Patents by Inventor John J. Vonderhaar
John J. Vonderhaar has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 9991683Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2016Date of Patent: June 5, 2018Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Paul B. Allard, Robert Ryan Bradley, James W. Kendall, Steven J. Kuehl, Douglas D. Leclear, Alan S. Lucas, Andrew M. Tenbarge, John J. VonderHaar, Guolian Wu
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Patent number: 9383133Abstract: An adjustable connector system for use in an appliance is provided, wherein the adjustable connector system includes a channel disposed on a surface of the appliance, an access aperture defined by a surface adjacent the channel, and a utility enabled connector at least partially received in the channel, and extending from the access aperture, wherein the utility enabled connector includes an elongated member configured to at least partially extend along the channel, and extend from the access aperture, and an interface adapted to supply at least one utility to a modular appliance configured to be removably attached to one of a plurality of removable attachment locations on the appliance.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2015Date of Patent: July 5, 2016Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Paul B. Allard, Douglas D. Leclear, Karen J. Querfurth, Andrew M. Tenbarge, John J. Vonderhaar, Michele Wilcox
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Publication number: 20160134087Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2016Publication date: May 12, 2016Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATIONInventors: Paul B. Allard, Robert Ryan Bradley, James W. Kendall, Steven J. Kuehl, Douglas D. Leclear, Alan S. Lucas, Andrew M. Tenbarge, John J. VonderHaar, Guolian Wu
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Patent number: 9310123Abstract: A method of making an appliance door includes inserting a door pan into a fixture having first and second forming molds, which are pressed together. An inner door liner is placed over the door pan and secured thereto to form a base door. A mold cavity is formed between the door pan and the inner door liner. An insulative material is injected into the mold cavity defined by the space between the door pan and the inner door liner. A removable decorative exterior skin is extended over the base door. A support frame and a plurality of utility lines are provided. An insulative material contacts the support frame. A base door is formed by an inner door liner secured to the insulative material and the support frame.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2012Date of Patent: April 12, 2016Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: James Charles Leslie Guarino, James W. Kendall, Alan S. Lucas, Vikas Malhotra, Keith Allen Snyder, John J. VonderHaar
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Patent number: 9250007Abstract: An appliance that includes a cabinet having an exterior surface; a refrigeration compartment located within the cabinet; and a hydrophilic structure disposed on the exterior surface. The hydrophilic structure is configured to spread condensation. The appliance further includes a wicking structure located in proximity to the hydrophilic structure, and the wicking structure is configured to receive the condensation.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2014Date of Patent: February 2, 2016Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Steven John Kuehl, John J. Vonderhaar, Guolian Wu, Mianxue Wu
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Patent number: 9252570Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2013Date of Patent: February 2, 2016Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Paul B. Allard, Robert Ryan Bradley, James W. Kendall, Steven J. Kuehl, Douglas D. Leclear, Alan S. Lucas, Andrew M. Tenbarge, John J. Vonderhaar, Guolian Wu
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Patent number: 9237766Abstract: A refrigerator includes a cabinet defining an open storage space and including a door with an exterior side and an interior side adapted to receive a modular component. The modular component includes a base removably connected to the interior side and has a first edge and a second edge. A component door is hingedly-connected to the first edge of the base and is operable between an open position and a closed position. The base and component door define a sealed compartment when the component door is in the closed position. First fasteners are disposed on the component door, and second fasteners are disposed on the base. The second fasteners engage the first fasteners to create an airtight seal between the component door and the base. A vacuum device is in communication with the sealed compartment and a heat sealer is disposed on the base or the component door.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2013Date of Patent: January 19, 2016Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Paul B. Allard, Michele E. Wilcox, Douglas D. Leclear, John J. Vonderhaar, Karen J. Querfurth, Andrew M. Tenbarge
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Publication number: 20150247665Abstract: An adjustable connector system for use in an appliance is provided, wherein the adjustable connector system includes a channel disposed on a surface of the appliance, an access aperture defined by a surface adjacent the channel, and a utility enabled connector at least partially received in the channel, and extending from the access aperture, wherein the utility enabled connector includes an elongated member configured to at least partially extend along the channel, and extend from the access aperture, and an interface adapted to supply at least one utility to a modular appliance configured to be removably attached to one of a plurality of removable attachment locations on the appliance.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2015Publication date: September 3, 2015Applicant: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Paul B. Allard, Douglas D. Leclear, Karen J. Querfurth, Andrew M. Tenbarge, John J. Vonderhaar, Michele Wilcox
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Patent number: 9033717Abstract: An adjustable connector system for use in an appliance is provided, wherein the adjustable connector system includes a channel disposed on a surface of the appliance, an access aperture defined by a surface adjacent the channel, and a utility enabled connector at least partially received in the channel, and extending from the access aperture, wherein the utility enabled connector includes an elongated member configured to at least partially extend along the channel, and extend from the access aperture, and an interface adapted to supply at least one utility to a modular appliance configured to be removably attached to one of a plurality of removable attachment locations on the appliance.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2013Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Paul B. Allard, Douglas D. Leclear, Karen J. Querfurth, Andrew M. Tenbarge, John J. Vonderhaar, Michele Wilcox
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Patent number: 9003825Abstract: A refrigerator door includes the ability to mount a variety of modules requiring utilities, such as electricity and fluids, within adjustable locations in the door of the refrigerator. The door includes a conduit extending in at least one direction and including one or more plug-in connectors for allowing a module with a mating connector to be positioned on the door for supplying operating utilities to the module. This allows the purchaser of the refrigerator to add components and accessories to the refrigerator after purchase or select desired features at the time of purchase.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2013Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Paul B. Allard, James W. Kendall, John J. Vonderhaar, Guolian Wu, Alan S. Lucas, Andrew M. Tenbarge
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Publication number: 20150008815Abstract: An appliance that includes a cabinet having an exterior surface; a refrigeration compartment located within the cabinet; and a hydrophilic structure disposed on the exterior surface. The hydrophilic structure is configured to spread condensation. The appliance further includes a wicking structure located in proximity to the hydrophilic structure, and the wicking structure is configured to receive the condensation.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2014Publication date: January 8, 2015Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATIONInventors: STEVEN JOHN KUEHL, JOHN J. VONDERHAAR, GUOLIAN WU, MIAXUE WU
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Patent number: 8926032Abstract: A refrigerator appliance that includes a freezer compartment, a refrigeration compartment having two doors, and a mullion having an interior surface and an exterior surface. The mullion is movably coupled to, and configured to swing behind, at least one of the doors when the two doors are moved to a closed position. The exterior surface of the mullion directs condensation toward a transfer point. The exterior surface may be configured with a hydrophilic surface to direct and control the condensation. The condensation may also be directed into a receptacle or a wicking structure arranged to facilitate evaporation of the unwanted condensate.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2012Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Steven John Kuehl, John J. Vonderhaar, Guolian Wu, Mianxue Wu
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Patent number: 8864251Abstract: A refrigerator appliance that includes a freezer compartment having a freezer compartment door, and a refrigeration compartment having at least one refrigeration compartment door. The appliance further includes a mullion with an exterior surface. The mullion divides the compartments and the exterior surface directs condensation toward a transfer point. The appliance may also include a cabinet that houses the compartments and has two sides, each with an exterior surface. Further, at least one exterior surface directs condensation toward a transfer point.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2012Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Steven John Kuehl, John J. Vonderhaar, Guolian Wu, Mianxue Wu
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Patent number: 8739568Abstract: A modular utility supply unit that includes a utility supply module housing having removable engageability to a surface of an appliance. Also included is at least one refillable reservoir capable of storing a plurality of utilities and receiving at least one utility from the appliance when the utility supply unit is operably engaged to the appliance. Further included is an interface capable of engaging a plurality of feature modules, where the interface includes a recognition device that prompts the utility supply unit to provide the engaged feature module with at least one of the storage utilities within the utility supply from at least one of the refillable reservoirs.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2009Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Paul B. Allard, Robert Ryan Bradley, James W. Kendall, Steven J. Kuehl, Alan S. Lucas, Andrew M. Tenbarge, John J. Vonderhaar, Guolian Wu
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Patent number: 8726690Abstract: A refrigerator includes a rear wall, a first side wall, a second side wall, a top wall, and a bottom wall that are permanently attached to define a cabinet. The cabinet includes an interior liner and an exterior wrapper. A door is pivotally connected with the cabinet and includes an interior liner and an exterior wrapper. A pocket is disposed in at least one of the rear wall, first side wall, second side wall, top wall, bottom wall, and door between the interior liner and the exterior wrapper. The pocket includes an access opening disposed at an edge of one of the rear wall, first side wall, second side wall, top wall, and bottom wall. A removable insulation panel is disposed in the pocket.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2011Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Nihat O. Cur, Steven J. Kuehl, Luiz Antonio D. Lopes, John J. Vonderhaar, John R. Wisnoski
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Publication number: 20140077489Abstract: An adjustable connector system for use in an appliance is provided, wherein the adjustable connector system includes a channel disposed on a surface of the appliance, an access aperture defined by a surface adjacent the channel, and a utility enabled connector at least partially received in the channel, and extending from the access aperture, wherein the utility enabled connector includes an elongated member configured to at least partially extend along the channel, and extend from the access aperture, and an interface adapted to supply at least one utility to a modular appliance configured to be removably attached to one of a plurality of removable attachment locations on the appliance.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2013Publication date: March 20, 2014Applicant: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: PAUL B. ALLARD, DOUGLAS D. LECLEAR, KAREN J. QUERFURTH, ANDREW M. TENBARGE, JOHN J. VONDERHAAR, MICHELE WILCOX
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Publication number: 20140033757Abstract: A refrigerator appliance that includes a freezer compartment, a refrigeration compartment having two doors, and a mullion having an interior surface and an exterior surface. The mullion is movably coupled to, and configured to swing behind, at least one of the doors when the two doors are moved to a closed position. The exterior surface of the mullion directs condensation toward a transfer point. The exterior surface may be configured with a hydrophilic surface to direct and control the condensation. The condensation may also be directed into a receptacle or a wicking structure arranged to facilitate evaporation of the unwanted condensate.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2012Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATIONInventors: STEVEN JOHN KUEHL, JOHN J. VONDERHAAR, GUOLIAN WU, MIANXUE WU
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Publication number: 20140033756Abstract: A refrigerator appliance that includes a freezer compartment having a freezer compartment door, and a refrigeration compartment having at least one refrigeration compartment door. The appliance further includes a mullion with an exterior surface. The mullion divides the compartments and the exterior surface directs condensation toward a transfer point. The appliance may also include a cabinet that houses the compartments and has two sides, each with an exterior surface. Further, at least one exterior surface directs condensation toward a transfer point.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2012Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATIONInventors: STEVEN JOHN KUEHL, JOHN J. VONDERHAAR, GUOLIAN WU, MIANXUE WU
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Publication number: 20130334951Abstract: A refrigerator door includes the ability to mount a variety of modules requiring utilities, such as electricity and fluids, within adjustable locations in the door of the refrigerator. The door includes a conduit extending in at least one direction and including one or more plug-in connectors for allowing a module with a mating connector to be positioned on the door for supplying operating utilities to the module. This allows the purchaser of the refrigerator to add components and accessories to the refrigerator after purchase or select desired features at the time of purchase.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2013Publication date: December 19, 2013Applicant: Whirpool CorporationInventors: PAUL B. ALLARD, JAMES W. KENDALL, JOHN J. VONDERHAAR, GUOLIAN WU, Alan S. LUCAS, ANDREW M. TENBARGE
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Publication number: 20130305665Abstract: A refrigerator includes a cabinet defining an open storage space and including a door with an exterior side and an interior side adapted to receive a modular component. The modular component includes a base removably connected to the interior side and has a first edge and a second edge. A component door is hingedly-connected to the first edge of the base and is operable between an open position and a closed position. The base and component door define a sealed compartment when the component door is in the closed position. First fasteners are disposed on the component door, and second fasteners are disposed on the base. The second fasteners engage the first fasteners to create an airtight seal between the component door and the base. A vacuum device is in communication with the sealed compartment and a heat sealer is disposed on the base or the component door.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2013Publication date: November 21, 2013Applicant: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: PAUL B. ALLARD, MICHELE E. WILCOX, DOUGLAS D. LECLEAR, JOHN J. VONDERHAAR, KAREN J. QUERFURTH, ANDREW M. TENBARGE