Clothes dryer with lint detector
US7040039B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 23, 2004 |
| Grant date | May 9, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 23, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC D)Textiles; Paper
- CPC primaryD06F58/22
- WIPO fieldOther consumer goods
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A device and method for detecting lint in a clothes dryer are disclosed. A lint detector is positioned within the clothes dryer. A light source is also positioned within the clothes dryer. The lint detector has a surface that receives light emitted by the light source. Further, the lint detector has a photocell that receives light reflected from the surface if lint covers the surface. A determination is made as to whether a threshold amount of light has been received. An indication such as the activation of a warning light can be provided if the threshold amount of light is received. Another response is shutting the clothes dryer down.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.