Patent Abstract:
The already energy saving ambient air dryer is improved in methods of manufacture, performance, increased safety devices, and storage options which include in part: construction in pieces of different manufacture for assembly to lower cost, added inhibitors to extend life and durability, extrusions on the drum functioning as scoops to cause additional ambient air to be passed through the clothes, light and reflector system so moving drum may be visible at night or in partial light, non-defeating GFCI system, specific designed energy efficient motor, programmed functions such as stopping the drum in “access” or “park” position and sounding alarm for pre-determined operational issues, remote control as well as control box on dryer frame, a system for capturing lint and particulates, motion/heat detectors which eliminate need for safety guard surrounding moving drum, sound emitters to keep animals away, security codes for operation, and collapsible drum and frame for compact storage.

Full Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    Not Applicable 
       STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
       [0002]    Not Applicable 
       REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX 
       [0003]    Not Applicable 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    Hastings U.S. Pat. No. 4,236,322, discloses an apparatus for drying articles of clothing and the like in the open, ambient air. As shown therein, a drum of a convenient size having screen-like sides is rotatably supported on a frame. A motor mounted on the support frame is coupled to the drum by a belt and rotates the drum so that the objects therein are tumbled. 
         [0005]    It has been found that a dryer constructed as shown therein performs well and has numerous advantages over conventional enclosed clothes dryers which use heat produced, usually, by electricity or gas. The most obvious advantage, of course, is the great saving in energy since only a small part of the power consumed by a conventional dryer is needed to turn the drum of the dryer disclosed in the above-mentioned patent. 
         [0006]    It has been found, however, that the apparatus shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,236,322 could be more suitable for use under some circumstances and could be manufactured in a simpler and less expensive manner. The rotating drum is exposed, presenting the hazard that a person, particularly a child, might be injured by inserting a hand, for example, between the drum and frame, coming into contact with the moving drum or being caught between the belt and drum or pulley. 
         [0007]    Accordingly Hastings U.S. Pat. No. 4,702,018, provided an improved drying apparatus having a rotatable drum enclosed within a housing functioning as a guard which provides safety but does not significantly impede air flow and access to the dryer. 
         [0008]    A further object of the above mentioned patent provided such a dryer which can be produced in large quantity at reasonable cost and which is safe and effective to use. 
         [0009]    The dryer with a guard as shown in the above mentioned patent can still pose safety risks. Persons can still approach the dryer while the drum is rotating within the guard and, since the guard must be an open mesh construction, thrust a small item through an opening of the guard. There remains the possibility that persons, children in particular, could pick up small sticks, wire, a nail, screwdriver or other small object and stick it through the openings on the guard causing not only damage to the dryer, but perhaps causing considerable injury to such persons if one of the aforesaid objects were thrown back at them or caught their fingers or clothing. The guard adds significant additional weight to the appliance, making it more cumbersome and difficult to maneuver, while also greatly increasing the cost of the dryer in terms of materials used, time of manufacture and assembly as well as increased shipping costs. 
         [0010]    Perque U.S. Pat. No. 5,809,663 advances a portable solar powered clothes dryer. The Ambient Air Clothes Dryer of U.S. Pat. No. 4,702,018 already depicted the dryer in a portability state with a frame and wheels and made no reference to a specific size. U.S. Pat. No. 5,809,663 further advances the claim that the “perforated hamper” be black to maximize the heat energy from the sun by the dark color of the hamper. While this may enhance the drying capabilities in some way of the aforementioned patent, it is not applicable to this ambient air dryer. The principle of this ambient air dryer is the use of solar heated ambient air entering a perforated rotating drum and expelling moisture laden air, not a device which further collects or heats the air. In the testing of the present embodiment of both a black and a yellow ambient air dryer, there has been no significant noticeable difference in the efficiency of the dryer. The exposed surface area of the present embodiment of the dryer drum contains large numbers of holes, making it difficult to collect any demonstrable amount of heat from the rays of the sun, the dryer drum in motion constantly changes its attitude to the sun&#39;s rays and continually expels the moisture laden air within the drum through the perimeter of the drum thereby actually cooling the surface of the drum no matter what the color. 
         [0011]    Ford U.S. Pat. No. 7,178,265 uses a fan to provide axial airflow through the drum. This drum is comprised of an impervious cylindrical wall defining a diameter. The present embodiment in this application of the dryer drum has perforations both on the sides and perimeter of the drum and air is drawn in the sides and expelled out the perimeter by the rotating motion of the drum itself and not with any cumbersome external power consumptive source which blows air through the drum. 
         [0012]    One of the principal benefits of the ambient air clothes dryer is energy savings. Increased energy savings not only with operation, but manufacture, and ease of use coupled with appropriate and additional safety measures are to be desired. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0013]    Accordingly, the object of the present invention is to improve the already energy saving ambient air dryer with more energy and ecologically friendly savings in operation as well as manufacture coupled with appropriate and additional safety features, not impeding, but increasing, the performance and effectiveness of the ambient air dryer. In addition the present improvements make the dryer less cumbersome and easier to operate. 
         [0014]    The preferred embodiment of the drum in the two prior Pat. Nos. 4,236,322 and 4,702,018, was in a shape of a cylinder and in the most recent patent, of injected molded plastic. By definition, a device formed of injected molded plastic must be formed in a mold in which molten plastic resin is injected under pressure. A steel mold of the size needed for this device would be necessarily large and expensive. Parts made with this procedure are cost effective, but only when made in very large quantities. With advances of recent years and broadened experience in manufacturing allowing for lower cost options in the plastic molding industry, this drum can now also be made in different and multiple ways. For ease in description, the two vertical planes of the drum will be referred to as the “sides” of the drum and the cylindrical portion of the drum joining these two sides will be referred to as the “perimeter” of the drum. The preferred embodiment as shown in this patent utilizes more than one process of manufacturing to form separate pieces to be attached and/or fitted together to form the rotatable drum. The frame for the drum is formed of blow molded plastic, roto molded plastic or other suitable material with shaped forms of injected molded plastic, metal mesh and/or other appropriate material attached to the drum frame. This type of manufacture allows the dryer to be made with much smaller, less energy consuming injectors (injectors which initially also cost far less than the huge injectors needed for injecting a large plastic part) or with a combination of plastic and other suitable materials. If the configuration of the drum is cylindrical, it can be driven by rollers or a belt. However, it is not necessary that the sides of the drum be circular in shape so long as there is provision for a carrier for a drive belt included on one location of the drum so a belt can rotate the drum. 
         [0015]    The resin used for the preferred embodiment of the dryer drum provides for the use of re-cycled or partially re-cycled resin, cutting the cost of the resin needed for the manufacture of the parts and dramatically cutting the energy costs of the initial resin production. 
         [0016]    A major factor in any plastic device being used outdoors is the life and durability of the resin. The use of carbon black, the most efficient UV inhibitor in addition to being the most cost effective, substantially extends the life and durability of the resin when this device is used outdoors. Non static electricity additive is also added to the resin primarily as a safety precaution. Leaving clothes in the rotating drum long after they have dried does not damage clothing, but items made of fabrics such as nylon can become full of static electricity if the resin is not treated with an additive to prevent the static electricity. 
         [0017]    To enhance the airflow into the dryer drum, extrusions shaped like scoops are molded into or attached to the frame of the drum to gather and force additional air into the dryer drum as it rotates, to further the efficiency of the drying process by forcing additional dry solar heated ambient air through the tumbling clothes which in turn is expelled when laden with moisture from the wet clothes through the perimeter of the drum as the clothes strike the inside perimeter surface of the drum where they fall. 
         [0018]    The purpose-designed motor used for rotating the drum is high efficiency, equipped with variable speed and a demand sensor. Said motor will not run if the dryer is over-loaded with too much weight. The variable speed makes it possible to control the speed of rotation, thereby making it possible to control the point at which the clothes within the drum free fall. This optimizes the drying process by having the clothes falling and fluttering the greatest distance possible within the drum. It also serves to expel the greatest amount of moisture laden air. Clothes push air out of the openings of the drum when they compress as they land against the inside perimeter of the dryer drum and free falling clothes will push out more air than clothes which are rolling within the drum. The more moisture laden air that is pushed out by the clothes, the more solar heated air is sucked into the dryer drum. The demand sensor on the motor automatically lowers the amount of energy used as the clothes become lighter as they dry, requiring less energy to rotate the dryer drum. 
         [0019]    The frame supporting the rotating drum in the preferred embodiment of this patent is fabricated of hollow metal tubing, but can be fabricated of blow, roto or injected molded plastic or other suitable material. 
         [0020]    The ambient air dryer is used primarily outdoors so safety is essential. In this embodiment there are exposed moving parts that without safety devices could pose a threat of injury to persons or animals. To alleviate this danger of moving parts, the frame on which the dryer drum rotates has motion and/or heat sensors located on each side of the dryer. Each sensor is multi-directional, detecting motion/heat from every direction for a pre-determined distance considered safe. Any motion or heat detection within that distance, whether it be from an adult, child, or animal will immediately stop the motor, rotating drum and any other moving part of the dryer. In addition a sound emitter at frequencies not detectable to human ears will operate to repel small animals and birds from the immediate area of the dryer. Re-starting the dryer will require the operator to enter a start-up code. After entering the start-up code, the dryer will remain motionless until the operator is beyond the range of the motion/heat detectors. Inclusion of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in the control panel will insure that protection to the user who may or may not have available use of such a protected circuit. 
         [0021]    The preferred embodiment of this present patent has wheels on the base of the frame supporting the dryer drum, at least two of which have locking capability to keep the dryer from moving. 
         [0022]    An upset switch will immediately stop all the moving parts of the dryer if the dryer moves or tips over. The dryer may not be restarted until in the upright position, operator enters start up code and moves a pre-determined distance away. 
         [0023]    Dust and lint particles drop through the mesh on the dryer drum at the point where the free falling clothes hit the inside perimeter of the drum. A screen type of lint filter is positioned under the drum at this position to catch these particles. In addition a soft brush sweeps the exterior of the drum to brush off any particles as the drum rotates. A fan under the filter draws air through the filter to further enhance the gathering and containment of any particles exiting the rotating dryer drum. A sensor on the filter indicates on the control panel and remote control when the filter requires service. 
         [0024]    Lights are affixed to the frame supporting the dryer drum at the point of the bearing or other suitable location. These lights are directed to shine toward reflectors mounted along the edge of the sides of the dryer drum. When the dryer drum is rotating in the dark these lights and reflectors make the rotating drum visible. 
         [0025]    A control panel is suitably located on the dryer frame with a numeral key pad, messaging display screen, audio alarm, lighted alarm, sound emitter, and menu, functions of said menu which include instructions for operation, humidity reading at dryer location, elapsed time the current load has been in the dryer, programmable settings such as delayed start up, plus time and date. The control panel also includes a ground fault circuit interrupter. 
         [0026]    A typical wireless remote control programmed for the specific needs of the dryer can also operate the dryer, permitting the operator to control the dryer from a distance out of the direct sun and including the same functions as the control panel on the dryer frame. 
         [0027]    Further improvements include portability functions. For ease in storage, the dryer drum can be made of materials allowing it to collapse or shaped in two pieces which fit inside one another. Especially for smaller models, extendable legs for the wheels raise the dryer for ease in use. The dryer frame can be made to fold to a smaller configuration when the dryer drum has been removed. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0028]      FIG. 1 , item  1 , shows the ambient air dryer in the rotatable configuration of an octagon. 
           [0029]      FIG. 1 , item  2 , shows an affixed circular carrier for a belt driven application. 
           [0030]      FIG. 1 , item  3 , shows the perimeter entry door in the open, “access” position. 
           [0031]      FIG. 1 , item  4 , shows this dryer application rotated on a central bearing. 
           [0032]      FIG. 2 , item  5 , shows the ambient air dryer in the rotatable configuration of a circle. 
           [0033]      FIG. 2 , item  6 , shows the perimeter entry door in the open, “access” position. 
           [0034]      FIG. 3 , item  7 , shows the perimeter view of the dryer rotated on a central bearing on each side. 
           [0035]      FIG. 3 , item  8 , shows a perimeter door in the closed position. 
           [0036]      FIG. 3 , item  8 A, indicates a frame member. 
           [0037]      FIG. 4 , item  9 , shows the perimeter door of the dryer in the open, “access” position. 
           [0038]      FIG. 4 , item  10 , shows the interior of dryer drum through the open door. 
           [0039]      FIG. 5 , item  11 , shows the ambient air dryer in the rotatable configuration of a circle in a roller driven application. 
           [0040]      FIG. 5 , item  12 , shows a centrally located entry door in the closed position. 
           [0041]      FIG. 6 , item  13 , shows the centrally located entry door in an open position. 
           [0042]      FIG. 7 , item  14 , shows an entry door on the side of the drum in a belt driven application. 
           [0043]      FIG. 7 , item  15 , shows a configuration of the frame for an entry door located on the side of the drum in a belt driven application. 
           [0044]      FIG. 8 , item  16 , shows the framework for the side of the dryer drum in an octagon configuration. 
           [0045]      FIG. 9 , item  17 , shows an attachable panel for the perimeter of the dryer drum. 
           [0046]      FIG. 9 , item  18 , shows the open mesh that is attached or molded within the frame. 
           [0047]      FIG. 10 , item  19 , shows frame for attachable piece for side of drum. 
           [0048]      FIG. 10 , item  20 , shows attachable or molded mesh. 
           [0049]      FIG. 10 , item  21 , shows this application attached by screws to frame. 
           [0050]      FIG. 11 , item  22 , shows the frame with mesh of  FIG. 10  attached to rigid frame of dryer side. 
           [0051]      FIG. 12 , item  23 , shows some suggested points for attaching extrusions for forcing additional air into the drum. 
           [0052]      FIG. 13 , item  24 , indicates shape of extruded parts for forcing air into the dryer drum. 
           [0053]      FIG. 13 , item  25 , shows closed end of extruded part. 
           [0054]      FIG. 13 , item  26 , shows open space leading into dryer drum. 
           [0055]      FIG. 13 , item  27 , shows two attached parts with open mesh allowing air to freely pass through into dryer drum. 
           [0056]      FIG. 14 , item  28 , shows side view of extruded shape for forcing air into the dryer drum. 
           [0057]      FIG. 14  shows side view of attached open mesh parts for allowing air to pass through, item  29 , indicating direction of air flowing into the dryer drum. 
           [0058]      FIG. 14 , item  30 , indicates passage of air through open mesh into dryer drum. 
           [0059]      FIG. 15 , item  31 , shows the component with an extruded shape with an open front to allow for free passage of air into the openings of the dryer drum. 
           [0060]      FIG. 16  indicates by use of multiple directional arrows from the motion/heat sensors which are located to detect any motion or heat within a pre-determined range of the dryer. 
           [0061]      FIG. 17 , item  32 , is an above view of the dryer with directional arrows indicating the field of detection by the sensors. 
           [0062]      FIG. 18 , item  33 , indicates direction of rotation of dryer drum. 
           [0063]      FIG. 18  item  34  indicates edge of dryer drum. 
           [0064]      FIG. 18 , item  35 , indicates direction of freefalling clothes within dryer drum. 
           [0065]      FIG. 18 , item  36 , indicates motor. 
           [0066]      FIG. 18 , item  37 , indicates soft brush along the edge of filter shroud. 
           [0067]      FIG. 18 , item  38 , indicates filter within shroud. 
           [0068]      FIG. 18 , item  39 , indicates shroud for filter. 
           [0069]      FIG. 18 , item  40 , indicates duct from shroud to fan. 
           [0070]      FIG. 18 , item  41 , indicates supporting frame for shroud. 
           [0071]      FIG. 19 , item  42 , shows view from perimeter of drum of the filter shroud. 
           [0072]      FIG. 19 , item  43 , shows exhaust fan. 
           [0073]      FIG. 19 , item  44 , shows motor with shaft on each side, one end of which shaft operating exhaust fan. 
           [0074]      FIG. 20  shows a portion of the dryer drum, item  45  indicating one of the lights attached to the motor mount on the side of dryer drum frame. 
           [0075]      FIG. 20 , item  46 , indicates directional arrows of illumination from light attached to dryer frame as well as directional arrows of illumination from a light source other than the light on the dryer. 
           [0076]      FIG. 20 , item  47 , indicates reflector positioned to reflect illumination from light attached to frame. 
           [0077]      FIG. 20 , item  48 , indicates a reflector positioned to reflect illumination from sources other than the light attached to the frame. 
           [0078]      FIG. 21  indicates the remote control for the ambient air dryer. 
           [0079]      FIG. 21 , item  49 , indicates a button for turning power on and off. 
           [0080]      FIG. 21 , item  50 , indicates keypad for entering codes and operation of menu options. 
           [0081]      FIG. 21 , item  51 , indicates the menu button. 
           [0082]      FIG. 21 , item  52 , indicates a display screen for messaging, said screen in drawing indicating an “error, plugged filter” message. 
           [0083]      FIG. 21 , item  53 , is flashing alarm button. 
           [0084]      FIG. 21 , item  54 , indicates speaker for alarm sound and other audio alerts. 
           [0085]      FIG. 22  indicates control box located on dryer frame. 
           [0086]      FIG. 22 , item  55 , indicates key receptacle for locking cover down on control box. 
           [0087]      FIG. 22 , item  56 , indicates cover for control box. 
           [0088]      FIG. 22 , item  57 , indicates one of the keys of the keypad. 
           [0089]      FIG. 22 , item  58 , indicates power button for turning power on or off. 
           [0090]      FIG. 22 , item  59 , indicates speaker for sound alarm and other audio alerts. 
           [0091]      FIG. 22 , item  60 , indicates menu button. 
           [0092]      FIG. 22 , item  61 , shows display screen for messaging. 
           [0093]      FIG. 22 , item  62 , indicates flashing alarm button. 
           [0094]      FIG. 22 , item  63 , indicates sound emitter button. 
           [0095]      FIG. 23 , item  64 , indicates brake on stationary or swivel wheel of dryer. 
           [0096]      FIG. 24 , item  65 , indicates rear support member for dryer drum which rotates on rollers. 
           [0097]      FIG. 24 , item  66 , shows dryer wheels on extendable legs. 
           [0098]      FIG. 25 , item  67 , shows back support member in a partial fold down position. 
           [0099]      FIG. 25 , item  68 , shows dryer wheels in the folded up position. 
           [0100]      FIG. 25 , item  69 , shows frame support in a folded down position to facilitate rolling dryer drum off frame. 
           [0101]      FIG. 26 , item  70 , indicates rigid frame members of collapsible dryer drum. 
           [0102]      FIG. 26 , item  71 , indicates attached perforated member between rigid frame members of dryer drum. 
           [0103]      FIG. 26 , item  72 , indicates by dotted lines the collapsible feature of the perforated material attached to frame members of the dryer drum. 
           [0104]      FIG. 27 , item  73 , shows collapsible drum, side view, showing the rigid frame members configured in such a way that they fit within each other when drum is collapsed. 
           [0105]      FIG. 28 , item  74 , shows a perimeter view of half of a dryer drum constructed in such a configuration that it will fit within the other half of the dryer drum. 
           [0106]      FIG. 28 , item  75 , indicates a locking type mechanism to secure together the two halves of the dryer drum. 
           [0107]      FIG. 29  indicates a portion of the central rigid member of the dryer drum and driving roller, which, when in contact with each other, serve to rotate the dryer drum. 
           [0108]      FIG. 29 , item  76 , indicates a suitable surface material such as that used for serpentine belts on the drum to provide proper traction. 
           [0109]      FIG. 29 , item  77 , indicates shape of drum in contact with driving roller. 
           [0110]      FIG. 29 , item  78 , indicates shape of the driving roller. 
           [0111]      FIG. 29 , item  79 , indicates surface material such as that used for serpentine belts on driving roller to provide proper traction with the dryer drum member. 
           [0112]      FIG. 29 , item  80 , indicates how a surface material such as that used for serpentine belts on the drum and driving roller fits together when in contact due to shaping of surface material. 
           [0113]      FIG. 30  shows collapsible frame for dryer. 
           [0114]      FIG. 30 , item  81 , indicates frame member in partial fold down position. 
           [0115]      FIG. 30 , item  82 , indicates wheels folded up position. 
           [0116]      FIG. 30 , item  83 , shows drum support in partial folded down position. 
           [0117]      FIG. 30 , item  84 , shows frame and handle folded down position. 
           [0118]      FIG. 31 , item  85 , shows side view of collapsible drum configuration with door suitable for frame with center bearings on each side of dryer drum. 
           [0119]      FIG. 32 , item  86 , shows frame with vertical member in a belt driven configuration that still allows for a door opening on the side of the dryer drum. 
           [0120]      FIG. 33 , item  87 , shows a center opening door on collapsible drum configuration for the drum driven by rollers. 
           [0121]      FIG. 34  is a view of a belt driven circular drum embodiment of the ambient air dryer with many of the features, which have been shown individually in other drawings, included in one drawing. 
           [0122]      FIG. 34 , item  88 , indicates the telescoping handle. 
           [0123]      FIG. 34 , item  89 , indicates one of the fasteners for side pieces of drum. 
           [0124]      FIG. 34 , item  90 , indicates one of the lights mounted on bearing. 
           [0125]      FIG. 34 , item  91 , indicates one of the set of reflectors on side of drum. 
           [0126]      FIG. 34 , item  92 , indicates one of the air flow extrusions. 
           [0127]      FIG. 34 , item  93 , indicates placement of a swivel wheel, placed so wheel may swivel without interfering with frame member. 
           [0128]      FIG. 34 , item  94 , indicates a one of several heat/motion detectors. 
           [0129]      FIG. 34 , item  95 , indicates shroud/duct/filter system for the containment of lint and particulates. 
           [0130]      FIG. 34 , item  95 , indicates shroud/duct/filter system for the containment of lint and particulates. 
           [0131]      FIG. 34 , item  96 , indicates wheel brake. 
           [0132]      FIG. 35  is identical to  FIG. 34  without intrusive markings in order to be used for the view drawing for the patent. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0133]    The object of the present invention is to enhance the efficiency and ease of use, increase safety, allow wider application and lower cost of the already energy saving ambient air dryer by utilizing improved manufacturing technology and present availability of materials; and providing cost effectiveness. Use of motion/heat sensors and eliminating the guard as shown in a previous patent makes the dryer lighter in weight and easier to move. In addition, the elimination of the guard makes for easier access to put items in and take items out of the dryer, increases the air flow through the dryer drum reducing drying time, and increases the visibility of items in the dryer when running. Elimination of the guard also lowers the cost of manufacture and shipping, which in turn lowers the retail price to the consumer. 
         [0134]    Previous patents explained in detail a rotatable drum driven by a belt and a rotatable drum driven by rollers. Both of these methods function suitably. Manufacturers in recent years in the plastic molding industry have become more experienced in larger consumer plastic products, making it possible to fabricate the rotating drum utilizing a combination of components. The exact shape of the drum is of no consequence, so long as it is conveniently rotatable either by a belt or rollers, as shown in several different drawings. 
         [0135]      FIG. 1  shows a rotatable drum configuration shaped like an octagon, item  1 , with a centrally located bearing, item  4 , and with an affixed circular carrier, item  2 , for a belt driven application. This particular embodiment shows a door placed on the perimeter of the drum in the open, “access” position, item  3 , said open position allowing for easy access for loading and unloading items.  FIG. 2  shows a rotatable drum configuration in a circular shape, item  5 , with a door placed on the perimeter shown in the open, access position, item  6 . This circular shaped configuration of the dryer drum can be either belt or roller driven.  FIG. 3  indicates a perimeter view of the drum with a centrally located bearing mounted on each side of the drum, item  7 , with a door located on the perimeter of the drum, item  8 , shown closed in access position.  FIG. 4  indicates a perimeter view of the dryer drum with a perimeter door shown in the open, access position, item  9 . Item  10  shows the interior of the drum as seen through the open door.  FIG. 5  shows the rotatable drum in the circular shaped configuration driven by rollers, item  11 . The door in this embodiment which is driven by rollers can be placed on the side of the drum, item  12 , and is shown in the closed position.  FIG. 6  shows the embodiment of  FIG. 5  with the door in the open position, item  13 .  FIG. 7  shows yet another embodiment for the dryer drum with a centrally located bearing mounted on each side of the drum. The frame, item  15 , is constructed in such a way, as to permit a door on side of the drum, item  14 . 
         [0136]    When the dryer is switched off, the rotation of the drum slows, then stops at the access position for easy loading and unloading of the drum.  FIG. 1 , item  3  and  FIG. 2 , item  6 , show two different embodiments of doors located on the perimeter of the drum and indicate the access position shown with open doors.  FIG. 3 , item  8  shows the access position of a closed door located on the perimeter of the drum and  FIG. 4 , item  9  shows this same embodiment with an open door.  FIG. 5 , item  12  shows the access position with a centrally located side door in closed position and  FIG. 6 , item  13  shows the access position with a centrally located side door in open position.  FIG. 7 , item  14  shows yet another embodiment of the access location of a door located on the side on the dryer drum. 
         [0137]    The dryer drum may also be stopped at “park” which positions the door opposite a frame member of the apparatus frame to interfere with the opening of the door. In “park” position the closed door of  FIG. 3 , item  8 , would be positioned with frame member, item  8 A, or any other frame member, opposite the door, thus interfering with the opening of said door. In  FIG. 7 , the door, item  14 , is shown in the closed “access” position. The closed door in “park” would be positioned opposite either or both frame members such as the frame member, item  15 , to interfere with the opening of said door. 
         [0138]    The dryer drum must be strong and stable, yet have ample openings for the free exchange of air in order to function properly. The inside of the drum must be free of any protrusions or rough surfaces which could snag or damage clothing as the drum rotates, in addition to having the openings for the free exchange of air small enough so buttons, fasteners and small items do not catch on or fall through the openings.  FIG. 8 , using the octagon shaped drum embodiment, shows a rigid, blow molded frame or other suitable material for the side of the dryer drum, item  16 , designed with ample strength, stability and durability for this application. The component part,  FIG. 10 , is fabricated to be attached to the ribs and outer edge of the side frame of the dryer. The frame for this component, item  19 , can be plastic, metal or other suitable material; the mesh insert, item  20 , can be plastic, metal or other suitable perforated material; or the entire part can be formed of molded plastic. The pieces for the eight components shown on this particular embodiment,  FIG. 10 , can be securely held in place by screws, item  21 , rivets, welded or glued into receptacles molded into the frame,  FIG. 8 . With blow molded construction, the molded receptacles for receiving screws or rivets are imbedded within the frame so no sharp edge is exposed inside or outside the dryer drum.  FIG. 11 , item  22 , shows one such component attached to the side frame of this embodiment. 
         [0139]      FIG. 9 , the component pieces for the perimeter of the drum, each consisting of a rigid frame, item  17 , with a mesh insert, item  18 , are also attached into receptacles molded into the outer edges of the blow molded side frame, again into receptacles imbedded within the molded dryer drum frame. These components can be fabricated entirely with molded plastic or the frame can be a separate piece with an attached mesh. Both frame and mesh can be formed of plastic, metal or other suitable material or formed entirely of molded plastic. 
         [0140]    The tumbling clothes within the present embodiment of this clothes dryer are dried by the dry air flowing through the clothes and moisture laden air expelled from the dryer drum. The component part,  FIG. 10 , can be designed to incorporate extrusions that by design force additional air into the dryer drum as the drum rotates, which necessarily facilitates the efficiency of the drying process.  FIG. 12 , item  23 , shows an embodiment with eight typical locations along one edge of each part, such as the  FIG. 10  part, for such increased air flow extrusions on the side of the dryer drum designed to force air into the rotating dryer drum. 
         [0141]      FIG. 13  shows a portion of this air flow extrusion. The component part is fabricated with a mesh to the front, item  27 , said mesh perpendicular to the side of the dryer drum. The component part is shaped, item  24 , to function as a scoop with closed ends, item  25 , to force additional air into the dryer drum as the drum rotates. The air enters the open mesh openings in the front, two of which are shown, item  27 , and is forced into the opening to the dryer drum, item  26 . The open mesh is attached along the entire front of the component for maximum efficiency. This component part can be fabricated from plastic or other suitable material with attached mesh inserts; said inserts which can be fabricated from plastic, metal or other suitable perforated material. This component part can be fabricated as a separate part to be attached to the dryer drum or can be directly molded as part of one of the side pieces of the drum.  FIG. 14  shows a cut-a-way side view of this component, item  28 , shaped to force air as shown by directional arrow, item  29 , through the mesh openings, item  30 , into the dryer drum. The embodiment of this component part is designed to be used with an opening in the drum under the part.  FIG. 15  shows a partial embodiment of this component part indicating one of the closed ends, but the front of the part left open and placed over the mesh, item  31 , on the side of the dryer drum. Either embodiment will function to force air into the dryer drum. 
         [0142]    When this dryer is in operation, safety devices initiate to keep persons and/or animals from harm.  FIG. 16  indicates by the multi-directional arrows from motion/heat sensors, such as the type manufactured by Optex and Honeywell, placed on multiple sides of the dryer frame to detect any motion or heat within a pre-determined range of the dryer. These sensors detect motion/heat from every side, above, and below the dryer apparatus. Any motion or heat detected by the sensors will immediately interrupt power to the motor. The dryer will start again only with the use of the start-up code. 
         [0143]    In addition to the heat/motion sensors are sound emitters, inaudible to humans but audible to animals, to keep animals and birds away from the dryer. The sound emitters will automatically function when the dryer is in operation and may be manually set to emit sound with either battery power or an external power source even when the dryer is not in operation, again to keep animals and birds away from the dryer. 
         [0144]      FIG. 17 , item  32 , is a view from above the dryer apparatus with directional arrows indicating a pre-determined field of detection by the sensors located on the dryer&#39;s frame. Any motion/heat detected within this pre-determined field of detection will interrupt the power supply to the motor and require the start-up code to re-start the dryer. 
         [0145]      FIG. 18  shows the mechanism for the containment of lint and other particles exiting the drum from the tumbling clothes and items within the dryer drum. As the dryer drum rotates in the direction indicated by item  33 , the free falling items within the drum land in the area designated by the directional arrow, item  35 . As items inside the dryer drum fall against the open mesh they release lint and other particulates, which fall through the openings into the lint filter, item  38 , encased by the shroud, item  39 . Soft brushes, item  37 , are on both sides and across lower edge of the shroud, item  39 , thereby sweeping both edges of the perimeter of the rotating dryer drum to keep lint and particulates from floating or exiting off to the side as well as sweeping across the perimeter of the drum, item  34 , to further aid in the capture of lint and other particulates by sweeping them into the filter. The purpose-designed motor , item  36 , used for rotating the drum is high efficiency, equipped with variable speed and a demand sensor. Said motor will not run if the dryer is over-loaded with too much weight. Start up speed of the motor is slow, then increases to operational speed over a sufficient period of time to prevent loss of traction due to the possible high moment of inertia at start up. The variable speed makes it possible to control the speed of rotation, thereby making it possible to control the point at which the clothes within the drum free fall. This optimizes the drying process by having the clothes falling and fluttering the greatest distance possible within the drum. It also serves to expel the greatest amount of moisture laden air. Clothes push air out of the openings of the drum as they land and compress against the inside perimeter of the dryer drum and free falling clothes will push out more air than clothes which are rolling within the drum. The more moisture laden air that is pushed out by the clothes, the more solar heated air is sucked into the dryer drum. The demand sensor on the motor automatically lowers the amount of energy used as the clothes become lighter as they dry, requiring less energy to rotate the dryer drum. 
         [0146]    In addition to the soft brushes, a motor, item  36 , operated fan,  FIG. 19 , item  43 , is positioned to draw additional air through the filter to assist in capturing lint and particulates. This lint containment assembly is supported by a frame,  FIG. 18 , item  41 , which is in turn attached to the dryer frame. The shroud is molded plastic or other suitable material and the flat lint filter, item  38 , can be easily removed to clean. A duct, item  40 , is connected to the shroud and leads to the motor driven fan. 
         [0147]      FIG. 19  shows the lint containment assembly from the perimeter view of the dryer. Item  42  indicates the shroud with the duct leading to the fan, item  43 . Item  44  indicates the shaft of the motor which operates the fan as well as the mechanism to rotate the dryer drum. 
         [0148]    This dryer which uses open, ambient air may be used in the dark as well as daylight. As an added safety feature, lights, such as LED lights, are affixed to the frame of the dryer.  FIG. 20  shows a partial section of the dryer drum assembly. A light, item  45 , is affixed to the bearing cover of the frame of the dryer. Reflectors are positioned along the edge of the dryer drum side. One reflector, item  47 , is positioned to reflect illumination from the light source on the dryer. The other reflector is positioned to reflect illumination from sources other than on the dryer. The directional arrows, item  46 , indicate the reflected light both from the light affixed to the dryer frame as well as from a light source other than on the dryer assembly. These lights and reflectors make the rotating drum visible in the dark or in partial light. 
         [0149]      FIG. 21  indicates a typical wireless remote control programmed for the specific needs of the clothes dryer and permitting the operator to control the dryer from a distance. Item  49  is an on/off switch. The “off” position slows, then stops the drum in access position. “Access position” stops the dryer drum in a convenient position for the loading and unloading of the drum. A menu option allows the drum to be stopped in “park position” as well to interfere with the opening of said door, particularly useful when dryer is not in use. The “on” position will not start the dryer until the start-up code is entered and the operator has moved away to a pre-determined distance as detected by the motion/heat sensors. The “on” position also activates a sound emitted at a frequency inaudible to humans but audible to animals to keep animals away from the dryer when in operation. Item  50  indicates several pads of the keypad control, said keypad control used for the start-up code and menu functions. 
         [0150]    Item  51  indicates the “menu” button and displays a list of functions on the messaging display screen, item  52 . The menu list includes instructions for general use (ie. on”, “off”, entering secure start up code, manually setting sound emitter to continue to function when dryer is off, setting delayed start, setting on again off again cycle for rotation of drum for pre-drying hard to dry items); information (humidity at dryer location, elapsed time since load put into dryer, estimated dry time, programmable settings such as delayed start up, plus time and date); and error messages (plugged filter, overloaded, heavy point weight, water on dryer, fire, dryer moved or tipped). The display screen, item  52 , automatically displays error/general messages and remedies. 
         [0151]    Item  54  is the alarm light which lights up or flashes for pre-determined issues, such as the dryer stopping. Item  55  is a speaker for the alarm which sounds when the alarm light is on. This alarm will sound for several pre-determined issues such as the dryer stopping or error messages such as “dryer tipped”, “fire” or “water on dryer”. Said speaker sounds a lesser sound for pre-determined less critical error messages such as plugged filter, overloaded, and heavy point weight. This speaker can also give audio messaging for all functions on the menu. The alarm functions operate even when the dryer is not in use by using battery power as well as an external power source in order to prevent unauthorized tampering with the dryer when unattended and not in use in an unsecured area. 
         [0152]      FIG. 22  indicates the control box suitably located on the dryer frame. Item  55  indicates the receptacle for a key for locking the closed cover. Item  56  indicates the cover, shown in a partially open position, which fits over the controls for protection from the elements or tampering. Item  57  indicates one of the pads for the keypad control, said keypad control used for the start-up code as well as menu functions. Item  58  indicates the on/off button. The “on” function engages power to the dryer. To initiate the tumbling motion of the drum, a start-up code must be entered and operator must move away from the dryer for a pre-determined distance before the dryer drum will actually begin to rotate. The “on” function also engages the sound emitter. The “off” cuts off power to the dryer. The dryer drum will automatically stop as operator moves toward the operating dryer, but the power source remains engaged until dryer is actually turned off or until not in use for a pre-determined length of time. Item  59  in the speaker for audio alerts. An alarm will sound for several pre-determined issues such as the dryer stopping or error messages such as “dryer tipped”, “fire” or “water on dryer”. The speaker sounds a lesser sound for pre-determined, less critical error messages such as plugged filter, overloaded, and heavy point weight. This speaker can also give audio messaging for all functions on the menu. The alarm functions operate even when the dryer is not in use by using battery power as well as an external power source in order to prevent unauthorized tampering with the dryer when unattended and not in use in an unsecured area. 
         [0153]    Item  60  is the menu button and displays a list of functions of the messaging display screen, item  61 . The menu list includes instructions for general use (ie. on”, “off”, entering secure start up code, manually setting sound emitter to continue to function when dryer is off, setting delayed start, setting on again off again cycle for rotation of drum for pre-drying hard to dry items); information (humidity at dryer location, elapsed time since load put into dryer, estimated dry time, programmable settings such as delayed start up, plus time and date); and error messages (plugged filter, overloaded, heavy point weight, water on dryer, fire, dryer moved or tipped). 
         [0154]    Item  61  is the messaging display screen which automatically displays error/general messages such as the “error plugged filter” as shown, remedies for error messages, plus the menu options. Item  62  is the alarm light which lights up or flashes for all the alarm functions associated with the speaker. The alarm functions, including this alarm light, operate even when the dryer is not in use by using battery power as well as an external power source in order to prevent unauthorized tampering with the dryer when unattended and not in use in an unsecured area. Item  63  is the sound emitter button which when engaged continually emits sound even when the dryer is in “off” mode. Inclusion of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in the control panel insures that protection to the user who may or may not have available use of such a protected circuit. 
         [0155]      FIG. 23  shows one typical wheel of the type attached to the dryer frame. Item  64  indicates a standard type of lock for the wheel which can be operated by foot or hand. These locking wheels are on a minimum of two wheels to keep the dryer from moving when positioned and when drum is in motion. These wheels may or may not swivel or may be used in combination. 
         [0000]      FIG. 24  shows a side view embodiment of the clothes dryer with a belt driven drum. Item  65  shows the rear support member for the dryer drum. Item  66  shows wheels with extendable legs in the extended position in order to raise the dryer assembly for more ease in use. The wheels have two positions. The extension leg can swing out as indicated by the curved arrow and slide into a slotted bracket as shown in  FIG. 25 . 
         [0156]    It is not necessary that the ambient air dryer be portable. However, all the embodiments of the ambient air dryer in the drawings have been shown in a portable configuration with wheels. In addition to wheels, the ambient air dryer can be further configured to aid in portability and storage.  FIG. 25  indicates portability/storage functions of the clothes dryer assembly which is driven with rollers and supported by a rear support member. Item  67  indicates the disengaged rear support member for the dryer drum in a partially folded down position. Item  68 A and  68 B show the wheels with extendable legs. Item  68 A is already slid into position along the frame; item  68 B to be slid into position along the frame. Item  69  indicates a frame member tipped forward to facilitate rolling the dryer drum off the frame. 
         [0157]      FIG. 26  shows the perimeter view of a collapsible drum with silicon or other suitable flexible perforated material affixed to rigid frame members, said drum designed for portability and ease in storage. Item  70  indicates the rigid members of the drum. Item  71  indicates one of the several perforated flexible parts of the dryer drum and item  72  indicates how the flexible parts of the dryer drum fold in order to collapse. 
         [0158]      FIG. 27  shows the side view of the collapsible dryer drum. Item  73  indicates how the rigid members of the drum are configured to allow each part of the collapsible drum to fit inside one another when the dryer drum is collapsed, thus allowing for more convenient and space saving storage. 
         [0159]      FIG. 28  shows the perimeter view of a dryer drum that is configured to come apart at the mid perimeter point, said drum designed for portability and ease in storage. The two halves of the dryer drum are shaped with the outside circumference of the drum smaller than the circumference at the point of attachment to the other half, item  74 , so the two halves of the drum fit inside one another when the dryer drum is disassembled. Item  75  indicates a locking mechanism so the two halves of the dryer drum can be securely fitted together when assembled for use. As shown, the extended portions on the edge of each dryer half are configured so the drum parts are fitted together, then turned to lock together securely. As an added safety precaution, these drum halves are also fitted with a pin or screw to lock and prevent the two halves from rotating separately and coming apart. 
         [0160]      FIG. 29  indicates a portion of the rigid center member on the collapsible dryer drum, such as the drum of  FIG. 26 , which, when in operation, is in contact with the driving roller which rotates the drum. Item  76  indicates a surface material attached to the rigid center member on the collapsible dryer drum, this material being suitable for traction, durability and shape, such as the material used for serpentine automotive belts, to adhere to the surface material on the driving roller. Item  77  indicates the shape of a small portion of the flexible material of the dryer drum that is affixed to the rigid frame. Item  78  indicates the shaped driving roller designed to help keep the drum in the proper position while rotating. Item  79  indicates a surface material attached to the drive roller, this material being suitable for traction, durability and shape, such as the material used for serpentine automotive belts, to adhere to the surface material on the rigid center member on the collapsible dryer drum. Item  80  indicates the shape of the surface materials on both the rigid center member on the collapsible dryer drum and the driving roller which, when in contact with each other, fit together in addition to the traction from the material adhered to both parts to provide stability when dryer drum is in motion. 
         [0161]      FIG. 30  indicates a collapsible frame for the dryer drum in a partially collapsed position. Item  81  shows a portion of the frame which can fold outward to help in rolling drum off frame or fold inward as shown for more compact storage of the frame. Item  82  shows the extendable wheels still operational in their folded up position. Item  83  shows the drum support member in a partially folded down position. This member folds down to a horizontal position for more compact storage. Item  84  indicates the portion of the frame which includes the controls telescoped in the “down” position for more compact storage. 
         [0162]      FIG. 31  shows the side view of a collapsible drum configuration with a door configuration, item  85 , suitable for a supporting frame with a center bearing and support on both sides. It is also suitable for a configuration with a back support center bearing only. 
         [0163]      FIG. 32  indicates a frame support consisting of a center bearing on each side of the dryer drum which is rotated by a circular belt that allows for a door opening on the side of the drum with no impediment from the frame. 
         [0164]      FIG. 33  shows the collapsible dryer drum configuration driven by rollers with a center door, item  87 , located on the side of the dryer drum. 
         [0165]      FIG. 34  shows an embodiment of the ambient air clothes dryer with multiple improvements shown on a single drawing. All of these particular improvements have been shown and explained individually in other drawings. Item  88  is the telescoping handle. Item  89  indicates one of the fasteners for attaching drum side pieces to the drum frame. Item  90  indicates one of the lights mounted on the center bearing cover that shines toward the reflectors, one of which is item  91 . Item  92  indicates one of the air flow extrusions on the side of the dryer drum. Item  93  indicates a positioning of one of the wheels on the end of a portion of the frame of the dryer to accommodate a swivel. Item  94  indicates one of several heat/motion sensors. Item  95  indicates the support frame, shroud, duct, filter and brushes for capturing lint and particulates when the dryer drum is in motion. Item  96  indicates a wheel locking mechanism. 
         [0166]      FIG. 35  is identical to  FIG. 34  except without intruding item numbers and may be used as the view drawing for the patent.

Technology Classification (CPC): 3