WASHING MACHINE APPLIANCE FILL DUCT AND AIR PASSAGE THEREIN

Abstract

A washing machine appliance includes a detergent drawer slidably mounted within a cabinet and an aperture defined through the cabinet. The aperture is open to an ambient environment external to the cabinet when the door is in the closed position. The washing machine appliance also includes a fill duct fluidly coupled to each of the detergent drawer, the aperture, and a wash chamber. The fill duct provides fluid communication between the ambient environment and the wash chamber for providing a flow of fresh air into the wash chamber. The fill duct also provides fluid communication between the detergent drawer and the wash basket for providing additive to the load of articles for washing.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to washing machine appliances, or more specifically, to a fill duct for reducing humidity and moisture within a washing machine appliance.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Washing machine appliances generally include a tub for containing water or wash fluid, e.g., water and detergent, bleach, and/or other wash additives. A basket is rotatably mounted within the tub and defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing. During normal operation of such washing machine appliances, the wash fluid is directed into the tub and onto articles within the wash chamber of the basket. The basket or an agitation element can rotate at various speeds to agitate articles within the wash chamber, to wring wash fluid from articles within the wash chamber, etc. During a spin or drain cycle, a drain pump assembly may operate to discharge water from within sump.

Notably, when the wash or rinse cycle is completed, excess wash fluid commonly collects in a bottom of the tub, within the door gasket, etc. Because the wash tub is partially or substantially sealed, this wash fluid remains in the tub until the next wash or rinse cycle and the humidity remains relatively constant between cycles. Such collected wash fluid, excessive humidity, and moisture may result in mold, mildew, or foul smells. Notably, conventional washing machine appliances have limited ability to reduce such moisture collection or mitigate the effects of such moisture. For example, users typically leave the door open after every cycle, which can be burdensome and can be relatively ineffective at evaporating collected wash fluid.

Accordingly, a washing machine appliance having improved features for reducing moisture and humidity would be desirable. More specifically, a washing machine appliance with an improved system and method for reducing the humidity and minimizing mold and mildew in the wash tub would be particularly beneficial.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

In one example embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine appliance is provided. The washing machine appliance includes a wash tub positioned within a cabinet and defining a wash chamber and a wash basket rotatably mounted within the wash tub. The wash basket is accessible through an opening in the cabinet and is configured for receiving a load of articles for washing. The washing machine appliance also includes a door pivotably mounted to the cabinet whereby the door is pivotable between an open position and a closed position. The door permits access to the wash basket through the opening when the door is in the open position and encloses the wash basket within the cabinet when the door is in the closed position. The washing machine appliance further includes a detergent drawer slidably mounted within the cabinet and an aperture defined through the cabinet. The aperture is open to an ambient environment external to the cabinet when the door is in the closed position. A fill duct is fluidly coupled to each of the detergent drawer, the aperture, and the wash chamber. The fill duct provides fluid communication between the ambient environment and the wash chamber for providing a flow of fresh air into the wash chamber. The fill duct also provides fluid communication between the detergent drawer and the wash basket for providing detergent to the load of articles for washing. A controller is also included in the washing machine appliance. The controller is operable to perform a wash cycle. The wash cycle includes dispensing, from the detergent drawer, detergent through the fill duct to the load of articles for washing, rinsing the load of articles, and rotating the wash basket for an ON period. By rotating the wash basket, ambient air is drawn into the aperture from the ambient environment, through the fill duct, and is urged into the wash basket. The wash basket is downstream of the aperture with respect to the flow of ambient air from the ambient environment external to the cabinet through the aperture.

In accordance with another example embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of washing in a washing machine appliance is provided. The washing machine appliance includes a wash tub positioned within a cabinet and defining a wash chamber and a wash basket rotatably mounted within the wash tub. The wash basket is accessible through an opening in the cabinet and is configured for receiving a load of articles for washing. The washing machine appliance also includes a door pivotably mounted to the cabinet whereby the door is pivotable between an open position and a closed position. The door permits access to the wash basket through the opening when the door is in the open position and encloses the wash basket within the cabinet when the door is in the closed position. The washing machine appliance further includes a detergent drawer slidably mounted within the cabinet and an aperture defined through the cabinet. The aperture is open to an ambient environment external to the cabinet when the door is in the closed position. A fill duct is fluidly coupled to each of the detergent drawer, the aperture, and the wash chamber. The fill duct provides fluid communication between the ambient environment and the wash chamber for providing a flow of fresh air into the wash chamber. The fill duct also provides fluid communication between the detergent drawer and the wash basket for providing detergent to the load of articles for washing. A controller is also included in the washing machine appliance. The controller is operable to perform a wash cycle. The method includes dispensing, from the detergent drawer, detergent through the fill duct to the load of articles for washing, rinsing the load of articles, and rotating the wash basket for an ON period. By rotating the wash basket, ambient air is drawn into the aperture from the ambient environment, through the fill duct, and is urged into the wash basket. The wash basket is downstream of the aperture with respect to the flow of ambient air from the ambient environment external to the cabinet through the aperture.

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 perspective view of an example washing machine appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 2 provides a side cross-sectional view of the example washing machine appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 provides a side cross-sectional view of the example washing machine appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of an example washing machine appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 5 provides a perspective view of the example washing machine appliance of FIG. 4, with a door removed to illustrate within the door of the example washing machine appliance.

FIG. 6 provides a perspective view of a fill duct coupled to the example washing machine appliance of FIG. 4, according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 7 provides another perspective view of the fill duct of FIG. 6 coupled to the example washing machine appliance, according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 8 provides a perspective view of the fill duct of FIG. 6, according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 9 provides a front, section view of the fill duct of FIG. 8, according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 10 provides a rear, perspective, section view of a portion of the fill duct of FIG. 8, according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 11 provides a front, section view of a portion of the fill duct of FIG. 8, according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 12 provides another front, section view of a portion of the fill duct of FIG. 8, according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 13 provides a perspective view of an example fill duct, according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 14 provides a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a washing machine appliance according to example embodiments of the present subject matter.

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 or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

In order to aid understanding of this disclosure, several terms are defined below. The defined terms are understood to have meanings commonly recognized by persons of ordinary skill in the arts relevant to the present invention. 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”). The terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one element from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual elements. Terms such as “inner” and “outer” refer to relative directions with respect to the interior and exterior of the washing machine appliance, and in particular the wash basket therein. For example, “inner” or “inward” refers to the direction towards the interior of the washing machine appliance. Terms such as “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” or “bottom” are used with reference to the perspective of a user accessing the washing machine appliance. For example, a user stands in front of the washing machine appliance to open the door and reaches into the wash basket to access items therein. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that as used herein, terms of approximation, such as “approximately,” “substantially,” or “about,” refer to being within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, “generally vertical” includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction, e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative flow direction with respect to fluid flow in a fluid pathway. For example, “upstream” refers to the flow direction from which the fluid flows, and “downstream” refers to the flow direction to which the fluid flows.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example horizontal axis washing machine appliance 100 and FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of washing machine appliance 100. As illustrated, washing machine appliance 100 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is generally defined. Washing machine appliance 100 includes a cabinet 102 that extends between a top 104 and a bottom 106 along the vertical direction V, between a left side 108 and a right side 110 along the lateral direction, and between a front 112 and a rear 114 along the transverse direction T.

Referring to FIG. 2, a wash basket 120 is rotatably mounted within cabinet 102 such that wash basket 120 is rotatable about an axis of rotation A. A motor 122, e.g., such as a pancake motor, is in mechanical communication with wash basket 120 to selectively rotate wash basket 120 (e.g., during an agitation cycle, a wash cycle, or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 100). Wash basket 120 is received within a wash tub 124 and defines a wash chamber 126 that is configured for receipt of articles for washing. The wash tub 124 holds wash and rinse fluids for agitation in wash basket 120 within wash tub 124. As used herein, “wash fluid” may refer to water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable wash additive or combination thereof. Indeed, for simplicity of discussion, these terms may all be used interchangeably herein without limiting the present subject matter to any particular “wash fluid.”

Wash basket 120 may define one or more agitator features that extend into wash chamber 126 to assist in agitation and cleaning articles disposed within wash chamber 126 during operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a plurality of ribs 128 extends from basket 120 into wash chamber 126. In this manner, for example, ribs 128 may lift articles disposed in wash basket 120 during rotation of wash basket 120.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1 and 2, cabinet 102 also includes a front panel 130 which defines an opening 132 that permits user access to wash basket 120 of wash tub 124. More specifically, washing machine appliance 100 includes a door 134 that is positioned over opening 132 and is rotatably mounted to front panel 130. In this manner, door 134 permits selective access to opening 132 by being movable between an open position (not shown) facilitating access to a wash tub 124 and a closed position (FIG. 1) prohibiting access to wash tub 124.

A window 136 in door 134 permits viewing of wash basket 120 when door 134 is in the closed position, e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 100. Door 134 also includes a handle (not shown) that, e.g., a user may pull when opening and closing door 134. Further, although door 134 is illustrated as mounted to front panel 130, it should be appreciated that door 134 may be mounted to another side of cabinet 102 or any other suitable support according to alternative embodiments.

Referring again to FIG. 2, wash basket 120 also defines a plurality of perforations 140 in order to facilitate fluid communication between an interior of basket 120 and wash tub 124. A sump 142 is defined by wash tub 124 at a bottom of wash tub 124 along the vertical direction V. Thus, sump 142 is configured for receipt of and generally collects wash fluid during operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, during operation of washing machine appliance 100, wash fluid may be urged by gravity from basket 120 to sump 142 through plurality of perforations 140.

A drain pump assembly 144 is located beneath wash tub 124 and is in fluid communication with sump 142 for periodically discharging soiled wash fluid from washing machine appliance 100. Drain pump assembly 144 may generally include a drain pump 146 which is in fluid communication with sump 142 and with an external drain 148 through a drain hose 150. During a drain cycle, drain pump 146 urges a flow of wash fluid from sump 142, through drain hose 150, and to external drain 148. More specifically, drain pump 146 includes a motor (not shown) which is energized during a drain cycle such that drain pump 146 draws wash fluid from sump 142 and urges it through drain hose 150 to external drain 148.

A spout 154 is configured for directing a flow of fluid into wash tub 124. For example, spout 154 may be in fluid communication with a water supply 155 (FIG. 2) in order to direct fluid (e.g., clean water or wash fluid) into wash tub 124. Spout 154 may also be in fluid communication with the sump 142. For example, pump assembly 144 may direct wash fluid disposed in sump 142 to spout 154 in order to circulate wash fluid in wash tub 124.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, a detergent drawer 156 is slidably mounted within front panel 130. Detergent drawer 156 receives a wash additive (e.g., detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable liquid or powder) and directs the fluid additive to wash chamber 124 during operation of washing machine appliance 100. According to the illustrated embodiment, detergent drawer 156 may also be fluidly coupled to a fill duct 200 (FIG. 8) to facilitate the complete and accurate dispensing of wash additive.

In addition, a water supply valve or control valve 158 may provide a flow of water from a water supply source (such as a municipal water supply 155) into detergent dispenser 156 and into wash tub 124. In this manner, control valve 158 may generally be operable to supply water into detergent dispenser 156 to generate a wash fluid, e.g., for use in a wash cycle, or a flow of fresh water, e.g., for a rinse cycle. It should be appreciated that control valve 158 may be positioned at any other suitable location within cabinet 102. In addition, although control valve 158 is described herein as regulating the flow of “wash fluid,” it should be appreciated that this term includes, water, detergent, other additives, or some mixture thereof.

A control panel 160 including a plurality of input selectors 162 is coupled to front panel 130. Control panel 160 and input selectors 162 collectively form a user interface for operator selection of machine cycles and features. For example, in one embodiment, a display 164 indicates selected features, a countdown timer, and/or other items of interest to users of washing machine appliance 100.

Operation of washing machine appliance 100 may be controlled by a controller or processing device 166 (FIG. 1) that is operatively coupled to control panel 160 for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and features. In response to user manipulation of control panel 160, controller 166 operates the various components of washing machine appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features.

Controller 166 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 166 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, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software. Control panel 160 and other components of washing machine appliance 100 may be in communication with controller 166 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.

During operation of washing machine appliance 100, laundry items are loaded into wash basket 120 through opening 132, and washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 162. Wash tub 124 is filled with water, detergent, and/or other fluid additives, e.g., via spout 154 and or detergent drawer 156. One or more valves (e.g., control valve 158) can be controlled by washing machine appliance 100 to provide for filling wash basket 120 to the appropriate level for the amount of articles being washed and/or rinsed. By way of example for a wash mode, once wash basket 120 is properly filled with fluid, the contents of wash basket 120 can be agitated (e.g., with ribs 128) for washing of laundry items in wash basket 120.

After the agitation phase of the wash cycle is completed, wash tub 124 can be drained. Laundry articles can then be rinsed by again adding fluid to wash tub 124, depending on the particulars of the cleaning cycle selected by a user. Ribs 128 may again provide agitation within wash basket 120. 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 a final spin cycle, basket 120 is rotated at relatively high speeds and drain pump assembly 144 may discharge wash fluid from sump 142. After articles disposed in wash basket 120 are cleaned, washed, and/or rinsed, the user can remove the articles from wash basket 120, e.g., by opening door 134 and reaching into wash basket 120 through opening 132.

While described in the context of a specific embodiment of horizontal axis washing machine appliance 100, using the teachings disclosed herein it will be understood that horizontal axis washing machine appliance 100 is provided by way of example only. Other washing machine appliances having different configurations, different appearances, and/or different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well, e.g., vertical axis washing machine appliances.

Referring now generally to FIG. 3 through 7, a washing machine appliance and a humidity reduction system 170 will be described according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter. Due to the similarity between the washing machine appliance illustrated in FIG. 3 and washing machine appliance 100, like reference numerals may be used to refer to the same or similar features. As explained briefly above, washing machine appliance 100 may have a tendency to collect excess liquid or moisture within particular locations where mold, mildew, and foul smells may be generated. Aspects of the present subject matter are directed to features for reducing the humidity and moisture within washing machine appliance 100, thereby reducing the likelihood of such moisture-related issues.

Specifically, humidity reduction system 170 may reduce humidity within washing machine appliance 100. In this regard, humidity reduction system 170 includes a fill duct 200 (FIG. 8) that provides fluid communication between an ambient environment 174 and wash chamber 126 for providing a flow of air, e.g., as indicated by reference numeral 176 in FIG. 3. In addition, some example embodiments of humidity reduction system 170 may include an exhaust duct 178 that provides fluid communication between wash chamber 126 and ambient environment 174 for discharging the flow of air 176 from wash chamber 126. Although one example construction, positioning, and configuration of humidity reduction system 170 is described herein, it should be appreciated that variations and modifications may be made to humidity reduction system 170 while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

According to the illustrated embodiment, fill duct 200 extends from an intake inlet 190 positioned at front 112 of cabinet 102 to an outlet 206. Thus, the flow of air 176 from ambient environment 174, e.g., from outside of cabinet 102, may be drawn into fill duct 200 through intake inlet 190. The flow of air 176 may then pass into wash chamber 126 through outlet 206 of fill duct 200. Specifically, washing machine appliance 100 may include a door gasket 194 that is positioned between wash tub 124 and door 134, e.g., to provide a fluid seal therebetween. Notably, door gasket 194 frequently has crevices or creases that may tend to collect wash fluid or retain excess moisture. Thus, according to the illustrated embodiment, outlet 206 of fill duct 200 is defined at door gasket 194, e.g., proximate a top of door gasket 194. Thus, the flow of air 176 passes directly into door gasket 194, circulates through door gasket 194, and passes into wash chamber 126. In some example embodiments, exhaust duct 178 defines an exhaust inlet 196 and an exhaust outlet 198. According to the illustrated embodiment, exhaust inlet 196 is defined on wash tub 124 and exhaust outlet 198 is defined in a rear 114 of cabinet 102. In some example embodiments, air 176 may exit washing machine appliance 100 through intake inlet 190, as will be explained further hereinbelow.

According to an example embodiment, a humidity reduction cycle may be performed during, or after, every wash or rinse cycle. The humidity reduction cycle may generally include rotating wash basket 120 to urge the flow of air 176 to door gasket 194 and out of wash chamber 126. According to still another embodiment, washing machine appliance 100 may include one or more humidity sensors that detect the humidity within wash chamber 126 and initiate a humidity reduction cycle when humidity levels reach or remain at an unsuitable humidity level. In addition, input selectors 162 may be used to initiate a humidity reduction cycle of washing machine appliance 100. In this regard, a user may periodically engage one or more of input selectors 162, which is/are operably coupled with controller 166, to initiate a humidity reduction cycle.

Turning to FIGS. 4 and 5, another washing machine appliance is illustrated according to example embodiments. Due to the similarity between the washing machine appliance illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 and washing machine appliance 100 of FIGS. 1-3, like reference numerals may be used to refer to the same or similar features. In particular, washing machine appliance 100 may include intake inlet 190 positioned on door 134 at front 112 of cabinet 102. For example, as illustrated, intake inlet 190 may be a plurality of slots circumferentially arrayed around door 134, e.g., encircling window 136, such as circumferentially spaced along an upper hemisphere of door 134, as illustrated in FIG. 4.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, behind door 134, e.g., visible with door 134 removed, may be one or more apertures 192, such as vent apertures(s) 192, through cabinet 102. For example, intake inlet 190 may be fluidly coupled with vent aperture(s) 192. In some embodiments, while intake inlet 190 may be a plurality of slots circumferentially arrayed around door 134, vent aperture(s) 192 may generally be positioned behind door 134 at a top portion (not labeled) above opening 132. Accordingly, aperture(s) 192 may be open to the ambient environment external to cabinet 102 when door 134 is in the closed position.

Turning to FIGS. 6 and 7, an example embodiment of fill duct 200 is illustrated. In general, fill duct 200 may be fluidly coupled to each of detergent drawer 156, vent aperture 192, and wash chamber 126. For example, fill duct 200 may provide fluid communication between the ambient environment external to cabinet 102 and wash chamber 126, e.g., providing a flow of fresh air from the ambient environment into wash chamber 126. Additionally, fill duct 200 may provide fluid communication between detergent drawer 156 and wash basket 120, e.g., for providing detergent (wash fluid) from detergent drawer 156 to the load of articles in wash basket 120 for washing.

As may be seen in FIGS. 6 through 8, fill duct 200 may generally be a single-bodied, generally hollow component extending between each of detergent drawer 156, vent aperture 192, and wash chamber 126. As such, fill duct 200 may provide fluid communication between each of detergent drawer 156, vent aperture 192, and wash chamber 126. In particular, fill duct 200 defines a first channel 210 extending between detergent drawer 156 and wash chamber 126, e.g., first channel 210 may generally extend between an additive inlet 204 at detergent drawer 156 and outlet 206 at wash chamber 126. Further, fill duct 200 defines a vent 202 sealingly coupled around aperture(s) 192 of cabinet 102, e.g., via a lip 203 of vent 202. In general, vent 202 is positioned such that ambient air drawn into aperture(s) 192 from the ambient environment is urged through fill duct 200 and into wash basket 120. In particular, fill duct 200 defines a second channel 220 extending between first channel 210 and vent 202. Second channel 220 may generally define an opening 228 into first channel 210, whereby air flowing into vent 202 may travel through second channel 220 and into first channel 210 before flowing into wash chamber 126.

In general, fill duct 200 may be mounted, e.g., mechanically coupled, to each of detergent drawer 156, vent aperture 192, and wash chamber 126. For example, additive inlet 204 of fill duct 200 may be fastened, such as by screws or snaps, to detergent drawer 156, as is illustrated in FIG. 6. Additionally, at vent aperture 192, vent 202 may be fastened, such as by screws or snaps, to cabinet 102, such as illustrated in FIG. 7. Moreover, outlet 206 of fill duct 200 may be clamped via a clamp (not shown) to cabinet 102 at opening 132 into wash chamber 126. One of skill in the art would understand any suitable mechanical coupling, such as welding or bolting, may be used, and screws, snaps, and clamps are provided by way of example only.

Turning to FIGS. 9 through 12, provided are various sectional views of fill duct 200. For example, provided in FIG. 9 is a front, section view of first channel 210 and second channel 220 of fill duct 200. In some example embodiments, a plurality of baffles 232 may be spaced along a length, L, of second channel 220. In general, the plurality of baffles 232 may generally be equidistantly spaced along length, L, of second channel 220, such that a quantity of baffles 232 between length, L, may vary depending upon length, L, of second channel 220. For example, as illustrated, second channel 220 includes eight (8) baffles positioned along length L. Other example embodiments may include less than (8) baffles, and some example embodiments may include more than (8) baffles. The plurality of baffles 232 will be explained in greater detail below.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective, section view of additive inlet 204. In general, a seal, such as an O-ring, may be positioned at the additive inlet 204 and configured to sealingly engage with detergent drawer 156, such that detergent (and/or other additives, as mentioned above) may flow from detergent drawer 156 into fill duct 200. Accordingly, the connection of additive inlet 204 and detergent drawer 156 is sealed, to prevent or reduce any leakage of detergent or fluid.

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate zoomed-in section views of portions of first channel 210 and second channel 220 of fill duct 200. In particular, FIG. 11 illustrates a front, section view of opening 228 from second channel 220 into first channel 210, and FIG. 12 illustrates a front, section view of the plurality of baffles 232 within second channel 220. In general, an isolating baffle 230 may extend at least partially across opening 228 of second channel 220 into first channel 210. Isolating baffle 230 is a separate and distinct baffle from the plurality of baffles 232. In general, isolating baffle 230 may capture and/or direct humid air flowing into fill duct 200 from outlet 206 into second channel 220. As such, during wash cycles, rinse cycles, and/or drying cycles, humid air may be pulled into outlet 206, through first channel 210, directed into second channel by isolating baffle 230, and exhausted out of vent 202, e.g., out of intake inlet 190. Additionally or alternatively, isolating baffle 230 may deter or prevent liquid flowing within first channel 210 from entering second channel 220, e.g., detergent/water flowing from detergent drawer 156 may be deterred from entering second channel 220.

In general, each baffle of the plurality of the baffles 232 within second channel 220 may be positioned at an angle, α (see, e.g., FIG. 12), from a top side 222 of second channel 220 toward a bottom side 224 of the second channel 220. For example, as may be seen in FIG. 12, the plurality of the baffles 232 within second channel 220 are positioned at angle α from top side 222 of second channel 220. Angle α may generally be any suitable angle from top side 222 toward bottom side 224, such as an angle between twenty degrees (20°) and eighty degrees (80°), such as between thirty degrees (30°) and seventy degrees (70°), such as between forty degrees (40°) and sixty degrees (60°). In general, the plurality of baffles 232 within second channel 220 may accumulate condensation from humid air passing through second channel 220. Thus, advantageously, reduced condensation may form, if any at all, at intake inlet 190, e.g., intake inlet 190 of washing machine appliance 100 may have reduced condensation build-up than an intake inlet of a washing machine appliance without the plurality of baffles 232 in second channel 220.

Turning to FIG. 13, provided is an alternative embodiment of fill duct 200. In general, fill duct 200 may include a mounting bracket 260 and a clamp 264 positioned at outlet 206. For example, mounting bracket 260 and clamp 264 may mount fill duct 200 to cabinet 102 at opening 132 into wash chamber 126. In the present example embodiment, mounting bracket 260 may include a light source 262, such as an incandescent light bulb or a light emitting diode (LED). In general, light source 262 may provide light into opening 132 such that a user may visibly see into wash backet 126. One of skill in the art would understand that the present alternative embodiment is provided by way of example only and may be omitted from other embodiments while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure.

Now that the construction of washing machine appliance 100 and the configuration of controller 166 according to example embodiments have been presented, an example method 300 of operating a washing machine appliance will be described. Although the discussion below refers to the example method 300 of operating washing machine appliance 100, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the example method 300 is applicable to the operation of a variety of other washing machine appliances, such as vertical axis washing machine appliances. In example embodiments, the various method steps as disclosed herein may be performed by controller 166 or a separate, dedicated controller. Additionally, controller 166, or a separate dedicated controller, may be operable to perform the entire method 300, as described below, while door 134 is in the closed position.

Referring now to FIG. 14, depicted is steps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and discussion. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, will understand that the steps of any of the methods discussed herein can be adapted, rearranged, expanded, omitted, or modified in various ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, although aspects of method 300 are explained using washing machine appliance 100 as an example, it should be appreciated that these methods may be applied to the operation of any suitable washing machine appliance.

At step 310, method 300 may generally include dispensing, from the detergent drawer, detergent through the fill duct to the load of articles for washing. For example, dispensing detergent from detergent drawer 156 through fill duct 200 to the load of articles for washing includes dispensing detergent through first channel 210 of fill duct 200. In particular, dispensing detergent through first channel 210 of fill duct 200 includes receiving detergent through additive inlet 204 from detergent drawer 156 into fill duct 200. At step 320, method 300 may generally include rinsing the load of articles. For example, rinsing the load of articles may include control valve 158 operating to supply a flow of wash fluid (detergent and water), e.g., for the wash cycle, or a flow of fresh water, e.g., for a rinse cycle.

At step 330, method 300 may generally include rotating the wash basket for an ON period. In particular, ambient air may be drawn into the aperture from the ambient environment, through the fill duct, and is urged into the wash basket, e.g., the wash basket is downstream of the aperture with respect to the flow of ambient air from the ambient environment external to the cabinet through the aperture. For example, drawing ambient air into vent aperture 192 from the ambient environment and urging the ambient air through fill duct 200 into the wash basket may include drawing ambient air into fill duct 200 through vent aperture 192 and through second channel 220 of fill duct 200.

In general, step 330 includes rotating wash basket 120 and urging the flow of air through wash chamber 126. Method 300 may further include rotating wash basket 120 and urging the flow of humidified air out of wash chamber 126, such as back through fill duct 200 and vent 202. For example, during the ON period, controller 166 may rotate wash basket 120 to urge the flow of air 176 to door gasket 194 and out of wash chamber 126 through fill duct 200, thereby discharging air with relatively high humidity through fill duct 200. As such, air may flow through fill duct 200 in both directions, e.g., into wash chamber 126 or out from wash chamber 126. In some example embodiments, the flow of air may be reversed, or selected, via the use of air movement devices, such as fans, blowers, or any other suitable device. Air pulled from wash chamber 126 into fill duct 200 may be split through first channel 210 and second channel 220. In particular, relatively high humidity air may be directed from first channel 210 into second channel 220 by isolating baffle 230, as described above. Less humid air, i.e., less humid than the relatively high humidity air, may pass isolating baffle 230 in first channel 210 and enter detergent drawer 156, advantageously drying residual liquid residing within detergent drawer 156.

As stated above, the relatively high humidity air may be directed from first channel 210 into second channel 220 by isolating baffle 230, whereby the plurality of baffles 232 may force condensation from the relatively high humidity air. As such, the air exhausted from vent 202, e.g., vent aperture 192, e.g., intake inlet 190, may be reduced in volume and dryer. Thus, fill duct 200 may advantageously reduce or prevent condensation from forming around intake inlet 190 by forcing the condensation within second channel 220.

According to an example embodiment, rotating wash basket 120 may include rotating the wash basket in a repeated, periodic ON cycle for a total drying time to reduce moisture or humidity below a desired threshold. In this regard, the periodic cycle may include a fixed spin time within a fixed time period. For example, the periodic cycle may repeat every thirty (30) minutes or every one (1) hour and the fixed spin time may be five (5) minutes, ten (10) minutes, twenty (20) minutes, or thirty (30) minutes. In other words, wash basket 120 may be rotated for five (5) minutes out of every thirty (30) minutes, for ten (10) minutes out of every thirty (30) minutes, for fifteen (15) minutes of every thirty (30) minutes, for ten (10) minutes out of every one (1) hour, for twenty (20) minutes out of every one (1) hour, for thirty (30) minutes out of every one (1) hour, or in any other suitable ON/OFF cycle for reducing humidity or excess moisture. In addition, this periodic cycle may be repeated as long as necessary to reduce humidity within wash chamber 126 below a predetermined threshold amount. For example, empirical data may show that the periodic cycle should be repeated for a total drying time of six (6) hours, eight (8) hours, ten (10) hours, or longer.

It should be appreciated that the periodic cycle time, the total drying time, and spin speeds may vary significantly while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter. For example, these parameters of humidity reduction system 170 may vary based on the motor spin speed, chamber volume, ambient conditions, and other factors.

This system and method described above for reducing humidity and moisture within a washing machine appliance provides a cost-effective and efficient method for reducing excess moisture, mold growth, mildew, and foul smells within the washing machine appliance. The washing machine appliance includes a fill duct replacing a traditional fill hose and/or water/additive mixture conduit and a typical air exhaust transfer vent. The fill duct integrates the fill hose and air intake vent, allowing both the water/additive mixture and air to flow from the dispenser body and air vent, respectively, through the fill duct to the wash basket. In order to reduce the amount of moisture at the vent opening, a series of baffles may be positioned in the fill duct. As such, air exhausting from the front vent opening may be reduced in volume and dryer, reducing or preventing condensation on the washing machine appliance's outer surfaces.

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 washing machine appliance, comprising:

a wash tub positioned within a cabinet and defining a wash chamber;

a wash basket rotatably mounted within the wash tub, the wash basket accessible through an opening in the cabinet and configured for receiving of a load of articles for washing;

a door pivotably mounted to the cabinet whereby the door is pivotable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the door permits access to the wash basket through the opening when in the open position and encloses the wash basket within the cabinet when in the closed position;

a detergent drawer slidably mounted within the cabinet;

an aperture defined through the cabinet, the aperture open to an ambient environment external to the cabinet when the door is in the closed position;

a fill duct fluidly coupled to each of the detergent drawer, the aperture, and the wash chamber, the fill duct providing fluid communication between the ambient environment and the wash chamber for providing a flow of fresh air into the wash chamber, and the fill duct providing fluid communication between the detergent drawer and the wash basket for providing additive to the load of articles for washing; and

a controller, the controller operable to perform a wash cycle, the wash cycle comprising: dispensing, from the detergent drawer, additive through the fill duct to the load of articles for washing; rinsing the load of articles; and rotating the wash basket for an ON period, whereby ambient air is drawn into the aperture from the ambient environment, through the fill duct, and is urged into the wash basket, whereby the wash basket is downstream of the aperture with respect to the flow of ambient air from the ambient environment external to the cabinet through the aperture.

2. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein the fill duct defines a vent, the vent sealingly coupled around the aperture of the cabinet such that ambient air drawn into the aperture from the ambient environment is urged through the fill duct and into the wash basket.

3. The washing machine appliance of claim 2, wherein the fill duct defines a first channel extending between the detergent drawer and the wash chamber.

4. The washing machine appliance of claim 3, wherein the fill duct defines a second channel extending between the first channel and the vent, the second channel defining an opening into the first channel.

5. The washing machine appliance of claim 4, further comprising an isolating baffle positioned at the opening of the second channel into the first channel.

6. The washing machine appliance of claim 4, further comprising a plurality of baffles spaced along a length of the second channel.

7. The washing machine appliance of claim 6, wherein each baffle of the plurality of the baffles is positioned at an angle from a top side of the second channel toward a bottom side of the second channel.

8. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein the fill duct defines an additive inlet, further comprising a seal positioned at the additive inlet and configured to sealingly engage the detergent drawer.

9. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein the controller is operable to perform the entire wash cycle while the door is closed.

10. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein the washing machine appliance is a horizontal axis washing machine.

11. A method of washing in a washing machine appliance, the washing machine appliance comprising a wash tub positioned within a cabinet and defining a wash chamber, a wash basket rotatably mounted within the wash tub, the wash basket accessible through an opening in the cabinet and configured for receiving of a load of articles for washing, a door pivotably mounted to the cabinet whereby the door is pivotable between an open position and a closed position, the door permits access to the wash basket through the opening when in the open position and encloses the wash basket within the cabinet when in the closed position, a detergent drawer slidably mounted within the cabinet, an aperture defined through the cabinet, the aperture open to an ambient environment external to the cabinet when the door is in the closed position, a fill duct fluidly coupled to each of the detergent drawer, the aperture, and the wash chamber, the fill duct providing fluid communication between the ambient environment and the wash chamber for providing a flow of fresh air into the wash chamber, and the fill duct providing fluid communication between the detergent drawer and the wash basket for providing detergent to the load of articles for washing, and a controller operable to perform a wash cycle, the method comprising:

dispensing, from the detergent drawer, additive through the fill duct to the load of articles for washing;

rinsing the load of articles; and

rotating the wash basket for an ON period, whereby ambient air is drawn into the aperture from the ambient environment, through the fill duct, and is urged into the wash basket, whereby the wash basket is downstream of the aperture with respect to the flow of ambient air from the ambient environment external to the cabinet through the aperture.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the fill duct defines a vent, the vent sealingly coupled around the aperture of the cabinet, the method further comprising drawing ambient air into the aperture from the ambient environment and urging the ambient air through the fill duct into the wash basket.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the fill duct defines a first channel extending between the detergent drawer and the wash chamber, wherein dispensing, from the detergent drawer, detergent through the fill duct to the load of articles for washing comprises dispensing detergent through the first channel of the fill duct.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the fill duct defines a second channel extending between the first channel and the vent, the second channel defining an opening into the first channel, wherein drawing ambient air into the aperture and through the fill duct into the wash basket comprises drawing ambient air into the aperture and through the second channel of the fill duct.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the washing machine appliance further comprises an isolating baffle at the opening of the second channel into the first channel.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein the washing machine appliance further comprises a plurality of baffles spaced along a length of the second channel.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein each baffle of the plurality of the baffles is positioned at an angle from a top side of the second channel toward a bottom side of the second channel.

18. The method of claim 11, wherein the fill duct defines an additive inlet, further comprising a seal positioned at the additive inlet and configured to sealingly engage the detergent drawer, wherein dispensing additive through the fill duct comprises receiving additive through the additive inlet into the fill duct.

19. The method of claim 11, wherein the entire method is performed while the door is closed.