GB2570516A

GB2570516A - Improvements relating to washing machines

Info

Publication number: GB2570516A
Application number: GB1801514.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Beverly Lucas Nigel
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2018-01-30
Filing date: 2018-01-30
Publication date: 2019-07-31
Also published as: GB201801514D0

Abstract

The apparatus 100 and method is for filling a vessel (200, Figure 2), such as a fluid-retaining counterweight in a washing machine 300, with a fluid. The vessel includes a first valve 220 and a second valve 210. The apparatus includes a pressurisable container 110 and a conduit 120 connectable to the pressurisable container and the second valve. The conduit is adapted to provide fluid communication between the container and the second valve. A one-way valve 123 allows the fluid to only flow in the direction from the container to the second valve. The apparatus directs the fluid from the container through the one-way valve into the vessel. A method of removing fluid from a vessel includes connecting to a first valve a pressurisable container comprising a gas, and with a second valve open, actuating the container to direct the gas from the container through the first valve into the vessel and displace the fluid from the vessel through the second valve. A counterweight for a washing machine includes a vessel for receiving and retaining a fluid, a first valve and a second valve. The first valve is arranged, in use, at a higher point than the second valve.

Description

Improvements Relating to Washing Machines

Field

The present invention relates to a method for filling a vessel with a fluid, and to related apparatus and uses. In particular, the present invention relates to fluid-containing washing machine counterweights and methods of filling said washing machine counterweights with a fluid.

Background

Washing machines typically comprise at least one concrete block to act as a counterweight to stabilise the washing machine, specifically the washing machine drum, during a spin cycle. Some washing machines comprise two such concrete counterweights, one arranged in an upper region of the washing machine above the drum, in use, and one arranged in a lower region of the washing machine below the drum, in use. Additional counterweights may be placed in the sides of a washing machine. This use of concrete counterweights adds significantly to the weight of a washing machine and also requires the emission of a relatively large amount of carbon dioxide in the production of the concrete. The weight of a washing machine determines how much energy needs to be expended in moving the washing machine to it’s intended location of use and also affects how safely the washing machine can be handled, for example during delivery and installation.

Recent developments have shown that the concrete counterweight in a washing machine can be replaced by a fluid-retaining vessel which can remain empty during manufacture, transportation and installation of the washing machine, reducing the weight of the washing machine by about a third and therefore reducing energy consumption and improving the safety of handling. The fluid-retaining vessel can then be filled with a fluid, for example water, during installation of the washing machine to enable the filled fluid-retaining vessel to act as a counterweight during use of the washing machine in a similar way to the known concrete blocks.

The filling of the fluid-retaining vessel with a fluid may require access to the inside of the washing machine, such as by removing a top cover of the washing machine, and may require removing a cap from the fluid-retaining vessel and filling said fluid-retaining vessel with a fluid from a suitable source.

Summary of the Invention

It is one aim of the present invention, amongst others, to provide a method and/or an apparatus that addresses at least one disadvantage of the prior art, whether identified here or elsewhere, or to provide an alternative to existing apparatuses. For instance, it may be an aim of the present invention to provide a method and/or an apparatus which enables a user to fill a vessel with a fluid with improved convenience compared to the prior art.

According to aspects of the present invention, there is provided a method of filling a vessel with a fluid, and related apparatus and uses, as set forth in the appended claims. There is also provided a counterweight fora washing machine and a washing machine comprising said counterweight. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description which follows.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of filling a vessel with a fluid, the vessel comprising a first valve and a second valve, the method comprising the steps of:

(a) connecting to the second valve a source of pressurised fluid; and (b) with the first valve open, directing pressurised fluid from the source of pressurised fluid through the second valve and into the vessel.

The vessel is suitably able to receive and retain a fluid in use. The vessel may therefore be sealable. The vessel may be intended for filling with a fluid in use. Many such vessels are known in the art for a variety of different uses. Suitably, the method of the first aspect may be used with a vessel comprised within a washing machine wherein the vessel is intended to act as a counterweight during use of the washing machine when the vessel is filled with a suitable fluid, for example water.

By “fluid”, we mean a gas or a liquid which can flow into a vessel under pressure. The method of the first aspect may be used with a wide range of fluids, suitably liquids, for example an aqueous liquid. The liquid may comprise additives, for example anti-corrosion additives and/or anti-freezing additives. For the avoidance of doubt, the fluid is not intended to be air.

The second valve is suitable for selectively passing fluid into and/or out of the vessel. The second valve may be a drain valve. A drain valve may be fitted to a vessel to allow fluid in the vessel to drain out of the vessel under gravity when the drain valve is opened, for example to allow maintenance or replacement of the vessel. Suitably such drain valves are arranged in a lower part of the vessel, in use.

Reference to the first and/or second valve being open means that said valve can allow fluid to pass through. In some embodiments said valves comprise a mechanism for selectively opening and closing said valves. Such mechanisms are known in the art. Opening said valve may therefore involve activating said mechanisms. In some embodiments, said valves may comprise a mechanism which opens said valve when a suitable connecting piece is coupled with it. An example of such a mechanism is a push-fit click connector. Such push-fit click connectors are known in the art. Opening said valves may therefore involve coupling said connecting piece to the mechanism.

Some vessels do not comprise a drain valve located in a lower part of the vessel, in use. Therefore a second valve may function in a similar way to a drain valve and may be any valve through which fluid can be removed, whether under gravity or under positive pressure. The second valve or nominal “drain valve” may be a bleed valve and/or may be located in an upper part of the vessel, in use.

The first valve is suitable for selectively passing fluid into and/or out of the vessel. The first valve may be intended and suitable for passing gas into and/or out of the vessel. Such a valve may be known as a bleed valve. Bleed valves are suitably fitted to some vessels. Such bleed valves, when opened, provide an outlet in an upper part of the vessel for fluids, such as air or liquid. Opening such a bleed valve may therefore allow air in the vessel to be removed and replaced with fluid when such a fluid enters the vessel under pressure. Suitably when the first valve and the second valve are closed, the vessel is sealed.

In some embodiments, the first valve and/or the second valve may be located remotely from the vessel and in fluid communication with the vessel through suitable conduits.

The source of pressurised fluid can suitably provide the fluid with a pressure greater than in the vessel, for example greater than ambient pressure. Suitably the source of pressurised fluid provides the fluid having a pressure sufficient to force the fluid through the second valve and into the vessel, forcing out any air present in the vessel through the first valve until the fluid reaches the first valve.

The source of pressurised fluid used in the method of this first aspect may be supplied through a conduit, for example from a central or mains supply of said fluid, for example a mains water supply. Such a source pressurised fluid suitably has a pressure greater than in the vessel, for example greater than ambient pressure.

In some embodiments, the source of pressurised fluid may be a pressurisable container comprising said fluid. In such embodiments, the pressurisable container may be suitable for receiving and storing a fluid and be capable of being pressurised to a pressure above ambient pressure, suitably above 1 atmosphere, for example above 1.5 atmospheres, suitably above 2 atmospheres, suitably without deforming from its original shape. The pressurisable container may be constructed from a rigid polymeric material.

In such embodiments, directing pressurised fluid from the source of pressurised fluid in step (b) involves actuating said pressurisable container to increase the pressure in the pressurisable container to a pressure greater than in the vessel, for example greater than ambient pressure. Suitably the pressure difference between the vessel and the pressurisable container comprising the fluid causes the fluid to flow from the pressurisable container, through the second valve and into the vessel. Once the fluid from the pressurisable container has filled the vessel, the first valve may be closed. The second valve may then be closed and the pressurisable container disconnected from the second valve.

Suitably the vessel is substantially empty of liquid (i.e. substantially filled with air) before the method of this first aspect is carried out.

The inventor has found that the method of this first aspect may facilitate the filling of a vessel with a fluid and/or the replacement of a fluid in a vessel. The method may provide a direct and efficient way of filling a vessel with a fluid which can be performed by a lone worker manipulating the source of pressurised fluid and the first valve of the vessel.

Furthermore, the method of this first aspect may be used to introduce additives, for example descaling agents, anti-corrosion agents or anti-freeze agents, into a vessel. This may be a more convenient and easier operation than prior art methods for introducing additives into a vessel.

Suitably, the steps of the method are carried out in the order step (a), followed by step (b).

Suitably step (a) involves connecting the second valve to the source of pressurised fluid through a conduit.

A suitable conduit may have an enclosed length of material suitable for conveying a fluid, suitably a fluid under pressure. Suitably, the conduit is a tube with two open ends, a first end for connecting the conduit to the source of pressurised fluid and a second end for connecting the conduit to the second valve.

The conduit may be a mains water supply hose for connection to a washing machine in normal operation.

The conduit is adapted to provide fluid communication between the source of pressurised fluid and the second valve. Suitably, the conduit is adapted to enable the fluid to flow under positive pressure from the source of pressurised fluid through the conduit and into the vessel through the second valve.

Suitably the conduit is connectable to the source of pressurised fluid and the second valve.

Suitably the conduit is flexible. Suitably the conduit is formed from a flexible material. The conduit being flexible may allow a user to conveniently provide a source of pressurised fluid to the vessel, for example in enclosed spaces. The conduit may be formed from a flexible polymeric material. For example, the conduit may be formed from a polymeric material comprising nylon, polyurethane, polyethylene, polyvinylchloride, synthetic rubber, natural rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or mixtures thereof. Suitably the conduit is formed from PVC.

Suitably, the conduit provides a means by which the fluid can flow from the source of pressurised fluid, through the second valve, to the vessel.

Suitably a one-way valve is arranged in fluid communication between the source of pressurised fluid and the second valve.

A one-way valve is a device which allows fluid to flow through in one direction only. Suitably, the one-way valve is arranged in fluid communication between the source of pressurised fluid and the second valve to allow the fluid to pass from the source of pressurised fluid to the vessel and to prevent the fluid from passing from the vessel to the source of pressurised fluid. Suitable one-way valves would be known to the skilled person.

In embodiments wherein step (a) involves connecting the second valve to the source of pressurised fluid through a conduit, suitably the one-way valve is arranged within the conduit between the source of pressurised fluid and the vessel.

The one-way valve may ensure that the fluid can only flow in the intended direction into the vessel and so prevent any fluid from being forced back into the source of pressurised fluid through any back pressure which may arise within the vessel during the method of this first aspect.

Suitably step (a) involves connecting to the second valve an apparatus comprising:

a pressurisable container to provide the source of pressurised fluid;

a conduit connectable to the pressurisable container and said second valve, the conduit adapted to provide fluid communication between the pressurisable container and said second valve;

a one-way valve adapted to allow said pressurised fluid to only flow in the direction from the pressurisable container to said second valve;

wherein the apparatus is configured to direct said pressurised fluid from the pressurisable container through the one-way valve into said vessel.

Therefore step (a) suitably involves connecting to the second valve a conduit which provides fluid communication between the pressurisable container and the second valve; and step (b) suitably involves, with the first valve open, actuating the pressurisable container to direct the fluid from the pressurisable container through the conduit, though the one-way valve and through the second valve into the vessel.

The apparatus may be termed a filling apparatus.

The advantages and suitable features of the apparatus are described below in relation to the fourth aspect.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of removing a fluid from a vessel, the vessel comprising a first valve and a second valve, the method comprising the steps of:

(A) connecting to the first valve a pressurisable container comprising a gas; and (B) with the second valve open, actuating the pressurisable container to direct the gas from the pressurisable container through the first valve into the vessel and displace the fluid from the vessel, through the second valve.

The first valve may be considered to be bleed valve. The second valve may be considered to be a drain valve.

The first valve, second valve, fluid and pressurisable container may have any of the suitable features and advantages described in relation to the first aspect.

Suitably step (A) involves connecting to the first valve an apparatus comprising:

the pressurisable container;

a conduit connectable to the pressurisable container and said first valve, the conduit adapted to provide fluid communication between the pressurisable container and said first valve;

wherein the apparatus is configured to direct the gas from the pressurisable container through the first valve into said vessel.

The apparatus may be termed an emptying apparatus.

The inventor has found that the method of this second aspect may allow a vessel to be emptied in a cleaner and more convenient manner without risking spilling fluid on flooring surrounding the vessel. This may be particularly advantageous when the vessel is part of an appliance which is fitted in a location having flooring, for example carpet, which may be stained or otherwise damaged by spilt fluid. Such an appliance may be a washing machine.

Suitably step (B) involves collecting the fluid in a second pressurisable container connected to the second valve.

The second pressurisable container may be provided by a filling apparatus as described in relation to the first aspect. Suitably any one-way valve present in said filling apparatus is either removed or reversed to allow fluid to pass from the vessel, through the second valve into the second pressurisable container.

In some embodiments, the vessel is a counterweight for a washing machine.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of replacing a vessel in a system, the vessel comprising a bleed valve, a second valve and a fluid, the method comprising the steps of:

(i) opening the bleed valve;

(ii) opening the second valve and removing the fluid from the vessel;

(iii) disconnecting the vessel from the system;

(iv) connecting a replacement vessel to the system;

(v) connecting to the second valve a pressurisable container comprising a replacement fluid;

(vi) actuating the pressurisable container to direct the replacement fluid from the pressurisable container through the second valve into the vessel.

(vii) closing the bleed valve.

The method of this third aspect may have any of the suitable features and advantages described in relation to the first aspect.

The second valve may be a drain valve and step (ii) may therefore involve opening the drain valve and draining the fluid from the vessel.

In some embodiments, step (ii) of the method of this third aspect may involve a method of removing a fluid from a vessel according to the second aspect of the present invention. Step (ii) may involve collecting the fluid in a pressurisable container connected to the second valve, suitably in the pressurisable container of steps (v) and (vi). Step (vi) may involve transferring the same fluid removed from the vessel in step (ii) into the replacement vessel from the pressurisable container.

Suitably the steps (i)-(vii) are carried out in the order step (i) followed by step (ii), followed by step (iii), followed by step (iv), followed by step (v), followed by step (vi), followed by step (vii).

Suitably the method comprises a step of isolating the vessel from a system to which the vessel is connected to prevent fluid flow between the vessel and the system. Suitably this step precedes step (i).

Suitably the method of this third aspect involves using an emptying apparatus described in relation to the second aspect to carry out step (ii).

Suitably the method of this third aspect involves using a filling apparatus described in relation to the first aspect to carry out steps (v) and (vi).

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus adapted for filling a vessel with a fluid, said vessel comprising a first valve and a second valve, the apparatus comprising:

a pressurisable container;

a one-way valve adapted to allow said fluid to only flow in the direction from the pressurisable container to said second valve;

wherein the apparatus is configured to direct said fluid from the pressurisable container through the one-way valve into said vessel.

The suitable features and advantages of the apparatus of this fourth aspect are as described in relation to the first and third aspects, particularly in relation to the pressurisable container, the conduit and the one-way valve.

The apparatus may be termed a filling apparatus.

Suitably the apparatus comprises a device adapted to pressurise the pressurisable container.

The device adapted to pressurise the pressurisable container, when actuated, suitably increases the pressure inside the pressurisable container above ambient pressure such that fluid contained within the pressurisable container would flow out of the pressurisable container if a suitable opening was provided. Suitably the device may be actuated by a user to pressurise the pressurisable container.

Suitably the device adapted to pressurise the pressurisable container is a manually powered device. Suitably the device adapted to pressurise the pressurisable container is a handpowered air pump. When actuated, the hand-powered air pump suitably forces air into the pressurisable container which increases the pressure within the pressurisable container above ambient pressure. The device adapted to pressurise the pressurisable container being a manually powered device has the advantage that the complexity and costs of manufacture of the apparatus are reduced, compared to an electrically powered device, and the apparatus can be used when there is no access to a mains supply of electricity.

In some embodiments the device adapted to pressurise the pressurisable container is electrically powered.

Suitably the apparatus comprises a control valve adapted to selectively allow or prevent the flow of said fluid from the pressurisable container through the one-way valve into said vessel.

When the pressurisable container is in a pressurised state and contains a fluid, suitably the control valve can be actuated by a user to either allow or prevent said fluid to flow under pressure from the pressurisable container into the conduit, through the one-way valve, through said second valve and into said vessel.

Suitably, the control valve is manually operated. Suitably the control valve is connected to a gripping portion. Suitably the gripping portion allows a user to manually operate the control valve. For example, the gripping portion may comprise a lever, switch or button for operating the control valve.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a use of an apparatus according to the fourth aspect for filling a counterweight in a washing machine with a fluid.

Suitable features and advantages of the use of this fifth aspect are as described above in relation to the first, second, third and fourth aspects.

The apparatus of the fourth aspect may be particularly advantageous in filling a vessel which is fitted to a washing machine and is intended to function as a counterweight during operation of the washing machine.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a use of an apparatus according to the fourth aspect for replacing a fluid in a counterweight in a washing machine.

Suitable features and advantages of the use of this sixth aspect are as described above in relation to the first, second, third and fourth aspects.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a counterweight for a washing machine, the counterweight comprising a vessel for receiving and retaining a fluid, the vessel comprising a first valve and a second valve wherein the first valve is arranged, in use, at a point higher than the second valve.

The vessel, first valve and second valve may have any of the suitable features and advantages described in relation to the first, second, third and fourth aspects.

The counterweight of this seventh aspect suitably has a fluid capacity of at least 5 litres, suitably at least 10 litres, suitably at least 20 litres. Suitably the counterweight has a capacity of up to 50 litres, suitably up to 40 litres, suitably up to 30 litres. Suitably the counterweight has a capacity of approximately 25 litres.

In some embodiments, the first valve and/or the second valve may be located on the vessel of the counterweight. Therefore the first valve may be arranged, in use, at a point on the vessel higher than the second valve.

In some embodiments, the first valve and/or the second valve may be located remotely from the vessel of the counterweight and in fluid communication with the vessel of the counterweight through suitable conduits. This may allow the first valve and the second valve to be used without a user having to gain direct access to the vessel of the counterweight, which could be problematic depending on the design of said washing machine in which the counterweight is incorporated. The first valve may be connected to the vessel of the counterweight through a conduit which provides fluid communication between the first valve and the vessel through a first opening in the vessel. The first valve may function as a bleed valve provided the first valve is arranged in said washing machine at a height which corresponds to an upper region of the vessel, in use, or above said height. Suitably the first valve is arranged in a washing machine at a height above the vessel, suitably at a location on said washing machine which is readily accessible by a user.

The second valve may be connected to the vessel of the counterweight through a conduit which provides fluid communication between the second valve and the vessel through a second opening in the vessel. The second valve may function as a drain valve provided the second valve is arranged in said washing machine at a height which corresponds to a lower region of the vessel, in use, or below said height. Suitably the second valve is arranged in a washing machine at a height below the vessel, suitably at a location on said washing machine which is readily accessible by a user.

In the method, apparatus or use of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth aspects, the vessel is suitably a washing machine counterweight.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a washing machine comprising a counterweight according to the seventh aspect.

Brief Description of the Drawings

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how example embodiments may be carried into effect, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to the fourth aspect of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a perspective view of a washing machine according to the eighth aspect of the present invention comprising a counterweight according to the first and seventh aspects of the invention.

Figure 3 is a plan view of an apparatus according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, connected to a fluid-retaining vessel in a washing machine for carrying out a method according to the first aspect of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of an apparatus being used to carry out a method of the second aspect of the present invention.

Figure 5 is a perspective view of a washing machine comprising a hollow fluid-retaining vessel for use as a counterweight being filled with fluid in a method of the first aspect.

Detailed Description of the Example Embodiments

Figure 1 shows an apparatus (which may be termed a filling apparatus) (100) for filling a vessel with a heat transfer fluid. The apparatus (100) comprises a pressurisable container (110), a conduit (120) and a one-way valve (123). The pressurisable container (110) is formed from a rigid polymeric material and is suitable for withstanding elevated pressures, for example pressures above 1 atmospheres, suitably above 2 atmospheres, suitably up to 3 atmospheres. The pressurisable container (110) comprises a main body (111) and a lid (112). Attachment of the lid (112) to the main body (111) of the pressurisable container (110) provides an airtight seal which enables the pressure inside the pressurisable container (110) to be increased without pressurised air escaping from the pressurisable container (110). The lid (112) is provided with a device (113) for pressurising the pressurisable container (110) in the form of a hand-powered air pump. The lid (112) is also provided with a pressure gauge (114) which measures and displays the pressure inside the pressurisable container (110).

The conduit (120) is a flexible tube formed from a polymeric material, for example polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which provides fluid communication between the pressurisable container and a valve, in use. A first end (not shown) of the conduit (120) is arranged inside and at or near the bottom of the pressurisable container (110). A second end (122) of the conduit (120) provides on outlet for fluid passing from the pressurisable container (110) through the conduit (120). The second end (122) of the conduit (120) is intended to be connected to a valve of a vessel, in use. Arranged within the conduit (120) are one-way valve (123) and control valve (124). The one-way valve (123) allows a fluid to only flow through the conduit (120) in the direction from the pressurisable container to the second end (122) of the conduit (120). A suitable oneway valve (123) is manufactured by AIGNEP having a brass nickel plated body, a nitrile butadiene rubber seal and which is operable at a pressure range of 2 to 8 bar. The control valve (124) comprises a lever (125) and allows a user to selectively allow or prevent the flow of fluid through the conduit (120) using the lever (125). When the lever (125) is in a rest position, the control valve (124) is closed to fluid flow. When the lever (125) is in an active position (i.e. after being pushed towards the conduit (120) by a user), the control valve is open to allow fluid flow. The conduit (120) is formed from a first length of tubing (126) connecting the pressurisable container (110) to the control valve (124), a second length of tubing (127) connecting the control valve (124) to the one-way valve (123) and a third length of tubing (128) connecting to the one-way valve (123) and which provides the second end (122) of the conduit (120). The control valve (124) and the one-way valve (123) when open provide fluid communication between the relevant lengths of tubing and therefore form parts of the conduit (120).

Figure 2 shows a washing machine (300) comprising a fluid-retaining vessel (200) within an outer casing (301) of the washing machine (300) (outline shown in dotted line) in an upper region of the washing machine (300). The washing machine (300) is a front loading type comprising a drum (302) for receiving laundry and for washing and spinning said laundry. Washing machine (300) also comprises a detergent drawer (303) for receiving detergent and conveying said detergent to the drum (302) for washing said laundry. The fluid-retaining vessel (200) is formed from a rigid polymeric material and has a capacity of approximately 25 litres. The fluid-retaining vessel (200) comprises a first valve (220) which may be regarded as a bleed valve and a second valve (210) which may be regarded as a drain valve. The bleed valve (220) is arranged in a position higher up on the fluid-retaining vessel (200) than the drain valve (210), in relation to the normal orientation of the washing machine (300) in use, as shown. Therefore a fluid, for example water, can be introduced into the fluid-retaining vessel (200) through the drain valve (210) and fill the fluid-retaining vessel (200) until the water reaches the bleed valve (220). The bleed valve (220) and the drain valve (210) protrude outside of the outer casing (301) of the washing machine (300) to allow access for a user to fill and empty the fluid-retaining vessel (200). Alternatively, access to the bleed and drain valves may be provided through an openable or removable panel. The bleed valve (220) and the drain valve (210) are arranged on a side of the fluid-retaining vessel (200) corresponding to a side of the washing machine (300) opposite to the side comprising the detergent drawer (303). The bleed valve (220) and the drain valve (210) may alternatively be arranged on a side of the fluid-retaining vessel (200) corresponding to the front or rear of the washing machine (300). The bleed valve (220) and the drain valve (210) are suitably not arranged on a side of the fluidretaining vessel (200) corresponding to a side of the washing machine (300) comprising the detergent drawer (303), as the counterweight in typical washing machine designs is not adjacent to the outer casing of the washing machine on that side of the washing machine to allow space for the detergent drawer.

In an alternative embodiment, the bleed valve (220) may be located in an upper region of the washing machine (300) above the fluid-retaining vessel (200) and be connected to the fluidretaining vessel (200) through a bleed valve conduit. In said embodiment, the drain valve (210) may be located in a lower region of the washing machine (300), below the fluid-retaining vessel (200) and be connected to the fluid-retaining vessel (200) through a drain valve conduit. For example, the drain valve (210) may be located near to base of the washing machine and therefore near the floor on which the washing machine (300) is placed, in use.

The fluid-retaining vessel (200) is intended for use as a counterweight, when filled with a suitable fluid, to stabilise the washing machine during operation, in particular during a spin cycle. The fluid-retaining vessel (200) weighs approximately 25 kg when full of a suitable fluid, which is the typical weight of a concrete block counterweight used in typical washing machines. The bleed valve (220) is optionally fitted with an overflow tube which may be arranged in communication with a suitable container or drain.

The drain valve (210) and/or the bleed valve (220) of the fluid-retaining vessel (200) may be fitted with a push-fit click connector to facilitate attachment to the second end (122) of the conduit (120) of the apparatus (100) to the drain valve (210) and/or to facilitate attachment of the overflow tube to the bleed valve (220) respectively. Therefore the second end (122) of the conduit (120) of the apparatus (100) and/or the overflow tube may be provided with suitable complementary push-fit click connectors for engagement with the push-fit click connectors of the drain valve (210) and/or the bleed valve (220). Additionally or alternatively, the drain valve (210) and/or the bleed valve (220) may be provided with a removable blanking plug for locating in the drain valve (210) and/or the bleed valve (220) once the filling operation has been carried out. Said blanking plug may ensure that the fluid-retaining vessel (200) when filled does not leak fluid through the drain valve (210) and/or the bleed valve (220). The drain valve (210) and/or the bleed valve (220) may be provided with a screw thread for engaging with a complementary screw thread on said blanking plug.

Figure 3 shows the apparatus (100) of Figure 1 connected to the fluid-retaining vessel (200) of washing machine (300) shown in Figure 2. The pressurisable container (110) is connected to the fluid-retaining vessel (200) through the coupling of the second end (122) of the conduit (120) to the drain valve (210). An overflow tube (230) is connected to the bleed valve (220). Water (1000) is provided in the pressurisable container (110) as the fluid for filling the fluidretaining vessel (200). The water (1000) may comprise anti-freeze additives in situations where the washing machine is located where the ambient temperature may approach 0 °C, for example in an unheated outbuilding such as a garage. The first end (121) of the conduit (120) is submerged in the water (1000) contained within the pressurisable container (110).

In order to fill the fluid-retaining vessel (200) with water (1000), in a method according to the first aspect of the present invention, the drain valve (210) and the bleed valve (220) are opened. The drain valve (210) and the bleed valve (220) may be opened by attachment of the conduit (120) and the overflow tube (230) when suitable push-fit click connectors are used. With the control valve (124) closed (i.e. with the lever (125) in the rest position), the device (113) (hand-powered air pump) is actuated by a user to increase the pressure in the pressurisable container (110) by pumping air into the pressurisable container (110) above the water (1000). Suitably the pressure is increased to between 1 and 3 atmospheres. The user then opens the control valve (124) by moving the lever (125) to the active position (i.e. pushed towards the conduit (120)) to allow the water (1000) to flow from the pressurisable container (110), into the conduit (120) at the first end (121), through the conduit (120), through the control valve (124), through the one-way valve (123), through the second end (122) of the conduit (120) and into the fluid-retaining vessel (200) through the drain valve (210). The water (1000) then fills the fluid-retaining vessel (200), displacing air in the fluid-retaining vessel (200) which escapes through bleed valve (220). Once water (1000) starts to be discharged through the bleed valve (220), the bleed valve (220) is closed by the user. In embodiments wherein the overflow tube (230) is present, this may direct the excess water discharged through the bleed valve (220) away from the fluid-retaining vessel (200) and the washing machine (300), for example into a suitable container or down a drain, to prevent spillage of water onto or around the washing machine (300).

The fluid-retaining vessel (200) is then full with water (1000). After filling the fluid-retaining vessel (200) with water (1000), the drain valve (210) can be closed and the control valve (124) of the apparatus (100) can be closed by the user releasing the lever (125) to restore it to the rest position. Any remaining pressure in the pressurisable container (110) can be released by opening the lid (112) or by using a pressure release valve (not shown) fitted to the pressurisable container (110). The apparatus (100) can then be disconnected from the fluidretaining vessel (200) by removing the second end (122) of the conduit (120) from the drain valve (210). The washing machine (300) can then be operated normally with the now filled fluid-retaining vessel (200) acting as a counterweight to the rotation of the drum (301). The washing machine (300) may comprise additional fluid-retaining vessels for use as counterweights. For example, the washing machine (300) may comprise an additional fluidretaining vessel in a lower region of the washing machine (300) below the drum (301). Any additional fluid-retaining vessel (200) may be filled as described above through suitable valves arranged on the additional fluid-retaining vessels.

The method described above may provide a convenient and efficient way for filling a fluidretaining vessel (200) for use as a counterweight in a washing machine to enable a manufacturer and user to easily obtain the benefits of using a water filled fluid-retaining vessel as a counterweight instead of a concrete counterweight.

Figure 4 shows an emptying apparatus (400) and a filling apparatus (100) connected to a fluidretaining vessel (200) in a washing machine (300). The fluid-retaining vessel (200) is as described in relation to Figure 2, comprising a bleed valve (220) and a drain valve (210). Emptying apparatus (400) comprises a first pressurisable container (410) similar to the pressurisable container (110) described in relation to Figure 1, comprising a main body (411), a lid (412), a device (413) for pressurising the first pressurisable container (410) in the form of a hand-powered air pump and a pressure gauge (414), as described in relation to Figure 1. The emptying apparatus (400) comprises a conduit (420) and a control valve (424) arranged in the conduit for enabling a user to selectively allow or prevent the flow of fluid through the conduit, as described in relation to apparatus (100). The conduit (420) is formed of silicone rubber. The first pressurisable container (410) is filled with air. The first pressurisable container (410) may also comprise a one-way valve similar to valve (123) of apparatus (100) described in relation to Figure 1.

The emptying apparatus (400) is connected to fluid-retaining vessel (200) through the coupling of the conduit (420) with the bleed valve (220).

The apparatus (100) is as described in relation to Figure 1 and is connected to the fluidretaining vessel (200) as described in relation to Figure 3. The pressurisable container (110) of the apparatus (100) may be termed the second pressurisable container (110).

In order to empty the fluid-retaining vessel (200) of water (not shown) into the second pressurisable container (110) of the apparatus (100), in a method according to the second aspect of the present invention, the following procedure is carried out. The drain valve (210) and the bleed valve (220) are opened. With the control valve (424) closed (see the description of the function of the control valve in relation to Figure 3), the device (413) (hand-powered air pump) is actuated by a user to increase the pressure in the first pressurisable container (410) by pumping air into the first pressurisable container (410). Suitably the pressure is increased to between 1 and 3 atmospheres. The user then opens the control valve (424) of the emptying apparatus (400) and opens the pressure release valve (not shown) of the second pressurisable container (110) to allow the pressurised air to flow from the first pressurisable container (410), through the conduit (420), through the control valve (424), through the bleed valve (220) and into the fluid-retaining vessel (200), displacing the water (1000) from the fluidretaining vessel (200) through the drain valve (210), into the conduit (120) and into the second pressurisable container (110) of the apparatus (100). The one-way valve (123) of the filling apparatus (100) has to be removed or reversed in order to carry out this method. The pressurisable container (110) needs to be at least partially open to allow air inside to escape when the water (1000) enters.

Alternatively, the fluid-retaining vessel (200) may be emptied of water using a suction device coupled to the drain valve (210), for example a vacuum oil fluid extractor. An example of a suitable suction device is a Sealey vacuum oil fluid extractor, Model No TP6906. Such a suction device may operate to remove the water (1000) from the fluid-retaining vessel (200) through the drain valve (210) by generating a negative pressure (vacuum) inside the suction device which causes the water (1000) to be drawn out of the fluid-retaining vessel (200) through the drain valve (210) and into the suction device.

Once the fluid-retaining vessel (200) is empty, the overall weight of the washing machine (300) is significantly reduced and therefore easier to move to a different location, for example to relocate or repair the washing machine.

The water (1000) in the apparatus (100) may be subsequently discarded or re-used to re-fill fluid-retaining vessel (200) when necessary.

Emptying a fluid-retaining vessel (200) using this method may avoid spillages which methods of the prior art risk causing and may conveniently retain the removed fluid for later use, for example in a method of filling a fluid-retaining vessel (200) according to the first aspect of the present invention.

Figure 5 shows an embodiment wherein the fluid-retaining vessel (200) of the washing machine (300) is filled using a mains water supply hose (2000) (as the source of pressurised fluid) instead of water (1000) from an apparatus (100) comprising a pressurisable container (110). In this embodiment, the mains water supply hose (2000) is intended for connection to the washing machine (300) to provide the water for normal operation of the washing machine (300). Before connection of the mains water supply hose (2000) to the washing machine, for example during installation of the washing machine (300), the water supply hose (2000) (preferably with the mains water supply to the hose switched off at a suitable stop tap) is connected to an apparatus (500) comprising a conduit (520), a one-way valve (523) and a control valve (524) as described in relation to Figure 1. The one-way valve (523) is configured to allow water to flow only in the direction from the mains water supply hose (2000) to the drain valve (210) of the washing machine (300). Overflow tube (230) is connected to the bleed valve (220) and may be arranged in communication with a suitable container or drain, as described above.

The filling of the fluid-retaining vessel (200) is carried out in a similar way to that described in relation to Figure 3 with the mains water supply hose (2000) replacing the pressurisable container (110). In order to carry out the method, the mains water supply to the mains water supply hose (2000) is switched on at said stop tap to supply the pressurised water for filling the fluid-retaining vessel (200). This embodiment may provide a convenient way of supplying water to fill the fluid-retaining counterweight (200) of washing machine (300), during installation of the washing machine, which does not require the use of a relatively large pressurisable container.

In summary, the present invention provides a method and apparatus for filling a vessel, such as a fluid-retaining counterweight in a washing machine, with a liquid. Said vessel comprises a drain valve and a bleed valve. The method involves connecting a source of liquid to the vessel and filling the vessel with the liquid under positive pressure whilst displacing air in the vessel, which escapes through the bleed valve. The apparatus comprises a pressurisable container, a tube connected to the pressurisable container and connectable to said vessel, and a one-way valve which allows said liquid to flow only in the direction towards said vessel. The method and apparatus may facilitate the filling of a fluid-retaining counterweight with a liquid, for example during the installation of said washing machine. A related method of emptying a vessel of liquid is also provided. A fluid-retaining counterweight comprising a bleed valve and a drain valve and a washing machine comprising said fluid-retaining counterweight are also provided.

Although a few preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.

Throughout this specification, the term “comprising” or “comprises” means including the component(s) specified but not to the exclusion of the presence of other components. The term “consisting essentially of’ or “consists essentially of” means including the components specified but excluding other components except for materials present as impurities, unavoidable materials present as a result of processes used to provide the components, and components added for a purpose other than achieving the technical effect of the invention.

The term “consisting of” or “consists of’ means including the components specified but excluding addition of other components.

Whenever appropriate, depending upon the context, the use of the term “comprises” or “comprising” may also be taken to encompass or include the meaning “consists essentially of’ or “consisting essentially of,” and may also be taken to include the meaning “consists of’ or “consisting of.”

The optional features set out herein may be used either individually or in combination with each other where appropriate and particularly in the combinations as set out in the accompanying claims. The optional features for each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention as set out herein are also to be read as applicable to any other aspect or exemplary embodiments of the invention, where appropriate. In other words, the skilled person reading this specification should consider the optional features for each exemplary embodiment of the invention as interchangeable and combinable between different exemplary embodiments.

Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. A method of filling a vessel with a fluid, the vessel comprising a first valve and a second valve, the method comprising the steps of:

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein step (a) involves connecting the second valve to the source of pressurised fluid through a conduit.

3. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a one-way valve is arranged in fluid communication between the source of pressurised fluid and the second valve.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein step (a) involves connecting to the second valve an apparatus comprising:

a pressurisable container to provide the source of pressurised fluid;

5. A method of removing a fluid from a vessel, the vessel comprising a first valve and a second valve, the method comprising the steps of:

(i) connecting to the first valve a pressurisable container comprising a gas; and (ii) with the second valve open, actuating the pressurisable container to direct the gas from the pressurisable container through the first valve into the vessel and displace the fluid from the vessel, through the second valve.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein step (b) involves collecting the fluid in a second pressurisable container connected to the second valve.

7. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vessel is a counterweight for a washing machine.

8. An apparatus adapted for filling a vessel with a fluid, said vessel comprising a first valve and a second valve, the apparatus comprising:

a pressurisable container;

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the apparatus comprises a device adapted to pressurise the pressurisable container.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the device adapted to pressurise the pressurisable container is a manually powered device.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the apparatus comprises a control valve adapted to selectively allow or prevent the flow of said fluid from the pressurisable container through the one-way valve into said vessel.

12. Use of an apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 11 for filling a counterweight of a washing machine with a fluid.

13. Use of an apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 11 for replacing a fluid in a counterweight of a washing machine.

14. A counterweight for a washing machine comprising a vessel for receiving and retaining a fluid, the vessel comprising a first valve and a second valve; wherein the first valve is arranged, in use, at a point higher than the second valve.

15. A washing machine comprising a counterweight according to claim 14.