US20170327995A1 - Hydraulically Powered Lid Lock Assembly - Google Patents
Hydraulically Powered Lid Lock Assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170327995A1 US20170327995A1 US15/153,809 US201615153809A US2017327995A1 US 20170327995 A1 US20170327995 A1 US 20170327995A1 US 201615153809 A US201615153809 A US 201615153809A US 2017327995 A1 US2017327995 A1 US 2017327995A1
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- Prior art keywords
- lid
- lid lock
- washing machine
- water supply
- plunger
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00
- D06F39/12—Casings; Tubs
- D06F39/14—Doors or covers; Securing means therefor
-
- 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
- D06F37/12—Rotary receptacles, e.g. drums adapted for rotation or oscillation about a vertical axis
- D06F37/18—Doors or covers; Securing means therefor
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00
- D06F39/08—Liquid supply or discharge arrangements
- D06F39/088—Liquid supply arrangements
-
- 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
- D06F23/00—Washing machines with receptacles, e.g. perforated, having a rotary movement, e.g. oscillatory movement, the receptacle serving both for washing and for centrifugally separating water from the laundry
- D06F23/04—Washing machines with receptacles, e.g. perforated, having a rotary movement, e.g. oscillatory movement, the receptacle serving both for washing and for centrifugally separating water from the laundry and rotating or oscillating about a vertical axis
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F33/00—Control of operations performed in washing machines or washer-dryers
- D06F33/04—Control of operations performed in washing machines or washer-dryers non-electrically
- D06F33/08—Control of operations performed in washing machines or washer-dryers non-electrically substantially hydraulically
-
- 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
- D06F37/42—Safety arrangements, e.g. for stopping rotation of the receptacle upon opening of the casing door
Definitions
- the present subject matter relates generally to washing machine appliances and more particularly to lid lock mechanisms for washing machine appliances.
- Washing machine appliances generally include a tub for containing water or wash liquid, e.g., water and detergent, bleach, and/or other wash additives.
- a basket is rotatably mounted within the tub and defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing.
- the wash liquid is directed into the tub and onto articles within the wash chamber of the basket.
- the basket or an agitation element can rotate at various speeds to agitate articles within the wash chamber, to wring wash fluid from articles within the wash chamber, etc.
- Conventional washing machine appliances include a lid that is pivotally mounted to the washing machine appliance and is selectively movable between an open position and a closed position. During certain operating cycles of the washing machine appliance, it is desirable to lock the lid in the closed position to prevent the user from accessing the wash chamber.
- the lid includes a striker that extends from the lid and is received in a lid lock assembly when the lid is in the closed position. The lid lock mechanism is then actuated to engage the striker and lock the lid in the closed position.
- lid lock assemblies rely on electrical power to actuate the lid lock mechanism, e.g., using a solenoid.
- these electrically operated solenoids require that electrical wiring harnesses be routed through the washing machine appliance to supply power to the solenoids.
- the electricity being supplied to the solenoids presents a safety concern that requires costly design provisions and fail safe mechanisms.
- electrically operated solenoids are typically noisy and irritating to the consumer.
- an increase in the number of required components and time of assembly adds significant costs to the washing machine appliance.
- a washing machine appliance having an improved lid lock assembly is desirable. More particularly, a lid lock mechanism that is not electrically actuated, that generates minimal noise during operation, and that improves overall appliance safety would be particularly beneficial.
- the present subject matter provides a lid lock assembly for a washing machine appliance.
- the lid lock assembly includes a lid lock mechanism configured to engage a striker on a lid of the washing machine appliance to lock the lid in the closed position.
- the lid lock mechanism is actuated using a hydraulic actuation assembly including a water supply conduit and a hydraulic plunger, the hydraulic plunger being configured to actuate the lid lock mechanism when the water supply conduit is momentarily pressurized.
- a hydraulic actuation assembly including a water supply conduit and a hydraulic plunger, the hydraulic plunger being configured to actuate the lid lock mechanism when the water supply conduit is momentarily pressurized.
- the lid lock mechanism alternates between a locked state and an unlocked state, thereby allowing the lid lock assembly to lock the lid in the closed position without any electrical harnesses and without requiring that the water supply conduit remain pressurized.
- a washing machine appliance defining a vertical, a lateral, and a transverse direction.
- the washing machine appliance includes a cabinet, a wash tub positioned within the cabinet, and a wash basket rotatably mounted within the wash tub, the wash basket defining a wash chamber for receiving articles for washing.
- a lid is rotatably hinged to the cabinet to provide selective access to the wash chamber, and the lid includes a striker.
- a lid lock assembly is configured for locking the lid in the closed position during operation of the washing machine appliance.
- the lid lock assembly includes a lid lock mechanism configured to engage the striker to lock the lid in a closed position and a hydraulic actuation assembly including a water supply conduit and a hydraulic plunger, the hydraulic plunger being configured to actuate the lid lock mechanism when water is supplied to the water supply conduit.
- a lid lock assembly for a washing machine appliance.
- the washing machine appliance includes a cabinet and a lid being pivotally attached to the cabinet, the lid including a striker and being configured to move between an open position and a closed position.
- the lid lock assembly includes a lid lock mechanism configured to engage the striker to lock the lid in the closed position and a hydraulic actuation assembly including a water supply conduit and a hydraulic plunger, the hydraulic plunger being configured to actuate the lid lock mechanism when water is supplied to the water supply conduit.
- FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a washing machine appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter with a lid of the exemplary washing machine appliance shown in a closed position.
- FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1 with the lid of the exemplary washing machine appliance shown in an open position.
- FIG. 3 provides a cross sectional view of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1 , taken along Line 3 - 3 of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 provides a close-up cross sectional view of a lid lock mechanism of the exemplary washing machine of FIG. 1 , as indicated by dotted line box in FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 5 provides a perspective view of the lid lock mechanism of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 provides a top view of the lid lock mechanism of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 7 provides a perspective view of a lock box of the lid lock mechanism of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 8 provides a cross sectional view of the lock box of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1 , taken along Line 8 - 8 of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 9 provides a perspective view of a hydraulic actuation assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 10 provides a cross sectional view of the exemplary hydraulic actuation assembly of FIG. 9 , taken along Line 10 - 10 of FIG. 9 .
- FIGS. 1 through 3 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a vertical axis washing machine appliance 100 .
- a door or lid 130 is shown in a closed position.
- lid 130 is shown in an open position.
- FIG. 3 shows a cross sectional side view of washing machine appliance 100 .
- Washing machine appliance 100 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is generally defined.
- vertical axis washing machine appliance 100 While described in the context of a specific embodiment of vertical axis washing machine appliance 100 , using the teachings disclosed herein it will be understood that vertical axis washing machine appliance 100 is provided by way of example only. Other washing machine appliances having different configurations, different appearances, and/or different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well, e.g., horizontal axis washing machines.
- Washing machine appliance 100 has a cabinet 102 that extends between a top portion 103 and a bottom portion 104 along the vertical direction V.
- a wash basket 120 ( FIG. 2 ) is rotatably mounted within cabinet 102 .
- a motor (not shown) is in mechanical communication with wash basket 120 to selectively rotate wash basket 120 (e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 100 ).
- Wash basket 120 is received within a wash tub or wash chamber 121 ( FIG. 2 ) and is configured for receipt of articles for washing.
- the wash tub 121 holds wash and rinse fluids for agitation in wash basket 120 within wash tub 121 .
- An agitation mechanism such as an impeller 122 ( FIG. 3 ), extends into wash basket 120 and is also in mechanical communication with the motor. Impeller 122 assists agitation of articles disposed within wash basket 120 during operation of washing machine appliance 100 .
- Cabinet 102 of washing machine appliance 100 has a top panel 140 .
- Top panel 140 defines an opening 105 ( FIG. 2 ) that permits user access to wash basket 120 of wash tub 121 .
- Lid 130 rotatably mounted to top panel 140 , permits selective access to opening 105 ; in particular, lid 130 selectively rotates between the closed position shown in FIG. 1 and the open position shown in FIG. 2 . In the closed position, lid 130 inhibits access to wash basket 120 . Conversely, in the open position, a user can access wash basket 120 .
- a window 136 in lid 130 permits viewing of wash basket 120 when lid 130 is in the closed position, e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 100 .
- Lid 130 also includes a handle 132 that, e.g., a user may pull and/or lift when opening and closing lid 130 . Further, although lid 130 is illustrated as mounted to top panel 140 , alternatively, lid 130 may be mounted to cabinet 102 or any other suitable support.
- lid 130 may further include a striker 142 extending from a bottom side of lid 130 .
- Striker 142 may be integrally formed with lid 130 or may be a separate part that is attached to lid 130 using any suitable mechanical fastener, such as screws, bolts, rivets, etc. Similarly, glue, bonding, welding, snap-fit mechanisms, interference-fit mechanisms, or any suitable combination thereof be used to join striker 142 to lid 130 .
- striker 142 is configured to be received in a receiving slot 144 defined in top panel 140 when lid 130 is rotated to the closed position. As will be described in detail below, striker 142 may be used to lock lid 130 in the closed position during certain operating cycles of washing machine appliance 100 .
- a control panel 110 with at least one input selector 112 extends from top panel 140 .
- Control panel 110 and input selector 112 collectively form a user interface input for operator selection of machine cycles and features.
- a display 114 of control panel 110 indicates selected features, operation mode, a countdown timer, and/or other items of interest to appliance users regarding operation.
- washing machine appliance 100 Operation of washing machine appliance 100 is controlled by a controller or processing device 108 ( FIG. 1 ) that is operatively coupled to control panel 110 for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and features.
- controller 108 operates the various components of washing machine appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features.
- Controller 108 may include a memory and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with a cleaning cycle.
- the memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH.
- the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory.
- the memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor.
- controller 100 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.
- Control panel 110 and other components of washing machine appliance 100 may be in communication with controller 108 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.
- washing machine appliance 100 During operation of washing machine appliance 100 , laundry items are loaded into wash basket 120 through opening 105 , and washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 112 . Water and/or wash additives may be added to washing machine appliance 100 to assist in the cleaning process.
- a wash mode once wash basket 120 is properly filled with fluid, the contents of wash basket 120 can be agitated (e.g., with impeller 122 as discussed previously) for washing of laundry items in wash basket 120 . After the agitation phase of the wash cycle is completed, wash basket 120 can be drained and a rinse cycle may be performed.
- One or more spin cycles also may be used to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed.
- wash basket 120 After articles disposed in wash basket 120 are cleaned and/or washed, the user can remove the articles from wash basket 120 , e.g., by reaching into wash basket 120 through opening 105 . During one or more of these operations, it may be desirable for locking lid 130 in the closed position.
- An exemplary system for locking lid 130 will be discussed below.
- lid lock assembly 200 that may be used with washing machine appliance 100 will be described in more detail.
- discussion below refers to an exemplary lid lock assembly 200
- lid lock assembly 200 may be positioned elsewhere within cabinet 102 , may have different components or configurations, and may use alternative mechanisms for locking striker 142 .
- Other variations and modifications of the exemplary embodiment described below are possible, and such variations are contemplated as within the scope of the present subject matter.
- lid lock assembly 200 may be mounted within cabinet 102 using a plurality of mounting features, using mechanical fasteners, or in any other suitable manner. Similarly, glue, snap-fit mechanisms, interference-fit mechanisms, or any suitable combination thereof may secure lid lock assembly 200 to cabinet 102 .
- lid lock assembly 200 may be mounted in other locations and use other mounting means according to alternative exemplary embodiments.
- lid lock assembly 200 generally includes a lid lock mechanism 202 that is configured to engage striker 142 to lock lid 130 in the closed position. More specifically, lid lock mechanism 202 is a mechanical device that is configured to physically contact and restrain striker 142 to prevent lid 130 from pivoting open when the lid lock mechanism 202 is actuated. As will be described in detail below, lid lock assembly 200 also includes a hydraulic actuation assembly 204 ( FIG. 9 ) for actuating the lid lock mechanism 202 . Each of these components of lid lock assembly 200 will be described in detail according to an exemplary embodiment below.
- lid lock mechanism 202 is mounted underneath top panel 140 of cabinet 102 .
- Lid lock mechanism 202 defines a locking slot 210 that is configured to receive striker 142 . More particularly, locking slot 210 of lid lock mechanism 202 coincides with receiving slot 144 defined in top panel 140 . In this manner, when lid 130 is pivoted to the closed position, striker 142 slides through receiving slot 144 and into locking slot 210 of lid lock mechanism 202 .
- lid lock mechanism 202 may be installed using any suitable mechanical fastener, such as screws, bolts, rivets, etc.
- lid lock mechanism 202 may be placed at any location within washing machine appliance 100 where it could effectively restrict movement of lid 130 .
- lid lock mechanism 202 is configured to alternate between two states each time it is actuated—a locked state and an unlocked state.
- lid lock mechanism 202 When lid 130 is pivoted to the closed position, lid lock mechanism 202 is initially in the unlocked state, in which case lid 130 is free to pivot between the open position and the closed position. Lid 130 may remain in the unlocked state, according to an exemplary embodiment, any time the wash basket 120 and impeller 122 are not rotating.
- lid lock mechanism 202 may allow for a user to open lid 130 and add articles of clothing to wash basket 120 when wash tub 121 is filling with water.
- controller 108 placing lid lock mechanism 202 in the locked state.
- lid lock mechanism 202 When lid lock mechanism 202 is placed in the locked state while lid 130 is in the closed position, lid 130 is thereafter prevented from pivotal movement until lid lock mechanism 202 is placed in the unlocked state.
- lid lock mechanisms 202 may be used to engage striker 142 , thereby placing lid 130 in the locked state. Although one exemplary lid lock mechanism 202 is described below, any other suitable means of engaging striker 142 and restricting movement of lid 130 may be within the scope of the present subject matter.
- lid lock mechanism 202 The locking feature of lid lock mechanism 202 is a slide locking member 212 , which is slidably mounted within lid lock mechanism 202 . More specifically, slide locking member 212 is configured to slide along the transverse direction T when lid lock mechanism 202 is mounted in washing machine appliance 100 as shown in FIG. 4 . According to the exemplary embodiment, locking slide member 212 is urged toward the locked position, e.g., by a mechanical spring 214 , but is free to slide along the transverse direction T when displaced by striker 142 .
- locking slide member 212 may freely slide back and forth along the transverse direction T to allow striker 142 to move into and out of locking slot 210 (i.e., lid is “unlocked”).
- lid lock mechanism 202 when lid lock mechanism 202 is in the locked state, locking slide member 212 is in an extended position and is restrained from moving along the transverse direction T, e.g., by a lock box 220 as described below.
- locking slide member 212 when striker 142 is inserted into locking slot 210 , and when lid lock mechanism 202 is in the locked state, locking slide member 212 is prevented from sliding such that it clamps or pins striker 142 within locking slot 210 . More specifically, due to a cantilevered portion 216 defined on striker 142 , striker 142 may not be retracted from locking slot 210 when locking slide member 212 is in the locked state.
- lid 130 when lid 130 is in the closed position, such that striker 142 (including cantilevered portion 216 ) is inserted through receiving slot 144 and locking slot 210 , and when locking slide member 212 engages striker 142 and is in the locked position, lid 130 may not be pivoted to the open position.
- a lid lock mechanism 202 further includes lock box 220 , which is configured to place locking slide member 212 in either the locked or the unlocked state.
- lock box 220 includes a locking pin 222 which is configured for engaging locking slide member 212 to place it in the locked position. Locking pin 222 is shown in its retracted state in FIG. 7 , i.e., locking pin 222 is flush with the surface of lock box 220 .
- locking pin 222 when locking pin 222 is in its extended state, it is configured to engage locking slide member 212 . More specifically, locking pin 222 is configured to engage a track (not shown) in locking slide member 212 and prevent further sliding motion of locking slide member 212 along the transverse direction T, which as described above, locks lid 130 in the closed position.
- cam mechanism 228 is used according to the exemplary illustrated embodiment. Although the details of operation of cam mechanism 228 are beyond the scope of the present application, as best shown in FIG. 8 , cam mechanism 228 includes several rotating members which engage each other and are configured to extend locking pin 222 when an actuating cam 230 is rotated and latched in the clockwise direction (as shown in FIG. 8 ). Conventional lid locks use a solenoid to rotate actuating cam 230 , but excess costs and safety issues may be avoided by providing an alternative actuating means for the actuating cam 230 . As is described in detail below, one such actuating means is hydraulic actuation assembly 204 .
- prior art lid locks that required a solenoid to rotate actuating cam 230 by pulling actuating cam 230 to rotate it about a cam pivot point 232 .
- hydraulic actuation assembly 204 rotates actuating cam 230 in the same manner, except that it pushes on actuating cam 230 to rotate actuating cam 230 about cam pivot point 232 .
- hydraulic actuation assembly 204 contacts actuating cam 230 on contact surface 234 , causing actuating cam 230 to rotate about cam pivot point 232 .
- lid lock mechanism 202 and lock box 220 may define an aperture 236 .
- Hydraulic actuation assembly 204 may be mounted to lid lock mechanism 202 using mechanical fasteners or in any other suitable manner such that hydraulic actuation assembly 204 may access contacting surface 234 through aperture 236 .
- hydraulic actuation assembly 204 may generally include a plunger housing 250 and a water supply conduit 252 .
- a hydraulically-actuated plunger 254 may be slidably received within plunger housing 250 and is configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position. When plunger 254 moves to the extended position, it engages contact surface 234 and rotates cam mechanism 228 of lock box 220 . Immediately following its extension, plunger 254 is retracted. Notably, movement of plunger 254 from a retracted position, to an extended position, and then back to the retracted position constitutes a single actuation event of cam mechanism 228 of lock box 220 .
- lid lock mechanism 202 alternates between a locked state and an unlocked state, i.e., locking slide member 212 is locked in a latched position or is free to slide along the transverse direction T, respectively.
- plunger housing 250 has a first end 262 and a second end 264 and defines an axial direction A and radial direction R.
- First end 262 is configured to receive water supply conduit 252 that is placed in flow communication with a plunger chamber 268 .
- first end 262 is an open end on which water supply conduit 252 may be received and secured, e.g., using a clamp.
- Second end 264 of plunger housing 250 defines an aperture 270 through which plunger 254 may extend.
- Plunger housing 250 comprises a first cylinder 272 that is proximate first end 262 and a second cylinder 274 that is proximate second end 264 .
- First cylinder 272 and second cylinder 274 may be integrally formed, e.g., via injection molding, or may be separate components that are operably coupled, e.g., via spin welding.
- first cylinder 272 has a larger diameter than second cylinder 274 .
- plunger housing 250 defines a flange 276 that extends inwardly along the radial direction R from first cylinder 272 .
- the illustrated embodiment of plunger housing 250 includes first and second cylinders 272 , 274 , one skilled in the art will appreciate that a plunger housing having a different cross sectional shape or configuration could be used without departing from the scope of the present subject matter.
- plunger 254 also defines a first portion 280 and a second portion 282 .
- First portion 280 is slidably received within plunger chamber 268 .
- first portion 280 may define one or more ridges 284 that extend circumferentially around first portion 280 and are configured to receive a gasket or seal, e.g., O-ring 286 .
- O-rings 286 provide a seal to prevent water from plunger chamber 268 from leaking out of hydraulic actuation assembly 204 .
- Second portion 282 of plunger 254 is slidably received in second cylinder 274 of plunger housing 250 and may slide in and out of plunger housing 250 through aperture 270 .
- First portion 280 and second portion 282 may be integrally formed, e.g., via injection molding, or may be separate components that are operably coupled, e.g., via spin welding.
- first portion 280 has a larger diameter than second portion 282 .
- plunger 254 defines a shoulder 288 that extends outwardly along the radial direction R from second portion 282 .
- a spring 290 may be positioned around second portion 282 of plunger 254 within plunger housing 250 . In this manner, spring 290 may urge plunger 254 into the retracted position when plunger chamber 268 is depressurized.
- spring 290 may urge plunger 254 into the retracted position when plunger chamber 268 is depressurized.
- alternative embodiments need not include spring 290 .
- other alterations and configurations to hydraulic actuation assembly 204 may be made while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.
- a protruding ridge may be defined on an inner surface of first cylinder 272 of plunger housing 250 to prevent plunger 254 from retracting too far into plunger housing 250 .
- hydraulic actuation assembly 204 water is supplied through water supply conduit 252 to pressurize plunger chamber 268 .
- plunger 254 is urged toward the extended position, such that spring 290 is compressed, second portion of plunger 282 extends through aperture 270 and engages contact surface 234 of lock box 220 .
- an actuating pin 292 that is attached to second portion 282 of plunger 254 engages contact surface 234 .
- plunger relief port 300 is placed in flow communication with plunger chamber 268 .
- plunger relief port 300 may be a small pipe, preferably smaller in diameter than first cylinder 272 of plunger housing 250 that extends from plunger housing 250 .
- Pressure relief port 300 may be constantly open to depressurize plunger chamber 268 , and may route drained water into wash tub 121 or any other suitable drain.
- hydraulic actuation assembly 204 may further include a valve 302 for controlling the flow of water through water supply conduit 252 .
- valve 302 may be positioned within control panel 110 and may be a solenoid valve that is electrically connected to controller 108 .
- controller 108 may selectively open and close valve 302 to allow water to flow from a water supply 304 through water supply conduit 252 .
- controller 108 may open valve 302 to supply water to water supply conduit 252 , pressurize plunger chamber 268 , drive plunger 254 , and rotate cam mechanism 228 of lock box 220 .
- valve 302 need only be opened momentarily, e.g., less than one second, to pressurize plunger chamber 268 .
- valve 302 is closed and pressure in plunger chamber 268 is relieved through pressure relief port 300 .
- pressure reliefd plunger 254 moves toward the retracted position, and actuation of lock box 220 is complete, thereby locking lid lock mechanism 202 .
- the same process may be repeated to unlock lid lock mechanism 202 .
- lid lock mechanism 202 is only effective for locking lid 130 when lid 130 is in the closed position, it is desirable to have a feedback mechanism that indicates when lid 130 is in the closed position and lid lock mechanism 202 is engaging striker 142 , thereby preventing lid 130 from pivoting into the open position.
- a feedback mechanism may be any suitable electrical continuity circuit that is closed only when striker 142 is inserted into locking slot 210 and lid lock mechanism 202 is in the locked state, thus engaging striker 142 .
- One exemplary feedback mechanism 310 including a continuity circuit is illustrated in FIG. 8 .
- locking slide member 212 may be configured to establish an electrical connection between a first electrical terminal 312 and a second electrical terminal 315 .
- This connection may be achieved, for example, by allowing a conductive strip (not shown) connected to second electrical terminal 315 to lower and touch a pin (not shown) connected through first electrical terminal 312 .
- an electrical connection may be established between a third electrical terminal 316 and second electrical terminal 315 .
- This connection may be achieved, for example, by allowing a conductive strip 314 connected to second electrical terminal 315 to lower and touch a contact on third electrical terminal 316 .
- a circuit may be completed that may be sensed, e.g., via electrical terminals 312 , 315 , 316 , by controller 108 , indicating that lid 130 is closed and locked.
- lid lock assembly 200 in addition to the configurations of lid lock assembly 200 described herein, alternative configurations of lid lock assembly 200 are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter.
- lid lock mechanism 202 is located within top panel 140 , it may be located elsewhere within washing machine appliance 100 .
- an alternative lid lock mechanism 202 or cam mechanism 228 may be used, and the size, shape, and configuration of locking slide member 212 and striker 142 may be modified while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.
- Other configurations are also possible.
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Abstract
A lid lock assembly for a washing machine appliance is provided. The lid lock assembly includes a lid lock mechanism configured to engage a striker on a lid of the washing machine appliance to lock the lid in the closed position. The lid lock mechanism is actuated using a hydraulic actuation assembly including a water supply conduit and a hydraulic plunger, the hydraulic plunger being configured to actuate the lid lock mechanism when the water supply conduit is momentarily pressurized. Each time the lid lock mechanism is actuated, the lid lock mechanism alternates between a locked state and an unlocked state, thereby allowing the lid lock assembly to lock the lid in the closed position without any electrical harnesses and without requiring that the water supply conduit remain pressurized.
Description
- The present subject matter relates generally to washing machine appliances and more particularly to lid lock mechanisms for washing machine appliances.
- Washing machine appliances generally include a tub for containing water or wash liquid, e.g., water and detergent, bleach, and/or other wash additives. A basket is rotatably mounted within the tub and defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing. During normal operation of such washing machine appliances, the wash liquid is directed into the tub and onto articles within the wash chamber of the basket. The basket or an agitation element can rotate at various speeds to agitate articles within the wash chamber, to wring wash fluid from articles within the wash chamber, etc.
- Conventional washing machine appliances include a lid that is pivotally mounted to the washing machine appliance and is selectively movable between an open position and a closed position. During certain operating cycles of the washing machine appliance, it is desirable to lock the lid in the closed position to prevent the user from accessing the wash chamber. Typically, the lid includes a striker that extends from the lid and is received in a lid lock assembly when the lid is in the closed position. The lid lock mechanism is then actuated to engage the striker and lock the lid in the closed position.
- Conventional lid lock assemblies rely on electrical power to actuate the lid lock mechanism, e.g., using a solenoid. Notably, these electrically operated solenoids require that electrical wiring harnesses be routed through the washing machine appliance to supply power to the solenoids. The electricity being supplied to the solenoids presents a safety concern that requires costly design provisions and fail safe mechanisms. In addition, electrically operated solenoids are typically noisy and irritating to the consumer. Furthermore, an increase in the number of required components and time of assembly adds significant costs to the washing machine appliance.
- Accordingly, a washing machine appliance having an improved lid lock assembly is desirable. More particularly, a lid lock mechanism that is not electrically actuated, that generates minimal noise during operation, and that improves overall appliance safety would be particularly beneficial.
- The present subject matter provides a lid lock assembly for a washing machine appliance. The lid lock assembly includes a lid lock mechanism configured to engage a striker on a lid of the washing machine appliance to lock the lid in the closed position. The lid lock mechanism is actuated using a hydraulic actuation assembly including a water supply conduit and a hydraulic plunger, the hydraulic plunger being configured to actuate the lid lock mechanism when the water supply conduit is momentarily pressurized. Each time the lid lock mechanism is actuated, the lid lock mechanism alternates between a locked state and an unlocked state, thereby allowing the lid lock assembly to lock the lid in the closed position without any electrical harnesses and without requiring that the water supply conduit remain pressurized. Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.
- In one exemplary embodiment, a washing machine appliance defining a vertical, a lateral, and a transverse direction is provided. The washing machine appliance includes a cabinet, a wash tub positioned within the cabinet, and a wash basket rotatably mounted within the wash tub, the wash basket defining a wash chamber for receiving articles for washing. A lid is rotatably hinged to the cabinet to provide selective access to the wash chamber, and the lid includes a striker. A lid lock assembly is configured for locking the lid in the closed position during operation of the washing machine appliance. The lid lock assembly includes a lid lock mechanism configured to engage the striker to lock the lid in a closed position and a hydraulic actuation assembly including a water supply conduit and a hydraulic plunger, the hydraulic plunger being configured to actuate the lid lock mechanism when water is supplied to the water supply conduit.
- In another exemplary embodiment, a lid lock assembly for a washing machine appliance is provided. The washing machine appliance includes a cabinet and a lid being pivotally attached to the cabinet, the lid including a striker and being configured to move between an open position and a closed position. The lid lock assembly includes a lid lock mechanism configured to engage the striker to lock the lid in the closed position and a hydraulic actuation assembly including a water supply conduit and a hydraulic plunger, the hydraulic plunger being configured to actuate the lid lock mechanism when water is supplied to the water supply conduit.
- These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.
- A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.
-
FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a washing machine appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter with a lid of the exemplary washing machine appliance shown in a closed position. -
FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of the exemplary washing machine appliance ofFIG. 1 with the lid of the exemplary washing machine appliance shown in an open position. -
FIG. 3 provides a cross sectional view of the exemplary washing machine appliance ofFIG. 1 , taken along Line 3-3 ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 provides a close-up cross sectional view of a lid lock mechanism of the exemplary washing machine ofFIG. 1 , as indicated by dotted line box inFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 5 provides a perspective view of the lid lock mechanism of the exemplary washing machine appliance ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 provides a top view of the lid lock mechanism of the exemplary washing machine appliance ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 7 provides a perspective view of a lock box of the lid lock mechanism of the exemplary washing machine appliance ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 8 provides a cross sectional view of the lock box of the exemplary washing machine appliance ofFIG. 1 , taken along Line 8-8 ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 9 provides a perspective view of a hydraulic actuation assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 10 provides a cross sectional view of the exemplary hydraulic actuation assembly ofFIG. 9 , taken along Line 10-10 ofFIG. 9 . - Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, 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 scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
-
FIGS. 1 through 3 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a vertical axiswashing machine appliance 100. InFIG. 1 , a door orlid 130 is shown in a closed position. InFIG. 2 ,lid 130 is shown in an open position.FIG. 3 shows a cross sectional side view ofwashing machine appliance 100.Washing machine appliance 100 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is generally defined. - While described in the context of a specific embodiment of vertical axis
washing machine appliance 100, using the teachings disclosed herein it will be understood that vertical axiswashing machine appliance 100 is provided by way of example only. Other washing machine appliances having different configurations, different appearances, and/or different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well, e.g., horizontal axis washing machines. -
Washing machine appliance 100 has acabinet 102 that extends between atop portion 103 and abottom portion 104 along the vertical direction V. A wash basket 120 (FIG. 2 ) is rotatably mounted withincabinet 102. A motor (not shown) is in mechanical communication withwash basket 120 to selectively rotate wash basket 120 (e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 100).Wash basket 120 is received within a wash tub or wash chamber 121 (FIG. 2 ) and is configured for receipt of articles for washing. Thewash tub 121 holds wash and rinse fluids for agitation inwash basket 120 withinwash tub 121. An agitation mechanism, such as an impeller 122 (FIG. 3 ), extends intowash basket 120 and is also in mechanical communication with the motor. Impeller 122 assists agitation of articles disposed withinwash basket 120 during operation ofwashing machine appliance 100. -
Cabinet 102 ofwashing machine appliance 100 has atop panel 140.Top panel 140 defines an opening 105 (FIG. 2 ) that permits user access to washbasket 120 ofwash tub 121.Lid 130, rotatably mounted totop panel 140, permits selective access toopening 105; in particular,lid 130 selectively rotates between the closed position shown inFIG. 1 and the open position shown inFIG. 2 . In the closed position,lid 130 inhibits access to washbasket 120. Conversely, in the open position, a user can access washbasket 120. Awindow 136 inlid 130 permits viewing ofwash basket 120 whenlid 130 is in the closed position, e.g., during operation ofwashing machine appliance 100.Lid 130 also includes ahandle 132 that, e.g., a user may pull and/or lift when opening and closinglid 130. Further, althoughlid 130 is illustrated as mounted totop panel 140, alternatively,lid 130 may be mounted tocabinet 102 or any other suitable support. - As best illustrated in
FIG. 2 ,lid 130 may further include astriker 142 extending from a bottom side oflid 130.Striker 142 may be integrally formed withlid 130 or may be a separate part that is attached tolid 130 using any suitable mechanical fastener, such as screws, bolts, rivets, etc. Similarly, glue, bonding, welding, snap-fit mechanisms, interference-fit mechanisms, or any suitable combination thereof be used to joinstriker 142 tolid 130. According to the illustrated embodiment,striker 142 is configured to be received in a receivingslot 144 defined intop panel 140 whenlid 130 is rotated to the closed position. As will be described in detail below,striker 142 may be used to locklid 130 in the closed position during certain operating cycles ofwashing machine appliance 100. - A
control panel 110 with at least one input selector 112 (FIG. 1 ) extends fromtop panel 140.Control panel 110 andinput selector 112 collectively form a user interface input for operator selection of machine cycles and features. Adisplay 114 ofcontrol panel 110 indicates selected features, operation mode, a countdown timer, and/or other items of interest to appliance users regarding operation. - Operation of
washing machine appliance 100 is controlled by a controller or processing device 108 (FIG. 1 ) that is operatively coupled to controlpanel 110 for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and features. In response to user manipulation ofcontrol panel 110,controller 108 operates the various components ofwashing machine appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features. -
Controller 108 may include a memory and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with a cleaning cycle. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively,controller 100 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.Control panel 110 and other components ofwashing machine appliance 100 may be in communication withcontroller 108 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses. - During operation of
washing machine appliance 100, laundry items are loaded intowash basket 120 throughopening 105, and washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation ofinput selectors 112. Water and/or wash additives may be added towashing machine appliance 100 to assist in the cleaning process. By way of example for a wash mode, once washbasket 120 is properly filled with fluid, the contents ofwash basket 120 can be agitated (e.g., withimpeller 122 as discussed previously) for washing of laundry items inwash basket 120. After the agitation phase of the wash cycle is completed, washbasket 120 can be drained and a rinse cycle may be performed. One or more spin cycles also may be used to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed. After articles disposed inwash basket 120 are cleaned and/or washed, the user can remove the articles fromwash basket 120, e.g., by reaching intowash basket 120 throughopening 105. During one or more of these operations, it may be desirable for lockinglid 130 in the closed position. An exemplary system for lockinglid 130 will be discussed below. - Referring now generally to
FIGS. 4 through 10 , alid lock assembly 200 that may be used withwashing machine appliance 100 will be described in more detail. Although the discussion below refers to an exemplarylid lock assembly 200, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the features and configurations described may be used for other lid locking assemblies in other washing machine appliances as well. For example,lid lock assembly 200 may be positioned elsewhere withincabinet 102, may have different components or configurations, and may use alternative mechanisms for lockingstriker 142. Other variations and modifications of the exemplary embodiment described below are possible, and such variations are contemplated as within the scope of the present subject matter. - According to an exemplary embodiment,
lid lock assembly 200 may be mounted withincabinet 102 using a plurality of mounting features, using mechanical fasteners, or in any other suitable manner. Similarly, glue, snap-fit mechanisms, interference-fit mechanisms, or any suitable combination thereof may securelid lock assembly 200 tocabinet 102. One skilled in the art will appreciate thatlid lock assembly 200 may be mounted in other locations and use other mounting means according to alternative exemplary embodiments. - Referring now specifically to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , an exemplary embodiment oflid lock assembly 200 will be described in detail. As shown,lid lock assembly 200 generally includes alid lock mechanism 202 that is configured to engagestriker 142 to locklid 130 in the closed position. More specifically,lid lock mechanism 202 is a mechanical device that is configured to physically contact and restrainstriker 142 to preventlid 130 from pivoting open when thelid lock mechanism 202 is actuated. As will be described in detail below,lid lock assembly 200 also includes a hydraulic actuation assembly 204 (FIG. 9 ) for actuating thelid lock mechanism 202. Each of these components oflid lock assembly 200 will be described in detail according to an exemplary embodiment below. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 3 and 4 ,lid lock mechanism 202 is mounted underneathtop panel 140 ofcabinet 102.Lid lock mechanism 202 defines alocking slot 210 that is configured to receivestriker 142. More particularly, lockingslot 210 oflid lock mechanism 202 coincides with receivingslot 144 defined intop panel 140. In this manner, whenlid 130 is pivoted to the closed position,striker 142 slides through receivingslot 144 and into lockingslot 210 oflid lock mechanism 202. As one skilled in the art will appreciate,lid lock mechanism 202 may be installed using any suitable mechanical fastener, such as screws, bolts, rivets, etc. Similarly, glue, bonding, welding, snap-fit mechanisms, interference-fit mechanisms, or any suitable combination thereof be used to joinlid lock mechanism 202 totop panel 140. Moreover, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the front center ofcabinet 102 is only one exemplary location forlid lock mechanism 202. According to alternative embodiments,lid lock mechanism 202 may be placed at any location within washingmachine appliance 100 where it could effectively restrict movement oflid 130. - As will be described in detail below,
lid lock mechanism 202 is configured to alternate between two states each time it is actuated—a locked state and an unlocked state. Whenlid 130 is pivoted to the closed position,lid lock mechanism 202 is initially in the unlocked state, in whichcase lid 130 is free to pivot between the open position and the closed position.Lid 130 may remain in the unlocked state, according to an exemplary embodiment, any time thewash basket 120 andimpeller 122 are not rotating. Thus, according to the exemplary embodiment,lid lock mechanism 202 may allow for a user to openlid 130 and add articles of clothing to washbasket 120 whenwash tub 121 is filling with water. However, after a wash cycle has started and washbasket 120 orimpeller 122 are rotating, safety concerns may necessitatecontroller 108 placinglid lock mechanism 202 in the locked state. - When
lid lock mechanism 202 is placed in the locked state whilelid 130 is in the closed position,lid 130 is thereafter prevented from pivotal movement untillid lock mechanism 202 is placed in the unlocked state. One skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety oflid lock mechanisms 202 may be used to engagestriker 142, thereby placinglid 130 in the locked state. Although one exemplarylid lock mechanism 202 is described below, any other suitable means of engagingstriker 142 and restricting movement oflid 130 may be within the scope of the present subject matter. - The locking feature of
lid lock mechanism 202 is aslide locking member 212, which is slidably mounted withinlid lock mechanism 202. More specifically, slide lockingmember 212 is configured to slide along the transverse direction T whenlid lock mechanism 202 is mounted inwashing machine appliance 100 as shown inFIG. 4 . According to the exemplary embodiment, lockingslide member 212 is urged toward the locked position, e.g., by amechanical spring 214, but is free to slide along the transverse direction T when displaced bystriker 142. Thus, whenstriker 142 is inserted into lockingslot 210, and whenlid lock mechanism 202 is in the unlocked state, lockingslide member 212 may freely slide back and forth along the transverse direction T to allowstriker 142 to move into and out of locking slot 210 (i.e., lid is “unlocked”). - By contrast, when
lid lock mechanism 202 is in the locked state, lockingslide member 212 is in an extended position and is restrained from moving along the transverse direction T, e.g., by alock box 220 as described below. In this manner, whenstriker 142 is inserted into lockingslot 210, and whenlid lock mechanism 202 is in the locked state, lockingslide member 212 is prevented from sliding such that it clamps or pinsstriker 142 within lockingslot 210. More specifically, due to a cantileveredportion 216 defined onstriker 142,striker 142 may not be retracted from lockingslot 210 when lockingslide member 212 is in the locked state. Therefore, whenlid 130 is in the closed position, such that striker 142 (including cantilevered portion 216) is inserted through receivingslot 144 and lockingslot 210, and when lockingslide member 212 engagesstriker 142 and is in the locked position,lid 130 may not be pivoted to the open position. - Referring generally to
FIGS. 4 through 8 , an exemplary mechanism for placing lockingslide member 212 in the locked state will be described. As explained above, lockingslide member 212 may generally slide back and forth withinlid lock mechanism 202. However, alid lock mechanism 202 further includeslock box 220, which is configured to place lockingslide member 212 in either the locked or the unlocked state. As best shown inFIGS. 7 and 8 ,lock box 220 includes alocking pin 222 which is configured for engaging lockingslide member 212 to place it in the locked position. Lockingpin 222 is shown in its retracted state inFIG. 7 , i.e., lockingpin 222 is flush with the surface oflock box 220. However, when lockingpin 222 is in its extended state, it is configured to engage lockingslide member 212. More specifically, lockingpin 222 is configured to engage a track (not shown) in lockingslide member 212 and prevent further sliding motion of lockingslide member 212 along the transverse direction T, which as described above, lockslid 130 in the closed position. - Although a variety of mechanisms may be used to place locking
pin 222 in the extended (i.e., “locking” position), acam mechanism 228 is used according to the exemplary illustrated embodiment. Although the details of operation ofcam mechanism 228 are beyond the scope of the present application, as best shown inFIG. 8 ,cam mechanism 228 includes several rotating members which engage each other and are configured to extend lockingpin 222 when anactuating cam 230 is rotated and latched in the clockwise direction (as shown inFIG. 8 ). Conventional lid locks use a solenoid to rotateactuating cam 230, but excess costs and safety issues may be avoided by providing an alternative actuating means for theactuating cam 230. As is described in detail below, one such actuating means ishydraulic actuation assembly 204. - Referring now to
FIG. 8 , prior art lid locks that required a solenoid to rotateactuating cam 230 by pullingactuating cam 230 to rotate it about acam pivot point 232. According to the exemplary embodiment,hydraulic actuation assembly 204 rotates actuatingcam 230 in the same manner, except that it pushes onactuating cam 230 to rotateactuating cam 230 aboutcam pivot point 232. More specifically,hydraulic actuation assembly 204contacts actuating cam 230 oncontact surface 234, causingactuating cam 230 to rotate aboutcam pivot point 232. In order to access contact surface,lid lock mechanism 202 andlock box 220 may define anaperture 236.Hydraulic actuation assembly 204 may be mounted tolid lock mechanism 202 using mechanical fasteners or in any other suitable manner such thathydraulic actuation assembly 204 may access contactingsurface 234 throughaperture 236. - According to the illustrated embodiment,
hydraulic actuation assembly 204 may generally include aplunger housing 250 and awater supply conduit 252. A hydraulically-actuatedplunger 254 may be slidably received withinplunger housing 250 and is configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position. Whenplunger 254 moves to the extended position, it engagescontact surface 234 and rotatescam mechanism 228 oflock box 220. Immediately following its extension,plunger 254 is retracted. Notably, movement ofplunger 254 from a retracted position, to an extended position, and then back to the retracted position constitutes a single actuation event ofcam mechanism 228 oflock box 220. Eachtime lock box 220 is actuated,lid lock mechanism 202 alternates between a locked state and an unlocked state, i.e., lockingslide member 212 is locked in a latched position or is free to slide along the transverse direction T, respectively. - Referring now specifically to
FIGS. 9 and 10 , details ofhydraulic actuation assembly 204 will be described. According to the illustrated embodiment,plunger housing 250 has afirst end 262 and asecond end 264 and defines an axial direction A and radial direction R. First end 262 is configured to receivewater supply conduit 252 that is placed in flow communication with aplunger chamber 268. For example,first end 262 is an open end on whichwater supply conduit 252 may be received and secured, e.g., using a clamp.Second end 264 ofplunger housing 250 defines anaperture 270 through whichplunger 254 may extend. -
Plunger housing 250 comprises afirst cylinder 272 that is proximatefirst end 262 and asecond cylinder 274 that is proximatesecond end 264.First cylinder 272 andsecond cylinder 274 may be integrally formed, e.g., via injection molding, or may be separate components that are operably coupled, e.g., via spin welding. Notably,first cylinder 272 has a larger diameter thansecond cylinder 274. In this manner,plunger housing 250 defines aflange 276 that extends inwardly along the radial direction R fromfirst cylinder 272. Although the illustrated embodiment ofplunger housing 250 includes first andsecond cylinders - According to the illustrated embodiment,
plunger 254 also defines afirst portion 280 and asecond portion 282.First portion 280 is slidably received withinplunger chamber 268. In addition,first portion 280 may define one ormore ridges 284 that extend circumferentially aroundfirst portion 280 and are configured to receive a gasket or seal, e.g., O-ring 286. O-rings 286 provide a seal to prevent water fromplunger chamber 268 from leaking out ofhydraulic actuation assembly 204.Second portion 282 ofplunger 254 is slidably received insecond cylinder 274 ofplunger housing 250 and may slide in and out ofplunger housing 250 throughaperture 270.First portion 280 andsecond portion 282 may be integrally formed, e.g., via injection molding, or may be separate components that are operably coupled, e.g., via spin welding. Notably,first portion 280 has a larger diameter thansecond portion 282. In this manner,plunger 254 defines ashoulder 288 that extends outwardly along the radial direction R fromsecond portion 282. - When
plunger 254 moves toward the extended position,flange 276 ofplunger housing 250 andshoulder 288 ofplunger 254 engage to preventplunger 254 from sliding out ofplunger housing 250. According to the illustrated embodiment, aspring 290 may be positioned aroundsecond portion 282 ofplunger 254 withinplunger housing 250. In this manner,spring 290 may urgeplunger 254 into the retracted position whenplunger chamber 268 is depressurized. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that alternative embodiments need not includespring 290. In addition, other alterations and configurations tohydraulic actuation assembly 204 may be made while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter. For example, a protruding ridge may be defined on an inner surface offirst cylinder 272 ofplunger housing 250 to preventplunger 254 from retracting too far intoplunger housing 250. - During operation of
hydraulic actuation assembly 204, water is supplied throughwater supply conduit 252 to pressurizeplunger chamber 268. Whenplunger chamber 268 is pressurized,plunger 254 is urged toward the extended position, such thatspring 290 is compressed, second portion ofplunger 282 extends throughaperture 270 and engagescontact surface 234 oflock box 220. More specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, anactuating pin 292 that is attached tosecond portion 282 ofplunger 254 engagescontact surface 234. - After
plunger chamber 268 has been pressurized andplunger 254 has reached the extended position,plunger 254 must be moved toward the retracted position to complete actuation of thelid lock mechanism 202. To achieve this, apressure relief port 300 is placed in flow communication withplunger chamber 268. For example,plunger relief port 300 may be a small pipe, preferably smaller in diameter thanfirst cylinder 272 ofplunger housing 250 that extends fromplunger housing 250.Pressure relief port 300 may be constantly open to depressurizeplunger chamber 268, and may route drained water intowash tub 121 or any other suitable drain. - Referring again to
FIG. 3 ,hydraulic actuation assembly 204 may further include avalve 302 for controlling the flow of water throughwater supply conduit 252. For example,valve 302 may be positioned withincontrol panel 110 and may be a solenoid valve that is electrically connected tocontroller 108. However, any other suitable valve may be used to control the flow of water throughwater supply conduit 252.Controller 108 may selectively open andclose valve 302 to allow water to flow from awater supply 304 throughwater supply conduit 252. Therefore, when it is desirable to locklid 130, e.g., during a spin cycle,controller 108 may openvalve 302 to supply water towater supply conduit 252, pressurizeplunger chamber 268,drive plunger 254, and rotatecam mechanism 228 oflock box 220. Notably,valve 302 need only be opened momentarily, e.g., less than one second, to pressurizeplunger chamber 268. Thereafter,valve 302 is closed and pressure inplunger chamber 268 is relieved throughpressure relief port 300. As pressure is relieved,plunger 254 moves toward the retracted position, and actuation oflock box 220 is complete, thereby lockinglid lock mechanism 202. The same process may be repeated to unlocklid lock mechanism 202. - Because
lid lock mechanism 202 is only effective for lockinglid 130 whenlid 130 is in the closed position, it is desirable to have a feedback mechanism that indicates whenlid 130 is in the closed position andlid lock mechanism 202 is engagingstriker 142, thereby preventinglid 130 from pivoting into the open position. For example, a feedback mechanism may be any suitable electrical continuity circuit that is closed only whenstriker 142 is inserted into lockingslot 210 andlid lock mechanism 202 is in the locked state, thus engagingstriker 142. Oneexemplary feedback mechanism 310 including a continuity circuit is illustrated inFIG. 8 . Whenstriker 142 is inserted intolid lock mechanism 202, lockingslide member 212 may be configured to establish an electrical connection between a firstelectrical terminal 312 and a secondelectrical terminal 315. This connection may be achieved, for example, by allowing a conductive strip (not shown) connected to secondelectrical terminal 315 to lower and touch a pin (not shown) connected through firstelectrical terminal 312. In addition, when lockingpin 222 is in the extended (i.e., “locked”) state, an electrical connection may be established between a thirdelectrical terminal 316 and secondelectrical terminal 315. This connection may be achieved, for example, by allowing aconductive strip 314 connected to secondelectrical terminal 315 to lower and touch a contact on thirdelectrical terminal 316. When these two electrical connections are established, a circuit may be completed that may be sensed, e.g., viaelectrical terminals controller 108, indicating thatlid 130 is closed and locked. In addition to the method used above, one skilled in the art will appreciate that many alternative means for establishing such electrical connections are possible and known in the art. - One skilled in the art will appreciate that in addition to the configurations of
lid lock assembly 200 described herein, alternative configurations oflid lock assembly 200 are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter. For example, althoughlid lock mechanism 202 is located withintop panel 140, it may be located elsewhere withinwashing machine appliance 100. In addition, an alternativelid lock mechanism 202 orcam mechanism 228 may be used, and the size, shape, and configuration of lockingslide member 212 andstriker 142 may be modified while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter. Other configurations are also possible. - This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.
Claims (20)
1. A washing machine appliance defining a vertical, a lateral, and a transverse direction, the washing machine appliance comprising:
a cabinet;
a wash tub positioned within the cabinet;
a wash basket rotatably mounted within the wash tub, the wash basket defining a wash chamber for receiving articles for washing;
a lid being rotatably hinged to the cabinet to provide selective access to the wash chamber, the lid comprising a striker; and
a lid lock assembly configured for locking the lid in the closed position during operation of the washing machine appliance, the lid lock assembly comprising:
a lid lock mechanism configured to engage the striker to lock the lid in a closed position; and
a hydraulic actuation assembly comprising a water supply conduit and a hydraulic plunger, the hydraulic plunger being configured to actuate the lid lock mechanism when water is supplied to the water supply conduit.
2. The washing machine appliance of claim 1 , wherein the lid lock assembly further comprises a plunger housing in flow communication with the water supply conduit, the hydraulic plunger being slidably received in the plunger housing such that the hydraulic plunger slides into an extended position to actuate the lid lock mechanism when the water supply conduit is pressurized and into a retracted position when the water supply conduit is depressurized.
3. The washing machine appliance of claim 2 , wherein the plunger housing is a cylindrical pipe defining a first end operably coupled with the water supply conduit and a second end through which the hydraulic plunger extends, the second end of the plunger housing defining a flange that extends radially inward to engage a shoulder on the hydraulic plunger that extends radially outward to prevent the hydraulic plunger from sliding out of the plunger housing.
4. The washing machine appliance of claim 3 , wherein a spring is positioned around the hydraulic plunger between the flange and the shoulder to urge the hydraulic plunger toward the retracted position.
5. The washing machine appliance of claim 2 , wherein the water supply conduit is depressurized by bleeding water through a pressure relief port placed in flow communication with the plunger housing.
6. The washing machine appliance of claim 2 , wherein the lid lock assembly further comprises a valve, the valve being configured to regulate the flow of water from a water supply to the water supply conduit to pressurize the water supply conduit and move the hydraulic plunger toward the extended position or depressurize the water supply conduit and move the hydraulic plunger toward the retracted position.
7. The washing machine appliance of claim 6 , wherein the lid lock mechanism is actuated by momentarily opening the valve to move the hydraulic plunger into the extended position and then closing the valve to allow the hydraulic plunger to move toward the retracted state, and wherein each time the lid lock mechanism is actuated, the lid lock mechanism alternates between a locked state and an unlocked state.
8. The washing machine appliance of claim 6 , wherein the valve is a solenoid valve positioned within a control panel of the washing machine appliance.
9. The washing machine appliance of claim 1 , wherein the lid lock assembly further comprises a feedback mechanism for indicating when the lid is closed and the lid lock mechanism is engaging the striker or when the lid lock mechanism is disengaged and the lid is not restricted from pivotal movement.
10. The washing machine appliance of claim 1 , wherein the lid lock mechanism is a cam mechanism.
11. The washing machine appliance of claim 1 , wherein the washing machine appliance is a top load washing machine.
12. A lid lock assembly for a washing machine appliance, the washing machine appliance comprising a cabinet and a lid being pivotally attached to the cabinet, the lid comprising a striker and being configured to move between an open position and a closed position, the lid lock assembly comprising:
a lid lock mechanism configured to engage the striker to lock the lid in the closed position; and
a hydraulic actuation assembly comprising a water supply conduit and a hydraulic plunger, the hydraulic plunger being configured to actuate the lid lock mechanism when water is supplied to the water supply conduit.
13. The lid lock assembly of claim 12 , wherein the lid lock assembly further comprises a plunger housing in flow communication with the water supply conduit, the hydraulic plunger being slidably received in the plunger housing such that the hydraulic plunger slides into an extended position to actuate the lid lock mechanism when the water supply conduit is pressurized and into a retracted position when the water supply conduit is depressurized.
14. The lid lock assembly of claim 13 , wherein the plunger housing is a cylindrical pipe defining a first end operably coupled with the water supply conduit and a second end through which the hydraulic plunger extends, the second end of the plunger housing defining a flange that extends radially inward to engage a shoulder on the hydraulic plunger that extends radially outward to prevent the hydraulic plunger from sliding out of the plunger housing.
15. The lid lock assembly of claim 14 , wherein a spring is positioned around the hydraulic plunger between the flange and the shoulder to urge the hydraulic plunger toward the retracted position.
16. The lid lock assembly of claim 13 , wherein the water supply conduit is depressurized by bleeding water through a pressure relief port placed in flow communication with the plunger housing.
17. The lid lock assembly of claim 13 , wherein the lid lock assembly further comprises a valve, the valve being configured to regulate the flow of water from a water supply to the water supply conduit to pressurize the water supply conduit and move the hydraulic plunger toward the extended position or depressurize the water supply conduit and move the hydraulic plunger toward the retracted position.
18. The lid lock assembly of claim 17 , wherein the lid lock mechanism is actuated by momentarily opening the valve to move the hydraulic plunger into the extended position and then closing the valve to allow the hydraulic plunger to move toward the retracted state, and wherein each time the lid lock mechanism is actuated, the lid lock mechanism alternates between a locked state and an unlocked state.
19. The lid lock assembly of claim 17 , wherein the valve is a solenoid valve positioned within a control panel of the washing machine appliance.
20. The lid lock assembly of claim 12 , wherein the lid lock assembly further comprises a feedback mechanism for indicating when the lid is closed and the lid lock mechanism is engaging the striker or when the lid lock mechanism is disengaged and the lid is not restricted from pivotal movement.
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US15/153,809 US20170327995A1 (en) | 2016-05-13 | 2016-05-13 | Hydraulically Powered Lid Lock Assembly |
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US15/153,809 US20170327995A1 (en) | 2016-05-13 | 2016-05-13 | Hydraulically Powered Lid Lock Assembly |
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US20170327995A1 true US20170327995A1 (en) | 2017-11-16 |
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US15/153,809 Abandoned US20170327995A1 (en) | 2016-05-13 | 2016-05-13 | Hydraulically Powered Lid Lock Assembly |
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Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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ES2714699A1 (en) * | 2017-11-29 | 2019-05-29 | Kendrion Kuhnke Automation Gmbh | INTERLOCKING DEVICE (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) |
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2016
- 2016-05-13 US US15/153,809 patent/US20170327995A1/en not_active Abandoned
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DE19601229A1 (en) * | 1996-01-15 | 1997-07-17 | Zangenstein Elektro | Door lock for washing machine |
US20040211228A1 (en) * | 2003-04-22 | 2004-10-28 | Masahiro Nishio | Washing machine capable of detecting leakage at water feed unit |
US20130239336A1 (en) * | 2010-07-06 | 2013-09-19 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Method For Controlling The Operation Of A Washing Machine, And System For Controlling Freezes For A Washing Machine |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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ES2714699A1 (en) * | 2017-11-29 | 2019-05-29 | Kendrion Kuhnke Automation Gmbh | INTERLOCKING DEVICE (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) |
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