Abstract: A rotating antenna is provided for use in a microwave oven having drive apparatus for rotating the antenna, a heating cavity, a source of microwave energy and a waveguide between the heating cavity and the source of microwave energy. A probe extends into the waveguide for coupling with the microwave energy and is connected to a center-fed dipole radiator in the heating cavity. Radiation modifying elements are integral with the dipole radiator to provide increased radiation in the central portion of the heating cavity. Impedance balancing elements are also integral with the dipole radiator and cooperate with the probe to effectively match the impedance of the source of microwave energy with the impedance of the heating cavity to permit substantially full microwave power to be delivered to a cooking load.

Abstract: An automatic liquid level control system is provided for a laundry appliance having a tub and a perforate fabric basket within the tub. Washing liquid is injected onto the surface of fabrics to be laundered. A portion of the washing liquid will be absorbed by the fabrics and a portion will flow through the fabrics and fabric basket perforations for accumulation in the tub. Sensing devices are provided for monitoring the changing liquid level in the tub and the time required to reach predetermined levels. A programmable controller determines the quantity of additional liquid required to launder the fabric load responsive to the sensing devices and commensurate with the load characteristics and controls the injection thereof onto the fabrics.

Abstract: An access door lock system for an automatic washing machine which includes a timer having an internal manually operated On-Off switch, a latch biased to normally engage with and lock the access door, and a latch actuating mechanism interconnecting the timer and the latch and preventing opening of the access door when the timer-associated switch is in the On condition. After the switch is moved to the Off condition, the latch actuating mechanism is operable to a position for disengaging the latch from the access door and allowing the access door to be opened.

Abstract: A manually operable caster brake control system for a portable apparatus such as an automatic washing machine. The brake control system is connected through a linkage system to an access door and a line switch such that the apparatus will not operate unless the caster brake is actuated and the access door is closed.

Abstract: A coupler assembly for a portable washing machine which includes a locking ring or locking means having a plurality of arcuate segments connected by intermediate web sections. The locking ring assembles onto a coupler body with the arcuate segments at least partially extending through slots in the coupler body and is cooperable with an encircling retaining ring for locking engagement with a faucet.