Patent ID: 7762107

Claim:
Counterweight for connecting to a washing machine tub ( 2 ), comprising an hollow shell ( 3 ) of U-shaped cross-section containing a concrete ballast mass ( 4 ) poured therein, wherein said shell ( 3 ) is integrally provided in one piece with at least a foldable member ( 5 ) adapted to close at least a portion of said shell ( 4 ) in order to encapsulate said concrete ballast mass ( 4 ), wherein said foldable member ( 5 ) comprise a cover extending from a peripheral edge ( 8 ) of said shell ( 3 ) in correspondence to enlarged lower portions ( 6 ) thereof said peripheral edge ( 8 ) integrally provides pivotal sections ( 9 ) adapted to facilitate the rotation of said foldable member ( 5 ) around the peripheral edge ( 8 ) so that the ballast mass contained in the enlarged lower portion ( 6 ) are covered by said foldable member ( 5 ).