Abstract: A method of determining static and dynamic imbalance conditions in a horizontal axis washing machine is disclosed. The method utilizes a number of algorithms to automatically determine the total load size, the magnitude of any static load imbalance, and the magnitude of any dynamic load imbalance for any given load in a given washing machine based on power measurements from the washing machine motor. Methods of obtaining the algorithms for the given washing machine are disclosed.

Abstract: An appliance isolating the forces generated by the appliance from a support surface for a predetermined range of motion of the appliance.

Abstract: A guide assembly includes a sleeve-shaped member having first and second ends. At least one insert member is positioned within one of the ends of said sleeve-shaped member, the insert member including an end-to-end channel. A guide bar extends through the sleeve-shaped member and along the end-to-end channel of the insert member. A first end of the guide bar extends from the first end of the sleeve-shaped member and a second end of the guide bar extends from the second end of the sleeve-shaped member. A second insert member positioned in the other end of the sleeve-shaped member may also be provided.

Abstract: The invention is a sharpener for a knife of a food slicer. The sharpener includes a base assembly and a sharpener assembly. The base assembly includes a lever mounted thereto on a pivot; the lever carrying a cam member which extends therefrom. The sharpener assembly includes a housing and a longitudinal cavity, a sharpening wheel mounted for rotation on an axle which reciprocates lengthwise in the cavity, a compression spring positioned in the cavity at the base of the axle, and an actuator which reciprocates in the cavity portion on the side of the spring opposite the axle. Upon moving the lever about its pivot, the cam contacts the actuator and moves the actuator in the direction of the axle and compresses the spring. The spring moves the plunger lengthwise within the cavity and urges the sharpening wheel against the knife.