US20070151309A1 - Laundry module for modular laundry system - Google Patents
Laundry module for modular laundry system Download PDFInfo
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- US20070151309A1 US20070151309A1 US11/322,742 US32274205A US2007151309A1 US 20070151309 A1 US20070151309 A1 US 20070151309A1 US 32274205 A US32274205 A US 32274205A US 2007151309 A1 US2007151309 A1 US 2007151309A1
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- laundry
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- appliance
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- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F95/00—Laundry systems or arrangements of apparatus or machines; Mobile laundries
Abstract
A modular laundry system comprises a laundry appliance and at least one unit horizontally arranged with the laundry appliance and selected from a group comprising a second laundry appliance, a vertical module, and a cabinet module. A laundry module for use with the modular laundry system comprises a housing defining an interior space and having a width greater than a width of a laundry appliance and a functional element disposed within the interior space and having an associated function other than storage.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The invention relates to a modular laundry system comprising laundry appliances and modules that can be configured to spatially and functionally optimize a household laundry area.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Most homeowners utilize laundry appliances, such as a washer and a dryer, to clean clothing and other fabric items. The laundry appliances are located in a household laundry area that can be a dedicated laundry room, a laundry closet, or part of another room or hallway of the home. A common complaint of homeowners is that the laundry area tends to be an afterthought when the home is designed. Many feel that the laundry area is small, poorly arranged, and inefficient.
- Regardless of size, the laundry area is not optimized for performing functions other than the conventional washing and drying done in the washer and dryer, such as flat drying, hang drying, ironing, hand steaming, spot pre-treatment, stain removal, and the like. Laundry areas contain, at most, the washer and dryer and possibly a built-in sink and storage cabinets. This configuration meets the basic needs of doing laundry but neither provides facilities for performing other functions nor optimizes the process of doing laundry. Examples of functional deficiencies of the laundry area follow.
- For example, different types of clothing require different care; some items need to be washed in a delicate cycle while others are intended for the normal cycle or the heavy duty cycle. With only the washing machine and the dryer, only one clothes load can be run at a time, and if the cycles for the clothes loads are different, i.e., delicate and heavy duty, then the loads must be washed one after another, thereby lengthening the laundry process. Additionally, some clothes need to be hung or laid flat to dry after washing, but there is usually no dedicated space for these items. Consequently, some people hang clothes along the top of doors, on door knobs, on hooks attached to the washer, and in other creative locations.
- Another example of the deficiencies of household laundry area is the inability to refresh clothes that don't require a complete washing before wearing. Rather than wear a slightly soiled garment, people tend to put the clothing through a wash cycle in the washer, which can prematurely wear out the garment, or take the item to a dry cleaner, which can be costly. Furthermore, to touch up a wrinkled clothing item, people have to set up the ironing board and the iron, usually outside the laundry room, and then let the iron cool and return the ironing board and the iron to its storage location after ironing. This process is extremely inconvenient and time consuming, especially if only one garment needs to be touched up. In addition, when laundry areas do not have a built-in sink, people must travel between the laundry area and another area when a sink is needed, such as for soaking garments or removing stains. Finally, storage is a common shortcoming in laundry areas; detergents, fabric softeners, stain pre-treatment aids, delicate garment bags, and the like are often stored in locations distant from where they are actually used. These examples are only a few of the many deficiencies of the laundry area.
- To address some of these problems, a hodgepodge of different gadgets, such as sweater racks, accordion hanging racks, rolling shelves, and rolling laundry carts that store ironing boards and the like, have been made commercially available. However, these solutions are not ideal; some are inconvenient to store when not in use, others are not dimensioned to optimize the space of the laundry area, and all are not aesthetically coherent with the laundry appliances.
- A laundry module according to one embodiment of the invention for use with a modular laundry system comprising a laundry appliance and at least one unit horizontally arranged with the laundry appliance and selected from a group comprising a second laundry appliance, a vertical module, and a cabinet module, the laundry module comprises a housing defining an interior space and having a width greater than a width of the laundry appliance and a functional element disposed within the interior space and having an associated function other than storage.
- The housing can have a width substantially equal to a combined width of the laundry appliance and the at least one unit.
- The housing can be configured to be disposed at least one of above and below the laundry appliance and the at least one unit when the laundry module is vertically arranged with the laundry appliance and the at least one unit.
- The associated function of the functional element can comprise a laundry care function. The laundry care function can be selected from a group comprising washing, drying, refreshing, sanitizing, stain removal, ironing, hand steaming, and sink. The laundry care function can be drying, and the functional element can comprise a drawer slidably mounted to the housing for movement relative to the interior space and configured to support an item to be dried. The drawer can comprise a drying rack to support the item to be dried. The interior space can define a drying chamber. The drawer can define a drying chamber.
- The associated function of the functional element can comprise a non-laundry care function other than storage. The non-laundry care function can be selected from a group comprising garbage and recycling collection, shelving, laundry sorting, bulk dispensing, resource management, resource supply, resource recovery/reclamation, resource treatment, lighting, refrigeration, entertainment, pet care, data collection, data communication, home automation, home security, home safety, power outlet, and power supply.
- The functional element can comprise a drawer slidably mounted to the housing for movement relative to the interior space.
- The laundry module can be a double width horizontal module, and the housing can have a width substantially equal to a combined width of the laundry appliance and one of the second laundry appliance and the cabinet module.
- The laundry module can be a greater than double width horizontal module, and the housing can have a width greater than a combined width of the laundry appliance and one of the second laundry appliance and the cabinet module.
- The laundry module can be an intermediate width horizontal module, and the housing can have a width substantially equal to a combined width of the laundry appliance and the vertical module.
- The width of the housing can be at least equal to a combined width of the laundry appliance and two of the units.
- The modular laundry system can further comprise a work surface configured to extend across the laundry module. The work surface can be configured to be removably mounted to the laundry module. The work surface can comprise opposing sides with each side configured for performing an associated function. The work surface can comprise a non-skid surface. The work surface can comprise an ironing surface. The work surface can comprise a hygienic material. The work surface can comprise a hanging bar.
- The laundry appliance can have a height that defines a standard height, and the laundry module can have a height less than the standard height.
- In the drawings:
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FIG. 1A is a schematic view of a laundry appliance. -
FIG. 1B is a view of a symbol representative of the laundry appliance ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 2A is a schematic view of a single width horizontal module according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2B is a view of a symbol representative of the single width horizontal module ofFIG. 2A . -
FIG. 2C is a schematic view of a double width horizontal module according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2D is a view of a symbol representative of the double width horizontal module ofFIG. 2C . -
FIG. 3A is a schematic view of a single height vertical module according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 3B is a view of a symbol representative of the single height vertical module ofFIG. 3A . -
FIG. 3C is a schematic view of an intermediate height vertical module according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 3D is a view of a symbol representative of the intermediate height vertical module ofFIG. 3C . -
FIG. 4A is a schematic view of a less than single width horizontal module according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 4B is view of a symbol representative of the less than single width horizontal module ofFIG. 4A . -
FIG. 4C is a schematic view of an intermediate width horizontal module according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 4D is view of a symbol representative of the intermediate width horizontal module ofFIG. 4C . -
FIG. 4E is a schematic view of a greater than double width horizontal module according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 4F is view of a symbol representative of the greater than double width horizontal module ofFIG. 4E . -
FIG. 5A is a schematic view of a single height cabinet module according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5B is a view of a symbol representative of the single height cabinet module ofFIG. 5A . -
FIG. 5C is a schematic view of an intermediate height cabinet module according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5D is a view of a symbol representative of the intermediate height cabinet module ofFIG. 5C . -
FIG. 5E is a schematic view of a double height cabinet module according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5F is a view of a symbol representative of the double height cabinet module ofFIG. 5E . -
FIG. 6 is a schematic view of an arrangement of the laundry appliance ofFIG. 1A and the single width horizontal module ofFIG. 2A , wherein the arrangement forms generally continuous left and right side walls. -
FIG. 7A is a schematic view of an arrangement of two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A and the intermediate width horizontal module ofFIG. 4C , wherein the intermediate width horizontal module spans an interface between the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 7B is a schematic view of an arrangement of two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A and the intermediate width horizontal module ofFIG. 4C , wherein the intermediate width horizontal module spans the interface between the laundry appliances, and the arrangement forms a generally continuous left side wall. -
FIG. 8A is a schematic view of a core configuration A formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a horizontal arrangement and two of the single width horizontal modules ofFIG. 2A vertically stacked with the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 8B is a schematic view of the core configuration A ofFIG. 8A with the one of the single width horizontal modules stacked above one of the laundry appliances and the other of the single width horizontal modules stacked below the other of the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a core configuration B formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a horizontal arrangement and the double width horizontal module ofFIG. 2C vertically stacked with the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a core configuration R formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A and one of the single height vertical modules ofFIG. 3A in a horizontal arrangement and the greater than double width horizontal module ofFIG. 4E vertically stacked with the laundry appliances and the single height vertical module. -
FIG. 11A is a schematic view of a core configuration C formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a horizontal arrangement and the single height cabinet module ofFIG. 5A positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 11B is a schematic view of a core configuration D formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a horizontal arrangement and the intermediate height cabinet module ofFIG. 5C positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 11C is a schematic view of a core configuration E formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a horizontal arrangement and the double height cabinet module ofFIG. 5E positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 12A is a schematic view of a core configuration F formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a vertical arrangement and the double height cabinet module ofFIG. 5E positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 12B is a schematic view of a core configuration G formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a vertical arrangement and the intermediate height cabinet module ofFIG. 5C positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 12C is a schematic view of a core configuration H formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a vertical arrangement and the single height cabinet module ofFIG. 5A positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 12D is a schematic view of a core configuration I formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a horizontal arrangement and the single height cabinet module ofFIG. 5A vertically stacked with one of the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 13A is a schematic view of a core configuration J formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a horizontal arrangement, the single height vertical module ofFIG. 3A positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances, and the single width horizontal module ofFIG. 2A vertically stacked with one of the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 13B is a schematic view of a core configuration K formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a horizontal arrangement, the double height vertical module ofFIG. 3C positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances, and the single width horizontal module ofFIG. 2A vertically stacked with one of the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 14A is a schematic view of a core configuration L formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a horizontal arrangement and two of the single height vertical modules ofFIG. 3A positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 14B is a schematic view of a core configuration M formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a horizontal arrangement and one each of the single height vertical module ofFIG. 3A and the intermediate height vertical module ofFIG. 3C positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 14C is a schematic view of a core configuration N formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a horizontal arrangement and two of the intermediate height vertical modules ofFIG. 3C positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 15A is a schematic view of a core configuration O formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a vertical arrangement and two of the single height vertical modules ofFIG. 3A positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 15B is a schematic view of a core configuration P formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a vertical arrangement and one each of the single height vertical module ofFIG. 3A and the intermediate height vertical module ofFIG. 3C positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 15C is a schematic view of a core configuration Q formed by two of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a vertical arrangement and two of the intermediate height vertical modules ofFIG. 3C positioned adjacent to the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 16A is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration A formed from the core configuration A ofFIG. 8A . -
FIG. 16B is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration B formed from the core configuration A ofFIG. 8A . -
FIG. 17A is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration C formed from the core configuration B ofFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 17B is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration D formed from the core configuration B ofFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 18A is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration E formed from the core configuration C ofFIG. 11A . -
FIG. 18B is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration F formed from the core configuration D ofFIG. 11B . -
FIG. 18C is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration G formed from the core configuration E ofFIG. 11C . -
FIG. 19A is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration H formed from the core configuration F ofFIG. 12A . -
FIG. 19B is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration I formed from the core configuration G ofFIG. 12B . -
FIG. 19C is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration J formed from the core configuration H ofFIG. 12C . -
FIG. 19D is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration K formed from the core configuration I ofFIG. 12D . -
FIG. 20A is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration L formed from the core configuration J ofFIG. 13A . -
FIG. 20B is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration M formed from the core configuration K ofFIG. 1313 . -
FIG. 21A is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration N formed from the core configuration L ofFIG. 14A . -
FIG. 21B is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration O formed from the core configuration M ofFIG. 14B . -
FIG. 21C is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration P formed from the core configuration N ofFIG. 14C . -
FIG. 22A is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration Q formed from the core configuration O ofFIG. 15A . -
FIG. 22B is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration R formed from the core configuration P ofFIG. 15B . -
FIG. 22C is a schematic view illustrating construction of a customized configuration S formed from the core configuration Q ofFIG. 15C . -
FIG. 23 is a table of exemplary laundry care functions for the modules shown inFIGS. 2A-5F . -
FIG. 24A is a perspective view of the single width horizontal module ofFIG. 2A having a washing function and shown with a wash drawer in a closed position. -
FIG. 24B is a perspective view of the washing function single width horizontal module ofFIG. 24A with the wash drawer in an opened position. -
FIG. 25A is a perspective view of the single width horizontal module ofFIG. 2A having a drying function and shown with a dryer drawer in a closed position. -
FIG. 25B is a perspective view of the drying function single width horizontal module ofFIG. 25A with the drying drawer in an opened position. -
FIG. 26A is a perspective view of the double width horizontal module ofFIG. 2C having a drying function and shown with a dryer drawer in a closed position. -
FIG. 26B is a perspective view of the drying function double width horizontal module ofFIG. 26A with the drying drawer in an opened position. -
FIG. 27A is a perspective view of the intermediate height vertical module ofFIG. 3C having a drying function and shown with a dryer drawer in a closed position and a hanging rod in an extended position. -
FIG. 27B is a perspective view of the drying function intermediate height vertical module ofFIG. 27A with the drying drawer in an opened position and the hanging rod in a retracted position. -
FIG. 28A is a perspective view of the single height vertical module ofFIG. 3A having a stain removal function and shown with a stain removal assembly in a storage position. -
FIG. 28B is a perspective view of the stain removal function single height vertical module ofFIG. 28A with the stain removal assembly in a use position. -
FIG. 29A is a perspective view of the single height vertical module ofFIG. 3A having an ironing function and shown with an ironing board support in a closed position. -
FIG. 29B is a perspective view of the ironing function single height vertical module ofFIG. 29A with the ironing board support in an opened position. -
FIG. 30A is a perspective view of the single height vertical module ofFIG. 3A having a sink function and shown with a sink assembly in a storage position. -
FIG. 30B is a perspective view of the sink function single height vertical module ofFIG. 30A with the sink assembly in a use position. -
FIG. 31A is a perspective view of the single height vertical module ofFIG. 3A having a storage function and shown with a plurality of storage drawers in a closed position. -
FIG. 31B is a perspective view of the storage function single height vertical module ofFIG. 31 A with the storage drawers in an opened position. -
FIG. 32A is a perspective view of the single height vertical module ofFIG. 3A having a storage function and shown with a plurality of storage drawers in a closed position and a hanging rod in an extended position. -
FIG. 32B is a perspective view of the storage function single height vertical module ofFIG. 32A with the storage drawers in an opened position and the hanging rod in a retracted position. -
FIG. 33A is a perspective view of the single height cabinet module ofFIG. 5A having a storage function and shown with a door in a closed position. -
FIG. 33B is a perspective view of the storage function single height cabinet module ofFIG. 33A with the door in an opened position. -
FIG. 34A is a perspective view of the intermediate height cabinet module ofFIG. 5C having a drying function and shown with a pair of doors in a closed position. -
FIG. 34B is a perspective view of the drying function intermediate height cabinet module ofFIG. 34A with the pair of doors in an opened position. -
FIG. 35A is a perspective view of the double height cabinet module ofFIG. 5E having a drying function and shown with a door in a closed position. -
FIG. 35B is a perspective view of the drying function double height cabinet module ofFIG. 35A with the door in an opened position. -
FIG. 36A is a perspective view of the intermediate height vertical module ofFIG. 3A having a shelving function and shown with a pair of shelves in a retracted position. -
FIG. 36B is a perspective view of the shelving function intermediate height vertical module ofFIG. 36A with the pair of shelves in an extended position. -
FIG. 37A is a perspective view of a segmented work surface in an assembled condition. -
FIG. 37B is a perspective view the segmented work surface ofFIG. 37A in a disassembled condition. -
FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a single laundry appliance work surface. -
FIG. 39A is perspective view of a double laundry appliance work surface having a removable work surface shown with a first side facing upwards. -
FIG. 39B is a perspective view of the double laundry appliance work surface ofFIG. 39A with the removable work surface being flipped over so that a second side is facing upwards. -
FIG. 40A is a front view of an implementation A of the modular laundry system. -
FIG. 40B is a schematic view of the customized configuration M ofFIG. 20B , which corresponds to the implementation A ofFIG. 40A . -
FIG. 40C is a front view of the implementation A ofFIG. 40A incorporating the segmented work surface ofFIG. 37A . -
FIG. 41A is a front view of an implementation B of the modular laundry system. -
FIG. 41B is a schematic view identical toFIG. 10 of the core configuration B, which corresponds to the implementation B ofFIG. 41A . -
FIG. 41C is a front view of the implementation B ofFIG. 41A incorporating the double laundry appliance work surface ofFIG. 39A . -
FIG. 42A is a front view of an implementation C of the modular laundry system. -
FIG. 42B is a schematic view of the customized configuration A ofFIG. 16A , which corresponds to the implementation C ofFIG. 42A . -
FIG. 42C is a front view of the implementation C ofFIG. 42A incorporating the single laundry appliance work surface ofFIG. 38 . -
FIG. 43A is a front view of an implementation D of the modular laundry system. -
FIG. 43B is a schematic view of the customized configuration F ofFIG. 18B , which corresponds to the implementation D ofFIG. 43A . -
FIG. 44A is a front view of an implementation E of the modular laundry system. -
FIG. 44B is a schematic view identical toFIG. 12A of the core configuration F, which corresponds to the implementation E ofFIG. 44A . -
FIG. 45A is a front view of an implementation F of the modular laundry system. -
FIG. 45B is a schematic view of the core configuration L ofFIG. 14A , which corresponds to the implementation F ofFIG. 45A . -
FIG. 45C is a front view of the implementation F ofFIG. 45A incorporating the single laundry appliance work surface ofFIG. 38 . -
FIG. 46A is a front view of an implementation G of the modular laundry system. -
FIG. 46B is a schematic view of the customized configuration E ofFIG. 18A , which corresponds to the implementation G ofFIG. 46A . -
FIG. 47 is a schematic view of a modified core configuration C based on the core configuration C ofFIG. 11A . -
FIG. 48 is a schematic view of a modified core configuration B based on the core configuration B ofFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 49 is a schematic view of a core configuration S formed by one of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A and one of the single height vertical modules ofFIG. 3A in a horizontal arrangement and one of the intermediate width horizontal modules ofFIG. 4C stacked with the laundry appliance and the single height vertical module. -
FIG. 50 is a schematic view of a core configuration T formed by three of the laundry appliances ofFIG. 1A in a horizontal arrangement and one of the greater than double width horizontal modules ofFIG. 4E stacked with the laundry appliances. -
FIG. 51 is a schematic view of a customized configuration T formed from the core configuration A ofFIG. 8A . - A modular laundry system according to the invention comprises at least one
laundry appliance 10 and at least onemodule 20. According to one embodiment of the invention, the laundry system comprises twolaundry appliances 10 and at least onemodule 20, which can be selected and configured to provide desired laundry care functionality within a given laundry area. The laundry area is a space of a home in which thelaundry appliance 10 conventionally resides. The laundry area can be, for example, a dedicated laundry room, a shared room, such as a combined laundry and utility room or a combined laundry room and garage, a closet, or part of another room or hallway of the home. - The
laundry appliance 10 is a conventional appliance for washing and drying fabric items, such as clothes and linens. Examples of the laundry appliance include, but are not limited to, a washing machine, including top-loading, front-loading, vertical axis, and horizontal axis washing machines, a dryer, such as a tumble dryer, including top-loading dryers and front-loading dryers, a combination washing machine and dryer, a tumbling refreshing machine, an extractor, and a non-aqueous washing apparatus. An exemplary non-aqueous washing apparatus is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0155393, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The non-aqueous washing apparatus of the incorporated application publication comprises a wash unit and a reclamation unit, and thelaundry appliance 10 can be the wash unit. When the laundry system comprises two of thelaundry appliances 10, a first laundry appliance and a second laundry appliance, the first andsecond laundry appliances 10 can be the same type of laundry appliance, such as two washing machines, or different types of laundry appliances, such as a washing machine and a dryer. - Referring now to the schematic three-dimensional illustration in
FIG. 1A , thelaundry appliance 10 is defined by a space bounded by spaced left andright side walls rear walls bottom walls FIG. 1A , thelaundry appliance 10 is depicted as a cube; however, the width W, the height H, and the depth D need not be equal. The width W and the depth D determine a footprint of thelaundry appliance 10. The footprint corresponds to the amount of floor space required by thelaundry appliance 10. Thelaundry appliances 10 that are presently commercially available have a range of dimensions, and it is within the scope of the invention to utilize a laundry appliance having any suitable dimensions. Exemplary dimensions for thelaundry appliance 10 are 27″W×38″H×31.5″D. A survey of multiple commercially available washing machines and dryers resulted in the following exemplary dimensions, which are given in inches and rounded to the nearest whole number:DIMENSION AVERAGE MAXIMUM MINIMUM Washing machine W 24 27 20 Washing machine H 35 39 26 Washing machine D 25 34 20 Dryer W 27 29 23 Dryer H 36 38 31 Dryer D 28 32 21 -
FIG. 1B displays a two-dimensional symbol for thelaundry appliance 10, and the symbol is used in the drawings of this application to represent thelaundry appliance 10 in the modular laundry system. The symbol corresponds to thefront wall 14 of thelaundry appliance 10, and, therefore, the shape of the symbol is determined by the width W and the height H. As explained in further detail below, the width W, the height H, and the depth D of thelaundry appliance 10 are reference dimensions, and dimensions for themodules 20 are described with respect to the reference dimensions. - The
modules 20 can be stand-alone units that do not require physical connection to thelaundry appliance 10 for operation, or, alternatively, they can be coupled to thelaundry appliance 10, either as a requirement for operation of themodule 20 or to support operation of thelaundry appliance 10. Themodules 20 can be characterized in terms of their geometry and function and will first be described with respect to their geometry. The geometry of themodules 20 enables themodules 20 to form an aesthetically coherent system with thelaundry appliances 10 and to optimize the space available in the laundry area. Themodules 20 according to one embodiment of the invention are illustrated schematically inFIGS. 2A-5F . Themodules 20 are grouped into horizontal modules (FIGS. 2A-2D , 4A-4F), vertical modules (FIGS. 3A-3D ), and cabinet modules (5A-5F). -
FIG. 2A shows a single widthhorizontal module 30 that is defined by a space bounded by spaced left andright side walls rear walls 34, 35, and spaced top andbottom walls horizontal module 30 has a width W approximately equal to the width W of thelaundry appliance 10. When the single widthhorizontal module 30 has a depth D that is approximately equal to the depth D of thelaundry appliance 10, the single widthhorizontal module 30 has the same footprint as thelaundry appliance 10, whereby thebottom wall 37 of the single widthhorizontal module 30 is generally the same size as thebottom wall 17 of thelaundry appliance 10. Because the single widthhorizontal module 30 has the same width W as thelaundry appliance 10, the single widthhorizontal module 30 can be arranged above or below thelaundry appliance 10 with theleft side walls right side walls horizontal module 30 can have any suitable height H less than the height H of thelaundry appliance 10, and an exemplary height for a 27″ wide single widthhorizontal module 30 is about 15.5″. A symbol for the single widthhorizontal module 30 is illustrated inFIG. 2B . The symbol corresponds to thefront wall 34 of the single widthhorizontal module 30, and, therefore, the shape of the symbol is determined by the width W and the height H. -
FIG. 2C illustrates a double widthhorizontal module 40 that is defined by a space bounded by spaced left andright side walls rear walls bottom walls horizontal module 40 has a width W approximately equal to twice the width W of thelaundry appliance 10 or approximately equal to a collective width of two of thelaundry appliances 10, i.e., the first and second laundry appliances, which can have differing individual widths. When the double widthhorizontal module 40 has a depth D approximately equal to that of thelaundry appliance 10, the double widthhorizontal module 40 has a footprint that is twice as wide as that of thelaundry appliance 10 or as wide as the collective width of two of thelaundry appliances 10. The double widthhorizontal module 40 can be arranged above or below twolaundry appliances 10 arranged side-by-side. In this configuration, because the width W of the double widthhorizontal module 40 is twice that of thelaundry appliance 10, theleft side wall 42 of the double widthhorizontal module 40 and theleft side wall 12 of one of thelaundry appliances 10 form a generally continuous surface, while theright side wall 43 of the double widthhorizontal module 40 and theright side wall 13 of the other of thelaundry appliances 10 form a generally continuous surface. The double widthhorizontal module 40 can have any suitable height H less than the height H of thelaundry appliance 10, and, according to the illustrated embodiment, the height H of the double widthhorizontal module 40 is less than that of the single widthhorizontal module 30; however, it is within the scope of the invention for the height H of the double widthhorizontal module 40 to be equal to or greater than that of the single widthhorizontal module 30. Exemplary heights for a 54″ wide double widthhorizontal module 40 are about 6″ and 10″. A symbol for the double widthhorizontal module 40 is illustrated inFIG. 2D . The symbol corresponds to thefront wall 44 of the double widthhorizontal module 40, and, therefore, the shape of the symbol is determined by the width W and the height H. - In addition to the single width
horizontal module 30 and the double widthhorizontal module 40, the modular laundry system can include a less than single widthhorizontal module 1050, an intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060, and a greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070. These additional horizontal modules are described below with respect toFIGS. 4A-4F . -
FIG. 3A depicts a single heightvertical module 50 that is defined by a space bounded by spaced left andright side walls rear walls bottom walls vertical module 50 has a height H approximately equal to the height H of thelaundry appliance 10. Because the heights H of the single heightvertical module 50 and thelaundry appliance 10 are substantially equal, the single heightvertical module 50 can be positioned adjacent to thelaundry appliance 10 in a side-by-side relationship with thetop walls vertical module 50 can have any suitable depth D, such as a depth equal to the depth D of thelaundry appliance 10. Further, the single heightvertical module 50 can have any suitable width W less than the width W of thelaundry appliance 10. Thus, the footprint of the single heightvertical module 50 is less wide than that of thelaundry appliance 10. Exemplary widths W for the single heightvertical module 50 are about 10.5″, 13.5″, and 15.5″. A symbol for the single heightvertical module 50 is illustrated inFIG. 3B . The symbol corresponds to thefront wall 54 of the single heightvertical module 50, and, therefore, the shape of the symbol is determined by the width W and the height H. -
FIG. 3C shows an intermediate heightvertical module 60 that is defined by a space bounded by spaced left andright side walls rear walls bottom walls vertical module 60 has a height H approximately equal to a height of thelaundry appliance 10 vertically stacked with one or more of thehorizontal modules vertical module 60 and the height of thelaundry appliance 10 vertically stacked with one or more of thehorizontal modules vertical module 60 can be positioned in a side-by-side relationship with thelaundry appliance 10 vertically stacked with one or more of thehorizontal modules top wall 66 of the intermediate heightvertical module 60 and the top wall of thelaundry appliance 10 or the one or more of thehorizontal modules vertical module 60 can have any suitable depth D, such as a depth equal to the depth D of thelaundry appliance 10. Further, as with the single heightvertical module 50, the intermediate heightvertical module 60 can have any suitable width W less than the width W of thelaundry appliance 10. Thus, the footprint of the intermediate heightvertical module 60 is less wide than that of thelaundry appliance 10. Exemplary widths W for the intermediate heightvertical module 60 are about 10.5″, 13.5″, and 15.5″. A symbol for the intermediate heightvertical module 60 is illustrated inFIG. 3D . The symbol corresponds to thefront wall 64 of the intermediate heightvertical module 60, and, therefore, the shape of the symbol is determined by the width W and the height H. -
FIG. 4A illustrates the less than single widthhorizontal module 1050, which is defined by a space bounded by spaced left andright side walls rear walls bottom walls horizontal modules horizontal module 1050 can have any suitable height H less than the height H of thelaundry appliance 10. The less than single widthhorizontal module 1050 has a width W less than the width W of thelaundry appliance 10. For example, the width W of the less than single widthhorizontal module 1050 can be about equal to the width D of one or more thevertical modules horizontal module 1050 is about the same as that of the one or morevertical modules horizontal module 1050 can be arranged above or below the one or morevertical modules left side walls right side walls horizontal module 1050 can have any suitable depth D, and an exemplary depth D for the less than single widthhorizontal module 1050 is about equal to the depth D of thelaundry appliance 10. A symbol for the less than single widthhorizontal module 1050 is illustrated inFIG. 4B . The symbol corresponds to thefront wall 1054 of the less than single widthhorizontal module 1050, and, therefore, the shape of the symbol is determined by the width W and the height H. -
FIG. 4C illustrates the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060, which is defined by a space bounded by spaced left andright side walls rear walls bottom walls horizontal module 1060 can have any suitable height H less than the height H of thelaundry appliance 10. The intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 has a width W approximately equal to a collective width of thelaundry appliance 10 arranged side-by-side with one or more of thevertical modules laundry appliances 10 arranged side-by-side. Because the width of the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 and the collective width of thelaundry appliance 10 arranged side-by-side with one or more of thevertical modules horizontal module 1060 can be vertically stacked with thelaundry appliance 10 arranged side-by-side with one or more of thevertical modules left side wall 1062 of the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 forms a generally continuous surface with the leftmost side wall of thelaundry appliance 10 arranged side-by-side with one or more of thevertical modules right side wall 1063 of the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 forms a generally continuous surface with the rightmost side wall of thelaundry appliance 10 arranged side-by-side with one or more of thevertical modules horizontal module 1060 can have any suitable depth D, and an exemplary depth D for the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 is about equal to the depth D of thelaundry appliance 10. A symbol for the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 is illustrated inFIG. 4D . The symbol corresponds to thefront wall 1064 of the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060, and, therefore, the shape of the symbol is determined by the width W and the height H. -
FIG. 4E illustrates the greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070, which is defined by a space bounded by spaced left andright side walls rear walls bottom walls horizontal module 1070 can have any suitable height H less than the height H of thelaundry appliance 10. The greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070 has a width W greater than a collective width of two of thelaundry appliances 10 arranged side-by-side. For example, the width W of the greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070 can be about equal to a collective width of two of thelaundry appliances 10 and one of thevertical modules laundry appliances 10 arranged side-by-side. In the latter example, the greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070 can be vertically stacked with the threelaundry appliances 10 arranged side-by-side such that theleft side wall 1072 of the greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070 forms a generally continuous surface with the leftmost side wall of the three side-by-side laundry appliances 10, while theright side wall 1073 of the greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070 forms a generally continuous surface with the rightmost side wall of the three side-by-side laundry appliances 10. Further, the greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070 can have any suitable depth D, and an exemplary depth D for the greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070 is about equal to the depth D of thelaundry appliance 10. A symbol for the greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070 is illustrated inFIG. 4F . The symbol corresponds to thefront wall 1074 of the greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070, and, therefore, the shape of the symbol is determined by the width W and the height H. -
FIG. 5A illustrates a singleheight cabinet module 70 that is defined by a space bounded by spaced left andright side walls rear walls bottom walls height cabinet module 70 has a width W and a height H approximately equal to the width W and the height H, respectively, of thelaundry appliance 10. Thus, the singleheight cabinet module 70 can be positioned adjacent to thelaundry appliance 10 with thetop walls laundry appliance 10, whereby theleft side walls right side walls height cabinet module 70 can have any suitable depth D, such as a depth equal to the depth D of thelaundry appliance 10. When the depth D is equal to that of thelaundry appliance 10, a footprint of the singleheight cabinet module 70 is the same as that of thelaundry appliance 10. A symbol of the singleheight cabinet module 70, which corresponds to thefront wall 74 of the singleheight cabinet module 70 and is shown inFIG. 5B , is the same as that of thelaundry appliance 10, except for cross-hatching, which indicates that the symbol represents one of themodules 20. -
FIG. 5C depicts an intermediateheight cabinet module 80 that is defined by a space bounded by spaced left andright side walls rear walls bottom walls height cabinet module 80 has a width W approximately equal to the width W of thelaundry appliance 10. Further, the intermediateheight cabinet module 80 has a height H approximately equal to the height of thelaundry appliance 10 vertically stacked with one or more of thehorizontal modules laundry appliances 10 vertically stacked. Because the height H of the intermediateheight cabinet module 80 and the height of thelaundry appliance 10 vertically stacked with one or more of thehorizontal modules height cabinet module 80 can be positioned in a side-by-side relationship with thelaundry appliance 10 vertically stacked with one or more of thehorizontal modules top wall 86 of the intermediateheight cabinet module 80 and the top wall of thelaundry appliance 10 or the one or more of thehorizontal modules height cabinet module 80 can have any suitable depth D, such as a depth equal to the depth D of thelaundry appliance 10. When the depth D is equal to that of thelaundry appliance 10, intermediateheight cabinet module 80 has a footprint that is the same as that of thelaundry appliance 10. A symbol for the intermediateheight cabinet module 80 is illustrated inFIG. 5D . The symbol corresponds to thefront wall 84 of the intermediateheight cabinet module 80, and, therefore, the shape of the symbol is determined by the width W and the height H. -
FIG. 5E shows a doubleheight cabinet module 90 that is defined by a space bounded by spaced left andright side walls rear walls bottom walls height cabinet module 90 has a width W approximately equal to the width W of thelaundry appliance 10. Further, the doubleheight cabinet module 90 has a height H approximately equal to a height of two vertically stackedlaundry appliances 10 or approximately equal to a collective height of two of thelaundry appliances 10, i.e., the first and second laundry appliances, which can have differing individual heights. Because the height H of the doubleheight cabinet module 90 and the height of the two vertically stackedlaundry appliances 10 are substantially equal, the doubleheight cabinet module 90 can be positioned in a side-by-side relationship with the two vertically stackedlaundry appliances 10 such that thetop wall 96 of the doubleheight cabinet module 90 and thetop wall 16 of theupper laundry appliance 10 form a generally continuous surface. The doubleheight cabinet module 90 can have any suitable depth D, such as a depth equal to the depth D of thelaundry appliance 10. When the depth D is equal to that of thelaundry appliance 10, the doubleheight cabinet module 90 has a footprint that is the same as that of thelaundry appliance 10. A symbol for the doubleheight cabinet module 90 is illustrated inFIG. 5F . The symbol corresponds to thefront wall 94 of the doubleheight cabinet module 90, and, therefore, the shape of the symbol is determined by the width W and the height H. - The single and intermediate height
vertical modules height cabinet modules laundry appliance 10 alone for the single height vertical andcabinet modules horizontal modules cabinet modules modules 20 to be a double height vertical module, which would be a counterpart to the doubleheight cabinet module 90 with respect to height. The heights H of both of the double height vertical module and the doubleheight cabinet module 90 are about equal to that of two of thelaundry appliances 10 vertically stacked. The primary differentiating geometrical feature between thevertical modules cabinet modules vertical modules laundry appliance 10, the width W of thecabinet modules - In the above descriptions of the
laundry appliances 10 and of each type of themodules 20, thelaundry appliance 10 and themodules 20 are described as being is defined by a space bounded by walls, and in the corresponding schematic figures, the laundry appliances 10h and themodules 20 are represented schematically by boxes defined by the walls of the space. When thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 are box-like with six generally planar walls joined at their edges, then the walls of the space and the walls of thelaundry appliance 1 0 ormodule 20 are effectively the same, and the walls in the schematic figures effectively correspond to the walls of the box-like laundry appliance 10 ormodule 20. However, when thelaundry appliances 1 0 and themodules 20 are not box-like, the walls of the space do not necessarily conform to the walls of thelaundry appliance 10 or themodule 20. Some of the walls of the space might correspond to the walls of thelaundry appliance 10 or themodule 20, but the portion of thelaundry appliance 10 ormodule 20 that causes thelaundry appliance 10 or themodule 20 to deviate from the box-like shape do not correspond to the walls of the space. Thus, the walls in the schematic figures do not necessarily correspond to the walls of the non-box-like laundry appliance 10 ormodule 20; rather, the totality of the walls used in the schematic representations of each of the non-box-like laundry appliances 10 andmodules 20 only represents the space in which thelaundry appliance 10 ormodule 20 fits. - The dimensions of the
modules 20 are described above with respect to the dimensions of the laundry appliance(s) 10 alone or in combination with the module(s) 20. The terminology used to describe each of themodules 20, i.e., less than single, single, intermediate, double, and greater than double width and single, intermediate, and double height, is meant to distinguish themodules 20 from one another and to describe the general dimensions of themodules 20 relative to the dimensions of thelaundry appliance 10. The descriptors are not intended to require themodules 20 to have exactly the same width or height as the laundry appliance(s) 10 alone or in combination with the module(s) 20. Thus, it is within the scope of the invention for themodules 20 to have about the same width or height as the laundry appliance(s) 10 alone or in combination with the module(s) 20. In other words, minor deviations in width or height can be tolerated. A specific threshold for acceptance does not exist; rather, the acceptability of dimensional deviations depends on whether the deviations are sufficiently small such that they do not interfere with forming an assembly of thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 of the modular laundry system or with expanding an existing assembly of the modular laundry system by adding another one of thelaundry appliances 10 and/ormodules 20. For example, a deviation on the order of multiple inches is likely to be considered not acceptable, while deviations of fractions of an inch are more likely to be deemed acceptable. Additionally, it is within the scope of the invention to add height to themodules 20 with a base or pedestal positioned below or above themodules 20 so that themodules 20 conform to the respective height requirements. - Additionally, the above description identifies arranging the
modules 20 with the laundry appliance(s) 10 alone or in combination with the module(s) 20 based on the relative dimensions of thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20. The arrangements are formed by vertically stacking themodules 20 with thelaundry appliances 10 or positioning themodules 20 in side-by-side relationship with thelaundry appliances 10. Each of the arrangements calls for formation of a generally continuous surface by the side walls or the top walls, and thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 can also be arranged so that thefront wall 14 of thelaundry appliance 10 and thefront walls modules 20 are flush and form a generally continuous surface, regardless of whether thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 have the same or differing depths D. An example of an arrangement of thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 with generally continuous surfaces is illustrated schematically inFIG. 6 . In this example, thelaundry appliance 10 is stacked with the single widthhorizontal module 30 with theleft side walls right side walls - Other arrangements of the
laundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 can be made without formation of the continuous surface. An example of an arrangement of thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 without formation of the generally continuous surfaces is illustrated schematically inFIG. 7A . In this example, two of thelaundry appliances 10 are arranged side-by-side with theleft side wall 13 of one of thelaundry appliances 10 adjacent to theright side wall 12 of the other of thelaundry appliances 10 to form an interface between thelaundry appliances 10. The interface can be formed by the left andright side walls right side walls horizontal module 1060 is stacked with thelaundry appliances 10 such that the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 spans the interface between thelaundry appliances 10. Hybrid arrangements are also contemplated, as shown schematically inFIG. 7B . In this example, two of thelaundry appliances 10 are arranged side-by-side with theleft side wall 13 of one of thelaundry appliances 10 adjacent to theright side wall 12 of the other of thelaundry appliances 10 to form the interface between thelaundry appliances 10. The intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 is stacked with thelaundry appliances 10 such that the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 spans the interface as well as forms a generally continuous surface at theleft side wall 12 of one of thelaundry appliances 10 and theleft side wall 1062 of the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060. In addition to the arrangements described above, themodules 20 can be combined with thelaundry appliances 10 andother modules 20 to form other arrangements that include and do not include formation of a generally continuous surface. - According to the invention, the
laundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 can be arranged into core configurations, wherein each core configuration comprises a pair of thelaundry appliances 10 and one or two of themodules 20. The core configuration can be viewed as a foundation to whichother modules 20 can be added to form more complex configurations. Examples of the core configurations are illustrated inFIGS. 8A-15B . In the following descriptions, thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 are described as being horizontally arranged, vertically arranged, or stacked. The horizontal and vertical arrangements refer to thelaundry appliances 10 and/or themodules 20 as positioned horizontally and vertically, respectively, relative to one another in space and does not require, although it is possible, for thelaundry appliances 10 and/or themodules 20 to be directly horizontally or vertically adjacent to one another (i.e., without an interveninglaundry appliance 10 or module 20). The stacked descriptor is intended to be equivalent to vertically arranged and does not require thelaundry appliances 10 and/or themodules 20 to be directly vertically adjacent to one another. -
FIG. 8A illustrates acore configuration A 100 comprising two of thelaundry appliances 10, afirst laundry appliance 18 and asecond laundry appliance 19, arranged in a horizontal relationship and two of the single widthhorizontal modules 30. According to the illustrated embodiment, the single widthhorizontal modules 30 are each vertically stacked beneath one of thelaundry appliances 10. The single widthhorizontal modules 30 can also be both vertically stacked above therespective laundry appliances 10, or one of the single widthhorizontal modules 30 can be vertically stacked above itsrespective laundry appliance 10 while the other of the single widthhorizontal modules 30 can be vertically stacked below itsrespective laundry appliance 10, as shown inFIG. 8B . -
FIG. 9 illustrates acore configuration B 102 comprising two of thelaundry appliances 10, thefirst laundry appliance 18 and thesecond laundry appliance 19, arranged in a horizontal relationship and one of the double widthhorizontal modules 40. According to the illustrated embodiment, the double widthhorizontal module 40 is vertically stacked above and extends across both of thelaundry appliances 10. The double widthhorizontal module 40 can also be described as completely spanning both of thelaundry appliances 10, as compared to the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 in the arrangement ofFIG. 7A , wherein the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 partially spans both thelaundry appliances 10. The double widthhorizontal module 40 can also be vertically stacked below both of thelaundry appliances 10. -
FIG. 10 illustrates acore configuration R 134 comprising two of thelaundry appliances 10, thefirst laundry appliance 18 and thesecond laundry appliance 19, arranged in a horizontal relationship and one of the single heightvertical modules 50 horizontally arranged relative to the first andsecond laundry appliances core configuration R 134 further comprises the greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070 stacked with the first andsecond laundry appliances vertical module 50. -
FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate core configurations comprising two of thelaundry appliances 10, thefirst laundry appliance 18 and thesecond laundry appliance 19, in a horizontal arrangement and one of thecabinet modules second laundry appliances FIGS. 11A-11C each have a configuration footprint having a width about equal to that of three horizontally alignedlaundry appliances 10. In acore configuration C 104, shown inFIG. 11A , the cabinet module is the singleheight cabinet module 70. According to the illustrated embodiment, the first andsecond laundry appliances height cabinet module 70 is positioned directly adjacent to only thesecond laundry appliance 19. Alternatively, the singleheight cabinet module 70 can be positioned directly adjacent to only thefirst laundry appliance 18 or between the first and thesecond laundry appliances core configuration D 106, shown inFIG. 11B , the cabinet module is the intermediateheight cabinet module 80. According to the illustrated embodiment, the first andsecond laundry appliances height cabinet module 80 is positioned directly adjacent to only thesecond laundry appliance 19. Alternatively, the intermediateheight cabinet module 80 can be positioned directly adjacent to only thefirst laundry appliance 18 or between the first and thesecond laundry appliances core configuration E 108, shown inFIG. 11C , the cabinet module is the doubleheight cabinet module 90. According to the illustrated embodiment, the first andsecond laundry appliances height cabinet module 90 is positioned directly adjacent to only thesecond laundry appliance 19. Alternatively, the doubleheight cabinet module 90 can be positioned directly adjacent to only thefirst laundry appliance 18 or between the first and thesecond laundry appliances -
FIGS. 12A-12D illustrate core configurations comprising two of thelaundry appliances 10, thefirst laundry appliance 18 and thesecond laundry appliance 19, in either a horizontal or vertical arrangement and one of thecabinet modules second laundry appliances laundry appliances 10 or that of one of thelaundry appliances 10 horizontally arranged with one of thecabinet modules core configuration F 110, shown inFIG. 12A , the cabinet module is the doubleheight cabinet module 90, and the first andsecond laundry appliances cabinet module 90. In the illustrated embodiment, the doubleheight cabinet module 90 is on the right side of the first andsecond laundry appliances height cabinet module 90 can be located on the left side of the first andsecond laundry appliances core configuration G 112, shown inFIG. 12B , and acore configuration H 114, illustrated inFIG. 12C , are similar to thecore configuration F 110, except that the cabinet module is the intermediateheight cabinet module 80 and the singleheight cabinet module 70, respectively. In a core configuration I 116, depicted inFIG. 12D , the first andsecond laundry appliances height cabinet module 70, is vertically stacked on top of thesecond laundry appliance 19. Alternatively, the singleheight cabinet module 70 can be stacked on top of thefirst laundry appliance 18 or below either of the first andsecond laundry appliances -
FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate core configurations comprising two of thelaundry appliances 10, thefirst laundry appliance 18 and thesecond laundry appliance 19, one of the single widthhorizontal modules 30, and one of thevertical modules second laundry appliances horizontal module 30 located below thesecond laundry appliance 19. Alternatively, the single widthhorizontal module 30 can be positioned above thesecond laundry appliance 19 or above or below thefirst laundry appliance 18. In acore configuration J 118, shown inFIG. 13A , the vertical module is the single heightvertical module 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the single heightvertical module 50 is located between the first andsecond laundry appliances vertical module 50 can be positioned to the left of thefirst laundry appliance 18 or to the right of thesecond laundry appliance 19. In acore configuration K 120, depicted inFIG. 13B , the vertical module is the intermediate heightvertical module 60. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate heightvertical module 60 is located between the first andsecond laundry appliances vertical module 60 can be positioned to the left of thefirst laundry appliance 18 or to the right of thesecond laundry appliance 19. Regardless of the relative positioning of themodules core configuration J 118 and thecore configuration K 120, each of the core configurations J andK side laundry appliances 10 plus the width of the single or intermediate heightvertical module vertical modules laundry appliance 10, the configuration footprint is wider than that of two side-by-side laundry appliances 10 but less wide than that of three side-by-side laundry appliances 10. -
FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate core configurations comprising two of thelaundry appliances 10, thefirst laundry appliance 18 and thesecond laundry appliance 19, in a horizontal arrangement and two of thevertical modules core configuration L 122, shown inFIG. 14A , both of the vertical modules are the single heightvertical modules 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the single heightvertical modules 50 are arranged with one on the left side of thefirst laundry appliance 18 and the other on the right side of thesecond laundry appliance 19; thus, the single heightvertical modules 50 are located on the ends of thecore configuration L 122. Alternatively, the single heightvertical modules 50 can be positioned with both between the first andsecond laundry appliances first laundry appliance 18, both to the right side of thesecond laundry appliance 19, or one between thelaundry appliances first laundry appliance 18 or on the right side of thesecond laundry appliance 19. Acore configuration M 124, shown inFIG. 14B , and acore configuration N 126, illustrated inFIG. 14C , are similar to thecore configuration L 122, except that the two vertical modules are, for the former, the single heightvertical module 50 and the intermediate heightvertical module 60, or, for the latter, two of the intermediate heightvertical modules 60. Regardless of the relative positioning of themodules laundry appliances N side laundry appliances 10 plus the width of the twovertical modules -
FIGS. 15A-15C illustrate core configurations comprising two of thelaundry appliances 10, thefirst laundry appliance 18 and thesecond laundry appliance 19, in a vertical arrangement and two of thevertical modules core configuration 0 128, shown inFIG. 15A , both of the vertical modules are the single heightvertical modules 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the single heightvertical modules 50 are arranged with both on the right side of the stackedlaundry appliances 10. Alternatively, the single heightvertical modules 50 can be positioned with both on the left side of the stackedlaundry appliances 10, or one on each side of the stackedlaundry appliances 10. Acore configuration P 130, shown inFIG. 15B , and acore configuration Q 132, illustrated inFIG. 15C , are similar to thecore configuration 0 128, except that the two vertical modules are, for the former, the single heightvertical module 50 and the intermediate heightvertical module 60, or, for the latter, two of the intermediate heightvertical modules 60. Regardless of the relative positioning of themodules laundry appliances Q single laundry appliance 10 plus the width of the twovertical modules - When adding the
modules 20 to thelaundry appliances 10 to form the core configurations, thehorizontal modules laundry appliance 10, thevertical modules laundry appliance 10, and thecabinet modules laundry appliance 10 when horizontally arranged with the laundry appliance 10 (e.g. the core configurations C-H 104-114) and add height to thelaundry appliance 10 when vertically arranged with the laundry appliance 10 (e.g., the core configuration I 116). Thus, the core configuration can be selected according to the spatial limitations of the particular laundry area in which the modular laundry system is used. For example, if the laundry area has only extra width next to thelaundry appliances 10, then the core configurations having only thevertical modules cabinet modules core configuration 1 114) can be employed. The core configurations that fall into this group are the core configurations C-H 104-114 and the core configurations L-Q 122-132. Alternatively, if the laundry area has only extra height above thelaundry appliances 10, then the core configurations having only thehorizontal modules B height cabinet module 70 is vertically stacked with one of thelaundry appliances 10, can be utilized. In another scenario, if the laundry area has extra width next to and extra height above thelaundry appliances 10, then any of the core configurations A-R 100-134 can be employed as long as the core configuration fits within the spatial limitations of the laundry area. Further, any of the core configurations A-R 100-134 can be used if the laundry area does not have substantial spatial limitations. - As stated above, the
modules 20 can be added to the core configurations A-R 100-134 to form more complex configurations that are customized according to the preferences of a user and to optimize the space of the laundry area. By using the core configurations A-R 100-134 and theother modules 20 as building blocks, numerous customized configurations can be constructed. Themodules 20 that are added to the core configurations A-R 100-134 to form the customized configurations can depend on whether height or width or both is available in the laundry area. When adding themodules 20 to the core configurations to create the customized configurations, thehorizontal modules laundry appliances 10 and/or the modules 20 (i.e., thehorizontal modules other modules 20 in addition to being stacked with the laundry appliances 10), thevertical modules laundry appliances 10 and/or themodules 20, and thecabinet modules laundry appliances 10 and/or themodules 20 when horizontally arranged with thelaundry appliances 10 and/or themodules 20 and add height to thelaundry appliance 10 when vertically arranged with thelaundry appliances 10 and/or themodules 20. If the space of the laundry area is not limited, then any of themodules 20 can be added to the core configurations A-R 100-134. Examples of customized configurations are illustrated inFIGS. 16A-22C . -
FIG. 16A schematically represents the construction of a customizedconfiguration A 140 having thecore configuration A 100 as the foundation. The customizedconfiguration A 140 is formed by adding the singleheight cabinet module 70 and the single widthhorizontal module 30 to thecore configuration A 100. A customizedconfiguration B 142, shown inFIG. 16B , is also created with thecore configuration A 100. The customizedconfiguration B 142 is formed by adding the intermediateheight cabinet module 80 and the intermediate heightvertical module 60 to thecore configuration A 100. - Inspection of the customized configurations A,
B configuration A 140 can be created from thecore configuration A 100, as described above, or thecore configuration C 104. Adding three of thesingle width modules 30 to thecore configuration C 104 achieves the customizedconfiguration A 140. Similarly, the customizedconfiguration B 142 can be formed from thecore configuration D 106 rather than thecore configuration A 100. This is the case for many of the customized configurations shown inFIGS. 16A-22C , but each one will only be described with respect to one of the core configurations A-R 100-134. -
FIGS. 17A and 17B represent construction of a customizedconfiguration C 144 and a customizedconfiguration D 146, respectively, from thecore configuration B 102. The customizedconfiguration C 144 is formed by adding two of the intermediate heightvertical modules 60 to thecore configuration B 102, while the doubleheight cabinet module 90 is added to thecore configuration B 102 to create the customizedconfiguration D 146. -
FIGS. 18A-18C schematically illustrate construction of customized configurations E, F,G E laundry appliances 10 in a vertically stacked arrangement and horizontally arranged with one of thecabinet modules FIG. 18A , the single heightvertical module 50 combined with thecore configuration C 104 forms the customizedconfiguration E 148. Referring now toFIG. 18B , thecore configuration D 106 plus the intermediate heightvertical module 60 and two of the single widthhorizontal modules 30 results in the customizedconfiguration F 150. The customizedconfiguration G 152 can be formed by adding two of the singleheight cabinet modules 70 to thecore configuration E 108, as illustrated inFIG. 18C . -
FIGS. 19A-19D represent construction of customized configurations with the core configurations F, G, H, I 110, 112, 114, 116, which each comprise two of thelaundry appliances 10 and one of thecabinet modules laundry appliances 10 in a side-by-side arrangement.FIG. 19A shows a customizedconfiguration H 154 formed by thecore configuration F 110, the intermediate heightvertical module 60, and the intermediateheight cabinet module 80. Thecore configuration G 112 can be combined with the singleheight cabinet module 70 and the single widthhorizontal module 30 to form a customizedconfiguration 1 156, as illustrated inFIG. 19B . Referring now toFIG. 19C , adding the singleheight cabinet module 70 to thecore configuration H 114 results in the customizedconfiguration J 158. Finally, as shown inFIG. 19D , a customizedconfiguration K 160 is created by combining the core configuration I 116 with the single widthhorizontal module 30. -
FIGS. 20A and 20B schematically illustrate construction of a customizedconfiguration L 162 and a customizedconfiguration M 164, respectively, from thecore configuration J 118 and thecore configuration K 120, respectively. The customizedconfiguration L 162 can be formed by adding the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 to thecore configuration J 118, while adding the single widthhorizontal module 30 to thecore configuration K 120 results in the customizedconfiguration M 164. -
FIGS. 21A-21C show construction of customized configurations based on the core configurations L, M,N laundry appliances 10 in a horizontal arrangement and two of thevertical modules configuration N 166, illustrated inFIG. 21A , can be formed by adding the double widthhorizontal module 40 to thecore configuration L 122. Alternatively, the double withhorizontal module 40 can be replaced with, for example, the greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070, which can span thelaundry appliances 10 and the single heightvertical modules 50. Referring now toFIG. 21B , the single widthhorizontal module 30 can be combined with thecore configuration M 124 to create a customizedconfiguration O 168, while two of the single widthhorizontal modules 30 can be added to thecore configuration N 126 to construct a customizedconfiguration P 170, as shown inFIG. 21C . In the customizedconfiguration P 170, the two single widthhorizontal modules 30 can easily be replaced with, for example, the double widthhorizontal module 40. -
FIGS. 22A-22C schematically illustrate construction of customized configurations based on the core configurations O, P,Q laundry appliances 10 in a vertical arrangement and two of thevertical modules height cabinet module 90 to thecore configuration O 128 results in a customizedconfiguration Q 172, as shown inFIG. 22A . A customizedconfiguration R 174, as illustrated inFIG. 22B , can be formed by combining thecore configuration P 130 with the intermediateheight cabinet module 70. Further, the intermediateheight cabinet module 70 can be added to thecore configuration Q 132 to obtain a customizedconfiguration S 176, which is shown inFIG. 22C . - The
modules 20 and the core and customized configurations created from themodules 20 and thelaundry appliances 10 have thus far been described with respect to their geometry. As stated above, themodules 20 can also be characterized according to their function. Themodules 20 can comprise one or more functional elements or functional structures that perform or carry out the function. In general, the functions for themodules 20 can be grouped according to laundry care functions and non-laundry care functions. - The laundry care functions are functions that are associated with an aspect of treating the laundry. Exemplary laundry care functions include, but are not limited to, washing, drying, refreshing, sanitizing, stain removal, ironing, hand steaming, and sink. The washing function corresponds to subjecting a fabric item to a wash process wherein wash liquid is used to clean the fabric item, such as in a washing machine specifically suited for delicate items, including lingerie and sweaters. The drying function relates to evaporation of liquid from a fabric item by subjecting the fabric item to forced air, which can optionally be heated. The fabric item can be laid flat for non-tumble drying.
- The refreshing function involves exposing the fabric item to a refreshing medium for wrinkle removal and/or odor removal of the fabric item without fully washing the fabric item. The refreshing function thereby improves the appearance and smell of the fabric item. The sanitizing function is similar to the refreshing function, except that the fabric item is exposed to a sanitizing medium that disinfects the fabric item by removal of germs, microbes, and the like. The refreshing and sanitizing functions can be performed independently of one another or simultaneously. For example, the fabric item can be exposed to steam, which can reduce wrinkles and odors from clothing (the refreshing function) while removing germs (the sanitizing function), or the fabric item can be exposed to air containing a material that imparts a pleasant scent, such as in the form of a cool mist, to the fabric item (the refreshing function). The refreshing and/or sanitizing functions can utilize misting technologies, which can use nebulizers that incorporate chemicals that remove wrinkles, odors, germs, microbes, and combinations thereof.
- The stain removal function corresponds to treating a stained area of the fabric item to remove the stain without washing the fabric item or to reduce the severity of the stain prior to washing the fabric item. The ironing and hand steaming functions relate to removing wrinkles from the fabric item with an iron and a hand steamer, respectively. The sink function can involve several processes, such as soaking the fabric item to wash the fabric item or to treat a stain prior to washing or simply wetting the fabric item. While any of the
modules 20 can be associated with any of the laundry care functions, a table inFIG. 23 indicates the laundry care functions that are especially suited forparticular modules 20. - The non-laundry care functions are functions that are not associated with an actual treatment of the laundry. Examples of non-laundry care functions are storage, garbage and recycling collection, shelving, laundry sorting, hanging, bulk dispensing, resource management, resource supply and/or recovery/reclamation, resource treatment, lighting, refrigeration, entertainment, pet care, data collection and communication, home automation, home security, home safety, power outlet and supply, and module controller.
- The storage function relates to storing anything, whether related to laundry care or to something else. Some items that are commonly stored in the laundry area are detergents, bleach, fabric softeners, irons, stain pre-treatment products, and household cleaning products. The items can be stored in an enclosed space so that the items are not visible unless accessed by the user, such as by opening a drawer or a door, or the items can be staged in a location that is exposed and readily available to the user without having to perform an action to make the items visible. Garbage and recycling collection are similar to storage, but the storage is specifically designated for the collection of garbage and recyclable materials. The shelving function corresponds to providing a generally horizontal surface that can optionally be retracted when not in use and extended when used for numerous purposes, including, but not limited to, sorting laundry, folding fabric items, and supporting a laundry basket. The hanging function relates to providing a location to hang a fabric item, either directly on the location or through a hanger supported at the location. Any of the
modules 20 can be associated with any of the non-laundry care functions. The laundry sorting function can relate to the shelving function, as described above, or to a plurality of bins designated for particular types of laundry. The bins can be differentiated based on type of fabric, such as delicates or regular, or color of the fabric items, such as lights or darks. - The bulk dispensing function is used in conjunction with the
laundry appliance 10 and relates to storing a bulk supply of detergent or other chemicals and dispensing a charge of the detergent or other chemicals to thelaundry appliance 10 upon request from thelaundry appliance 10. In this case, the bulk supply is considered to be an amount greater than the charge. The resource management function deals with managing electrical and/or water supply to thelaundry appliances 10 and/or to theother modules 20 and/or to other areas of the home. The available electrical and water resources can be managed to ensure that thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 properly function without detrimentally affecting the performance of theother laundry appliances 10 and theother modules 20. The resource supply and/or recovery/reclamation function relates to providing resources to thelaundry appliance 10 and/or themodules 20 and/or reclaiming the resources from thelaundry appliance 10 and/or themodules 20. For example, the reclamation unit of the aforementioned non-aqueous washing apparatus performs the resource supply and/or recovery/reclamation function. Other examples of this function include, but are not limited to, water supply and recovery and suds and additive recovery. The resource treatment function relates to treating a resource that is supplied to thelaundry appliance 10 and/or themodules 20. Examples of the treatment include, but are not limited to, water heating, water filtering, and water softening. - The lighting function corresponds to providing illumination either as general lighting to the laundry area or as task lighting to a specific area of the
laundry appliance 10 and/or themodule 20 for performing a particular task. For example, the task lighting can include a black light to facilitate identification of spots and stains on fabric items. The refrigeration function relates to cooling a chamber in themodule 20 so that items, such as food items, can be stored in the cooled chamber and kept at a desired temperature. The entertainment function relates to providing audio and/or visual media that entertains a user. Examples of components that can be integrated into or mounted to themodule 20 for providing the entertainment function include, but are not limited to, a television, a video player, such as a VCR, DVD player, and DVR, or an audio player, such as a radio, a cassette player, a record player, a CD player, and a digital music player, such as an MP3 player. The pet care function corresponds to providing food or water to a household pet or a location where the household pet can urinate or defecate, such as a kitty litter. - The data collection and communication function corresponds to receiving data from the
laundry appliance 10 and/or themodule 20 related to the operation of thelaundry appliance 10 and/or themodule 20 and communicating the data, such as through a network, to a computer or other device. The home automation function relates to participating in a system for controlling operation of various devices in the home. For example, several devices, including thelaundry appliance 10 and themodule 20, can be included in the system and controlled remotely or automatically. The home security function relates to providing a home security system to detect intruders in the home, and the home safety function relates to detecting harmful substances, such as fire and smoke detection and carbon monoxide detection. The power outlet function corresponds to providing an electrical plug receptacle into which various electronic devices can be plugged for receiving power. The power can be provided by an external power supply, such as the main power supply for the home, or a compact power supply, such as a battery stored in themodule 20. The module controller function relates to providing a user-interactive control panel for controlling operation of themodule 20. The control panel can receive input from the user, such as input regarding desired operational modes for themodule 20, and can communicate output to the user, such as output related to the operational status of themodule 20 and/or thelaundry appliance 10. - Each of the
modules 20 can have one or more of the laundry care functions, one or more of the non-laundry care functions, or a combination of the laundry care and the non-laundry care functions. Some of the laundry care functions are more suited for being combined together than others. For example, the refreshing and sanitizing functions are strong candidates for being integrated together into one of themodules 20, and these two functions can also be combined either separately or together with the drying function. Another exemplary combination of the laundry care functions is the drying function and the hand steaming or ironing function. In this case, themodule 20 can be designed for the drying function and include a built-in ironing or hand-steaming station. Furthermore, any of the laundry care functions can easily be integrated with the non-laundry care functions of storage and hanging. - Examples of the
modules 20 having the laundry care functions, the non-laundry care functions, or combinations thereof are shown inFIGS. 24A-36B . In the following descriptions of themodules 20 inFIGS. 24A-36B , the functional elements/structures that provide the corresponding laundry care and/or laundry care functions are at least partially described. Themodules 20 in these figures are provided for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the invention in any manner. It is within the scope of the invention for themodules 20 to differ in structure from the particular embodiments ofFIGS. 24A-36B while remaining within the general limitations described above for themodules 20 and to have functions other than those ofFIGS. 24A-36B . Furthermore, themodules 20 ofFIGS. 24A-36B are named below according to the function or one of the functions associated with themodule 20 to differentiate themodules 20 from one another. The naming of themodules 20 according to the function is not intended to limit the invention in any manner. -
FIGS. 24A and 24B show an embodiment of a washing function single widthhorizontal module 200. The particular embodiment of the washing function single widthhorizontal module 200 shown inFIGS. 24A and 24B is adapted for gentle washing delicate fabric items. The washing function single widthhorizontal module 200 comprises an open-face cabinet 202 and an open-top drawer 204 slidably mounted to thecabinet 202. Thedrawer 204 supports animperforate tub 206, a perforated open-top wash basket 208 rotatably mounted within thetub 206 and defining awash chamber 210, and adetergent dispenser 212 located adjacent to thetub 206. Thedrawer 204 is movable relative to the open face of thecabinet 202 between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 24A , where thedrawer 204 closes the open face of thecabinet 202 and thewash chamber 210 is inaccessible, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 24B , where thedrawer 204 extends forwardly from thecabinet 202 and the user can access thewash chamber 210. The user can select a desired wash cycle through acontrol panel 214 mounted on thedrawer 204. - According to one embodiment, the washing function single width
horizontal module 200 has a low capacity relative to a capacity of thelaundry appliance 10. Although the washing function single widthhorizontal module 200 can be used for any small volume loads of fabric items, the washing function single widthhorizontal module 200 can be designed for gentle washing fabric items that require special care, such as fabric items that are intended to be hand washed or washed in a delicate wash cycle. -
FIGS. 25A and 25B illustrate an embodiment of a drying function single widthhorizontal module 250, which comprises an open-face cabinet 252 and an open-top drawer 254 slidably mounted to thecabinet 252. Thedrawer 254 defines an open-top drying chamber 256 through which forced air can flow to dry fabric items. The fabric items can be positioned on adrying rack 258 removably mounted in the dryingchamber 256. Thedrying rack 258 comprises arack frame 260 that supports amesh panel 262 through which the forced air can flow. Thedrawer 254 is movable relative to the open face of thecabinet 252 between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 25A , where thedrawer 254 closes the open face of thecabinet 252 and the dryingchamber 256 is inaccessible, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 25B , where thedrawer 254 extends forwardly from thecabinet 252 and the user can access the dryingchamber 256. The user can select a desired drying cycle through acontrol panel 264 mounted on thedrawer 254. The refreshing and/or sanitizing functions can be incorporated into the drying function single widthhorizontal module 250 or can replace the drying function, if desired. -
FIGS. 26A and 26B illustrate an embodiment of a drying function double widthhorizontal module 300 comprising an open-face cabinet 302 defining a dryingchamber 304 through which forced air can flow to dry fabric items and adrawer 306 slidably mounted to thecabinet 302. Thedrawer 306 is formed by adrawer frame 308 connected to adrawer front 310. Thedrawer frame 308 supports a drying rack in the form of amesh panel 312 that extends across the width and the depth of thedrawer frame 308 and is held in place, at least partially, by agrid 314 positioned on top of themesh panel 312. Thedrawer 306 is movable relative to the open face of thecabinet 302 between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 26A , where thedrawer 306 closes the open face of thecabinet 302 and is received within the dryingchamber 304, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 26B , where thedrawer 306 extends forwardly from thecabinet 302 so that the user can place fabric items to be dried on themesh panel 312. Thus, the fabric items arranged on thedrawer 306 are received within the dryingchamber 304 when thedrawer 306 is in the closed position. The user can select a desired drying cycle through acontrol panel 316 mounted on thecabinet 302 adjacent to thedrawer 306. The refreshing and/or sanitizing functions can be incorporated into the drying function double withhorizontal module 300 or can replace the drying function, if desired. The drying function single widthhorizontal module 250 and the drying function double widthhorizontal module 300 are described in more detail in our docket no. US20040297, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Non-Tumble Clothes Dryer,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. - The washing function single width
horizontal module 200, the drying function single widthhorizontal module 250, and the drying function double widthhorizontal module 300 comprise some common elements. For example, each of thesehorizontal modules horizontal modules -
FIGS. 27A and 27B illustrate an embodiment of a drying function intermediate heightvertical module 350 comprising an open-face cabinet 352 defining a dryingchamber 354 through which forced air can flow to dry fabric items and adrawer 356 slidably mounted to thecabinet 352. Thedrawer 356 is formed by a generallyU-shaped drawer frame 358 connected to adrawer front 360. Thedrawer frame 358 includes at a lower end a pair ofside panels 362 that form an open-top cavity 364 sized to receive various items to be dried, such as shoes. Thedrawer frame 358 further comprises a plurality of paired spacedledges 366 dimensioned to support one ormore drying shelves 368, and thedrying shelf 368 of the illustrated embodiment is formed by aframe 370 and amesh panel 372 through which forced air can flow. In addition to thecavity 364 and thedrying shelf 368, items to be dried can be hung on a hangingbar 374, such as on a hanger supported by the hangingbar 374, mounted at an upper end of thedrawer frame 358. Thedrawer 356 further comprisesguide rollers 376 positioned on theside panels 362 and sized for receipt within atrack 378 formed on thecabinet 352 to facilitate sliding movement of thedrawer 356 relative to thecabinet 352. Thedrawer 356 is movable relative to the open face of thecabinet 352 between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 27A , where thedrawer 356 closes the open face of thecabinet 352 and is received within the dryingchamber 354, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 27B , where thedrawer 356 extends forwardly from thecabinet 352 so that the user can place fabric items to be dried in thedrawer 356, such as in thecavity 364, on thedrying shelf 368, and on the hangingbar 374. Thus, the items arranged on thedrawer 356 are received within the dryingchamber 354 when thedrawer 356 is in the closed position. The user can select a desired drying cycle through acontrol panel 380 mounted on thecabinet 352 above thedrawer 356. The refreshing and/or sanitizing functions can be incorporated into the drying function intermediate heightvertical module 350 or can replace the drying function, if desired. - Adjacent to the
control panel 380, thecabinet 352 supports a hangingrod 382 movable between an extended position, as shown inFIG. 27A , where fabric items can be hung from the hangingrod 382, such as on a hanger, and a retracted position, as illustrated inFIG. 27B , where the hangingrod 382 is stored within thecabinet 352. Any type of actuator, such as a push-push type actuator, can be utilized to move the hangingrod 382 between the extended and retracted positions. More details of an example of the hangingrod 382 are provided in our docket no. US20050290, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Retractable Hanging Element,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Additionally, thecabinet 352 further comprises a top 384 having adepression 386 that can be used to stage a variety of items. -
FIGS. 28A and 28B illustrate an embodiment of a stain removal function single heightvertical module 400 comprising an open-face cabinet 402, a plurality of vertically juxtaposeddrawers 404 slidably mounted to thecabinet 402, and astain removal assembly 406 mounted at an upper portion of thecabinet 402. According to the illustrated embodiment, thedrawers 404 are storage drawers, and each of thedrawers 404 is movable between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 28A , where thedrawer 404 closes the open face of thecabinet 402, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 28B , where thedrawer 404 extends forwardly from thecabinet 402. - The
stain removal assembly 406 comprises abasin 408 that forms part of thecabinet 402 and alid 410 hingedly mounted to thecabinet 402 for selectively covering thebasin 408. Thebasin 408 is adapted to store acontainer 412 that receives a stain removal agent, such as a detergent or bleach, and astain removal wand 414 fluidly coupled to thecontainer 412 for dispensing the stain removal agent either alone or in combination with a fluid, such as water or steam. Thestain removal assembly 406 further comprises aboard drawer 416 slidably mounted to thecabinet 402 above thedrawers 404. Theboard drawer 416 forms a vacuum cavity located beneath a perforatedstain removal board 418 and fluidly coupled to a source of vacuum. Thestain removal assembly 406 is operable between a storage position, as illustrated inFIG. 28A , where thelid 410 covers thebasin 408 and theboard drawer 416 is received within thecabinet 402, and a use position, as shown inFIG. 28B , where thelid 410 is opened and theboard drawer 416 is slid forwardly from thecabinet 402 such that thestain removal wand 414 can be removed from thebasin 408 and utilized on thestain removal board 418. During use, the stained fabric item is placed on theboard 418, and the stain removal agent is dispensed onto the fabric item through thestain removal wand 414 and suctioned through the fabric item and thestain removal board 418. -
FIGS. 29A and 29B illustrate an embodiment of an ironing function single heightvertical module 450 comprising an open-face cabinet 452, a plurality of vertically juxtaposeddrawers 454 slidably mounted to thecabinet 452, and anironing board assembly 456 mounted at an upper portion of thecabinet 452. According to the illustrated embodiment, thedrawers 454 are storage drawers, and each of thedrawers 454 is movable between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 29A , where thedrawer 454 closes the open face of thecabinet 452, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 29B , where thedrawer 454 extends forwardly from thecabinet 452. - The ironing
board assembly 456 comprises a slidableironing board support 458 having aplatform 460, afront panel 462 hingedly mounted to theplatform 460, and anironing board 464 slidably and rotatably mounted to theplatform 460. Theironing board support 458 is movable between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 29A , where theplatform 460 and theironing board 464 are received within thecabinet 452, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 29B , where theplatform 460 and theironing board 464 extend forwardly from thecabinet 452. When theironing board support 458 is in the opened position, thefront panel 462 can be pivoted from a generally vertical position to a generally horizontal orientation, which allows theironing board 464 to be slid forwardly toward thefront panel 462 and rotated one hundred eighty degrees about a generally vertical axis to the position shown inFIG. 29B . In this position, the user can place fabric items to be ironed on theironing board 464 and utilize an iron, such as acordless iron 466 mounted in adocking station 468 formed in a top 470 of thecabinet 452, to remove wrinkles. The ironing function single heightvertical module 450 is described in more detail in our docket no. US20050295, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Ironing Station,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. -
FIGS. 30A and 30B illustrate an embodiment of a sink function single heightvertical module 500 comprising an open-face cabinet 502, a pair of vertically juxtaposeddrawers 504 slidably mounted to thecabinet 502, apivoting compartment 506 pivotally mounted to thecabinet 502 above the vertically juxtaposeddrawers 504, and asink assembly 508 mounted at an upper portion of thecabinet 502. According to the illustrated embodiment, thedrawers 504 are storage drawers, and each of thedrawers 504 is movable between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 30A , where thedrawer 504 closes the open face of thecabinet 502, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 30B , where thedrawer 504 extends forwardly from thecabinet 502. Thepivoting compartment 506 comprises an open-top storage bin 510 mounted to an inside surface thereof. Like thedrawers 504, thepivoting compartment 506 is movable between closed and opened positions shown inFIGS. 30A and 30B , respectively, and thebin 510 is accessible when thepivoting compartment 506 is in the opened position. - The
sink assembly 508 comprises an open-top basin 512 and a cover orlid 514 movable relative to thecabinet 502 for selectively closing thebasin 512. Thelid 514 can be operably coupled to thecabinet 502 through acoupling assembly 516 that allows thelid 514 to be lifted up to a generally vertical orientation and slid behindcabinet 502. Alternatively, thelid 514 can be coupled to thecabinet 502 through another type of coupling assembly or can be separate from thecabinet 502 such that thelid 514 can be removed completely from thecabinet 502 when not used to cover thebasin 512. Thesink assembly 508 further comprises a spout orspigot 518 mounted in thebasin 512. Thespout 518 is pivotable between a folded position, as shown in phantom inFIG. 30B , where thespout 518 is completely received within thebasin 502 so that thelid 514 can close thebasin 502, and an unfolded position, as shown in solid lines inFIG. 30B , where thespout 518 projects upwardly from thebasin 502 for use. Thus, thesink assembly 508 has a storage position, as depicted inFIG. 30A , where thelid 514 closes thebasin 512 and the spout 518 (not visible inFIG. 30A ) is folded, and a use position, as illustrated inFIG. 30B , where thelid 514 is removed from thebasin 512 and thespout 518 is unfolded. Thelid 514 and thespout 518 can be coupled so that when thelid 514 is moved to provide access to thebasin 512, thespout 518 automatically pivots out of thebasin 512 to the unfolded position, and when thelid 514 is moved to close thebasin 512, thespout 518 automatically pivots into thebasin 512 to the folded position. Thesink assembly 508 can be plumbed into thelaundry appliance 10 in the form of the washing machine or can have independent plumbing. Thesink assembly 508 can be used to treat stains on fabric items or to hand-wash or soak delicate fabric items. The sink function single heightvertical module 500 is described in more detail in our docket no. US20050291, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Sink Station with Cover,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. -
FIGS. 31A and 31B illustrate an embodiment of a storage function single heightvertical module 550 comprising an open-face cabinet 552 and a plurality of vertically juxtaposeddrawers 554 slidably mounted to thecabinet 552. According to the illustrated embodiment, thedrawers 554 are storage drawers, and each of thedrawers 554 is movable between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 3 1A, where thedrawer 554 closes the open face of thecabinet 552, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 31B , where thedrawer 554 extends forwardly from thecabinet 552. The storage function single heightvertical module 550 further comprises abacksplash 556 mounted to a top 558 of thecabinet 552. Thebacksplash 556 prevents items from falling behind the storage function single heightvertical module 550 and, according to one embodiment, has an appearance similar to a backsplash on thelaundry appliance 10 to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance and to form a generally continuous backsplash when the storage function single heightvertical module 550 is positioned adjacent to thelaundry appliance 10. -
FIGS. 32A and 32B illustrate another embodiment of a storage function single heightvertical module 600 comprising an open-face cabinet 602 and vertically juxtaposed upper andlower drawers cabinet 602. Each of thedrawers FIG. 32A , where thedrawer cabinet 602, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 32B , where thedrawer 604 extends forwardly from thecabinet 602. Theupper drawer 604 is a conventional open-top storage drawer and is illustrated as holding acompartmentalized storage tray 608. Thelower drawer 606 comprises a generallyU-shaped drawer frame 610 mounted to adrawer front 612. Thedrawer frame 610 includes a pair of vertically spacedshelves 614 for supporting various items in thelower drawer 606. The storage function single heightvertical module 600 further comprises a hangingrod 616 movably mounted to thecabinet 602. As with the hangingrod 382 of the drying function intermediate heightvertical module 350, the hangingrod 616 is movable between an extended position, as shown inFIG. 32A , where fabric items can be hung from the hangingrod 616, such as on a hanger, and a retracted position, as illustrated inFIG. 32B , where the hangingrod 616 is stored within thecabinet 602. Any type of actuator, such as a push-push type actuator, can be utilized to move the hangingrod 616 between the extended and retracted positions. -
FIGS. 33A and 33B illustrate an embodiment of a storage function singleheight cabinet module 650 comprising an open-face cabinet 652 defining astorage chamber 654 and adoor 656 hingedly mounted to thecabinet 652. Thedoor 656 is movable between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 33A , where thedoor 656 prevents access to thestorage chamber 654, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 33B , to allow access to thestorage chamber 654. Thecabinet 652 includes spaced pairs oftracks 658 that slidably receive removable shelves, such as ahalf depth shelf 660 and afull depth shelf 662. Additionally, thecabinet 652 further comprises a top 674 having adepression 676 that can be used for staging. Thedoor 656 supports apeg board 664 having a plurality ofholes 666 sized to receive pegs (not shown) of various support items to removably mount the support items to thepeg board 664. Examples of the support items includehooks 668, a half width open-top storage unit 670, and a full width open-top storage unit 672. Thepeg board 664 is located on an inside surface of thedoor 656; thus, the support items are located in thestorage chamber 654 when thedoor 656 is in the closed position. -
FIGS. 34A and 34B illustrate an embodiment of a drying function intermediateheight cabinet module 700 comprising an open-face cabinet 702 defining a dryingchamber 704 through which forced air can flow to dry fabric items and a pair ofdoors 706 hingedly mounted to thecabinet 702. Thedoors 706 are movable between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 34A , where thedoors 706 close the dryingchamber 704, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 34B , where thedoors 706 allow access to the dryingchamber 704. Thecabinet 702 includes a hangingbar 708 for hanging fabric items, such as by a hanger on the hangingbar 708. Additionally, fabric items can be supported on shelves. In the illustrated embodiment, thecabinet 702 comprises spaced pairs oftracks 710 for slidably mounting aperforated shelf 712 and amesh shelf 714. Additionally, thecabinet 702 comprises a pair of hingedly mountedperforated shelves 716 that can be pivoted from a generally horizontal position, as shown inFIG. 34B , where theshelves 716 form a substantially continuous shelf, and a generally vertical position (not shown), where theshelves 716 are pivoted away from each other so that theshelves 716 do not interfere with fabric items hung from the hangingbar 708. Forced air can flow through all of theshelves cabinet 702 further comprises a top 718 having adepression 720 that can be used for staging. Thedoors 706 each support apeg board 722 having a plurality ofholes 724 sized to receive pegs of various support items, such ashooks 726, to removably mount the support items to thepeg board 722. Thepeg boards 722 are each located on an inside surface of therespective door 706; thus, the support items are located in the dryingchamber 704 when thedoor 706 is in the closed position. The user can select a desired drying cycle through acontrol panel 728 mounted on thecabinet 702 above thedoors 706. The refreshing and/or sanitizing functions can be incorporated into the drying function intermediateheight cabinet module 700 or can replace the drying function, if desired. -
FIGS. 35A and 35B illustrate an embodiment of a drying function doubleheight cabinet module 750 comprising an open-face cabinet 752 defining a dryingchamber 754 through which forced air can flow to dry fabric items and adoor 756 hingedly mounted to thecabinet 752. Thedoor 756 is movable between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 35A , where thedoor 756 closes the dryingchamber 754, and an opened position, as illustrated inFIG. 35B , where thedoor 756 allows access to the dryingchamber 754. Thecabinet 752 comprises a top 758 having adepression 760 that can be used for staging. Inside thecabinet 752, several pairs of hingedly mountedperforated shelves 762 similar to the hingedperforated shelves 716 shown with respect to the drying functionintermediate cabinet module 700 ofFIGS. 34A and 34B can be utilized to support fabric items to be dried. Theshelves 762 can be pivoted from a generally horizontal position, as shown inFIG. 35B , where each of the pairs ofshelves 762 form a substantially continuous shelf, and a generally vertical position, where theshelves 762 in each pair are pivoted away from each other so that theshelves 762 do not interfere with fabric items hung from a hanging bar in thecabinet 752. Below theshelves 762, thecabinet 752 houses awater reservoir 764 that can be removed to be emptied or filled with water. Thewater reservoir 764 is fluidly coupled with a steam generator that generates steam from the water in thewater reservoir 764 for delivery to a hand-heldsteam tool 766 fluidly coupled to the steam generator through ahose 768. Thesteam tool 766 is removably mounted to asteamer tool support 770 located on an inside surface of thedoor 756. In particular, thesteamer tool support 770 is attached to apivot plate 772 that pivotally mounts asteamer board 774 to thedoor 756. Thesteamer board 774 is pivotable between a generally vertical position, as shown in solid lines inFIG. 35B , against thedoor 756 and an inclined position, as shown in phantom inFIG. 35B , where a lower end of thesteamer board 774 is pivoted away from thedoor 756 such that thesteamer board 774 is ergonomically positioned for comfortable hand-steaming of fabric items supported by thesteamer board 774. Thesteamer board 774 can be secured in the inclined position by a movable spacer located at a lower end of thesteamer board 774 between thesteamer board 774 and thedoor 756. The user can select a desired drying cycle and control operation of the steam generator through acontrol panel 776 mounted on an outside surface of thedoor 756. The refreshing and/or sanitizing functions can be incorporated into the drying function doubleheight cabinet module 750 or can replace the drying function, if desired. - The storage function single
height cabinet module 650, the drying function intermediateheight cabinet module 700, and the drying function doubleheight cabinet module 750 comprise some common elements. For example, each of thesecabinet modules horizontal modules cabinet modules FIGS. 24A-32B . -
FIGS. 36A and 36B illustrate an embodiment of one of themodules 20 having the shelving function. Themodule 20 in these figures is a shelving function intermediate heightvertical module 800 comprising an open-face cabinet 802 and a pair of horizontally juxtaposedshelves 804 slidably mounted to thecabinet 802. Each of theshelves 804 comprises an upper,shelf portion 806 and a lower,base portion 808. Theshelf portion 806 is pivotable between a generally vertical position, as shown inFIG. 36A , where theshelf portion 806 and thebase portion 808 are vertically aligned and substantially colinear, and a generally horizontal position, as illustrated inFIG. 36B , where theshelf portion 806 is oriented substantially parallel to the ground and perpendicular to thebase portion 808. When theshelf portion 806 is in the vertical position, theshelf 804 can be slid into a retracted position, as illustrated inFIG. 36A , where theshelf 804 is received within thecabinet 802. From the retracted position, theshelf 804 can be slid forwardly from thecabinet 802 to an extended position so that theshelf portion 806 can be pivoted from the vertical position to the horizontal position, as shown inFIG. 36B , so that items can be set upon theshelf portion 806. Theshelves 804 can be adapted to slide between the retracted and extended positions independently or together. While the shelving function intermediate heightvertical module 800 can be utilized in any suitable configuration with thelaundry appliances 10, the shelving function intermediate heightvertical module 800 is especially suited for use between two horizontally arrangedlaundry appliances 10 such that theshelf portions 806 can be extended and placed in the horizontal position in front of both of the laundry appliances 10 (i.e., one of theshelf portions 806 in front of each of the laundry appliances 10). - The shelving function intermediate height
vertical module 800 also incorporates the hanging and storage functions. Similar to the drying function intermediate heightvertical module 350 and the storage function single heightvertical module 600, the shelving function intermediate heightvertical module 800 comprises a hangingrod 810 movably mounted to thecabinet 802 between an extended position, as shown inFIG. 36A , where fabric items can be hung from the hangingrod 810, such as on a hanger, and a retracted position, as illustrated inFIG. 36B , where the hangingrod 810 is stored within thecabinet 802. Any type of actuator, such as a push-push type actuator, can be utilized to move the hangingrod 810 between the extended and retracted positions. Additionally, the hanging function is also carried out by a hanging T-bar 812 mounted to a top 814 of thecabinet 802. The hanging T-bar 812 comprises apost 816 slidably mounted to the top 814, a generallytriangular body 818 at an upper end of thepost 816, and a generallyhorizontal bar 820 mounted at a forward end of thebody 818. Fabric items can be hung, such as on a hanger, from thebar 820, and the height of thebar 820 relative to the top 814 can be adjusted by sliding thepost 816 upward or downward and securing thepost 816 in a desired position by aclamp 822. For the storage function, the top 814 forms an open-top cavity 824 that can be used for staging. The shelving function intermediate heightvertical module 800 is described in more detail in our docket no. US20050503, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Modular Laundry System with Shelf Module,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. - More detailed descriptions of some of the exemplary vertical modules, variations of the exemplary vertical modules, and other exemplary vertical modules are given in our docket no. US20050293, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Vertical Laundry Module,” and our docket no. US20050504, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Vertical Laundry Module with Backsplash,” which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
- In addition to the
laundry appliances 10 and themodules 20, the modular laundry system can incorporate accessories, such as work surfaces. The work surfaces can be positioned on top of one or more of thelaundry appliances 10 ormodules 20 to adapt the top of thelaundry appliances 10 ormodules 20 for the user to perform various tasks or functions. The work surfaces can be rigid or flexible and can include various features. For example, the work surface can include a non-skid surface or can comprise a hygienic material, such as by being made of, impregnated with, or coated with a hygienic material, that kills or prevents proliferation of germs, microbes, fungus, and the like. A more detailed description of the work surfaces is presented our docket no. US20050294, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Modular Laundry System with Work Surface,” our docket no. US20050500, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Modular Laundry System with Segmented Work Surface,” our docket no. US20050501, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Modular Laundry System with Work Surface Having a Functional Insert,” and our docket no. US20050502, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Modular Laundry System with Work Surface Having a Functional Element,” which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Examples of the work surfaces are illustrated inFIGS. 37A-39B . -
FIGS. 37A and 37B depict an embodiment of asegmented work surface 850 comprising first and secondlaundry appliance segments module segment 856 that can be positioned between the first and secondlaundry appliance segments laundry appliance segments laundry appliance 10, while themodule segment 856 is sized to be positioned on top of themodule 20. Each of thesegments platform 858 and anintegral backsplash 860 in which is formed arecess 862 that can be used for staging. Thesegments functional insert 864, such as a mat, which can have a texture corresponding to the type of task or function to be performed on the work surface, that extends across theplatform 858. Furthermore, thelaundry appliance segments flange 866 along one side edge to facilitate positioning thesegmented work surface 850 on thelaundry appliances 10 and to prevent lateral movement of thesegmented work surface 850 relative to thelaundry appliances 10. Thesegments segments FIG. 37A . Thesegments FIG. 37B , so that thesegmented work surface 850 can be configured according to thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 used in the modular laundry system. For example, all three of thesegments module 20 is positioned between thelaundry appliances 10, or just the first and secondlaundry appliance segments module 20 is disposed between thelaundry appliances 10. Thesegmented work surface 850 is not limited to having three segments; thesegmented work surface 850 can include any number of segments having sizes corresponding to thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 used in the modular laundry system. -
FIG. 38 shows an embodiment of another accessory in the form of a single laundryappliance work surface 900 comprising awork surface 902 and a hangingbar assembly 904 supported by afloor mount 906. Thework surface 902 is sized to fit on top of one of thelaundry appliances 10 and comprises awork surface platform 908 extending between dependingflanges 910. A plurality of open-top cavities 912 located above theflanges 910 at the sides of thework surface platform 908 can be used for staging, and afunctional insert 914, such as a mat, which can be textured corresponding to the type of task or function to be performed on the work surface, extends across thework surface platform 908. Furthermore, thework surface 902 forms an elongated opening oraperture 916 along a rear edge to accommodate a backsplash of thelaundry appliance 10. The hangingbar assembly 904 comprises a pair ofposts 918, abody 920 mounted at an upper end of each of theposts 918, and a hangingbar 922 extending between thebodies 920. Thefloor mount 906 comprises a pair ofposts 924 that are mounted in a base 926 that rests on the floor. Theposts 922 of thefloor mount 906 and theposts 918 of the hangingassembly 904 meet at thework surface 902, and the height of the hangingbar 922 can be adjusting by sliding theposts 918 relative to theposts 924 of thefloor mount 906. Thebase 926 includes a pair offeet 928 that can be partially positioned beneath thelaundry appliance 10 when the single laundryappliance work surface 900 is used with thelaundry appliance 10. In other words, thelaundry appliance 10 is received between thefeet 928 of thebase 926 and thework surface 902. -
FIGS. 39A and 39B illustrate another accessory embodiment in the form of a double laundryappliance work surface 950 comprising awork surface assembly 952, a hangingbar assembly 954, and afloor mount 956. The hangingbar assembly 954 and thefloor mount 956 are substantially identical to those of the single laundryappliance work surface 950, except that the hangingbar assembly 954 and thefloor mount 956 are adapted to fit two oflaundry appliances 10 in a side-by-side arrangement. Thework surface assembly 952 comprises awork surface platform 958 extending between dependingflanges 960. Anintegral backsplash 962 with astaging recess 964 is formed along a rear edge of thework surface platform 958. Thework surface platform 958 includes a depression 966 sized to receive a removablefunctional insert 968. Thefunctional insert 968 comprises afirst side 970 having a first surface configured for performing a first function on thefunctional insert 968 and asecond side 972 having a second surface different than the first surface and configured for performing a second function on thefunctional insert 968. For example, one of the first andsecond sides second sides functional insert 968 can be positioned with thefirst side 970 facing upwards, as shown inFIG. 39A , for performing the first function, or thefunctional insert 968 can be removed and flipped over, as depicted inFIG. 39B , so that thesecond side 972 faces upwards for performing the second function. - While the single and double laundry
appliance work surfaces single laundry appliance 10 or two side-by-side laundry appliances 10, the work surfaces 900, 950 can be sized for use with one or more of themodules 20, more than two of thelaundry appliances 10, or any combination of any quantity of horizontally arrangedlaundry appliances 10 andmodules 20. Additionally, the single and double laundryappliance work surfaces -
FIGS. 40A-46B illustrate exemplary implementations of the modular laundry system employing the exemplary modules ofFIGS. 24A-36B and the work surface accessories ofFIGS. 37A-39B .FIGS. 40A-46B also include the schematics of the core and customized configurations corresponding the implementations of the modular laundry system. The implementations shown inFIGS. 40A-46B are provided for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the invention in any manner. Numerous implementations of the modular laundry system can be derived from thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20. - An
implementation A 1000 shown inFIG. 40A corresponding to the customizedconfiguration M 164 ofFIG. 20B and reproduced inFIG. 40B comprises thefirst laundry appliance 18 in the form of a front-loading washing machine vertically stacked above the washing function single widthhorizontal module 200, thesecond laundry appliance 19 in the form of a front-loading dryer vertically stacked above the drying function single widthhorizontal module 250, and the drying function intermediate heightvertical module 350 positioned between thelaundry appliances segmented work surface 850 can readily be incorporated into theimplementation A 1000, as shown inFIG. 40C . -
FIG. 41A shows animplementation B 1002 corresponding to thecore configuration B 102 ofFIG. 9 and reproduced inFIG. 41B . Theimplementation B 1002 comprises thefirst laundry appliance 18 in the form of the front-loading washing machine in side-by-side relationship with thesecond laundry appliance 19 in the form of the front-loading dryer and the drying function double widthhorizontal module 300 vertically stacked above thelaundry appliances appliance work surface 950 with the threesegments implementation B 1002, as shown inFIG. 41C . - An
implementation C 1004 shown inFIG. 42A corresponding to the customizedconfiguration A 140 ofFIG. 16A and reproduced inFIG. 42B comprises thefirst laundry appliance 18 in the form of the front-loading washing machine vertically stacked above the washing function single widthhorizontal module 200 and thesecond laundry appliance 19 in the form of the front-loading dryer vertically stacked above the drying function single widthhorizontal module 250, similar to theimplementation A 1000. However, theimplementation C 1004 further comprises the storage function singleheight cabinet module 650 vertically stacked above a storage function single widthhorizontal module 290. The storage function singleheight cabinet module 650 and the storage function single widthhorizontal module 290 are positioned adjacent to thesecond laundry appliance 19 and the drying function single widthhorizontal module 250, respectively. The storage function single widthhorizontal module 290 is similar to the washing and drying function single widthhorizontal modules drawer 294, but thedrawer 294 is adapted for storage. The single laundryappliance work surface 900 can readily be incorporated into theimplementation C 1004, as shown inFIG. 42C . -
FIG. 43A shows animplementation D 1006 corresponding to the customizedconfiguration F 150 ofFIG. 18B and reproduced inFIG. 43B . Theimplementation D 1006 comprises thefirst laundry appliance 18 in the form of the front-loading washing machine horizontally arranged with thesecond laundry appliance 19 in the form of the front-loading dryer. Thefirst laundry appliance 18 is vertically stacked above the wash function single widthhorizontal module 200, and thesecond laundry appliance 19 is vertically stacked above the storage function single widthhorizontal module 290. The shelving function intermediate heightvertical module 800 is positioned between thelaundry appliances height cabinet module 700 is located adjacent to thesecond laundry appliance 19. Although not shown, the work surface accessory can be incorporated into theimplementation D 1006. - An
implementation E 1006 shown inFIG. 44A corresponding to thecore configuration F 110 ofFIG. 12A and reproduced inFIG. 44B comprises thefirst laundry appliance 18 in the form of a front-loading washing machine vertically stacked below thesecond laundry appliance 19 in the form of a front-loading dryer and the drying function doubleheight cabinet module 750 positioned adjacent to thelaundry appliances -
FIG. 45A illustrates animplementation F 1010 corresponding to thecore configuration L 122 ofFIG. 14A and reproduced inFIG. 45B with one of the single heightvertical modules 50 horizontally arranged between thelaundry appliances vertical modules 50 positioned to the right of thesecond laundry appliance 19. Theimplementation F 1010 comprises thefirst laundry appliance 18 in the form of a top-loading washing machine with a backsplash horizontally arranged with thesecond laundry appliance 19 in the form of a front-loading dryer with a backsplash. The storage function single heightvertical module 550 is positioned between thelaundry appliances vertical module 450 is located adjacent to thesecond laundry appliance 19. The single laundryappliance work surface 900 can readily be incorporated into theimplementation F 1010, as shown inFIG. 45C . - An
implementation G 1012 shown inFIG. 46A corresponding to the customizedconfiguration E 148 ofFIG. 18A and reproduced inFIG. 46B comprises thefirst laundry appliance 18 in the form of the top-loading washing machine horizontally arranged with thesecond laundry appliance 19 in the form of the top-loading dryer. The sink function single heightvertical module 500 is positioned to the left of thefirst laundry appliance 18, and the storage function singleheight cabinet module 650 is located to the right of thesecond laundry appliance 19. Although not shown, the work surface accessory can be incorporated into theimplementation G 1012. - Utilization of the modular laundry system can be accomplished in at least two ways: with geometry as a primary driver or with function as a primary driver. In the former case, the configuration of the
laundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 is initially determined by selecting one of the core configurations A-R 100-134 or building any customized configuration from the core configurations A-R 100-134. The determination of the configuration can be based on the spatial limitations of the laundry area or a desired overall appearance of thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20. Selecting the core configuration or the customized configuration to spatially optimize the laundry area determines whether themodules 20 that are to be used with thelaundry appliances 10 of the modular laundry system are thehorizontal modules vertical modules cabinet modules modules 20. For example, if the selected configuration is thecore configuration A 100, then the user must select two of the single widthhorizontal modules 30, which could be the washing function single widthhorizontal module 200 and the drying function single widthhorizontal module 250. By utilizing the modular laundry system in this manner, the laundry area can incorporate as much functionality as possible within a given or limited space. - Alternatively, when the laundry area does not have spatial limitations, such as in a large room, when a new home is being designed and built, or when the laundry area is being renovated, function of the
modules 20 can be the primary driver. In this case, the user can select themodules 20 based on the desired functions and arrange them according to any of the core configurations A-R 100-134 or any customized configuration that includes the selectedmodules 20. For example, if the user selects the sink and storage functions, then the user identifies themodules 20 that have these functions, such as the sink function single heightvertical module 500 and the storage function singleheight cabinet module 650. Once themodules modules configuration E 148. When function is the primary driver and the laundry area is not limited spatially, the laundry area can include as much functionality as desired, and themodules 20 that bring the desired functionality to the laundry area can be arranged relative to thelaundry appliances 10 and to each other in an aesthetically pleasing and efficient manner. - Regardless of whether the driver is the geometry or the function, the modular laundry system provides a system for spatially and functionally optimizing the laundry area. By utilizing the core configurations or building upon the core configurations to create the customized configurations and utilizing the
modules 20 having laundry care and non-laundry care functions, the modular laundry system can be employed to provide desired functionality within a given laundry area. Further, the implementations of the modular laundry system bring an aesthetically coherent appearance to the laundry area without sacrificing functionality. - The aesthetically coherent appearance can be enhanced by configuring the
laundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 in the modular laundry system to have matching designs. When thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 match one another, not only does the modular laundry system provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance, but a consumer is more likely to purchase multiple items from the modular laundry system to create a coherent appearance in the laundry area rather than purchasing a hodgepodge of gadgets to fulfill their laundry care and non-laundry care functional needs in the laundry area. Various items can be added to thelaundry appliances 10 and thevertical modules 20 to contribute to the aesthetically coherent appearance. For example, mats having a matching color/pattern and/or texture can be placed on top of thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20. The mats can cover one or more of thelaundry appliances 10 and/ormodules 20. - The modular laundry system can also be adapted to prevent transference of vibration between the
laundry appliance 10 and themodule 20 and/or betweenadjacent laundry appliances 10 oradjacent modules 20. Consequently, vibration caused by operation of one of thelaundry appliances 10 and/or one of themodules 20 does not transfer toother laundry appliances 10 andmodules 20 in the modular laundry system. Thus, theother laundry appliances 10 andmodules 20 remain relatively stationary, and any items supported by thelaundry appliances 10 and themodules 20 will not shake or fall from therespective laundry appliances 10 and themodules 20. The modular laundry system can incorporate any suitable means for damping vibration or preventing transference of vibration. For example, vibration dampening or isolation pads can be positioned between adjacent components of the modular laundry system. The isolation pads can be made of a material, such as rubber, that dampens vibrations. Alternatively, the vibration dampening or isolation pads can be incorporated into the work surfaces, as described in the aforementioned and incorporated patent applications that disclose work surfaces. - As stated above, the modular laundry system comprises at least of the
appliances 10 and at least one of themodules 20. However, the core configurations A-R 100-134 have been shown and described as comprising two of thelaundry appliances 10. It is within the scope of the invention to remove one of the laundry appliances from the core configurations A-R 100-134 to result in one of thelaundry appliances 10, except where both of thelaundry appliances 10 are required to vertically support themodule 20; For example, one of thelaundry appliances 10 of thecore configuration B 102 ofFIG. 9 cannot be removed if the double widthhorizontal module 30 is vertically stacked above thelaundry appliances 10. However, one of thelaundry appliances 10 can be removed if the double widthhorizontal module 40 is vertically stacked below thelaundry appliances 10. An example of modifying the core configurations by removing thelaundry appliance 10 is shown inFIG. 47 . InFIG. 47 , thesecond laundry appliance 19 has been removed from thecore configuration C 104 ofFIG. 11A to form a modifiedcore configuration C 190. The modifiedcore configuration C 190, therefore, comprises thefirst laundry appliance 18 horizontally arranged with the singleheight cabinet module 70. - Similarly, it is within the scope of the invention to add one or more
additional laundry appliances 10 to the core configurations A-R 100-134 to result in three or more of thelaundry appliances 10. When adding one or moreadditional appliances 10 to result in three or more of thelaundry appliances 10, the addedlaundry appliances 10 can be vertically or horizontally arranged relative to the existinglaundry appliances 10. An example of modifying the core configurations by adding one of thelaundry appliances 10 is shown inFIG. 48 . InFIG. 48 , athird laundry appliance 11 stacked with the single widthhorizontal module 30 has been added from the core configuration B102 ofFIG. 9 to form a modifiedcore configuration B 192. - Additionally, it is within the scope of the invention for the modular laundry system to comprise core configurations other than the core configurations A-R 100-134. The core configurations can be other configurations comprising two of the
laundry appliances 10, such as the arrangement shown inFIGS. 7A and 7B , comprising only one of thelaundry appliances 10, or comprising more than two of thelaundry appliances 10. An example of a core configuration comprising one of thelaundry appliances 10 is shown schematically inFIG. 49 .FIG. 49 illustrates acore configuration S 136 comprising one of thelaundry appliances 10 and the single heightvertical module 50 horizontally arranged and the intermediate widthhorizontal module 1060 stacked with thelaundry appliance 10 and the single heightvertical module 50.FIG. 50 schematically illustrates an example of a core configuration have more than two laundry appliances. Acore configuration T 138 comprises three of thelaundry appliances 10, the first, second, andthird laundry appliances horizontal module 1070 stacked with the threelaundry appliances 10. Alternatively, at least one or both of the second andthird laundry appliances vertical module 50 or the singleheight cabinet module 70. Additionally, the greater than double widthhorizontal module 1070 can be as wide as the collective width of the threelaundry appliances 10, as shown inFIG. 50 , or less wide than the collective width. - In the above description of the
modules 20, it was stated that it is within the scope of the invention to add height to themodules 20 with a base or pedestal so that themodules 20 conform to the respective height requirements. It is also within the scope of the invention to add a base or pedestal below or above the single heightvertical module 50 to convert the single heightvertical module 50 to the intermediate heightvertical module 60 or the double height vertical module or below or above the singleheight cabinet module 70 to convert the singleheight cabinet module 70 to the intermediateheight cabinet module 80 or the doubleheight cabinet module 90. For example, a customizedconfiguration T 178, which is illustrated schematically inFIG. 51 , can be constructed from thecore configuration A 100 ofFIG. 8A by adding the single heightvertical module 50 and supporting the single heightvertical module 50 with a base 180 to raise the height of the single heightvertical module 50 and effectively convert the single heightvertical module 50 to the intermediate heightvertical module 60. - In addition to the current application, the modular laundry system is also described in the following related applications: our docket no. US20050298, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Modular Laundry System with Horizontal Modules,” our docket no. US200502494, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Modular Laundry System with Horizontal Module Spanning Two Laundry Appliances,” our docket no. US20050495, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Modular Laundry System with Horizontally Arranged Cabinet Module,” our docket no. US20050496, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Modular Laundry System with Horizontal and Vertical Modules,” our docket no. US20050497, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Modular Laundry System with Vertical Module,” and our docket no. US20050498, filed concurrently herewith, and titled “Modular Laundry System with Cabinet Module,” which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
- While the invention has been specifically described in connection with certain specific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that this is by way of illustration and not of limitation, and the scope of the appended claims should be construed as broadly as the prior art will permit.
Claims (24)
1. A laundry module for use with a modular laundry system comprising a laundry appliance and at least one unit horizontally arranged with the laundry appliance and selected from a group comprising a second laundry appliance, a vertical module, and a cabinet module, the laundry module comprising:
a housing defining an interior space and having a width greater than a width of the laundry appliance; and
a functional element disposed within the interior space and having an associated function other than storage.
2. The laundry module according to claim 1 , wherein the housing has a width substantially equal to a combined width of the laundry appliance and the at least one unit.
3. The laundry module according to claim 1 , wherein the housing is configured to be disposed at least one of above and below the laundry appliance and the at least one unit when the laundry module is vertically arranged with the laundry appliance and the at least one unit.
4. The laundry module according to claim 1 , wherein the associated function of the functional element comprises a laundry care function.
5. The laundry module according to claim 4 , wherein the laundry care function is selected from a group comprising washing, drying, refreshing, sanitizing, stain removal, ironing, hand steaming, and sink.
6. The laundry module according to claim 4 , wherein the laundry care function is drying, and the functional element comprises a drawer slidably mounted to the housing for movement relative to the interior space and configured to support an item to be dried.
7. The laundry module according to claim 6 , wherein the drawer comprises a drying rack to support the item to be dried.
8. The laundry module according to claim 6 , wherein the interior space defines a drying chamber.
9. The laundry module according to claim 6 , wherein the drawer defines a drying chamber.
10. The laundry module according to claim 1 , wherein the associated function of the functional element comprises a non-laundry care function other than storage.
11. The laundry module according to claim 10 , wherein the non-laundry care function is selected from a group comprising garbage and recycling collection, shelving, laundry sorting, bulk dispensing, resource management, resource supply, resource recovery/reclamation, resource treatment, lighting, refrigeration, entertainment, pet care, data collection, data communication, home automation, home security, home safety, power outlet, and power supply.
12. The laundry module according to claim 1 , wherein the functional element comprises a drawer slidably mounted to the housing for movement relative to the interior space.
13. The laundry module according to claim 1 , wherein the laundry module is a double width horizontal module, and the housing has a width substantially equal to a combined width of the laundry appliance and one of the second laundry appliance and the cabinet module.
14. The laundry module according to claim 1 , wherein the laundry module is a greater than double width horizontal module, and the housing has a width greater than a combined width of the laundry appliance and one of the second laundry appliance and the cabinet module.
15. The laundry module according to claim 1 , wherein the laundry module is an intermediate width horizontal module, and the housing has a width substantially equal to a combined width of the laundry appliance and the vertical module.
16. The laundry module according to claim 1 , wherein the width of the housing is at least equal to a combined width of the laundry appliance and two of the units.
17. The laundry module according to claim 1 , wherein the modular laundry system further comprises a work surface configured to extend across the laundry module.
18. The laundry module according to claim 17 , wherein the work surface is configured to be removably mounted to the laundry module.
19. The laundry module according to claim 17 , wherein the work surface comprises opposing sides with each side configured for performing an associated function.
20. The laundry module according to claim 17 , wherein the work surface comprises a non-skid surface.
21. The laundry module according to claim 17 , wherein the work surface comprises an ironing surface.
22. The laundry module according to claim 17 , wherein the work surface comprises a hygienic material.
23. The laundry module according to claim 17 , where in the work surface comprises a hanging bar.
24. The laundry module according to claim 1 , wherein the laundry appliance has a height that defines a standard height, and the laundry module has a height less than the standard height.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/322,742 US20070151309A1 (en) | 2005-12-30 | 2005-12-30 | Laundry module for modular laundry system |
BRPI0606219-9A BRPI0606219A (en) | 2005-12-30 | 2006-12-28 | modular laundry system laundry module |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
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US11/322,742 US20070151309A1 (en) | 2005-12-30 | 2005-12-30 | Laundry module for modular laundry system |
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US20070151309A1 true US20070151309A1 (en) | 2007-07-05 |
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US11/322,742 Abandoned US20070151309A1 (en) | 2005-12-30 | 2005-12-30 | Laundry module for modular laundry system |
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US (1) | US20070151309A1 (en) |
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US6883257B2 (en) * | 2002-03-15 | 2005-04-26 | Kenneth J. Couch | Ironing board |
US6886373B2 (en) * | 2002-09-13 | 2005-05-03 | Conair Corporation | Garment steamer |
US6889399B2 (en) * | 2000-07-25 | 2005-05-10 | Steiner-Atlantic Corp. | Textile cleaning processes and apparatus |
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US6910292B2 (en) * | 2003-02-06 | 2005-06-28 | Maytag Corporation | Clothes drying cabinet with improved air distribution |
-
2005
- 2005-12-30 US US11/322,742 patent/US20070151309A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2006
- 2006-12-28 BR BRPI0606219-9A patent/BRPI0606219A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
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Cited By (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US7913419B2 (en) * | 2005-12-30 | 2011-03-29 | Whirlpool Corporation | Non-tumble clothes dryer |
US20100018259A1 (en) * | 2007-01-10 | 2010-01-28 | Seong Hae Jeong | Multiple laundry treating machine |
US20100101282A1 (en) * | 2007-01-10 | 2010-04-29 | Seong Hae Jeong | Pedestal washing machine |
US8635890B2 (en) * | 2007-01-10 | 2014-01-28 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Pedestal washing machine |
US7770305B1 (en) * | 2007-03-14 | 2010-08-10 | Leonard Krauss | Clothes drying apparatus |
WO2009092285A1 (en) * | 2008-01-18 | 2009-07-30 | Jiebo Hu | Multifunctional integrated cleaner unit machine |
AU2009207975B2 (en) * | 2008-01-18 | 2012-03-22 | Ningbo Qinhe Electrical Co., Ltd | Multifunctional integrated cleaner unit machine |
KR101608656B1 (en) * | 2009-09-29 | 2016-04-04 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | Fabric treating apparatus and controlling method thereof |
US20140082978A1 (en) * | 2011-03-28 | 2014-03-27 | Jiebo Hu | Drying-ironing combined machine |
US9157180B2 (en) * | 2011-03-28 | 2015-10-13 | Jiebo Hu | Drying-ironing combined machine |
Also Published As
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BRPI0606219A (en) | 2007-11-06 |
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Legal Events
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION, MICHIGAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:KENDALL, JAMES WILLIAM;ACHTERBERG, LORRAINE L.;VISWANATHAN, AMERESH BABU;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:017296/0478;SIGNING DATES FROM 20051229 TO 20060124 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |