Abstract: A water filter assembly mounted to an inner surface of a refrigerator and accessible from within a refrigeration compartment of the refrigerator. The filter assembly includes a first housing part, a second housing part, and a replaceable filter cartridge. The first and second housing parts cooperate to define a fluid-tight chamber for receipt of the filter cartridge. The first housing part includes an inlet port through which unfiltered water may be introduced into the chamber and an outlet port through which filtered water may exit the chamber. The second housing part surrounds a portion of the first housing part and provides a volume sufficient to hold the filter cartridge and any water within the chamber when the second housing part is released from the first housing part to replace the filter cartridge, and thereby prevents or minimizes spillage of water from the filter assembly during filter cartridge replacement.

Abstract: Disclosed is a compressor and drain pan assembly utilizing a polyurethane adhesive to secure the drain pan to the compressor housing. The adhesive has an elasticity sufficient to dampen vibrations from the compressor, thereby significantly minimizing undesirable noise.

Abstract: Disclosed is a filter standpipe for a dishwasher filter and sump unit that prevents loss of circulation pump prime due to filter blockage. The filter standpipe preferably comprises a weir tube that projects upwards from the upper surface of the filter to provide a bypass for wash water trapped on the upper surface of a blocked filter.

Abstract: A thermostat assembly for a room air-conditioning unit includes a sensing tube and a thermoplastic protective tube extending over the sensing tube. The protective tube has a spiral-shaped gap which allows air flowing over the protective tube to directly contact the sensing tube so that the thermostat assembly accurately measures the temperature of the air. The protective tube protects the sensing tube from abrasion by sharp edges and insulates the sensing tube from contacting cold surfaces which could otherwise affect the performance of the thermostat assembly.

Abstract: A shipping restraint for appliance accessories having first and second ends and a main section intermediate said ends. The first end is received by a door of the appliance. The second end spaces a portion of the main section from the remainder of the main section. The main section includes two end apertures, the tabs extending through the apertures and defining a framework to retain the accessories during shipment. A reinforcement member is removably secured to the main section and serves to support a shipping box surrounding the appliance.

Abstract: An awning assembly for a recreational vehicle has a pair of pivoting support arms supporting a roller. Rafters are pivotably and slidably mounted to the support arms and maintain the awning in an extended position. In a stowed position, the rafters and support arms are parallel and extend vertically along a wall of the vehicle. The support arms have bent upper ends so that the roller is positioned above a top edge of the wall to provide a low profile in the stowed position. Existing support arms can be equipped with bent extension adapters. A sliding latch is mounted on the support arm and engages the rafter when the awning is stowed. The latch is spring biased to a latching position and has a bolt that automatically retracts similar to a door bolt.

Abstract: A passive or dynamic venting system for a frontloading dishwasher is located within the dishwasher door and includes a plate-shaped valve which closes off a valve port in the inner liner or face of the door; the valve is moved by a linear actuator along a path of closing and opening that is perpendicular to the plane of the door. In the dynamic system, a cross-flow type blower is also located within the door.