WO2022269594A1

WO2022269594A1 - Device and methods for sorting dishes

Info

Publication number: WO2022269594A1
Application number: PCT/IL2022/050537
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gilad Heftman; Eran HASON; Itai HAREL
Original assignee: Dish River Ltd
Priority date: 2021-06-22
Filing date: 2022-05-23
Publication date: 2022-12-29

Abstract

The invention discloses a dishwasher-sorting system, comprising a washer, a dryer, a first conveyor having a proximal end and a distal end, said first conveyor passing through the washer and the dryer; a first sorter located after the distal end of the first conveyor: the first sorter configured to sort between dishware and racks; a rack storage comprising a proximal end and a distal end, the rack storage being in communication with the first sorter at said proximal end of the rack storage; said rack storage configured for receiving the racks moving on the first conveyor; a second sorter configured to sort between different types of said dishware; at least two dishware receiving containers configured to receive the different types of said dishware from the second sorter.

Description

DEVICE AND METHODS FOR SORTING DISHES

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to devices and methods for sorting dishes and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to devices and methods for sorting dishes after being cleaned by a commercial dishwasher machine.

Additional background art includes Japanese patent JP5348780B2 disclosing a conveyer dishwasher surely detecting a rack in a predetermined position. In this conveyer dishwasher, a rack sliding surface extending on the top face of a rack rail is utilized to detect the rack by a rocking plate. The rocking plate abuts on a bottom surface of the rack to descend, and projects over the rack sliding surface when not abutting on the bottom surface of the rack. Thus, unless the rack is dislocated from the rack rail due to unforeseen circumstances, the base of the rack in the process of being carried is continuously brought into sliding contact with the rack sliding surface so that the certainty of detecting passing of the rack can be heightened by utilizing the dead load of the rack.

Japanese patent JP5744778B2 disclosing a dish sorting device for sorting dishes includes: a water tank into which the dishes are charged or flow in; a conveyer device for forming a conveying route along a wall surface of the water tank to convey the dishes in the water tank set on a conveyor delivering from the level below the water tank to a predetermined position; a plate flow means for gathering the dishes in the water tank to a starting point of the conveyor in the water tank; and a plate sorting means provided in the conveying route of the conveyor to drop the dishes set on the conveyor in the water tank in an irregular posture in the water tank.

South Korean patent KR200428819Y1 disclosing a device designed to be attached to the outlet of the automatic dish washer (conveyor type), and it is designed to be used by the automatic drop dish sorting device to separate the plates and dishes from the automatic dish washer according to their size and shape. The present invention relates to a dish plate separating and sorting device for a dishwasher.

U.S. Patent No. US3446350A disclosing a sorting apparatus which can sort generally disc-shaped articles such as chinaware according to size, having a number of paths of different widths and branching from a feed surface, arranged in such a manner as to effect gradual separation of the various groups of articles without sudden dropping of any of these articles during the separation.

International Patent Application No. W02005120732A1 disclosing a method and a device for the sorting of individual bodies whereby the are n groups of individual bodies with n > 2 and the individual bodies have differing groups with differing centers of gravity (S). According to the method, the individual bodies are arranged one behind the other in at least one row in a transport direction (T), whereby the individual bodies have at least one side supported on at least on support line along the transport direction (T). The individual bodies are run in the transport direction (T) along the at least one support line, over at least n-1 sorting regions, individual bodies of at least one group tip over a support surface edge, when the center of gravity (S) of said individual bodies in a sorting region doesn't lie over at least one support surface in the sorting region and the individual bodies of the other groups remain on the support surface.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Following is a non-exclusive list including some examples of embodiments of the invention. The invention also includes embodiments which include fewer than all the features in an example and embodiments using features from multiple examples, also if not expressly listed below.

Example 1. A machine for sorting dishware, comprising: a. a conveyor configured to allow a dishware to reach an edge of said conveyor; b. at least one partition located along said edge of said conveyor; c. a gap between said conveyor and said at least one partition; d. at least one dishware receiving container located below said gap and configured to receive a dishware falling from said conveyor within said gap.

Example 2. The machine according to example 1, wherein said conveyor is a conveyor belt.

Example 3. The machine according to example 1 or example 2, wherein said conveyor is tilted in a direction perpendicular to a movement of said conveyor, said tilting generating a higher end and a lower end.

Example 4. The machine according to any one of examples 1-3, wherein said at least one partition is located at said lower end of said tilted conveyor.

Example 5. The machine according to any one of examples 1-4, wherein said dishware enters said conveyor from said higher end of said conveyor. Example 6. The machine according to any one of examples 1-5, wherein said gap increases in width along said conveyor.

Example 7. The machine according to any one of examples 1-6, wherein said tilting allows said dishware to move towards said edge by gravitation.

Example 8. The machine according to any one of examples 1-7, wherein said dishware is allowed to fall according to a relationship between a center of gravity of said dishware and a width of said gap.

Example 9. The machine according to any one of examples 1-8, wherein said conveyor comprises active mechanical means to move said dishware towards said edge.

Example 10. The machine according to any one of examples 1-9, wherein said partition comprises active mechanical means to move said dishware downwards towards said at least one dishware receiving container.

Example 11. The machine according to any one of examples 1-10, wherein said partition comprises active mechanical means to move said dishware in a same direction as said conveyor.

Example 12. The machine according to any one of examples 1-11, wherein said conveyor is made of a material that allows said dishware to slide when said conveyor is tilted.

Example 13. The machine according to any one of examples 1-12, wherein said gap is comprises a width calculated according to a relationship between a center of gravity of said dishware and a radius of said dishware.

Example 14. The machine according to any one of examples 1-13, wherein said gap comprises a width calculated according to the following formula: b(m)=(1-μ_1 μ_2 )[rCOS(α)- hSIN(α)]/[COS(α)-μ_2 [SIN(α)]] where a is the angle of inclination of said conveyor when tilted; h is the height of the center of gravity of said dishware, r is the radius of said dishware, mΐ is the coefficient of friction between said dishware and said conveyor, m2 is the coefficient of friction between said dishware and said sorting partition.

Example 15. The machine according to any one of examples 1-14, wherein said dishware-sorting machine is configured to sort one or more of dishware, pans, pots, glassware, cutlery, trays baskets and racks.

Example 16. The machine according to any one of examples 1-15, wherein pans, pots and trays are sorted at the distal end of said conveyor.

Example 17. The machine according to any one of examples 1-16, wherein dishware is fed into said dishware-sorting machine from a dishwasher. Example 18. The machine according to any one of examples 1-17, wherein said at least one dishware receiving container comprises at least one slower element comprising a spring for slowing a fall of said dishware from said conveyor.

Example 19. The machine according to any one of examples 1-18, wherein said at least one dishware receiving container is configured to receive said dishware and stacking it in an organized manner.

Example 20. The machine according to any one of examples 1-19, wherein said configured to allow a dishware to reach an edge of said conveyor is by providing said conveyor with a material having a coefficient of friction between said dishware and said conveyor which allows said dishware to reach an edge of said conveyor when said conveyor is tilted towards said edge.

Example 21. The machine according to any one of examples 1-20, wherein said conveyor is made of two different materials having two different coefficient of friction between said dishware and said conveyor.

Example 22. The machine according to any one of examples 1-21, wherein said configured to allow a dishware to reach an edge of said conveyor is by providing said conveyor with active mechanical means to move said dishware downwards towards said edge.

Example 23. The machine according to any one of examples 1-22, wherein said partition extends into said at least one dishware receiving container.

Example 24. A dishware receiving container, comprising: a. an elongated hollow body comprising four walls, a bottom and an open top; said elongated hollow body for organizedly stack a plurality of dishware; b. an opening at one of said four walls and in proximity to said bottom for receiving at least one dishware; c. at least one bottom lead screw located on the opposite wall to said wall comprising said opening; said at least one bottom lead screw connected proximally to a rotating mechanism located adjacent to said bottom; d. at least one side lead screw located on a side wall to said wall comprising said opening; said at least one side lead screw connected proximally to said rotating mechanism located adjacent to said bottom; e. a rotating mechanism located adjacent to said bottom and operatively interconnected to said at least one bottom lead screw and said at least one side lead screw; said rotating mechanism configured to synchronously rotate said at least one bottom lead screw and said at least one side lead screw.

Example 25. The dishware receiving container according to example 24, wherein said at least one bottom lead screw further comprises a grooved tube extending distally from said at least one bottom lead screw; said grooved tube connected distally with a holder at a distal end of said opposite wall.

Example 26. The dishware receiving container according to example 24 or example 25, wherein said at least one side lead screw further comprises a smooth tube extending distally from said at least one side lead screw; said smooth tube connected distally with a holder at a distal end of said side wall.

Example 27. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-26, further comprising a unidirectional ratchet mechanism located on said side wall after said at least one side lead screw for preventing a dishware from returning to said at least one side lead screw once arrived to said smooth tube.

Example 28. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-27, wherein said dishware receiving container comprises two bottom lead screws.

Example 29. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-28, wherein said dishware receiving container comprises two side lead screws.

Example 30. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-29, wherein dishware enters said dishware receiving container facing towards said open top.

Example 31. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-30, wherein dishware enters said dishware receiving container facing the same direction.

Example 32. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-31 , further comprising a collector configured to extract all dishware at once from said dishware receiving container.

Example 33. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-32, wherein said dishware receiving container is configured to store from about 20 to about 100 dishware.

Example 34. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-33, further comprising a slowing element located at said opening for slowing down a velocity of entry of a dishware when entering said dishware receiving container.

Example 35. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-34, wherein a pitch of said at least one bottom lead screw and said at least one side lead screw is configured to be bigger than the thickness of at least one contact point of a dishware with said lead screw in the direction of the advancement of said dishware in said lead screw.

Example 36. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-35, wherein said at least one bottom lead screw and said at least one side lead screw comprise a length of from about 74mm to about 114mm.

Example 37. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-36, wherein said at least one bottom lead screw is made of a soft material.

Example 38. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-37, wherein said at least one bottom lead screw is made of nylon 12.

Example 39. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-38, wherein grooves in said grooved tube comprise a width that prevents involuntary slipping of a dishware but to allow its progression when said dishware is pushed forward by another dishware.

Example 40. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-39, wherein said rotating mechanism is a mechanical rotating mechanism.

Example 41. The dishware receiving container according to any one of examples 24-40, wherein said rotating mechanism is an electronic rotating mechanism.

Example 42. A method of sorting dishware, comprising: a. conveying dishes along a path; b. allowing dishes to move towards an edge of said path until contacting a partition; wherein there is a gap between said path and said partition; c. allowing dishes to fall from said path into said gap, according to a relationship between a center of gravity and width of said dish and said gap.

Example 43. The method according to example 42, wherein said move towards an edge is done by gravity.

Example 44. The method according to example 42 or example 43, wherein said move towards an edge is actively done by a mechanism.

Example 45. The method according to any one of examples 42-44, wherein said conveying is performed along a conveyor.

Example 46. The method according to any one of examples 42-45, wherein said conveyor is tilted in a direction perpendicular to a movement of said conveyor, said tilting generating a higher end and a lower end. Example 47. The method according to any one of examples 42-46, wherein said gap increases in width along said path.

Example 48. A method of sorting dishware, comprising: a. tilting a conveyor belt along an axis of movement of said conveyor belt thereby generating a lower side and a higher side in said conveyor belt; b. positioning at least one partition along said lower side of said conveyor belt; said at least one partition positioned at a certain distance from said conveyor belt thereby generating at least one gap between said conveyor belt and at least one partition; c. sorting said dishware by allowing said dishware to fall in said at least one gap when a size of said dishware allows for said dishware to fall in said at least one gap.

Example 49. A dishwasher-sorting system, comprising: a. a washer; b. a dryer; c. a first conveyor having a proximal end and a distal end, said first conveyor passing through said washer and said dryer; d. a first sorter located after said distal end of said first conveyor: said first sorter configured to sort between dishware, racks and/or cutlery; e. a rack storage comprising a proximal end and a distal end, said rack storage being in communication with said first sorter at said proximal end of said rack storage; said rack storage configured for receiving said racks moving on said first conveyor; f. a second sorter configured to sort between different types of said dishware; g. at least two dishware receiving containers configured to receive said different types of said dishware from said second sorter.

Example 50. The dishwasher-sorting system according to example 49, wherein said first sorter comprises: a. an opening for allowing dishware moving on said first conveyor to be fed into a second sorting area; and b. at least one side protrusion to allow racks moving on said first conveyor to pass over said opening and into said rack storage.

Example 51. The dishwasher-sorting system according to example 49 or example 50, wherein said rack storage comprises a second conveyor for directing said racks from said proximal end of said rack storage to said distal end of said rack storage Example 52. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of examples 49-51, wherein said second sorter comprises: a. a third conveyor configured to allow a dishware to reach an edge of said third conveyor; b. at least one partition located along said edge of said third conveyor; c. a gap between said third conveyor and said at least one partition, for allowing said dishware to be fed into said at least one dishware container.

Example 53. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of examples 49-52, wherein said at least two dishware receiving containers are located below said gap and configured to receive a dishware falling from said third conveyor within said gap.

Example 54. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of examples 49-53, further comprising at least one separate area for feeding cutlery into said dishwasher-sorting system.

Example 55. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of examples 49-54, further comprising a cutlery storage for receiving cutlery from said at least one separate area after passing through said washer and said dryer.

Example 56. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of examples 49-55, wherein said washer and said dryer are incorporated in one unit.

Example 57. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of examples 49-56, wherein dishware is fed into said dishwasher-sorting system from said proximal end of said first conveyor.

Example 58. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of examples 49-57, wherein said at least two dishware receiving containers are according to the dishware receiving container of example 24.

Example 59. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of examples 49-58, wherein said second sorter is according to the dishware-sorting machine of example 1.

Example 60. A segment for a modular belt conveyor, said modular belt conveyor comprising a plurality of rows; each row comprising a plurality of segments, comprising: a. a body comprising a horizontal base and a vertical extension of said base extending from said base, said vertical extension having a lower side, which is connected to said base, and a upper side; b. at least one intra-row connector and at least one inter-row connector; c. a holding niche defined between said base and said vertical extension, sized and shaped for holding an item; said holding niche located at a connection between said horizontal base and said vertical extension; d. a portion of said base shaped to gravitationally guide said items placed thereon towards said holding niche.

Example 61. The segment according to example 60, wherein said at least one intra-row connector are located on said base.

Example 62. The segment according to example 60 or example 61, wherein said at least one inter-row connector are located on said upper side of said vertical extension.

Example 63. The segment according to any one of examples 60-62, wherein said at least one inter-row connector are located on said base.

Example 64. The segment according to any one of examples 60-63, wherein said item is a dishware.

Example 65. The segment according to any one of examples 60-64, wherein said segment is made of one or more of plastic and metal.

Example 66. The segment according to any one of examples 60-65, further comprising a protrusion on the uppermost portion of said upper side of said vertical extension for advancing an item along said conveyor when said item is positioned on top of said segment.

Example 67. The segment according to any one of examples 60-66, wherein said at least one intra-row connector and said at least one inter-row connector extend horizontally in relation to said body.

Example 68. The segment according to any one of examples 60-67, wherein said at least one intra-row connector and said at least one inter-row connector are one and the same.

Example 69. The segment according to any one of examples 60-68, further comprising a final segment for stopping said item from falling from a side of a row of said plurality of rows.

Example 70. The segment according to any one of examples 60-69, wherein said the final segment comprises an upper side protrusion for holding said item when said item is in a forward position.

Example 71. The segment according to any one of examples 60-70, wherein said holding niche is configured to hold said item when said item is in backward position in said row.

Example 72. The segment according to any one of examples 60-71 , wherein said holding niche is configured to hold said item when said item is in forward position in said row. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and/or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

In the drawings:

Figures la-b are schematic representations of exemplary systems for sorting dishes, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Figures 2a-e are illustrations of an exemplary system for sorting dishes, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Figures 3a-e are schematic representations of an exemplary path performed by racks containing for example glassware in an exemplary sorting system, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Figures 4a-e are schematic representations of an exemplary path performed by cutlery in an exemplary sorting system, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Figures 5a-h are schematic representations of an exemplary conveyor belt and its parts, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Figures 5h-m are schematic representations of exemplary rows, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Figures 6a-n are schematic representations of an exemplary path performed by dishware when on the conveyor belt, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Figures 7a-k are a schematic representations of an exemplary second sorting unit, according to some embodiments of the invention; Figures 711-714 are a schematic representations of exemplary calculation of forces applied on either a dishware or a tray when on a conveyor, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Figures 7m-o are a schematic representations of possible configurations of sorting partitions, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Figures 7p-u are a schematic representations of an exemplary dishware moving along an exemplary tilted conveyor belt and a plurality of partitions, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Figures 8a-l are schematic representations of an exemplary cartridge of an exemplary storage unit and their related storing mechanisms, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Figures 9a-b are schematic representations of sorting mechanisms for pots and pans, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Figure 10 is a flowchart of an exemplary washing, drying and sorting process, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

Figure 11 is a flowchart of an exemplary sorting process, according to some embodiments of the present invention; and

Figures 12a-b are schematic representations of an exemplary alternative embodiment of a second sorting unit, according to some embodiments of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Overview

An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to sorting dishes. In some embodiments, sorting dishes is provided by a simple and ergonomic system, which is easy and friendly to use, for loading, storing and unloading of dishes. In some embodiments, the sorting of the dishware is performed after being cleaned in a dishwasher machine. In some embodiments, the soring utilizes active and passive mechanisms to sort between different types of dishware. In some embodiments, the sorting system is an independent system that is attachable to an independent dishwasher machine. In some embodiments, the sorting system is an integral part of a washing and sorting machine for dishware. In some embodiments, different types of dishware are sorted and organized in separated compartments, which allow an easy and simple extraction of the sorted dishware. In some embodiments, the sorting system is made of friendly materials that potentially avoid damaging the dishware during the sorting process. In some embodiments, the sorting system is customable to the needs of the user, for example, customable to the number of different dishware, the type of dishware, more types than just dishware, like glassware, cutlery, trays and kitchenware. In some embodiments, the sorting system utilizes a dedicated conveyor to be used in the washing machine, which allows a smooth transition between the washing machine and the sorting system.

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the drawings and/or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

Exemplary system

Referring now to Figures la and lb, showing schematic representations of exemplary systems for sorting dishes, according to some embodiments of the invention. Referring now to Figure 1 a, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary system for sorting dishes 100a, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the exemplary system for sorting dishes 100a comprises hardware for performing the washing and drying of the dishes. Therefore, in some embodiments, the exemplary system for sorting dishes 100a comprises a washer module 102, a dryer module 104, a sorter module 106 and a storage module 108. Referring now to Figure lb, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary system for sorting dishes 100b, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the exemplary system for sorting dishes is configured to be connected to an already existing washer, which usually comprise also a dryer. Therefore, in some embodiments, the exemplary system for sorting dishes 100b comprises a sorter module 106 and a storage module 108, which are connected to an existing washing machine.

In the following paragraphs, an exemplary system according to Figure la will be explained. It should be understood that the following explanations are provided to allow a person having skills in the art to understand the invention, but they should not be limiting in any way, and should be found relevant also to an exemplary system according to Figurelb.

Numbers of modules and parts are kept during the description and figures. Referring now to Figures 2a-e, showing illustrations of an exemplary system for sorting dishes, according to some embodiments of the invention. Referring now to Figure 2a, showing a perspective view of an illustration of an exemplary system for sorting dishes, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, as explained above, the system comprises a washer module 102, a dryer module 104, a sorter module 106 and a storage module 108. In some embodiments, the washer module 102 comprises a loading unit 202, an optional preliminary washing unit 204 and a main washing unit 206. In some embodiments, at the exit of the dryer module 104, there is a first sorting unit 208, where a first sorting is performed to separate between dishware, glassware (racks/baskets including glassware - referred hereinafter just as glassware), trays and cutlery into specifics zones in the sorting system, as shown for example in Figure 2b. In some embodiments, after the first sorter unit 208, there is a second unit 210 for sorting between the different types and/or sizes of dishware, which then are stored in the storage module 108.

The term “Dishware” or “Dishes” refers hereinafter to plates, bowls, serving plates, etc. The term “Glassware” refers hereinafter to glasses, cups, mugs and any other object used for drinking. The term “Cutlery” refers hereinafter to forks, knifes, spoons, and any other utensil used for serving and/or eating. It should be understood that the abovementioned definitions are used to facilitate the explanations of the invention. Other kitchenware items, not mentioned above, are also included in the scope of the invention, for example big kitchenware, pots, pans, saucepans, trays, etc. Additionally, in some embodiments, racks are used to carry glassware, pans, pots and other kitchenware. In some embodiments, racks are also called baskets in the field of commercial washing machines. In the following specification the term “rack” will be used. It should be understood that when “rack” is mentioned it also refers to baskets.

In some embodiments, the storage module 108 comprises a plurality of storage solutions according to the different types of items being sorted (see below for detail explanations of the storage module 108). In general, three main storage solutions are shown in Figure 2a, a plurality of storage compartments 212 for the different types of dishware, a bin 214 for the cutlery and a platform 216 for the racks, optionally containing for example the glassware. In some embodiments, racks are used for other items that are not glassware, for example trays, pots, pans, etc.

In some embodiments, the exemplary sorting system shown, for example in Figure 2a and others as well, comprises one or more units shown at 90 degrees from one another. It is also a scope of the invention to cover systems that are essentially arranged in a straight manner and do not have a 90 degrees angle between units. It should be understood that any of the embodiments disclosed herein should cover any of those options, or any other angle between units, even if only one version of them is shown.

In some embodiments, a user can optionally open a cover in the first sorting unit 208 (see below) to extract dishware, glassware and/or cutlery after exiting the dryer module 104.

Referring now to Figure 2b, showing an illustration of an exemplary sorting system with exemplary schematic paths, according to some embodiments of the invention. As can be seen in Figure 2b, at the first sorting unit 208, dishware, glassware and cutlery are separated into different paths within the system. For example, glassware in racks follows the exemplary dashed pathway 250 towards the platform for racks 216. Dishware follows the exemplary dotted 252 pathway towards the second sorting unit (see below) and the plurality of storage compartments 212. Cutlery follows the exemplary full-line pathway 254 towards the bin 214 for the cutlery.

Figures 2c, 2d, 2e show a front view, side view and upper view of exemplary system for sorting dishes for convenience, according to some embodiments of the invention.

Exemplary conveyors

In some embodiments, the system for sorting dishes comprises one or more conveyors.

In some embodiments, exemplary conveyors used in the system are one or more of the following: Belt conveyors; Belt-driven live roller conveyors; Bucket conveyors; Chain conveyors; Chain-driven live roller conveyors; Drag conveyors; Dust-proof conveyors; Flexible conveyors; Gravity conveyors; Gravity skate wheel conveyors; Lineshaft roller conveyors; Motorized-drive roller conveyors; Plastic belt conveyors; Screw or auger conveyor; Wire mesh conveyors; Ball Transfer Conveyor; Slat Conveyors; Troughed Belt Conveyors; Sortation Conveyor Systems; Wheel Conveyor; and Walking Beam Conveyors.

In some embodiments, any of the abovementioned conveyors are configured to be tilted, twisted, bent or any other action that might provide the necessary desired action of the goods being transported on the conveyor.

In the following paragraphs, a plurality of embodiments of the invention will be explained in detail. As part of some embodiments of the invention, one or more conveyors are disclosed. While some specific types of conveyors are used during the explanations, it should be understood that other types of conveyors can be used in those examples, and that alternative types of conveyors are part of the scope of the invention, and that the use of specific types of conveyors are for allowing a person having skills in the art to understand the invention.

Exemplary path for racks/glassware

Referring now to Figures 3a-e, showing schematic representations of an exemplary path performed by racks containing for example glassware in an exemplary sorting system, according to some embodiments of the invention. Figure 3a shows an upper view of an exemplary sorting system without the covers to facilitate the explanations. In some embodiments, when glassware is being cleaned in a washer it is put in dedicated racks (glassware racks 300). In some embodiments, this is done for two main reasons, to keep the glassware facing down during the cleaning process and to protect them during the cleaning process. In some embodiments, racks with glassware are loaded into the loaded unit 202, where a conveyor, for example a conveyor belt 302 (see below chapter on conveyor belt 302) takes them through the washing, and drying process (arrow A), until it arrives at the first sorting unit 208. In some embodiments, on the internal walls of the washing and drying units there are wall elements that keep the racks centered on the conveyor belt 302. In some embodiments, glassware racks 300 are kept at the same level as the conveyor belt 302 and moved to a different conveyor, for example a roller conveyor 304 (either gravity roller conveyor or powered roller conveyor -see below), where the racks optionally move at 90 degrees from the direction they were coming (arrow B), to the platform for racks 216 in the storage unit 108.

Referring now to Figures 3b-e, showing schematic representations of the passage of glassware racks 300 between conveyor belt 302 and roller belt 304, according to some embodiments of the invention. Figure 3b shows a view of the area between conveyor belt 302 and roller belt 304. As can be seen in Figure 3b, there is gap 306 after the end of conveyor belt 302 generated by a plurality of belts 308a-e (5 shown in Figure 3b). In some embodiments, belts 308a and 308e are long belts than extend from the back wall of the machine 310 until wall elements 312a-b respectively. In some embodiments, belts 308b, 308c and 308d are short belts that extend from near the back wall of the machine 310 until approximately half of the length of the long belts 308a and 308e. In some embodiments, the size of the gap 306 is big enough to allow a plate to pass (see below chapter regarding sorting of plates). In some embodiments, the length and number of the plurality of belts 308a-e is changed according to the needs of the client, for example, according to the size of the dishware that is sorted. In some embodiments, wall elements 312a-b comprise each a shoulder 314a-b (shoulder 314b is hidden) configured to receive a bottom of a glassware rack 300, as shown for example in Figures 3d and 3e. Figures 3d and 3e show a side view of the exemplary sorting system at the area between conveyor belt 302 and a roller conveyor 304 (not shown). In some embodiments, the glassware rack 300 is transported by the conveyor belt 302 until it approaches the gap 306. In some embodiments, at a certain point, the front part of the glassware tray 300 is held in the air due to the rotation of conveyor belt 302, while the rest of the glassware rack is continued to be transported forward by the conveyor belt 302. In some embodiments, due to the continued movement of the conveyor belt 302, the front part of the glassware tray 300 arrives at shoulders 314a-b which allow the glassware rack 300 to not fall into the gap 306. In some embodiments, due to the continued movement of the conveyor belt 302, the glassware rack 300 is moved, first into the long belts 308a and 308e, and then into the short belts 308b, 308c and 308d. In some embodiments, shoulders 314a-b are made of a material that allows easy sliding of the glassware rack 300, for example Teflon. In some embodiments, long belts 308a and 308e and short belts 308b, 308c and 308d are belts comprising Omni-wheels (for example Omni-wheels having an angle of from about 30 degrees to about 80 degrees) on which the glassware rack 300 will stand. In some embodiments, long belts 308a and 308e and short belts 308b, 308c and 308d are active motorized belts which transport the glassware rack 300 towards the back end of the machine 310. Figure 3c shows a glassware rack 300 after it has passed the gap 306 and has reached the back end of the machine 310. In some embodiments, when the glassware rack 300 reaches the back end of the machine 310, the Omni-wheels will cause the glassware rack 300 to perform the 90 degrees turn towards the roller belt 304.

Exemplary path for cutlery

Referring now to Figures 4a-e, showing schematic representations of an exemplary path performed by cutlery in an exemplary sorting system, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, at the loading unit 202, on each side of the conveyor belt 302, there are two dedicated conveyors 402a-b, referred hereinafter as cutlery conveyors 402a-b, as shown for example in Figure 4a. In some embodiments, there is only one conveyor. In some embodiments, the cutlery conveyors are separated areas of the conveyor belt 302 (not independent conveyors). In some embodiments, the cutlery conveyors 402a-b comprise a plurality of openings that allow the cleaning and drying of the cutlery in the washer and dryer units, accordingly. In some embodiments, each cutlery conveyor is optionally surrounded on both sides by guarding walls, which separate between the cutlery conveyors 402a-b and the conveyor belt 302. In some embodiments, at the end of the cutlery conveyors 402a-b, where the conveyors perform the turnover, there are dedicated funnels 404a-b configured to guide the falling cutlery (from the cutlery conveyors) into a central funnel 406, and towards a collection bin 408, as shown for example in Figures 4b, 4c, 4d and 4e. Figure 4c is a view from above, showing the aforementioned parts. Figure 4d and 4e, are side views of the same, provided to allow a person having skills in the art to better understand the invention. In Figure 4c and 4d the collection bin is shown inside the cover of the machine, while Figure 4e shows the actual collection bin without said cover. In some embodiments, funnels 404a-b and central funnel 406 ensure that the sorting of the cutlery stays separated from the sorting of the dishware. In some embodiments, optionally, a polishing machine (not shown) is positioned after the central funnel 406 or instead of the central funnel 406. In some embodiments, after the polishing machine, the cutlery is inserted into the collection bin 408.

Exemplary conveyor belt 302

Referring now to Figures 5a-h, showing schematic representations of an exemplary conveyor belt 302 and its parts, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, conveyor belt 302 is a modular belt conveyor. While flat belt conveyors use a single, continuous loop of material, modular conveyor belt systems use a single loop made of countless interlocked pieces. In some embodiments, the pieces are made of hard plastic. In some embodiments, the pieces are made of a combination of materials, like plastic, rubber and metal. In some embodiments, the segments can be removed and replaced individually, in contrast to having to discard an entire belt when there is a problem with the belt itself. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of using a modular conveyor belt is that they are easier to wash, they are more resistant to sharp and abrasive materials, they are more resistant to the continuous washing and drying in the washing and drying units. In some embodiments, another potential advantage is that modular belt conveyors are simpler to maintain and repair than their flat belt counterparts.

For the following explanations the conveyor belt 302 comprises rows 502 (as shown for example in Figure 5h, and each row comprises segments 504 (as shown for example in Figure 5c). Segments 504 are interlocked to one another, for example by a plurality of rods, to make a row 502. Rows 502 are interlocked to one another, for example also by a plurality of rods, to make the conveyor belt 302, as will be further explained below. In some embodiments, the conveyor belt 302 was specifically designed to allow maximal control of the movements of the items being carried in it, as will be further explained, for example, by the insertion of a plurality of features incorporated in each of the segments 504.

Referring now to Figures 5a-b, showing schematic representations of an exemplary part of the conveyor belt 302, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, conveyor belt 302 is configured to receive dishware in one specific direction, for example, the plate 500 shown in Figures 5a-b, lays between two rows 502a-b. In some embodiments, the bottom of the plate lays on row 502a, while it leans on its back on row 502b, facing towards the direction of the movement of the conveyor belt 302. In some embodiments, this configuration performs two roles. In some embodiments, the first role is to position the dishware in an optimal position for the washing and drying processes. In some embodiments, the second role is to position the plate in the correct position for the sorting process, which will be explained below.

Exemplary segment 504

Referring now to Figures 5c-e, showing schematic representations of an exemplary segment 504, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, each segment 504 comprises the following parts: support element 506 for connecting between segments in the same row, receiving a back of a dishware located in a row on the front of that segment and holding a dishware when it is tilted forward (see below), support a glassware tray that is located on the conveyor; element 508 for connecting with a segment located in a row on the back of that segment; element 510 for connecting with a segment located in a row on the front of than segment; niche 512 for receiving the bottom of a dishware and supporting the dishware while tilting; element 514 comprises an angle that eases the movement of the dishware, being positioned in the conveyor belt 302, to enter into niche 512. In some embodiments, at the end of each row 502, there is a stopper 516 configured to stop dishware from exiting the row from the sides, as shown for example in Figure 5e.

In some embodiments, one or more segments 504 optionally comprise a protrusion 522 at the top of the segment 504 that increases the grip of the racks 300 that were positioned on top of the segments, as shown for example in Figure 5f and Figure 5g. In some embodiments, the protrusion 522 at the top of the segment 504 prevents slipping of the racks 300. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of having the protrusion 522 is that it potentially allows a smooth transition of the racks 300 between the conveyor belt 302 and the next conveyors (for example conveyors 308a-e).

In some embodiments, the bulge 524 on the upper side of the niche 512 is reduced, as shown for example in Figure 5f and Figure 5g. In some embodiments, reduction of the bulge 524 can potentially allow a smoother insertion of the dishware in a row 502, a better hold of the dishware inside the niche 512, for example when a user inserts more than one dishware in nearly on top one another or slightly overlapping. In some embodiments, reduction of the bulge 524 allows dishware to easily move laterally inside the row 502.

In some embodiments, surfaces on the segments 504 may be straight, for example 514 in Figure 5c and Figure 5d, or can be other than straight, for example curved, as shown for example 514a in Figure 5f and Figure 5g. Another example can be seen in 526 in Figure 5c, which is essentially straight, and 526a in Figure 5f and Figure 5g, which is composed of two curved surfaces.

Exemplary row 502

Referring now to Figures 5h-j, showing schematic representations of exemplary rows 502, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, as mentioned above, a plurality of segments 504 interconnected to each other make a row 502. In some embodiments, the interconnection between segments is performed by rod 518 that are inserted at support element 506 of the segments. In some embodiments, optionally or additionally, a separator 520 is inserted between segments and the rod 518 is inserted through them as well. Figure 5i is a front view of an exemplary row 502, and Figure 5j is a bottom view of an exemplary row 502. In some embodiments, the distance between rows, as calculated for example as the distance between support elements 506 between rows (as shown for example in Figure 6b) is of from about 60mm to about 80mm, optionally from about 50mm to about 100mm, optionally from about 40mm to about 120mm, for example 70mm, 75mm, 85mm, 95mm. In some embodiments, the segments are modified to increase/decrease the distance between rows to allow for the insertion of dishware having different sizes. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of this is that allowing for the increase or decrease of the distance between rows can potentially allow for either having more rows in the belt or allowing for the insertion of bigger dishware.

In some embodiments, the plurality of segments 504 are interconnected to each other without separators 520, and each row comprise more segments 504, when compared to a row having separators, as shown for example in Figure 5k and Figure 51. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of having a row comprising a more segments is that it potentially provides a smoother area for the dishware to slip into the row and slip across the row, and therefore allow a better arrangement of the dishware in the row by avoiding overlapping of dishware.

In some embodiments, the stopper 516 configured to stop dishware from exiting the row from the sides is optionally provided with an additional support element 528, which provides further support to the dishware located at the end of the row after changes position from a backward to a forward position, as shown for example in Figures 5k, 51 and 5m.

In some embodiments, each row optionally comprises an additional wheel 530 on each side of the row, as shown for example in Figures 5k, 51, 5m. In some embodiments, the wheels roll on a guiding rail is that located on the edges of the conveyor from both sides. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of having the wheels is the reduction of the frictional forces between the conveyor and the guiding rail and reduction of the load caused by friction forces in an exemplary embodiment of a conveyor belt sliding on a guiding rail with no wheels.

Exemplary path of dishware on conveyor belt 302

Referring now to Figures 6a-m, showing schematic representation of an exemplary path performed by dishware when on the conveyor belt 302, according to some embodiments of the invention. Figure 6a shows a side view (section E-E) of the conveyor belt 302 (see reference from the front view in Figure 6a). Figure 6b shows detail F from Figure 6a. Figure 6c shows detail G from Figure 6a. In some embodiments, as previously explained, dishware 500 is loaded on the conveyor belt 302 at the loading unit 202 so the bottom of the dishware 500 is positioned between segments 504 while the bottom of the dishware 500 lays on niche 512 and the dishware 500 is leaned back on support elements 506 and 520 of the row behind, as shown for example in Figure 6b. In some embodiments, the dishware 500 is transported by the conveyor belt 302 into the washing unit and the drying unit until it reaches the first sorting unit 208. In some embodiments, at the first sorting unit 208, the conveyor belt 302 is given an angle a, for example of about 30 degrees (of about -30 degrees in relation to the horizontal plane of the conveyor belt 302) by use of two gears 602 and 604, as shown for example in Figure 6c. The area where the angle changes will be referred hereinafter as the tilted zone 606. In some embodiments, when the dishware passes the tilted zone 606, the dishware 500 changes position from leaning back 608 to leaning forward 610, as shown for example in Figure 6c. In some embodiments, when the dishware 500 leans forward, the dishware 500 is held by support element 506 and 520 of the same segments and the niche 512 where the dishware is currently held (previously, the dishware was leaned back on support element 506 and 520 of the row behind). In some embodiments, the dishware 500 will proceed to move forward with the conveyor belt 302 in a α-angle till it gets to the second gear 604 where the belt is preforming a return.

Referring now to Figures 6d-6f, showing an exemplary gear used for the movement of the conveyor belt, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the gears that move the conveyor belt 302 are designed in a way that allow the movement of the conveyor without disturbing the dishware located on the conveyor. Figure 6d shows an upper view of two rows of conveyor belt 302, with an exemplary dishware 500 positioned within. Figure 6e shows a side view of section E-E of the conveyor belt 302 (see reference from the front view in Figure 6d) at the location where the dishware 500 is positioned, with an exemplary gear 612. Figure 6f shows detail F from Figure 6e. As known in the art, gear comprise a plurality of teeth separated by a plurality of spaces. As can be seen in Figures 6e and 6f, the exemplary gear 612 is configured so every other space engages the part of the conveyor responsible for moving it, while a space between two adjacent teeth and spaces remains empty so as to not disturb the dishware 500 positioned within the conveyor belt, as can be clearly seen in Figure 6f.

In some embodiments, the dishware 500 will be then gently placed on a different conveyor, for example a tilted conveyor belt 702, of the second sorting unit 210 of the sorting module 106, as shown for example in Figure 6g.

Referring now to Figures 6h-m, showing a schematic representation of a dishware 500 being gently placed on a tilted conveyor belt 702 of the second sorting unit 210 of the sorting module 106, according to some embodiments of the invention.

In some embodiments, the dishware 500 reaches the transition area (tilted zone 606) between the conveyor belt 302 and the second sorting unit 210, as shown for example in Figure 6h. In some embodiments, in the tilted zone 606 the dishware 500 is provided with an additional and smaller radius in the conveyor belt 302 by means of gear 604. In some embodiments, reaching the radius, the difference in the angle of inclination between the conveyor belt 302 and the dishware 500 begin to grow, as shown for example in Figures 6i and 6j, until it reaches a critical position where the dishware 500 is separated from the conveyor belt 302 in one of 2 ways. In some embodiments, the first way is when the angle of the dishware 500 reaches about 90 degrees (as shown for example in Figure 6k) and the balance of forces on the dishware 500 changes. In some embodiments, the force of gravity overpowers the held dishware 500 and the dishware 500 loosens and falls towards the tilted conveyor belt 702, as shown for example in Figure 6m. In some embodiments, the second way is when the holding forces on the dishware 500 continue to be dominant even at an angle greater than 90 degrees. In some embodiments, in this position the dishware 500 will separate from the conveyor belt 302 when touching the tilted conveyor belt 702, as shown for example in Figure 61, which will then allow the dishware 500 to slide and fall off into the tilted conveyor belt 702. In some embodiments, the tilted conveyor belt 702 is located at a distance of about 20 mm from the tangent to the radius of rotation of the conveyor belt 302. In some embodiments, dishware 500 slides on the tilted conveyor belt 702 due to the slope and the gravitational forces.

Referring now to Figure 6n, showing a schematic representation of exemplary calculations performed for the developments of the process of the placement of a dishware from the conveyor belt 302 to the second sorting unit 210, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, when the dishware is on the conveyor belt 302, after passing the tilted zone 606 and until it is released and transferred to the second sorting unit 210, the dishware is submitted to a locked state within the segments 504 of the conveyor belt 302 and more specifically, a locked state due to the dishware being held within niche 512 while laying down on the support elements 506 and 520 of the same segments. In some embodiments, in order to identify the critical angle at which the dishware will be released from the locked state, equations of forces and torques acting on the dishware were developed in the position just before release from the locked state and its transfer to the second sorting unit 210, as shown for example in Figure 6n. In some embodiments, the ideal position for transferring dishware between the conveyor belt 302 and the second sorting unit 210 usually encompasses the use of the widest angle possible, which is translated into a slow and controlled release of the dishware from the locked position. In some embodiments, when a dishware comes in contact with the second sorting unit 210 before entering the critical angle, the dishware will be released from the locked state, and the transfer from the conveyor belt 302 to the second sorting unit 210 will be performed in a slow and controlled manner. In some embodiments, one of the scopes of the calculations is to achieve the widest possible critical angle to achieve the smoothest, slowest and most control transfer of the dishware from the conveyor belt 302 to the second sorting unit 210. Figure 6n, shows a diagram of the forces applied on a dishware in a balanced state and from the equations of forces and torques an expression was extracted for the critical angle for the release of the dishware:

Where m is the coefficient of friction between the conveyor belt 302 and the dishware; k (m) is the horizontal distance between the top contact point of the dishware and the conveyor belt 302 and the center of gravity of the dishware; z (m) is the horizontal distance between the lower contact point and the top contact point of the dishware and conveyor belt 302; h (m) is the height of the center of gravity of the dishware; t (m) is the thickness of the dishware edge.

From looking at the equation it can be seen that an increase in the coefficient of friction between the dishware and the conveyor belt 302 will increase the angle of release from the locked state within the niche 512. Therefore, in some embodiments, the conveyor belt 302 is made of a material having a large coefficient of friction with the dishware. In addition, it can be seen that a reduction of the distance z (m) between the points of contact with the dishware will result in a larger critical angle. Therefore, in some embodiments, the conveyor belt 302 is designed for the points of contact with the dishware to be as close as possible.

Exemplary second sorting unit 210 and sorting of dishware

Referring now to Figures 7a-l, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary second sorting unit, according to some embodiments of the invention.

Referring now to Figures 7a and 7b, showing a schematic upper view and front view, respectively, of an exemplary second sorting unit 210, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the second sorting unit 210 comprises a tilted conveyor belt 702 and a plurality of sorting partitions 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, which allow passage of the dishware into the plurality of storage compartments 212. In some embodiments, each partition is located at a certain distance from the tilted conveyor belt 702. Figure 7c, shows a schematic representation of an upper view of an exemplary second sorting unit 210, showing schematically the tilted conveyor belt 702, a schematic profile created by the plurality of partitions 704, 706, 708, 710, 712, a plurality of spaces SI, S2, S3, S4 and S5 generated by the different distances of each partition from the tilted conveyor belt 702, and an exemplary dishware 500. In some embodiments, when the dishware 500 leaves the conveyor belt 302, it slides on the tilted conveyor belt 702, due to the angle of the tilt, until it meets an internal wall 714 (as shown for example in Figure 7a and 7c. In some embodiments, there is a small gap S6 between the tilted conveyor belt 702 and the internal wall 714. In some embodiments, the small gap S6 is used to allow cutlery that erroneously arrived at the second sorting unit 210 to fall out of the tilted conveyor belt 702 and into the central funnel 406 with the rest of the cutlery, and therefore avoiding said cutlery to reach the sorting area of the different dishware.

In some embodiments, the tilted conveyor belt 702 is an active flat belt conveyor configured to move dishware in the direction of the plurality of partitions 704, 706, 708, 710, 712. In some embodiments, conveyor belt 702 is not tilted and is not an active flat conveyor. In some embodiments, conveyor belt 702 is positioned substantially horizontal, and the conveyor comprises one or more active directional mechanism configured to move away the arriving dishware from the conveyor belt 302, and towards the plurality of partitions (see below alternative embodiments of the second sorting unit).

In some embodiments, the principle behind the sorting of the different types and/or sizes of dishware resides in the intentional use of the unique center of mass (marked with the sign ffi) of each type and/or size of dishware. Referring now to Figures 7d-f, showing a schematic representation of the use of the center mass of the dishware for sorting dishware, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, when the center mass (ffi) of a dishware 500 arrives vertically beyond the edge of the tilted conveyor belt 702 and the sum of torques that work on the dishware 500 around the edge of the tilted conveyor 702 in the direction of the tilted conveyor movement is positive, as shown for example in Figure 7d, the dishware 500 falls from the tilted conveyor belt 702, as shown for example in Figures 7e and 7f. In some embodiments, the only way to get a positive sum of torque on the dishware 500 is when the space between the tilted conveyor belt 702 and the relevant partition is large enough to allow the center of mass to pass vertically the edge of the tilted conveyor belt 702 till it creates a positive sum of torque. For example, in Figures 7d-f, the space between the tilted conveyor belt 702 and the partition 704 is SI. In some embodiments, only dishware that comprises the suited combination of radius of the dishware and the location of center of mass will be sorted. In some embodiments, in the exemplary profile shown in Figure 7c, smaller plates will be sorted first, then medium plates, then large plates and so on, according to the suited combination of the dishware sizes and center of mass. Referring now to Figure 7g, showing a schematic representation of the study of the forces, involved in the sorting of dishware, between the dishware, the tilted conveyor belt 702 and the sorting partitions (704,706,708,710,712), according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, in order to improve the separation of plates from the tilted conveyor belt 702 and in order to improve the performance of the sorting system, the inventors developed equations of motion of the dishware, as shown for example in Figure 7g. Additional configurations that include system enhancements are presented below with an explanation of the reasons for their implementation.

From the diagram of the forces, shown for example in Figure 7g, of a dishware found along the tilted conveyor belt 702, a theoretical expression was obtained for the desired distance ( b ) between a given sorting partition and the tilted conveyor belt 702:

Where a (°) is the angle of inclination of the tilted conveyor belt 702; h (m) is the height of the center of gravity, r (m) is the radius of the dishware, isμ t1he coefficient of friction between the dishware and the tilted conveyor belt 702, is the coefficient of friction between the dishware and the sorting partition.

It can be seen from the formula that increasing the angle a will cause an increase in b. Increasing the distance b between a given sorting partition and the tilted conveyor belt 702 for a particular dishware also increases the distance difference Ab which is the difference between two given sorting partitions for the purpose of separating a pair of dishware from each other. Thus, in some embodiments, increasing a potentially helps to improve sorting.

In some embodiments, additional sorting configurations use this insight to improve sorting. In some embodiments, a possible additional sorting configuration comprises a graded tilted conveyor belt with a variable slope. In some embodiments, initially, a more moderate slope for controlled sliding of dishware coming from a dishwasher conveyor which potentially prevents the acceleration of dishware to high and uncontrollable speeds. In some embodiments, then, the slope of the tilted conveyor belt increases in the area of the sorting partitions in order to obtain a larger angle that will improve the separation. In some embodiments, a possible exemplary configuration showing this, is shown for example in Figure 7h, where the sections are divided by 2 tilted conveyor belts 720,722 with different slopes. In some embodiments, another possible exemplary configuration is shown, for example, in Figure 7i, where a first section is a slopped surface (not a conveyor belt) 724 and the second section is tilted conveyor belt 726.

In some embodiments, another possible additional exemplary configuration utilizes angle modification to improve separation on a conveyor belt by using varying inclination angles along the conveyor belt. In some embodiments, the angle of inclination in these configurations increases and so the difference between 2 consecutive b values increases. In some embodiments, for example, this effect is achieved by configuring a twisted or bent conveyor belt 728 as shown for example in Figure 7j or a configuration of discrete and stepped conveyors 730 with varying gradients as shown for example in Figure 7k.

In some embodiments, from looking at the equation of b it can be seen that increasing the coefficient of friction μ2 in the sorting partition also increases b and potentially helps to improve the separation in a similar way. In some embodiments, increasing the coefficient of friction μ2 is therefore potentially good and desirable, but from looking at the forces acting on a dishware (Figures 711 and 712) or a tray (Figures 713 and 714), in their movement along the sorting conveyor, it can be seen that too massive an increase of μ2 will cause problems, for example, slowing the dishware and causing it to roll along the conveyor belt, or in the case of a tray, it may cause the tray to completely stop on the conveyor belt. In some embodiments, following this logic it seems that in order to take advantage of amending the value of μ2 for the sorting process, two contrasting actions should be taken. On one side, increasing the value of μ2 in the direction where the dishware should fall during the sorting process is potentially good for the sorting process. On the other hand, decreasing the value of μ2 in the direction of the conveyor belt is also potentially good for the sorting process. In some embodiments, in order to reconcile this apparent contradiction, several configurations are proposed. In some embodiments, the purpose of these configurations is to obtain a high coefficient of friction in the direction of dishware falls, while obtaining a low coefficient of friction (until possibly completely eliminated) in the direction that the conveyor belt travels. In some embodiments, a possible configuration is shown, for example, in Figure 7m, where a roller conveyor 732 is used in the location of the sorting partitions in the desired location. In some embodiments, the cylinders rotate freely in the direction to which the conveyor belt travels and therefore the friction in this direction is potentially reduced, while potentially maintaining a high friction in the direction where the dishware should fall for the sorting process. In some embodiments, another possible configuration is shown, for example, in Figure 7n, where a scalar conveyor belt 734 achieves a similar result. In some embodiments, another possible configuration is shown, for example, in Figure 7o, where a plurality of discrete conveyor belts 736 potentially achieve the same result.

In some embodiments, increasing the angle of the tilted conveyor belt does potentially help improve the sorting, but the inventors have found that this is true up to a certain limit. In some embodiments, increasing the angle of the tilted conveyor belt beyond a critical threshold will potentially cause the plate to roll onto the sorting partitions. In some embodiments, from the development of the equations, the inventors have found a relationship between the coefficients of friction and the angle of inclination of the tilted conveyor belt:

In some embodiments, this is the critical angle above which there will be a non-slip roll of a round dishware and a stop of a square tray for given data coefficients of friction.

In some embodiments, on the other hand, the minimum angle of a tilted conveyor belt that will allow the dishware to slide towards the sorting partitions in the transition from a dishwasher conveyor to a sorting conveyor is derived directly from the coefficient of friction of the tilted conveyor belt (for example, polyurethane):

In some embodiments, that is, in practice, the angle of inclination for the correct operation of the system that is designed to meet the requirement:

Referring now to Figures 7p-u showing a schematic representation of an exemplary dishware 500 moving along a schematic representation of an exemplary tilted conveyor belt 702 and a plurality of partitions, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, a large dishware 700 will move along all the partitions (Figures 7p, 7q, 7r) until it arrives at the relevant one, in this case partition 712 (Figure 7s). In some embodiments, since the space between the tilted conveyor belt 702 and the previous partitions is not big enough, dishware 700 will not be sorted until it reaches partition 712 as shown for example in Figure 7s.

Referring now to Figure 7t, showing a schematic representation of two different dishware with different locations of center mass in a second sorting unit, according to some embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, for example, there are two types of dishware having different diameter, for example a small plate 720 and a medium plate 722. Each plate will have its own mass center location and diameter, for example the small plate 720 will have a mass center 724 closer to the edge of the tilted conveyor belt 702 in comparison with the medium plate 722, which will have a center mass 726 farther from the tilted conveyor belt 702. In this example, the small plate will fall but the medium plate will not, since the center mass 724 of the small plate 720 will exit first the edge of the tilted conveyor belt 702.

Referring now to Figure 7u, showing a schematic representation of two different dishware with different locations of center mass in a second sorting unit, according to some embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, for example, there are two types of dishware having the same diameter but different depth, for example a plate 730 and a soup plate 728. Each plate will have its own mass center, for example the soup plate 728 will have a mass center 732 higher in comparison with the plate 730, which will have a center mass 734 lower than the center mass of the soup plate. In this example, the soup plate will fall but the plate will not, since the center mass 732 of the soup plate 734 will exit first the edge of the tilted conveyor belt 702.

Exemplary storage unit 108

Referring to Figures 8a-l, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary cartridge of an exemplary storage unit 108 and their related storing mechanisms, according to some embodiments of the invention.

In some embodiments, once the dishware falls from the tilted conveyor belt 702, according to the appropriate partition, the dishware falls into a suitable cartridge in the storage unit 108. In some embodiments, the different cartridges fit plates of different sizes but they are identical in the way they operate and the mechanism they comprise. As shown for example in Figure 8a, an exemplary cartridge comprise 2 lower lead screws 804 and 2 side lead screws 806 that rotate synchronously and advance the plate up the cartridge as shown in Figures 8c, 8d and 8e. In some embodiments, the rotation of the pitch of the lead screws is configured to be as the thickness of the dishware in order to avoid damaging the dishware during the operation of the lead screws. In some embodiments, the pitch of the lead screws is configured to be bigger than the thickness of at least one contact point of a dishware with the lead screws. For example the pitch is calculated as the thickness of at least one contact point of a dishware with the lead screws with the addition of at least 0.5 mm, optionally in the direction of advancement of the dishware. In some embodiments, the addition is more than 0.5 mm. In some embodiments, the addition is from about 0.5 mm to about 3 mm. Optionally from about 0.3 mm to about 5 mm. Optionally from about 0.1 mm to about 10 mm. In some embodiments, the lead screws are made of a soft material, for example nylon 12, which prevents the plate from breaking when falling from the tilted conveyor belt 702. In some embodiments, the length of the lead crews is from about 74mm to about 109mm. Optionally from about 60mm to about 120mm. Optionally from about 50mm to about 150mm. In some embodiments, the velocity of the rotation of the lead screws is configured to allow to move a dishware before the next one comes into the cartridge. In some embodiments, the timing is set according to the velocity of the movement of the tilted conveyor belt 702. In some embodiments, at the end of the side lead screws, the dishware arrives at a screw-less tube (or smooth tube or groove-less tube) 808 where the dishware are piled up one after the other. In some embodiments, in the area between the lead screw and the screw- less/groove-Iess tube there are a couple of ratchet mechanisms 810 (see Figure 8f) configured to prevent from a dishware to move backwards. In some embodiments, the ratchet mechanisms 810 are placed at the end of the lead screw 806 and calibrated at the appropriate height according to the diameter of the dishware. In some embodiments, at the end of the lower lead screws 804 there are grooved tubes 812 where the lower part of the dishware are positioned and they prevent the dishware from slipping and flipping downwards. In some embodiments, the diameter/width of the grooves is appropriate so as to prevent involuntary slipping of the dishware but to allow its progression when the dishware is pushed forward by another dishware. In some embodiments, another function of the grooved tubes 812 is to fasten the lead screws. In some embodiments, the side screw-less/groove-less tubes 808 are smooth and are used to support the side lead screws. In some embodiments, the 4 tubes (808/812) are designed with the same diameter as the inner diameter of the lead screws (804/806) to allow a smooth and uninterrupted passage between the lead screw area and the screw-less/grooved areas. In some embodiments, the cartridges of the storage unit allow and enable the stacking of dishware in an organized manner. In some embodiments, the design allows the operator to put his hands inside the cartridges to pull dishware out of the cartridge. In some embodiments, the system comprises a collector configured to hold all the stored dishware together and allow a user to extract all the dishware at once from the cartridge. In some embodiments, the various types and/or sizes of dishware are now sorted by type and/or size and can be put to use. In some embodiments, a cartridge can hold from about 20 dishware to about 50 dishware. Optionally, from about 15 dishware to about 80 dishware. Optionally from about 10 dishware to about 100 dishware. In some embodiments, cartridges are built a priory according to the storing requirements of the client.

Referring now to Figures 8g-8k, showing an exemplary cartridge comprising a slowing element of an exemplary storage unit, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the cartridge in the storage unit 108 optionally comprises a slowing element 814 located at the entry of the cartridge. In some embodiments, a falling dishware from the tilted conveyor 702 comes in contact with the slowing element 814 and slides on the surface of the slowing element 814, on one side of the dishware, while on the other side the dishware there is the partition 704-712, on which the dishware also slides. In some embodiments, the combination of the contact of the dishware on the slowing element 814 and the partition 704- 712 controls the falling the falling of the dishware causing it to fall in a slower manner, when compared with a device without the slowing element 814. In some embodiments, the slowing element 814 is made of one or more of plastic and metal. In some embodiments, the slowing element 814 comprises a fixed angle in relation to the cartridge. In some embodiments, the slowing element 814 comprises a dynamic angle in relation to the cartridge, meaning the slowing element 814 is configured to move vertically, optionally by means of hinges and springs (which bring back the slowing element 814 to its original position). Figures 8g shows a dishware at the beginning of the fall from the tilted conveyor 702. Figure 8h shows the dishware being slowed down by the slowing element 814 while continues to slide on the surface of the partition 704-712. Figure 8i shown the dishware after the completion of the fall and it has landed on the lead screws (804/806). Figure 8j shows the advancing of the dishware on the cartridge by means of the lead screws (804/806). Figure 8k shows the dishware at the area between the lead screw and the screw-less tube where there are a couple of ratchet mechanisms 810 (see Detail E in Figure 8k) configured to prevent from a dishware to move backwards.

Referring now to Figure 81, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary driving mechanism of the grooved tubes and the side screw-less/groove-less tubes, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the grooved tubes 812 and the side screw- less/groove-less tubes 808 are driven by a motor 816 with a relay that rotates a first gear 818, which then rotates a system of gears 820 that are rigidly connected to the grooved tubes 812 and the side screw-less/groove-less tubes 808. In some embodiments, the first gear 818 rotates a system of 4 identical gears that are in contact with each other. In some embodiments, the amount of teeth and diameter in the gears that drive the leading screws are determined by the given geometry of the dishware. In some embodiments, the lead screws rotate so that two of them rotate clockwise and two counterclockwise, therefore two lead screws rotate to the right and the other two to the left. In some embodiments, all the leading screws rotate in the direction necessary to raise the plate up the mechanism.

In some embodiments, for each system of gears 820, a specific first gear 818 is developed to match the necessities of each system of gears 820, therefore providing the desired speed to the leading screws. In some embodiments, this means that the dishware will leave the falling area quickly enough to allow the next dishware to fall without crashing into each other. In some embodiments, on the other hand, the speed is not too great so the passage between the area of the fall and the leading screws is as smooth and controlled as possible.

Exemplary path for pans, pots, trays etc.

In some embodiments, the system of the invention is configured to allow wash, dry and sort of other/big kitchenware, for example pans, pots, trays etc. In some embodiments, kitchenware is cleaned and sorted in the system by following two possible paths, as schematically shown in Figure 9a. In some embodiments, kitchenware is loaded in racks 300 like the glassware. In some embodiments, the kitchenware follows the same path 902 as the glassware racks and, once washed and dried, it is moved on the upper level of the sorter module 106.

In some embodiments, kitchenware is loaded directly into the conveyor belt 302, same as dishware. In some embodiments, once kitchenware reaches the opening 306 at the end of conveyor belt 302, the kitchenware falls into it and into the tilted conveyor belt 702 of the second sorting unit 210 of the sorting module 106, therefore following path 904. In some embodiments, kitchenware that is not dishware, is not sorted like dishware, as disclosed above, and that kitchenware reaches the end of the tilted conveyor belt 702 until it also reaches the end of the sorting module 106. In some embodiments, at the end of the sorting module 106 there is a door 906 that dedicated personnel can open in order to extract kitchenware from the sorting module 106.

In some embodiments, instead of personnel manually taking out kitchenware from the sorting module 106 using the door 906, the sorting module 106 comprises a receiving surface 908, optionally tilted, optionally plain, optionally a passive roller conveyor, for receiving the kitchenware from the tilted conveyor 702 and presenting it to the dedicated personnel, as shown for example, in different views, in Figure 9b.

Exemplary methods

Referring now to Figure 10, showing a flowchart of an exemplary washing, drying and sorting process, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary washing, drying and sorting process of an exemplary sorting system of the present invention is as follows:

In some embodiments, the user loads the dishware on the conveyor belt 302, the glassware on dedicated trays 300 and cutlery on the dedicated side cutlery conveyors (1002). In some embodiments, dishware, glassware and cutlery are washed in the washing unit (1004) and dried in the dryer unit (1006). In some embodiments, the machine performs a first sorting process by sorting (1008): a. the cutlery, which follows the cutlery conveyors into dedicated funnels into a central funnel and finally into a collection bin; b. the glassware tray, which continues at the same level into the storing unit; c. the dishware, which falls into the tilted conveyor belt 702.

In some embodiments, then a second sorting is performed to the dishware, according to size and/or type, as disclosed above (1010). In some embodiments, lastly, the dishware, glassware and cutlery are stored in the storing unit (1012).

Referring now to Figure 11, showing a flowchart of an exemplary sorting process, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary method of sorting dishes comprises one or more of: conveying dishes along a path 1102; allowing dishes to move towards an edge of said path until contacting a partition 1104; wherein there is a gap between said path and said partition; allowing dishes to fall from said path into said gap, according to a relationship between a center of gravity of said dish and said gap. In some embodiments, the movement of the dishware towards the edge is done by gravity. In some embodiments, the movement of the dishware towards the edge is actively done by a mechanism, for example, by means of active directional Omni-wheels. In some embodiments, the conveying is performed along a conveyor. In some embodiments, the conveyor is tilted in a direction perpendicular to a movement of said conveyor, said tilting generating a higher end and a lower end. In some embodiments, the gap increases in width along said path, thereby allowing the sorting of different dishware according, for example, to their center of gravity.

Exemplary alternative embodiments of the second sorting unit

Referring now to Figures 12a-b, showing an exemplary alternative embodiment of a second sorting unit, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the second sorting unit comprises a conveyor 1202 that is substantially horizontal. In some embodiments, the conveyor comprises a combination of a conveyor belt 1204 and Omni directional wheels 1206. In some embodiments, the Omni-directional wheels are mechanically activated. In some embodiments, the conveyor comprises Activated Roller Belt™ (ARB™) technology. In some embodiments, while the conveyor is moving the dishware along the path of the conveyor (Arrow A), activate rollers move the dishware towards the partitions 1108 (small arrows in Omni-directional wheels 1206), as shown for example in Figure 12a and 12b, and thereby allowing the use of a non-tilted conveyor. In some embodiments, the partition 1208 is an active conveyor configured to move the dishware in the downwards direction, towards the dedicated storage containers 212. In some embodiments, only dishware that its center of gravity has passed over the edge of the conveyor 1202 will be allowed to fall and therefore be sorted.

Exemplary personalization of system

In some embodiments, when a costumer acquires a system for sorting dishes as disclosed herein, the costumer provides information regarding the dishware he uses in order to optimize the sorting system accordingly. In some embodiments, relevant information includes, for example, one or more of the following information:

1. Size of the different dishware: for example diameter, depth.

2. Geometrical form of the different dishware: for example round, square, oval, etc.

3. Material of the dishware: for example plastic, ceramic, metal, etc.

In some embodiments, the information is used to calculate the different coefficients of friction, the center of mass of each dishware, the required angles for the tilted conveyor (when used), to calculate the different gaps between the partitions and the tilted conveyor in order to allow correct sorting of the different dishware.

In some embodiments, the information is provided using a dedicated website and/or app, which allows the user to perform one or more of the following:

1. Insert pictures of the different dishware. 2. Access a dedicated database comprising information and/or pictures of dishware from known sellers, which can potentially facilitate the provision of information from the client.

3. Insert special requirements for the sorting system.

As used herein with reference to quantity or value, the term “about” means “within ± 20

% of’.

The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “has”, “having” and their conjugates mean “including but not limited to”.

The term “consisting of’ means “including and limited to”.

The term “consisting essentially of’ means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and/or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and/or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “a compound” or “at least one compound” may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

Throughout this application, embodiments of this invention may be presented with reference to a range format. It should be understood that 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 invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges 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 subranges 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.

Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein (for example “10-15”, “10 to 15”, or any pair of numbers linked by these another such range indication), it is meant to include any number (fractional or integral) within the indicated range limits, including the range limits, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The phrases “range/ranging/ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “range/ranging/ranges from” a first indicate number “to”, “up to”, “until” or “through” (or another such range-indicating term) a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numbers therebetween. Unless otherwise indicated, numbers used herein and any number ranges based thereon are approximations within the accuracy of reasonable measurement and rounding errors as understood by persons skilled in the art.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

Various embodiments and aspects of the present invention as delineated hereinabove and as claimed in the claims section below find calculated support in the following examples.

EXAMPLES

Reference is now made to the following examples, which together with the above descriptions illustrate some embodiments of the invention in a non limiting fashion.

Examples of exemplary calculation for the tilted conveyor 702

First the coefficients of friction μ1 and μ2 are calculated by a simple experiment of sliding the plate on a sloping plane from the material of the tilted conveyor 702 and the material of the partitions respectively.

Now the first angle that defines the range of angles of the action of the tilted conveyor

702 is-

This is the minimum angle required for the tilted conveyor 702 in favor of smoothing plates and attachments to the sorting partitions.

We then consider the critical angle from which a roll of the circular dishware is obtained without slipping or stopping a square tray:

We now have the range of angles at which the tilted conveyor 702 can be found for a plate of a given material (glass, ceramics, plastic, etc.) and data coefficients of friction (found in the experiment - between the given plate and the conveyor and the partition respectively).

Numerical example of exemplary calculations Exemplary Data

A plate made of ceramic, a tilted conveyor 702 made with polyurethane, a sorting partition made of Poly(methyl methacrylate) - also known as s acrylic, acrylic glass, or plexiglass, as well as by the trade names Crylux, Plexiglas, Acrylite, Astariglas, Lucite, Perclax, and Perspex, among several others.

The coefficient of friction between the plate and the tilted conveyor 702 was measured experimentally as μ1 = 0.17.

The coefficient of friction between the plate and the partition was measured experimentally as μ2= 0.38.

This is the critical angle above which a round plate will roll and a square tray will stop for the data coefficients of friction.

The minimum angle of sorting conveyor that will allow the plate to slide in the direction of the sorting partitions in the transition from the dishwasher to the tilted conveyor 702 is calculated as follows:

The angle is derived directly from the coefficient of friction of the sorting conveyor surface (polyurethane):

Which for coefficient of friction μ1 = 0.17 we get:

Therefore, in practice, it is required that the angle of the conveyor belt be between:

Optimization of the angle a will be performed by finding Ab (the difference between theoretical distances and falling in the partitions of a pair of plates). It is possible, by performing a numerical calculation, to find the angle a at which the difference Ab will be ideal for separating a given pair. In the case where there are multiple partitions (meaning multiple partitions at different distances of a single tilted conveyor 702), the optimization of the angle a by averaging the sizes of Ab for each following pair of plates and finding the largest average. This is, of course, also taking into account the specific Ab of each pair of plates in order to avoid situations of difficulty in separation between two following types of plates. In summary, the ideal a angle will be such that, on the one hand the total mean of Ab will be the highest, and on the other hand, also Ab between each pair will be sufficient for separation (for example, about 5 mm and higher) to be able to separate all the pairs.

For a case where the angle of the tilted conveyor 702 is not fixed, rather changes along the conveyor, the ideal angle for the tilted conveyor in order to separate each pair of plate’s Ab will be adjusted without calculating the value of Ab, which is now unimportant as an ideal angle is matched for each pair of plates.

Example of calculating Ab for a pair of given plates and finding an ideal a for them Data:

Plate 1 radius - r₁ = 0.123 [m] Height of center of gravity of Plate 1 - hi = 0.013 [m]

Plate 2 radius - r₂ = 0.129 [m]

Height of center of gravity of Plate 2 - h₂ = 0.023 [m]

Inserting the data in a formula for finding a theoretical b extracted from the equations of motion:

Setting the values of Plate 1 and Plate 2:

Two expressions are recovered for the distance between the sorting partitions and the tilted conveyor 702 for the given plates that depend on the angle. The difference is calculated Ab = b2-b] (expression that is dependent on a). In case the angle of the tilted conveyor 702 remains constant, a similar calculation is performed for all pairs of plates and get expressions for the differences between each pair Ab, (expression dependent on a).

The mean of the differences Ab (expression dependent on a ) are calculated. Then, in a numeric manner, the range of angles found is scanned: α_{slide, PU} = 9.6°< α < α _cr 27.8°

The existence of 2 conditions are required: 1. All differences that are Δb_i> 5mm 2. Maximum

It was found that the ideal angle of separation is 25.5 degrees.

Calculation b for a given angle When the angle of the tilted conveyor is given and it is wanted to determine the position of the sorting partition (meaning the distance between the partition and the conveyor), the following will be performed:

First, the b required for each plate will be calculated. For example - for the abovementioned plates and angle a = 25.5°, the following is gotten:

The difference Ab = 0.06 [m] which is bigger than, for example, 5mm, so a pair of plates will separate.

The sorting partition for sorting Plate 2 will be positioned in the machine in the center of the range between b₂ and b₁, and this is in order to make sure that Plate 2 will be sorted and to make sure that and Plate 1 will not be sorted.

For example, the partition will be placed at a distance b(_{sorting partition 2)} = 0.137 [m]. This will ensure that all Plates 2 will be sorted at sorting partition 2, while all Plates 1 will continue along the conveyor belt. The partition of Plates 1 is placed at b(_{sorting partition 1)} = 0.143 [m], so that all such plates will surely be sorted in the correct partition.

Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

It is the intent of the applicant(s) that all publications, patents and patent applications referred to in this specification are to be incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually noted when referenced that it is to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting. In addition, any priority document(s) of this application is/are hereby incorporated herein by reference in its/their entirety.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A machine for sorting dishware, comprising: a. a conveyor configured to allow a dishware to reach an edge of said conveyor; b. at least one partition located along said edge of said conveyor; c. a gap between said conveyor and said at least one partition; d. at least one dishware receiving container located below said gap and configured to receive a dishware falling from said conveyor within said gap.

2. The machine according to claim 1, wherein said conveyor is a conveyor belt.

3. The machine according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein said conveyor is tilted in a direction perpendicular to a movement of said conveyor, said tilting generating a higher end and a lower end.

4. The machine according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein said at least one partition is located at said lower end of said tilted conveyor.

5. The machine according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein said dishware enters said conveyor from said higher end of said conveyor.

6. The machine according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein said gap increases in width along said conveyor.

7. The machine according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein said tilting allows said dishware to move towards said edge by gravitation.

8. The machine according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein said dishware is allowed to fall according to a relationship between a center of gravity of said dishware and a width of said gap-

9. The machine according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein said conveyor comprises active mechanical means to move said dishware towards said edge.

10. The machine according to any one of clai s 1-9, wherein said partition comprises active mechanical means to move said dishware downwards towards said at least one dishware receiving container.

11. The machine according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein said partition comprises active mechanical means to move said dishware in a same direction as said conveyor.

12. The machine according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein said conveyor is made of a material that allows said dishware to slide when said conveyor is tilted.

13. The machine according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein said gap is comprises a width calculated according to a relationship between a center of gravity of said dishware and a radius of said dishware.

14. The machine according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein said gap comprises a width calculated according to the following formula:

where a is the angle of inclination of said conveyor when tilted; h is the height of the center of gravity of said dishware, r is the radius of said dishware, μ1 is the coefficient of friction between said dishware and said conveyor, μ2 is the coefficient of friction between said dishware and said sorting partition.

15. The machine according to any one of claims 1-14, wherein said dishware-sorting machine is configured to sort one or more of dishware, pans, pots, glassware, cutlery, trays baskets and racks.

16. The machine according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein pans, pots and trays are sorted at the distal end of said conveyor.

17. The machine according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein dishware is fed into said dishware-sorting machine from a dishwasher.

18. The machine according to any one of claims 1-17, wherein said at least one dishware receiving container comprises at least one slower element comprising a spring for slowing a fall of said dishware from said conveyor.

19. The machine according to any one of claims 1-18, wherein said at least one dishware receiving container is configured to receive said dishware and stacking it in an organized manner.

20. The machine according to any one of claims 1-19, wherein said configured to allow a dishware to reach an edge of said conveyor is by providing said conveyor with a material having a coefficient of friction between said dishware and said conveyor which allows said dishware to reach an edge of said conveyor when said conveyor is tilted towards said edge.

21. The machine according to any one of claims 1-20, wherein said conveyor is made of two different materials having two different coefficient of friction between said dishware and said conveyor.

22. The machine according to any one of claims 1-21, wherein said configured to allow a dishware to reach an edge of said conveyor is by providing said conveyor with active mechanical means to move said dishware downwards towards said edge.

23. The machine according to any one of claims 1-22, wherein said partition extends into said at least one dishware receiving container.

24. A dishware receiving container, comprising: a. an elongated hollow body comprising four walls, a bottom and an open top; said elongated hollow body for orderly stack a plurality of dishware; b. an opening at one of said four walls and in proximity to said bottom for receiving at least one dishware; c. at least one bottom lead screw located on the opposite wall to said wall comprising said opening; said at least one bottom lead screw connected proximally to a rotating mechanism located adjacent to said bottom; d. at least one side lead screw located on a side wall to said wall comprising said opening; said at least one side lead screw connected proximally to said rotating mechanism located adjacent to said bottom; e. a rotating mechanism located adjacent to said bottom and operatively interconnected to said at least one bottom lead screw and said at least one side lead screw; said rotating mechanism configured to synchronously rotate said at least one bottom lead screw and said at least one side lead screw.

25. The dishware receiving container according to claim 24, wherein said at least one bottom lead screw further comprises a grooved tube extending distally from said at least one bottom lead screw; said grooved tube connected distally with a holder at a distal end of said opposite wall.

26. The dishware receiving container according to claim 24 or claim 25, wherein said at least one side lead screw further comprises a smooth tube extending distally from said at least one side lead screw; said smooth tube connected distally with a holder at a distal end of said side wall.

27. The dishware receiving container according to any one of claims 24-26, further comprising a unidirectional ratchet mechanism located on said side wall after said at least one side lead screw for preventing a dishware from returning to said at least one side lead screw once arrived to said smooth tube.

28. The dishware receiving container according to any one of claims 24-27, wherein said dishware receiving container comprises two bottom lead screws.

29. The dishware receiving container according to any one of claims 24-28, wherein said dishware receiving container comprises two side lead screws.

30. The dishware receiving container according to any one of claims 24-29, wherein dishware enters said dishware receiving container facing towards said open top.

31. The dishware receiving container according to any one of claims 24-30, wherein dishware enters said dishware receiving container facing the same direction.

32. The dishware receiving container according to any one of claims 24-31, further comprising a collector configured to extract all dishware at once from said dishware receiving container.

33. The dishware receiving container according to any one of claims 24-32, further comprising a slowing element located at said opening for slowing down a velocity of entry of a dishware when entering said dishware receiving container.

34. The dishware receiving container according to any one of claims 24-33, wherein a pitch of said at least one bottom lead screw and said at least one side lead screw is configured to be bigger than the thickness of at least one contact point of a dishware with said lead screw in the direction of the advancement of said dishware in said lead screw.

35. The dishware receiving container according to any one of claims 24-34, wherein said at least one bottom lead screw is made of a soft material.

36. The dishware receiving container according to any one of claims 24-35, wherein grooves in said grooved tube comprise a width that prevents involuntary slipping of a dishware but to allow its progression when said dishware is pushed forward by another dishware.

37. A method of sorting dishware, comprising: a. conveying dishes along a path; b. allowing dishes to move towards an edge of said path until contacting a partition; wherein there is a gap between said path and said partition; c. allowing dishes to fall from said path into said gap, according to a relationship between a center of gravity and width of said dish and said gap.

38. The method according to claim 37, wherein said move towards an edge is done by gravity.

39. The method according to claim 37 or claim 38, wherein said move towards an edge is actively done by a mechanism.

40. The method according to any one of claims 37-39, wherein said conveying is performed along a conveyor.

41. The method according to any one of claims 37-40, wherein said conveyor is tilted in a direction perpendicular to a movement of said conveyor, said tilting generating a higher end and a lower end.

42. The method according to any one of cl aims 37-41, wherein said gap increases in width along said path.

43. A method of sorting dishware, comprising: a. tilting a conveyor belt along an axis of movement of said conveyor belt thereby generating a lower side and a higher side in said conveyor belt; b. positioning at least one partition along said lower side of said conveyor belt; said at least one partition positioned at a certain distance from said conveyor belt thereby generating at least one gap between said conveyor belt and at least one partition; c. sorting said dishware by allowing said dishware to fall in said at least one gap when a size of said dishware allows for said dishware to fall in said at least one gap.

44. A dishwasher-sorting system, comprising: a. a washer; b. a dryer; c. a first conveyor having a proximal end and a distal end, said first conveyor passing through said washer and said dryer; d. a first sorter located after said distal end of said first conveyor: said first sorter configured to sort between dishware, racks and/or cutlery; e. a rack storage comprising a proximal end and a distal end, said rack storage being in communication with said first sorter at said proximal end of said rack storage; said rack storage configured for receiving said racks moving on said first conveyor; f. a second sorter configured to sort between different types of said dishware; g. at least two dishware receiving containers configured to receive said different types of said dishware from said second sorter.

45. The dishwasher-sorting system according to claim 44, wherein said first sorter comprises: a. an opening for allowing dishware moving on said first conveyor to be fed into a second sorting area; and b. at least one side protrusion to allow racks moving on said first conveyor to pass over said opening and into said rack storage.

46. The dishwasher-sorting system according to claim 44 or claim 45, wherein said rack storage comprises a second conveyor for directing said racks from said proximal end of said rack storage to said distal end of said rack storage

47. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of claims 44-46, wherein said second sorter comprises: a. a third conveyor configured to allow a dishware to reach an edge of said third conveyor; b. at least one partition located along said edge of said third conveyor; c. a gap between said third conveyor and said at least one partition, for allowing said dishware to be fed into said at least one dishware container.

48. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of claims 44-47, wherein said at least two dishware receiving containers are located below said gap and configured to receive a dishware falling from said third conveyor within said gap.

49. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of claims 44-48, further comprising at least one separate area for feeding cutlery into said dishwasher-sorting system.

50. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of claims 44-49, further comprising a cutlery storage for receiving cutlery from said at least one separate area after passing through said washer and said dryer.

51. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of claims 44-50, wherein said washer and said dryer are incorporated in one unit.

52. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of claims 44-51, wherein said at least two dishware receiving containers are according to the dishware receiving container of claim 24.

53. The dishwasher-sorting system according to any one of claims 44-52, wherein said second sorter is according to the dish ware-sorting machine of claim 1.

54. A segment for a modular belt conveyor, said modular belt conveyor comprising a plurality of rows; each row comprising a plurality of segments, comprising: a. a body comprising a horizontal base and a vertical extension of said base extending from said base, said vertical extension having a lower side, which is connected to said base, and a upper side; b. at least one intra-row connector and at least one inter-row connector; c. a holding niche defined between said base and said vertical extension, sized and shaped for holding an item; said holding niche located at a connection between said horizontal base and said vertical extension; d. a portion of said base shaped to gravitationally guide said items placed thereon towards said holding niche.