WO2012068646A1

WO2012068646A1 - Door sealing assembly for a washing machine

Info

Publication number: WO2012068646A1
Application number: PCT/BE2011/000068
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thierry Debal
Original assignee: Medibeg N.V.
Priority date: 2010-11-25
Filing date: 2011-11-25
Publication date: 2012-05-31
Also published as: BE1019306A5

Abstract

A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400), wherein the washing machine (400) comprises a static drum (410), a housing (420) and a door (430), wherein the seal (100) comprises a clamp (110) for the static drum (410), a clamp (120) for the housing (420) and a sealing lip (130) for the door (430), characterized by a seal (100) which comprises an opening (500) in a side wall (140) of the seal (100) for one or more connections to a power supply (510), and characterized by a seal (100) comprising a groove (150) on the inside of the side wall (140) of the seal (100), wherein the groove (150) runs at least 30% around the door opening (440) and wherein the groove (150) comprises a luminous element (101).

Description

DOOR SEALING ASSEMBLY FOR A WASHING MACHINE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention concerns a seal for the door opening of a washing machine, where the seal includes a luminous element. The invention also concerns a washing machine that includes the above-mentioned seal. The invention also concerns a mold or shape that can be used to replace the above-mentioned seal. The invention also refers to a method for manufacturing the above-mentioned seal. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In a traditional front-loading washing machine, the laundry is constantly being dragged into and out of shallow water. This is achieved by "tumbling", where a dynamic part of the drum (also called the dynamic drum) rotates around a horizontal axis. The dynamic drum is mostly made of rustproof steel or synthetic material. The dynamic drum is located in a static part of a drum (also called a static drum or outer drum). The dynamic drum and the static drum are assembled and mounted in turn within the casing (also called a shell). The washer's main front of this casing traditionally includes a circular door opening, which is closed by a door. This opening allows the user to load and unload laundry into the dynamic drum. During the operation of the machine, the lower part of the dynamic drum will be filled with water, through which the laundry is being dragged out due to the rotation of the dynamic drum.

Almost all front-loading washing machines for the consumer market include a folded, flexible rubber seal around the door opening to keep the laundry inside the dynamic drum during tumbling cycles. Without this seal, small clothing items, like socks, or released clothing components, like buttons, could end up in the small gap between the drums and the casing. In that case, the drainpipe for the water could become clogged, or the rotation of the dynamic drum could become hindered. Without such a seal, the collecting of lost laundry would often require a complete dismantling of the washing machine. Besides, if the manufacturer wants to produce a washing machine with a static door, a seal between the door and the drums is essential.

The seal usually covers the entire inner rim of the door opening. The seal is clamped onto the door opening of the casing with a clamp, which is fit with prestressing. After all, the diameter of the seal is smaller than the diameter of the door opening in the front panel of the casing. A sealing lip on the seal makes sure the door shuts properly. Additionally, the sealing lip prevents water from seeping out through the door. Additionally, no water may drop onto the floor when opening the door. The seal is also attached to the static drum with a clamp. The seal typically includes a couple of wrinkles, which allow the dynamic drum to rotate independently of the casing. Moreover, the seal dampens the oscillations caused by the dynamic drum, to minimize the transfer of the oscillations onto the casing. The seal is an essential component of the washing machine: weight, shape as well as the choice of material are optimized for a proper performance of the seal. Changes to the seal are seldom, given that these could result in crucial changes in mechanical and dynamic functions. Nevertheless, with this invention, fundamental changes to the seal have been successfully made, without disturbing the optimal performance of the seal. From a mechanical and ergonomic point of view, the top-loader type washing machine demonstrates more advantages than the front-loading type. Nonetheless, more front-loading types are sold in the western world. For many people the visibility of the laundry during the washing cycle is a decisive advantage. Nevertheless, even for a front-loading type washing machine the visibility of the laundry is poor because of the darkish door opening and the dark interior of the dynamic drum. Also when loading and unloading the laundry, the dark dynamic drum can be considered to be unpleasant. Small clothing items like socks and underwear often remain in the dynamic drum. This can especially be unpleasant when it leads to the discoloration of a following load of white laundry.

Another problem with traditional washing machines is the small display on the washing machine that indicates the status of the washing cycle. This display is often too small to read off the status of the washing cycle (like washing, drying, centrifuging and rinsing) from a distance. Especially for users with bad eyesight this can be quite a chore. The same problem occurs when there's a technical machine defect. Due to the small display, a technical defect during a cycle can pass by unnoticed, risking action by the user that is too late or inadequate.

The patent application DE29717295 describes a washing machine including a luminous element to illuminate the inside of the dynamic drum. This luminous element is installed in an opening of the seal of the washing machine. However, this luminous element does not communicate information to the user and only illuminates a small part of the door opening. The patent applications US20050257573 and WO2005093149 describe a luminous element in the casing of the washing machine around the door opening of a washing machine that illuminates the dynamic drum as well as the exterior during the loading and unloading of laundry. However when the door is closed, the light can't reach the dynamic drum anymore. To illuminate the dynamic drum, an additional light conductor needs to be mounted in the door, as described in US20050257573.

The patent application WO2008052659 describes luminous elements in a washing machines dynamic drum. These elements are connected to the dynamic component, which causes specific problems regarding electrical connections. The information that can be provided to the user during the washing cycle is very limited.

In previously mentioned patent applications US20050257573, WO2005093149 en WO2008052659 structural and expensive modifications to the casing and/or to the dynamic drum of the washing machine are necessary. Moreover, in case of a defect, the luminous elements cannot be easily replaced.

It follows that there's a need for a luminous element in a washing machine, that illuminates the dynamic drum and the door opening, as well as the washing machine door when it's open (during loading and unloading) and when it's shut (during the washing cycle). This luminous element could moreover be controlled to indicate information about the status of the washing cycle or possible technical defects to be more clearly visible than the indication of the standard display. The advantage of combining both functionalities through the use of one element is that the additional manufacturing cost can be decreased.

This luminous element is ideally implemented making minimal adaptations on the washing machine. This luminous element, as well as the component which houses the luminous element, should also be easily be replaceable in case of a defect. Finally this luminous element must be resistant to specific circumstances related to the washing machine, like temperature, pH-value, degree of moisture, and large fluctuations of these parameters. Below some tangible objectives of this invention are listed.

The objective of the invention is to equip a washing machine with a luminous element, which in not connected to a moving component, such as the dynamic drum or the washing machine door, but which is connected to a static component, such as the washing machine casing and all components connected to it. This reduces the risk of defects and the production costs.

The objective of the invention is to equip a washing machine with a luminous element, which can illuminate the inside of the dynamic drum as well as the exterior of the washing machine simultaneously. This makes it possible to combine several functionalities by just one element.

The objective of the invention is to equip a washing machine with a luminous element, which can illuminate the entire door opening of the washing machine.

The objective of the invention is to equip a washing machine with a luminous element, where the electrical wiring touches the damp zones as little as possible. The objective of the invention is to equip a washing machine with a luminous element, where the electrical wiring is visible to the user as little as possible.

The objective of the invention is to equip a washing machine with a luminous element, where the wiring does not run along the door hinge.

The objective of the invention is to equip a washing machine with a luminous element, where no additional transformer will be necessary for the electrical control.

The objective of the invention is to equip a washing machine with a luminous element, where the luminous element can easily be replaced in case of a defect.

The objective of the invention is to equip a washing machine with a luminous element, where the luminous element does not need to be visible when the washing machine door is closed, but where the generated light is visible. The objective of the invention is to equip a washing machine with a luminous element, where the luminous element indicates information to the user about the washing cycle or the possible technical problems. The objective of the invention is to equip a washing machine with a luminous element, where the luminous element possibly also includes a logo or other information.

One or more of the above-mentioned objectives will be achieved by this invention. Preferred embodiments of this invention will achieve one or more of the above- mentioned objectives.

SUMMARY

To meet the above-mentioned objectives, the invention comprises a seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400), wherein the washing machine (400) comprises a static drum (410), a housing (420) and a door (430), wherein the seal (100) comprises a clamp (110) for the static drum (410), a clamp (120) for the housing (420) and a sealing lip (130) for the door (430), characterized by a seal

(100) which comprises an opening (500) in a side wall (140) of the seal (100) for one or more connections to a power supply (510), and characterized by a seal (100) comprising a groove ( 150) on the inside of the side wall ( 140) of the seal (100), wherein the groove (150) runs at least 30% around the door opening (440) and wherein the groove (150) comprises a luminous element (101). Thereto the invention in an embodiment comprises a seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) as described above, where the luminous element contains LEDs and/or LED strips (200) for this purpose.

Thereto the invention in an embodiment comprises a seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) as described above, where the luminous element

(101) contains a light conductor (300) for this purpose.

In an embodiment, the invention also includes a washing machine (400) comprising the seal (100) as described above. In an embodiment, the invention also comprises a mold for the manufacture of a seal (100) as described above.

In a further aspect, the invention also provides a method for manufacturing a seal (100) according to any one of claims 1-17, using a mold, wherein the seal (100) is produced via an injection molding process comprising following steps:

a) heating a rubber mixture in a mixture chamber of an injection molding machine to a temperature between 40 °C and 80 °C;

b) injecting the rubber mixture under pressure into the mold;

c) vulcanizing the rubber mixture at a temperature between 150 °C and 220

°C to a rubber product;

d) removing the rubber product from the mold;

e) cooling the rubber product. Preferred embodiments of the invention are elaborated on in the dependent claims. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figure 1 : illustrates a preferred embodiment of this invention on the basis of a diameter of the seal (100), with an indication of the clamp (110) for the static drum, the clamp (120) for the casing, the sealing lip (130) for the door and the side wall (140), where using a clamp (151) a LED strip (200) as a luminous element is fixed to the groove (150).

Figure 2: illustrates a preferred embodiment of this invention on the basis of a diameter of the seal (100), with an indication of the clamp (110) for the static drum, the clamp (120) for the casing, the sealing lip (130) for the door and the side wall (140), where using a clamp (151) a light conductive tube (200) as a luminous element is fixed to the groove (150). Figure 3: illustrates a diameter of a light conductive tube (300) from a preferred embodiment of this invention, where the tube (300) contains a core (310) of light conductive material, and where the core (310) is partially covered by a reflector (320) and completely covered by a diffuser tube (330) as a cladding. The part of the core (310) that is not covered by the reflector (320) contains nicks (311), which provide diffuse scattering of the light. The light is preferably supplied by one or more LEDs (350), which can be controlled by the coupling to an electrical circuit (510) and which are optionally fit with a cooling armature. The coupling between the LED (350) and the core (310) of the light conductive tube (300) can be accomplished using a lens (360).

Figure 4: illustrates a preferred embodiment of this invention on the basis of a front- loading washing machine (400), with indication of the dynamic drum (411), the casing (420), the door (430) with a transparent window (431) and the door opening (440). Based on this invention the door opening (440) is surrounded by a seal (100), which contains a luminous element (101).

Figure 5: illustrates a preferred embodiment of this invention on the basis of a seal (100), with indication of the clamp (110) for the static drum, the clamp (120) for the casing, the sealing lip (130) for the door, the side wall (140), the groove (150) for the luminous element (101) and the opening (500).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used, the text uses singular articles "a", "the", "it" as well as singular and plural articles unless the context is clearly different.

The terms "include" and "includes", as used, are synonymous with "comprise", "comprises" or "containing", "contains", and are inclusive or open, and don't exclude additional, unmentioned parts, elements or method steps. The terms "include", "includes" include the term "contain".

The summary of numerical values based on the numerical ranges includes all values and fractions in these ranges, as well as the quoted end-value. The term "approximately", as used when referring to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a time duration and so on, is meant to enclose variations of +/- 10% or less, a preferred +/- 5% or less, a more preferred +/- 1% or less, and even more preferred +/- 0.1% or less, from and starting from the specified value, insofar as the variations are applicable to the function in the announced invention. It ought to be understood that the term "approximately" referring to the value, has also been announced. All quoted documents in the current specification herein are recorded by using references. Unless defined otherwise, all terms announced in the invention, including technical and scientific terms, carry the meaning an expert generally understands. Definitions are recorded for further clarification of the terms used in the description of the invention as further guidance. The invention comprises a seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400), wherein the seal (100) comprises a luminous element (101).

The invention preferably comprises a seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400), characterized by a seal (100) comprising a groove (150) on the inside of the side wall (140) of the seal (100), where the groove (150) comprises a luminous element (101).

The invention preferably comprises a seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400), characterized by a seal (100) containing an opening (500) in a side wall (140) of the seal (100) for one or more connections with an electrical feed (510), and characterized by a seal (100) comprising a groove (150) on the inside of the side wall (140) of the seal (100), wherein the seal (150) comprises a luminous element. The invention preferably comprises a seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400), characterized by a seal (100) comprising an opening (500) in a side wall (140) of the seal (100) for one or more connections with the electrical feed (510), and characterized by a seal (100) comprising a groove (150) on the inside if the side wall (140) of the seal (100), wherein the groove (150) surrounds the door opening (440) for at least 30% and wherein the groove (150) comprises a luminous element (101).

The invention preferably comprises a seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400), where the washing machine (400) contains a static rub (410), a casing (420) and a door (430), where the seal (100) contains a clamp (110) for the static drum (410), a clamp (120) for the casing (420) and a sealing lip (130) for the door (430), characterized by a seal (100) containing an opening (500) in a side wall (140) of the seal (100) for one or more connections with the electrical feed (510), and characterized by a seal (100) containing a groove (150) on the inside of the side wall (140) of the seal (100), where the groove (150) surrounds the door opening (440) for at least 30% and where the groove (150) comprises a luminous element (101).

The term "seal" includes the link between the static drum (410) and the casing (420) of a washing machine (400), where the link surrounds the door opening (440).

The term "door opening" includes the empty space or opening, which enables the loading and unloading of laundry from the washing machine (400). This door opening (440) is preferably shut with a door (430).

The term "door" includes a component of the washing machine (400), which enables the shutting of the door opening (440). The door (430) is preferably fixed to the casing of the washing machine (400) with a hinge. The door (430) of the washing machine (400) preferably includes a transparent window (431).

The term "washing machine" includes not only traditional washing machines, but also tumble dryers, washer dryers or centrifuges (also called spin dryers). The term "washing machine" includes front-loading, top-loading as well as tilted drum types of machines.

The term "drum" includes the component of a washing machine where the laundry is inserted. This drum preferably includes a dynamic drum (for example a rotating drum) and/or a static drum (for example a fixed drum). A dynamic drum (411) preferably rotates around a horizontal, a skewed or a vertical axis. A dynamic drum (411) is preferably housed in a static drum (410). A drum is preferably cylindrical. A drum preferably includes an opening for the loading and unloading of laundry.

The term "housing" includes the static part of a dynamic drum washing machine (411) and/or a static drum (410). The housing (420) preferably includes a front panel. The front panel preferably includes a door opening (440). The term "clamping" includes a part of the seal (100), a tight contraction of the clamping of the seal (100) around the clamping element will take care of the mechanical binding. The seal (100) may preferably be removed of the clamping element by deforming the clamping.

The term "sealing lip" is a part of the seal (100) of a washing machine (400) that provides a watertight seal between two mutually movable parts. A sealing lip (130) for a door (430) of a washing machine (400) preferably ensures that no water seeps in the door (430) or the housing (420) when the door (430) is closed.

The term "opening" includes a hollow, an opening, a gap, an outlet.

The term "side wall" includes, mostly the flat part of a seal (100) between the clamp (110) for the static drum (410) and clamp (120) for housing (420). The "inside" of this side is the side of the door opening (440) the "outside" of this side is the side which borders the housing (420).

The term "power supply" includes all sources of electrical energy. The term power supply includes a power source or voltage source.

The term "groove" includes a trench, a gutter, a slot.

The term "luminous element" includes any source of light in the visible and / or ultraviolet part of the spectrum.

Because the luminous element (101) is attached to an easily removable component of the washing machine (400), it can easily be replaced if necessary. In a preferred embodiment of invention, the seal (100) is made of rubber. Examples of rubbers which are suitable for producing a seal (100) for a washing machine (400) are: EPDM (ethylene-propylene rubber), SBR (styrene-butadiene rubber), IIR (butyl rubber, isobutylene-isoprene copolymer), CIIR (chlorobutyl), NR (natural rubber, cis- polyisoprene), CR (polychloroprene), NBR (nitrile rubber, acrylonitrile-butadiene copolymer), ECO (epichlorohydrin), fluoroelastomer (FKM, FPM). In a preferred embodiment of invention, the seal (100) has the form of a ring.

In a preferred embodiment of invention, the distance between the groove (150) and the sealing lip (130) is as small as possible, preferably less than 3 cm, more preferably less than 2 cm, most preferably less than 1 cm. When the distance from the groove (150) and the sealing lips (130) is the smallest as possible, the dynamic properties, and more particularly the muting properties, have minimal impact on the seal. As a result, no additional changes are needed to the already optimized parameters such as shape, weight and / or material of the seal.

The present invention wherein the luminous element (101) is attached to the seal (100), has the advantage that only a single element must be provided that can simultaneously illuminate both the inside of the dynamic drum (411) as the exterior of the machine (400). The lighting on the outside is preferably also enhanced by the reflection in a transparent window (431) in the door (430), which light elements (200) and / or light-guiding elements (300) that are normally hidden behind the frame of the door (430) are visible to the user, even from a distance. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the wiring goes through the opening (500). In a more preferred embodiment of the present invention the opening (500) is on the 12h position of the seal (100) in the washing machine (400). Also, any light sources (350) which are connected to a light-conductive element (300) can be housed in this opening (500). This position has the advantage that it undergoes the least contact with water and receives the least shock. Moreover, this part of the doorway (440) is usually hard to see for the user.

The luminous element (101) is attached preferably by means of a mechanical clamping in the groove (150). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the seal (100) contains a groove (150) and the groove (150) contains a mechanical clamping (151) consisting of mapping the luminous element (101). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, preferably the groove has two lips that protect the luminous element (101) and that function as mechanical clamping (151). The diameter of the mechanical clamping (151) and / or the groove (150) can be any form to fit the luminous element (101), such as round, oval, rectangular, square, irregular, polygonal, rounded, etc. the diameter of the mechanical clamping (151) and / or the groove (150) is preferably rectangular, as illustrated in Figure 1 or rounded, as illustrated in Figure 2. In one embodiment of the present invention, the seal (100) comprises a groove (150) wherein the groove (150) comprises a chemical attachment for the luminous element (101). Such a chemical attachment is preferably provided by applying a moisture resistant glue. The luminous element (101) in the present invention is incorporated via "overmolding" directly into a rubber groove (150). To this end, the luminous element (101) can withstand the high temperatures in the mold, which can reach up to 200 °C. In one embodiment of the present invention, the light element (101) is attached to the seal during the injection molding process (100).

In a preferred embodiment the present invention comprises a seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400), wherein the groove (150) runs for at least 60% around the door opening (440). In such a configuration it is preferred not to light the area of the doorway between 10:00 and 2:00 because this area is the least visible for the user.

In a preferred embodiment the present invention comprises a seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400), wherein the groove (150) runs at least 90% around the doorway.

In a preferred embodiment the present invention comprises a seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400), wherein the groove (150) runs entirely around the doorway. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the luminous element (101) has a high efficiency. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the luminous element (101) hardly uses any energy. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the luminous element (101) experiences low heat loss. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the luminous element (101) comprises a controllable intensity.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the luminous element (101) comprises a controllable light color.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the luminous element (101) comprises one or more individually addressable luminous elements.

The luminous element (101) of the present invention preferably comprises elements from the following non-limited list: luminous films, spots, lamps, laser diodes, LEDs, LED strips, halogen. The luminous element (101) preferably provides different colors of light, this could be achieved by using color filters. The luminous element (101) preferably generates different light intensities and/or light levels. In one embodiment of the present invention, the luminous element (101) has a guiding. In one aspect of the present invention, the guiding is a light-guiding tube (300), whereby the light-guiding tube contains optical polymer fibers (POF). The light-guiding tube (300) is preferably lit by a light source (350). In one embodiment of the present invention, the light-guiding tube (300) has multiple optical fiber components. In one embodiment of the present invention, the light-guiding tube (300) could be in a section in the shape such as a circle, oval, rectangular, trapezoidal, truncated circle or other geometric shape. In one embodiment of the present invention the shape and/or size of the diameter of the light-conducting tube vary (300) along with the length of the light-guiding tube (300). In one embodiment of the present invention, the shape and/or size of the diameter of the light-guiding tube (300) can be adjusted for certain lighting effects.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the opening (500) in the side wall (140) contains a light source (350).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the light source (350) comprises elements from the following non-limited list: spotlights, incandescent lamps, laser diodes, LEDs, LED strips, halogen. The light source (350) preferably provides different colors of light, this could be by using color filters. The light source (350) preferably generates different light intensities and/or light levels. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the luminous element (101) is connected to the voltage on the control panel or display (i.e., typically 12V or 24V), there are no additional electrical components needed for this.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the luminous element (101) is resistant to contact with water and/or splashing and/or a humid environment.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the luminous element (101) is resistant to contact with detergents, bleach, washing powder, fabric softeners and the like.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the luminous element (101) is resistant to contact with salts and salt solutions.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the luminous element (101) is resistant to elevated temperatures such as 90 °C at a boil wash.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the luminous element (101) is resistant to shocks caused by the laundry, a washing powder bowl and the like.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the luminous element (101) is resistant to vibrations caused by the washing machine (400). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the lifetime of the luminous element (101) is longer than that of a typical washing machine (400).

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the light element (200) has an LED strip, as illustrated in Figure 1. In a more preferred embodiment of the present invention the light element (300) has a guiding (300). In a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, the light guiding (300) has a light-guiding tube, as illustrated in Figure 2, in which the guiding core of the tube (310) consist of light guiding material. In a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, the core is (310) partially covered by a reflector (320) and completely encapsulated in a diffuser pipe (330) as a casing, as illustrated in Figure 3. The part of the core (310) that is not covered by the reflector (320) preferably includes notches (312) for a diffuse scattering of the light.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the light guide is lit by one or more LEDs (350), which are controlled by linking them to an electrical circuit (352) and optionally with a cooling element (354) is provided. The linking of the light between the LED (350) core (310) of the light-guiding tube (300) is done by means of a lens (360). An example of such a light-guiding tube is the Light Shaping Diffuser® of Luminite. In one aspect of the present invention there may be provided some spare light sources, which can simply take over the job of a faulty light source without a visit from a repairman.

Examples of materials that are suitable for manufacturing of the core (310) of a light- guiding tube (300) are following optical polymer fibers (POF): polycarbonate (PC), polystyrene (PS) and polymethyl methacrylate (also known as Perspex, Plexiglas or PMMA). Polymer optical fibers have the advantage that they are a cheap material and that way the price of the seal (100) does not rise too high. The material for the manufacture of the core (310) includes fluorinated polymer optical fibers. In a preferred embodiment of invention, the core (310) of the light-guiding tube (300) is made of PMMA.

Examples of materials suitable for manufacturing the reflector of the light-guiding tube (300) are: reflective plastic film, metal foil. Examples of materials suitable for manufacturing the diffuser tube of the light-guiding tube (300) are: Teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE).

As a lens (360) is preferably a cylindrical lens, the light reduces to a shaft. This kind of lens is often used for laser diodes for fiber linking. One supplier of such lenses is Doric.

The present invention also includes a seal (100) for the door opening (440) of dryers (also called tumble dryers), washer / dryer combinations or centrifuges (also called dry spin operators). The present invention is preferably used for washing machines with a static drum as well as machines with a dynamic drum. The present invention is preferably used for washing machines with a horizontal axis and vertical axis washing machines or washing machines with an oblique axis. The present invention is preferably used for both front loaders and top loaders. In one aspect, the present invention also comprises a washing machine (400) comprising the seal (100) of the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment of invention, the washing machine (400) is a washing machine in the strict sense of the word. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention is preferably a washing machine (400) with a dynamic drum (411) which is housed in a static drum (410). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the washing machine (400) preferably has a horizontal or inclined axis. In a preferred embodiment of invention, the washing machine (400) has a front loader, as illustrated in Figure 4.

The door (430) of the washing machine (400) is preferably transparent or opaque. The term "transparent" is both transparent and translucent intended. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes the door (430) of the washing machine (400) a transparent window (431), as illustrated in Figure 4.

In one aspect, the present invention also provides a template or mold for the manufacture of a seal (100) according to the present invention.

The seal (100) is preferably produced by injection molding. In one aspect, this invention also provides a method for manufacturing a seal (100) according to the present invention, by using a mold, whereby the seal (100) is produced by the following steps through an injection molding process:

a) heating a rubber mixture in a mixing chamber of an injection molding machine to a temperature between 40 °C and 80 °C, preferably between 50 °C and 70 °C, even more preferentially between 55 °C and 65 °C;

b) injecting the rubber mixture under pressure into the mold;

c) vulcanizing the rubber compound into a rubber product at a temperature between 150 °C and 220 °C, preferably between 170 °C and 200 °C, even more preferentially between 180 °C and 190 °C;

d) removing the rubber product from the mold; e) cooling the rubber product.

In one aspect, the present invention also provides a method as described above, which method needs the following additional step, preferably before step b) but not necessarily in step a) placing the luminous element (101) into the mold.

In the following, a preferred embodiment of a method according to the present invention is discussed:

- The rubber mixture in the mixture chamber (typically this is a tube) of an injection molding machine, where it is heated to make the plastic substance.

The temperature lies between 55 °C and 65 °C.

- Once the mixture chamber is filled, the mixture is injected under pressure into a mold. The mold contains cavities in the form of the final rubber product. During injection of the rubber there is a vulcanization process which links the polymer chains together. Vulcanization takes place if the rubber mixture in the mold is heated under pressure for a certain amount of time to a temperature of 180 °C to 190 °C. Vulcanization changes the material from a soft, plastic substance into a strong, flexible product. This process is not reversible. For a vulcanization activator, an accelerator and a vulcanization product is needed. - After demolding of the rubber product, the rubber product which is taken from the mold, any excess burrs and the injection point are removed and the final product needs to cool down. Once the piece has cooled, typically after 24 hours, the piece has its specific mechanical properties, depending on the polymer. This process is preferably performed with a horizontal or vertical injection molding machine.

The present invention and the preferred embodiments have several functional advantages, both for the laundry as for the user. The luminous element preferably affects the washing directly, with a disinfecting, sterilizing, bleaching and / or photo-activating effect.

The luminous element (101) preferably includes an informative function, which displays the information about in what stage of the wash (such as washing, drying, washing, spinning or standby) the washing machine (400) is. Light in the dynamic drum (411) also makes it easier to see during the washing process and the level of water contamination assessment. If the water is very turbid, the user can intervene in the process to set an extra rinse or wash.

The luminous element (101) preferably increases the visibility when loading and unloading of laundry. It is visible when small pieces of clothing (e.g. socks) or components (e.g. loose knots) are left behind in the dynamic drum (411). The luminous element (101) gives an indication of the preferred water temperature (e.g. blue for cold water and red for hot water).

Moreover, the luminous element (101) also makes sure that it is immediately clear for the user whether the door (430) can be opened or not. The luminous element can also be configured to count down until the moment that the door (430) can be opened. In one aspect the present invention comprises a luminous element (101) which provides information about the possibility of opening the door (430).

The luminous element (101) preferably displays the speed of the dynamic drum (411).

The luminous element (101) preferably provides technical feedback to the user. In a preferred embodiment the luminous element (101) for example, has a certain color when too much weight is loaded in the dynamic drum (411). In one aspect the present invention comprises a luminous element (101) which provides information on weight in the dynamic drum (411).

Moreover, the luminous element (101) has an alarm function for technical failures. For example, a leak can be signaled by a flashing red light, so the user is made aware immediately. In one aspect the present invention has a luminous element (101) that includes an alarm function.

Above information is an aspect of the present invention is provided by means of individually controllable luminous elements, such as individually controllable LEDs, through individually controllable sectors, such as the positions of a wall clock countdown to the end of a cycle through color variations, by means of a variable light intensity, or a combination of this.

The luminous element (101) provides in one aspect of the present invention also some aesthetic advantages. The exposure of the dynamic drum (411) is an aspect of the present invention as mood lighting. In one aspect of the present invention, the color and/or intensity of exposure by the user can be configured to match a desired mood. Especially in situations where the accommodation is limited and the washing machine (400) is in the bathroom or in the living area, such aesthetic functions are appealing. In one aspect of the present invention includes a luminous element of aesthetic function.

The luminous element (101) in one aspect of the present invention has the logo of the manufacturer, which leads to strengthening the brand name, or other visual information.

In one aspect of the present invention there is also the amazing reflective effect of the transparent window (431) of the door (430) by using a luminous element (101) in the dynamic drum (411) along the inside lights, but also visible for the user outside the washing machine (400). The luminous element (101) itself does not need to be visible around the outside, but the generated light is preferably guided to the outside through the transparent window (431).

In one aspect of the present invention the rubber seal (100) is used to partially protect the luminous element (101) for the main shock absorption.

Claims

1. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400), wherein the washing machine (400) comprises a static drum (410), a housing (420) and a door (430), wherein the seal (100) comprises a clamp (110) for the static drum (410), a clamp (120) for the housing (420) and a sealing lip (130) for the door (430), characterized by a seal (100) which comprises an opening (500) in a side wall (140) of the seal (100) for one or more connections to a power supply (510), and characterized by a seal (100) comprising a groove (150) on the inside of the side wall (140) of the seal (100), wherein the groove (150) runs at least 30% around the door opening (440) and wherein the groove (150) comprises a luminous element (101).

2. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claim 1, wherein the seal (100) is made of rubber.

3. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the seal (100) is of a circular shape.

4. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claims 1-3, wherein the distance between the groove (150) and the sealing lip (130) is less than 3 cm.

5. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claims 1-4, wherein the groove (150) comprises a mechanical clamping (151) for the fitting of the luminous element (101).

6. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claims 1-5, wherein the groove (150) comprises a chemical attachment for the luminous element (101).

7. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claims 1-6, wherein the luminous element (101) was attached during the injection molding process to the seal (100).

A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claims 1-7, wherein the groove (150) runs for at least 60% around the door opening (440).

A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claims 1-8, wherein the groove (150) runs for at least 90% around the doorway.

10. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claims 1-9, wherein the groove (150) runs entirely around the doorway.

11. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claims 1-10, wherein the luminous element (101) comprises LEDs and / or LED strips (200).

12. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claims 1-11, wherein the luminous element (101) comprises a light guide (300).

13. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claim 12, wherein the light guide (300) comprises a optical polymer fiber (310).

14. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the opening (500) comprises a light source (350) in the side wall (140).

15. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claims 1-14, wherein the luminous element (101) comprises a controllable light intensity.

16. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claims 1-15, wherein the luminous element (101) comprises a controllable light color.

17. A seal (100) for a door opening (440) of a washing machine (400) according to claims 1-16, wherein the luminous element (101) comprises one or more individually controllable luminous elements.

18. A washing machine (400), comprising a seal (100) according to any one of claims 1-17.

19. A washing machine (400) according to claim 18, wherein the washing machine (400) is of the front loader type.

20. A washing machine (400) according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the washing machine (400) comprises a door (430), wherein the door (430) comprises a transparent window (431).

21. A mold for manufacturing a seal (100) according to any one of claims 1-17.

22. A method for manufacturing a seal (100) according to any one of claims 1-17, using a mold, wherein the seal (100) is produced via an injection molding process comprising following steps:

b) injecting the rubber mixture under pressure into the mold;

c) vulcanizing the rubber mixture at a temperature between 150 °C and 220 °C to a rubber product;

d) removing the rubber product from the mold;

e) cooling the rubber product.

23. A method according to claim 22 comprising the following additional step:

placing the luminous element (101) into the mold.