Method of detecting lint
US7134221B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 30, 2005 |
| Grant date | Nov 14, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 30, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC D)Textiles; Paper
- CPC primaryD06F58/22
- WIPO fieldOther consumer goods
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A method of detecting lint in a clothes dryer is disclosed. Light is directed through a surface within the clothes dryer, the light being emitted by a light source. The light is received at a photocell if the light is reflected off the surface when lint covers the surface. An indication is provided that lint is present within the clothes dryer if light is received at the photocell. Furthermore, a voltage level detector is positioned within the lint detector and determined if a threshold amount of light is received. In another aspect, if the threshold amount of light is received a warning light, an audio speaker, or an electrical output can be activated. Likewise, the clothes dryer can be automatically shut down. In another aspect, the photocell is a phototransistor. In another aspect, the photocell is a photoresistor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.