EP2812475A1 - A drum assembly for a washing machine and method for fabricating the same - Google Patents

A drum assembly for a washing machine and method for fabricating the same

Info

Publication number
EP2812475A1
EP2812475A1 EP12720479.0A EP12720479A EP2812475A1 EP 2812475 A1 EP2812475 A1 EP 2812475A1 EP 12720479 A EP12720479 A EP 12720479A EP 2812475 A1 EP2812475 A1 EP 2812475A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
piece
flange
drum
fact
basic
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP12720479.0A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2812475B1 (en
Inventor
Patrice NOCUS
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Electrolux Laundry Systems France SNC
Original Assignee
Electrolux Laundry Systems France SNC
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Electrolux Laundry Systems France SNC filed Critical Electrolux Laundry Systems France SNC
Publication of EP2812475A1 publication Critical patent/EP2812475A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2812475B1 publication Critical patent/EP2812475B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • 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
    • D06F37/00—Details specific to washing machines covered by groups D06F21/00 - D06F25/00
    • D06F37/02—Rotary receptacles, e.g. drums
    • 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
    • D06F37/00—Details specific to washing machines covered by groups D06F21/00 - D06F25/00
    • D06F37/26—Casings; Tubs
    • D06F37/267—Tubs specially adapted for mounting thereto components or devices not provided for in preceding subgroups

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to washing machines, especially laundry washing machines.
  • the invention relates more particularly to a drum assembly for a washing machine and a method for fabricating the same.
  • a laundry washing machine is an appliance for removing dirt from laundry by using action of detergent and water.
  • washing machine may as well indicate a “simple” washing machine (i.e. a washing machine which can only wash and rinse the laundry) and a washing-drying machine (i.e. a washing machine which can also dry the laundry) , both of the front-loading type and of the top-loading type.
  • washing machine refers to a barrier washing machine.
  • Barrier washing machines are generally used where total separation between the soiled laundry and the clean laundry is a requirement. This may be because of dust in a clean factory environment such as the electronics industry, or where radioactive dust particles may be the soiling, or in the health care world for surgical garments and dressings. The main use is in the health industry where garments and bedding are to be kept sealed and separate from the incoming soiled laundry.
  • a barrier washing machine typically comprises two doors, one front door for loading the machine with the dirty items to be washed and one back door for unloading the clean items once the wash cycle is completed.
  • the dirty zone cannot be in contact with the clean zone, therefore there must be a wall or panel to separate the dirty side and the clean side, thus allowing no contamination between the two sides.
  • Figures la and lb show, respectively in an exploded view and an assembled view, an example of a drum assembly for a barrier washing machine according to the prior art.
  • the drum assembly 1' comprises a set of six basic parts which are welded together.
  • the drum assembly 1' comprises a basic drum part 2 ' a for receiving items to be washed on which three openings are made, i.e. a front opening 6'a, a back opening 6'b and a bottom opening 6'c.
  • An operating member 5' is intended to be placed inside the bottom opening 6'c, said operating member 5' comprising for example heating elements and a drain valve.
  • the drum assembly 1' also comprises two frameworks 3' a and 3'b for drum access, in particular for access inside the drum part 2 ' a, said two frameworks 3' a and 3'b respectively having an opening 0' i and 0' 2 defining the two drum openings 0' i and 0' 2 of the drum assembly 1' for loading and unloading the washing machine.
  • the opening 0' i of the framework 3' a is intended to face the front opening 6' a of the drum part 2 ' a and the opening 0' 2 of the framework 3'b is intended to face the back opening 6'b of the drum part 2 ' a.
  • two lateral fully circular retaining flanges 4' a and 4'b are provided with the drum assembly 1', intended to be placed on the periphery of the drum part 2 ' a. All parts of the drum assembly 1' are welded together to form the assembled drum assembly 1' as shown on figure lb.
  • This known structure for manufacturing a drum assembly for a washing machine exhibits several drawbacks. Complex tooling has to be used to weld all these parts of the drum assembly together, especially to maintain the parts in contact during welding operation. The storage of the different parts of the drum assembly takes a lot of space. Moreover, the obtained drum assembly does generally not provide enough satisfactory features, especially in term of stiffness. This known drum assembly and its fabricating method are also money- consuming .
  • the invention relates to a drum assembly for a washing machine, especially a laundry washing machine, and in particular a barrier washing machine, comprising :
  • At least one framework comprising one drum opening intended to face said at least one opening of said at least one piece of a basic drum part for access inside said basic drum part
  • the circumferential, more specifically circular, periphery of at least one of said at least one piece of a basic drum part and said at least one piece of a flange is discontinuous.
  • at least one of said at least one piece of a basic drum part and said at least one piece of a flange does not extend 360 degrees about the rotational axis X of the drum assembly.
  • the present invention may show several advantages in terms of customer and financial benefits. It may be advantageous for the manufacturing of the drum assembly because of a less expensive and easier tooling for welding and less space for the storage of components. Moreover, the invention may be environmental-saving because less rough material, mainly stainless steel, is scrapped, and also time- saving because less manual finishing, such as grinding, is needed.
  • the drum assembly of the invention may further comprise one or more of the following features, considered singly or in any technically feasible combinatio .
  • the at least one piece of a basic drum part may comprise a single piece defining a basic drum part
  • the at least one piece of a flange may comprise a single piece defining a flange , in
  • the at least one piece of a basic drum part and/or the at least one piece of a flange may not extend 360 degrees about the rotational axis of the drum assembly.
  • the at least one framework may be arranged to cooperate with said at least one piece of a basic drum part to extend circumferentially said at least one piece of a basic drum part.
  • the at least one framework may be arranged to define with said at least one piece of a basic drum part at least one part of a multipart basic drum part extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis of the drum assembly.
  • the at least one framework may thus be arranged to define with said at least one piece of a basic drum part a seeming basic drum part extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis of the drum assembly.
  • the at least one framework may comprise at least one outer flange portion arranged to cooperate with said at least one piece of a flange to extend circumferentially said at least one piece of a flange.
  • the at least one outer flange portion may be arranged to define with said at least one piece of a flange at least one part of a multipart lateral flange extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis of the drum assembly.
  • the at least one outer flange portion may thus be arranged to define with said at least one piece of a flange a seeming lateral flange extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis of the drum assembly.
  • the at least one outer flange portion may comprise a straight portion.
  • the at least one framework may comprise two outer flange portions arranged to cooperate with said at least one piece of a flange to extend circumferentially said at least one piece of a flange.
  • the two outer flange portions may each comprise a straight portion and may define together an angle strictly comprised between 0 and 180 degrees.
  • the drum assembly may comprise two pieces of a flange located on either side of said at least one piece of a basic drum part.
  • the drum assembly may comprise a front framework comprising a front drum opening and a back framework comprising a back drum opening.
  • the at least one piece of a basic drum part may define or may comprise a front opening and a back opening respectively intended to face said front opening and said back opening.
  • the drum assembly may comprise two separate pieces of a basic drum part, in particular an upper piece of a basic drum part and a lower piece of a basic drum part. Each may have a substantially arched form.
  • the drum assembly may comprise four pieces of a flange, i.e. a first upper piece of a flange and a first lower piece of a flange being located on one side of the at least one piece of a basic drum part, and a second upper piece of a flange and a second lower piece of a flange being located on the other side of said at least one piece of a basic drum part.
  • the four pieces of a retaining flange may each have a substantially arched form.
  • the drum assembly may comprise an operating member, including in particular heating elements and a drain valve.
  • the at least one piece of a basic drum part may comprise an opening, in particular a bottom opening, in which the operating member is located.
  • the invention relates to a washing machine, especially a laundry washing machine, characterized by the fact that it comprises a drum assembly as previously defined.
  • the washing machine may be a simple washing machine or a washing-drying machine.
  • the washing machine may be of the front-loading type or of the top- loading type.
  • the washing machine is a barrier washing machine.
  • the invention relates to a method for fabricating a drum assembly as previously defined characterized by the fact that it comprises the step of welding at least one piece of a flange to at least one framework.
  • the method of the invention may comprise one or several features mentioned above.
  • the method of the invention may comprise the step of welding at least one bended, or substantially arched, piece of a flange to at least one bended, or substantially arched, outer flange portion of a framework.
  • figure la is an exploded view of a drum assembly for a washing machine of the prior art
  • figure lb shows the drum assembly of figure la in an assembled configuration
  • figure 2a is an exploded view of an example of a drum assembly according to the invention
  • figure 2b shows the drum assembly of figure 2a in an assembled configuration
  • FIG. 3 is an exploded view of another example of a drum assembly according to the invention.
  • Figures 2a and 2b show a first embodiment of a drum assembly 1 according to the invention.
  • Figure 2a shows an exploded view of the drum assembly 1 while figure 2b shows the drum assembly 1 in an assembled state .
  • the drum assembly 1 is intended to be used in a washing machine, and preferably a laundry barrier washing machine.
  • the drum assembly 1 comprises two separate pieces of a basic drum part 2a and 2b, in particular an upper piece of a basic drum part 2a and a lower piece of a basic drum part 2b, in which the items, e.g. the laundry, are to be washed.
  • the drum assembly 1 also comprises two frameworks 3a and 3b, in particular a front framework 3a and a back framework 3b for respectively access inside the two pieces of a basic drum part 2a and 2b.
  • the drum assembled 1 further comprises four pieces of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d intended to be located at either the left periphery or the right periphery of the two pieces of a basic drum part 2a and 2b.
  • a first upper piece of a flange 4a faces the left periphery of the upper piece of a basic drum part 2a and a second upper piece of a flange 4b faces the right periphery of the upper piece of a basic drum part 2a.
  • a first lower piece of a flange 4c faces the left periphery of the lower piece of a basic drum part 2b and a second lower piece of a flange 4d faces the right periphery of the lower piece of a basic drum part 2b.
  • the lower piece of a basic drum part 2b also comprises a bottom opening 6c in order to place an operating member 5.
  • the operating member 5 may for example comprise heating elements and a drain valve.
  • the two pieces of a basic drum part 2a and 2b extend only partly circumferentially and each piece of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d also extends only partly circumferentially .
  • none of the two pieces of a basic drum part 2a, 2b and the four pieces of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d extends 360 degrees about the rotational axis X of the drum assembly 1.
  • Each piece of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d has a substantially arched form and so have the upper piece of a basic drum part 2a and the lower piece of a basic drum part 2b.
  • the upper piece of a basic drum part 2a and the lower piece of a basic drum part 2b define a front opening 6a and a back opening 6b, respectively facing a front drum opening Oi of the front framework 3a and a back drum opening O2 of the back framework 3b.
  • the front framework 3a and the back framework 3b are arranged to define with the upper piece of a basic drum part 2a and the lower piece of a basic drum part 2b all parts of a multipart basic drum part extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis X of the drum assembly 1.
  • Each framework 3a and 3b comprises an upper outer flange portion 7 and a lower outer flange portion 8.
  • the outer flange portions 7 and 8 are arranged to define with the four pieces of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d all parts of a left lateral flange and a right lateral flange extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis X of the drum assembly 1.
  • the outer flange portions 7 and 8 are straight portions defining together an angle a strictly comprised between 0 and 180 degrees, and preferably comprised between 90 and 180 degrees.
  • the method comprises the step of welding each piece of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d to the corresponding outer flange portions 7 and 8.
  • Figure 3 shows a second embodiment of a drum assembly 1 according to the invention.
  • the basic drum part 2a comprises only one piece and extends circumferentially discontinuously so as to define a front opening 6a which faces a front opening Oi of a single front framework 3a.
  • Two pieces of a flange 4a and 4b are located on either side of the basic drum part 2a.
  • Each piece of a flange 4a and 4b extends over less than 360 degrees around the rotational axis X of the drum assembly 1.
  • the framework 3a comprises outer flange portions 7 and 8 intended to be welded to the two pieces of a flange 4a and 4b.
  • One set of two outer flange portions 7 and 8 of the framework 3a is arranged so as to extend circumferentially one piece of a flange 4a or 4b.
  • a seeming lateral flange in particular a multipart lateral flange, is formed which extends 360 degrees about the rotational axis X of the drum assembly 1.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Main Body Construction Of Washing Machines And Laundry Dryers (AREA)

Abstract

The main object of the invention is a drum assembly (1) for a washing machine comprising : - at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) for receiving items to be washed, comprising or defining at least one opening (6a, 6b), - at least one framework (3a, 3b) comprising one drum opening (O1, O2) intended to face said at least one opening (6a, 6b) for access inside said basic drum part (2a, 2b), - at least one piece of a flange (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) intended to be located at least partly at a lateral periphery of said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b), characterized by the fact that at least one of said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) and said at least one piece of a flange (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) extends only partly circumferentially.

Description

A DRUM ASSEMBLY FOR A WASHING MACHINE AND METHOD FOR
FABRICATING THE SAME
DESCRIPTION TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to washing machines, especially laundry washing machines. The invention relates more particularly to a drum assembly for a washing machine and a method for fabricating the same.
BACKGROUND ART
A laundry washing machine is an appliance for removing dirt from laundry by using action of detergent and water.
It is to be noted that in the present application the expression "washing machine" may as well indicate a "simple" washing machine (i.e. a washing machine which can only wash and rinse the laundry) and a washing-drying machine (i.e. a washing machine which can also dry the laundry) , both of the front-loading type and of the top-loading type.
Preferably, the expression "washing machine" refers to a barrier washing machine. Barrier washing machines are generally used where total separation between the soiled laundry and the clean laundry is a requirement. This may be because of dust in a clean factory environment such as the electronics industry, or where radioactive dust particles may be the soiling, or in the health care world for surgical garments and dressings. The main use is in the health industry where garments and bedding are to be kept sealed and separate from the incoming soiled laundry.
A barrier washing machine typically comprises two doors, one front door for loading the machine with the dirty items to be washed and one back door for unloading the clean items once the wash cycle is completed. The dirty zone cannot be in contact with the clean zone, therefore there must be a wall or panel to separate the dirty side and the clean side, thus allowing no contamination between the two sides.
With regard to barrier washing machines, there is a common way to manufacture the outer drum assembly. Figures la and lb show, respectively in an exploded view and an assembled view, an example of a drum assembly for a barrier washing machine according to the prior art.
The drum assembly 1' comprises a set of six basic parts which are welded together. In particular, the drum assembly 1' comprises a basic drum part 2 ' a for receiving items to be washed on which three openings are made, i.e. a front opening 6'a, a back opening 6'b and a bottom opening 6'c. An operating member 5' is intended to be placed inside the bottom opening 6'c, said operating member 5' comprising for example heating elements and a drain valve. The drum assembly 1' also comprises two frameworks 3' a and 3'b for drum access, in particular for access inside the drum part 2 ' a, said two frameworks 3' a and 3'b respectively having an opening 0' i and 0'2 defining the two drum openings 0' i and 0'2 of the drum assembly 1' for loading and unloading the washing machine. The opening 0' i of the framework 3' a is intended to face the front opening 6' a of the drum part 2 ' a and the opening 0'2 of the framework 3'b is intended to face the back opening 6'b of the drum part 2 ' a. Besides, two lateral fully circular retaining flanges 4' a and 4'b are provided with the drum assembly 1', intended to be placed on the periphery of the drum part 2 ' a. All parts of the drum assembly 1' are welded together to form the assembled drum assembly 1' as shown on figure lb.
This known structure for manufacturing a drum assembly for a washing machine according to the prior art exhibits several drawbacks. Complex tooling has to be used to weld all these parts of the drum assembly together, especially to maintain the parts in contact during welding operation. The storage of the different parts of the drum assembly takes a lot of space. Moreover, the obtained drum assembly does generally not provide enough satisfactory features, especially in term of stiffness. This known drum assembly and its fabricating method are also money- consuming .
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, there exists a need for providing an improved drum assembly for a washing machine, especially a barrier washing machine, which has in particular enhanced stiffness, a very low risk of failure and a high reliability. There also exists a need for providing an improved method for fabricating such a drum assembly. The invention aims to substantially satisfy these needs and to obviate the drawbacks mentioned above related to embodiments of the prior art.
In one aspect, the invention relates to a drum assembly for a washing machine, especially a laundry washing machine, and in particular a barrier washing machine, comprising :
- at least one piece of a basic drum part for receiving items to be washed, comprising or defining at least one opening,
at least one framework comprising one drum opening intended to face said at least one opening of said at least one piece of a basic drum part for access inside said basic drum part,
- at least one piece of a flange intended to be located at least partly at a lateral periphery of said at least one piece of a basic drum part,
characterized by the fact that at least one of said at least one piece of a basic drum part and said at least one piece of a flange extends only partly circumferentially .
By "extends only partly circumferentially", it is meant that the circumferential, more specifically circular, periphery of at least one of said at least one piece of a basic drum part and said at least one piece of a flange is discontinuous. In other words, at least one of said at least one piece of a basic drum part and said at least one piece of a flange does not extend 360 degrees about the rotational axis X of the drum assembly. The present invention may show several advantages in terms of customer and financial benefits. It may be advantageous for the manufacturing of the drum assembly because of a less expensive and easier tooling for welding and less space for the storage of components. Moreover, the invention may be environmental-saving because less rough material, mainly stainless steel, is scrapped, and also time- saving because less manual finishing, such as grinding, is needed.
The drum assembly of the invention may further comprise one or more of the following features, considered singly or in any technically feasible combinatio .
The at least one piece of a basic drum part may comprise a single piece defining a basic drum part
^3.3 t ·
The at least one piece of a flange may comprise a single piece defining a flange , in
P3 ft" i n "f P r H rum i rf n y seveITa1 defining together said flange.
The at least one piece of a basic drum part and/or the at least one piece of a flange may not extend 360 degrees about the rotational axis of the drum assembly.
The at least one framework may be arranged to cooperate with said at least one piece of a basic drum part to extend circumferentially said at least one piece of a basic drum part. The at least one framework may be arranged to define with said at least one piece of a basic drum part at least one part of a multipart basic drum part extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis of the drum assembly. The at least one framework may thus be arranged to define with said at least one piece of a basic drum part a seeming basic drum part extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis of the drum assembly.
The at least one framework may comprise at least one outer flange portion arranged to cooperate with said at least one piece of a flange to extend circumferentially said at least one piece of a flange. The at least one outer flange portion may be arranged to define with said at least one piece of a flange at least one part of a multipart lateral flange extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis of the drum assembly. The at least one outer flange portion may thus be arranged to define with said at least one piece of a flange a seeming lateral flange extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis of the drum assembly.
The at least one outer flange portion may comprise a straight portion.
The at least one framework may comprise two outer flange portions arranged to cooperate with said at least one piece of a flange to extend circumferentially said at least one piece of a flange. The two outer flange portions may each comprise a straight portion and may define together an angle strictly comprised between 0 and 180 degrees.
The drum assembly may comprise two pieces of a flange located on either side of said at least one piece of a basic drum part. The drum assembly may comprise a front framework comprising a front drum opening and a back framework comprising a back drum opening. The at least one piece of a basic drum part may define or may comprise a front opening and a back opening respectively intended to face said front opening and said back opening.
The drum assembly may comprise two separate pieces of a basic drum part, in particular an upper piece of a basic drum part and a lower piece of a basic drum part. Each may have a substantially arched form.
The drum assembly may comprise four pieces of a flange, i.e. a first upper piece of a flange and a first lower piece of a flange being located on one side of the at least one piece of a basic drum part, and a second upper piece of a flange and a second lower piece of a flange being located on the other side of said at least one piece of a basic drum part. The four pieces of a retaining flange may each have a substantially arched form.
The drum assembly may comprise an operating member, including in particular heating elements and a drain valve. The at least one piece of a basic drum part may comprise an opening, in particular a bottom opening, in which the operating member is located.
In another aspect, the invention relates to a washing machine, especially a laundry washing machine, characterized by the fact that it comprises a drum assembly as previously defined.
The washing machine may be a simple washing machine or a washing-drying machine. The washing machine may be of the front-loading type or of the top- loading type.
Preferably, the washing machine is a barrier washing machine.
In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a method for fabricating a drum assembly as previously defined characterized by the fact that it comprises the step of welding at least one piece of a flange to at least one framework.
The method of the invention may comprise one or several features mentioned above.
In particular, the method of the invention may comprise the step of welding at least one bended, or substantially arched, piece of a flange to at least one bended, or substantially arched, outer flange portion of a framework.
It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description of the present invention are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
The invention will be better understood on reading the following detailed description of exemplary non-limiting embodiments thereof, as well on examining drawing, on which :
- figure la is an exploded view of a drum assembly for a washing machine of the prior art, figure lb shows the drum assembly of figure la in an assembled configuration,
figure 2a is an exploded view of an example of a drum assembly according to the invention,
- figure 2b shows the drum assembly of figure 2a in an assembled configuration, and
- figure 3 is an exploded view of another example of a drum assembly according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF WAYS OF CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawing. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the figures to refer to the same or like parts.
Figures 2a and 2b show a first embodiment of a drum assembly 1 according to the invention. Figure 2a shows an exploded view of the drum assembly 1 while figure 2b shows the drum assembly 1 in an assembled state .
As previously mentioned, the drum assembly 1 is intended to be used in a washing machine, and preferably a laundry barrier washing machine.
The drum assembly 1 comprises two separate pieces of a basic drum part 2a and 2b, in particular an upper piece of a basic drum part 2a and a lower piece of a basic drum part 2b, in which the items, e.g. the laundry, are to be washed. The drum assembly 1 also comprises two frameworks 3a and 3b, in particular a front framework 3a and a back framework 3b for respectively access inside the two pieces of a basic drum part 2a and 2b.
The drum assembled 1 further comprises four pieces of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d intended to be located at either the left periphery or the right periphery of the two pieces of a basic drum part 2a and 2b.
More precisely, a first upper piece of a flange 4a faces the left periphery of the upper piece of a basic drum part 2a and a second upper piece of a flange 4b faces the right periphery of the upper piece of a basic drum part 2a. Moreover, a first lower piece of a flange 4c faces the left periphery of the lower piece of a basic drum part 2b and a second lower piece of a flange 4d faces the right periphery of the lower piece of a basic drum part 2b.
The lower piece of a basic drum part 2b also comprises a bottom opening 6c in order to place an operating member 5. The operating member 5 may for example comprise heating elements and a drain valve.
According to the invention, the two pieces of a basic drum part 2a and 2b extend only partly circumferentially and each piece of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d also extends only partly circumferentially .
In other words, none of the two pieces of a basic drum part 2a, 2b and the four pieces of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d extends 360 degrees about the rotational axis X of the drum assembly 1. Each piece of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d has a substantially arched form and so have the upper piece of a basic drum part 2a and the lower piece of a basic drum part 2b.
The upper piece of a basic drum part 2a and the lower piece of a basic drum part 2b define a front opening 6a and a back opening 6b, respectively facing a front drum opening Oi of the front framework 3a and a back drum opening O2 of the back framework 3b.
The front framework 3a and the back framework 3b are arranged to define with the upper piece of a basic drum part 2a and the lower piece of a basic drum part 2b all parts of a multipart basic drum part extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis X of the drum assembly 1.
Each framework 3a and 3b comprises an upper outer flange portion 7 and a lower outer flange portion 8.
The outer flange portions 7 and 8 are arranged to define with the four pieces of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d all parts of a left lateral flange and a right lateral flange extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis X of the drum assembly 1.
Contrary to the arched segments of the four pieces of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d, the outer flange portions 7 and 8 are straight portions defining together an angle a strictly comprised between 0 and 180 degrees, and preferably comprised between 90 and 180 degrees.
In the method for fabricating the drum assembly 1 to obtain the assembled drum assembly 1 as shown on figure 2b, the method comprises the step of welding each piece of a flange 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d to the corresponding outer flange portions 7 and 8.
Figure 3 shows a second embodiment of a drum assembly 1 according to the invention.
In this embodiment, the basic drum part 2a comprises only one piece and extends circumferentially discontinuously so as to define a front opening 6a which faces a front opening Oi of a single front framework 3a.
Two pieces of a flange 4a and 4b are located on either side of the basic drum part 2a.
Each piece of a flange 4a and 4b extends over less than 360 degrees around the rotational axis X of the drum assembly 1.
The framework 3a comprises outer flange portions 7 and 8 intended to be welded to the two pieces of a flange 4a and 4b.
One set of two outer flange portions 7 and 8 of the framework 3a is arranged so as to extend circumferentially one piece of a flange 4a or 4b. Thus, a seeming lateral flange, in particular a multipart lateral flange, is formed which extends 360 degrees about the rotational axis X of the drum assembly 1.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.
Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
Throughout the present disclosure the term "comprising a" is intended to be synonymous with "comprising at least one", unless specified otherwise.

Claims

1. A drum assembly (1) for a washing machine comprising :
- at least one piece of a basic drum part
(2a, 2b) for receiving items to be washed, comprising or defining at least one opening (6a, 6b),
at least one framework (3a, 3b) comprising one drum opening (Oi, 02) intended to face said at least one opening (6a, 6b) for access inside said basic drum part (2a, 2b) ,
- at least one piece of a flange (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) intended to be located at least partly at a lateral periphery of said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) ,
characterized by the fact that at least one of said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) and said at least one piece of a flange (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) extends only partly circumferentially .
2. A drum assembly (1) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) extends only partly circumferentially and by the fact that said at least one framework (3a, 3b) is arranged to cooperate with said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) to extend circumferentially said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) , in particular to define with said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) at least one part of a multipart basic drum part extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis (X) of the drum assembly (1) .
3. A drum assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that said at least one piece of a flange (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) extends only partly circumferentially and by the fact that said at least one framework (3a, 3b) comprises at least one outer flange portion (7, 8) arranged to cooperate with said at least one piece of a flange (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) to extend circumferentially said at least one piece of a flange (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) , in particular to define with said at least one piece of a flange (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) at least one part of a multipart lateral flange extending 360 degrees about the rotational axis (X) of the drum assembly ( 1 ) .
4. A drum assembly (1) according to claim 3, characterized by the fact that said at least one outer flange portion (7, 8) comprises a straight portion .
5. A drum assembly (1) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized by the fact that said at least one framework (3a, 3b) comprises two outer flange portions (7, 8) arranged to cooperate with said at least one piece of a flange (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) to extend circumferentially said at least one piece of a flange (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) .
6. A drum assembly (1) according to claim 5, characterized by the fact that said two outer flange portions (7, 8) each comprise a straight portion.
7. A drum assembly (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by the fact that said two outer flange portions (7, 8) define together an angle (a) strictly comprised between 0 and 180 degrees.
8. A drum assembly (1) according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that it comprises two pieces of flange (4a, 4b) located on either side of said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) .
9. A drum assembly (1) according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that it comprises a front framework (3a) comprising a front drum opening (Oi) and a back framework (3b) comprising a back drum opening (02) , and by the fact that said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) defines or comprises a front opening (6a) and a back opening
(6b) respectively intended to face said front opening
(Oi) and said back opening (02) ·
10. A drum assembly (1) according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that it comprises two separate pieces of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) , in particular an upper piece of a basic drum part (2a) and a lower piece of a basic drum part (2b) , each having a substantially arched form.
11. A drum assembly (1) according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that it comprises four pieces of a flange, a first upper piece of a flange (4a) and a first lower piece of a flange (4c) being located on one side of said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) , and a second upper piece of a flange (4b) and a second lower piece of a flange (4d) being located on the other side of said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) , said four pieces of a flange (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) each having a substantially arched form.
12. A drum assembly (1) according to any preceding claim, characterized by the fact that it comprises an operating member (5) , including in particular heating elements and a drain valve, and by the fact that said at least one piece of a basic drum part (2a, 2b) comprises an opening (6c), in particular a bottom opening (6c), in which said operating member (6c) is located.
13. A washing machine characterized by the fact that it comprises a drum assembly (1) according to any preceding claim.
14. The washing machine according to claim 13, characterized by the fact that it is a barrier washing machine.
15. A method for fabricating a drum assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized by the fact that it comprises the step of welding at least one piece of a flange (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) to at least one framework (3a, 3b) .
EP12720479.0A 2012-02-09 2012-05-07 A drum assembly for a washing machine and method for fabricating the same Active EP2812475B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
SE1200080 2012-02-09
PCT/EP2012/058378 WO2013117245A1 (en) 2012-02-09 2012-05-07 A drum assembly for a washing machine and method for fabricating the same

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2812475A1 true EP2812475A1 (en) 2014-12-17
EP2812475B1 EP2812475B1 (en) 2021-04-07

Family

ID=46062270

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP12720479.0A Active EP2812475B1 (en) 2012-02-09 2012-05-07 A drum assembly for a washing machine and method for fabricating the same

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP2812475B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2013117245A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN109252321B (en) * 2018-05-08 2024-04-30 重庆市巫山城市建设(集团)有限公司 Drum washing machine

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0869213A3 (en) * 1997-03-31 1999-02-03 White Consolidated Industries, Inc. Mid-radius door for a top load horizontal axis washing machine
CA2350741C (en) * 1998-11-09 2007-01-30 Fisher & Paykel Limited Top loading washing machine
FR2788791B1 (en) * 1999-01-27 2001-04-13 Electrolux Syst Blanchisserie METHOD FOR INDEXING IN PRACTICE A DRUM OF A WASHING MACHINE AND A WASHING MACHINE IMPLEMENTING THIS METHOD
FR2893955B1 (en) * 2005-11-30 2007-12-28 Brandt Ind Sas WASHING OR DRYING MACHINE EQUIPPED WITH A BOND LINK BODY AND METHOD FOR ASSEMBLING THE SAME

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See references of WO2013117245A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2013117245A1 (en) 2013-08-15
EP2812475B1 (en) 2021-04-07

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2140058B1 (en) Laundry treating apparatus
CN103459699B (en) washing device
AU2011234515B2 (en) Rotatable drum for laundry washing machines and assembly method of the rotatable drum
WO2018141918A1 (en) Washer-dryer utilizing the volume inside the door
EP4249664B1 (en) Laundry treating apparatus
KR102517225B1 (en) Cloth treating appratus
EP2524078B1 (en) Drum of a machine for treating laundry and machine having said drum
JP7003281B2 (en) Washing machine door structure and washing machine equipped with it
EP2812475B1 (en) A drum assembly for a washing machine and method for fabricating the same
WO2013030394A2 (en) A laundry washing or laundry washing-drying machine drum
US9458563B2 (en) Front loading washer baffle
US20190100865A1 (en) Laundry treating appliance lifter
US8596097B2 (en) Washing machine
RU2413043C2 (en) Washing or washing/drying machine with barrier device
US10309051B2 (en) Closure panel and laundry treating appliance with same
US11873600B2 (en) Washing machine tub cover
KR102287516B1 (en) Washing machine
EP2832916B1 (en) Laundry treating machine including a rotatable drum
CN104870706A (en) Support structure of rotary-drum laundry treatment home appliance and rotary-drum laundry treatment home appliance including the support structure
JP2004180883A (en) Drum type washing/drying machine with housing function
KR101710393B1 (en) Laundry machine
US10253442B2 (en) Top-loading type washing machine
KR102413324B1 (en) Laundry treat machine
KR102362542B1 (en) Top load type washing machine
KR100675800B1 (en) Drum Washing Machine

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20140909

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20201103

RIN1 Information on inventor provided before grant (corrected)

Inventor name: NOCUS, PATRICE

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1379821

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20210415

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602012075101

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG9D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1379821

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20210407

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210707

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210807

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210708

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210809

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210707

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602012075101

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210531

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210507

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210531

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20210531

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20220110

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20210707

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210507

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210707

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210807

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210531

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 12

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20120507

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230526

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210407

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20250416

Year of fee payment: 14

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20250414

Year of fee payment: 14