Abstract: A cooking appliance includes a cooktop having at least one heating element and a controller capable of automatically performing a cooking process by operating the heating element at multiple power levels for multiple time periods. More specifically, upon activation, a consumer, through manipulation of a control, can select an initial power level and an initial time duration for the initial power level. Once the initial power level is selected, a second power level and second time duration may be selected. With this arrangement, the controller will operate the heating element at the initial, high power level for the first time duration. Once the initial time period has elapsed, the controller automatically lowers the temperature of the heating element to finish the cooking process for the second time duration.

Abstract: An agitator assembly includes an agitator body and an auger body mounted on the upper end of the agitator body. There are at least three separate helical flighting segments on the auger body. Bearings are provided at the upper end of the auger body and at the lower end of the auger body. At least one of the bearings limits both radial and axial movement of the auger relative to the agitator whereas the other of the bearings limits only radial movement of the auger relative to the body. Inlet openings are provided adjacent the lower surfaces of the auger flightings permit fluid to enter the interior of the auger barrel. An elastomeric ring is provided for attaching a fabric softener dispenser to the agitator assembly and for permitting grasping and removal of the dispenser.