| WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20220299257 | ENCAPSULATION SYSTEM FOR A THERMAL BRIDGE BREAKER-TO-METAL LINER - An appliance includes an outer wrapper, an inner liner, a trim breaker having a wrapper channel that receives a wrapper edge of the outer wrapper and a liner channel that receives a liner edge of the inner liner, and an insulation material disposed within an insulating cavity defined therebetween. A multi-component thermal encapsulation material defines pre-mix, application and sealing states. The pre-mix state is defined by the distinct components of the thermal encapsulation material being separated from one another, the application state defined by the distinct components combined together into an uncured state of the thermal encapsulation material, and the sealing state defined by the thermal encapsulation material disposed within the wrapper and liner channels and surrounding the wrapper and liner edges, respectively, in the sealing state that defines a hermetic seal between the trim breaker and the outer wrapper and the inner liner. | 09-22-2022 |
| 20220299255 | POLYMER TRIM BREAKER HAVING GAS-BLOCKING FLAKES AND AN EPOXY COATING - A refrigerator includes an inner liner, an outer wrapper and a trim breaker that extends between the inner liner and the outer wrapper to define an insulated structural cabinet. The trim breaker includes a plurality of gas-blocking flakes, wherein each gas-blocking flake includes a longitudinal axis that extends substantially parallel with an elongated surface of the respective gas-blocking flake. The longitudinal axis and the elongated surface of each corresponding gas-blocking flake is oriented to be substantially parallel with a portion of an outer surface of the trim breaker located near the respective gas-blocking flake. | 09-22-2022 |
| 20220299252 | METHOD FOR RAPID ENCAPUSLATION OF A CORNER GAP DEFINED WITHIN A CORNER OF A DOOR PANEL FOR AN APPLIANCE - A method of forming an insulated door panel includes folding side flanges of a metallic sheet to define side edges of a structural outer panel that extend from a front panel. A gap is defined between each set of adjacent side edges. Interior blocks are secured to an interior of the structural outer panel proximate each gap to define adhesive cavities. Exterior blocks are positioned at an exterior surface of the structural outer panel at each gap to further define the adhesive cavities. An adhesive is disposed within each adhesive cavity and is contained therein by the interior and exterior blocks. The adhesive is cured to a solid sealing member that adheres the interior blocks to the interior surface of the structural outer panel to form a sealed structural panel. The exterior blocks are removed and each solid sealing member defines a hermetic seal at each gap. | 09-22-2022 |
| 20220298711 | METHOD OF DETERMINING VOLUME OF WATER TO ADD TO FIRST AND SECOND WASHING COMPARTMENTS OF A WASHING MACHINE AS A FUNCTION OF DETERMINED MOMENT OF INERTIA - A washing machine includes a first washing compartment to hold a first set of articles to be washed and a second washing compartment to holds a second set of articles to be washed, the second washing compartment having an inserted position and a removed position. A liquid flow valve is configured to connect to an external liquid source to selectively control flow of liquid from the external liquid source and into one or more of the first washing compartment and the second washing compartment. An electric motor is configured to rotate the first washing compartment, and the second washing compartment, when the second washing compartment is in the inserted position. A controller, in communication with the electric motor, determines a mass of the second set of articles and then determines, as a function of the determined mass, a volume of water to be added to the second washing compartment. | 09-22-2022 |
| 20220290911 | APPLIANCE ENCAPSULATION MEMBER - A cabinet structure includes a wrapper that is spaced apart from a liner. A trim breaker is coupled to the wrapper and the liner. An insulation cavity is disposed between the wrapper, the liner, and the trim breaker. An encapsulation member is disposed rearwardly of the trim breaker and defines an encapsulation cavity that is separated from the insulation cavity. The encapsulation member is free from openings. A hinge support is operably coupled to the encapsulation member to further define the encapsulation cavity. The hinge support has a lower frame portion that extends perpendicularly along the trim breaker. The hinge support is disposed forwardly of the trim breaker. | 09-15-2022 |
| 20220290909 | GUIDE FEATURE FOR A REFRIGERATION UNIT - A refrigeration unit includes a water tray. The water tray includes at least one side wall that extends from a floor of the water tray to an upper rim of the water tray to define a cavity. A guide feature is coupled to the upper rim of the water tray. The guide feature includes a connection feature that is aligned with the cavity of the water tray. A drain conduit is coupled to the connection feature of the guide feature. Water conveyed by the drain conduit is configured to be received within the water tray. | 09-15-2022 |
| 20220290350 | LAUNDRY APPLIANCE - A laundry appliance includes a cabinet that has a front panel. A tub is positioned within the cabinet. A door is coupled to the front panel of the cabinet. The door moves vertically between a closed position and an opened position. A bellows assembly is coupled to the front panel. The bellows assembly extends between the cabinet and the tub. A sealing assembly includes a first seal and a second seal that are each coupled to the bellows assembly. | 09-15-2022 |
| 20220287158 | METHOD FOR IMPROVING ACCURACY IN LOAD CURVES ACQUISITION ON AN INDUCTION COOKTOP - A method is provided for controlling average power delivered to coils of a flexible induction cooktop having a plurality of coils that are arranged adjacent to one another in a non-overlapping manner to form an array. The method includes: a) identifying a group of the plurality of coils that are underlying one or more cookware items; b) providing power to at least one coil of the group of coils underlying one or more cookware items; and c) at the same time, not providing power to coils of the group of coils underlying the cookware items that are adjacent to the at least one coil to which power is provided to prevent interaction between adjacent coils of the group of coils. | 09-08-2022 |
| 20220284684 | AUGMENTED REALITY FEEDBACK OF INVENTORY FOR AN APPLIANCE - A food storage system is disclosed. The system comprises an appliance having a cabinet defining an interior, the interior comprising at least one of a shelf, compartment, or drawer configured to store at least one food item, a vision system comprising at least one imager configured to record image data related to the at least one food item stored within the interior, and a controller in communication with the vision system. The controller can be operable to generate an augmented reality representation of the interior. | 09-08-2022 |
| 20220282909 | HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE COMPRISING SHELF ARRANGEMENT - The present disclosure refers to a household refrigeration appliance and, more specifically, to a household refrigeration appliance with a multifunctional shelf. A multifunctional shelf arrangement is provided, including: a shelf comprising a frame that is physically associated to the walls of an internal box by shelf rails; the frame comprising lateral, front and rear portions, as well as at least one accessory physically associated to the shelf by accessory rails defining at least one track for displacement of the accessory. Specifically, in accordance with this disclosure, the frame comprises a plurality of receiving structures and the accessory rails comprise fitting projections which engage directly with the receiving structures of the frame, so that the attachment rails are removably fitted with the receiving structures. | 09-08-2022 |
| 20220282905 | APPLIANCE TRIM BREAKER ASSEMBLY - A refrigerator appliance includes a cabinet with a liner spaced apart from a wrapper. A trim breaker is operably coupled with the liner and the wrapper. A trim adapter assembly is coupled with the trim breaker and includes an adapter member and a corner member. The trim breaker defines a forward receiving space and a protrusion of the trim adapter assembly is received by the forward receiving space. A heat loop assembly is operably coupled with the adapter member. The heat loop assembly includes a cover and a heat loop disposed between the cover and the trim breaker. | 09-08-2022 |
| 20220282424 | HEATER AND CONTROL SCHEME FOR MULTI-COMPARTMENT DRYER - A heater arrangement for a multi-compartment appliance comprises a first heater, a second heater, and a relay. The first heater is disposed within a first airflow path for a first dryer compartment. The second heater is disposed within a second airflow path for a second dryer compartment. The relay interconnects, via an electrical harness, the first and second heaters. The relay, responsive to a demand for heat to the first dryer compartment and the first heater having a temperature being less than a target temperature, diverts power to the first heater. | 09-08-2022 |
| 20220282417 | AUTOMATIC LAUNDRY TREATMENT APPLIANCE WITH LOAD HEIGHT DETECTION - An automatic laundry treating appliance having at least one sensor configured to detect the height of laundry in a treating chamber of the automatic laundry treating appliance is disclosed. Based upon the output of the sensors, a human-perceptible signal is generated to indicate whether the laundry load is below, within or above an optimal range for the laundry load. Further, the automatic laundry treating appliance may communicate to the user after completion of a drying function information related to whether the amount of laundry treated during the drying function exceeded an upper limit for an optimal amount of laundry based upon data acquired during the drying function. | 09-08-2022 |
| 20220278571 | MULTI-COMPONENT ROTOR FOR AN ELECTRIC MOTOR OF AN APPLIANCE - A motor for a laundry appliance includes a drive shaft coupled to a drum at a first end. The rotor frame is coupled proximate the second end of the drive shaft, where the rotor frame includes at least one polymeric material. A central hub includes a core and a perimetrical ring that extends circumferentially around the core. A plurality of recesses are defined within a planar surface of the perimetrical ring, wherein a portion of the polymeric material is received within the plurality of recesses to secure the rotor frame to the central hub. | 09-01-2022 |
| 20220275902 | PROCESSES FOR MAKING A SUPER-INSULATING CORE MATERIAL FOR A VACUUM INSULATED STRUCTURE - A method for forming a super-insulating material for a vacuum insulated structure includes disposing glass spheres within a rotating drum. A plurality of interstitial spaces are defined between the glass spheres. A binder material is disposed within the rotating drum. The glass spheres and the at least one binder material are rotated within the rotating drum, wherein the binder material is mixed during a first mixing stage with the glass spheres. A first insulating material is disposed within the rotating drum. The binder material, the first insulating material and the glass spheres are mixed to define an insulating base. A second insulating material is disposed within the rotating drum. The secondary insulating material is mixed with the insulating base to define a homogenous form of the super-insulating material, wherein the first and second insulating materials occupy substantially all of the interstitial spaces. | 09-01-2022 |
| 20220275565 | DUAL MOTOR DRYER DRIVE CONTAINED WITHIN A COMMON ASSEMBLY - According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an electric motor for a laundry appliance includes a first stator having a central axis. A first rotor is in electromagnetic communication with the first stator and is rotationally operable about the central axis. A second stator is aligned with the central axis. A second rotor is in electromagnetic communication with the second stator and is rotationally operable about the central axis. The first and second stators are positioned within a common motor cavity of an outer housing. A controller regulates a first electrical current to the first stator and a second electrical current to the second stator. The controller includes a torque discrimination module for monitoring an output torque of at least the first rotor. | 09-01-2022 |
| 20220267942 | Spring-Loaded Side Swing Hinge With Feedback Elimination - A spring-loaded hinge assembly including a hinge support bracket and a leaf that is pivotally mounted to the hinge support bracket. A coil spring is supported on a spring support member, which includes a pivot bush. The coil spring applies a biasing force to the spring support member, which operates to push the pivot bush against a cam on the leaf. A lock configured to rotate between locked and unlocked positions includes a finger that engages an engagement feature on the hinge support bracket when the lock rotates to the locked position as the leaf swings toward the open position. In the locked position, the lock holds the coil spring in a partially compressed, pre-load condition and the pivot bush at a partially retracted position relative to the cam until the lock is subsequently released by contact between the cam and the pivot bush during subsequent closure. | 08-25-2022 |
| 20220263355 | AXIAL FLUX MOTOR HAVING RECTILINEAR STATOR TEETH - An axial flux motor for an appliance includes a stator yoke. A plurality of stator teeth extend from the stator yoke in an axial direction and are positioned about a central rotational axis. Each stator tooth includes a plurality of laminations that extend in the axial direction and form a âTâ shaped member. The plurality of stator teeth are overmolded with a polymeric material to define a plurality of axial stator poles. At least one winding extends around the plurality of axial stator poles. A ring-shaped rotor rotates about the central rotational axis of the stator yoke. The rotor is positioned proximate an axial end of the plurality of axial stator poles. | 08-18-2022 |
| 20220252333 | TRIM BREAKER FOR AN INSULATED APPLIANCE - A trim breaker for sealing an outer wrapper of an appliance with an inner liner to form an insulation space therebetween is provided. The trim breaker includes a body including a rear wall, a first leg extending from the rear wall, and a second leg extending from the rear wall. The trim breaker also includes a front wall coupled with the body opposite the rear wall, wherein the front wall includes a channel extending inward toward the rear wall, and a chamber defined at least in part between the front wall and the rear wall. | 08-11-2022 |
| 20220252332 | SUPPORT ASSEMBLY FOR APPLIANCE - A vacuum insulated appliance includes an outer wrapper and an inner liner. A ladder rack is coupled to the inner liner. The ladder rack includes first and second sidewalls coupled together by a connecting wall that defines a plurality of apertures. An adapter member includes a hook configured to extend through an aperture of the plurality of apertures when coupled to the ladder rack. The adapter member is coupled with a locking member that engages inner surface of first and second sidewalls of the ladder rack. A cantilever support is coupled to the adapter member and extends outward from the ladder rack. A rail assembly is coupled to an upper surface of the cantilever support. A spacer is coupled to an end of the cantilever support and abuts an inner liner surface. A storage feature is coupled to the rail assembly and is operable between stowed and deployed positions. | 08-11-2022 |
| 20220247902 | REFRIGERATORS HAVING INTERNAL CONTENT CAMERAS, AND METHODS OF OPERATING THE SAME - Example refrigerators having internal content cameras, and methods of operating the same are disclosed. A disclosed example refrigerator includes a cabinet, an internal compartment disposed within the cabinet, a closing member operatively coupled to the cabinet providing selective access to the internal compartment, two cameras disposed in the compartment and positioned to capture images of different portions of the compartment, two light sources disposed in the compartment, and a controller communicatively coupled with the cameras and light sources and configured to control the light sources to provide two different illuminations for respective ones of the two cameras. | 08-04-2022 |
| 20220243976 | APPLIANCE MOUNTING ASSEMBLY - An appliance mounting assembly includes a mounting bracket with first and second distal arms that flare outward in opposing directions from an attachment body and couple to a panel. The mounting bracket includes a pair of coupling members that extend from the attachment body toward the panel surface and distal ends that curve inward toward one another. A self-clinching nut has an undercut, serrated clinching ring, and base. The undercut and the serrated clinching ring are disposed within an aperture defined by the attachment body. A ladder rack has first and second sides coupled via an attachment wall. The first and second sides define protrusions that engage the pair of coupling members in an interference fit. The attachment wall defines a receiving hole that aligns with the aperture. A threaded fastener extends through the receiving hole and engages the self-clinching nut to fasten the ladder rack to the mounting bracket. | 08-04-2022 |
| 20220243383 | DISPENSING ASSEMBLY FOR APPLIANCE - A dispensing assembly for a laundry appliance includes a cabinet defining a cartridge port. A dispensing device is coupled to the cabinet and extends into the cartridge port. A dispensing cartridge is selectively received by the cartridge port. The dispensing cartridge selectively engages the dispensing device when in an installed position within the cartridge port. The dispensing cartridge includes a nesting portion configured to house a first laundry chemistry. An insert portion is configured to house a second laundry chemistry. The nesting portion selectively receives the insert portion. | 08-04-2022 |
| 20220235943 | COOKTOP WITH HINGED BURNER GRATES - A cooktop for an appliance includes a cooktop base surface that defines an edge. A cooktop burner is mounted on the cooktop base surface. A support base is rigidly fixed with the cooktop base surface adjacent the edge. A grate is rotatably supported to the support base and is rotatable between a raised position and a lowered position to alternately cover and uncover the cooking burner. A biasing member is coupled to the support base and exerts an upward biasing force on the grate. | 07-28-2022 |
| 20220235582 | LATCH ASSEMBLY - An appliance door closure assembly is provided and comprises an inner door selectively coupled with an outer door. An anchor is in connection with the inner door and defines a retention space. A latch assembly is in connection with the outer door. The latch assembly includes a first cam having a first contact surface and pivotally coupled to a base. A second cam has a second contact surface engaged with the first contact surface of the first cam. The latch assembly is movable between a first position and a second position. | 07-28-2022 |
| 20220235511 | CHEMISTRY DISPENSING ASSEMBLY FOR A LAUNDRY APPLIANCE - A chemistry dispensing assembly for a laundry appliance includes a reservoir that dispenses a laundry chemistry to a treatment chamber. A mixing channel is positioned below the reservoir that receives the laundry chemistry dispensed from the reservoir. A fluid assembly delivers a fluid carrier through a flow path that includes the mixing channel. The mixing channel is defined between an underside of the reservoir and an upper surface of the mixing channel. | 07-28-2022 |
| 20220233025 | NON-CONTACT MAGNETIC COUPLER FOR FOOD PROCESSING APPLIANCE HAVING SMALL BRUSHLESS PERMANENT MAGNET MOTOR - A food processing appliance includes a container having a rotational processing assembly that includes an inner portion of a magnetic coupler. A base has a drive system for providing a rotational drive force. A drive rotor selectively transfers the rotational drive force to the magnetic coupler. The drive rotor includes a plurality of drive-magnetic members that form an outer portion of the magnetic coupler. The inner portion and outer portions of the magnetic coupler selectively and magnetically engage to form an engaged position. The engaged position is further defined by the inner portion being completely separated from the outer portion to define a gap therebetween. | 07-28-2022 |
| 20220228795 | APPLIANCE TRIM BREAKER - A refrigerator appliance includes a cabinet having an inner liner spaced apart from an outer wrapper and a trim breaker extending between the inner liner and the outer wrapper to define an insulating cavity therebetween. The trim breaker includes first and second opposing vertical portions, a top portion, a bottom portion, and a central portion. The top portion is integrally formed with each vertical portion at a respective upper corner, and the bottom portion is integrally formed with each vertical portion at a respective lower corner. A first plurality of ribs extends from an outer rim of the trim breaker and at least partially along the central portion, and a second plurality of ribs extends from the outer rim of at least one of the first and second vertical portions and across at least one of the upper and lower corners. | 07-21-2022 |
| 20220221890 | HOUSEHOLD ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM UTILIZING MULTIPLE SCALES OF TIME - An electricity management system for a residential setting includes a controller that is coupled with a plurality of appliances. A plurality of sensors are coupled with the controller and respectively coupled to the plurality of appliances. The controller cooperates with the sensors and the appliances to generate a demand response plan for delivering electrical power to the plurality of appliances. The demand response plan includes a shifting strategy that regulates a delivery of electrical power based upon a regional pattern of electrical consumption, a shedding strategy that maintains a household consumption of electrical power below a household upper consumption limit and a modulating strategy based upon the respective operating cycles of the plurality of appliances that prevents a simultaneous peak electrical event within more than one appliance of the plurality of appliances. The shifting strategy, the shedding strategy and the modulating strategy are implemented contemporaneously. | 07-14-2022 |
| 20220221217 | HANDLE ASSEMBLY - A handle assembly for an appliance includes an elongate arcuate body with a grasping portion that has a first internal support rib and a forward wall that has a second internal support rib. The elongate arcuate body further defines a hollow profile. An insert is disposed within the hollow profile and includes at least one slot that receives at least one of the first internal support rib and the second internal support rib. An end cap is operably coupled to an end of the elongate arcuate body. At least one groove is defined at least in part by the forward wall. | 07-14-2022 |
| 20220221099 | VACUUM INSULATED REFRIGERATOR STRUCTURE WITH FEATURE FOR CONTROLLING DEFORMATION AND IMPROVED AIR WITHDRAWAL - A vacuum insulated structure includes a first cover member of a stamped unitary sheet defining a perimeter portion positioned at a first planar level and a reinforcing member formed in the interior sheet extending to a second planar level spaced axially outward and disposed radially inward of the perimeter portion. The vacuum insulated structure also includes a second cover member and a thermal bridge interconnecting the first cover member and the second cover member at the perimeter portions thereof to define an insulating cavity therebetween. The insulating cavity is a sealed cavity having a vacuum drawn therefrom, and the first reinforcing member is configured to reduce deformation of the first cover member in at least an area adjacent the reinforcing member and to define a portion of a path for air flow out of the sealed cavity during a vacuum draw process. | 07-14-2022 |
| 20220220711 | WATER RECLAMATION SYSTEM FOR HOUSEHOLD USE HAVING A REMOVABLE SANITIZING MODULE - A water reclamation system includes a collection basin that collects greywater from non-toilet sources. The collection basin is part of a fluid path of the greywater. A plurality of sensors are disposed within the fluid path. The plurality of sensors monitor a particulate level within the greywater. The plurality of sensors include at least a turbidity sensor and a conductivity sensor. A coagulation and filtration system separates particulate from the greywater to define filtered greywater. A staging basin is included, where the filtered greywater is delivered from the coagulation and filtration system to the staging basin to define flush water. | 07-14-2022 |
| 20220220659 | VENTILATION SOLUTION FOR CLOSED-LOOP DRYER SYSTEMS - A drying appliance includes a cabinet. A drum processes articles of laundry. The drum is positioned for rotational operation within the cabinet. A blower directs process air through a recirculating airflow path that includes the drum. The drum and the blower are activated in an operating state and deactivated in an idle state. A first operable vent is positioned proximate a front of the cabinet. A second operable vent is positioned proximate a rear of the cabinet. The first and second operable vents define an open position after the drum and the blower define the idle state. The first and second operable vents define a closed position after the drum and the blower define the operating state. | 07-14-2022 |
| 20220214100 | DRAINAGE ASSEMBLY - A drainage assembly for an insulated structure includes a flexible body that has a plurality of flexures and defines an opening and notches that extend radially from the opening. A first drainage tube extends through the opening and includes receiving flanges disposed within the notches defined by the flexible body. A second drainage tube is in fluid communication with the first drainage tube. The second drainage tube includes engagement flanges disposed within the receiving flanges of the first drainage tube. | 07-07-2022 |
| 20220214099 | BARRIER LAYER FOR INSULATED STRUCTURES - An insulating structure for an appliance includes a trim breaker, a wrapper, and a liner. The wrapper and liner coupled to the trim breaker and at least partially defining a structural cabinet. A barrier is positioned between the liner and the wrapper. The barrier is also coupled to the trim breaker. An inner compressible gasket is proximate the liner, and an outer gasket is proximate the wrapper. The inner gasket and the outer compressible gasket are coupled to the barrier. | 07-07-2022 |
| 20220211216 | SIFTER SCALE ATTACHMENT FOR STAND MIXER - A food-product handling device includes a sifter unit having a housing defining an open upper side, a mount extending outwardly from the first housing along a first axis, and a lower side opposite the upper side. The sifter unit further has a sifter basket having an interior aligned with and inset within the open upper side. The device further includes a scale assembly having a body defining an upper opening and an opposite lower opening and having an annular weight-sensing unit surrounding the upper opening. The body is positionable on the housing of the sifter unit with the opening in communication with the open upper side of the housing. A hopper is positionable on the weight-sensing unit and defines a lower open end at least partially received within the body when the hopper is positioned on the weight-sensing unit. | 07-07-2022 |
| 20220205711 | REINFORCEMENT ASSEMBLY FOR AN INSULATED STRUCTURE - An appliance includes a vacuum insulated structure that has a peripheral edge including a wrapper and a liner. A mullion is operably coupled to the vacuum insulated structure. A reinforcement assembly is operably coupled to the vacuum insulated structure and the mullion. The reinforcement assembly includes a perimeter frame that is operably coupled to the peripheral edge of the vacuum insulated structure, and a central plate that is operably coupled to the mullion. A door is operably coupled to the reinforcement assembly. | 06-30-2022 |
| 20220205709 | INSULATION MATERIALS FOR A VACUUM INSULATED STRUCTURE AND METHODS OF FORMING - A method and system for forming an insulation package for use in a vacuum insulated structure is provided. A slurry containing a liquid and an insulation material is formed. The slurry can be supplied to an envelope under vacuum, wherein the envelope is gas-permeable and permeable to the liquid. At least a portion of the liquid is drawn through the envelope and at least a portion of the insulation material is retained within the envelope to form an insulation package. One or more insulation packages can be disposed within an insulating cavity and the insulating cavity can be evacuated to decrease a pressure therein to form a vacuum insulated structure. | 06-30-2022 |
| 20220205708 | VACUUM INSULATED STRUCTURE WITH SHEET METAL FEATURES TO CONTROL VACUUM BOW - A vacuum insulated structure includes a first cover member of a unitary sheet member defining a perimeter portion, an outer frame portion defined radially inward of the perimeter portion, and an inner area surrounded and supported by the outer frame portion. The inner area defines a first planar level with a portion of the outer frame portion extending to a second planar level parallel to and spaced apart from the first planar level in an axial direction. The vacuum insulated structure further includes a second cover member of a unitary sheet and a thermal bridge interconnecting the first cover member and the second cover member at the perimeter portions thereof to define an insulating cavity therebetween. The outer frame portion deforms such that the inner area moves axially inward away from the second planar level under a force of the vacuum within the insulating cavity. | 06-30-2022 |
| 20220205705 | FASCIA AND DIVIDER WALL FOR A MACHINE COMPARTMENT - A machine compartment assembly for an appliance cabinet includes a fascia that is configured to engage said appliance cabinet. The fascia includes an upper portion that defines a plurality of slots along a length of the upper portion. The fascia also includes a first side flange that is operably coupled to the upper portion and a second side flange that is operably coupled to the upper portion. The first side flange and the second side flange each define a slit. A divider wall is proximate to the fascia. The divider wall includes a wall body that has an outer edge and defines a warm air zone and a cool air zone. The divider wall also includes a gasket is operably coupled to the outer edge of the wall body. | 06-30-2022 |
| 20220205295 | APPLIANCE DOOR HINGE ASSEMBLY - An appliance includes an appliance body having a front panel defining a connector slot. A hinge receiver is coupled with the appliance body and has opposing side walls defining a receiving space therebetween. The hinge receiver includes a first striker positioned above a second striker. The first and second strikers are aligned with the connector slot. A hinge arm assembly includes a hinge arm configured to engage with the second striker and a latch cam hingedly coupled with the hinge arm. The latch cam is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and a top surface of the latch cam abuts the first striker in the engaged position. A door is rotatably coupled with the appliance body by the hinge receiver and the hinge assembly and is rotatable about a door axis between open and closed positions. | 06-30-2022 |
| 20220205164 | BUTTON TRAP AND SIEVE FOR A LAUNDRY APPLIANCE - A laundry appliance includes a wash tub disposed within a cabinet. A rotating drum is disposed within the wash tub. A drain system directs a fluid from the wash tub to a fluid pump. A trap is disposed within a tub drain of the wash tub. The trap includes an elongated body having a plurality of fingers that extend across an aperture defined within the elongated body. The plurality of fingers are configured to permit passage of particulate material and prevent passage of foreign objects through the elongated body. | 06-30-2022 |
| 20220203653 | TRANSPARENT TINTED COATING FOR APPLIANCE EXTERIOR PANELS TO ALLOW FOR TINTED SURFACE PATTERNS AND A PROCESS FOR APPLICATION OF COATING - An exterior panel for a kitchen appliance includes a metallic substrate having a predetermined surface pattern on at least one side of the metallic substrate, wherein the metallic substrate is formed to include a predetermined contour. A coating layer is an organic paint coating composition on the at least one side of the metallic substrate, the coating layer including a predetermined color and a fingerprint resistive surface, wherein the coating layer is at least partially translucent such that the predetermined surface pattern is visible with the naked eye through the coating layer, and wherein the predetermined surface pattern is modified by the coating layer to reflect the combination of the predetermined surface pattern and the predetermined color of the coating layer. | 06-30-2022 |
| 20220202235 | PHASE-GATE HYBRID COATING CRISP PLATE - A microwave-heating crisp plate includes a body defining a food-supporting surface and an outer surface opposite the food-supporting surface, and a coating applied over at least a portion of the outer surface. The coating includes a base polymer material defining a matrix, carbon nanotubes, and ferrite particles. The carbon nanotubes and the ferrite particles are dispersed throughout the matrix in a predetermined relative ratio and in a predetermined dispersal ratio with respect to the matrix. | 06-30-2022 |
| 20220202230 | TEA MAKING APPLIANCE WITH FILTER ASSEMBLY - A tea maker includes a brewing unit which defines a vessel having an upper opening with a spout disposed thereon. A lid assembly is removeably received on the upper opening of the vessel and includes a steeping tube. The steeping tube extends downwardly from the lid assembly into the vessel when the lid assembly is received on the upper opening of the vessel. An articulating filter assembly is coupled to the lid assembly and includes a filter plate that is operable between an extended position and a retracted position. The filter plate is configured to contact an inner surface of the vessel when the filter plate is in the extended position. A biasing member is configured to bias the filter plate towards the extended position for filtering a brewed tea mixture as the mixture is poured through the upper opening of the vessel. | 06-30-2022 |
| 20220104315 | TEMPERATURE SENSOR ASSEMBLY FOR INDUCTION COOKTOP - An induction cooking apparatus including a cooktop panel, induction coil, controller, and temperature sensor assembly. A temperature sensor and guiding support are positioned in sliding engagement in an opening in the center of the induction coil where an upper end of the temperature sensor sits above a top surface of the induction coil. The controller includes a first circuit board that supplies electricity to the induction coil. A second circuit board, separate from the first circuit board, is electrically connected to the temperature sensor and includes a cantilevered leaf-spring structure that supports the temperature sensor. The guiding support is a load bearing structure that transmits a biasing force created by deflection of the cantilevered leaf-spring structure to the temperature sensor, which operates to hold the temperature sensor in contact with a lower surface of the cooktop panel. | 03-31-2022 |
| 20220099359 | DOUBLE CABINET VACUUM INSULATED REFRIGERATOR WITH A STRUCTURAL FOAMED MULLION - An insulation system for an appliance includes a first vacuum insulated structure having a first set of sidewalls that define a first refrigerating compartment, a second vacuum insulated structure having a second set of sidewalls that define a second refrigerating compartment and a medial insulation structure having a rigid perimeter wall. The rigid perimeter wall includes a front portion that defines at least one hinge support adapted to support an appliance door. The rigid perimeter wall defines an insulating cavity that is filled with an insulating material. The first vacuum insulated structure engages a first edge of the perimeter wall and the second vacuum insulated structure engages a second edge of the perimeter wall. | 03-31-2022 |
| 20220099238 | METHOD FOR IMPROVED INSULATION AND FILLER MATERIALS - A method for preparing a vacuum insulated panel includes forming an internal cavity between a liner and a wrapper and preparing a filler material to be disposed in the internal cavity. The filler material includes a first part and a second part and is prepared by treating a surface of the first part. A coating is applied to the surface of the first part with a chemical having a first charge. The coating forms a first surface charge on the surface of the first part. The method further includes mixing the first part with the second part forming the filler material. The second part includes a material having a second surface charge opposite the first surface charge. | 03-31-2022 |
| 20220099124 | MULTI-LAYER ENCAPSULATION SYSTEM FOR JOINT SEALING OF VACUUM INSULATED CABINETS - An appliance includes an outer wrapper, an inner liner, a trim breaker having a channel that receives at least one of a wrapper edge of the outer wrapper and a liner edge of the inner liner, and a composite encapsulation system that hermetically seals an insulating cavity defined between the outer wrapper and the inner liner. The composite encapsulation system includes a base adhesive and an outer adhesive, wherein the base adhesive defines a structural adhesive component and the outer adhesive defines a sealing adhesive component. | 03-31-2022 |
| 20220074645 | VACUUM GENERATING SYSTEM FOR AN APPLIANCE INCORPORATING A VACUUM INSULATED STRUCTURE - An appliance includes an outer wrapper and an inner liner placed within the outer wrapper and spaced apart from the outer wrapper to define an insulating space. A trim breaker extends between the inner liner and the outer wrapper to define a structural cabinet. The trim breaker defines a front face of the cabinet. The trim breaker defines a gas conduit disposed within a wall of the structural cabinet proximate the insulating space. The gas conduit is adapted to define selective communication between the insulating space and an exterior of the structural cabinet. An insulating material is disposed within the insulating space, wherein the gas conduit is substantially free of the insulating material. | 03-10-2022 |
| 20220074101 | LAUNDRY APPLIANCE WITH A DEFLECTOR - A laundry appliance includes a cabinet defining an aperture in a front surface thereof. A drum is disposed within the cabinet. The drum defines an access opening that aligns with the aperture. A door is coupled to the cabinet and is operable between closed and opened positions relative to the aperture. A bellows extends along a perimeter of the aperture and proximate the access opening. A deflector extends along at least a portion of the perimeter of the aperture. The deflector extends into an interior of the drum over the bellows. | 03-10-2022 |
| 20220011041 | CABINET REINFORCING ASSEMBLY - A cabinet of an appliance includes an outer wrapper defining opposing first and second sidewalls, a rear wall coupling the first and second sidewalls and an access opening and an inner liner defining an interior. The outer wrapper and the inner liner may define a sealed insulating cavity therebetween that is under vacuum. A plurality of reinforcement brackets may be disposed on the outer wrapper. The plurality of reinforcement brackets are configured to prevent deformation of the cabinet during application of the vacuum to the insulating cavity. | 01-13-2022 |
| 20220006419 | METHOD AND CIRCUIT FOR SOFT STARTING A MIXER - A soft start circuit for a mixer is provided that includes an input for receiving an analog voltage representing a raw target speed; a current mirror for causing a speed target to change at a constant rate when the raw target speed represents a change from a current speed; and a comparator for receiving and comparing the raw target speed and an output from the current mirror and restricting the output from exceeding the raw target speed in order to restrict a soft start to only impede the speed target change when the raw target speed is increasing while not impeding the speed target change when the raw target speed is decreasing. The output of the soft start circuit is an analog representation of a soft start modified desired target speed. | 01-06-2022 |
| 20220003485 | SIDE ACCESS PANEL FOR AN APPLIANCE - An appliance cabinet includes a wrapper that has sidewalls and define a machine compartment. An attachment feature is coupled to the wrapper proximate the sidewalls. The attachment feature includes horizontal supports and vertical supports that define a lattice structure of the attachment feature, and a selectively removable side access panel is removably coupled to the sidewalls to define at least one access point to the machine compartment. | 01-06-2022 |
| 20220003476 | ICEMAKER ASSEMBLY - A refrigerator includes a freezer compartment and a machine compartment positioned proximate the freezer compartment. An icemaker assembly is positioned within the freezer compartment. A fill tube extends from the machine compartment into the icemaker assembly. A first solenoid valve is coupled to the fill tube. A second solenoid valve is coupled to the fill tube, wherein the first and second solenoid valves are positioned within the machine compartment. A controller is configured to independently open and close the first and second solenoid valves. | 01-06-2022 |
| 20210405680 | KNOB ASSEMBLY - A knob assembly includes a first housing with a sidewall extending from a base and a retention member inwardly extends from the sidewall. An operable second housing includes a selective stopper selectively movable between a first position and a second position relative to the retention member. The operable second housing is further axially operable between a compressed position and an extended position relative to the first housing, and the operable second housing includes a biasing member. | 12-30-2021 |
| 20210405598 | FOODSTUFF SENSING APPLIANCE - An appliance includes a temperature control system, a light source, and a spectrometer. The spectrometer works in conjunction with the light source to obtain a measured value of a foodstuff. The measured value is at least one of an absorbance value, a transmittance value, and a reflectance value. The measured value from the foodstuff is compared to a reference value for the foodstuff. | 12-30-2021 |
| 20210404735 | REFRIGERATION APPLIANCE CABINET ASSEMBLY - A cabinet assembly for a refrigerating appliance includes an inner liner having a forward liner edge. The forward liner edge defines an access opening. An outer wrapper is disposed around the inner liner and has a forward wrapper edge. The outer wrapper is spaced-apart from the inner liner to define an insulating cavity therebetween. A mullion assembly extends across the access opening. A trim breaker extends about the access opening and is coupled to the forward wrapper edge and the forward liner edge to seal the insulating cavity. The trim breaker includes a spacing flange positioned to contact the mullion assembly to define a receiving space between the trim breaker and the mullion assembly. | 12-30-2021 |
| 20210401174 | TRIM ASSEMBLY FOR AN APPLIANCE SHELF - An appliance includes a cabinet that has an inner surface. A frame is coupled to the inner surface of the cabinet. The frame includes a frame boss that extends from a bottom surface thereof. A panel is positioned within the frame. The frame extends along a perimeter of the panel. An inner trim member has a flange that extends therefrom. The flange defines an aperture configured to align with the frame boss. A fastener is configured to extend through the aperture and engage the frame boss to couple the inner trim member with the frame. An outer trim member is disposed over the inner trim member. The inner trim member is configured to slidably receive the outer trim member. | 12-30-2021 |
| 20210392918 | ICE CREAM MAKER ASSEMBLY - An ice cream making assembly includes a mixing bowl having an outer housing and an inner liner defining a wall cavity therebetween. The mixing bowl further includes a radiator fin unit received within a portion of the wall cavity and a phase-change medium filling a further portion of the wall cavity surrounding at least a portion of the radiator fin unit. The radiator fin unit defines an outer chamfer extending generally along an outer cross-sectional profile of the wall cavity and a tapered inner profile extending along inner cross-sectional profile of the wall cavity and in at least partial contact with the inner liner. The assembly further includes a dasher including first and second mixing arms extending outwardly from an anchor end of the axle and upwardly and outwardly to generally follow an angled inner profile of the a food-product receiving cavity defined by the liner. | 12-23-2021 |
| 20210392724 | MICROWAVE OVEN WITH INTEGRATED LOWER SURFACE HEATING PLATE - A microwave oven includes a housing defining an interior cavity, a magnetron positioned within the housing and outside of the interior cavity and a micro-wave antenna in electrical communication with the magnetron and positioned adjacent a lower surface of the interior cavity. The microwave oven further includes a heating plate that includes a glass-ceramic substrate defining at least a portion of the lower surface of the interior cavity. The heating plate further includes a resistive-heating coating applied on a portion of the glass-ceramic substrate and defining at least one open micro-wave transmissive path from the micro-wave antenna to the interior cavity. | 12-16-2021 |
| 20210388993 | LADDER RACK ASSEMBLY FOR A COOKING CAVITY - A cooking appliance includes a cabinet that defines a cooking cavity that has a first sidewall. A ladder rack assembly includes a horizontal rack and a vertical rail that are coupled to the first sidewall. The vertical rail is at least partially disposed within a recess of the first sidewall of the cooking cavity. | 12-16-2021 |
| 20210385914 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING COOKWARE ITEMS PLACED ON AN INDUCTION COOKTOP - A method for identifying cookware on an induction cooktop having coils, includes the steps: (a) acquire a coverage factor matrix; (b) set a present level at a maximum value of the matrix; (c) count closed iso-level curves corresponding to the present level and save the result; (d) decrease the level by an amount; (e) count closed curves corresponding to the decreased level; (f) when the number of closed curves at the present level is not lower than that from the previous level, update the saved result with the present level; (g) when the number of closed curves at the present level is lower than that from the previous level, keep the previously saved result; (h) repeat steps (d) to (h), until the number decreases; (i) assign coils inside the curve to a distinct cluster; and (j) use the clustering to estimate a position, shape, size, and orientation of the cookware. | 12-09-2021 |
| 20210385913 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING COOKWARE ITEMS PLACED ON AN INDUCTION COOKTOP - A method is provided for identifying cookware items placed on top of an induction cooktop having a plurality of coils. The method includes the following steps: acquire coverage factor information for each coil and collect it into a matrix; identify all local maxima in the matrix; find the coordinates of each of the local maxima as follows: when the local maxima is a single coil, the coordinates are those of the coil center, and when the local maxima is a region of contiguous coils, the coordinates are those of a centroid of the region; calculate distances from each coil to each of the coordinates of the identified local maxima; determine a minimum among the distances; classify the coils in clusters, based on the distances from the local maxima; and use the identified coil clustering to estimate the position, shape, size, and orientation of the cookware items. | 12-09-2021 |
| 20210381753 | PIGMENTED MONOLAYER LINER FOR APPLIANCES AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - A method of making a liner for an appliance is provided that includes: mixing a polymeric capping layer precursor and a pigment additive; forming the capping layer precursor and the pigment additive into a capping layer at a capping layer formation temperature; and rolling the capping layer, a barrier layer and a polymeric base layer together to form a liner, each of the capping layer, the barrier layer and the base layer at about the capping layer formation temperature. Further, the liner comprises a capping region, a barrier region and a base region, the capping region comprising the pigment additive. | 12-09-2021 |
| 20210381752 | FLEXIBLE PASSTHROUGH INSULATION FOR VIS - A refrigerator includes an insulated cabinet having a sidewall with a passthrough opening through the sidewall. A resilient insulating member is disposed in the passthrough opening. The resilient insulating member includes flaps that form an airtight seal between the resilient insulating member and the passthrough opening. At least one utility line extends through an aperture in the resilient insulating member. The utility line may comprise fluid conduit, electrical line, or the like that operably connect one or more components through the sidewall of the cabinet. | 12-09-2021 |
| 20210381746 | CLEAR ICE MAKER WITH WARM AIR FLOW - A method for preparing clear ice includes supporting an ice tray via a rotating assembly within a housing and separating an interior volume of the housing into a first air chamber and a second air chamber. The first air chamber is below the ice tray and the second air chamber is above the ice tray. Water is supplied into the ice tray and the ice tray is cooled with a cooling device thermally coupled to a bottom surface of the ice forming plate. The cooling device is exposed to chilled air from within the appliance in the first air chamber. Ambient air is supplied from outside the appliance into the second air chamber within the interior volume of the housing. The surface of the water in the ice tray is exposed to the ambient air. | 12-09-2021 |
| 20210381155 | HEAT EXCHANGER FILTER FOR SELF LINT CLEANING SYSTEM IN DRYER APPLIANCE - A laundry appliance includes a rotating drum for processing laundry. A blower directs process air through an airflow path that includes the rotating drum. A heat exchanger is positioned within the airflow path that dehumidifies the process air. A fixedly-secured lint filter captures lint from the process air at a position upstream of the heat exchanger. A fluid spray system has spray nozzles that deliver fluid to a surface of the fixedly-secured lint filter. Each spray nozzle of the plurality of spray nozzles directs captured lint away from the fixedly-secured lint filter. | 12-09-2021 |
| 20210372693 | SHELF ASSEMBLY FOR AN APPLIANCE - A shelf assembly for an appliance includes a shelf support operably coupled with a cabinet liner. First and second supports are positioned below the shelf support. The first and second supports are positioned on opposing sidewalls of the cabinet liner. A rear shelf portion is slidably supported on the shelf support between rearward and forward positions. A front shelf portion is positioned adjacent to the rear shelf portion and is movable between a raised position and a lowered position. A plurality of rotatable arms are configured to support the front shelf portion. Each rotatable arm of the plurality of rotatable arms is operably coupled with one of the first and second supports at a first end and is further operably coupled with the front shelf portion at a second end. A connecting arm interconnects the rear shelf portion and the front shelf portion. | 12-02-2021 |
| 20210372690 | PROCESSING OF CORE MATERIAL IN A VACUUM INSULATED STRUCTURE - A filling system for a vacuum insulated structure is provided having a powder processor including a hopper having an inner hopper wall and an outer hopper wall. The filling system also includes a vacuum insulated structure having a liner positioned inside a wrapper, a trim breaker coupling an outer liner edge and an outer wrapper edge to form a shell defining an internal cavity with at least one gas permeable feature positioned in the internal cavity configured to help apply a vacuum. A loading port is positioned on a surface of the shell. The powder processor loads the shell with a heated and at least partially degassed vacuum insulation material through the loading port while a vacuum is applied to the shell through the at least one gas permeable feature. | 12-02-2021 |
| 20210372628 | COOKTOP ASSEMBLY - A cooktop for a cooking appliance includes a cooking panel that has a first edge. A support feature is coupled to the cooking panel proximate the first edge. The cooking panel is disposed on the support feature. The support feature and the cooking panel define a cavity. A human-machine interface is coupled to an underside of the cooking panel. The human-machine interface is disposed within the cavity and adjacent to the support feature. A magnet assembly is coupled to the cooking panel and the human-machine interface. The magnet assembly is configured to retain the human-machine interface in a selected position on the underside of the cooking panel. | 12-02-2021 |
| 20210364219 | ICE-MAKING COMPARTMENT FOR AN APPLIANCE - An appliance ice-making compartment includes a housing which defines an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture. A first ice tray is disposed at a first height within the housing. A second ice tray is disposed at a second height within the housing where the first height is closer to a top of the housing compared to the second height. The second ice tray is closer to the inlet aperture compared to the first ice tray. An inlet duct is in fluid communication with the inlet aperture and configured to direct air toward the first ice tray and the second ice tray. | 11-25-2021 |
| 20210364035 | BEARING ASSEMBLY FOR A BLENDER JAR - A bearing assembly for a blender jar assembly includes a blender jar having a bottom wall that defines an opening. A retainer is positioned within the blender jar and defines a receiving space in communication with the opening. A jar collar is positioned exterior of the blender jar and is operably coupled with the retainer. A bearing housing is positioned within the receiving space and is spaced apart from the retainer by a first spacing. A nut is operably coupled with the bearing housing and is at least partially received by the receiving space. The nut is spaced apart from the retainer by a second spacing. A gasket is positioned to maintain at least one of the first and second spacings of the bearing housing and the nut relative to the retainer. | 11-25-2021 |
| 20210360750 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING QUASI-RESONANT INDUCTION HEATING DEVICES - A method for controlling an induction heating device includes supplying current from a D.C. power supply into a resonant load and emitting the current from the resonant load. The current is directionally conducted from the output node of the resonant load to a switching node downstream from the output node. The current conducted through the resonant load is controlled with a switching device. | 11-18-2021 |
| 20210356201 | INVENTORY INDICATION MECHANISM UTILIZING VISUAL INDICIA - A refrigerating appliance includes a cabinet that defines an interior cavity. A temperature sensing network monitors a temperature stratification of the interior cavity. The temperature stratification includes a plurality of temperature levels that correspond to respective locations of the interior cavity. A controller is configured to receive an input related to an item to be stored. The controller is further configured to compare the input with the temperature stratification. The controller is further configured to identify a primary storage location of the item to be stored based upon a comparison of the input and the plurality of temperature levels of the temperature stratification. A visual indicia is disposed within the interior cavity and coupled to the controller. The visual indicia activates to identify the primary storage location of the item to be stored. | 11-18-2021 |
| 20210356199 | WATER DISPENSING SYSTEM - A refrigerator water dispenser includes a shelf having a lower surface. A water dispenser tube is disposed adjacent to the shelf for dispensing water into a container. An actuator support is operably coupled to the lower surface of the shelf. A load cell is disposed on the actuator support, wherein the load cell sends a signal in response to movement by the actuator support. A controller is operably coupled to the load cell, wherein the controller activates a water dispensing sequence to dispense water via the water dispenser tube in response to the signal from the load cell. | 11-18-2021 |
| 20210356198 | STANDOFF FEATURE FOR APPLIANCE - A standoff feature for an appliance includes a connecting member having a first end and a second end. A first side member extends in a first direction from the first end of the connecting member. A second side member is spaced from the first side member. The second side member extends in the first direction from the second end of the connecting member. A first flange extends from a first side edge of the connecting member. The first side edge extends between the first end and the second end. The first flange extends in a second direction from the connecting member. A second flange extends from a second side edge of the connecting member. The second side edge extends between the first end and the second end and opposes the first side edge. The second flange extends in the second direction from the connecting member. | 11-18-2021 |
| 20210356197 | METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A VACUUM INSULATED STRUCTURE - A method for manufacturing a vacuum insulated structure includes adhering a trim breaker to a wrapper and a liner via an adhesive to define an insulated structure. The insulated structure is positioned within an evacuation chamber proximate to a first heater and a second heater. The insulated structure and the evacuation chamber are heated via the first heater and the second heater. The evacuation chamber is evacuated via a first vacuum pump, and the insulated structure is evacuated via a second vacuum pump. | 11-18-2021 |
| 20210356195 | VACUUM INSULATED STRUCTURE WITH THERMAL BRIDGE BREAKER WITH HEAT LOOP - A refrigerator includes a wrapper having an opening with a front edge. A liner includes an opening and a front edge. A thermal bridge interconnects the wrapper and the liner to form a vacuum insulated cavity therebetween. The thermal bridge includes an outwardly opening channel and first and second inwardly opening channels. The front edge of wrapper is received in the first inwardly opening channel, and the front edge of the liner is received in the second inwardly opening channel. The second inwardly opening channel is inset relative to the first inwardly opening channel on the thermal bridge. A conduit is disposed within the outwardly opening channel and is configured to circulate a heated medium. The wrapper and liner are contemplated to be comprised of conductive materials, such sheet metal, while the thermal bridge is comprised of a thermally resistant material, such as a polymeric material. | 11-18-2021 |
| 20210355727 | HINGE BRACKET - A hinge bracket assembly includes an anchor plate. A retention member extends perpendicular to the anchor plate. The anchor plate defines a first receiving aperture. A hinge plate is aligned with the anchor plate and includes a hinge arm and a protrusion. The protrusion extends from an edge of the hinge plate opposite the hinge arm. The hinge plate defines a second receiving aperture aligned with the first receiving aperture when the protrusion is received by a space defined by the retention member. A locking arm is rotatable between an unlocked position and a locked position and is configured to be at least partially received by the first and second receiving apertures to couple the anchor plate and the hinge plate. | 11-18-2021 |
| 20210355627 | SANITATION DEVICE - A sanitation system includes a drum configured to be positioned within a body of an appliance. The drum includes a lifter on an interior surface. A sanitation device is selectively disposed within the drum. The sanitation device includes a housing. A heatsink is integrally formed with the housing. The heatsink and the housing form an outer structure free of apertures. A sensor assembly is disposed within the outer structure. The sensor assembly includes a humidity sensor configured to sense humidity. A light source is disposed within the outer structure. | 11-18-2021 |
| 20210355625 | VARIOUS HINGE BRACKETS AND A HINGE RECEIVER FOR A LAUNDRY APPLIANCE - A hinge bracket to couple a hinge to a lid of a laundry appliance comprising: an elongated slot receiving a connector portion of a hinge; first fastener receivers extending from the elongated slot laterally inward toward a midline of a cabinet of the laundry appliance and configured to cooperate with fastener receivers of the hinge to receive fasteners that fasten the hinge to the hinge bracket; second fastener receivers on an opposite side of the hinge bracket as the first fastener receivers and configured to cooperate with the fastener receivers through a C-shaped lip of the lid to receive fasteners fastening the lid to the hinge bracket; and an indented portion formed laterally away from the elongated slot and facing the curved portion of the hinge. The laundry appliance can further include a hinge receiver to couple the hinge to a cabinet. | 11-18-2021 |
| 20210354421 | STIFFENING STRUCTURE FOR AN APPLIANCE - A vacuum insulation assembly for an appliance includes a plurality of panels that define a cavity. Each of the plurality of panels includes an inner surface. A port opening is defined by one of the plurality of panels and is defined in communication with the cavity. A vacuum insulation material is positioned within the cavity. A stiffening material is coupled to the inner surface of one or more of the plurality of panels. The stiffening material includes a polymer layer configured to adhere to the inner surface when the stiffening material is heated. A mesh layer is positioned over the polymer layer. | 11-18-2021 |
| 20210348831 | APPLIANCE DOOR GASKET ASSEMBLY - A refrigerator appliance includes a cabinet defining a compartment. A door is hingedly coupled with the cabinet and is configured to selectively seal the compartment. The door includes a door trim breaker. An engagement member extends from the door trim breaker. A first retention ridge extends from a first side of the engagement member, and a second retention ridge extends from a second side of the engagement member. The first retention ridge is offset from the second retention ridge. A gasket is configured to fit over the engagement member and includes a coupling portion defining first and second retention spaces. The first retention space is configured to receive the first retention ridge, and the second retention space is configured to receive the second retention ridge. A contact portion is integrally formed with the coupling portion and is configured to at least partially abut the cabinet when the door is closed. | 11-11-2021 |
| 20210348769 | APPLIANCE LATCH ASSEMBLY - A latch assembly for an appliance includes a cabinet having a front panel with a latch opening. A latch member is aligned with the latch opening of the front panel and is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. A door is hingedly coupled to the cabinet between open and closed positions and has a latch receiving aperture. A cover plate is configured to selectively cover the latch opening. The cover plate is rotatably coupled with the cabinet between first and second positions. | 11-11-2021 |
| 20210345812 | MIXER ASSEMBLY - A heated base for a mixing assembly includes a housing that has an upper rim and a lower bowl. A heating feature is disposed within the lower bowl of the housing. An engagement clip is operably coupled to the housing. A locking member operably coupled to the engagement clip and is configured to selectively engage the engagement clip in a first position and a second position. | 11-11-2021 |
| 20210341214 | INCREASED VACUUM PORT AREA FOR ACHIEVING FASTER VACUUM EVACUATION TIME IN VACUUM INSULATED STRUCTURES - An outer wrapper that defines a top wall, a bottom wall, a rear wall, and first and second side walls and includes an inner liner. A trim breaker seals the outer wrapper to the inner liner to define an insulation space. A single vacuum port is disposed on each of the top wall, the bottom wall, and the first and second side walls. A plurality of vacuum ports is disposed on the rear wall. An insulative material is disposed between the outer wrapper and the inner liner. A filter media is disposed proximate each vacuum port such that air can be drawn from the insulation space past the filter media and through each vacuum port. | 11-04-2021 |
| 20210341151 | INDICATOR ASSEMBLY - A cooktop for an appliance includes a body that has a support surface. A cooking surface is operably coupled to the body and defines a plurality of indicia. A plurality of coils are coupled to the support surface of the body. The plurality of coils correspond with the plurality of indicia defined by the cooking surface. An indicator assembly is operably coupled to the support surface of the body. The indicator assembly includes reflective members that are disposed on the support surface proximate to the plurality of coils and lasers are operably coupled to the support surface and are disposed proximate the reflective members. A controller is operably coupled to the indicator assembly and is configured to activate the lasers relative to the reflective members. | 11-04-2021 |
| 20210332625 | HINGE ASSEMBLY FOR A HOME APPLIANCE AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLING - A hinge assembly to couple a door with a cabinet, for movement between open and closed positions about a vertical axis, includes a first hinge plate coupled with the cabinet and a second hinge plate coupled with the door. The second hinge plate is moveable relative to the first hinge plate about a pivot pin that extends between the first and second hinge plates. One of the first and second hinge plates includes a step with a first surface vertically offset from a body of one of the first and second hinge plates and the other of the first and second hinge plates includes a second surface that engages the first surface when the door is in the closed position. When the door is moved into the open position, the second hinge plate travels downward relative to the first hinge plate such that the first surface becomes disengaged from the second surface. | 10-28-2021 |
| 20210332518 | TURBIDITY REMOVAL SYSTEM FOR AN APPLIANCE - A particulate separating mechanism for an appliance includes a fluid inlet that receives an inlet fluid. The inlet fluid includes particulate matter. A labyrinth separator is positioned to generate a first turbulence of the fluid. The first turbulence separates a first portion of the particulate matter into a particulate collection portion. A main filter is positioned downstream of the labyrinth separator and has a constricting portion and opposing turbulence chambers that are vertically oriented to produce a second turbulence of the fluid. The second turbulence separates a second portion of the particulate matter from the fluid. A fluid outlet delivers the fluid having the first and second portions of the particulate matter removed into a processing chamber for processing articles. | 10-28-2021 |
| 20210325106 | REFRIGERATOR WITH SURROUND ILLUMINATION FEATURE - A refrigerator includes a vacuum insulated cabinet and a surround lighting feature. The vacuum insulated cabinet includes a liner disposed within a wrapper, which are interconnected by a thermal bridge to form a vacuum cavity therebetween. A wall covering assembly includes a top wall disposed adjacent to and spaced-apart from a top wall of the liner. The wall covering assembly also includes a rear wall disposed adjacent to and spaced-apart from a rear wall of the liner. In assembly, the liner and the wall covering assembly cooperate to define a refrigerator compartment. A cavity is formed between liner and the wall covering assembly. A surround lighting assembly is disposed around an opening into the refrigerator compartment and is powered by a wiring system concealed by the wall covering assembly. | 10-21-2021 |
| 20210323200 | METHOD FOR PREPARING A DENSIFIED INSULATION MATERIAL FOR USE IN APPLIANCE INSULATED STRUCTURE - A method for forming a vacuum insulated structure using a prepared core material includes preparing a powder insulation material defining a bulk density, pre-densifying the powder insulation material to form a pre-densified insulation base, crushing the pre-densified insulation base into granular core insulation to define a core density of the granular core insulation, disposing the granular core insulation having the core density into an insulating cavity defined within an insulating structure and expressing gas from the interior cavity of the insulating structure to further densify the granular core insulation to define a target density. The granular core insulation defines the target density disposed within the insulating structure defines the vacuum insulation structure, wherein the target density defines a density in the range of from approximately 80 grams per liter to approximately 350 grams per liter. | 10-21-2021 |
| 20210321771 | TOP ATTACHMENT FOR A LAUNDRY APPLIANCE - A laundry appliance includes a cabinet including a top edge. A structural panel is attached to the top edge of the cabinet. An adapter panel is attached to the structural panel. The adapter panel extends over at least a portion of an upper surface of the structural panel. A decorative panel is removably coupled to the adapter panel. The decorative panel is disposed over a top surface of the adapter panel. The decorative panel is free of attachment with the cabinet. | 10-21-2021 |
| 20210320581 | BINARY MOTOR FOR INDEPENDENT OPERATION OF MULTIPLE COMPONENTS WITHIN AN APPLIANCE - A laundry appliance includes a drum rotationally positioned within a structural cabinet. An impeller is rotationally positioned within the drum. The impeller is selectively and independently operable with respect to the drum. A binary motor has a first motor and a second motor disposed within a common housing. A first drive belt extends between the first motor and the drum. A second drive belt extends between the second motor and the impeller. The first and second motors engage the first and second drive belts on a belt side of the common housing. | 10-14-2021 |
| 20210310723 | VACUUM INSULATED PANEL FOR COUNTERACTING VACUUM BOW INDUCED DEFORMATIONS - A vacuum insulated cabinet structure includes first and second cover members having pre-deformed portions and perimeter portions. The perimeter portions of the first and second cover members are disposed along first and second planar levels and the pre-deformed portions of the first and second cover members include portions thereof extending outwardly relative to the first and second planar levels. A thermal bridge interconnects the first cover member and the second cover member at the perimeter portions thereof to define an insulating cavity therebetween. The insulating cavity is a sealed cavity having a vacuum drawn therefrom. The pre-deformed portions of the first and second cover members move inwardly towards the first and second planar levels under a force of the vacuum within the insulating cavity. | 10-07-2021 |
| 20210199375 | RESILIENT HOUSING - A resilient housing for a monitoring system includes a plurality of retention features, and a body that extends between the plurality of retention features and has a first end and a second end. The body includes a support surface that is defined between the plurality of retention features by elongated walls and end walls and a rear attachment surface. A resilient housing for a monitoring system further includes a coupling layer that is disposed on the rear attachment surface of the body. | 07-01-2021 |
| 20210199368 | TRIM BREAKER FOR AN INSULATED APPLIANCE - A trim breaker for sealing an outer wrapper of an appliance with an inner liner to form an insulation space therebetween is provided. The trim breaker includes a body including a rear wall, a first leg extending from the rear wall, and a second leg extending from the rear wall. The trim breaker also includes a front wall coupled with the body opposite the rear wall, wherein the front wall includes a channel extending inward toward the rear wall, and a chamber defined at least in part between the front wall and the rear wall. | 07-01-2021 |
| 20210199366 | SIDE ACCESS PANEL FOR AN APPLIANCE - An appliance cabinet includes first and second sidewalls. A rear wall is disposed between the first and second sidewalls. A machine compartment is defined by a lower portion of the rear wall. An attachment feature defines openings and is coupled to at least one of the first and second sidewalls. A side access panel is selectively coupled to at least one of the first and second sidewalls via fasteners extending through the openings defined by the attachment feature. | 07-01-2021 |
| 20210199348 | REFRIGERATION SYSTEM HAVING DUAL COMPRESSORS AND EITHER A SINGLE EVAPORATOR OR DUAL EVAPORATORS - A refrigeration system having either a single evaporator or dual evaporators where a flash chamber is used with first and second compressor stages. The flash chamber separates the refrigerant mixture from a high-stage capillary into liquid and gas, where the liquid is directed to a low-stage capillary and the gas is directed back to the first compressor. Additionally, the flash chamber may also be used for intercooling the gas going from the second compressor to the first compressor. For dual evaporator systems, this system is especially good for compartments where a first compartment requires a very low evaporator temperature and a second compartment requires a controllable evaporator temperature. | 07-01-2021 |
| 20210198928 | RESILIENT RETAINER FOR A HINGE ASSEMBLY OF AN APPLIANCE DOOR PANEL - An operable panel for an appliance includes a top panel that defines a hinge receptacle. A lid includes a hinge housing. A hinge is disposed within the hinge housing and extends between the lid and the top panel. A retainer includes a cap and a resilient portion. The retainer partially surrounds the hinge and the cap encloses the hinge housing. The resilient portion of the retainer biases the hinge toward the cap and the hinge receptacle. | 07-01-2021 |
| 20210198835 | HINGE ASSEMBLY FOR AN APPLIANCE LID AND INSTALLATION METHOD THEREFOR - A laundry appliance includes a cabinet having a top panel that defines an aperture for selectively accessing a treatment chamber defined within the cabinet. A lid is rotationally operable relative to the aperture of the top panel between open and closed positions. Hinge assemblies extend between the lid and the top panel. The hinge assemblies include a first hinge assembly. A second hinge assembly is selectively retractable into the lid to a retracted position. A biasing member biases the second hinge assembly out to an extended position. At least the second hinge assembly is operable to the retracted position to bypass a portion of the top panel to define an installed position where the first and second hinge assemblies are engaged with respective hinge receptacles of the top panel. | 07-01-2021 |
| 20210185774 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TUNING AN INDUCTION CIRCUIT - A method for controlling a heating operation of an induction cooktop includes generating a direct current (DC) power from an alternating current (AC) power source. The DC power is supplied to a first resonant inverter and a second resonant inverter via a power supply bus. A switching frequency of each of the first resonant inverter and the second resonant inverter is controlled and in response to the switching frequency supplied to a plurality of induction coils of the resonant inverters, an electromagnetic field is generated. A selective tuning operation of the first resonant inverter or the second resonant inverter includes controlling a connection of a capacitor to either the first resonant inverter or the second resonant inverter. | 06-17-2021 |
| 20210180738 | METHOD AND STRUCTURE FOR IMPROVED INSULATION AND FILLER MATERIALS - The disclosure provides for a method for preparing a vacuum insulated panel. The method comprises forming an internal cavity between a liner and a wrapper and preparing filler material to be disposed in the internal cavity. The filler material comprises a first part and a second part. Preparing the filler material comprises treating a surface of the first part, wherein the treating prepares the surface to receive a coating comprising a first charge. The preparing further comprises coating the surface of the first part with a chemical comprising a first charge. The coating forms a first surface charge on the surface of the first part. The method further comprises mixing the first part with the second part forming the filler material. The second part comprises a material having a second surface charge opposite the first surface charge. | 06-17-2021 |
| 20210034093 | KNOB ASSEMBLY - A knob assembly includes a first housing with a sidewall extending from a base and a retention member inwardly extends from the sidewall. An operable second housing includes a selective stopper selectively movable between a first position and a second position relative to the retention member. The operable second housing is further axially operable between a compressed position and an extended position relative to the first housing, and the operable second housing includes a biasing member. | 02-04-2021 |
| 20210032795 | STRUCTURAL ARRANGEMENT INTRODUCED IN A LIQUID DISPENSING SET-UP OF A HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE - A structural arrangement introduced in a liquid dispensing set-up of a household appliance includes at least one feed pipe, at least one movable lid cooperating with a fixed body, and at least one liquid flow driver. The liquid flow driver is disposed adjacent a lower face of the movable lid. The liquid flow driver is associated with the feed pipe through a fluid connector. The fluid connector defines a hinge axis of the movable lid. The liquid flowing through the liquid flow driver is directed inside of at least one washing environment defined in an inside of the household appliance. | 02-04-2021 |
| 20210010742 | VACUUM INSULATION STRUCTURES WITH MULTIPLE INSULATORS - A refrigerator cabinet is provided. The refrigerator cabinet includes an inner liner and an external wrapper. The inner liner is positioned within the external wrapper such that a gap is defined between the external wrapper and inner liner. A first insulator is positioned within the gap, and a second insulator is positioned within the gap. A pressure within the gap is below about 1000 Pa. | 01-14-2021 |
| 20210010183 | NANOPARTICLES REINFORCED LAUNDRY DISPENSER - A laundry chemistry dispenser for an appliance includes a base having an inner surface and an outer surface. A plurality of sidewalls extends from the base to define an interior cavity. Each sidewall of the plurality of sidewalls includes an inner surface and an outer surface. A coating is at least partially disposed on the inner surface of the base and the inner surface of each sidewall of the plurality of sidewalls. | 01-14-2021 |
| 20200408420 | MOUNTING ASSEMBLY FOR A DOOR OF A HOME APPLIANCE AND METHOD OF USE - A home appliance includes a door coupled with a cabinet of the home appliance and moveable about a vertical axis between open and closed positions. A lower hinge assembly moveably couples a lower portion of the door with the cabinet. A mounting assembly is configured to support an upper portion of the door relative to the cabinet until the upper portion of the door is coupled with the cabinet and includes a first bracket supporting a pivot pin and a second bracket including a slot configured to receive the pivot pin therein. When the lower portion of the door is coupled to the cabinet by the lower hinge assembly and the pivot pin is received within the slot, the mounting assembly is configured to maintain the upper portion of the door in vertical alignment with the lower portion along the vertical axis. | 12-31-2020 |
| 20200408015 | HINGE ASSEMBLY FOR A HOME APPLIANCE AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLING - A hinge assembly for moveably coupling a door with a cabinet of a home appliance includes a first hinge plate coupled with the cabinet and a second hinge plate coupled with the door and moveable relative to the first hinge plate about a pivot pin. One of the first hinge plate and the second hinge plate includes a step vertically offset from a body of the hinge plate. When the door is moved into the open position, the second hinge plate travels downward relative to the first hinge plate due to the step. The step is configured to inhibit movement of the door to the closed position until a vertical force is applied to lift the second hinge plate relative to the first hinge plate into a closed position. | 12-31-2020 |
| 20200406527 | MOLDED GAS BARRIER PARTS FOR VACUUM INSULATED STRUCTURE - A method of fabricating a vacuum insulated appliance structure includes molding a first layer of a first polymer material. A second layer of a second polymer material is molded to (e.g. over) at least a portion of the first layer, and a third layer of a third polymer material is molded to (e.g. over) at least a portion of the second layer to form a first component. At least one of the layers is impervious to one or more gasses. One or more additional components are secured to the first component to form a vacuum cavity. The vacuum cavity is filled with a porous material, and the vacuum cavity is evacuated to form a vacuum. | 12-31-2020 |
| 20200406174 | BLIND ATTACHMENT INTERFACE FOR FILTER HOUSING ASSEMBLY - A method for assembling a bezel unit with a base unit installed in an article includes inserting a foot of a first attachment leg extending from a first position on the bezel unit into a first receiving cavity including by movement of the bezel unit in a first direction and moving the bezel unit in a second direction normal to the first direction. Moving the bezel in the second direction causes mutual engagement between an exterior profile of the foot with an inside profile of the cavity, both the exterior profile of the foot and the inside profile of the cavity tapering inwardly in the second direction. The mutual engagement between the first exterior profile and the inside profile aligns the bezel unit with the base unit with respect to the first and second planes. | 12-31-2020 |
| 20200292226 | REFRIGERATOR WITH HINGE ASSEMBLY HAVING AN EXTERNAL HINGE PIN - A refrigerator is provided herein including a cabinet and a door. At least one hinge assembly is configured to hinge the door to the cabinet. The at least one hinge assembly includes a mounting block coupled to the door, a hinge bracket coupled to the cabinet, and a hinge pin disposed between the mounting block and the hinge bracket and coupled thereto such that the entirety of the hinge pin is external to the door. | 09-17-2020 |
| 20200291622 | PRECIPITATION RECLAMATION STORAGE SYSTEM FOR USE IN A STRUCTURE - A precipitation reclamation system includes a downspout adapter configured to receive runoff precipitation from a precipitation channel for a structure. The downspout adapter is configured to attach to the structure at a vent that places an interior of the structure in communication with an area external to the structure. A reclamation chamber is disposed within an appliance housing. The reclamation chamber has a pump. A reclamation conduit extends from the downspout adapter to the reclamation chamber and is configured to direct the precipitation to the reclamation chamber to define reclaimed water. The pump is adapted to deliver the reclaimed water from the reclamation chamber to a portion of the structure for use. | 09-17-2020 |
| 20200263920 | REFRIGERATOR TUCK SHELF WITH FLUSH PROFILE AND CO-INJECTED FIXED GLASS - A refrigerator shelf includes a frame having laterally spaced-apart first and second side members, defining opposite first and second ends defining first and second portions of a front edge profile of the refrigerator shelf, respectively. A medial member extends between the first and second side members at respective locations between the first and second ends. A first substrate is received between the first and second side members, defines a first edge, and is moveable between an extended position with the first edge adjacent the first ends of the first and second members and a tucked position with the front edge spaced away from the first ends. A trim member extends along an edge of the second substrate and defines a third portion of the front edge profile that is aligned with and physically engages with the first and second portions when the second substrate is in the extended position. | 08-20-2020 |
| 20200263919 | TRIM BREAKER FOR A STRUCTURAL CABINET THAT INCORPORATES A STRUCTURAL GLASS CONTACT SURFACE - A refrigerating appliance includes an inner liner, an outer wrapper and a trim breaker extending between the inner liner and the outer wrapper to define an insulating cavity therebetween. The trim breaker includes a liner portion coupled with the inner liner, a wrapper portion coupled to the outer wrapper and an outer glazing member that extends between the liner and wrapper portions. An external surface of the outer glazing member defines a contact surface that is configured to receive a seal of an operable panel in a closed position. | 08-20-2020 |
| 20200113327 | BEVERAGE HOLDER - A beverage holder includes a platform with a slot disposed therethrough. First and second L-shaped rails extend downwardly from an underside of the platform on either side of the slot. The first and second rails are configured to retain cans, at upper portions of the cans, in a sliding manner therebetween. The slot is centrally positioned between the first and second L-shaped rails and configured to suspend bottle top portions therefrom. | 04-16-2020 |
| 20200088416 | CAVITY CONNECTOR - A cooking appliance includes a heating cavity with a heat source. A cavity connector is disposed within the heating cavity and a rack is slidably coupled with a sliding structure disposed within the heating cavity. A powered accessory has a connecting plug and is engageable with the rack. The connecting plug is configured to be in selective communication with the cavity connector. A first locating assembly is configured to locate and engage the powered accessory with the rack and is coupled to the powered accessory. A second locating assembly is disposed between the sliding structure and a pair of opposing sidewalk of the heating cavity. | 03-19-2020 |
| 20200088414 | UNDERMOUNT COOKTOP ASSEMBLY - A cooktop assembly includes a countertop defining a cutout portion, and a countertop contact area is disposed proximate a perimeter of the cutout portion on a lower surface of the countertop. A cooktop defines a work portion, and a cooktop contact area is disposed proximate a perimeter of the work portion on an upper surface of the cooktop. An attachment assembly includes a first attachment member positionable on a first side of the cutout portion of the countertop. A second attachment member is positionable on a second side of the cutout portion of the countertop. The first and second sides are opposing sides, and the first and second attachment members are securable to the countertop and the cooktop to engage the countertop contact area with the cooktop contact area thereby securing the cooktop to the countertop. | 03-19-2020 |
| 20200087840 | COMBINATION WASHING/DRYING LAUNDRY APPLIANCE HAVING A HEAT PUMP SYSTEM WITH REVERSIBLE CONDENSING AND EVAPORATING HEAT EXCHANGERS - An appliance air/water handling system includes a rotating drum, airflow and fluid paths for directing process air and fluid, respectively, therethrough. First and second heat exchangers are in direct engagement with the airflow and fluid paths, respectively. A reversible refrigerant circuit delivers refrigerant through the first and second heat exchangers to alternatively define washing and drying conditions. In the washing condition the first heat exchanger cools the process air into cooled process air, and the second heat exchanger heats the fluid to define a heated fluid that is directed into the drum. In the drying condition the first heat exchanger heats the process air to define heated process air that is directed through the drum and through a third heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger cools the fluid to define a cooled fluid that is directed to the third heat exchanger intersect with the heated process air. | 03-19-2020 |
| 20200085237 | POWERED COOKING ACCESSORY FOR AN OVEN CAVITY - A method for operating a cooking system includes receiving information from a powered cooking accessory positioned within an interior cavity of an oven. The powered cooking accessory includes a body receivable within an interior of the oven, a first electronic device coupled with the body, and a device coupling extending from the body. The method further includes determining at least one characteristic of the powered cooking accessory and providing electrical power to the electronic device by an electrical coupling between the device coupling and a connection port within the interior cavity of the oven at a predetermined output level based on the at least one characteristic thereof. | 03-19-2020 |
| 20190320507 | ELECTROMAGNETIC COOKING DEVICE WITH AUTOMATIC LIQUID HEATING AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING COOKING IN THE ELECTROMAGNETIC COOKING DEVICE | 10-17-2019 |
| 20190320506 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING CHANGES IN FOOD LOAD CHARACTERISTICS USING COEFFICIENT OF VARIATION OF EFFICIENCY | 10-17-2019 |
| 20190281667 | INDUCTION COOKING APPLIANCE AND METHOD FOR ITS ASSEMBLY | 09-12-2019 |
| 20190274196 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ZONE COOKING ACCORDING TO SPECTROMODAL THEORY IN AN ELECTROMAGNETIC COOKING DEVICE - An electromagnetic cooking device and cooking method to perform zone cooking is disclosed. The method includes scanning a resonant cavity in which a food load has been placed with RF feeds that are coupled to respective high power amplifiers; identifying resonant frequencies and corresponding phases of the RF feeds; storing a resonance map; classifying symmetries in the resonant map; determining paths defining stirring routes between poles of different symmetries; determining midpoints in the paths with a maximum unbalance between reflected powers of the respective high power amplifiers; classifying the unbalance in terms of power steered to the left and right sides of the food load; synthesizing a heating strategy for zone cooking using the classified unbalance; and implementing the heating strategy by causing the plurality of high power amplifiers and RF feeds to introduce electromagnetic radiation at specific selected frequencies and phases into the cavity based on the heating strategy. | 09-05-2019 |
| 20190271496 | HYBRID TWIST TRAY ICE MAKER - An ice maker includes a harvest motor and an ice tray operably coupled to the harvest motor. The ice tray has a plurality of heat sinks coupled to a bottom section of ice forming cavities on the ice tray. The harvest motor is operable to twist the ice tray for causing the plurality of heat sinks to move relative to each other for releasing ice pieces from the ice forming cavities. | 09-05-2019 |
| 20190008005 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING HEATING STRATEGIES - A method of determining heating strategies for a cooking appliance ( | 01-03-2019 |
| 20190001617 | SUPER INSULATING NANO-SPHERES FOR APPLIANCE INSULATION AND METHOD FOR CREATING A SUPER INSULATING NANO-SPHERE MATERIAL - An insulating structure for an appliance includes an outer layer and an inner layer, wherein an insulating cavity is defined therebetween. A plurality of hollow nano-spheres are disposed within the insulating cavity, wherein each of the hollow nano-spheres includes a diameter in the range of from approximately 50 nanometers to approximately 1000 nanometers and has a wall that defines the internal space, and wherein the wall of each hollow nano-sphere has a thickness that is in a range of from approximately 0.5 nanometers to approximately 100 nanometers. A fill material is disposed in the insulating cavity and wherein the fill material is disposed in the space defined between the plurality of hollow nano-spheres, and wherein the fill material includes at least one of powdered silica, granulated silica, other silica material, aerogel and insulating gas. | 01-03-2019 |
| 20180159533 | BACKLIGHTING APPLIANCE DEADFRONTED USER INTERFACES - A capacitive touch switch is disclosed which includes a transparent insulating panel, a filtering layer having an opaque color, a transparent icon being defined in the filtering layer, a transparent substrate including a capacitive electrode, the transparent substrate being tinted to substantially match the opaque color of the filtering layer, and a light source configured to transmit light through the transparent substrate, the transparent icon, and the transparent insulating panel when energized. A user interface and a method of manufacturing a capacitive touch switch are also disclosed. | 06-07-2018 |
| 20180156533 | PIGMENTED MONOLAYER LINER FOR APPLIANCES AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - A method of making a liner for an appliance is provided that includes: mixing a polymeric capping layer precursor and a pigment additive; forming the capping layer precursor and the pigment additive into a capping layer at a capping layer formation temperature; and rolling the capping layer, a barrier layer and a polymeric base layer together to form a liner, each of the capping layer, the barrier layer and the base layer at about the capping layer formation temperature. Further, the liner comprises a capping region, a barrier region and a base region, the capping region comprising the pigment additive. | 06-07-2018 |
| 20180106531 | REFRIGERATOR SHELF AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING THE SHELF - A refrigerator includes a refrigerated compartment and a door that selectively seals the refrigerated compartment. A shelf is mounted in the refrigerated compartment. The shelf includes a plate and a frame encapsulating the plate. A front trim is coupled to a front portion of the frame. The front trim includes a front face that is flush with the frame. | 04-19-2018 |
| 20180106529 | VACUUM INSULATED DOOR STRUCTURE AND METHOD FOR THE CREATION THEREOF - A vacuum insulated door structure includes a first wall having a first edge and a barrier layer, a second wall having a second barrier layer and a second edge coupled to the first wall member proximate the first perimetrical edge. The second wall includes at least four inner side walls and a back wall that defines a second wall offset. At least one tubular member extends between the first wall member and the second wall offset, wherein an inner conduit surface of the tubular member provides fluid communication between the first wall outer facing surface and the second wall outer facing surface. A cavity insulation material is disposed within a cavity volume defined between the first and second walls, wherein the cavity volume is hermetically sealed, and wherein the cavity volume includes an at least partial vacuum. | 04-19-2018 |
| 20180106284 | SPRING CLIP UPRIGHT CONNECTION FOR RACK SHELVING - A spring clip upright connection for rack shelving includes one upright with tabs and square cutouts and another upright with slots with metal spring clips. As the tabs of one upright are inserted into the slots of the other upright, the uprights are aligned and the spring metal clips open up. When the tabs are fully inserted, the clips latch into the cutouts of the slots of the other upright thereby engaging the upright sections together. This latching prevents one upright from being removed from the other upright while the slots and tabs maintain the appropriate alignment of the uprights. | 04-19-2018 |
| 20180105971 | FILTERLESS AIR-HANDLING SYSTEM FOR A HEAT PUMP LAUNDRY APPLIANCE - A laundry appliance includes a blower that directs process air along an airflow path. A condensing heat exchanger heats the process air to define heated process air. A drum receives the heated process air to dry laundry. A pump directs fluid along a fluid path. An evaporating heat exchanger cools the fluid to define a cooled fluid. A refrigerant circuit directs a refrigerant between the condensing and evaporating heat exchangers. A shower area in which the cooled fluid is showered through the heated process air after the heated process air exits the drum to wash particulate matter out of the heated process air. The pump directs the fluid towards the evaporating heat exchanger in order to cool the fluid, and directs the cooled fluid to the shower area. | 04-19-2018 |
| 20180105969 | COMBINATION WASHING/DRYING LAUNDRY APPLIANCE HAVING A HEAT PUMP SYSTEM WITH REVERSIBLE CONDENSING AND EVAPORATING HEAT EXCHANGERS - An appliance air/water handling system includes a rotating drum, airflow and fluid paths for directing process air and fluid, respectively, therethrough. First and second heat exchangers are in direct engagement with the airflow and fluid paths, respectively. A reversible refrigerant circuit delivers refrigerant through the first and second heat exchangers to alternatively define washing and drying conditions. In the washing condition the first heat exchanger cools the process air into cooled process air, and the second heat exchanger heats the fluid to define a heated fluid that is directed into the drum. In the drying condition the first heat exchanger heats the process air to define heated process air that is directed through the drum and through a third heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger cools the fluid to define a cooled fluid that is directed to the third heat exchanger intersect with the heated process air. | 04-19-2018 |
| 20170259967 | CONTAINER FOR FABRIC TREATMENT COMPOSITION - A container for a fabric treatment composition having: (a) a container floor extending to a floor boundary, a portion of the container floor being a collection zone, and a raised portion extending inwardly within the container, at least a portion of the collection zone being located on a longitudinal axis of the container and at least a portion of the raised portion intersecting the longitudinal axis and transverse axis of the container; (b) a peripheral wall extending from the container floor; (c) a peripheral flange extending from the peripheral wall; and (d) a needle piercable membrane sealed to the peripheral flange to define an interior volume, wherein the interior volume contains less than about 100 mL of a liquid fabric treatment composition. | 09-14-2017 |
| 20170198965 | ON-LINE ENERGY CONSUMPTION OPTIMIZATION ADAPTIVE TO ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION - An appliance includes an appliance housing, an interface adapted to receive power information, a plurality of sensors for sensing environmental conditions, a plurality of controls for controlling operations of the appliance, and an intelligent control. The intelligent control is disposed within the appliance housing and operatively connected to the interface and the plurality of sensors and adapted to dynamically select control values associated with the plurality of controls based on at least one of the power information, the environmental conditions, or a combination thereof to increase energy efficiency of the appliance. | 07-13-2017 |
| 20170176094 | HORIZONTAL FLIPPER MULLION INCORPORATED WITHIN A FALSE MULLION OF AN APPLIANCE - An appliance includes a cabinet having outer walls that define a portion of a contact surface. Operable panels are engaged with the cabinet and operate between closed and open positions. A lateral mullion is pivotally attached to a mullion panel of the plurality of operable panels and is operable between contact and tucked positions. When the mullion panel is in the closed position, an outer surface of the lateral mullion is in the vertically pointed contact position and defines a portion of the contact surface to receive a seal of the mullion panel and selectively receive a seal of a vertically adjacent panel. Movement of the mullion panel to the open position rotates the lateral mullion about a horizontal axis to define the tucked position such that the mullion panel can move to the open position free of operation of the vertically adjacent panel. | 06-22-2017 |
| 20170176092 | UMBILICAL FOR PASS THROUGH IN VACUUM INSULATED REFRIGERATOR STRUCTURES - A method of routing utility lines in a vacuum insulated refrigerator structure includes forming a shell and an elongated umbilical comprising an elongated impervious sleeve and a core structure defining at least two elongated internal passageways extending lengthwise along the umbilical. The method includes sealingly connecting a first end of the sleeve to the shell at a first opening, and sealingly connecting a second end of the sleeve to the shell at a second opening. A vacuum is formed in an internal cavity of the shell. Utility lines are routed through at least one of the elongated internal passageways whereby portions of the utility lines are disposed inside the umbilical, and opposite ends of the utility lines extend out of the opposite ends of the umbilical. | 06-22-2017 |
| 20170176090 | ADHESIVELY SECURED VACUUM INSULATED PANELS FOR REFRIGERATORS - A method of making a cabinet for refrigerators and the like. The method includes forming a liner and a wrapper. The method further includes providing a vacuum insulated core that includes a filler material disposed inside a substantially impermeable envelope that is evacuated to form a vacuum inside of the envelope. The vacuum insulated core includes a first wall and a second wall extending transversely relative to the first wall. The core is adhesively secured to the wrapper, and the liner is adhesively secured to the core. The wrapper and the liner are sealed together at the peripheries thereof. | 06-22-2017 |
| 20170176089 | EZ REFRIGERATOR DOORS HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT - A refrigerator includes an insulated cabinet having an opening and a first hinge structure. The refrigerator includes a door including a second hinge structure that is movably connected to the first hinge structure. A height adjustment lever operably interconnects the first and second hinge structures. Movement of the lever in a first direction causes the door to move upwardly, and movement of the lever in a second direction causes the door to move downwardly. A stop limits movement of the height adjustment lever in at least one of the first and second directions. The lever is preferably movable by hand, such that tools are not required to adjust the door height/position. | 06-22-2017 |
| 20170176088 | DOOR/DRAWER PANEL ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM FOR AN APPLIANCE - A panel adjustment mechanism for an appliance includes an adjustment bracket having a first lateral adjustment mechanism extending from a first side of the adjustment bracket. A vertical adjustment mechanism extends from a second side of the adjustment bracket. A door panel abutment surface is positioned perpendicular to the first and second sides of the panel adjustment bracket. A bracket housing defines an adjustment region and includes first and second flanges, wherein the first lateral adjustment mechanism extends through a lateral adjustment slot defined in the first flange, wherein the vertical adjustment mechanism extends through a vertical adjustment slot defined within the second flange, wherein the operation of at least one of the lateral adjustment mechanism and the vertical adjustment mechanism moves the panel adjustment bracket between a plurality of positions within the adjustment region. | 06-22-2017 |
| 20170176085 | VACUUM INSULATED DOOR CONSTRUCTION - A method of fabricating a refrigerator cabinet or door includes forming a wrapper and an inner liner. The method further includes forming a vacuum insulated core comprising a permeable core material that is disposed inside an impermeable envelope. A sheet of prefabricated compressible foam material is positioned between the vacuum insulated core between the inner door liner and/or the door wrapper. The prefabricated compressible foam material may be cut from a sheet of foam having substantially uniform thickness prior to fabrication of the refrigerator door. The foam compresses to accommodate differences in spacing between the vacuum insulated core and the door wrapper and/or the door liner. | 06-22-2017 |
| 20170175423 | REFRIGERATOR DOOR-IN-DOOR LATCH - A door-in-door refrigerator includes a door having an inner door and an outer door. When the inner and outer doors are in open positions, food items stored in a main refrigerated compartment are accessible. When the inner and outer doors are in closed positions, the door seals the refrigerated compartment, and food items stored in the main refrigerated compartment are not accessible. When the inner door is in a closed position and the outer door is in an open position, food items stored in a storage structure coupled to the door are accessible. A latch includes a trigger that moves in a direction substantially parallel to a handle. Movement of the trigger shifts the latch between a latched position, in which pulling on the handle causes the inner and outer doors to open, and an unlatched position, in which pulling on the handle causes the outer door to open while the inner door remains closed. | 06-22-2017 |
| 20170174493 | LOW FORCE ACTUATION DISPENSER PADDLE FOR A DISPENSER ASSEMBLY OF AN APPLIANCE - A dispensing mechanism for an appliance includes an operable paddle having a lower portion and an upper portion pivotally attached to a dispenser wall between outward and inward positions. An actuator has a switch positioned proximate a pivot defined by a first end of an actuator lever. A second end of the actuator lever is positioned proximate the lower portion of the operable paddle, wherein operation of the operable paddle to the inward position engages the lower portion of the operable paddle with the bottom portion of the actuator lever and operates the actuator lever from an idle state to a use state. Movement of the bottom portion of the actuator lever operates the switch from a deactivated state to an activated state, wherein the activated state of the switch activates the at least one of the ice dispenser and the water dispenser. | 06-22-2017 |
| 20170170706 | MULTI-COMPONENT ROTOR FOR AN ELECTRIC MOTOR OF AN APPLIANCE - A motor for a laundry appliance includes a drive shaft coupled to a drum at a first end. The rotor frame is coupled proximate the second end of the drive shaft, where the rotor frame includes at least one polymeric material. A central hub includes a core and a perimetrical ring that extends circumferentially around the core. A plurality of recesses are defined within a planar surface of the perimetrical ring, wherein a portion of the polymeric material is received within the plurality of recesses to secure the rotor frame to the central hub. | 06-15-2017 |
| 20170170694 | MULTI-COMPONENT ROTOR FOR AN ELECTRIC MOTOR OF AN APPLIANCE - A motor for a laundry appliance includes a drive shaft coupled to a drum at a first end. The rotor frame is coupled proximate the second end of the drive shaft, where the rotor frame includes at least one polymeric material. A central hub includes a core and a perimetrical ring that extends circumferentially around the core. A plurality of recesses are defined within a planar surface of the perimetrical ring, wherein a portion of the polymeric material is received within the plurality of recesses to secure the rotor frame to the central hub. | 06-15-2017 |
| 20170167782 | INSULATING MATERIAL WITH RENEWABLE RESOURCE COMPONENT - An insulated cabinet structure includes an inner liner having a plurality of walls defining a refrigerator compartment. An external wrapper includes a plurality of walls defining a refrigerator compartment receiving area. An insulation gap is formed between the walls of the inner liner and the walls of the external wrapper when the inner liner is received in the external wrapper. An insulation member is positioned within the insulation gap and includes a renewable resource component comprising about 10% to about 90% by weight of the insulation member. | 06-15-2017 |
| 20170167781 | INSULATING MATERIAL WITH RENEWABLE RESOURCE COMPONENT - An insulated cabinet structure includes an inner liner having a plurality of walls defining a refrigerator compartment, and an external wrapper having a plurality of walls defining a refrigerator compartment receiving area. An insulation gap is formed between the walls of the inner liner and the walls of the external wrapper. A first insulation material is positioned on a wall of the external wrapper and extends outwardly into the insulation gap to partially fill the insulation gap. The first insulation material includes a renewable resource component having a particle size in a range from about 10 microns to about 25 microns. A second insulation material is disposed in the insulation gap, such that the first insulation material and the second insulation material together substantially fill the insulation gap. | 06-15-2017 |
| 20170167779 | HIDDEN DRAWER GLIDES FOR PANTRY DRAWERS OF A REFRIGERATING APPLIANCE - A refrigerating appliance includes a cabinet structure having an inner liner defining an interior compartment. A drawer includes a panel member and a sliding structure that extends between the panel member and the cabinet structure. The sliding structure serves to operably dispose the panel member between extended and retracted positions of the drawer. A drawer liner is selectively positioned approximate the drawer and is engaged with the panel member. The drawer liner includes opposing sides that define first and second channels, respectively, wherein the first and second channels extend over portions of the sliding structure. A wire chase is defined within at least one of the first and second channels wherein electrical wiring extends from the cabinet structure and to the panel member through the wire chase. | 06-15-2017 |
| 20170167163 | INVISIBLE HANDLE LOCKING SYSTEM - A refrigerator door includes a handle that is secured to the door utilizing connectors at first and second ends of the handle. The connectors do not have exposed screws, thereby improving the appearance of the refrigerator door. | 06-15-2017 |
| 20170164430 | MICROWAVE OVEN WITH STEAM GENERATING DEVICE - A steam generating device for use with a microwave oven includes a casing made of a material that is impenetrable to microwave energy. The casing is removably coupled to a sidewall of a cooking cavity of the microwave oven, such that the casing fully covers a microwave inlet configured to channel microwave energy to the cooking cavity. A water tank, having an open top and a cavity configured to hold a volume of water, is received in the casing and provides steam as the volume of water is heated by the microwaves of the microwave oven. | 06-08-2017 |
| 20170163438 | METHODS OF REMOTE CONTROL OF APPLIANCES - A system and methods for remote control of one or more appliances are provided. An external computing device, such as a mobile device, may be registered and associated with an appliance to be remotely controlled and monitored. The external computing device and the appliance to be remotely controlled by the external computing device may each be in communication with an external server via a network. When a remote control mode of the appliance is enabled, a selected operation of the appliance may be carried out in response to a remote control command generated by the external computing device. | 06-08-2017 |
| 20170160001 | INSULATION STRUCTURE FOR AN APPLIANCE HAVING A UNIFORMLY MIXED MULTI-COMPONENT INSULATION MATERIAL, AND A METHOD FOR EVEN DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIAL COMBINATIONS THEREIN - An insulation structure for an appliance includes a cabinet having an outer wrapper and an inner liner, with an insulating cavity defined therebetween. Insulating powder material is disposed substantially throughout the insulating cavity. An insulating gas is disposed within the insulating cavity, wherein the insulating powder material is combined with the insulating gas and cooperatively defines a suspended state and a precipitated state. The suspended state is defined by the insulating gas in motion and the insulating powder being in an aeolian suspension within the insulating gas while in motion. The precipitated state is defined by the insulating gas being in a deposition state and the insulating powder being precipitated from the insulating gas and deposited within the insulating cavity. | 06-08-2017 |
| 20170159999 | INSULATION STRUCTURE FOR AN APPLIANCE HAVING A UNIFORMLY MIXED MULTI-COMPONENT INSULATION MATERIAL, AND A METHOD FOR EVEN DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIAL COMBINATIONS THEREIN - An insulation structure for an appliance includes a cabinet having an outer wrapper and an inner liner, with an insulating cavity defined therebetween. A plurality of hollow insulating organic/inorganic spheres is disposed within the insulating cavity, wherein a secondary insulating volume is defined between the plurality of hollow insulating organic/inorganic spheres and an interior surface of the cabinet. The interior surface of the cabinet defines the insulating cavity. An insulating fill material is disposed within the secondary insulating volume, wherein the insulating fill material and the plurality of hollow insulating organic/inorganic spheres define a substantially uniform insulating material. | 06-08-2017 |
| 20170159998 | INSULATION COMPACTION DEVICE AND METHOD FOR FORMING AN INSULATED STRUCTURE FOR AN APPLIANCE - A method for forming an insulative member includes forming a wrapper for an insulating structure, the wrapper defining an insulating cavity. A predetermined amount of an insulating media is disposed into the insulating cavity, the insulating media having a pre-compaction density. The insulating media is modified to define a desired insulation density by applying a positive compression to and generating a negative compression within the insulating media during a simultaneous compression phase. At least the simultaneous compression phase is operated until the insulating media reaches a desired insulation density, the desired insulation density being greater than the pre-compaction density. The insulating cavity is sealed to maintain the desired insulation density of the insulation media within the insulating cavity to form the insulating structure. | 06-08-2017 |
| 20170159997 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING A VACUUM INSULATED STRUCTURE FOR AN APPLIANCE HAVING A PRESSING MECHANISM INCORPORATED WITHIN AN INSULATION DELIVERY SYSTEM - An insulation delivery apparatus for forming an insulated appliance structure includes an insulated structure having a wrapper and a liner that define an interior cavity and a hopper having a storage bin and a delivery mechanism. The delivery mechanism delivers an insulating medium from the storage bin, through an insulation conduit and into the interior cavity. The delivery mechanism operates between idle and delivery states. A pressing mechanism is coupled with the insulation conduit and is in selective engagement with the insulated structure. The pressing mechanism operates between rest and compressing states. An inner support is in selective engagement with an outer surface of the inner liner and an operable outer support in selective engagement with the outer wrapper. The inner support and the operable outer support provide structural support to the insulated structure when the pressing mechanism is in the compressing state. | 06-08-2017 |
| 20170159996 | VACUUM INSULATION STRUCTURES WITH A FILLER INSULATOR - A method of forming a refrigerator cabinet is presented that includes the steps of providing an inner liner; providing an external wrapper, the wrapper defining at least one injection port and at least one vacuum port; positioning the internal liner within the external wrapper such that a gap is defined between the internal liner and the external wrapper; drawing a vacuum within the gap through the at least one vacuum port; and injecting a plurality of glass spheres into the gap through the at least one injection port. | 06-08-2017 |
| 20170159995 | METHODS FOR DISPENSING AND COMPACTING INSULATION MATERIALS INTO A VACUUM SEALED STRUCTURE - A method of forming an insulated structure for an appliance includes forming a structural enclosure having an outer wrapper and an inner liner and an insulating cavity defined therebetween, forming an insulating powder material, compacting the insulating powder material to form a pre-densified core material, disposing the pre-densified core material within an insulating cavity, wherein the insulating cavity is defined between the outer wrapper and the inner liner and expressing at least a portion of the gas contained within the insulating cavity, wherein the insulating cavity is hermetically sealed to define a vacuum insulated structure. | 06-08-2017 |
| 20170159993 | FOLDABLE HINGE FOR REFRIGERATOR DOOR - A refrigerator is provided that includes a cabinet having a cabinet wrapper, a door coupled to the cabinet and operable between substantially open and closed positions, and a hinge assembly operatively coupled to the cabinet and to the door. The hinge assembly includes a hinge body defining a door portion and a cabinet portion, the door portion coupled to the door and the cabinet portion coupled to an external side of the cabinet wrapper. A foldable hinge connects the door portion and cabinet portion of the hinge body such that the door portion may rotate relative to the cabinet wrapper. A reinforcement member is positioned on an internal side of the cabinet wrapper and coupled to the hinge body. A locking mechanism is positioned on the door portion. The locking mechanism is configured to engage the reinforcement member and lock the door portion in place. | 06-08-2017 |
| 20170159223 | FABRIC ENHANCER AND LAUNDRY ADDITIVE DISPENSATION IN LAUNDRY APPLIANCES - Systems, components, and methodologies for uniformly distributing fabric enhancers onto laundry loads in laundry treating appliances. The methods may include accepting one or more of a laundry detergent, a fabric softener, and a bleach for dispensation into the laundry treating appliance, accepting a plurality of fabric enhancers in respective compartments of a fabric enhancer storage assembly, receiving indications of the types of fabric enhancers stored in the respective compartments, selecting dispensation patterns suitable for each of the types of fabric enhancers, and dispensing the plurality of fabric enhancers in accordance with the selected dispensation patterns. | 06-08-2017 |
| 20170157890 | SUPER INSULATING NANO-SPHERES FOR APPLIANCE INSULATION AND METHOD FOR CREATING A SUPER INSULATING NANO-SPHERE MATERIAL - An insulating structure for an appliance includes an outer layer and an inner layer, wherein an insulating cavity is defined therebetween. A plurality of hollow nano-spheres are disposed within the insulating cavity, wherein each of the hollow nano-spheres includes a diameter in the range of from approximately 50 nanometers to approximately 1000 nanometers and has a wall that defines the internal space, and wherein the wall of each hollow nano-sphere has a thickness that is in a range of from approximately 0.5 nanometers to approximately 100 nanometers. A fill material is disposed in the insulating cavity and wherein the fill material is disposed in the space defined between the plurality of hollow nano-spheres, and wherein the fill material includes at least one of powdered silica, granulated silica, other silica material, aerogel and insulating gas. | 06-08-2017 |
| 20170157809 | METHOD FOR PREPARING A DENSIFIED INSULATION MATERIAL FOR USE IN APPLIANCE INSULATED STRUCTURE - A method for forming a vacuum insulated structure using a prepared core material includes preparing a powder insulation material defining a bulk density, pre-densifying the powder insulation material to form a pre-densified insulation base, crushing the pre-densified insulation base into granular core insulation to define a core density of the granular core insulation, disposing the granular core insulation having the core density into an insulating cavity defined within an insulating structure and expressing gas from the interior cavity of the insulating structure to further densify the granular core insulation to define a target density. The granular core insulation defines the target density disposed within the insulating structure defines the vacuum insulation structure, wherein the target density defines a density in the range of from approximately 80 grams per liter to approximately 350 grams per liter. | 06-08-2017 |
| 20170150841 | COOKING SYSTEM - A cooking system includes a kitchen utensil and a cooking hob, wherein the kitchen utensil is provided with one or more sensors arranged on the kitchen utensil. The sensors include acceleration sensors, gyroscopic sensors, and inclination sensors. The cooking appliance is provided with a control unit configured to receive data from the sensors and to elaborate information on how the kitchen utensil is being used, and to control the cooking appliance accordingly. | 06-01-2017 |
| 20170142835 | HUMAN-MACHINE INTERFACE ASSEMBLIES - Example human-machine interface (HMI) assemblies are disclosed. An example HMI assembly includes a fascia, a touch film having a first raised contact, a printed circuit board (PCB) having a second raised contact, and a backer having an extending member and attached to the fascia, the member configured to press the first contact against the second contact by applying a force to the PCB at substantially the second raised contact. | 05-18-2017 |
| 20170138782 | COFFEE GRINDER WITH INTEGRATED SCALE - A coffee grinder apparatus includes a housing with a support base, a pedestal portion, and a motor housing extending outwardly from the pedestal portion above the support base to define a jar receiving area. A motor is disposed in the motor housing and is operably coupled to a grinder assembly. A hopper is operably coupled to an upper mounting portion of the motor housing disposed above the grinder assembly. The hopper includes a cavity configured to hold coffee beans with an open base portion opening into the grinder assembly. A collection jar is configured for reception in the jar receiving area and includes a vessel defining a cavity for collecting ground coffee expelled from the grinder assembly during a grinding procedure. An integrated scale assembly is disposed in the collection jar for weighing the ground coffee as received in the collection jar. | 05-18-2017 |
| 20170138603 | ELECTRIC WARMING ELEMENT FOR GAS BURNER - A burner assembly for a cooking hob includes a gas burner portion having a lower housing and a burner housing assembled with and supported by the lower housing. The burner housing defines a gas distribution path open at least on an outer surface of the burner housing through a plurality of outlets. A central region of the gas burner portion is defined by an opening within the burner housing and is at least partially enclosed beneath the gas burner portion by the lower housing. The burner assembly further includes a first electric heating element disposed beneath a portion of the lower housing within the central region of the gas burner portion. | 05-18-2017 |
| 20170137988 | METHODS AND APPARATUS TO DETECT TREATING CHEMISTRIES IN LAUNDRY APPLIANCES - An example laundry treating appliance includes a tub, a rotatable drum disposed in the tub and defining a treating chamber in which laundry is received for treatment according to a cycle of operation, a treating chemistry dispenser having an outlet and a cup having a siphon, configured to dispense a treating chemistry into at least one of the tub or the drum, a sensor, and a controller configured to at least: introduce a predetermined amount of liquid into the cup sufficient to activate the siphon if a predetermined amount of the treating chemistry is present in the cup; detect whether the siphon activates in response to the predetermined amount of liquid based on an output of the sensor; and modify cycle of operation based on whether the siphon activates in response to the predetermined amount of liquid. | 05-18-2017 |
| 20170135526 | HIGH PERFORMANCE ADJUSTABLE JUICER WITH WHOLE FOODS FEED CHUTE - A juicing system with a drive mechanism and a juicer assembly, where the juicer assembly includes a main housing defining a cavity. A lid encloses a top portion of the cavity and has an opening therethrough. An auger is disposed within the cavity and has a top portion and a bottom portion. The auger is operably connected at one of the top portion or the bottom portion to the drive mechanism to rotate the auger. A rotatable cutting blade is disposed at the top portion of the auger. The rotatable cutting blade cuts foods inserted into the cavity through the opening. A juicing basket is disposed within the cavity, radially outwardly from the auger. The juicing basket has at least one screen with apertures therethrough of varying sizes. Food is pressed by the auger against the juicing basket to squeeze juice and pulp through the apertures. | 05-18-2017 |
| 20170045281 | TWISTABLE TRAY FOR HEATER-LESS ICE MAKER | 02-16-2017 |
| 20170045280 | CLEAR ICE MAKER | 02-16-2017 |
| 20170044707 | CLOTHES DRYER WITH A DRUM SEAL | 02-16-2017 |
| 20170023285 | HEATER-LESS ICE MAKER ASSEMBLY WITH A TWISTABLE TRAY - An ice maker is provided that includes a tray having recesses that can include ice-phobic surfaces. The ice-phobic surfaces may include ice-phobic coatings, textured metal surfaces, hydrophobic coatings or other surfaces configured to repel water and ice. The tray can be formed from metal material and may exhibit a fatigue limit greater than about 150 Megapascals (MPa) at 10 | 01-26-2017 |
| 20170023283 | CLEAR ICE MAKER AND METHOD FOR FORMING CLEAR ICE - An ice maker assembly includes an ice tray having an ice forming plate with a top surface, a bottom surface and upstanding edges around a perimeter of the ice forming plate. A containment wall extends upwardly around the perimeter of the ice forming plate. The containment wall has a slot extending along a lower portion of the containment wall. The slot receives the upstanding edges of the ice forming plate to form the ice tray. A fluid line is configured to dispense water onto the top surface of the ice forming plate. A mechanical oscillating mechanism is coupled to the ice tray. The oscillating mechanism begins to rotate the tray in a rocking cycle about a transverse axis of the ice forming plate after ice has started to form along the top surface. | 01-26-2017 |
| 20170022651 | METHOD OF DISPLAY FOR A LAUNDRY TREATING APPLIANCE - A method of displaying selection information on a display of a user interface for a laundry treating appliance, including displaying on the display user-selectable options for laundry type and treatment type, in response to receiving user selections for the laundry type and treatment type, displaying on the display a group of user-selectable presets. | 01-26-2017 |
| 20170022647 | FABRIC TREATING APPLIANCE - A fabric treating appliance includes a rotatable basket defining a treating chamber for receiving a load of laundry items for treatment. The basket comprises a dual wall, having an inner wall and an outer wall, defining a space therebetween. Liquid within the treating chamber can flow through a plurality of liquid extraction perforations and into the space between the walls, where the liquid can drain downwardly out through an opening in the outer wall and into a tub. | 01-26-2017 |
| 20170021554 | METHOD TO CREATE VACUUM INSULATED CABINETS FOR REFRIGERATORS - A method of forming a vacuum insulated refrigerator cabinet, the method comprising providing first and second sheets of material. The first sheet of material is thermoformed over a first forming tool forming a first intermediate structure. The first intermediate structure is then thermoformed over a second forming mold to create a second intermediate structure. The second sheet of material is then sealing connected with the second intermediate structure forming an annular space. A vacuum is created in the annular space creating a vacuum insulated cabinet. | 01-26-2017 |
| 20160374499 | STEAM GENERATION SYSTEM FOR USE IN COOKING APPLIANCE - A steam generator system for a cooking appliance includes an in-line heating element coupled to a heating tube, wherein water from a water reservoir is gravitationally fed into the heating tube for heating by the in-line heating element to produce a hot water and steam mixture. A first supply line is coupled to the heating tube to carry the mixture to a separator without the need for moving or complex pump parts. The separator separates steam and hot water from the mixture of the two. A second supply line is coupled to the separator at a first end and opens into the cooking cavity of the cooking appliance at a second end. The second supply line is configured to supply steam separated at the separator to the cooking cavity via a steam outlet disposed in the cooking cavity. | 12-29-2016 |
| 20160338153 | INDUCTION COOKING HOB - An induction cooking heater including an inductor having a number of magnetic field concentration bars located beneath the inductor. The inductor having the magnetic field concentration bars is supported by a polymeric frame. The polymeric frame includes a first support element on which the inductor is wound and a second support element that supports the magnetic field concentration bars. The first support element and the second support element are assembled together through a central ring-shaped zone having a snap engagement. The inductor is wound on an upper surface of the first support element opposite to the second support element. | 11-17-2016 |
| 20160336123 | METHOD OF CONTROLLING AN APPLIANCE DOOR POSITION SWITCH FOR SABBATH MODE OPERATION - An appliance includes a position switch retention device for use with an appliance includes a body defining a generally cylindrical profile extending through a first portion thereof along an axis and having a first radius. The body further defines a pin-receiving channel open on at least a first end thereof and positioned within the generally cylindrical profile. The device further includes a first tab extending from a side of the body. The tab defines a ramp and an edge with the ramp extending away from the first end of the body to the edge. A cap extends outwardly from a second end of the body opposite the first end. The cap is spaced apart from the edge of the tab at a first distance and has a second radius greater than the first radius. | 11-17-2016 |
| 20160333991 | MULTI-FUNCTION APPLIANCE KNOB INCORPORATING MULTIPLE ROTATION MODULATING MECHANISMS - A control knob for an appliance includes an outer control ring, a stationary hub, a rotation modulating mechanism coupled to the outer control ring and engaged with an outer surface of the stationary hub, wherein the outer control ring is rotationally operable about the stationary hub at a first rate, an indicial ring positioned around the stationary hub, wherein the indicial ring engages a portion of the rotation modulating mechanism, wherein rotation of the outer control ring at the first rate causes the rotation modulating mechanism to rotate the indicial ring about the stationary hub at a second rate, the second rate being different than the first rate and an encoder shaft positioned within the stationary hub, wherein an inner gearing mechanism extends between an exterior surface of the encoder shaft and one of the outer control ring and the indicial ring. | 11-17-2016 |
| 20160333990 | MULTI-FUNCTION APPLIANCE KNOB INCORPORATING MULTIPLE ROTATION MODULATING MECHANISMS - A control knob for an appliance includes an outer control ring, a stationary hub, a rotation modulating mechanism coupled to the outer control ring and engaged with an outer surface of the stationary hub, wherein the outer control ring is rotationally operable about the stationary hub at a first rate, an indicial ring positioned around the stationary hub, wherein the indicial ring engages a portion of the rotation modulating mechanism, wherein rotation of the outer control ring at the first rate causes the rotation modulating mechanism to rotate the indicial ring about the stationary hub at a second rate, the second rate being different than the first rate and an encoder shaft positioned within the stationary hub, wherein an inner gearing mechanism extends between an exterior surface of the encoder shaft and one of the outer control ring and the indicial ring. | 11-17-2016 |
| 20160332427 | INSULATION SYSTEM FOR A COOKING APPLIANCE INCORPORATING A PLURALITY OF MICROSPHERE SHEETS - An appliance includes an outer shell and an inner shell, wherein the outer shell and the inner shell are engaged to define an insulating cavity therebetween, and wherein the inner shell includes an inner surface that defines an interior cavity. An insulation member includes a plurality of layers, each layer of the plurality of layers including an insulative sheet defining first and second surfaces and a plurality of microspheres at least partially disposed within the insulative sheet, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of microspheres extends outward from each of the first and second surfaces to define a plurality of protrusions, and wherein the engagement of two adjacent layers of the plurality of layers causes a portion of the plurality of protrusions to engage and define a plurality of insulating air pockets between the adjacent layers. | 11-17-2016 |
| 20160331175 | System and Method for Operating Rotisserie Oven - An oven for performing a rotisserie cooking operation includes an oven cavity having a door for selectively accessing the oven cavity, at least one heating element for heating the oven cavity and a rotisserie arm adapted to support a food product within the oven cavity. A motor is operatively coupled to the rotisserie arm for rotating the rotisserie arm and a food product. The oven also includes a control interface having a rotisserie cooking mode input and a control system for controlling the rotisserie motor and the heating element. In addition to other functions, the control system automatically causes the rotisserie motor to cycle on and off to allow for intermittent rotation of the food product supported on the rotisserie arm when the oven door is opened. | 11-17-2016 |
| 20160298891 | TOP COOLING MODULE FOR A REFRIGERATOR | 10-13-2016 |
| 20160187053 | ICE STORAGE TO HOLD ICE AND MINIMIZE MELTING OF ICE SPHERES - An ice support and storage tray includes one or more cavities having upwardly facing spherical surface portions that support spherical pieces of ice. The tray is preferably made of a material having a low thermal conductivity to reduce melting of the spherical pieces of ice. The spherical support surfaces minimize melting points that could otherwise cause the spherical pieces of ice to melt and develop irregular surface shapes. The ice tray may be used in a freezer having an ice maker that transports spheres of ice to the ice support cavities. The ice storage tray may be configured to permit removal of spheres of ice without tipping the tray upside down and/or twisting/deforming the tray. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160186984 | APPLIANCE HAVING A HUMAN-MACHINE INTERFACE AND ILLUMINATED HANDLE RECESS - An appliance comprising an appliance housing with an access opening, a closure element that selectively covers the access opening, a handle recess formed in the closure element, a human-machine interface (HMI), an HMI housing, and at least one light source. The light source is configured to provide light into the handle recess. The illumination from the light source may be used to light the handle recess. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160161128 | OVEN DOOR LIGHTING - Lighting for an oven door includes a light source and a design that is selectively illuminated by the light source. The light source is located in the oven door, and the design is etched in an oven door window. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160160421 | LAUNDRY TREATING APPLIANCE WITH A DYNAMIC BALANCER - A dynamic balancer device for mounting to and balancing a rotatable drum in a laundry treating appliance. The dynamic balancer device comprises an enclosed annular housing having a radial circumferential wall, a plurality of internal baffles in the enclosed annular housing and a fluid disposed in the annular race and movable therein. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160158719 | BLENDER JAR COLLARS AND INTERLOCKS - A blender collar assembly including a plunger moveable between a lower position where a blade assembly is prevented from coupling with a motor, and an upper position where the blade assembly is able to couple with the motor. The plunger includes an arm extending upward and having a u-shaped feature, and a protrusion associated with the u-shaped feature. The assembly further includes a concentric interlock ring rotating responsive to rotation of a blender jar. The interlock ring including a first portion engaging the u-shaped feature preventing the plunger from moving upward, a second gap portion not engaging the u-shaped feature enabling the plunger to move upward and downward within the collar, and a key engaging a protrusion of the blender jar as the plunger moves upward preventing the interlock ring from rotating while the second portion is rotationally aligned with the u-shaped feature. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160146524 | VERTICAL ICE MAKER PRODUCING CLEAR ICE PIECES - An ice making assembly and method utilizes a housing having an upper fluid chamber, a plurality of distinct, substantially vertical fluid channels, and at least one drain aperture in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir. Ice forming members extend from an ice forming evaporator into respective fluid channels. During an ice making event, fluid continuously supplied to the upper fluid chamber flows into each of the fluid channels and out through at least one drain aperture into a fluid reservoir below. The ice forming members are cooled such that fluid flowing across the fluid channels freezes on the ice forming members over time, forming clear ice pieces. The ice pieces are subsequently released from the ice forming members and transferred for storage and/or dispensing. | 05-26-2016 |
| 20160145790 | LAUNDRY TREATING APPLIANCE WITH LAUNDRY DEFLECTOR - A laundry treating appliance may include a front panel with an opening, a door selectively opening and closing the front panel opening, a tub with an opening at least partially aligned with the front panel opening, and a bellows extending between the front panel and the tub at their respective openings. A deflector mounted to the tub extends towards the door and overlies at least a portion of the bellows. | 05-26-2016 |
| 20160143507 | REDUCED VAPOR DRY SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DISHWASHERS - An example vent assembly for a dishwasher having a tub at least partially defining a treating chamber, and an exhaust vent, includes a condenser having an outlet, and an inlet in fluid communication with the treating chamber, an ambient air cooling duct in thermal communication with the condenser, and having an outlet in fluid communication with the exhaust vent, a venturi having an inlet in communication with the outlet of the condenser, and an outlet in communication with the cooling duct, and a fan for flowing ambient air through the cooling duct, past the venturi, and out the exhaust vent. | 05-26-2016 |
| 20160143504 | DISHWASHER DRAIN ASSEMBLIES HAVING OVERMOLDED VOLUTES - Dishwasher drain assemblies having overmolded volutes are disclosed. A disclosed example drain assembly for a dishwasher having a tub, a sump fluidly coupled to the tub, and a discharge outlet includes a drain pump having an impeller to pump fluid from the sump to the discharge outlet, and a resilient member overmolded onto at least a portion of the drain pump, the resilient member defining a volute for the drain pump. | 05-26-2016 |
| 20160141078 | SHELF BRACKETS TO CONDUCT ELECTRICITY TO REFRIGERATOR SHELVES - Shelf brackets to conduct electricity to refrigerator shelves are disclosed. An example shelf bracket includes an end configured to engage a support rail, the end having a first area to conduct electricity from the support rail to the shelf bracket, an arm extending from the end to support the shelf, the arm comprising a second area to conduct electricity from the shelf bracket to the shelf, a non-electrically conductive coating applied to substantially all of the shelf bracket except in the first and second areas, a first electrically conductive material applied to at least a portion of the first area, and a second electrically conductive material applied to at least a portion of the second area, wherein the shelf bracket is formed from a third electrically conductive material, the third electrically conductive material to conduct electricity between the first and second areas. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160138844 | ROTATIONAL ICE MAKER - An ice maker has an ice mold that includes a metallic piece and an insulated piece. A cooling source is thermally coupled to the metallic piece. A cavity is within the ice mold and has a first reservoir in the metallic piece and a second reservoir in the insulated piece. The first and second reservoirs align to substantially enclose the cavity. An intake aperture in the insulated piece extends to the cavity for receiving water. A drive body rotatably coupled to the ice mold that operates in an ice-making cycle, wherein the drive body repeatedly rotates the mold from an injection position to a tilted position. The cavity receives an incremental amount of water in the injection position and moves to the tilted position to freeze at least a portion of the incremental amount of water over a side surface of the cavity to make an ice piece. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160137480 | SELECT FILL SENSOR SYSTEM FOR REFRIGERATOR DISPENSERS - A refrigerator includes a dispenser having a dispenser well, a control for regulating a product dispensing operation, and an optical sensing system includes a camera within the dispenser well in communication with a controller for controlling the filling of a container within the dispenser well based on image data. The image data can used to detect at least one of a presence of a container in the dispenser well, a height of liquid within the container, a height of ice within the container and a shape of the container within the dispenser well, as well as to adjust a dispensing rate of product. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160134431 | CLIENT FOR AN APPLIANCE NETWORK - A client having at least one memory location is provided for use with an appliance network. The client includes an arbitrary software component for performing a useful function, a software architecture or a software architecture driver configured to generate or enable transmission of messages, and means to communicate by message over a network. Thus, the client can have full capability to act as an accessory to an appliance to communicate with and to enhance or alter the operation of the appliance. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160134087 | REFRIGERATOR MODULE UTILITIES ENABLED VIA CONNECTION - A connection system includes a feature module that supplies various functionalities, a portable countertop stand having an upright section that selectively receives the feature module and an umbilical connecting the portable stand to an external appliance to deliver utilities to the portable countertop stand. A utility port selectively delivers at least one utility to the feature module when engaged with the upright section. A utility receiver removably engages the utility port by hand without the use of tools and selectively receives a predetermined set of utilities when the feature module engages the upright surface. A connection interface detects when the feature module is engaged with the upright section and the predetermined utility set required by the engaged feature module. After the feature module is engaged, the connection interface prompts the utility port to release the predetermined utility set to the feature module. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160131416 | LINER SHELF SUPPORT STRUCTURES FOR REFRIGERATORS AND FREEZERS - An example shelf support structure integral to a refrigerator or freezer liner includes a first feature defined in a liner and extending inward from the liner, the first feature having a first portion at a first height, and a second portion at a second height different from the first height; and a second feature defined in the liner and extending inward from the liner, the second feature spaced-apart from the first feature along a front to back direction and together with the first feature providing support for a shelf, the second feature having a third portion at a third height and a fourth portion at a fourth height different from the third height. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160131407 | MODULAR BUCKET AND DOOR ARCHITECTURE TO DELIVER THREE ICE FUNCTIONS - An appliance including an ice manipulation reservoir capable of receiving ice having a base, wherein the base includes a first level and a second level, with the first level descending gradually to the second level. A first ice modification member is disposed inside the ice manipulation reservoir adjacent the first level of the base, and a second ice modification member is disposed inside the ice manipulation reservoir adjacent the second level of the base. A motor is operably connected with the ice manipulation reservoir and includes an output shaft. An impeller is connected with the output shaft proximate to the plurality of ice modification members, with the impeller being operable between a first directional rotation, and a second directional rotation. | 05-12-2016 |
