Pump mounting assembly for a laundry appliance

Abstract

A laundry appliance includes a cabinet defining an interior volume and a tub mounted within the interior volume of the cabinet. The laundry appliance includes a laundry basket rotatably mounted within the tub. The laundry basket defines a chamber for receipt of articles for treatment. The appliance includes a pump mounting assembly that includes a pump mounting portion mounted to the cabinet. The pump mounting portion includes a base defining a slot and a shoulder coupled with the base. The shoulder defines a stabilizing aperture. The pump mounting assembly includes a pump that includes an arm that defines an arm recess. Pump includes a leg that includes a stem and a head coupled with the stem. The pump mounting assembly includes a rear grommet operably coupled with the leg. The rear grommet defines an internal recess configured to receive the head and an external recess configured to receive the base.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to laundry appliances, and more particularly to pump mounting assemblies for laundry appliances.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Laundry appliances include washing machine appliances, dryer appliances, and combination laundry appliances. Combination laundry appliances, sometimes also referred to as washer / dryer appliances, provide both washing and drying functions in a single unit. During the washing operation, a pump must often operate to send fluids through the appliance and out of the appliance. Operation of the pump is typically associated with vibration. The vibration of the pump can generate nuisance noises that may disrupt the user. Further, the excess vibration may vibrate other areas of the laundry appliance that do not require movement.

[0003] A pump mounting assembly may be where the excess vibrations transfer into the rest of the laundry appliance. Accordingly, a laundry appliance having improved features for stabilizing the pump and reducing excess vibrational transfers within the laundry appliance would be advantageous.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0005] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry appliance includes a cabinet defining an interior volume and a tub mounted within the interior volume of the cabinet. The laundry appliance includes a laundry basket rotatably mounted within the tub. The laundry basket defines a chamber for the receipt of articles for treatment. The laundry appliance includes a pump mounting assembly that includes a pump mounting portion mounted to the cabinet. The pump mounting portion includes a base defining a slot and a shoulder coupled with the base. The shoulder defines a stabilizing aperture. The pump mounting assembly includes a pump that includes an arm that defines an arm recess. Pump includes a leg that includes a stem and a head coupled with the stem. The pump mounting assembly includes a rear grommet operably coupled with the leg. The rear grommet defines an internal recess configured to receive the head and an external recess configured to receive the base at the slot.

[0006] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a pumping mounting assembly for a laundry appliance comprising a cabinet. The pump mounting assembly includes a pump mounting portion mounted to the cabinet. The pump mounting portion includes a base defining a slot and a shoulder coupled with the base portion. The shoulder defines a first aperture and a second aperture. The pump mounting assembly includes a pump that includes an outlet extending through the second aperture and an arm that defines an arm recess a leg extending from the pump. The leg includes a stem and a head coupled with the stem. The pump mounting assembly includes a rear grommet operably coupled the leg. The rear grommet defines an internal recess configured to receive the leg and an external recess configured to receive the base at the slot. The pump mounting assembly includes a front grommet assembly that includes a first front grommet coupled with the arm within the arm recess. The first front grommet defines a keyed aperture. The pump mounting assembly includes a second front grommet coupled with the first front grommet. The second front grommet has a keyed neck. The keyed aperture is configured to receive the keyed neck.

[0007] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

[0009] FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a laundry appliance in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 2 provides a schematic cross-sectional view of the example laundry appliance of FIG. 1.

[0011] FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of an example pump mounting portion of FIG. 2.

[0012] FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of an example pump of FIG. 2.

[0013] FIG. 5 provides a top view of the example pump and a rear grommet of FIG. 4.

[0014] FIG. 6 provides a cross-sectional view of section XI-XI of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 4.

[0015] FIG. 7 provides a top perspective view of the example pump and the rear grommet of FIG. 4.

[0016] FIG. 8 provides another top perspective view of the example pump and the rear grommet of FIG. 4.

[0017] FIG. 9 provides a perspective view of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 2.

[0018] FIG. 10 provides another perspective view of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 2.

[0019] FIG. 11A provides a cross-sectional view of the section XII-XII of the example rear grommet of FIG. 10.

[0020] FIG. 11B provides a cross-sectional view of the section XII-XII of the example rear grommet translated.

[0021] FIG. 12 provides another perspective view of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 2.

[0022] FIG. 13 provides a cross-sectional view of the section XIII-XIII of an example front grommet of FIG. 12 and FIG. 14.

[0023] FIG. 14 provides another provides a perspective view of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 2.

[0024] FIG. 15 provides another perspective view of an example pump mounting portion of FIG. 2.

[0025] FIG. 16A provides a perspective view of an example rear grommet assembly of FIG. 15.

[0026] FIG. 16B provides another perspective view of an example rear grommet assembly of FIG. 16A.

[0027] FIG. 17 provides another perspective view of an example rear grommet assembly and the pump of FIG. 15.

[0028] FIG. 18 provides a perspective view of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 15.

[0029] FIG. 19 provides another perspective view of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 15.

[0030] FIG. 20A provides a cross-sectional view of the section XIV-XIV of the example rear grommet assembly of FIG. 19.

[0031] FIG. 20B provides a cross-sectional view of the section XIV-XIV of the example rear grommet assembly translated of FIG. 19.

[0032] FIG. 21 provides a perspective view of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 2.

[0033] FIG. 22 provides another prospective view of the example pump mounting portion of FIG. 2.

[0034] FIG. 23 provides a perspective view of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 21.

[0035] FIG. 24 provides another perspective view of a front grommet assembly of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 21.

[0036] FIG. 25A provides a perspective view of a first front grommet of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 24.

[0037] FIG. 25B provides a perspective view of a second front grommet of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 24.

[0038] FIG. 26 provides a perspective view of the first front grommet coupled with the second front grommet of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 24.

[0039] FIG. 27A provides a top perspective view of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 21.

[0040] FIG. 27B provides a cross-sectional view of section XV-XV of the example pump mounting assembly of FIG. 26A.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0042] As used herein, terms of approximation, such as “substantially,”“generally,” or “about” include values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, “generally vertical” includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction, e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise.

[0043] As used herein, the terms “articles,”“clothing,” or “laundry” include but need not be limited to fabrics, textiles, garments, linens, papers, or other items which may be cleaned, dried, and / or otherwise treated in a laundry appliance. Furthermore, the term “load” or “laundry load” refers to the combination of clothing that may be washed together in a washing machine appliance or dried together in a dryer appliance (e.g., clothes dryer), including washed and dried together in a combination laundry appliance, and may include a mixture of different or similar articles of clothing of different or similar types and kinds of fabrics, textiles, garments and linens within a particular laundering process.

[0044] Embodiments of the present disclosure include an appliance, e.g., a washing machine appliance, such as the example the washing machine appliance 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 2. FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a laundry appliance 100 according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. The laundry appliance 100 may be a combination laundry appliance, and may also be referred to as a multifunction laundry appliance or washer / dryer combination appliance. FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional view of laundry appliance 100 having a pump mounting assembly 200. FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of a pump mounting portion 202. FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of a pump 214. FIG. 5 provides a top view of the pump 214 and a rear grommet 222.

[0045] FIGS. 6 through 27B provide additional perspective views of the laundry appliance 100 and the pump mounting assembly 200. The laundry appliance 100 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is defined. While described in the context of a specific embodiment of laundry appliance 100, using the teachings disclosed herein, it will be understood that laundry appliance 100 is provided by way of example only. Other laundry appliances having different appearances and different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well.

[0046] Cabinet 102 includes a front panel 112, a rear panel 114, a left side panel 108 and a right side panel 110 spaced apart from each other by front and rear panels 112 and 114, a bottom panel 106, and a top panel 104. As used herein, terms such as “left” and “right” or “front” and “back” refer to directions from the perspective of a user facing the laundry appliance 100 for accessing and / or operating the laundry appliance 100. For example, a user stands in front of the laundry appliance 100, e.g., at or near the front panel 112, to access door 134 and / or input selectors 162 (the door 134 and input selectors 162 are described in more detail below). Within cabinet 102, an interior volume 128 is defined. A drum or wash tub 124 is mounted within the interior volume 128. A laundry basket 126 is mounted within the wash tub 124. The laundry basket 126 defines a chamber 130 for receipt of articles of clothing for treatment, e.g., washing, rinsing, spinning, tumbling, and / or drying.

[0047] In some embodiments, one or more selector input selectors 162, such as knobs, buttons, touchscreen interfaces, etc., may be provided or mounted on the cabinet 102, e.g., on a control panel 160 thereof and are in operable communication (e.g., electrically coupled or coupled through a wireless network band) with a processing device or controller 166. The control panel 160 may also include a display 164. Controller 166 may also be provided in operable communication with various components of the laundry appliance, such as the motor, blower, and / or heating system. In turn, signals generated in controller 166 direct operation of such components in response to the input selectors 162. As used herein, “processing device” or “controller” may refer to one or more microprocessors, microcontroller, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICS), or semiconductor devices and is not restricted necessarily to a single element. The controller 166 may be programmed to operate laundry appliance 100 by executing instructions stored in memory (e.g., non-transitory media). The controller 166 may include, or be associated with, one or more memory elements such as RAM, ROM, or electrically erasable, programmable read only memory (EEPROM). For example, the instructions may be software or any set of instructions that when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform operations. It should be noted that controllers as disclosed herein are capable of and may be operable to perform any methods and associated method steps as disclosed herein. For example, in some embodiments, methods disclosed herein may be embodied in programming instructions stored in the memory and executed by the controller.

[0048] Wash tub 124 is generally cylindrical in shape, having an outer cylindrical and defines an opening of wash tub 124 for loading and unloading of articles into and out of a chamber 130 defined by and within a laundry basket 126 inside of the wash tub 124. The door 134 provides for closing or accessing wash tub 124 through the opening. A window 136 (FIG. 1) may be provided in door 134 for viewing of the chamber 130 and / or laundry articles therein, e.g., during operation of the laundry appliance 100.

[0049] Laundry basket 126 is rotatably mounted within wash tub 124 such that the laundry basket 126 is rotatable about an axis of rotation. According to the illustrated embodiment, the axis of rotation is substantially parallel to the transverse direction T. In this regard, laundry appliance 100 is generally referred to as a “horizontal axis” or “front load” laundry appliance 100. However, it should be appreciated that aspects of the present subject matter may be used within the context of a vertical axis or top load laundry appliance as well.

[0050] Laundry appliance 100 includes a motor assembly 122 that is in mechanical communication with laundry basket 126 to selectively rotate laundry basket 126. The motor assembly 122 may be a pancake motor, as illustrated, or any other suitable type, size, or configuration of motor may be used to rotate laundry basket 126 according to various embodiments. For example, a motor, such as a brushless DC motor, may be mounted within the cabinet 102 and the motor may be coupled to the laundry basket 126 by a belt and pulley, whereby the motor rotates the laundry basket 126 through the belt and pulley.

[0051] Laundry basket 126 may define one or more agitator features that extend into chamber 130 to assist in agitation and cleaning of articles disposed within laundry chamber 130 during operation of laundry appliance 100.

[0052] As illustrated for example in FIG. 2, laundry basket 126 may also include a plurality of perforations 140 extending therethrough in order to facilitate fluid communication between chamber 130 and wash tub 124, e.g., whereby wash liquid may flow between the wash tub 124 and the chamber 130 during a wash operation or cycle and / or heated air may flow into the chamber 130 and moisture-laden air may flow out of the chamber 130 during a drying operation or cycle. A sump 142 is defined by wash tub 124 outside of laundry basket 126 at a bottom of the wash tub 124 along the vertical direction V. Thus, sump 142 is configured for receipt of, and generally collects, wash liquid (the wash liquid may include, e.g., water, and may also includes additives such as detergents, etc.) during wash operations of laundry appliance 100. For example, during a wash operation of laundry appliance 100, wash liquid may be urged (e.g., by gravity) from the chamber 130 within the laundry basket 126 to sump 142 through the plurality of perforations 140.

[0053] A pump mounting assembly 200 is located beneath wash tub 124. The pump mounting assembly 200 includes a pump 214 for gravity assisted flow when draining wash tub 124 (e.g., via a drain 41). Pump 214 may also be configured for recirculating wash liquid within wash tub 124. The pump mounting assembly 200 is explained further below.

[0054] In some embodiments, laundry appliance 100 includes an additive dispenser or spout 150. For example, spout 150 may be in fluid communication with a water supply (not shown) in order to direct fluid (e.g., clean water) into wash tub 124. Spout 150 may also be in fluid communication with the sump 142. For example, pump 214 may direct wash liquid disposed in sump 142 via an outlet 248 to spout 150 in order to circulate wash liquid in wash tub 124.

[0055] As illustrated, a detergent dispenser drawer 152 may be slidably mounted within front panel 112. Detergent dispenser drawer 152 receives an additive (e.g., detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable liquid or powder) and directs the additive to chamber 130 during operation of laundry appliance 100. According to the illustrated embodiment, detergent dispenser drawer 152 may also be fluidly coupled to spout 150 to facilitate the complete and accurate dispensing of the additive.

[0056] In example embodiments, during operation of laundry appliance 100, laundry items are loaded into laundry basket 126 through opening 132, and an operation is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 162. For example, a wash cycle may be initiated such that wash tub 124 is filled with water, detergent, or other fluid additives (e.g., via spout 150). One or more water valves (not shown) can be controlled by laundry appliance 100 to provide for filling laundry basket 126 to the appropriate level for the amount of articles being washed or rinsed. By way of example, once laundry basket 126 is properly filled with fluid, the contents of laundry basket 126 can be agitated for an agitation phase of laundry items in laundry basket 126. During the agitation phase, the basket 126 may be motivated about the axis of rotation at a set speed (e.g., a tumble speed) by a motor. As the basket 126 is rotated, articles within the basket 126 may be lifted via rotation and permitted to drop therein due to gravity.

[0057] After the agitation phase of the washing operation is completed, wash tub 124 can be drained. Laundry articles can then be rinsed (e.g., through a rinse cycle) by again adding fluid to wash tub 124, depending on the particulars of the cleaning cycle selected by a user. One or more spin cycles may also be used. In particular, a spin cycle may be applied after the wash cycle or after the rinse cycle in order to wring wash liquid from the articles being washed. During a spin cycle, basket 126 is rotated at relatively high speeds. For instance, basket 126 may be rotated at one set speed (e.g., a pre-plaster speed) before being rotated at another set speed (e.g., a plaster speed). As would be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the pre-plaster speed may be greater than the tumble speed and the plaster speed may be greater than the pre-plaster speed. Moreover, agitation or tumbling of articles may be reduced as basket 126 increases its rotational velocity such that the plaster speed maintains the articles at a generally fixed position relative to basket 126.

[0058] With reference to FIGS. 2 through 26B, the pump mounting assembly 200 includes the pump 214 and a pump mounting portion 202. The cabinet 102 may be unitarily formed with the pump mounting portion 202. Additionally, or alternatively, the pump mounting portion 202 may be mounted on the cabinet 102. The pump mounting portion 202 includes a base 204 that be generally parallel to the bottom panel 106. The pump mounting portion 202 further includes a shoulder 206 that may be generally orthogonal with the base 204 and generally parallel with one of the rear panel 114 (as illustrated in the example embodiments), the left panel 108, the right panel 110, or the front panel 112. The shoulder 206 being generally orthogonal with the base 204 allows the pump 214 to be mounted with greater stability and secureness. The base defines a slot 212 that may be generally T-shaped. Additionally, or alternatively, the slot 212 may be shaped such that a first width W1 narrows toward the first shoulder 206. The slot 212 may be generally arcuate, as illustrated in FIG. 3. Additionally, or alternatively, the slot 212 may be generally prismatic, as illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 22. The first shoulder 206 defines a first aperture or stabilizing aperture 208. The first shoulder 206 may also define a second aperture or drain aperture 210 configured to align with the outlet 248 of the pump 214.

[0059] The pump 214 includes a leg 216 extending outwardly from the pump 214. The pump 214 may include a plurality of legs, as illustrated in the example embodiments. The plurality of legs may be spaced apart by a first distance. The pump mounting assembly 200 includes a rear grommet 222. Additionally, or alternatively, the pump mounting assembly 200 may include a first grommet or rear grommet assembly 249 that includes the rear grommet 222 and a grommet mount 252 coupled with the rear grommet 222. The leg 216 couples with the first grommet or rear grommet 222. The leg may define a first recess or leg recess 218 that is configured to receive the rear grommet 222. As illustrated in the example embodiments, the leg recess 218 is generally arcuate and may, at least partially, circumscribe the rear grommet 222. The leg 216 may include a first retention feature 232 that allows the leg recess 218 to more than half circumscribe the rear grommet 222. Additionally, or alternatively, the first retention feature 232 may allow the leg recess 218 to more than half circumscribe the rear grommet assembly 249.

[0060] The rear grommet 222 includes a rear grommet neck 244 that may be received by the leg recess 218. The rear grommet assembly 249 is configured to be received by the slot 212. Additionally, or alternatively, the rear grommet 222 is specifically configured to be received by the slot 212. The rear grommet assembly 249 is coupled with the base 204 within the slot 212 such that the pump 214 may be stabilized along the transverse direction T. Additionally, or alternatively, the rear grommet 222 is coupled with the base 204 within the slot 212 such that the pump 214 may be stabilized along the transverse direction T. The rear grommet assembly 249 and the rear grommet 222 are described in greater detail below.

[0061] The pump mounting assembly 200 also includes a second grommet or front grommet 224. The front grommet 224 is coupled with the pump 214. The pump 214 may include a stabilizing protrusion 220 that extends toward the first shoulder 206 of the pump mounting portion 202 (FIGS. 4, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 18, and 19). The pump 214 may include a plurality of stabilizing protrusions, as illustrated in the abovementioned figures. The plurality of stabilizing protrusions may be spaced apart by a second distance that is about equal to the first distance that spaces the plurality of legs apart, as illustrated in the example embodiments. Additionally, or alternatively, the pump mounting assembly 200 may include a front grommet assembly 284 coupled with the pump 214.

[0062] Additionally, or alternatively, the pump 214 may include an arm 280 that defines an arm recess 282 that is configured to receive the front grommet assembly 284 (FIGS. 24 through 26B). The pump 214 may include a plurality of arms, as illustrated in the abovementioned figures. The plurality of arms may be spaced apart by a third distance that is substantially equal to the first distance that spaces the plurality of legs apart, as illustrated in the example embodiments. The front grommet 224 may be configured to be received by the stabilizing aperture 208 of the first shoulder 206. Additionally, or alternatively, the front grommet assembly 284 may be configured to be received by the stabilizing aperture 208. The front grommet assembly 284 is coupled with the first shoulder 206 within the stabilizing aperture 208 such that the pump 214 may be stabilized along the lateral direction L. Additionally, or alternatively, front grommet 224 is coupled with the first shoulder 206 within the stabilizing aperture 208 such that the pump 214 may be stabilized along the lateral direction L. The front grommet assembly 284 and the front grommet 224 are described in greater detail below. The rear grommet 222, or rear grommet assembly 249, coupled to the base 204 and the front grommet 224, or front grommet assembly 284, received by the stabilizing aperture 208 stabilize the pump 214 along six degrees of freedom relative to the pump mounting portion 202.

[0063] With reference to FIGS. 4 through 13, the rear grommet 222 may include a front foot 240 that extends toward the first shoulder 206. The front foot 240 may define an external recess 246. The front foot 240 operably extends through the slot 212 such that the base 204 is received with the external recess 246. The front foot 240 may be inserted into the slot 212 via vertical translation, as illustrated in FIG. 9. The external recess 246 may receive the base 204 via transverse translation as illustrated in FIGS. 10 through 12. Further, the rear grommet 222 has a first elastic modulus, and the pump mounting portion 202 has a second elastic modulus. The second elastic modulus is greater than the first elastic modulus. Even further, the pump 214 has a third elastic modulus that is also greater than the first elastic modulus. The relative elastic moduli allow the rear grommet 222 to deform before the pump 214 or the pump mounting portion 202 deform.

[0064] With further reference to FIGS. 4 through 13, the rear grommet 222 may include a rear foot 242 that extends away from the first shoulder 206. The rear foot 242 in contact with the base 204 may deflect vertically up, as illustrated in FIG. 11A (the sectional view XII-XII from FIG. 10). The rear foot 242 rebounds into the slot 212 once the rear grommet 222 translates toward the first shoulder 206, as illustrated in FIG. 11B (sectional view XII'-XII'). Additionally, or alternatively, the rear foot 242 may rebound into the slot 212 once the base 204 abuts the rear grommet 222 within the external recess 246. Therefore, a first transverse length L1 of the slot 212 may be substantially equal to a second transverse length L2 of the rear grommet 222 measured from the external recess 246 to the rear foot 242. Therefore, the pump 214 may be stabilized in the vertical direction V by gravity and by the base 204 being received within the external recess 246. The front foot 240 may abut a bottom surface 236 of the base 204. The rear grommet 222 at the external recess 246 may also abut a top surface 234 of the base 204. Further, the pump 214 may be specifically stabilized in the transverse direction T by the rear foot 242 abutting the base 204 within the slot 212 and the rear grommet 222 abutting the base 204 within the external recess 246.

[0065] With even further reference to FIGS. 4 through 13, the rear grommet 222 may include a locking flange 228 or loop. Additionally, or alternatively, the leg 216 may include a locking protrusion 230, or hook, that is configured to be received by the locking flange 228. The locking protrusion 230 operably coupled with the locking flange 228 may assist in stabilizing the rear grommet 222 relative to the leg 216. For example, the locking flange 228 and the locking protrusion 230 may prevent the rear grommet neck 244 from rotating within the leg recess 218. Additionally, or alternatively, the locking flange 228 and the locking protrusion 230 may prevent the rear grommet 222 from rotating out of the leg recess 218. The rear grommet 222 may include a pull tab 238 that may assist in removing the rear grommet 222 from the leg recess 218 or the slot 212 for maintenance, replacement, etc.

[0066] The front grommet 224, as illustrated in FIG. 13, includes a plurality of ribs 226. The plurality of ribs 226 compress relative to each other as the stabilizing protrusion 220 is directed into the stabilizing aperture 208, as illustrated in the sectional view XIII-XIII of FIG. 13. Thus, the front grommet 224 biases the pump 214 horizontally away from the shoulder 206 of the pump mounting portion 202. The front grommet 224 that compresses allows may allow the rear grommet 222 or rear grommet assembly 249 to be received by the slot 212 of the base 204. Additionally, or alternatively, the front grommet 224 may include a tip 250. The tip 250 may extend the through the stabilizing aperture 208 and the plurality of ribs 226 may abut the shoulder 206.

[0067] With reference to FIGS. 14 through 20B, the rear grommet assembly 249 may include the rear grommet 222 and a grommet mount 252 coupled with the rear grommet 222. The grommet mount 252 may define a second recess 256. The rear grommet 222 may include a flange 254 that is operably received by the second recess 256. The rear grommet 222 and the grommet mount 252 may couple by translating the rear grommet 222 relative to the grommet mount 252 along a first direction 258, such that the flange 254 is received by the second recess 256. Additionally, or alternatively, the grommet mount 252 may include a second retention feature 262 that allows the rear grommet 222 to remain coupled with the grommet mount 252.

[0068] The rear grommet assembly 249 may allow the rear grommet 222 to couple with the leg 216 via translating the rear grommet assembly 249 along a second direction 260. The second direction 260 may be different from the first direction 258. Additionally, or alternatively, the rear grommet assembly 249 may allow the grommet mount 252 to couple with the base 204 within the slot 212. The grommet mount 252 may comprise a mount body 264. The grommet mount 252 may also comprise a mount neck 270 coupled with the mount body 264. The mount neck 270 may operably abut the base 204 within the slot 212, as illustrated in the sectional view XIV′-XIV′ of FIG. 20B. The grommet mount 252 may further include a front clip 268 coupled with the mount neck 270. The front clip 268 may operably engage the bottom surface 236 of the base 204. Additionally, or alternatively, the mount body 264 may operably engage the top surface 234 of the base 204.

[0069] The grommet mount 252 may further include a rear clip 266 pivotally coupled with the mount body 264. The rear clip 266 may pivot (or deflect) away from the base 204 as the grommet mount 252 is inserted into the slot 212. The rear clip 266 may pivot (or rebound) into the slot 212 as the grommet mount 252 is translated toward the shoulder 206. Additionally, or alternatively, the rear clip 266 may rebound once the mount neck 270 abuts the base 204 within the slot 212. Additionally, or alternatively, the grommet mount 252 may have a fourth elastic modulus that is greater than the first elastic modulus of the rear grommet 222. The second elastic modulus may be greater than the fourth elastic modulus. Further, the third elastic modulus may also be greater than the fourth elastic modulus. Thus, the grommet mount 252 may be more elastic than the pump mounting portion 202 and the pump 214.

[0070] With reference to FIGS. 21 through 27B, the leg 216 may include a stem 272 and a head 274 coupled with the stem 272. The rear grommet 222 may couple with the leg 216 by operably receiving the head 274 within an internal recess 276 defined by the rear grommet 222. Additionally, or alternatively, the internal recess 276 may also receive the stem 272. The rear grommet 222 may also define a plurality of hollow cores 278. The external recess 246 of the rear grommet 222 and the base 204 define a friction fit.

[0071] The rear grommet 222 has a first length L1. The slot 212 has a second length L2. As illustrated in the example embodiments, the first length L1 may be about half as great as the second length L2. Additionally, or alternatively, the clip may have a third length L3 that is about equal to the first length L1. Additionally, or alternatively, the slot 212 that is T-shaped may be equally divided such that the top of the “T” defines half the length of the second length L2 and the bottom of the “T” defines the other half of the length of the second length L2.

[0072] With further refence to FIGS. 21 through 27B, the pump 214 may include an arm 280. The arm 280 may define an arm recess 282 configured to receive the front grommet assembly 284. The front grommet assembly 284 may include a first front grommet 286 and a second front grommet 290 coupled with the first front grommet 286. The first front grommet 286 may be specifically received by the arm recess 282. The first front grommet 286 may have a prismatic profile that prevents the first front grommet 286 from rotating within the arm recess 282. The first front grommet 286 may define a keyed aperture 288. Additionally, or alternatively, the second front grommet 290 may include a keyed neck 292 that is operably received by the keyed aperture 288. Additionally, or alternatively, the first front grommet 286 may be molded over the second front grommet 290. The second front grommet 290 defines a fastener aperture 294 configured to receive a fastener 296. As illustrated in FIGS. 27A and 27B, the front grommet assembly 284 abuts the shoulder 206 and the fastener 296 also abuts the shoulder 206 while extending through the stabilizing aperture 208 opposite the front grommet assembly 284.

[0073] Advantageously, the pump mounting assembly 200 described herein allows for a pump to be mounted with an appliance more securely. Further, assembly of the appliance is made easier by the elegant design of the pump mounting assembly. Even further, noise and vibrations generated by the pump during operation are damped by the use of grommets and the pump mounting portion.

[0074] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

1. A laundry appliance, comprising:a cabinet defining an interior volume;a tub mounted within the interior volume of the cabinet;a laundry basket rotatably mounted within the tub, the laundry basket defining a chamber for the receipt of articles for treatment;a pump mounting assembly comprising:a pump mounting portion mounted to the cabinet, the pump mounting portion comprising:a base defining a slot; anda shoulder coupled with the base, the shoulder defining a stabilizing aperture;a pump comprising:an arm defining an arm recess; anda leg comprising:a stem; anda head coupled with the stem; anda rear grommet operably coupled with the leg, the rear grommet defining:an internal recess configured to receive the head; andan external recess configured to receive the base at the slot.

2. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the pump mounting assembly further comprises a front grommet assembly comprising:a first front grommet coupled with the arm within the arm recess, the first front grommet defining a keyed aperture; anda second front grommet coupled with the first front grommet, wherein the second front grommet has a keyed neck, and wherein the keyed aperture is configured to receive the keyed neck.

3. The laundry appliance of claim 2, wherein the pump mounting assembly further comprises a fastener operably coupled with the second front grommet, wherein the fastener and the second front grommet couple the pump with the shoulder of the pump mounting portion of the cabinet.

4. The laundry appliance of claim 2, wherein the first front grommet is more elastic than the pump mounting portion of the cabinet, and wherein the second front grommet is more elastic than the first front grommet.

5. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the slot is T-shaped such that the rear grommet is inserted into the slot via vertical translation, and wherein the rear grommet horizontally translates to couple with the base of the pump mounting portion of the cabinet.

6. The laundry appliance of claim 5, wherein the rear grommet, translated horizontally towards the shoulder within with the slot, defines a friction fit with the base within the external recess.

7. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the rear grommet has a first elastic modulus, and wherein the pump mounting portion of the cabinet has a second elastic modulus that is greater than the first elastic modulus.

8. The laundry appliance of claim 7, wherein the leg of the pump has a third elastic modulus that is greater than the first elastic modulus.

9. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the rear grommet defines at least one hollow core.

10. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein a first length of the rear grommet is about half a second length of the slot.

11. A pumping mounting assembly for a laundry appliance comprising a cabinet, the pump mounting assembly comprising:a pump mounting portion mounted to the cabinet, the pump mounting portion comprising:a base defining a slot; anda shoulder coupled with the base, the shoulder defining:a first aperture; anda second aperture;a pump comprising:an outlet extending through the second aperture;an arm defining an arm recess; anda leg extending from the pump, the leg comprising:a stem; anda head coupled with the stem;a rear grommet operably coupled the leg, wherein the rear grommet defines:an internal recess configured to receive the leg; andan external recess configured to receive the base at the slot; anda front grommet assembly comprising:a first front grommet coupled with the arm within the arm recess, the first front grommet defining a keyed aperture; anda second front grommet coupled with the first front grommet, wherein the second front grommet has a keyed neck, and wherein the keyed aperture is configured to receive the keyed neck.

12. The pump mounting assembly of claim 11, wherein the pump mounting assembly further comprises a fastener operably coupled with the second front grommet, wherein the pump couples with the shoulder of the pump mounting portion of the cabinet via the fastener and the second front grommet to stabilized the pump along a horizontal direction.

13. The pump mounting assembly of claim 11, wherein the first front grommet is more elastic than the pump mounting portion of the cabinet, and wherein the second front grommet is more elastic than the first front grommet.

14. The pump mounting assembly of claim 11, wherein the rear grommet defines a plurality of hollow cores.

15. The pump mounting assembly of claim 11, wherein the rear grommet moves along a vertical direction to be receive by the slot of the base, and wherein the rear grommet moves along a horizontal direction to be coupled with the base at the slot.

16. The pump mounting assembly of claim 15, wherein the slot is T-shaped such that the rear grommet coupled with the base is stabilized along the vertical direction.

17. The pump mounting assembly of claim 15, wherein the external recess of the rear grommet and the base define a friction fit.

18. The pump mounting assembly of claim 11, wherein the first front grommet is molded over the second front grommet.

19. The pump mounting assembly of claim 11, wherein the internal recess of the rear grommet at least partially receives the stem of the leg.

20. The pump mounting assembly of claim 11, wherein the first front grommet disposed within the arm recess is rotationally stabilized relative to the arm of the pump.

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