With Tank Heater Patents (Class 68/15)
  • Patent number: 7913522
    Abstract: A steam generator is used in a machine such as a clothes washing machine, a clothes drying machine, a clothes washing and drying machine, and the like and a level sensor is used in the same. More particularly, a level sensor is integrally formed by molding and conveniently assembled in the steam generator. The steam generator includes a case having a space for storing water, and formed with a level sensor insertion hole and a level sensor. The level sensor includes a conductor having a detector positioned in the space for storing the water and a connector electrically connected to the exterior, and a level sensor housing is inserted into the level sensor insertion hole and is integrally formed with the conductor by insert molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Seog Kyu Park
  • Patent number: 7913523
    Abstract: Provided is a heater coupling apparatus of a washing machine and a coupling method for the heater coupling apparatus. The heater coupling apparatus includes a tub, a heater coupling portion, a heater, and a bracket. The heater coupling portion is formed on the tub. The heater is coupled to the heater coupling portion. The bracket forms a closed loop portion in a shape of a closed loop, to dispose the heater within the closed loop portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jae Cheol Lyu, Dong Yoon Kim, Sang Gyu Lim, Jong Sun Yoon, Chang Woo Son
  • Patent number: 7913339
    Abstract: A fabric treatment appliance comprises a steam generator having a chamber configured to hold water; a supply conduit configured to transport water to the steam generator chamber; a temperature sensor configured to sense a temperature representative of the steam generator chamber at a predetermined water level in the steam generator chamber; and a controller coupled to the temperature sensor and configured to control flow of water through the supply conduit based on the sensed temperature to control the level of water in the steam generator chamber. The disclosure provides methods of water supply control that can employ the temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Nyik Siong Wong, Raveendran Vaidhyanathan, Dengming Peng
  • Publication number: 20110016927
    Abstract: The laundry treating machine includes a silencer for covering the upper space over the drain hole, whereby the upper space over the drain hole is always filled with washing water and the generation of a vortex is prevented. Thus, abnormal noise during drainage is prevented, thereby contributing to a quiet operation of the washing machine and improving consumer trust.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Youngjong Kim, Kyungmun Jung, Hyuksoo Lee
  • Publication number: 20110011136
    Abstract: A washing system provided with a washing container for washing laundry and provided with a heater device for heating water in the washing container. In order to achieve a high energy efficiency the washing container is provided with a water outlet, a water inlet and an external connection extending between the water outlet and the water inlet. A pump unit is provided for pumping water from the water outlet to the water inlet through the external connection. The heater device comprises a gas burning device for heating a helical tube heat exchange portion in said connection. A water filter is provided for filtering the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: Wientjens Technology B.V.
    Inventor: Gerry Wientjens
  • Patent number: 7865991
    Abstract: A washing machine and steam washing method thereof are disclosed. The method includes performing primary steam washing by supplying steam to laundry, performing a washing cycle by supplying wash water to the laundry, performing a rinsing cycle, performing a spin-dry cycle to remove the wash water from the laundry, and performing secondary steam washing by supplying steam to the laundry. The washing machine has improved sterilizing effects by sterilizing bacteria and fungi with hot steam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Daewoo Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Jong Chil Lee
  • Patent number: 7845199
    Abstract: A washer is provided. The washer includes a housing, a tub in the housing, a laundry drum rotatably mounted in the tub, a heating element in the tub, and a heating element retainer, on an inner surface of the tub, for retaining the heating element. The heating element retainer includes a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end. The heating element further includes an engaging portion that is formed closer to the second longitudinal end than to the first longitudinal end, and that retains a first end of the heating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: BSH Home Appliances Corporation
    Inventor: Gregor Michalik
  • Patent number: 7841033
    Abstract: A method for cleaning and restoring a hydrophobic effect of textiles in a domestic washing machine in which hydrophobic substances dissolved in the washing liquid are contacted with the textiles during a treatment process. A washing process for cleaning the textiles while adding a special detergent is carried out in the presence of an inflow of fresh water, and at the end thereof, the used washing liquid is pumped off. The soapy water used for the preceding process is replaced and a multi-stage rinsing process is carried out for the textiles. After termination of the rinsing process, the last rinsing water is replaced and the hydrophobic substances are added to a newly supplied amount of fresh water, and a treatment process for waterproofing the textiles is carried out in an additive-containing washing liquid and the used additive-containing washing liquid is removed without repeating the rinsing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Hartmut Schaub, Ingo Schulze
  • Patent number: 7841219
    Abstract: A fabric treating appliance utilizing steam for treating the fabric and having a steam generator with a conduit for directing the steam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Nyik Siong Wong, Raveendran Vaidhyanathan
  • Patent number: 7802453
    Abstract: A washing machine includes: a steam generator for generating steam; a circulation pump for pumping circulation water discharged from a tub and re-supplying it into a drum; a spray nozzle for spraying steam generated from the steam generator and the circulation water pumped from the circulation pump into the drum; and a back-current preventing branch unit connected to the steam generator by a steam supply line, connected to the circulation pump by a circulation line, and connected to the spray nozzle. With this structure, circulation water circulated by the circulation unit and steam generated from the steam generator are sprayed to the laundry through one spray nozzle, so that a system can be simplified and a fabrication cost can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Soo Young Oh, Kyung Chul Woo, Jin Woong Kim, Si Moon Jeon, Na Eun Kim
  • Patent number: 7797969
    Abstract: A washing machine using steam and a method for controlling the same is disclosed. The washing machine with a steam generator (100) selectively supplying steam inot a drum (30) according to the present invention includes a course select part (420) for a user to select a wash course, a steam select part (430) for a user to select whether steam washing is operated and a controller (440) for controlling the steam generator (100) based on a wash course selected from the course select part (420) (an inputted wash vourse) and a signal selected from the steam select part (430). The present invention has an advantageous effect thtat convenience is improved for a user to use the washing machine using steam as well as washing performance is improved, because disadvantages due to malfunctions of a steam generator are prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Seog Kyu Park, In Geun Ahn
  • Patent number: 7757520
    Abstract: A steam generator includes a case that forms a predetermined space for storing water, a heater provided within the case, a sealing member for preventing water leakage from the case, and a pressure part to press the sealing member and the heater. The sealing member is also configured to secure and seal the heater such that water is prevented from penetrating or leaking toward a circuit part of the heater. A drum-type washing machine having the steam generator installed therein is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Kyeong Hwan Kim, Si Moon Jeon, Kyung Chul Woo
  • Patent number: 7743632
    Abstract: A washing method in a steam injection type washing machine in which wash water is heated to generate high temperature and high-pressure steam while passing through the steam supply unit in the wash or rinse cycle, and the generated steam is injected into the wash tub at the top of the wash tub. Accordingly, it is possible to rapidly achieve the wetting of clothes with wash water while achieving an enhancement in sterilization and washing performances. In addition, consumption of water and electrical energy can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jin Woong Kim, Kyung Chul Woo, Soo Young Oh, Si Moon Jeon
  • Patent number: 7707859
    Abstract: A fabric treatment appliance comprises at least one of a tub and drum defining a fabric treatment chamber, a steam generator having a steam generation chamber and configured to supply steam to the fabric treatment chamber, and a conduit fluidly coupling a water supply to the steam generation chamber. The fabric treatment appliance can also include a flow controller and/or a flow meter fluidly coupled to the conduit to facilitate controlling the supply of water to the steam generation chamber. The disclosure provides methods of water supply control that can employ the flow controller and/or the flow meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Nyik Siong Wong, Raveendran Vaidhyanathan, Dengming Peng
  • Publication number: 20100083708
    Abstract: A laundry device is disclosed. The laundry device comprises a cabinet provided with a first space and a second space by a partition; a drum provided in the first space; a drawer provided in the second space; a hot air supply unit provided in the first space to supply the hot air to the second space; and an aroma spray unit supplying aroma to the hot air supply unit. In this case, since the hot air is supplied to the second space and at the same time an aromatic function is carried out, the laundry treating process is improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Dong Joo HAN, Young Bok SON
  • Publication number: 20100058815
    Abstract: A laundry treating machine having a heating part is disclosed. A laundry treating machine includes a cabinet, a single partition wall partitioning inner space of the cabinet into a first space and a second space, and a hot air supply unit provided in the first space, the hot air supply unit supplying hot air to the second space and comprising a heating part. The heating part includes a heater heating air, a case supporting the heater to form an air path and preventing heat of the heater from transmitting in a different direction from the air path, a sensing part sensing the temperature of the heater, and a control part controlling the heater according to a temperature value measured by the sensing part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jae Yoen LIM, Jong Chul BANG
  • Patent number: 7661169
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a drum washing machine which is capable of lifting clothes to a predetermined height and then dropping the lifted clothes so that the clothes can be washed by means of friction and impact. The drum washing machine is capable of heating wash water and spraying the heated wash water into a tub and a drum of the washing machine in a phase of high-temperature and high-pressure steam, thereby rapidly soaking clothes in the wash water, improving sterilizing and washing efficiencies of the drum washing machine, and saving wash water and electric energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jin Woong Kim, Kyung Chul Woo, Soo Young Oh, Si Moon Jeon
  • Patent number: 7627920
    Abstract: A method for operating a washing machine having a tub with a drum rotatably mounted in the tub and configured to hold a fabric load and a liquid recirculation system configured to recirculate liquid from the tub to the drum comprises a pre-wash step; a heating step comprising introducing steam into the tub and/or the drum; and a washing step comprising washing the fabric load with a second volume of liquid greater than the first volume of liquid. The pre-wash step can comprise recirculating a first volume of liquid between the tub and the drum without submerging a portion of the drum in the liquid and rotating the drum. In another embodiment, the pre-wash step can comprise recirculating a first volume of liquid between the tub and the drum to achieve a fabric load weight to liquid weight ratio of between about 1:0.5 and 1:2.7.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Nyik Siong Wong, Raveendran Vaidhyanathan, Anthony H. Hardaway, Joel A. Luckman
  • Publication number: 20090293550
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a washing machine with improvements to the hardware for direct steam injection. One improvement is a steam delivery tube (herein called a sparge tube) that penetrates a side wall above the water level, but releases steam below the water level. One improvement is a steam delivery tube (herein called a sparge tube) that penetrates a rotating side wall above the water level, but releases steam below the water level. Another improvement is the use of a curved sparge tube that can conform within and between the contours of (typically cylindrical) rotating side walls. Another improvement is a sparge tube that releases steam in a direction at least substantially parallel to the central axis of the washing chamber. Another improvement is a temperature probe that penetrates a rotating side wall above the water level, but extends and measures temperature below the water level. A controller controls the open/shut status of steam valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: G. A. BRAUN, INC.
    Inventors: James Betar, Michael Page, Vito Petrera, Diedrich Willers, David Spinelli
  • Patent number: 7621013
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of washing laundry in a drum washing machine by which the amount of wash water used and the amount of power use can be decreased when doing washing in the drum washing machine. The method comprises supplying wash water to a tub up to a first preset water level; and washing laundry in a drum by rotating the drum of the drum washing machine forward and backward simultaneously while drawing the wash water and supplying the drawn wash water to the drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Si-Moon Jeon, Na-Eun Kim, Kyung-Chul Woo
  • Patent number: 7621155
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are a steam generator and a laundry machine having the same which can prevent malfunction of a water level sensor. The steam generator includes a common electrode part, a low water-level electrode part which senses a low water level, and a high water-level electrode part which senses a high water level, the high water-level electrode part having a lower end which is positioned above a lower end of the low water-level electrode part and an upper end which is positioned above the low water-level electrode part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: In Geun Ahn
  • Patent number: 7614106
    Abstract: A washing machine and control method thereof are disclosed, by which water waste is reduced and by which an error or malfunction of the washing machine is detected and by which the detected error or malfunction of the washing machine is notified to a user. The present invention includes the steps of measuring an initial temperature of water supplied within a steam generator for providing steam to a drum, heating the water within the steam generator for a set time, measuring a temperature of the heated water within the steam generator, calculating a difference between the heated water temperature and the initial water temperature, and deciding a presence or non-presence of abnormality of the steam generator based on the calculated temperature difference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Soo Young Oh, Si Moon Jeon, Kyung Chul Woo
  • Patent number: 7591154
    Abstract: Disclosed are a drum type washing machine and a vapor generator thereof. The vapor generator of the drum type washing machine comprises: a case provided with a space portion for storing water therein, a water supplying portion for supplying water at one side thereof, and a vapor exhaustion portion for exhausting vapor at another side thereof; a water level detecting means installed at the case for detecting a level of water stored in the case; and a heater installed in the case for heating water stored in the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Soo-Young Oh, Kyung-Chul Woo, Si-Moon Jeon, Jin-Woong Kim
  • Patent number: 7571624
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mobile textile treatment system comprising service equipment including, but not limited to, a wet cleaner machine, a reclaimer, a pressing machine and a puff iron contained within the cargo box of a vehicle. The wet cleaner has a cold water supply and a hot water supply, the latter of which is heated by a boiler system, which may include a heat exchanger valve. Additionally, additive tanks store various additives used in the cleaning process. These additives may include cleaning detergent, sizing agent, softener, optical brightener, flame retardant and sanitizing agents. A scalable system may include multiple mobile cargo boxes, each having multiple instances of at least one of the aforesaid machines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Inventor: Steven Clamper
  • Patent number: 7565822
    Abstract: A washing machine using steam and a method for controlling the same is disclosed. The washing machine with a steam generator (100) selectively supplying steam into a drum (30) according to the present invention includes a course select part (420) for a user to select a wash course, a steam select part (430) for a user to select whether steam washing is operated and a controller (440) for controlling the steam generator (100) based on a wash course selected from the course select part (420) (an inputted wash course) and a signal selected from the steam select part (430). The present invention has an advantageous effect that convenience is improved for a user to use the washing machine using steam as well as washing performance is improved, because disadvantages due to malfunctions of a steam generator are prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Seog Kyu Park, In Geun Ahn
  • Publication number: 20090183530
    Abstract: A washer is provided. The washer includes a housing, a tub in the housing, a laundry drum rotatably mounted in the tub, a heating element in the tub, and a heating element retainer, on an inner surface of the tub, for retaining the heating element. The heating element retainer includes a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end. The heating element further includes an engaging portion that is formed closer to the second longitudinal end than to the first longitudinal end, and that retains a first end of the heating element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: BSH Home Appliances Corporation
    Inventor: Gregor Michalik
  • Publication number: 20090165504
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a washing machine. The washing machine includes tub receiving wash water, a heater heating the wash water, and a heater cover surrounding the heater. The washing machine can prevent damage of a tub even when the heater is separated from the tub during operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: DAEWOO ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Chang Hoo Kim
  • Publication number: 20090133197
    Abstract: A laundry treating device includes a first laundry treating device and a second laundry treating device adjacent to the first laundry treating device. A first heater provided in the first laundry treating device and a second heater provided in the second laundry treating device can be selectively and alternatively operated to heat washing water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventors: Dong Soo Lee, Ki Chul Woo, Na Eun Kim, Dong Won Kim, Sung Min Kim, Sung Ryong Kim
  • Publication number: 20090126415
    Abstract: A heater apparatus of a washing machine is presented. The presented heater apparatus of a washing machine is comprising; a tub (190); a heater joint unit formed on the tub (190); a heater (200) arranged on the heater joint unit; and a heater joint member (300) being able to offset the pressure inflicted to the heater joint unit by the arrangement of the heater (200) as pressurizes the heater joint unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: Degremont
    Inventors: Jae-Cheol Lyu, Dong-Yoon Kim, Sang-Gyu Lim, Jong-Sun Yoon, Chang-Woo Son
  • Publication number: 20090113945
    Abstract: A multiple laundry machine capable of separately washing a small amount of laundry is disclosed. The disclosed multiple laundry machine includes a casing, and a plurality of laundry machines arranged in the casing, to conduct washing operations in different manners, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: Joo Yeon KIM, Kyung Ah Choi
  • Patent number: 7520146
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a drum washing machine which is capable of lifting clothes to a predetermined height and then dropping the lifted clothes so that the clothes can be washed by means of friction and impact. The drum washing machine is capable of heating wash water and spraying the heated wash water into a tub and a drum of the washing machine in a phase of high-temperature and high-pressure steam, thereby rapidly soaking clothes in the wash water, improving sterilizing and washing efficiencies of the drum washing machine, and saving wash water and electric energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jin Woong Kim, Kyung Chul Woo, Soo Young Oh, Si Moon Jeon
  • Patent number: 7490493
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a drum washing machine which is capable of lifting clothes to a predetermined height and then dropping the lifted clothes so that the clothes can be washed by means of friction and impact. The drum washing machine is capable of heating wash water and spraying the heated wash water into a tub and a drum of the washing machine in a phase of high-temperature and high-pressure steam, thereby rapidly soaking clothes in the wash water, improving sterilizing and washing efficiencies of the drum washing machine, and saving wash water and electric energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jin Woong Kim, Kyung Chul Woo, Soo Young Oh, Si Moon Jeon
  • Patent number: 7490494
    Abstract: A steam generation apparatus for a washing machine includes: a case having an accommodating space for storing water; a heater disposed inside the case to heat the water stored in the case; and a heater overheating prevention unit for cutting off power of the heater when the heater is overheated above the set temperature, so that a fire and deflection of a case can be prevented by preventing overheating of the heater by cutting off power being supplied to the heater when the heater is overheated due to malfunctions of a water level sensor or a clogged spray nozzle or a clogged flow passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jin-Woong Kim, Kyung-Chul Woo, Si-Moon Jeon
  • Publication number: 20090013479
    Abstract: There are provided a washing method using a treatment apparatus of the type, such as a liquid current treatment apparatus for treating a textile product by circulating a treating liquid that is capable of effectively washing a textile product in a shorter time, as well as a textile product treatment apparatus used therefore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: HISAKA WORKS, LTD.
    Inventor: Toru Shimizu
  • Publication number: 20080276661
    Abstract: A washing machine is disclosed. A laundry machine includes a drum rotatably provided in a cabinet, a substance supply device to generate water based substance and to supply the water based substance to the drum, a water supply source to supply water to the substance supply device, a pump positioned between the substance supply device and the water supply source, a connection unit to connect the pump with the water supply source, and a supporting module to support the water supply source, the pump and the substance supply device. The connection unit is configured of a coupling memberr having both opposite ends connected with the water supply source and the pump, respectively, the connection unit formed at a predetermined portion of the supporting module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Sang Hun Bae, Dong Geun Lee, Yeon Sik Choi, Ju Han Yoon
  • Publication number: 20080216250
    Abstract: Disclosed are a washing machine, in which substances stuck to the surface of a heater are washed off to minimize the generation of scale on the heater, and a method for controlling the same. The washing machine includes a tub; a heater installed in the tub for heating washing water; and a washing device for washing the heater. The washing device includes a spray nozzle for spraying the washing water to the heater, and a washing pump for supplying the washing water in the tub to the spray nozzle. The washing of the heater is performed in the first rinsing operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2007
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sang Bin Lee, Do Weon Kim
  • Patent number: 7421865
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a washing machine with drying function. A heater is mounted in a tub for heating wash water or air in the tub. A circulating channel is connected to the tub for guiding air heated by the heater to the outside of the tub and then supplying the air into a drum such that the laundry in the drum is dried. Consequently, the structure of the washing machine with drying function is simplified, the manufacturing costs of the washing machine with drying function are reduced, and noise generated from the washing machine with drying function is minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Tae Hee Lee, Byung Keol Choi, Hyun Seok Seo, Sang Wook Hong, Moon Hee Hong, Si Moon Jeon, Byoung Soo Je, Hee Tae Lim
  • Publication number: 20080202171
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a washing machine that is capable of preventing the deformation of laundry due to spin-drying holes, increasing friction between the inner surface of a washing tub and laundry to improve the washing efficiency, and reducing wash water consumption. The washing machine includes a water tub, a washing tub mounted in the water tub, a drive unit to rotate the washing tub, and a wash water circulation unit to supply wash water in the water tub into the washing tub. The washing tub has a plurality of depressions formed therein and depressed outward from the inner surface thereof in the shape of a polygonal pyramid, and a plurality of spin-drying holes formed in a deep area of the respective depressions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jae Ryong Park, Sang Yeon Pyo, Sung Hoon Kim, Eun Suk Bang, Jee Hun Park
  • Patent number: 7404304
    Abstract: A drum type washing machine, where steam and hot water are supplied to heat wash water, including: a water tub for containing wash water; a rotating drum rotatably mounted in the water tub and having, at a peripheral wall thereof, a plurality of through holes; a heating tank for heating water and generating steam; a water supply unit for supplying water into the water tub and the heating tank; and a steam supply pipe, adapted to guide the steam from the heating tank to the water tub, connected to the water tub In this drum type washing machine, the temperature of wash water can be rapidly increased in accordance with steam and hot water supplied into the water tub. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the overall wash time while reducing the amount of wash water to be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Byoung Yull Yang, Hyung Gyoon Kim, Sang Yeon Pyo, Seon-Woo Park, Hye Soon Yang, Seong Min Oak, Seung Ju Choi, Jae-Ryong Park, Hyun Sook Kim
  • Patent number: 7290412
    Abstract: A washing machine in which steam and hot water are supplied to heat wash water. The washing machine includes a water tub for containing wash water, a steam generating unit for heating water supplied thereto, thereby generating steam, a water supply unit for supplying water into the water tub and the steam generating unit, a steam supply unit for supplying the steam generated from the steam generating unit into the water tub, and a hot water supply unit for supplying hot water from the steam generating unit into the water tub. In the washing machine, the temperature of wash water can be rapidly increased in accordance with steam and hot water supplied into the water tub. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the overall wash time while reducing the amount of wash water to be used. The energy consumed to heat the wash water can also be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Byoung Yull Yang, Hyung Gyoon Kim, Sang Yeon Pyo, Seon-Woo Park, Hye Soon Yang, Seong Min Oak, Seung Ju Choi, Jae-Ryong Park, Hyun Sook Kim
  • Patent number: 6892408
    Abstract: The invention provides a method of operating a laundry appliance (10) comprising an outer casing (12) and a drum (50) rotatably mounted within the outer casing (12), the drum (50) having at least two rotatable portions (60, 70) which are capable of being rotated in either a synchronized mode or a non-synchronized mode, the method comprising the steps of: (a) introducing water to the interior of the drum (50); (b) heating the water to a desired temperature; (c) rotating the drum (50) to effect a washing action; and (d) spinning the drum (50) at a relatively high speed so as to remove water therefrom. In one aspect, the drum (50) is rotated in the non-synchronized mode either during or immediately after the step of introducing water to the interior of the drum (50). This helps to distribute the washing liquid throughout the wash load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Dyson Limited
    Inventors: Guy Austin Goddard, Malcolm John Hird, David Ions
  • Patent number: 6834406
    Abstract: Method to obtain a cloth suitable for cleaning any type of surface, the surfaces being glasses, or metallic wooden, plastic-coated and other similar surfaces. It is made by means of microfibres, cloth of polyamide and/or polyurethane and/or polyester. Before being used and once for all, the cloth is dipped in water brought to the boil for about 10 minutes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Inventors: Antonio Loizzo, Antonio Loizzo
  • Publication number: 20040255391
    Abstract: A washing method in a steam injection type washing machine in which wash water is heated to generate high-temperature and high-pressure steam while passing through the steam supply unit in the wash or rinse cycle, and the generated steam is injected into the wash tub at the top of the wash tub. Accordingly, it is possible to rapidly achieve the wetting of clothes with wash water while achieving an enhancement in sterilization and washing performances. In addition, consumption of water and electrical energy can be reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventors: Jin Woong Kim, Kyung Chul Woo, Soo Young Oh, Si Moon Jeon
  • Publication number: 20040244432
    Abstract: A steam supplying apparatus in a washing machine which is capable of supplying steam into a wash tub at the top of the wash tub, along with wash water supplied into the wash tub. The steam supplying apparatus includes a tank connected to a water supply unit adapted to supply wash water, the tank being connected with a wash tub via a steam supply line, and provided with a heater, an air chamber defined in the tank above a predetermined water level limit of the tank, the air chamber being reduced in volume in accordance with an increase in the water level of the tank, thereby causing air existing in the air chamber to be compressed, and an extension passage extending between the predetermined water level limit of the tank and the steam supply line. When water is excessively supplied into the tank over the predetermined water level limit, the excessive amount of water is drained through the extension passage and steam supply line in accordance with air pressure in the air chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventors: Jin Woong Kim, Kyung Chul Woo, Soo Young Oh, Si Moon Jeon
  • Publication number: 20040237603
    Abstract: A spray type drum washing machine including a tub mounted in a cabinet, and adapted to contain wash water therein, a circulation line connected between a portion of the tub and another portion of the tub to circulate wash water through the tub, a pump installed at the circulation line, and adapted to forcibly feed wash water through the circulation line for the circulation of the wash water through the tub, and an atomizing device provided at the circulation line, and adapted to atomize the wash water fed through the circulation line, whereby the wash water to circulate through the tub is supplied in an atomized state into the tub. The wash water can rapidly permeate clothes contained in the drum, so that it can more effectively come into contact with contaminants attached to the clothes. As a result, it is possible to achieve an enhancement in washing and rinsing performances while reducing the consumption of wash water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventors: Jin Woong Kim, Kyung Chul Woo, Soo Young Oh, Si Moon Jeon
  • Patent number: 6789404
    Abstract: Disclosed is a washing machine comprising a heating tank accommodating the washing and washing water; a heating part heating the washing water in the heating tank; and a circulation pump circulating the washing water in the heating tank. With this configuration, the present invention provides the circulation pump circulating washing water in the heating tank, thereby preventing the washing from oxidizing, improving a washing efficiency especially improving a washing efficiency according to washing material, and saving washing water. Further, water supply and drain can be easily performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., LTD
    Inventors: Hyun-sook Kim, Hyung-kyoon Kim, Sang-yeon Pyo, Chan-woo Park, Joon-yeop Lee, Seon-woo Park, Sang-yong Shim, Sang-wook Kang
  • Publication number: 20040148979
    Abstract: Disclosed is a washing machine enabling to prevent water from flowing in various electric equipments in the washing machine. The present invention includes a housing, a tub in the housing, a drum rotatably installed in the tub to hold a laundry, and a protecting member provided at the tub to prevent water from accessing an electric apparatus installed at the tub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventors: Yang Hwan No, Jong Seok Kim, Han Ki Cho, Yeon Su Jung, Jung Hoon Kang, Young Hoon Ha, Myung Sik Park
  • Publication number: 20040083770
    Abstract: Washing machine including a housing (10), an outer tub (20) mounted in the housing (10) for storage of washing water, and a heater assembly (100) having a heater (120) designed to be detachably inserted to an inside of the outer tub from an outside of the outer tub for heating the washing water, thereby permitting easy attachment/detachment of the heater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Jae Chul Lyu
  • Patent number: 6729165
    Abstract: A heating apparatus in a color test machine comprises a rotary tumbler seat, a rotating shaft for turning the rotary tumbler seat, a heater for heating the rotary tumbler seat, and tumbler recesses provided in the rotary tumbler. It is characterized in that solid micro particles are used as heat transfer media for heating and preserving the heat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Min-Chung Hsu
  • Publication number: 20020144524
    Abstract: A heating apparatus in a color test machine comprises a rotary tumbler seat, a rotating shaft for turning the rotary tumbler seat, a heater for heating the rotary tumbler seat, and tumbler recesses provided in the rotary tumbler. It is characterized in that solid micro particles are used as heat transfer media for heating and preserving the heat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Min-Chung Hsu