WO2024071781A1

WO2024071781A1 - Cup washer

Info

Publication number: WO2024071781A1
Application number: PCT/KR2023/013985
Authority: WO
Inventors: 성창우; 진재우; 정태용
Original assignee: 엘지전자 주식회사
Priority date: 2022-09-26
Filing date: 2023-09-15
Publication date: 2024-04-04

Abstract

An embodiment of a cup washer may include a washing part for washing a cup accommodated therein. The washing part may include a drying module disposed at one side of a tub to be connected to the tub and configured to spray heated air for drying into the tub, and an air discharge part, which is disposed at the upper part of the tub, is connected to the tub, and provides a passage through which air flowing inside the tub is discharged to the outside 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.

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

After washing the cup by spraying washing water into it, water may remain on the surface of the cup. Therefore, after completing the washing process, it is necessary to dry the cup by spraying warm air on the cup accommodated in the washing unit. For this purpose, the cup washer may be equipped with a drying device that sprays warm air.

Meanwhile, the warm air sprayed from the drying device flows inside the washing unit where the cup is accommodated and is discharged to the outside of the washing unit. At this time, the water remaining inside the washing unit may also be discharged to the outside along with the air. In this case, water may be discharged outside the cup washer and flow around the cup washer, which may cause inconvenience to the user.

Therefore, when the drying device operates, a structure is needed to prevent water from being discharged to the outside by the air discharged from the drying device to the outside of the washing unit.

Additionally, when warm air flows inside the drying device, water vapor may condense on the surface of the drying device due to a temperature difference with the air around the drying device. This condensed water flows down to the bottom of the dryer, and the flowing water can have a negative effect on the parts of the cup washer.

For example, condensed water may flow into the blowing fan provided in the drying device or the circulation pump provided in the washing unit. If water flows into the blowing fan, the water may flow inside the drying device, which may reduce the efficiency of the drying device or cause malfunction or breakdown.

Additionally, if condensed water flows into the circulation pump, it may adversely affect the electrical wiring and electrical components provided in the circulation pump, causing malfunction or breakdown of the circulation pump.

Therefore, a structure is needed to prevent water condensed on the surface of the dryer from flowing into the blower fan and circulation pump.

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a cup washing machine equipped with a drying module that dries water remaining in the cup accommodated in the washing unit.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cup washer with a structure that prevents water inside the washing unit from being discharged to the outside during operation of the drying module.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cup washer with a structure that prevents water condensed on the outer surface of the drying module from flowing into the blower fan and circulation pump.

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 cup washing machine may include a washing unit that cleans the received cup. The washing unit is arranged on one side of the tub to be connected to the tub, and includes a drying module that sprays heated air for drying into the inside of the tub, and is placed on the top of the tub and connected to the tub, and the air flowing inside the tub is directed to the outside of the tub. It may include an air outlet that provides an exhaust path.

The drying module includes an air inlet through which air flows, a blowing fan that blows the air flowing in through the air inlet toward the tub, and an air heater disposed on the outlet side of the blowing fan and heating the air flowing in from the blowing fan. May include wealth.

The drying module includes an air passage part that is connected to the air inlet hole and forms a flow path for air flowing toward the tub, and the air flow path part extends from the blower fan toward the upper side of the tub, where air rises, and from the riser. It may include a lateral extension part that is bent and extends in a lateral direction of the tub through which air flows laterally, and a lowering part that is bent from the lateral extension part and extends in a downward direction of the tub and allows air to descend.

In a cup washer, the air flow path portion including the rising portion, the lateral extension portion, and the descending portion may be formed as an overall inverted U shape.

The air passage portion includes a water roof that prevents water present on the outer surface of the air passage portion from flowing into the blowing fan, and the water loop protrudes from the first duct toward the second duct and supports the blowing fan. It may include a first loop provided to cover from the upper side, and a second loop coupled to the first loop, protruding from the lower end of the second duct and formed to expand in cross-sectional area as it goes downward, and provided to cover the blowing fan from the upper side. there is.

The air discharge unit may include a third duct connected to the air discharge hole, and a fourth duct whose inlet is disposed above the third duct and connected to the third duct.

The air discharge part may be formed with a step so that the entrance of the fourth duct is located above the outlet of the third duct. The inner bottom surface of the third duct may be inclined downward in the tub direction.

The cup washer is disposed between the drying module and the circulation pump, and is provided to cover the circulation pump from the top, and may include a water tray that prevents water present on the outer surface of the air passage part from falling into the circulation pump. You can. A drying module may be placed on the upper side of the water tray, and a circulation pump may be placed on the lower side.

One embodiment of the washing unit includes a tub through which washing water is sprayed, a drying module disposed on one side of the tub to be connected to the tub and spraying heated air for drying into the tub, and disposed at the top of the tub and connected to the tub. It may include an air discharge unit that discharges the air inside the tub to the outside.

The tub may include an air inlet hole formed at the bottom of the tub and connected to the outlet of the drying module, and an air discharge hole formed at the top of the tub and connected to the inlet of the air discharge unit.

The drying module includes an air inlet through which air flows, a blowing fan that blows the introduced air toward the tub, an air heating unit disposed on the outlet side of the blowing fan and heating the air, and a blowing fan and air heating unit. It may include an air passage part that accommodates the part and is connected to the air inlet hole.

The air flow passage part includes a rising part that extends from the blower fan toward the top of the tub and causes air to rise, a lateral extension part that is bent from the rising part and extends in the lateral direction of the tub and allows air to flow in the lateral direction, and a lateral extension part that is bent from the lateral extension part. It extends in the downward direction of the tub and may include a lowering portion through which air descends.

The air flow path portion may include a fan casing that covers the blowing fan, a first duct in which the blowing fan is accommodated and coupled to the fan casing, and coupled to the tub, and a second duct connected to the fan casing and coupled to the first duct. .

The first duct and the second duct may be combined with each other to form a rising portion, a lateral extension portion, and a descending portion.

The first duct may include an air discharge duct that protrudes from the lower end of the first duct and whose end is connected to the air inlet hole.

The first duct includes a first coupling protrusion that protrudes from the edge and engages the second duct, and the second duct includes a first coupling protrusion that protrudes from the edge and is disposed at a position corresponding to the first coupling protrusion and engages the first coupling protrusion. 2 May include binding protrusions.

The first duct may include a third coupling protrusion that protrudes from the edge and is coupled to the tub.

The air discharge duct may include a fourth coupling protrusion that protrudes from the edge and engages with the tub.

The fan casing may include a fifth coupling protrusion that protrudes from the edge and couples to the first duct.

The air discharge unit may have a step formed so that the inlet of the fourth duct is located above the outlet of the third duct at the area where the third duct and the fourth duct are connected to each other.

The third duct may be formed so that the inner bottom surface slopes in an upward direction from the air discharge hole to the fourth duct.

The dishwasher according to one embodiment is disposed on the lower side of the tub and connected to the tub, has a sump for storing water, is disposed on the lower side of the tub, is disposed on the lower side of the drying module, and has a sump that circulates water between the tub and the sump. It includes a circulation pump and a water tray that is disposed between the drying module and the circulation pump and is provided to cover the circulation pump from the upper side to prevent water present on the outer surface of the air passage part from falling into the circulation pump. can do.

The water tray includes a bottom plate, a first rib formed on the edge of the bottom plate to protrude in the upward direction of the tub, a depression formed by a portion of the bottom plate being depressed, and a depression formed at the position where the depression is formed so as to protrude in the side direction of the tub. It may include a second rib being formed.

The cup washer includes a rear panel that covers the rear of the cup washer, and the rear panel includes a first vent formed at a position corresponding to the air inlet of the blowing fan, and a second vent formed at a position corresponding to the outlet of the air discharge unit. May include vents.

In the cup washer according to the present invention, the washing unit may include a drying module including a blowing fan and an air heating unit. After washing the cup with water, warm air is sprayed onto the cup stored in the tub using a drying module, thereby providing the user with a dried cup, thereby improving the user's convenience.

Additionally, in the cup washer according to the present invention, the air flow passage portion including the rising portion, the lateral extension portion, and the descending portion may be formed as an overall inverted U shape. Due to this structure, when viewed from the air flow path portion, the air inlet hole of the tub can be placed below the lateral extension portion.

Therefore, water flowing from the sump into the air flow channel through the air inlet hole cannot rise from the lower part to the lateral extension part due to gravity. Due to this structure, water in the sump can be effectively prevented from flowing backwards through the air flow path and into the blower fan.

Additionally, in the cup washer according to the present invention, a water loop may be formed at the lower end of the raised portion constituting the air flow path portion. Water condensed on the surface of the drying module by the water loop can flow down avoiding the blowing fan. Accordingly, condensed water is blocked from flowing into the blower fan, and malfunction and breakdown of the blower fan can be effectively prevented.

Additionally, in the cup washer according to the present invention, water flowing into the third duct through the air discharge hole may be blocked in the step portion and may not flow out to the outside. Additionally, the inner bottom surface of the third duct may be inclined downward in the tub direction. Accordingly, water flowing into the third duct can flow back into the tub by gravity.

Due to this structure, water flowing into the air blowing unit through the air discharge hole is effectively suppressed from being discharged outside the cup washer, thereby reducing user inconvenience caused by water discharge through the air discharge hole.

Additionally, in the cup washer according to the present invention, a drying module may be placed on the upper side of the water tray, and a circulation pump may be placed on the lower side. Additionally, the water tray is arranged to protrude laterally, so that when viewed from the top and bottom of the cup washer, the water tray can cover the circulation pump from the top.

Due to this structure, water condensed on the surface of the drying module can flow down the drying module and fall on the upper surface of the water tray. Therefore, water flowing down from the surface of the drying module can be blocked from flowing into the circulation pump. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively prevent malfunction or breakdown of the circulation pump due to water falling into the circulation pump and contacting electrical wiring and electrical components provided in the circulation pump.

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 rear view showing a drying module coupled to a tub according to an embodiment.

Figure 11 is a side view of Figure 10.

Figure 12 is a rear view showing a tub according to one embodiment.

Figure 13 is a diagram showing a drying module according to an embodiment.

Figure 14 is a side view showing a drying module according to an embodiment.

Figure 15 is an exploded view of Figure 14.

Figure 16 is a diagram showing a first duct according to one embodiment.

Figure 17 is a rear view of Figure 16.

Figure 18 is a diagram showing a second duct according to one embodiment.

Figure 19 is a diagram showing a blowing fan and fan casing.

Figure 20 is a diagram showing an air discharge unit according to one embodiment.

Figure 21 is a side view of Figure 20.

Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 21.

Figure 23 is a diagram showing a water tray according to one 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 at the top of the washing unit 130 to be hinged and rotatable in the up and down directions of the cup washer, so that the user can conveniently use the cup washer by opening and closing the door 150 without bending the waist. Additionally, this structure eliminates the need for additional space to open the door 150, thereby improving space efficiency.

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

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

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

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

The rear supporter 162 is arranged in a pair spaced apart from each other at the rear of the cup washer, the lower part is coupled to the base plate 110, and the longitudinal direction may be arranged 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. Various information about the use of the cup washer may be displayed in the form of images, text, and videos on the display unit 190.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 10 is a rear view showing the drying module 132 coupled to the tub 131 according to one embodiment. Figure 11 is a side view of Figure 10. Figure 12 is a rear view showing the tub 131 according to one embodiment.

The cup washing machine may include a washing unit 130 that cleans the received cup. The cup washer may include a tub 131, a drying module 132, and an air discharge unit 710. The tub 131 provides a space to accommodate the cup and through which washing water can be sprayed.

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. The drying module 132 operates after completing washing with water and sprays heated air, that is, warm air, on the cup to evaporate the water remaining in the cup and dry the cup.

The air discharge unit 710 is disposed on the upper part of the tub 131, is connected to the tub 131, and can discharge the air inside the tub 131 to the outside. The air discharge unit 710 may provide a path through which air flowing inside the tub 131 is discharged to the outside of the tub 131. The inlet of the air outlet 710 may be connected to the tub 131, and the outlet of the air outlet may be disposed toward the outside of the cup washer.

As shown in FIG. 12, the tub 131 may include an air inlet hole 1316 and an air outlet hole 1317. The air inlet hole 1316 is formed in the lower part of the tub 131 and may be connected to the outlet of the drying module 132. The air discharge hole 1317 is formed at the top of the tub 131 and may be connected to the inlet of the air discharge unit 710.

Warm air sprayed from the drying module 132 may flow into the air inlet hole 1316 at the bottom of the tub 131 and spread throughout the entire inside of the tub 131 to rise. Accordingly, the cup accommodated inside the tub 131 is exposed to flowing warm air, and the water remaining on the surface is evaporated by the warm air. Warm air may be discharged from the tub 131 through the air discharge hole 1317.

Figure 13 is a diagram showing the drying module 132 according to one embodiment. Figure 14 is a side view showing the drying module 132 according to one embodiment. Figure 15 is an exploded view of Figure 14. The drying module 132 may include a blowing fan 1321, an air heating unit 720, and an air passage unit 730.

The blowing fan 1321 includes an air inlet 1321a through which air flows, and can blow air flowing into the air inlet 1321a toward the tub 131. External air around the cup washer may flow into the drying module 132 through the blowing fan 1321. Additionally, the blowing fan 1321 can force air to flow in the drying module 132 and the tub 131.

The air heating unit 720 is disposed on the outlet side of the blowing fan 1321 and can heat the air flowing in from the blowing fan 1321. The air introduced into the blowing fan 1321 is heated as it passes through the air heating unit 720 and becomes warm air, which can flow through the drying module 132 and the washing unit 130. For example, the air heating unit 720 may be provided as an electric resistance heating type device that occupies a small volume and has a relatively simple operation.

The air flow path unit 730 accommodates the blowing fan 1321 and the air heating unit 720, is connected to the air inlet hole 1316, and may form a flow path for air flowing toward the tub 131. The air flow path portion 730 may form an air flow path by combining the fan casing 731, the first duct 732, and the second duct 733.

The air flow path portion 730 may include a rising portion 730a, a lateral extension portion 730b, and a descending portion 730c when viewed from the side of each area through which air flows. The rising portion 730a extends from the blowing fan 1321 toward the top of the tub 131, allowing air to rise.

The lateral extension portion 730b is bent from the rising portion 730a and extends in the lateral direction of the tub 131, allowing air to flow in the lateral direction. The lowering part 730c is bent from the lateral extension part 730b and extends in the lower direction of the tub 131, allowing air to descend. can do.

As shown by the arrow in FIG. 13, air flows into the blowing fan 1321 in the drying module 132 and sequentially flows through the rising portion 730a, the lateral extension portion 730b, and the descending portion 730c to form the tub. (131) It can be introduced internally. As the air passes through the rising part 730a, it can be heated by the air heating part 720 disposed in the rising part 730a and become warm air.

Water stored in the sump 133 disposed on the lower side of the tub 131 may flow back through the air passage portion 730 through the air inlet hole 1316 formed in the lower portion of the tub 131 and flow into the blowing fan 1321. there is. If water flows into the blowing fan 1321, parts of the motor provided in the blowing fan 1321 may corrode. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent the water in the sump 133 from flowing back into the air passage portion 730 through the air inlet hole 1316.

As described above, the air passage portion 730 including the rising portion 730a, the lateral extension portion 730b, and the descending portion 730c may be formed as an overall inverted U shape. Due to this structure, when viewed from the air passage portion 730, the air inlet hole 1316 of the tub 131 can be placed below the lateral extension portion 730b.

Accordingly, water flowing from the sump 133 into the air flow path portion 730 through the air inlet hole 1316 cannot rise from the lower portion 730c to the lateral extension portion 730b due to gravity. Due to this structure, water in the sump 133 can be effectively prevented from flowing backwards through the air passage portion 730 and into the blowing fan 1321.

In an embodiment, the washing unit 130 may include a drying module 132 including a blowing fan 1321 and an air heating unit 720. After washing the cup with water, warm air is sprayed onto the cup accommodated in the tub 131 using the drying module 132, thereby providing the user with a dried cup for user convenience.

When viewed from the side of each component, the air passage portion 730 may include a fan casing 731, a first duct 732, and a second duct 733. The fan casing 731 may cover the blowing fan 1321. The fan casing 731 may accommodate the blowing fan 1321 and cover the blowing fan 1321 so that an air inlet 1321a is formed.

The first duct 732 accommodates the blowing fan 1321 and can be coupled to the fan casing 731 and to the tub 131. The first duct 732 can accommodate the blowing fan 1321 by combining with the fan casing 731. A blowing fan 1321 may be disposed at the end of the first duct 732.

The second duct 733 is connected to the fan casing 731 and may be combined with the first duct 732. The second duct 733 may be combined with the fan casing 731 to form a flow path through which air flowing in from the blowing fan 1321 flows.

The first duct 732 and the second duct 733 can be combined with each other to form a space inside where air flows and to form a rising portion 730a, a lateral extension portion 730b, and a descending portion 730c. . The first duct 732 and the second duct 733 are generally formed in shapes that correspond to each other, and each may be formed in an inverted U shape.

The air flow path portion 730 may include a water roof 7331. When warm air flows through the air passage part 730 of the drying module 132, water vapor may condense on the surface of the drying module 132 due to a temperature difference with the air around the drying module 132. This condensed water flows down to the lower part of the drying module 132, and the flowing water may have a negative effect on the parts of the cup washer.

In particular, if water flows into the blowing fan 1321 disposed at the lower end of the rising portion 730a of the air flow path portion 730, malfunction or failure of the blowing fan 1321 may occur, so condensation may form on the blowing fan 1321. It is necessary to block the flowing water from flowing in.

Accordingly, the air passage portion 730 is provided with a water loop 7331 to prevent water condensed on the surface of the drying module 132 from flowing down and flowing into the blowing fan 1321. The water loop 7331 can prevent water existing on the outer surface of the air flow path portion 730 from flowing into the blowing fan 1321, and may include a first loop 7331a and a second loop 7331b. You can.

The first loop 7331a protrudes from the first duct 732 toward the second duct 733 and may be provided to cover the blowing fan 1321 from above. The second loop 7331b is combined with the first loop 7331a, protrudes from the lower end of the second duct 733, and is formed to expand in cross-sectional area as it goes downward, so that it can be provided to cover the blower fan 1321 from the upper side. .

The first loop (7331a) and the second loop (7331b) may be combined with each other and disposed on the upper side of the blowing fan 1321 and the fan casing 731 that accommodates the blowing fan 1321. The water loop 7331 may be formed to protrude from the first duct 732 and the second duct 733 and may be placed above the blowing fan 1321.

Accordingly, the water condensed on the outer surface of the air passage portion 730 flows down along the rising portion 730a of the air passage portion 730 and then flows into the blowing fan 1321 through the water loop 7331. You may be blocked. Condensed water may flow along the outer surface of the water loop 7331 and fall down from the bottom of the water loop 7331. At this time, the condensed water is separated from the blowing fan 1321 by the water loop 7331, falls down, and can be prevented from flowing into the blowing fan 1321.

In an embodiment, a water loop 7331 may be formed at the lower end of the raised portion 730a constituting the air flow passage portion 730. Water condensed on the surface of the drying module 132 by the water loop 7331 can flow down avoiding the blowing fan 1321. Accordingly, condensed water is blocked from flowing into the blower fan 1321, and malfunctions and failures of the blower fan 1321 can be effectively prevented.

The first duct 732 may include an air discharge duct 7321. The air discharge duct 7321 protrudes from the lower end of the first duct 732 toward the air inlet hole 1316 of the tub 131, and its end may be connected to the air inlet hole 1316.

The warm air descending from the lowering part 730c of the air flow path part 730 changes the flow direction in the air discharge duct 7321 and flows toward the air inlet hole 1316 of the tub 131 to the inside of the tub 131. It may flow in and rise as it spreads from the tub 131.

Figure 16 is a diagram showing the first duct 732 according to one embodiment. Figure 17 is a rear view of Figure 16. Figure 18 is a diagram showing the second duct 733 according to one embodiment.

The first duct 732 and the second duct 733 may be coupled to each other using a coupling mechanism such as screws. For coupling between them, the first duct 732 may include a first coupling protrusion 7322, and the second duct 733 may include a second coupling protrusion 7332.

The first coupling protrusion 7322 protrudes from the edge of the first duct 732 and can be coupled to the second duct 733. The first coupling protrusions 7322 may be provided in plural numbers spaced apart from each other along the edge of the first duct 732.

The second coupling protrusion 7332 protrudes from the edge of the second duct 733, is disposed at a position corresponding to the first coupling protrusion 7322, and can be coupled to the first coupling protrusion 7322. A hole into which a coupling mechanism is fastened may be formed in the first coupling protrusion 7322 and the second coupling protrusion 7332.

The first duct 732 may be coupled to the side wall of the tub 131. To this end, the first duct 732 may include a third coupling protrusion 7323. The third coupling protrusion 7323 protrudes from the edge of the first duct 732, is disposed at a position spaced apart from the first coupling protrusion 7322, and can be coupled to the tub 131. A plurality of third coupling protrusions 7323 may be arranged along the edge of the first duct 732 and spaced apart from each other.

Meanwhile, a protrusion for coupling with the third coupling protrusion 7323 may be formed on the tub 131 at a position corresponding to the third coupling protrusion 7323. The third coupling protrusion 7323 and the corresponding protrusion of the tub 131 may be coupled to each other by a coupling mechanism. A hole into which a coupling mechanism is fastened may be formed in the third coupling protrusion 7323 and the corresponding protrusion of the tub 131.

Meanwhile, the air discharge duct 7321 formed integrally with the first duct 732 may also be coupled to the tub 131. For this purpose, the air discharge duct 7321 may include a fourth coupling protrusion 7321a. The fourth coupling protrusion 7321a protrudes from the edge of the air discharge duct 7321 and can be coupled to the tub 131. The fourth coupling protrusion 7321a may be provided in plural numbers spaced apart from each other along the edge of the air discharge duct 7321.

A protrusion for engaging the fourth coupling protrusion 7321a may be formed on the tub 131 at a position corresponding to the fourth coupling protrusion 7321a. The fourth coupling protrusion 7321a and the corresponding protrusion of the tub 131 may be coupled to each other by a coupling mechanism. A hole into which a coupling mechanism is fastened may be formed in the fourth coupling protrusion 7321a and the corresponding protrusion of the tub 131.

Figure 19 is a diagram showing the blowing fan 1321 and the fan casing 731. The fan casing 731 may include a fifth coupling protrusion 7311 to couple with the first duct 732. The fifth coupling protrusion 7311 protrudes from the edge of the fan casing 731 and can be coupled to the first duct 732. The fifth coupling protrusion 7311 may be provided in plural numbers spaced apart from each other.

Corresponding to the fifth coupling protrusion 7311, the first duct 732 may have a sixth coupling protrusion 7324 formed at a position corresponding to the fifth coupling protrusion 7311. The fifth coupling protrusion 7311 and the sixth coupling protrusion 7324 can be coupled to each other by a coupling mechanism. Holes into which a coupling mechanism is fastened may be formed in the fifth coupling protrusion 7311 and the sixth coupling protrusion 7324.

The fan casing 731 may include a first casing 731a and a second casing 731b. A blowing fan 1321 can be seated in the first casing 731a. The second casing (731b) is provided with a hole that forms the air inlet (1321a) of the blowing fan (1321) and can cover the blowing fan (1321).

Fifth coupling protrusions 7311 may be formed on the first casing 731a and the second casing 731b at corresponding positions, respectively. When the coupling mechanism is fastened to the fifth coupling protrusion 7311 and the sixth coupling protrusion 7324 and the pan casing 731 is coupled to the first duct 732, the first casing 731a and the second casing 731b These can be fixedly combined with each other.

Figure 20 is a diagram showing the air discharge unit 710 according to one embodiment. Figure 21 is a side view of Figure 20. Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 21. The air discharge unit 710 may include a third duct 711 and a fourth duct 712.

The third duct 711 may be connected to the air discharge hole 1317. Warm air flowing through the tub 131 may be discharged from the tub 131 through the air discharge hole 1317 and flow into the third duct 711. The fourth duct 712 has an entrance located above the third duct 711 and may be connected to the third duct 711.

The warm air sprayed from the drying module 132 flows inside the tub 131 where the cup is accommodated and is discharged to the outside of the tub 131. At this time, the water remaining inside the tub 131 may also be discharged to the outside through the air discharge hole 1317 along with the air. In this case, water may be discharged outside the cup washer and flow around the cup washer, which may cause inconvenience to the user.

In order to prevent water remaining in the tub 131 from being discharged to the outside through the air discharge hole 1317, the air discharge unit 710 may have an inlet and an outlet of different heights. In addition, it is necessary to tilt the air discharge part 710 so that the water flowing into the air discharge part 710 flows back into the tub 131.

The air discharge unit 710 has a stepped portion so that the inlet of the fourth duct 712 is located above the outlet of the third duct 711 at the area where the third duct 711 and the fourth duct 712 are connected to each other. (713) can be formed.

A step portion 713 is formed between the third duct 711 and the fourth duct 712, so that the fourth duct 712 can be placed at a higher position than the third duct 711. Due to this structure, water flowing into the third duct 711 from the tub 131 cannot flow into the fourth duct 712 because it cannot exceed the step portion 713. Accordingly, water discharged through the air discharge unit 710 is prevented from flowing into the fourth duct 712, and water leakage to the outside through the fourth duct 712 can be effectively suppressed.

The third duct 711 may be formed such that the inner bottom surface 711a is inclined in an upward direction from the air discharge hole 1317 to the fourth duct 712. In other words, the inner bottom surface 711a of the third duct 711 may be inclined downward toward the air discharge hole 1317 of the tub 131.

Because of this, water flowing into the third duct 711 through the air discharge hole 1317 may be blocked by the step portion 713 and may not flow out to the outside. Additionally, the inner bottom surface 711a of the third duct 711 may be inclined downward in the direction of the tub 131. Accordingly, water flowing into the third duct 711 may flow back into the tub 131 by gravity.

Due to this structure, water flowing into the air discharge unit through the air discharge hole 1317 is effectively suppressed from being discharged outside the cup washer, thereby reducing user inconvenience caused by water discharge through the air discharge hole 1317. .

Meanwhile, when warm air flows through the air flow passage part 730 of the drying module 132, water vapor may condense on the surface of the drying module 132 due to a temperature difference with the air around the drying module 132. This condensed water flows down to the lower part of the drying module 132, and the flowing water may have a negative effect on the parts of the cup washer.

A circulation pump 134 is provided on the lower side of the drying module 132, and water that condenses and flows down from the outer surface of the drying module 132 can flow into the circulation pump 134. If condensed water flows into the circulation pump 134, it may adversely affect the electrical wiring and electrical components provided in the circulation pump 134, resulting in malfunction or breakdown of the circulation pump 134.

Therefore, it is necessary to prevent water flowing down from the drying module 132 from flowing into the circulation pump 134. To this end, the cup washer according to the embodiment may be provided with a water tray 740 between the drying module 132 and the circulation pump 134.

Figure 23 is a diagram showing a water tray 740 according to an embodiment. The cup washer may include a sump 133, a circulation pump 134, and a water tray 740. 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 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 is disposed on the lower side of the drying module 132, and supplies water to the tub 131 and the sump 133. It can be circulated between them.

The water tray 740 is disposed between the drying module 132 and the circulation pump 134 and is provided to cover the circulation pump 134 from the upper side, so that the water present on the outer surface of the air passage portion 730 circulates. Falling can be suppressed by the pump 134.

A drying module 132 may be placed on the upper side of the water tray 740, and a circulation pump 134 may be placed on the lower side. Additionally, the water tray 740 is arranged to protrude laterally, so that when viewed from the top and bottom of the cup washer, the water tray 740 can cover the circulation pump 134 from the top.

Due to this structure, water condensed on the surface of the drying module 132 can flow down the drying module 132 and fall on the upper surface of the water tray 740. Therefore, it is possible to block water flowing and falling from the surface of the drying module 132 from flowing into the circulation pump 134.

Accordingly, malfunction or failure of the circulation pump 134 due to water falling into the circulation pump 134 and coming into contact with electrical wiring and electrical components provided in the circulation pump 134 can be effectively prevented.

The water tray 740 may include a bottom plate 741, a first rib 742, a depression 743, and a second rib 744. Water that has condensed and flowed down on the surface of the drying module 132 may fall on the upper surface of the bottom plate 741.

The first rib 742 may be formed at the edge of the bottom plate 741 to protrude upward from the tub 131. The first rib 742 is formed on the edge of the bottom plate 741 excluding the area where the second rib 744 is formed, so that water falling on the bottom plate 741 does not flow to other areas and is formed on the second rib 744. ) can be made to flow towards.

The depression 743 is formed when a portion of the bottom plate 741 is depressed, and water that has fallen on the bottom plate 741 may accumulate. The depression 743 may be formed at a location adjacent to the second rib 744. Water that falls on the bottom plate 741 is blocked and guided by the first rib 742, flows toward the depression 743, and may accumulate in the depression 743.

The second rib 744 may be formed to protrude in the lateral direction of the tub 131 at the position where the depression 743 is formed, and may be provided to drain water accumulated in the depression 743. The depression 743 may be directly connected to the second rib 744.

Therefore, the water accumulated in the depression 743 is guided by the second rib 744 and falls below the water tray 740 to a position further away from the circulation pump 134 disposed on the lower side of the water tray 740. You can.

Since the second rib 744 protrudes in the lateral direction of the tub 131, water falling from the end of the second rib 744 falls far away from the circulation pump 134, so water falls into the circulation pump 134. can be effectively suppressed. In order to facilitate the flow of water in the second rib 744, the second rib 744 may be formed to have a downward slope toward the end.

Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, the cup washer may include a rear panel 180 that covers its rear. Both the air flowing into the drying module 132 and the air discharged through the air outlet 710 may flow through the rear panel. Therefore, for smooth air flow, the rear panel 180 may include a first vent 181 and a second vent 182.

The first vent 181 is formed at a position corresponding to the air inlet 1321a of the blowing fan 1321 and can ventilate the inside and outside of the cup washer. The second vent 182 is formed at a position corresponding to the outlet of the air discharge unit 710, and can ventilate the inside and outside of the cup washer.

The air used to dry the cup may flow into the drying module 132 through the first vent 181 of the rear panel 180 and the air inlet 1321a of the drying module 132. In addition, as this air passes through the drying module 132, it is heated by the air heating unit 720 to become warm air, flows into the tub 131 through the air inlet hole 1316, spreads, and rises, and the tub 131 ) can be dried.

Air may be discharged from the tub 131 through the air discharge hole 1317 and out of the cup washer through the air discharge unit 710 and the second vent 182 of the rear panel 180. This flow of air can be achieved by the blowing fan 1321 provided in the drying module 132.

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 a cup washing machine including a washing unit,

The washing unit,

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

a drying module disposed on one side of the tub and connected to the tub, and spraying heated air for drying into the tub; and

An air discharge unit disposed at the top of the tub, connected to the tub, and discharging air inside the tub to the outside.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 1,

The tub is,

an air inlet hole formed in the lower part of the tub and connected to an outlet of the drying module; and

An air discharge hole formed at the top of the tub and connected to the inlet of the air discharge unit.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 2,

The drying module is,

a blowing fan including an air inlet through which air flows, and blowing the introduced air toward the tub;

an air heating unit disposed on an outlet side of the blowing fan and heating air; and

An air passage part that accommodates the blowing fan and the air heating part and is connected to the air inlet hole.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 3,

The air passage part,

a rising portion extending from the blowing fan toward the top of the tub through which air rises;

a lateral extension part bent from the rising part and extending in a lateral direction of the tub through which air flows in the lateral direction; and

A lowering part that is bent from the lateral extension part and extends downwardly of the tub so that air descends.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 4,

The air passage part,

A fan casing covering the blowing fan;

a first duct that accommodates the blowing fan, is coupled to the fan casing, and is coupled to the tub; and

A second duct connected to the fan casing and coupled to the first duct.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to clause 5,

The first duct and the second duct are,

Combined with each other to form the rising portion, the lateral extension portion, and the descending portion,

Cup washer.
According to clause 5,

The air passage part,

It includes a water roof that prevents water existing on the outer surface of the air flow passage unit from flowing into the blowing fan,

The water loop is,

a first loop that protrudes from the first duct toward the second duct and is provided to cover the blowing fan from above; and

A second loop is coupled to the first loop, protrudes from the lower end of the second duct, and is formed to expand in cross-sectional area as it goes downward, so as to cover the blower fan from above.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to clause 5,

The first duct is,

Comprising an air discharge duct that protrudes from the lower end of the first duct and whose end is connected to the air inlet hole,

Cup washer.
According to clause 8,

The first duct is,

It includes a first coupling protrusion protruding from the edge and coupled to the second duct,

The second duct is,

Comprising a second coupling protrusion protruding from the edge and coupled to the first coupling protrusion,

Cup washer.
According to clause 9,

The first duct is,

Comprising a third coupling protrusion that protrudes from the edge, is disposed at a position spaced apart from the first coupling protrusion, and is coupled to the tub,

Cup washer.
According to clause 10,

The air discharge duct is,

Comprising a fourth coupling protrusion protruding from the edge and coupled to the tub,

Cup washer.
According to clause 11,

The pan casing is,

Comprising a fifth coupling protrusion protruding from the edge and coupled to the first duct,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 2,

The air discharge part,

A third duct connected to the air discharge hole; and

A fourth duct whose inlet is disposed above the third duct and is connected to the third duct.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to clause 13,

The air discharge part,

A step is formed so that the inlet of the fourth duct is located above the outlet of the third duct at the area where the third duct and the fourth duct are connected to each other,

Cup washer.
According to clause 13,

The third duct is,

The inner bottom surface is formed to slope in an upward direction from the air discharge hole to the fourth duct,

Cup washer.
According to clause 5,

a sump disposed below the tub to be connected to the tub and storing water;

a circulation pump disposed below the tub and below the drying module to circulate water between the tub and the sump; and

A water tray is disposed between the drying module and the circulation pump and is provided to cover the circulation pump from the upper side, preventing water present on the outer surface of the air passage unit from falling into the circulation pump.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to clause 16,

The water tray is,

bottom plate;

a first rib formed on an edge of the bottom plate to protrude upward from the tub;

a depression formed by a portion of the bottom plate being depressed; and

A second rib formed to protrude in the lateral direction of the tub at the position where the depression is formed.

Including,

Cup washer.
According to paragraph 3,

Includes a rear panel covering the rear of the cup washer,

The rear panel is,

a first vent formed at a position corresponding to the air inlet of the blowing fan; and

A second vent formed at a position corresponding to the outlet of the air discharge unit

Including,

Cup washer.