Laundry agitator having a bulk dispenser for delivering treating chemistry to a processing space

Abstract

A laundry appliance includes a drum, an impeller, and an agitator. The drum is rotationally operable within a tub. The impeller is proximate a base of the drum, is rotationally operable relative to the drum, and has a receiver within a central area of the impeller. The agitator has a securing mechanism at a first end that attaches the agitator to the receiver in an installed position. The agitator has a reservoir that contains a treating chemistry and a pump mechanism in communication with the reservoir that draws the treating chemistry upward from the reservoir. The agitator includes at least one outlet port in communication with the pump mechanism that is within a second end of the agitator opposite the first end. The agitator includes a pump actuator within the second end that operates the pump mechanism that delivers the treating chemistry from the reservoir and into the drum.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to laundry appliances and, more specifically, an agitator for a laundry appliance that includes a bulk reservoir contained within an interior of the agitator. The agitator includes a pump mechanism that delivers a treating chemistry from the reservoir within the agitator to a processing space surrounding the agitator.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry appliance includes a drum, an impeller, and an agitator. The drum is rotationally operable within a tub. The impeller is disposed proximate a base of the drum and is rotationally operable relative to the drum. The impeller has a receiver disposed within a central area of the impeller. The agitator has a securing mechanism disposed at a first end and that selectively attaches the agitator to the receiver to define an installed position of the agitator. The agitator has a reservoir configured to contain a treating chemistry. The agitator includes a pump mechanism in communication with the reservoir and configured to draw the treating chemistry upward from the reservoir. The agitator also includes at least one outlet port in communication with the pump mechanism. The at least one outlet port is disposed within a second end of the agitator. The second end is positioned opposite the first end. The agitator further includes a pump actuator disposed within the second end. Operation of the pump actuator operates the pump mechanism. The pump mechanism is configured to deliver the treating chemistry from the reservoir and into a processing space defined within the drum.

[0003] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry appliance includes a drum, an impeller, an agitator, a cap member, and a pump mechanism. The drum defines a processing space therein. The impeller is disposed proximate a base of the drum and is rotationally operable relative to the drum. The agitator extends upward form the impeller and has an outer wall that defines a reservoir therein which is configured to selectively receive a treating chemistry therein. The cap member is attached to a top portion of the agitator and is selectively engaged with the agitator to enclose the reservoir. The cap member includes an actuating portion. A pump mechanism is attached to the cap member and in communication with the actuating portion and the reservoir. Operation of the actuating portion operates the pump mechanism to define a suction within the reservoir of the agitator. Operation of the pump mechanism is configured to draw the treating chemistry from the reservoir to at least one outlet port disposed within the cap member of the agitator, and into the processing space.

[0004] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry appliance includes a drum, an impeller, a removable agitator, a release mechanism, and a pump mechanism. The drum defines a processing space therein. The impeller is disposed proximate a base of the drum and is rotationally operable relative to the drum. The removable agitator has a first end that selectively attaches to the impeller to define an installed position of the removable agitator. The removable agitator also includes an outer wall that defines an interior compartment therein. The release mechanism is coupled with the removable agitator and extends through the interior compartment. The release mechanism includes a release actuator at a second end of the removable agitator. The second end opposes the first end. The pump mechanism is in communication with a reservoir that is disposed within the removable agitator and has an outlet port that is positioned proximate the second end. The pump mechanism is coupled with a controller that activates the pump mechanism in relation to a laundry cycle. The pump mechanism and a pump actuator in communication with the controller are attached to the release mechanism. Operation of the pump mechanism is configured to draw a treating chemistry from the reservoir and deliver the treating chemistry to the outlet port and into the processing space.

[0005] These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] In the drawings:

[0007] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a laundry appliance that includes an aspect of an agitator containing a bulk dispensing assembly;

[0008] FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of an impeller with the removable agitator in an installed position;

[0009] FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of the impeller and removable agitator of FIG. 2;

[0010] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the impeller and removable agitator of FIG. 2, taken along line IV-IV;

[0011] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the impeller and removable agitator of FIG. 2, taken along line V-V;

[0012] FIG. 6 is a top exploded perspective view of the impeller and removable agitator of FIG. 2;

[0013] FIG. 7 is a bottom exploded perspective view of the impeller and removable agitator of FIG. 6;

[0014] FIG. 8 is a top exploded perspective view of an aspect of a removable agitator;

[0015] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of an agitator that contains a bulk dispensing assembly therein;

[0016] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the agitator of FIG. 9;

[0017] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the agitator of FIG. 10, taken along line XI-XI;

[0018] FIG. 12 is a top exploded perspective view of the agitator of FIG. 9;

[0019] FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of the agitator of FIG. 9;

[0020] FIG. 14 is a side elevation view of an aspect of a removable agitator that includes an aspect of the chemistry dispensing assembly;

[0021] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of the removable agitator of FIG. 14;

[0022] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating operation of the chemistry dispensing assembly of FIG. 14;

[0023] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating operation of the chemistry dispensing assembly within a processing space of a laundry appliance;

[0024] FIG. 18 is a side elevation view of an impeller and agitator that incorporates an aspect of the chemistry dispensing assembly;

[0025] FIG. 19 is a partial cross-sectional view of the agitator of FIG. 18 and showing placement of the cartridge within the agitator;

[0026] FIG. 20 is an exploded elevation view of the impeller and agitator of FIG. 18;

[0027] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the cartridge for use within the agitator of FIG. 18;

[0028] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the agitator of FIG. 18 taken along line XXII-XXII and showing placement of the cartridge within the agitator;

[0029] FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram illustrating operation of the dispensing system of FIG. 18;

[0030] FIG. 24 is a top plan view of the agitator of FIG. 18 and showing indicia disposed thereon;

[0031] FIG. 25 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the agitator of FIG. 19;

[0032] FIG. 26 is a partially exploded side elevation view of an impeller and agitator that incorporates an aspect of the chemistry dispensing assembly;

[0033] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the agitator of FIG. 26 and showing the valve in a closed position;

[0034] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the agitator of FIG. 26 and showing the valve in an open position;

[0035] FIG. 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aspect of the removable agitator being engaged with a receiver of an impeller;

[0036] FIG. 30 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aspect of the removable agitator of FIG. 29 being engaged with a receiver of an impeller in a bypass position;

[0037] FIG. 31 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aspect of the removable agitator being engaged with a receiver of an impeller with the mating structures in an aligned configuration;

[0038] FIG. 32 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aspect of the removable agitator being engaged with a receiver to define an installed position;

[0039] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the removable agitator separated from the receiver of the impeller and showing the mating structures of the removable agitator and the receiver;

[0040] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a removable agitator that can be attached to an impeller and containing a bulk dispensing assembly therein;

[0041] FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view of the removable agitator of FIG. 34;

[0042] FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the removable agitator of FIG. 34, taken along line XXXVI-XXXVI;

[0043] FIG. 37 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the removable agitator of FIG. 36 and showing schematic operation of the bulk dispensing assembly;

[0044] FIG. 38 is a side perspective view of a removable agitator having an aspect of a bulk dispensing assembly contained therein;

[0045] FIG. 39 is a partially exploded perspective view of the removable agitator of FIG. 38 and showing an aspect of a cartridge separated from the agitator;

[0046] FIG. 40 is a side perspective view of the cartridge of FIG. 39 and showing a plurality of pressurized canisters containing one or more treating chemistries;

[0047] FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of the removable agitator of FIG. 38, taken along line XLI-XLI;

[0048] FIG. 42 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the removable agitator of FIG. 41, taken at area XLII;

[0049] FIG. 43 is a schematic flow diagram illustrating a method for operating a bulk dispensing assembly contained within a removable agitator for an appliance;

[0050] FIG. 44 is a side perspective view of an aspect of a removable agitator that incorporates an aspect of the chemistry dispensing assembly with the outer wall shown hidden;

[0051] FIG. 45 is a partial perspective view of the removable agitator of FIG. 44 with the outer wall shown solid;

[0052] FIG. 46 is a schematic perspective view of an aspect of a cartridge for the chemistry dispensing assembly that operates a steam function to dispense the chemistry;

[0053] FIG. 47 is an exploded perspective view of an impeller and agitator that incorporates an aspect of a fragrance dispensing assembly;

[0054] FIG. 48 is an exploded perspective view of an aspect of a cap member that incorporates the fragrance dispensing assembly;

[0055] FIG. 49 is a schematic diagram illustrating a process for adding a fragrance material to the cap member of FIG. 48;

[0056] FIG. 50 is a schematic diagram illustrating operation of the fragrance dispensing assembly of FIG. 47 during rotation of the agitator; and

[0057] FIG. 51 is a schematic diagram illustrating operation of the fragrance dispensing assembly of FIG. 50 during rotation of the agitator.

[0058] The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to a laundry agitator having a bulk dispenser for delivering treating chemistry to a processing space. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

[0060] For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,”“lower,”“right,”“left,”“rear,”“front,”“vertical,”“horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in FIG. 1. Unless stated otherwise, the term “front” shall refer to the surface of the element closer to an intended viewer, and the term “rear” shall refer to the surface of the element further from the intended viewer. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0061] The terms “including,”“comprises,”“comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by “comprises a.” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1-22, reference numeral 10 generally refers to an impeller that is contained within a drum 12 for a laundry appliance 14. The impeller 10 provides an agitating function to a processing space 16 therein during operation of a laundry cycle 18. The impeller 10 includes an agitator 20 attached to a top portion 22 of the impeller 10. The agitator 20 can be fixedly attached to the impeller 10 or can be a removable agitator 20 that is selectively attached to the impeller 10 to define an installed position 24. During operation of a laundry cycle 18 for the appliance 14, the impeller 10 and agitator 20 rotationally operate within the processing space 16 defined within the drum 12. This operation of the agitator 20 and the impeller 10 provides the agitating function that processes articles contained within the processing space 16. The agitator 20 includes a reservoir 26 that is configured to contain a bulk amount of treating chemistry 28 for assisting the operation of the laundry cycle 18. The treating chemistry 28 can be pumped from the agitator 20 to the processing space 16 via a pump mechanism 30 that is contained within the agitator 20. As described herein, the pump mechanism 30 can operate manually, automatically, or a combination thereof.

[0063] Referring to FIGS. 1-17 and 29-46, the laundry appliance 14 includes the drum 12 that is rotationally operable within a tub 40, the tub 40 being disposed within an outer cabinet 42 for the appliance 14. The impeller 10 is disposed proximate a base 44 of the drum 12. The impeller 10 is rotationally operable relative to the drum 12. The impeller 10 includes a receiver 46 that is disposed within a central area of the top portion 22 of the impeller 10. The removable agitator 20 includes a securing mechanism 48 that is disposed at a first end 50, or lower end 50, of the removable agitator 20. The securing mechanism 48 selectively attaches the removable agitator 20 to the receiver 46 of the impeller 10 to define the installed position 24 of the agitator 20. The removable agitator 20 includes the internal reservoir 26 that is configured to contain the treating chemistry 28. The removable agitator 20 includes the pump mechanism 30 that is in communication with the reservoir 26. The pump mechanism 30 is configured to draw the treating chemistry 28 upward from the reservoir 26. The agitator 20 also includes at least one outlet port 52 that is in communication with the pump mechanism 30. The at least one outlet port 52 is disposed within a second end 54, or upper end 54, of the agitator 20 that opposes the first end 50 of the agitator 20. Accordingly, the outlet port 52, or the plurality of outlet ports 52, are positioned at one end (the second end 54) of the agitator 20, and the securing mechanism 48 of the agitator 20 is positioned at an opposing first end 50 of the agitator 20. A pump actuator 56 for operating the pump mechanism 30 is disposed within the second end 54 of the agitator 20. Operation of the pump actuator 56 operates the pump mechanism 30. Accordingly, the pump mechanism 30 is configured to deliver the treating chemistry 28 from the reservoir 26 and into the processing space 16 defined within the drum 12. The pump mechanism 30 generates a suction 58 within the reservoir 26 that draws the treating chemistry 28, typically in the form of a liquid treating chemistry 28, from the reservoir 26, through the one or more outlet ports 52, and into the processing space 16.

[0064] Referring again to FIGS. 2-17 and 34-46, the removable agitator 20 includes a release mechanism 70 that includes a release actuator 72 disposed at the second end 54 of the agitator 20. The release actuator 72 is in communication with the securing mechanism 48. Accordingly, operation of the release actuator 72 operates the securing mechanism 48 to release the agitator 20 from the receiver 46 of the impeller 10. Accordingly, the agitator 20 can be selectively attached to, and removed from, the receiver 46 of the impeller 10 as desired by the user for the appliance 14.

[0065] In certain aspects of the device, as exemplified in FIGS. 2-8 and 14-17, the pump mechanism 30 is attached to the release mechanism 70. Accordingly, where the release mechanism 70 is activated, the pump mechanism 30 may be displaced according to the movements of the release mechanism 70. It is typical that this movement of the release mechanism 70 does not, by itself, activate the pump mechanism 30. Rather this motion displaces the location of the pump mechanism 30 to follow the movements of the release mechanism 70. Similarly, where the pump mechanism 30 operates according to the movement of the release mechanism 70, the one or more outlet ports 52 also move with respect to the release mechanism 70. Accordingly, openings 80 defined within an outer wall 82 of the agitator 20 include an elongated configuration to provide for movements of the one or more outlet ports 52 during operation of the release mechanism 70.

[0066] Referring again to FIGS. 2-8 and 44-46, the reservoir 26 can be defined within an interior compartment 90 defined within the outer wall 82 of the removable agitator 20. In this manner, the release mechanism 70 can include a linkage 92 that extends through the interior compartment 90 of the agitator 20 between the first and the second ends 50, 54. The reservoir 26 can be attached to the linkage 92 (as exemplified in FIG. 8) in the form of a container 94. It is also contemplated that the reservoir 26 can be defined within a portion of the linkage 92 (as exemplified in FIGS. 4-7). In such an aspect of the device, the linkage 92 can include an interior column 96 that is disposed within the interior compartment 90 of the agitator 20 and extending between the release actuator 72 and the securing mechanism 48, the reservoir 26 being defined within an interior volume 98 of the column 96 that is defined by the linkage 92.

[0067] As exemplified in FIGS. 8 and 44-46, the reservoir 26 can be the container 94 that is attached to the linkage 92. In such an aspect of the device, the linkage 92 includes a seat 110 that receives the container 94 defining the reservoir 26. The container 94 can include a cover 112 that can be removed from the container 94 for adding additional treating chemistry 28 to the reservoir 26 for future use. The pump mechanism 30 includes a conduit 114 that extends from the pump actuator 56 and to a lower portion 116 of the reservoir 26. Accordingly, operation of the pump mechanism 30 generates the suction 58 through the conduit 114 that draws the treating chemistry 28 from the lower portion 116 of the reservoir 26 and to the outlet ports 52 via the pump mechanism 30. The conduit 114 can extend through the cover 112 of the reservoir 26 for reaching the lower portion 116 of the reservoir 26. When the reservoir 26 is to be refilled, the removable agitator 20 can be removed from the impeller 10. A handle portion 118 of the removable agitator 20 can be separated from the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20. By removing the handle portion 118, the linkage 92 and the reservoir 26 can be separated from the interior compartment 90. Once separated, the container 94 that defines the reservoir 26 can be removed from the seat 110 defined on the linkage 92. Once removed, the cover 112 can be removed and the reservoir 26 refilled with additional treating chemistry 28. Once the container 94 is refilled, the container 94 can be reattached to the seat 110 of the linkage 92. The linkage 92 is then reinserted into the interior compartment 90 of the reservoir 26 and the handle portion 118 reattached to the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20.

[0068] As described herein, the release mechanism 70 includes the release actuator 72 and the linkage 92 that axially operates through manipulation of the release actuator 72. As the linkage 92 moves axially along a central axis 130 of the agitator 20 through operation of the release actuator 72, the pump mechanism 30 and the reservoir 26 also move along the central axis 130 according to the movements of the linkage 92. Accordingly, the chemistry dispensing system 132 of the agitator 20 is coupled with the release mechanism 70 for the agitator 20.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 4-7, as described herein, the reservoir 26 can be defined within an interior volume 98 of the linkage 92. In such an aspect of the device, the linkage 92 is a column 96 having a perimeter wall 140 that defines the reservoir 26 therein. The pump mechanism 30 is attached to an upper portion 142 of the linkage 92 and includes the conduit 114 that extends into the lower portion 116 of the reservoir 26. In this aspect of the device, during operation of the release mechanism 70, the linkage 92, the pump mechanism 30 and the reservoir 26 all operate along the central axis 130 according to the movements of the release mechanism 70.

[0070] As exemplified in FIGS. 4-7, refilling of the reservoir 26 includes removing the handle portion 118 of the agitator 20 and also separating a grasping portion 150 of the release mechanism 70 from the column 96 of the linkage 92. The grasping portion 150 operates axially and within the handle portion 118 to activate the release mechanism 70. The column 96 of linkage 92 and the grasping portion 150 of the release mechanism 70 cooperate to define a securing interface 152 that couples the column 96 and the grasping portion 150 together. The securing interface 152 also provides for the separation of the grasping portion 150 and the column 96 of the linkage 92 to provide access to the reservoir 26 for refilling, or, as described herein, replacement. When the grasping portion 150 of the linkage 92 is separated, the interior volume 98 of the column 96 is accessible for pouring or otherwise disposing the treating chemistry 28 into the reservoir 26. In certain aspects of the device, the column 96 can include an access port 160 that provides for convenient disposition of the treating chemistry 28 into the reservoir 26. Once the reservoir 26 is refilled, the column 96 can be reattached to the grasping portion 150 of the linkage 92. These components can then be inserted into the interior compartment 90 of the agitator 20. The handle portion 118 of the agitator 20 can be reattached to the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20 for reforming the removable agitator 20.

[0071] According to various aspects of the device, as exemplified in FIGS. 4-8 and 44-46, the container 94 shown in FIG. 8, as well as the column 96 shown in FIGS. 4-7, can be disposable or replaceable components. In such an aspect of the device, these disposable components can be purchased as filled detergent cartridges 170. Once spent, these now empty detergent cartridges 170 can be removed from the linkage 92 for the removable agitator 20 and replaced with new cartridges 170 and reinstalled within the removable agitator 20. These spent cartridges 170 can then be recycled, refilled, or otherwise disposed. Use of disposable, recyclable, or refillable cartridges 170 in combination with the removable agitator 20 can be implemented where customer interaction with the treating chemistry 28 may not be desired. In these instances, a cartridge 170 can be purchased and installed without the user coming into contact with the treating chemistry 28. This can also prevent spillage and mess that may be formed through a user periodically refilling the reservoir 26 through their own efforts.

[0072] Referring again to FIGS. 2-17, the removable agitator 20 includes an aperture 180 proximate the second end 54 that forms the handle 182 of the removable agitator 20 that is made up of the handle portion 118 and the grasping portion 150 of the linkage 92. The handle 182 includes an interior surface 184. The release actuator 72 and the pump actuator 56 are each defined within the interior surface 184. As described herein, the release actuator 72 includes a grasping portion 150 that is on an upper section 186 of the handle 182 and moves within the handle portion 118. In this manner, as a user grasps the removable agitator 20, it is convenient to activate the release mechanism 70 for separating the removable agitator 20 from the receiver 46 of the impeller 10. The pump actuator 56 is disposed within a lower section 188 of the handle 182, within a portion of the grasping portion 150 near the pump mechanism 30. Accordingly, when a user desires to dispose a certain dose of treating chemistry 28 for the reservoir 26 into the processing space 16, the pump actuator 56 can be pressed, turned, or otherwise activated by the user. Placing the pump actuator 56 within the lower section 188 of the handle 182 also prevents inadvertent activation of the pump mechanism 30 by the user, or by an article within the processing space 16, inadvertently engaging the pump actuator 56.

[0073] As exemplified in FIGS. 4-7, the pump mechanism 30 can be attached to an upper surface 210 of the column 96 that defines the reservoir 26. When the reservoir 26 is to be refilled, or the column 96 replaced with a replacement cartridge 170, the pump mechanism 30 can be separated from the cartridge 170 or the column 96, as the case may be. After the reservoir 26 is filled or a replacement cartridge 170 is obtained, the pump mechanism 30 can be installed onto the linkage 92 with the conduit 114 extending into the lower portion 116 of the reservoir 26. The grasping portion 150 of the linkage 92 can be attached to the column 96, thereby securing the pump mechanism 30 to the linkage 92. The grasping portion 150 of the linkage 92 includes an actuator opening 212 through which the pump actuator 56 extends for selective activation by the user. The grasping portion 150 of the linkage 92 as well as the handle 182 for the removable agitator 20 include the openings 80 through which the outlet ports 52 extend for dispensing the treating chemistry 28 into the processing space 16.

[0074] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 9-13, 18-28, and 47-51, the laundry appliance 14 includes the drum 12 that defines the processing space 16 therein. The impeller 10 is disposed proximate the base 44 of the drum 12, the impeller 10 being rotationally operable relative to the drum 12. The agitator 20 extends upward from the impeller 10. The agitator 20 includes the outer wall 82 that defines the reservoir 26 therein. The reservoir 26 is configured to selectively receive the treating chemistry 28 and contain the treating chemistry 28 therein. A cap member 218 is attached to a top section 220 of the outer wall 82 for the agitator 20. The cap member 218 selectively engages with the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20 to enclose the reservoir 26. The cap member 218 includes an actuating portion 222 of the agitator 20. The pump mechanism 30 is attached to the cap member 218 and is in communication with the conduit 114 that extends into the reservoir 26. Operation of the actuating portion 222 operates the pump mechanism 30 to define a section within the conduit 114 that extends into the reservoir 26 of the agitator 20. Operation of the pump mechanism 30 is configured to draw the treating chemistry 28 from the reservoir 26, typically a lower portion 116 of the reservoir 26, to the at least one outlet port 52 that is disposed within the cap member 218 of the agitator 20. From at least one outlet port 52, the treating chemistry 28 is disposed within the processing space 16.

[0075] Referring again to FIGS. 9-13 and 18-28, the pump mechanism 30 includes the section member, or conduit 114, that extends from the cap member 218 to the lower portion 116 of the reservoir 26. As described herein, during operation of the pump actuator 56, suction 58 is drawn through the conduit 114 for drawing the treating chemistry 28 from the reservoir 26, through the outlet ports 52, and into the processing space 16.

[0076] According to the various aspects of the device, the at least one outlet port 52 includes a first outlet port 230 and a second outlet port 232. The first and second outlet ports 230, 232 are typically positioned on opposing sides of an outer perimeter 234 for the cap member 218. In this manner, as the treating chemistry 28 is dispensed by the pump mechanism 30, the treating chemistry 28 can be evenly distributed to opposing sides of the processing space 16. The pump actuator 56 of the pump mechanism 30 is disposed in a top region 236 of the cap member 218. Accordingly, the pump actuator 56 is readily accessible by the user for dispensing treating chemistry 28 into the drum 12 before or during a longer cycle 18.

[0077] Referring again to FIGS. 9-13, 18-28, and 47-51, the agitator 20 may be fixedly attached to the impeller 10 such that the agitator 20 may not be removable therefrom. In such an aspect of the device, the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20 defines the reservoir 26 therein. During use of the appliance 14, the treating chemistry 28 may be depleted from the reservoir 26. In such a situation, the cap member 218 can be removed from the outer wall 82 for the agitator 20. As the cap member 218 is removed, the pump mechanism 30 is also removed, thereby exposing the reservoir 26. After the reservoir 26 is refilled with treating chemistry 28, the cap member 218 is reinstalled onto the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20, thereby enclosing the reservoir 26.

[0078] According to the various aspects of the device, as exemplified in FIGS. 1-47, the agitator 20 can include various fins 250 that extend outward from the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20. These fins 250 can be placed to provide for and enhance the agitating function of the agitator 20 during operation of the laundry cycle 18. The one or more outlet ports 52, typically the first outlet port 230 and the second outlet port 232, are disposed on the agitator 20 such that when the pump mechanism 30 is activated, the outlet ports 52 are positioned to dispense treating chemistry 28 away from the various fins 250 that extend outward from the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20. Accordingly, the treating chemistry 28 can be dispensed into an outer area of the processing space 16 where the articles are contained therein. Additionally, the outlet ports 52 are positioned at the second end 54 of the agitator 20. In this manner, the outlet ports 52 for the pump mechanism 30 are disposed above a level of the fluid contained within the processing space 16 of the drum 12 for the appliance 14. Through this configuration, the treating chemistry 28 can be dispensed from the agitator 20 to a medial area 240 of the processing space 16 surrounding the agitator 20. Through this configuration, the treating chemistry 28 can be quickly and evenly mixed within the fluid contained within the processing space 16 of the appliance 14.

[0079] As exemplified in FIGS. 9-13, the fins 250 can be axially oriented along the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20. The various outlet ports 52 are positioned between the axially oriented fins 250 to prevent the treating chemistry 28 from being dispensed onto these fins 250.

[0080] Referring now to FIGS. 34-42 and 44-46, the pump mechanism 30 can be disposed within the reservoir 26 and can be operated automatically during a particular portion of the laundry cycle 18. According to these aspects of the device, the laundry appliance 14 can include the drum 12 that defines the processing space 16 therein. The impeller 10 is disposed proximate the base 44 of the drum 12. The impeller 10 is rotationally operable relative to the drum 12. The removable agitator 20 includes the first end 50 that selectively attaches to the impeller 10 to define the installed position 24 of the agitator 20. The removable agitator 20 includes the outer wall 82 that defines the interior compartment 90 therein. The release mechanism 70 is incorporated within the removable agitator 20 and extends through the interior compartment 90. The release mechanism 70 includes the release actuator 72 at the second end 54 of the removable agitator 20. The second end 54 opposes the first end 50. The pump mechanism 30 is in communication with the reservoir 26 within the removable agitator 20. The pump mechanism 30 includes the outlet port 52 that is positioned proximate the second end 54. The pump mechanism 30 is coupled with a controller 260 that activates the pump mechanism 30 in relation to the laundry cycle 18. The pump mechanism 30 and the pump actuator 56 are in communication with the controller 260 and are attached to the release mechanism 70. Operation of the pump mechanism 30 is configured to draw the treating chemistry 28 from the reservoir 26 and deliver the treating chemistry 28 to the one or more outlet ports 52 and into the processing space 16.

[0081] Referring again to FIGS. 34-37 and 44-46, the release mechanism 70 includes the linkage 92 that extends from the release actuator 72, disposed at the second end 54, to the first end 50 that includes the securing mechanism 48 that couples with the receiver 46 of the impeller 10. As described herein, the reservoir 26 is coupled with the linkage 92. This coupling of the reservoir 26 with the linkage 92 can be through a container 94 that is attached to a seat 110 of the linkage 92. Additionally, the reservoir 26 can be incorporated within the column 96 that defines the linkage 92. In such an aspect of the device, the linkage 92 includes the interior volume 98 that is defined within the perimeter wall 140 of the linkage 92. As described herein, in this aspect of the device, the reservoir 26 is defined within the interior volume 98 of the linkage 92. The linkage 92 includes the release actuator 72 and the securing mechanism 48 that selectively engages the receiver 46 of the impeller 10. The securing mechanism 48 is disposed at the first end 50 of the removable agitator 20. The release actuator 72 is disposed at the second end 54 of the removable agitator 20.

[0082] Referring again to FIGS. 34-37, the pump mechanism 30 is attached to the linkage 92 proximate a lower portion 116 of the reservoir 26. In this manner, the pump mechanism 30 is positioned proximate the first end 50 of the removable agitator 20 and pumps the treating chemistry 28 in an upward direction toward the outlet port 52 positioned proximate the second end 54 of the removable agitator 20. During operation of the appliance 14, the controller 260 monitors the progress of a particular laundry cycle 18. At defined portions of the laundry cycle 18, the controller 260 can communicate with the pump mechanism 30 to activate and pump the treating chemistry 28 from the reservoir 26, through the outlet port 52, and into the processing space 16. In this manner, the user does not interact with the pump mechanism 30. Rather, the user activates the laundry cycle 18, and the laundry cycle 18, through its operation by the controller 260, automatically activates the pump mechanism 30.

[0083] Referring again to FIGS. 34-42 and 44-46, the removable agitator 20 includes the securing mechanism 48 that attaches the removable agitator 20 to the receiver 46 of the impeller 10. Within the securing mechanism 48, a data communications interface 270 provides for communication between the controller 260 and the pump mechanism 30 for delivering electrical power and allowing for the transfer of data communications. It is contemplated that the removable agitator 20 can include a microcontroller 280 that is in communication with the controller 260 for the appliance 14 as well as the pump mechanism 30 and other sensors 282 contained within the removable agitator 20, as described herein. In this configuration, the microcontroller 280 is in signal communication with the controller 260. The controller 260 operates the laundry cycle 18 and communicates with the microcontroller 280 to operate the pump mechanism 30 during the laundry cycle 18.

[0084] In certain aspects of the device, the removable agitator 20 can include a wireless communications interface. In such an aspect of the device, the wireless communications interface of the agitator 20 provides for wireless data communications between the microcontroller 280 disposed within the agitator 20 and the controller 260 for the appliance 14. Additionally, in such an aspect of the device, the removable agitator 20 can include an on-board power supply, typically in the form of a battery. The battery can be a disposable battery, rechargeable battery, or can be a rechargeable power supply. It is contemplated that the rechargeable power supply can recharge when the removable agitator 20 is in the installed position 24 with respect to the receiver 46 of the impeller 10.

[0085] According to the various aspects of the device, as exemplified in FIGS. 1-46, various sensors 282 can be contained within the removable agitator 20. These sensors 282 can include a level sensor 290 that determines an amount of treating chemistry 28 contained within the reservoir 26. The level sensor 290 communicates with the controller 260, either directly or through the microcontroller 280, to communicate an amount of treating chemistry 28 contained within the reservoir 26. As described herein, various sensors 282 can also communicate with the controller 260 to alert when the pump mechanism 30 is activated and whether treating chemistry 28 has actually been dispensed from the reservoir 26. It is contemplated that various motion sensors within the removable agitator 20 can be used for determining when treating chemistry 28 should be dispensed. By way of example, and not limitation, these motion sensors can determine whether an agitation phase of the longer cycle 18 is occurring. In an agitation phase, the agitator 20 is moving in oscillating and rotational motion. Motion sensors can detect this and determine whether treating chemistry 28 should be dispensed. Additionally, the motion sensors can detect a spin cycle where the agitator 20 rotates at a high rate of speed. Where a fragrance fluid 298 is to be dispensed from the reservoir 26, the motion sensors can determine that a spin cycle is complete and alert the pump mechanism 30 to activate to dispense a fragrance fluid 298 from the reservoir 26 into the processing space 16.

[0086] According to the various aspects of the device, the treating chemistry 28 that is dispensed from the reservoir 26 can include any one of various materials. These materials can include, but are not limited to, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, fragrance fluid 298, combinations thereof, and other similar materials. In certain aspects of the device, the reservoir 26 can include separate compartments for containing different treating chemistries 28. In such an aspect of the device, each compartment within the reservoir 26 can include a dedicated pump mechanism 30 for delivering the respective treating chemistry 28 from the compartment of the reservoir 26 and into the processing space 16.

[0087] Referring now to FIGS. 14-17, the removable agitator 20 can include the reservoir 26 that is configured to contain the treating chemistry 28. The pump mechanism 30 is in communication with the reservoir 26 contained within the interior compartment 90 of the removable agitator 20. The pump mechanism 30 is configured to draw the treating chemistry 28 upward from the reservoir 26 and toward the upper end 54 of the removable agitator 20. The upper end 54 of the removable agitator 20 also includes openings 80 within the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20. These openings 80 define outlet ports 52 that are in communication with the pump mechanism 30 and the processing space 16 surrounding the removable agitator 20. The pump actuator 56 is also disposed within the upper end 54 of the agitator 20. Operation of the pump actuator 56 operates the pump mechanism 30. The pump mechanism 30 is configured to deliver the treating chemistry 28 from the reservoir 26 and into a dispensing plate 430 that is positioned within the upper end 54 of the agitator 20, proximate the pump mechanism 30.

[0088] Referring again to FIGS. 14-17, during operation of the appliance 14, the treating chemistry 28 that is dispensed onto the dispensing plate 430 can be dispensed from the dispensing plate 430 and through the outlet ports 52 and into the processing space 16. As a laundry cycle 18 is performed, the agitator 20 rotates about a rotational axis 432 of the impeller 10 and the drum 12. This rotation of the agitator 20 generates a centrifugal force 434 that urges the treating chemistry 28 away from the pump mechanism 30 and the dispensing plate 430, and through the outlet ports 52 defined within the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20.

[0089] Referring again to FIGS. 14-17, the pump actuator 56 is defined within the aperture 180 of the handle 182. The pump actuator 56 can be a resilient member 436, such as an elastomeric member that can be depressed, thereby actuating the pump mechanism 30 to draw the treating chemistry 28 upward from the reservoir 26. After being depressed, the resilient member 436 can return to an original shape to be depressed again at a later time. The dispensing plate 430 is positioned below the pump mechanism 30 to receive the dispensed treating chemistry 28. As described herein, the pump mechanism 30 can include the conduit 114 that extends into the lower portion 116 of the reservoir 26 to draw the treating chemistry 28 upward from the reservoir 26.

[0090] In certain aspects of the device, the dispensing plate 430 can define a sealed engagement that separates the reservoir 26 of the agitator 20 from a dispensing area 450 of the dispensing plate 430. In such an aspect of the device, wash fluid 452 from the processing space 16 can enter into the area above the dispensing plate 430 to assist in diluting the dispensed treating chemistry 28 to define a treating fluid 454. Once diluted, or partially diluted, rotation of the agitator 20 generates the centrifugal force 434 that dispenses the treating fluid 454 away from the dispensing plate 430 and through the outlet ports 52 for delivery into the processing space 16 of the appliance 14.

[0091] Referring again to FIGS. 14-17, the pump mechanism 30 includes a nozzle 460 that is attached to the conduit 114 by a spring 462 that defines the nozzle 460 as a resilient pump mechanism 30 of the returns-to-rest position. The conduit 114 of the pump mechanism 30 extends through the dispensing plate 430 in a sealed fashion. Accordingly, once the treating chemistry 28 is dispensed, the dispensed treating chemistry 28 is not able to return into the reservoir 26 through the dispensing plate 430.

[0092] As exemplified in FIG. 15, the reservoir 26 can be refilled by separating the pump mechanism 30 and the dispensing plate 430 from the interior compartment 90 of the removable agitator 20. Once removed, the interior compartment 90 is accessible for dispensing additional amounts of treating chemistry 28 into the reservoir 26. Once filled, the pump mechanism 30 and the dispensing plate 430 can be returned to a position below the outlet ports 52 to allow for the dispensing of treating chemistry 28 from the dispensing plate 430. When installed, as described herein, the dispensing plate 430 seals the upper portion 142 of the reservoir 26 to prevent infiltration of wash fluid 452 from the processing space 16 and into the reservoir 26.

[0093] Referring now to FIGS. 18-28, the agitator 20 can be configured to extend from the impeller 10, where the agitator 20 includes the outer wall 82 that defines the interior compartment 90 therein. In certain aspects of the device, as shown in FIGS. 18-25, a cartridge 170 can be disposed within the interior compartment 90 to define the reservoir 26 within the cartridge 170. Also, in certain aspects of the device, as shown in FIGS. 26-28, the reservoir 26 is configured to selectively receive the treating chemistry 28 directly within the agitator 20, typically without the use of an additional cartridge 170. In each of these aspects of the device, a cap member 218 can be attached to the top section 220 of the agitator 20. The cap member 218 selectively engages with the agitator 20 to enclose the reservoir 26 defined within the outer wall 82. The cap member 218 includes an actuating portion 222 that operates to dispense the treating chemistry 28 from within the reservoir 26 into the processing space 16. A dispensing system 132 is in communication with the reservoir 26. Operation of the actuating portion 222 of the cap member 218 activates a valve 470 of the dispensing system 132 to an open position 472. Typically, the valve 470 is biased to the closed position 474. Activation of the valve 470 to the open position 472 permits the treating chemistry 28 within the reservoir 26 to flow through the valve 470. Accordingly, the valve 470 dispenses the treating chemistry 28 into the lower portion 116 of the interior compartment 90 of the agitator 20 to be dispensed into the processing space 16.

[0094] As exemplified in FIGS. 18-25, the dispensing system 132 can include a refillable cartridge 170 that is selectively disposed within the interior compartment 90 of the agitator 20. The valve 470 can be disposed at a dispensing end 480 of the cartridge 170. The cartridge 170 can include a handle member 482 that is disposed at an opposing end 484 of the cartridge 170, where the opposing end 484 opposes the dispensing end 480. The handle member 482 is configured to engage the actuating portion 222. Accordingly, operation of the actuating portion 222 of the cap member 218 pushes against the handle member 482 (shown in (a) of FIG. 23). This movement, in turn, pushes the cartridge 170 down against a dispensing plate 430 defined within the agitator 20 (shown in (b) of FIG. 23). With the valve 470 being pushed down against the dispensing plate 430, the valve 470 is urged to the open position 472, thereby allowing treating chemistry 28 from within the cartridge 170 to be dispensed onto the dispensing plate 430. The dispensed treating chemistry 28 is dispensed into a mixing area 486 defined within the agitator 20 (shown in (c) of FIG. 23). The mixing area 486 includes a plurality of flow openings 488 that permit a flow of wash fluid 452 from the processing space 16 to enter into the mixing area 486. This flow of wash fluid 452 serves to dilute the dispensed treating chemistry 28 to define a treating fluid 454 that is then delivered into the processing space 16 (shown in (d) of FIG. 23).

[0095] Referring again to FIGS. 19-25, the dispensing plate 430 can be in the form of a perforated member that allows for the movement of treating chemistry 28 from the valve 470 in the open position 472, through the dispensing plate 430, and into the mixing area 486. Additionally, during operation of the appliance 14, wash fluid 452 can enter into the mixing area 486, flow through the perforations defined in the dispensing plate 430, and combined with the treating chemistry 28 that may be residually disposed on the dispensing plate 430. As described herein, the actuating portion 222 of the cap member 218 acts upon the cartridge 170 to operate the valve 470 to the open position 472. Once in the open position 472, treating chemistry 28 is dispensed into the mixing area 486 for delivery into the processing space 16. The valve 470 can be biased toward the closed position 474. Accordingly, when the actuating portion 222 is released, the valve 470 returns to the closed position 474. In moving to the closed position 474, the valve 470 also urges the cartridge 170 in an upward direction 544 to maintain contact with the actuating portion 222 of the cap member 218.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 20-23, the cartridge 170 can include cartridge guides 490 that assist in aligning the cartridge 170 within agitator guideways 492 defined within an interior of the outer wall 82 for the agitator 20. When the cartridge 170 is installed within the interior compartment 90 of the agitator 20, the agitator guideways 492 assist in preventing rotation of the cartridge 170 during rotational operation of the agitator 20. Additionally, the combination of the cartridge guides 490 and the agitator guideways 492 serves to provide a repeatable and consistent insertion mechanism for disposing the cartridge 170 within the agitator 20.

[0097] As exemplified in FIGS. 24 and 25, the actuating portion 222 of the cap member 218 can include various indicia 510 that provide instructions regarding the amount of treating chemistry 28 that is dispensed. Each push or activation of the actuating portion 222 can dispense a predictable and repeatable amount of the treating chemistry 28 into the mixing area 486. The biasing mechanism of the valve 470 can be a high resistance spring 462 that urges the valve 470 back to the closed position 474, thereby returning the cartridge 170 to its raised position within the interior compartment 90. Accordingly, after the valve 470 is moved to the open position 472, and the actuating portion 222 of the cap member 218 is released, the valve 470 quickly returns to the closed position 474 under the force of the spring 462.

[0098] Referring now to FIGS. 26-28, the reservoir 26 can be defined by the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20. In this aspect of the device, the dispensing plate 430 can be a perforated member that includes a valve aperture 520 therein. In such an aspect of the device, the actuating portion 222 can be attached to a valve stem 522 that extends from the cap member 218, through the reservoir 26, and to the valve aperture 520 of the dispensing plate 430. In a rest position 524, the valve 470 of the valve stem 522 is urged against an underside 526 of the dispensing plate 430, defining a closed position 474 of the valve 470. When the actuating portion 222 is depressed, the valve stem 522 is moved in a downward direction 528, thereby separating the valve 470 from the valve aperture 520 to define an open position 472 of the valve 470. Once in the open position 472, treating chemistry 28 is able to flow from the reservoir 26, through the valve aperture 520, and into the mixing area 486 positioned beneath the dispensing plate 430. When the actuating portion 222 is disengaged, a spring 462 of the actuating portion 222 returns the valve stem 522 and the valve 470 to the rest position 524 that defines the closed position 474 of the valve 470, in engagement with the underside 526 of the dispensing plate 430.

[0099] Referring again to FIGS. 18-28, the mixing area 486 of the agitator 20 is positioned below the dispensing plate 430. The dispensing plate 430 provides for a regulated flow of treating chemistry 28 from the reservoir 26, through the dispensing plate 430, and into the mixing area 486 of the agitator 20. Once in the mixing area 486, wash fluid 452 from the processing space 16 is able to dilute the treating chemistry 28 to define treating fluid 454 that can be delivered into the processing space 16. Using this configuration, a diluted form of the treating chemistry 28 can be quickly delivered from the mixing area 486 and to the processing space 16.

[0100] Referring now to FIGS. 29-33, in certain aspects of the device, the reservoir 26 of the removable agitator 20 is contained within the outer wall 82 of the removable agitator 20, as shown in FIGS. 26-28. In such aspects of the device, the reservoir 26 within the interior compartment 90 must be fluid tight to prevent treating chemistry 28 from leaking out from the reservoir 26, and into the remainder of the processing space 16. To accomplish this, the release mechanism 70 of the removable agitator 20 is confined to be defined within the receiver 46 of the impeller 10 to interact with the lower end 50 of the removal agitator 20. Additionally, the lower end 50 of the removable agitator 20 includes a static structure 540 that defines the securing mechanism 48. Conversely, the receiver 46 of the impeller 10 can include a biasing disk 542 that is urged in an upward direction 544 by a spring 462 defined within the receiver 46. When the removable agitator 20 is moved into the installed position 24, movement of the agitator 20 into the receiver 46312 urges the biasing disk 542 in a downward direction 528 against the force of the spring 462. Each of the securing mechanism 48 and receiver 46 includes mating structures 546 that interconnect to form a secure interlocking engagement in the installed position 24 of the removable agitator 20. As exemplified in FIG. 30, when the biasing disk 542 is depressed, mating structures 546 of the agitator 20 bypass mating structures 546 of the receiver 46. Once in this bypass position 548, the agitator 20 can be rotated such that the mating structures 546 of the agitator 20 and the receiver 46 are aligned with one another. When the agitator 20 is released and the mating structures 546 are aligned, the biasing disk 542 urges the removable agitator 20 in an upward direction 544, such that the mating structures 546 of the agitator 20 and the receiver 46 interlock with one another to define the installed position 24. In this interlocking state, the agitator 20 is secured axially and rotationally within the receiver 46. Additionally, because the securing mechanism 48 of the agitator 20 is free of perforations, apertures, or moving parts, the reservoir 26 within the agitator 20 is maintained in a fluid tight state to receive and hold treating chemistry 28 therein.

[0101] Referring again to FIGS. 29-32, to separate the removable agitator 20 from the receiver 46, a reverse set of operations is performed. Accordingly, the agitator 20 is pressed in the downward direction 528 against the biasing disk 542 to unlink the mating structures 546 of the agitator 20 and the receiver 46 to define the bypass position 548 of these mating structures 546. Once in this bypass position 548, the agitator 20 can be rotated in an opposite direction to place the mating structures 546 of the agitator 20 out of alignment with the mating structures 546 of the receiver 46. Once out of alignment, the agitator 20 can be linearly moved in the upward direction 544 to separate the removable agitator 20 from the receiver 46.

[0102] As exemplified in FIGS. 29-32, the biasing disk 542 can include tabs 560 that engage an interior of the impeller 10 to define a stopping position 562 of the biasing disk 542. Typically, this stopping position 562 is a position that places the top surface of the biasing disk 542 flush with the surrounding area of the impeller 10. Additionally, the mating structures 546 of the receiver 46 can include angled surfaces 564 that urge the mating structures 546 of the agitator 20 into a desired position for accomplishing the alignment of the mating structures 546 to define the bypass position 548 and the installed position 24. These angled surfaces 564 can urge the mating structures 546 of the agitator 20 between the mating structures 546 of the receiver 46 so that the bypass position 548 can be achieved with respect to the agitator 20 and the receiver 46 of the impeller 10.

[0103] Using this configuration of the securing mechanism 48 of the agitator 20, a linkage 92, as shown in FIGS. 4-8, can be eliminated in favor of the static structures of the mating structures 546 defined within the lower end 50 of the removable agitator 20, as exemplified in FIGS. 29-33. Through this configuration, a fluid tight reservoir 26 can be defined within the outer wall 82 of the removable agitator 20.

[0104] Referring now to FIGS. 38-42, the removable agitator 20 can include a cartridge 170 that contains one or more canisters 310. Each of these canisters 310 can contain a common treating chemistry 28 or can contain individual and separate treating chemistries 28. Typically, these canisters 310 can contain one or more fragrance fluids 298 that can be dispensed at the conclusion of a particular laundry cycle 18. The cartridge 170 can be an externally accessible cartridge 170 that can be separated from a receptacle 312 of the removable agitator 20. Because the cartridge 170 is externally accessible from the receptacle 312, the removable agitator 20 can remain in the installed position 24 while a user removes the cartridge 170 from the receptacle 312 of the agitator 20.

[0105] As exemplified in FIGS. 38-42, the cartridge 170 having the plurality of canisters 310 can be disposed within the receptacle 312 defined within the outer wall 82 of the removable agitator 20. This cartridge 170 can include a plurality of holders 314 that are configured to secure each of the canisters 310 within the cartridge 170, respectively. Each cartridge 170 can include a controller 260 or a microcontroller 280 that operates according to the various phases of a particular laundry cycle 18. As described herein, at the conclusion of a particular laundry cycle 18, a fragrance fluid 298 is dispensed within the processing space 16. Accordingly, the microcontroller 280 disposed on the cartridge 170 can receive an instruction of the conclusion of a laundry cycle 18 to activate the dispensing system 132 in order to release the fragrance fluid 298 from one or more canisters 310 and into the processing space 16.

[0106] Referring again to FIGS. 38-42, each of the canisters 310 can include a pressurized treating chemistry 28, typically in the form of a fragrance fluid 298. When pressurized, a nozzle 330 of each canister 310 can be activated to release a dose of a particular fragrance fluid 298 out of a corresponding outlet port 52. This nozzle 330 can be activated upon receiving an instruction from a controller 260, or a microcontroller 280, or a combination of the controller 260 and the microcontroller 280. The nozzle 330 can include a biasing mechanism that maintains the nozzle 330 in a closed position. Upon receiving a particular instruction, the nozzle 330 can be moved through operation of the pump actuator 56 to an open position for a period of time. During this period of time, a certain dose of the pressurized fragrance fluid 298 contained within the canister 310 is released into the processing space 16 via the outlet port 52. In certain aspects of the device, the nozzle 330 can also be activated by the rotation of the agitator 20 about a rotational axis 432. As the agitator 20 rotates, a biasing mechanism within the nozzle 330 is acted upon by the centrifugal force 434 generated by rotation of the agitator 20. This centrifugal force 434 overcomes the biasing mechanism of the nozzle 330. In turn, the centrifugal force 434 operates the nozzle 330 to open and allow for the release of the fragrance fluid 298 contained therein. In this manner, operation of the agitator 20 about the rotational axis 432 during a high speed spin phase of the laundry cycle 18 produces a sufficient centrifugal force 434 to operate the nozzle 330 to the open position. When the agitator 20 rotates about the rotational axis 432 during an agitating phase, or a slow rotation phase, the centrifugal force 434 is insufficient to overcome the biasing mechanism. Accordingly, the nozzle 330 stays in the closed position during these slower speed rotations of the agitator 20.

[0107] It is also contemplated that the nozzle 330 can include a biasing mechanism that is calibrated to allow for the release of fragrance fluid 298 only at certain rotational speeds of the agitator 20. Accordingly, during a high speed rotation of the agitator 20, during a spin phase of the laundry cycle 18, the biasing mechanism may only open during a particular ramp up speed of the agitator or a ramp down speed of the agitator 20. When the agitator 20 rotates at a speed that is above or below this ramp up speed or ramp down speed, the nozzle 330 typically remains closed. Accordingly, the ramp up speed and the ramp down speed, can occupy a certain speed range that is less than a maximum rotational speed of a spin phase for the laundry cycle 18. Using this configuration, the release of fragrance fluid 298 can be regulated to occur at specific times during the ramp up and ramp down of the agitator 20 during a spin phase of the laundry cycle 18. By way of example, and not limitation, the ramp up speed and ramp down speed can be approximately 700 RPM to approximately 750 RPM. It should be understood that the other speed ranges are contemplated for use with this aspect of the device.

[0108] As exemplified in FIGS. 38-40, when one or all of the canisters 310 are spent, a user can be notified of its condition via a user interface or other communication. Accordingly, when one or more of the canisters 310 is spent, a user can remove the cartridge 170 from the receptacle 312. At this stage, the entire cartridge 170 can be replaced by a new cartridge 170 that includes charged canisters 310. It is also contemplated that the cartridge 170 can be removed from the receptacle 312 of the agitator 20 and individual spent canisters 310 can be separated from the respective holders 314 and replaced with fully charged canisters 310. When installed, the new and charged canister 310 is attached to the respective nozzle 330. The controller 260, or microcontroller 280, can monitor the pressure of the treating chemistry 28 contained within the canister 310. When this pressure is depleted, a signal can be delivered indicating that the canister 310, or the cartridge 170, needs replacement or recharging.

[0109] Referring again to FIGS. 38-42, in this aspect of the device, the cartridge 170 that contains the canisters 310 of treating chemistry 28 is maintained separate from the linkage 92 that extends between the release actuator 72 of the removable agitator 20 and the securing mechanism 48 of the removable agitator 20. In this manner, the outlet ports 52 of the respective canisters 310 can be sized to accommodate each outlet port 52 of the various canisters 310. When the release mechanism 70 is activated, the cartridge 170 and the respective canisters 310 maintain a static position with respect to the outer wall 82 of the removable agitator 20.

[0110] Referring again to FIGS. 38-42, the nozzles 330 that are coupled with each of the canisters 310, respectively, can include the pump actuator 56 that moves a valve from a closed position and to an open position. The motion of the valve can be an operation of a small period of time. The small operation of the nozzle 330 can also be repeated to achieve certain dosing of the treating chemistry 28 contained within each canister 310.

[0111] As exemplified in FIGS. 38-42, the cartridge 170 includes three canisters 310. As described herein, these canisters 310 can include the same treating chemistry 28 or can include different discrete treating chemistries 28. It is also contemplated that the cartridge 170 can include a single canister 310, or a plurality of canisters 310. Also, it is contemplated that each agitator 20 can include multiple cartridges 170 that can be positioned about the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20.

[0112] Referring again to FIGS. 38-42, operation of the canisters 310 contained within the cartridges 170 can be an automatic operation that is controlled by the controller 260 or the microcontroller 280, or a combination of both. It is also contemplated that these canisters 310 can be operated through manual operation, as described herein. This manual operation can be through a mechanical actuator, such as the pump actuator 56 described herein. This actuation can also be through an electronic mechanism, where the pump actuator 56 activates an electromechanical device that moves the nozzle 330 from the closed position to the open position, as described herein.

[0113] The microcontroller 280 or controller 260 can be in wireless communication with the controller 260 for the appliance 14. It is also contemplated that the cartridge 170 can be in a hard-wired signal communication with the controller 260 for the appliance 14 through the data communications interface 270 that is incorporated within the securing mechanism 48 of the removable agitator 20 and the receiver 46 of the impeller 10.

[0114] Referring now to FIGS. 44-46, the removable agitator 20 can include a cartridge 170 for dispensing fragrance material 592 using a heating element 580 for defining steam that can be expressed, through increased pressure, via one or more outlet ports 52 defined within the cartridge 170 and the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20. According to the various aspects of the device, the cartridge 170 can include a heating plate 582 that is coupled with a heating coil 584 for generating heat 586 within the cartridge 170. The heating coil 584 can be operated through delivery of electrical current 588 via a slip ring (not shown) that is attached to a driveshaft (not shown) of the impeller 10. As electrical current 588 is delivered to the heating coil 584, heat 586 is generated and is distributed through the heating plate 582 into the interior volume 98 of the cartridge 170. Fragrance material 592 contained within the cartridge 170 is, in turn, heated and is delivered from the cartridge 170 to the processing space 16 as fragrance steam 594 via the outlet ports 52 defined within a top portion of the cartridge 170. These outlet ports 52 can correspond to openings 80 within the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20 to allow for the fragrance steam 594 to be delivered from the agitator 20 and into the processing space 16.

[0115] According to the various aspects of the device, as exemplified in FIGS. 44-46, a steam cycle within a laundry appliance 14 can be activated for generating the fragrance steam 594 that is delivered from the agitator 20. Once a steam setting of the appliance 14 is selected, a controller 260 sends a signal to activate the steam cycle. During a wash cycle 18 of the appliance 14, wash fluid 452 may be able to enter into the agitator 20 to be collected within a liquid compartment 596 of one of the agitator 20 and the cartridge 170. At the completion of the wash cycle 18, a spin cycle 18 activates. At a designated time before the spin cycle 18 ends, the heating coil 584 can be activated and water that is captured within the liquid compartment 596 is heated to form a carrier steam 598. At the conclusion of the spin cycle 18, the water within the cartridge 170 reaches steam temperature and pressure builds up within the cartridge 170. The carrier steam 598 within the cartridge 170 interacts with the fragrance material 592 through diffusion and achieves a pressurized fragrance steam 594. This pressurized fragrance steam 594 is able to escape the cartridge 170 through the outlet ports 52 and the openings 80 within the outer wall 82 of the agitator 20. This fragrance steam 594 is then disposed within the processing space 16 for engaging with the articles contained therein.

[0116] As exemplified in FIG. 46, in certain aspects of the device, the cartridge 170 can include separate chambers. The liquid compartment 596 can be used for filling with a wash fluid 452, typically water. A separate fragrance compartment 610 can contain the fragrance material 592, such as a fragrance fluid 298. During operation of the steam cycle, the heating coil 584 generates heat 586 through the heating of the heating plate 582. The wash fluid 452 within the liquid compartment 596 is heated to form the carrier steam 598, which interacts with the fragrance material 592, and is able to exit through the outlet ports 52 as the fragrance steam 594, as described herein.

[0117] As exemplified in FIG. 44, the cartridge 170 can be attached to the linkage 92 for the securing mechanism 48 of the removable agitator 20. It is also contemplated that the cartridge 170 can be installed within an agitator 20 that is secured to the impeller 10, and may not be removable from the impeller 10. Where the cartridge 170 is attached to the linkage 92, it is contemplated that activation of the release mechanism 70 of the removable agitator 20 contemporaneously moves the cartridge 170 within the interior compartment 90 of the agitator 20, as described herein.

[0118] It is contemplated that the cartridge 170 can take any one of the various forms of the cartridge 170, as described herein. The cartridge 170, as is provided in FIGS. 44-46, includes the additional components, in the form of the heating coil 584 and the heating plate 582 that generate the carrier steam 598 within the cartridge 170 to be dispensed as fragrance steam 594 into the processing space 16.

[0119] Referring now to FIGS. 47-51, the cap member 218 of the agitator 20 can include a fragrance chamber 620 that is enclosable using a chamber cover 622. The cap member 218 and the chamber cover 622 define the fragrance chamber 620 therein. Fragrance material 592 can be disposed within the cap member 218 and the fragrance material 592 can be disposed within the fragrance chamber 620 as a fluid, a packet, fragrance sheets, or other similar form from which a fragrance can emanate for diffusion into the processing space 16 surrounding the agitator 20. Where the cap member 218 includes the fragrance chamber 620, the cap member 218 can include a plurality of air scoops 624 that direct airflow 626 into the fragrance chamber 620 during a spin cycle of the laundry appliance 14. As described herein, the spin cycle rotates the agitator 20 at a high rate of speed. The air scoops 624 direct at least a portion of the airflow 626 within the processing space 16 into the fragrance chamber 620. The air scoops 624 can include resilient doors 628 that are biased toward a closed position 474 of the air scoops 624. Accordingly, when the agitator 20 is at rest, or rotating at a slow rate of speed, the resilient doors 628 maintain a closed position 474 of the air scoops 624. Accordingly, airflow 626 is prevented from entering into the fragrance chamber 620. When the agitator 20 rotates during the spin cycle at the high rate of speed, the pressure of the airflow 626 moving into the air scoops 624 biases the resilient doors 628 to an open position 472. In this open position 472, the airflow 626 is forced into the fragrance chamber 620 to intermingle and interact with the fragrance material 592 contained within the fragrance chamber 620. After intermingling with the fragrance material 592, the now fragrance air 630 is expelled through fragrance openings 632 defined within the chamber cover 622 of the cap member 218. Through this configuration, fragrance air 630 is able to be expressed from the cap member 218 and delivered into the processing space 16 for intermingling with articles contained within the processing space 16.

[0120] According to the various aspects of the device, as exemplified in FIGS. 47-51, the chamber cover 622 can be rotationally secured to the cap member 218 through a rotational interaction, such as a threaded or detent engagement, as shown in (a) and (b) of FIG. 49. Once the chamber cover 622 is removed, the fragrance material 592 can be disposed within the fragrance chamber 620 of the cap member 218, as shown in (c) of FIG. 49. The chamber cover 622 can then be re-attached to the cap member 218 to enclose the fragrance chamber 620 to enclose the fragrance material 592 within the interior of the cap member 218, shown in (d) and (e) of FIG. 49.

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 47-51, the resilient doors 628 can be in the form of spring-biased doors that are biased to a closed position 474 relative to the air scoops 624. In this closed position 474, airflow 626 is prevented from entering into the fragrance chamber 620, thereby preventing airflow 626 within the fragrance chamber 620 that might prematurely express fragrance air 630 into the processing space 16. When the agitator 20 is rotated during the spin cycle, the pressure of the airflow 626 entering into the air scoops 624 biases the resilient doors 628 to the open position 472 to allow for the captured airflow 626 to enter into and through the fragrance chamber 620 to intermingle with the fragrance material 592. This airflow 626, due to the air pressure within the air scoops 624, generates an increased air pressure within the fragrance chamber 620. This increased air pressure is expelled through the fragrance openings 632 is defined within the fragrance chamber 620 as expelled fragrance air 630.

[0122] Using the fragrance chamber 620, a bulk storage of fragrance material 592 can be stored within the cap member 218 for use during a number of laundry cycles 18. The fragrance chamber 620 also provides for a passive dispensing of fragrance air 630 into the processing space 16 during each laundry cycle 18 that includes a spin cycle. This configuration of the cap member 218 also separates the fragrance material 592 from the processing space 16, thereby avoiding direct contact between the fragrance material 592 and the articles being processed within the processing space 16.

[0123] Referring now to FIGS. 1-23, having described various aspects of the chemistry dispensing system 132, a method 400 is disclosed for operating a chemistry dispensing system 132 disposed within an agitator 20. According to the method 400, a step 402 includes activating the laundry appliance 14 to select a laundry cycle 18. Once activated, the laundry appliance 14 senses a load of articles contained therein (step 404). Water is then dispensed into the processing space 16 contained within the drum 12 (step 406). After a certain amount of time of the laundry cycle 18 has lapsed, or when a certain amount of water is contained within the processing space 16, a sensor 282 activates for dispensing a particular quantity of treating chemistry 28 from the agitator 20 (step 408). This can be an automatic activation, or the signal can be a communication to the user to manually operate the pump actuator 56, as described herein. Once the treating chemistry 28 is dispensed, the wash cycle 18 is activated (step 410). The wash cycle 18, sometimes referred to as an agitation cycle 18, then completes (step 412). A rinse and spin cycle 18, or a plurality of rinse and spin cycles 18, are then performed to extract water from the articles being processed within the drum 12 (step 414). At the conclusion of the final spin cycle, fragrance fluid 298 from the agitator 20 is dispensed into the processing space 16 (step 416).

[0124] As described herein, the dispensing of treating chemistry 28 within step 408 is typically accomplished through a manual operation of the pump mechanism 30, similar to those described and shown in FIGS. 2-13. At the conclusion of the final spin cycle, a fragrance fluid 298 can be dispensed into the processing space 16. The fragrance fluid 298 is typically dispensed by an automatic operation of the pump mechanism 30, as described and shown with respect to FIGS. 14-17. It is also contemplated that a manual operation of a pump mechanism 30 can be performed to dispense a fragrance fluid 298 into the processing space 16. Typically, the fragrance fluid 298 will be dispensed by an automatic operation of the pump mechanism 30 by the controller 260 and / or the microcontroller 280.

[0125] According to the various aspects of the device, the reservoir 26 contained within the agitator 20, or the removable agitator 20, can be utilized for storing bulk amounts of treating chemistry 28. By using these bulk amounts of the treating chemistry 28, the agitator 20 can be used for dispensing treating chemistry 28 over a number of laundry cycles 18 for an extended period of time. Refilling or replacing the reservoir 26 occurs periodically, but not for every laundry cycle 18. Accordingly, customer interaction with respect to the treating chemistries 28 can be kept to a minimum. This interaction can also be largely eliminated in the case of replaceable and recyclable cartridges 170, as described herein. Using the chemistry dispensing system 132 described herein, additional space can be utilized within the outer cabinet 42 for the appliance 14 for either increasing the size of the processing space 16 or providing additional functionalities within the laundry appliance 14. By placing the chemistry dispensing system 132 within the agitator 20, greater flexibility within the laundry appliance 14 can be achieved for adding or modifying the location of components within the outer cabinet 42 and around the processing space 16. This is useful in appliances having a smaller size or more compact footprint, where space within the appliance is limited.

[0126] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry appliance includes a drum, an impeller, and an agitator. The drum is rotationally operable within a tub. The impeller is disposed proximate a base of the drum and is rotationally operable relative to the drum. The impeller has a receiver disposed within a central area of the impeller. The agitator has a securing mechanism disposed at a first end and that selectively attaches the agitator to the receiver to define an installed position of the agitator. The agitator has a reservoir configured to contain a treating chemistry. The agitator includes a pump mechanism in communication with the reservoir and configured to draw the treating chemistry upward from the reservoir. The agitator also includes at least one outlet port in communication with the pump mechanism. The at least one outlet port is disposed within a second end of the agitator. The second end is positioned opposite the first end. The agitator further includes a pump actuator disposed within the second end. Operation of the pump actuator operates the pump mechanism. The pump mechanism is configured to deliver the treating chemistry from the reservoir and into a processing space defined within the drum.

[0127] According to another aspect, the agitator includes a release mechanism having a release actuator that is disposed at the second end and that is in communication with the securing mechanism. Operation of the release actuator releases the securing mechanism to separate the agitator from the receiver of the impeller.

[0128] According to another aspect, the pump mechanism is attached to the release mechanism.

[0129] According to another aspect, the reservoir is defined within an interior compartment of the agitator.

[0130] According to another aspect, the release mechanism includes a linkage that extends through an interior compartment of the agitator between the first end and the second end, and the reservoir is attached to the linkage.

[0131] According to another aspect, the release mechanism includes a linkage that extends through the interior compartment between the first end and the second end, and the reservoir is defined within the linkage.

[0132] According to another aspect, the agitator includes an aperture proximate the second end and having an interior surface. The release actuator and the pump actuator are each defined within the interior surface.

[0133] According to another aspect, the release mechanism includes an interior column disposed within an interior compartment of the agitator and extending between the release actuator and the securing mechanism. The reservoir is defined within the interior column.

[0134] According to another aspect, the pump mechanism is attached to the interior column.

[0135] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry appliance includes a drum, an impeller, an agitator, a cap member, and a pump mechanism. The drum defines a processing space therein. The impeller is disposed proximate a base of the drum and is rotationally operable relative to the drum. The agitator extends upward form the impeller and has an outer wall that defines a reservoir therein which is configured to selectively receive a treating chemistry therein. The cap member is attached to a top portion of the agitator and is selectively engaged with the agitator to enclose the reservoir. The cap member includes an actuating portion. A pump mechanism is attached to the cap member and in communication with the actuating portion and the reservoir. Operation of the actuating portion operates the pump mechanism to define a suction within the reservoir of the agitator. Operation of the pump mechanism is configured to draw the treating chemistry from the reservoir to at least one outlet port disposed within the cap member of the agitator, and into the processing space.

[0136] According to another aspect, the pump mechanism includes a conduit that extends from the cap member to a lower portion of the reservoir.

[0137] According to another aspect, the at least one outlet port includes a first outlet port and a second outlet port. The first and second outlet ports are positioned on opposing sides of an outer perimeter of the cap member.

[0138] According to another aspect, the actuating portion of the pump mechanism is disposed on a top region of the cap member.

[0139] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry appliance includes a drum, an impeller, a removable agitator, a release mechanism, and a pump mechanism. The drum defines a processing space therein. The impeller is disposed proximate a base of the drum and is rotationally operable relative to the drum. The removable agitator has a first end that selectively attaches to the impeller to define an installed position of the removable agitator. The removable agitator also includes an outer wall that defines an interior compartment therein. The release mechanism is coupled with the removable agitator and extends through the interior compartment. The release mechanism includes a release actuator at a second end of the removable agitator. The second end opposes the first end. The pump mechanism is in communication with a reservoir that is disposed within the removable agitator and has an outlet port that is positioned proximate the second end. The pump mechanism is coupled with a controller that activates the pump mechanism in relation to a laundry cycle. The pump mechanism and a pump actuator in communication with the controller are attached to the release mechanism. Operation of the pump mechanism is configured to draw a treating chemistry from the reservoir and deliver the treating chemistry to the outlet port and into the processing space.

[0140] According to another aspect, the release mechanism includes a linkage that extends from the release actuator to the first end, and the reservoir is coupled with the linkage.

[0141] According to another aspect, the linkage includes an interior volume defined within a perimeter wall of the linkage, and the reservoir is defined within the interior volume of the linkage.

[0142] According to another aspect, the linkage includes the release actuator and a securing mechanism that selectively engages a receiver of the impeller and that is disposed at the first end of the removable agitator.

[0143] According to another aspect, the pump mechanism is attached to the linkage proximate the first end.

[0144] According to another aspect, the removable agitator includes a microcontroller that is coupled with the pump mechanism, and the microcontroller is in signal communication with the controller. The controller operates the laundry cycle.

[0145] According to another aspect, the treating chemistry is a fragrance fluid that is released at an end of the laundry cycle.

[0146] It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.

[0147] For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.

[0148] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and / or members or connectors or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and / or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

[0149] It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A laundry appliance comprising:a drum that is rotationally operable within a tub;an impeller disposed proximate a base of the drum, the impeller being rotationally operable relative to the drum, the impeller having a receiver disposed within a central area of the impeller; andan agitator having a securing mechanism disposed at a first end and that selectively attaches the agitator to the receiver to define an installed position of the agitator, the agitator having a reservoir configured to contain a treating chemistry, the agitator comprising:a pump mechanism in communication with the reservoir and configured to draw the treating chemistry upward from the reservoir;at least one outlet port in communication with the pump mechanism, wherein the at least one outlet port is disposed within a second end of the agitator, the second end positioned opposite the first end; anda pump actuator disposed within the second end, wherein operation of the pump actuator operates the pump mechanism, the pump mechanism configured to deliver the treating chemistry from the reservoir and into a processing space defined within the drum.

2. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the agitator includes a release mechanism having a release actuator that is disposed at the second end, the release actuator in communication with the securing mechanism, wherein operation of the release actuator releases the securing mechanism to separate the agitator from the receiver of the impeller.

3. The laundry appliance of claim 2, wherein the pump mechanism is attached to the release mechanism.

4. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the reservoir is defined within an interior compartment of the agitator.

5. The laundry appliance of claim 2, wherein the release mechanism includes a linkage that extends through an interior compartment of the agitator between the first end and the second end, and wherein the reservoir is attached to the linkage.

6. The laundry appliance of claim 5, wherein the release mechanism includes the linkage that extends through the interior compartment between the first end and the second end, and wherein the reservoir is defined within the linkage.

7. The laundry appliance of claim 6, wherein the agitator includes an aperture proximate the second end and having an interior surface, wherein the release actuator and the pump actuator are each defined within the interior surface.

8. The laundry appliance of claim 2, wherein the release mechanism includes an interior column disposed within an interior compartment of the agitator and extending between the release actuator and the securing mechanism, wherein the reservoir is defined within the interior column.

9. The laundry appliance of claim 8, wherein the pump mechanism is attached to the interior column.

10. A laundry appliance comprising:a drum that defines a processing space therein;an impeller disposed proximate a base of the drum, the impeller being rotationally operable relative to the drum;an agitator that extends upward form the impeller, the agitator having an outer wall that defines a reservoir therein, the reservoir configured to selectively receive a treating chemistry therein;a cap member that is attached to a top portion of the agitator, the cap member selectively engaged with the agitator to enclose the reservoir, the cap member including an actuating portion; anda pump mechanism attached to the cap member and in communication with the actuating portion and the reservoir, wherein operation of the actuating portion operates the pump mechanism to define a suction within the reservoir of the agitator, wherein operation of the pump mechanism is configured to draw the treating chemistry from the reservoir to at least one outlet port disposed within the cap member of the agitator, and into the processing space.

11. The laundry appliance of claim 10, wherein the pump mechanism includes a conduit that extends from the cap member to a lower portion of the reservoir.

12. The laundry appliance of claim 10, wherein the at least one outlet port includes a first outlet port and a second outlet port, wherein the first and second outlet ports are positioned on opposing sides of an outer perimeter of the cap member.

13. The laundry appliance of claim 10, wherein the actuating portion of the pump mechanism is disposed on a top region of the cap member.

14. A laundry appliance comprising:a drum that defines a processing space therein;an impeller disposed proximate a base of the drum, the impeller being rotationally operable relative to the drum;a removable agitator having a first end that selectively attaches to the impeller to define an installed position of the removable agitator, the removable agitator including an outer wall that defines an interior compartment therein;a release mechanism coupled with the removable agitator and extending through the interior compartment, the release mechanism including a release actuator at a second end of the removable agitator, the second end opposing the first end; anda pump mechanism in communication with a reservoir that is disposed within the removable agitator, the pump mechanism having an outlet port that is positioned proximate the second end, whereinthe pump mechanism is coupled with a controller that activates the pump mechanism in relation to a laundry cycle,the pump mechanism and a pump actuator in communication with the controller are attached to the release mechanism, andoperation of the pump mechanism is configured to draw a treating chemistry from the reservoir and deliver the treating chemistry to the outlet port and into the processing space.

15. The laundry appliance of claim 14, wherein the release mechanism includes a linkage that extends from the release actuator to the first end, and wherein the reservoir is coupled with the linkage.

16. The laundry appliance of claim 15, wherein the linkage includes an interior volume defined within a perimeter wall of the linkage, and wherein the reservoir is defined within the interior volume of the linkage.

17. The laundry appliance of claim 16, wherein the linkage includes the release actuator and a securing mechanism that selectively engages a receiver of the impeller, the securing mechanism disposed at the first end of the removable agitator.

18. The laundry appliance of claim 17, wherein the pump mechanism is attached to the linkage proximate the first end.

19. The laundry appliance of claim 14, wherein the removable agitator includes a microcontroller that is coupled with the pump mechanism, and wherein the microcontroller is in signal communication with the controller, wherein the controller operates the laundry cycle.

20. The laundry appliance of claim 16, wherein the treating chemistry is a fragrance fluid that is released at an end of the laundry cycle.

Images