Title: Washing machine water control
Abstract: Water temperature selection in a washing machine is accomplished by utilizing a single selector that is in communication with an associated processor. The single selector is preferably on the same board as the processor thereby defining a water temperature selection and control module. The water temperature selector and control module is in communication with various other selectors, sensors, detectors, inputs, or the like to receive signals therefrom. The input signals are processed by the processor to produce signals to control water flow for the washing machine. In one form, the single selector is a resistive potentiometer that provides a resistance signal to the processor. In this form, the processor is in communication with the water valves and directly energizes the water valves in accordance with the resistive signal from the potentiometer.
Patent Number: 6,935,142 Issued on 08/30/2005 to Musser, et al.
| Inventors:
|
Musser; Thomas A. (St. Charles, IL);
Gross; Frederick M. (Barrington, IL)
|
| Assignee:
|
Emerson Electric Co. (St. Louis, MO)
|
| Appl. No.:
|
036643 |
| Filed:
|
December 31, 2001 |
| Current U.S. Class: |
68/12.16; 68/12.21; 68/12.27; 29/829; 29/831 |
| Intern'l Class: |
D06F 033/02 |
| Field of Search: |
29/825,829,831
68/120.2,120.3,120.5,121.6,121.9,122.1,122.2,122.7
|
References Cited [Referenced By]
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| 6327730 | Dec., 2001 | Corbett.
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| 6425156 | Jul., 2002 | Knopp et al.
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| 6634048 | Oct., 2003 | Hornung et al.
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| 6727443 | Apr., 2004 | Peterson et al.
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| Foreign Patent Documents |
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| |
| 10-337398 | Dec., 1998 | JP.
| |
Primary Examiner: Stinson; Frankie L.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Maginot, Moore & Beck
Claims
1. A modular washing machine control comprising:
a circuit board;
a processor mounted on the circuit board, the processor having input lines and
output lines;
a water valve driver mounted on the circuit board and being operatively coupled
to the processor so that the processor operates a water valve by generating a signal
on an output line of the processor that is coupled to the water valve driver;
a water temperature selector mounted on the circuit board and operatively connected
to the processor so that a signal generated on the circuit board by the selector
is received by the processor and used to control the signal on the output line
to the water valve driver; and
a housing mounted to the circuit board to enclose the water temperature selector,
water valve driver, and processor so that the water temperature selector, water
valve driver, and processor may be mounted to the frame of a washing machine as
an integral unit.
2. The modular control of claim 1, the selector including:
a potentiometer mounted on the circuit board; and
a shaft extending through the housing and operatively coupled to the potentiometer
so that rotation of the shaft varies the resistance of the potentiometer and generates
a variable signal on the circuit board for the processor to determine the water
temperature for a washing machine.
3. The modular control of claim 2, the processor further including:
an analog-to-digital input coupled to the potentiometer for converting an analog
signal received from the potentiometer to a digital value;
an internally stored lookup table; and
the processor determining the selected water temperature by selecting a water
temperature from the internally stored lookup table in accordance with the digital
value for the analog signal received from the potentiometer.
4. The modular control of claim 3 further comprising:
a temperature sensor operatively coupled to the processor, the sensor for sensing
temperature of water downstream of a water valve coupled to the water valve driver
and for generating a temperature signal received by the processor; and
the processor generates the signal coupled to the water valve driver in accordance
with the water temperature selected from the internally stored lockup table and
the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor.
5. The modular control of claim 4 further comprising:
a detent/position clip; and
a series of detents carried by the shaft that engage the detent/position clip
as the shaft is rotated to generate positive rotational stops for the shaft rotation
that correlate to water temperature selections.
6. A method for forming an integral machine control module for mounting to the
frame of a washing machine comprising:
mounting a processor having input lines and output lines on a circuit board;
mounting a water valve driver on the circuit board and operatively coupling the
water valve driver to the processor so that the processor operates a water valve
by generating a signal on an output line of the processor that is coupled to the
water valve driver;
mounting a water temperature selector on the circuit board and operatively coupling
the water temperature selector to the processor so that a signal generated on the
circuit board by the selector is received by the processor to control the signal
on the output line to the water valve driver; and
enclosing the circuit board in a housing so that the water temperature selector,
water valve driver, and processor may be mounted to the frame of a washing machine
as an integral unit.
7. The method of claim 6, the selector mounting including:
mounting a potentiometer on the circuit board; and
extending a shaft through the housing so the shaft is operatively coupled to
the potentiometer whereby rotation of the shaft varies the resistance of the potentiometer
and generates a variable signal on the circuit board for the processor to determine
the water temperature for a washing machine.
8. The method of claim 7, the potentiometer mounting further including:
coupling the potentiometer to an analog-to-digital input of the processor to
convert the signal from the potentiometer to a digital value; and
selecting a water temperature from a lookup table internally stored in the processor
in accordance with the digital value.
9. The method of claim 8 further comprising:
generating a signal corresponding to a temperature of water downstream of a water
valve coupled to the water valve driver mounted on the circuit board; and
generating a signal with the processor for controlling the water valve driver
in accordance with the water temperature selected from the lookup table.
10. The method of claim 9 further comprising:
locating a series of detents about the shaft; and
mounting a detent/position clip proximate the series of detents so that the detent/position
clip engages the series of detents as the shaft is rotated to generate positive
rotational stops for the shaft rotation that correlate to water temperature selections.
11. A modular washing machine control comprising:
a circuit board:
a processor mounted on the circuit board, the processor having input lines and
output lines;
a water valve driver mounted on the circuit board and being operatively coupled
to the processor so that the processor operates a water valve by generating a signal
on an output line of the processor that is coupled to the water valve driver; and
a water temperature selector mounted on the circuit board and operatively connected
to the processor so that a signal generated on the circuit board by the selector
is received by the processor and used to control the signal on the output line
to the water valve driver.
12. The modular control of claim 11, the selector including:
a potentiometer mounted on the circuit board; and
a shaft extending from the potentiometer and operatively coupled to the potentiometer
so that rotation of the shaft varies the resistance of the potentiometer and generates
a variable signal on the circuit board for the processor to determine the water
temperature for a washing machine.
13. The modular control of claim 12, the processor further including:
an analog-to-digital input coupled to the potentiometer for converting an analog
signal received from the potentiometer to a digital value;
an internally stored lookup table; and
the processor determining the selected water temperature by selecting a water
temperature from the internally stored lookup table in accordance with the digital
value for the analog signal received from the potentiometer.
14. The modular control of claim 13 further comprising:
a temperature sensor for sensing temperature of water downstream of a water valve
coupled to the water valve driver and for generating a temperature signal; and
the processor generates the signal coupled to the water valve driver in accordance
with the water temperature selected from the internally stored lookup table and
the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor.
15. The modular control of claim 14 further comprising:
a detent/position clip; and
a series of detents carried by the shaft that engage the detent/position clip
as the shaft is rotated to generate positive rotational stops for the shaft rotation
that correlate to water temperature selections.
16. The modular control of claim 12 further comprising:
a housing mounted to the circuit board to enclose the potentiometer, water valve
driver, and processor so that the potentiometer, water valve driver, and processor
form an integral unit.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to washing machines and, more particularly,
to water temperature selection and control in a washing machine.
BACKGROUND
Automatic washing machines for clothes (washing machines) have been in
use for relatively some time. During that time the washing machine has progressed
from manually driven to electrically driven. The development of the washing machine,
especially the electric washing machine, has resulted in a variety of features
and/or functions that provide for the proper washing of the many different types
of clothes and other items in current use. With the advent of digital processing,
current embodiments of washing machines have a plethora of features and/or functions
to facilitate the washing procedure. These features and/or functions are, of course,
implemented by the components of the washing machine. A current feature is water
temperature selection. With water temperature selection, a user is able to select
the temperature of the water going into the washing tub during various modes of
operation of the washing machine.
Washing machines for clothes that have a water temperature selector as well
as other selectable features and/or functions are thus currently available. With
such washing machines, after the user actuates the water temperature selector to
select the desired water temperature(s) used for a selected washing cycle, the
washing machine provides the water at the selected temperature. Currently, a plurality
of various components are necessary to implement the water temperature selection
and provision function. The currently used components have various drawbacks. The
number of components themselves is one drawback. The number of components, in turn,
creates drawbacks such as connection problems.
As an example of the above, in the typical washing machine, seven devices are
used to select and control the temperature and flow of water into the wash tub
of the clothes washer. Two of the seven devices are the hot and cold water valves
that allow water to flow into the wash tub when externally energized. A third device
is a thermistor. The thermistor is located downstream from the hot and cold water
valves and measures the water temperature. The thermistor measures water temperature
by converting the temperature into a resistance. The measured resistance is then
correlated to a water temperature. A fourth device is a mechanical pressure switch
that limits the total amount of water allowed into the wash tub.
The remaining three devices are an electromechanical timer, a rotary selector,
and an electronic control. These three devices provide selection of a desired water
temperature, control of the flow of water to meet that selected temperature, and
control as to when the water is to flow into the wash tub. The rotary selector
module provides the user a method of selecting water temperature. Additionally,
the rotary selector module contributes to the logical control of water tempering
through mechanical switches. The electromechanical timer provides mechanical switches
that control when water will flow into the wash tub. The electromechanical timer
also contributes to the logical control of water tempering one timer switch determines
when a fill should occur. Another switch determines if the fill is a wash or rinse
period. Additionally, four other switches are part of the logic and drive circuit
for determining how the water valves are energized during the fill for temperature
control. Lastly, the electronic control uses discrete electronic components that
also contribute to the logical control of water tempering.
It is axiomatic that all of these components must be connected (wired) properly
in order to function appropriately. Such wiring is necessarily complicated due
to the nature of such connections and the amount of connections. The number of
components provides more chances for errors in wiring.
In view of the above, what is therefore needed is a simpler manner of controlling
water parameters in a washing machine. Particularly, what is needed is a simpler
manner of selecting and/or controlling water temperature in a washing machine.
More particularly, what is needed is a simpler manner of providing water temperature
selection and control of water temperature in a washing machine.
SUMMARY
The subject invention is a system that provides water temperature selection and
control, an apparatus that implements water temperature selection and control,
and a method of water temperature selection and control in and for a washing machine.
In one form, the subject invention provides a water temperature selector and a
controller integrated as one component or module. The integrated water temperature
selector and controller module is operative to receive signals from various washing
machine sensors regarding various washing machine parameters (including temperature
selection) and to generate and/or provide signals to valves to control incoming
hot and cold water flowing into the washing tub. The water temperature selector/controller
module may be implemented as electrical circuitry and/or digital logic including
an input selector.
In another form, the subject invention is a water controller for a washing machine.
The water temperature selection and control module includes a processor, a selector,
and selector circuitry/logic. The selector is operative to allow a user to select
a water temperature setting for the washing machine. The selector circuitry/logic
is in communication with the selector and the processor. The selector circuitry/logic
is operative to provide a signal representing the selected water temperature setting.
The processor is operative to receive the selected water temperature setting signal
and produce a control signal in response thereto. The control signal is operative
to control water flow into the washing machine.
In another form, the subject invention is a method of solid state water temperature
selection and control in a washing machine. The method includes the steps of: (a)
receiving a water temperature setting signal from a water temperature selector
of the washing machine; (b) processing the received water temperature setting signal;
(c) producing a control signal in response to the received water temperature setting
signal; and (d) providing the control signal to a water valve of the washing machine.
In yet another form, the subject invention is a solid state water temperature
selection and control module for a washing machine. The solid state module includes
a circuit board, a processor mounted to the circuit board, a selector, and selector
circuitry. The selector is mounted to the circuit board and is operative to allow
a user to select a water temperature setting for the washing machine. The selector
circuitry is in communication with the selector and the processor, and is operative
to provide a signal representing the selected water temperature setting. The processor
is operative to receive the selected water temperature setting signal and produce
a control signal in response thereto. The control signal is operative to control
water flow into the washing machine.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of this invention, and
the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention will
be better understood by reference to the following descriptions of embodiments
of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary washing machine embodying the subject invention;
FIG. 2 is an enlarged top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a water temperature
selector and surrounding face for the exemplary washing machine of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the exemplary washing machine of FIG. 1 showing
various components thereof in accordance with the present principles;
FIG. 4 is an electrical schematic of an exemplary embodiment of the subject
invention including various washing machine components in accordance with the present principles;
FIGS. 5A and 5B are is an electrical schematic of an exemplary embodiment of
a water temperature selector/controller board in accordance with the present principles;
FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary selector/controller module
in accordance with the present principles; and
FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an exemplary manner of operation of the subject invention.
Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout
the several views.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to FIG. 1, there is depicted a washing machine, generally designated
10, representing all forms of washing machines in which the subject invention
may be embodied. As such, it should be appreciated that the washing machine 10
is only exemplary of a washing machine and is not intended to represent any particular
type, make, or otherwise. Further, it should be appreciated that the lack of any
feature and/or function of a washing machine not particularly shown and/or described
in connection with the washing machine 10 is not intended to indicate that
a washing machine embodying the subject invention does not include the feature
and/or function. The washing machine 10 is representative of a washing machine
that includes the subject invention.
The washing machine 10 has a frame or body 12 that houses a motor
14 and a washing receptacle or tub 16. The tub 16 defines
an interior 17 in which articles or items, of preferably clothing, are held
during washing. The tub 16 is also rotatably mounted within the frame 12.
As such, the tub 16 is in communication with the motor 14 as via
a shaft 18 or the like, so that the motor 14 is operative to drive
the tub 16. A lid 20 is pivotally attached to the frame 12
via a hinge, hinges, or the like (not shown). The lid 20 allows access into
the frame 12 and to the interior 17 of the tub 16. A lid or
lid state detector 22 is attached to the frame 12 and positioned
to provide detection of whether the lid is open or closed (i.e. the state of the
lid). Typically the lid detector 22 is embodied as a switch (e.g. a normally
open or normally closed type switch).
The tub 16 is adapted to receive water from a first tap, spigot or the
like 24 and a second tap, spigot, or the like 26 each of which is
situated to direct its outflowing water into the tub 16. The spigot 24
is in communication with a first valve 32, while the spigot 26 is
in communication with a second valve 34. Each of the valves 32 and
24 are operative to automatically (non-manually) open and close (provide
water flow and cease water flow, respectively) upon receipt of appropriate signals
or commands.
The valve 32 and thus the spigot 24 are coupled to a hot water
supply 36. When the valve 32 is open, hot water from the hot water
supply 36 flows out of the spigot 24. When the valve 32 is
closed, hot water ceases its flow to the spigot 24. Typically, water flow
from the valve 32 (and thus the spigot 24) is either full on or full
off. However, in one form, the valve 32 (and thus the spigot 24)
is operative to provide a continuous range of water flows based on a continuous
range of being fully closed to fully open [i.e. from 0% (fully closed) to 50% (half
open/half closed) to 100% (fully open)].
The valve 34 and thus the spigot 26 are coupled to a cold water
supply 38. When the valve 34 is open, cold water from the cold water
supply 38 flows out of the spigot 26. When the valve 34 is
closed, cold water ceases its flow to the spigot 26. Typically, water flow
from the valve 34 (and thus the spigot 26) is either full on or full
off. However, in one form, the valve 32 (and thus the spigot 26)
is operative to provide a continuous range of water flows based on a continuous
range of being fully closed to fully open [i.e. from 0% (fully closed) to 50% (half
open/half closed) to 100% (fully open)]. It can be appreciated that the valves
32 and 34 are operative to provide a range of temperatures of water
in the tub 16 by varying the amount of water flow therein (degree of the
open/closed state of the valve) to provide either full cold, full hot, or a mixture
of hot and cold water. This depends on the selected water temperatures.
The washing machine 10 has a console 46 as part of or separate
from the frame 12 and attached thereto. The console 46 provides support
for various controllers, selectors, inputs, and the like for user adjustable, selectable,
and/or settable features and/or functions of the washing machine 10, which
are generally designated 50 (and collectively, controllers and/or selectors).
The console 46 also houses most of the logic and/or circuitry associated
with the washing machine 10, particularly the selectors and/or controllers
50. In this example, the selectors and/or controllers 50 include
a main selector, controller, or input module 47, a water temperature selector,
controller, or input module 52, and two auxiliary inputs, selectors, or
controllers 56 and 58. The auxiliary inputs 56 and 58
may, for example, be a load size selector and a fabric selector.
The main selector module 47 includes a main controller, processor, processing
unit, control and/or processing circuitry/logic, and/or the like 30. In
this embodiment, the controller 30 includes necessary circuitry and/or logic
to provide the main processing for the washing machine 10, process user
and machine inputs appropriately, provide outputs to various components when appropriate,
and provide external indicators for the user. Without being exhaustive, the main
selector module 47 provides cycle selection, start/stop, user indications
of cycle progression, time selection, and the like. The main selector module 47
thus provides an interface for selection of operating modes of the washing machine
and a machine-to-user interface for indicating selection and/or current operating
mode of the washing machine 10.
The main selector module 47 also has a user interface or selector 48
that is embodied as a rotatable knob 48. It should be appreciated that the
user interface or selector 48 may be embodied as another type of interface
such as a touch-pad or the like. The knob 48 is encompassed by a plurality
of indicators 49, such as LEDS. The knob 48 is coupled to the main
controller 30 such that signals generated by and/or in response to rotation
or movement of the knob 48, and/or its ending rotational position, are communicated
and/or provided to the processing portion of the main controller 30. The
main controller 30 utilizes the signals accordingly. The LEDS 49
provide a visual indication of the particular mode or cycle selection for the washing
machine 10 and/or the current operating position in the chosen mode or cycle.
The water temperature selection/control module 52 has a user interface
or selector 53 and is operative to receive input from a user via the selector
53 as to a particular water temperature setting. In the present case, the
selector 53 is embodied as a rotatable knob. It should be appreciated that
the selector 53 may be embodied as another type of interface such as a touch-pad
or the like. Particularly, the selector 53 is operative to allow selection
of water temperature for washing and rinsing. This is accomplished by the user
through rotation of the knob 53.
The knob 53 is in communication with an electronic temperature control
(ETC) board, control module or controller 54. The ETC or controller 54
is operative to receive and process signals generated and/or produced by the knob
53 and/or its constituent parts, as an interface to a signal generator,
or as a variable parameter component. Particularly, the controller 54 is
operative to receive signals as a result of the rotation of the knob 53
(or from any type of input) or are generated and/or produced as a result of an
eventual setting or final position (rotational position) of the knob 53.
The controller 54 uses the signal(s) from the knob 53 to provide
the selected water temperature(s) to the tub 16 at the appropriate time.
The ETC 54 is in communication with appropriate components of the washing
machine 10. Particularly, the ETC 54 is in communication with the
valves 32 and 34 in order to provide actuation signals thereto (for
opening the valves) and de-actuation signals thereto (for closing the valves).
The ETC 54 is thus operative to control the valves 32 and 34
to provide a range of temperatures from cold (cold valve 34 full on, hot
valve 32 full off) to hot (hot valve 32 full on, cold valve 34
full off). Additionally, the ETC 54 is in communication with the water temperature
sensor 42 and the water level sensor 44. The ETC 54 receives
and utilizes the signals from the water temperature sensor 42 and the water
level sensor 44 to control the water going into and in the tub 16.
The ETC 54 generates various control signals for the various components
to accomplish water temperature control.
Referring to FIG. 2, there is depicted an exemplary face of the water temperature
selector/controller module 52 and an exemplary water temperature selection
scheme for the washing machine 10. Particularly, in FIG. 2 there is shown
a portion of the console 46 that retains the electronic water temperature
selection/control module 52. A plate, decal, label or the like 74
is located on the console 46 behind the knob 53. The plate 74
includes indicia indicating that the knob 53 is for water temperature selection
(both for the wash cycle and the rinse cycle). The plate 74 is also divided
into a plurality of sections 76, each section of which corresponds to a
particular water temperature for wash and rinse. The designation "H" stands for
hot. The designation "C" stands for cold. The designation "W" stands for warm.
In FIG. 2, the knob 53 is pointed toward "H-H" (hot-hot). Seven (7) other
water temperature combinations are available as shown. It should be appreciated
that the various temperature combinations as well as the number of temperature
combinations (or sections 76) are arbitrary. The actual number of selections
is in accordance with a particular manufacturer's washing machine capabilities
and design. Therefore, the water temperature selection/control module 52
may provide more or less water temperature combinations as well as different water
temperature combinations. As well, special water temperatures may be provided for
by the water temperature selector/controller module 52.
The washing machine 10 also includes a water temperature sensor or detector
42 that may be positioned in or about the tub 16 (or any appropriate
location). The water temperature sensor 42 is operative to obtain, detect,
sense, measure, or the like, the temperature of the water that is flowing into
the tub 16, is already in the tub 16, and/or is mixing in the tub
16. The water temperature sensor 42 is further operative to generate
and/or provide a signal or signals indicative of or correlative to the temperature
of the water. The water temperature signal or signals are provided to the ETC 54.
In one form, the water temperature sensor 42 may be a thermistor.
The washing machine 10 also includes a water amount or level sensor/detector
44 that may be positioned within or about the tub 16 (or any appropriate
location). The water level sensor 44 is operative to detect, sense, obtain,
measure, or the like the amount of water and/or the level of water (collectively,
liquid that may include water, detergent, bleach, laundry liquids, other general
liquids, additives, etc.) in the tub 16 (in the interior 17 of the
tub 16). The water level sensor 44 is further operative to generate
a signal or signals indicative of or correlative to the amount and/or level of
water in the tub 16. The water level signal or signals are provided to the
ETC 54. In one form, the sensor/detector 44 is a pressure actuated
device or switch, in which case the sensor/detector 44 may be mounted in
the position depicted in FIG. 44, in another form, the sensor/detector 44
is a water level detector, in which case the sensor/detector 44 may be mounted
proximate the opening of the tub 16/interior 17. Of course, other
types of sensors/detectors may be used that may be located at different appropriate
positions about the washing machine 10.
While not shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 10 includes appropriate
drainage components for draining the tub 16. Additionally, electricity to
operate the washing machine 10 is supplied via a power cord 40 that
has a plug 41 that is adapted to be received into an appropriate power or
electricity receptacle (not shown). The receptacle is in communication with an
appropriate source of electricity and is typically 120 volts AC. The power cord
40 is coupled internally to the various components of the washing machine
10 as appropriate.
Referring now to FIG. 3, there is depicted a block diagram of the exemplary
washing machine 10. The water temperature selection/control module 52
includes a processor, controller, processing circuitry/logic 60 that is
in communication with the selector 53 via a communication line 62.
In this manner, signals generated by the selector 53 are provided to the
processor 60. Particularly, position signals from the selector 53
are provided to the processor 60 which interprets the signals to ascertain
the selected water temperatures and then provide signals to the hot water valve
32 via a communication line 68 and/or the cold water valve 34
via a communication line 66 as appropriate to control the temperature and
flow of water into the tub 16.
The water temperature sensor 42 and the water level sensor are associated
with the tub 16. The water temperature sensor 42 is in communication
with the processor 60 via a communication line 70. The water temperature
sensor 42 is operative to provide a signal or signals to the processor 60.
The water temperature sensor signals indicate the water temperature of the water
in the tub 16 (directly or by correlation) to the processor 60. The
water level sensor 44 is in communication with the processor 60 via
a communication line 72. The water level sensor 44 is operative to
provide a signal or signals to the processor 60. The water level sensor
signals indicate the level of the water in the tub 16 (directly or by correlation)
to the processor 60. The processor 60 uses the water temperature
sensor signals to adjust the flow of water into the tub 16.
Particularly, the processor 60 uses the water temperature signal(s)
to determine the temperature of the water in the tub 16 and provides signal(s)
to the cold water valve 34 and/or the hot water valve 32 depending
on the temperature setting of the selector 53. The processor 60 uses
the water level signal(s) to shut off the flow of water into the tub 16
when appropriate. Particularly, the processor 60 uses the water level signal(s)
to determine when the tub 16 has an appropriate amount of water therein.
The amount of water that is appropriate is typically determined by an auxiliary
control that allows the user to select the load size (i.e. small, medium, or large).
The size of the load typically determines the amount of water in the tub 16.
When the appropriate amount of water is in the tub 16, the processor 60
provides signal(s) to the hot and/or cold water valves 32 and 34
to shut off the valves. Additionally, the washing machine 10 may includes
a wash/rinse timer contact 78 that provides a signal or signals to the processor
60 indicating when it is wash time and when it is rinse time. The signal(s)
from the wash/rinse timer contact 78 allow the processor 60 to control
the hot and cold water valves 32 and 34 appropriately for the temperature
of the water for the wash and rinse cycles of the washing machine 10.
Referring now to FIG. 4, there is depicted an exemplary wiring embodiment
of the subject invention that expands on and implements the block diagram of FIG.
3. The hot water valve 32, shown as a solenoid (actuable coil), is
coupled between the electronic temperature control (ETC) module 52 and neutral.
Thus, a "hot water" signal from the ETC module 52 energizes the solenoid
(valve) 32 to provide hot water. A cessation of the hot water signal from
the ETC module 52 to the solenoid 32 or providing another signal
to the solenoid 32, causes the solenoid 32 to close, thereby ceasing
hot water flow. The cold water valve 34, shown as a solenoid (actuable coil),
is coupled between the ETC module 52 and neutral. Thus, a "cold water" signal
from the ETC module 52 energizes the solenoid (valve) 34 to provide
cold water. A cessation of the cold water signal from the ETC module 52
to the solenoid 34 or providing another signal to the solenoid 34,
causes the solenoid 34 to close thereby ceasing cold water flow.
The wash/rinse timer contact 78 is coupled to the ETC module 52
and line voltage (LINE) in order to provide a signal or signals to the ETC module
52 regarding the state of the washing machine 10 with respect to
whether the washing machine 10 is in or should be in a wash mode or a rinse
mode. The wash/rinse timer contact 78 may be wired such that a closed timer
contact provides a signal to the ETC module 52 that indicates the wash mode,
while an open timer contact provides a signal (no signal) that indicates the rinse
mode. Of course, the wash/rinse timer contact 78 may be wired vice versa.
The water level sensor 44 is here embodied as a water level switch 44
that is in communication with the ETC module 52 and a fill timer contact 80.
The ETC module 52 utilizes water temperature settings from the selector
53 and the various sensor/detector/switch inputs to selectively and controllably
actuate the hot and cold water valves 32 and 34. In one form, the
ETC module 52 is programmed to correlate the water temperature selector
signals to a water temperature to actuate the appropriate water valves and utilize
the sensor/detector/input signals to provide the valve actuating signal(s) at the
appropriate time.
Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, there is depicted a detailed electrical schematic
of an exemplary embodiment of the subject invention. Particularly, FIGS. 5A and
5B depicts the electrical portion of the ETC module 52 as coupled to the
various sensors/detectors and the various components of the washing machine 10
for water temperature selection and control. More particularly, the board 54
is shown coupled to the selector 53, the water level sensor 44, the
water temperature sensor 42, the wash/rinse timer 78, and the valves
32 and 34. The processor 60 is shown as an ST6200C manufactured
by SGS Thomson. It should be appreciated that the ST6200C is only exemplary of
an integrated circuit that is operative to provide the various features and/or
functions described herein. Further, it should be appreciated that the various
electrical components depicted in FIGS. 5A and 5B are only exemplary. While the
processor 60 includes an internal oscillator for clocking, an extemal oscillator
may be provided that would clock the processor 60. An external oscillator
would be coupled to the input pin 2 (OSCin). The internal oscillator clock
signals are provided at output pin 3 (OSCout).
The selector 53 is shown in FIG. 5A embodied as a potentiometer (pot).
As such, the potentiometer 53 produces a variable resistance signal depending
on the rotational position of the shaft of the potentiometer 53. The variable
resistance signal is provided to the processor 60. The processor 60
receives the variable resistance signal and correlates the resistance (resistance
signal) to a particular water temperature combination. Thus, the rotational position
of the potentiometer (selector or knob) 53 provides the input for the processor
60 to determine (correlate) the wash and rinse water temperature. Using
the exemplary water selection scheme as shown in FIG. 2, the detents 112
provide eight (8) water temperature (wash/rinse) settings. Each setting thus produces
a particular resistance value or signal to the processor 60. Of course,
other numbers of settings (detents) may be provided. In particular, the potentiometer
53 provides an analog signal that is or represents a resistance value to
pin/input 7 (Ain/PB7) of the processor 60. The processor 60
includes a built-in analog to digital converter. The analog to digital converter
is operative to receive input signals in analog form and convert the input analog
signals into digital signals that are used internally and/or externally. Thus,
the analog resistance value/signal input to the processor 60 is converted
into a digital resistance value signal within the processor 60.
The digital resistance value signal is correlated (as, for example, via an internally
stored look-up table, or the like) to a water temperature and/or to the generation
and output of control signals that actuate the appropriate washing machine components
to provide water at the selected temperature. In one form, the processor 60
is programmed to receive an analog signal from the selector 53 and utilize
the received selector signal to provide output control signals to actuate water
flow regulators. In the embodiment of FIGS. 5A and 5B, the processor 60
provides output signals to pin, pinout, or output 14 (PA2/20 mA)
and to pin, pinout, or output 15 (PA1/20 mA). The output pin 14
is coupled to a gate of a triac 140 that serves as a driver for the valve
(solenoid) 32 of the hot water. The output pin 15 is coupled to a
gate of a triac 142 that serves as a driver for the valve (solenoid) 34
of the cold water. Actuation signals from output pins 14 and/or 15
actuate the respective triac 140, 142 and thus opens the respective
valve 32, 34 causing water to flow from the spigots 24, 26.
De-actuation signals (or the removal of the actuation signal from the pin 14/15
to create a no signal condition) shuts off the particular triac 140, 142
which closes the particular valve (solenoid) 32, 34. Any actuation
signal may be provided over a sustained period of time, a brief period of time,
or in varying and unvarying periodic time. In this manner, the water output from
the valves 32 and 34 are controlled for amount and/or temperature.
The water level sensor 44 is coupled to the processor 60 so as
to provide a water level signal thereto. Particularly, the water level sensor 44
is operative to provide a water level signal to the input pin 11 (PB1)
of the processor 60. The water level signal may be provided only when the
water level reaches a predetermined level within the tub 16. In this case,
the water level signal would indicate to the processor 60 to shut off the
water flow (should the water be flowing) or not to turn on the water (should the
water not be flowing at that time). The processor 60 thus does not actuate
the solenoid/valves 32, 34 via the respective triacs 140, 142.
The wash/rinse timer 78 is coupled to the processor 60 so as to
provide a wash/rinse signal thereto. Particularly, the water level sensor 44
is operative to provide a wash/rinse signal to the input pin 12 (PB0)
of the processor 60. The wash/rinse signal is provided to the processor
60 to indicate whether the washing machine 10 is in a wash mode or
a rinse mode. The processor utilizes the wash/rinse signal(s) to control the valves
32, 34 appropriately.
The thermistor (water temperature sensor) 42 is coupled to the processor
60 so as to provide a water temperature signal. As indicated above, the
water temperature signal may be a temperature signal, a resistance signal that
is correlated to a temperature by the processor 60, or other type of signal.
Particularly, the thermistor signal is provided to input pin 8 (Ain/PB6)
of the processor 60. The processor 60 utilizes the thermistor signal
to adjust the water valves 32 and 34 accordingly.
The various signals provided to the processor 60 are utilized by the processor
60 to produce signals for controlling and/or regulating other components
of the washing machine 10, particularly, but not limited to, the water valves
32 and 34. The circuitry/logic of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5A
and 5B also includes conditioning circuitry/logic for the various signals.
Referring now to FIG. 6, there is depicted a physical embodiment of the
water temperature selection/control module or packaging 52 in an exploded
view. The water temperature selection/control module 52 includes the board
54 that is preferably a circuit board. As such the board 54 includes
a plurality of terminals 100 that provide inputs and outputs to the various
circuitry/logic of the board 54. The plurality of terminals 100 are
ganged to permit the plurality of terminals to be coupled to a modular plug or
the like. The board 54 also includes a circuit trace or tracings 102
that, together with a shaft assembly 104, provides variable signals as the
shaft assembly 104 is rotated about the tracings 102. In one form,
the tracings 102 and the base 110 of the shaft assembly 104
provides variable resistances depending on the rotational positioning of the base
110 of the shaft assembly 104 relative to the tracings 102.
Alternatively, the tracings 102 and the shaft assembly 104 are embodied
as a potentiometer such that the variable signals are variable resistances.
The shaft assembly 104 is thus adapted to rotate about the tracings 102.
The shaft assembly 104 includes a shaft 106 having a flat 108
on one side thereof. The shaft 106 and flat 108 are configured to
receive the knob 53. Particularly, the shaft 106 and the flat 108
are received in a complementary opening 128 in the knob 53. The flat
108 aligns with a flat (not seen) of the opening 128 to provide an
orientation of the knob 53 when assembled onto the shaft 106. The
shaft assembly 104 further includes a clip groove or channel in which is
received a retention clip 126 when the shaft 106 is extended through
a bore 122 in a housing 120. Particularly, when the shaft assembly
104 is assembled, the shaft 106 of the shaft assembly 104
extends through the bore 122 such that the clip groove 114 is exposed.
The clip 126 thus retains the shaft assembly 104 to the housing 120.
Thereafter, the knob 53 is received onto the shaft 106 and rests
or abuts an annular track or flange 124 that is about the bore 122.
The shaft assembly 104 further includes the base 110 that has a
plurality of notches or detents 112 annularly spaced thereabout. The detents
112 define rotational positions for the shaft assembly 104 that correspond
to water temperature selections (or demarcations 76, see FIG. 2).
The detents 112 cooperate with a detent/position clip 130 as described
below to provide discrete rotational positions for the shaft assembly 104.
Particularly, the detent/position clip 130 is positioned at
the underside of the housing 120 about the bore 122. The clip 130
includes first and second resilient arms 132 and 134 that straddle
the bore 122 and the shaft 106. The detents 112 co-act with
the arms 132 and 134 to releasably retain the rotational position
of the shaft assembly 104 when rotated. Resistance by the arms 132
and 134 to rotational movement is overcome during rotation when the rotational
force applied to the shaft assembly 104 through the knob 53 exceeds
the resilience of the arms 132 and 134. This creates positive rotational
"stops" or positions that correlate to water temperature selections. Preferably,
the board 54 is affixed to the housing 120 by screws or the like.
This holds the module 52, and thus its constituent components, together.
The module 52 may thus be mounted to the frame 12 of the washing
machine 10.
Referring to FIG. 7, there is depicted a flowchart, generally designated
150, of an exemplary manner of operation of the washing machine 10
and/or the water temperature selection/control module 52. Initially, it
should be appreciated that a user provides input to the washing machine regarding
a washing or operating cycle or mode of the washing machine and/or washing machine
use. As examples, a user may select a "Permanent Press" washing mode or cycle,
a "Delicate" washing mode or cycle, or a "Normal" washing mode or cycle. In the
present example, this is accomplished through the main controller/selector 47
(see FIG. 1). Of course, other operating modes or cycles may be selected
through the main controller/selector 47 as provided on the particular washing
machine. As well, other features and/or functions may be selected and/or controlled
through the main controller 47.
In step 152, the water temperature module 52 obtains user input
regarding water temperature selection. In the present example, this is accomplished
via rotation of the knob 53 associated with the water temperature module
52. The knob 53, the shaft assembly 104, and other associated
parts thereof (see FIG. 6 and its associated description) provide selection
signals to the processor 30 of the water temperature module 52. The
selection signals indicate the water temperature selection(s) and/or setting(s).
In step 154, the received user input is processed. This may include correlating
the received selection signals to temperatures as well as to control signals to
provide water at the appropriate temperature. Before, during or after obtaining
user selection input and/or processing the user selection input, in step 156
the water temperature module 52 obtains and/or receives signals from the
various sensors and/or detectors of the washing machine. As examples, the water
temperature sensor 42 may provide a signal to the processor 30 regarding
the water temperature, while the water level sensor 44 may provide a signal
to the processor 30 regarding water level. In step 158, the processor
30 processes the washing machine sensor/detector signals.
In response to these signals or inputs, in step 160, the water temperature
selection/control module 52 generates or produces control signals. These
control signals are used by components of the washing machine. In step 162,
the valves 32, 34, use these control signals and their associated
components, to start and stop hot and cold water flow for the washing machine 10.
While this invention has been described as having a preferred design, the subject
invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure.
This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations
of the subject invention using its general principles. Further, this application
is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within
known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains and that
fall within the limits of the appended claims.
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