 58, to the rolling or circulating of the laundry and also turbulence in the liquid and the filled To produce laundry. This turbulence tends to break up the toroid formed by the laundry, so that a larger part of the total laundry surface of the scrubbing action on the surface of the tub 32 and also the scrubbing action between the laundry amplified is what overall achieving a

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supports even washing.

As stated, the side wall 56 of the tub generates the majority of the mechanical energy for washing the laundry loaded. ^The involved in the washing process, part of _he d sidewall 56 is the amount of load being washed substantially directly proportional, ie the more laundry is washed, the higher the charging height of the tub 32 and a more larger portion of the side wall 56, is involved. Therefore, regardless of the amount charged, the energy supply remains; drove to laundry per unit essentially constant.

In known washing machines, the energy input per unit is higher for small loads, although it is complicated and expensive remedial measures such as multi-speed drive mechanisms and a variety used by actuators.

It has been found that both circular and helical tumbling of the laundry are very effective is when: the tub 32 is approximately 54.6 cm in diameter, the bottom portion 52 of the tub 32 a radial dimension of about 12.7 cm, the conical edge 50 a slope of about 15, the ribs 58 a radial width or depth of about 0.63 cm and the three ribs 60 have a radial width or depth of approximately 5 cm, a development length of 35.56 cm and has an inclination at an angle of about 30 ° relative to the bottom portion 52, the tub 32 with

;, about 600 rpm and a deflection of approximately

5. 1, 9 cm runs around.

It was also found that upon deflection of 1.9 cm and a tub 32 with the above dimensions a rotational speed of less than 500 rpm none results in adequate circular movement of the laundry. In this scale,

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in which the; orbital velocity increases, the circular Umlaugeschatz of the filled in also increases Laundry, as well as the circulation speed of the laundry, results in the circulation speed of 600 rpm a very effective circular and helical movement. A rotational speed in the range of 600 rpm leads to an expedient dehydration with a useful vibration ratio of the washing machine. At a web or spindle speed of approximately 700 rpm, undesirable vibrations occur and resulting noises in certain floors, which are currently permitted by many building codes. Thus requires an orbital velocity of about 600 rpm. None between wash and spin operation Engine / transmission speed changes. This eliminates the need for complex and expensive gears, such as they can be found in many popular washing machines.

The container 36 is attached to the housing 12 by three struts 64 suspended, attached to elastic spherical Links 66 are attached. The spherical fastening members 66 are in turn in the housing 12 formed sockets 68 and 70 or in on the container 36 attached retaining projections 72 attached. In Fig. 1, there are only two strut arrangements and base 68, 70 is shown in full, however it can be seen that the other strut / socket connection is designed the same and all strut / base arrangements offset from one another by 90 ° along the container 36 and in three corners of the housing 12 of the washing machine 10 are arranged. In an opening of the container 36 sits a gear or a washing machine drive device: 74, that or the concentric to the vertical axis of the container 36 and on this by a series of bolts 76 is attached. The tub 32 is attached to the flange 44 by the bolts 42, while the hub 45 of the Flange 44 by means of a bolt 80 on the output ; : ■ / ■. / .. 030048/0735

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shaft 78 of the transmission 74 is attached.

About the washing liquid flowing out of the tub 32 A collecting bowl 90 is arranged in an opening in the bottom of the container 36. At the control panel 18, a known water level switch 92 is attached. With a connection piece 96 of the collecting bowl 90 is connected to an air chamber 94, which in turn is connected to the water level switch via a hose 94a 92 is connected. When water accumulates in the collection cup 90, the air in the air chamber 94 becomes pressed together and the water level switch 92 closed. The tub 32 is driven by the gear 74, this in turn via a suitable torque-limiting, Drive system including a clutch mounted on the motor shaft 20a, depending on the operation a reversible in the direction of rotation motor 20 operates. The motor shaft 20a also carries a in a known manner pump 98 driven by them. The motor 20 and the components mounted on it are expedient connected to the container 36 by means of a support member 104. A corresponding drive belt 106 transmits the drive energy from the clutch 102 to the drive shaft S of the transmission by means of a belt pulley 108 74.. It is therefore dependent on the direction of rotation of the motor 20, the V-belt pulley 108 and consequently the drive shaft S of the transmission 74 in opposite directions drivable. When the motor 20 rotates in one direction, the transmission 74 causes the tub 32 to move in one direction substantially horizontal plane around the axis of the drive shaft S revolves. Conversely, if the engine goes into the rotates in the opposite direction, the gear 74 aligns the axis of the tub 32 with the axis of the input shaft S and rotates the tub 32 with it to spin a high speed. In the following, embodiments of the transmission and the drive device 74 are for

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optionally generating an orbital and a twist motion of the tub 32 will be explained in more detail.

The pump 98 is to drain the water from the Container 36 is connected to the collecting bowl 90 via a hose 100. The pump 98 is designed so that With each direction of rotation of the motor 20, they remove the washing liquid from the collecting bowl via the hose 100 90 and emptied this through a hose 101 into a corresponding (not shown) drain. The special design of the pump 98 is insignificant as long as it removes the washing liquid from the container 36 pumps out depending on each direction of motor rotation.

It can be seen that in use of the illustrated and described suspension system, the struts 64 suspend and support all of the motor 20, the clutch 102, the gearbox 74, the container 36 and the tub 32 in the housing 12. During the orbital: circulation operation there are forces of action and reaction between the tub 32 and the gearbox 74. If, on the one hand, the mass of the unloaded tub 32 is equal to the mass of the container 36 and the other components it supports (such as the motor 20, clutch 102, pump 98 and gearbox 74) on the other hand, that is orbital evasive movement is approximately equally divided between the tub 32 and the container structure 36. It was found that 3 2 decreases at a substantially the above dimensions having vat whose actual deflection movement measured from a fixed reference point, because of the limited relative movement of the suspended assembly to the extent that increases as the wash / Wäschflüssigkeitsbeschickung ■. However, this slight decrease in the orbital evasive movement has no noticeable impact on the washing performance.

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worth effect. Conversely, the orbital evasive movement increases as the mass of the suspended assembly increases. Accordingly, the canister assembly (canister 36 and the other components it supports) are designed so that their mass is substantially greater than ¹ than the mass of tub 32 and so that tub 32- is for most of the orbital evasive motion. During orbital circulation, the canister assembly moves very little and the suspension including struts 64 and resilient balls 66 still isolates housing 12 from this movement. As a result, the housing 12 vibrates very little.

During the spinning, the tub 32 rotates its geometric center. The mass of the water is removed very quickly and the mass of the wash affects that Position of the center of gravity of the rotating vat 32. If the mass of the laundry in the tub 32 is evenly distributed, very low vibrations occur. One uneven laundry distribution, as it often occurs, however leads to vibration through the tub 32. The mass of the non-rotating parts of the suspended System, namely the container assembly, withstands such vibrations, i.e. the container assembly resists the movement. Since the mass of the container assembly is large compared to the mass of the tub 32, takes over the container assembly absorbs only a small part of the vibration caused by the struts 64 and the elastic balls 66 is additionally isolated from the housing 12. The effect of the container assembly can be increased by enlarging its mass, for example by simply attaching a weight, such as a concrete body, to the container 36, can be increased.

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The suspended system of the washing machine 10 forms a pendulum and usually has a resonance frequency at about 120 rpm. When the motor 20 and the gearbox 74 move the tub 32 through the resonance frequency Accelerate, a small imbalance can cause a very large movement of the suspended Effect system. A friction damper illustrated in 36a, facilitates passage through the resonance frequency. To this end can be a variety known friction damper can be used.

Although a strut suspension is illustrated, it can be seen that various other types of suspensions can be used with the washing machine 10; provided that the container 36 and the "working" components, as described above, in the "movable" System are arranged. Because the container 36 and the components that endure an inertial resistance to that the tub 32 is supported during orbital revolving, and because this also occurs during the rotation of the Vat 32 an imbalance and evasive movement Form limiting mass, this means that the suspension does the orbital evasive movement and the Is intended to absorb spin motion with minimal power transmission to the holding housing 12. The container 36 and the other, suspended "working" components are said to be suspended so as to induce any Secondary movement due to the unevenly distributed mass of the rotating tub 32 limit so that the orbital or "circulating" movement of the tub 32 is not adversely affected.

For the sake of description, the term "circles" used. This term is generally intended to mean movement in an orbit along an essentially

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denote a closed path. This term also includes curved motion. However, it is apparent that another movement is evoked can be slightly elliptical and slightly vertical due to a special suspension system, so that it is consequently in a range that describes a torus. Furthermore, each rotation means or Precession of the tub 32 during the orbit revolution that the path of each point of the tub 32 does not differ exactly closes. Therefore, the term "orbit" is intended to encompass all of these limited movements. Independent however, depending on the suspension used, the central axis of the tub 3 2 always moves in an orbit, namely parallel and at a predetermined distance from the axis belonging to the gearbox around which the Tub 32 revolves. '",

One type of suspension that can be used is the suspension known as a "fixed knot" such as that shown in U.S. Patents 2,854,297 and 2,930,215 and is described. The fixed knot suspension contains an inverted dome-like base that is attached to the Bottom of the housing of the washing machine is attached and can hold a drive shaft in a vertical position. the The dome-like arrangement serves as an anchorage for the assembly carrying the shaft and allows a relatively limited nutation of the shaft against the Vertical axis. A variation on this suspension is shown in U.S. Patents 3,247,689 and 3,277,742.

The washing machine 10 is a fresh water machine. The washing machine 10 includes a water supply device in the form of a coil-operated mixing valve 118 (shown in dashed lines) with magnetic coils 118a and 118b, which are connected to sources via hoses 120 and 122, respectively for cold and hot water, e.g. household

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Taps, is connected. By selectively turning on the solenoids 118a and 118b, the The output of the mixing valve TI 8 delivers hot, cold or warm water. The outlet of the mixing valve 118 feeds via a line 124 a coil-operated distributor device 126 with a flush-operated control valve 126a. When the control valve 126a is turned off or closed is, all of the water entering the manifold 126 is directed into the hose 128. If that Control valve 126a is on or open, the outflow from the manifold 126 is between the hoses 128 and 130 in a predetermined ratio, for example 4: 1, split. The hose 128 is connected to a feed ring 132 which is connected to an annular mounting frame 134 attached which in turn is conveniently at the top of the container 36 is suitably attached. The dining ring 132 is an endless, hollow, annular tube with a Number of openings 136 formed in the tube are that the coming from the hose 128 water sprays down into the entire interior of the tub 132 will.

The hose 130 is connected to a liquid nozzle 138, which is fastened in an opening formed in the housing cover 16. The nozzle 138 is located opposite the opening arranged in the cover 24 28 to feed water into the channel 26. The liquid from the channel 26 empties through the The pouring spout 30 into the dosing cup 48 in order to be there with the detergent liquid filled into the dosing cup 48 or to mix grains.

The water sprayed from the feed ring 132 soaks the water in the tub. 32 loaded laundry. after the Laundry is soaked that the water flows through it

030048 / 0.735, _fi

- JQ -

the water through the items to be washed and. then through the openings 54 in the tub bottom 52. The water and all of the sand and / or others Pollutants carried by the water enter an annular ring located below the tub 32 Channel 140. The channel 140 is attached to the fastening flange 44 by means of the bolts 42. the Channel 140 has an annular, upwardly rising Bottom area 140a as well as a vertically rising one outer edge 140b, with the bottom section 140a in the direction of the central axis of the washing machine 10 falls and the outer edge 140b extends slightly further upwards than the substantially horizontal bottom portion 52 of the tub 32. The channel 140 is used at the bottom of the tub 32, based on its vertical dimension, a flat or to form limited liquid bath, so that at least periodically the entire bottom portion 52 of the tub 32 is completely flooded. It was determined, that it is sufficient if with the exemplary vat 32 with the dimensions of the edge 140 specified in detail above, the bottom area 52 of the tub 32 so far towers above a pool of water with a depth of approximately 2.5 cm.

The agitating or screwing motion of the loaded laundry leads to every item of laundry entering this bath of liquid is immersed from time to time. Immersing the laundry helps remove dirt particles like sand. The channel 140 also includes a number of openings 144 adjacent the radially inner end of the rising bottom portion 140a are arranged. The water gets along with the particles and other things dirt carried by the water through the openings 144 of the channel 140 into the lower region of the container 36 and in the collecting bowl 90. The water and the

030048/0735. _ ₃₇ _

Taken dirt is pumped out of the collecting bowl 90 by the pump 98 and hose through the pump drain 101 removed. It can be seen that the openings 144 are sized so that the water flow through these openings 144 is smaller than the flow through the openings 154, so that the water can accumulate in the channel 140 to a level where it at least periodically over the edge 140b flows.

A common laundry facility is running as follows: The clothes to be washed are placed in the tub 32 and the desired amount of detergent filled into the dosing cup 4 8. The user selects the appropriate wash cycle times as well the water temperatures and turns on the washing machine 10 a. First of all there is a soaking or wetting the items of laundry in the tub 32, through the water flow exiting the feed ring 132, wherein no water runs through the channel 26. This step gets soaked without the use of detergent the clothes and prepare them for washing. When the laundry items carefully are soaked, the water runs through the floor section 52 of the tub 32 into the channel 140 and then through the openings 144 in the collecting cup 90. As the water collects in the collecting cup 90, the water level switch 92 is actuated and switches on the motor 20, which in turn causes the transmission 74 / the Moving tub 32 in its orbital or wash mode> as detailed below. Of the Motor 20 includes a centrifugal switch that closes as soon as motor 20 begins to rotate. The motor 20 thus continues to run even if the water is pumped out of the collecting bowl 90 during the washing operation is and thus the pressure switch 92 is reset.

0 300 A 8/073 5 - 38 -

Closing the switch 92 also results in a Switching on the control valve 126a so that the water flow between the feed ring 132 and the channel 26 is divided. The water coming through the channel 26 flows through the pouring spout 30 into the dosing cup 48 for the detergent, where it mixes with the detergent located there and from where it is because of the Movement of the tub 32 is ejected to add the diluted detergent to the garments mix *

Since the washing machine 10 is of the pass-through type, at If the laundry is washed with a small, constantly exchanged amount of water, it is advisable to use the tub 32 to supply the fresh water at a fairly small rate. For an exemplary washing machine was an effective rate of 1.89 l / min was found to be acceptable. But it is difficult to find inexpensive solenoid valves to get that precisely control a steady flow at a low flow rate. Thus, in the example, the effective flow achieved by pulsing the water supply. This means that throughout Washing process, which can be variable in length, once per minute for 15 seconds of water at a rate of 7.57 l / min is filled. Has a pulsed flow another benefit. When the water is supplied, a pool of water forms in the gutter 140, which soaks the laundry in the lower part of the tub 32. When the water flow is interrupted, the water accumulation runs into the collecting bowl 90. The pump 98 removes the water from the washing machine 10, the Water a large portion of the foam, dirt, and particles with si that have been removed from the laundry. This rinsing process is repeated with each burst of water and enhances the washing effect. It can be seen that too

030048/07 3 5

- 39 -

other flow rates and other pulse times or a constant ^ low flow can be used.

As the detergent is gradually added -, and to only a small amount of water in the washing machine at any one time 10 is present, a very effective detergent concentration is obtained in the wash water, whereby the total detergent consumption is considerably smaller than with known deep water washing machines.

At the end of the washing process, the washing water is centrifuged out. The direction of rotation of the motor is used for this 20 vice versa. This causes the gearbox 74, the axis of the Bortichs 32 with the main drive axis S of the transmission 74 and align the tub 32 at a high speed to rotate this axis. the Pump 98 removes the centrifuged water from the washing machine 10. ■

The rinsing process following the centrifugation of the washing water is very similar to the washing process with its orbital movement of the tub 32, but takes place often a change in the selected water temperature. When rinsing, the water normally flows only through the feed ring 132, both in the continuous as well as pulsed feed type, which continues over the entire rinsing process. At the end of the rinsing part of the program, the water supply is stopped finished and the washing machine 10 goes into another Centrifugation or vat turning state over like this is described above.

If desired, more than one washing and / or rinsing process can of course be provided. A Number of other changes are made, such as the Addition of a spray rinse during spin operation.

0300Λ8 / 0735

■■ -. ■ '"· - 40 -

Further steps can also be provided, for example a laundry loosening process in which the tub 32 orbitally revolves without adding water after the last centrifugal extraction to loosen the laundry *

In FIGS. 3 to 5, an exemplary embodiment of a transmission or a drive device 74 used in the washing machine 10 is illustrated. The three revolving main assemblies are shown (summarized) in FIG. 4, namely the elements or assemblies "A", "E" and "F". The transmission 74 has an output shaft 78 which drives the tub 32 in an orbital state for washing and rinsing and operates in the rotating manner for spinning. In the orbital or revolving mode, the output shaft 78 moves eccentrically to the drive shaft S of the gearbox 74, while it revolves with and on the same axis as the drive shaft S for the rotary mode. -.'-._

This is based on the exploded view according to FIG. 4 Gear 74, starting at its output or upper End described in the order in which it was arranged. . The revolving drive group or drive member A contains the vertical output shaft 78, which is a radial protruding flange 7 8b, an axially extending serration 78c and a circumferential groove 78d, all of which by corresponding Manufacturing process formed on the output shaft 7 8 are. A clutch assembly, indicated generally by bracket "B", is disposed on output shaft 78 for orbital orbital movement of the tub 32 an eccentric movement of the shaft 78 relative to the gear housing 256 (see bracket F). The clutch assembly "B" is a clutch known as a cross-jaw clutch (Oldham clutch) and includes one upper plate 170, a middle plate 176 and a lower

030048/0735

- 41 -

301840A

Plate 180. The upper and lower plates 170 and 170 can be made of sintered iron, for example be, while the middle plate 176 made of a material can be manufactured with a low coefficient of friction, as sold under the trade name "Delrin" by DuPont will. The upper plate 170 carries a radially inner and downwardly pointing collar 172, the one Has internal serration, which with the axially extending external teeth 78c of the output shaft 78 cooperates. The flange 78b of the output shaft 78 rests on the top surface of the top plate 170 on. Two opposite and radially extending Driver or ribs 174 are down from the top plate 170 protrudes. The middle plate 176 contains an oval opening 176a formed in it, which the The collar 172 receives and allows its lateral movement within the central plate 176. The middle Plate 176 contains two sets of diametrically opposed and radially extending grooves 177 and 178, respectively. The grooves of a set are 90 degrees against the grooves of the other sentence. The grooves 177 in the axially upper side of the middle plate 176 are designed so that they accommodate the drivers 174, while the grooves 178 in the lower in the axial direction Side of the middle plate 176 are designed so that they receive the drivers or ribs 182, which from the upper side of the lower plate 180 protrude axially upward. The plate 180 additionally carries a downwardly directed cylindrical collar 184 on the outside thereof a series of springs 136 are formed, during the washing and purging steps, the output shaft 78 is through the above-described assemblies of the transmission 74 to a Moves axis that is offset from its own axis. The cross-claw coupling enables this movement, while on the other hand it rotates the output shaft 78 to prevents its own axis.

03004 870 735
- ■ - ■■ - - 42 -

It can be seen that when the lower plate 180 is retained while the output shaft 78 and thus the toothed upper plate 170 is moved about an axis which is opposite to the axis of the lower Plate 180 is offset or eccentric, the middle plate 176, based on the lower plate 180, due the cooperation of the driver 182 with the grooves 178 moves back and forth and consequently the upper Plate 170 because of the engagement of the driver 174 in the Grooves 177, with respect to the central plate 176, moved forward and backward. This enables the output shaft 78 to revolve around an axis which is offset from its own axis, while on the other hand it is prevented from rotating around its own axis. Conversely, if the lower platen 180 is not in a stationary one State is recorded, the entire clutch assembly runs B with the output shaft 78 to.

The next part to be placed on output shaft 78 of the transmission 7 4 is the clutch device designated as a whole by the bracket "C". This coupling device connects the output shaft 78 with its lower part _written drive links, and these run with

Rotation operation with it, but allow a relative movement between the output shaft 78 and its drive members in circulation or orbital operation. A corrugated spring washer 188 is on output shaft 78 arranged and lies on the underside of the axially extending collar 172: the upper clutch plate 170 on. On the coupling teeth 78c of the drive shaft 78 sits next to the spring washer 188 a toothed one Clutch pressure disc 190. On the other side of the pressure disc 190 is a friction clutch plate 192. The friction clutch plate 192 carries a series of radially outwardly projecting extensions 194 which engage in corresponding grooves 102 are used, which are in the radially inner

030048/0735

lowing surface of an upwardly extending axial extension 204 of an upper eccentric sleeve 206 -C-see-brackets- "E") are formed. A toothed one steel clutch disc 195 engages in the longitudinally extending toothing 78c of the output shaft 98, while another clutch plate 192 illustrated that Coupling arrangement completed. It can be seen that additional clutch plates 192 and Clutch plates 195 can be used when appropriate.

A brake assembly, indicated generally by the bracket "D", is provided for the lower plate 180 of the cross-claw clutch during the orbital movement to hold the output shaft 7 8. The brake assembly includes a series of brake plates 196 made of a frictional Material and steel brake discs nested with them 198. Although only two brake discs 196 and a brake disc 198 are illustrated, it can be seen that other such components in one nested sequence can be used. Each brake disc 198 carries a plurality of them radially extending grooves 199 on their inner edge, which serve to the extensions 186 of the collar 184 of the lower Plate 180 to receive, while on the other hand each brake disc 196 has a plurality of also radially extending grooves 197 on its outer edge, the in turn serve on the radially inner surface of an axial flange 256b of the gear housing 256 (see bracket "F") attached serrations 256a. The uppermost brake plate 196 lies on top of the lower annular surface of the lower plate 180 and the lowest brake plate 196 lies on the one in the housing 256 formed annular collar 156c. When over the collar 78b and the clutch plates 170, 176 and 180 the substantial, downward force component on the

0300Λ8 / 0735

. ■■■■ - = ■. ■ - ■ - 44 -

Output shaft 78 (caused by the weight of the Tubs 32 and the like) to the ■ brake assembly D transferred is, the lamellae 196 and disk 198 are pressed together so that they no longer move against each other. Since the lamellae 196 with the stationary gear housing 256 and the disks 198 are toothed with the lower clutch plate 180, this prevents the lower plate 180 rotates. As soon as the significant downward force component is canceled, it can become move the slats 196 and the disks 198 against each other so that the lower plate 180 can rotate.

With the bracket "E" is a drive element or a drive group for the transmission of both the orbital movement as well as the rotational movement on the output shaft 78 and is marked as inner eccentric Device called. The inner eccentric device E includes the upper eccentric sleeve 206, a Drive sleeve 216 and a lower eccentric sleeve 220. The upper eccentric sleeve 206 has a cylindrical portion 204 having a series of grooves 202 formed on the radially inner surface which, as stated above, receive the clutch claws 194 of the clutch plates 192. The cylindrical section 204 protrudes axially upward from a radially extending cylindrical flange 207. One radial inside and a radially outside, arc-shaped extension 208, 209 protrude from the flange 207 downwards (see FIG. 6). The upper eccentric sleeve 206 also carries a cylindrical portion 210 pointing downward in the axial direction and extending radially is located within the inner extension 208 and the outer peripheral surface contains a bearing surface. To the The output shaft 78 is received through the sleeve 206 has a bore 212. The axis Z-Z of the bore 212 is opposite to the axis Y-Y that on the cylindrical section

Q3Q048 / 073S

210 trained bearing surface offset or eccentric. The cooperating with the clutch C cylindrical Section 204 is again concentric with the Z-Z axis.

The drive sleeve 216 has an axially extending upper area 216a with a flattened area 216b on. The sleeve 216 is mounted in the bore 212 such that the flat portion 216b is flat 212a aligned with the bore 212 and preferably permanently therein, for example by welding, is attached. The sleeve 216 also includes an axially extending lower portion 216c as well a flat that matingly receives a flat in bore 221 of lower eccentric sleeve 220. For the rotatable mounting of the output shaft 78 are in the Drive sleeve 216 in its upper and lower opening Bearing bushes 218 and 219 pressed in.

The lower eccentric sleeve 220 is a cylindrical one Component, the outside diameter of which is the same as the outside diameter of the cylindrical portion 210 of the upper eccentric sleeve 206 and its outer surface also serves as a storage area. The inner eccentric assembly E can thus be mounted on the output shaft 78, that the claws 194 of the coupling slats 192 be aligned with the grooves 202 of the sleeve 206 and the output shaft 78 is inserted into the sleeve 216. The assembled assembly assembly that includes clutch B, clutch C, and clutch disposed on output shaft 78 Brake D contains is through a washer 222 and a snap ring 224 secured, which is seated in an annular groove 78d of the output shaft 78.

The third and last main drive element or the drive group of the gearbox 74 is indicated by the bracket "F" denotes and forms the with the pulley 108

Q30048 / 073S

connected drive input (including the input shaft S of Fig. 1). For descriptive reasons, the assembly F is referred to as an outer eccentric device. The outer eccentric device F includes a substantially cylindrical) upper eccentric 232, which is illustrated in detail in FIG. 6, as well as a hollow drive shaft 240 and a lower eccentric 244 outer eccentric device is denoted by XX. The upper eccentric 232 contains a bore 233, the axis YY of which is offset or eccentric with respect to the axis XX of the input shaft S. On the hollow drive shaft 240 a projection 240a is formed which extends in the axial direction and which is seated with a press fit in the bore 233 of the upper eccentric 232 and is welded therein. The downwardly facing cylindrical section 210 of the upper eccentric sleeve 206 and the lower sleeve 220 of the assembly E is inserted in a bore 241 of the hollow drive shaft 240. Thus, the axis YY is the common axis of the eccentric upper and lower sleeves 206 and 210 and the drive hollow ^ shaft 240. An annular groove 240 is provided in the inside branch in the hollow drive shaft 240 at its lower end, which groove receives the lower eccentric 244 which is welded to the hollow drive shaft 240. The lower eccentric 244 carries a fastening lug 244a centered on the YY axis. The axis of a bearing seat 244 and the vertically extending shaft 244c jointly lie concentrically on the axis XX, the shaft 244c being provided for securing the pulley 108 (not shown). The axis of the shaft 244c is the same axis as that of the upper eccentric 23 2 of the assembly S _f, namely the axis XX.

The inner eccentric device E is in the hollow drive shaft 240 of the outer eccentric device F and further is a pin 246 in an opening 242 of the

030048/0735

- 47 -

Hollow drive shaft 240 used. The pin 246 protrudes between the cylindrical extension 210 and the lower one eccentric sleeve 220 of the inner eccentric device E into the hollow drive shaft 240. This results in opt for the inner eccentric device E (see Fig. 3j a predetermined axial movement possibility relative to the outer eccentric device F. The assembled gear assembly is inserted into the gear housing 256, the grooves 197 of the brake disks 196 are aligned with the claws 256a of the gear housing 256. Between the Gear housing 256 and an outer bearing surface of the upper eccentric 232 of the outer eccentric device F. a main housing bearing 250 is seated. A ball bearing 252 is arranged between the housing 256 and the bearing seat 244b, which is held in the gear housing 256 by two snap rings 254 and 255, which are on the bearing seat 244b of the outer eccentric device F or in the housing 256 are fixed.

As already stated, the gear 74 is used to Operate output shaft 78 in two different states, i.e. in an orbital in wash mode and in a rotating one in spin mode. In these two In operating states, the output shaft 78 is controlled by the input torque fed into the input shaft 244c driven. In the rotating mode, the transmission 74 shifts or offsets the axis of the output shaft 78 slightly with respect to the axis of the input shaft S, while in the rotation mode the transmission 74 is the axis of the input shaft with which the output shaft 78 aligns. The change between the two operating states / i.e. that Aligning or displacing the output shaft 78 on or against the input shaft S is achieved by a relative movement between the inner and outer eccentric devices E and F, respectively. The way in which

Q30048 / 073S

- 48 -

this relative movement is achieved is most easily understood with reference to FIG. 6.

In Fig. 6, the upper eccentric sleeve 206 of the inner eccentric device E and the upper eccentric 232 are the outer eccentric device F shown in a perspective exploded view. The upper eccentric 232 the outer eccentric device F is rotated by approximately 180 relative to the position shown in FIG. 3, illustrated and corresponds to its relative position shown in FIG. It should be noted that in this situation the axis Z-Z of the output shaft 78 is aligned with the main axis X-X of the outer eccentric device F, so that the input and output shafts S, 78 of the transmission are aligned for the rotary mode are. For the purpose of description, the position of the inner and outer eccentric devices E and F, as shown in FIG. 3 is illustrated as their first relative angular position and the position of the eccentric device E and F 5 referred to as the second relative angular position thereof. In the first relative angular position, the gear 74 generates the orbital or orbital movement and in the second relative angular position the rotational movement. To move the output shaft back and forth between them to achieve both states, an inner and an outer arcuate, axially rising extensions 236 and 237 are provided. The extensions 236 and 237 are upward from the eccentric 232 and are concentric with the Y-Y axis. The downward protruding extensions 202 and 209 of inner eccentric devices 206 are also concentric with the Y-Y axis. The extension 208 is arranged so that it can rest on a cam surface 234 and on drive surfaces 234a and 236a of the extension 236. The appendix 209, however, is arranged so that it is on a cam surface 235 and on drive surfaces 235a and 237a

Q30048 / 0735

- 49 -

of the extension 237 of the eccentric 232 can be applied.

When the eccentric devices E and F in their first relative angular position, as shown in Fig. 3, the drive surfaces 236a and 237a rest on the extensions 208 and 209, respectively. The rotation of the input shaft 244 clockwise by means of motor 20 and pulley 208 causes the drive surfaces Move 236a and 237a around the X-X axis. Your interaction with the extensions 208 and 209 in turn causes that the eccentric sleeve 206 of the inner eccentric device E revolves orbitally, or with an eccentricity that is equal to the offset between the Y-Y axis opposite the X-X axis: (see Fig. 3) revolves around the X-X axis.

The ZZ axis of the bore 212 in the eccentric sleeve is also shifted relative to the XX axis of the input shaft 244c by the offset between the YY and the ZZ axis. The output shaft 78 is inserted in the bore and thus runs around or moves around the XX axis with an eccentricity which is equal to the total offset between the XX axis of the input shaft 244c with respect to the ZZ axis of the output shaft 78. Since the brake assembly D is now effectively compressed by the downward force component acting on it, the output shaft 78 is prevented from rotating about its ZZ axis when it orbitally orbits or moves about the XX axis of the input shaft 244c. Thus, the output shaft 78 supports the tub such that the center or central axis of the tub 32 revolves about the XX axis of the input shaft 244c with an eccentricity equal to the total offset between the XX axis and the ZZ axis.

■ 030048 / 073S " ⁵ ° ■."

As can be seen from Fig. 3, the offset is between the X-X and Y-Y axes equal the offset between the Y-Y and Z-Z axes. In the example each offset 0.476 cm as well as the distance between the X-X and Z-Z axes 0.952 cm, which means the eccentricity of the tub 32, based on the input shaft S, comes to about 0.952 cm so that the total evasive movement of tub 32 is approximately 1.905 cm amounts to. This means that the central axis of the tub 32 moves so that it describes a cylinder, whose axis is the X-X axis, i.e. the axis of the input shaft 244c and whose radius is 0.952 cm, based on the input shaft is 244c. When the gearbox 74 and consequently the input shaft 244c opposite each lateral or vertical movement are absolutely fixed, each point of the vat 3 would be 2 from the input shaft 244c driven so that it moves in a circle with a diameter of 1.905 cm. However a slight movement of the gear 74 is possible due to the suspension, as explained above, so that the actual orbital evasive movement of each point of tub 32 as measured against the ground or a fixed point of reference in the room, deviating slightly from 1.905 cm, depending on the size, the load, the orbit speed, etc. Nevertheless, the orbital or Orbital movement the washing movement described above.

It can be seen that although the amount of eccentricity provided for the gear 74 can be varied can, the total evasive movement of the tub 32 is substantially smaller than its diameter, i.e. smaller should be than 20%.

- 51 0 30048/0735

At the end of the orbital movement in the washing or rinsing cycle, the motor 20 is reversed in the direction of rotation and the input shaft 244c of the outer eccentric device F begins to rotate counterclockwise, which drives the hollow drive shaft 240 and the upper eccentric 232 of the outer eccentric device F in the same direction will. The hollow drive shaft 240 and the eccentric 232 of the outer eccentric device F rotate by approximately 180, the bore 241 of the input shaft 244c rotating relative to the bearing surfaces 210 and 220 of the assembly E. This rotation pushes or shifts the YY axis of the eccentric sleeve 206 from one side of the XX axis of the input shaft 244c, as seen in FIG. 3, to the other side of the XX axis, as shown in FIG. This translation allows the ZZ axis of the output shaft 78 to be aligned with the XX axis of the input shaft 244c. During this 180 ⁰ rotation set, the cam surfaces 234 and .235 of the eccentric 232 of eccentric 2:32 of the extensions 208 and 209 of the eccentric sleeve 206, and lift it high. At the end of said 180 ° rotation, the drive surfaces 234a and 235a of the eccentric 232 lie on the extensions 208 and 209. The continued counterclockwise rotation of the input shaft 244c causes the assemblies E and F to rotate together about the XX axis, namely in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 5, the XX axis of the input shaft 244c being aligned with the ZZ axis of the output shaft 78.

Raising the eccentric sleeve 206 pushes the components of the coupling assembly C together and lifts the plate 170 of the cross-claw coupling B. This will largely the compressive force is removed from brake D and thus brake D is effectively released,

030048/0735 - 52 -

so that the cross-claw clutch B and the ■ output shaft 78 due to the clutch assembly C supplied driving force can rotate. In this configuration, the Z-Z axis is the output shaft 78 concentric with the X-X axis of the input shaft 244c, the output shaft 78 via the coupling eye C is driven to rotate the tub 32 for centrifugal extraction of the water.

From Fig. 4 it can be seen that the vertical movement of the upper coupling plate 170 by the drivers 174 of this plate 170 and the grooves 177 of the middle Plate 176 is recorded without a complete Decoupling between the drivers 174 and the grooves 177 takes place. .

At the end of the centrifugal extraction (spin cycle) the engine is switched off. Because the inertia of the motor 20 is much smaller than that of the vat 3 2, the latter actually becomes the driving force. As a result, the gear 74 is in the revolving position, as shown in Fig. 3, where the brake D quickly stops the vat 3 2 ..

From Fig. 3 it can be seen that the complete gear housing 256 is attached to the container 36. An annular seal 258 is fitted in a gap, which is formed in an annular mounting flange 256d of the transmission housing 256, the Seal 258 liquid-tight against container 36 is applied when the gear case 256 through the group by bolts 76 and retaining nuts 77 against the container 3 6. is screwed tight .. A hose clip 84 is attached liquid-tight a sleeve 82 on a cylindrical extension 256b of the gear housing 256. The upper end of the sleeve 82 is attached to a shaft sealing device 86 by means of a hose tie 88.

030048/0735

- 5 3 -

- ^: · - ^: 3078404

The shaft sealing device 86 contains a press fit on the output shaft 78 Bearing 260, a circular bearing support sleeve 262 surrounding the bearing 260 outside, and a cup-shaped one Sealing cap 264, and an annular seal 266, the cap 264 and the seal 266 sit on sleeve 262 with an interference fit. Opposite to an axial movement along the output shaft 78, the sealing device 86 is by a Lock washer 268 secured in a circumferential annular groove 78a of the output shaft 78 seated.

As described above, the tub 3 is 2 and the Channel 140 attached to the mounting hub 4 5 by means of a series of bolts 4 2, the mounting hub 45 through the bolt 80 and a lock nut 81 on the vertical output shaft is secured. . ·

In FIGS. 7a and 7b, a further clutch is illustrated which, instead of the clutch C in FIG Fig. 4 coupling shown can be used. Fig. 7b shows the coupling device C in one perspective exploded view, while FIG. 7a, the coupling device 7c mounted on the output shaft 78 and in the same relative position shows how it is shown for the clutch C in FIG. Identical parts of the gearbox are through the same reference numerals as used in the description of the mechanism of FIGS. 3-6 are. Output shaft 278 is similar to output shaft 78 except for the spline area 278c is shortened. The upper coupling plate 270 corresponds to the plate 170, with the exception that the axial dimension of the collar 272 of the upper coupling plate 270 is shortened. The radial dimension the oval opening 276a of the middle plate

0 3 0 0 4 8/0735

■ - 54 -

276 is also slightly expanded to include the Coupling arrangement C to be included.

In a bearing housing 284, a bearing bushing is inserted 282 as a participant in a direction with- ¹ Kupplungsschlingfeder 286 and a Schmiör agent container 288 are arranged on the bearing housing 284 '*, that they rest on a formed on the bearing housing annular collar 284a. This subassembly is then pushed up onto the output shaft 278 until the upper end face of the bearing bush 282 rests against the lower end of the radially protruding serrations 278c of the output shaft 278. A washer 290 and a snap ring 292 secure the clutch C against axial displacement, by inserting the snap ring 292 into an annular groove 278b of the output shaft 278. When the output shaft 278 is inserted into the upper clutch plate, the clutch spring 286 rests snugly on the extension 272. Once the inner subassembly E is placed on the clutch assembly C, one engages Flat point 284b on the lower axial extension 284c de s bearing housing 284 in a flat portion 212a of the upper eccentric sleeve 206 so that they rotate rigidly coupled to one another.

Spring 286 is commonly referred to as a clutch loop spring (L.G.S.-Fede designates and works in such a way that it slips when a component on which it is mounted rotates in one direction, but wraps around the component on which it is attached, when it rotates in the opposite direction. If the inner and outer eccentric devices E and F, and thus bearing housing 284, in a clockwise direction or are driven in the direction of rotation, the bearing housing 284 rotates in a slipping

030048/0735

- 55 -

Mode of operation in the spring 286. One turn in the opposite direction clockwise the inner and outer eccentric devices E, F, and thus the bearing housing 284, causes the spring 286 to couple the bearing housing 284 to the axial extension 272 of the upper clutch plate 270. The relative axial orientation the output shaft 278 in the revolving mode, or in the rotational state, and the operation of the brake assembly D is exactly as described with reference to FIG. 36. This means that one rotation of input shaft 244c counterclockwise causes the eccentric sleeve 206 to be raised vertically because the extensions 208 and 209 on the Cam surfaces 234 and 23 5 run up and thus absorb the depressing braking forces via clutch B, which act on the brake assembly B. Because the plate 270 meshes with the output shaft 278 is, the counterclockwise rotational movement of the revolving drive elements is on transmit the output shaft 278, which causes it to also rotate about its own axis.

8 and 9, a further embodiment of the transmission 74 is illustrated. The gear 300 contains 3 rotating main drive elements, namely an input shaft G, an eccentric or a Crankshaft H and a straight or hollow output shaft The 3 rotating main drive elements are in the Gear housing 302 mounted so that they are optionally can rotate relative to each other.

The operation of the transmission 300 is very similar that of the transmission 74 according to FIGS. 3-6. The drive assembly F of the transmission 74 provides the same Function like the input shaft G of the transmission 300; i.e. to deliver the input torque to the Ab-> Drive shafts A and I in two different ones

Q30048 / 07 3 S - 56 -

3010404

To drive operating modes, namely a revolving wash mode and a rotating spin mode. In the orbital or revolving mode, both gears 74, 300 shift the axis of the output shafts 78, I slightly opposite the main axis, i.e. the axis of the input shafts 244c, G, while in the Rotation mode align the two gearboxes with the axes of the input and output shafts. Switching or changing between the two modes of operation is done by a lost motion clutch - between the inner and the outer Eccentric device E and F of the transmission 74, or a lost motion clutch between the drive assembly G and the crankshaft H of the transmission 300 reached. In both transmissions 74,300, the output shaft is connected to the tub 3 2 to this power for washing and rinsing in circulation mode and for spinning in rotation mode. The relative distance the X-X axis of the input shaft and the Z-Z axis of the output shaft, as well as the arrangement the Y-Y axis of the intermediate assemblies E and H is identical in both cases. So add up the eccentricities in the transmission 300 either to - as in the circulation mode - an evasion of the Vat 3 2 to make 1,905 cm, or delete them like in the spin mode, with which the X-X and Z-Z axes are aligned. The type and Way in which the transmission 300 these operating states are described below:

In the series of assembly is a bearing bushing 304 on the upper stub shaft or offset part 310 the crankshaft assembly H pushed and lies on an annular, axially extending collar 312 on. The output or hollow shaft I, on whose

030048/0735

lower end on the radially inner side A round recess 322 is attached, is pushed over the bearing bush 304 until it is also rests on the collar 312, the recess 322 fittingly surrounds the bearing bushing. the Clutch wrap spring 324, which is similar to that of AS Clutch C illustrated in Figures 7a and 7b and a lubricant housing 3 25 are downward pushed over the hollow drive shaft I until it rests on a circular flange 314 on the crankshaft H. stand up. The inside diameter of the clutch wrap spring 324 is dimensioned so that this is the outer circumferential surface of the collar 312 and the hollow output shaft I touches.

One upper, one middle and one lower plate 332, 334 and 336 containing cross-pawl clutch until it rests on the spring 3 24 and the housing 3 25 pushed onto the hollow output shaft I. The cross-claw coupling 330 is similar to that shown as clutch B in Figure 4; however, the top plate 332 an axially upward extension 333, which is non-rotatably connected to the hollow output shaft I, for example by means of a pin 338 which is inserted into a hole made in the extension 333 and a complementary notch is inserted in the output hollow shaft I which is drilled tangentially through it.

The crankshaft H also includes a lower axially extending journal 316 with a slider or cam sensing member 318 (see FIG. 9) extending axially downward from the flange 314. The upper shaft journal 310 runs along a ZZ axis ₇ while the lower shaft journal runs along a YY axis, the two axes being offset from one another, as in the first exemplary embodiment.

0 30048/0735 - 58 -

The input or eccentric drive shaft G has a main portion 340 with a cam surface 342 and two drive surfaces 344 and 346, which are on the upper end surface of the main section 344 are formed and extend from this in the axial direction (this is better in Fig. 9 recognize, in which the revolving drive assemblies G and H are shown rotated by 180 ° with respect to FIG. 8 are). On the main part 340 of the input shaft G is also an annular bearing support collar 348 and a lower extension 34Oa with reduced Molded diameter with which the drive pulley 108 (not shown) is connected is. The main axis of the hollow input shaft G including the lower extension 34Oa is the X-X axis. In the main part 340, an axially extending bore 35 is drilled along the Y-Y axis opposite the X-X axis as in the previous embodiment, is offset.

The assemblies H and I are connected to the assembly or the input shaft G by inserting the shaft journal 316 into the bore 3 50 of the drive shaft G is used. By inserting a bolt 252 into an opening in the main portion 340 of FIG Input shaft G results in a limited axial play for the overall arrangement, namely the front one protrudes End, of the bolt 352 in an annular groove 319 the outer peripheral surface of the lower journal 316. Into the splined extension 302a of the housing Brake discs 354 are used while brake discs 3 56 sit on the serrated shoulder 302a of the lower clutch plate 336, namely in the Manner as described above for the brake assembly B of Figure 4; the in so far completed The assembly is located in the housing 302. The serrated extension 33 7 of the lower coupling plate 336 is seated

030048/0735. ₅₉ _

a bearing bush 358, the bearing stop collar 348 of the main part 340 rests against a roller bearing 360, and the axially extending one with a reduced diameter Appendix. 340 a of the main part 340 is in the bush bearing 362. On the lower extension 34Oa and as shown and known, the exterior of the gear housing 302 may be a bearing lubricator 364 be careful.

A sleeve arrangement is located on the output shaft 320 provided, which includes a flexible sleeve 36 8 and a bearing bush 370 on which the upper end of the cuff 368 by means of a hose tie 372 is attached. The lower part of the cuff is secured by means of a hose tie 3 74 clamped to the housing 302. In an upper one Extension 3 68a of the cuff 3 68 includes a compression spring on the upper face the bearing bush 370 and a radially extending portion of the extension 368a rests. The feather 369 presses the extension 368a of the cuff against a sealing ring 376. In a corresponding one Paragraph 379 in the inside of the hollow output shaft I sits a bearing 378 which supports the shaft journal 310, whereas the fastening hub 380 for the tub 32 is fastened to the output hollow shaft I by means of pins 382 is in order to secure the fastening hub 380 on the hollow output shaft I in a rotationally fixed manner. On the An end cap 384 is placed on the axially upper end of the fastening hub 380.

The complete transmission group is through a series screwed tightly in the container 36 by bolts 366.

When the input shaft or the rotating drive group B rotates clockwise the drive surface 376 engages the drive surface 318a of the cam sensing member 318 and drives the

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Shaft H and thus the tub 32 in an orbit about the X-X axis of the input shaft G, wherein at the same time by the brake assembly 354, 356 rotation of the tub 32 about its own Z ^ Z axis is prevented. The deflection of the orbit is equal to the offset of the Y-Y axis compared to the X-X axis, plus the offset of the Z-Z axis from the Y-Y axis.

When the input shaft or the rotating shaft rotates Drive assembly D engages cam surface 342 of main part 340 of input shaft G to face 318b of cam sensing member 318, lifting orbiting drive assembly H is and that via the lower coupling plate 336 Braking forces introduced into the brake assembly 354, 356 are canceled. It can be seen that a 180 ° rotation between the input shaft G and the crankshaft H is possible, with the result that the Z-Z axis of the output shaft I in a concentric alignment with the X-X axis of the drive assembly G is convicted. The counterclockwise rotation of the rotating drive assembly G causes that the spring 3 24 on the annular extension 312 of the drive assembly H and on the output hollow shaft I clamped and thus causes the output hollow shaft I and consequently the tub rotated counterclockwise around the Z-Z axis for centrifugal extraction of the liquid,

At the end of the centrifugal extraction cycle (spinning) the engine is switched off. As above at. the gearbox 74, the transmission 300 is thereby in the configuration shown in FIG. 8 for the orbital movement returned while the brake quickly stops the tub 3 2.

030048/0735 _

In FIGS. 10A and 10B there is a further exemplary embodiment illustrated for an eccentric clutch used in the washing machine can be. The transmission 400 has a housing 402 which is in a (not shown) washing machine container can be attached. An eccentric, rotating hollow drive shaft 410 is by means of a bearing bush 412 in the housing 402 and connected to the drive by a pulley 108 shown in Fig. 1 with this accordingly. The lower part of the transmission 400 can be in the same. Kind of like that in Fig. 8 shown. Transmission 300. The hollow drive shaft 410 has an axially extending cylinder extension 414 with one therein in the form of a helix 416 formed cam slot. In the hollow drive shaft 410 is to receive a crankshaft 420 similar to the revolving drive element H according to FIG. 8, a cylindrical bore 418 is attached. The crankshaft 4 20 contains a lower shaft journal 422, which is mounted in the bore 418 of the hollow drive shaft 4.10, and a crank or Eccentric shaft journal 424, which is from a annular flange 4 26 extends vertically upward. A mounting hub for the tub or a circumferential one Output shaft 4 28 is mounted concentrically on shaft journal 4 24 by means of a bearing bush 431. The hollow drive shaft 410 has the axis of rotation X-X, the lower shaft journal 4 22 of the crankshaft the Y-Y axis, which is eccentric to the X-X axis, and the journal 424 finally has the Z-Z axis, which in turn is eccentric to the Y-Y axis. A 20 is inserted in the crankshaft 4 (dashed lines in FIG. 10A radial pin 425 (shown), which is received in the slot 416 of the hollow drive shaft 410 is.

- 62 -

0300A8 / 0735

The relative eccentricities and spacings of the XX / YY and ZZ axes are the same as is done for the gears 74 and 300, the effect of the offset and orientation of the ZZ axis with respect to the YY axis for the orbital or rotary operation similar to the gearboxes. 74 and 300 is.

In an annular recess 427 in a shoulder 426 of the crankshaft 4 20 is a clutch arrangement like the clutch arrangement shown in FIG C of the transmission 74 was added. Insert the clutch plates 43 2 and the clutch disc on a serrated portion 4 24a of the crankshaft 424, while the clutch disks 436 sit between serrations 4 26a of the extension 4 26.

The mounting hub 428 for the tub 3 2 carries a cylindrical, axially extending extension 4 29, which is suitably attached to the tub 32 and a cuff sealing device (not shown) is attached, which can, for example, have the same construction as for the transmission 300 of Fig. 8 is used. The mounting hub 428 also has an annular flange 430 with a series of equidistant openings 430a which extend through the flange 430. The diameter of the openings 43Oa is equal to 2 times the eccentricity (the total offset between the X-X- and the Z-Z axis) plus the diameter of studs 438 extending vertically from a lower clutch plate 440 protrude. The pins 438 are attached or molded onto the lower coupling plate 440 and protrude through openings 444 in a washer 426 made of a low friction material is so that the mounting hub 428 easily on the

030048/0735

Washer 446 can slip. Like this in view of above to the other exemplary transmission arrangements is executed, the entire lateral evasive movement of the fastening hub 428, and consequently the tub 3 2 itself, approximately equal to 1.9 cm, with a selected eccentricity of approximately 0.47 cm between any two axes, with the evasive movement being 2 times the distance is between the X-X axis and the Z-Z axis. In this example, the diameter of the openings is 43Oa 1.9.05 cm plus the diameter of the pegs 438.

In operation, if the hollow drive shaft 410 is driven clockwise during the wash and / or rinse cycles is, thereby the crankshaft 4 20 is also driven and effected clockwise thus, the mounting hub 428 moves in orbit about the X-X axis. One twist the mounting hub 428 around its own Z-Z axis is prevented because of the weight of the tub 32, the acts via the fastening hub 428 on the braking device which the lower coupling plate 440 prevents it from turning.

When the eccentric hollow drive shaft 410 opposes is rotated clockwise, the crankshaft 420 shifts in the axial direction because the pin 4 25 along the groove or slot 416 in the hollow drive shaft 410 runs upwards and the braking forces supplied via the lower clutch plate 440 records. The relative rotation of the hollow drive shaft 410 in relation to the crankshaft 420 is, as shown, limited by the slot 416 to 180 °, so that the eccentricities cancel each other and the Z-Z axis is in alignment with the X-X axis is convicted. As a result, the upper one is aligned

030Q48 / 0735

- 64 -

-'64 - ■■ -

Shaft journal 424 with the X-X axis of the hollow drive shaft 410, and the mounting hub 428 is thus concentric to the X-X axis. The vertical displacement of the crankshaft 420 causes the clutch device Via the thrust washer 434 on the fastening hub 428 creates so that this opposes the water extraction is driven clockwise. At the end of the spin or rotation it is the weight of the tub 32 a renewed rotation of the crankshaft 420 relative to the input hollow shaft 410, so that the transmission the in Fig. 10A occupies the illustrated position while at the same time the brake responds and the rotation of the Vat stops.

Referring to Fig. 11, the electrical control for the washing machine 10 according to FIG. 1 is explained. In connection with the circuit of FIG. 11 it can be seen that today's washing machines often have various improvements such as control panel displays and the like included, which have nothing to do with the invention and therefore for the sake of simplicity and a simplified one Understanding are left out to a certain extent.

To the sequence of the components of the washing machine To control according to Fig. 1, the circuit includes an automatic sequence control that uses a timer motor 500, which drives a series of cams 502, 504, 506, 508, 510, 512, 514, 516, 518, 520 and 522. These Cams 502 to 522 actuate various switches (such as this is described below) and cause the washing machine to run through appropriate operating cycles, such as moistening the laundry, washing the laundry, spinning the washing water out of the laundry, rinsing washing and finally spinning out the rinse water

030048/0735

aur. the laundry. The control surfaces of the different Cams are shown in the schematic representation of Fig. 12 illustrates.

A common washing machine program can, for example should be selected if the user is washing approximately 6 kg of laundry, both cotton and synthetic material contains and has a normal degree of pollution. The washing program can be a warm wash cycle and cold rinsing with a normal washing, rinsing and spin speed with a wash time of approximately 9 minutes. The user input directions can be found on the control panel 18 in one of many different known embodiments can be attached, such as push button switches, toggle switches, Rotary switch and slide switch. The user selection switches are shown schematically in Fig. 11 as switches 524, 526, 528 ,; 530 and 532 illustrated. Each for the exemplary operation selection made in the typical Washing program is indicated by an X in the left part of the timing diagram of FIG. The switches 524 and 526 are in the upper one Position to select a normal speed for washing and spinning while switches 528 and are closed so that the hot and cold water valves open 118a or 118b is possible by the cam operated switches 517 and 519, whereas the switch 532 is open in order to suppress the execution of a special selectable cycle which (in connection with the cam switch 521) would result in an extended flushing operation, ö'ie 'remaining user setting relates to the washing time, which in the example program requires the activation of a timer (not shown) * - button so that the program begins at the three-minute point on the diagram of FIG. This leaves the desired 9 minutes of washing time left on the timer cam.

030048/0735

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The entire electrical circuit is made up of a network supplied with power, for example a normal household network, via two conductors 534 and 536. The Circuit-contains a manually operated pull switch 538, which is closed by the user at the start of the cycle and a lid switch 540, which is also closed when the lid is closed. At the beginning of Program, the water level switch 92 is in its "down" position as shown so that when the user the switch 538 is actuated and it is assumed that the washing machine is loaded and the lid is closed, the water valves 118a and 118b are turned on as the water selection switches 528 and 530 are closed and cam operated switches 517 and 519 are also closed by cams 516 and 518, respectively, while the motor operated normally closed centrifugal switch 542 is also in its rest or "down" position. The motor 20 and the timer motor 500 are off because the cam override switch 507 is triggered by the cam 506 is held in the open position and the motor-operated centrifugal switch 544, as can be seen, starts with the open working contact position. The cam operated switches 503 and 509 are through the cams 502 and 508 are closed and enable subsequent engine operation. The cam operated switch 523, however, is opened by the cam 522, so that the water from the mixing valve device 118 through the Distribution device 126 is only passed to the feed ring 132.

First, water enters the tub 32 from the feed ring 132 to moisten the laundry. When the laundry is wet, water flows out of the tub 32 and collects in the collecting bowl 90. As soon as sufficient water has collected in the collecting bowl 90, the water level switch 92 is actuated so that it is in the "upper"

030048/0735

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30Ί8404

Läge goes. This will instantly supply the mains to the timer motor 500 and the drive motor 200 laid. The motor runs over the running winding because of the normally "upper" position of the motor speed centrifugal switch 548 regardless of the speed selected by the user with the "normal" Speed. As soon as the engine 20 revs up, the normally closed centrifugal switch 550 is opened and the starting winding 552 is switched off; the centrifuc al switch 548 switches for possible connection of motor 20 through low speed winding 554 in the "lower" layer around; however, because of the setting of switches 524 and 526, the normal winding remains on; the centrifugal switch 542 opens, thus allowing water to flow through the cam and the associated switch 515 is determined; in the end the centrifugal switch 544, which is designed as a normally open contact, closes. The Motor 20 and the timer motor 500 are switched so that they run continuously until the main switch 509 is controlled by cam 508, opens, and the motors remain on even when the washing machine pump 98 has emptied the collecting bowl 90 and thereby the level switch 92 in the "lower" position has been switched.

The washing machine 10 now runs for 9 minutes

the orbital or orbital mode for washing. Every minute the switches 515 and 523 are closed for 15 seconds each, so that the water periodically flows into the washing machine 10, the water flow is divided between the feed ring 132 and the channel 26. The pump 98 pumps out the water when it collects in the collecting cup 90. Shortly before the end of the washing process, the cam 506 closes the Switch 507. This will stop the timer

030048/0735.

'- 68 -

motors 500 continued and a restart of the drive motor 20 possible, although the centrifugal switch 544 opens when the motor 20 pauses at the end of the washing process.

At the end of the wash cycle of the program, the cam switch 503 is opened and initializes a short pause. The cam 510 sets the switch 511 to the "B" position, so that the direction of rotation of the motor is reversed 20 the polarity of the starting winding 552 is reversed. The switch 503 is closed again and the spinning process begins. Opens at the end of the spin phase switch 503 again and switch 511 moves into position "A", whereby the start-up winding 552 for the "orbital" or rotational direction of rotation of the motor 20 is connected; then switch 503 is closed again. A rinsing process that the washing company is very similar, joins.

It should be noted that during the rinsing phase of the Washing program of the switch 521 by the cam 520 is closed and the switch 515 is opened by the cam 514, so that only cold water in the tub 32 can flow, at the same time the switch 523 is open, so that all the water in the tub 32 flows in through the feed ring 132. At the end of the rinse the direction of rotation of the motor is reversed again and a final spin is carried out, which is then followed the machine switches itself off.

The control circuit described above shows that that the strength of the moisture penetration meets the requirements of the respective amount of beer, since the Water does not collect in the drip pan 90 until the laundry items are sufficiently wet. Furthermore, it is a different one Washing time provided since the timer is on

030048/0735

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every point within the washing phase of the washing program can be adjusted. To select the special program, the user can close the switch 532, which causes a similar closing of the switch 505 by the cam 504 and by bridging the open switch 503 extends the rinsing phase, although switch 503 is at the end of the usual program final rinse opens. This particular program cycle allows for a good removal of heavy dirt a prolonged rinse with a maximum water flow. It can also be seen that by the arrangement of the water level switch 92 a water level overflow safety device is inevitably available This means that the circuit for controlling the water valves is open and the flow of water is stopped as soon as the water level in the collecting bowl 90 is sufficient to reach the Switch the water level switch 92 to the "upper" position. In addition, there is a thermal overload switch -556. built in to, as is customary, the motor 20 against to protect against overheating.

If it is appropriate, a further step can be carried out added to normal washing machine operation / which follows the final spinning step after the normal washing program. That extra step contains a loosening operation, during which the through Spin dry laundry without adding water inside the tub is moved, this movement separates the individual items of laundry from each other and from the side wall of the tub 32, so that these in one somewhat loosened condition can be seen. In this additional step, the tub 32 is through the gearbox is driven in the orbital or orbital mode :, however, water is not filled in the tub 32. The side wall of the tub 32 meets in the same Way like washing or rinsing with laundry

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together and causes a separation or a loosening up the laundry. Modification of the control circuit can be made accordingly. In order to achieve this additional step, a corresponding Modification of the control circuit can be carried out.

030048/0735

Claims (8)

Patent attorneys Dipl.-Ing. W. Scherrmann Dr.-Ing. R. Rüger 7300 Esslingen (Neckar), Webergasse 3, Postfach -348 May 13, 1980 "" reuion PA 192 baeh Stuttgart (0711) 35 65 359619 Telex 07256610 smru ■ 'Telegrams patent protection; ■ "■■ - Essllngenneckar patent claims 1. Washing machine for washing items of laundry and the like., Characterized in that it is for receiving Items of laundry and for washing the same in a laundry liquid an open top and upright mounted, perforated tub (32) with a central axis (Z-Z), a feed device (132, 118 / 126) for the washing liquid in the tub (32) and an emptying device (34, 54, 90, 98) for discharging the washing liquid from the Tub, (32) and one each around its own axis rotating drive device (20, 74, 300, 400), which via a clutch or gear device (74, 300, 400) is coupled to the tub (32) with the axis (Z-Z) of the tub (32) can be displaced laterally against the axis (X-X) of the drive device (20, 74, 300, 400) in this way, that the tub (32) depends on the axis (X-X) of the drive device (20, 74, 300, 400) the rotation of which revolves around that a bondage. device (B, D, 430, 440) provided, when the non-running Tubs (32) around the axis (X-X) of the drive device a rotation of the same about its own axis (Z-Z) prevents, and that a device (C, C) is coupled to the tub (32), which is used for centrifugal extraction of the washing liquid turns out of the laundry. 0 30 048/0735 ORIGINAL INSPECTED - ■ - 2 - 2. Washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that that the axis (Z-Z) of the tub (32) through this with the drive device (20). coupling clutch or transmission device (74, 300, 400) laterally against the axis (X-X) of the drive device (20, 74, 300, 400) is. 3. Washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the feed device (132, 118, 126) and the emptying device (34, 54, 90, 98) are arranged and operate in such a way that the laundry items remain in the liquid-soaked state and only so much washing liquid collects in the tub (32) that only the lower section a full washing machine load remains immersed in laundry. 4. Washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that that the drive device (20, 74, 300, 400) includes a device (F, E, G, H) through which the Axis (Z-Z) of the tub (32) concentric to the axis of the drive device (20, 74, 300, 400) is alignable. 5. Washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that during the movement for washing the laundry items, the tub (32) by the drive device (20, 74, 300, 400) held in a predetermined position with respect to the axis (X-X) of the drive device is and that for centrifugal extraction of the washing liquid from the laundry items and from the Tub (32) the axis (Z-Z) of the tub (32) in substantially flush alignment with the Axis (X-X) of the drive device (20, 74, 300, 400) can be transferred in such a way that the tub (32) around these essentially aligned axes (X-X, 030048/0735 ■ '■ "■' ■ - 3 - Z-Z) rotates. 6. Washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that that the drive device (20, 74, 300, 400) ^: "." .- "■." a reversible in the direction of rotation motor (20) ■■ - and a gear (74, 300, 400) containing the "" ■ - "■ vat geared coupling (32) to the motor (20) and responsive to the rotation of the motor (20) ^r a direction that washing action of the tub produces (32), while upon rotation of the motor. (20) in the other direction the axis (ZZ) of the ; , Tubs (32) on the axis (X-X) of the drive device (20, 74, 300, 400) essentially aligns and aligns the tub (32) with one another aligned axes (X-X, Z-Z). 7. Washing machine according to claim 5, characterized marked; '' -. net ,; that the vat (32) on a circumferential ^arrival: tower assembly (A, I) of the transmission (74, 300, 400) gela - Gert, by the washing action of the tub (32), the axis - .; "" the rotating drive assembly {Group (A, I) at a predetermined distance from the Main axis of rotation of the gear (74, 300, 400) can be brought ■ j '- "·" ■ "and by that for the rotation of the tub (32) at the centrifugal extraction the axis (Z-Z) of the rotating drive assembly (Α, ϊ) on the main axis of rotation : (X-X) of the transmission (74, 300, 400) essentially ; .,. ". ■ - ■ 'can be aligned. ί 8. Washing machine according to claim 7, characterized thereby - Net that for loosening the filled items of laundry without the addition of washing liquid by the drive device (20, 74, 300, 400) after centrifugal extraction: the axis (Z-Z) of the vat (32) into the position ".. '■. Can be brought, in which it is as in the washing movement moved around the axis (Z-Z) of the drive device (20, 74, 300, 400). 0 30048/07 3 5 9. Washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that that the drive device (20, 74, 300, 400) has a first gear drive with the drive (20) Coupled and an axis of rotation (X-X) having revolving drive assembly (F, G), which by the drive is rotated around its axis of rotation (X-X) and a second rotating one to its axis (X-X) Aritriebsbaugruppe (E, H) is eccentrically mounted to revolve around the axis of rotation (X-X) of the first revolving drive assembly is driven by this that eccentrically to the axis of rotation of the second revolving drive assembly (E, H) a. '; third, driven by this and around the axis of rotation (X-X) of the first rotating drive assembly (F, G) rotating. rotating drive assembly (a, I) is mounted and that for moving the axis (Z-Z) of the Tub (32) on a curved path as the third drive assembly (A, I) revolves around the axis of rotation (X-X) of the first rotating drive assembly (F, G) of the tub (32) via a connecting piece (45) is connected to the third drive assembly. 10. Washing machine according to claim 9, characterized in that the transmission (74, 300, 400) has a driver device (232, 206; G, H) indicating a relative rotation between the first and second rotating drive assembly (F, E, J S, H) between allows a first and a second angular position, the second and the third circumferential Drive device (H, E; A, I) are mounted such that for a movement of the tub (32) along a curved path, the axis of rotation (Z-Z) of the third revolving drive assembly (A, I) in the first Angular position between the first and the second rotating drive group (F, E, G, H) is eccentric while allowing for rotation 030048/0751 ■■ _ ■: - "■ 5 - l · - ^: ■ "■". "■ '-" ■■■■. ■ " ^5. " of the tub (32) around the axis (X-X). the third rotating drive assembly (A, I) in the second angular position between the first and the second rotating drive assembly (P, E, G, H) is concentric. 11. Washing machine according to claim 10, characterized in that "the transmission (74, 300, 400) contains a coupling ^{device (C, C 1} ) which, in the first angular position between the first and the second rotating drive assembly (P, E, G, H) to rotate the third revolving drive assembly (A, I) -to its own axis (ZZ) this drive- ■ _-. assembly with the second revolving drive assembly (E / H) couples. 12. Washing machine according to claim 9, characterized in that thatthe first and second revolving drive assemblies (F, E, G, H) are mounted and designed in such a way that upon rotation of the first revolving .Antriebsbaugrüppe (G, F) in a first direction the first and second drive assembly (F, E, G, H) their first angular position to each other and at a Rotation of the first revolving drive assembly (G, F) in a second direction, the first and the second rotating drive assembly (F, E, G, H) assume their second angular position to each other. 13. Washing machine according to claim 9, characterized / that in the washing machine housing (12) a relative to the housing (12) movable container (36) is supported, in which the tub (32) is arranged that ; in the container (36) a housing (256, 302, 402) for mounting the first rotating drive assembly (G / F) and that the restraint device (B, D, 43Oa, 438) the tub (32) opposite the container (36) Q30Q48 / 0735 captivates and when orbital orbital the third rotating drive assembly (A, I) a rotation of the tub (32) around its own axis (Z-Z) prevented. 14. Washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that that in the washing machine housing (12) one movable relative thereto and one in the direction of rotation reversible drive (20) carrying 'container. (36) is attached hanging, in which a tub (32) bearing Gear (74, 300, 400) is arranged, the first with the reversible drive in the direction of rotation (20) coupled eccentric drive assembly (F, G) and a second eccentric drive assembly (H, E) which are geared to the first eccentric drive assembly (F, G) and coupled is driven by this such that the axis of rotation (Y-Y) of the second eccentric drive assembly is at a first predetermined distance from the axis of rotation of the first eccentric drive assembly (F, G) lies that with the second eccentric drive assembly (E, H) is a third drive assembly (A, I) is geared and driven by it, the axis of rotation (Z-Z) the third drive assembly (A, I) at a second predetermined distance from the axis of rotation (Y-Y) the second eccentric drive assembly (E, H) and for relative rotation between the first and the second eccentric drive assembly (F, E, G, H) from the first to the second angular position and conversely a clutch with lost motion (232, 206, G, H) is provided that upon rotation the first eccentric drive assembly (F ", G) in a first direction of rotation by the drive (20) the first and the second eccentric drive assembly (F ^ E, G, H) their first relative angular position 0300A8 / 073S occupy each other, in which the axis (Z-Z) of the third drive assembly (A, I) at a distance from the axis (X-X) of the first eccentric triebcbaugruppe (F, G) stands, which is equal to the sum of the first and the second predetermined distance - ".-.- ■, and that for supplying mechanical energy to the laundry to get them through the washing liquid to: wash the tub through a connector (45, 380) between the third drive assembly (A, I) and the tub (3.2) is movable along a curved path when the third Drive assembly (A, I) driven by rotation of the first eccentric drive assembly (F, G) is. 15. Washing machine according to claim 14, characterized in that the transmission (74, 300, 400) is constructed in this way and is built up that in the first angular position between the first and the second eccentric drive assembly (F, E, G, H) to the centrifugal ■ "■■ extract the washing liquid from the laundry items the axis of rotation (Z-Z) of the third drive assembly (A, I) with the axis of rotation (X-X) of the first Drive assembly (F, G) is in alignment, and that upon rotation of the first eccentric drive assembly (F, g) by the drive (20) in the second direction of rotation through the coupling with backlash (206, 232, G, H) the first and the second drive assembly (F, E, G, H) can be brought into their second relative angular position : are. 16. Washing machine according to claim 15, characterized in that that between the second eccentric drive assembly (E, H) and the third drive assembly (A, I) a clutch (C, C) is provided, which in the second relative angular position between the 030048/0735 first and second eccentric assembly (F, E, G, H) the third drive assembly (A, I) around their. own axis CZ-Z) rotates. 17. Washing machine according to claim 14, characterized in that between the tub (32) and the container (36) effective restraint device (D, 430,440) during the washing movement of the tub (32) its rotation around its axis (Z-Z). 18. Washing machine according to claim 14, characterized in that the first predetermined distance is equal to the second predetermined distance. 19. Washing machine according to claim 14, characterized in that in the first relative angular position between the first and the second eccentric drive assembly (F, E, G, H) the | feschbewegung of the tub (31 has substantially the same angular speed as the rotation of the Tubs (32) at the second relative angular position between the first and second eccentric drive assemblies (F, E, G, H). 20. Washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the rotating about its own axis (X-X) Drive shaft (244, 240) and the output shaft (78, I) of the transmission (74, 300, 400) essentially in the same Show direction, wherein the .Abtriebswelle (78, I) is connected to the tub (32) that the in the Transmission (74, 300, 400) existing transmission assemblies for driving the output shaft (78, I) through the Drive shaft (244, 340) have a displacement device, by means of which the axis (Z-Z) of the output shaft (78, I) laterally with respect to the axis (X-X) of the Drive shaft (244, 340) is displaceable in such a way that the from the drive shaft (244, 340) 030048/0735 driven output shaft (78, I) a curved path runs through, and that by the displacement device . the axis (X-X) of the drive shaft (244, 340) essentially in alignment with the axis of the output shaft (78, I) can be aligned, with the curved or circular path of the output shaft (78, I) a washing effect and by the rotation of the Output shaft (78, I) a centrifugal effect can be generated. 21. Washing machine according to claim 20, characterized in that that upon rotation of the drive shaft (244, 340) in one direction, the output shaft (78, I) in one curved ■ ". or circular path, based on the Axis (X-X) of the drive shaft (244, 340), movable . and that when the drive shaft (244, 340) is rotated in the opposite direction, the Axes (X-X, Z-Z) of the input and output. shafts (244, 78, 340, I) essentially in alignment can be aligned with one another. 22. Washing machine according to one of claims 20 or 21, characterized in that by moving the output shaft (78, I) in an arcuate or circular path, based on the axis (X-X) of the drive shaft (244, 340) of the tub (32) in a arc or circular path is movable, the deviation of which is much smaller than the width of the tub (32) is. 23. Process for washing items of laundry in one Washing machine, characterized in that after the laundry items have been placed in an open-topped tub Washing liquid added to these and the washing tub for washing the laundry items without turning around its own axis with a predetermined 030048/0735 - 10 - Distance of its own axis is moved around a second axis, the radius of the vat is substantially greater than the predetermined distance and that for centrifuging the washing liquid from the tub and the laundry items, the axis of the tub is substantially in alignment with the second Axis aligned and the tub is rotated around the second axis. 24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that that to loosen up the laundry, the tub is moved around the second axis without washing liquid. 25. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that the axis of the tub relative to the second Axis is brought into a laterally offset position., So repeated for washing the laundry items Cause contact between the side wall of the tub and the laundry, and that for Ejecting the washing liquid the axis of the tub from the laterally offset position, based on the second axis, in the substantially aligned position moved back and the vat is rotated. . 26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that for centrifugal extraction of the washing liquid from the washing machine filling the tub axis in the substantially coaxial alignment with the given axis is withdrawn. - 11 - 0300A8 / 073S