17947671. Air Bypass Seal With Backer For Improved Drying Performance In A Combination Washer/Dryer simplified abstract (WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION)

From WikiPatents
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Air Bypass Seal With Backer For Improved Drying Performance In A Combination Washer/Dryer

Organization Name

WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION

Inventor(s)

Christopher Lee Borlin of St. Joseph MI (US)

Stephen Ostdiek of St. Joseph MI (US)

Vaclav Petracek of Svit (SK)

Marcel Schmidt of Poprad (SK)

Air Bypass Seal With Backer For Improved Drying Performance In A Combination Washer/Dryer - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17947671 titled 'Air Bypass Seal With Backer For Improved Drying Performance In A Combination Washer/Dryer

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes a combination washer/dryer appliance with a seal assembly that closes an air gap between the rear drum wall and the rear tub wall, limiting the deflection of the resilient flap in the seal assembly.

  • The appliance includes a tub mounted within an appliance housing.
  • A drum is rotatably supported within the tub.
  • The seal assembly mounted to the drum includes a resilient flap and a travel limiter.
  • The travel limiter limits the deflection of the resilient flap, setting a maximum deflection limit.

Potential Applications

The technology described in this patent application could be applied to various types of combination washer/dryer appliances to improve the sealing between the drum and the tub, reducing air gaps and improving efficiency.

Problems Solved

1. Air gaps between the drum and tub walls can lead to energy loss and reduced efficiency in washer/dryer appliances. 2. Inefficient sealing can result in moisture leakage and potential damage to the appliance components.

Benefits

1. Improved energy efficiency due to reduced air gaps. 2. Enhanced durability of the appliance components. 3. Prevention of moisture leakage and potential damage.

Potential Commercial Applications

"Seal Assembly for Combination Washer/Dryer Appliances: Improving Efficiency and Durability"

Possible Prior Art

There may be existing patents or technologies related to sealing mechanisms in washer/dryer appliances, but specific prior art is not provided in this patent application.

Unanswered Questions

How does this technology impact the overall performance of the washer/dryer appliance?

The technology described in the patent application improves the sealing between the drum and tub walls, reducing air gaps and potential energy loss. This can lead to increased efficiency and better performance of the appliance.

What materials are used in the seal assembly to ensure durability and longevity?

The patent application does not specify the materials used in the seal assembly. Further details on the materials and their properties would be beneficial to understand the longevity and durability of the seal assembly.


Original Abstract Submitted

A combination washer/dryer appliance is described that includes a tub mounted within an appliance housing and a drum rotatably supported within the tub. A seal assembly that closes an air gap between a rear drum wall and a rear tub wall is mounted to the drum. The seal assembly includes a resilient flap and a travel limiter, which limits the amount of deflection of the resilient flap, thereby defining a maximum deflection limit for the resilient flap.