Dryer Lint Tube

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dryer lint tube/hose made up of a flexible and heat-resistant material. The dryer lint tube comes in various accordion-style designs that allow the tube to be flexible, adjustable and extendable in length. In one design, the tube has detachable tubular ends for securely fitting the tube to a dryer vent and a wall vent. Further, in another embodiment, the tube has alternate tubular and accordion-style lengths. In a third embodiment, the tube has a pure accordion-style design. The dryer lint tube is easy to cut, and can be installed without any tools. A twist-on clamp with a large end is used to secure the tube at both the dryer vent and the wall vent.

Claims

1. A dryer lint tube device that connects a dryer exhaust vent from a dryer to a wall vent, the dryer lint tube device comprising: a tube comprising a first end and a second end; a first hose clamp; and a second hose clamp, wherein the first hose clamp securely clamps the first end of the tube to an opening of the dryer exhaust vent, and further wherein the second hose clamp securely clamps the second end of the tube to the wall vent.

2. The dryer lint tube device of claim 1, wherein the tube is manufactured of a silicon.

3. The dryer lint tube device of claim 1, wherein the tube comprises alternate lengths of an accordion-style portion and a tubular-style portion.

4. The dryer lint tube device of claim 3, wherein the first end and the second end can be either the tubular-style portion or the accordion-style portion.

5. The dryer lint tube device of claim 1, wherein the tube comprises an accordion-style middle portion and a first and a second tubular-style opposing end portions.

6. The dryer lint tube device of claim 5, wherein the first tubular-style end portion is secured via the first hose clamp to the opening of the dryer exhaust vent.

7. The dryer lint tube device of claim 6, wherein the second tubular-style end portion is secured via the second hose clamp to the wall vent.

8. The dryer lint tube device of claim 7, wherein the first and the second tubular-style opposing end portions are integrated to the tube as one-piece.

9. The dryer lint tube device of claim 7, wherein the first and the second tubular-style opposing end portions are detachably secured to the tube.

10. The dryer lint tube device of claim 1, wherein the tube comprises an accordion-style portion without any tubular-style portions or tubular-style end portions.

11. A dryer lint tube device that connects a dryer exhaust vent from a dryer to a wall vent, the dryer lint tube device comprising: a silicon tube comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the silicon tube comprises alternate lengths of an accordion-style portion and a tubular-style portion, and further wherein the first end and the second end can be either tubular-style or accordion-style portions; a first hose clamp; and a second hose clamp, wherein the first hose clamp securely clamps the first end of the silicon tube to an opening of the dryer exhaust vent, and further wherein the second hose clamp securely clamps the second end of the silicon tube to the wall vent.

12. The dryer lint tube device of claim 11, wherein the first and the second hose clamp comprises a round, flat, single-gear band.

13. The dryer lint tube device of claim 12, wherein the round, flat, single-gear band is circular in shape to secure around the first end and the second end of the silicon tube.

14. The dryer lint tube device of claim 13, wherein a diameter of the round, flat, single-gear band increases or decreases as a large end component rotates in a clockwise or in a counterclockwise direction within a screw gauge.

15. The dryer lint tube device of claim 14, wherein the round, flat, single-gear band comprises a plurality of slots that are configured to interact with the screw gauge to tighten or loosen the first and the second hose clamp.

16. The dryer lint tube device of claim 11, wherein the first and the second hose clamp is manufactured from a combination of steel or iron.

17. The dryer lint tube device of claim 11, wherein the first and the second hose clamp is manufactured from anhydrous ammonia that is cadmium plated to prevent rust and corrosion.

18. A method for connecting a dryer exhaust vent from a dryer to a wall vent using a dryer lint tube device comprising the steps of: selecting a desired length of a tube comprising a first end and a second end; securely fitting the first end of the tube onto the dryer exhaust vent; and securely fitting the second end of the tube onto the wall vent, thereby connecting the dryer exhaust vent and the wall vent.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the tube comprises alternate lengths of accordion-style and tubular-style portions.

20. The method of claim 18 further comprising a step of using one twist on hose clamp at both the first end and the second end to securely fit the tube onto the dryer exhaust vent and the wall vent, thereby preventing lint and debris from escaping.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the dryer lint tube device of the present invention, wherein the device has alternate tubular and accordion-style lengths in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of another potential embodiment of the dryer lint tube device of the present invention, wherein the device has detachable tubular ends in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0018] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a third potential embodiment of the dryer lint tube device of the present invention, wherein an accordion-style tube is disclosed in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0019] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view showing one potential embodiment of the dryer lint tube device, wherein the device has alternate tubular and accordion-style lengths, and is being used for connecting a dryer to a wall vent in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0020] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view showing another potential embodiment of the dryer lint tube device, wherein the device has detachable tubular ends and is being used for connecting the dryer to a wall vent in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0021] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view showing another potential embodiment of the dryer lint tube device, wherein an accordion-style tube is being used for connecting the dryer to a wall vent in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

[0022] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the hose clamp used for securing one potential embodiment of the dryer lint tube of the present invention to a wall vent and dryer vent in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0023] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0024] As noted above, there exists a long felt need in the art for an improved dryer lint tube that eliminates or reduces kinks and tearing during and after installation. There is also a long felt need in the art for an improved dryer lint tube that eliminates the clogging of lint and debris. Additionally, there is a long felt need in the art for an improved dryer lint tube that eliminates the chances of fire due to the accumulation of lint and debris in the tube. Moreover, there is a long felt need in the art for an improved dryer lint tube that is cost-effective, flexible and customizable. Further, there is a long felt need in the art for an improved dryer lint tube that can be installed without using any professional help, and without use of expensive tools. Furthermore, there is a long felt need in the art for an improved dryer lint tube that securely fits onto both the wall vent and the dryer vent. Finally, there is a long felt need in the art for an improved dryer lint tube that enables a user to easily and safely customize the hose as per his or her needs and/or wants to vent outside the home.

[0025] The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is a novel accordion-style dryer tube. The dryer tube is designed to connect a dryer outlet vent to a wall vent. The accordion-style tube is made up of a flexible and heat-resistant material like silicon, and has tubular opposing ends. The accordion length allows the tube to be extended or retracted, and the opposing tubular ends form a secure fit with a dryer exhaust pipe/vent and a wall vent for exhausting lint and moisture from the dryer. The secure fit at both the dryer exhaust pipe/vent and the wall vent prevents lint from escaping.

[0026] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the dryer lint tube device of the present invention. The dryer lint tube device 100 of the present embodiment is an extendable and flexible tube that connects a dryer exhaust pipe to a wall pipe. More specifically, the dryer lint tube device 100 of the present embodiment has an accordion-style silicon tube 102 having alternate lengths of accordion-style 104 and tubular-style 106. The device 100 further comprises a pair of hose clamps 108, 112 wherein a first hose clamp 108 securely clamps a first end 110 of the tube 102 to an opening of the dryer exhaust pipe/vent, and a second clamp 112 securely clamps a second end 114 of the tube 102 to the wall pipe. It should be noted that both the first end 110 and the second end 114 can be either tubular-style 106 or accordion-style 104. The accordion lengths 104 make the tube flexible and customizable to accommodate the needs and/or wants of a user by, allowing the tube 102 to turn and extend in different directions and/or angles. The silicon tube 102 can be cut to different lengths as per the distance between the dryer exhaust pipe and the wall pipe.

[0027] The accordion-style of the tube 102 allows the angle of the tube 102 to be adjusted to fit even small spaces. The tube 102 allows the smooth flow of lint from the dryer to the wall pipe without any lint escaping or becoming clogged. Also, the first end 110 and the second end 114 form a secure fit to the dryer pipe and the wall pipe respectively, thus preventing lint from escaping. Further, the clamps 108, 112 secure and tighten, providing additional security against lint escaping. Advantageously, the silicon tube 102 eliminates the chances of a fire from dryer lint or other debris building up in the tube 102. Additionally, the silicon tube 102 is easy to use with a fire extinguisher, and can easily be removed without the use of a tool or without help from a professional.

[0028] Further, the silicon tube 102 is easy to clean from both the exterior and the interior. The tube 102 can be pulled easily from the pipes, thereby allowing a user to easily remove the debris and lint. The silicon material of the tube 102 does not allow easy tearing, which provides a long life to the silicon dryer lint tube 102 of the present embodiment.

[0029] Preferably, each accordion-style length 104 is approximately in the range of 1′-2′ and each tubular length 106 is approximately in the range of 2′-3′. However, it should be appreciated that these lengths can be adjusted and customized as per a user's wants and/or needs.

[0030] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the dryer lint tube device of the present invention. The dryer lint tube device 200 of the present embodiment comprises an accordion-style silicon tube 202 having tubular-style ends 204, 206. The first tubular-style end 204 and the second tubular-style end 206 are designed to securely fit onto the dryer pipe and wall pipe respectively. The accordion length 202 provides flexibility in both length and turning along the complete length of the tube 202, however the tubular ends 204, 206 provide a secure fit which prevents lint from escaping from the vents and pipe. The tube 202 can be formed of a flexible and heat-resistant material such as silicon, etc., or any other suitable material as is known in the art, and can be available in different lengths, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user.

[0031] The system 200 further comprises a pair of hose clamps 208, 210, wherein a first hose clamp 208 securely clamps the first tubular style end 204 to an opening of the dryer exhaust pipe, and a second clamp 210 securely clamps the second tubular style end 206 to the wall pipe. The tubular ends 204, 206 can be integrated to the tube 202 or can also be detachably-secured, thereby allowing users to use either one or both tubular ends as per their requirements.

[0032] Preferably, each tubular end 204, 206 is approximately in the range of 3″-4″ for a secure fit. However, it should be appreciated that the length of the tubular ends 204, 206 can be adjusted and customized as per a user's wants and/or needs.

[0033] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a third embodiment of the dryer lint tube device of the present invention. The dryer lint tube device 300 of the present embodiment has an accordion-style silicon tube 302 without any tubular lengths or ends. The accordion tube 302 has opposing ends 304, 306 that are used to securely fit the tube 302 to the wall pipe and dryer pipe respectively. The accordion tube 302 provides flexibility in both length and turning, and provides a secure fit to eliminate any lint from escaping from the vents and pipe. The tube 302 can be formed of a flexible and heat-resistant material such as silicon, or any other suitable material as is known in the art and can be available in different lengths.

[0034] The device 300 further comprises a pair of hose clamps 308, 310 wherein a first clamp 308 securely clamps the first end 304 to an opening of the dryer exhaust pipe, and a second clamp 310 securely clamps the second end 306 to the wall pipe.

[0035] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view showing one embodiment of the dryer lint tube device of the present invention in use. As shown, the dryer 400 has a dryer pipe/vent 402 from which the warm air along with lint and other debris is exhausted by the dryer 400. The first end 110 of the dryer lint tube 102 securely fits onto the dryer vent 402 and is secured by the first clamp 108, and the second end 114 of the tube 102 securely fits onto the wall vent 404 disposed in an external wall 406 and is secured by the second clamp 112. The accordion-style lengths 104 allow the tube 102 to be flexible and adjust for turns and angles. The tubular-style lengths 106 allow the secure and smooth flow of debris and lint within the tube 102. The dryer lint tube 102 can be used to connect the dryer 400 with the wall vent 404 in situations where the external wall 406 is near the dryer 400, and in situations where the distance between the dryer 400 and the external wall 406 is large.

[0036] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view showing another embodiment of the dryer lint tube device of the present invention in use. The first tubular end 204 of the dryer lint tube 202 securely fits onto the dryer vent 402 and is secured by a first clamp 208, and the second tubular end 206 of the tube 202 securely fits onto the wall vent 404 disposed in the external wall 406 and is secured by the second clamp 210. The accordion-style tube 202 allows the tube to be extended, retracted or adjusted in direction and turn as per a user's wants and/or needs, and the space available between the dryer vent 402 of the dryer 400 and the wall vent 404.

[0037] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view showing a third embodiment of the dryer lint tube device of the present invention in use. The first end 304 of the dryer lint tube 302 securely fits onto the dryer vent 402 and is secured by a first clamp 308, and the second end 306 of the tube 302 securely fits onto the wall vent 404 disposed in the external wall 406 and is secured by the second clamp 310. The accordion-style tube 302 allows the tube to be extended, retracted or adjusted in direction and turn as per a user's needs and/or wants, and the space available between the dryer vent 402 of the dryer 400 and the wall vent 404.

[0038] It should be appreciated that the dryer lint tube device of various embodiments of the present invention can come in various colors, designs and sizes to meet a user's wants and/or needs. Further, the dryer lint tube device is soft, pliable, adjustable and flexible, thereby preventing lint from escaping from the connections at both the dryer vent and the wall vent. The dryer lint tube device can be used regardless of where in the room or outside the exhaust pipe is located. Further, the dryer lint tube device of various embodiments provides a quick connect and disconnect assembly that can be used with substantially any conventional dryer.

[0039] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view showing the hose clamp used for securing the dryer lint tube device to a wall vent and dryer vent. The hose clamp 700 can be manufactured from a combination of steel or iron, stainless steel, galvanized steel, etc., or any other suitable material as is known in the art. The hose clamp 700 can also be made of anhydrous ammonia that is typically cadmium-plated to prevent rust and corrosion. The hose clamp 700 typically has a round, flat, thin single-gear band 702. The band 702 is configured in a circular shape for securing around the ends of the dryer lint tube device. The diameter of the band 702 increases or decreases as a large end component 704 rotates in a clockwise or in a counter-clockwise direction, within a screw gauge 706. Further, the band 702 includes a plurality of slots 708 that are configured to interact with the screw gauge or clamping device 706 to tighten or loosen the hose clamp 700.

[0040] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “dryer lint tube device”, “device”, “dryer tube device”, and “clothes dryer vent coupling device”, are interchangeable and refer to the dryer lint tube device 100, 200, 300 of the present invention. Similarly, as used herein “dryer lint tube”, “dryer tube”, “accordion tube”, “tube” and “accordion-style silicon tube” are interchangeable and refer to the dryer lint tube 102, 202, 302 of the present invention

[0041] Notwithstanding the forgoing, the dryer lint tube device 100, 200, 300 and the dryer lint tube 102, 202, 302 of the present invention can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the dryer lint tube device 100, 200, 300 and the dryer lint tube 102, 202, 302 as shown in FIGS. 1-7 is for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the dryer lint tube device 100, 200, 300 and the dryer lint tube 102, 202, 302 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the dryer lint tube device 100, 200, 300 and the dryer lint tube 102, 202, 302 are important design parameters for user convenience, the dryer lint tube device 100, 200, 300 and the dryer lint tube 102, 202, 302 may be of any size that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

[0042] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0043] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.