EP4397228A1

EP4397228A1 - Dishwasher

Info

Publication number: EP4397228A1
Application number: EP22864953.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Wonjun Lee; Mi Young Kim; Suhyeon Son
Original assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Current assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Filing date: 2022-08-24
Publication date: 2024-07-10

Abstract

A dishwasher according to one embodiment may comprise a storage part for storing an object to be washed. The storage part comprises: a base in which a plurality of horizontal bars and a plurality of vertical bars intersect each other; a supporter protruding from the base; and a first holder mounted to the supporter and provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the supporter, wherein the first holder may be supported by the supporter so as to maintain a posture at a set angle with respect to the supporter.

Description

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher, and in particular, a dishwasher comprising a storage part.

Background Art

Details in the background section do not constitute a prior art but are given only as background information concerning the subject matter of the present disclosure.
Dishwashers sparay wash water to stored kitchenware at high pressure, wash the kitchenware and dry the kitchenware. Specifically, dishwashers operate in such a way that wash water is sprayed into a tub accommodating kitchenware at high pressure, and the sprayed wash water touches the kitchenware and washes a foreign substance such as a remnant of food and the like attached to the surface of the kitchenware.
Dishwashers may recycle used wash waster by filtering food remnants included in the wash water with a filter, and add a detergent to wash water and supply the wash water to separate food remnants smoothly. In recent years, dishwashers increasing the temperature of wash water by using a heater or generating steam to ensure improvement in washing efficiency have been widely used.
A dishwasher may be provided with a wash tub as a washing space, and a storage part provided in such a way that the storage part is mounted in and drawn from the wash tub and stacked selectively depending on the sort and size of kitchenware.
The storage part may be provided in a plurality of numbers, and each of the storage parts may be provided in a plurality of stages in the up-down direction of the wash tub.
Kitchenware, cooking tools and the like having a variety of sizes and weights may be stored in the storage part that is relatively small. In this context, a storage part having a structure enhancing user convenience as well as spatial availability is needed.
Additionally, for foreign substances attached to kitchenware stored in the storage part to be washed effectively, the storage part needs to be designed to accommodate kitchenware and cooking tools in various postures.
A related art is disclosed in European Patent No. 2741654 B1 . In the related art, disclosed is a carrier provided with a swing hold means at which kitchenware such as cutlery and the like is held and which is folded. The swing hold means is arranged across the same line as a fixation support means at which cutlery is held and which is fixed and not moved, although it is folded.
In the carrier having the above structure, a space in which kitchenware is held decreases in the carrier due to the fixation support means of a long length, causing inconvenience to the user when the user places kitchenware having a variety of shapes and sizes.
In particular, among storage parts, a storage part disposed at an uppermost end of the dishwasher has a space accommodating kitchenware, which is smaller than any other storage part. If a structure similar to the above-described structure of the carrier in the related art is applied to the storage part, the user may feel inconvenient when the user places various types of kitchenware in the storage part.

Description of the Invention

Technical Problems

The objective of the present disclosure is to provide a storage part and a dishwasher comprising the same that has a structure ensuring more improvement in spatial availability and user convenience than a prior art.
Further, the objective of the present disclosure is to provide a storage part and a dishwasher comprising the same that has a structure accommodating various types of kitchenware having a variety of shapes in various postures.
Aspects according to the present disclosure are not limited to the above ones, and other aspects and advantages that are not mentioned above can be clearly understood from the following description and can be more clearly understood from the embodiments set forth herein. Additionally, the aspects and advantages in the present disclosure can be realized via means and combinations thereof that are described in the appended claims.

Technical Solutions

A storage part of an embodiment may comprise a horizontal frame, a vertical frame, base, a supporter and a first holder. The base may formed in such a way that a plurality of horizontal bars and a plurality of vertical bars cross each other. The supporter may be formed to protrude from the base. The first holder may be mounted on the supporter and configured to be rotatable with respect to the supporter.
The first holder may be supported by the supporter in such a way that a posture of the first holder is maintained at a set angle with respect to the supporter. With the structure, the first holder may remain lying, standing or inclining in the storage part.
The first holder may comprise a rotation part, a first rotation tine and a second rotation tine. The rotation part may be mounted on the supporter, and configured to be rotatable with respect to the supporter.
The first rotation tine may be configured to protrude from the rotation part in a direction across a direction of a rotation axis of the rotation part. The second rotation tine may be configured to rotate together with the rotation part, and to protrude in a direction across the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part and a direction in which the first rotation tine protrudes.
The first rotation tine and the second rotation tine may extend at a position where the first rotation tine and the second rotation tine correspond to each other in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part. A length of the first rotation tine may be greater than a length of the second rotation tine.
The first holder may comprise a 1-1 holder and a 1-2 holder. The 1-1 holder may be provided in a plurality of numbers, and disposed in such a way that a lengthwise direction of the 1-1 holder is placed in a first direction. The 1-2 holder may be provided in a plurality of numbers, spaced from the 1-1 holder, and disposed in such a way that a lengthwise direction of the 1-2 holder is placed in a second direction across the first direction. A length of the 1-1 holder may be greater than a length of the 1-2 holder.
The 1-1 holder further may further comprise a handle part configured to protrude from an end portion of the first rotation tine provided at an edge of one side of the 1-1 holder, and to extend from the first rotation tine in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part.
Each of the plurality of 1-1 holders may disposed in such a way that lengthwise directions of the 1-1 holders are placed in the same direction, and the 1-1 holders are disposed to overlap each other in a lengthwise direction thereof. Additionally, each of the plurality of 1-2 holders may disposed in such a way that lengthwise directions of the 1-2 holders are placed in the same direction, and the 1-2 holders are spaced from each other in a direction across a lengthwise direction thereof.
A length of the first rotation tine disposed at both edges of the 1-2 holder may be less than a length of the first rotation tine disposed in a central portion of the 1-2 holder.
The storage part may comprise a first area, a second area and a division bar. The 1-1 holder and the 1-2 holder may disposed in the first area. The second area may separate from the first area. The division bar may be disposed between the first area and the second area to divide the first area and the second area.
The storage part may comprise a second holder that is disposed in the first area, be disposed in such a way that a lengthwise direction of the second holder is placed in a direction parallel with a direction of a rotation axis of a rotation part of the 1-1 holder, and be spaced from the first holder. The second holder may be provided to hold kitchenware reliably, and provided with a first base part coupled to the base and a plurality of first fixation tines configured to protrude from the first base part.
The storage part may further comprise a third holder which is disposed in the second area, and a lengthwise direction of which is placed in parallel with the direction of a rotation axis of a rotation part of the 1-1holder. The third holder may be provided to hold kitchenware in the second area reliably, and provided with a second base part coupled to the base and a plurality of second fixation tines configured to protrude from the second base part.
The storage part may further comprise a fourth holder which is disposed in the second area, a lengthwise direction of which is placed in parallel with the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part of the 1-1 holder, and which is spaced from the third holder in a direction across the lengthwise direction of the third holder. The fourth holder may be provided to hold kitchenware in the second area reliably, and provided with a third base part coupled to the base and a plurality of third fixation tines configured to protrude from the third base part.
The third fixation tine may comprise a plurality of 3-1 fixation tines that is spaced from each other at a predetermined interval in the lengthwise direction of the second holder, and a 3-2 fixation tine that is spaced from each other at a predetermined interval in the lengthwise direction of the second holder and disposed in such a way that the 3-2 fixation tine alternates with the 3-1 fixation tine. The length of the 3-1 fixation tine may be greater than the length of the 3-2 fixation tine.
The first holder may comprise a mounting projection and a stopper. The mounting projection may be configured to protrude in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part. The stopper may be coupled to the mounting projection and configured to protrude in a direction where a lengthwise direction of the stopper crosses the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part.
The supporter may comprise a mounting groove and a guide groove. The mounting groove may be formed in such a way that one surface of the supporter is depressed, and the mounting projection may be mounted in the mounting groove. The guide groove may be formed in such a way that one surface of the supporter is depressed, communicate with the mounting groove, have a depth less than a depth of the mounting groove and be provided in a plurality of numbers in such a way that the plurality of guide grooves is disposed at a different angle with respect to the mounting groove, and the stopper may be mounted in the guide groove.
The guide groove may be configured in such a way that the stopper is mounted in the guide groove or the stopper mounted in the guide groove escapes from the guide groove, by an external force applied to the first holder.
In one embodiment, the plurality of guide grooves may be provided in such a way that two guide grooves are disposed at positions that are spaced at 0° and 90° in a circumferential direction of the mounting groove.
In another embodiment, the plurality of guide grooves may be provided in such a way that three guide grooves are disposed at positions that are spaced at 0°, 45° and 90° in a circumferential direction of the mounting groove.
A dishwasher of one embodiment may be provided with a storage part storing a wash target. The storage part may comprise a base formed in such a way that a plurality of horizontal bars and a plurality of vertical bars cross each other, a supporter configured to protrude from the base, and a first holder mounted on the supporter and configured to be rotatable with respect to the supporter, wherein the first holder may be supported by the supporter in such a way that a posture of the first holder is maintained at a set angle with respect to the supporter.

Advantageous Effects

In a dishwasher of the present disclosure, kitchenware may be stored in a storage part by a first holder while taking various postures, such that the user places the kitchenware in the storage part in various ways, depending on the structure and size of each of the kitchenware and the degree to which a foreign substrate is attached to each of the kitchenware, ensuring ease of use of the storage part. Additionally, with the structure, the spatial availability of the storage part may improve.
In the dishwasher of the present disclosure, the user may adjust the length of a rotation tine standing in various ways, such that various types of kitchenware is held in various postures appropriate for washing, in the storage part, considering the size and shape of kitchenware and the degree to which a foreign substance is attached to the kitchenware.
In the dishwasher of the present disclosure, the disposition angle of a rotation tine rotatably provided at the first holder of the storage part may be adjusted, such that kitchenware of a variety of sorts and sizes is stored in various postures, in the storage part. Thus, user convenience, washing efficiency, and spatial availability of the storage part may improve.
In the dishwasher of the present disclosure, the entire length of a rotation tine may be adjusted to increase or decrease, such that the entire length of the rotation tine is conveniently set to allow the user to selectively use all the rotation tines in a short manner or in a long manner.
Specific effects are described along with the above-described effects in the section of detailed description.

Brief Description of the Drawings

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a dishwasher of one embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the dishwasher of one embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a storage part of one embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a 1-1 holder of one embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a 1-2 holder of one embodiment.
FIG. 6 is an enlarged view showing portion A of FIG. 3.
FIG. 7 is an enlarged view showing portion B of FIG. 3.
FIG. 8 is an enlarged view showing portion C of FIG. 3.
FIG. 9 is a view showing a state in which a first holder coupled to a supporter of one embodiment stands.
FIG. 10 is a view showing a state in which the first holder coupled to the supporter of one embodiment lies.
FIG. 11 is a view showing a supporter of another embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a view showing a state in which a first holder coupled to the supporter of another embodiment stands.
FIG. 13 is a view showing a state in which the first holder coupled to the supporter of another embodiment inclines.
FIG. 14 is a view showing a state in which the first holder coupled to the supporter of another embodiment lies.
FIG. 15 is a view showing a state in which kitchenware as a wash target is stored in a storage part.
FIG. 16 is a view showing a state in which chopsticks as a wash target are stored in a storage part.
FIG. 17 is a view showing a state in which a ladle as a wash target is stored in a storage part.

Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments

The above-described aspects, features and advantages are specifically described hereinafter with reference to accompanying drawings such that one having ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of the present disclosure pertains can embody the technical spirit of the disclosure easily. In the disclosure, detailed description of known technologies in relation to the subject matter of the disclosure is omitted if it is deemed to make the gist of the disclosure unnecessarily vague. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the disclosure are specifically described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, identical reference numerals can denote identical or similar components.
The terms "first", "second" and the like are used herein only to distinguish one component from another component. Thus, the components are not to be limited by the terms. Certainly, a first component can be a second component, unless stated to the contrary.
Throughout the disclosure, each component can be provided as a single one or a plurality of ones, unless stated to the contrary.
In the disclosure, singular forms include plural forms as well, unless explicitly indicated otherwise. In the disclosure, the terms "comprised of', "comprise", and the like do not imply necessarily including stated components or stated steps and imply excluding some of the stated components or stated steps or including additional components or additional steps.
Throughout the disclosure, the terms "A and/or B" as used herein can denote A, B or A and B, and the terms "C to D" can denote C or greater and D or less, unless stated to the contrary.
In the present disclosure, an "up-down direction" denotes the up-down direction of a dishwasher in the state where the dishwasher is installed to be used as usual. A "left-right direction" denotes a direction across the up-down direction, and a front-rear direction denotes a direction across both the up-down direction and the left-right direction. "Both lateral directions" or a "lateral direction" have the same meaning as the left-right direction, and the terms are used in a mixed manner in the present disclosure.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a dishwasher 100 of one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the dishwasher 100 of one embodiment.
As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 2, the dishwasher 100 of the embodiment may comprise a case 120 that forms the exterior of the dishwasher 100, and a wash tub 130 that is installed in the case 120, forms a washing space where a wash target such as kitchenware and the like is washed, and accommodates kitchenware and has an open front surface.
Additionally, the dishwasher 100 may comprise a door 122 that opens and closes the open surface of the wash tub 130, and a driving part 140 that is disposed under the wash tub 130, and supplies, collects, circulates and discharges wash water for washing kitchenware.
Further, the dishwasher 100 may be provided with a plurality of storage parts 150, 160, 200 that are detachably provided in the wash tub 130 and stores a wash target such as kitchenware and the like, and a plurality of spray parts 132, 133, 134 each of which is installed near each storage part 150, 160, 200 and sprays wash water for washing kitchenware. The storage part 150, 160, 200 may be provided at the dishwasher and store kitchenware.
Herein, in the above-described structure of the dishwasher 100, the wash tub 130, the driving part 140, and each spray part may be embodied in a way the same as or similar to that of a related art. Accordingly, detailed description in relation to them is omitted.
Further, the plurality of storage parts 150, 160, 200 may be provided in such a way that the plurality of storage parts 150, 160, 200 is drawn from the inside of the wash tub 130 to the open side of the wah tub 130. The storage parts comprise a first storage part 150 that is disposed in the lower portion of the wash tub 130 and stores relatively large kitchenware, a second storage part 160 that is disposed at the upper side of the first storage part 150 and stores relatively small kitchenware, and a third storage part 200 that is disposed in the upper portion of the wash tub 130 and stores kitchenware and the like.
The plurality of spray parts 132, 133, 134 are provided to spray wash water to kitchenware and the like stored in each storage part 150, 160, 200. The spray parts 132, 133, 134 comprise a lower spray part 134 that is disposed in the lower portion of the wash tub 130 and sprays wash water to the first storage part 150, an upper spray part 133 that is disposed between the first storage part 150 and the second storage part 160 and sprays wash water to the first and second storage parts 150, 160, and a top spray part 132 that is disposed in the upper portion of the wash tub 130 and sprays wash water to the third storage part 200 or the second storage part 160.
However, the top spray part 132 may not be a necessary component comprising the dishwasher 100 and may not be provided depending embodiments.
Further, a guide part for guiding the withdrawal and insertion of the first, second and third storage parts 150, 160, 200 may be provided on both lateral walls of the wash tub 130. A guide device 1310 for guiding the withdrawal and insertion of the third storage part 200 is specifically described with reference to the following drawings.
Further, the door 122 is to open and close the open surface formed on the front surface of the wash tub 130 described above. The door 122 is ordinarily provided with a hinge part for opening and closing the door 122, in the lower portion of the open surface, and is opened around the hinge part as a rotation axis.
Herein, a handle 124 for opening the door 122 and a control panel 123 for controlling the dishwasher 100 are provided on the outer surface of the door 122. The inner surface of the door 122 forms a mounting surface on which the first storage part 150 is mounted as the door 122 is opened, while forming one surface of the wash tub 130 as the door 122 is closed.
To this end, in the case where the door 122 is opened, the mounting surface of the door 122 preferably forms a planar surface that extends at the guide part by which the first storage part 161 is guided.
The structure of the storage part of the embodiment, and a structure in relation to the storage part are described with reference to the third storage part 200, hereinafter. Hereinafter, the structure of the third storage part 200 and a structure in relation to this are specifically described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter, the third storage part 200 is referred to as a storage part 200.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a storage part 200 of one embodiment. In FIG. 3, a rectangular coordinate system is illustrated, and hereinafter, a first direction denotes an x-axis direction, and a second direction denotes a y-axis direction.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a 1-1 holder 230a of one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a 1-2 holder 230b of one embodiment.
The storage part 200 of the embodiment may comprise a horizontal frame 200a, a vertical frame 200b, a base 210, a supporter 220 and a first holder 230. The horizontal frame 200a and the vertical frame 200b may be disposed at an edge of the storage part 200 and form a storage space accommodating kitchenware as a wash target.
A plurality of horizontal bars 211 and a plurality of vertical bars 212 may be formed at the base 210 in such a way that the plurality of horizontal bars 211 and the plurality of vertical bars 212 intersect each other. The horizontal bar 211 and the vertical bar 212 respectively bend in their end portion and are coupled to the horizontal frame 200a and the vertical frame 200b, such that the horizontal bar 211 and the vertical bar 212 form a storage space together with the horizontal frame 200a and the vertical frame 200b.
The supporter 220 may be formed to protrude from the base 210. The supporter 220, for example, may be formed in such a way that the supporter 220 and the base 210 are integrally formed, but not limited.
The supporter 220 may be formed to protrude from the base 210 at a point of the base 210, where the horizontal bar 211 and the vertical bar 212 intersect each other. The supporter 220, for example, may be may be formed in such a way that the supporter 220 and the base 210 are integrally formed, as described above.
The stiffness of the point at which the horizontal bar 211 and the vertical bar 212 intersect each other remains high, at the storage part 200. Accordingly, external force-induced excessive deformation or damage to the supporter 220 formed at the point may be suppressed effectively.
The first holder 230 may be coupled to the supporter 220. A pair of supporters 220 may be provided for one first holder 230 such that each supporter 220 may be coupled to both ends of one first holder 230, for a reliable coupling of the first holder 230.
The first holder 230 is mounted on the supporter 220, and provided in such a way that the first holder 230 is rotatable with respect to the supporter 220. As the user applies an external force, the first holder 230 may rotate with respect to the supporter 220.
The first holder 230 may be supported by the supporter 220 such that the first holder 230 may maintain a posture with respect to the supporter 220 at a set angle. With the structure, the first holder 230 may keep lying, standing or inclining in the storage part 200.
Hereinafter, in the rectangular coordinate system of FIG. 3, the standing posture means that the lengthwise direction is placed in parallel with the z-axis direction, and the lying posture means that the lengthwise direction is placed in parallel with the x-axis direction, the y-axis direction or a direction of an xy planar surface.
Kitchenware is held at the first holder 230 in the state where the first holder 230 maintains each of the postures, the kitchenware may be stored in various postures, in the storage part 200. The above-described operation of the fist holder 230 is specifically described with reference to the following drawings.
In the embodiment, since kitchenware is stored in the storage part 200 by the first holder 230, while the kitchenware takes various postures, the user may place kitchenware in the storage part, in different ways, depending on the structure and size of each of the kitchenware and the degree to which a foreign substance is attached to each of the kitchenware, such that the user uses the storage part 200 conveniently. Additionally, the structure may help to enhance the spatial availability of the storage part 200.
Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the first holder 230 may comprise a rotation part 231, a first rotation tine 232 and a second rotation tine 233. The tine as a protruding structure may be used to hold kitchenware.
The rotation part 231 may be mounted on the supporter 220, and provided in such a way that the rotation part 231 is rotatable with respect to the supporter 220. The rotation part 231 may be coupled to the supporter 220 in such a way that both ends of the rotation part 231 are rotatable, and be rotatable with respect to the supporter 220 by an external force. The lengthwise direction of the rotation part 231 may be in parallel with the direction of a rotation axis around which the rotation part 231 rotates.
The lengthwise direction of the rotation part 231 may be in parallel with the lengthwise direction of any one of the horizontal bar 211 or the vertical bar 212, and the rotation part 231 may be disposed to overlap any one of the horizontal bar 211 or the vertical bar 212, in an up-down direction.
With the structure, in the case where an external force is applied to the rotation part 231 in the up-down direction, a horizontal bar 211 or a vertical bar 212 disposed at a position where the horizontal bar 211 or the vertical bar 212 overlaps the rotation part 231, under the rotation part 231 may effectively support the external force applied to the rotation part 231, such that excessive deformation or damage to the rotation part 231 is suppressed.
For example, in the case where heavy kitchenware is stored in the storage part 200, and the like, as large magnitude of external force is applied to the rotation part 231 in the up-down direction, the horizontal bar 211 or the vertical bar 212 may support the rotation part 231 to suppress the deformation or damage to the rotation part 231.
The first rotation tine 232 may be provided in such a way that the first rotation tine 232 protrudes from the rotation part 231 in a direction across the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part 231. The second rotation tine 233 may be provided in such a way that the second rotation tine 233 rotates together with the rotation part 231 and protrudes in a direction across the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part 231 and the direction in which the first rotation tine 232 protrudes. An angle at which the first rotation tine and the second rotation tine 233 cross each other may be approximately 90°.
Kitchenware are placed on the first rotation tine 232 and the second rotation tine 233, and the first rotation tine 232 and the second rotation tine 233 support the kitchenware, such that the first rotation tine 232 and the second rotation tine 233 are used to store the kitchenware in the storage part 200. Additionally, the rotation part 231, the first rotation tine 232 and the second rotation tine 233 may be integrally formed, for example.
A plurality of first rotation tines 232 and a plurality of second rotation tines 233 may be provided. Each of the plurality of first rotation tines 232 and each of the plurality of second rotation tines 233 may be disposed to cross each other in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part 231.
The first rotation tine 232 and the second rotation tine 233 may extend at a position where the first rotation tine 232 and the second rotation tine 233 correspond to each other in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part 231. With the structure, a separation space may be formed between adjacent first rotation tines 232, and likewise, a separation space may also be formed between adjacent second rotation tines 233, and the separation spaces may correspond to each other in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part 231. Accordingly, thin kitchenware such as chopsticks, a spoon and the like may be fitted into the separation spaces.
The length of the first rotation tine 232 may be greater than the length of the second rotation tine 233. Accordingly, as the rotation part 231 rotates, the second rotation tine 233 may lie while the first rotation tine 232 may stand, or the second rotation tine 233 may stand while the first rotation tine 232 may lie. Because of the structure, the lengths of the rotation tines standing may differ.
Various types of kitchenware may be held at a relatively long standing first rotation tine 232 or a relatively short standing second rotation tine 233, such that the kitchenware may be stored in a posture appropriate for washing.
Accordingly, the user may adjust the length of a standing rotation tine in various ways, such that various types of kitchenware is stored in the storage part 200 in a posture appropriate for washing considering the size and shape of the kitchenware and the degree to which a foreign substance is attached to the kitchenware.
The first holder 230 may further comprise a stiffness rib 2301 that protrudes from the surface of at least one of the rotation part 231, the first rotation tine 232 or the second rotation tine 233 and improves the stiffness of the first holder 230.
The lengthwise direction of the stiffness rib 2301 may be in parallel with the lengthwise direction of the rotation part 231, the first rotation tine 232 or the second rotation tine 233. The stiffness rib 2301 respectively formed on the surface of the rotation part 231, the first rotation tine 232 or the second rotation tine 233 may be provided in such a way that the stiffness ribs connect to one another.
The stiffness rib 2301 may improve the stiffness of the rotation part 231, the first rotation tine 232 or the second rotation tine 233, and suppress external force-induced excessive deformation or damage to them. The stiffness rib 2301 may be integrated with the rotation part 231, the first rotation tine 232 or the second rotation tine 233.
The first holder 230 may comprise a 1-1 holder 230a and a 1-2 holder 230b. A plurality of 1-1 holders 230a may be provided, and the lengthwise direction of the 1-1 holder may be placed in the first direction. A plurality of 1-2 holders 230b may be provided, the 1-2 holder may be spaced from the 1-1 holder 230a, and the lengthwise direction of the 1-2 holder may be placed in the second direction across the first direction. The length of the 1-1 holder 230a may be greater than the length of the 1-2 holder 230b.
The 1-1 holder 230a may further comprise a handle part 230a-1 that protrudes from the end portion of the first rotation tine 232 provided at the edge of one side of the 1-1 holder 230a and extends from the first rotation tine 232 in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part 231.
Since the 1-1 holder 230a is formed to be relatively long, the user may have difficulty in rotating the 1-1 holder, and since the handle part 230a-1 is formed an the end portion of the 1-1 holder 230a, the user may conveniently rotate the 1-1 holder 230a by using the handle part 230a-1.
The plurality of 1-1 holders 230a may be disposed in such a way that the lengthwise direction of each of the plurality of 1-1 holders 230a is placed in the same direction, and the plurality of 1-1 holders 230a may be disposed to overlap each other in a lengthwise direction. Additionally, the plurality of 1-2 holders 230b may be disposed in such a way that the lengthwise direction of each of the plurality of 1-2 holders 230b is placed in the same direction, and the plurality of 1-2 holders 230b may be spaced from each other in a direction across the lengthwise direction thereof.
The 1-1 holder 230a and the 1-2 holder 230b may be provided in a plurality of numbers, and may operate separately. Accordingly, a portion of the 1-1 holder 230a and a portion of the 1-2 holder 230b may stand the first rotation tine 232 that is long, and the remaining portion may stand the second rotation tine 233 that is short.
Referring to FIG. 3, a portion of the 1-1 holder 230a may stand the first rotation tine 232 that is long, and the 1-2 holder 230b disposed at a position where the 1-2 holder 230b overlaps the 1-1 holder 230a in the y-axis direction may also stand the first rotation tine 232 that is long.
Additionally, the remaining portion of the 1-1 holder 230a may stand the second rotation tine 233 that is short, and the 1-2 holder 230b disposed at a position where the 1-2 holder 230b overlaps the 1-1 holder 230a in the y-axis direction may also stand the second rotation tine 233 that is short.
Because of the above-described disposition, an area where the first rotation tine 232 of the first holder 230 stands, and an area where the second rotation tine 233 stands may be provided in the storage part 200. Kitchenware having a shape, a size or a posture corresponding to the length of the first rotation tine 232 or the second rotation tine 233 may be held in each of the areas.
For example, chopsticks and a spoon having a thin shape may be fitted into a space between adjacent first rotation tines 232 in the area where the first rotation tine 232 having a long length stands and stored in the storage part 200. Further, for example, relatively large kitchenware such as a ladle, scissors, a kitchen knife and the like that are placed at the upper side of the second rotation tine 233 may be placed in the area where the second rotation tine 233 having a short length stands.
Referring to FIG. 5, the length of the first rotation tine 232 disposed at both edges of the 1-2 holder 230b may be less than the length of the first rotation tine 232 disposed in a central portion of the 1-2 holder 230b. With the structure, kitchenware having various shapes may be conveniently held.
For example, the end portion of a vessel having a depressed shape may be conveniently held at relatively short first rotation tines 232 at the edge portions of the 1-2 holder 230b, among the plurality of first rotation tines 232 of the 1-2 holder 230b. As the vessel is held, the first rotation tines 232 of the 1-2 holder 230b have a shape that is entirely convex upward in response to the depressed shape of the vessel, such that the first rotation tine 232 reliably supports the vessel as a whole.
The storage part 200 may comprise a first area 201, a second area 202 and a division bar 203. The 1-1 holder 230a and the 1-2 holder 230b may be disposed in the first area 201. The second area 202 may be provided in such a way that the second area 202 separates from the first area 201. The division bar 203 may be disposed between the first area 201 and the second area 202 to divide the first area 201 and the second area 202.
As illustrated in FIG. 3, since the height of the division bar 203, measured in the z-axis direction, is low, the division bar does not interfere with a vessel as the vessel is held. Thus, the vessel may be separated and stored in the first area 201 and the second area 202, but may be stored in the storage part 200 across the first area 21 and the second area 202.
A fixation tine may be disposed in at least one of the first area 201 and the second area 202. The fixation tine together with the rotation tine may be used to store kitchenware of various shapes and sizes. The fixation tine is specifically described hereinafter.
Various types of kitchenware may be disposed in the first area 201 and the second area 202. However, relatively large cooking tools such as a ladle, scissors, a kitchen knife, a frying spatula, a rice spatula and the like, or relatively large vessels and the like may be held conveniently in the first area 201. Cutlery such as a spoon, chopsticks, a small knife, a fork and the like may be conveniently held in the second area.
Kitchenware may be stored in the storage part 200 in the state where the kitchenware is held across the first area 201 and the second area 202 regardless of its sort and shape, as described above.
For kitchenware to be stored conveniently, a second holder 240 may be provided in the first area 201, and a third holder 250 and a fourth holder 260 may be provided in the second area 202. Detailed description is provided with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 6 is an enlarged view showing portion A of FIG. 3. FIG. 6 shows a second holder 240 in enlarged manner. FIG. 7 is an enlarged view showing portion B of FIG. 3. FIG. 7 shows a third holder 250 in an enlarged manner. FIG. 8 is an enlarged view showing portion C of FIG. 3. FIG. 8 shows a fourth holder 260 in an enlarged manner.
The storage part 200 may comprise the second holder 240 which is disposed in the first area 201, the lengthwise direction of which is placed in parallel with the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part 231 of the first holder 230a, and which is spaced from the first holder 230.
The second holder 240 may be provided to hold kitchenware in the first area 201 reliably and provided with a first base part 241 that is coupled to the base 210 and a plurality of first fixation tines 242 that protrudes from the first base part 241. For example, the first base part 241 and the first fixation tine 242 may be integrated with the base 210.
Each of the plurality of first fixation tines 242 may be spaced from each other in the lengthwise direction of the second holder 240. Accordingly, various types of kitchenware may be held at the second holder 240 by properly using a space formed between the first fixation tine 242 and an adjacent first fixation tine 242. Further, the user may place kitchenware in the first area 201 by properly using the first holder 230 and the second holder 240.
The storage part 200 may further comprise the third holder 250 which is disposed in the second area 202, and the lengthwise direction of which is placed in parallel with the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part 231 of the first holder 230a.
The third holder 250 may be provided to hold kitchenware in the second area 202 reliably, and provided with a second base part 251 that is coupled to the base 210 and a plurality of second fixation tines 252 that protrudes from the second base part 251. For example, the second base part 251 and the second fixation tine 252 may be integrated with the vase 210.
Each of the plurality of second fixation tines 252 may be spaced from each other in the lengthwise direction of the third holder 250. Accordingly, the user may place various types of kitchenware at the third holder 250 by properly using a space formed between the second fixation tine 252 and an adjacent second fixation tine 252.
The storage part 200 may further comprise the fourth holder 260 which is disposed in the second area 202, the lengthwise direction of which is placed in parallel with the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part 231 of the first holder 230a, and which is spaced from the third holder 250 in a direction across the lengthwise direction of the third holder 250.
The fourth holder 260 may be provided to hold kitchenware in the second area 202 reliably, and provided with a third base part 261 that is coupled to the base 210 and a plurality of third fixation tines 262 that protrudes from the third base part 261. For example, the third base part 261 and the third fixation tine 262 may be integrated with the base 210.
Each of the plurality of third fixation tines 262 may be spaced from each other in the lengthwise direction of the fourth holder 260. Accordingly, the user may place various types of kitchenware at the fourth holder 260 by properly using a space formed between the third fixation tine 262 and an adjacent third fixation tine 262.
The user may place kitchenware in the second area 202 by properly using the third holder 250 and the fourth holder 260. For example, the user may place kitchenware across between the third holder 250 and the fourth holder 260 to hold kitchenware of various sorts and sizes reliably in the second area 202.
The third fixation tine 262 may comprise a plurality of 3-1 fixation tines 2621 that is spaced from each other at a predetermined interval in the lengthwise direction of the second holder 240, and a 3-2 fixation tine 2622 that is spaced from each other at a predetermined interval in the lengthwise direction of the second holder 240 and disposed in such a way that the 3-2 fixation tine 2622 alternates with the 3-1 fixation tine 2621. The length of the 3-1 fixation tine 2621 may be greater than the length of the 3-2 fixation tine 2622.
With the structure, one 3-2 fixation tine 2622 may be disposed to be adjacent to two 3-1 fixation tines 2621. Accordingly, kitchenware such as a ladle and the like with a thick handle may be held and supported by one 3-2 fixation tine 2622 and two 3-1 fixation tines 2621 reliably.
FIG. 9 is a view showing a state in which a first holder 230 coupled to a supporter 220 of one embodiment stands. FIG. 10 is a view showing a state in which the first holder 230 coupled to the supporter 220 of one embodiment lies.
The first holder 230 may comprise a mounting projection 234 and a stopper 235. The mounting projection 234 may be provided in such a way that the mounting projection 234 protrudes in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part 231. The stopper 235 may be coupled to the mounting projection 234, and the lengthwise direction of the stopper 235 may be provided in such a way that the stopper 235 protrudes in a direction across the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part 231.
The supporter 220 may comprise a mounting groove 221 and a guide groove 222. The mounting groove 221 may be formed in such a way that one surface of the supporter 220 is depressed, and the mounting projection 234 may be mounted in the mounting groove 221. The guide groove 222 may be formed in such a way that one surface of the supporter 220 is depressed, communicate with the mounting groove 221, have a depth less than that of the mounting groove 221 and be provided in a plurality of numbers in such a way that the plurality of guide grooves is disposed at a different angle with respect to the mounting groove 221, and the stopper 235 may be mounted in the guide groove.
The mounting projection 234 of the first holder 230 may be mounted in the mounting groove 221 of the supporter 220, such that the first holder 230 is rotatable with respect to the supporter 220. Additionally, the stopper 235 of the first holder 230 may be mounted in the guide groove 222 of the supporter 220, such that the first holder 230 keeps lying, standing or inclining in the storage part 200.
Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the stopper 235 may be formed to protrude at the first rotation tine 232, and the lengthwise direction of the stopper 235 may be in parallel with the lengthwise direction of the first rotation tine 232. In the embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10, two guide groves 222 may be formed at one supporter 220, and their lengthwise directions may be respectively in a direction parallel with the z-axis direction and the xy planar surface.
As illustrated in FIG. 9, in the state where the stopper 235 is mounted in the guide groove 222 the lengthwise direction of which is parallel with the z-axis direction, the first rotation tine 232 may remain standing, i.e., remain in a 0° direction state.
As the user rotates the first holder 230 by applying an external force, the stopper 235 may escape from an original guide groove 222, and as illustrated in FIG. 10, may be mounted in the guide groove 222 the lengthwise direction of which is parallel with the xy planar surface, and at this time, the first rotation tine 232 may remain lying, i.e., remain in a 90° direction state.
Further, the guide groove 222 may be provided in such a way that the stopper 235 is mounted in the guide groove 222 or the stopper 235 mounted in the guide groove 222 escapes from the guide groove 222, because of an external force applied to the first holder 230.
Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, as the user rotates the first holder 230 by applying an external force to the first holder 230 in the state of FIG. 9, the first holder 230 and the stopper 235 may be partially deformed elastically, and accordingly, the stopper 235 may escape from an original guide groove 222, and the lengthwise direction of the stopper 235 illustrated in FIG. 9 may be mounted in the guide groove 222 the lengthwise direction of which is parallel with the xy planar surface. If the user does not apply an external force to the first holder 230, the first rotation tine 232 may remain in the state of FIG. 10, i.e., remain lying.
Further, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the plurality of guide grooves 222 of one embodiment may be provided in such a way that two guide groves are disposed at positions spaced at 0° and 90° in the circumferential direction of the mounting groove 221.
FIG. 11 is a view showing a supporter 220 of another embodiment. FIG. 12 is a view showing a state in which a first rotation tine 232 of a first holder 230 coupled to the supporter 220 of another embodiment stands. FIG. 13 is a view showing a state in which the first rotation tine 232 of the first holder 230 coupled to the supporter 220 of another embodiment inclines. FIG. 14 is a view showing a state in which the first rotation tine 232 of the first holder 230 coupled to the supporter 220 of another embodiment lies.
A plurality of guide grooves 222 of another embodiment may be provided in such a way that three guide grooves 222 are disposed at positions spaced at 0°, 45° and 90° in the circumferential direction of the mounting groove 221. Accordingly, the guide groove 222 may be disposed in a 0° direction state, a 45° direction state and a 90° direction state.
As described above, the 0° direction state may be a state in which the lengthwise direction of the guide groove 222 is parallel with the z-axis direction, as illustrated in FIG. 12, and in the stopper 235 is mounted in the guide groove 222, may be a state in which the first rotation tine 232 stands.
Additionally, the 90° direction state may be a state in which the lengthwise direction of the guide groove 222 is parallel with the XY planar surface, as illustrated in FIG. 14, and in the state where the stopper 235 is mounted in the guide groove 222, may be a state in which the first rotation tine 232 lies.
The 45° direction state may be a state in which the lengthwise direction of the guide groove 222 forms an angle of 45° with respect to the z-axis direction and the xy planar surface, as illustrated in FIG. 13, and in the state where the stopper 235 is mounted in the guide groove 222, may be a state in which the first rotation tine 232 inclines.
At least one of the plurality of guide grooves 222 may be provided in such a way that the end portion of at least one of the plurality of guide grooves 222 is open. The shape of the guide groove 222 may vary depending on the shape of the supporter 220, the length of the stopper 235 and the angle at which the guide groove 22 is formed.
Referring to FIG. 11, the supporter 220 may be long in the 0° direction and short in the 90° direction. Accordingly, the end portion of the guide groove 222 formed in the 0° direction may be closed, and the end portion of the guide groove 222 formed in the 45° direction and the 90° direction may be open.
That is, since in the 45° direction and the 90° direction, a length from the center of the mounting groove 221 to the outer surface of the supporter 220 is less than the length of the stopper 235, the end portion of the guide groove 222 may be open. However, since in the 0° direction, the length from the center of the mounting groove 221 to the outer surface of the supporter 220 is greater than the length of the stopper 235, the end portion of the guide groove 222 may be closed.
Further, wash washer may infiltrate into the guide groove 222 and the mounting groove 221 through the open end portion of the guide groove 222. Accordingly, foreign substances attached to the guide groove 222 and the mounting groove 221 may be washed away by the infiltrated wash water.
The user may adjust the state of the first rotation tine 232 of the first holder 230 by applying an external force such that the first rotation tine 232 stands, inclines and lies. Likewise, the user may adjust the state of the first rotation tine 232 the lengthwise direction of which is placed across the lengthwise direction the first rotation tine 232, by applying an external force, such that the first rotation tine 232 stands, inclines and lies. Hereinafter, a state in which kitchenware is stored is described with reference to the drawings, for example.
FIG. 15 is a view showing a state in which a vessel 1100 as a wash target is stored in a storage part 200. The vessel 1100 may have a portion where wash water is collected. Accordingly, in the case where the vessel 1100 is stored in the storage part 200 horizontally or perpendicularly, wash water may be collected in the vessel 1100, making it hard to dry the wash water.
A portion of the vessel 1100, containing a food item, needs to be stored in the storage part 200 in such a way that the portion of the vessel 1100 faces downward and inclines as a whole.
Accordingly, the first rotation tine 232 of the first holder 230 may adjust the rotation angle of the first holder 230 such that the first rotation tine 232 of the first holder 230 falls in to the 45° direction state. At this time, the lengthwise direction of the second rotation tine 233 may fall into the inclination state.
In the case where the vessel 1100 is stored in the first holder 230 of the storage part 200 in this state, the vessel 1100 may remain inclining.
In this state, wash water hitting the vessel 1100 may fall downward because of gravity, and the wash water may not be collected in the vessel 1100 or a very small amount of the wash water may be collected in the vessel, making it possible to dry the vessel 1100 readily after the wash water sprays.
FIG. 16 is a view showing a state in which chopsticks 1200 as a wash target are stored in a storage part 200. In the case where chopsticks 1200 are stored in the storage part 200, the chopsticks may be readily held in the storage part 200 and picked up from the storage part 200.
At this time, it is proper to store the chopsticks 1200 at the first holder 230 in the state where the first rotation tine 232 lies while the second rotation tine 233 shorter than the first rotation tine 232 stands. Thus, it is proper to adjust the first holder 230 such that the first rotation tine 232 of the first holder 230 is in the 90° direction state.
At this time, the chopsticks 1200 may be fitted into a space formed by the plurality of second rotation tines 233 that is spaced from each other and stored in the storage part 200 reliably.
FIG. 17 is a view showing a state in which a ladle 1300 as a wash target is stored in a storage part 200. The cross section of a portion 1310 of the ladle 1300, containing broth, may be fitted into a space formed by the plurality of second rotation tines 233 that is spaced from each other and stored in the storage part 200 reliably.
At this time, the cross section of the portion 1310 of the ladle 1300, containing broth, may hardly be fitted into the first rotation tine 232 that is relatively long. Even if the cross section of the portion 1310 of the ladle 1300, containing broth, is fitted into the first rotation tine 232, the ladle 1300 fitted into the space between the plurality of first rotation tines 232 may hardly be taken out of the storage part 200.
At this time, in the state where the first rotation tine 232 lies while the second rotation tine 233 shorter than the first rotation tine 232 stands, it is proper to store the portion 1310 of the ladle 1300, containing broth, at the first holder 230. Thus, it is proper to adjust the first holder 230 such that the first rotation tine 232 of the first holder 230 is in the 90° direction state.
In the embodiment, the disposition angle of the rotation tine rotatably provided at the first holder 230 of the storage part 200 may be adjusted, such that vessels of various sorts and sizes are stored in the storage part 200 in a variety of postures. Thus, user convenience and washing efficiency may improve, and the spatial availability of the storage part 200 may improve.
The embodiments are described above with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof. However, embodiments are not limited to the embodiments and drawings set forth herein, and numerous other modifications and embodiments can be drawn by one skilled in the art within the technical scope of the disclosure. Further, predictable effects based on the configurations in the disclosure are to be included within the range of the disclosure though not explicitly described in the description of the embodiment.

Claims

A dishwasher that is provided with a storage part storing a wash target, the storage part, comprising:
a base formed in such a way that a plurality of horizontal bars and a plurality of vertical bars cross each other;

a supporter configured to protrude from the base; and

a first holder mounted on the supporter and configured to be rotatable with respect to the supporter,

wherein the first holder is supported by the supporter in such a way that a posture of the first holder is maintained at a set angle with respect to the supporter.
The dishwasher of claim 1, the first holder, comprising:
a rotation part mounted on the supporter, and configured to be rotatable with respect to the supporter;

a first rotation tine configured to protrude from the rotation part in a direction across a direction of a rotation axis of the rotation part; and

a second rotation tine configured to rotate together with the rotation part, and to protrude in a direction across the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part and a direction in which the first rotation tine protrudes.
The dishwasher of claim 2, the first holder, comprising:
a mounting projection configured to protrude in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part; and

a stopper coupled to the mounting projection and configured to protrude in a direction where a lengthwise direction of the stopper crosses the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part.
The dishwasher of claim 3, the supporter, comprising:
a mounting groove which is formed in such a way that one surface of the supporter is depressed, and in which the mounting projection is mounted; and

a guide groove which is formed in such a way that one surface of the supporter is depressed, which communicates with the mounting groove, which has a depth less than a depth of the mounting groove, which is provided in a plurality of numbers in such a way that the plurality of guide grooves is disposed at a different angle with respect to the mounting groove, and in which the stopper is mounted.
The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein the guide groove is configured in such a way that the stopper is mounted in the guide groove or the stopper mounted in the guide groove escapes from the guide groove, by an external force applied to the first holder.
The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein the plurality of guide grooves is provided in such a way that two guide grooves are disposed at positions that are spaced at 0° and 90° in a circumferential direction of the mounting groove.
The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein the plurality of guide grooves is provided in such a way that three guide grooves are disposed at positions that are spaced at 0°, 45° and 90° in a circumferential direction of the mounting groove.
The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein a lengthwise direction of the rotation part is placed in parallel with a lengthwise direction of any one of the horizontal bar or the vertical bar, and an up-down direction of the rotation part is disposed to overlap any one of the horizontal bar or the vertical bar.
The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the first holder further comprises a stiffness rib configured to protrude from a surface of at least one of the rotation part, the first rotation tine or the second rotation tine and to improve stiffness of the first holder.
The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the supporter is formed to protrude from the base at a point where the horizontal bar and the vertical bar of the base cross each other.
The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein a length of the first rotation tine is greater than a length of the second rotation tine.
The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the first rotation tine and the second rotation tine are provided in a plurality of numbers, and
each of the plurality of first rotation tines and each of the plurality of second rotation tines are disposed to cross each other in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part.
The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the first rotation tine and the second rotation tine extend at a position where the first rotation tine and the second rotation tine correspond to each other in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part.
The dishwasher of claim 12, the first holder, comprising:
a 1-1 holder provided in a plurality of numbers, and disposed in such a way that a lengthwise direction of the 1-1 holder is placed in a first direction; and

a 1-2 holder provided in a plurality of numbers, spaced from the 1-1 holder, and disposed in such a way that a lengthwise direction of the 1-2 holder is placed in a second direction across the first direction.
The dishwasher of claim 14, wherein a length of the 1-1 holder is greater than a length of the 1-2 holder.
The dishwasher of claim 15, wherein the 1-1 holder further comprises a handle part configured to protrude from an end portion of the first rotation tine provided at an edge of one side of the 1-1 holder, and to extend from the first rotation tine in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotation part.
The dishwasher of claim 15, wherein at the 1-2 holder, a length of the first rotation tine disposed at both edges of the 1-2 holder is less than a length of the first rotation tine disposed in a central portion of the 1-2 holder.
The dishwasher of claim 14, wherein each of the plurality of 1-1 holders is disposed in such a way that lengthwise directions of the 1-1 holders are placed in the same direction, and the 1-1 holders are disposed to overlap each other in a lengthwise direction thereof.
The dishwasher of claim 14, wherein each of the plurality of 1-2 holders is disposed in such a way that lengthwise directions of the 1-2 holders are placed in the same direction, and the 1-2 holders are spaced from each other in a direction across a lengthwise direction thereof.
The dishwasher of claim 14, the storage part, comprising:
a first area in which the 1-1 holder and the 1-2 holder are disposed;

a second area separated from the first area; and

a division bar configured to divide the first area and the second area, wherein a fixation tine is disposed in at least one of the first area and the second area.