Abstract: A display system for an appliance incorporates an electronic interface screen, such as an LCD touch screen, through which a wide range of information concerning operational, diagnostic and other data concerning the appliance can be displayed. The screen is divided into a number of panels for displaying different sets of information. Selecting one of the panels results in the panel becoming enlarged so as to fill the entire LCD screen while, at the same time, displaying an additional layer of detailed information.

Abstract: A laundry machine control system and method of operating the same are disclosed. The system includes various slates of cycles pre-programmed into a CPU which controls the machine. Each of the slates includes numerous different cycles, each preferably designed to clean a different type of fabric. Particularly, each of the slates is programmed with the cycles expected to be used in a specific environment. The system of this invention allows for a programmer to select a desired slate from among the pre-programmed slates. It is also possible to reprogram a slate with cycles not originally part of that slate. Furthermore, it is possible, through the control system of the invention, to redefine a specific cycle including the individual steps and operations thereof.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating an automatic cycle of a clothes dryer wherein after initiation of an automatic cycle, a CPU displays the expected time remaining during the current cycle. At various times during the cycle, the expected time remaining is updated by comparing the time required to reach certain moisture levels of the articles contained therein to reference times. The comparison also results in the expected times being updated for future uses of the clothes dryer. Finally, the invention includes a system for updating the amount of time required to reach a desired final temperature during a cooldown sequence.

Abstract: A display system for an appliance incorporates an electronic interface screen, such as an LCD touch screen, through which a wide range of information concerning operational, diagnostic and other data concerning the appliance can be displayed. The screen is divided into a number of panels for displaying different sets of information. Selecting one of the panels results in the panel becoming enlarged so as to fill the entire LCD screen while, at the same time, displaying an additional layer of detailed information.

Abstract: A system for operating and programming a laundry appliance includes a menu system giving a user extreme flexibility in operating the appliance. Through a series of menu screens, the user is presented with a variety of available options. Additionally, the laundry appliance of the invention gives the user access to databases, preferably already programmed into memory of the appliance, such as general tips for laundering and simple troubleshooting. Finally, the user has the ability to program the menu system.

Abstract: A method of operating an automatic cycle of a clothes dryer is disclosed wherein, after initiation of an automatic cycle, a CPU displays the expected time remaining during the current cycle. At various times during the cycle, the expected time remaining is updated by comparing the time required to reach certain moisture levels of the articles contained therein to reference times. The comparison also results in the expected times being updated for future uses of the clothes dryer. Finally, the invention includes a system for updating the amount of time required to reach a desired final temperature during a cooldown sequence.

Abstract: A laundry machine control system and method of operating the same are disclosed. The system includes various slates of cycles pre-programmed into a CPU which controls the machine. Each of the slates includes numerous different cycles, each preferably designed to clean a different type of fabric. Particularly, each of the slates is programmed with the cycles expected to be used in a specific environment. The system of this invention allows for a programmer to select a desired slate from among the pre-programmed slates. It is also possible to reprogram a slate with cycles not originally part of that slate. Furthermore, it is possible, through the control system of the invention, to redefine a specific cycle including the individual steps and operations thereof.

Abstract: A system for operating and programming a laundry appliance includes a menu system giving a user extreme flexibility in operating the appliance. Through a series of menu screens, the user is presented with a variety of available options. Additionally, the laundry appliance of the invention gives the user access to databases, preferably already programmed into memory of the appliance, such as general tips for laundering and simple troubleshooting. Finally, the user has the ability to program the menu system.