KR20240043057A - Control method of cup washer - Google Patents

Abstract

A cup washing machine control method is disclosed. In a cup washer control method that operates in a management mode that checks whether the cup washer is operating normally and a use mode that cleans the cup, the use mode includes a preparation mode in which the water stored in the water tank of the cup washer is below a set temperature, and a water tank in the water tank. It may include a standby mode in which the stored water is at a set temperature or higher, and a washing mode in which the cup stored in the cup washer is cleaned.

Description

Cup washer control method{CONTROL METHOD OF CUP WASHER}

The present invention relates to a cup washing machine control method, and more specifically, to a cup washing machine control method for cleaning a cup carried by a user.

The content described in this section simply provides background information about the present invention and does not constitute prior art.

Recently, in order to prevent environmental pollution, stores selling beverages are reducing the provision of disposable cups to customers, and the trend of customers visiting stores carrying reusable cups such as tumblers and carrying beverages in reusable cups is increasing. I'm doing it.

In order to provide convenience to customers, that is, users of reusable cups, it is necessary to provide cup washing machines in stores to clean the cups carried by users, and to allow users to conveniently wash the cups carried by them.

Related prior art is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0016470.

Users only wash cups using a cup washer and do not maintain or repair the cup washer, and there is a separate manager for this. Therefore, it is appropriate for the user to use the cup washer simply for convenience and, if possible, to avoid directly touching and operating the cup washer.

In order to reduce the frequency of users directly touching and operating the cup washer and to use the cup washer more conveniently, the operation of the cup washer can be controlled with an application implemented on a mobile device such as a smartphone carried by the user. There is a need to develop technologies that can

In addition, in order to use the cup washer for a long time without malfunction, management by an administrator is necessary. Therefore, there is a need to develop a cup washer control algorithm that can facilitate management by managers and use by users.

Additionally, there is a need to develop a method to control the cup washer so that the user can choose to wash the cup quickly or clean the cup thoroughly even if it takes some time.

However, these techniques are not disclosed in the above-mentioned prior art.

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a cup washer control method that can be controlled using a mobile device carried by the user.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cup washer control method with an algorithm that integrates management by managers and use by users.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cup washer control method that allows the cup washer to operate in a rapid wash mode or a normal wash mode according to the user's selection.

The objects of the present invention are not limited to the objects mentioned above, and other objects and advantages of the present invention that are not mentioned can be understood by the following description and will be more clearly understood by the examples of the present invention. Additionally, it will be readily apparent that the objects and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof indicated in the patent claims.

Control of the cup washing machine according to the embodiment may be performed by receiving commands from a control unit provided in the cup washing machine.

Inputting a command to the control unit can be done through an application programmed and implemented in a smart device such as a smartphone carried by the user who wants to wash the cup, or through an input unit provided in the cup washer. Command input may be performed by a user or an administrator who maintains and repairs the cup washer.

The smart device can be connected to communicate with a main server located at a distance, and the control unit of the cup washer can also be connected to communicate with the main server. Therefore, commands entered into the smart device can be transmitted to the control unit of the cup washer through the main server.

In the cup washer control method, the cup washer may operate in a management mode that checks whether the cup washer is operating normally, and a use mode that cleans the cup using the cup washer.

Therefore, the cup washer control method may have an algorithm that integrates a management mode for maintenance and repair of the cup washer and a use mode in which the user cleans the cup using the cup washer.

The cup washer can perform normal washing and rapid washing depending on the user's choice. The cup washer may change from the ready mode or standby mode to the sleep mode when a command is input from the input unit, or when a set time has elapsed from the start of the ready mode or standby mode.

In a cup washer control method that operates in a management mode that checks whether the cup washer is operating normally and a use mode that cleans the cup, the use mode includes a preparation mode in which the water stored in the water tank of the cup washer is below a set temperature, and a water tank in the water tank. It may include a standby mode in which the stored water is at a set temperature or higher, and a washing mode in which the cup stored in the cup washer is cleaned.

The use mode includes a sleep mode when the operation of the heater accommodated in the water tank is stopped, and the sleep mode can be changed to either a ready mode or a standby mode by receiving a command.

The cup washer can change from sleep mode to either ready mode or standby mode according to a command input from a mobile device carried by the user or an input unit provided in the cup washer.

The cup washer may change from the ready mode or standby mode to the sleep mode when a command is input from the input unit while in the ready mode or standby mode, or when a set time has elapsed from the start of the ready mode or standby mode.

The cup washer can receive a command from a mobile device and change from either sleep mode or standby mode to washing mode.

In the washing mode, the cup washing machine can perform a rapid washing mode in which the cup is washed using room temperature water or a normal washing mode in which the cup is washed using hot water supplied from a water storage tank, according to an input command.

The cup washer can immediately proceed with washing when the rapid washing mode is input.

When the cup washer receives the input to proceed with the normal washing mode, it immediately cleans the cup if it is currently in standby mode, and if it is currently in preparation mode, it cleans the cup after the water stored in the water tank reaches the set temperature. Washing can proceed.

In the use mode, the cup washer receives a reservation for cup washing from the user, lists the plurality of reservations entered from multiple users in order, and reserves the washing when the washing order for each of the plurality of reservations arrives. A notification signal can be sent to each user.

When a reservation is received from a user while the cup washer is in sleep mode, the cup washer may change from the sleep mode to either the ready mode or the standby mode depending on the temperature of the water stored in the water tank.

The cup washer may be equipped to maintain a sleep mode without receiving a reservation for cup washing from the user during a set time interval.

In the washing mode, the door that opens and closes the washing unit provided in the cup washer may be locked with the washing unit closed.

The management mode is an initial mode that drains water flowing into the washing part of the cup washer to the outside after the cup washer is turned on, connects the main server and the cup washer to communicate with each other, and controls the operation of the cup washer. It may include an installation mode that installs or updates a computer program.

In management mode, the cup washer can proceed with the operation of draining the water stored in the water tank to the outside.

If there is a command input for drain, the cup washer changes to use mode after the drain work and installation mode are completed. If there is no command input for drain, it changes to use mode after the installation mode progress is completed. can be changed.

The door may be configured to be unlocked after a set time has elapsed after the washing mode ends or after receiving a command to stop the washing mode.

After the washing mode ends or after receiving a command to stop the washing mode, the cup washing machine drains the water flowing into the washing unit to the outside, and after the draining ends, the cup washing machine can change to the preparation mode.

In the cup washer control method according to the present invention, the user can remotely control the cup washer using a portable smart device, so the user waits in line in front of the cup washer until his/her turn comes, or inputs a control command directly to the cup washer. Since the number of washes can be reduced, convenience can be provided to users of the cup washer.

In addition, the cup washer control method according to the present invention may have an algorithm that integrates a management mode for maintenance and repair of the cup washer and a use mode in which the user washes the cup washer. Therefore, it is possible to smoothly manage the cup washer and at the same time provide convenience to the user.

Additionally, in the cup washer control method according to the present invention, the cup washer can perform normal washing and rapid washing according to the user's selection. By simply inputting information using a mobile device, the control unit separates the cup into normal washing mode and rapid washing mode to wash the cup, providing convenience to the user.

In addition to the above-described effects, specific effects of the present invention are described below while explaining specific details for carrying out the invention.

Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a cup washing machine according to one embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a view of FIG. 1 viewed from another direction.
Figure 3 is a diagram showing a door open state in a cup washing machine according to an embodiment.
Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a cup washer with some parts omitted.
Figure 5 is a side view of Figure 4.
Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a washing unit according to one embodiment.
Figure 7 is a front view showing a washing unit according to an embodiment.
Figure 8 is a side view showing a washing unit according to one embodiment.
Figure 9 is a rear view showing a washing unit according to one embodiment.
Figure 10 is a flowchart for explaining a cup washer control method according to an embodiment.
Figure 11 is a flowchart specifically showing a cup washer control method according to an embodiment.
Figure 12 is a table for explaining a cup washer control method according to an embodiment.

The above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages will be described in detail later with reference to the attached drawings, so that those skilled in the art will be able to easily implement the technical idea of the present invention. In describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of known technologies related to the present invention may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the drawings, identical reference numerals are used to indicate identical or similar components.

Although first, second, etc. are used to describe various components, these components are of course not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another component, and unless specifically stated to the contrary, the first component may also be a second component.

Throughout the specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In the present application, terms such as “consists of” or “comprises” should not be construed as necessarily including all of the various components or steps described in the specification, and some of the components or steps may include It may not be included, or it should be interpreted as including additional components or steps.

Throughout the specification, when referred to as “A and/or B”, this means A, B or A and B, unless specifically stated to the contrary, and when referred to as “C to D”, this means unless specifically stated to the contrary. Unless there is one, it means that it is C or higher and D or lower.

Throughout the specification, “up and down direction” refers to the up and down direction of the cup washer when the cup washer is installed for daily use. “Left-right direction” means a direction perpendicular to the up-and-down direction, and forward-forward direction means a direction perpendicular to both the up-down direction and the left-right direction. “Bilateral” or “lateral” is meant to include the left-right direction and the front-to-back direction.

Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a cup washing machine according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a view of FIG. 1 viewed from another direction.

The cup washer according to the embodiment may be installed, for example, in a store that serves beverages. Users of the cup washer may be customers who purchase and drink beverages. To protect the environment, provision of disposable cups to customers at service stores has recently been restricted, and the scope of these restrictions is gradually expanding.

Therefore, a cup washing machine may be provided at the service store so that users carrying reusable cups can wash and use the cups at the service store. The cup subject to cleaning may be a reusable cup such as a tumbler carried by the user. Therefore, the cup washing machine can have a structure that allows users to conveniently use it.

A washing unit 130 may be provided at the top of the cup washer to receive and wash cups. The washing unit 130 can be opened and closed by the door 150. At this time, the door 150 can hinge and rotate in the up and down directions of the cup washer to open and close the washing unit 130.

Due to this structure, the user can conveniently wash the cup by opening the door 150 with his hand, placing the cup in the washing unit 130, and then closing the door 150 again and operating the cup washer without bending his waist. there is.

In order for the user to use the cup washer without bending his or her back, the height of the washing unit 130 in the cup washer needs to be appropriately adjusted to fit the adult's body. Additionally, in order to increase space efficiency, the cup washer needs to be equipped with a relatively small volume.

For this reason, the cup washer may have a tower-shaped shape with a relatively small planar cross-sectional area and a relatively long vertical length. Due to the tower-type shape, the cup washer requires relatively large parts to be arranged in an upward and downward direction.

In addition, due to the tower-type shape, the cup washer may be at risk of tipping over. In order to prevent the cup washer from tipping over, it is necessary to lower the overall center of gravity by placing parts with a relatively large load at the bottom.

Below, the structure of the cup washing machine will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the door 150 in an open state in a cup washing machine according to an embodiment. Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a cup washer with some parts omitted. Figure 5 is a side view of Figure 4.

The cup washer according to one embodiment may include a base plate 110, a water reservoir 120, a washing unit 130, an intermediate plate 140, a door 150, and a frame 160.

The base plate 110 is disposed at the bottom of the cup washer and can support other parts of the cup washer. The lower part of the base plate 110 may be placed on the ground. The base plate 110 may include a first part 111 and a second part 112. The lower surface of the first part 111 may be placed on the ground and may support the second part 112.

The second part 112 is placed on top of the first part 111, and the water storage tank 120 may be placed there. The frame 160 may be coupled to the second part 112. For example, a front supporter 161, a rear supporter 162, and a middle supporter 163 may be combined with the second part 112. Accordingly, the frame 160 can be supported by the second part 112.

The water storage tank 120 is disposed on the upper side of the base plate 110 and can store water for washing the cup. The water storage tank 120 may be connected to city water through a pipe. Accordingly, water from the water supply can flow into the water storage tank 120 and be stored. Additionally, the water storage tank 120 may be connected to the washing unit 130 through a pipe. Accordingly, the water in the water storage tank 120 flows into the washing unit 130 and can be used to wash the cup accommodated in the washing unit 130.

A heating device may be provided inside the water storage tank 120. The heating device may be, for example, an electric resistance heating type heater. Water in the water storage tank 120 may be heated by a heating device and flow into the washing unit 130. Accordingly, the cup cleaning efficiency can be increased by washing the cup using heated hot water.

The water storage tank 120 may be filled with water. Accordingly, the reservoir 120 filled with water may have a relatively large load compared to other components. The water storage tank 120 may be placed on the base plate 110 and placed at the bottom of the cup washer.

Due to the load of the water-filled water tank 120 located at the bottom of the cup washer, the height of the overall center of gravity of the cup washer may be lowered. Accordingly, the cup washer, which is provided in a tower type with a relatively long vertical length, does not easily tip over and can maintain a stable state even when subjected to external shock.

The washing unit 130 is disposed at the upper part of the water storage tank 120 and can wash the accommodated cup. A space for accommodating a cup may be formed in the washing unit 130. The washing unit 130 may be connected to the water storage tank 120 through a pipe. Accordingly, water for washing may flow into the washing unit 130 from the water storage tank 120.

In another embodiment, the washing unit 130 may be directly connected to the water supply without going through the water storage tank 120. Therefore, depending on the user's choice, the cup can be washed using water flowing from the water storage tank 120, or the cup can be washed using water flowing directly from the water supply.

The intermediate plate 140 is disposed between the water storage tank 120 and the washing unit 130 and may support the washing unit 130. The cleaning unit 130 is disposed on the intermediate plate 140, and the intermediate plate 140 can support a portion of the load of the cleaning unit 130. The intermediate plate 140 has a generally plate-shaped shape and may be coupled to the frame 160 at the edge and supported by the frame 160.

The door 150 is disposed on the upper side of the washing unit 130 and can hinge and rotate in the up and down direction to open and close the open upper part of the washing unit 130. Referring to FIG. 3, the door 150 can be hinged and rotated in the up and down directions of the cup washer. Accordingly, the user can manually open the door 150, place the cup 10 inside the cleaning unit 130, close the door 150 again, and then proceed with washing the cup 10.

A top cover 210 may be provided at the top of the washing unit 130. A portion of the top cover 210 may be coupled to the upper edge of the washing unit 130 and the door 150 may be placed on it.

Another part of the top cover 210 may be provided with an inlet cover 213. The inlet cover 213 can open and close the inlet of detergent and rinse aid introduced into the washing unit 130, and can be provided to be removable from the top cover 210.

The user can open and close the door 150 at the top of the washer to place a cup in the washing unit 130 or remove the cup from the washing unit 130. At this time, since the door 150 hinges and rotates in the vertical direction, the user can conveniently move the door 150 without having to bend his or her waist.

In addition, because the door 150 hinges rotates, the area occupied by the cup washer when viewed from a plan view can be provided so that there is no change even when the door 150 is open. Accordingly, regardless of whether the door 150 is opened or closed, the planar cross-sectional area of the cup washer is constant, so there is no need for additional space to open the door 150.

In an embodiment, the cup is provided at the top of the washing unit 130 to be hinged and rotatable in the up and down directions of the cup washer, so that the user can conveniently use the cup washer by opening and closing the door 150 without bending the waist. Additionally, this structure eliminates the need for additional space to open the door 150, thereby improving space efficiency.

The frame 160 is supported by the base plate 110, is coupled to the intermediate plate 140, and can support the cleaning unit 130. The frame 160 provides an internal space for the cup washer, and various parts can be coupled thereto and support these parts.

The frame 160 may include a front supporter 161, a rear supporter 162, a middle supporter 163, and an upper supporter 164. Each component of the frame 160 can support the load of the washing unit 130 and the door 150 provided at the top of the cup washer.

The front supporter 161 is arranged in a pair spaced apart from each other in the front of the cup washer, the lower part is coupled to the base plate 110, and the longitudinal direction may be arranged in the vertical direction. A pair of front supports 161 are disposed in the front of the cup washer at positions spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the cup washer, and may form a front corner portion of the cup washer.

The front supporter 161 may have an L-shaped cross-section to form a corner of the cup washer. The front supporter 161 can be coupled to the base plate 110 using a coupling mechanism such as a screw.

The rear supporter 162 is arranged in a pair spaced apart from each other at the rear of the cup washer, the lower part is coupled to the base plate 110, and the longitudinal direction may be arranged vertically. A pair of rear supports 162 are disposed at the rear of the cup washer at positions spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the cup washer, and may be disposed adjacent to a rear corner of the cup washer. The rear supporter 162 can be coupled to the base plate 110 using a coupling mechanism.

The middle supporter 163 is arranged as a pair spaced apart from each other, is arranged between the front supporter 161 and the rear supporter 162, the lower part is coupled to the base plate 110, and the longitudinal direction is arranged in the vertical direction. You can. A pair of intermediate supports 163 may be disposed at positions spaced apart from each other in the central portion of the cup washer in the lateral direction of the cup washer.

The middle supporter 163 can be coupled to the base plate 110 by a coupling mechanism. In addition, the middle supporter 163 is coupled to the middle plate 140 and the upper supporter 164 by a coupling mechanism to be stably positioned. and can support the load of cup washer parts.

The upper supporter 164 is disposed on the upper side of the middle supporter 163, is disposed as a pair spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction, is disposed in the front-back direction in the longitudinal direction, and can be coupled to the cleaning unit 130. A pair of upper supports 164 may be disposed at positions spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the cup washer at the top of the cup washer.

The cleaning unit 130 can be coupled to the upper supporter 164 using a coupling mechanism. Therefore, the upper supporter 164 can support the load of the washing unit 130.

The upper supporter 164 may be provided in plural numbers spaced apart from each other in the upper and lower directions of the cup washer. Accordingly, in Figure 5, etc., an embodiment is shown in which a total of four pairs are provided, one pair on both sides of the cup washer and one pair on the top and bottom of the cup washer. However, the number of upper supports 164 is not limited to this.

Each upper supporter 164 can be coupled to the front supporter 161, the rear supporter 162, and the middle supporter 163. Therefore, the load of the washing unit 130 is transmitted to the front supporter 161, the rear supporter 162, and the middle supporter 163 through the upper supporter 164, and finally can be transmitted to the base plate 110. .

With this structure, the cup washing machine can stably support the washing unit 130 provided inside. The upper supporter 164 can be coupled to the front supporter 161, the rear supporter 162, and the middle supporter 163 by a screw coupling mechanism.

In an embodiment, parts provided at the top of the cup washer, including the washing unit 130, are supported by the frame 160, and each part may ultimately be supported by the base plate 110. Due to this structure, even when relatively heavy parts such as the washing unit 130 are provided at the top of the cup washer, each part can be stably supported by the frame 160 and the base plate 110.

The cup washer may include a front panel 170 and a rear panel 180. The front panel 170 may be placed in front of the cup washer and cover the water storage tank 120 and the washing unit 130. The front panel 170 can be coupled to the rear supporter 162 of the frame 160 using a coupling mechanism.

The rear panel 180 can be coupled to the frame 160 to cover the rear of the cup washer. The rear panel 180 may be provided with a first vent 181 to ventilate the inside and outside of the cup washer. Air flowing into the drying module 132, which will be described below, may flow into the cup washer through the first vent 181.

A handle 260 that allows a user or manager to hold the cup washer may be attached to the rear panel 180 to facilitate use of the cup washer.

The cup washer may be coupled to the upper part of the rear supporter 162 and include a display unit 190 disposed on one side of the door 150. The display unit 190 may be disposed on one side of the door 150 and protrude from the door 150.

Accordingly, the user can view the display unit 190 from the front of the cup washer. The display unit 190 may display various information about the use of the cup washer in the form of images, text, and videos.

The user can operate the cup washer or know the operating status of the cup washer by looking at the information displayed on the display unit 190. Additionally, the display unit 190 may be equipped with a command input means that is input by, for example, a capacitive touch method. Accordingly, the user can control the operation of the cup washer using the display unit 190.

The cup washer may include a first circuit board portion 220 and a substrate portion supporter 230. The first circuit board unit 220 is disposed on one side of the water storage tank 120 and may include a control unit that controls the operation of the cup washer. The first circuit board unit 220 may be placed on one side of the water storage tank 120 at the lower part of the cup washer to create free space due to the arrangement of the water storage conduit having a relatively small volume compared to the washing unit 130.

The lower part of the substrate supporter 230 may be coupled to the base plate 110, the upper portion may be coupled to the intermediate plate 140, and the first circuit board portion 220 may be coupled thereto. The substrate supporter 230 can be stably coupled to the base plate 110 using a coupling mechanism.

The board supporter 230 may be used not only to fix the first circuit board part 220, but also to fix the piping disposed at the bottom of the cup washer.

The cup washer may include an exterior portion 250 that is coupled to the rear panel 180 and covers the rear supporter 162. The rear supporter 162 may be equipped with a plurality of fastening mechanisms to connect it to other parts of the cup washer.

Therefore, in the case of a structure that exposes the rear supporter 162 with the fastening mechanism to the outside, the visual aesthetics of the cup washer may be reduced. Therefore, a structure covering the rear supporter 162 to which the fastening mechanism is fastened is needed.

The exterior portion 250 covers the rear supporter 162 and can be coupled with a relatively small number of fastening mechanisms compared to the rear supporter 162. Due to this structure, the exterior portion 250 is disposed on the outside of the cup washer at a position corresponding to the rear supporter 162, allowing the cup washer to appear neat as a whole.

Hereinafter, the specific structure of the cleaning unit 130 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the washing unit 130 according to one embodiment. Figure 7 is a front view showing the washing unit 130 according to one embodiment.

Figure 8 is a side view showing the washing unit 130 according to one embodiment. Figure 9 is a rear view showing the washing unit 130 according to one embodiment. The washing unit 130 may include a tub 131, a drying module 132, a sump 133, a circulation pump 134, and a drain pump 135.

The tub 131 provides a space to accommodate the cup and through which washing water can be sprayed. A rack on which a cup is mounted may be provided inside the tub 131, and a spray means for spraying water may be provided at the bottom. The open top of the tub 131 can be opened and closed by the door 150.

The drying module 132 is placed on one side of the tub 131 and connected to the tub 131, and can spray heated air for drying into the tub 131. After washing the cup 10 with water is completed, moisture remains on the surface of the cup. The drying module 132 can dry the cup by spraying heated air, that is, hot air, on the cup to dry the water remaining in the cup.

The drying module 132 may be equipped with a heating device to heat the air flowing into the drying module 132. Additionally, the drying module 132 may be equipped with a blowing fan 1321 that forces air to flow through a flow path formed in the drying module 132.

The sump 133 is disposed on the lower side of the tub 131 and connected to the tub 131, and can store water sprayed from the tub 131. The water stored in the sump 133 circulates between the tub 131 and the sump 133 by the circulation pump 134 and is sprayed from the tub 131 by a spray device to wash the cup 10 accommodated in the tub 131. can do.

The circulation pump 134 is disposed on the lower side of the tub 131 to be connected to the tub 131 and the sump 133, and can circulate water between the tub 131 and the sump 133. The circulation pump 134 can force water to flow from the sump 133 to the tub 131.

The circulation pump 134 may be connected to an injection device disposed at the bottom of the tub 131. Accordingly, when the circulation pump 134 operates, the water stored in the sump 133 flows into the spray device and is sprayed into the tub 131 by the spray device to clean the cup.

The drain pump 135 is disposed on the lower side of the tub 131 to be connected to the sump 133 and can discharge water from the sump 133 to the outside. When washing the cup with water is completed, the drain pump 135 operates so that the water stored in the sump 133 can be discharged to the outside of the cup washer through a drain pipe connected to the drain pump 135.

The washing process of the cup 10 with water stored in the water tank 120 is as follows. Water may flow into the water storage tank 120 through a pipe from the water supply and be stored. The water in the water storage tank 120 may be heated by a heating device provided in the water storage tank 120. Heated hot water in the water storage tank 120 may flow into the tub 131 through a pipe and be stored in the sump 133 disposed below the tub 131.

When the circulation pump 134 operates to wash the cup, hot water passes from the sump 133 through the spray device and is sprayed into the tub 131 to wash the cup. The hot water sprayed into the tub 131 flows back into the sump 133, flows back into the spray device by the circulation pump 134, and can be sprayed into the tub 131 by the spray device.

While the circulation pump 134 operates, hot water for washing sequentially flows through the sump 133, the spray device, and the tub 131, and this flow can be repeated. When cup washing with hot water is completed, the circulation pump 134 is stopped and the drain pump 135 operates to discharge the water stored in the sump 133 to the outside.

When drainage by the drain pump 135 is completed, the drying module 132 operates to spray hot air inside the tub 131, and after hot air spraying proceeds for a set time, the cup washing operation including the drying process is completed. It can be.

The cup washer can both wash with detergent and rinse with rinse aid. Below, the structure provided to inject detergent and rinse aid into the tabu will be described in detail.

Meanwhile, in the cup washing process using hot water, the washing process using detergent and the rinsing process using rinse may be separated from each other. After completing the process of washing the cup by mixing detergent in hot water, the water in the sump 133 contains detergent and foreign substances. Therefore, such contaminated water can be discharged to the outside by operating the drain pump 135.

After discharging the contaminated water to the outside, hot water can be introduced into the sump 133 again, the rinse water mixed with the hot water, and the circulation pump 134 can be operated to perform rinsing. In this way, the cleaning efficiency of the cup washer can be increased by separating the washing process using detergent and the rinsing process using rinse.

The washing unit 130 may include a detergent storage unit 136, a rinse storage unit 137, a detergent injection unit 138, a rinse injection unit 139, a detergent pump 1301, and a rinse pump 1302. .

The detergent storage unit 136 is disposed at the rear of the tub 131 and can store detergent. The rinse storage unit 137 is disposed separately from the detergent storage unit 136 at the rear of the tub 131 and can store rinse. Therefore, detergent and rinse aid may not mix with each other.

The top cover 210 may be provided with a detergent inlet 211 into which detergent is injected and a rinse inlet 212 into which rinse aid is injected. The detergent inlet 211 may be connected to the detergent storage unit 136, and the rinse inlet 212 may be connected to the rinse storage unit 137. Accordingly, the detergent and rinse flowing into the detergent inlet 211 and the rinse inlet 212 can be stored in the detergent storage unit 136 and the rinse storage unit 137.

The detergent injection unit 138 is connected to the detergent storage unit 136 and the tub 131, and can inject detergent into the tub 131. The inlet of the detergent injection unit 138 may be connected to the detergent storage unit 136 and the outlet may be connected to the tub 131.

The rinse injection unit 139 is connected to the rinse storage unit 137 and the tub 131, and can inject rinse into the tub 131. The inlet of the rinse injection unit 139 may be connected to the rinse storage unit 137 and the water outlet may be connected to the tub 131.

The detergent pump 1301 is connected to the detergent injection unit 138 and can pump detergent into the tub 131. The rinse pump 1302 is connected to the rinse injection unit 139 and can pump rinse into the tub 131. The operation of the detergent pump 1301 and the rinse pump 1302 may be controlled by a control unit.

The control unit can mix detergent and water by operating the detergent pump 1301 during the washing process, and can mix the rinse and water by operating the rinse pump 1302 during the rinsing process.

The water storage tank 120 may be connected to the tub 131 through a pipe so that water from the water storage tank 120 flows into the tub 131. Accordingly, the water in the water storage tank 120 is heated to become hot water, then flows into the tub 131, and may be stored in the sump 133 until the circulation pump 134 operates.

Meanwhile, as described above, the tub 131 may be provided with a water supply path directly connected to the water supply. Accordingly, depending on the user's choice, the cup can be subjected to normal washing or rapid washing.

In general washing, the cup is washed using hot water heated in the water tank 120, and it is possible to clean the cup using detergent and rinse, but it may take a relatively long time.

Quick cleaning uses room temperature raw water supplied from the water supply to clean the cup, and since it does not use detergent or rinse, the cleaning time is relatively short, so it can be conveniently used by users who want to quickly clean a cup that is relatively less contaminated. .

Figure 10 is a flowchart for explaining a cup washer control method according to an embodiment. Control of the cup washer can be performed by receiving commands from a control unit provided in the cup washer.

Inputting a command to the control unit can be done through an application programmed and implemented in a mobile device such as a smartphone carried by the user who wants to wash the cup, or through an input unit provided in the cup washer. Command input may be performed by a user or an administrator who maintains and repairs the cup washer.

The mobile device can be connected to communicate with a main server located at a distance, and the control unit of the cup washer can also be connected to communicate with the main server. Therefore, commands entered into the mobile device can be transmitted to the control unit of the cup washer through the main server.

The cup washer control method according to the embodiment may mean that the control unit described later maintains or changes the operation mode of each cup washer.

The cup washer according to the embodiment may operate in management mode and use mode. In management mode, the control unit can check whether the cup washer is operating normally. When the cup washer is powered and operating, the cup washer can enter maintenance mode.

Management mode may include initial mode and installation mode. In the initial mode, after the cup washer is turned on, water flowing into the washing unit 130 provided in the cup washer can be drained to the outside, and the main server and the cup washer can be connected to communicate with each other.

When the cup washer is turned on and enters the management mode, the control unit can first drain the water flowing into the washing unit 130 to the outside. Water that has not previously been drained may remain in the washing unit 130, and dirt may remain inside the washing unit 130 even if the washing unit 130 has been previously drained. Therefore, the cleanliness of the washing unit 130 must be maintained. Draining is carried out for this purpose.

The drain may simply discharge the water stored in the tub 131 and the sump 133 to the outside of the cup washer. Alternatively, for a cleaner condition, water may be introduced from the outside into the tub 131 and the sump 133 and drained again. For example, after water flows into the tub 131 from the water supply, the water stored in the tub 131 and the sump 133 can be drained to the outside to clean the inside of the washing unit 130.

After the control unit connects the main server and the cup washer to communicate with each other in the initial mode, the cup washer can be in installation mode.

In installation mode, you can install or update the computer program that controls the operation of the cup washer. Programs required to control the cup washer can be newly installed periodically or updated even if not newly installed. Installation or update of the program can be done by receiving data from the main server connected to the cup washer.

If the installation or update of such a program is carried out in the use mode described later, the cup washer may stop working or progress slowly, causing inconvenience to the user.

Therefore, the user's inconvenience can be reduced by installing or updating the program in a management mode in which the user does not actually use the cup washer.

Additionally, in the management mode, the control unit can check whether the communication status with the main server is good and whether the electrical components provided in the cup washer operate normally without errors. As a result of the check, if an error in the communication state or component is detected, information regarding the error can be displayed on the display unit 190.

Once the program installation or update is completed, the cup washer can be in use mode. In use mode, the user carrying the cup can clean it using a cup washer.

Use modes may include preparation mode, standby mode, and washing mode. Preparation mode and standby mode can be divided according to the temperature of the water stored in the water tank 120. The preparation mode may be when the water stored in the water tank 120 of the cup washer is below a set temperature.

The standby mode may be when the water stored in the water storage tank 120 is above a set temperature. At this time, the above-mentioned set temperature may be, for example, about 70°C. In the general washing mode, when the water stored in the water storage tank 120 reaches the standby mode where the temperature is higher than the above-mentioned set temperature, hot water in the water storage tank 120 flows into the washing unit 130 and cleaning can be performed.

Therefore, in the use mode, if the cup washer is in the preparation mode, it cannot be changed to the washing mode, and after changing to the standby mode, it is changed to the washing mode so that the user can proceed with washing.

When the cup washer is in standby mode and a washing reservation input is received from the user, the cup washer may change to the wash mode and wash may proceed. The cup washer receives a command from standby mode and changes to the washing mode, and in the washing mode, the cups stored in the cup washer can be washed. When cleaning is complete, the cup washer can change back to ready mode.

In an embodiment, there may be an algorithm that integrates a management mode for maintenance and repair of the cup washer and a use mode in which the user cleans the cup using the washer. Therefore, it is possible to smoothly manage the cup washer and at the same time provide convenience to the user.

The use mode may include a sleep mode in which the operation of the heater accommodated in the water storage tank 120 is stopped. The sleep mode is changed to either the ready mode or the standby mode by receiving a command, and at this time, the heater in the water tank 120 operates again to heat the water stored in the water tank 120.

However, if the cup washer is used infrequently and long-term cleaning does not proceed, it is appropriate to stop the heater and wait. Therefore, the cup washer can receive a command to stop the operation of the heater and enter a sleep mode.

In sleep mode, the heater stops operating, reducing the cup washer's electricity consumption. In sleep mode, the control unit can receive command input and change to either ready mode or standby mode.

Since the sleep mode stops the operation of the heater, even if the heater is stopped, the temperature of the water stored in the water storage tank 120 may be above the set temperature for a certain period of time, and as time passes, the water may fall below the set temperature.

Therefore, in sleep mode, if a command is received while the water in the water tank 120 is above a set temperature, the standby mode can be entered, and if a command is received while the water in the water tank 120 is below the set temperature, the standby mode can be entered.

The cup washer can change from sleep mode to either ready mode or standby mode according to a command input from a mobile device carried by the user or an input unit provided in the cup washer.

For example, a user can enter a reservation for cup washing through an application on a mobile device, and the cup washer operates the heater again as soon as the reservation is entered, changing from sleep mode to either ready mode or standby mode. You can.

As another example, the user inputs a wake up command to the input unit provided in the cup washer to operate the heater again and prepare for cleaning, and according to this, the cup washer switches from sleep mode to either ready mode or standby mode. It can be changed to one.

The command to change the cup washer to sleep mode can be implemented by a user or administrator entering a command, or by using the elapse of a set time as a command signal.

Therefore, the cup washer may change from the ready mode or standby mode to the sleep mode when a command is input from the input unit while in the ready mode or the standby mode, or when a set time has elapsed from the start of the ready mode or standby mode. there is.

Washing modes may include normal washing mode and rapid washing mode, and the user can select normal washing and rapid washing. Normal washing and rapid washing are the same as previously described.

In the washing mode, the cup washer has a rapid washing mode in which the cup is washed using room temperature water supplied from the water supply according to a command input by the user, or a general washing mode in which the cup is washed using hot water supplied from the water storage tank 120. You can proceed with the mode.

The cup washer can receive a command from the user's mobile device and change from sleep mode or standby mode to washing mode. Washing can be done as a quick wash or a normal wash depending on the user's choice.

The user can select either rapid washing or normal washing and input a command into the mobile device application, and accordingly, the cup washer can change from sleep mode or standby mode to rapid washing mode or normal washing mode.

As mentioned above, the cup washer cannot proceed with cleaning directly in the preparation mode. Therefore, when a washing command is input, the cup washer reaches standby mode and then changes to washing mode to proceed with washing.

However, when in the sleep mode, if a washing progress command is input, the water in the water tank 120 is above the set temperature in the sleep mode, and the sleep mode can be entered into the standby mode immediately. Therefore, without going through the preparation mode, the sleep mode can be entered into the standby mode. You can immediately change to washing mode.

The cup washer can immediately begin washing when the rapid washing mode is entered. In the rapid cleaning mode, cleaning is performed using raw water at room temperature flowing from the water supply, so water stored in the water tank 120 is not used and there is no need to heat the water, so there is no need to consider standby mode or preparation mode, so immediate cleaning is possible. You can proceed.

When the cup washer receives an input to proceed with the general washing mode, it immediately cleans the cup if it is currently in standby mode, and if it is currently in preparation mode, after the water stored in the water tank 120 reaches the set temperature. You can proceed with washing the cup.

In the normal washing mode, washing can be performed only when the hot water in the water storage tank 120 is above a set temperature. Therefore, if the hot water is currently in standby mode because the temperature is above the set temperature, the cup can be washed immediately.

If you are currently in the preparation mode, you can wait for the water stored in the water storage tank 120 to be sufficiently heated by the heater and then change to the standby mode when the water reaches a set temperature or higher before proceeding with washing the cup.

In an embodiment, the cup washer can perform normal washing and rapid washing according to the user's selection. By simply inputting information using a mobile device, the control unit separates the cup into a normal washing mode and a rapid washing mode to wash the cup, providing convenience to the user.

Figure 11 is a flowchart specifically showing a cup washer control method according to an embodiment. In the management mode, the cup washer may proceed with an operation of draining the water stored in the water storage tank 120 to the outside.

Draining of the water tank 120 can be performed by an administrator in management mode. Draining of the water tank 120 may be performed arbitrarily by the manager's selection. For example, if the cup washer is turned off for a long time and then turned on again and water is stored in the water tank 120, sanitary problems may occur, so it is necessary to drain the water tank 120.

If no water is stored in the water storage tank 120 in the management mode, or if the water is not stored for a long period of time, there is no significant hygiene problem, so the water storage tank 120 may not be drained in the management mode.

Therefore, in the management mode, the drain of the water tank 120 can be selected by the manager. When draining the water tank 120 is necessary, the manager can input a command to drain the water tank 120 through an input unit provided in the cup washer, and the control unit can proceed to drain the water tank 120 accordingly. Draining the water tank 120 can be performed at any time while the cup washer is in maintenance mode.

The cup washer can drain the water stored in the water storage tank 120 to the outside according to a command input from an input unit provided in the cup washer. The water tank 120 drain command may or may not be input.

If there is a command input regarding drain, the cup washer can be changed to use mode after the drain operation and installation mode are completed. If there is no command input regarding drain, the cup washer can be changed to use mode after the installation mode is completed.

When washing begins, the washing machine can perform normal washing or rapid washing depending on the user's choice. Meanwhile, considering the user's convenience, the user can cancel the washing at any time until the washing is carried out by the control unit through a set process and the washing is completed by the control unit.

Washing can be canceled by inputting a command to stop the washing mode through an input unit provided on the user's mobile device or dishwasher.

The washing mode may include a drying mode. When washing is completed through a normal process, a drying process of drying the remaining water on the surface of the cup by the drying module 132 may be automatically performed after completing washing using water. On the other hand, if washing is stopped by the user, the drying process may not proceed.

After the washing mode ends or after receiving a command to stop the washing mode, the cup washer may drain the water flowing into the washing unit 130 to the outside. After one cleaning is performed, water mixed with detergent, rinse, or dirt may remain in the tub 131 and sump 133 of the washing unit 130.

Therefore, in order to proceed with the next washing, when the previous washing is completed, the water flowing into the washing unit 130 can be drained to the outside to prepare for the next washing.

After draining is completed, the cup washer can change to ready mode. Since one cleaning has already been performed after the drain is completed, water is empty in the water tank 120, so in the preparation mode, water can be introduced from the water supply into the water tank 120 and the water stored in the water tank 120 can be heated. .

After the water is heated, the cup washer may be in a ready mode, standby mode, or sleep mode depending on conditions, and in this state, it can prepare for the next cup wash.

In the washing mode state, the user can open the door 150 of the cup washer, place a cup in the washing unit 130, and then press the start button provided on the input part of the cup washer to proceed with washing. In another embodiment, the control unit may detect that the cup is received in the cleaning unit 130 and recognize that the door 150 is closed, and may proceed with cleaning without a manual command input from the user. At this time, normal washing or rapid washing may be performed according to the command input by the user in advance through the mobile device.

In the washing mode, the door 150 that opens and closes the washing unit 130 provided in the cup washing machine may be locked with the washing unit 130 closed. While washing is in progress, the control unit locks the door 150 to prevent water from splashing out of the washing unit 130 when the door 150 is opened during washing.

The door 150 may be configured to be unlocked after a set time has elapsed after the washing mode ends or after receiving a command to stop the washing mode. When the door 150 is unlocked, the user can open the door 150 and retrieve the cup.

The cup washing machine can receive reservations for cup washing from multiple users. Multiple users can enter cup washing reservations using mobile devices they carry, and the main server connected to multiple mobile devices can receive multiple reservations. The main server can transmit multiple reservations to cup washers connected to it.

The cup washer may receive a reservation for washing a cup from a user in a use mode, and may list a plurality of reservations in the order in which the reservations are entered for a plurality of reservations input from a plurality of users.

The cup washer may transmit a notification signal to each user who has reserved washing when the washing order for each of the plurality of reservations arrives. The notification signal can be transmitted to the mobile device carried by each user through the main server.

When the user receives a notification signal that his or her turn has arrived, he or she can go to a place where the cup washer is located and wash his or her cup.

When a reservation is received from a user while the cup washer is in sleep mode, the cup washer may change from the sleep mode to either the ready mode or the standby mode depending on the temperature of the water stored in the water tank.

If there is no user reservation, the cup washer can change to sleep mode to save electricity. When a user's reservation is entered in sleep mode, the dishwasher wakes up immediately and can be changed to ready mode or standby mode.

As described above, when the hot water in the water storage tank 120 is above a set temperature in the sleep mode, when a reservation is input, the sleep mode is immediately changed to the washing mode to prepare for washing.

Cup washing machines can be installed in stores that provide beverage service. Users cannot enter these stores after business is closed, so it is necessary to prevent users from making cup washing reservations outside of business hours.

If a cup washing reservation is made during non-business hours, even though actual cup washing is not possible, the cup washing machine changes from sleep mode to ready mode or standby mode due to the reservation, thereby heating the water in the water tank 120, thus wasting electricity and causing human injury. This is because there is a risk of fire occurring in stores without this.

Accordingly, the cup washer may be equipped to maintain the sleep mode without receiving a reservation for cup washing from the user during a set time interval. This time period may be the non-business hours of the store and may be set by the manager.

Due to this structure, the cup washer can always maintain a sleep mode without the heater operating during non-business hours in the store or during other times when the cup washer is not used. As a result, power waste can be reduced and fires can be prevented even when the cup washer is not turned off, providing convenience to managers.

Figure 12 is a table for explaining a cup washer control method according to an embodiment. Figure 12 specifically shows the operation of the cup washer in each of the above-described modes.

The heater of the water storage tank 120 can operate in preparation mode, standby mode, and cleaning mode. Even in the washing mode, the heater operates and hot water from the water storage tank 120 can be supplied to the washing unit 130 during washing.

Error detection is when the control unit detects errors regarding whether there are any abnormalities in the operation of the cup washer's electrical components and whether the cup washer communicates smoothly with the main server. If an error is detected and there is a problem with the cup washer, the control unit can display information regarding this on the display unit 190. Error detection can continue in all modes of the cup washer.

Draining of the cleaning unit 130 may be performed for hygiene of the cleaning unit 130 in the initial mode of the management mode. Additionally, the drain of the cleaning unit 130 may proceed to the next cleaning at the end of the cleaning mode.

Draining of the water tank 120 may be performed in either the initial mode or installation mode in the management mode, but this may or may not be performed depending on the manager's selection.

The user can make a cleaning reservation through the application of the mobile device in the preparation mode, standby mode, and washing mode of the use mode. In sleep mode, cleaning reservations can be made at any point other than the set time interval in which the aforementioned reservations are prohibited.

Users can select a washing mode, either normal washing or rapid washing, using an application on their mobile device. At this time, because the user may change his or her mind, the application's cleaning mode selection may be performed in standby mode, just before cleaning begins.

The door 150 may be locked while the washing mode is in progress, and may be unlocked in other modes. The door 150 is locked while washing is in progress, preventing water from splashing out of the cup washer through the open door 150 or a gap in the door 150 during washing.

In an embodiment, the user can remotely control the cup washer using a portable mobile device, thereby reducing the number of times the user has to wait in line for his or her turn at the cup washer or input control commands directly into the cup washer. , can provide convenience to users of the cup washer.

As described above, the present invention has been described with reference to the illustrative drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed herein, and various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. It is obvious that transformation can occur. In addition, although the operational effects according to the configuration of the present invention were not explicitly described and explained while explaining the embodiments of the present invention above, it is natural that the predictable effects due to the configuration should also be recognized.

110: Base plate
120: water tank
130: Washing unit
140: middle plate
150: door
160: frame
170: front panel

Claims (17)

Management mode to check whether the cup washer is operating normally; and
Use mode to clean the cup
In the method of controlling a cup washer operated by,
The above usage mode is,
A preparation mode in which the water stored in the water tank of the cup washer is below a set temperature;
A standby mode in which the water stored in the water tank is above a set temperature; and
Washing mode for washing the cup stored in the cup washer
Including,
Cup washer control method. According to paragraph 1,
The use mode includes a sleep mode in which the operation of the heater accommodated in the water tank is stopped,
The sleep mode is changed to either the ready mode or the standby mode by receiving a command,
Cup washer control method. According to paragraph 2,
The cup washer,
Changing from the sleep mode to one of the ready mode or the standby mode according to a command input from a mobile device carried by the user or an input unit provided in the cup washer,
Cup washer control method. According to paragraph 3,
The cup washer,
When a command is input from the input unit while in the ready mode or the standby mode, or when a set time has elapsed from the start of the ready mode or the standby mode, the change from the ready mode or the standby mode to the sleep mode felled,
Cup washer control method. According to paragraph 3,
The cup washer,
Receives a command from the mobile device and changes from either the sleep mode or the standby mode to the washing mode,
Cup washer control method. According to clause 5,
The cup washer,
In the washing mode, a quick washing mode in which the cup is washed using room temperature water according to an input command, or a normal washing mode in which the cup is washed using hot water supplied from the water tank.
To proceed,
Cup washer control method. According to clause 6,
The cup washer,
When the rapid washing mode is entered, washing is performed immediately.
Cup washer control method. In clause 7,
The cup washer,
If you receive input to proceed with normal washing mode,
If it is currently in the standby mode, immediately proceed with cleaning the cup,
When currently in the preparation mode, the cup is washed after the water stored in the water tank reaches the set temperature.
Cup washer control method. According to paragraph 2,
The cup washer,
In the use mode, a reservation for cup washing is input from the user, and a plurality of reservations input from a plurality of users are listed in order,
When the washing order arrives for each of a plurality of reservations, a notification signal is sent to each user who has made a washing reservation.
Cup washer control method. According to clause 9,
When a reservation is received from a user while the cup washer is in the sleep mode, the cup washer changes from the sleep mode to either the ready mode or the standby mode depending on the temperature of the water stored in the water tank.
Cup washer control method. According to clause 9,
The cup washer,
Equipped to maintain the sleep mode without receiving a reservation for cleaning the cup from the user in the set time period,
Cup washer control method. According to paragraph 1,
In the washing mode, the door that opens and closes the washing unit provided in the cup washer is provided to be locked with the washing unit closed.
Cup washer control method. According to paragraph 1,
The management mode is,
An initial mode in which water introduced into the washing unit provided in the cup washer is drained to the outside after the cup washer is turned on, and the main server and the cup washer are connected to enable communication with each other; and
Installation mode to install or update a computer program that controls the operation of the cup washer
Including,
Cup washer control method. According to clause 13,
In the management mode, the cup washer performs an operation of draining the water stored in the water tank to the outside.
Cup washer control method. According to clause 14,
The cup washer,
If there is a command input regarding drain, the mode is changed to the use mode after the drain operation and the installation mode are completed,
If there is no command input regarding drain, the installation mode is changed to the use mode after the installation mode is completed.
Cup washer control method. According to clause 12,
The door is provided to be unlocked when a set time has elapsed after the washing mode ends or after receiving a command to stop the washing mode.
Cup washer control method. According to paragraph 1,
After the washing mode ends or after receiving a command to stop the washing mode, the cup washer drains the water flowing into the washing unit to the outside,
After draining is completed, the cup washer changes to the preparation mode,
Cup washer control method.

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