Patent Publication Number: US-11384473-B2

Title: Additive dispenser for varying the types of additives within a washing machine appliance

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present subject matter relates generally to automated washing appliances, such as washing machine appliances, and more particularly to an additive dispensing assembly for supplying a wash fluid to a washing appliance. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Modern washing appliances, such as washing machine appliances and dishwasher appliances, often include an additive dispenser to dispense a wash fluid therefrom. Prior to use of a washing appliance, a wash additive, such as detergent, may be placed within the additive dispenser (e.g., by a user) to be selectively added to a wash chamber during a wash cycle of the appliance. For example, washing machine appliances generally include a tub for containing water or wash fluid (e.g., water and detergent, bleach, or other wash additives), as well as a basket that is rotatably mounted within the tub and defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing. During normal operation of such washing machine appliances, the wash liquid is directed into the tub and onto articles within the wash chamber. 
     Increasingly, there is a desire by consumers to use discrete additive pods with washing appliances. The additive pods are often filled with a premeasured volume of one or more wash additives (e.g., detergents, fabric softeners, rinse aids, etc.). For instance, a granular wash additive and liquid wash additive may both be encased within a water-soluble casing to form a discrete additive pod. Since they are generally self-contained and eliminate the need for measuring exact amounts of wash additives, additive pods may make using a washing appliance easier. Moreover, use of an additive pod may ensure that the correct amount of wash additive is used for a given wash load. 
     In spite of these advantages, using additive pods can also present certain drawbacks. For example, in some systems, it may be difficult to ensure that the additive pod dissolves completely. This may be especially true during a cold-water wash cycle. Oftentimes, users are forced to deposit additive pods directly into the wash basket. If the additive pod does not dissolve completely, remnants of the additive pod (e.g., the casing) may accumulate within, for example, the basket. This risks damaging or staining articles within the appliance. Moreover, an undissolved pod is generally wasteful since it can result in some volume of the wash additive not being used for an intended wash cycle. These drawbacks can be magnified if a user tries to use more than one pod or type of pod within the appliance. 
     As a result, there is a need for improved additive dispensers. In particular, it would be advantageous to provide an additive dispenser that could accommodate multiple different number or types of additive pods. Additionally or alternatively, it would be advantageous to provide an additive dispenser that can ensure improved dissolution of an additive pod during a washing operation. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention. 
     In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine appliance is provided. The washing machine appliance may include a cabinet, a tub disposed within the cabinet, a basket rotatably mounted within the tub, and a fluid additive dispenser. The fluid additive dispenser may include a housing, a dispenser drawer, and a pod cup. The housing may extend between an open front end and a closed rear end. The housing may be disposed within the cabinet. The dispenser drawer may be slidably received in the housing above the basket. The dispenser drawer may extend from a forward end to a rearward end. The dispenser drawer may define a primary compartment and a pod compartment adjacent to the primary compartment between the forward end and the rearward end. The pod cup may be selectively received on the dispenser drawer within the pod compartment to hold an additive pod. The pod cup may define an opening therein to permit a wash fluid therethrough. 
     In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine appliance is provided. The washing machine appliance may include a cabinet, a tub disposed within the cabinet, a basket rotatably mounted within the tub, and a fluid additive dispenser. The fluid additive dispenser may include a housing, a dispenser drawer, and a pod cup. The housing may extend between an open front end and a closed rear end. The housing may be disposed within the cabinet. The dispenser drawer may be slidably received in the housing above the basket. The dispenser drawer may extend from a forward end proximate to a rotation axis of the basket to a rearward end distal to the rotation axis. The dispenser drawer may define a primary compartment and a pod compartment adjacent to the primary compartment between the forward end and the rearward end. The dispenser drawer may further define a pod outlet extending vertically through a bottom wall of the pod compartment at the forward end to direct a wash fluid therefrom. The pod cup may be selectively received on the dispenser drawer within the pod compartment to hold an additive pod. The pod cup may define an opening therein to permit the wash fluid therethrough. 
     These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures. 
         FIG. 1  provides a perspective view of a washing machine appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure with a door of the washing machine appliance shown in a closed position. 
         FIG. 2  provides a perspective view of the exemplary washing machine appliance of  FIG. 1  with the door shown in an open position. 
         FIG. 3  provides a front, perspective view of an additive dispenser according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4  provides a perspective view of portions of the exemplary additive dispenser of  FIG. 3 , wherein an additive pod cup has been provided. 
         FIG. 5  provides a perspective view of a drawer of the exemplary additive dispenser of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 6  provides a perspective view of a drawer of the exemplary additive dispenser of  FIG. 3 , wherein an additive pod cup has been provided. 
         FIG. 7  provides a top plan view of the exemplary drawer of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 8  provides a top plan view of the exemplary drawer of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 9  provides side, sectional view of the exemplary drawer of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 10  provides side, sectional view of a pod cup of the exemplary drawer of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 11  provides a perspective view of a pod cup for an additive dispenser according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12  provides a top plan view of the exemplary pod cup of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 13  provides a perspective view of portions of an additive dispenser, including a drawer and shower plate, according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 14  provides a perspective, sectional view of the exemplary drawer and shower plate of  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 15  provides a top, perspective view of the exemplary drawer and shower plate of  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 16  provides a perspective view of portions of a shower plate of an additive dispenser according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 17  provides a magnified, perspective view of a portion of the exemplary shower plate of  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 18  provides a front, elevation view of the exemplary shower plate of  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 19  provides a bottom, perspective view of the exemplary shower plate of  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 20  is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating a washing machine appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 21  is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating a washing machine appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. 
     As used herein, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). The terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative flow direction with respect to fluid flow in a fluid pathway. For example, “upstream” refers to the flow direction from which the fluid flows, and “downstream” refers to the flow direction to which the fluid flows. 
     Turning now to the figures,  FIGS. 1 and 2  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a washing appliance. Specifically, the washing appliance is illustrated as a vertical axis washing machine appliance  100 . In  FIG. 1 , a lid or door  130  is shown in a closed position. In  FIG. 2 , door  130  is shown in an open position. 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. 
     While described in the context of a specific embodiment of vertical axis washing machine appliance  100 , using the teachings disclosed herein it will be understood that vertical axis washing machine appliance  100  is provided by way of example only. Other washing appliances having different configurations, different appearances, or different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well (e.g., horizontal axis washing machines). 
     Washing machine appliance  100  has a cabinet  102  that extends between a top portion  103  and a bottom portion  104  along the vertical direction V. A wash basket  120  is rotatably mounted within cabinet  102 . A motor (not shown) may be in mechanical communication with wash basket  120  to selectively rotate wash basket  120  (e.g., about a rotation axis during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance  100 ). Wash basket  120  is received within a wash tub  121  and is configured for receipt of articles for washing. The wash tub  121  holds wash and rinse fluids for agitation in wash basket  120  within wash tub  121 . In optional embodiments, an agitator or impeller (not shown) extends into wash basket  120  and is also in mechanical communication with the motor. The impeller may assist agitation of articles disposed within wash basket  120  during operation of washing machine appliance  100 . 
     In some embodiments, cabinet  102  of washing machine appliance  100  has a top panel  140 . Top panel  140  defines an opening  105  that permits user access to wash basket  120  of wash tub  121 . Door  130 , which may be rotatably mounted to top panel  140 , permits selective access to opening  105 . In particular, door  130  selectively rotates between the closed position shown in  FIG. 1  and the open position shown in  FIG. 2 . In the closed position, door  130  inhibits access to wash basket  120 . Conversely, in the open position, a user can access wash basket  120 . In optional embodiments, a window  136  in door  130  permits viewing of wash basket  120  when door  130  is in the closed position (e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance  100 ). Door  130  also includes a handle  132  that, for example, a user may pull or lift when opening and closing door  130 . Further, although door  130  is illustrated as mounted to top panel  140 , alternatively, door  130  may be mounted to another portion of cabinet  102  or any other suitable support. 
     In certain embodiments, a control panel  110  with at least one input selector  112  extends from top panel  140 . Control panel  110  and input selector  112  collectively form a user interface input for operator selection of machine cycles and features. A display  114  of control panel  110  indicates selected features, operation mode, a countdown timer, or other items of interest to appliance users regarding operation. Operation of washing machine appliance  100  may be controlled by a controller or processing device  108  connected (e.g., electrically coupled) to control panel  110  for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and features. In response to user manipulation of control panel  110 , controller  108  operates the various components of washing machine appliance  100  to execute selected machine cycles and features. 
     Controller  108  may include a memory (e.g., non-transitive media) and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with a selected machine cycles and features (e.g., as part of a washing operation, such as portions of methods  600  or  700 ). The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In certain embodiments, 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  108  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  110  and other components of washing machine appliance  100  (e.g., one or more sensors, such as a pressure sensor mounted to tub  121 ) may be in communication with controller  108  via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses. 
     In some embodiments, during operation of washing machine appliance  100 , laundry items are loaded into wash basket  120  through opening  105 , and a washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors  112 . Wash basket  120  or wash tub  121  is filled with water and detergent or other fluid additives via an additive dispenser  200 , which will be described in detail below. One or more valves can be controlled by washing machine appliance  100  to provide for filling wash basket  120  to the appropriate level for the volume or number of articles being washed or rinsed. By way of example for a wash cycle, once wash tub  121  is properly filled with fluid, the contents of wash tub  121  can be agitated (e.g., with an impeller as discussed previously) for washing of laundry items in wash basket  120 . 
     After the agitation phase of the wash cycle is completed, wash tub  121  can be drained. Laundry articles can then be rinsed (e.g., for a rinse cycle) by again adding fluid to wash basket  120  depending on the specifics of the washing operation selected by a user. The impeller may again provide agitation within wash basket  120 . One or more spin cycles also may be used. In particular, a spin cycle may be applied after the wash cycle or after the rinse cycle to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed. During a spin cycle, wash basket  120  is rotated at relatively high speeds. After articles disposed in wash basket  120  are cleaned or washed, the user can remove the articles from wash basket  120  (e.g., by reaching into wash basket  120  through opening  105 ). 
     Referring now generally to  FIGS. 2 through 6 , additive dispenser  200  will be described in more detail. Although the discussion below refers to additive dispenser  200 , one skilled in the art will appreciate that the features and configurations described may be used for other additive dispensers in other washing appliances as well. For example, additive dispenser  200  may be positioned on a front of cabinet  102 , may have a different shape or chamber configuration, and may dispense water, detergent, or other additives. Other variations and modifications of the exemplary embodiment described below are possible, and such variations are contemplated as within the scope of the present subject matter. 
     In exemplary embodiments, additive dispenser  200  has a housing  201  that generally forms a box (e.g., having a substantially rectangular cross-section) defining a top  202  and a bottom  204  spaced apart along the vertical direction V. Additive dispenser  200  also defines a front end  206  and a rear end  208  spaced apart along the transverse direction T. In some such embodiments, front end  206  is open (e.g., to permit a dispenser drawer  212  or wash fluid therethrough) while rear end  208  is closed (e.g., thereby restricting the passage of wash fluid from housing  201  at rear end  208 ). In certain embodiments, additive dispenser  200  includes an upper top plate  260  fixed to a lower base plate  262 , which together selectively enclose or receive a dispenser drawer  212 . 
     In some embodiments, additive dispenser  200  is mounted underneath top panel  140  of cabinet  102  such that front side  206  is visible inside opening  105 . More specifically, additive dispenser  200  may be mounted to top panel  140  using a plurality of mounting features  210 , which may, for example, be configured to receive mechanical fasteners. One skilled in the art will appreciate that additive dispenser  200  may be mounted in other locations and use other mounting means according to alternative exemplary embodiments. 
     As shown, additive dispenser  200  may include or define a mixing chamber  220  configured to receive one or more additive compartments. For example, according to the illustrated embodiments, mixing chamber  220  is defined by top plate  260  and base plate  262 . Together, top plate  260  and base plate  262  are configured to slidably receive a dispenser drawer  212  defining multiple additive compartments (e.g.,  222 ,  224 ,  225 ). 
     As will be described in greater detail below, dispenser drawer  212  generally extends (e.g., along the transverse direction T) from a forward end  310  to a rearward end  312 . When assembled, forward end  310  is generally positioned proximal to the rotation axis of basket  120  while rearward end  312  is positioned distal to the rotation axis of basket  120 . Dispenser drawer  212  may define a primary (e.g., detergent) compartment  222 , a secondary (e.g., softener or rinse) compartment  224 , or a pod compartment  225 . In some embodiments, compartments  222 ,  224 ,  225  are slidably connected to the mixing chamber  220  (e.g., as part of a dispenser drawer  212  having laterally-positioned or vertically-positioned slides  226 ) and are connected to a front panel  228  of additive dispenser  200 . In certain embodiments, the dispenser drawer  212  is fixed to front panel  228  (e.g., to slide therewith along the transverse direction T). In this manner, a user may pull on front panel  228  to slide compartments  222 ,  224 ,  225  or dispenser drawer  212  along the transverse direction T from a closed position (e.g.,  FIGS. 3 and 4 ) to an open position (not pictured). Once extended, primary compartment  222  or secondary compartment  224  may be conveniently filled with a wash additive (e.g., liquid detergent, powder detergent, bleach, fabric softener, scent pellets, additive pods, rinse aid, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, pod compartment  225  maybe conveniently filled with one or more additive pods, either directly or, alternately, through a received pod cup  264 . 
     From the open position, front panel  228  may then be pushed back into mixing chamber  220  (i.e., to the closed position) before a wash cycle begins. Along with permitting water into the compartments  222 ,  224 ,  225  the closed position of additive dispenser  200  may restrict or inhibit user access to the compartments  222 ,  224 ,  225 . 
     Generally, housing  201  may define an exhaust opening  232  downstream from mixing chamber  220  or dispenser drawer  212  to direct wash fluid, such as water or a mixture of water and at least one wash additive (e.g., detergent, fabric softener, bleach, dissolved scent pellets, dissolved additive pod, etc.) into wash tub  121  from additive dispenser  200 . In some embodiments, exhaust opening  232  is defined through the bottom of mixing chamber  220  (e.g., on or through a bottom surface of base plate  262 ) to dispense the wash fluid into wash tub  121 . Optionally, exhaust opening  232  may be defined at an open front end  206 . Additionally or alternatively, exhaust opening  232  may extend rearward from front end  206 . When assembled such that dispenser drawer  212  is fully received within additive dispenser  200 , at least a portion of dispenser drawer  212  may be positioned above and axially aligned with exhaust opening  232 . 
     Additive dispenser  200  may further include one or more valves configured to supply hot or cold water to mixing chamber  220 . For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of apertures may be defined on top  202  of mixing chamber  220  (e.g., on shower plate  261 ) for receiving water. Each receiving aperture may be in fluid communication with a different portion of the mixing chamber  220 . A plurality of valve seats may be positioned over the top of each of those apertures to receive a valve that controls the flow of water through each receiving aperture. 
     For example, a first valve seat  234  may be in fluid communication with a first aperture for providing hot water into primary compartment  222  or pod compartment  225 . A second valve seat  236  may be in fluid communication with a second aperture for providing cold water into primary compartment  222  or pod compartment  225 . A third valve seat  238  may be in fluid communication with a third aperture for providing cold water (or hot water) into pod compartment  225  (e.g., through a water supply conduit  266 ). A fourth valve seat  240  may be in fluid communication with a third aperture for providing cold water into secondary compartment  224 . 
     Water inlets may be placed in fluid communication with each of valve seats  234 ,  236 ,  238 ,  240 . More specifically, a hot water inlet  244  may be connected to a hot water supply line (not shown) and a cold water inlet  246  may be connected to a cold water supply line (not shown). According to the illustrated embodiment, each water inlet  244 ,  246  may include a threaded male adapter configured for receiving a threaded female adapter from a conventional water supply line. However, any other suitable manner of fluidly connecting a water supply line and water inlets  244 ,  246  may be used. For example, each water supply line and water inlets  244 ,  246  may have copper fittings that may be sweated together to create a permanent connection. 
     Notably, hot water inlet  244  is in direct fluid communication with first valve seat  234 . However, because washing machine appliance  100  uses cold water for multiple purposes, cold water inlet is in fluid communication with a cold water manifold  248 . Cold water manifold  248  may be a cylindrical pipe that extends along the lateral direction from second valve seat  236  to fourth valve seat  240 . In this manner, cold water manifold  248  places valve seats  236 ,  238 ,  240  in fluid communication with cold water inlet  246 . 
     Each of valve seats  234 ,  236 ,  238 ,  240  may be configured to receive a water valve  252  for controlling the flow of water through a corresponding aperture into mixing chamber  220 . Water valve  252  may be, for example, a solenoid valve that is electrically connected to controller  108 . However, any other suitable water valve may be used to control the flow of water. Controller  108  may selectively open and close water valves  252  to allow water to flow from hot water inlet  244  through first valve seat  234  and from cold water manifold  248  through one or more of second valve seat  236 , third valve seat  238 , and fourth valve seat  240 . 
     Additive dispenser  200  may further include one or more supply conduits (e.g., water supply conduit  266 ) defining an internal water inlet (e.g., water inlet  378 ) within a specific compartment to direct water to that specific compartment (e.g., from one or more of the valves  252  or valve seats  234 ,  236 ,  238 ,  240 ). For example, when third valve seat  238  is open, water may flow from cold water inlet  246  through cold water manifold  248  and third valve seat  238  into water supply conduit  266  and then pod compartment  225 . As will be described in greater detail below, water may dissolve an additive pod placed within pod compartment  225  upstream from wash tub  121  to create a wash liquid to be dispensed downstream from mixing chamber  220  and into wash tub  121 . 
     In some embodiments, a shower plate  261  is mounted within mixing chamber  220  (e.g., fixedly mounted above compartments  222 ,  224 ) to distribute water therethrough. When assembled such that dispenser drawer  212  is fully received within additive dispenser  200 , shower plate  261  may be positioned directly above dispenser drawer  212 . Moreover, shower plate  261  may be directly beneath the valve seats  234 ,  236 ,  238 ,  240  and their corresponding openings through top plate  260 . 
     Turning especially to  FIGS. 4 through 12 , portions of additive dispenser  200  are illustrated. In particular, an exemplary dispenser drawer  212  and pod cup  264  are illustrated (e.g., both separately and together). Generally, dispenser drawer  212  may be slidably mounted to housing  201  (e.g., top plate  260  or base plate  262 ) to move relative thereto (e.g., along the transverse direction T). 
     As shown, dispenser drawer  212  defines a discrete primary compartment  222  and pod compartment  225 . Separate wash additives may thus be contained within primary compartment  222  and pod compartment  225  (e.g., a liquid or granular wash additive and additive pod, respectively). Both primary compartment  222  and pod compartment  225  are defined as open between the forward end  310  and rearward end  312 . Pod compartment  225  may be adjacent (e.g., laterally adjacent) to primary compartment  222 . Additionally or alternatively, pod compartment  225  may be disposed forward from at least a portion of primary compartment  222 . During use, wash fluid from pod compartment  225  may be selectively dispensed (e.g., separately and at a different time/cycle from another wash fluid selectively dispensed from primary compartment  222 ). 
     In optional embodiments, a discrete secondary compartment  224  is further defined between forward end  310  and rearward end  312 . As shown, secondary compartment  224  may be adjacent (e.g., laterally adjacent) to pod compartment  225  or opposite of primary compartment  222 . Additionally or alternatively, an open void (e.g., lateral void  314  through which a water supply conduit  266  may extend) may separate primary and secondary compartments  222 ,  224  (e.g., with or in addition to pod compartment  225 ), advantageously preventing different wash additives from mixing or being exchanged between primary and secondary compartments  222 ,  224 . 
     In some embodiments, an internal pod wall  318  at least partially defines pod compartment  225  (e.g., directly next to primary compartment  222 ). For instance, internal pod wall  318  may extend in the vertical direction V from a bottom wall  320  of dispenser drawer  212  (e.g., as an integral or unitary molded member). Additionally or alternatively, internal pod wall  318  may extend circumferentially (e.g., along an elliptical or oblong path) about the pod compartment  225 . Pod compartment  225  may generally be disposed at or proximal to forward end  310 . In some such embodiments, internal pod wall  318  is joined to, or included with, a portion of front panel  228 . 
     While a bottom portion of internal pod wall  318  is joined to bottom wall  320 , the top portion of internal pod wall  318  may define an opening through which a user may place one or more additive pods. Pod compartment  225  may thus form an open pocket (e.g., within which an additive pod or cup may be received). In some embodiments, the top portion of internal pod wall  318  is defined at multiple discrete heights. Thus, at least one segment of internal pod wall  318  may extend to a greater vertical height or distance (e.g., relative to the lowermost internal surface of pod compartment  225  or primary compartment  222 ). For instance, internal pod wall  318  may have a tall wall segment  322  and a short wall segment  324 , which extends to a lower height than tall wall segment  322 . Optionally, tall wall segment  322  may extend to a bottom side  392  of shower plate  261  while short wall segment  324  is vertically spaced apart from shower plate  261 . 
     As shown, tall wall segment  322  extends circumferentially about a first portion of the pod compartment  225  (i.e., part of the perimeter of pod compartment  225 ). In some such embodiments, tall wall segment  322  is disposed between pod compartment  225 , secondary compartment  224 , or a portion of primary compartment  222  (e.g., less than all of the primary compartment  222  that is separated from pod compartment  225  by internal pod wall  318 ). Tall wall segment  322  may thus serve as a vertical barrier between fluids or wash additives in pod compartment  225  and secondary compartment  224  (or a portion of primary compartment  222 ). Short wall segment  324  extends circumferentially along a second portion of pod compartment  225 . In some such embodiments, short wall segment  324  is disposed between pod compartment  225  and primary compartment  222  (e.g., all or some of the primary compartment  222  that is separated from pod compartment  225  by internal pod wall  318 ). During use, as water or wash fluid within primary compartment  222  rises to a level greater than or equal to short wall segment  324 , some of the water or wash fluid may be advantageously permitted to flow over short wall segment  324  and into pod compartment  225  (e.g., to selectively wet an additive pod or clear residue from pod compartment  225 ). 
     In certain embodiments, internal pod wall  318  defines a conduit passage  326  through which a water supply conduit  266  may be selectively received. Conduit passage  326  may, for example, be defined at a rearward portion of pod compartment  225  (e.g., opposite a forward portion or front panel  228 ). In some such embodiments, conduit passage  326  is defined as an aperture that is horizontal or perpendicular to the vertical direction V. For instance, conduit passage  326  may extend along the transverse direction T through internal pod wall  318 . Moreover, conduit passage  326  may define a lateral width or diameter that is greater than the width or diameter of water supply conduit  266 . Optionally, conduit passage  326  may be transversely aligned with (e.g., forward from) lateral void  314 . 
     Each compartment  222 ,  224 , or  225  defines at least one corresponding outlet upstream from exhaust opening  232  or mixing chamber  220  to direct one or more wash fluids to basket  120 . In some embodiments, dispenser drawer  212  defines a primary outlet  330  extending vertically from primary compartment  222  (e.g., to direct a primary wash fluid to basket  120 ); a secondary outlet  340  extending vertically from secondary compartment  224  (e.g., to direct a secondary wash fluid to basket  120 ); and a pod outlet  350  extending vertically from pod compartment  225  (e.g., to direct a dissolved pod wash fluid to basket  120 ). 
     In some embodiments, a primary siphon tube  332  is provided within primary compartment  222  to define primary outlet  330 . Primary siphon tube  332  may extend upward from bottom wall  320  (e.g., at a portion of primary compartment  222  proximal to rearward end  312 ). In particular, primary siphon tube  332  may extend to an open end maintained at a maximum liquid height (e.g., less than or equal to the height of short wall segment  324 ). Liquid additive within primary compartment  222  may thus be held therein below the maximum liquid height. In some embodiments, a primary fill cap  334  is disposed on primary siphon tube  332  at the open end (e.g., to facilitate a siphoning action through primary siphon tube  332 ). Optionally, primary fill cap  334  may indicate that liquid within primary compartment  222  has nearly exceeded the maximum liquid height. As would be understood, primary fill cap  334  may define a radial channel about primary siphon tube  332  such that liquid rising above the maximum liquid height may be permitted to pass through the radial channel and to primary outlet  330  by a siphoning action. 
     In additional or alternative embodiments, a secondary siphon tube  342  is provided within secondary compartment  224  to define secondary outlet  340 . Secondary siphon tube  342  may extend upward from bottom wall  320  (e.g., at a portion of secondary compartment  224  proximal to rearward end  312 ). In particular, secondary siphon tube  342  may extend to an open end maintained at a maximum liquid height (e.g., less than the height of tall wall segment  322 ). Liquid additive within secondary compartment  224  may thus be held therein below the maximum liquid height. In some embodiments, a secondary fill cap  344  is disposed on secondary siphon tube  342  at the open end (e.g., to facilitate a siphoning action through secondary siphon tube  342 ). Optionally, secondary fill cap  344  may indicate that liquid within secondary compartment  224  has nearly exceeded the maximum liquid height. As would be understood, secondary fill cap  344  may define a radial channel about secondary siphon tube  342  such that liquid rising above the maximum liquid height may be permitted to pass through the radial channel and to secondary outlet  340  by a siphoning action. 
     In further additional or alternative embodiments, dispenser drawer  212  defines pod outlet  350  vertically through bottom wall  320 . For instance, pod outlet  350  may be defined as an opening through bottom wall  320  at forward end  310  (e.g., at a portion of bottom wall  320  proximal to forward end  310  or a forwardmost portion of pod compartment  225 ). Pod outlet  350  and, optionally, pod compartment  225  may further be defined forward from primary outlet  330  or secondary outlet  340 . In some embodiments, the bottom surface  352  of pod compartment  225  may be sloped (e.g., downward from rearward end  312  to forward end  310 ). Thus, pod outlet  350  may be disposed lower than a rear portion of bottom wall  320  within pod compartment  225  (e.g., to generally direct water or wash fluid along bottom surface  352  toward forward end  310 ). 
     Generally, pod outlet  350  may be defined with any suitable profile or cross-sectional area (e.g., perpendicular to the vertical direction V). In the illustrated embodiments, pod outlet  350  is defined as a curved arc (i.e., according to an arcuate profile or outline in the plane perpendicular to the vertical direction V). In some such embodiments, the tip or crest of the curved arc is disposed proximal to forward end  310  (i.e., forward from the two endpoints of the arc). 
     Optionally, one or more drain holes  354  may be defined through a portion of the wall at pod compartment  225 . For instance, the drain apertures  354  may be defined through a front portion of internal pod wall  318 . Additionally or alternatively, drain holes  354  may be horizontally spaced apart from pod outlet  350 . In particular, drain holes  354  may be forward from pod outlet  350  (e.g., at opposite lateral sides of the tip of the curved arc). During use, excess wash fluid or water remaining within pod compartment  225  may thus drain to mixing chamber  220  or wash tub  121  ( FIG. 2 ) through drain holes  354 . 
     When assembled such that dispenser drawer  212  is fully received within additive dispenser  200 , pod outlet  350  may be positioned directly above basket  120 . For instance, pod outlet  350  may be above and axially aligned with exhaust opening  232 . Wash fluid exiting pod outlet  350  may thus flow directly through exhaust opening  232  (e.g., and into basket  120 ) without collecting first within mixing chamber  220  or on an internal surface of housing  201 . By contrast, primary outlet  330  or secondary outlet  340  may be positioned within housing  201  rearward from exhaust opening  232 . Primary outlet  330  or secondary outlet  340  may be enclosed within housing  201 . Wash fluid exiting primary outlet  330  or secondary outlet  340  may thus flow to mixing chamber  220  (e.g., collect on a lower internal surface of housing  201 ) before flowing through exhaust opening  232  (e.g., and into basket  120 ). 
     In optional embodiments, additive dispenser  200  includes an optical sensor  356  directed at pod compartment  225 . For instance, optical sensor  356  may be mounted to housing  201  above dispenser drawer  212  or shower plate  261 . In some such embodiments, optical sensor  356  is attached to top plate  260 . A corresponding vertical channel may thus permit an uninterrupted line of sight therethrough. When assembled such that dispenser drawer  212  is fully received within additive dispenser  200 , optical sensor  356  may be disposed above pod compartment  225  to detect an optically-observed condition (e.g., pod characteristic) thereof. 
     Optical sensor  356  may be a camera or any type of device suitable for capturing a two-dimensional picture or image. As an example, optical sensor  356  may be a video camera or a digital camera with an electronic image sensor [e.g., a charge coupled device (CCD) or a CMOS sensor]. When assembled, optical sensor  356  is in communication (e.g., electrically or wirelessly coupled) with controller  108  such that controller  108  may receive an image signal from optical sensor  356  corresponding to the image captured by optical sensor  356 , as is understood. From the received image signals, controller  108  may be configured to determine a pod characteristic of pod compartment  225  (e.g., how many additive pods, what type of additive pod(s), or whether any undissolved portions of an additive pod are within pod compartment  225 ). For instance, additive pods (or portions thereof) within the field of view for the optical sensor  356  may be automatically identified by the controller  108 . As is understood, recognizing or identifying such items, may be performed by edge matching, divide-and-conquer search, greyscale matching, histograms of receptive field responses, or another suitable routine (e.g., executed at controller  108  based on one or more captured images from optical sensor  356 ). 
     As shown, in certain embodiments, a pod cup  264  can be selectively received on dispenser drawer  212  within pod compartment  225 . Thus, a user may insert pod cup  264  into pod compartment  225  and remove pod cup  264  from pod compartment  225  as desired (e.g., based on the type or number additive pods to be used in a given washing operation). 
     As shown, pod cup  264  generally includes one or more cup walls (e.g., base wall  358  and cup sidewalls  360 ) defining an open pod chamber  362 . Specifically, the cup walls provide an inner surface that may form a recessed profile that delineates or bounds open pod chamber  362  to hold an additive pod therein (e.g., complementary to pod compartment  225 ). 
     The pod cup  264  generally defines at least one vertical opening  364  through which a dissolved additive may be permitted to flow (e.g., with water as part of a wash fluid) to or through the pod compartment  225  upstream from pod outlet  350 . Generally, the vertical opening  364  of pod cup  264  may be defined with any suitable profile or cross-sectional area (e.g., perpendicular to the vertical direction V). In the illustrated embodiments, the vertical opening  364  is defined as a curved arc (i.e., according to an arcuate profile or outline in the plane perpendicular to the vertical direction V). In some such embodiments, the tip or crest of the curved arc is disposed proximal to forward end  310  (i.e., forward from the two endpoints of the arc). 
     In some embodiments, base wall  358  of pod cup  264  is sloped (e.g., downward from a rearward portion to forward portion). Thus, vertical opening  364  may be disposed lower than a rear portion of base wall  358  (e.g., to generally direct water or wash fluid along base wall  358  toward forward end  310  within open pod chamber  362 ). 
     Optionally, one or more support posts  366  may extend (e.g., horizontally) across a portion of vertical opening  364 . For instance, multiple support posts  366  (e.g., three or more support posts  366 ) may be spaced apart (e.g., circumferentially) from each other and extend from a forward edge of vertical opening  364  or inner forward surface of cup sidewall  360 . In some such embodiments, the circumferential or horizontal distance between each adjacent support post  366  is less than or equal to 3.8 centimeters. Such support posts  366  may include corresponding free ends  368  that are spaced apart from the rearward edge of vertical opening  364 . In other words, support posts  366  may extend horizontally across a portion (e.g., less than the entire horizontal width or depth) of vertical opening  364 . Additionally or alternatively, one or more support posts  366  may be sloped downward to free end  368  or vertical opening  364 . Thus, the inward-facing edge of support post  366  may generally define a negative curve in the distance from the inner forward surface of cup sidewall  360  to the free end  368 . Advantageously, an undissolved additive pod within open pod chamber  362  may be prevented from passing through vertical opening  364  while partially-dissolved pod casings or portions may be permitted therethrough (e.g., without being caught or stuck by support posts  366 ). 
     As shown, a front flap  372  may extend forward from cup sidewall(s)  360 . For example, front flap  372  may be formed with an inner profile that is complementary to front panel  228  to rest thereon. Additionally or alternatively, a cup sidewall  360  may define an interior passage  374  through which water supply conduit  266  may be selectively received (e.g., when received through conduit passage  326 ). Interior passage  374  may, for example, be defined at a rearward portion of pod cup  264  (e.g., opposite a forward portion or front flap  372 ). In some such embodiments, interior passage  374  is defined as an aperture that is horizontal or perpendicular to the vertical direction V. For instance, interior passage  374  may extend along the transverse direction T through sidewall  360 . Moreover, interior passage  374  may define a lateral width or diameter that is greater than or equal to the width or diameter of conduit passage  326 . 
     When assembled such that pod cup  264  is received within pod compartment  225 , the vertical opening  364  may be aligned with (e.g., above) pod outlet  350  and exhaust opening  232 . Pod outlet  350  may be aligned below the vertical opening  364  of pod cup  264 . The cross section of the vertical opening  364  of pod cup  264  may mirror or be coaxial with the cross section of pod outlet  350 . Moreover, the cross section of the vertical opening  364  of pod cup  264  may smaller than the cross section of pod outlet  350 . Furthermore, interior passage  374  may be aligned with conduit passage  326  such that water supply conduit  266  may be received therethrough (e.g., and extend into pod chamber  362 ). 
     In certain embodiments, pod cup  264  can be selectively received on dispenser drawer  212  within pod compartment  225 . Optionally, pod cup  264  can be provided as part of a dispenser kit and can be exchanged for other cups, or held outside of dispenser drawer  212  (e.g., when not required or desired). Thus, additive dispenser  200  may operate in multiple discrete conditions (e.g., based on the type wash additive to be used within primary compartment  222  for a given washing operation). 
     One condition may be a general or small-pod condition (e.g., for an additive pod as a first additive— FIGS. 6 and 8 ) including pod cup  264  on dispenser drawer  212  within pod compartment  225  to receive an additive pod therein. Another condition may be a special or large-pod condition (e.g., a relatively large additive pod or multiple additive pods as the first additive— FIGS. 5 and 7 ) wherein no cup is within pod compartment  225 . The first wash additive may be supplied directly to the bottom surface  352  of pod compartment  225 . In the special or large-pod condition, pod cup  264  is generally unused and, thus, may be held apart from or outside of additive dispenser  200 . 
     Selective use or nonuse of pod cup  264  may advantageously permit different wash additives to be supplied, preloaded, or otherwise used within corresponding primary compartment  222  (e.g., to ensure such wash additives are appropriately stored within and dispensed from dispenser drawer  212 ). Moreover, additive pods may be selectively loaded apart from additive dispenser  200 . 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 13 through 19 , various views are provided of certain portions of additive dispenser  200 . In particular, shower plate  261  is further illustrated according to exemplary embodiments. As noted above, shower plate  261  may be mounted within mixing chamber  220  to selective distribute water to one or more compartments of dispenser drawer  212 . 
     As shown, shower plate  261  defines a plurality of water apertures  376  downstream from the valve seats (e.g., one or more of  234 ,  236 , or  240 ). Such water apertures  376  may generally extend vertically through shower plate  261  from a top side  390  to a bottom side  392 . As an example, a primary set  376 A of the water apertures  376  may be disposed above primary compartment  222 . As water flows from the water intake (e.g., through top plate  260 ), shower plate  261  may direct at least a portion of the water through the primary set  376 A of the water apertures  376  to primary compartment  222 . Thus, the primary set  376 A may be in fluid communication between the water intake and primary compartment  222  (e.g., downstream of valve seat  234  or  236 ). Within primary compartment  222 , water from the primary set  376 A of the water apertures  376  may mix with or dissolve a granular or liquid wash additive (e.g., detergent) before being dispensed to wash tub  121  (e.g., as a wash fluid through exhaust opening  232 ). Optionally, a portion of the water or wash fluid within primary compartment  222  may flow over short wall segment  324  of internal pod wall  318 , thereby providing pod chamber  362  downstream of primary compartment  222  and valve seat(s)  234  or  236 . Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of the water along shower plate  261  may be guided (e.g., directly) to pod compartment  225  without first flowing to primary compartment  222 . In some such embodiments, one or more water apertures  376  are defined, for instance, directly above pod compartment  225 . 
     As an additional or alternative example, a secondary set  376 B of the water apertures  376  may be disposed above secondary compartment  224 . As water flows from the water intake (e.g., through top plate  260 ), shower plate  261  may direct at least a portion of the water through the secondary set  376 B of the water apertures  376  to secondary compartment  224 . Thus, the secondary set  376 B may be in fluid communication between the water intake and secondary compartment  224  (e.g., downstream of valve seat  240 ). Within secondary compartment  224 , water from the secondary set  376 B of the water apertures  376  may mix with or dissolve a granular or liquid wash additive (e.g., fabric softener) before being dispensed to wash tub  121  (e.g., as a wash fluid through exhaust opening  232 ). 
     In optional embodiments, a rear portion of shower plate  261  is sealed. For instance, a sealing gasket  316  (e.g., resilient foam or rubber gasket) may extend rearward or upward from a rear segment of shower plate  261  to engage an inner surface of housing  201 . During use, the contact between sealing gasket  316  and housing  201  may restrict the rearward flow of water. In turn, water may be forced forward and to water apertures  376 . 
     In certain embodiments, water supply conduit  266  may be fixedly mounted to shower plate  261  and define a water inlet  378  to pod compartment  225 . Thus, dispenser drawer  212  may be movable relative to water supply conduit  266 . If conduit passage  326  is aligned with water supply conduit  266 , water supply conduit  266  may selectively pass through conduit passage  326  (e.g., as dispenser drawer  212  slides from the open position to the closed position). In some such embodiments, in the open position, water supply conduit  266  is held outside of pod compartment  225  or conduit passage  326 ; in the closed position, water supply conduit  266  is received within pod compartment  225  and conduit passage  326 . Advantageously, water supply conduit  266  may be hidden or otherwise held apart from any portion of additive dispenser  200  that a user may contact (e.g., during normal use of washing machine appliance  100 — FIG. 2 ). In other words, a user may be prevented from accidentally contacting or disturbing water supply conduit  266  during normal operations 
     As shown, water supply conduit  266  may include a slanted impingement tip  370  at water inlet  378 . Slanted impingement tip  370  may extend downward (e.g., at a constant or variable angle) from a front lip  380  to a rear lip  382 . Rear lip  382  may thus be disposed below and rearward from front lip  380 . Optionally, water inlet  378  may be defined as multiple inlet slots  384  (e.g., lateral slots). Such inlet slots  384  may be spaced apart from each other (e.g., along the vertical direction V). Additionally or alternatively, inlet slots  384  may be parallel to each other or the lateral direction L. Optionally, one or more slots  384  may be defined rearward from rear lip  382  and directed downward (e.g., along the vertical direction V). 
     In the closed position, impingement tip  370  extends to or within pod compartment  225  and may abut (e.g., contact) an additive pod (e.g., at front lip  380 ) within pod compartment  225 . Specifically, movement of pod compartment  225  from the open position to the closed position may force an additive pod against front lip  380  without immediately puncturing any portion of the additive pod. Nonetheless, the flow of water through water inlet  378  may cause the abutting portion of the additive pod to eventually puncture or dissolve within pod compartment  225 . 
     Advantageously, slanted impingement tip  370  may contact an additive pod while preventing the additive pod from blocking the water inlet  378 . Additionally or alternatively, water from water inlet  378  may be directed at a downward angle, advantageously reducing the transverse force or pressure of water against additive pod, which may otherwise dislocate the additive pod within or from pod compartment  225 . 
     In some embodiments, water supply conduit  266  defines a relief aperture  386  rearward (e.g., at an upstream location) from water inlet  378 . As shown, relief aperture  386  may be defined at a top portion of water supply conduit  266 . When assembled such that dispenser drawer  212  is fully received within additive dispenser  200 , relief aperture  386  may be positioned rearward from (e.g., outside of) pod compartment  225 . Moreover, relief aperture  386  may be defined at a portion of water supply conduit  266  that is proximal to primary compartment  222  (e.g., closer to primary compartment  222  than it is secondary compartment  224 ). In particular, relief aperture  386  may be directed at primary compartment  222 . As water flows through water supply conduit  266  (e.g., from valve seat  238 ), at least a portion of the water may be directed from relief aperture  386  as a pressure-relief water flow. In turn, the pressure-relief water flow may strike the bottom side  392  of shower plate  261  before falling to primary compartment  222 . Optionally, one or more ribs  394  may extend (e.g., downward) on the bottom side  392  of shower plate  261  and further help guide the pressure-relief water flow from the relief aperture  386  to the primary compartment  222 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 20 and 21 , various methods may be provided for use with washing machine appliances in accordance with the present disclosure. In general, the various steps of methods as disclosed herein may, in exemplary embodiments, be performed by the controller  108  ( FIG. 1 ), which may receive inputs and transmit outputs from various other components of the appliance  100  ( FIG. 1 ), such as one or more valves, pressure sensors, or optical sensors. In particular, the present disclosure is further directed to methods, as indicated by reference numbers  600  and  700 , for operating a washing machine appliance  100  (e.g., as a washing operation, as described above). 
     As is understood, and except as otherwise indicated, various steps of the methods  600  and  700  may be omitted or rearranged. Additionally or alternatively, although  FIGS. 600 and 700  are illustrated separately, it is understood that various steps may be performed together. For instance, method  700  may be initiated prior to any one of the steps  610  through  630  (e.g., and continue as part of  610  or  630 ). Additionally or alternatively, method  700  may be initiated following the start of step  630  (e.g., and continue as part of  630  or  640 ). 
     Turning especially to  FIG. 20 , at  610 , the method  600  includes initiating a preliminary water flow to the tub. For instance, the preliminary water flow may be directed through the additive dispenser from one or more valves thereon. In some embodiments, the preliminary water flow includes a predetermined volume of water (e.g., relatively low volume of water, such as less than 500 milliliters) dispensed at one or more discrete time intervals, such as prior to any other motion or water flow being initiated at the washing machine appliance during the corresponding washing operation. Optionally,  610  may provide or act as a safety notice within tub. In additional or alternative embodiments, the preliminary water flow may be directed through the water supply conduit, and thereby the pod compartment, prior to flowing to tub. Advantageously, an additive pod within pod compartment may be wetted to initiate dissolution prior to the start of a washing cycle. 
     At  620 , the method  600  includes initiating a dry load sense procedure to determine a size of the load. For instance, as is understood, the controller may receive and interpret one or more signals from a motor or sensor detecting a time and inertia for the basket to coast down to zero (e.g., after reaching a predetermined rotational speed (e.g., in RPM) that is greater than zero to detect the load weight or size prior to any significant volume of water (e.g., greater than 500 milliliters) being added to the tub during the corresponding washing operation. No water may be added to tub during  620 . Moreover,  620  may follow (e.g., occur after) the preliminary water flow at  610 . 
     At  630 , the method  600  includes initiating a wetting water flow to the primary compartment and the pod compartment. In particular, the wetting water flow may be initiated through the shower plate. Water may thus be directed from the hot water valve or cold water valve through the primary set of apertures, as described above (e.g., for a set amount of time or until a relatively-large predetermined volume, such as more than 500 milliliters, of water is dispensed). In some such embodiments,  630  includes opening both the hot water valve and the cold water valve on additive dispenser upstream from the shower plate (e.g., as dictated by the selected washing operation). As the hot or cold water valve is open, the primary compartment of dispenser drawer may be filled such that water therein flows over the internal pod wall before flowing out from the pod outlet. In certain embodiments,  630  follows (e.g., occurs subsequent to)  610  or  620 . Advantageously, an additive pod within the pod compartment may be able to soak and begin dissolving prior to a fill cycle. Additionally or alternatively, a portion of wash additive within primary compartment may be dispensed to tub. 
     In optional embodiments,  630  includes initiating a wet load sense procedure to determine a type of the load (e.g., cottons, synthetics, etc.) following the wetting water flow. Generally, the goal of the wet load sense procedure is for the washing machine appliance to fill the tub with water or wash fluid until it reaches a specific pressure level from the pressure sensor. More absorbent loads will take a long time to reach the level and less absorbent loads will not take very long to reach the level. 
     At  640 , the method  600  includes initiating a break water flow to the pod compartment through the water supply conduit (e.g., following the wetting water flow at  630 ). Thus, water may be directed to the pod compartment from the water inlet and to the pod outlet, as described above. In particular, a water valve upstream from the water supply conduit may be opened. In some embodiments, water flow to the primary compartment (e.g., through the valve seats above primary compartment or secondary compartment) may be restricted or otherwise prevented. For instance,  640  may include holding the hot water valve or cold water valve upstream from the primary set of apertures closed to prevent hot or cold water therefrom. 
     At  650 , the method  600  includes initiating a fill water flow to the primary compartment through the shower plate (e.g., following the break water flow at  640 ), such as part of a fill cycle. Specifically, the hot or cold water valves upstream from the primary set apertures may be opened to direct water to the primary compartment. In some such embodiments,  650  includes opening the hot water valve and the cold water valve upstream from the shower plate. During the fill water flow, the water valve upstream from the water supply conduit may be held closed. Nonetheless, a portion of the water within primary compartment may be flowed over the internal pod wall, as described above, advantageously motivating residue that may remain from an additive pod from pod compartment. 
     Optionally, the fill water flow may be based on the dry and wet load sense procedures at  620  and  630 , respectively. In particular, the controller may determine a target volume of water and may regulate the hot or cold water valves to fill the tub to that target volume or a target temperature, as would be understood. 
     At  660 , the method  600  includes initiating a rinse water flow to the tub (e.g., following the fill water flow at  650 ). Specifically, the hot or cold water valves upstream from the primary set apertures may be opened to direct water to the primary compartment. In some such embodiments,  660  includes opening the hot water valve and the cold water valve upstream from the shower plate. During the rinse water flow, the water valve upstream from the water supply conduit may be held closed. Nonetheless, a portion of the water within primary compartment may be flowed over the internal pod wall, as described above, advantageously motivating residue that may remain from an additive pod from pod compartment. In some embodiments,  660  follows a drain cycle executed following  650 , as would be understood. 
     The volume of water for the rinse water flow may be set according to a suitable criterion (e.g., a predetermined amount based on the washing operation or, alternatively, the fill water flow). 
     Turning especially to  FIG. 21 , at  710 , the method  700  includes receiving an image signal from the optical sensor directed at the pod compartment. The image signal may thus include one or more two-dimensional images (e.g., a first two-dimensional image, subsequent second two-dimensional image, etc.), such as within a video feed or as static images (e.g., taken or captured according to a predetermined rate or condition). As would be understood, upon being captured at the optical sensor, the two-dimensional images may be transmitted to the controller (e.g., as the image signal). The two-dimensional images may then be recorded (e.g., temporarily) for analyzation. 
     Capture of or transmission of the image signal at  710  may be prompted according to a predetermined point of the corresponding washing operation. As an example, capture or transmission may be prompted at the beginning of the washing operation. As an additional or alternative example, capture or transmission may be prompted during or immediately prior to initiating a wetting water flow, a break water flow, fill water flow, or rinse water flow. 
     At  720 , the method  700  includes determining a pod characteristic within the pod compartment based on the received image signal at  710 . In particular,  720  may require analyzing the two-dimensional image by edge matching, divide-and-conquer search, greyscale matching, histograms of receptive field responses, or another suitable routine. Thus, object recognition may be performed at  720  such that an additive pod, pod residue, or empty state within pod compartment is identified. In some embodiments, the pod characteristic is a number or size (e.g., volume) of additive pods within pod compartment. In additional or alternative embodiments, the pod characteristic is a type of additive pod (e.g., pod manufacturer, powder-enclosing pod, liquid-enclosing pod, etc.). In further additional or alternative embodiments, the pod characteristic is a residue state (e.g., indicating whether a sub-portion of an additive pod remains within pod compartment). 
     At  730 , the method  700  includes directing water to the pod compartment based on the determined pod characteristic. Thus, the timing, temperature, flow rate, volume, or frequency of water flowing through additive dispenser may be set according to number or size, type, or residue state of an additive pod within pod compartment. 
     As an example,  730  may include halting water or water flow to the pod compartment. In other words, the water valves upstream from the pod compartment (e.g., upstream from the water supply conduit or primary compartment) may be closed or otherwise restricted such that water is prevented from flowing to the pod compartment. Halting water may be performed in response to an incompatible type of additive pod or an excessive (e.g., over a programmed threshold) number of additive pods being detected within pod compartment. Additionally or alternatively, halting water may be performed if no additive pods are (e.g., an empty characteristic or state is) detected within the pod compartment. 
     As an additional or alternative example,  730  may include adjusting (e.g., setting, increasing, or decreasing) a temperature of water to the pod compartment based on the determined pod characteristic. In particular, some types additive pods may require water to be at a certain temperature in order to adequately dissolved. If such a type of additive pod is detected (e.g., at  720 ), the temperature of water to the pod compartment may be adjusted to reach that certain temperature. Additionally or alternatively, the temperature of water to the pod compartment may be incrementally increased, for instance, in response to a certain amount or volume (e.g., predetermined threshold amount or volume) of pod residue being detected in the pod compartment at  720 , such as in a partially-dissolved pod state. 
     In order to adjust the temperature, the hot water valve may be selectively opened or closed according to the adjusted temperature. In some such embodiments, hot water is permitted to flow to the pod compartment through the primary compartment, as described above. 
     As another additional or alternative example,  730  may include initiating an additional water flow. The additional water flow may be an incremental time or volume of water to be directed to the pod compartment (e.g., beyond a default amount of a certain operation or cycle). Thus, one or more water valves upstream from the pod compartment (e.g., upstream from the water supply conduit or primary compartment) may be opened for a programmed increment of time or until an incremental volume of water is dispensed. The additional water flow may be initiated, for instance, in response to a certain amount or volume (e.g., predetermined threshold amount or volume) of pod residue detected in the pod compartment at  720 , such as in a partially-dissolved pod state. 
     As yet another additional or alternative example,  730  may include increasing a water flow rate to the pod compartment. For instance, the flow rate of water through the water supply conduit upstream from the pod compartment may be increased from an initial flow rate. Specifically, the water valve upstream from the water supply conduit may be opened further such that the flow rate of water to and through the water supply conduit is increased. The increase may be incremental or a predetermined flow rate based on the detected condition. 
     Optionally, the flow rate may correspond to a detected number of multiple additive pods (i.e., the number of additive pods detected within the pod compartment at  720 ). Additionally or alternatively, the flow rate of water to the pod compartment may be increased, for instance, in response to a certain amount or volume (e.g., predetermined threshold amount or volume) of pod residue detected in the pod compartment at  720 , such as in a partially-dissolved pod state. Also additionally or alternatively, the flow rate of water to the pod compartment may be increased in response to a certain type of additive pod being detected at  720 . 
     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.