The Indexing Codes D06F 2101/00 - D06F 2101/20 cover user input for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers.

The Indexing Codes D06F 2103/00 - D06F 2103/70 cover parameters monitored or detected for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers.

The Indexing Codes D06F 2105/00 - D06F 2105/62 cover systems or parameters controlled or affected by the control systems of washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers.

This subclass does not cover treatment of textiles by purely chemical means, which is covered by subclasses D06L and D06M.

Apparatuses for wringing, washing, dry cleaning, ironing or other hot-pressing of textiles in manufacturing operations are covered by D06B and D06C.

A document should be classified in D06F if:

Exceptions to the rule at point (II) above are:

D06F 31/00, D06F 43/00, D06F 47/00, D06F 58/12, D06F 67/04, D06F 71/00, D06F 89/00 , D06F 93/00, D06F 95/00 as well as their subgroups.

Applications regarding washing machine components like e.g. pumps, electric motors, electronic devices, displays per se, i.e. applications which claim the technical features of those components without describing any particular interaction between said components and the household appliance do not usually belong to D06F, but to the general classification entry of their function per se.

The above-mentioned devices are mainly seen as "black boxes" connected to the appliance so as to interact with the appliance's operation.

For example, if an application relates to a jog dial, a display or a selector switch, there must be an interaction between said devices and the appliance itself in order to classify said application in D06F 34/28 (the display or the switch should e.g. be mounted to the front panel and/or should e.g. be used for selecting a washing program).

A set of claims including a claim like " a household appliance comprising the device (e.g. a pump) according to claim 1" does only mean that a device according to claim 1 may be used in a household appliance (e.g. in a washing machine) and that the application may be classified in D06F only if there's a clear interaction between the component and the appliance's operation.

It is not to be automatically assumed that such applications belong to D06F, nor that a household appliance should automatically be a washing machine or a dryer (a household appliance could e.g. be a stove, an oven, a refrigerator etc.).

Washing receptacles suitable for hand washing (e.g. wash-up bowls).

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wash-up bowls per se.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wash-up bowls (generally made of metal) which can be heated by e.g. a gas burner.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wash-up bowls (generally made of metal) comprising means for concentrating the heat of e.g. a burner and for applying it in such a way (e.g. to a hot water circuit), that steam within the boiler is quickly generated and, together with hot water, it is discharged on the garments to be washed.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wire frame baskets or perforated metal containers suitable for supporting clothes in washing receptacles.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Corrugated means against which the clothes are rubbed.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wash-up bowls incorporating a corrugated surface have to be classified in D06F 1/04 only.

Rubbing boards have to be classified in D06F 3/02 only.

Corrugated boards against which the clothes are rubbed.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Rubbing devices which are supposed to be used directly by hand.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Hand implements which are specifically designed for uniformly distributing/stirring the washing agent and/or the laundry in the washing tub.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing receptacles, wherein the washing action is obtained by shaking or squeezing the receptacle itself.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing devices which, during the washing action, are repeatedly pressed against the laundry/removed from the laundry along a generally vertical direction.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Laundry grippers specially designed for washing purposes.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Impellers or similar rotating bodies suitable for agitating the washing liquid.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing devices, wherein the agitation of the washing fluid is generally obtained by oscillating e.g. a solid flat surface with a steady uninterrupted rhythm.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing devices, wherein the washing action is obtained by agitating the washing liquid using e.g. air jets.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Devices for washing home textiles comprising one or more brushing elements, wherein said brushing element comprises bristles hard enough to remove dirt but not so hard that they cause damage to the laundry.

Illustrative examples of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Vertical axis washing machines provided with laundry agitators.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Vertical axis washing machines, wherein the agitator rotates and/or has an orbital motion.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing machines, wherein the washing action is only obtained by circulating or agitating the washing fluid.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing machines technically close to dishwashers.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing machines technically close to dishwashers (no drum is present).

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing machines comprising vibrating devices.

General concepts regarding the washing machine as a whole;

Machines which do not necessarily spin-dry and which may comprise lifters and/or impellers.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing machines comprising a tub (enclosing receptacle).

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

General layouts.

Washing machines with receptacles, e.g. perforated, having a rotary movement, e.g. oscillatory movement around an horizontal axis, the receptacle serving both for washing and centrifugally draining.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing machines with receptacles, e.g. perforated, having a rotary movement, e.g. oscillatory movement around a vertical axis, the receptacle serving both for washing and centrifugally draining.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group:

Washing machines with receptacles, e.g. perforated, having a rotary movement, e.g. oscillatory movement around an inclined axis, the receptacle serving both for washing and centrifugally draining.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

General and simple aspects of the drying means.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing machines having receptacles which do not necessarily rotate around an axis and, wherein the washing action is mainly obtained by shaking, oscillating, lifting and/or dropping of the receptacle as a whole.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Combinations of washing machines with other separate household appliances, wherein both devices share the same support structure (e.g. frame or casing).

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Industrial devices for hospitals, hotels or professional laundries.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Batch or tunnel washing machines, wherein the drums have either vertical or horizontal axes.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

The controlling processes of washing machines that are classified in this group and its subgroups according to their specific purpose, e.g. the optimization / improvement of the washing phase or the prevention of imbalance or noise. The further information relating to the (manual and/or automatic) input and the output of these controlling processes is classified with the mandatory indexing codes and any details of the control means per se, i.e. the "hardware" is classified in the groups relating to the details of the control means (see special rules of classification for this group and its subgroups).

The following picture schematically illustrates how a controlling process of a washing machine, washer-dryer or laundry dryer is classified based on how it works. An input signal (i.e. a user input as "manual input" or an automatically detected signal as "automatic input", e.g. by a sensors) is fed into a control unit as "control means", which depending on the purpose of the control sends corresponding command signals to the machine components.

A controlling process for a laundry treating apparatus (e.g. a washing machine) has a specific "control purpose" and implies the presence of a "control means" (e.g. a CPU), whereby the control means is usually a control unit which comprises a user interface (e.g. a control panel) and several sensors for the automatic detection of e.g. temperature, pressure, liquid level, etc.

Moreover, the control unit is usually configured to perform actions as "automatic output" (e.g. switching a heater ON/OFF, regulating the drum speed, etc.), depending on the purpose of the control and based on the input of the user and/or the signals provided by the sensors.

Control method for a washing machine employing a control unit adapted to detect the level and the temperature of the washing liquid and to switch the tub heater ON/OFF based on the laundry load, as input by the user, such as to reduce the energy consumption.

Classification of the example:

It is mandatory to classify all relevant aspects related to: purpose, manual input, automatic input, automatic output and details of the control means.

Note: The methods in the present area essentially concern the control of the machine per se; as such, they should not be classified in D06F 35/005, D06F 35/006 and D06F 35/007, which relate to methods focused on the treatment of the laundry; however, in exceptional cases where both aspects are important, classification symbols belonging to both areas might be assigned.

It is noted that D06F 35/005 and subgroups relate to methods for treating the laundry whereas D06F 33/00 and subgroups relate to devices and methods for controlling the appliance.

The control of the individual operational steps or phases of a washing machine cycle.

The control of individual operational steps concerning the water-filling phase.

The control of individual operational steps concerning the washing phase.

The control of individual operational steps concerning the employment of detergents or additives, e.g. determining the appropriate detergent amount based on the type and amount of laundry.

Control methods or control arrangements concerning the rinsing phase, e.g. having the purpose of reducing the amount of water for rinsing the laundry.

Methods for rinsing the laundry are classified in D06F 35/006.

Control methods or control arrangements concerning the spinning phase.

Methods for spinning the laundry are classified in D06F 35/007.

Control methods or control arrangements concerning the draining phase.

Control methods or control arrangements having the purpose of cleaning or disinfection of washing machine parts, e.g. of tubs.

Methods for disinfecting the tub or the drum are classified under D06F 35/008.

Control methods for disinfecting the clothes or the washing fluid are classified in other places of D06F, such as D06F 35/00; D06F 35/001; D06F 35/004; D06F 37/00; D06F 39/00.

Control methods or control arrangements concerning the operating time, e.g. reduction of overall operating time.

The control of operational steps concerning the reduction of energy or water consumption.

The control of operational steps concerning the prevention and early detection of potentially dangerous or abnormal working conditions that might cause damage to the user and/or to the machine, e.g. clogging of the drain pump, water leaks, electric malfunctions, etc.

The control of operational steps to reduce and/or prevent imbalance or noise.

The controlling processes of washer-dryers that are classified in this group and its subgroups according to their specific purpose, e.g. the optimization / improvement of the washing phase or the prevention of imbalance or noise. The same classification rules set out for D06F 33/30 also apply mutatis mutandis to D06F 33/50 - D06F 33/76, as shown in the schematic picture below. It is noted that a symbol belonging to the aforementioned range should only be given in case the control process applies specifically to a washer-dryer, and would therefore not work for a washing machine or a laundry dryer.

The further information relating to the (manual) input and the output of these controlling processes is classified with the mandatory indexing codes and any details of the control means per se, i.e. the "hardware" is classified in the groups relating to the details of the control means (see special rules of classification for this group and its subgroups).

The following picture schematically illustrates how a controlling process of a washing machine, washer-dryer or laundry dryer is classified based on how it works: an input signal (i.e. a user input as "manual input" or an automatically detected signal as "automatic input", e.g. by a sensors) is fed into a control unit as "control means", which depending on the purpose of the control sends corresponding command signals to the machine components.

The preceding image makes reference to the following symbols: D06F 33/30-D06F 33/48, D06F 33/50-D06F 33/76, D06F 58/34-D06F 58/52, D06F 2101/00, D06F 2103/00, D06F 34/00, D06F 2105/00.

Example: washer-dryer

Washer-dryer provided with a control circuit, a control panel, an air heater and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the drying air, whereby the user interface allows the user to set the maximum temperature of the drying air and the control unit is configured to regulate both the heater (e.g. by switching it ON/OFF) and the blower fan based on the temperature of the drying air.

Moreover, according to the description, the control aims to avoid damaging the laundry by overheating.

Classification of the example:

Note: As a general rule, all washer-dryers are classified in D06F 25/00.

As a general rule, all washer-dryers are classified in D06F 25/00.

It is mandatory to classify all relevant aspects related to: purpose, manual input, automatic input, automatic output and details of the control means.

Note: The methods in the present area essentially concern the control of the machine per se and as such, they should not be classified in the D06F 35/00 area, which relates to methods focused on the treatment of the laundry. However, in exceptional cases where both aspects are important, classification symbols belonging to both areas might be assigned.

The control of operational steps, which are focused on the condition of the laundry.

The control of operational steps concerning the water-filling phase.

The control of operational steps concerning the washing phase.

The control of individual operational steps concerning the employment of detergents or additives, e.g. determining the appropriate detergent amount based on the type and amount of the laundry load.

Control methods or control arrangements concerning the rinsing phase, e.g. reducing the amount of water for rinsing the laundry load.

Methods for rinsing the laundry (i.e. wherein the focus is on the treatment of the laundry, not on the control of the machine) are classified in D06F 35/006.

Control methods or control arrangements concerning the laundry-spinning phase.

Control methods or control arrangements concerning the draining phase.

Control methods or control arrangements aiming at steering the airflow and having purposes different from pure drying.

Control methods or control arrangements aiming to steer the airflow and having purposes different from pure drying, wherein the air is unheated.

Control methods or control arrangements for washer-dryers having the purpose of conditioning or finishing the laundry, e.g. using a laundry-conditioning agent like water, steam, perfume, starch.

Control methods or control arrangements for washer-dryers having the purpose of controlling the sequence of washing and drying operations.

Control methods or control arrangements for cleaning or disinfecting washer-dryer parts, e.g. the condenser, air duct, etc.

Control methods for disinfecting the clothes or the washing fluid are generally classified in D06F 35/00; D06F 35/001; D06F 35/004; D06F 37/00; D06F 39/00 and, if applicable, also in the group concerning the item on which the disinfecting device is mounted (e.g. the detergent drawer, the gasket, the water pump, the tub etc.).

Cleaning of the lint collecting arrangements is classified in D06F 58/45.

Methods for disinfecting the tub or the drum are classified in D06F 35/008.

Control methods or control arrangements concerning to the operating time, e.g. reduction of overall operating time.

The control of individual operational steps concerning the reduction of energy or water consumption.

The control of individual operational steps concerning the prevention and early detection of potentially dangerous or abnormal working conditions, which might cause damage to the user and/or to the machine, e.g. clogging of the drain pump, water leaks, electric malfunctions, etc.

The control of individual operational steps for reducing and/or preventing imbalance or noise.

Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers. See also definition statement and examples shown under D06F 33/30 and D06F 33/50.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers, relating to wired signal transfer or data transmission arrangements.

Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers, relating to wireless signal transfer or data transmission arrangements, e.g. WIFI, Bluetooth, RF, NFC, optic, etc.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers, concerning timing.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers relating to the detection of specific parameters.

Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers relating to the detection of imbalance.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers, relating to the detection of the condition of the laundry, comprising both the sensors and their control arrangements.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers, relating to the detection of specific parameters of constructional components of the appliance, e.g. checking the position of the door, lint filter, detergent drawer, etc.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Details concerning safety arrangements are classified in D06F 37/42; safety arrangements for preventing water damage in D06F 39/081; preventing and responding to irregular working conditions in D06F 33/47.

Details of control systems for washing machines or washer-dryers, relating to the detection of the condition of the washing liquid, e.g. devices for measuring and/or controlling the detergent concentration, water hardness, etc., comprising both the sensors and their control arrangements.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Details of control systems for washing machines or washer-dryers, relating to the detection of the temperature of the washing liquid, e.g. thermostats, etc., comprising both the sensors and their control arrangements.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Details of control systems for washer-dryers or laundry dryers, relating to the detection of the condition of the drying air, e.g. humidity sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, etc., comprising both the sensors and their control arrangements.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Details of control systems for washer-dryers or laundry dryers, relating to arrangements for program selection and/ or visualization.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing machines implementing washing concepts and/or characterised by technical features which cannot be classified elsewhere.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing machines, wherein the washing action is performed by gas bubbles getting in contact with the articles to be washed.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing methods (per se) explicitly comprising a washing, a rinsing, and a spinning phase.

Washing methods (per se) explicitly related to the washing and rinsing phases only.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Washing methods (per se) related to the spinning phase only.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Pure hardware should not be classified here.

Methods for disinfecting the clothes or the washing fluid should not be classified here.

Bearing supports (see figure - reference sign (1)).

Details of the drum surface for drums having both horizontal and vertical axes.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this place:

Ribs/lifters comprising water passages (e.g. holes).

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Shoe holders.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Only doors for "top-loaders" (e.g. drum doors).

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Drum doors for drums having a vertical axis.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Dampers mounting and configuration.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Tubs (finished products).

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Water pockets.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Bearings and bearing supports are not to be classified here.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Special components mounted to the tub.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Doors hinged to the tub.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Gears and motors (pure hardware).

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Automatic drum positioning devices for top-loaders, wherein the drum doors are aligned with the casing door in order to empty the drum.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

General details of washing machines, i.e. details that can be applied to several types of the machines covered by groups D06F 9/00 - D06F 27/00

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Details of washing machines specifically adapted to a single type of the machines covered by groups D06F 9/00 - D06F 27/00 are covered by the group corresponding to the machine type.

Mechanical means for temporaneously fixing the suspended part of the washing machine (e.g. the tub) to its stationary part (e.g. the frame).

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Multiple dosing systems.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Steam devices specifically designed for washing machines have to be classified in D06F 39/40 only.

Sensors.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Water stopping devices (safety devices mounted to the tap).

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Pumps specially adapted for washing machines.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Non-return valves (e.g. ball or flap valves).

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Filters disposed in the water circuit.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Casings.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Pedestals.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Arrangements for the recovery of water used in washing machines, e.g. water storage means or waste water treatment.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group:

Arrangements for the recovery of energy used in washing machines, including thermal energy, potential energy, kinetic energy or electric energy.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group:

The drawing shows a washing machine provided with a steam generating equipment in the top-right rear corner. It is connected to the washing tub and can provide a spray of steam thereto. An enlarged drawing of the steam generating equipment is provided.

Implements for rinsing and squeezing soiled reusable cloth diapers.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Industrial dry-cleaning machines and dry-cleaning methods.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Industrial and/or household handheld spot-removing devices

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Solvent condition (e.g. humidity) detecting arrangement for industrial dry-cleaning machines.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Industrial dry-cleaning machines comprising a single rotary cleaning receptacle.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Industrial dry-cleaning machines comprising more than one rotary cleaning receptacle.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Solvent recovery devices for industrial dry cleaning machines, wherein the recovery device lies in a separate structure with respect to the dry cleaning machine.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Solvent reclaiming or recovery arrangements for industrial dry-cleaning machines.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Solvent condensing arrangements for industrial dry-cleaning machines.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Solvent filtering / filter cleaning arrangements for industrial dry-cleaning machines.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Industrial dry-cleaning machines comprising means for recovering the solvent from the drying air current.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Industrial dry-cleaning machines comprising solvent condensing means for recovering the solvent from the drying air current.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wringing machines comprising two or more rotary pressing bodies, suitable for removing excess liquids from rags or any equivalent absorbent and pliant items.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wringing machines comprising two or more rotary pressing bodies, wherein pressure is exerted via spring means.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wringing machines comprising two or more rotary pressing bodies and hand-operated pressure release means.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wringing machines comprising two or more rotary pressing bodies and automatically-operated pressure release means.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wringing machines comprising two or more rotary pressing bodies, wherein pressure is exerted via e.g. hydraulic means.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wringing machines comprising three or more rotary pressing bodies

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wringing machines (comprising two or more rotary pressing bodies) permanently combined with a washing machine.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Wringing machines (comprising two or more rotary pressing bodies) removeably attached to a washing machine, table or other support.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Constructive details belonging to wringing machines comprising two or more rotary pressing bodies.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Industrial pressing machines for removing excess liquids from wet clothing.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Industrial pressing machines for removing excess liquids from wet clothing, comprising a mechanically-actuated ram.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Industrial pressing machines for removing excess liquids from wet clothing, comprising a fluid-actuated ram.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Industrial pressing machines for removing excess liquids from wet clothing, comprising a flexible diaphragm.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Covers and securing means therefor, specially adapted for sealing industrial pressing machines for removing excess liquids from wet clothing.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Household spin-dryers (general aspects and/or constructive details) which cannot be classified under any hierarchically lower group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Doors, covers or safety arrangements for household spin-dryers.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Water spraying arrangements for wetting the laundry during spinning, specially adapted for household spin-dryers.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Constructional details of rotary drums for household spin-drying devices.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Driving means of rotary drums for household spin-drying devices.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Vibration damping arrangements for rotary drums of household spin-dryers.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Water draining arrangements for household spin-dryers.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Hand operated apparatuses for removing excess liquids from wet clothing.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Any line, such as a piece of rope or cable, which is specifically designed and used for hanging clothes thereon for drying the clothes, the line being characterised by features that render the line particularly useful for suspending or hanging clothes thereon to dry.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

for the classification in D06F 57/00 and its subgroups:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Supporting means comprising more than one vertical member which are interconnected by horizontal bars. The vertical members must be truly vertical, i.e. perpendicular to the ground, in the operating position of the supporting means.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group:

Folding stands, i.e. stands that are foldable for stowing.

This group covers in particular, but not exclusively, folding stands as defined above which are foldable about a horizontal axis.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group:

Any foldable stand with intersecting leg members, the leg members being foldable using a mechanism involving at least two parallel folding axes in which the members intersect.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Domestic laundry drier having a drier drum rotating about a horizontal axis in general.

For instance: a domestic laundry drier having a drier drum rotating about a horizontal axis defined by a particular arrangement of conducting air inside the laundry drier, this particular arrangment involving inter alia the drum.

An example of such a domestic laundry drier in D06F 58/02 is:

Details that are directly relating to the drier drum rotating about a horizontal axis of the domestic laundry drier.

Examples of such details of a domestic laundry drier in D06F 58/04 include:

In case an aspect of the detail falls also in D06F 58/20 and its subgroups, i.e. this aspect of the detail is not restricted to laundry driers having a drum rotating about a horizontal axis, then also D06F 58/20 or its relevant subgroup should be assigned.

For instance: a domestic laundry drier having a drier drum rotating about a horizontal axis and comprising an electric heating device specially shaped or adapted to the drier drum should be classified in both, D06F 58/04 (aspect: specially shaped to the drier drum) and D06F 58/26 (aspect: heating device).

Any detail related to the mounting of the rotating drum, for instance bearings or supports of the rotating drum.

An example of a detail of a mounting for a rotating drum in D06F 58/06 is:

Device details or components of the domestic laundry drier directly related or linked to the driving arrangement of the drier drum.

For instance: the motor, mounting and support of the motor, as well as details of the drive system such as belts and pulleys.

An example of such a details of a driving arrangement in D06F 58/08 is:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Conveying means for moving the clothes, for instance along an endless track, along a rotating screw, or back and forth

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Collapsible drying cabinets, such as collapsible and portable drying devices; Wall mounted collapsible hoods

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Domestic laundry driers having heatable surfaces for contacting the laundry, the domestic laundry drier being specifically designed for, and used as, domestic device for drying laundry.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Drying arrangement which can be removably attached to a washing machine and which does not form part of the washing machine; door-mounted drying arrangement suitable for a washing machine, the drying arrangement being self-contained.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

General details of domestic laundry driers being relevant for all different type of domestic laundry driers.

For instance:

In case the details or the components relate to an air/air heat exchanger which effects the condensation of moisture, only the subgroup D06F 58/24 should be assigned (i.e. not D06F 58/20 in addition).

Details of laundry conditioning devices or components in domestic laundry driers (e.g. free body dispensers or laundry balls specially adapted for releasing laundry conditioning agent during a drying cycle of a domestic laundry dryer) using a laundry conditioning agent (e.g. water, steam, perfume, starch) to be applied to the laundry.

An example of such a laundry conditioning arrangement in a domestic laundry drier may involve the injection of a laundry conditioning agent into the treatment chamber, as shown below:

Heat pump arrangements for domestic laundry dryers, e.g. heat pumps of the compressor type, of the sorption type or using thermo-electric elements (e.g. Peltier / Seebeck devices).

Details of devices or components related or linked to the collection of lint or other particles, such as air filters and air filter cleaning devices.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Details of devices or components related or linked to the collection of lint or other particles, such as air filters and air filter cleaning devices.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Domestic laundry driers having gas heating equipment including the burner and the gas supply devices.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Laundry drying processes per se, i.e. machine working methods characterized by several laundry treating steps.

It is noted that in this group the focus is set on the treating process the laundry undergoes.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

The above diagram represents a typical drying method for laundry dryers, in which several laundry treating steps are performed, for example during the drying process the heater and the blower fan are subsequently turned ON/OFF while the drum is rotated.

General control aspects that are not covered by D06F 58/34 - D06F 58/52.

The controlling processes of laundry dryers that are classified in this group and its subgroups according to their specific purpose, e.g. the optimization / improvement of the drying phase or the prevention of laundry ignition.

The further information relating to the (manual) input and the output of these controlling processes is classified with the mandatory indexing codes and any details of the control means per se, i.e. the "hardware" is classified in the groups relating to the details of the control means (see special rules of classification for this group and its subgroups).

The following picture schematically illustrates how a controlling process of a washing machine, washer-dryer or laundry dryer is classified based on how it works. An input signal (i.e. a user input as "manual input" or an automatically detected signal as "automatic input, e.g. by a sensors) is fed into a control unit as "control means" which depending on the purpose of the control sends corresponding command signals to the machine components.

The preceding image makes reference to the following symbols: D06F 33/30-D06F 33/48, D06F 33/50-D06F 33/76, D06F 58/34-D06F 58/52, D06F 2101/00, D06F 2103/00, D06F 34/00, D06F 2105/00.

A controlling process of a laundry treating apparatus (e.g. a laundry dryer) has a specific "control purpose" and implies the presence of a "control means" (e.g. a CPU), whereby the control means is usually a control unit which comprises a user interface (e.g. a control panel) and several sensors for the automatic detection of e.g. air temperature, laundry humidity, liquid level in the condensed water tank, etc.

Moreover, the control unit is usually configured to perform actions as "automatic output" (e.g. switching a heater ON/OFF, regulating the blower fan speed, etc.), depending on the purpose of the control and based on the input of the user and/or the signals provided by the sensors.

First example: laundry dryer - control method

Control method for a laundry dryer employing a control unit adapted to detect the temperature of the drying air and to switch the fan speed and the heater ON/OFF based on the target humidity of the laundry load, as input by the user, such as to reduce the operating time.

Classification of the example:

Second example: washer-dryer

Washer-dryer provided with a control circuit, a control panel, an air heater and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the drying air, whereby the user interface allows the user to set the maximum temperature of the drying air, and the control unit is configured to regulate the heater (e.g. by switching it ON/OFF) and the blower fan based on the temperature of the drying air. The control aims to avoid damaging the laundry by overheating.

Classification of the example:

It is compulsory to classify also all relevant aspects related to the Purpose, Manual Input, Automatic Input, Automatic Output and Details of the control means.

The above diagram represents a typical drying method for laundry dryers, belonging to D06F 58/30 in which, during the drying process, the heater and the blower fan are subsequently turned ON/OFF while the drum is rotated. It is noted that D06F 58/30 relates to methods for treating the laundry whereas D06F 58/34 and subgroups relate to devices for controlling the appliance (i.e. the focus is set on the treating process the laundry undergoes).

The control of individual operational steps, which are focused on the condition of the laundry.

The control of individual operational steps, which are focused on the achievement of one or more target drying parameters.

The control of individual operational steps, which are focused on the initial heating phase.

Control methods or control arrangements having the purpose of steering and/or optimizing the air flow, wherein the air is unheated.

Control methods or control arrangements of laundry dryers having the purpose of conditioning or finishing the laundry, e.g. using a laundry-conditioning agent like water, steam, perfume, starch.

Control methods or control arrangements having the purpose of cleaning or disinfecting of laundry dryer components, e.g. of the lint filter, condenser, air duct, etc.

Arrangements for disinfecting the tub or the drum are classified under D06F 35/008.

Devices for collecting lint or fluff are classified under D06F 58/22.

Control methods concerning the operating time, e.g. reduction of overall operating time.

The control of individual operational steps concerning the reduction of energy consumption.

The control of individual operational steps concerning the prevention and early detection of potentially dangerous or abnormal working conditions that might cause damage to the user and/or to the machine, e.g. clogging of the lint filter, laundry ignition, electric malfunctions, etc.

The control of individual operational steps to reduce and/or prevent imbalance or noise.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.