ADDITIVE DISPENSER ASSEMBLY FOR A LAUNDRY TREATMENT APPLIANCE

Abstract

A laundry treatment appliance includes a cabinet forming a receiving space, a tub provided within the receiving space, a laundry door to provide selective access to the receiving space, a reservoir attached to an external surface of the laundry door, the reservoir storing a quantity of liquid, and a nozzle in fluid communication with the reservoir, the nozzle being positioned within the receiving space to selectively release the liquid from the reservoir into the tub.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to laundry treatment appliances, and more particularly to additive dispensers for laundry treatment appliances.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Laundry appliances, such as dryer appliances, generally include a cabinet with a drum mounted therein. In some appliances, a motor rotates the drum during operation of the thereof (e.g., to tumble articles located within a chamber defined by the drum). Dryer appliances also generally include a heater assembly that passes heated air through the chamber of the drum in order to dry moisture-laden articles disposed within the chamber. This internal air then passes from the chamber through a vent duct to an exhaust conduit, through which the air is exhausted from the dryer appliance.

In some instances, it may be desirable to provide certain objects or fluids for the treatment of articles within an appliance. For instance, dryer sheets are commonly placed within the drum of a dryer appliance to affect attributes of the fabrics or clothes being treated (e.g., tumbled or dried) in a specific laundry load. In other instances, a wrinkle release fluid (e.g., fluids comprising fabric relaxer, fabric softener, isopropyl alcohol, vinegar, etc.) may be applied to sprayed on articles by a user before or after the articles are treated by the dryer appliance. In still other instances a UV fabric protector (e.g., fluids comprising titanium oxide, bemotrizinol, etc.) to absorb or repel ultraviolet light emissions may be sprayed on articles by a user before or after the articles are treated by the dryer appliance. However, difficulties exist with such approaches. Specifically, precise amounts must be predetermined or estimated by users prior to initiating the drying operation. Moreover, use of dryer sheets can be wasteful and generate disposal after the operation. Finally, in the instance of a combination washing machine/dryer, a user must correctly time the end of a washing operation to add the dryer additive (e.g., dryer sheet) to the tub or drum.

Accordingly, a laundry treatment appliance that obviates one or more of the above-mentioned drawbacks would be beneficial. In particular, a laundry treatment appliance with an easily refillable additive dispensing assembly would be useful.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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

In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a laundry treatment appliance is provided. The laundry treatment appliance may include a cabinet forming a receiving space, a tub provided within the receiving space, a laundry door to provide selective access to the receiving space, a reservoir attached to an external surface of the laundry door, the reservoir storing a quantity of liquid, and a nozzle in fluid communication with the reservoir. The nozzle may be positioned within the receiving space to selectively release the liquid from the reservoir into the tub.

In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, an appliance door for a domestic appliance is provided. The appliance door may include a door panel defining an internal surface and an external surface, a reservoir attached to an external surface of the door panel, the reservoir storing a quantity of liquid, and a nozzle in fluid communication with the reservoir. The nozzle may be positioned through the door panel to selectively release the liquid from the reservoir into the domestic appliance.

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

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

FIG. 1 provides a front, perspective view of a laundry treatment appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 provides a side, cross-sectional view of the exemplary laundry treatment appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 provides a rear view of a door of the exemplary laundry treatment appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of an additive reservoir of the exemplary laundry treatment appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 provides a side, cross-sectional view of the exemplary additive reservoir of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 provides side, cross-sectional views of the exemplary door of FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 provides a close-up, cross-sectional view of a top portion of the exemplary door of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 provides a perspective view of a contact connector of the exemplary door of FIG. 6.

Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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

As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “includes” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). In addition, here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and/or interchanged. Such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise. For example, all ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the endpoints, and the endpoints are independently combinable with each other. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “generally,” “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value, or the precision of the methods or machines for constructing or manufacturing the components and/or systems. For example, the approximating language may refer to being within a 10 percent margin, i.e., including values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. In this regard, for example, when used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction, e.g., “generally vertical” includes forming an angle of up to ten degrees in any direction, e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise, with the vertical direction V.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” In addition, references to “an embodiment” or “one embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may. Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “an embodiment” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Moreover, each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

FIGS. 1 and 2 provide various views of an exemplary laundry treatment appliance 100 according to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 1 provides a front, perspective view of horizontal axis laundry treatment appliance 100 and FIG. 2 provides a side, section view of laundry treatment appliance 100. As shown in FIG. 1, laundry treatment appliance 100 includes a cabinet 102 that extends between a top 103 and a bottom 105, e.g., along a vertical direction V. Cabinet 102 also extends between a first side 123 and a second side 125, e.g., along a lateral direction L, and between a front 127 and a rear 129, e.g., along a transverse direction T. The vertical, lateral, and transverse directions V, L, T defined by laundry treatment appliance 100 are mutually perpendicular and together define an orthogonal direction system. According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, laundry treatment appliance 100 is a combination washing machine/dryer, capable of performing both washing operations and drying operations.

Cabinet 102 includes a front panel 104. A door (e.g., a laundry door) 112 may be mounted to front panel 104 and may be rotatable between an open position (not shown) facilitating access to a wash drum or basket 120 (FIG. 2) located within cabinet 102, and a closed position (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) hindering access to basket 120. A user may pull on a handle 113 in order to selectively adjust laundry door 112 between the open and closed positions. Cabinet 102 also includes a top panel 106 positioned at top 103 of cabinet 102.

A control panel 108 including a plurality of input selectors 110 may be coupled to front panel 104. Control panel 108 and input selectors 110 collectively form a user interface input for operator selection of machine cycles and features. For example, in some embodiments, control panel 108 includes a display 111 (FIG. 1) configured to present or indicate selected features, a countdown timer, and/or other items of interest to machine users.

As shown in FIG. 2, a tub 114 defines a wash fluid compartment 119 configured for receipt of a washing fluid (e.g., for a washing operation). Thus, tub 114 is configured for containing washing fluid, e.g., during operation of laundry treatment appliance 100. Washing fluid disposed within tub 114 may include, for example, at least one of water, fabric softener, bleach, and detergent. Tub 114 includes a back wall 116 and a sidewall 118 and extends between a top 115 and a bottom 117, e.g., along the vertical direction V. Further, tub 114 extends between a front 132 and a rear 134, e.g., along the transverse direction T.

Basket 120 is rotatably mounted within tub 114 in a spaced apart relationship from tub sidewall 118 and tub back wall 116. One or more bearing assemblies may be placed between basket 120 and tub 114 and may allow for rotational movement of basket 120 relative to tub 114. Basket 120 defines a wash chamber 121 and an opening 122. Opening 122 of basket 120 permits access to wash chamber 121 of basket 120, e.g., in order to load articles into basket 120 and remove articles from basket 120. Basket 120 also defines a plurality of perforations 124 to facilitate fluid communication between an interior of basket 120 and tub 114. A sump 107 is defined by tub 114 and is configured for receipt of washing fluid during operation of appliance 100. For example, during operation of appliance 100, washing fluid may be urged by gravity from basket 120 to sump 107 through plurality of perforations 124.

A spout 130 is configured for directing a flow of fluid into tub 114. Spout 130 may be in fluid communication with a water supply (not shown) in order to direct fluid (e.g., clean water) into tub 114. A pump assembly 150 (shown schematically in FIG. 2) is located beneath tub 114 for draining tub 114 of fluid. Pump assembly 150 is in fluid communication with sump 107 of tub 114 via a conduit 170. Thus, conduit 170 directs fluid from tub 114 to pump assembly 150. Pump assembly 150 is also in fluid communication with a drain 140 via piping 174. Pump assembly 150 can urge fluid disposed in sump 107 to drain 140 during operation of appliance 100 in order to remove fluid from tub 114. Fluid received by drain 140 from pump assembly 150 is directed out of appliance 100, e.g., to a sewer or septic system.

In addition, pump assembly 150 is configured for recirculating washing fluid within tub 114. Thus, pump assembly 150 is configured for urging fluid from sump 107, e.g., to spout 130. For example, pump assembly 150 may urge washing fluid in sump 107 to spout 130 via hose 176 during operation of appliance 100 in order to assist in cleaning articles disposed in basket 120. It should be understood that conduit 170, piping 174, and hose 176 may be constructed of any suitable mechanism for directing fluid, e.g., a pipe, duct, conduit, hose, or tube, and are not limited to any particular type of mechanism.

A motor 128 is in mechanical communication with basket 120 in order to selectively rotate basket 120, e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of laundry treatment appliance 100 as described below. In particular, a shaft 136 mechanically couples motor 128 with basket 120 and drivingly rotates basket 120 about a shaft or central axis A, e.g., during a spin cycle. Ribs 126 may extend from basket 120 into wash chamber 121. Ribs 126 may assist agitation of articles disposed within wash chamber 121 during operation of laundry treatment appliance 100. For example, ribs 126 may lift articles disposed in basket 120 during rotation of basket 120 (e.g., during a drying operation).

Also shown in FIG. 2 is a balancing apparatus 190. Balancing apparatus 190 can include a balancing ring, for example. The balancing ring can have an annular cavity in which a balancing material is free to rotate and move about. For example, the balancing material can be a fluid such as water or can be balancing balls. The balancing ring can include one or more interior baffles. Although a single balancing ring or apparatus 190 is shown in FIG. 2, any number of such rings or apparatuses can be included in laundry treatment appliance 100 and can be placed according to any known or desirable configuration. For example, two balancing rings can be respectively placed at the front and back of basket 120.

As further shown in FIG. 2, laundry treatment appliance 100 includes a detergent dispenser 200. Detergent dispenser 200 may include features for receiving various wash treatment additives (e.g., fluid detergent, powder detergent, fabric softener, bleach, powder or any other suitable liquid) and dispensing or directing them to wash fluid compartment 119 of tub 114 during operation of laundry treatment appliance 100.

Operation of laundry treatment appliance 100 is controlled by a processing device or controller 180 that is operatively coupled to control panel 108 for user manipulation to select washing cycles and features. In response to user manipulation of control panel 108, controller 180 operates the various components of laundry treatment appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features (e.g., washing features, drying features, etc.), which will be described in further detail herein.

Controller 180 may include a memory and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with a cleaning cycle. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively, controller 180 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software. Control panel 108 and other components of laundry treatment appliance 100 may be in communication with controller 180 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.

In an illustrative example of operation of laundry treatment appliance 100, laundry items are loaded into basket 120, and a washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 110. Tub 114 may be filled with water and one or more wash treatment additives from detergent dispenser 200 to form a wash fluid. One or more valves of a water inlet valve 195 can be actuated by controller 180 to provide for filling tub 114 to the appropriate level for the amount (or number) of articles being washed. Water inlet valve 195 is in fluid communication with a water source, such as e.g., a hot water heater and/or a municipal waterline. Once tub 114 is properly filled with wash fluid, the contents of basket 120 may be agitated with ribs 126 for cleansing of laundry items in basket 120.

After the agitation phase (e.g., first agitation phase, second agitation phase, etc.) of the wash cycle is completed, tub 114 may be drained. Laundry articles may then be rinsed by again adding wash fluid to tub 114 depending on the particulars of the cleaning cycle selected by a user, and ribs 126 may again provide agitation within wash chamber 121. One or more spin cycles may also be used. In particular, a spin cycle may be applied after the wash cycle and/or after the rinse cycle in order to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed. During the spin cycle, basket 120 is rotated at relatively high speeds.

Upon the completion of the washing operation, controller 180 may initiate a drying operation. For instance, controller 180 may automatically initiate the drying operation or wait for an input from a user to initiate the drying operation. In some embodiments, controller 180 sends an input request to the user (e.g., via a wireless connection) to initiate the drying operation. Accordingly, an entire laundry operation (e.g., washing and drying) may be performed seamlessly within laundry treatment appliance 100.

While described in the context of a specific embodiment of horizontal axis laundry treatment appliance 100, it will be understood that horizontal axis laundry treatment appliance 100 is provided by way of example only. Other laundry treatment appliances having different configurations, different appearances, and/or different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well, including, for example, vertical axis laundry treatment appliances. Thus, the teachings of the present disclosure are not limited to use with laundry treatment appliance 100. For instance, the teachings herein may be applied to a combination washing machine/dryer, as discussed above.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 through 8, an additive dispenser assembly 300 for laundry treatment appliance 100 will be described in detail. Additive dispenser assembly 300 may be attached to laundry treatment appliance 100 to selectively provide one or more additives to wash chamber 121 (e.g., wash tub 114, wash basket 120). For instance, additive dispenser assembly 300 may dispense a liquid additive (e.g., anti-wrinkle liquid, anti-static liquid, water, softener, etc.) according to a predetermined schedule (e.g., at the beginning of a drying operation, at a plurality of intervals of the drying operation, etc.). Moreover, additive dispenser assembly 300 may analyze a load size within, for example, wash basket 120, to provide a sufficient amount of additive into wash basket 120.

Additive dispenser assembly 300 may include a reservoir 302. Reservoir 302 may be attached to door 112 of appliance 100. For instance, reservoir 302 may be attached to an external surface of door 112. In detail, reservoir 302 may be positioned outside of wash compartment 119 (e.g., outside of cabinet 102). As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, door 112 may include a frame 304 and a central (e.g., glass) panel 306. Frame 304 may at least partially surround central panel 306 (e.g., circumferentially within a plane generally defined along the vertical direction V and the lateral direction L). In some embodiments, central panel 306 can allow a user to visibly observe items stored within wash chamber 121 (e.g., washing articles).

According to some embodiments, central panel 306 is concave inward toward the wash compartment 119 (e.g., along the transverse direction T). In detail, central panel 306 may define an internal surface 308 and an external surface 310. Internal surface 308 may face inward (e.g., toward wash compartment 119) along the transverse direction T. Accordingly, articles within wash compartment may occasionally contact internal surface 308 (e.g., during a washing or drying operation). Thus, as shown in FIG. 6, internal surface 308 may be provided at an angle with respect to the vertical direction V. For instance, a bottom portion of central panel 306 may be located further inward (e.g., within wash compartment 119) than a top portion of central panel 306.

External surface 310 may also be provided at an angle with respect to the vertical direction V. In detail, a thickness of central panel 306 (e.g., primarily along the transverse direction T) may be uniform across the area of central panel 306. Accordingly, a concavity may be defined along central panel 306 (e.g., with respect to frame 304). The concavity may form a receiving space 312. For instance, additive dispenser assembly 300 may be at least partially located within receiving space 312.

Reservoir 302 may be provided in receiving space 312. In detail, reservoir 302 may be removably attached to external surface 310 of central panel 306 (e.g., within receiving space 312). According to some embodiments, a bracket 314 is mounted to door 112. Reservoir 302 may be removably coupled to bracket 314. For instance, bracket 314 may include one or more snap hooks, magnets, adhesives, or the like. Accordingly, reservoir 302 may be removed from receiving space 312 to be replaced, refilled, etc.

Reservoir 302 may store a quantity of liquid therein. As described above, reservoir 302 may define an interior volume capable of storing a liquid such as an anti-static liquid, an anti-wrinkle liquid, a fabric softener, or the like. The interior volume of reservoir 302 may be between about 2 liters and about 3 liters. Reservoir 302 may be shaped commensurate with or corresponding to a shape of central panel 306. As seen in FIG. 3, at least one side (e.g., along the lateral direction L) of reservoir 302 may be curved. Advantageously, reservoir 302 may maximize a storage space within receiving space 312 formed by central panel 306 and frame 304. Additionally or alternatively, reservoir 302 may define one or more handles 305 formed into sidewalls thereof. For instance, handles 305 may be indentations formed into the sidewalls of reservoir 302. Thus, a user may grasp and remove reservoir (e.g., from receiving space 312) via handle or handles 305.

Reservoir 302 may include a lid 316. Lid 316 may be attached to a top surface (e.g., along the vertical direction V) of reservoir 302. Lid 316 may be rotatably attached to reservoir 302. For instance, lid 316 may have a first end 318 defining a hinge rotatably connected to a corresponding hinge on reservoir 302. Accordingly, lid 316 may rotate away from reservoir 302 (e.g., along the vertical direction V) to provide access to the interior volume of reservoir 302. Lid 316 may include a locking feature 320. For instance, locking feature 320 may be a flexible snap tab formed at a second end 319 of lid 316 (e.g., opposite first end 318). Locking feature 320 may be accepted within a corresponding snap receptacle formed on reservoir 302. Thus, reservoir 302 may be sealed when installed to door 112.

Reservoir 302 may include an outlet port 322. Outlet port 322 may be an aperture or opening formed in reservoir 302 through which the stored liquid may be dispensed or released. Outlet port 322 may be a cylinder extending outward from reservoir 302. According to some examples, outlet port 322 is formed on a bottom of reservoir 302. Thus, the stored liquid within reservoir 302 may easily flow out through outlet port 322 via gravity. Additionally or alternatively, a valve 324 may be positioned within outlet port 322. Valve 324 may selectively open and close outlet port 322. Valve 324 may be a spring-loaded valve. In detail, valve 324 may open outlet port 322 when reservoir 302 is in an installed position (e.g., connected to bracket 314). Moreover, valve 324 may close outlet port 322 when reservoir 302 is removed from appliance 100 (e.g., disconnected from bracket 314). For instance, valve 324 may include a plunger and a spring biasing the plunger downward (e.g., along the vertical direction V) within outlet port 322. Bracket 114 (or a pump, described below) may include a pin configured to push the plunger upward (e.g., against the spring) to selectively open outlet port 322.

Reservoir 302 may include a float sensor 326. Float sensor 326 may be provided within reservoir 302 (e.g., within the interior volume defined therein). In detail, float sensor 326 may include a cage 328. Cage 328 may be formed by a plurality of rods 330 extending along the vertical direction V between a top 301 and bottom 303 of reservoir 302. As shown in FIG. 5, rods 330 may be connected to top 301 and bottom 303 of reservoir 302 to form a complete cage 328 within reservoir 302. Rods 330 may be spaced apart from each other (e.g., horizontally) to allow the stored liquid within reservoir 302 to flow therethrough. Additionally or alternatively, cage 328 may include a top ring and a bottom ring connecting each of the plurality of rods 328 to form a single piece. For instance, cage 328 may be a single injection-molded plastic piece forming a cylindrical receiving space therein (e.g., along the vertical direction V).

Float sensor 326 may include a float 332. Float 332 may be provided within cage 328. For instance, float 332 may be suspended (e.g., free-floating) within cage 328 (e.g., supported by the stored liquid). Thus, float 332 may be constrained within cage 328 by the plurality of rods 330. Accordingly, float 332 may rise and fall within cage 328 according to a level of the stored liquid within reservoir 302. Float 332 may include a magnet 334. For instance, magnet 334 may be attached to a plastic casing so as to float within the stored liquid. In some embodiments, magnet 334 is provided within float 332 (e.g., encased in plastic).

It should be understood that a single reservoir 302 is provided by way of example herein, and that two or more reservoirs 302 may be provided in additional or alternative embodiments. For one example, a second reservoir may be positioned adjacent to reservoir 302 (e.g., along the lateral direction L). Each independent reservoir may contain a different additive (e.g., anti-wrinkle, anti-static, scent boost, etc.). Thus, each reservoir may independently supply a unique additive to wash compartment 121 according to individual schedules. Moreover, additional monitoring devices may be incorporated with additive dispenser assembly, such as optical sensors, cameras, humidity sensors, temperature sensors, or the like.

Additive dispenser assembly 300 may include a sensor (e.g., a magnetic sensor) 336 provided adjacent to reservoir 302. In detail, sensor 336 may be a reed switch configured to interact with magnet 334 (e.g., attached to float 332). Sensor 336 may be positioned beneath reservoir 302 (e.g., external to the interior volume of reservoir 302). Moreover, sensor 336 may be positioned immediately beneath cage 328. Thus, sensor 336 may sense or detect a position of float 332, for example, as the level of the stored liquid decreases. Sensor 336 may be operably connected with controller 180. Accordingly, as float 332 approaches sensor 336 as the stored liquid level decreases, sensor 336 may send a signal to controller 180. Controller 180 may then emit a warning (e.g., via display 111) of a low liquid level within reservoir 302.

Additive dispenser assembly 300 may include a pump 338. Pump 338 may be in fluid communication with reservoir 302. In detail, pump 338 may connect directly to outlet port 322. According to some embodiments, pump 338 is attached to external surface 310 of central panel 306. For instance, pump 338 may be attached to bracket 314. Outlet port 322 of reservoir 302 may be selectively inserted into pump 338 (e.g., when reservoir 302 is connected to bracket 314 or external surface 310 of central panel 306). Accordingly, pump 338 may be positioned below reservoir 302 (e.g., along the vertical direction V). Moreover, pump 338 may be positioned alongside sensor 336 (e.g., along the lateral direction L).

Pump 338 may be any suitable pump capable of selectively pumping the stored liquid from reservoir 302 (e.g., through a feeder tube). For instance, pump 338 may be an electric pump (e.g., a positive displacement pump, an impulse pump, a gravity pump, etc.) receiving electric inputs from controller 180. Additionally or alternatively, pump 338 may be in operative communication with controller 180 to receive signals therefrom. For example, controller 180 sends activation signals to pump 338 to pump the stored liquid according to predetermined schedules.

Additive dispenser assembly 300 may include a nozzle 340. Nozzle 340 may be in fluid communication (e.g., fluidly coupled) with reservoir 302. Additionally or alternatively, nozzle 340 may be fluidly coupled with pump 338. For instance, a feeder tube 342 may fluidly couple pump 338 with nozzle 340. Feeder tube 342 may be a rigid or flexible tube through which the stored liquid from reservoir 302 is pumped to nozzle 340 (e.g., via pump 338).

Nozzle 340 may be a spray nozzle. For instance, the stored liquid pumped to nozzle 340 via pump 338 may be dispensed from nozzle 340 as a mist (e.g., into wash chamber 121. Generally, nozzle 340 defines one or more output apertures for additive dispensing assembly 300 and is directed toward wash chamber 121 to guide or dispense the stored liquid into the space defined by wash chamber 121. In some embodiments, nozzle 340 is mounted through central panel 306. For instance, nozzle 340 may be mounted through an aperture 344 formed in central panel 306.

Accordingly, the output of nozzle 340 may be provided within wash chamber 121. Optionally, nozzle 340 may include or be provided as an atomizer nozzle. Fluid flowing through additive dispensing assembly 300 from reservoir 302 may thus be directed into wash basket 120 as an atomized misted flow of liquid or dryer additive. As would be understood, a gasket (not shown) may be provided within aperture 344 through which nozzle 340 penetrates. Accordingly, fluid (e.g., wash fluid) within wash basket 120 may not seep through aperture 344 during a laundry operation (e.g., a washing operation).

Laundry treatment appliance 100 may include an access door 350 (e.g., as seen in FIG. 6 (a)). Access door 350 may be rotatably coupled to laundry door 112. In detail, access door may be connected to an exterior surface of laundry door 112 via one or more hinges 352. Access door 350 may provide selective access to receiving space 312 (e.g., selective access to reservoir 302). Access door 350 may include an access doorframe 354 and an access door panel 356. Access doorframe 354 may be shaped similar to frame 304 of laundry door 112. For instance, access doorframe 354 may be generally circular and surround at least a portion of access door panel 356. Access door panel 356 may be a transparent panel (e.g., glass, plexiglass, etc.). Access door panel 356 may be shaped similar to central panel 306. Accordingly, the user may view an interior of wash chamber 121 through access door panel 356 and central panel 306.

Hinge 352 may allow access door 350 to rotate with respect to laundry door 112. For instance, hinge 352 may be provided at a bottom of laundry door 112 (e.g., along the vertical direction V). Hinge 352 may include a double bar linkage. In detail, hinge 352 may rotate about two separate, parallel axes. For instance, a first axis of rotation 358 may be defined along the lateral direction L within laundry door 112. A second axis of rotation 359 may be parallel to first axis of rotation 358. Access door 350 may rotate away from laundry door 112 about the second axis of rotation 359. For instance, a handle or grip may be provided on frame 354 of access door 350 to allow a user to grasp and pull access door 350 away from laundry door 122.

In further detail, hinge 352 may include a first linking bar 360 and a second linking bar 362. First linking bar 360 may define a first end 3601 and a second end 3602. First axis of rotation 358 may be defined at first end 3601. In detail, first end 3601 may be rotatably coupled to laundry door 112. Accordingly, second end 3602 may rotate away from laundry door 112. Second axis of rotation 359 may be defined at second end 3602. Accordingly, as first linking bar 360 rotates about first axis of rotation 358, second axis of rotation 359 is moved together with second end 3602 of first linking bar 360. Second linking bar 362 may thus be rotatably attached to first linking bar 360 at second axis of rotation 359. Moreover, second linking bar 362 may be rigidly attached to access door 350 (e.g., to access door frame 354). Thus, as seen in FIG. 6 (b) and FIG. 6 (c), as second linking bar 362 rotates with respect to first linking bar 360, access door 350 is rotated away from laundry door 112. Advantageously, a clearance or gap may be formed between a bottom of access door 350 and a bottom of laundry door 112 when access door 350 is opened.

Access door 350 may include a first electrical contact 364. Laundry door 112 may include a second electrical contact 366. In detail, first electrical contact 364 may selectively engage second electrical contact 366 when access door 350 is in a closed position (e.g., against laundry door 112). First electrical contact 364 may be provided at or near a top of access door 350 (e.g., access doorframe 354). Similarly, second electrical contact 366 may be provided at or near a top of laundry door 112 (e.g., frame 304). Signals may be sent between, for example, pump 338 and controller 180 via the pair of electrical contacts 364, 366. Each electrical contact 364, 366 may include a plurality of conductive contact members through which the signals may be transferred upon physical contact.

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

Claims

1. A laundry treatment appliance defining a vertical direction, a lateral direction, and a transverse direction, the laundry treatment appliance comprising:

a cabinet forming a receiving space;

a tub provided within the receiving space;

a laundry door to provide selective access to the receiving space;

a reservoir attached to an external surface of the laundry door, the reservoir storing a quantity of liquid;

an access door rotatably coupled to the external surface of the laundry door, the access door being movable between an open position and a closed position to allow selective access to the reservoir, wherein a gap is formed between a bottom of the access door and a bottom of the laundry door when the access door is in the open position; and

a nozzle in fluid communication with the reservoir, the nozzle being positioned within the receiving space to selectively release the liquid from the reservoir into the tub.

2. The laundry treatment appliance of claim 1, further comprising:

a pump in fluid communication with the reservoir and the nozzle; and

a controller provided within the cabinet, the controller being operably connected with the pump.

3. The laundry treatment appliance of claim 2, wherein the reservoir defines an outlet port, the reservoir comprising:

a valve positioned within the outlet port, the valve selectively opening and closing the outlet port of the reservoir according to a position of the reservoir with respect to the pump.

4. The laundry treatment appliance of claim 2, further comprising:

a float sensor provided within the reservoir; and

a reed switch provided outside of the reservoir adjacent to the float sensor.

5. The laundry treatment appliance of claim 4, wherein the float sensor comprises:

a cage comprising a plurality of rods extending along the vertical direction between a top and a bottom of the reservoir; and

a float provided within the cage, the float comprising a magnet.

6. The laundry treatment appliance of claim 5, wherein the reed switch is located beneath the cage along the vertical direction, the reed switch being operably coupled with the controller.

7. (canceled)

8. The laundry treatment appliance of claim 1, further comprising an articulating hinge connecting the access door to the laundry door, the articulating hinge provided at a bottom of the access door along the vertical direction.

9. The laundry treatment appliance of claim 1, wherein the nozzle is positioned within a hole formed in the laundry door.

10. An appliance door for a domestic appliance, the appliance door defining a vertical direction, a lateral direction, and a transverse direction, the appliance door comprising:

a door panel defining an internal surface and an external surface;

a reservoir attached to an external surface of the door panel, the reservoir storing a quantity of liquid;

a nozzle in fluid communication with the reservoir, the nozzle being positioned through the door panel to selectively release the liquid from the reservoir into the domestic appliance; and

an access door rotatably coupled to the external surface of the appliance door, the access door being movable between an open position and a closed position to allow selective access to the reservoir, wherein a gap is formed between a bottom of the access door and a bottom of the appliance door when the access door is in the open position.

11. The appliance door of claim 10, further comprising:

a pump in fluid communication with the reservoir and the nozzle; and

a controller provided within the domestic appliance, the controller being operably connected with the pump.

12. The appliance door of claim 11, wherein the reservoir defines an outlet port, the reservoir comprising:

a valve positioned within the outlet port, the valve selectively opening and closing the outlet port of the reservoir according to a position of the reservoir with respect to the pump.

13. The appliance door of claim 11, further comprising:

a float sensor provided within the reservoir; and

a reed switch provided outside of the reservoir adjacent to the float sensor.

14. The appliance door of claim 13, wherein the float sensor comprises:

a cage comprising a plurality of rods extending along vertical direction between a top and a bottom of the reservoir; and

a float provided within the cage, the float comprising a magnet.

15. The appliance door of claim 14, wherein the reed switch is located beneath the cage along the vertical direction, the reed switch being operably coupled with the controller.

16. (canceled)

17. The appliance door of claim 10, further comprising an articulating hinge connecting the access door to the appliance door, the articulating hinge provided at a bottom of the access door along the vertical direction.

18. The appliance door of claim 10, wherein the nozzle is positioned within a hole formed in the appliance door.

19. The appliance door of claim 10, wherein the domestic appliance is a combination washing machine and dryer.