Cup washing machine

Abstract

The invention provides a cup washing machine which sprays water to wash a cup. The cup washing machine according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a tub providing a space for washing a cup accommodated therein; a drying unit which is disposed at the rear of the tub so as to be spaced apart from the tub by a first space in a state in which a part of the drying unit is connected to the rear of the tub, and which heats the outside air that flows in and then supplies the outside air to the tub; and an additive supply unit disposed in the first space, coupled to a rear surface of the tub, and supplying an additive to the tub. By minimizing transmission of vibration of the tub to the drying unit, it is possible to prevent performance degradation and to smoothly supply an additive to the tub.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cup washer, and more particularly, to a cup washer that sprays water to wash cups.

[0002] Priority Information: 10-2023-0180145 (December 12, 2023) Background Art

[0003] A cup washer is a device that sprays water to wash cups. Recently, as the awareness of practicing carbon neutrality has spread throughout society, the number of people carrying personal cups or reusable cups has increased. Therefore, to ensure the hygiene and convenience of users (employees), the number of government agencies, companies, and shopping malls equipped with cup washers is increasing.

[0004] Regarding the cup washer as described above, Korean Utility Model Publication No. 20-1994-0020198 (hereinafter referred to as "Prior Art Document 1") discloses a cup washer.

[0005] Specifically, Prior Art Document 1 discloses a brush that rotates to wash cups, a detergent dispensing bucket that supplies detergent to the brush, a configuration for installing the cup washer on a faucet for use, etc.

[0006] However, the cup washer of Prior Art Document 1 does not have a structure for drying the water remaining in the cup after washing the cup, which may cause inconvenience to users, such as difficulty in immediately using the washed cup, hygiene problems, etc.

[0007] In addition, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0091635 (hereinafter referred to as "Prior Art Document 2") discloses an automatic cup washer.

[0008] Specifically, Prior Art Document 2 discloses a configuration in which a user puts a used cup into the cup washer and automatically washes the inserted cup using steam.

[0009] However, the cup washer of Prior Art Document 2 also has the problem that it does not consider a separate structure for drying the cup after washing the cup at all.

[0010] As described above, for a cup washer that sprays water to wash cups, there is a problem that it is necessary to have not only a structure for washing cups but also a structure for drying the washed cups, and it is necessary to use the cup washer efficiently and conveniently through such a structure. Summary of the Invention

[0011] An object of the present invention is to solve the above problems existing in a cup washer that sprays water to wash cups.

[0012] Specifically, the object of the present invention is to provide a cup washer that effectively arranges the structure for washing cups and the structure for drying the washed cups to optimize the performance of each component.

[0013] In addition, the object of the present invention is to provide a cup washer that can be conveniently used by the user by optimizing the structure for washing cups and the structure for drying the washed cups.

[0014] In addition, the object of the present invention is to provide a cup washer that can stably maintain the performance of each component by optimizing the structure for washing cups and the structure for drying the washed cups.

[0015] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains can clearly understand other problems not mentioned from the following description.

[0016] To achieve the above object or another object, the cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention is configured such that each component is effectively arranged to exhibit performance. Specifically, it has a structure in which a drying unit is arranged at a first space separated from the rear of the tub, and an additive supply unit is arranged in such a first space.

[0017] In addition, the cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention has a structure that enables convenient use by the user. Specifically, it has a structure in which the tub is arranged on the front side, the drying unit is arranged on the rear side, and the external air inlet of the drying unit is connected to the rear panel.

[0018] In addition, in the cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, an internal flow path can be formed along a plane parallel to the rear panel in the drying duct of the drying unit.

[0019] In addition, in the cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the tub connection pipe of the drying unit can connect the tub and the drying duct.

[0020] In addition, the cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention has a structure in which each component can stably maintain performance. Specifically, the air supply fan can be arranged at a position relatively higher than the position where the tub connection pipe is connected to the tub.

[0021] In addition, in the cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the air heater of the drying unit can be arranged at the upper end portion of the internal flow path.

[0022] In addition, in the cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the tub connection pipe can be formed in a structure that slopes downward toward the tub.

[0023] In addition, in the cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the drying duct can be composed of the combination of a first assembly and a second assembly.

[0024] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the bucket connection pipe may be formed in an integral pipe shape.

[0025] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the drying duct and the bucket connection pipe may be inserted and joined.

[0026] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the position where the drying duct and the bucket connection pipe are joined may be arranged at a position relatively higher than the maximum water level of the bucket.

[0027] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the position where the drying duct and the bucket connection pipe are joined may be arranged at a position relatively lower than the external air inlet.

[0028] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the front frame may support the front panel, and the rear frame may support the rear panel.

[0029] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the drying unit may be supported and joined to the rear frame.

[0030] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the second assembly may be fastened to the rear frame.

[0031] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the air inside the bucket may be discharged through the air discharge portion provided at the upper end of the bucket.

[0032] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the air discharge portion may be connected between the rear side of the bucket and the rear panel.

[0033] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the position where the air discharge portion is connected to the bucket may be arranged at a position relatively lower than the position where the air discharge portion is connected to the rear panel.

[0034] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, a water blocking projection may be formed on the air discharge path of the air discharge portion.

[0035] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the bucket connection pipe is inserted and joined to the other end of the drying duct.

[0036] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the other end of the drying duct is arranged at a position relatively higher than the maximum water level of the bucket.

[0037] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the other end of the drying duct is arranged at a position relatively lower than the external air inlet.

[0038] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, it further includes: a front frame disposed on the front side of the tub and supporting the front panel; and a rear frame disposed on the rear side of the drying unit and supporting the rear panel.

[0039] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the drying unit is coupled to and supported by the rear frame.

[0040] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the second assembly is fastened and coupled to the rear frame.

[0041] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, it further includes an air discharge unit provided at the upper end of the tub to discharge the air inside the tub.

[0042] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the air discharge unit is connected between the rear surface of the tub and the rear panel.

[0043] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the portion of the air discharge unit connected to the tub is disposed at a position relatively lower than the portion of the air discharge unit connected to the rear panel.

[0044] In addition, in the cup washer according to an aspect of the present invention, the air discharge unit is formed with a water blocking protrusion in a direction crossing the length direction.

[0045] The means for solving the problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned means, and those skilled in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can clearly understand other means not mentioned from the following description.

[0046] Next, the effects of the cup washer of the present invention will be described.

[0047] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the drying unit is disposed in a first space separated from the rear of the tub and the additive supply unit is disposed in such a first space, the vibration of the tub transmitted to the drying unit can be minimized, performance degradation can be prevented, and additives can be smoothly supplied to the tub.

[0048] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the tub is disposed on the front side, the drying unit is disposed on the rear side, and the external air inlet of the drying unit is connected to the rear panel, the user can easily access the tub, external air can smoothly flow into the drying unit, and the drying unit can be easily maintained.

[0049] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the internal flow path is formed in a plane parallel to the rear panel in the drying duct of the drying unit, the internal flow path can be effectively disposed in the limited internal space of the cup washer.

[0050] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the barrel connection pipe of the drying section connects the barrel and the drying duct, it is possible to smoothly supply drying air to the barrel while separating the barrel and the drying duct.

[0051] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the air supply fan is arranged at a position relatively higher than the position where the barrel connection pipe is connected to the barrel, it is possible to prevent the cleaning water contained in the barrel from affecting the air supply fan during the cleaning process, and it is possible to effectively form a moving path of the air blown from the air supply fan to the barrel.

[0052] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the air heater of the drying section is arranged at the upper end portion of the internal flow path, it is possible to prevent the cleaning water contained in the barrel from affecting the air heater during the cleaning process.

[0053] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the barrel connection pipe is formed in a structure that slopes downward toward the barrel, even if the cleaning water contained in the barrel flows into the barrel connection pipe during the cleaning process, it can be recycled back into the barrel, and the air blown from the air supply fan arranged at a relatively high position can be blown more smoothly toward the barrel.

[0054] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the drying duct is composed of the combination of the first assembly and the second assembly, it is possible to easily assemble the drying section.

[0055] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the barrel connection pipe is formed in an integral pipe shape, in the case where the cleaning water contained in the barrel flows into the barrel connection pipe during the cleaning process, water leakage can be minimized.

[0056] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the drying duct and the barrel connection pipe are inserted and combined, in the event of an accident, even if the cleaning water flows into the barrel connection pipe and is higher than the barrel connection pipe, it can be discharged from the connection portion of the drying duct and the barrel connection pipe that is not completely airtight, thereby minimizing the inflow of cleaning water into the drying duct.

[0057] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the position where the drying duct and the barrel connection pipe are combined is arranged at a position relatively higher than the maximum water level of the barrel, it is possible to minimize the inflow of cleaning water into the drying duct in the state of the maximum water level of the barrel.

[0058] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the embodiments of the present invention, since the position where the drying duct and the barrel connecting pipe are combined is arranged at a position relatively lower than the external air flow inlet, it is possible to minimize the inflow of the cleaning water discharged from the connection part of the drying duct and the barrel connecting pipe into the external air flow inlet in case of an accident.

[0059] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the embodiments of the present invention, since the front frame supports the front panel and the rear frame supports the rear panel, the cup washer has a predetermined rigidity, so that it can maintain a stable state.

[0060] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the embodiments of the present invention, since the drying part is supported and combined with the rear frame, even if the vibration of the barrel is transmitted to the drying part, the drying part can still maintain a stable state.

[0061] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the embodiments of the present invention, since the second assembly is fastened to the rear frame, it is possible to easily assemble and disassemble the drying part and the rear frame.

[0062] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the embodiments of the present invention, since the air inside the barrel is discharged through the air discharge part provided at the upper end of the barrel, the air can be discharged without being affected by the cleaning water inside the barrel.

[0063] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the embodiments of the present invention, since the air discharge part is connected between the rear surface of the barrel and the rear panel, it is possible to minimize the leakage of the discharged air to the user.

[0064] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the embodiments of the present invention, the position where the air discharge part is connected to the barrel is arranged at a position relatively lower than the position where the air discharge part is connected to the rear panel. Therefore, even if the cleaning water inside the barrel flows into the air discharge part, it can be recycled back into the barrel.

[0065] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the embodiments of the present invention, since a water blocking protrusion is formed on the air discharge path of the air discharge part, it is possible to minimize the discharge of the cleaning water flowing into the air discharge part to the outside.

[0066] The additional scope of the applicability of the present invention can be clarified from the following detailed description. However, those skilled in the art can clearly understand various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the detailed description and the specific embodiments of the preferred embodiments of the present invention are merely examples. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0067] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the cup washer according to the embodiment of the present invention observed from the front upper side.

[0068] Figure 2 It is a perspective view of a cup washer observed from the upper rear side. Figure 1 of the cup washer.

[0069] Figure 3 As Figure 1 a perspective view of the cup washer, it is a view showing the state where the front panel is removed.

[0070] Figure 4 As Figure 1 a partial perspective view of the cup washer, it is a view showing the door in the open state.

[0071] Figure 5 As Figure 1 a side view of the cup washer, it is a view not showing the frame, panel, door, and display unit.

[0072] Figure 6 As Figure 5 a partial cross-sectional view of the cup washer, it is a view showing the cup and lid placed on the bracket with phantom lines.

[0073] Figure 7 It is a schematic view of the cup washer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 8 And Figure 9 are views showing the combined state of the tub, additive supply unit, and drying unit in the cup washer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 10 And Figure 11 are views showing the drying unit in the cup washer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Figure 12 is a view showing the arrangement relationship between the tub and the drying unit in the cup washer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 13 is a view showing the combined state of the drying duct and the tub connection pipe in the cup washer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Figure 14 is a view showing the combined state of the rear frame and the drying unit in the cup washer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 15 And Figure 16 are views showing the air discharge part in the cup washer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 17 It is Figure 16 a cross-sectional view of the air discharge part shown.

[0081] Explanation of reference numerals

[0082] 11: Front frame 12: Rear frame

[0083] 21: Front panel 22: Rear panel

[0084] 22a: Vent 22b: Air discharge port

[0085] 100: Bucket 400: Drying unit

[0086] 401: Inlet for external air flow 410: Air supply fan

[0087] 420: Drying duct 421: First assembly

[0088] 422: Second assembly 430: Bucket connection pipe

[0089] 431: Bucket connection port 440: Air heater

[0090] 600: Additive supply unit 700: Air discharge unit

[0091] 710: Water-blocking projection 1000: Cup washer

[0092] C: Cup F10: Internal flow path

[0093] F10a: First section F10b: Second section

[0094] F10c: Third section S1: First space Detailed implementation mode

[0095] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that when describing the present invention, descriptions of well-known functions or configurations will be omitted in order to clarify the gist of the present invention.

[0096] In the embodiments of the present invention, the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction can be directions orthogonal to each other respectively. The X direction and the Y direction can be directions parallel to the horizontal direction respectively, and the Z direction can be a direction parallel to the vertical direction. When the X direction is a direction parallel to the left-right direction, the Y direction can be a direction parallel to the front-rear direction. When the X direction is a direction parallel to the front-rear direction, the Y direction can be a direction parallel to the left-right direction.

[0097] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the upper front side.

[0098] Figure 2 It is as viewed from the upper rear side Figure 1 of the cup washer 1000.

[0099] Figure 3 AsFigure 1 A perspective view of the cup washer 1000, showing the state with the front panel 21 removed.

[0100] Recently, as the awareness of practicing carbon neutrality has spread throughout society, the number of people carrying personal cups or reusable cups has increased. Therefore, to ensure the hygiene and convenience of users (employees), the number of government agencies, enterprises, and shopping malls equipped with cup washers is increasing. The cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be installed in government agencies, enterprises, or shopping malls. The above-mentioned personal cups or reusable cups can refer to cups (made of glass or plastic), mugs, tumblers, etc.

[0101] The cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be generally formed in a long tower shape along the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the area of the ground required to install the cup washer 1000 can be relatively small compared to the overall volume of the cup washer 1000.

[0102] The cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention can include a frame 10, a panel 20, a display unit 30, a tub 100, a spraying unit 300, a water storage tank 50, a water collection tank 60, a circulation pump 70, a drainage pump 80, an additive storage unit 500, an additive supply unit 600, a drying unit 400, and a control unit 40. The control unit 40 can overall control the display unit 30, the circulation pump 70, the drainage pump 80, and the additive supply unit 600.

[0103] The frame 10 can form the skeleton of the cup washer 1000. The frame 10 can include a base frame 13, a front frame 11, a rear frame 12, and a horizontal frame 14.

[0104] The base frame 13 can form the lowermost part of the cup washer 1000. The base frame 13 can be placed on the ground. The front frame 11 and the rear frame 12 can be formed to extend upward from the corners of the base frame 13. The horizontal frame 14 can connect the front frame 11 and the rear frame 12 in the horizontal direction.

[0105] The panel 20 can be coupled to the frame 10 to isolate the components of the cup washer 1000 from the external environment. The panel 20 can include a front panel 21, a rear panel 22, a door 25, and a storage unit cover 26.

[0106] The front panel 21 can be coupled to the frame 10 to form the front and both side surfaces of the cup washer 1000 below the door 25. The rear panel 22 can be coupled to the frame 10 to form the rear surface of the cup washer 1000 below the display unit 30.

[0107] A vent 22a may be formed in the rear panel 22. External air may flow into the drying unit 400 through the vent 22a. An air discharge port 22b may be formed in the rear panel 22. The air in the drying unit 400 may be discharged to the outside through the air discharge port 22b. A handle 23 may be formed in the rear panel 22. The administrator may hold the handle 23 to easily move the cup washer 1000.

[0108] The display unit 30 may be provided on the upper part of the cup washer 1000. The screen of the display unit 30 may face the front of the cup washer 1000. Therefore, the user of the cup washer 1000 may visually confirm the screen of the display unit 30 from the front side of the cup washer 1000. The display unit 30 may output the operating states of the cup washer 1000 such as "cleaning", "rinsing", and "drying".

[0109] The display unit 30 may be composed of a touch panel. The user may input the operating instructions of the cup washer 1000 through the display unit 30.

[0110] The user may select the cleaning mode through the screen of the display unit 30. As an example, the user may select the "general cleaning mode" or the "quick cleaning mode" through the screen of the display unit 30. The general cleaning mode may refer to a mode of cleaning the cup C using a detergent and a rinsing agent. The quick cleaning mode may refer to a mode of cleaning the cup C only by spraying water without using a detergent and a rinsing agent.

[0111] Figure 4 As Figure 1 The partial perspective view of the cup washer 1000 is a view showing the open state of the door 25.

[0112] Figure 5 As Figure 1 The side view of the cup washer 1000 is a view not showing the frame 10, the panel 20, the door 25, and the display unit 30.

[0113] The panel 20 may include a top panel 24. The top panel 24 may be coupled to the upper end of the front panel 21. Except for the upper openings of the tub 100 and the additive storage unit 500, the top panel 24 may isolate the components inside the front panel 21 from the external environment at the upper end of the front panel 21. The storage unit cover 26 may open or close the upper opening of the additive storage unit 500.

[0114] The door 25 may open or close the upper opening of the tub 100. The door 25 may be rotatably coupled to the top panel 24. In the state where the door 25 is closed (refer to Figure 1)In this case, the door 25 can protrude more forward than the front panel 21. In the state where the door 25 is closed, the user can lift the protruding portion forward upward, so that the door 25 can be easily rotated (opened).

[0115] Figure 6 As Figure 5 a partial cross-sectional view of the cup washer 1000, it is a view showing the cup C and the cup lid Ca placed on the bracket 200 with imaginary lines.

[0116] Inside the tub 100, a space for cleaning the cup C (hereinafter, "cleaning space") can be formed. The tub 100 can be generally formed in a hollow three-dimensional shape with an opening at the upper end (hereinafter, "cup inlet"). The door 25 can open or close the cup inlet. The user can insert the cup C into the cleaning space through the cup inlet, or can draw out the cup C from the cleaning space.

[0117] In the cleaning space, a bracket 200 for placing the cup C and the cup lid Ca can be provided. The bracket 200 can be inserted into the cleaning space or drawn out from the cleaning space through the cup inlet. The cup C and the cup lid Ca can be spaced apart from the inner surface of the tub 100 in the state of being placed on the bracket 200. The cup C can be placed on the bracket 200 in an upside-down state.

[0118] The cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention can include a spraying unit 300. The spraying unit 300 can be provided at the lower part of the tub 100. In the state where the cup C is placed on the bracket 200, the upper opening of the cup C can be located above the spraying unit 300. The spraying unit 300 can spray water into the inside and outside of the cup C in the cleaning space. The spraying unit 300 can include a first nozzle 310 and a second nozzle 320.

[0119] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the movement paths of water, additives, and air, and the relative arrangements of the respective components can be different from the actual ones.

[0120] Figure 7 The dotted arrows in can indicate the path of the water sprayed by the first nozzle 310. In addition, the solid arrows can indicate the path of the water sprayed by the second nozzle 320. In addition, the thick black arrows can indicate the movement path of the additives. In addition, the thick white arrows can indicate the movement path of the air.

[0121] The water storage tank 50 can store water. Compared with other components, the water storage tank 50 can be a heavy object. The water storage tank 50 can be coupled to the top surface of the base frame 13. Therefore, the overall center of gravity of the cup washer 1000 can be lowered. Therefore, even if the cup washer 1000 is generally formed in a long tower shape along the longitudinal direction, the possibility of the cup washer 1000 tipping over can be reduced.

[0122] The water storage tank 50 can be connected to the water supply pipe. The water in the water supply pipe can be supplied to the water storage tank 50. A water level sensor can be provided in the water storage tank 50. An on-off valve can be provided between the water supply pipe and the water storage tank 50. The control unit 40 can receive the signal from the water level sensor to control the on-off valve.

[0123] A heater and a temperature sensor can be provided in the water storage tank 50. The heater can heat the water in the water storage tank 50. The control unit 40 can receive the signal from the temperature sensor to control the heater.

[0124] The water in the water storage tank 50 can be supplied to the inside of the bucket 100 through the cleaning water supply unit 90. The cleaning water supply unit 90 can include a cleaning water supply pipe 91 and an on-off valve 92. The control unit 40 can control the on-off valve 92.

[0125] The additive storage unit 500 can store additives inside. The additive supply unit 600 can supply the additives stored in the additive storage unit 500 to the inside of the bucket 100.

[0126] As described above, the user can select a cleaning mode through the display unit 30 screen. As an example, the user can select "general cleaning mode" or "quick cleaning mode" through the display unit 30 screen.

[0127] The general cleaning mode can refer to a mode of cleaning the cup C using a detergent and a rinsing agent. The quick cleaning mode can refer to a mode of cleaning the cup C only by spraying water without using a detergent and a rinsing agent.

[0128] The general cleaning mode can include a general cleaning step and a drying step. When the user selects the "general cleaning mode" through the display unit 30 screen, the water in the water storage tank 50 can be supplied to the inside of the bucket 100 through the cleaning water supply unit 90. The cleaning water supply unit 90 can include a cleaning water supply pipe 91 and an on-off valve. At this time, the additive supply unit 600 can supply additives to the inside of the bucket 100 within a set time. The additives can be mixed into the water inside the bucket 100.

[0129] The water mixed with additives can flow into the water collection tank 60 below the bucket 100 through the filter unit 800 under the action of gravity. The circulation pump 70 can press the water flowing into the water collection tank 60 toward the first nozzle 310 side.

[0130] The first nozzle 310 can spray the water mixed with additives toward the inside and outside of the cup C. In addition, the circulation pump 70 can supply the water flowing into the water collection tank 60 to the inside of the bucket 100 through the cleaning water spraying unit 95. The cleaning water spraying unit 95 can spray the water mixed with additives toward the cup lid Ca.

[0131] The circulation pump 70 can operate within a set time. If the set time has elapsed, the water flowing into the water collection tank 60 can move through the drain pump 80 to the drain pipe 81 and be discharged outside the cup washer 1000 (the general cleaning step is completed).

[0132] The additive can include a first additive and a second additive. The first additive can be a detergent. The second additive can be a rinsing agent. In this case, the general cleaning step can include a first general cleaning step and a second general cleaning step.

[0133] The first general cleaning step can be a step of cleaning the cup C with water mixed with the first additive. The second general cleaning step can be a step of cleaning the cup C with water mixed with the second additive. The first general cleaning step and the second general cleaning step can be performed in sequence.

[0134] If the general cleaning step is completed, the drying step can be performed. The drying unit 400 can supply heated air into the tub 100. During this process, the moist air in the tub 100 can be discharged to the outside. The drying step can be performed within a set time (the drying step is completed).

[0135] The second nozzle 320 can be connected to the water supply pipe. A three-way valve can be provided between the water supply pipe and the water storage tank 50. The second nozzle 320 can be connected to the water supply pipe through the three-way valve. An on-off valve can be provided between the second nozzle 320 and the three-way valve. The control unit 40 can control the three-way valve and the on-off valve.

[0136] The quick cleaning mode can include a quick cleaning step and a drying step. When the user selects the "quick cleaning mode" through the display unit 30 screen, the second nozzle 320 can be connected to the water supply pipe through the three-way valve. In the quick cleaning mode, the additive can not be supplied into the tub 100.

[0137] The second nozzle 320 can spray water without mixed additive into the inside of the cup C. The on-off valve can open the flow path between the water supply pipe and the second nozzle 320 within a set time. If the set time has elapsed, the water flowing into the water collection tank 60 can move through the drain pump 80 to the drain pipe 81 and be discharged outside the cup washer 1000 (the quick cleaning step is completed).

[0138] If the quick cleaning step is completed, the drying step can be performed. The drying unit 400 can supply heated air into the tub 100. During this process, the moist air in the tub 100 can be discharged to the outside. The drying step can be performed within a set time (the drying step is completed).

[0139] Figure 8 andFigure 9 FIG. 1 is a view showing a combined state of a tub 100, an additive supply unit 600, and a drying unit 400 in a cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] A cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a tub 100, a drying unit 400, and an additive supply unit 600.

[0141] The tub 100 is a part that provides a space for cleaning the cups C accommodated therein, and can spray water onto such cups C in a state where the cups C are put into the cleaning space of the tub 100 to achieve cleaning.

[0142] The drying unit 400 is configured to be separated from the rear surface of the tub 100 by a first space S1 in a state where a part thereof is connected to the rear surface of the tub 100, and to supply the heated outside air to the tub 100.

[0143] Specifically, as described above, the drying unit 400 may be a configuration for drying the water remaining on the washed cups C. That is, the drying unit 400 can supply the heated air to the tub 100 to dry the washed cups C. Such a drying unit 400 may include a heating device for heating air and a blowing device for blowing air, etc.

[0144] On the other hand, the tub 100 may generate vibrations during the process of spraying water onto the cups C, etc. If such vibrations are transmitted to the drying unit 400, the components of the drying unit 400 such as the heating device and the blowing device may not be able to normally perform their original functions.

[0145] Therefore, preferably, the drying unit 400 may be configured to be separated from the rear surface of the tub 100 by a first space S1 to minimize the transmission of vibrations of the tub 100 to the drying unit 400. However, a part of the drying unit 400 needs to be connected to the rear surface of the tub 100 to supply the heated air from the drying unit 400 to the tub 100.

[0146] The additive supply unit 600 is disposed in the first space S1 and coupled to the rear surface of the tub 100, and supplies additives to the tub 100.

[0147] Specifically, the additive supply unit 600 may be a configuration for supplying additives such as a detergent or a rinsing agent to the tub 100. That is, the additive supply unit 600 can supply additives to the tub 100 during the cleaning process of the cups C to improve the cleaning efficiency.

[0148] Therefore, preferably, the additive supply unit 600 can be disposed close to the tub 100 to smoothly supply additives to the tub 100. In addition, in order to appropriately arrange each component within the limited specifications of the cup washer 1000, it is necessary to consider both performance and space efficiency when arranging the tub 100, the drying unit 400, and the additive supply unit 600.

[0149] Therefore, preferably, the additive supply unit 600 can be arranged in the first space S1 between the tub 100 and the drying unit 400 and coupled to the rear surface of the tub 100.

[0150] As described above, the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention has a structure in which the drying unit 400 is arranged to be spaced apart from the rear of the tub 100 by the first space S1, and the additive supply unit 600 is arranged in such a first space S1. Therefore, by minimizing the transmission of vibrations of the tub 100 to the drying unit 400, performance degradation can be prevented, and additives can be smoothly supplied to the tub 100.

[0151] The cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a front panel 21 and a rear panel 22.

[0152] The front panel 21 is a part that covers the front side of the tub 100, and the rear panel 22 is a part that covers the rear side of the drying unit 400. The front panel 21 and the rear panel 22 can form the appearance of the cup washer 1000. That is, the main components of the cup washer 1000 (such as the tub 100, the drying unit 400, the additive supply unit 600, etc.) are arranged inside the area covered by the front panel 21 and the rear panel 22, so that they can be hidden from the outside.

[0153] In this case, the rear panel 22 can be connected to the outside air inlet 401 of the drying unit 400. That is, a ventilation hole 22a is formed in a part of the rear panel 22 so that air outside the cup washer 1000 can flow into the interior. Such a ventilation hole 22a can be formed in the rear panel 22 to minimize its exposure on the appearance.

[0154] In addition, the air that flows into the interior of the cup washer 1000 through the ventilation hole 22a of the rear panel 22 can flow into the outside air inlet 401 of the drying unit 400, be heated, and then be supplied to the tub 100.

[0155] Therefore, the outside air inlet 401 of the drying unit 400 needs to be arranged in a part close to the rear panel 22. Therefore, preferably, the drying unit 400 can be arranged on the rear side of the cup washer 1000.

[0156] In addition, as described above, the drying unit 400 including a heating device, a blowing device, etc. needs to be frequently inspected and replaced. Therefore, preferably, the drying unit 400 is arranged on the rear side of the cup washer 1000 so that the drying unit 400 can be confirmed as long as the rear panel 22 is separated.

[0157] In addition, in the overall structure of the cup washer 1000, the tub 100 is a component where the user performs the actions of putting in and taking out the cup C. Therefore, preferably, the tub 100 is arranged on the front side of the cup washer 1000 to make it easy for the user to access.

[0158] As described above, the cup washer 1000 according to the embodiment of the present invention has a structure in which the tub 100 is arranged on the front side, the drying unit 400 is arranged on the rear side, and the external air inlet 401 of the drying unit 400 is connected to the rear panel 22. Therefore, the user can easily access the tub 100, external air can smoothly flow into the drying unit 400, and the drying unit 400 can be easily maintained.

[0159] Figure 10 and Figure 11 is a view showing the drying unit 400 in the cup washer 1000 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 is a view showing the arrangement relationship between the tub 100 and the drying unit 400 in the cup washer 1000 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 is a view showing the combined state of the drying duct 420 and the tub connection pipe 430 in the cup washer 1000 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 is a view showing the combined state of the rear frame 12 and the drying unit 400 in the cup washer 1000 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0160] In the cup washer 1000 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the drying unit 400 may include a blowing fan 410 and a drying duct 420.

[0161] The blowing fan 410 is a part that sucks external air through the external air inlet 401 and blows it toward the tub 100, and can press the air to force the air to flow in the drying unit 400 and the tub 100.

[0162] The drying duct 420 is a part whose one end is combined with the blowing fan 410 and has an internal flow path F10 formed on a plane parallel to the rear panel 22. That is, the drying duct 420 is formed with an internal flow path F10 as the movement path of the air, so that the air pressed by the blowing fan 410 can move along the internal flow path F10 toward the tub 100.

[0163] On the other hand, in order to supply heated air from the drying unit 400 to the tub 100, it is necessary to heat the air in a part of the internal flow path F10, so the internal flow path F10 needs to have a prescribed length. In this case, when the internal flow path F10 occupies space in the front-rear direction of the cup washer 1000, due to the structure in which the tub 100, the drying unit 400, and the additive supply unit 600 are arranged in the front-rear direction of the cup washer 1000, the space efficiency may be reduced.

[0164] Therefore, preferably, the internal flow path F10 can be formed along a plane parallel to the rear panel 22 to minimize the space occupied by the internal flow path F10 in the front-rear direction of the cup washer 1000.

[0165] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the internal flow path F10 is formed in the drying duct 420 of the drying unit 400 along a plane parallel to the rear panel 22, so the internal flow path F10 can be effectively arranged in the limited internal space of the cup washer 1000.

[0166] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the drying unit 400 may further include a tub connection pipe 430 that extends from the other end of the drying duct 420 and is connected to the rear surface of the tub 100 through a tub connection port 431 formed at the end.

[0167] As described above, in the case where the internal flow path F10 is formed in the drying duct 420 along a plane parallel to the rear panel 22, since the additive supply unit 600 is arranged in the first space S1 between the drying unit 400 and the tub 100, the drying duct 420 can be arranged separately from the tub 100.

[0168] Therefore, in order to supply heated air from the drying unit 400 to the tub 100, a configuration for connecting the internal flow path F10 of the drying duct 420 to the tub 100 may be required.

[0169] For this purpose, the tub connection pipe 430 can connect the other end of the drying duct 420 and the rear surface of the tub 100. In this case, the part of the tub connection pipe 430 connected to the rear surface of the tub 100 may be the tub connection port 431.

[0170] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the tub connection pipe 430 of the drying unit 400 connects the tub 100 and the drying duct 420, so while separating the tub 100 and the drying duct 420, drying air can be smoothly supplied to the tub 100.

[0171] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the air supply fan 410 may be disposed at a position relatively higher than the bucket connection port 431. That is, the air supply fan 410 may be disposed at a position relatively higher than the position where the bucket connection pipe 430 is connected to the bucket 100.

[0172] When cleaning the cup C, cleaning water is accommodated in the bucket 100, so the cleaning water may also flow into the bucket connection pipe 430 connected to the bucket 100 through the bucket connection port 431. In this case, if the air supply fan 410 is disposed at a position lower than the bucket connection port 431, the possibility that the cleaning water flowing into the bucket connection pipe 430 through the bucket connection port 431 affects the air supply fan 410 is relatively high.

[0173] Therefore, preferably, the air supply fan 410 is disposed at a position relatively higher than the bucket connection port 431 so as to minimize the influence on the air supply fan 410 even if the cleaning water in the bucket 100 flows into the bucket connection pipe 430.

[0174] On the other hand, in order to supply more air volume to the bucket 100 when the air is pressed by the air supply fan 410, it is more advantageous that the internal flow path F10 between the bucket 100 and the air supply fan 410 is shorter. In addition, it may be advantageous to dispose the air supply fan 410 at a higher portion and press the air downward toward the bucket 100 through a specified portion.

[0175] Therefore, preferably, the air supply fan 410 is disposed at a position relatively higher than the bucket connection port 431 such that the air pressed by the air supply fan 410 moves downward through a specified portion.

[0176] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the air supply fan 410 is disposed at a position relatively higher than the position where the bucket connection pipe 430 is connected to the bucket 100, so that it is possible to prevent the cleaning water accommodated in the bucket 100 during the cleaning process from affecting the air supply fan 410, and the movement path of the air blown from the air supply fan 410 to the bucket 100 can be effectively formed.

[0177] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the drying unit 400 may further include an air heater 440. In this case, the internal flow path F10 may include a first section F10a, a second section F10b, and a third section F10c.

[0178] Specifically, the air heater 440 is a part disposed in the drying duct 420 and heating the air passing through the internal flow path F10, and can heat the air by heat exchange with the relatively low-temperature air in contact therewith.

[0179] The first section F10a is the part of the internal flow path F10 that extends upward from the air supply fan 410. The air that flows into the drying unit 400 through the external air inlet 401 can pass through the air supply fan 410 and move upward along the first section F10a inside the drying duct 420.

[0180] The second section F10b is the part that extends horizontally from the first section F10a and is provided with the air heater 440. That is, the air that moves upward along the first section F10a inside the drying duct 420 can move horizontally along the second section F10b. In addition, through the air heater 440 disposed in such a second section F10b, the air passing through the second section F10b can be heated.

[0181] The third section F10c is the part that extends downward from the second section F10b to the barrel connection pipe 430. The air that moves horizontally along the second section F10b inside the drying duct 420 can move downward along the third section F10c and be supplied to the barrel 100 through the barrel connection pipe 430.

[0182] As described above, the internal flow path F10 is integrally formed in a ∩ shape, and the air heater 440 can be disposed at the upper end portion of such an internal flow path F10. Thus, even if the cleaning water in the barrel 100 flows into the barrel connection pipe 430, the influence on the air heater 440 can be minimized.

[0183] On the other hand, in order to supply the heated air to the inside of the barrel 100 in a state with the least heat loss, preferably, the air heater 440 can be disposed relatively close to the barrel 100.

[0184] For this purpose, preferably, the air heater 440 can be disposed in the third section F10c of the drying duct 420. However, if the air heater 440 is disposed too close to the barrel connection port 431, the risk of being affected by the cleaning water flowing into the barrel connection pipe 430 may increase.

[0185] Therefore, the air heater 440 can also be disposed at the upper end portion in the third section F10c of the drying duct 420 so as to minimize the heat loss of the heated air while minimizing the influence caused by the cleaning water.

[0186] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the air heater 440 of the drying unit 400 is disposed at the upper end portion of the internal flow path F10, so that the influence of the cleaning water contained in the barrel 100 during the cleaning process on the air heater 440 can be prevented.

[0187] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the tub connection pipe 430 may be formed in a shape in which the height becomes lower toward the tub connection port 431. That is, the tub connection pipe 430 may be formed in a structure that slopes downward toward the tub 100.

[0188] As described above, when cleaning the cup C, the cleaning water in the tub 100 may flow into the tub connection pipe 430. Therefore, preferably, the tub connection pipe 430 may be formed in a structure that slopes downward toward the tub 100 so that the cleaning water flowing into the tub connection pipe 430 can be recovered back into the tub 100.

[0189] In addition, as described above, when the air blown by the air supply fan 410 moves downward toward a predetermined portion by disposing the air supply fan 410 at a position relatively higher than the tub connection port 431, the tub connection pipe 430 being formed in a structure that slopes downward toward the tub 100 may be advantageous in terms of the directionality of the air.

[0190] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the tub connection pipe 430 is formed in a structure that slopes downward toward the tub 100. Therefore, even if the cleaning water contained in the tub 100 flows into the tub connection pipe 430 during the cleaning process, it can be recovered back into the tub 100, and the air blown from the air supply fan 410 disposed at a relatively high position can be blown more smoothly toward the tub 100.

[0191] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the drying duct 420 may include a first assembly 421 and a second assembly 422. In this case, the tub connection pipe 430 may be inserted into the joint end of the first assembly 421 and the second assembly 422 to be joined.

[0192] Specifically, the first assembly 421 is a part that covers the front side of the internal flow path F10, and the second assembly 422 is a part that is joined to the first assembly 421 and covers the rear side of the internal flow path F10.

[0193] That is, the internal space formed by the combination of the first assembly 421 and the second assembly 422 may form the internal flow path F10 of the drying duct 420. In addition, the tub connection pipe 430 may be inserted into the joint end of such first assembly 421 and second assembly 422 to join the drying duct 420 and the tub connection pipe 430.

[0194] Since the air heater 440 is disposed in the internal flow path F10 (particularly, the second section F10b) of the drying duct 420, the assembly of the drying duct 420 and the air heater 440 may be difficult. Therefore, preferably, after the drying duct 420 is separately manufactured into the first assembly 421 and the second assembly 422, the first assembly 421 and the second assembly 422 may be assembled with the air heater 440 disposed.

[0195] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the drying duct 420 is formed by combining the first assembly 421 and the second assembly 422, the drying unit 400 can be easily assembled.

[0196] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the tub connection pipe 430 is formed in an integral pipe shape and can extend from the other end of the drying duct 420. That is, unlike the separately manufactured drying duct 420, the tub connection pipe 430 can be formed as an integral tubular member.

[0197] As described above, since the cleaning water in the tub 100 may flow into the tub connection pipe 430 when cleaning the cup C, preferably, the tub connection pipe 430 can be configured as an integral member to minimize water leakage.

[0198] In particular, since the tub connection pipe 430 is the part that most directly receives the vibration of the tub 100, it needs to be integrally formed to have a predetermined rigidity to properly perform its original function.

[0199] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the tub connection pipe 430 is formed in an integral pipe shape, when the cleaning water contained in the tub 100 flows into the tub connection pipe 430 during the cleaning process, water leakage can be minimized.

[0200] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the tub connection pipe 430 can be inserted and coupled to the other end of the drying duct 420. That is, the coupling part of the tub connection pipe 430 and the drying duct 420 can be simply inserted and coupled without forming an additional airtight structure.

[0201] As described above, the cleaning water in the tub 100 may flow into the tub connection pipe 430 when cleaning the cup C, but in an accidental abnormal situation, the cleaning water may flow into the drying duct 420 through the tub connection pipe 430.

[0202] In such a case, since the cleaning water may damage the air heater 440 or the air supply fan 410 and reduce the performance, discharging the cleaning water to the outside of the tub connection pipe 430 and the drying duct 420 may be less fatal than the cleaning water flowing into the drying duct 420.

[0203] Therefore, preferably, by inserting and coupling the drying duct 420 and the tub connection pipe 430, the cleaning water is discharged from the coupling part of the tub connection pipe 430 and the drying duct 420 before flowing into the drying duct 420 through the tub connection pipe 430.

[0204] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the drying duct 420 and the tub connection pipe 430 are inserted and joined, even in the event of an accident where cleaning water flows into the tub connection pipe 430 and is higher than the tub connection pipe 430, it is discharged from the connection portion between the non-fully airtight drying duct 420 and the tub connection pipe 430, thereby minimizing the situation where cleaning water flows into the drying duct 420 to the greatest extent.

[0205] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the other end of the drying duct 420 may be disposed at a position relatively higher than the maximum water level of the tub 100. That is, the position where the drying duct 420 and the tub connection pipe 430 are joined may be disposed at a position higher than the maximum water level of the tub 100.

[0206] As described above, since the tub 100 and the tub connection pipe 430 are connected through the tub connection port 431, cleaning water may also flow into the tub connection pipe 430 and correspond to the water level height inside the tub 100.

[0207] In this case, since it is necessary to prevent cleaning water from flowing into the drying duct 420 through the tub connection pipe 430, preferably, the position where the drying duct 420 and the tub connection pipe 430 are joined is disposed at a position higher than the maximum water level of the tub 100.

[0208] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the position where the drying duct 420 and the tub connection pipe 430 are joined is disposed at a position relatively higher than the maximum water level of the tub 100, in the state of the maximum water level of the tub 100, the situation where cleaning water flows into the drying duct 420 can be minimized to the greatest extent.

[0209] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the other end of the drying duct 420 may be disposed at a position relatively lower than the external air inlet 401. That is, the position where the drying duct 420 and the tub connection pipe 430 are joined may be disposed at a position lower than the external air inlet 401.

[0210] As described above, in the event of an accidental abnormal situation, since the cleaning water can be discharged from the connection portion between the drying duct 420 and the tub connection pipe 430, the discharged cleaning water may flow into the external air inlet 401 as described above.

[0211] In such a case, the air supply fan 410 may be damaged or its performance may be reduced due to the cleaning water, so it is necessary to prevent the cleaning water discharged from the connection portion between the drying duct 420 and the tub connection pipe 430 from flowing into the external air inlet 401.

[0212] Therefore, preferably, by disposing the position where the drying duct 420 and the barrel connection pipe 430 are joined at a position lower than the external air flow inlet 401, even if cleaning water is discharged from the corresponding part, it is possible to minimize the inflow of such cleaning water into the external air flow inlet 401.

[0213] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the position where the drying duct 420 and the barrel connection pipe 430 are joined is disposed at a position relatively lower than the external air flow inlet 401, in the event of an accident, it is possible to minimize the inflow of cleaning water discharged from the connection part of the drying duct 420 and the barrel connection pipe 430 into the external air flow inlet 401.

[0214] The cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a front frame 11 and a rear frame 12.

[0215] The front frame 11 is a part disposed on the front side of the barrel 100 and supporting the front panel 21, and the rear frame 12 is a part disposed on the rear side of the drying unit 400 and supporting the rear panel 22.

[0216] That is, the front frame 11 and the rear frame 12 constitute the skeleton of the cup washer 1000, and the main components of the cup washer 1000 can be supported by the front frame 11 and the rear frame 12.

[0217] In this case, a pair of front frames 11 may be disposed on the front side of the barrel 100, and a pair of rear frames 12 may be disposed on the rear side of the drying unit 400. In addition, the front frame 11 and the rear frame 12 may be combined with another frame structure to disperse and transmit the applied load.

[0218] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the front frame 11 supports the front panel 21 and the rear frame 12 supports the rear panel 22, so that the cup washer 1000 has a predetermined rigidity and can maintain a stable state.

[0219] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the drying unit 400 may be joined and supported by the rear frame 12. That is, the drying unit 400 may be supported by the rear frame 12 instead of being supported by the barrel 100.

[0220] As described above, since the barrel 100 generates vibration during the cleaning process, it is necessary to minimize the transmission of such vibration to the drying unit 400. In this case, if the drying unit 400 is structured to be supported by the barrel 100, the vibration of the barrel 100 is transmitted to the drying unit 400 relatively largely, which is not preferable.

[0221] Therefore, preferably, by supporting the drying unit 400 disposed behind the tub 100 with the rear frame 12 that supports the rear panel 22, the influence of the vibration of the tub 100 on the drying unit 400 can be minimized.

[0222] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the drying unit 400 is supported and coupled to the rear frame 12, even if the vibration of the tub 100 is transmitted to the drying unit 400, the drying unit 400 can maintain a stable state.

[0223] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the second assembly 422 may be fastened and coupled to the rear frame 12. That is, the drying unit 400 may be coupled to the rear frame 12 in such a manner that the second assembly 422 disposed on the rear side in the drying duct 420 is fastened to the rear frame 12.

[0224] As described above, since the drying unit 400 needs to be frequently inspected and replaced, the drying unit 400 may be disposed on the rear side of the cup washer 1000 so that the drying unit 400 can be confirmed as long as the rear panel 22 is separated.

[0225] In this case, by fastening the second assembly 422 of the drying duct 420 to the rear frame 12, when needed, not only can the drying duct 420 and the rear frame 12 be easily assembled and disassembled, but also the drying duct 420 composed of the first assembly 421 and the second assembly 422 can be easily assembled and disassembled.

[0226] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the second assembly 422 is fastened to the rear frame 12, the assembly and disassembly of the drying unit 400 and the rear frame 12 can be easily achieved.

[0227] Figure 15 and Figure 16 FIG. is a view showing the air discharge unit 700 in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 17 is Figure 16 a cross-sectional view of the air discharge unit 700 shown.

[0228] The cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include an air discharge unit 700 provided at the upper end of the tub 100 to discharge the air inside the tub.

[0229] As described above, when the air heated in the drying unit 400 is supplied to the tub 100 to dry the cup C, it is necessary to discharge the air that has become a relatively low temperature state for drying to the outside of the tub 100.

[0230] In this case, since it is not preferable for the cleaning water remaining inside the tub 100 to be discharged together with the discharged air, it is preferably configured to have a structure that discharges only air without discharging the cleaning water.

[0231] Therefore, by disposing the air discharge portion 700 at the upper end of the tub 100 so that air is discharged from a position above the maximum water level of the tub 100, it is possible to discharge only air without discharging the cleaning water.

[0232] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the air inside the tub 100 is discharged through the air discharge portion 700 provided at the upper end of the tub 100, so that the air can be discharged without being affected by the cleaning water inside the tub 100.

[0233] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the air discharge portion 700 may be connected between the rear surface of the tub 100 and the rear panel 22. That is, an air discharge port 22b is formed in a part of the rear panel 22 so that the air inside the tub 100 can be discharged to the outside of the cup washer 1000.

[0234] Similar to the above-described ventilation port 22a, it is preferable to minimize the exposure of the air discharge port 22b in appearance, and since the air discharged from the cup washer 1000 may cause discomfort to the user when it comes into contact with the user, etc., the air discharge port 22b may be formed in the rear panel 22.

[0235] Thus, the air discharge portion 700 can be connected between the rear surface of the tub 100 and the rear panel 22 to discharge the air inside the tub 100 to the outside of the cup washer 1000 through the rear panel 22 toward the rear side.

[0236] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the air discharge portion 700 is connected between the rear surface of the tub 100 and the rear panel 22, so that the leakage of the discharged air to the user can be minimized.

[0237] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the portion where the air discharge portion 700 is connected to the tub 100 may be disposed at a position relatively lower than the portion where the air discharge portion 700 is connected to the rear panel 22.

[0238] As described above, even if the air discharge portion 700 is disposed at the upper end of the tub 100 to prevent the cleaning water from being discharged from the air discharge portion 700, in some cases, the cleaning water may flow into the air discharge portion 700 due to splashing or the like.

[0239] Therefore, preferably, the portion where the air discharge part 700 is connected to the tub 100 is formed to be relatively lower than the portion where the air discharge part 700 is connected to the rear panel 22, so that the washing water flowing into the air discharge part 700 is recycled back into the tub 100.

[0240] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the position where the air discharge part 700 is connected to the tub 100 is arranged at a position relatively lower than the position where the air discharge part 700 is connected to the rear panel 22, even if the washing water inside the tub 100 flows into the air discharge part 700, it can be recycled back into the tub 100.

[0241] In the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, a water blocking projection 710 may be formed on the air discharge part 700 in a direction crossing the length direction.

[0242] As described above, even if the flowing-in washing water is recycled by making the heights of both ends of the air discharge part 700 different, there is still a risk that a certain portion of the washing water is discharged to the outside through the air discharge part 700.

[0243] Therefore, preferably, by forming a step such as the water blocking projection 710 in the length direction of the air discharge part 700, the washing water flowing into the air discharge part 700 is blocked by the water blocking projection 710 and is no longer discharged to the outside.

[0244] As described above, in the cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the water blocking projection 710 is formed on the air discharge path of the air discharge part 700, it is possible to minimize the discharge of the washing water flowing into the air discharge part 700 to the outside.

[0245] The cup washer 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a tub 100 and a drying part 400. In this case, the drying part 400 may include a blower fan 410, a drying duct 420, and a tub connection pipe 430.

[0246] Specifically, the tub 100 may provide a space for washing the cups C accommodated therein.

[0247] The drying part 400 may be arranged behind the tub 100 in a state where a part of it is connected to the rear surface of the tub 100, and may supply the heated outside air to the tub 100.

[0248] The blower fan 410 may suck outside air through the outside air inlet 401 and blow it toward the tub 100.

[0249] The drying duct 420 may include: a first assembly 421, one end of which is coupled to the air supply fan 410 and covers the front side of the internal flow path F10; and a second assembly 422, which is coupled to the first assembly 421 and covers the rear side of the internal flow path F10.

[0250] The tub connection pipe 430 is formed as an integral pipe shape extending from the other end of the drying duct 420, and may be connected to the rear surface of the tub 100 through a tub connection port 431 formed at its end.

[0251] The functions and effects of the cup washer 1000 according to the above-described embodiment are the same as or similar to the above content, and thus detailed descriptions of repetitive content are omitted.

[0252] As described above, specific embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated. However, the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, these modified examples or variations should not be understood independently of the technical spirit or concept of the present invention, and the modified embodiments should fall within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cup washing machine, wherein: include: a bucket, providing space for washing the cups contained inside; a drying section configured to separate a first space from the rear of the tub in a state where a portion of the drying section is connected to the rear of the tub, and to supply the inflowing external air to the tub after heating the inflowing external air; and The additive supply unit is disposed in the first space and coupled to the rear surface of the barrel to supply the additive to the barrel.

2. The cup washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: include: a front panel covering the front side of the barrel; as well as The rear panel covers the rear side of the drying unit and is connected to the external air inlet of the drying unit.

3. The cup washing machine according to claim 2, wherein: The drying section comprises: an air supply fan that sucks in external air through the external air inlet and blows the air toward the barrel; and The drying duct has one end coupled to the air supply fan and has an internal flow path formed along a surface parallel to the rear panel.

4. The cup washing machine according to claim 3, wherein: The drying part further includes a tub connecting pipe extending from the other end of the drying duct and connected to a rear side of the tub through a tub connecting port formed at an end thereof.

5. The cup washing machine according to claim 4, wherein: The air supply fan is arranged at a position relatively higher than the barrel connection port.

6. The cup washing machine according to claim 4, wherein: The drying section further includes an air heater disposed in the drying duct and heating the air passing through the internal flow path; The internal flow path includes: A first section extending upward from the air supply fan; A second section extending laterally from the first section and provided with the air heater; and The third section extends downward from the second section to the barrel connecting pipe.

7. The cup washing machine according to claim 4, wherein: The tub connection pipe is formed in a shape whose height becomes lower toward the tub connection port.

8. The cup washing machine according to claim 4, wherein: The drying pipeline comprises: a first assembly covering a front side of the internal flow path; and a second assembly body, coupled to the first assembly body to cover the rear side of the internal flow path; The barrel connecting pipe is inserted and coupled to an end portion where the first assembly body and the second assembly body are coupled.

9. The cup washing machine according to claim 8, wherein: The tub connection pipe is formed in an integrated pipe shape and extends from the other end of the drying duct.

10. A cup washing machine, wherein: include: a bucket, providing space for washing the cups contained inside; as well as a drying section, which is arranged at the rear of the tub in a state where a part of the drying section is connected to the rear side of the tub, and supplies the inflowing external air to the tub after heating the inflowing external air; The drying section comprises: an air supply fan, which sucks in external air through an external air inlet and blows it toward the barrel; a drying duct, one end of which is coupled to the air supply fan, the drying duct being composed of a first assembly and a second assembly, the first assembly covering the front side of the internal flow path, the second assembly being coupled to the first assembly and covering the rear side of the internal flow path; and The tub connecting pipe is formed in an integral pipe shape extending from the other end of the drying duct and is connected to the rear side of the tub through a tub connecting port formed at an end thereof.

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