Abstract: A novel ball-type auger ratchet mechanism which may be used with washer agitators and augers. More particularly this mechanism comprises a top cap, a simplified cam, and a plurality of balls. The structures described have fewer parts than conventional auger ratchet mechanisms, and ultimately are easier to assemble and cost less. Furthermore, both embodiments of the instant invention, use mechanical means to achieve a positive locking and non-slipping action, rather that the conventional frictional force mechanisms.

Abstract: An auger for moving clothes downwardly in a washing machine includes a tubular housing and an auger screw spiraling therearound. Disposed along a distal edge of the auger screw is an auger lip which is inclined relative to the screw for impeding radially outward movement of clothes in the washing machine.

Abstract: A ratchet mechanism is provided which is adapted to convert the continuously oscillating rotation of a clothes washing machine agitator to periodic rotation in a single direction for a clothes washing machine auger. The mechanism comprises a cap and a cam disc, each configured such that they may be fabricated by a single-draw mold and wherein the cap comprises a plurality of reeds that either deflect around or mechanically catch on a plurality of cam teeth disposed on the cam disc dependent upon the direction of cam disc rotation such that the rotation of the cam disc is transmitted to the cap in only one direction wherein the transmission of the rotation does not depend solely on friction. The cap serves a further function of sealing the top of the auger and thereby preventing the ingress of matter associated with a clothes washing machine, such as water or detergent, into the ratchet mechanism.