USER INTERFACE SOLUTIONS FOR ACCESSING APPLIANCE CONTROL THROUGH COSMETIC OUTER CABINET
A laundry appliance includes a body that houses a motor that selectively operates a drum for processing laundry, wherein the body includes an aperture for selectively accessing the drum. A door panel provides selective access to the aperture. A controller is configured to operate at least the motor. A user interface is in communication with the controller for selecting a laundry-processing operation to be performed. An outer panel at least partially conceals the body from view. An outer selector is positioned proximate the outer panel, wherein the outer selector is in communication with the controller via the user interface.
Latest WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION Patents:
This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/511,625, filed on Oct. 27, 2021, entitled USER INTERFACE SOLUTIONS FOR ACCESSING APPLIANCE CONTROL THROUGH COSMETIC OUTER CABINET, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/527,975, filed on Jul. 31, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,193,229, entitled USER INTERFACE SOLUTIONS FOR ACCESSING APPLIANCE CONTROL THROUGH COSMETIC OUTER CABINET, which claims priority to and the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119 (e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/747,933, filed on Oct. 19, 2018, entitled USER INTERFACE SOLUTIONS FOR ACCESSING APPLIANCE CONTROL THROUGH COSMETIC OUTER CABINET, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE DEVICEThe device is in the field of controls for appliances, and more specifically, a control for an appliance that may be accessed through an outer cosmetic panel for activating or otherwise engaging a concealed user interface of the interior appliance.
SUMMARYIn at least one aspect, a laundry appliance includes a body that houses a motor that selectively operates a drum for processing laundry, wherein the body includes an aperture for selectively accessing the drum. A door panel provides selective access to the aperture. A controller is configured to operate at least the motor. A user interface is in communication with the controller for selecting a laundry-processing operation to be performed. An outer panel at least partially conceals the body from view. An outer selector is positioned proximate the outer panel, wherein the outer selector is in communication with the controller via the user interface.
According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry appliance includes a body that houses a motor that selectively operates at least one of a drum and a blower for processing laundry within the drum. The body includes an aperture for selectively accessing the drum. A door panel provides selective access to the aperture. A user interface is in communication with a controller for selecting a laundry-processing function to be performed via operation of the motor. A cosmetic outer structure at least partially conceals the body from view. The cosmetic outer structure includes an outer panel and a top panel. An outer selector is positioned proximate the outer panel, wherein the outer selector is in communication with the controller via the user interface.
According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry appliance includes a body that houses a motor that selectively operates at least one of a drum and a blower for processing laundry within the drum. The body includes an aperture for selectively accessing the drum. A door panel provides selective access to the aperture. A user interface is in communication with a controller for selecting a laundry-processing function to be performed via operation of the motor. A cosmetic outer structure at least partially conceals the body from view. The cosmetic outer structure includes an outer panel and a top panel. A gesture sensing region is defined proximate the outer panel. The gesture sensing region is configured to wirelessly interact with the user interface when an obstruction engages the gesture sensing region.
These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present device will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.
In the drawings:
structure positioned around the outer surface of the laundry appliance;
For purposes of description herein the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the device as oriented in
With respect to
Referring again to
According to various aspects of the device, the intermediary interface 18 can include the outer selector 48 positioned on or within the cosmetic outer structure 16 and can be used for accessing the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. In certain situations, it may become necessary to start, stop, pause, or otherwise modify an operating condition 46 for the appliance 12. The user may wish to access the user interface 10 without first opening the outer panel 14 for the cosmetic outer structure 16. The intermediary interface 18 that is incorporated within, or proximate, the cosmetic outer structure 16 allows the user to engage the cosmetic outer structure 16 to, in turn, directly or indirectly engage the user interface 10 for the appliance 12 for modifying an operating condition 46 for the concealed appliance 12.
By way of example, and not limitation, a user may begin a laundry treatment cycle for an appliance 12 that is concealed within a cosmetic outer structure 16. During the cycle, the user may desire to pause the operating condition 46 to wait for additional laundry or to allow another individual to access the appliance 12 and restart the operating condition 46. The intermediary interface 18 incorporated within the cosmetic outer structure 16 allows the user to engage the cosmetic outer structure 16 to operate the concealed appliance 12 without first opening the outer panel 14 for the cosmetic outer structure 16. Through the intermediary interface 18, the user can, at least, indirectly engage the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12.
In certain situations, time may be a factor for quickly pausing or stopping an operating condition 46 for the appliance 12. Such a condition may be a condition of severe imbalance, sounds of loose change or other undesirable items being located within the appliance 12, forgetting to add the proper laundry chemistry to the appliance 12, and other conditions that may present a condition to stop operation of the appliance 12 as soon as possible. Time saved by not having to open the outer panel 14 for the cosmetic outer structure 16 is desirable to prevent damage to the appliance 12 or clothing or, at minimum, prevention of an ineffective laundry cycle from being performed.
Referring now to
Referring again to
Using the pressure sensor 90 and/or the strain gauge 92, the user can exert a predetermined amount of pressure 100 against the outer panel 14 for the cosmetic outer structure 16. This predetermined amount and/or duration of pressure 100 can send the signal 78 to the controller 44 to modify the operating condition 46 for the concealed appliance 12. It is also contemplated that a combination or pattern of pressure 100 exerted on the outer panel 14 can be received by the pressure-sensitive switch or strain gauge 92. This combination of exerted pressure 100 by the user can be perceived by the user interface 10 and/or the controller 44 as being indicative of an instruction to modify an operating condition 46 for the concealed appliance 12. By using a pattern of exerted pressures 100 by the user, an inadvertent bumping by the user against the cosmetic outer structure 16 can be distinguished from an intended engagement with the cosmetic outer structure 16 to modify an operating condition 46 for a concealed appliance 12.
To allow for sufficient deflection and inward movement 74 of the outer panel 14 for the cosmetic outer structure 16, the outer panel 14 can be made of a material that may have a greater ability to be deflected as desired to engage the intermediary interface 18 for engaging the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. The interface section 60 of the outer panel 14 can be made of a separate material that naturally deflects in a greater capacity for allowing for more precise engagement of the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. The hinges 94 for the appliance 12 can also be configured to at least rotate inward and toward the outer surface 70 of the concealed appliance 12.
Referring now to
As exemplified in
As exemplified in
As exemplified in
Similarly, as exemplified in
According to various aspects of the device, where the handle 110 is pressed in the inward direction 114, the inward movement 74 of the handle 110 can activate a plunger 132 that directly engages the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. Movement of the handle 110 in an outward direction 116 can be used to directly or indirectly engage a portion of the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12.
Referring again to
According to various aspects of the device, when the outer panel 14 is moved to the closed position 42, a portion of the intermediary interface 18 can be in direct engagement with a portion of the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12 to define the active state 140 of the intermediary interface 18. In this aspect of the active state 140, discrete movements of the handle 110 or the outer panel 14 for the cosmetic outer structure 16, in the inward and outward directions 114, 116, can be received by the user interface 10 for the appliance 12. These discrete movements can be created by minimal amounts of pressure 100 or combinations of pressures 100 that can be exerted on the outer panel 14 for the cosmetic outer structure 16. Additionally, where the active state 140 of the intermediary interface 18 includes direct contact with the user interface 10, an applied pressure 100 in the outward direction 116, such as that exerted by the pulling of the handle 110, can result in a temporary detachment or disengagement of the intermediary interface 18 with the user interface 10. This temporary disengagement of these two members can be perceived as part of the pattern of pressures 100 or indicative of a sufficient pressure 100 or duration of pressure 100 to provide the signal 78 to the controller 44 for modifying the operating condition 46 for the concealed appliance 12.
In various aspects of the device, the active state 140 for the intermediary interface 18 can be defined by a portion of the intermediary interface 18 being positioned near to, but not necessarily in direct contact with, the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. In such an embodiment, inward movement 74 of the intermediary interface 18 toward the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12 can result in an amount, duration, and/or pattern of pressure 100 being received by one of the intermediary interface 18 and/or the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. In the various aspects of the device where the intermediary interface 18 includes a physical movement of a portion of the cosmetic outer structure 16, the intermediary interface 18 can be caused to be in direct contact with the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. A change in the amount, duration, or pattern of contact, or pressure 100, between the intermediary interface 18 and the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12 can also be perceived in the various embodiments of the device.
Referring now to
By way of example, and not limitation, the external selector 150 can be rotated a quarter turn that results in a first amount of lateral movement 160 of the intermediary interface 18 in the inward or outward directions 114, 116 relative to the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. Similarly, a one-half rotation, three quarter rotation or other degree of rotational movement 156 can result in greater degrees of lateral movement 160 of the protrusion 66 for the external selector 150 in the inward or outward directions 114, 116 relative to the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. These various degrees of lateral movement 160 of the external selector 150 relative to the user interface 10 can result in different command signals 78 being conveyed by the user interface 10 via the intermediary interface 18. To assist the user in detecting various amounts of rotational movement 156 and, in turn, lateral movement 160 of the external selector 150, detents, tabs, and other haptic-feedback mechanisms can be incorporated within the external selector 150 for communicating to the user an amount of rotational movement 156 that has been achieved through operation of the intermediary interface 18.
The external selector 150 that is in the form of the button 152 or rotationally-operable knob 154 can be used in conjunction with a plunger 132 or other pressure sensitive mechanism that can be used to perceive movement of the button 152 and/or external knob 154 for the intermediary interface 18. The button 152 and/or the external knob 154 can be used in conjunction with an amount of pressure 100 exerted against, and by, the intermediary interface 18, the duration of pressure 100 exerted as well as a pattern of pressures 100 exerted by the intermediary interface 18. The amount, duration, and/or pattern of pressure 100 exerted by the intermediary interface 18 can be used to communicate various instructions to the controller 44 via the user interface 10.
Referring now to
Referring again to
According to various aspects of the device, the external selector 150 can be in the form of a two-piece mechanism, the outer piece being a rotationally-operable knob 154 or dial 374 that is positioned on or near an exterior of the outer panel 14. The second piece of the external selector 150 can include a laterally operable protrusion 66 of the external selector 150. In such an embodiment, the laterally operable knob 154 can be engaged to the rotationally operable protrusion 66 via a helical structure 190 or other transfer mechanism that converts rotational movement 156 of the outer selector 48 to lateral movement 160 of the inner protrusion 66 of the external selector 150.
According to various aspects of the device, the external selector 150 can be incorporated within an exterior surface 112 of the outer panel 14 or can be incorporated within an aspect of the handle 110 for the outer panel 14. In these various embodiments, the handle 110, button 152, knob 154, other external selector 150 or other similar mechanically operable intermediary interface 18 can be disguised within the outer panel 14 for the cosmetic outer structure 16. In this manner, the aesthetics of the intermediary interface 18 can take the form of conventional door hardware, cabinetry hardware patterns within the cosmetic outer structure 16, or other similar aesthetic feature that may be typically seen within cabinetry and other household furniture.
Referring again to
In various aspects of the device, where the cosmetic outer structure 16 is manufactured as part of the appliance 12, the outer panel 14 for the cosmetic outer structure 16 can take the form of the door panel 38 for the appliance 12, such that a single door panel 38 is included. In such an embodiment, the interior side 200 of the door panel 38 can be similar to that of a conventional appliance door panel 38. Conversely, the outer side or exterior surface 112 of the door panel 38 is indicative of the cosmetic outer structure 16 that appears to be similar to that of furniture, cabinetry or other household fixtures.
In each of these embodiments, the intermediary interface 18 is a separate component from the user interface 10 for the appliance 12. The user interface 10 typically includes lights, buttons 152, dials 374, and other features that may be distracting or detrimental to the aesthetic of cabinetry or other conventional household fixtures within an appliance 12. Accordingly, the intermediary interface 18 is used to conceal the user interface 10 for the appliance 12 and also provide functionality for accessing the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12 through the outer panel 14 for the cosmetic outer structure 16.
Referring now to
As exemplified in
Referring again to
According to various aspects of the device, as exemplified in
To further conceal the extension 216 of the user interface 10 that forms the intermediary interface 18, the cosmetic outer structure 16 can include a recess 240 or notch that receives the extension 216 of the user interface 10. This extension 216 can be positioned within the recess 240 to further conceal the presence of the intermediary interface 18 from view, while also being readily accessible to the user when needed. Also, where the extension 216 is positioned within a recess 240, the intermediary interface 18 can have a substantially flush configuration with the surrounding areas of the cosmetic outer structure 16.
Referring again to
Referring now to
As exemplified in
According to various aspects of the device, as exemplified in
Referring now to
According to various aspects of the device, the intermediary interface 18 can include a plurality of gap selectors 282 that can be used to engage different portions of the user interface 10 for a concealed appliance 12. It is also contemplated that a single gap selector 282 can be used to engage a single portion of the user interface 10.
According to various aspects of the device, as exemplified in
Referring now to
Referring again to
While the actuation plunger 292 exemplified in
According to various aspects of the device, multiple actuation buttons 290 can be positioned along opposing edges 250 of the outer panel 14. In such an embodiment, each set of opposing buttons 152 of the intermediary interface 18 can correspond to different actuation plungers 292 that are configured to engage various portions of the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. Each actuation plunger 292 can be vertically and laterally positioned to directly engage a specific portion of the user interface 10 to accomplish various modifications to the operating condition 46 being performed by the concealed appliance 12.
As exemplified in
Referring now to
By way of example, and not limitation, placing an obstruction 314 against the exterior surface 112 of an outer panel 14 may not result in an activation of a signal 78 to modify the operating condition 46. Similarly, an obstruction 314 placed outside of the predetermined range 316 away from the outer panel 14, may also result in no signal 78 being sent to the controller 44 for modifying the operating condition 46. Alternatively, when the obstruction 314 is placed within the predetermined range 316 and, potentially, for a certain duration of time, the signal 78 can be sent from the TOF sensor 310 for the user interface 10 and to the controller 44 for modifying the operating condition 46 of the appliance 12.
In various aspects of the device, as exemplified in
By way of example, and not limitation, when the user swipes a hand in an upward direction within the proper distance range from the outer panel 14, this gesture may be indicative of a specific command being delivered to the controller 44. Swiping a hand downward may be indicative of a separate command or signal 78 being delivered to the controller 44. Accordingly, by moving an obstruction 314 over the array 320 of TOF sensors 310, each laser 312 can be sequentially interrupted by the movement of an object through the proper region in front of the outer panel 14 for communicating various information to the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12.
Referring again to
Referring now to
In various aspects of the device, the outer panel 14 can include multiple inductive sensors 330 that are disposed within a backside 332 of the outer panel 14. Where the outer panel 14 is a substantially rigid member such as a panel made of wood, metal, or other substantially rigid material, the inductive sensors 330 are typically positioned far from one another so that each individual inductive sensor 330 can be manipulated individually to inductively engage a portion of the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. In various aspects of the device, the outer panel 14 can include integral deflecting portions 340 that may be made of an inner portion of the outer panel 14 or a different material, such as a deflecting insert, that is inlaid within the outer panel 14. These distinct deflecting portions 340 of the outer panel 14 can correspond to separate inductive sensors 330 that can be depressed or deflected inward and toward a respective portion of the user interface 10. Each respective inductive sensor 330 can engage a different portion of the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12 for providing corresponding signals 78 to the controller 44, via the user interface 10, for providing different commands for an operating condition 46 for the concealed appliance 12.
Referring now to
According to various aspects of the device, where portions of the user interface 10 may protrude into and partially through the access aperture 350 defined within the outer panel 14 for a cosmetic outer structure 16, the outer panel 14 may include a pattern or arrangement 320 of aesthetic features that may be used to hide, distort, obfuscate, or camouflage the presence of the user interface 10 protruding into the outer panel 14. Such a pattern may be in the form of a visual arrangement of applied features that may be similar in shape and/or color to the portion of the user interface 10 that is visible through the access aperture 350 of the cosmetic outer structure 16. Accordingly, the visual aesthetic of the outer panel 14 can be used to obfuscate the presence of portions of the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12 that may be visible from the front of the cosmetic outer structure 16.
Referring now to
Where the light guide 360 is utilized within the outer panel 14, the electricity may be delivered to the outer panel 14 for powering the various features of the light guide 360. In such an embodiment, the light guide 360 can include an inductive or capacitive feature for engaging portions of the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. Where various inductive or capacitive features are used within the light guide 360 for the outer panel 14, when the outer panel 14 is moved in the inward direction 114 and toward the user interface 10, the inductive or capacitive connection between the intermediary interface 18 and the user interface 10 can be activated without any direct physical contact between the outer panel 14 and the user interface 10. In various aspects of the device, the illuminated features of the light guide 360 can be generated by light from the user interface 10 passing through a light guide 360 that is positioned at an edge 250 of the outer panel 14. By engaging portions of the illuminated light guide 360, portions of the outer panel 14 can be moved into direct or indirect engagement with the user interface 10.
Where no electrical wiring is desired to be placed within the outer panel 14, magnets or a ferromagnetic material 370 can be positioned at various portions of the outer panel 14. These magnets or ferromagnetic portions of the outer panel 14 can be used to provide an electromagnetic and/or magnetic engagement between the outer panel 14 and the user interface 10. This magnetic or electro-magnetic engagement can initiate the delivery of the signal 78 to the controller 44 for modifying the operating condition 46 for the concealed appliance 12.
Referring again to
According to various aspects of the device, where the light guide 360 has been incorporated within a portion of the outer panel 14, such as the upper edge 250, the user interface 10 and/or a portion of the light guide 360 can include a pressure sensor 90 that can be utilized in connection with the light guide 360 to provide a signal 78 to the controller 44. In such an embodiment, the pressure sensor 90 can be used where a portion of the light guide 360 is deflected towards the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12 and directly engages the user interface 10. The pressure sensor 90 can be used to receive a predetermined amount of pressure 100, a predetermined duration of pressure 100, or a predetermined pattern of pressures 100 as the user depresses or otherwise deflects a portion of the light guide 360 towards the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12.
According to various aspects of the device, the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12 can include an inductive portion 380 that can engage a portion of the light guide 360. When the light guide 360 is positioned in the active state 140 near the user interface 10, the inductive portion 380 of the user interface 10 delivers inductive power, via the inductive sensor 330, into the light guide 360 for powering the various light fixtures within the light guide 360. Accordingly, utilizing this aspect of the device, no hard-wired electrical power is delivered to the outer panel 14 for activating or operating the light guide 360. It is also contemplated that a light guide 360 can be a replaceable fixture that can be switched out according to the preferences of the user. Such light guides 360 can include different light fixtures or different lighting placement or patterns that can be customizable depending upon the preferences of the user.
Referring again to
Referring now to
By way of example, and not limitation, a dial 374 positioned on the outer surface 70 of the outer panel 14 can include various RFID tags 376. As the dial 374 is rotated, these RFID tags 376 can change position with respect to an RFID reader antenna 378 that is positioned within the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. Accordingly, rotation of the RFID dial 374 to a particular position or location can correspond to the user interface 10 providing a predetermined signal 78 to the controller 44. The dial 374 can include multiple RFID tags 376 that can correspond to specific signals 78 to be sent to the controller 44 by the user interface 10.
In various aspects of the device, the RFID dial 374 can be a fixture that is attached, adhered, or otherwise disposed in the outer surface 70 of the outer panel 14. Multiple RFID tags 376 are typically embedded within the dial 374 in a position near the RFID reader antenna 378 within the user interface 10. In an exemplary condition, the dial 374 can include three RFID tags 376 and correspond to “pause,” “start” and “stop” commands that can be delivered to the controller 44 for modifying the operating condition 46 of the concealed appliance 12. According to various aspects of the device, the RFID tags 376 within the knob 154 are static in nature and do not require electrical power. The RFID reader antenna 378 within the user interface 10 for the appliance 12 is powered and monitors the positioning of each RFID tag 376 within the knob 154. Accordingly, using this device, there would be no need to deliver electrical power through the outer panel 14 of the cosmetic outer structure 16.
Referring now to
As exemplified in
According to various aspects of the device, the interactive projection 400 can be displayed on the floor 402 or on a front portion 410 of the appliance 12, such as the exterior surface 112 of the outer panel 14. Where the interactive projection 400 is displayed on the outer panel 14, the interactive projection 400 can originate from the underside 214 of the top panel 210 and can project downward. In this instance, various interactive projections 400 that correspond to the desired laundry-processing functions 222 can be displayed on the outer panel 14. Interruption of any one of these interactive projections 400 can result in a signal 78 being delivered to the controller 44 that corresponds to the respective projection that has been interrupted.
Referring again to
Where the gesture sensing region 420 is positioned within the gap 212 between the outer panel 14 and the top panel 210, a sensor, such as TOF sensor 310, ultrasonic sensor, positioning sensor, or other similar obstruction-detecting sensor can be located within the user interface 10 of the concealed appliance 12. When the user places their hand within the gap 212 or moves their hand through the gap 212 in a predetermined motion, the user interface 10 can detect this gesture. Depending upon the motion perceived by the user interface 10, a signal 78 can be sent to the controller 44 that corresponds to a particular modification of the operating condition 46 for the concealed appliance 12.
According to various aspects of the device, the user can interact with the outer panel 14 or a portion of the cosmetic outer structure 16 by knocking on the surface of the cosmetic outer structure 16. Typically, a user can knock on the top panel 210 or the exterior surface 112 of the outer panel 14 in a predetermined configuration of knocks or taps. This predetermined configuration of knocks or taps can correspond to a signal 78 being delivered from the user interface 10 to the controller 44. These knocks or taps can be perceived by a microphone, vibration sensor, or other similar detecting mechanism located within the user interface 10 for the concealed appliance 12. It is contemplated that a combination of knocks that correspond to a particular command being delivered to the controller 44 can be customizable. By way of example, and not limitation, the intermediary interface 18 can be set to shut off the appliance 12 upon three rapid knocks on the top panel 210 or outer panel 14 for the cosmetic outer structure 16.
In various aspects of the device, intermediary interface 18 can utilize a voice-activated sensor that can detect voice commands from the user for providing various signals 78 to the controller 44 for modifying the operating condition 46 of the concealed appliance 12. The voice recognition sensor can be calibrated to respond to a particular user's voice or a group of user's voices for performing various laundry-processing functions 222.
According to various aspects of the device, the intermediary interface 18 can be in the form of a separate remote control 430 that can be mounted to an exterior surface 112 of the cosmetic outer panel 14 (shown in
According to the various aspects of the device as exemplified in
According to various aspects of the device, the cosmetic outer structure 16 can be used to conceal various appliances 12. Such appliances 12 can include, but are not limited to, washers, dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, garbage disposals, hot water heaters, and other similar appliances 12 that may be positioned within typical living spaces of the residence. In smaller residences, such as apartments, the use of the cosmetic outer structure 16 surrounding a particular appliance 12 is desirable where a small apartment may not include a dedicated laundry room or utility space. Accordingly, the use of the intermediary interface 18 for engaging the concealed appliance 12 without opening the cosmetic outer structure 16 is also desired for expedient access to at least some of the controls for the concealed appliance 12.
Referring generally to
According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry appliance includes a body that houses a motor that selectively operates at least one of a drum and a blower for processing laundry within the drum. The body includes an aperture for selectively accessing the drum. A door panel provides selective access to the aperture. A user interface is in communication with a controller for selecting a laundry-processing function to be performed via operation of the motor. A cosmetic outer structure at least partially conceals the body from view. The cosmetic outer structure includes an outer panel and a top panel. An outer selector is positioned proximate the outer panel, wherein the outer selector is in communication with the controller via the user interface.
According to another aspect, the outer panel is incorporated with the door panel.
According to yet another aspect, the outer selector physically cooperates with the user interface to selectively operate the motor.
According to another aspect, the outer selector and the user interface are configured to cooperate to selectively initiate at least one of a motor start function, a motor stop function and a motor pause function.
According to yet another aspect, the outer selector is configured to selectively operate the door panel between a locked position and an unlocked position.
According to another aspect, the outer selector is operable between an idle state and an active state, wherein the outer selector is in physical contact with the user interface at least in the active state.
According to yet another aspect, the outer selector includes an aperture through which the user interface is accessible for defining the active state.
According to another aspect, the outer selector includes at least one intermediary interface that extends through the aperture.
According to yet another aspect, the intermediary interface is laterally operable within the aperture and selectively engages a pressure-sensitive switch of the user interface.
According to another aspect, the outer selector includes a knob that is rotationally operable relative to the user interface, wherein rotation of the knob defines a corresponding lateral movement of the intermediary interface.
According to yet another aspect, the intermediary interface is a plunger that is coupled with a handle of the outer panel.
According to another aspect, the aperture is defined between the outer panel and a top panel of a cosmetic outer structure, wherein the top panel is positioned over the body.
According to yet another aspect, the outer selector is at least partially defined by a deflecting portion of the outer panel.
According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry appliance includes a body that houses a motor that selectively operates at least one of a drum and a blower for processing laundry within the drum. The body includes an aperture for selectively accessing the drum. A door panel provides selective access to the aperture. A user interface is in communication with a controller for selecting a laundry-processing function to be performed via operation of the motor. A cosmetic outer structure at least partially conceals the body from view. The cosmetic outer structure includes an outer panel and a top panel. An outer selector is positioned proximate the outer panel, wherein the outer selector is in communication with the controller via the user interface.
According to another aspect, the outer selector is defined by a handle of the cosmetic outer structure, and wherein the user interface includes a pressure-sensitive switch that receives a portion of the handle.
According to yet another aspect, the outer selector includes a sliding gap selector that is positioned within a gap defined between the top panel and the outer panel of the cosmetic outer structure, and wherein the sliding gap selector includes a plurality of gap selectors that correspond to a motor start function, a motor stop function and a motor pause function, respectively.
According to another aspect, the outer selector is at least partially defined by a deflecting portion of the outer panel, wherein the deflecting portion includes a deflecting insert that is positioned within the outer panel, wherein the deflecting insert is made of a different material than a remainder of the outer panel.
According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry appliance includes a body that houses a motor that selectively operates at least one of a drum and a blower for processing laundry within the drum. The body includes an aperture for selectively accessing the drum. A door panel provides selective access to the aperture. A user interface is in communication with a controller for selecting a laundry-processing function to be performed via operation of the motor. A cosmetic outer structure at least partially conceals the body from view. The cosmetic outer structure includes an outer panel and a top panel. A gesture sensing region is defined proximate the outer panel. The gesture sensing region is configured to wirelessly interact with the user interface when an obstruction engages the gesture sensing region.
According to another aspect, the gesture sensing region is an area proximate an exterior surface of the outer panel, wherein a wavelength of light is transmitted through the gesture sensing region and selective interruption of at least a portion of the wavelength of light generates an instruction from the user interface to the controller for operating the motor.
According to yet another aspect, wherein the wavelength of light is a laser that is transmitted through an opening defined within the outer panel.
It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described device and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the device disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.
For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body 30 with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.
It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the device as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connectors or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions 46, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.
It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present device. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.
It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present device, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.
The above description is considered that of the illustrated embodiments only. Modifications of the device will occur to those skilled in the art and to those who make or use the device. Therefore, it is understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are merely for illustrative purposes and not intended to limit the scope of the device, which is defined by the following claims as interpreted according to the principles of patent law, including the Doctrine of Equivalents.
Claims
1. A cosmetic outer structure for a laundry appliance, the cosmetic outer structure comprising:
- a top panel and a plurality of sidewalls;
- a front panel that is rotationally coupled to a side panel of the plurality of sidewalls, wherein the top panel and plurality of sidewalls are configured to fully conceal said laundry appliance when the front panel is in a closed position and further configured to provide access to said laundry appliance when the front panel is in an open position; and
- an outer selector that is coupled to the front panel, wherein the outer selector is configured to selectively engage a user interface of said laundry appliance when the front panel is in the closed position.
2. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 1, wherein the outer selector is an inductive sensor that is configured to operate according to a proximity to the user interface, wherein the inductive sensor is configured to engage the user interface via an electromagnetic communication.
3. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 2, wherein the inductive sensor is coupled to illuminated indicia that are defined on a surface of the front panel.
4. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 3, wherein the inductive sensor and the illuminated indicia are positioned proximate a top edge of the front panel.
5. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 1, wherein the outer selector includes a proximity sensor that is configured to interact with the user interface.
6. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 1, further comprising:
- an illuminated feature that includes the outer selector.
7. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 4, wherein the illuminated indicia are at least partially produced by a light source disposed within the user interface of the laundry appliance.
8. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 7, wherein the illuminated indicia are produced within a light guide that transmits light from dedicated lights of the user interface.
9. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 8, wherein the illuminated indicia correspond to respective selectable commands of the laundry appliance.
10. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 1, wherein the outer selector includes a RFID tag that interacts with a RFID reader of the user interface.
11. A cosmetic outer structure for an appliance, the cosmetic outer structure comprising:
- a plurality of sidewalls;
- a front panel that is rotationally coupled to a side panel of the plurality of sidewalls;
- a top wall that is positioned above the plurality of sidewalls and the front panel, wherein the top wall, the plurality of sidewalls and the front panel in a closed position are configured to fully conceal said appliance, and wherein the front panel in an open position is configured to provide access to an operable door of said appliance; and
- an outer selector that is coupled to the front panel and spaced apart from a user interface of the appliance, wherein the outer selector is in operable engagement with the user interface of said appliance when the front panel is in the closed position.
12. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 11, wherein the outer selector is one of an inductive sensor and a magnetic sensor, and wherein the outer selector is configured to operate according to a proximity to the user interface, wherein the outer selector is configured to engage the user interface via an electromagnetic communication.
13. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 12, wherein the outer selector is incorporated within a deflecting portion of the front panel, and wherein an inward movement of the deflecting portion toward the user interface places the outer selector in operable communication with the user interface.
14. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 12, wherein the outer selector is incorporated within selectively illuminated indicia that are defined between a top edge of the front panel and a lower surface of the top wall.
15. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 14, wherein the illuminated indicia are incorporated within a light guide of the front panel.
16. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 15, wherein the light guide is attached to the top edge of the front panel.
17. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 14, wherein the illuminated indicia are at least partially produced by a light source disposed within the user interface of the appliance.
18. A cosmetic outer structure for an appliance, the cosmetic outer structure comprising:
- an outer enclosure;
- a front panel that is rotationally coupled to a side panel of the outer enclosure, wherein the outer enclosure is configured to fully conceal said appliance with the front panel in a closed position, and wherein the front panel in an open position is configured to provide access to an operable door of said appliance; and
- an electromagnetic selector that is coupled to the front panel and spaced apart from a user interface of the appliance, wherein an outer selector is in operable communication with the user interface of said appliance when the front panel is in the closed position.
19. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 18, wherein the outer selector is attached to a deflecting portion of the front panel and is configured to operate according to a proximity to the user interface.
20. The cosmetic outer structure of claim 18, wherein the outer selector is incorporated within a selectively illuminated light guide that is defined between a top edge of the front panel and a lower surface of a top wall of the outer enclosure, and wherein illuminated indicia are incorporated within a light guide of the front panel.
Type: Application
Filed: Jun 24, 2024
Publication Date: Oct 17, 2024
Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION (BENTON HARBOR, MI)
Inventors: Kevin B. Ayers (St. Joseph, MI), Seth E. Bixby (Stevensville, MI), Donald E. Erickson (Stevensville, MI), Eric A. Hill (Chicago, IL), Dennis Kehl (Benton Harbor, MI), Andrew C. Kubasiak (St. Joseph, MI), Sayer J. Murphy (St. Joseph, MI), Trevor R. Haney (Jenison, MI)
Application Number: 18/752,003
