Tub for a washing machine appliance with fluid overflow control

Abstract

A wash tub for a washing machine appliance is provided. The wash tub includes one or more features for controlling an overflow condition in which fluid is flowing over the side of the wash tub. These features can be used to help control the flow of fluid and / or direct the same away from the machine.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The subject matter of the present disclosure relates to a tub for a washing machine that includes features for fluid overflow control.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Conventionally, a vertical axis washing machine appliance includes a tub or drum that holds both fluid and the articles that are to be washed during the cleaning process. After the user makes selections regarding e.g., wash and rinse cycles, the washing machine operates one or more valves to fill the tub with a certain amount of water based on the anticipated size of the article load. The valves are connected with a pressurized water supply. Additives such as detergent and fabric softeners may also be added manually or automatically. The tub may be drained and filled several times depending upon the wash and rinse cycles selected or programmed for the cleaning process.[0003]By way of example, in order to control the amount of fluid added into the tub, the washing machine may be equipped with...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a washing machine with a wash tub that has a wall with ribs and a dam positioned at the top of the ribs. The wash basket is rotatably mounted inside the wash tub and has a wash basket opening for receiving wash fluid and wash load. The wash tub also includes a plurality of fluid guides positioned along its exterior surface and a pass that allows fluid to overflow from the container. The invention also provides a ramp that directs an overflow of fluid away from the container. These features improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the washing process.

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, one or more components of the washing can malfunction such that too much fluid is fed into the wash tub.

For example, the valve(s) controlling the flow of water into the tub may fail in an open position, the level sensor may malfunction, and / or other conditions can lead to an over supply of fluid.

This uncontained fluid may cause external damage to the floor or other surroundings where the washing machine is located.

Additionally, the uncontained fluid can damage internal, particularly electrical, components of the washing machine.

In this second mode of flow, the risk of damage to internal components of the washing machine is increased because as this continuous flow of wash fluid gains kinetic energy falling down the side of the tub, the amount of splashing and spreading of the fluid is increased.

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