Patent Publication Number: US-2023160130-A1

Title: Method for operating a laundry washing machine using a unit dose package and laundry washing machine implementing the method

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/171,193, filed on Feb. 9, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/332,116, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,091,870, filed on Mar. 11, 2019, which is a U.S. National Phase application of PCT International Application No. PCT/EP2017/072466, filed Sep. 7, 2017, which claims the benefit of EP 16188493.7, filed Sep. 13, 2016, all of which are incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention concerns the field of laundry washing techniques. 
     In particular, the present invention refers to a method for operating a laundry washing machine using a unit dose package, more particularly a unit dose detergent. 
     BACKGROUND ART 
     Nowadays the use of laundry washing machines, both “simple” laundry washing machines (i.e. laundry washing machines which can only wash and rinse laundry) and laundry washing-drying machines (i.e. laundry washing machines which can also dry laundry), is widespread. 
     In the present description the term “laundry washing machine” will refer to both simple laundry washing machines and laundry washing-drying machines. 
     Laundry washing machines generally comprise an external casing, or cabinet, provided with a washing tub which contains a rotatable perforated drum where the laundry is placed. A loading/unloading door ensures access to the drum. 
     Laundry washing machines typically comprise a water supply unit and a products supply unit, or dispenser, for the introduction of water and treating agents (i.e. detergent, softener, rinse conditioner, etc.) into the tub. 
     At the beginning of each washing cycle, compartments of the dispenser are therefore filled with the respective dose of treating agent. Traditional treating agents typically comprise powder or liquid detergents, liquid softeners, liquid rinse conditioners etc. 
     Alongside the traditional powder or liquid treating agents, unit dose packages have been introduced in the market by the treating agents manufactures. The unit dose package comprises a pre-measured amount of treating agent incorporated into a water-soluble pouch, wherein the treating agent preferably includes detergent. Hereinafter we will indicate said unit dose package simply with the term “pod”. 
     It is known from WO2016102005A1 a method for using a pod by introducing it into one respective compartment of the dispenser. 
     The method preferably comprises a package breakage step of breaking the water-soluble pouch of the pod inside the respective compartment so as to release the pre-measured amount of treating agent incorporated therein. 
     The step of breaking the water-soluble pouch is carried out through water conveyed into the compartment which dissolves the water-soluble pouch or by means of a water jet which hits the pod and breaks the water-soluble pouch. 
     The method then preferably comprises a step of conveying an amount of flushing water into said compartment to flush out the released pre-measured amount of treating agent from the compartment and convey it into the washing tub. 
     The use of pods according to the known technique, nevertheless, revealed some drawbacks. 
     It has been recognized that the use of pods in compartments of the drawer causes the water-soluble pouch of the pod to stuck at the side walls of the compartment. 
     This is due to the gelatinous state reached by the water-soluble pouch. 
     Residues of pouch therefore accumulate and form a sticky, gelatinous mass, which will ultimately adhere to the side walls of the compartment. 
     Accumulation of product may favour the proliferation of bacteria, which may then worsen the hygienic conditions and/or may cause bad smells. 
     Furthermore, cleaning operations are frequently required to remove said residues from side walls of the compartment. This is a wasteful process. 
     The object of the present invention is therefore to overcome the drawbacks posed by the known technique. 
     It is an object of the invention to provide a method for operating a laundry washing machine using a unit dose package which prevents accumulation of residues in the treating agents dispenser. 
     It is another object of the invention to provide a laundry washing machine that makes it possible to reduce proliferation of bacteria therefore improving hygienic conditions. 
     It is a further object of the invention to provide a laundry washing machine that makes it possible to reduce wasteful process for cleaning the treating agents dispenser. 
     DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION 
     The applicant has found that by providing a method for operating a laundry washing machine suitable to use a unit dose package comprising a pre-measured amount of treating agent incorporated into a water-soluble pouch wherein the method comprises a steps of conveying a first amount of water suitable to wet said unit dose package, making a pause for a period of time and conveying a second amount of water suitable to break said water-soluble pouch of said unit dose package, it is possible to overcome drawbacks of known technique. 
     The present invention relates, therefore, to a method for operating a laundry washing machine, said laundry washing machine comprising:
         a cabinet supporting a washing drum adapted to receive laundry and a washing tub external to said washing drum;   a treating agents dispenser comprising one or more compartments and one or more water conveying lines for conveying water to said one or more compartments, wherein a first one of said one or more compartments is suitable to receive a unit dose package comprising a pre-measured amount of treating agent incorporated into a water-soluble pouch;   a supply line, fluidly connecting said treating agents dispenser and said washing tub;       

     wherein said method comprises the steps of:
         conveying a first amount of water to said first compartment during a first period of time from at least one of said one or more water conveying lines, said first amount of water being suitable to wet said unit dose package;   making a pause for a second period of time;   conveying a second amount of water to said first compartment, said second amount of water being suitable to perform a breakage step for breaking said water-soluble pouch of said unit dose package inside said first compartment so that said pre-measured amount of treating agent is released.       

     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the breakage step comprises a step of generating at least one water jet into the first compartment from a first one of said one or more water conveying lines so that said at least one water jet is suitable to hit the unit dose package and to break the water-soluble pouch. 
     According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the step of generating at least one water jet includes a step of generating at least one laminar-flow water jet. 
     Preferably the laminar-flow water jet is a coherent stream of water. 
     Preferably the laminar-flow water jet is a flow which substantially maintains its shape (or cross section) throughout its extension. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first period of time is comprised between 1 sec and 10 sec, more preferably equal to 3 sec. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second period of time is comprised between 5 sec and 150 sec, more preferably equal to 30 sec. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second amount of water is comprised between 1 litre and 7 litres, more preferably equal to 4 litres. 
     According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second amount of water is conveyed for a time period suitable to break the water-soluble pouch. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention the method comprises, after the breakage step, a step of conveying a third amount of water to the first compartment, the third amount of water being suitable to clean the first compartment and/or to flush out said released pre-measured amount of treating agent from the first compartment and to convey it into the washing tub through the supply line. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the third amount of water is comprised between 1 litre and 12 litres, more preferably equal to 6 litres. 
     According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the method comprises a step of introducing the unit dose package into the first compartment before the step of conveying a first amount of water to the first compartment. 
     Preferably, the step of introducing the unit dose package into the first compartment comprises positioning the unit dose package in a predefined zone inside the first compartment. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the step of generating at least one water jet into said first compartment comprises directing said at least one water jet towards a predefined zone inside said first compartment which is suited for receiving said unit dose package. 
     According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the breakage step is carried out if the user selects a dedicated washing program through an interface unit. More preferably, the user selects the dedicated washing program by operating a selector device of the interface unit. 
     According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the breakage step is carried out automatically upon detection of the presence of the unit dose package in the first compartment. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said one or more compartments are adapted to be filled with at least one treating agent. 
     Preferably, the treating agent is at least one of the following: a detergent, a softener, a rinse additive, a fabric conditioner, a washing booster, a waterproofing agent, a fabric enhancer, a rinse sanitization additive, a chlorine-based additive. 
     Preferably, the pre-measured amount of treating agent is powder or liquid or paste or waxy or a gel composition or a combination thereof. 
     Preferably, water is cold or warm water. 
     Preferably the laundry washing machine comprises a control unit for controlling functioning of said laundry washing machine. 
     Preferably the laundry washing machine comprises an interface unit by means of which a user may select and/or set parameters. 
     The present invention further relates to a method for operating a laundry washing machine, said laundry washing machine comprising:
         a cabinet supporting a washing drum adapted to receive laundry and a washing tub external to said washing drum;   a treating agents dispenser comprising one or more compartments and one or more water conveying lines for conveying water to said one or more compartments;   a supply line, fluidly connecting said treating agents dispenser and said washing tub;       

     wherein said method comprises the steps of:
         introducing a unit dose package comprising a pre-measured amount of treating agent incorporated into a water-soluble pouch into a first one of said one or more compartments;   conveying a first amount of water to said first compartment during a first period of time from at least one of said one or more water conveying lines to wet said unit dose package;   making a pause for a second period of time;   performing a breakage step of breaking said water-soluble pouch of said unit dose package inside said first compartment by conveying a second amount of water to said first compartment so as to release said pre-measured amount of treating agent.       

     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the breakage step comprises a step of generating at least one water jet into the first compartment from a first one of said one or more water conveying lines so that said at least one water jet hits the unit dose package and breaks the water-soluble pouch. 
     According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the method comprises, after the breakage step, a step of conveying a third amount of water to the first compartment to clean the first compartment and/or to flush out the released pre-measured amount of treating agent from the first compartment and convey it into the washing tub through the supply line. 
     Preferably, the method comprises a step of positioning the unit dose package in a predefined zone inside the first compartment. 
     In a further aspect thereof, the present invention concerns a laundry washing machine suited to implement the method of the invention described above. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Further characteristics and advantages of the present invention will be highlighted in greater detail in the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, provided with reference to the enclosed drawings. In the drawings, corresponding characteristics and/or components are identified by the same reference numbers. In such drawings: 
         FIG.  1    shows a perspective view of a laundry washing machine in which a method according to a first embodiment of the invention is performed; 
         FIG.  2    shows the laundry washing machine of  FIG.  1    with the drawer in its opened loading position; 
         FIG.  3    shows the laundry washing machine of  FIG.  1    with the front side wall and the upper side wall removed; 
         FIG.  4    shows a lateral plan view of the laundry washing machine of  FIG.  1    with the left side wall removed; 
         FIG.  5    is a prospective view of the treating agents dispenser, isolated from the rest, of the laundry washing machine represented in  FIG.  2    with the drawer in its opened loading position; 
         FIG.  5 A  shows a unit dose detergent usable in laundry washing machine represented in  FIG.  1    and in the treating agents dispenser represented in  FIG.  5   ; 
         FIG.  5 B  is a sectional view of the unit dose detergent of  FIG.  5 A ; 
         FIG.  6    shows the treating agents dispenser of  FIG.  5    with an element removed therefrom; 
         FIG.  7    shows the treating agents dispenser of  FIG.  6    with a further element removed therefrom; 
         FIG.  8    is a plan view of the treating agents dispenser of  FIG.  6    with the drawer in its closed position; 
         FIG.  9    illustrates a schematic flow chart diagram of a method for operating a laundry washing machine during a washing cycle according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention has proved to be particularly advantageous when applied to laundry washing machines, as described below. It should in any case be underlined that the present invention is not limited to laundry washing machines. On the contrary, the present invention can be conveniently applied to laundry washing-drying machines (i.e. laundry washing machines which can also dry laundry). 
     In the present description, therefore, the term “laundry washing machine” will refer to both simple laundry washing machines and laundry washing-drying machines. 
     A laundry washing machine  1  where a method according to a preferred embodiment of the invention is performed is described with reference to  FIGS.  1  to  9   . 
     The laundry washing machine  1  comprises an external casing or cabinet  2 , in which a washing tub  3  is provided that contains a perforated washing drum  4  where the laundry to be treated can be loaded. The external casing  2  comprises vertical side walls  2   a - 2   d  and an upper side wall  2   e.    
     The tub  3  and the drum  4  both preferably have a substantially cylindrical shape. Between the tub  3  and the drum  4  a gap is defined. 
     The cabinet  2  is provided with a loading/unloading  8  which allows access to the drum  4 . 
     The tub  3  is preferably suspended in a floating manner inside the cabinet  2 , advantageously by means of a number of coil springs and shock-absorbers  17 . 
     The drum  4  is advantageously rotated by an electric motor  9  which preferably transmits the rotating motion to the shaft of the drum  4 , advantageously by means of a belt/pulley system. In a different embodiment of the invention, the motor can be directly associated with the shaft of the drum  4 . 
     The drum  4  is advantageously provided with holes which allow the liquid flowing therethrough. Said holes are typically and preferably homogeneously distributed on the cylindrical side wall of the drum  4 . 
     The tub  3  is preferably connected to the cabinet  2  by means of an elastic bellows  7 , or gasket. The bellows  7  is preferably S-shaped. 
     Laundry washing machine  1  advantageously comprises a control unit  11 , illustrated in  FIG.  3   , connected to the various parts of the laundry washing machine  1  in order to ensure its operation. Laundry washing machine  1  preferably comprises an interface unit  16 , connected to the control unit  11 , accessible to the user and by means of which the user may select and set the washing parameters, like for example a desired washing program. Usually, other parameters can optionally be inserted by the user, for example the washing temperature, the spinning speed, etc. The interface unit  16  preferably comprises a display  16   a  which displays machine working conditions. 
     The unit interface  16  then preferably comprises one or more selector devices which allow to select the appropriate wash program and/or to set other parameters. 
     For example, the selector devices may comprise a selector  16   b  (a rotary knob) which advantageously allows to select the appropriate washing program. The selector devices may then preferably comprise push buttons. In a preferred embodiment, one of the push buttons is advantageously dedicated for selection of a program which uses a detergent pod, as will be described later. Thus we can refer hereinafter to a “Pods cycle” button  16   c.    
     In further preferred embodiments, the selection of the washing program which uses a detergent pod may be obtained through other selector devices, for example through the selector  16   b.    
     In further embodiments, the selector devices may comprise other type of device, such as capacitive switch, touch screen, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the touch screen may coincide with the display  16 . 
     In further preferred embodiments, the washing program which uses a detergent pod may be one of the washing programs available and selectable by the user, for example through a rotary knob which may be positioned in a plurality of positions each relative to a washing program, one of these positions being relative to said washing program which uses a detergent pod. 
     The laundry washing machine  1  advantageously comprises a treating agents dispenser  20  to supply treating agents into the tub  3  during a washing cycle. Treating agents may comprise, for example, detergents, rinse additives, fabric softeners or fabric conditioners, waterproofing agents, fabric enhancers, rinse sanitization additives, chlorine-based additives, etc. 
     Advantageously, the treating agents dispenser  20  comprises a box-shaped housing  21 , connected to the external casing  2 , internally to the latter, preferably by suitable fixing means, comprising, for example, screws or rivets, not illustrated, or also glue, or welding. 
     In the enclosed Figures, the housing  21  is advantageously substantially parallelepiped, and it is connected to the frontal side wall  2   a  of the external casing  2 , opportunely in an upper region of the latter, positioned above the tub  3 . 
     The housing  21  contains a removable drawer  22  which can be extracted from the housing  21 , such as to protrude from the external casing  2  in an opened loading position, as illustrated for example in  FIGS.  2  and  5   , or can be fully inserted into the housing  21  in an operative position, as illustrated for example in  FIGS.  1  and  8   . 
     The drawer  22  is provided with one or more compartments  23   a ,  23   b ,  23   c ,  23   d  adapted to be filled with treating agents. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in the Figures, there are four compartments,  23   a ,  23   b ,  23   c  and  23   d.    
     The first compartment  23   a  is preferably adapted for receiving a unit dose package DP or a powder detergent; the second compartment  23   b  is preferably adapted for receiving a quantity of liquid detergent; the third compartment  23   c  is preferably adapted for receiving a softener; the fourth compartment  23   d  is preferably adapted for receiving other treating agents, such as fabric conditioners, waterproofing agents, fabric enhancers, rinse sanitization additives, chlorine-based additives, etc. 
     With “unit dose package” it is meant a product comprising a pre-measured amount, or single dose, of treating agent incorporated into a water-soluble pouch. In the preferred embodiment here described, the treating agent is detergent D. Hereinafter, therefore, the unit dose package will be simply indicated as “detergent pod DP”. 
     For example, the detergent pod DP comprises a pre-measured amount, or single dose, of detergent D incorporated into a water-soluble pouch P, as illustrated in  FIGS.  5 A and  5 B . 
     Detergent D may comprise any type of detergent, for example powder, liquid, paste, waxy or gel compositions. 
     In the further preferred embodiments, the treating agent may comprise different agents. For example, the treating agent may comprise products known as boosters, as borax, washing soda, etc. 
     The pouch P preferably comprises a water-soluble film. In some examples, the liquid detergent products may be incorporated into a multi-compartment water-soluble pouch. 
     The pouches may be made of a film material that is soluble or dispersible in water. The pouches have a percentage of water-solubility, for example a water-solubility of at least 50%, preferably of at least 75% or more preferably at least 95%. 
     Suitable pouch materials may include, but are not limited to, polymeric materials. In some examples, the polymers are formed into a film or sheet. The pouch material can, for example, be obtained by casting, blow-moulding, extrusion or blown extrusion of the polymeric material, as known in the art. 
     Other polymers, copolymers or derivatives thereof suitable for use as pouch material may be selected from polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyalkylene oxides, acrylamide, acrylic acid, cellulose, cellulose ethers, cellulose esters, cellulose amides, polyvinyl acetates, polycarboxylic acids and salts, polyaminoacids or peptides, polyamides, polyacrylamide, copolymers of maleic/acrylic acids, polysaccharides including starch and gelatine, natural gums such as xanthum and carragum. In some examples, polymers are selected from polyacrylates and water-soluble acrylate copolymers, methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, dextrin, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, maltodextrin, polymethacrylates, and most preferably selected from polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl alcohol copolymers and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), and combinations thereof. The level of polymer in the pouch material, for example a PVA polymer, may be at least 60%. 
     The polymer can have any weight average molecular weight of from 1000 to 1,000,000, in some examples from 10,000 to 300,000, and in further examples from 20,000 to 150,000. 
     Mixtures of polymers can also be used as the pouch material. This can be beneficial to control the mechanical and/or dissolution properties of the compartments or pouch, depending on the application thereof and the required needs. 
     Suitable mixtures include for example mixtures wherein one polymer has a higher water-solubility than another polymer, and/or one polymer has a higher mechanical strength than another polymer. Also suitable are mixtures of polymers having different weight average molecular weights, for example a mixture of PVA or a copolymer thereof of a weight average molecular weight of 10,000-40,000, in some examples a weight average molecular weight of about 20,000, and of PVA or copolymer thereof, with a weight average molecular weight of 100,000 to 300,000, in some examples a weight average molecular weight of about 150,000. Also suitable herein are polymer blend compositions, for example comprising hydrolytically degradable and water-soluble polymer blends such as polylactide and polyvinyl alcohol, obtained by mixing polylactide and polyvinyl alcohol, typically comprising 1-35% by weight polylactide and 65% to 99% by weight polyvinyl alcohol. In some examples, polymers for use herein are from 60% to 98% hydrolysed, and in further examples from 80% to 90% hydrolysed, to improve the dissolution characteristics of the material. 
     It will be obvious according to one skilled in the art that different film materials and/or films of different thickness may be employed in making the compartments. A benefit in selecting different films is that the resulting compartments may exhibit different solubility or release characteristics. 
     The pouch material herein can comprise one or more additive ingredients. For example, it can be beneficial to add plasticisers, for example glycerol, ethylene glycol, diethyleneglycol, propylene glycol, sorbitol and mixtures thereof. 
     Other additives include functional detergent additives to be delivered to the wash water, for example organic polymeric dispersants, etc. 
     For reasons of deformability pouches or pouch compartments containing a component which is liquid will preferably contain an air bubble having a volume of up to 50%, alternatively up to 40%, alternatively up to 30%, alternatively up to 20%, alternatively up to 10% of the volume space of said compartment. 
     The compartments  23   a ,  23   b ,  23   c  and  23   d  of the drawer  22  are fluidly connected to the bottom  21   a  of the housing  21 , particularly to the rear portion  21   b  of this bottom  21   a , in which an outlet port  24  is obtained. The outlet port  24  is adapted to allow the flowing of a liquid into a supply pipe  18  fluidly connecting the treating agents dispenser  20  and the tub  3 , as visible in  FIG.  4   . 
     The supply pipe  18  is preferably arranged laterally with respect to the tub  3  and preferably terminates at an upper region  3   a  of the tub  3 . More preferably, the supply pipe  18  terminates at a rear side of the tub  3 . 
     The bottom  21   a  of the housing  21  preferably has a sloped bottom so that a fluid may flow towards the outlet port  24 . The outlet port  24  is preferably located at the rear of the sloped bottom wall  21   a.    
     The first compartment  23   a  of the drawer  22  is fluidly connected to the bottom  21   a  of the housing  21  through an aperture  26  defined at the rear of the first compartment  23   a.    
     It is underlined that in the present application saying that a first component is “fluidly connected” to a second component means that a fluid can flow from the first component to the second component and/or vice versa. 
     The first compartment  23   a  preferably has a sloped bottom wall  62   a  so that a fluid may flow towards the aperture  26 . The aperture  26  is located at the rear of the sloped bottom wall  62   a.    
     The first compartment  23   a  then preferably comprises a stopping device  30  adapted for stopping the detergent pod DP and preventing it reaching the rear aperture  26  of the first compartment  23   a . The stopping device  30  is suited to stop the detergent pod DP when the detergent pod DP is intact while it is configured to allow the passage of detergent D which exits the detergent pod DP after its breakage, as will be better described later. 
     In the embodiment illustrated, the stopping device  30  preferably comprises two ribs  31   a ,  31   b , vertically arranged in the first compartment  23   a . An horizontal element  32  connects the ribs  31   a ,  31   b  to lateral side walls of the first compartment  23   a.    
     In different embodiments, not illustrated, the stopping device may be differently realized. In a particular case, the compartment itself may be properly shaped so that it accomplishes the function of stopping the detergent pod inserted therein. 
     In further different embodiments, the stopping device may be omitted. In this case, the detergent pod may be preferably placed in a predefined zone of the compartment. 
     The other compartments  23   b ,  23   c  and  23   d  of the drawer  22  are preferably fluidly connected to the bottom  21   a  of the housing  21  through respective siphons  13   b ,  13   c ,  13   d.    
     Advantageously, the treating agents dispenser  20  comprises a water distributor  35 , associated to the housing  21  and placed above the drawer  22  in such a way to allow the flowing of water to one or more of said compartments  23   a ,  23   b ,  23   c ,  23   d.    
     The treating agents dispenser  20  comprises one or more water conveying lines  38   a ,  38   b ,  38   c , as illustrated for example in  FIGS.  6  and  8   , adapted for conveying water to one or more of said compartments  23   a ,  23   b ,  23   c ,  23   d.    
     The water distributor  35  preferably comprises a lower part  35   a  and an upper closing part  35   b  structured for being reciprocally coupled to form the water distributor  35 . The two parts  35   a ,  35   b  are preferably coupled by welding and/or glueing and/or joint. 
     Advantageously, the water distributor  35  comprises a first inlet connector  36   a  and a second inlet connector  36   b  connectable to a water source E which could comprise, for example, the plumbing of the building in which the laundry washing machine  1  is installed. 
     Advantageously the first and second inlet connectors  36   a ,  36   b  can be connected to the water source E via first and second controllable valves  40   a ,  40   b , preferably of the electromagnetic type, opportunely controlled by the control unit  11 . In the embodiment illustrated in the enclosed Figures, the two inlet connectors  36   a ,  36   b  can be connected via the dedicated controllable valves  40   a ,  40   b , to the water source E for the adduction of cold water. 
     Inlets of the two controllable valves  40   a ,  40   b  are connectable to the water source E and outlets of the two controllable valves  40   a ,  40   b  are connected, through respective pipes  34   a ,  34   b , to the two inlet connectors  36   a ,  36   b  of the water distributor  35 . 
     Preferably, the controllable valves  40   a ,  40   b  comprise a regulator system that automatically cuts off the flow of water flowing therethrough at a certain maximum pressure. Preferably, the maximum pressure is set at a value comprises between 1.7 and 2.4 bar. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in the enclosed Figures there is also provided a third inlet connector  36   c  connectable, via a third controllable valve  40   c , to a warm or hot water source E′; the further inlet connector  36   c  can be fed with warm or hot water, for example obtained by a solar thermal collector; in a further embodiment, not illustrated, there could be more than one further inlet connectors, connected to one or more water sources. 
     Inlet of the third controllable valve  40   c  is connectable to the water source E′ and outlet of the third controllable valve  40   c  is connected, through a respective pipe  34   c , to the third inlet connector  36   c  of the water distributor  35 . 
     The water conveying lines  38   a ,  38   b ,  38   c  are fluidly connected to the inlet connectors  36   a ,  36   b . Each one of said water conveying lines  38   a ,  38   b ,  38   c  fluidly communicates with a different region of the water distributor  35 . Each region is positioned in such a way to be placed above a respective compartment  23   a ,  23   b ,  23   c ,  23   d  of the drawer  22  when the latter is placed in its closed operative position. 
     The regions of the water distributor  35  are provided with one or more outlets  29  that allow the passage of the water from the water conveying lines  38   a ,  38   b ,  38   c  to the underlying compartments  23   a ,  23   b ,  23   c ,  23   d.    
     Outlets  29  and water conveying lines  38   a ,  38   b ,  38   c  are opportunely shaped so that the water substantially falls by gravity into the underlying compartments  23   a ,  23   b ,  23   c ,  23   d.    
     By acting on the controllable valves  40   a ,  40   b  and  40   c , it is possible to selectively feed one of the water conveying lines  38   a ,  38   b ,  38   c  and one or more compartments  23   a ,  23   b ,  23   c ,  23   d  with water coming from the water source E or warm water source E′. 
     In a further preferred embodiment, not illustrated, the water distributor may comprise a dedicated water conveying line and valve for each compartment. 
     In another embodiment, not illustrated, in the drawer there can be more than four compartments, and in the water distributor there can be more than three water conveying lines, each one fluidly communicating with a different region of the water distributor which is positioned in such a way to be placed above a different compartment of the drawer when the latter is placed in its closed operative position; also in this case, by acting on the controllable valves, it is possible to selectively feed a desired water conveying line with water coming from the water source/s. 
     In further embodiments, not illustrated, in the drawer there can be less than four compartments, even just one, and in the water distributor there can be less than three water conveying lines, each one fluidly communicating with a different region of the water distributor which is positioned in such a way to be placed above a different compartment of the drawer when the latter is placed in its closed operative position; also in this case, by acting on the controllable valves, it is possible to selectively feed a desired water conveying line with water coming from the water source/s. 
     There is also provided a dedicated fourth water conveying line  38   d  for generating one or more water jets directed into the first compartment  23   a  which receives the detergent pod DP. The water jets are suited to hit the detergent pod DP and to break/perforate/cut its water-soluble pouch P. 
     For simplicity&#39;s sake, hereinafter we will use the sole term “break” to indicate the action of perforating or cutting the water-soluble pouch P of the detergent pod DP. The action of breaking or perforating or cutting the water-soluble pouch has to be intended as an action of breaking the water-soluble pouch by a mechanical action of the water jet and not exclusively by dissolution of the water-soluble pouch in contact with water. 
     At this purpose, the water distributor  35  comprises a fourth inlet connector  36   d  connectable, via a dedicated fourth controllable valve  40   d , to the water source E; the fourth inlet connector  36   d  can be fed with cold or warm or hot water. 
     Inlet of the fourth controllable valve  40   d  is connectable to the water source E and outlet of the fourth controllable valve  40   d  is connected, through a respective pipe  34   d , to the fourth inlet connector  36   d  of the water distributor  35 . 
     Preferably the fourth water conveying line  38   d  is fluidly connected to the fourth inlet connector  36   d  and communicates with a region of the wash dispenser  35  which is positioned above the first compartment  23   a  of the drawer  22 . 
     Water is therefore conveyed to the first compartment  23   a  of the drawer  22  by activating the fourth valve  40   d  and making the water flowing through the fourth water conveying line  38   d.    
     The fourth water conveying line  38   d  is preferably provided with nozzles  41 ,  42  and  43  adapted to allow the passage of the water from the fourth water conveying line  38   d  to the underlying first compartment  23   a  and adapted for generating said water jets. As said above, the impact of the water jets against the detergent pod DP breaks its water-soluble pouch P. 
     Nozzles  41 ,  42  and  43  generate at its outputs the water jets with the required direction. Furthermore, the shape of the nozzles  41 ,  42  and  43  guarantees that the water jets are laminar-flow water jets. 
     As a result, the water jet doesn&#39;t spread out and every part of the flow travels in a substantially straight line. 
     When the detergent pod DP is received in the first compartment  23   a , the water jets hit the water-soluble pouch P of the detergent pod DP and breaks it. 
     With laminar-flow water jet it has to be intended that the water is ejected from the nozzle in a coherent stream. The coherent stream substantially maintains its shape from the nozzle to the target, in the present case the target is the detergent pod DP. 
     The laminar-flow water jet, therefore, is a flow which substantially maintains its shape (or cross section) throughout its extension. 
     The shape of the stream is determined by the shape of the nozzle or, in other words, the nozzle is shaped to produce a stream that is of a particular shape. 
     Preferably, the output water jets are generated to be directed in an area of the first compartment  23   a  adjacent to the stopping device  30 . 
     In an embodiment of the invention, the laundry washing cycle is advantageously carried out using powder or liquid detergent as known in the art. In this case, the first compartment  23   a  of the treating agents dispenser  20  is filled with powder detergent or the second compartment  23   b  is filled with liquid detergent. Then, advantageously, the third compartment  23   c  may be filled with a softener and/or the fourth compartment  23   d  may be filled with other treating agents, such as fabric conditioners, waterproofing agents, fabric enhancers, rinse sanitization additives, chlorine-based additives, etc. By operating on the interface unit  16  the user selects the desired washing program, for example a standard washing program. The control unit  11  controls the laundry washing machine  1  so that it may start the washing program and dispensing, when required, the proper treating agent from the treating agents dispenser  20  to the washing tub  3 . 
     The treating agent is dispensed from the treating agents dispenser  20  to the washing tub  3  by making flow an amount of flushing water into the proper compartment so as to flush out the treating agent contained therein and convey it into the washing tub  3  through the outlet port  24  and the supply pipe  18 . 
     For example, during the main washing phase of the washing cycle the powder detergent is dispensed from the treating agents dispenser  20  to the washing tub  3  by making flow an amount of flushing water into the first compartment  23   a  so as to flush out the powder detergent contained therein and convey it into the washing tub  3  through the outlet port  24  and the supply pipe  18 . 
     The washing cycle then continues with the following phases, draining phases, spinning cycles, rinsing phases, etc., or further water loads. 
     According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the laundry washing cycle is advantageously carried out introducing a detergent pod DP inside the first compartment  23   a . The third compartment  23   c  may be filled with a softener and the fourth compartment  23   d  may be filled with other treating agents, such as fabric conditioners, waterproofing agents, fabric enhancers, rinse sanitization additives, chlorine-based additives, etc. 
     In this case, the main washing phase of the washing cycle is carried out using water and the detergent D of the detergent pod DP. The detergent D of the detergent pod DP is dispensed from the first compartment  23   a  to the washing tub  3 , as will be described in the following. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a washing program wherein the main washing phase is carried out using the detergent pod DP is opportunely selected by the user by operating the “Pods cycle” button  16   c  on the interface unit  16 . In different embodiments, the washing program which uses a detergent pod DP may be select in an appropriate menu selectable through the display of the interface unit  16 . 
     In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a washing program wherein the washing phase is carried out using the detergent pod DP may be automatically set by the laundry washing machine thanks to a sensor, not illustrated, associated to the treating agents dispenser  20  which is able to detect the presence of a detergent pod DP inside the first compartment  23   a.    
     For example, the sensor may be an optical sensor or a conductivity sensor. 
     In further preferred embodiments, then, no actions are taken when using the detergent pod DP and therefore any of the washing programs selectable by the user will perform a washing cycle suitable for detergent pod DP. In this case, if powder or liquid detergent is used instead of a detergent pod PD, the washing cycle suitable for the detergent pod PD will be performed. 
     A preferred functioning of the laundry washing machine  1  according to the invention is described hereinafter with reference to  FIG.  9   . 
     The detergent pod DP is placed by the user inside the first compartment  23   a  (step  100 ), preferably in a predefined zone inside the first compartment  23   a  adjacent to the stopping device  30 , more preferably in abutment to the ribs  31   a ,  31   b  of the stopping device  30 . 
     The predefined zone inside the first compartment  23   a  substantially corresponds, therefore, with the area close to the ribs  31   a ,  31   b  of the stopping device  30 . 
     The detergent pod DP is advantageously maintained inside the first compartment  23   a  by means of the stopping device  30  which prevents the detergent pod DP slipping towards the rear aperture  26  of the first compartment  23   a.    
     The drawer  22  is then positioned in its closed operating position. 
     The method according to the invention comprises a first phase (step  110 ), or wetting phase, wherein a first amount of water Qw 1  is conveyed into the first compartment  23   a  in order to wet the detergent pod DP. In particular, the first amount of water gets into contact with the external pouch P of the detergent pod DP. 
     At this purpose the first amount of water Qw 1  is conveyed into the first compartment  23   a  during a predetermined first period of time t 1 , or wetting time period t 1 . The wetting time period t 1  is preferably comprised between 1 sec and 10 sec, more preferably set at a predetermined value of 3 sec. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first amount of water Qw 1  is conveyed into the first compartment  23   a  through outlets  29  of the first water conveying line  38   a.    
     In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the first amount of water Qw 1  is conveyed into the first compartment  23   a  through water jets generated by nozzles  41 ,  42  or  43  of the fourth water conveying line  38   d.    
     In this case, the water jets are activated for a short period of time so that they do not achieve the breaking action but only the wetting action of the detergent pod DP. 
     In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the first amount of water Qw 1  is conveyed into the first compartment  23   a  through both outlets  29  of the first water conveying line  38   a  and nozzles  41 ,  42  or  43  of the fourth water conveying line  38   d.    
     The first amount of water Qw 1  is preferably cold water, coming from the water source E, and/or warm or hot water, coming from source E′. 
     After the wetting phase (step  110 ) the method comprises a second phase (step  120 ), or pausing phase, wherein the detergent pod DP is maintained into the first compartment  23   a  for a predetermined second period of time t 2 , or waiting time, during which the external pouch P of the detergent pod DP, previously wetted in the wetting phase (step  110 ), jellified. 
     The waiting time period t 2  is preferably comprised between 5 sec and 150 sec, preferably set at a predetermined value of 30 sec. 
     The waiting time period t 2  is opportunely choose to guarantee the external pouch P to turn into jelly and, at the same time, to avoid the external pouch P in the gelatinous state to stuck at side walls of the first compartment  23   a , in particular at the bottom wall  62   a  of the first compartment  23   a.    
     After the waiting phase (step  120 ) the method comprises a third phase (step  130 ), or breaking phase, wherein a detergent pod breakage step of breaking the water-soluble pouch P of the detergent pod DP is carried out. 
     Preferably, a second amount of water Qw 2  is directed towards the detergent pod DP, in particular towards the jelly external pouch P of the detergent pod DP. 
     More preferably, by opening the fourth controllable valve  40   d , the second amount of water Qw 2 , coming from the water source E, enters the water distributor  35  and flows into the fourth water conveying line  38   d  up to the nozzles  41 ,  42  and  43 . Water jets generated by the nozzles  41 ,  42  and  43  are directed towards the detergent pod DP, in particular towards the jelly external pouch P of the detergent pod DP. 
     The water jets perforates/cuts for the detergent pod DP. The water penetrates into the jelly external pouch P and breaks open the detergent pod D with release of detergent D contained therein. 
     The fourth controllable valve  40   d  is preferably kept activated for a proper period of time tb which is considered sufficient to break the pouch P. 
     The second amount of water Qw 2  is preferably comprised between 1 litre and 7 litres, preferably set at a value of 4 litres. 
     The second amount of water Qw 2  is preferably cold water, coming from the water source E. In different embodiments, the second amount of water can be warm or hot water, coming from source E′. 
     Once the external pouch P has been broken, the dose of released detergent D previously contained in the detergent pod DP is ready to be conveyed into the washing tub  3 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the second amount of water Qw 2  conveyed into the first compartment  23   a  through the nozzles  41 ,  42  and  43  flushes out part of, or totally, the dose of released detergent D and conveys it into the washing tub  3  through the outlet port  24  and the supply pipe  18 . 
     At the same time, part of, or totally, the pouch P of the detergent pod PD is flushed out and conveyed into the washing tub  3  through the outlet port  24  and the supply pipe  18 . 
     Advantageously, the pouch P of the detergent pod PD does not stick at the side walls of the first compartment  23   a.    
     In a further preferred embodiment, after the breaking phase (step  130 ) the method comprises a fourth phase (step  140 ), or cleaning phase, wherein a third amount of water Qw 3  is conveyed into the first compartment  23   a  in order to clean the first compartment  23   a.    
     The third amount of water Qw 3  is preferably comprised between 1 litre and 12 litres, preferably set at a value of 6 litres. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the third amount of water Qw 3  is conveyed into the first compartment  23   a  through outlets  29  of the first water conveying line  38   a.    
     In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the third amount of water Qw 3  is conveyed into the first compartment  23   a  through water jets of the fourth water conveying line  38   d.    
     In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the third amount of water Qw 3  is conveyed into the first compartment  23   a  through both outlets  29  of the first water conveying line  38   a  and water jets of the fourth water conveying line  38   d.    
     The third amount of water Qw 3  is preferably cold water, coming from the water source E, and/or warm or hot water, coming from source E′. 
     Advantageously, the third amount of water Qw 3  cleans the side walls of the first compartment  23   a . Furthermore, the third amount of water Qw 3  flushes out released detergent D of the pod PD not previously flushed out. 
     At the same time, the third amount of water Qw 3  flushes out residues of pouch P not previously flushed out. 
     This further guarantee that the pouch P of the detergent pod PD does not stick at the side walls of the first compartment  23   a.    
     In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the detergent pod breaking phase and said cleaning phase may be carried out simultaneously, being clear that the detergent will be flushed out from the first compartment  23   a  once the detergent pod DP has been broken. 
     An illustrative example of a preferred embodiment of the method for dispensing a dose of detergent D and water into the washing tub  3  is described in the following:
         a detergent pod DP in inserted into the first compartment  23   a  of the drawer  22  and the drawer  22  is closed;   the user selects the washing program which uses detergent pods (for example through the “Pods cycle” button  16   c  of the interface unit  16 );   a first amount of water Qw 1  is conveyed into the first compartment  23   a  through outlets  29  of the first water conveying line  38   a  for a predetermined period of time, for example 3 sec.; then   make a pause of 30 sec; then   the fourth valve  40   d  is activated (opened) for a predetermined period of time, for example 30 sec, so that water jets are generated by the nozzles  41 ,  42  and  43  and the detergent pod DP, in particular the pouch P of the detergent pod DP, is broken; then   the first valve  40   a  is activated again for a predetermined period of time so that a quantity of flushing water, for example 6 liters, is introduced inside the first compartment  23   a  for cleaning the first compartment  23   a  and/or conveying detergent D into the washing tub  3 .       

     The washing cycle may then proceed with the following phases, such as water heating, drum rotation, draining phases, spinning cycles, etc., or further water loads. 
     The method according to the preferred embodiments of the invention has been advantageously described in particular with reference to a detergent pod DP. 
     It has to be noted that the method may be also be performed when a different unit dose package is utilized which have to be dispensed during a washing cycle. 
     It has thus been shown that the present invention allows all the set objects to be achieved. In particular, it makes it possible to provide a method for operating a laundry washing machine using a unit dose package which prevents accumulation of residues in the treating agents dispenser. 
     It is underlined that the laundry washing machines illustrated in the enclosed figures are of the front-loading type; however it is clear that the system according to the invention can be applied as well to a top-loading washing machine, substantially without any modification. 
     While the present invention has been described with reference to the particular embodiment shown in the figures, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiment illustrated and described herein; on the contrary, further variants of the embodiments described herein fall within the scope of the present invention, which is defined in the claims.