EP2351882B1 - Laundry treating machine comprising a pressure switch, in particular a linear pressure switch - Google Patents
Laundry treating machine comprising a pressure switch, in particular a linear pressure switch Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2351882B1 EP2351882B1 EP10196442.7A EP10196442A EP2351882B1 EP 2351882 B1 EP2351882 B1 EP 2351882B1 EP 10196442 A EP10196442 A EP 10196442A EP 2351882 B1 EP2351882 B1 EP 2351882B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- pressure switch
- tub
- machine
- pressure
- machine according
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 101150114468 TUB1 gene Proteins 0.000 description 17
- 238000005406 washing Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000001035 drying Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000005294 ferromagnetic effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000001939 inductive effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000005291 magnetic effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 1
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- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000004804 winding Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00
- D06F39/08—Liquid supply or discharge arrangements
- D06F39/087—Water level measuring or regulating devices
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F2103/00—Parameters monitored or detected for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
- D06F2103/18—Washing liquid level
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F2103/00—Parameters monitored or detected for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
- D06F2103/26—Imbalance; Noise level
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F33/00—Control of operations performed in washing machines or washer-dryers
- D06F33/30—Control of washing machines characterised by the purpose or target of the control
- D06F33/48—Preventing or reducing imbalance or noise
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F34/00—Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
- D06F34/14—Arrangements for detecting or measuring specific parameters
- D06F34/16—Imbalance
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a laundry treating machine comprising a pressure switch, in particular a linear pressure switch.
- laundry treating machine refers to a machine in which a drum housed in a tub is loaded with laundry which is then subjected to a washing treatment, a drying treatment or the like.
- Some examples of such machines are washing machines, washing/drying machines and clothes dryers.
- a method known in the art employs a pressure sensor connected to the tub by means of a tube which opens, at an intake point, into the tub itself, preferably in the lowest portion thereof.
- Said pressure sensor detects the pressure of the liquid column over the intake point, thus making possible to know the level of the liquid surface and therefore the tub filling level.
- a pressure sensor comprises a bell with an open lower edge close to the bottom of the tub; at its upper end, the bell communicates with a linear pressure switch through a tube, preferably a flexible hose.
- Said linear pressure switch is a transducer device of a per se known type, in which a diaphragm is deformed by the pressure variation and causes a ferromagnetic element to move linearly, thereby altering the magnetic field of a coil associated therewith and inducing a corresponding voltage signal, which is then processed into a modulated form (per se known) by an electronic circuit associated with the coil, and is finally transmitted to a control unit.
- Linear pressure switches like the one described above are commercially available in Italy from companies ITW Metalflex, Invensys and Bitron.
- the measurement takes place as follows: as the wash liquid level in the tub changes, the level inside the bell changes as well, thereby determining a variation in the pressure of the air contained in the bell, which variation is then transmitted to the linear pressure switch through the tube.
- the pressure switch detects pressure variations and sends a corresponding modulated voltage signal of the PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) type to the control unit.
- PWM Pulse Width Modulation
- the output signal generated by the linear pressure switch and then sent to the control unit is a frequency-modulated signal, to do this an oscillator circuit known in the art is associated with the linear pressure switch.
- the linear pressure switch is typically located at the top and is connected to the machine frame to which the tub is also coupled, and the air-filled tube which transmits pressure variations runs from the bell in the tub to the linear pressure switch by following a rather long and sometimes winding path.
- the tortuosity of the path followed by the tube is due to the necessity of preventing it from touching functional elements of the machine, such as frame, motor or duct parts, so as to avoid the risk that it may wear out when subjected to normal operating vibrations.
- Another drawback derives from the fact that the two points where the tub is secured are subject, in operation, to different movements (the pressure switch is secured to the frame, whereas the tub is secured to the oscillating assembly by means of dampers and/or springs): the tube therefore moves and generates noise, and there is also the risk that the tube itself may get detached or damaged.
- this arrangement requires quite complex assembling steps, since the tube must be positioned on and secured to both the tub and the frame: as aforementioned, the latter are subject to different movements when the machine is in operation, so that it is appropriate to pay particular attention to mounting the tube in a manner such that it will not stretch in use, while also ensuring that it is not too loose and cannot get in touch with machine parts which might wear it out by friction.
- the structure includes: an elastic snap fit portion that is formed on the mounting member so as to protrude from a surface thereof, the snap fit portion having an engagement protrusion formed at an end thereof so as to protrude to a side opposite to the case; and an engaged portion that is formed on the case so as to be engaged with the engagement protrusion.
- the snap fit portion is forced to flexibly deform to the pressure sensor when the pressure sensor is attached to and detached from the mounting member.
- the mounting member comprises a concave portion in which a convex portion of the bottom surface of the sensor case is housed when the pressure sensor is properly coupled with the mounting member.
- the present invention aims at overcoming these and other drawbacks by providing a laundry treating machine according to claim 1.
- linear pressure switch is mounted to the tub in a manner such that the duct connecting it to the latter is short and straight. Any load losses are thus extremely small and the measurement is extremely accurate.
- FIG. 1 there is shown a portion of a tub 1 of a laundry treating machine according to the present invention.
- the laundry treating machine is usually fitted with a frame (not shown) with which an oscillating assembly is associated, which comprises a tub 1 that houses a drum (not shown).
- the machine frame may be provided in several forms but, for the purposes of the present invention, suffice it to say that it is that part of the machine which rests on the floor and supports the tub 1, the latter being coupled thereto by means of vibration dampers and/or springs.
- the tub 1 houses the drum that contains the laundry, and has an aperture which allows the laundry to be inserted into the drum.
- the machine of the present invention also comprises a pressure switch 2 adapted to detect the pressure of the wash liquid in the tub and to send a signal to an electronic control unit as previously described in order to identify the liquid level.
- the pressure switch 2 is secured to the oscillating assembly of the machine.
- the pressure switch 2 is mounted directly to the tub 1 through fastening means 3A,3B, which will be discussed later on.
- this arrangement allows the pressure switch 2 to be installed into the machine in an extremely simple manner, without the vibrations of the oscillating assembly affecting the reading or impairing the connection between the pressure switch and the measuring point.
- FIGs. 3 and 4 there is shown a detail of the pressure switch 2 and a cross-section of the tub 1 at the measuring point 4.
- the measuring point 4 is located in the lowest portion of the tub 1.
- the tub shape with a bell-shaped portion provides the additional advantage that the machine production process is further simplified.
- the measuring point 4 inside the bell must not be wetted by the wash liquid contained in the tub 1 for the diaphragm of the pressure switch 2 to remain dry.
- the tub 1 has a hole in which the intake duct 5 is inserted, and tightness is ensured between the two parts by a gasket 29 interposed at the interface thereof.
- the intake duct 5 is in practice a rigid pipe, typically made of plastic material, advantageously made in one piece with the shell of the pressure switch 2 and extending perpendicularly to the diaphragm 6 for a total length being the minimum length required for said duct 5 to be able to act as a collar ensuring a hydraulic seal; preferably, said length is in the order of a few centimetres, more preferably it is shorter than 5 cm.
- the gasket 29 ensures the necessary tightness between the duct 5 and the tub 1.
- the duct 5 substantially extends in a straight line; more in particular, the straight direction of extension of the duct 5 coincides with the direction in which the pressure switch 2 must be mounted to the tub 1, so that the pressure switch can be mounted and secured with just a single move.
- the diaphragm 6 is deformed through the effect of pressure variations and causes a ferromagnetic piston (not shown) to move linearly, thereby altering the magnetic field of a coil (not shown) associated therewith and inducing a corresponding voltage signal, which is then processed into a modulated form (per se known) by an electronic circuit (not shown) associated with the coil, and is finally transmitted to a control unit (not shown) of the machine.
- the linear pressure switch 2 can be used for controlling the laundry treating machine whereto it is applied, in particular for the following functions:
- a pressure switch of this kind directly secured to the oscillating assembly or to the tub advantageously offers added functionality.
- the linear pressure switch can be used as a sensor for detecting the balance of the oscillating assembly, in particular when the machine is operating at high drum rotation speeds (e.g. at the beginning of a spin cycle).
- the deformation of the diaphragm is translated into a frequency value (e.g. by means of an oscillator circuit), a given frequency value corresponding to a given pressure value.
- the pressure switch output frequency In the absence of any significant vibration, the pressure switch output frequency is substantially stable; on the contrary, the frequency fluctuates when the diaphragm 6 is subject to vibration.
- a plurality of frequency values are measured within a predetermined time interval. Since unbalance is due to eccentricity of the load in the drum, said eccentricity is read for a number of times such that the unbalance measurement obtained is sufficiently accurate. For example, assuming a spin cycle speed of 1,200 rpm, a time interval of 1 second may be sufficient because it allows the sampling of 20 fluctuations.
- the average value among said frequency values is then calculated, followed by the value of the difference between the peak frequency value and the average value.
- the average value leads to know the pressure exerted by the wash liquid onto the diaphragm 6, whereas said difference leads to know the unbalance of the load.
- any unbalance of the oscillating assembly By detecting the frequency of the signals generated by the pressure switch, it is therefore also possible to detect any unbalance of the oscillating assembly, and possibly such data can be used to eliminate or reduce said unbalance below a limit value by stopping or slowing down the drum so as to obtain a different distribution of the laundry therein. This step may be repeated several times until the distribution of the laundry in the drum is sufficiently balanced and such as to avoid damages to the structure of the machine during the next spin cycle.
- the pressure switch 2 comprises an outer shell 20 with which a first part of a fastening means 3A is associated, the latter being snap-coupled to a matching second part 3B provided on the tub.
- This snap-on engagement allows the pressure switch 2 to be easily mounted into its seat, while at the same time ensuring that the duct 5 is correctly plugged into the tub 1 and cannot come off.
- the first part of the fastening means 3A comprises an eyelet 30A with two positioning fins 31A on both sides.
- the second part of the fastening means 3B associated with the tub, is provided with two teeth 30B having at their ends two wedge-shaped reliefs facing each other and adapted to snap into the eyelet 30A in the assembled condition, thus preventing it from coming off.
- the second part of the fastening means 3B also comprises two alignment slots 31B which allow the two positioning fins 31A to slide as the pressure switch 2 is being mounted to the tub 1, so that the duct 5 is properly inserted into the tub hole and cannot be damaged during the assembly step.
- the fins 31A slide in the alignment slots 31B in a direction parallel to the direction of insertion of the intake duct 5 into the hole of the tub 1; the slots 31B are provided in the form of through apertures between the teeth 30B and a support structure or bracket 10 integral with the tub and adapted to support the pressure switch 2.
- bracket 10 As far as the bracket 10 is concerned, it may advantageously be moulded as one piece with the tub 1.
- the slots 31B have a substantially rectangular shape and are open on the side not facing the tub 1 to allow for the insertion of the fins 31A.
- assembling the pressure switch 2 is thus extremely simple and does not require the use of threaded connections or the like; in fact, it is sufficient to insert the fins 31A into the corresponding slots 31B and bring the pressure switch near the tub 2: at the end of its travel, the teeth 30B will engage with the edge of the eyelet 30A, thereby securing it in position.
- fastening means 3A and 3B are also conceivable, which may be chosen and adopted by the man skilled in the art without departing from the scope and teachings of the present invention.
- the means 3A and 3B respectively associated with the pressure switch 2 and the tub 1 are reciprocated.
- the pressure switch 2 is coupled to the oscillating assembly, but not directly to the tub; to this end, the pressure switch 2 or its bracket 10 may be associated with the motor of the machine (if the motor is fastened to the oscillating assembly) or to other parts of the oscillating assembly itself, such as pipes, ducts, support bracket or the like.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Textile Engineering (AREA)
- Control Of Washing Machine And Dryer (AREA)
- Detail Structures Of Washing Machines And Dryers (AREA)
- Treatment Of Fiber Materials (AREA)
- Switches Operated By Changes In Physical Conditions (AREA)
Description
- The present invention relates to a laundry treating machine comprising a pressure switch, in particular a linear pressure switch.
- In the present description and in the appended claims, the term "laundry treating machine" refers to a machine in which a drum housed in a tub is loaded with laundry which is then subjected to a washing treatment, a drying treatment or the like.
- Some examples of such machines are washing machines, washing/drying machines and clothes dryers.
- In these machines, it is a common practice to detect the quantity of wash liquid present in the tub for the purpose of correctly setting the various treatment steps or for controlling a step of supplying water from the mains or for controlling a step of draining wash liquid into a drain system.
- In order to detect the quantity of wash liquid in the tub, a method known in the art employs a pressure sensor connected to the tub by means of a tube which opens, at an intake point, into the tub itself, preferably in the lowest portion thereof.
- Said pressure sensor detects the pressure of the liquid column over the intake point, thus making possible to know the level of the liquid surface and therefore the tub filling level. In short, such a pressure sensor comprises a bell with an open lower edge close to the bottom of the tub; at its upper end, the bell communicates with a linear pressure switch through a tube, preferably a flexible hose.
- Said linear pressure switch is a transducer device of a per se known type, in which a diaphragm is deformed by the pressure variation and causes a ferromagnetic element to move linearly, thereby altering the magnetic field of a coil associated therewith and inducing a corresponding voltage signal, which is then processed into a modulated form (per se known) by an electronic circuit associated with the coil, and is finally transmitted to a control unit.
- Linear pressure switches like the one described above are commercially available in Italy from companies ITW Metalflex, Invensys and Bitron.
- The measurement takes place as follows: as the wash liquid level in the tub changes, the level inside the bell changes as well, thereby determining a variation in the pressure of the air contained in the bell, which variation is then transmitted to the linear pressure switch through the tube.
- The pressure switch detects pressure variations and sends a corresponding modulated voltage signal of the PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) type to the control unit. Alternatively, the output signal generated by the linear pressure switch and then sent to the control unit is a frequency-modulated signal, to do this an oscillator circuit known in the art is associated with the linear pressure switch.
- In those machines equipped with such pressure sensors, the linear pressure switch is typically located at the top and is connected to the machine frame to which the tub is also coupled, and the air-filled tube which transmits pressure variations runs from the bell in the tub to the linear pressure switch by following a rather long and sometimes winding path.
- The tortuosity of the path followed by the tube is due to the necessity of preventing it from touching functional elements of the machine, such as frame, motor or duct parts, so as to avoid the risk that it may wear out when subjected to normal operating vibrations. Another drawback derives from the fact that the two points where the tub is secured are subject, in operation, to different movements (the pressure switch is secured to the frame, whereas the tub is secured to the oscillating assembly by means of dampers and/or springs): the tube therefore moves and generates noise, and there is also the risk that the tube itself may get detached or damaged.
- The presence of a rather long tube also implies some load losses, which may translate into an incorrect reading of the liquid level in the tub.
- Furthermore, this arrangement requires quite complex assembling steps, since the tube must be positioned on and secured to both the tub and the frame: as aforementioned, the latter are subject to different movements when the machine is in operation, so that it is appropriate to pay particular attention to mounting the tube in a manner such that it will not stretch in use, while also ensuring that it is not too loose and cannot get in touch with machine parts which might wear it out by friction.
- A partial solution to the upon-mentioned problems is described in the German
patent application DE 10 2006 047347 A1 to MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION. In this document, there is provided a mounting structure for a pressure sensor in which the pressure sensor having a case that receives a pressure detection part and a pressure introduction pipe that protrudes from the case to the outside is mounted on a mounting member that has a mounting hole, with the pressure introduction pipe being inserted into the mounting hole. The structure includes: an elastic snap fit portion that is formed on the mounting member so as to protrude from a surface thereof, the snap fit portion having an engagement protrusion formed at an end thereof so as to protrude to a side opposite to the case; and an engaged portion that is formed on the case so as to be engaged with the engagement protrusion. The snap fit portion is forced to flexibly deform to the pressure sensor when the pressure sensor is attached to and detached from the mounting member. In order to properly align the mounting member and the pressure sensor during the assembly phase, the mounting member comprises a concave portion in which a convex portion of the bottom surface of the sensor case is housed when the pressure sensor is properly coupled with the mounting member. This arrangement of the positioning means makes difficult for the installer positioned along the mounting direction of the pressure sensor to check, during the assembly phase, if the pressure sensor is properly aligned, since the concave/convex portions are positioned on the contacting surfaces of the pressure sensor and of the mounting member, and are hidden to the installer.JP2003042882A DE102006047347A1 disclose further prior art. - The present invention aims at overcoming these and other drawbacks by providing a laundry treating machine according to
claim 1. - The assembly steps are thus simplified, and all the above-described problems caused by the presence of the tube and by the arrangement of the concave/convex portions are avoided.
- Another advantageous feature is that the linear pressure switch is mounted to the tub in a manner such that the duct connecting it to the latter is short and straight. Any load losses are thus extremely small and the measurement is extremely accurate.
- Further advantageous features will be set out in the appended claims.
- These features as well as further advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of an embodiment thereof as shown in the annexed drawings, which are supplied by way of non-limiting example, wherein:
-
Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a portion of a washing machine according to the present invention, with the pressure switch in the non-assembled condition; -
Fig. 2 shows a view of the washing machine ofFig. 1 with the pressure switch in the assembled condition; -
Fig. 3 shows a front view of the pressure switch and of a portion of the machine ofFig. 2 ; -
Fig. 4 shows a sectional view along line AA of the pressure switch ofFig. 3 ; -
Fig. 5 shows a detail of the coupling means of the pressure switch and of the machine ofFig. 3 . - Referring now to
Fig. 1 , there is shown a portion of atub 1 of a laundry treating machine according to the present invention. - The laundry treating machine is usually fitted with a frame (not shown) with which an oscillating assembly is associated, which comprises a
tub 1 that houses a drum (not shown). - The machine frame may be provided in several forms but, for the purposes of the present invention, suffice it to say that it is that part of the machine which rests on the floor and supports the
tub 1, the latter being coupled thereto by means of vibration dampers and/or springs. - The
tub 1 houses the drum that contains the laundry, and has an aperture which allows the laundry to be inserted into the drum. - Both the tub and the drum belong to the same oscillating assembly, the term "oscillating assembly" referring herein to all those masses (such as the tub, the drum, possibly the motor, and the like) which are suspended from the frame by means of vibration dampers. The machine of the present invention also comprises a
pressure switch 2 adapted to detect the pressure of the wash liquid in the tub and to send a signal to an electronic control unit as previously described in order to identify the liquid level. - In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, the
pressure switch 2 is secured to the oscillating assembly of the machine. - More in particular, as shown in the example provided in the annexed
Figs. 1 and 2 , thepressure switch 2 is mounted directly to thetub 1 throughfastening means - For now, suffice it to say that the
pressure switch 2 thus secured allows to eliminate the tube used in the prior art, along with all the problems related thereto and discussed above. - This provides a number of advantages; first of all, this arrangement allows the
pressure switch 2 to be installed into the machine in an extremely simple manner, without the vibrations of the oscillating assembly affecting the reading or impairing the connection between the pressure switch and the measuring point. - This also eliminates all those problems related to the presence of the tube in the prior art, since the machine thus obtained is advantageously quieter and simpler to manufacture and maintain.
- Referring now to
Figs. 3 and 4 , there is shown a detail of thepressure switch 2 and a cross-section of thetub 1 at the measuring point 4. - The measuring point 4 is located in the lowest portion of the
tub 1. - In the example shown, it is located at the end of a chamber that forms a bell communicating with the inside of the tub at the other end, preferably made in one piece with the tub itself.
- The tub shape with a bell-shaped portion provides the additional advantage that the machine production process is further simplified.
- The measuring point 4 inside the bell must not be wetted by the wash liquid contained in the
tub 1 for the diaphragm of thepressure switch 2 to remain dry. - For this purpose, the
tub 1 has a hole in which the intake duct 5 is inserted, and tightness is ensured between the two parts by agasket 29 interposed at the interface thereof. - The intake duct 5 is in practice a rigid pipe, typically made of plastic material, advantageously made in one piece with the shell of the
pressure switch 2 and extending perpendicularly to the diaphragm 6 for a total length being the minimum length required for said duct 5 to be able to act as a collar ensuring a hydraulic seal; preferably, said length is in the order of a few centimetres, more preferably it is shorter than 5 cm. - The
gasket 29 ensures the necessary tightness between the duct 5 and thetub 1. - Furthermore, aiming at advantageously prevent any load losses which might affect the reading and at making the assembly process easier, the duct 5 substantially extends in a straight line; more in particular, the straight direction of extension of the duct 5 coincides with the direction in which the
pressure switch 2 must be mounted to thetub 1, so that the pressure switch can be mounted and secured with just a single move. - As far as the
pressure switch 2 is concerned, it is in particular a linear pressure switch as previously described; therefore, reference should be made to the above description for further details. - In short, the diaphragm 6 is deformed through the effect of pressure variations and causes a ferromagnetic piston (not shown) to move linearly, thereby altering the magnetic field of a coil (not shown) associated therewith and inducing a corresponding voltage signal, which is then processed into a modulated form (per se known) by an electronic circuit (not shown) associated with the coil, and is finally transmitted to a control unit (not shown) of the machine.
- The
linear pressure switch 2 can be used for controlling the laundry treating machine whereto it is applied, in particular for the following functions: - detecting the level of the wash liquid in the tub;
- controlling the anti-overflow device;
- detecting the presence of foam in the wash liquid;
- controlling the drain pump during the spin cycle, in order to optimise the life thereof and prevent cavitation;
- detecting any obstructions or faults in the drain pump;
- if the machine executes a steam treatment cycle, controlling the level of the wash liquid to keep it below the drum;
- if the machine has a recirculation duct, maintaining a minimum wash liquid level such as to ensure effective recirculation.
- A pressure switch of this kind directly secured to the oscillating assembly or to the tub advantageously offers added functionality. According to the present invention, in fact, the linear pressure switch can be used as a sensor for detecting the balance of the oscillating assembly, in particular when the machine is operating at high drum rotation speeds (e.g. at the beginning of a spin cycle).
- The deformation of the diaphragm is translated into a frequency value (e.g. by means of an oscillator circuit), a given frequency value corresponding to a given pressure value.
- In the absence of any significant vibration, the pressure switch output frequency is substantially stable; on the contrary, the frequency fluctuates when the diaphragm 6 is subject to vibration.
- The magnitude of such fluctuations is proportional to the unbalance of the laundry load in the drum; it follows that an unbalance value can be calculated from the extent of said fluctuations.
- A plurality of frequency values are measured within a predetermined time interval. Since unbalance is due to eccentricity of the load in the drum, said eccentricity is read for a number of times such that the unbalance measurement obtained is sufficiently accurate. For example, assuming a spin cycle speed of 1,200 rpm, a time interval of 1 second may be sufficient because it allows the sampling of 20 fluctuations.
- The average value among said frequency values is then calculated, followed by the value of the difference between the peak frequency value and the average value.
- The average value leads to know the pressure exerted by the wash liquid onto the diaphragm 6, whereas said difference leads to know the unbalance of the load.
- By detecting the frequency of the signals generated by the pressure switch, it is therefore also possible to detect any unbalance of the oscillating assembly, and possibly such data can be used to eliminate or reduce said unbalance below a limit value by stopping or slowing down the drum so as to obtain a different distribution of the laundry therein. This step may be repeated several times until the distribution of the laundry in the drum is sufficiently balanced and such as to avoid damages to the structure of the machine during the next spin cycle.
- More in detail, the
pressure switch 2 comprises anouter shell 20 with which a first part of a fastening means 3A is associated, the latter being snap-coupled to a matchingsecond part 3B provided on the tub. - This snap-on engagement allows the
pressure switch 2 to be easily mounted into its seat, while at the same time ensuring that the duct 5 is correctly plugged into thetub 1 and cannot come off. - In particular, the first part of the fastening means 3A comprises an
eyelet 30A with twopositioning fins 31A on both sides. - The second part of the fastening means 3B, associated with the tub, is provided with two
teeth 30B having at their ends two wedge-shaped reliefs facing each other and adapted to snap into theeyelet 30A in the assembled condition, thus preventing it from coming off. The second part of the fastening means 3B also comprises twoalignment slots 31B which allow the twopositioning fins 31A to slide as thepressure switch 2 is being mounted to thetub 1, so that the duct 5 is properly inserted into the tub hole and cannot be damaged during the assembly step. - For this purpose, in fact, the
fins 31A slide in thealignment slots 31B in a direction parallel to the direction of insertion of the intake duct 5 into the hole of thetub 1; theslots 31B are provided in the form of through apertures between theteeth 30B and a support structure orbracket 10 integral with the tub and adapted to support thepressure switch 2. - The relative motion between 3A and 3B occurring as the
pressure switch 2 being installed is parallel to the straight direction of extension of the tube 5; in this manner, the pressure switch can be installed and secured in position in one move without damage. - As far as the
bracket 10 is concerned, it may advantageously be moulded as one piece with thetub 1. - The
slots 31B have a substantially rectangular shape and are open on the side not facing thetub 1 to allow for the insertion of thefins 31A. - As can be easily understood, assembling the
pressure switch 2 is thus extremely simple and does not require the use of threaded connections or the like; in fact, it is sufficient to insert thefins 31A into the correspondingslots 31B and bring the pressure switch near the tub 2: at the end of its travel, theteeth 30B will engage with the edge of theeyelet 30A, thereby securing it in position. - Of course, other embodiments of the fastening means 3A and 3B are also conceivable, which may be chosen and adopted by the man skilled in the art without departing from the scope and teachings of the present invention.
- According to one of such embodiments, the
means pressure switch 2 and thetub 1 are reciprocated. - In another embodiment, the
pressure switch 2 is coupled to the oscillating assembly, but not directly to the tub; to this end, thepressure switch 2 or itsbracket 10 may be associated with the motor of the machine (if the motor is fastened to the oscillating assembly) or to other parts of the oscillating assembly itself, such as pipes, ducts, support bracket or the like.
Claims (6)
- A laundry treating machine comprising a frame from which an oscillating assembly is suspended which comprises a tub (1) containing a drum, and wherein said machine also comprises a pressure sensor fitted with at least one pressure switch (2) for measuring a level of a wash liquid in said tub (1), wherein said pressure switch (2) is associated with said oscillating assembly, wherein said pressure switch (2) comprises fastening means (3A,3B) that comprise a first part (3A) associated with said pressure switch (2) and a second part (3B) associated with said tub (1), said first and second parts of said fastening means (3A,3B) being adapted to cooperate together for positioning and snap-coupling said pressure switch (2) onto said tub (1),
characterised in that
said first part of the fastening means (3A) comprises an eyelet (30A) and two positioning fins (31A), and wherein said second part of the fastening means (3B) comprises at least two teeth (30B) adapted to snap into said eyelet (30A) in the assembled condition, and at least two alignment slots (31B) adapted to allow said two positioning fins (31A) to slide when the pressure switch (2) is mounted to the tub (1). - A machine according to claim 1, wherein said pressure switch (2) is associated with said tub (1).
- A machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said pressure switch (2) comprises at least one diaphragm (6) adapted to move as a result of variations in the pressure of an air mass over said wash liquid in said tub (1).
- A machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said pressure switch (2) comprises an intake duct (5), and wherein said tub (1) comprises a hole for inserting said intake duct (5) at a measuring point (4).
- A machine according to claim 4, wherein said measuring point (4) is located in the lowest region of the tub (1), in a portion of the latter which is substantially bell-shaped.
- A machine according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said pressure switch (2) comprises a shell (20) arranged around said diaphragm (5), and said intake duct (5) is a straight rigid pipe, preferably made of plastic material, manufactured in one piece with said shell, and wherein said intake duct (5) extends perpendicular to the diaphragm (6) for a total length shorter than 5 cm.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
IT001034A ITTO20091034A1 (en) | 2009-12-23 | 2009-12-23 | MACHINE FOR THE TREATMENT OF CLOTHS INCLUDING A PRESSURE SWITCH IN PARTICULAR A LINEAR PRESSURE SWITCH. |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2351882A2 EP2351882A2 (en) | 2011-08-03 |
EP2351882A3 EP2351882A3 (en) | 2012-08-22 |
EP2351882B1 true EP2351882B1 (en) | 2015-08-05 |
Family
ID=42543260
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP10196442.7A Not-in-force EP2351882B1 (en) | 2009-12-23 | 2010-12-22 | Laundry treating machine comprising a pressure switch, in particular a linear pressure switch |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP2351882B1 (en) |
IT (1) | ITTO20091034A1 (en) |
Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2003042882A (en) * | 2001-08-02 | 2003-02-13 | Denso Corp | Pressure sensor mounting structure |
DE102006047347A1 (en) * | 2006-05-23 | 2007-11-29 | Mitsubishi Electric Corp. | Attachment structure for pressure sensor has snap connection region deformed flexibly towards pressure sensor when sensor is attached to or removed from attachment element |
Family Cites Families (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
IT1293962B1 (en) * | 1997-08-11 | 1999-03-15 | Elbi Int Spa | OPERATING MACHINE AND USE OF A PRESSURE TRANSDUCER IN AN OPERATING MACHINE. |
KR20050111660A (en) * | 2004-05-21 | 2005-11-28 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Washing machine |
DE102007040080A1 (en) * | 2007-08-24 | 2009-02-26 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Apparatus and method for determining a level within a tub of a washing machine |
-
2009
- 2009-12-23 IT IT001034A patent/ITTO20091034A1/en unknown
-
2010
- 2010-12-22 EP EP10196442.7A patent/EP2351882B1/en not_active Not-in-force
Patent Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2003042882A (en) * | 2001-08-02 | 2003-02-13 | Denso Corp | Pressure sensor mounting structure |
DE102006047347A1 (en) * | 2006-05-23 | 2007-11-29 | Mitsubishi Electric Corp. | Attachment structure for pressure sensor has snap connection region deformed flexibly towards pressure sensor when sensor is attached to or removed from attachment element |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP2351882A3 (en) | 2012-08-22 |
ITTO20091034A1 (en) | 2011-06-24 |
EP2351882A2 (en) | 2011-08-03 |
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