WO2020140885A1

WO2020140885A1 - Versatile dishwasher

Info

Publication number: WO2020140885A1
Application number: PCT/CN2019/130326
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kong Mun Chew
Original assignee: K-One Eco Industries (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2018-12-31
Filing date: 2019-12-31
Publication date: 2020-07-09
Also published as: JP2022518366A; SG10201811814SA; TW202031190A; KR20220009932A; CN209899302U

Abstract

A versatile dishwasher (102) comprises a washer (104), an eating utensil carrier (106) and a door (108). The washer (104) is used for cleaning soiled eating utensils (112); the eating utensil carrier (106) is designed for detachably coupling with the washer(104) in order to hold the soiled eating utensils (112) during cleaning and/or collect the soiled eating utensils (112) outside the washer (104); and the door (108) is installed with a sealing structure, such as a mechanical seal, labyrinth seal for sealing the eating utensil carrier (16) during cleaning. The washer (104) further has at least one opening (120,122,124) for receiving as an inlet and/or releasing as an outlet the eating utensil carrier (112). The eating utensil carrier (106) further has a transporter (270) for moving the soiled eating utensils (112) on the ground. Other components are also available to the versatile dishwasher (102) for higher productivity and/or easier operation.

Description

VERSATILE DISHWASHER

FIELD

The present application relates to a versatile dishwasher for cleaning eating utensils used in food centers and restaurants. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a versatile dishwasher having configurable inlet and outlet ports.

BACKGROUND

A large number of food centers (e.g., coffee shops or hawker centers) , hotels, restaurants and other eateries serve food and drinks with non-disposable utensils. Porcelain, metal and glass utensils are commonly deployed, which are repeatedly washed and used. Often, the food centers, hotels and restaurants employ dedicated groups of workers to gather and wash soiled utensils. After being cleansed, these utensils are sorted and distributed back to respective stalls in the food centers, hotels and restaurants. The process of collecting dirty utensils, cleaning the dirty utensils and redistributing clean utensils is usually continuously repeated throughout operation hours of the food centers, hotels and restaurants. To clean the soiled utensils, industrial dishwashers are often deployed due to their high washing capacity and efficiency. However, loading and unloading utensils with conventional industrial dishwashers can be laborious, tedious and time-consuming, which inevitably increases operation cost of the food centers, hotels and restaurants. Accordingly, it is desirable to produce a dishwasher that is able to quickly and efficiently load and unload utensils.

SUMMARY

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, a versatile dishwasher can include a washing unit for cleaning eating utensils, the washing unit including a first inlet for receiving soiled eating utensils and a first outlet for discharging cleaned eating utensils, and a carrier configured to hold and transport eating utensils, the carrier configured to detachably couple with the washing unit.

In some examples, a door can be configured to cover at least one of the first inlet or the first outlet of the washing unit during the cleaning process. The door can be configured to detachably couple with at least one of the carrier or the washing unit. The carrier can include a rack configured to support a basket containing eating utensils. In some examples, a position of the rack relative to the carrier can be adjustable. The washing unit comprises a second inlet for receiving soiled eating utensils and a second outlet for discharging cleaned eating utensils. The first inlet and the second inlet can be on different sides of the washing unit. The first inlet and the second outlet can be on the same side of the washing unit and the second inlet and the first outlet are on the same side of the washing unit.

In some examples, a front side of the washing unit defines the first inlet and a back side of the washing unit defines the first outlet, the back side being opposite the front side. The washing unit can include a front side and a back side opposite the front side, the front side of the washing unit defining the first inlet and a sidewall defining the first outlet, the sidewall being positioned between the front side and the back side. A conveyor belt can be configured to transfer eating utensils into or out of the washing unit. The washing unit can define an opening configured to act as an inlet and an outlet of eating utensils. A warning device can be configured to alert a user of an operating status of the versatile dishwasher. The first inlet can be reconfigured to serve as an outlet and the first outlet can be reconfigured to serve as an inlet.

In some examples, a method for cleaning dishware includes placing a tray containing cutlery on a conveyor belt in an upper deck, separating the cutlery to a lower deck below the upper deck, washing the cutlery in a tub in the lower deck, washing the tray on the conveyor belt, and collecting the tray and the cutlery. In some examples, the method further includes transporting the dishware with an automated guided vehicle. Cleaning liquid that is in the tub can be recycled for flushing off the dishware.

In some examples, a dishwasher includes a fluid circulation system configured to distribute cleaning liquid in the dishwasher and a fine bubble generator configured to infuse the cleaning liquid with fine bubbles. The fluid circulation system can be configured to recycle the cleaning liquid. The fine bubble generator can infuse fine bubbles into the recycled cleaning liquid. The fine bubbles can at least partially supplant detergent.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates a first versatile dishwasher configured to operate in a static working mode.

Fig. 2 illustrates the first versatile dishwasher of FIG. 1, including conveyor belts.

Fig. 3 illustrates a second versatile dishwasher configured to operate in a dynamic working mode.

Fig. 4 illustrates internal structures of the second versatile dishwasher of FIG. 3 in a loaded configuration.

Fig. 5A illustrates a fluid circulation mechanism.

Fig. 5B illustrates a dynamic spray head mechanism.

Fig. 6 illustrates a front loading and unloading program.

Fig. 7 illustrates a side loading and unloading program.

Figs. 8 illustrates an L-loading and unloading program.

Fig. 9 illustrates a pass-through program.

Fig. 10 illustrates a pass-through program with a pre-washing module and a rinsing module.

Fig. 11 illustrates a combination of a pass-through program and a side load and unloading program.

Fig. 12 illustrates a combination of a pass-through program, an L-loading and unloading program and a side load and unloading program.

Fig. 13 illustrates a flow diagram for a method of making a versatile dishwasher of the present application.

Fig. 14 illustrates a flow diagram for a method of using a versatile dishwasher of the present application.

Fig. 15 illustrates a multi-level washing configuration.

Fig. 16 illustrates a tray collection process including an automated guided vehicle.

Fig. 17 illustrates a dishwasher that implements fine bubbles and recycling processes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments, as defined by the appended claims. These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to Figs. 1 –17. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only, and should not be construed as limiting. The present application relates to a versatile dishwasher for cleaning eating utensils, such as utensils used in food centers or restaurants. The eating utensils can simply be referred to as utensils, which can include bowls, plates, cups, saucers, trays, cutleries and other eating instruments. In addition, the present application also relates to methods of making and using a versatile dishwasher.

As a first aspect of the disclosure, a new and useful versatile dishwasher is provided. The versatile dishwasher is flexible in its configuration to meet various usage conditions and user’s special preferences. The versatile dishwasher also saves space for users of the versatile dishwasher because the versatile dishwasher requires little room to maneuver or operate.

In some examples, the versatile dishwasher includes a washer, such as a dishwashing unit, for cleaning soiled eating utensils, an eating utensil carrier, also simply referred to as a carrier, for holding the utensils and detachably coupling with the washer and one or more doors or gates for detachably sealing the washer during a cleaning process, to define a sealed volume inside the washer. The washer further can include one or more openings, ports or windows for receiving and/or releasing the eating utensil carrier. In use, soiled utensils are collected and put into the eating utensil carrier. The eating utensil carrier can then be coupled to the washer, thereby disposing the utensils within the washer for cleaning. The doors can also be detachably mounted onto a transporter that is used for moving the soiled eating utensils on the ground. In some examples, the carrier includes transporting elements, such as wheels, the effectively transport the utensils.

The versatile dishwasher can include auxiliary devices in addition to the washer. For example, multiple cleaning devices can be integrated with the versatile dishwasher for a better cleaning effect. For instance, the versatile dishwasher can include a pre-washing module for purging food residue, a rinsing module (e.g., sanitizer) , and a drying module. To increase convenience and efficiency, other auxiliary devices can also be incorporated to the versatile dishwasher, including a table for supporting the eating utensil carrier, an automatic transfer mechanism for transferring utensils into and out of the washer, a locking mechanism for securing the eating utensil carrier to the washer, a control unit for checking the status of the dishwasher in various processes, and an automatic transfer mechanism for moving the carrier into and/or out of the washer. Although multiple auxiliary devices are available, the versatile dishwasher as a whole can be compact such that the versatile dishwasher can be conveniently installed in a food center, hotel or restaurant without occupying much space.

With the new and unique structures of the present application, the versatile dishwasher combines the advantages of industrial dishwashers and domestic dishdrawers (i.e., dish drawer or dish-drawer) . On one hand, the versatile dishwasher has comparable washing capacity with industrial dishwashers; on the other hand, the versatile dishwasher also enjoys the benefits of improved design flexibility to meet various usage conditions, space constraints and user’s special preferences. The versatile dishwasher can use water, detergent (e.g., electrolysis of water for providing acid and alkaline) , steam or other cleaning agents for removing stubborn stains and debris, such as those caused by oil, butter or sauces. The versatile dishwasher can also adopt different washing conditions (e.g., modified detergent usage or steam temperature) for cleaning diverse types of soiled utensils.

In some examples, the door of the versatile dishwasher can be specially configured or adapted to be detachably coupled with the washer for defining an enclosure with the washer during the cleaning process. The door can be a single unitary piece or can include multiple smaller pieces. The door can be either permanently or temporarily connected to the washer and can be detachably coupled to the eating utensil carrier. For example, the door can be permanently connected to the washer so that the door is opened for receiving or releasing eating utensils and closed during the cleaning process. In some examples, the door can be entirely detached from the washer for receiving or releasing eating utensils and coupled with the washer during the cleaning process. In some examples, the door can be coupled to the eating utensil carrier instead of the washer. For instance, the door can be permanently fixed to the carrier and can be configured to releasably couple with the washer after inserting the utensils in the carrier into the washer. The door can also include a sealing structure for forming a liquid tight seal between the eating utensil carrier and the washer during the cleaning process. For instance, in some examples the sealing structure is disposed along a perimeter of the door and configured to be pressed between the perimeter of the door and a perimeter of the washer.

In some examples, the versatile dishwasher can include multiple working modes. For instance, the versatile dishwasher can include a static working mode and a dynamic working mode. In the static working mode, the eating utensil carrier can be non-mobile and thus suitable for working environments with limited space to move around. In the dynamic working mode, the eating utensil carrier can include a transporter for moving soiled eating utensils on the ground. The transporter can include wheels, such as a mobile cart, a mobile dolly or a handcart, or other suitable transportation elements. In some examples the transporter includes two wheels and a support stand, similar to a bike stand, can be used for supporting the transporter when the transporter is not being supported by a user or by the washer. The carrier can include one or more baskets for holding eating utensils in position before, during and after washing. The utensils can remain in the baskets during the washing process. In other words, the baskets can be transferred into and retrieved out of the washer together with eating utensils. In some examples, the basket is vertically movable to reach a height substantially the same as an opening in the washer.

The washer of the versatile dishwasher can include at least one opening in a sidewall of the washer for receiving the eating utensil carrier and/or releasing the eating utensil carrier. Each of the at least one openings can be configured to be detachably sealed by the sealing structure of the door to prevent water leakage and other hazards. The one or more openings can be provided on one side of the washer, such as the front side, the back side, the left side or the right side. For example, a first opening and a second opening can be provided on the front side of the washer. The first opening can be positioned below the second opening.

In some examples, the openings can be provided on two or more sides of the washer for different loading and unloading programs. For example, an opening can be provided on the front side and another opening can be provided on the back side (opposite the front side) for a pass-through loading and unloading program. In some examples, an opening is provided on the front side and another opening is provided on the left side (i.e., a neighboring sides design for an L-loading and unloading program) .

In some examples, the opening can include a window, opening or aperture that operates both as an inlet for receiving soiled eating utensils and as an outlet for releasing washed eating utensils. In some examples, the opening can include one window configured to operate as an inlet for receiving soiled eating utensils and another window to act as an outlet for releasing washed eating utensils. In this case, the washer uses at least two windows to fulfil the functions of receiving soiled eating utensils before the cleaning process and releasing washed eating utensils after the cleaning process. The washer can have a mixture or combination of windows that function solely as input or output windows and also windows that function both as an input and output for higher productivity and configurability. The washer can include one or more slits for receiving a tray. According to a specific usage condition and user’s special preferences, the silts can be either vertically or horizontally oriented for easier operation. Each of the slits can be configured in a variety of shapes, sizes and positions for receiving various types of trays. After being transferred into the washer, the trays can be cleaned together with or separately from the soiled eating utensils. When the trays and eating utensils are made of different materials, suitable detergent or solvent can be chosen for better cleaning effect if the trays are cleaned separately from the eating utensils.

As discussed above, the versatile dishwasher has one or more doors that can be detachable from, connected to and sealable with the washer. After soiled utensils are loaded into the washer, the door can be connected to the washer to cover or occlude the openings. The sealing structure of the door can include a mechanical seal or a labyrinth seal for sealing the eating utensil carrier to the washer during the cleaning process. The sealing structure can be designed to withstand heat, acid, alkali, pressure or a combination of any of these for hermetically sealing the versatile dishwasher during the cleaning process. The sealing structure helps join parts or mechanisms together by preventing leakage (e.g., in a plumbing system) , containing pressure or excluding contamination. In some examples, the effectiveness of the sealing structure is dependent on adhesion in the case of sealants and compression in the case of gaskets. Meanwhile, the openings are also configured to be detachably sealed by the door to prevent water leakage or other potential hazards. After the cleaning process, the door can be detached from the washer to reveal the openings. In some examples, the door can include multiple smaller pieces or sections each configured to seal an opening during the cleaning process. The sections of the door can be configured to move independent from one another. For instance, a top section of the door can be opened to reveal a top portion of the washer while a bottom section of the door remains closed. In some examples, each of the multiple pieces or sections of the door can be designed to individually seal one window either as an inlet or as an outlet.

The washer can include a unique fluid circulation mechanism that provides sufficient internal space in the washer to accommodate the carrier when the carrier is coupled with the washer. The fluid circulation mechanism can include one or more spray arms for discharging a cleaning fluid (e.g., clean water, recycled water and detergent) onto soiled eating utensils in the dishwasher. The fluid circulation mechanism can include a tube, pipe or conduit in fluid communication with the spray arms. The tube can be used for transporting a cleaning liquid from an external source, such as a tank, to the spray arms of the fluid circulation mechanism of the washer. The spray arms can be configured to move (e.g., rotate, swing, shift, shake, vibrate or rock) within a predetermined range (e.g., angle, distance) in order to cover a wide area of soiled eating utensils. For example, the spray arm can include a rocking mechanism that enables the spray arm to change its spray angle as 180-degree. When the operation of the spray mechanism of the tube and the operation of the rocking mechanism of the spray arm are combined during the cleaning process, multiple pieces of the soiled eating utensils inside the internal space of the washer can be fully covered and completely washed by the cleaning liquid.

In some examples, the washer can include a strainer or filter for preventing solid particles or slurry from blocking or clogging an internal or external drainage system connected to the versatile dishwasher. The strainer allows rinsed or used water to pass through so that the rinsed or used water can be recycled for flushing soiled eating utensils again. By using recycled water, clean water consumption by the versatile dishwasher can be drastically reduced. In some examples, the strainer can include a cyclone filter that is adapted to automatically purge out the solid particles, slurry or food debris from recycled water. The cyclone reduces or avoids usage of a filtering screen or net so that the versatile dishwasher is less dependent on the supply of consumables, such as filtering screens.

The strainer can include a waste collector for storing the solid particles or the slurry. The waste collector can be periodically cleaned so that food waste does not block or clog the strainer. Additionally, the solid particles or the slurry can be removed from waste water discharge from the versatile dishwasher so that a sewage system or drainage system of a food court or restaurant will not be blocked. The strainer can include a fluid trap for draining sewage water from the versatile dishwasher to the drainage system without spillage (e.g., dirtying floor of the food court) .

In some examples, the versatile dishwasher can include a table or support surface that is either permanently or detachably connected to the washer for supporting the eating utensil carrier. The height of the table can be adjustable to reach the position of the openings in the washer to easily load the utensils into the washer before the cleaning process and to easily unload the washed eating utensils after the cleaning process. In this way, the arduous labor of elevating the soiled eating utensils up from the ground to the openings and dropping the washed eating utensils down from the openings to the ground can be avoided.

In some examples, the table can include a rubbish bin. The rubbish bin can be configured to receive large food particles from soiled eating utensils before loaded into the washer. The rubbish bin can be rotatable, detachable or both rotatable and detachable for emptying rubbish. An operator can easily flip the rotatable rubbish bin for emptying. If a full rubbish bin is removed, an empty rubbish bin can be conveniently attached to the table for resuming collection of food particles from soiled eating utensils. The rubbish bin can include two containers, which enclose each other. An inner container has perforations for draining sewage water and collecting solid food debris, whilst an outer container has an enclosed bottom for keeping the sewage water dripped from the solid food debris or slurry. The rubbish bin can additionally comprise a side rubbish bin for collecting sewage water from rubbish in the rubbish bin. The side rubbish bin can be attached to a perforated bottom of the rubbish bin so that sewage water can be dripped and collected at the side rubbish bin.

In some examples, the versatile dishwasher includes an automatic transfer mechanism for moving soiled eating utensils into and/or washed eating utensils out of the washer. Similar to the table described above, the height of the automatic transfer mechanism can be adjustable to reach the position of the openings for easy operation. In this way, the arduous labor of transferring the soiled eating utensils into the washer and retrieving the washed eating utensils out of washer is avoided. The soiled eating utensils can be held in a basket before, during and after the cleaning process. In other words, the basket can be cleaned together with the soiled eating utensils inside the washer. In some examples, the basket is also moved on the automatic transfer mechanism.

The eating utensil carrier can include one or more racks for holding one or more baskets on each of the racks. The racks can be integrally formed with the eating utensil carrier for receiving baskets. The one or more racks can be resistive to corrosion and/or mechanical shocks so that the eating utensil carrier becomes durable for long-term operation. The one or more racks can include a first rack and a second rack for holding the utensils of different heights. The utensils can have diverse shapes, sizes and/or heights. Thus, the racks and/or baskets can vary to accommodate diverse utensils. Two or more racks of the eating utensil carrier with different heights can provide suitable space for receiving the utensils into the baskets without wasting space/height between loaded utensils and their upper rack. More utensils can be packed into the eating utensil carrier such that an interior space or room in the eating utensil carrier can be effectively utilized. Instead of having racks with same sizes, a rack or basket with a short distance from a base of the rack to a bottom of its upper rack (known as the height of the rack or basket) accepts utensils with suitable sizes, wasting less loading capacity of the eating utensil carrier.

The one or more racks can be configured to detachably hold the one or more baskets. Baskets of diverse sizes are suitable for holding a variety of eating utensils so that the same versatile dishwasher is suitable for food catering of different preferences, culture or duty of usage. The one or more racks can include a height adjustment mechanism for holding the baskets of different heights. The height adjustment can be discrete or continuous so that the baskets or utensil of diverse sizes can be contained by the eating utensil carrier for washing. The height adjustment mechanism can be electrically or mechanically regulated so that the height adjustment can be achieved with simplicity, accuracy and reliability.

In addition to the sealing structure of the door, the versatile dishwasher can include a locking mechanism for securing the door to the washer during the cleaning, such as a shut-tight door, a latch or both. The locking mechanism can either be manually or automatically (e.g., connected to a computer) operated so that the door is prevented from being decoupled when the washer is in washing operation.

The versatile dishwasher can include a control unit that regulates operation of the versatile dishwasher and communicates with external electronic devices. The control unit can transmit operation data to a remote computer server for data analysis and operation monitoring. According to users’ preference, the control unit can have different types of control units, including a temperature control unit for controlling the temperature of the cleaning fluid during the cleaning process; a water control unit for controlling the volume and speed of the cleaning fluid sprayed out of the spray arms; and a detergent control unit for controlling composition of the cleaning fluid by adjusting the ratio of the detergent to water.

In some examples, the control unit includes a warning device for checking status of the door, the locking mechanism or both to ensure the openings remain covered during the cleaning process. The warning device can include a warning light, an audio alarm, and any other suitable notification mechanism. When the door is not coupled with the washer tightly or the locking mechanism does not secure the door to the washer, the warning mechanism can be configured to send a warning signal to the control unit and an alarm to operators. After receiving the warning signal from the warning mechanism, the control unit can suspend or stop the cleaning process in the washer until the warning signal is cleared and/or the warning mechanism detects the door is securely shut.

The versatile dishwasher can include a safety mechanism that can detect gas leakage, water spillage, hazardous electric current discharge or any other safety issues. The safety mechanism can prevent the versatile dishwasher from starting the washing process until the safety issues have been resolved. The safety mechanism can work together with the warning device. For example, when the eating utensil carrier and the washer are not coupled or locked to each other securely, the safety mechanism can cut off electrical supply to the versatile dishwasher and meanwhile the warning mechanism notifies the control unit to suspend or stop the cleaning process and notifies the operators to resolve the safety issue.

The versatile dishwasher can include a monitoring system that can be configured to observe operation of the versatile dishwasher. The monitoring system can include cameras, computers, sensors and glass windows for observing operation status of the versatile dishwasher. The cameras can include a thermographic camera (infrared camera or thermal imaging camera) , a camcorder, a digital camera and X-ray camera.

The monitoring system can include one or more indicators for showing operation status of the versatile dishwasher. The indicators can give audio or visual signals to operators so that the operators can observe the status of the versatile dishwasher. The one or more indicators can include a display screen, a warning light, an audio alarm, a loud speaker, a touchscreen, a transparent window on the versatile dishwasher or a combination of any of these. These indicators can provide interfaces for regulating or observing the versatile dishwasher.

A second aspect of the present application discloses a method of making the versatile dishwasher. Firstly, the washer can be provided with the unique structures as described above. Secondly, the unique structures are installed to the washer and adjusted according to specific working environments. Thirdly, the eating utensil carrier can be provided with multiple baskets. Fourthly, the door (or multiple door pieces) with the seal structure is provided. Fifthly, various auxiliary devices can be provided and installed to the versatile dishwasher according to users’ preference. And sixthly, the cleaning fluid made up of detergent and water can be supplied to the fluid circulation mechanism.

A third aspect of the present application discloses a method of using the versatile dishwasher. Firstly, soiled eating utensils can be loaded into multiple baskets that can be releasably coupled to the eating utensil carrier. Secondly, the eating utensil carrier can be moved towards the washer manually or via a transporter. Thirdly, the eating utensil carrier can be inserted into the openings of the washer by choosing a static working mode or a dynamic working mode. Fourthly, a specific loading and unloading working program suitable for a specific usage condition and user’s special preferences can be selected. Fifthly, the openings can be closed or covered with a door or multiple door pieces and the openings can be sealed with a sealing structure. Sixthly, the cleaning process can be performed with or without a pre-washing process and a rinsing process. Seventhly, the sealing structure can be disconnected from the openings and the door can be separated or opened from the openings. Eighthly, the eating utensil carrier can be detached or removed from the washer after the cleaning process according to the working mode and the working program previously selected. And ninthly, the versatile dishwasher can be periodically maintained.

According to a third aspect, the present application provides a versatile dishwasher that can include a washing station for cleaning soiled eating utensils. The washing station has one or more inlets for receiving the soiled eating utensils and/or one or more outlets for discharging cleaned eating utensils. The versatile dishwasher also can include a carrier for fetching eating utensils and retaining the utensils while within the washing station. The carrier can be configured to couple with the washing station at the one or more inlets and/or the one or more outlets. In some examples, the carrier remains coupled with the washing station during the washing process, or the carrier can be detached from the washing station during washing process of the washing station. The one or more inlets or outlets are also known as windows, which can be located at opposite or neighboring/adjacent sides of the washing station. For example, the inlet and outlet can be parallel or perpendicular to each other.

The versatile dishwasher can include one or more doors or gates for closing or covering an opening (e.g., an inlet, an outlet) of the washing station during the cleaning process so that washing fluids are kept inside a sealed volume of the washing station.

In some examples, the one or more doors are detachable from or connectable with the washing station, the carrier, or both the washing station and the carrier. For example, a door can be fixedly mounted onto the carrier, and can then be attached to the washing station for concealing an inlet after loading soiled eating utensils into the washing station at the inlet.

The carrier can include one or more supports or racks for carrying one or more baskets configured to hold the eating utensils. The one or more baskets can be transported by the carrier to collect soiled eating utensils, and enclosed by the washing station during cleaning process. The carrier can be coupled to the washing station during the cleaning process. In some examples, the carrier is not coupled to the washing station during the cleaning process but is instead secured by the attachment of the door to the washing station. In some examples, the baskets are removed from the carrier and placed in the washing station such that the carrier is not inserted into the washing station but is kept separate. In this manner, the carrier can be used in a hawker center or restaurant for collecting soiled eating utensils continuously, whilst the baskets of eating utensils are being washed inside the washing station.

The one or more racks of the carrier can be adjustable in size, vertical position, lateral position or a combination of these for fetching the eating utensils from the washing station. For example, the carrier can include a rack that can be affixed to a first height position, a second height position or a third height position so that the same carrier can feed a basket to any of three inlets of the washing station at various heights.

The one or more inlets can include a first inlet, a second inlet, a third inlet or more inlets for receiving soiled eating utensils independently. Similarly, the one or more outlets can include a first outlet, a second outlet, a third outlet or more outlets for discharging cleaned eating utensils. Any of the inlets can be connected by a track or rail to any of the outlets respectively. When necessary, multiple inlets or outlets are mutually connected to each other (e.g., first outlet connected to the third inlet) .

The versatile dishwasher can further include a locking mechanism for fastening the door to the washing station. The locking mechanism can prevent accidental operation of the versatile dishwasher, which violates predetermined washing protocols of the versatile dishwasher. For example, the locking mechanism can include a shut-tight door, a latch or both. The versatile dishwasher can include a warning device for alerting operating status (e.g., on whether the door tightly shut) . The warning device includes warning light signals, sirens, vibrations or electronic signals communicated to personal electronic devices of a user (e.g., smartphone) . In some examples, the warning device activates when a user attempts to operate the washing station before the locking mechanism is secured.

The versatile dishwasher can include a first module for pre-washing operation before the versatile dishwasher for static operation; and a second module for rinsing operation following the versatile dishwasher. The versatile dishwasher can be known as double module conveying system.

The versatile dishwasher can include the double module conveying system, and a third module for drying operation following the second module of the double module conveying system. The versatile dishwasher is also known as a triple module conveying system.

According to a fourth aspect, an adaptable dishwasher, which is also known as the versatile dishwasher, can include a washer (also known as a washing station) for cleaning eating utensils. The versatile dishwasher can be substantially similar to the aspects discussed above. The washer can include a first inlet, a second inlet, a first outlet and a second outlet. The washer can be configured to transfer the eating utensils from one of the inlets to one of the outlets for cleaning.

Exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of the present application will now be described with references to the above-mentioned figures. Embodiments of the application comprise parts or method steps that are similar or identical to each other. These parts or method steps are thus denoted with similar or identical names or reference numerals. Description of these relevant parts of method steps is hereby incorporated by reference, wherever relevant or appropriate.

According to types of the eating utensil carrier, the versatile dishwasher can have two optional working modes: a static working mode and a dynamic working mode. In the static working mode, the eating utensil carrier can be non-mobile and thus suitable for working environment with no path or limited space for moving around. In the dynamic working mode, the eating utensil carrier can include a transporter for moving soiled eating utensils around on the ground.

Figs. 1 and 2 illustrate a first versatile dishwasher of a static working mode in accordance with a first embodiment 100 of the present application. The first versatile dishwasher 102 can include a first washer 104, a first eating utensil carrier 106, a first door 108, a control unit 110 and a locking mechanism 130.

The first washer 104 can have a front side 114, a back side 115 (opposite the front side 114) , a left side 117 and a right side 118 (positioned between the front side 114 and the back side 115) . The front side 114, back side 115, left side 117 and right side 118 can define an internal volume. Each side of the first washer 104 can include multiple windows or openings through which the internal volume can be accessed. For example, the front side 114 can define a front top window 120, a front middle window 122 positioned below the front top window 120, and a front bottom window 124 positioned below the front middle window 122 (collectively referred to as “the

front windows

120, 122 and 124” ) . The front top window 120, the front middle window 122 and the front bottom window 124 can be vertically aligned from the top to the bottom on the front side 114 of the first washer 104. The

front windows

120, 122 and 124 can each function as an inlet for receiving soiled eating utensils 112, an outlet for releasing washed eating utensils 112, or both as the inlet and the outlet. The first washer 104 can include at least one slit for receiving soiled trays and/or outputting clean trays. For example, the first washer 104 can include a first slit 126 vertically oriented (i.e., perpendicular with the ground) and a second slit 128 horizontally oriented (i.e., parallel with the ground) .

The first washer 104 can also have other auxiliary devices for convenient operation. For example, a fastener (not shown) can be installed inside the first washer 104 for securing the first eating utensil carrier 106 inside the first washer 104 during the cleaning process. As discussed in greater detail with reference to Fig. 10, the first washer 104 can include a pre-washing module, a rinsing module, and a drying module (not shown) . The pre-washing module, including a rubbish bin, can be used for collecting large food particles removed from soiled eating utensils 112 before the cleaning process. The pre-washing module can be connected with a waste conduit for transferring collected large food particles out of the first washer 104. The rinsing module can be installed after the cleaning process for removing soap, detergent or any residues from washed eating utensils 112. The drying module can be installed after the rinsing module for removing water or moisture such that washed eating utensils 112 are ready to use when they are retrieved out of the first washer 104. The drying module can utilize UV (ultraviolet) , infrared, hot air/gas or super-heated steam for drying washed eating utensils 112. The dryer can include one or more blowers, lamps or orifices at diverse locations of the first versatile dishwasher 102 so that some or all of the first versatile dishwasher 102 may be dried with different or same capacity.

The eating utensil carrier 106 can include a first basket 132, a second basket 134 and a third basket 136 for holding eating utensils 112. The

baskets

132, 134 and 136 can have various types of holders or retaining elements configured to firmly hold eating utensils of different sizes, shapes and weights. For example, the first basket 132, the second basket 134 and the third basket 136 can be detachably coupled with the first eating utensil carrier 106 and vertically aligned from the top to the bottom.

The first door 108 can be configured as a side cover, a side door, an end door or an end cover. The first door 108 can be detachably coupled with the first eating utensil carrier 106 and/or the first washer 104. The first door 108 can be a single unit large enough to fully close or cover the front side 114. In some examples, the first door 108 can include multiple small pieces or sections. Each of the multiple small pieces can be used for fully closing one of the multiple windows of the first washer 104. For example, a first piece (not shown) of the first door 108 can cover the top window 120 of the front side 114. The first door 108 can include a sealing structure, such as a mechanical seal, a labyrinth seal or the like for sealing the first washer 104 with the first door 108 after soiled eating utensils 112 have been transferred into the first washer 104 and before the cleaning process starts.

The locking mechanism 130 can be used for securing the first door 108 to the first washer 104 during the cleaning process. The locking mechanism 130 can be a shut-tight door, a latch or the like. The locking mechanism 130 can either be manually or automatically (e.g., connected to a computer) operated so that the first door 108 is prevented from being decoupled during a cleaning process.

The first control unit 110 can be used for regulating any operation of the first versatile dishwasher 102 and communicating with various external electronic devices. The first control unit 110 can transmit operation data to a remote computer server for data analysis and operation monitoring. For example, the control unit can include a warning device (not shown) for checking status of the first door 108. The control unit 110 and the warning device can be in communication with a safety mechanism 138 configured to monitor the front side 114 during the cleaning process. The warning device can include a warning light 154, an audio alarm 156 and other notification devices. In some examples, when the first door 108 is not tightly coupled with the first washer 104 or the locking mechanism 130 does not secure the first door 108 to the first washer 104, the warning device can transmit a warning signal to the first control unit 110 and an alarm signal to operators. After receiving the warning signal from the warning device, the first control unit 110 can suspend or stop the cleaning process inside the first washer 104 until the fault indicated by the warning signal is cleared.

The first versatile dishwasher 102 can include a guiding mechanism (not shown) for directing the first eating utensil carrier 106 to the first washer 104 for coupling. The guiding mechanism can include wedges, rails, tracks, magnets or other cooperating parts on the first eating utensil carrier 106 and the first washer 104 so that the first eating utensil carrier 106 is easily guided to the first washer 104. For example, the guiding mechanism can include two sleeves positioned on the first eating utensil carrier 106, and two rods located on the first washer 104. The two rods of the first washer 104 can be received into the two sleeves of the carrier 106 respectively when coupling the first eating utensil carrier 106 and the first washer 104. In such a manner, the first eating utensil carrier 106 and the first washer 104 can be easily joined together for washing the soiled eating utensils 112. The guiding mechanism can provide assistance for aligning the two separated parts (i.e., the first eating utensil carrier 106 and the first washer 104) possibly before their physical contact and/or after their physical contact. Hence, the guiding mechanism allows for ease of joining the first eating utensil carrier 106 and the first washer 104 together, avoiding collision or hard landings.

Fig. 2 illustrates the first versatile dishwasher 102 of a static working mode when the first door 108 is disconnected from the first eating utensil carrier 106. The first eating utensil carrier 106 can be loaded with soiled eating utensils 112 in the first basket 132, the second basket 134 and the third basket 136. The loaded first basket 132 can be transferred into the front top window 120 of the first washer 104. Likewise, the loaded second basket 134 and the loaded third basket 136 can be transferred into the front middle window 122 and the front bottom window 124 respectively. In this way, the productivity of the first versatile dishwasher 102 is triply enhanced. The

baskets

132, 134 and 136 can be either manually carried by operators or moved by an automatic transfer mechanism such as a belt conveyor system. The belt conveyor system can have multiple conveyor belts for transferring multiple baskets into multiple windows at the same time. For example, a top conveyor belt 164 can transfer the first basket 132 into the front top window 120, a middle conveyor belt 166 can transfer the second basket 134 into the front middle window 122, and a bottom or third conveyor belt 168 can transfer the third basket 136 to the front bottom window 124. In some examples, only one conveyor belt is used and the height of the conveyor belt is adjustable to reach each of the

front windows

120, 122 and 124 of the first washer 104. It will be understood that in such a configuration, the three

front windows

120, 122 and 124 would not be loaded simultaneously.

Fig. 3 illustrates a second versatile dishwasher of a dynamic working mode in accordance with a second embodiment 200 of the present application. The second versatile dishwasher 202 can be substantially similar to the first versatile dishwasher 102 except that a second eating utensil carrier 206 further has a transporter 270 for moving soiled eating utensils 212 on the ground. The transporter 270 can be connectable with and detachable from a second door 208. The transporter 270 can include four wheels, such as a mobile cart, a mobile dolly or a handcart. For example, the transporter 270 can be a free-standing cart with four wheels as shown in Fig. 3. Other suitable transportation methods are possible.

Similar to the first door 108, the second door 208 can be detachably coupled with the second eating utensil carrier 206 and a second washer 204. In some examples, the

multiple baskets

232, 234 and 236 of the eating utensil carrier 206 are not detached from the second door 208 while soiled eating utensils 212 are loaded into the second washer 204. Instead, the second eating utensil carrier 206 can be moved on the transporter 270 such that the

baskets

232, 234 and 236 are inserted into the second washer 204. The transporter 270 can remain coupled to the second washer 204 in the cleaning process and then can move the second eating utensil carrier 206 out of the second washer 204 loaded with washed eating utensil 212 after the cleaning process is completed. Compared with the first embodiment 100 where the

baskets

132, 134 and 136 are transferred into the

multiple windows

120, 122 and 124 manually by operators or automatically by a belt conveyor system, the transporter 270 in the second embodiment 200 can directly transfer the

baskets

232, 234 and 236 into

windows

220, 222, and 224 respectively. This removes the need for additional space for installing the belt conveyor system. In addition, it can also be more convenient to collect the soiled eating utensils 212 by moving the second eating utensil carrier 206 on the transporter 270 around food centers, hotels or restaurants. The second washer 204 can further include one or

more slits

226 and 228 for receive and/or retrieving trays.

Fig. 4 illustrates internal structures installed inside the second versatile dishwasher 202. The loaded second eating utensil carrier 206 can be coupled with the second washer 204 in accordance with the second embodiment 200 discussed above with reference to Fig. 3. The second washer 204 can include a fluid circulation mechanism 272 (also known as a washing mechanism 272) for discharging a cleaning liquid onto the soiled eating utensils 212 during the cleaning process. In some examples, the fluid circulation mechanism 272 can include a top spray arm 273,

middle spray arms

274, 276, a bottom spray arm 278 and a tube 280. The

spray arms

273, 274, 276 and 278 can be vertically aligned from the top to the bottom. The

spray arms

273, 274, 276 and 278 can each be connected to the tube 280 such that the cleaning liquid is supplied from the tube 280 to the

spray arms

273, 274, 276 and 278 for discharging the cleaning liquid.

Before the cleaning process begins, the second eating utensil carrier 206 and the transporter 270 can be pushed into the second washer 204. The carrier 206 and transporter 270 can be inserted as a whole into the second washer 204 or only portions of the carrier 206 can be inserted into the second washer 204 (e.g., the

baskets

232, 234 and 236) during the cleaning process. Therefore, the second washer 204 can be particularly designed with sufficient internal space for accommodating the second eating utensil carrier 206. In some examples, the tube 280 can be located at a corner 282 of the second washer 204 so as to save internal space in the second washer 204. The first basket 232 can be fittingly inserted between the top spray arm 273 and a first middle spray arm 274. The second basket 234 can be fittingly inserted between the first middle spray arm 274 and the second middle spray arm 276. The third basket 236 can also be fittingly inserted between the second middle spray arm 276 and the bottom spray arm 278 and the top surface of the transporter 270. In this arrangement, the cleaning liquid can be discharged from the top spray arm 272, the

middle spray arms

274, 276 and the bottom spray arm 278 to the soiled eating utensils 212 loaded in the first basket 232, the second basket 234 and the third basket 236.

Fig. 5A illustrates an example of the

spray arms

273, 276 and 278 of the fluid circulation mechanism 272. Each of the

spray arms

273, 276 and 278 can include a spray head and a rotary tube. The

spray arms

273, 276 and 278 can be vertically stacked and parallel to each other. In some examples, a top spray head 284 and a top rotary tube 296 are coupled to form the top spray arm 273. The top spray arm can be configured to spray cleaning liquid downwards toward the first basket 232. A middle spray head 286 and a middle rotary tube 297 can be joined together at their centers for spraying the cleaning liquid upwards. In some examples, the middle spray head 286 can be configured to spray cleaning liquid both upward and downward. Similarly, a bottom spray head 288 and a bottom rotary tube 298 can be connected to the fluid circulation mechanism 272 for spraying the cleaning liquid upwards. The

spray arms

273, 276 and 278 can also include rotary discs configured to rotate the

rotary tubes

296, 297, 298. All three

spray heads

284, 286 and 288 can be linked to the tube 280 for receiving supply of the clean fluid. In some examples, the middle spray arm 276 can be configured for spraying the cleaning liquid downwards, similar to the top spray arm 274. Furthermore, the spray heads 284, 286 and 288 can be configured to move (e.g., rotate, swing, shift, shake, vibrate, rock) within a predetermined range (e.g., angle, distance) in order to cover multiple pieces of the soiled eating utensils. The carrier 206 can include

baskets

232 and 234 which can be coupled to and supported by a vertical column 299. The bottom part of the column 299 can be coupled with the transporter 270.

Various programs for loading and unloading the eating utensil carrier into the washer are described from Fig. 6 to Fig. 12. The programs that can be adopted by the versatile dishwasher in the present application are not limited to the embodiments shown below.

Fig. 5B illustrates example dynamic spray heads 284 and 286. In some examples, the spray heads 284 and 286 can each be configured to oscillate or rock such that the direction of sprayed cleaning liquid alternates by about 30-60 degrees. The dynamic spray heads 284 and 286 can provide a wider washing coverage that is capable of reaching blind spots or shielded portions of the utensils 212. In some examples, the utensils 212 and basket 232 are positioned between a first dynamic spray head 284 that is configured to spray cleaning liquid downward and a second dynamic spray head 286 that is configured to spray cleaning liquid upward. While Fig. 5B illustrates rotational motion of the spray heads 284 and 286, other motions are also contemplated to provide more efficient cleaning. For example, the spray heads 284 and 286 can be configured to move laterally with respect to the utensils 212. In some examples, the basket 232 itself is configured to move relative to the spray heads to allow cleaning liquid to reach a larger area.

Fig. 6 illustrates a front loading and unloading program according to a third embodiment 300 of the present application. The third embodiments 300 can include a third versatile dishwasher 302 that can be substantially similar to the first and second

versatile dishwashers

102, 202. The third versatile dishwasher 302 can include a third washer 304 and a third eating utensil carrier (not shown) . The third eating utensil carrier can work under either the static working mode of the first embodiment 100 or the dynamic working mode of the second embodiment 200. As shown in Fig. 6, in some situations, the third washer 304 is blocked on both a left side 308 and a right side 310. For instance, the left side 308 might be blocked by a table 312 and a cooker 314 on the lower level, and also by an exhaust hood 316 on the upper level, while the right side 310 might be blocked by a wall 318. Therefore, the third washer 304 is limited to access of a front side 320 for loading and unloading if a back side of the third washer 304 is also be blocked as in most food courts, hotels or restaurants. The front side 320 can include a top window 326, a middle window 328 and a bottom widow 330. The third eating utensil carrier can include a first basket 332, a second basket 334 and a third basket 336 configured to enter the top window 326, middle window 328 and bottom window 330 respectively.

In some examples of the front loading and unloading program, each of the

windows

326, 328 and 330 can function as an inlet, an outlet, or both. For example, the top window 326 can act as an inlet for receiving the first basket 332 (indicated by the arrow pointing into the top window 326) , while the middle window 328 can act as an outlet for releasing the second basket 334 (indicated by the arrow pointing away from the middle window 328) . Thus, a combination of the top window 326 as an inlet and the middle window 328 as an outlet can fulfil the operation of the third versatile dishwasher 302. In some examples, the bottom window 330 can be both an inlet for receiving the third basket 336 and an outlet for releasing the third basket 336. In addition, the front side 320 can include a slit 332 for receiving a tray 340 into the third washer 304 for being cleaned separately or together with soiled eating utensils.

Fig. 7 illustrates a side loading and unloading program according to a fourth embodiment 400 of the present application. A fourth versatile dishwasher 402 can include a fourth washer 404 and a fourth eating utensil carrier (not shown) . The fourth versatile dishwasher 402 can be substantially similar to the versatile dishwashers discussed above. The fourth eating utensil carrier can work under either the static working mode of the first embodiment 100 or the dynamic working mode of the second embodiment 200. The left side 414 of the fourth washer 404 can be used to receive and release soiled eating utensils. For example, if the front side 408, the back side 410 and the right side 412 are blocked, the left side 414 of the fourth washer 404 can be used to receive and release soiled eating utensils. As shown in Fig. 7, the left side 414 can define a top window 416, a middle window 418 and a bottom window 420. A first basket 422 loaded with soiled eating utensils can be transferred into the top window 416; while a second basket 424 loaded with washed eating utensils is retrieved from the middle opening 418. Thus, a combination of the top window 416 as an inlet and the middle window 418 as an outlet can fulfil the operation of the fourth versatile dishwasher 402. In some examples, the bottom window 420 can be both an inlet for receiving a third basket 426 and an outlet for releasing the third basket 426.

Fig. 8 illustrates an L-loading and unloading program according to a fifth embodiment 500 of the present application. A fifth versatile dishwasher 502 can include a fifth washer 504 and a fifth eating utensil carrier (not shown) . The fifth eating utensil carrier can work under either the static working mode of the first embodiment 100 or the dynamic working mode of the second embodiment 200. In some examples, the front side 512 and the left side 514 are used to receive and release soiled eating utensils.

As shown in Fig. 8, the front side 512 can define a front top window 516, a front middle window 518 and a front bottom window 520; while the left side 514 can define a left top window 522, a left middle window 524 and a left bottom window 526. A first basket 526 loaded with soiled eating utensils can be transferred into the left top window 522 and then retrieved from the front top window 516 after the cleaning process. A second basket 528 loaded with soiled eating utensils can be transferred from the front middle opening 518 and then retrieved from the left middle window 524 after the cleaning process. Thus a combination of the left top window 522 as an inlet and the front top window 516 as an outlet can fulfill the operation of the fifth versatile dishwasher 502. Similarly, a combination of the front top window 516 as an inlet and the left middle window 524 as an outlet can also makes up an L-loading and unloading program 500. In some examples, the front bottom window 520 and the left bottom window 526 can operate both as an inlet and outlet of a basket 530.

The

baskets

526, 528 and 530 can be either manually carried by operators or moved by an automatic transfer mechanism 532 such as a belt conveyor system. The belt conveyor system 532 can have multiple conveyor belts for transferring multiple baskets to multiple windows. For example, a first belt conveyor system 534 can automatically transfer the first basket 526 with soiled eating utensils into the left top window 522. A second belt conveyor system 536 can also automatically receive the second basket 528 with washed eating utensils out of the left middle window 524. In some examples, one single automatic transfer mechanism 532 is used, and the height of the conveyor belt is adjustable to reach each of the desired window.

The automatic transfer mechanism 532 can further include a rubbish bin 540 for removing large particles and other food residues. For example, the first belt conveyor system 534 can include a rubbish bin 540 located before the left top window 522. Furthermore, the fifth washer 504 also can include a silt 542 for receiving a soiled tray 544. In some examples, the fifth washer 504 include multiple slits on multiple sides for receiving or dispersing trays.

In addition to the L-loading and unloading program 500, a front loading and unloading program (e.g., program 300) by transferring soiled eating utensils into and retrieving washed eating utensils out of the front window 520 can also be conducted simultaneously for higher productivity.

Fig. 9 illustrates a pass-through loading and unloading program according to a sixth embodiment 600 of the present application. A sixth versatile dishwasher 602 can include a sixth washer 604 and a sixth eating utensil carrier (not shown) . The sixth eating utensil carrier can work under either the static working mode of the first embodiment 100 or the dynamic working mode of the second embodiment 200. In some examples, a front side 612 and a back side 614 are used to receive and release eating utensils.

As shown in Fig. 9, the front side 612 can define a front top window 616 and a front middle window 618; while the back side 614 can include a back top window (not shown) and a back middle window (not shown) . A first basket 624 loaded with soiled eating utensils can be transferred into the front top window 616 and then retrieved from a back top window after the cleaning process, while a second basket 626 loaded with soiled eating utensils can be transferred from the back middle opening and then retrieved from the front middle window 618 after the cleaning process. In some examples, the front top window 616 and the front middle window 618 both receive baskets and the back top window and back middle window both release baskets. Thus, a combination of the front top window 616 as an inlet and the back top window 620 as an outlet can fulfil the operation of the sixth versatile dishwasher 602. Similarly, a combination of the back middle window as an inlet and the front middle window 618 as an outlet can also make up a pass-through loading and unloading program 600.

The

baskets

624 and 626 can be either manually carried by operators or moved by an automatic transfer mechanism 628 such as a belt conveyor system. The belt conveyor system 628 can have multiple conveyor belts for transferring multiple baskets to multiple windows. For example, a first belt conveyor system 630 can automatically transfer the second basket 626 with soiled eating utensils into the back middle window and then receive the second basket 626 with washed eating utensils out of the front middle window 618. A second belt conveyor system 632 can automatically receive the second basket 626 with cleaned eating utensils out of the front middle window 618. In some examples, one single automatic transfer mechanism 628 is used and the height of the conveyor belt is adjustable to reach each of the

windows

616 and 618.

The automatic transfer mechanism 628 can further have a rubbish bin 634 for removing large particles and other food residues. For example, the second belt conveyor system 630 has a rubbish bin 634 located before the front middle window 618. Furthermore, the sixth washer 604 also has a silt on the front side, the back side or on both. For example, a slit 636 can be located on the front side 612 for receiving a soiled tray 638.

Referring to Fig. 10, to further enhance working efficiency of the sixth versatile dishwasher 602, auxiliary washing equipment can also be installed such as a pre-washing module 640 and/or a rinsing module 642 shown in Fig. 10. The pre-washing module 640 can be installed between the rubbish bin 634 and the front side 612 as the inlet for removing large food particles from soiled eating utensils. The pre-washing module 640 can be connected with a waste conduit for transferring collected large food particles out of the first washer. Satisfactory cleaning effect can be achieved by passing soiled eating utensils through the rubbish bin 634 and the pre-washing module 640. Various cleaning methods can be adopted in the pre-washing module 640 such as water flushing by a water pipe, screening by a mesh, wiping by a brush or their combination. The rinsing module 642 can also be installed after the back side of the washing unit 604 for rinsing washed eating utensils with clean water to remove soap, detergent or any residues. In addition, a drying module (not shown) can be installed after the rinsing module 642 for removing water or moisture such that the eating utensils are ready to use when they are retrieved out of the sixth washer 604. The drying module can utilize UV (ultraviolet) , infrared, hot air/gas or super-heated steam for drying washed eating utensils. The dryer can include one or more blowers, lamps or orifices at diverse locations of the sixth versatile dishwasher 602 so that parts or whole of the sixth versatile dishwasher 602 can be dried with different or same capacity.

Any of the working programs described above can be combined for higher productivity under suitable usage conditions and user’s special preferences for instance, the front loading and unloading program of the third embodiment 300, the side loading and unloading program of the fourth embodiment 400, the L-loading and unloading program of the fifth embodiment 500 and the pass-through loading and unloading program of the sixth embodiment 600.

According to the seventh embodiment 700 of the present application, Fig. 11 illustrates a seventh versatile dishwasher 702 which combines the side loading and unloading program of the fourth embodiment 400 and the pass-through loading and unloading program of the sixth embodiment 600. To meet a specific working requirement, the two programs can run individually for low capacity or simultaneously for higher productivity. The seventh versatile dishwasher 702 can include a seventh washer 704 and a seventh eating utensils carrier (not shown) . The seventh washer 704 can define openings on a front side 708, a back side 710 and a left side 712. The front side 708 has a front top window 716 and a front middle window 718; and the back side 710 has a back top window (not shown) and a back middle window (not shown) accordingly. The left side 712 can define a left top window 724, a left middle window 726 and a left bottom window 728.

Similar to the sixth embodiment 600, the front top window 716 can act as an outlet and the back top window can act as an inlet to constitute a first pass-through working program; while the front middle window 718 can act as an inlet and the back middle window can act as an outlet to create a second pass-through working program. Meanwhile, the left top window 724 can act as an inlet and the left middle window 726 can act as an outlet integrated into a first side loading and unloading working program; while the left bottom window 728 acts as both an inlet and an outlet for the second side loading and unloading working program.

The seventh versatile dishwasher 702 can include a first automatic transfer mechanism 738 located near the front side 708 and a second automatic transfer mechanism 740 located near the left side 712. Both of the

automatic transfer mechanisms

738 and 740 can include rubbish bins for a pre-washing purpose. In addition, the seventh washer 704 also can include one or more slits 742 for receiving soiled trays 744.

According to the eighth embodiment 800 of the present application, Fig. 12 illustrates an eighth versatile dishwasher 802 which combines the side loading and unloading program of the fourth embodiment 400, the L-loading and unloading program 500 and the through-passing loading and unloading program of the sixth embodiment 600. To meet a specific working requirement, the three programs can run individually for low capacity or simultaneously for higher productivity. The eighth versatile dishwasher 802 can include an eighth washer 804 and an eighth eating utensils carrier (not shown) . The eighth washer 804 can define openings on a front side 808, a back side 810 and a left side 812. The front side 808 can include a front top window 816, a front middle window 818 and a front bottom window 820. The back side 810 can include a back top window (not shown) which corresponds to the front top window 816, a back middle window (not shown) which corresponds to the front middle window 818, and a back bottom window (not shown) which corresponds to the front bottom window 820. The left side 812 can define a left top window 830, a left middle window 832 and a left bottom window 834.

Similar to the sixth embodiment 600, the front top window 816 can act as an inlet and the back top window can act as an outlet to constitute a pass-through working program; while the left middle window 832 can act as an inlet and the front middle window 818 as an outlet to create an L-loading and unloading working program. Meanwhile, the front bottom window 820 and the left top window 830 can act both as an inlet and an outlet for a front loading and unloading working program and a side loading and unloading program, respectively. Other auxiliary parts such as a slit, a rubbish bin or an automatic transfer mechanism can be also installed for higher productivity.

Fig. 13 illustrates a method 1000 of making a versatile dishwasher in accordance with certain aspects discussed above. Step 1020, a washer with openings suitable for a specific usage condition and user’s special preferences is provided. Step 1040, various internal parts are installed in the washer, including a fluid circulation mechanism with a spray arm and a tube. Step 1060, an eating utensil carrier with multiple baskets is provided. The baskets are detachably coupled to the eating utensil carrier. The eating utensil carrier can further have a transporter for moving the eating utensil carrier on the ground and specifically towards the washer. Step 1080, a door with a sealing structure is provided. Step 1100, various auxiliary parts such as a control unit are also provided and installed to the versatile dishwasher. Step 1120, a cleaning fluid made up of detergent and water is supplied to the fluid circulation mechanism.

Fig. 14 illustrates a method 2000 of using a versatile dishwasher in accordance with certain aspects discussed above. Step 2020, soiled eating utensils are loaded into multiple baskets that are further coupled to an eating utensil carrier. Step 2040, the eating utensil carrier is moved near a washer manually or via a transporter. Step 2060, the eating utensil carrier is coupled to openings of the washer based on a static working mode or a dynamic working mode. Step 2080, a loading and unloading working program suitable for a specific usage condition and user’s special preferences is selected. Step 2100, the openings are closed with a door to which a sealing structure is connected. Step 2120, the cleaning process is performed with or without a pre-washing process and a rinsing process. Step 2140, the sealing structure is disconnected and the door is opened. Step 2160, the eating utensil carrier is detached from the washer after washing according to the working mode and the working program previously selected. Step 2180, the versatile dishwasher is periodically maintained.

Fig. 15 illustrates a multilevel washer 3000 including an upper deck 3004 and a lower deck 3008. The multilevel washer 3000 can be configured to separate utensils 3012 from trays 3016. In some examples, utensils 3012 positioned on trays 3016 are transported along a conveyor belt 3020 in the upper deck 3004. The conveyor belt 3020 can be positioned below one or

more spray heads

3024a and 3024b. The spray head 3024a can be a wash station configured to spray cleaning solution, such as soap, onto the utensils 3012 and trays 3016. A second spray head 3024b located along the conveyor belt 3020 can be a clean water station configured to spray clean water onto the trays 3016. In some examples, the utensils 3012 are separated from the trays 3016 such that the utensils 3012 drop from the upper deck 3004 to the lower deck 3008.

The lower deck 3008 can comprise a tub or washing station 3028 that comprises cleaning solution. The lower deck 3008 can also include a strainer or filter 3032, such as a zigzag strainer to collect sludge from the utensils 3012. Once the utensils 3012 are washed within the tub 3028 a rack or angled conveyor belt 3036 can transfer the utensils 3012 from the tub 3028 to a turntable or distribution station 3040. The lower deck 3008 can include a clean water spray head 3024c configured to rinse off the cleaned utensils 3012 that are positioned on the rack 3036. The lower deck 3008 can include a dryer (not shown) configured to dry the cleaned utensils 3012 on the rack 3036 and/or on the distribution station 3040. On the upper deck 3004, once the trays 3016 are separated from the utensils 3012, the trays 3016 can remain on the conveyor belt 3020 of the upper deck 3004. The trays 3016 can further be rinsed and/or washed by the spray heads 3024 above the conveyor belt 3020. In some examples, the conveyor belt 3020 can transfer the trays 3016 to a tray stack location or a tray stacker 3024 where the trays 3016 are stacked and prepared for further use.

As shown in Fig. 16, an automated guided vehicle (AGV) 3044 can be used to collect, transport, and distribute trays 3016 and utensils 3012. Fig. 16 illustrates the conveyor belt 3020 as discussed in figure 15, and further includes the AGV positioned to collect the stacked trays 3016. In some examples, the trays 3016 can be stacked directly onto the AGV or can be first gathered on a tray stacker 3024 which is then loaded onto the AGV to be returned to the designated storage stations. In some examples, the AGV is also used to collect and transport the utensils 3012.

Fig. 17 illustrates a dishwasher 4000 including a recycling process as well as a fine bubble or nano bubble generator 4004. The dishwasher 4000 can be substantially similar to any of the dishwashers discussed above. In some examples, the fine bubble generator 4004 is used to disperse fine bubbles into a tub 4028 and/or into the fluid circulation system 4008 and the spray arms 4024. The use of fine bubbles from the fine bubble generator 4004 can eliminate the need for detergents, high pressured water, or hot water. The fine bubbles can be generated by any known methods including ultrasonic means.

In some examples, recycled cleaning solution or water is used to flush off the utensils 4012. For examples, the tub 4028 can contain dirty water that had been previously used to clean dishes. The dirty water can be pumped from the tub 4028 used to flush off food remnants from dirty utensils 4012. The utensils can then be washed with clean water, however, by using recycled water to initially flush off the utensils 4012, the need for clean water is reduced. Further, the dirty water can already be infused with fine bubbles, thereby decreasing the need for fine bubbles to be infused into clean water.

Throughout this disclosure, certain embodiments may be disclosed in a range format. The description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the disclosed ranges. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible sub-ranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed sub-ranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

It will be apparent that various other modifications and adaptations of the application will be apparent to the person skilled in the art after reading the foregoing disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the application and it is intended that all such modifications and adaptations come within the scope of the appended claims.

As used herein, the terms exterior, outer, interior, inner, top, bottom, front, back, left, right, upper, and lower are used for reference purposes only. An exterior or outer portion of a component can form a portion of an exterior surface of the component but may not necessarily form the entire exterior of outer surface thereof. Similarly, the interior or inner portion of a component can form or define an interior or inner portion of the component but can also form or define a portion of an exterior or outer surface of the component. A top portion of a component can be located above a bottom portion in some orientations of the component, but can also be located in line with, below, or in other spatial relationships with the bottom portion depending on the orientation of the component.

Various inventions have been described herein with reference to certain specific embodiments and examples. However, they will be recognized by those skilled in the art that many variations are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the inventions disclosed herein, in that those inventions set forth in the claims below are intended to cover all variations and modifications of the inventions disclosed without departing from the spirit of the inventions. The terms "including: " and "having" come as used in the specification and claims shall have the same meaning as the term "comprising. "

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Claims

A versatile dishwasher comprising:

a washing unit for cleaning eating utensils, the washing unit comprising a first inlet for receiving soiled eating utensils and a first outlet for discharging cleaned eating utensils; and

a carrier configured to hold and transport eating utensils, the carrier configured to detachably couple with the washing unit.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising a door configured to cover at least one of the first inlet or the first outlet of the washing unit during the cleaning process.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the door is configured to detachably couple with at least one of the carrier or the washing unit.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the carrier comprises a rack configured to support a basket containing eating utensils.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 4, wherein a position of the rack relative to the carrier is adjustable.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the washing unit comprises a second inlet for receiving soiled eating utensils and a second outlet for discharging cleaned eating utensils.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 6, wherein the first inlet and the second inlet are on different sides of the washing unit.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 6, wherein the first inlet and the second outlet are on the same side of the washing unit and the second inlet and the first outlet are on the same side of the washing unit.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 1, wherein a front side of the washing unit defines the first inlet and a back side of the washing unit defines the first outlet, the back side being opposite the front side.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the washing unit comprises a front side and a back side opposite the front side, the front side of the washing unit defining the first inlet and a sidewall defining the first outlet, the sidewall being positioned between the front side and the back side.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising a conveyor belt configured to transfer eating utensils into or out of the washing unit.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the washing unit defines an opening configured to act as an inlet and an outlet of eating utensils.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising a warning device configured to alert a user of an operating status of the versatile dishwasher.
The versatile dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the first inlet can be reconfigured to serve as an outlet and the first outlet can be reconfigured to serve as an inlet.
A method for cleaning dishware comprising:

placing a tray containing cutlery on a conveyor belt in an upper deck;

separating the cutlery to a lower deck below the upper deck;

washing the cutlery in a tub in the lower deck;

washing the tray on the conveyor belt; and

collecting the tray and the cutlery.
The method of claim 15, further comprising transporting the dishware with an automated guided vehicle.
The method of claim 15, wherein cleaning liquid in the tub is recycled for flushing off the dishware.
A dishwasher comprising:

a fluid circulation system configured to distribute cleaning liquid in the dishwasher; and

a fine bubble generator configured to infuse the cleaning liquid with fine bubbles;

wherein the fluid circulation system is configured to recycle cleaning liquid.
The dishwasher of claim 18, wherein the fine bubble generator infuses fine bubbles into the recycled cleaning liquid.
The dishwasher of claim 18, wherein the fine bubbles at least partially supplant detergent.