Office Action 1: Non-Final Rejection (2025-04-18)
Rejection types: 103 - Obviousness, 112 - Written Description/Enablement

CLAIMS:
WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1\. A laundry machine comprising:
a cabinet defining an internal cavity;
a lid configured to transition between open and closed positions, wherein the lid covers an opening to the internal cavity in the closed position and provides access to the opening in the open position; and
a hinge rotatably securing the lid to the cabinet such that the lid transitions between the open and closed positions via the hinge, the hinge comprising, a post secured to the cabinet, and
an L-shaped bracket secured to the lid and configured to rotatably receive the post such that the L-shaped bracket and lid are rotatable about the post to transition the lid between the open and closed positions.
2\. The laundry machine of claim 1, wherein (i) the lid includes an upper panel,
(ii) a web extending downward from a side edge of the upper panel, and (iii) a flange extending inward from the web, and wherein the upper panel, web, and flange collectively define a C-channel.
3\. The laundry machine of claim 2, wherein (i) the L-shaped bracket includes first and second legs, (ii) the first leg is disposed within the C-channel, (iii) the second leg is disposed along a back edge of the lid, and (iv) the second leg rotatably receives the post.
4\. The laundry machine of claim 3, wherein second leg defines a notch and the post is disposed within the notch.
5\. The laundry machine of claim 4, wherein (i) an internal surface of the L- shaped bracket partially defines the notch and defines a bushing orifice extending away from the notch, (ii) the post includes a base and a pin protruding outward from the base, and (iii) the pin is disposed within the bushing orifice such that the L-shaped bracket and lid are rotatable about the post via the engagement between the pin and bushing orifice.
6\. The laundry machine of claim 5, wherein (i) a second internal surface of the L-shaped bracket partially defines the notch and is adjacent to the internal surface, and (ii) the second internal surface is configured to engage the base to limit a rotational range of the lid and maintain the lid in the open position.
7\. The laundry machine of claim 3, wherein (i) the first leg includes alignment protrusions extending therefrom, (ii) the flange defines alignment orifices, and (iii) the alignment protrusions are configured to engage the alignment orifices to position the L-shaped bracket relative to the lid.
8\. The laundry machine of claim 3, wherein (i) the first leg defines tapped orifices, (ii) the web defines through holes, and (iii) fasteners extend through the through holes and engage the tapped orifices to secure the L-shaped bracket to the lid.
9\. The laundry machine of claim 1, wherein the L-shaped bracket is disposed along a bottom corner of the lid.

10\. A laundry machine comprising:
a cabinet;
a lid secured to a top of the cabinet and configured to transition between open and closed positions; and
a hinge rotatably securing the lid to the cabinet such the lid transitions between the open and closed positions via the hinge, the hinge comprising, a post protruding upward from the top of the cabinet, and
an L-shaped bracket disposed along a bottom of the lid and configured to rotatably engage the post to transition the lid between the open and closed positions.

11\. The laundry machine of claim 10, wherein (i) the L-shaped bracket includes first and second legs, (ii) the first leg is secured to the lid, and (iii) the second leg rotatably engages the post.

12\. The laundry machine of claim 11, wherein (i) the first leg includes alignment protrusions extending therefrom, (ii) the lid defines alignment orifices, and (iii) the alignment protrusions are configured to engage the alignment orifices to position the L-shaped bracket relative to the lid.

13\. The laundry machine of claim 11, wherein (i) the first leg defines tapped orifices, (ii) the lid defines through holes, and (iii) fasteners extend through the through holes and engage the tapped orifices to secure the L-shaped bracket to the lid.

14\. The laundry machine of claim 10, wherein second leg defines a notch and the post is disposed within the notch.

15\. The laundry machine of claim 14, wherein (i) an internal surface of the L- shaped bracket partially defines the notch and defines a bushing orifice extending away from the notch, (ii) the post includes a base and a pin protruding outward from the base, and (iii) the pin is disposed within the bushing orifice such that the L-shaped bracket and lid are rotatable about the post via the engagement between the pin and bushing orifice.

16\. The laundry machine of claim 15, wherein (i) a second internal surface of the L-shaped bracket partially defines the notch and (ii) the second internal surface is configured to engage the base to limit a rotational range of the lid and maintain the lid in the open position.

17\. A laundry machine comprising:
a cabinet defining an internal cavity;
a lid secured to a top of the cabinet and configured to transition between open and closed positions; and
first and second opposing hinges rotatably securing first and second lower corners of the lid to the cabinet, respectively, such that the lid transitions between the open and closed positions via the hinges, each of the first and second hinges comprising, a post protruding upward from the top of the cabinet proximate to an opening to the internal cavity, and an L-shaped bracket disposed along a bottom of the lid and configured to rotatably engage the corresponding post to transition the lid between the open and closed positions.

18\. The laundry machine of claim 17, wherein (i) each L-shaped bracket includes first and second legs, (ii) each first leg is disposed within a C-channel defined along a peripheral edge of the lid, (iii) each second leg is disposed along a back edge of the lid, and (iv) each second leg rotatably receives the corresponding post.

19\. The laundry machine of claim 18, wherein (i) an internal surface of each L- shaped bracket partially defines a notch configured to receive a correspond post, (ii) each an internal surface further defines a bushing orifice extending away from the notch, (iii) each post includes a base and a pin protruding outward from the base, and (iv) each pin is disposed within the corresponding bushing orifice such that each L-shaped bracket and the lid are rotatable about the posts via the engagement between each pin and bushing orifice.

20\. The laundry machine of claim 19, wherein (i) a second internal surface of each L-shaped bracket partially defines the notch and (ii) each second internal surface is configured to engage the corresponding base to limit a rotational range of the lid and maintain the lid in the open position. 14 15 16 17

OFFICE ACTION:
Notice of Pre-AIA  or AIA  Status
The present application, filed on or after March 16, 2013, is being examined under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA .
Claim Objections
Claim 4 is objected to because of the following informalities: Grammatical error in line 1: “…wherein second leg…”. The suggested change is: “…wherein the second leg…”.  Appropriate correction is required.
Claim 14 is objected to because of the following informalities: Grammatical error in line 1: “…wherein second leg…”. The suggested change is: “…wherein a second leg…”.  Appropriate correction is required.
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 112
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 112(b):
(b)  CONCLUSION.—The specification shall conclude with one or more claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter which the inventor or a joint inventor regards as the invention.
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 112 (pre-AIA ), second paragraph:
The specification shall conclude with one or more claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter which the applicant regards as his invention.
Claims 14-16 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 112(b) or 35 U.S.C. 112 (pre-AIA ), second paragraph, as being indefinite for failing to particularly point out and distinctly claim the subject matter which the inventor or a joint inventor (or for applications subject to pre-AIA  35 U.S.C. 112, the applicant), regards as the invention.
Claim 14 recites the limitation …wherein second leg… in line 1. There is insufficient antecedent basis for this limitation in the claim.
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 103
In the event the determination of the status of the application as subject to AIA  35 U.S.C. 102 and 103 (or as subject to pre-AIA  35 U.S.C. 102 and 103) is incorrect, any correction of the statutory basis (i.e., changing from AIA  to pre-AIA ) for the rejection will not be considered a new ground of rejection if the prior art relied upon, and the rationale supporting the rejection, would be the same under either status.
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 103 which forms the basis for all obviousness rejections set forth in this Office action:
A patent for a claimed invention may not be obtained, notwithstanding that the claimed invention is not identically disclosed as set forth in section 102, if the differences between the claimed invention and the prior art are such that the claimed invention as a whole would have been obvious before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed invention pertains. Patentability shall not be negated by the manner in which the invention was made.
The factual inquiries for establishing a background for determining obviousness under 35 U.S.C. 103 are summarized as follows:
1. Determining the scope and contents of the prior art.
2. Ascertaining the differences between the prior art and the claims at issue.
3. Resolving the level of ordinary skill in the pertinent art.
4. Considering objective evidence present in the application indicating obviousness or nonobviousness.
This application currently names joint inventors. In considering patentability of the claims the examiner presumes that the subject matter of the various claims was commonly owned as of the effective filing date of the claimed invention(s) absent any evidence to the contrary.  Applicant is advised of the obligation under 37 CFR 1.56 to point out the inventor and effective filing dates of each claim that was not commonly owned as of the effective filing date of the later invention in order for the examiner to consider the applicability of 35 U.S.C. 102(b)(2)(C) for any potential 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(2) prior art against the later invention.
Claim 17 is rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Ahamad et al. (US20200199805).
Regarding claim 17, Ahamad et al. teaches a laundry machine (see abstract) comprising: a cabinet 12 defining an internal cavity 14 (see paragraph [0057], figure 2A); a lid 26 secured to a top of the cabinet 12 and configured to transition between open and closed positions, wherein the lid 26 covers an opening to the internal cavity 14 in the closed position and provides access to the opening in the open position (see figures 1-2B, paragraphs [0057]-[0058]); and a hinge 50, 60, 86 rotatably securing a lower corner of the lid 26 to the cabinet 12 such that the lid 26 transitions between the open and closed positions via the hinge 50, 60, 86, the hinge 50, 60, 86 comprising, a post 86 protruding upward from a top of the cabinet 12 and secured to the cabinet 12 (see figures 3-4, 29, 39-40, paragraphs [0066]-[0068]), and an L-shaped bracket 50, 60 disposed along a bottom of the lid 26, secured to the lid 26 and configured to rotatably engage the post 86 to transition the lid 26 between the open and closed positions (see figures 3-4, 29, 39-40, paragraphs [0060]-[0068]). Ahamad et al. teaches first and second opposing hinges rotatably securing first and second lower corners of the lid 26 to the cabinet 12, with each hinge comprising a post 86 (see figure 2A). Ahamad et al. does not explicitly teach that both opposing hinges comprise the L-shaped bracket. However, since Ahamad et al. teaches that the L-shaped bracket provides a rotational support and connection between the post and the lid it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the instant invention that both hinges may comprise the L-shaped bracket so as to provide the expected rotational support and connection between the post and the lid on both corners. Furthermore, it has been determined that the duplication of parts constitutes an obvious design choice to one of ordinary skill in the art absent persuasive evidence that a new and unexpected result is produced. In re Harza, 274 F.2d 669, 124 USPQ 378 (CCPA 1960).
Claims 1-5, 7-15 and 18-19 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Ahamad et al. (US20200199805) in view of Jager et al. (US20210062560).
Regarding claims 1, 9-10, Ahamad et al. teaches a laundry machine (see abstract) comprising: a cabinet 12 defining an internal cavity 14 (see paragraph [0057], figure 2A); a lid 26 secured to a top of the cabinet 12 and configured to transition between open and closed positions, wherein the lid 26 covers an opening to the internal cavity 14 in the closed position and provides access to the opening in the open position (see figures 1-2B, paragraphs [0057]-[0058]); and a hinge 50, 60, 86 rotatably securing a lower corner of the lid 26 to the cabinet 12 such that the lid 26 transitions between the open and closed positions via the hinge 50, 60, 86, the hinge 50, 60, 86 comprising, a post 86 protruding upward from a top of the cabinet 12 and secured to the cabinet 12 (see figures 3-4, 29, 39-40, paragraphs [0066]-[0068]), and an L-shaped bracket 50, 60 disposed along a bottom corner of the lid 26 (reads on claim 9), secured to the lid 26 and configured such that the L-shaped bracket 50, 60 and lid 26 are rotatable about the post 86 to transition the lid 26 between the open and closed positions (see figures 3-4, 29, 39-40, paragraphs [0060]-[0068]). Ahamad et al. does not teach that the L-shaped bracket is configured to rotatably receive the post. Jager et al. teaches a laundry machine (see abstract) and that a post 110 secured to the cabinet 22 may comprise a pin 118 such that a bracket associated with the door 14 is configured to rotatably receive the post 110 in a notch 108, providing a rotational connection and improved versatility (see paragraphs [0002], [0025], [0030], [0042], [0045], figures 2-4). Since both Ahamad et al. and Jager et al. teach laundry machines with hinged doors it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the instant invention that the L-shaped bracket in Ahamad et al. may be configured to rotatably receive the post so as to allow for the expected rotational connection and improved versatility, as shown to be known and conventional by Jager et al.
Regarding claim 2, Ahamad et al. and Jager et al. together teach the limitations of claim 1. Ahamad et al. also teaches in figures 3-4, paragraphs [0059]-[0063] that the lid 26 includes an upper panel 32, a web 36 extending downward from a side edge of the upper panel 32, and a flange 34 extending inward from the web 36, and wherein the upper panel 32, web 36, and flange 34 collectively define a C-channel 48.
Regarding claims 3-4, Ahamad et al. and Jager et al. together teach the limitations of claim 2. Ahamad et al. also teaches in figures 3-4, paragraphs [0059]-[0063], that the L-shaped bracket 50, 60 includes first 54, 60 and second 52 legs, the first leg 54, 60 is disposed within a C-channel 48 defined along a peripheral edge of the lid 26, the second leg 52 is disposed along a back edge of the lid 26; and the second leg 52 rotatably engages the post 86. Hence, in the modified system, it is readily apparent that the second leg would rotatably receive the post (reads on claim 3) and that the second leg would define the notch in which the post is disposed (reads on claim 4).
Regarding claim 7, Ahamad et al. and Jager et al. together teach the limitations of claim 3. Ahamad et al. also teaches in figure 20, paragraphs [0073]-[0074] that the first leg 54, 60 includes alignment protrusions 276 extending therefrom, the flange 34 defines alignment orifices 212, and the alignment protrusions 276 are configured to engage the alignment orifices 121 to position the L-shaped bracket 50, 60 relative to the lid 26.
Regarding claim 8, Ahamad et al. and Jager et al. together teach the limitations of claim 3. Ahamad et al. also teaches in paragraphs [0060], [0070], [0075], [0083] and figures 3-4, 12, 21, 29, 39-40 that the first leg 54, 60 defines tapped orifices 56, the web 36 defines through holes 80, and fasteners 82 extend through the through holes 80 and engage the tapped orifices 56 to secure the L-shaped bracket 50, 60 to the lid 26.
Regarding claims 11 and 14, Ahamad et al. and Jager et al. together teach the limitations of claim 10. Ahamad et al. also teaches in paragraphs [0060], [0070], [0075], [0083] and figures 3-4, 29, 39-40 that the L-shaped bracket 50, 60 includes first 54, 60 and second 52 legs, the first leg 54, 60 is secured to the lid 26, and the second leg 52 rotatably engages the post 86 (reads on claim 11). Hence, in the modified system, it is readily apparent that the second leg would define the notch in which the post is disposed (reads on claim 14).
Regarding claims 12-13, Ahamad et al. and Jager et al. together teach the limitations of claim 11. Ahamad et al. also teaches in paragraphs [0060], [0070], [0075], [0083] and figures 3-4, 12, 21, 29, 39-40 that the first leg 54, 60 defines tapped orifices 56, the lid 26 defines through holes 80 (reads on alignment orifices of claim 12), and fasteners 82 (reads on alignment protrusions of claim 12, as they extend from the first leg 54, 60) extend through the through holes 80 and engage the tapped orifices 56 to secure the L-shaped bracket 50, 60 to the lid 26.
Regarding claims 5, 15 and 19, Ahamad et al. and Jager et al. together teach the limitations of claims 4, 14 and 18. Jager et al. teaches in paragraphs [0002], [0025], [0030], [0042], [0045], figures 2-4 that an internal surface of the bracket partially defines the notch 108 (see opening of orifice 108 in particular) and defines a bushing orifice (see cylindrical internal portion extending from the opening of orifice 108) extending away from the notch 108, the post 110 includes a base 134 and a pin 118 protruding outward from the base 134, and the pin 118 is disposed within the bushing orifice such that the bracket and lid 14 are rotatable about the post 110 via the engagement between the pin 118 and bushing orifice. Hence, in the modified system, it is readily apparent that an internal surface of the L-shaped bracket would define the notch and bushing in which the pin of the post is disposed.
Regarding claim 18, Ahamad et al. teaches the limitations of claim 17. Ahamad et al. also teaches in figures 3-4, paragraphs [0059]-[0063], that the L-shaped bracket 50, 60 includes first 54, 60 and second 52 legs, the first leg 54, 60 is disposed within a C-channel 48 defined along a peripheral edge of the lid 26, the second leg 52 is disposed along a back edge of the lid 26. Ahamad et al. does not teach that the second leg rotatably receives the post. Jager et al. teaches a laundry machine (see abstract) and that a post 110 secured to the cabinet 22 may comprise a pin 118 such that a bracket associated with the door 14 is configured to rotatably receive the post 110 in a notch 108, providing a rotational connection and improved versatility (see paragraphs [0002], [0025], [0030], [0042], [0045], figures 2-4). Since both Ahamad et al. and Jager et al. teach laundry machines with hinged doors it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the instant invention that the L-shaped bracket in Ahamad et al. may be configured to rotatably receive the post so as to allow for the expected rotational connection and improved versatility, as shown to be known and conventional by Jager et al.
Allowable Subject Matter
Claims 6 and 20 are objected to as being dependent upon a rejected base claim, but would be allowable if rewritten in independent form including all of the limitations of the base claim and any intervening claims.
Claim 16 would be allowable if rewritten to overcome the rejection(s) under 35 U.S.C. 112(b) or 35 U.S.C. 112 (pre-AIA ), 2nd paragraph, set forth in this Office action and to include all of the limitations of the base claim and any intervening claims.
The following is a statement of reasons for the indication of allowable subject matter: The closest prior art of record is Ahamad et al. (US20200199805). Ahamad et al. fails to teach/disclose all of the limitations of claims 6, 16 and 20. Further no other prior art was located that fairly suggested the claimed invention in whole or in part along with the requisite motivation for combination to anticipate or render the claimed invention obvious.
Conclusion


NEXT OFFICE ACTION: Notice of Pre-AIA  or AIA  Status
The present application, filed on or after March 16, 2013, is being examined under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA .
EXAMINER'S AMENDMENT
An examiner’s amendment to the record appears below. Should the changes and/or additions be unacceptable to applicant, an amendment may be filed as provided by 37 CFR 1.312. To ensure consideration of such an amendment, it MUST be submitted no later than the payment of the issue fee.
The application has been amended as follows:
Claim 7: “The laundry machine of claim [[3]] 1…”
Claim 8: “The laundry machine of claim [[3]] 1…”
Allowable Subject Matter
Claims 1, 7-10, 12-13, 15, 17, 21-31 are allowed.
The following is an examiner’s statement of reasons for allowance: The closest prior art of record is Ahamad et al. (US20200199805). Ahamad et al. fails to teach/disclose all of the limitations of independent claims 1, 10 and 17, including the following limitations of claim 1: “..the second internal surface is configured to engage the base to limit a rotational range of the lid and maintain the lid in the open position”, the following limitations of claim 10: “..the internal surface is configured to engage the base to limit a rotational range of the lid and maintain the lid in the open position”, and the following limitations of claim 17: “..each second internal surface is configured to engage the corresponding base to limit a rotational range of the lid and maintain the lid in the open position”. Further no other prior art was located that fairly suggested the claimed invention in whole or in part along with the requisite motivation for combination to anticipate or render the claimed invention obvious.
Any comments considered necessary by applicant must be submitted no later than the payment of the issue fee and, to avoid processing delays, should preferably accompany the issue fee.  Such submissions should be clearly labeled “Comments on Statement of Reasons for Allowance.”

CITED REFERENCE SUMMARIES: Ref US20210062560A1: Claims:
An appliance comprising: a door coupled with a front panel of a cabinet and defining an upper pin slot; a top panel of the cabinet configured to extend over the door when the door is closed; and an upper hinge assembly including: an upper hinge pin configured to be rotatably received by the upper pin slot of the door; a fixed bracket having a first portion coupled with the front panel of the cabinet and a second portion extending perpendicular to the first portion, wherein the second portion includes an arm defining an opening configured to receive the upper hinge pin; and a rotating bracket coupled with the upper hinge pin and movable between first and second positions, wherein the rotating bracket is configured to be fixedly coupled with the second portion of the fixed bracket when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
a door coupled with a front panel of a cabinet and defining an upper pin slot;
a top panel of the cabinet configured to extend over the door when the door is closed; and
an upper hinge assembly including: an upper hinge pin configured to be rotatably received by the upper pin slot of the door; a fixed bracket having a first portion coupled with the front panel of the cabinet and a second portion extending perpendicular to the first portion, wherein the second portion includes an arm defining an opening configured to receive the upper hinge pin; and a rotating bracket coupled with the upper hinge pin and movable between first and second positions, wherein the rotating bracket is configured to be fixedly coupled with the second portion of the fixed bracket when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
an upper hinge pin configured to be rotatably received by the upper pin slot of the door;
a fixed bracket having a first portion coupled with the front panel of the cabinet and a second portion extending perpendicular to the first portion, wherein the second portion includes an arm defining an opening configured to receive the upper hinge pin; and
a rotating bracket coupled with the upper hinge pin and movable between first and second positions, wherein the rotating bracket is configured to be fixedly coupled with the second portion of the fixed bracket when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
The appliance of claim 1 , wherein the first portion of the fixed bracket defines a receiving well extending horizontally and having an elongated shape.
The appliance of claim 1 , wherein the second portion of the fixed bracket defines a lower aperture and the rotating bracket defines an upper aperture, the upper aperture aligned with the lower aperture when the rotating bracket is in the second position, and further wherein a fastener extends through the lower and upper apertures to couple the rotating bracket with the fixed bracket.
The appliance of claim 1 , further comprising: a lower hinge assembly including a lower hinge pin configured to be received by a lower pin slot defined by the door, wherein the door is rotatable about an axis extending through the lower and upper hinge pins when the rotating bracket is coupled with the fixed bracket of the upper hinge assembly.
a lower hinge assembly including a lower hinge pin configured to be received by a lower pin slot defined by the door, wherein the door is rotatable about an axis extending through the lower and upper hinge pins when the rotating bracket is coupled with the fixed bracket of the upper hinge assembly.
The appliance of claim 1 , wherein the front panel includes a lip extending at least partially over the second portion of the fixed bracket, and further wherein the rotating bracket is positioned between the lip and the second portion of the fixed bracket when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
An appliance comprising: a cabinet having a front panel; a door having a top side and a bottom side, the top side defining an upper pin slot; and a top panel coupled with the cabinet; an upper hinge assembly, wherein the top panel is configured to extend over the upper hinge assembly, the upper hinge assembly including: an upper hinge pin configured to be rotatably received by the upper pin slot of the door; a fixed bracket having a first portion coupled with the front panel of the cabinet and a second portion defining an opening configured to receive the upper hinge pin; and a rotating bracket coupled with the upper hinge pin and movable between first and second positions, wherein the rotating bracket is aligned with and coupled with the second portion of the fixed bracket when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
a cabinet having a front panel;
a door having a top side and a bottom side, the top side defining an upper pin slot; and
a top panel coupled with the cabinet;
an upper hinge assembly, wherein the top panel is configured to extend over the upper hinge assembly, the upper hinge assembly including: an upper hinge pin configured to be rotatably received by the upper pin slot of the door; a fixed bracket having a first portion coupled with the front panel of the cabinet and a second portion defining an opening configured to receive the upper hinge pin; and a rotating bracket coupled with the upper hinge pin and movable between first and second positions, wherein the rotating bracket is aligned with and coupled with the second portion of the fixed bracket when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
a fixed bracket having a first portion coupled with the front panel of the cabinet and a second portion defining an opening configured to receive the upper hinge pin; and
a rotating bracket coupled with the upper hinge pin and movable between first and second positions, wherein the rotating bracket is aligned with and coupled with the second portion of the fixed bracket when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
The appliance of claim 7 , wherein the second portion of the fixed bracket defines a lower aperture and the rotating bracket defines an upper aperture, and further wherein the upper aperture is aligned with the lower aperture when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
The appliance of claim 8 , further comprising: a fastener extending through the lower aperture and the upper aperture to couple the rotating bracket with the fixed bracket.
a fastener extending through the lower aperture and the upper aperture to couple the rotating bracket with the fixed bracket.
The appliance of claim 7 , wherein the rotating bracket is integrally formed with the upper hinge pin.
The appliance of claim 7 , further comprising: a lower hinge assembly including a lower hinge pin, wherein the bottom side of the door defines a lower pin slot configured to receive the lower hinge pin.
a lower hinge assembly including a lower hinge pin, wherein the bottom side of the door defines a lower pin slot configured to receive the lower hinge pin.
The appliance of claim 7 , wherein the rotating bracket is positioned between the top panel and the second portion of the fixed bracket when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
The appliance of claim 7 , wherein the first portion of the fixed bracket defines an elongated receiving well having a substantially obround shape.
A hinge assembly for an appliance, comprising: a hinge pin configured to be rotatably received by a pin slot of a door; a fixed bracket having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is configured to be coupled with a cabinet, and further wherein the second portion extends perpendicular to the first portion and defines an opening configured to receive the hinge pin, and further wherein the first portion of the fixed bracket defines an elongated receiving well extending horizontally and configured to receive a bracket fastener to couple the fixed bracket with the cabinet of said appliance; a rotating bracket coupled with the hinge pin and movable between first and second positions, wherein the rotating bracket is configured to be fixedly coupled with the second portion of the fixed bracket when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
a hinge pin configured to be rotatably received by a pin slot of a door;
a fixed bracket having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is configured to be coupled with a cabinet, and further wherein the second portion extends perpendicular to the first portion and defines an opening configured to receive the hinge pin, and further wherein the first portion of the fixed bracket defines an elongated receiving well extending horizontally and configured to receive a bracket fastener to couple the fixed bracket with the cabinet of said appliance;
a rotating bracket coupled with the hinge pin and movable between first and second positions, wherein the rotating bracket is configured to be fixedly coupled with the second portion of the fixed bracket when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
The hinge assembly of claim 14 , wherein the rotating bracket is shaped to complement the second portion of the fixed bracket and is aligned with the second portion of the fixed bracket when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
The hinge assembly of claim 14 , wherein the second portion of the fixed bracket defines a first aperture and the rotating bracket defines a second aperture, the first aperture aligned with the second aperture when the rotating bracket is in the second position.
The hinge assembly of claim 16 , further comprising: a hinge fastener extending through the first and second apertures to couple the rotating bracket with the fixed bracket.
a hinge fastener extending through the first and second apertures to couple the rotating bracket with the fixed bracket.
The hinge assembly of claim 14 , wherein the elongated receiving well has a substantially obround shape.
The hinge assembly of claim 14 , wherein the second portion of the fixed bracket includes an arm defining the opening configured to receive the hinge pin.
Ref US20200199805A1: Claims:
A laundry appliance comprising: a cabinet having a midline; a chamber disposed within the cabinet, and configured to hold an article of clothing for washing or drying; an opening into the chamber; a lid selectively movable to, from, and between a closed position that prevents access to the opening, and an open position that allows access to the opening, the lid having a C-shaped lip having an edge that extends inward when the lid is in the closed position creating a space between a top wall of the lid and the edge of the lip, and fastener receivers through the C-shaped lip; a hinge including: a first end extending laterally into a hinge receiver of the cabinet in a direction towards the midline of the cabinet; a connecter portion having fastener receivers, the connector portion extending at least approximately orthogonally to the first end; and a curved portion between the first end and the connector portion, the curved portion extending laterally further away from the midline than the connector portion; and a hinge bracket coupling the hinge to the lid, the hinge bracket including: an elongated slot receiving the connector portion of the hinge; first fastener receivers extending from the elongated slot laterally inward toward the midline and configured to cooperate with the fastener receivers of the hinge to receive fasteners that fasten the hinge to the hinge bracket; second fastener receivers on an opposite side of the hinge bracket as the first fastener receivers that extend laterally inward toward the midline and configured to cooperate with the fastener receivers through the C-shaped lip of the lid to receive fasteners fastening the lid to the hinge bracket; and an indented portion formed laterally away from the elongated slot and facing the curved portion of the hinge.
a cabinet having a midline;
a chamber disposed within the cabinet, and configured to hold an article of clothing for washing or drying;
an opening into the chamber;
a lid selectively movable to, from, and between a closed position that prevents access to the opening, and an open position that allows access to the opening, the lid having a C-shaped lip having an edge that extends inward when the lid is in the closed position creating a space between a top wall of the lid and the edge of the lip, and fastener receivers through the C-shaped lip;
a hinge including: a first end extending laterally into a hinge receiver of the cabinet in a direction towards the midline of the cabinet; a connecter portion having fastener receivers, the connector portion extending at least approximately orthogonally to the first end; and a curved portion between the first end and the connector portion, the curved portion extending laterally further away from the midline than the connector portion; and
a first end extending laterally into a hinge receiver of the cabinet in a direction towards the midline of the cabinet;
a connecter portion having fastener receivers, the connector portion extending at least approximately orthogonally to the first end; and
a curved portion between the first end and the connector portion, the curved portion extending laterally further away from the midline than the connector portion; and
a hinge bracket coupling the hinge to the lid, the hinge bracket including: an elongated slot receiving the connector portion of the hinge; first fastener receivers extending from the elongated slot laterally inward toward the midline and configured to cooperate with the fastener receivers of the hinge to receive fasteners that fasten the hinge to the hinge bracket; second fastener receivers on an opposite side of the hinge bracket as the first fastener receivers that extend laterally inward toward the midline and configured to cooperate with the fastener receivers through the C-shaped lip of the lid to receive fasteners fastening the lid to the hinge bracket; and an indented portion formed laterally away from the elongated slot and facing the curved portion of the hinge.
an elongated slot receiving the connector portion of the hinge;
first fastener receivers extending from the elongated slot laterally inward toward the midline and configured to cooperate with the fastener receivers of the hinge to receive fasteners that fasten the hinge to the hinge bracket;
second fastener receivers on an opposite side of the hinge bracket as the first fastener receivers that extend laterally inward toward the midline and configured to cooperate with the fastener receivers through the C-shaped lip of the lid to receive fasteners fastening the lid to the hinge bracket; and
an indented portion formed laterally away from the elongated slot and facing the curved portion of the hinge.
The laundry appliance of claim 1 , wherein, the first fastener receivers and the second fastener receivers of the hinge bracket are parallel but not collinear.
wherein, the first fastener receivers and the second fastener receivers of the hinge bracket are parallel but not collinear.
The laundry appliance of claim 1 , the hinge bracket further including a bottom side that faces downward when the lid is in the closed position and an opening into the elongated slot that is disposed at the bottom side.
the hinge bracket further including a bottom side that faces downward when the lid is in the closed position and an opening into the elongated slot that is disposed at the bottom side.
The laundry appliance of claim 1 , wherein, the opposite side of the hinge bracket is nested into the C-shaped lip of the lid.
wherein, the opposite side of the hinge bracket is nested into the C-shaped lip of the lid.
The laundry appliance of claim 1 , the cabinet having a top portion; and the lid having a first lateral side, a second lateral side, and a front side that are disposed above the top portion of the cabinet when the lid is in the closed position.
the cabinet having a top portion; and
the lid having a first lateral side, a second lateral side, and a front side that are disposed above the top portion of the cabinet when the lid is in the closed position.
The laundry appliance of claim 1 , wherein, the top wall, the C-shaped lip, and the edge of the lip of the lid are adjacent to the top side, the opposite side, and the bottom side of the hinge bracket respectively.
wherein, the top wall, the C-shaped lip, and the edge of the lip of the lid are adjacent to the top side, the opposite side, and the bottom side of the hinge bracket respectively.
The laundry appliance of claim 1 , wherein, the curved portion of the hinge projects laterally outward from the perspective of the midline toward the C-shaped lip of the lid.
wherein, the curved portion of the hinge projects laterally outward from the perspective of the midline toward the C-shaped lip of the lid.
A laundry appliance comprising: a cabinet having a midline; a chamber disposed within the cabinet, and configured to hold an article of clothing for washing or drying; an opening into the chamber; a lid selectively movable to, from, and between a closed position that prevents access to the opening, and an open position that allows access to the opening, the lid having a C-shaped lip having an edge that extends inward when the lid is in the closed position creating a space between a top wall of the lid and the edge of the lip, and fastener receivers through the C-shaped lip; a hinge including: a first end extending laterally into a hinge receiver of the cabinet in a direction towards the midline of the cabinet; a connecter portion having fastener receivers, the connector portion extending at least approximately orthogonally to the first end; and a curved portion between the first end and the connector portion; and a hinge bracket coupling the hinge to the lid, the hinge bracket including: an elongated slot receiving the connector portion of the hinge, the elongated slot having a first surface opposing a second surface, the connector portion of the hinge disposed between the first surface and the second surface; at least a portion of the hinge bracket is disposed in the space of the lid, with a bottom side that faces the edge of the C-shaped lip and a top side that faces the top wall of the lid; and fastener receivers that cooperate with the fastener receivers through the C-shaped lip to receive fasteners to fasten the lid and the hinge bracket together.
a hinge including: a first end extending laterally into a hinge receiver of the cabinet in a direction towards the midline of the cabinet; a connecter portion having fastener receivers, the connector portion extending at least approximately orthogonally to the first end; and a curved portion between the first end and the connector portion; and
a curved portion between the first end and the connector portion; and
a hinge bracket coupling the hinge to the lid, the hinge bracket including: an elongated slot receiving the connector portion of the hinge, the elongated slot having a first surface opposing a second surface, the connector portion of the hinge disposed between the first surface and the second surface; at least a portion of the hinge bracket is disposed in the space of the lid, with a bottom side that faces the edge of the C-shaped lip and a top side that faces the top wall of the lid; and fastener receivers that cooperate with the fastener receivers through the C-shaped lip to receive fasteners to fasten the lid and the hinge bracket together.
an elongated slot receiving the connector portion of the hinge, the elongated slot having a first surface opposing a second surface, the connector portion of the hinge disposed between the first surface and the second surface;
at least a portion of the hinge bracket is disposed in the space of the lid, with a bottom side that faces the edge of the C-shaped lip and a top side that faces the top wall of the lid; and
fastener receivers that cooperate with the fastener receivers through the C-shaped lip to receive fas
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