US Patent:
20040007028, Jan 15, 2004
Inventors:
Allen Panther - Newark OH, US
Phil Johnson - Louisville KY, US
International Classification:
D06F035/00
Abstract:
Methods and apparatus are provided for acoustically insulating a washing machine and, specifically, a laundry tub. An acoustical blanket of thermoplastic material extends around and insulates the laundry tub. A wall of the tub has at least one protuberance for mating with a hole of the acoustical blanket. The acoustical blanket may be crimped over a top of the wall. Protuberances include knobs and elongate members. The thermoplastic material is selected from a group consisting of a polyester, polyethylene, polyolefin, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, rayon, nylon, acrylic, hemp, kenaf, cotton and combinations thereof. A facing layer(s) may additionally be provided on the acoustical blanket. The facing layer being selected from a group consisting of polyester, rayon, metallic foil and combinations thereof. The blanket may also mate directly with a cylinder around the tub.