Double action agitator assembly with auger when needed

Abstract

An agitator assembly for a fabric washer includes an agitator body having an elongated agitator barrel and a plurality of vanes extending radially outwardly from one end of the agitator barrel. An auger tube is telescopically mounted over the agitator barrel and includes a helical flighting on its outer surface. A bearing assembly is located between the outer surface of the agitator barrel and the inner surface of the auger tube, and holds the inner auger tube surface free from contact with the outer agitator barrel while at the same time permitting relative rotational movement between the auger tube and the agitator body. A ratchet clutch assembly is provided for permitting the auger tube to rotate only in one direction with respect to the agitator. The ratchet clutch assembly includes a circular array of ratchet teeth, and a plurality of ball bearings resting upon the ratchet teeth. The ball bearings move vertically in vertical tracks. A flexible friction ring is provided to increase the friction between the auger body and the bearing assembly, such that the auger body oscillates with the agitator body until sufficient resistance provided by larger fabric loads overcomes the internal friction, thereby allowing the auger body to rotate in a ratcheting manner.