| New OEM Differential Sensor Detects Dryer Clogging |
| Lint-Alert –
U.S.
Patent 6,785,981 Sku: DLS121 |
(Jupiter, FL - May 2006) In-O-Vate Technologies, Inc., a manufacturing company specializing in dryer venting products, recently unveiled the Lint-Alert, an electromechanical pressure switch to be installed in the dryer appliance. Collaborating with World Magnetics of Michigan, the DesignFlex pressure switch mates with In-O-Vate’s specially designed pitot tube receptor that slides and snaps into place in the dryer’s exhaust conduit.
Measuring the pressure differential within the clothes dryer exhaust conduit and atmosphere, the device will detect and notify the appliance user of any blockage. Potential blockage issues would include the buildup of lint due to the condensation and moist air in the pipe, the potential of the flex being crushed or kinked creating a “bottleneck” situation, bird or rodent nests near the exhaust termination cutting off air flow, and screens within the termination hoods allowing lint to accumulate over time and inoperative dampers.
The U.L. approved switch would be an OEM component installed on the exhaust conduit of the dryer at or near its exit port. The switch exhibits a contamination-free pitot tube pickup and a creative design that allows for a slide-n-snap insertion.
At a predetermined set-point (approximately .91 water column inch), the switch would trigger an audible or visual alert on
the control panel that maintenance or attention should be directed to the exhaust conduit of the dryer (exterior of the unit).
“This brand new and recently patented pressure differential switch is a common sense innovative safety device that has huge potential in saving lives and property,” said Rick Harpenau, the inventor. He also states that for the appliance manufacturer, it can minimize warranty issues, reduce service call expenses and remove the liability associated with
dryer fires.
In 1998, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that 15,600 clothes dryer fires occurred killing 20 people, injuring 370 more and causing over $55 million in direct property damage. In 30 percent of the cases, lack of maintenance was the leading cause of these fires.
“The dryer is a common and frequent ignition source in household fires. Property damage, injuries, fatalities and insurance costs could all be reduced with this simple inexpensive product,” Harpenau said. The new module has been introduced and is being tested by a few of the major appliance manufacturers and is available now.
DesignFlex, a World Magnetics Brand, located in Traverse MI, is a manufacturer of pressure switches and vacuum switches for demanding OEM applications, ranging from sip and puff communication systems for the handicapped to arc fault detection aboard the Trident submarine.
For more information, call Rick at (888) 443-7937 or visit www.lintalert.com
This press release available at www.lintalert.com/press_room.htm
High resolution pictures available at www.lintalert.com/photo_gallery.htm |
Send Link To A Friend/Associate
