WO2024071780A1

WO2024071780A1 - Cup washer

Info

Publication number: WO2024071780A1
Application number: PCT/KR2023/013974
Authority: WO
Inventors: 성창우; 박차렴; 박효근; 정태용
Original assignee: 엘지전자 주식회사
Priority date: 2022-09-26
Filing date: 2023-09-15
Publication date: 2024-04-04

Abstract

A cup washer according to an embodiment may include a washing unit for washing cups accommodated therein. The cup washer may include: a tub that provides a space for accommodating the cups; and a rack which is provided inside the tub and on which the cups are placed. The rack may include: a bottom part that supports the cups on the rack from below; a side part that is formed protruding on one side of the tub and supports the cups from one side; and a tine that protrudes from the bottom part toward the upper side of the tub.

Description

cup washer

The present invention relates to a cup washing machine, and more specifically, to a cup washing machine that cleans cups carried by users.

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

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

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

Therefore, by placing a cup washing machine that can clean the cup carried by the user in the store, it is possible to provide the user with the convenience of washing his or her own cup. These cup washing machines need to have a structure that anyone can easily use.

The cup washing machine may be equipped with a rack on which to hold cups in the washing unit. Related prior art is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2012-0107225 and Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2014-0064119.

The rack provided in the washing unit needs to have a structure that can stably hold cups and other objects, such as cup lids and reusable straws, that are to be cleaned.

Meanwhile, during the washing process, detergent for cleaning the cup and rinse aid for rinsing the cup may be injected into the washing part. A structure that ensures that these detergents and rinses are well mixed with the water injected into the washing part It needs to be provided. If this structure can be provided in the rack, cleaning efficiency can be improved.

Additionally, in order to dry water remaining on the cup, lid, straw, etc. after washing with water, air can be sprayed on the cup, etc. There is a need to develop a means to improve drying efficiency by providing a structure in which such air flows smoothly toward a rack on which cups, etc. are mounted.

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a cup washing machine that includes a rack that can stably hold cleaning objects such as cups, cup lids, and reusable straws.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cup washing machine including a rack having a structure that allows detergent or rinse aid to be smoothly mixed with water.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cup washing machine that includes a washing unit having a structure that allows air for drying to flow smoothly toward cups mounted on a rack.

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

One embodiment of the washing unit may include a rack provided inside the tub, on which a cup is seated, and formed by combining a plurality of wires with each other.

The rack may include a bottom portion that is seated on the tub and supports the cups seated in the rack from below, and a side portion that is formed to protrude from one side of the tub and supports the cups seated in the rack on one side.

The bottom portion includes a first inclined portion whose longitudinal direction is inclined with respect to the lateral direction of the tub, and the side portion is connected to the first inclined portion and includes a second inclined portion whose longitudinal direction is disposed to be inclined with respect to the vertical direction of the tub. can do. The cup, which is an object to be washed, may have its lower part supported by a first slope and its side supported by a second slope.

The rack protrudes from the bottom toward the top of the tub, and may include tines that are at least partially disposed inside the cup when a cup is placed on the rack. The tines may include a second section arranged so that its longitudinal direction is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the other section. Accordingly, when the tine is viewed in the longitudinal direction, the cross-sectional area of the tine may increase.

The rack is arranged to face the washing water inlet and may include a first flow path guide portion that directs the water flowing from the washing water inlet toward the detergent flowing into the detergent inlet. The first flow path guide can change the flow direction of the washing water to the direction in which the detergent is present so that the detergent and water are smoothly mixed with each other.

The tub is connected to the air inlet hole, is disposed inside the tub, and may include a guide cone that guides the flow of warm air flowing into the tub. The cross-sectional area of the flow path formed in the guide cone may decrease toward the outlet of the guide cone.

The tub may include an auxiliary outlet that discharges water to the outside of the tub to control the water level inside the tub. The rack is disposed at a position corresponding to the auxiliary outlet and may include a second flow path guide portion that guides the flow path of water flowing into the tub from the auxiliary outlet. Water flowing back into the tub through the auxiliary outlet may be blocked by the second flow path guide and may not come into contact with cleaning objects such as cups mounted on the rack.

A cup washing machine according to an embodiment may include a washing unit that cleans the accommodated cup.

The washing unit may include a tub that provides a space to accommodate the cup, and a rack provided inside the tub and on which the cup is seated.

The rack includes a bottom portion that supports the cups seated on the rack from below, a side portion that is formed to protrude from one side of the tub and supports the cups from one side, and a tine that protrudes from the bottom toward the top of the tub. can do.

The bottom portion forms an edge of the bottom portion, an edge portion of which a portion is formed to protrude toward the upper side of the tub, a first inclined portion whose longitudinal direction is disposed to be inclined with respect to the lateral direction of the tub, and is bent from the first inclined portion. It may include a first bent portion coupled to the edge portion.

The side portion has one end coupled to the edge portion, the longitudinal direction extends from a vertical portion disposed in the vertical direction of the tub, a second bent portion bent from the vertical portion, and one end of the second bent portion, and the longitudinal direction extends from the upper and lower sides of the tub. It may include a second inclined portion disposed to be inclined with respect to the direction.

The tines include a first section protruding from the bottom, a second section extending from the first section and arranged so that the longitudinal direction is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the first section, and a second section extending from the second section and having a longitudinal direction It may include a third section arranged to be inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the second section.

The first section and the third section may be arranged so that their longitudinal directions are parallel to each other.

The tub includes a detergent inlet through which detergent flows, and a wash water inlet disposed above the detergent inlet through which water flows into the tub. The rack is coupled to the bottom and is arranged to face the wash water inlet to indicate the direction of water flow. It may include a first flow path guide portion that guides.

The first flow path guide part is coupled to the base part and the bottom part, and is disposed at a position corresponding to the washing water inlet to change the flow direction of water flowing into the tub, and is formed in a curved shape when viewed in cross section, It may include a first pad that guides the tub to flow in a downward direction.

The tub is arranged to be spaced apart from the detergent inlet and includes a rinse inlet through which rinse is introduced, and the first flow path guide portion may direct water flowing in from the wash water inlet toward the rinse water flowing into the rinse inlet.

The tub may include an air inlet hole through which air for drying flows, and a guide cone connected to the air inlet hole and guiding the flow of warm air flowing into the tub.

The guide cone may be provided with a flow path through which air flows, and the cross-sectional area of the flow path decreases toward the outlet of the guide cone.

The guide cone may be provided to move upward toward the exit.

The guide cone may be provided so that the outlet is disposed below the first inclined portion.

The tub is disposed at a height corresponding to the height of the bottom and includes an auxiliary outlet that discharges water to the outside of the tub, and the rack is disposed in a position corresponding to the auxiliary outlet and provides a flow path for water flowing into the inside of the tub from the auxiliary outlet. It may include a second flow path guide section for guidance.

The second flow guide portion is a second pad that guides the water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet to flow toward the bottom of the tub, is bent from the second pad, and prevents the water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet from flowing toward the top of the tub. It may include a third pad and an insertion hole formed to penetrate the third pad.

The tub includes an outer panel and an inner panel disposed inside the outer panel, and a detergent inlet, a rinse inlet, and a wash water inlet may be formed to penetrate the outer panel and the inner panel.

In the cup washing machine according to the present invention, the lower portion of the cup mounted on the rack may be supported by the first inclined portion of the bottom portion and the side portion may be supported by the second inclined portion of the side portion. Accordingly, the cup is entirely mounted on the rack at an angle, so that not only the bottom of the cup but also the sides of the cup can be supported by the rack. Therefore, in the rack according to the embodiment, the cup can be mounted more stably compared to a structure that supports only the lower part of the cup.

Additionally, in the cup washing machine according to the present invention, the tines may include a second section that is inclined with respect to the other sections. Accordingly, the length of the tines can be effectively reduced while at the same time the straw can be tightly mounted on the tines, and the straw can remain stably mounted on the rack even against external shocks such as sprayed water.

Additionally, in the cup washing machine according to the present invention, the rack may be provided with a first flow path guide portion that guides the flow direction of water at a position adjacent to the washing water inlet of the tub. Accordingly, water flowing into the tub can flow toward the detergent or rinse aid through the first flow path guide part. Accordingly, since the flowing water is mixed with the detergent or rinse, the water and the detergent or rinse are smoothly mixed with each other, and the cleaning efficiency of the cup washer can be improved.

Additionally, in the cup washer according to the present invention, a guide cone through which air for drying flowing into the tub flows, and the guide cone guides the flow of air flowing into the tub so that the air flows directly from the outlet into the cup, etc. It can be guided towards the cleaning object. Due to this structure, the drying efficiency of the cup washer can be significantly improved by using a guide cone to spray air directly into the cup, etc., compared to the case where warm air is sprayed evenly over the entire washing unit.

In addition, in the cup washer according to the present invention, the second flow guide portion is arranged to directly face the auxiliary outlet, and changes the flow direction so that the water flowing backwards through the auxiliary outlet and flowing into the tub is directed to the bottom of the tub, thereby removing the contaminated water flowing backwards. This can prevent water from spilling onto cups placed on a rack and contaminating the cups.

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

Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a cup washing machine according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a view of FIG. 1 viewed from another direction.

Figure 3 is a diagram showing a door open state in a cup washing machine according to an embodiment.

Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a cup washer with some parts omitted.

Figure 5 is a side view of Figure 4.

Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a washing unit according to one embodiment.

Figure 7 is a front view showing a washing unit according to an embodiment.

Figure 8 is a side view showing a washing unit according to one embodiment.

Figure 9 is a rear view showing a washing unit according to one embodiment.

Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a tub and a rack according to one embodiment.

Figure 11 is a perspective view showing a rack according to one embodiment.

Figure 12 is a side view showing a rack according to one embodiment.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of the rack shown in FIG. 12.

Figure 14 is a perspective view showing a rack to which a first flow guide portion has been added according to an embodiment.

Figure 15 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the rack shown in Figure 14.

Figure 16 is a perspective view showing a rack with an air inlet hole added according to an embodiment.

Figure 17 is a view showing the rack in the area where the air inlet hole is placed.

Figure 18 is a diagram showing an auxiliary discharge port and a second flow path guide portion according to an embodiment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the tub 131 and the rack 400 according to one embodiment. Figure 11 is a perspective view showing a rack 400 according to one embodiment. The cup washing machine according to the embodiment may include a washing unit 130 that cleans the accommodated cup. The washing unit 130 may include a tub 131 and a rack 400.

The tub 131 provides a space in which the cup 10 is accommodated, and washing water can be sprayed inside. The rack 400 may be formed by being provided inside the tub 131, on which a cup is seated, and by combining a plurality of wires with each other. For example, a cup, a cup lid 12, a straw 11, etc. may be mounted on the rack 400.

At this time, the cup 10 may be placed upside down on the rack 400. That is, the open mouth of the cup may be placed at the bottom of the rack 400, and the bottom of the cup may be placed at the top of the rack 400. Accordingly, the water sprayed from the bottom to the top of the rack 400 can smoothly flow into the inside of the cup and clean the inside of the cup.

The rack 400 may be formed into a three-dimensional mesh structure by combining wires as a whole. Due to this shape, cups, etc. can be easily mounted on the rack 400, and the sprayed water can easily clean the cups, etc. mounted on the rack 400 by passing through the lower part of the rack 400.

The rack 400 may include a bottom portion 410, a side portion 420, and a tine 430. The bottom 410 is seated on the tub 131 and can support the cup seated on the rack 400 from below. In order to stably support a cup, etc., the bottom portion 410 may be generally provided in a form widely spread in the lateral direction of the tub 131, front, back, left, and right.

The side portion 420 is formed to protrude from one side of the tub 131 and can support the cup seated on the rack 400 from one side. The side portion 420 protrudes upward from the tub 131 and can stably support the side of the cup seated on the rack 400.

The tines 430 protrude from the bottom 410 toward the top of the tub 131, and when a cup is placed on the rack 400, at least a portion of the tines 430 may be placed inside the cup. A plurality of tines 430 may be provided, and each tines 430 may be spaced apart from each other at an appropriate distance.

The tines 430 are provided in a rod shape and may be arranged in a longitudinal direction generally in the vertical direction of the tub 131. Accordingly, the cup, lid 12, straw 11, etc. can be stably supported by the tines 430.

The bottom portion 410 may include an edge portion 411, a first inclined portion 412, and a first bent portion 413. The edge portion 411 forms an edge of the bottom portion 410, and may be formed so that portions of both sides protrude upward from the tub 131.

Protruding edges 4111 may be formed on both sides of the edge portion 411 to protrude. The protruding edge 4111 is provided to contact the inner surface of the side wall of the tub 131, so that when the rack 400 shakes laterally, it contacts the tub 131 to limit the movement of the rack 400, thereby preventing the rack ( 400) can be stably maintained in its position in the tub 131.

Additionally, the protruding edge 4111 may serve as a handle when the manager places the rack 400 in the tub 131 or separates it from the tub 131.

The first inclined portion 412 may be arranged so that its longitudinal direction is inclined with respect to the lateral direction of the tub 131. The first inclined portion 412 may be provided in plurality and may be disposed at positions spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, the plurality of first slopes 412 may form the bottom surface of the rack 400 on which cups, etc. are placed.

Since the plurality of first inclined portions 412 have an inclination, the cup placed on the first inclined portion 412 can be placed on the rack 400 at an angle with respect to the vertical direction of the tub 131 as a whole. Because the cup is mounted at an angle, one side of the cup can lean against and be supported by the side portion 420.

Due to this structure, the cup is simultaneously supported by the bottom portion 410 and the side portion 420, and thus the cup can be stably mounted on the rack 400 as a whole.

The first bent portion 413 may be bent from the first inclined portion 412 and coupled to the edge portion 411. In order for the first inclined portion 412 to have an inclined structure, a first bent portion 413 may be formed at one end of the first inclined portion 412.

The first bent portion 413 is provided in plurality, each first bent portion 413 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other, and each first bent portion 413 is provided with a plurality of first inclined portions 412. It can be extended from.

The side portion 420 may include a vertical portion 421, a second bent portion 422, a second inclined portion 423, and a horizontal portion 424. The vertical portion 421, the second bent portion 422, and the second inclined portion 423 may each be provided in plural numbers. Each of the vertical portion 421, the second bent portion 422, and the second inclined portion 423 are arranged to be spaced apart from each other, thereby forming an area where a cup or the like is mounted.

In the embodiment, the vertical portion 421, the second bent portion 422, and the second inclined portion 423 of the side portion 420 and the first inclined portion 412 and the first bent portion 413 of the bottom portion 410. ) can be formed integrally, and each part can be formed by bending one wire.

One end of the vertical portion 421 is coupled to the edge portion 411, and its longitudinal direction may be arranged in the vertical direction of the tub 131. The second bent portion 422 may be bent from the vertical portion 421 and disposed in the longitudinal direction of the tub 131 .

The second inclined portion 423 extends from one end of the second bent portion 422 and the other end is connected to the first inclined portion 412, and may be arranged so that the longitudinal direction is inclined with respect to the vertical direction of the tub 131. there is. A cup placed at an angle on the rack 400 by the first inclined portion 412 of the bottom portion 410 may have a portion of its side supported by the second inclined portion 423. Due to this structure, the lower portion of the cup can be supported by the first inclined portion 412 and the side portion can be supported by the second inclined portion 423.

The horizontal portion 424 is disposed in the lateral direction of the rack 400 in the longitudinal direction, and can be fixedly coupled to each of the plurality of side portions 420. For example, the horizontal portion 424 may be respectively coupled to a plurality of vertical portions 421 . The horizontal portion 424 may be combined with a plurality of side portions 420 to maintain the designed separation distance between the side portions 420 without deforming each other.

In an embodiment, the cup mounted on the rack 400 has its lower portion supported by the first inclined portion 412 of the bottom portion 410 and its side supported by the second inclined portion 423 of the side portion 420. You can. Accordingly, the cup is entirely mounted on the rack 400 at an angle, and as a result, not only the bottom of the cup but also the sides of the cup can be supported by the rack 400. Therefore, in the rack 400 according to the embodiment, the cup can be mounted more stably compared to a structure that supports only the lower part of the cup.

Figure 12 is a side view showing the rack 400 according to one embodiment. FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of the rack 400 shown in FIG. 12. The tines 430 are provided to protrude from the first inclined portion 412 of the bottom 410, the longitudinal direction is generally arranged in the vertical direction of the tub 131, and the first inclined portion 412 has an inclination. Therefore, it can be arranged in a slightly slanted form with respect to the vertical direction of the tub 131.

A plurality of tines 430 may be arranged at intervals from each other. Due to this structure, for example, the lid 12 of a cup can be placed between the plurality of tines 430. The lid 12 may be supported by a plurality of tines 430 and mounted on the rack 400.

Meanwhile, since the upper end of the tines 430 is not connected to other parts, when cleaning the reusable straw 11, the straws 11 can be inserted into the tines 430 and placed on the rack 400. In order for the straw 11 to be stably mounted on the tine 430, the tine 430 needs a structure to tightly hold the mounted straw 11.

According to this need, the tines 430 according to the embodiment may form an inclined section to maintain the inserted straw 11 in a tight state without being loose. Specifically, the tine 430 may include a first section 431, a second section 432, and a third section 433, and these may be formed as one piece.

The first section 431 may protrude from the bottom 410. The first section 431 protrudes from the first inclined portion 412 of the bottom portion 410, and may be arranged in a longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the first inclined portion 412.

The second section 432 extends from the first section 431 and may be arranged such that its longitudinal direction is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the first section 431 . The third section 433 extends from the second section 432 and may be arranged such that its longitudinal direction is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the second section 432 . Additionally, the first section 431 and the third section 433 may be arranged parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction.

Due to this structure, referring to FIG. 12, the cross-sectional area of the tine 430 can be expanded when viewed in the longitudinal direction. Because the cross-sectional area of the tines 430 is expanded, the straw 11 can be tightly mounted on the tines 430.

That is, a part of the straw 11 is in contact with the first section 431 and supported by the first section 431, and the other part of the straw 11 is in contact with the third section 433 and is supported by the third section (431). 433).

Due to this structure, the straw 11 is stably supported by the tines 430, so the straw 11 is not separated from the tines 430 by external shock such as sprayed water, and the straw 11 is not separated from the tines 430 during the washing process. ) can be stably mounted on the rack 400. In addition, due to the inclined second section 432, the straw 11 can be stably mounted on the tine 430 while reducing the length of the tine 430.

In an embodiment, the tines 430 may include a second section 432 that is inclined relative to the other sections. Accordingly, the length of the tines 430 can be effectively reduced and at the same time, the straw 11 can be tightly mounted on the tines 430, so that the straw 11 is stably attached to the rack 400 despite external shocks such as sprayed water. It can remain stationary.

Figure 14 is a perspective view showing a rack 400 to which a first flow guide portion 440 has been added according to an embodiment. FIG. 15 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the rack 400 shown in FIG. 14.

The tub 131 may include a detergent inlet 1312, a rinse inlet 1311, and a wash water inlet 1315. The detergent inlet 1312 is connected to the detergent pump 1301 through a pipe, so that the detergent pumped from the detergent pump 1301 can flow into the tub 131 through the detergent inlet 1312.

Additionally, the rinse inlet 1311 is connected to the rinse pump 1302 through a pipe, so that the rinse pumped from the rinse pump 1302 can flow into the tub 131 through the rinse inlet 1311. The washing water inlet 1315 is connected to the water storage tank 120 by a pipe, and water discharged from the water storage tank 120 can flow into the tub 131 through the washing water inlet 1315.

The water flowing in from the water storage tank 120 is stored in the sump 133 and then circulates through the sump 133 and the tub 131 to wash cups, etc. contained in the tub 131. For effective cleaning and rinsing of the cup, the water flowing into the tub 131 needs to be smoothly mixed with the detergent or rinse.

The washing water inlet 1315 may be disposed at a location spaced apart from the detergent inlet 1312 or the rinse water inlet 1311. Therefore, the water flowing into the washing water inlet 1315 does not meet the detergent or rinse flowing into the tub 131, and the water flows into the sump 133 at the bottom of the tub 131, and similarly, the detergent or rinse also flows into the sump ( 133), water and detergent or rinse may be mixed.

When water is stored in the sump 133, the flow of water is somewhat inactive, so when water and detergent or rinse are mixed in the sump 133, the water may not be mixed well with the detergent or rinse.

Therefore, in order to increase mixing efficiency, it is necessary to allow water and detergent or rinse water to mix with each other near each inlet through which water, detergent, and rinse water flow into the tub 131. In particular, water flows actively at the inlet of the tub 131, so when mixing occurs near each inlet of the tub 131, mixing of detergent or rinse with water can occur smoothly. This structure is explained below.

The tub 131 may include a washing water inlet 1315, a detergent inlet 1312, and a rinse inlet 1311. The washing water inlet 1315, detergent inlet 1312, and rinse inlet 1311 may be formed in the rear portion of the tub 131. Meanwhile, the tub 131 may include an outer panel 131a and an inner panel 131b.

The outer panel 131a may form the outer shape of the tub 131. Since a number of different parts are mounted on the outer panel 131a, a structure for fastening the coupling mechanism may be provided with a somewhat complicated structure to secure space for these parts to be mounted.

The inner panel 131b is disposed inside the outer panel 131a and may have a relatively simple structure. The inner panel 131b has a shape that corresponds to the inner shape of the outer panel 131a and may be provided to cover all or part of the inner surface of the outer panel 131a.

Since the outer panel 131a has a complex shape, it can be made of a material with good moldability, for example, plastic. The inner panel 131b has excellent corrosion resistance because water and foreign substances come into contact with the surface, and may be made of a material that can provide an aesthetic feeling to the user, for example, stainless steel.

In this way, the tub 131 is provided by separating the outer panel 131a and the inner panel 131b, which are made of materials that meet the required characteristics, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and at the same time ensuring the necessary corrosion resistance and aesthetics.

Water, detergent, and rinse may pass through the entire tub 131 and flow into the tub 131. Therefore, the detergent inlet 1312, rinse inlet 1311, and wash water inlet 1315 may be formed to penetrate the outer panel 131a and the inner panel 131b.

The detergent inlet 1312 is formed to penetrate one side of the tub 131 and may be a passage through which detergent flows. The washing water inlet 1315 is disposed above the detergent inlet 1312 and may be a passage through which water flows into the tub 131.

The rinse inlet 1311 is arranged to be spaced apart from the detergent inlet 1312 and may serve as a passage through which rinse is introduced. The rinse inlet 1311 may be located at the same or similar height as the detergent inlet 1312 and may be located lower than the detergent inlet 1312.

The rack 400 may include a first passage guide portion 440. The first flow guide part 440 is coupled to the bottom part 410 and is arranged to face the washing water inlet 1315 so that the water flowing from the washing water inlet 1315 is directed toward the detergent flowing into the detergent inlet 1312. can do. Additionally, the first flow guide portion 440 may guide the flow direction of water so that the water flowing from the washing water inlet 1315 is directed toward the rinse water flowing into the rinse water inlet 1311.

The first flow guide portion 440 may be disposed in the rear portion of the tub 131 and adjacent to the washing water inlet 1315. Accordingly, the water flowing into the washing water inlet 1315 and pouring into the tub 131 may change the flow path as it hits the first flow path guide part 440.

The first flow path guide portion 440 may include a base portion 441 and a first pad 442. The base portion 441 may be coupled to the bottom portion 410. The base portion 441 is formed to protrude from the rear of the bottom portion 410 and may be formed entirely by bending a wire.

The first pad 442 is coupled to the base portion 441 and disposed at a position corresponding to the washing water inlet 1315 to change the flow direction of water flowing into the tub 131. The first pad 442 is formed in a curved shape when viewed in cross section and can guide water to flow in the downward direction of the tub 131.

The first pad 442 may be arranged to directly face the washing water inlet 1315. Accordingly, the water flowing into the washing water inlet 1315 is sprayed toward the first pad 442 and hits the first pad 442, causing the flow direction to change to the lower side of the tub 131.

The first pad 442 may have a curved cross-section, and the first pad 442 may have a curved surface at the lower end toward the washing water inlet 1315. Accordingly, water hitting the first pad 442 may flow downward due to gravity and approach the wall of the tub 131.

Meanwhile, the detergent inlet 1312 and the rinse inlet 1311 may be disposed below the washing water inlet 1315. The detergent and rinse flowing into the detergent inlet 1312 and the rinse inlet 1311 have relatively high viscosity, so they can flow down the wall of the tub 131.

Since the water hitting the first pad 442 flows downward and approaches the wall of the tub 131, it may encounter detergent or rinse aid flowing down the wall of the tub 131. Accordingly, water flowing inside the tub 131 may encounter detergent or rinse.

Due to this structure, the flowing water meets detergent or rinse at a position before flowing into the sump 133, so compared to the case where detergent and rinse are mixed with the water accumulated in the sump 133, water is used as detergent or rinse. can be mixed smoothly with

During the washing process, the control unit provided in the cup washer operates the detergent pump 1301 or rinse pump 1302 to allow detergent or rinse to flow into the tub 131 when water flows into the tub 131 through the washing water inlet 1315. ) operation can be controlled. Accordingly, the flowing water and the detergent or rinse are mixed with each other, so the water can be smoothly mixed with the detergent or rinse.

In an embodiment, the rack 400 may be provided with a first flow guide portion 440 that guides the flow direction of water at a position adjacent to the washing water inlet 1315 of the tub 131. Accordingly, water flowing into the tub 131 may flow toward the detergent or rinse aid by the first flow guide portion 440. Accordingly, since the flowing water is mixed with the detergent or rinse, the water and the detergent or rinse are smoothly mixed with each other, and the cleaning efficiency of the cup washer can be improved.

Figure 16 is a perspective view showing a rack 400 with an air inlet hole 1316 added according to an embodiment. Figure 17 is a view showing the rack 400 at the area where the air inlet hole 1316 is located. The tub 131 may include an air inlet hole 1316 and a guide cone 1317.

The air inlet hole 1316 allows air for drying to flow in. The air inlet hole 1316 is formed to penetrate the tub 131 and may be connected to the drying module 132. Accordingly, the air heated in the drying module 132, that is, hot air, may be sprayed into the tub 131 through the air inlet hole 1316.

The warm air sprayed into the tub 131 through the air inlet hole 1316 evaporates water remaining in the cups mounted on the rack 400 and dries the objects to be washed, such as cups, providing convenience to users.

The guide cone 1317 is connected to the air inlet hole 1316, is placed inside the tub 131, and can guide the flow of warm air flowing into the tub 131. The guide cone 1317 may be formed approximately in the shape of a hollow horn or cone.

Looking at the direction of air flow, the inlet of the guide cone 1317 is connected to the air inlet hole 1316, and the outlet 1317a of the guide cone 1317 is connected to the cleaning object such as a cup mounted on the rack 400. It can be placed to face.

The guide cone 1317 may be provided with a flow path through which air flows, and the cross-sectional area of the flow path may be reduced toward the outlet of the guide cone 1317. Due to this structure, the flow speed of air increases at the outlet 1317a of the guide cone 1317, so that the air discharged from the outlet 1317a of the guide cone 1317 can smoothly reach the cup, etc.

The guide cone 1317 may be provided to be inclined with respect to the side direction of the tub 131 so as to move upward toward the outlet. Due to this structure, the outlet 1317a of the guide cone 1317 can be placed closer to the cup mounted on the rack 400.

The guide cone 1317 may be provided so that its outlet is disposed on the lower side of the first inclined portion 412. Due to this structure, air can be discharged from the guide cone 1317 on the lower side of the first inclined portion 412 on which the cup, etc. are mounted, and can be smoothly sprayed on the cup, etc., mounted on the first inclined portion 412.

Figure 16 shows a state in which the cup is washed and dried while the cup is placed on the rack 400. Referring to FIG. 16, due to the above-described structure of the guide cone 1317, the outlet 1317a of the guide cone 1317 can be placed directly below the cup at a position corresponding to the open portion of the cup.

Therefore, the warm air flowing into the tub 131 from the drying module 132 flows along the guide cone 1317, which has an upward slope and has a structure whose cross-sectional area decreases toward the outlet, and flows at the outlet 1317a of the guide cone 1317. The warm air discharged from ) increases in speed and can flow into the cup through the opening part of the cup placed immediately above.

In an embodiment, a guide cone 1317 through which air for drying flowing into the tub 131 flows may be provided, and the guide cone 1317 guides the flow of air flowing into the tub 131 to the outlet. The air can be guided directly toward cleaning objects such as cups.

Due to this structure, the drying efficiency of the cup washer can be significantly improved by using the guide cone 1317 to spray air directly into the cup, etc., compared to the case where warm air is sprayed evenly throughout the washing unit 130.

Figure 18 is a diagram showing the auxiliary discharge port 1318 and the second flow path guide portion 450 according to an embodiment. In the tub 131, water can circulate through the tub 131 and the sump 133 to wash cups, etc. If water is excessively stored inside the tab and the water level in the tub 131 rises, cups placed on the rack 400 may be partially submerged in water.

In this case, foreign substances contained in the circulating water may stick to the cup, etc., so it is necessary to ensure that the cup is not submerged in water. For this purpose, the tub 131 may be provided with an auxiliary outlet 1318.

The tub 131 is disposed at a height corresponding to the height of the bottom 410 and may include an auxiliary outlet 1318 that discharges water to the outside of the tub 131 to adjust the water level inside the tub 131. .

Accordingly, when the water level in the tub 131 reaches the bottom 410 of the rack 400, the water is discharged to the outside through the auxiliary outlet 1318, and thus the water level in the tub 131 does not rise further. Otherwise, cups mounted on the rack 400 may not be submerged in water.

Meanwhile, water may flow from the outside of the tub 131 into the tub 131 through the auxiliary outlet 1318. For example, when the drain pump 135 operates to drain contaminated water used for washing to the outside, some of the contaminated water may flow into the tub 131 through the auxiliary discharge port 1318.

That is, contaminated water may flow back into the tub 131 through the auxiliary outlet 1318. This is because the water discharged to the outside through the auxiliary discharge port 1318 and the water discharged to the outside using the drain pump 135 are discharged to the outside of the cup washer through the same drain pipe.

Since water flowing back like this may contaminate cups mounted on the rack 400, the rack 400 may include a second flow path guide portion 450 to suppress the backflow of water. The second flow guide portion 450 is disposed at a position corresponding to the auxiliary outlet 1318 and can guide the flow path of water flowing into the tub 131 from the auxiliary outlet 1318.

The second flow guide portion 450 is arranged to directly face the auxiliary outlet 1318, and changes the flow direction so that water flowing backwards through the auxiliary outlet 1318 and flowing into the tub 131 is directed to the lower part of the tub 131. By changing this, it is possible to prevent backflow of contaminated water from spilling on cups mounted on the rack 400 and contaminating the cups.

The second flow path guide portion 450 may include a second pad 451, a third pad 452, and an insertion hole 453. The second pad 451 may be hit by water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet 1318 and thus guide the water to flow in the downward direction of the tub 131.

The second pad 451 is arranged to face the auxiliary outlet 1318 and can block the flow path of water sprayed from the auxiliary outlet 1318. Accordingly, the water sprayed from the auxiliary outlet 1318 may hit the second pad 451 and flow downward of the tub 131 due to gravity. Accordingly, backflow of contaminated water can be prevented from coming into contact with a washing object such as a cup disposed on the opposite side of the auxiliary outlet 1318 with the second pad 451 in between.

The third pad 452 is bent from the second pad 451 and can prevent water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet 1318 from flowing toward the top of the tub 131. The third pad 452 may be bent toward the auxiliary outlet 1318.

Accordingly, the third pad 452 can prevent water sprayed from the auxiliary outlet 1318 from flowing toward the top of the tub 131 and in directions on both sides of the tub 131. When the water sprayed from the auxiliary discharge port 1318 hits the second pad 451, some of the water may flow toward the bottom of the tub 131, and the remainder may flow toward the top or both sides of the tub 131.

Water flowing toward the top or both sides of the tub 131 may hit the third pad 452 again and eventually flow toward the bottom of the tub 131 due to gravity. Accordingly, the contaminated water flowing back into the tub 131 through the auxiliary outlet 1318 is blocked by the second pad 451 and the third pad 452 and does not come into contact with the cups mounted on the rack 400. You can.

The fitting hole 453 is formed to penetrate the third pad 452 and may be provided to insert the second flow path guide portion 450 into the edge portion 411. The second flow guide portion 450 may be mounted on the edge portion 411 of the rack 400 through the fitting hole 453.

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

Claims

In the cup washing machine including a washing unit for washing the received cup,

The washing unit,

A tub that provides a space to accommodate the cup; and

A rack provided inside the tub and on which the cup is seated.

Including,

The rack is,

a bottom portion supporting the cup seated on the rack from below;

a side portion formed to protrude from one side of the tub and supporting the cup on one side; and

A tine protruding from the bottom toward the top of the tub.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 1,

The bottom part,

an edge portion that forms an edge of the bottom portion and a portion of which is formed to protrude upwardly from the tub;

a first inclined portion arranged so that its longitudinal direction is inclined with respect to the lateral direction of the tub; and

A first bent portion bent from the first inclined portion and coupled to the edge portion.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 2,

The side part,

a vertical portion whose one end is coupled to the edge portion and whose longitudinal direction is disposed in a vertical direction of the tub;

a second bent portion bent from the vertical portion; and

A second inclined portion extending from one end of the second bent portion and disposed so that the longitudinal direction is inclined with respect to the vertical direction of the tub.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 1,

The other person mentioned above is,

a first section protruding from the bottom;

a second section extending from the first section and arranged so that its longitudinal direction is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the first section; and

A third section extending from the second section and arranged so that its longitudinal direction is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the second section.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 4,

The first section and the third section are arranged so that the longitudinal direction is parallel to each other,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 1,

The tub is,

Detergent inlet through which detergent flows; and

A washing water inlet disposed above the detergent inlet and through which water flows into the tub.

Including,

The rack is,

A first flow path guide part coupled to the bottom part and arranged to face the washing water inlet to guide the flow direction of water.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to clause 6,

The first euro guide unit,

a base portion coupled to the bottom portion; and

A device coupled to the base portion and disposed at a position corresponding to the washing water inlet to change the flow direction of water flowing into the tub, and is formed in a curved shape when viewed in cross section to guide water to flow in a downward direction of the tub. 1 pad

Including,

Cup washer.
In clause 7,

The tub is,

A rinse inlet that is disposed spaced apart from the detergent inlet and into which rinse water flows.

Including,

The first euro guide unit,

Directing the water flowing from the wash water inlet toward the rinse water flowing into the rinse water inlet,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 2,

The tub is,

An air inlet hole through which air for drying flows; and

A guide cone connected to the air inlet hole and guiding the flow of warm air flowing into the tub.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to clause 9,

The guide cone is,

A flow path through which air flows is formed inside, and the cross-sectional area of the flow path is provided to decrease toward the exit direction of the guide cone.

Cup washer.
According to clause 9,

The guide cone is,

It is provided to rise upward toward the exit,

Cup washer.
According to clause 9,

The guide cone is,

The outlet is provided to be disposed on the lower side of the first slope,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 2,

The tub is,

An auxiliary outlet disposed at a height corresponding to the height of the bottom and discharging water to the outside of the tub,

The rack is,

A second flow path guide portion disposed at a position corresponding to the auxiliary outlet and guiding the flow path of water flowing into the tub from the auxiliary outlet.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to clause 13,

The second euro guide unit,

a second pad that guides the water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet to flow in a downward direction of the tub;

a third pad bent from the second pad and preventing water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet from flowing upward of the tub; and

Fitting hole formed to penetrate the third pad

Including,

Cup washer.
According to clause 8,

The tub is,

Outer panel; and

Inner panel disposed inside the outer panel

Including,

The detergent inlet, the rinse inlet, and the wash water inlet are formed to penetrate the outer panel and the inner panel,

Cup washer.