LAUNDRY APPLIANCE AND REMOVABLE DOOR MODULE

Abstract

A laundry appliance may include a cabinet, a basket, a door, and an insert module. The basket may be rotatably mounted within the cabinet. The basket may define a laundry chamber for the receipt of clothes. The door may be movably mounted to the cabinet to selectively restrict access to the basket. The door may include a perimeter rim defining a module pocket therein. The insert module may be received within the module pocket. The insert module may include a module faceplate supported on the door and movable relative thereto.

Claims

1. A laundry appliance comprising: a cabinet; a basket rotatably mounted within the cabinet, the basket defining a laundry chamber for the receipt of clothes; a door movably mounted to the cabinet to selectively restrict access to the basket, the door comprising a perimeter rim defining a module pocket therein; and an insert module received within the module pocket, the insert module comprising a module faceplate supported on the door and movable relative thereto.

2. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the module pocket is defined at an upper half of the door above a rotation axis of the basket.

3. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the insert module is selectively attached to the door at the module pocket for selective separation of the insert module from the door.

4. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the insert module comprises a filtration media contained behind the module faceplate.

5. The laundry appliance of claim 4, wherein the filtration media is in upstream fluid communication with laundry chamber.

6. The laundry appliance of claim 4, wherein the module faceplate is pivotably attached to the door.

7. The laundry appliance of claim 1, further comprising a controller attached to the cabinet, wherein the insert module is mounted in electrical communication with the controller.

8. The laundry appliance of claim 7, wherein the insert module is selectively separable from the door to detach the insert module from the door and break electrical communication with the controller.

9. The laundry appliance of claim 8, wherein the insert module comprises a sealed backplate.

10. The laundry appliance of claim 7, further comprising a separable electrical connection connecting the controller and the insert module, the separable electrical connection comprising a static electrical pad fixed to the cabinet, and a movable electrical pad fixed to the insert module in selective contact with the static electrical pad in a closed position of the door.

11. The laundry appliance of claim 10, wherein the insert module comprises a radial tab extending outward from the perimeter rim, and wherein the movable electrical pad is supported on the radial tab.

12. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the module faceplate comprises a digital display directed outward in front of the door.

13. The laundry appliance of claim 1, wherein the insert module comprises an electronic speaker.

14. The laundry appliance of claim 13, wherein the insert module comprises a module controller mounted therein in electrical communication with the electronic speaker.

15. A laundry appliance comprising: a cabinet; a basket rotatably mounted within the cabinet, the basket defining a laundry chamber for the receipt of clothes; a door movably mounted to the cabinet to selectively restrict access to the basket, the door comprising a perimeter rim defining a module pocket extending therethrough; and an airflow module received within the module pocket, the airflow module comprising a module faceplate supported on the door and movable relative thereto, and a filtration media contained behind the module faceplate.

16. The laundry appliance of claim 15, wherein the module pocket is defined at an upper half of the door above a rotation axis of the basket.

17. The laundry appliance of claim 15, wherein the filtration media is in upstream fluid communication with laundry chamber.

18. A laundry appliance comprising: a cabinet; a basket rotatably mounted within the cabinet, the basket defining a laundry chamber for the receipt of clothes; a door movably mounted to the cabinet to selectively restrict access to the basket, the door comprising a perimeter rim defining a module pocket extending therethrough; a controller attached to the cabinet; an electronic insert module received within the module pocket, the electronic insert module comprising a module faceplate supported on the door and movable relative thereto, and an electronic component contained behind the module faceplate; and a separable electrical connection connecting the controller and the electronic insert module, the separable electrical connection comprising a static electrical pad fixed to the cabinet, and a movable electrical pad fixed to the electronic insert module in selective contact with the static electrical pad in a closed position of the door.

19. The laundry appliance of claim 18, wherein the electronic component comprises an electronic speaker or a digital display directed outward in front of the door.

20. The laundry appliance of claim 19, wherein the electronic insert module further comprises a radial tab extending outward from the perimeter rim, and wherein the movable electrical pad is supported on the radial tab.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] 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.

[0011] FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a washing machine appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary laundry appliance of FIG. 1.

[0013] FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of a door assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 4 provides a partially exploded perspective view of the exemplary door assembly of FIG. 3.

[0015] FIG. 5 provides a perspective view of an insert module according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, such as illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0016] FIG. 6 provides an exploded perspective view of the exemplary insert module of FIG. 5.

[0017] FIG. 7 provides a perspective view of a door assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 8 provides a partially exploded perspective view of the exemplary door assembly of FIG. 7.

[0019] FIG. 9 provides a perspective view of a door assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 10 provides a partially exploded perspective view of the exemplary door assembly of FIG. 9.

[0021] FIG. 11 provides a perspective view of a portion of a door assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 12 provides a perspective view of a portion of a door assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 13 provides a side elevation view of a portion of a laundry appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 13A provides a magnified elevation view of a portion of the laundry appliance shown in FIG. 13.

[0025] FIG. 13B provides a magnified sectional view of a portion of the laundry appliance shown in FIG. 13.

[0026] FIG. 14 provides a partially exploded perspective view of the exemplary door assembly of the exemplary laundry appliance of FIG. 13.

[0027] FIG. 15 provides a rear elevation view of the exemplary door assembly of FIG. 13.

[0028] FIG. 15A provides a magnified elevation view of a portion of the door assembly shown in FIG. 15.

[0029] 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

[0030] 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. 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.

[0031] 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 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.

[0032] 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 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, such as, clockwise or counterclockwise, with the vertical direction V).

[0033] Except as explicitly indicated otherwise, recitation of a singular processing element (e.g., a controller, a processor, a microprocessor, etc.) is understood to include more than one processing element. In other words, a processing element is generally understood as one or more processing element. Furthermore, barring a specific statement to the contrary, any steps or functions recited as being performed by the processing element or said processing element are generally understood to be capable of being performed by any one of the one or more processing elements. Thus, a first step or function performed by the processing element may be performed by any one of the one or more processing elements, and a second step or function performed by the processing element may be performed by any one of the one or more processing elements and not necessarily by the same one of the one or more processing elements by which the first step or function is performed. Moreover, it is understood that recitation of the processing element or said processing element performing a plurality of steps or functions does not require that at least one discrete processing element be capable of performing each one of the plurality of steps or functions.

[0034] As used herein, the terms clothing, articles, and the like may include but need not be limited to fabrics, textiles, garments, linens, papers, or other items which may be cleaned, dried, or otherwise treated in a laundry appliance. Furthermore, the terms load or laundry load refers to the combination of clothing that may be washed together in a washing machine or dried together in a dryer appliance and may include a mixture of different or similar articles of clothing of different or similar types and kinds of fabrics, textiles, garments and linens within a particular laundering process.

[0035] Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary laundry appliance 100 (e.g., washing machine appliance). FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of washing machine appliance 100. FIG. 3 provides a front view of washing machine appliance 100, wherein a door 134 (FIG. 2) has been removed for clarity. 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 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 L, and between a front 112 and a rear 114 along the transverse direction T.

[0036] While described in the context of a specific embodiment of a washing machine appliance, using the teachings disclosed herein, it will be understood that washing machine appliance 100 is provided by way of example only. Other laundry appliances, such as a dryer appliance (e.g., front-load washing machine), combination washer-dryer appliance, or appliances having different appearances and different features, may also be used with the present subject matter as well.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 2, a wash tub 124 is positioned within cabinet 102 and is generally configured for retaining wash fluids during an operating cycle. As used herein, wash fluid may refer to water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable wash additive or combination thereof. Wash tub 124 is substantially fixed relative to cabinet 102 such that it does not rotate or translate relative to cabinet 102.

[0038] A basket 120 (e.g., wash basket) is received within wash tub 124 and defines a laundry chamber 126 (e.g., laundry) that is configured for receipt of clothing articles (e.g., for washing). More specifically, wash basket 120 is rotatably mounted within wash tub 124 such that it is rotatable about an axis of rotation A. According to the illustrated embodiments, the axis of rotation A is substantially parallel (e.g., within 30) relative to the transverse direction T. In this regard, washing machine appliance 100 is generally referred to as a horizontal axis or front load washing machine appliance 100. However, it is noted that the illustrated embodiments are provided merely as non-limiting examples and the present disclosure may be applicable to any other suitable washing machine or laundry appliance configuration.

[0039] 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.

[0040] Washing machine appliance 100 includes a motor assembly 122 that is in mechanical communication with wash basket 120 to selectively rotate wash basket 120 (e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 100). According to the illustrated embodiments, motor assembly 122 is a pancake motor. However, it should be appreciated that any suitable type, size, or configuration of motor may be used to rotate wash basket 120 according to alternative embodiments.

[0041] Referring generally to FIGS. 1 through 3, cabinet 102 also includes a front panel 130 that defines an opening 132, which generally permits user access to wash basket 120 of wash tub 124. More specifically, washing machine appliance 100 includes a door 134 that is selectively positioned over opening 132 and is rotatably mounted to front panel 130 (e.g., about a door axis that is substantially parallel to the vertical direction V). 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. In exemplary embodiments, a lock assembly 182 is fixed to cabinet 102 to selectively lock or hold a free end of the door 134 to cabinet 102 when door 134 is in the closed position (e.g., during certain operations or wash cycles).

[0042] In some embodiments, a central body 136 of door 134 is provide on a perimeter rim 135 that extends about (e.g., radially about) at least a portion of central body 136. In optional embodiments, central body 136 is provided as a window and permits viewing of wash basket 120 when door 134 is in the closed position (e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 100). Generally, door 134 defines a footprint 170 on a front portion of cabinet 102 (e.g., in a plane defined by the lateral direction L and the transverse direction T). For instance, when door 134 is in the closed position, central body 136 and perimeter rim 135 may extend across footprint 170 and thus cover the area of the front panel 130 within footprint 170 (e.g., when viewed along the transverse direction T directly in front of washing machine appliance 100). As shown, particularly in FIG. 3, footprint 170 may extend radially outward from opening 132. Thus, footprint 170 may encompass and define a larger width (e.g., diameter) than opening 132. In some such embodiments, central body 136 extends across and, optionally, within opening 132. Perimeter rim 135 may extend radially outward from opening 132 and define the extrema of footprint 170. In certain embodiments, central body 136 is provided as a non-permeable body, which blocks or prevents wash fluid or air from passing therethrough.

[0043] Door 134 may also include a handle (not shown) that, for example, a user may pull when opening 132 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. Additionally or alternatively, a front gasket or baffle 138 may extend between tub 124 and the front panel 130 about the opening 132 covered by door 134, further sealing tub 124 from cabinet 102. For example, when door 134 is in the closed position, baffle 138 may contact central body 136 in sealing engagement therewith and within footprint 170.

[0044] As shown, wash basket 120 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 (e.g., by gravity) from basket 120 to sump 142 through plurality of perforations 140. A pump assembly 144 is located beneath wash tub 124 for gravity assisted flow when draining wash tub 124 (e.g., via a drain 146). Pump assembly 144 may also be configured for recirculating wash fluid within wash tub 124.

[0045] In some embodiments, washing machine appliance 100 includes an additive dispenser or spout 150. For example, spout 150 may be in fluid communication with a water supply (not shown) in order to direct fluid (e.g., clean water) into wash tub 124. Spout 150 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 150 in order to circulate wash fluid in wash tub 124.

[0046] As illustrated, a detergent drawer 152 may be slidably mounted within front panel 130. Detergent drawer 152 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 126 during certain operations or wash cycle phases of washing machine appliance 100. According to the illustrated embodiment, detergent drawer 152 may also be fluidly coupled to spout 150 to facilitate the complete and accurate dispensing of wash additive.

[0047] In optional embodiments, a bulk reservoir 154 is disposed within cabinet 102. Bulk reservoir 154 may be configured for receipt of fluid additive for use during operation of washing machine appliance 100. Moreover, bulk reservoir 154 may be sized such that a volume of fluid additive sufficient for a plurality or multitude of wash cycles of washing machine appliance 100 (e.g., five, ten, twenty, fifty, or any other suitable number of wash cycles) may fill bulk reservoir 154. Thus, for example, a user can fill bulk reservoir 154 with fluid additive and operate washing machine appliance 100 for a plurality of wash cycles without refilling bulk reservoir 154 with fluid additive. A reservoir pump 156 is configured for selective delivery of the fluid additive from bulk reservoir 154 to wash tub 124.

[0048] Operation of washing machine appliance 100 is generally controlled by a controller or processing device 166. In some embodiments, controller 166 is in operative communication with (e.g., electrically or wirelessly connected 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.

[0049] Controller 166 may include a memory (e.g., non-transitive memory) and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with a wash operation. 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 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, such as motor assembly 122, fan 198, and vent damper 210, may be in operative communication with controller 166 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses. Additionally or alternatively, other features, such as an electronic lock assembly 182 for door 134 may be in operative communication with controller 166 via one or more other signal lines or shared communication busses.

[0050] In some embodiments, a ventilation line 190 is provided within washing machine appliance 100. In particular, ventilation line 190 may be enclosed within cabinet 102. As shown in FIG. 2, exemplary embodiments include ventilation line 190 at a position in fluid communication between tub 124 and the surrounding region (e.g., the ambient environment outside of or immediately surrounding cabinet 102, the enclosed volume of cabinet 102 surrounding tub 124, etc.). Generally, it is understood that ventilation line 190 may be provided as any suitable pipe or conduit (e.g., having non-permeable wall) for directing air therethrough. When assembled, ventilation line 190 defines an air path 192 from tub 124 and within or through cabinet 102 (e.g., to the ambient environment outside of cabinet 102). Specifically, air path 192 extends from a ventilation inlet 194, through cabinet 102, and to a ventilation outlet 196. In some embodiments, ventilation inlet 194 is defined through a top portion of wash tub 124 and ventilation outlet 196 is defined through an upper portion of cabinet 102. Thus, air path 192 may extend from the top portion of tub 124 to an upper portion of cabinet 102. Optionally, ventilation inlet 194 may be positioned below ventilation outlet 196 along a vertical direction V. Advantageously, a convective airflow may be naturally motivated from wash tub 124, through air path 192, and to the ambient environment. Additionally or alternatively, splashing of wash fluid and the collection of moisture within air path 192 may be prevented. However, any other suitable configuration may be provided to facilitate the flow of air from tub 124 and, for example, to the ambient environment.

[0051] Although a convective airflow may be facilitated, optional embodiments further include a fan or blower 198 (indicated in phantom lines). Specifically, fan 198 may be provided in fluid communication with ventilation line 190 to motivate an active airflow therethrough. For instance, fan 198 may be mounted within ventilation line 190 to selectively rotate and draw air from wash tub 124, through ventilation inlet 194, and to ventilation outlet 196 (e.g., to output an airflow from tub 124 to the ambient environment).

[0052] In certain embodiments, a secondary line 200, separate and spaced apart from ventilation line 190, is provided in fluid communication with wash tub 124. For instance, secondary line 200 may be any suitable pipe or conduit in fluid communication (e.g., upstream fluid communication) with wash tub 124 and ventilation line 190. As shown, in exemplary embodiments, secondary line 200 extends from front panel 130 to wash tub 124.

[0053] A cabinet aperture 202 may be defined through front panel 130 as an inlet for ambient air to flow to ventilation line 190 and into tub 124 through a corresponding outlet 206. In some such embodiments, cabinet aperture 202 is defined within the footprint 170 of door 134. Thus, when door 134 is in the closed position, cabinet aperture 202 may be generally covered and hidden from view. As shown, even though door 134 is in the closed position, a gap 254 may be defined between at least a portion of door 134 and cabinet aperture 202 to create a flow path for air from the ambient environment to cabinet aperture 202. In other words, one portion of door 134 (e.g., perimeter rim 135) may be spaced apart from cabinet aperture 202 while another portion of door 134 (e.g., central body 136) blocks opening 132 and contacts baffle 138. As will be described in greater detail below, in some embodiments, one or more airflow apertures 256 may be defined through door 134 (e.g., through an insert module mounted to or received within door 134, as will be described in greater detail below). Such apertures 256 may be in alignment with cabinet aperture 202 (e.g., when the door 134 is in a closed position). During use, air may pass between airflow aperture 256 and cabinet aperture 202 (e.g., from the ambient environment) when door 134 is in the closed position.

[0054] Notably, in the disclosed embodiments, air (e.g., an ambient airflow) may flow between tub 124 and the ambient environment through cabinet aperture 202 even while door 134 remains closed.

[0055] As noted above, secondary line 200 may provide a corresponding outlet 206 in fluid communication with tub 124. In exemplary embodiments, outlet 206 is defined through baffle 138. For instance, as shown, outlet 206 may be defined as a radial aperture 260 extending through baffle 138 (e.g., along the vertical direction V or otherwise radially outward from opening 132). Additionally or alternatively, outlet 206 may be positioned below the cabinet aperture 202 or the remaining portion of secondary line 200.

[0056] In optional embodiments, a vent damper 210 is provided to selectively control an airflow between tub 124 and, for example, the ambient environment. Generally, vent damper 210 is in communication with wash tub 124 or ventilation line 190 (i.e., in fluid communication with air path 192). In certain embodiments, vent damper 210 is enclosed, at least in part, within cabinet 102 (e.g., within line 190 or 200). For instance, vent damper 210 may be positioned along secondary line 200. As will be described in detail below, vent damper 210 may be selectively controlled or operated to limit the flow of air through secondary line 200 (e.g., and thereby through ventilation line 190 or air path 192) during certain operations, phases, or cycles. Thus, vent damper 210 may selectively limit airflow between tub 124 and the ambient environment.

[0057] When secondary line 200 is unobstructed (e.g., when vent damper 210 is in an open second position), air may flow to/from tub 124 between secondary line 200 and ventilation line 190. In other words, an airflow circuit with the ambient environment may be formed by the lines 190, 200 and tub 124. Moreover, when one line (e.g., secondary line 200 or ventilation line 190) is obstructed, the other line (e.g., ventilation line 190 or secondary line 200) may permit pressure within tub 124 to equalize relative to the ambient environment.

[0058] Turning now generally to FIGS. 2 through 15, door 134 may define a module pocket 310 within which an insert module 300 is received. For instance, module pocket 310 may be defined as a transversely extending recess or void. Optionally, module pocket 310 may extend fully through a portion of door 134 (e.g., such that a transverse passage extends from an outer or forward-facing surface of door 134 to an inner or rearward-facing surface of door 134), such as shown in FIG. 4. Alternatively, module pocket 310 may define an open front-facing recess having a solid or non-permeable backplate (e.g., such that module pocket 310 extends from an outer or forward-facing surface of door 134 to a solid rim surface 330 without passing to an inner or rearward-facing surface of door 134). In some embodiments, module pocket 310 is defined or otherwise disposed at perimeter rim 135 (e.g., radially outward from central body 136). Thus, when door 134 is in a closed position, module pocket 310 may be provided at a portion of door 134 that surrounds or is otherwise positioned outside of opening 132 or body 136 relative to a direction perpendicular to the transverse direction T. In additional or alternative embodiments, module pocket 310 may be defined or otherwise disposed at a top half of door 134. For instance, module pocket 310 may be defined at a portion of door 134 above a rotation axis A of the basket 120. Thus, module pocket 310 may be above a horizontal line or point provided at the vertical middle of door 134. Additionally or alternatively, module pocket 310 may be disposed at or across an upper apex of door 134 (e.g., to lie over or intersect a vertical line provided at a horizontal or lateral middle of door 134). Further additionally or alternatively, module pocket 310 may be in alignment with cabinet aperture 202 (e.g., when the door 134 is in a closed position)

[0059] Notably, the module pocket 310 (and thereby any insert module 300 received therein) may be provided at a region of high visibility or prevented from receiving moisture (e.g., from laundry chamber 126 articles passing through opening 132).

[0060] As noted above, an insert module 300 may be received within module pocket 310. Generally, insert module 300 includes a module body or faceplate 314 that is or can be supported on the door 134. Module faceplate 314 may cover (e.g., extend across all or substantially all of the cross-sectional area or perimeter thereof) module pocket 310 such that, when insert module 300 is received within module pocket 310, the module faceplate 314 may prevents visibility of module pocket 310. In some such embodiments, module faceplate 314, or insert module 300 generally, is matched or complementary to the shape of module pocket 310.

[0061] Separate from or in addition to module faceplate 314, insert module 300 may include a rearward-facing module backplate 312. In some such embodiments, module backplate is connected (e.g., selectively connected) to module faceplate 314. For instance, module backplate 312 and module faceplate 314 may be snapped, clipped, or otherwise joined to each other via a suitable mechanical fastener (e.g., as would be understood). A module cavity 316 may be defined within insert module 300, such as between module backplate 312 and module faceplate 314.

[0062] Although insert module 300 may be attached (e.g., selectively attached) to door 134, at least a portion of insert module 300 may be movable relative to door 134. In particular, module faceplate 314 may be movable relative to door 134.

[0063] In certain embodiments, such as those illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 12, module faceplate 314 is movable with the rest of insert module 300 to selectively separate from module pocket 310 and door 134, generally. Insert module 300 may be selectively attached to the door 134 at the module pocket 310 for selective separation of the insert module 300 from the door 134. One or more clips, tabs, or other mechanical fasteners may be provided (e.g., on insert module 300 or door 134) to removably hold insert module 300 within module pocket 310, such as in a friction fit, as would be understood.

[0064] In additional or alternative embodiments, such as those illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, module faceplate 314 is movable in isolation while remaining attached to door 134. For instance, a hinge may join module faceplate 314 to door 134 proximal to module pocket 310, thereby permitting module faceplate 314 to pivot or rotate and selectively permit access to module pocket 310.

[0065] Optionally, multiple discrete insert modules 300 may be provided (e.g., separate from door 134) such that a user may notably exchange one insert module 300 within module pocket 310 for another insert module 300 (e.g., for purposes of replacement or adjustments to functionality). For instance, it is understood that the insert module 300 of FIG. 3 may be exchanged within door 134 for the insert module 300 of FIG. 9 or the insert module of FIG. 12.

[0066] Turning especially to FIGS. 3 through 8, insert module 300 may include or be provided as an airflow module. As shown, module faceplate 314 may define one or more module apertures 318 (e.g., airflow apertures 256FIG. 1). Behind module faceplate 314 (e.g., rearward therefrom along the transverse direction T, as oriented when door 134 is in the closed position), a module cavity 316 may be defined. In turn, the module apertures 318 may be in fluid communication with the module cavity 316. In some such embodiments, the module apertures 318 are defined upstream from the module cavity 316. Thus, air may be permitted to flow to module cavity 316 (e.g., from the ambient environment) through module apertures 318.

[0067] Separate from or in addition to the module apertures 318 defined through module faceplate 314, one or more cabinet-facing apertures 320 may be defined in fluid communication with module cavity 316. Generally, such cabinet-facing apertures 320 may be defined rearward from module cavity 316 or module apertures 318. Such cabinet-facing apertures 320 may be in alignment with cabinet aperture 202 (FIG. 2) (e.g., when the door 134 is in a closed position). In such embodiments, air may pass between airflow cabinet-facing apertures 320 and cabinet aperture 202 (e.g., from the module cavity) when door 134 is in the closed position.

[0068] In certain embodiments, insert module 300 includes a filtration media 322 contained behind the module faceplate 314. In particular, filtration media 322 may be held within module cavity 316. Moreover, the filtration media 322 may in upstream fluid communication with laundry chamber. During use, air passing through module cavity 316 to the laundry chamber 126 may thus be forced to flow through or across filtration media 322. Notably, air to the laundry chamber may thus be treated. It should be appreciated that filtration media 322 may be any suitable type, size, or rating of filter. For example, filtration media 322 may be a pleated filter media, a mesh filter media, a sponge, a HEPA filter, an electrostatic filter, a spun glass filter, or any other suitable type and size of filter medium. In addition, filtration media 322 may have any suitable minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating. In optional embodiments, filtration media 322 includes (e.g., is coated with, embedded with, or otherwise contains) one or more scent-features, such as an odor neutralizer (e.g., fluid configured to bind to odor molecules, such as an acidic liquid, antibacterial, or liquid containing protease or amylase enzymes) or a perfume material (e.g., scent pellet, perfume oil, etc.) to provide a desirable smell or scent to a load. Moreover, it is noted that any other suitable laundry additive may be included.

[0069] Turning especially to FIGS. 9 through 15, insert module 300 may include or be provided as a electronic module. In particular, insert module 300 may include one or more electronic components capable of communicating with controller 166. For instance, insert module 300 may include a digital display 324 [e.g., including or provided as a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs), etc.], an electronic speaker 326 (e.g., dynamic driver, electrostatic driver, planar magnetic driver, piezoelectric driver, etc.), or separate module controller 328 (e.g., memory and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code for an operation of the insert module 300), as will be described in detail below. In certain embodiments, insert module 300 includes a sealed backplate, which may prevent the passage of water or vapor (e.g., to an internal portion of insert module 300 in which the electronic components are held).

[0070] When mounted to door 134 (e.g., in the closed position) insert module 300 may be in electrical communication with controller 166. During use, one or more electric signals, currents, or voltages may be directed to or received by insert module 300. Such signals, currents, or voltages may thus communicate one or more data inputs/outputs or supply power to the electronic components within insert module 300. In some such embodiments, the insert module 300 is selectively separable from the door 134. Separation may, in turn, detach the insert module 300 from the door 134 and break electrical communication with the controller 166.

[0071] Turning especially to FIGS. 13 through 15, the electrical connection 332 through which electrical communication is established between the controller 166 and insert may be selectively separable. Thus, a separable electrical connection 332 may connect (e.g., selectively connect) the controller 166 and the insert module 300. In particular, the connection may be established in the closed position of the door 134 in which the insert module 300 is mounted on door 134. By contrast, the connection may be broken if or when the insert module 300 is spaced apart from the cabinet 102, such as in an open (e.g., not closed) position of the door 134.

[0072] In some embodiments, the separable electrical connection 332 may include a selectively engaging static electrical pad 334 and movable electrical pad 336. As shown, the static electrical pad 334 may be fixed relative to the cabinet 102. For instance, the static electrical pad 334 may be received on the front panel 130 radially outward from the opening 132 of cabinet 102. In certain embodiments the static electrical pad 334 may be disposed radially outward from the footprint or perimeter of door 134. As would be understood, static electrical pad 334 may include one or more discrete conductive surfaces electrically connected to controller 166 within cabinet 102 (e.g., via one or more conductive lines, wires, or bussesnot pictured). Apart from static electrical pad 334, the movable electrical pad 336 may be fixed to the insert module 300 (e.g., to move therewith). Thus, as insert module 300 moves relative to cabinet 102, movable electrical pad 336 may also move. As shown, in the closed position of door 134, movable electrical pad 336 may be in selective contact with static electrical pad 334. The contact may permit conductive communication between movable electrical pad 336 and static electrical pad 334.

[0073] Generally, movable electrical pad 336 includes one or more conductive members, such as spring tabs biased towards static electrical pad 334, that are connected to one or more of the electronic components within insert module 300 (e.g., via one or more conductive lines, wires, or bussesnot pictured). In certain embodiments, the movable electrical pad 336 (e.g., conductive members thereof) is supported on a radial tab 338 of insert module 300. As shown, when insert module 300 is received on door 134, the radial tab 338 may extend outward (e.g., radially outward or above) the perimeter rim 135 or footprint of door 134 generally. Thus, insert module 300 may notably be permitted to selectively connect to static electrical pad 334 without interfering with the relative positioning or airflow of between door 134 and cabinet 102. Optionally, one or more discrete conductive members of movable electrical pad 336 may be provided to match (e.g., in number, placement, or shape) the one or more discrete conductive surfaces of static electrical pad 334.

[0074] Turning especially to FIGS. 9 through 11, some embodiments of insert module 300 include a digital display 324 directed outward in front of door 134. For instance, a front surface of insert module 300 may be provided with or as a digital display 324 configured to project a variable image, icon, or text. Such images, icons, or text may correspond to one or more signals received (e.g., from the controller 166 or module controller 328). Moreover, the projections may be configured to indicate predetermined information or data related to the appliance or operation of the same. This may include remaining cycle time, cycle status, one or more detected error events, or other relevant information. Notably such information may be explicitly displayed, readily visible, or otherwise easy to interpret or understand for a user. Optionally, the digital display 324 may include or be provided as a touch panel, such that the digital display 324 may operate as a user input, as would be understood.

[0075] Turning especially to FIG. 12, additional or alternative embodiments of insert module 300 may include one or more electronic speakers 326. For instance, one or more electronic speakers 326 may be mounted within a body of insert module 300. The electronic speakers 326 may be configured to emit or play one or more programed sounds, tones, messages, or alerts. Such sounds, tones, messages, or alerts may correspond to one or more signals received (e.g., from the controller 166 or module controller 328). Moreover, the emissions may be configured to indicate predetermined information or data related to the appliance or operation of the same. Notably such information may be explicitly described, readily heard, or otherwise easy to interpret or understand for a user. Additionally or alternatively, the insert module 300 may be provided as or include a smart speaker capable of communicating wirelessly with one or more separate devices, as is understood.

[0076] 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.