Drying device and drying equipment

Abstract

A drying apparatus may include a support frame, a planar drying rack, and a drain tray. The support frame may include a first rectangular end and a second rectangular end, each of which may include a top rail, a bottom rail, a first side rail, and a second side rail. A lower cross rail and an upper cross rail may connect the first rectangular end to the second rectangular end. The plane drying frame can be placed between the upper transverse rail and the lower transverse rail. The upper interior space may be defined by a top surface of the planar drying rack, an inner edge of the upper side rail, and an upper edge of the top rail of the first and second rectangular ends. The planar drying rack may be free of upwardly extending protrusions within the upper interior space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of drying racks, and in particular, to a drying device and a drying equipment. Background Art

[0002] In the kitchen, a drying rack is usually used next to the kitchen sink to collect wet or partially dried dinner plates after manual dishwashing. Usually, the dinner plates are rinsed and then placed in special compartments in the rack. There are a series of holes and / or slots at the bottom of the rack through which the water on the dinner plates can drain by gravity.

[0003] Figure 1 Two conventional drying racks 1A and 1B are shown, which are usually made of rubber or plastic polymers (see 1A) or polymer-coated wires (see 1B). In use, a conventional drainage tray 10 is placed below the racks 1A and 1B, which usually includes a central platform area 13 surrounded by raised side walls 11, on which the rack 1 is supported. The water droplets from the dinner plates on the rack will collect on the platform area 13 of the drainage tray 2 and separate from the dinner plates, thus accelerating the drainage and drying of the dinner plates. Some commonly used drainage trays 2 provide an outlet channel 12 at one end of the platform area 13. The outlet channel 12 or slot usually points to the sink. In this way, the excess water collected by the drainage tray 10 can be guided to the sink. Other drainage trays 10 may only collect water in the platform area 13 and finally be treated by evaporation or manual emptying.

[0004] Although the above-mentioned conventional drying rack 1 and drainage tray 10 assembly are widely accepted and commercially successful in the industry, some disadvantages make the existing rack and tray sets unable to meet the needs of all consumers and manufacturers.

[0005] For example, when drying glassware, dinner plates and utensils, the conventional drying rack 1 and the conventional drainage tray 10 are usually prone to remain wet for a long time, especially when used multiple times a day. In addition, long-term use of such a conventional drying rack 1 and drainage tray 10 assembly is likely to cause fungi and bacteria to grow on them, which may be harmful to health, produce unpleasant odors or appearances. In addition, using such a conventional drying rack 1 and drainage tray 10 assembly may spread germs and viruses during long-term use. Moreover, when used in a facility that makes multiple meals and has dirty dinner plates every day, especially when the drainage tray 10 accumulates water and remains wet, the possibility of promoting the growth of mold and bacteria is more worrying.

[0006] Another concern in the design of the drying rack 1 is to accommodate dinner plates, glassware, utensils, and even cutting boards of different sizes and shapes. The limited adaptability of this traditional drying rack 1 design becomes more pronounced when drying requirements exceed the typical sizes and shapes of kitchen utensils. For example, in some cases, when using a drying rack 1 with a traditional design to hold 6 - 12 inch plates, traditional knives, forks, bowls, and glassware for the elderly, it may not be well - adapted to baby bottles, bowls, plates, and utensils. Another example is that users may want to clean and dry pet food containers such as food and water bowls, which may not fit the configuration of the traditional drying rack 1.

[0007] In addition, certain consumers often cannot customize the layout and size of traditional drying racks to accommodate specific wine glasses, champagne flutes, martini glasses, or other glassware. Moreover, compared to reusing or discarding drinking vessels, a household may use a large number of utensils. Also, traditional drying racks 1A and 1B are generally not easily adaptable to cutting boards of different sizes and shapes, or knives of different lengths and sizes. Instead, refer to Figure 1 that the shape, design, and layout of the traditional drying rack 1 are fixed during manufacturing. That is, the layout and capabilities of the various functions of the traditional drying rack 1 are set during manufacturing and cannot be reconfigured according to individual specific needs.

[0008] Furthermore, traditional drying racks 1 often do not consider whether the drying rack 1 is used on the left or right side of the sink. The layout of the drying rack 1 traditionally does not consider the variable placement of components. The drying rack 1 cannot be reconfigured to accommodate a specific arrangement of dinner plates, utensils, or even cutting boards to optimize access to the sink and countertop and the kitchen utensils being dried. The ability to adjust the angle, slope, and configuration of the drainage tray 10 relative to the drying rack 1 is also traditionally fixed.

[0009] Accordingly, there is a need for improved drying equipment, including improved drying rack and drainage tray assemblies, such as next to a kitchen sink, to avoid hygiene problems caused by excessive soaking of the drainage tray due to frequent use. There is also a need for a new drainage tray design that can dry quickly, thereby absorbing moisture and drawing moist air and liquid out of the dinner plates, thus further accelerating the drying speed of the dinner plates. There is also a need for improved drainage tray layouts and customizable and reconfigurable designs and layouts. These circumstances and problems are just one example of the numerous applications and problems discussed here.

[0010] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve any disadvantages, nor is it limited to operating only in the environments described above. Instead, this background is only used to illustrate an example technical field in which some embodiments may be practiced. Summary of the Invention

[0011] In some embodiments, a drying device includes a support frame, a planar drying rack, and a water-absorbing tray. The support frame may include a first rectangular end and a second rectangular end, and each of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end may include a top rail, a bottom rail, a first side rail, and a second side rail. A lower cross rail may connect the first rectangular end to the second rectangular end. The connection may be located at or near the intersection of the first side rail and the bottom rail or the intersection of the second side rail and the bottom rail. An upper cross rail may connect the first rectangular end to the second rectangular end.

[0012] The planar drying rack may be located between the upper cross rail and the lower cross rail and be defined by the rack width. The planar drying rack may include a secondary grille located below the top surface of the planar drying rack. The grille width of the secondary grille is less than the rack width, so that kitchen utensils placed vertically through the holes in the planar drying rack can be supported by the secondary grille.

[0013] The water-absorbing tray may include a first diatomaceous earth plate and a second diatomaceous earth plate. The support frame may be defined by a length parallel to the upper cross rail and the lower cross rail. When the drying device is assembled for use, the first diatomaceous earth plate and the second diatomaceous earth plate may extend beyond this length.

[0014] An upper internal space may be defined by the top surface, the inner edge of the upper cross rail, and the upper edges of the top rails of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end. The planar drying rack may have no upward projections in the upper internal space.

[0015] The drying device may further include an appliance compartment configured to be placed on one of the first rectangular end or the second rectangular end. The appliance compartment may include a lower hook placed on the planar drying rack and an upper hook connected to the corresponding top rail of one of the first rectangular end or the second rectangular end. The upper hook may further include a buckle that detachably fixes the appliance compartment to the corresponding top rail. The drying device may further include a second appliance compartment, and the second appliance compartment includes a lid with a plurality of slits, and each slit is configured to receive the blade of a knife.

[0016] The drying device may further include a glass rack configured to be placed on one of the first rectangular end or the second rectangular end. The glass rack may include a plurality of mounting arms, and each mounting arm may include a support portion configured to be placed around the top and two opposite sides of a first rail on the planar drying rack. A lateral segment may extend out from the support portion. A clip may be configured to contact more than a quarter of the circumference of a second rail parallel to the first rail on the planar drying rack. A buckle may detachably fix the glass rack to the second rail.

[0017] The glass rack may include a curved channel that includes a wall disposed opposite the plurality of support portions and extending along the length of the glass rack. The glass rack may also include a plurality of glass hooks extending from the wall and configured to support an inverted glassware, with the edge of the inverted glassware in contact with the wall. Compressible and resilient pads may be placed at the ends of each of the plurality of glass hooks. The curved channel may include one or more drain grooves, and the wall of the curved channel is inclined toward the drain grooves.

[0018] When the drying device is disassembled for transportation, each of the appliance compartment, the second appliance compartment, and the glass rack may be placed in an upper box that can be fully accommodated within the upper internal space.

[0019] The lower internal space may be defined by the bottom of the planar drying rack, the inner edges of the first and second side rails, and the upper edges of the bottom rails of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end. When the drying device is assembled for use, each of the first diatomaceous earth plate and the second diatomaceous earth plate may be placed on the lower cross rail and the bottom rail. When the drying device is disassembled for transportation, each of the first diatomaceous earth plate and the second diatomaceous earth plate may be placed in a lower box that can be fully accommodated within the lower internal space.

[0020] When the planar drying rack is disassembled for transportation, the upper box may be placed within the upper internal space of the support frame, and the lower box may be placed within the lower internal space, and they may all be placed within the outer box for transportation, such that the support frame surrounds and protects the first diatomaceous earth plate, the second diatomaceous earth plate, the appliance compartment, the second appliance compartment, and the glass rack. Description of the Drawings

[0021] To further clarify the above and other advantages and features, a more detailed description is provided by reference to specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It is understood that these figures depict only typical embodiments and should not be considered as limiting the scope.

[0022] Figure 1 A conventional drying rack and a drain tray are shown.

[0023] Figure 2 A device including a drying rack and a drain tray is shown.

[0024] Figure 3 A device including a drying rack and a drain tray, and some accessories for supporting kitchen utensils after washing are shown.

[0025] Figure 4 An example of the components of the unassembled device is shown.

[0026] Figure 5 Some example hanging accessories for supporting kitchenware, glassware, and tableware are shown.

[0027] Figure 6 Shows the fitting in a hanging position supported by the tracks of the drying rack, which supports cookware, glassware, and tableware at the same time.

[0028] Figure 7 Shows a side view and a top view of the device.

[0029] Figure 8 Shows the drying rack in the folded position, where the legs and tracks are rotated to the folded position with reduced height.

[0030] Figure 9 Shows an embodiment of the device, where the legs and tracks are welded at the connection points.

[0031] Figure 10 Shows the device with welded joints, including the fitting attached thereto.

[0032] Figure 11 Shows a drainage tray with channels and nozzles to drain excess rinsing water.

[0033] Figures 12A - 12I Shows various views of another exemplary drying device.

[0034] Figures 13A - 13B Shows a perspective view of another exemplary drying device.

[0035] Figure 13C Shows Figure 13A a side view of the drying device in

[0036] Figure 13D Shows Figure 13A an end view of the drying device in

[0037] Figures 14A - 14C Shows details of an exemplary appliance compartment.

[0038] Figures 15A - 15C Shows details of an exemplary glass rack.

[0039] Figures 16A - 16B Shows an exemplary internal space.

[0040] Figures 17A - 17B Shows an exemplary package. Detailed Description

[0041] The embodiments relate to a drying device including a drying rack and a rapid drying drainage tray assembly. These embodiments also include adaptable and interchangeable fittings for selectively placing and adjusting the size, quantity, and position of features to manage the capacity and position of the drying fittings. The embodiments disclosed herein enable advantageous manufacturing processes, designs, and the assembly of components, materials, and products.

[0042] As previously discussed, old wire baskets and moldy plastic bins tend to retain moisture drained from traditional drying racks. This retained moisture is prone to breeding mold and bacteria during repeated use. Additionally, the drying function of traditional drying racks is fixed during manufacturing, not customizable, and not modular, which is different from the various innovative embodiments disclosed and shown in the figures below. The embodiments shown here provide a modern way to dry hand-washed dinnerware, equipped with customizable accessories. For example, these selectable and rearrangeable accessories can include knife racks, bottle or cup racks, and utensil cages, or multiple of these accessories. The positioning and arrangement of such accessories can be placed around and adapted to one or more peripheral racks or tracks. The peripheral racks and tracks can provide support for modular accessories as well as other kitchen utensils such as cutting boards, bowls, plates, and cups.

[0043] The drain tray includes a water-absorbing base. The water-absorbing base can quickly absorb, adsorb, and evaporate moisture, thereby reducing relative humidity and preventing the growth of mold and bacteria. The drying rack can include a built-in cutting board rack, providing additional space for pots, pans, and bowls. The drying rack can include modern and durable steel tracks that can be customized according to the specific needs of each person, such as home cooks, athletes, new parents, etc. For example, these accessories can be purchased, used, and arranged individually. This unique drying rack design helps keep the sink area tidy.

[0044] The drying rack design helps keep dinnerware neat and secure, dries it quickly, and helps keep the area around the sink clean. Additionally, traditional drying racks are particularly prone to aging, including rusting, plastic fatigue, and breakage. The drying rack and drain tray are also beautifully shaped and do not look like traditional designs from the 1930s. The dinnerware rack is well-structured, sturdy, and rust-free. The diatomaceous earth base of the drain tray absorbs water and dries quickly.

[0045] The accessories of the drying rack can include any arrangement and selection of accessories. For example, a combination might include a knife rack, two bottle / cup racks, and a utensil cage, depending on the size of the drying rack. According to an exemplary embodiment, some size examples can include a length of 22.52 inches (57.2 cm), a width of 16.54 inches (42 cm), and a height of 6.34 inches (16.1 cm).

[0046] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to the manufacture and assembly of composite drying racks, drain tray assemblies and fittings, as well as their intermediate products, features and components. The drying rack and drain tray assembly can consist of multiple assembled parts. The drying rack can be made of plastic, metal and / or wooden parts. The drain tray includes a moisture-absorbing earth element. The composite parts, elements and modular fitting adapters can be made of different materials and assembled together. The assembly of one or more parts can include mechanical features for assembling and fixing the parts or layers, or the parts can be connected by welding, joints, connectors or fasteners. The shapes of the drying rack, modular parts and drain tray can be related to each other, that is, the external and internal peripheral attachments and parts can correspond to or fit the shape of another part, so that the assembled composite assembly can be superior to the traditional designs discussed previously in terms of aesthetics, adaptability and functionality.

[0047] The quick-drying drain tray can include a quick-absorbing and drying earthy material called diatomaceous earth. Diatomaceous earth, also known as D.E., diatom mud or kieselgur / kieselguhr, is a naturally occurring, soft siliceous sedimentary rock that is traditionally easily crushed into a fine white or grayish-white powder. Its particle size ranges from less than 3 microns to more than 1 millimeter, but is typically 10 to 200 microns. Depending on the fineness, this powder may have a gritty feel similar to pumice powder and has a low density due to its high porosity. The typical chemical composition of dried diatomaceous earth is 80-90% silica, 2-4% alumina (mainly attributed to clay minerals) and 0.5-2% iron oxide.

[0048] Diatomaceous earth consists of the fossil remains of diatoms (a hard-shelled protist (golden algae)). As disclosed herein, the diatomaceous earth layer or composition of the mat is used as an absorbent and rapid evaporator of liquids. The thermal properties of diatomaceous earth also enable it to be used as a barrier material in several embodiments disclosed herein.

[0049] For example, several embodiments disclosed herein include a diatomaceous earth layer or composition forming a drain tray. In certain embodiments, the entire drain tray can be made of diatomaceous earth. Although a drain tray containing diatomaceous earth is disclosed herein, other products and kitchen utensils can be similarly configured. Placing the diatomaceous earth layer or composition directly below the drying rack assembly enables the diatomaceous earth to quickly absorb moisture and draw water from plates, glassware and utensils, thus rapidly eliminating moisture saturation in the drying environment. Once absorbed by the diatomaceous earth layer, the repeated saturation of the drain tray evaporates and dries faster than traditional drying rack and drain tray assemblies.

[0050] See Figure 2 and Figure 3, shows a first example of a drying appliance 100, including a drying rack 105 and a drain tray 110. The drain tray 110 is typically rectangular with rounded corners and has four cutouts 115 for receiving and positioning four cantilever legs 120 of the drying rack 105, thereby placing the drain tray 110 relative to the drying rack 105 safely and precisely during assembly. The drain tray 110 is made of diatomaceous earth moisture-absorbing material instead of the molded plastic or rubber polymer materials of the prior art, thereby removing moisture from dishes, glassware, and utensils placed on the drying rack 105, such as Figure 3 shown. The use of the diatomaceous earth drain tray 110 can evaporate moisture in kitchen utensils, the drying rack 105, and the drain tray 110 faster and more completely.

[0051] The drying rack 105 is typically rectangular with rounded corners and has a bottom frame 125 and opposite downwardly inclined end supports 130 made of metal tracks. The end supports 130 can be further connected together by a lateral support rail 135, which also provides lateral support for a cutting board or other larger dishes placed in a recessed container on the bottom frame 125. The recessed container can extend along the length of the drain tray 105, thereby allowing additional placement of dishes within and vertically above the bottom frame 125.

[0052] See Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the drying device 100 can include various modular accessories that can be assembled and connected. Modular accessories that are interchangeable, customizable, and optimizable in terms of location, type, and size are optimal for various households. As Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown, the accessories can include a tableware accessory 345, an appliance accessory 350, and two glassware accessories 355. Other accessories can be used interchangeably to accommodate many different items, dishes, bowls, glassware, knives, bottles, tools, and custom configurations for special applications and purposes. In addition, as previously mentioned, the position of the assembly 100 relative to the sink, countertop, or placement layout can be easily reconfigured according to the teachings disclosed herein.

[0053] As Figures 4 to 6As shown, the positions of various connectable modular devices for supporting different types of kitchen utensils can be selectively moved according to any criteria. In this embodiment, each attachment includes a hook 320. The hook 320 can be molded, connected, welded, or otherwise attached to the attachments 345, 350, and 355. The hook can have a universal shape suitable for a variety of different fittings. The shape of the hook 320 can adapt to and work with the dimensions and positions of the tracks 130 of the drying rack 105. For example, the track can include a groove 325 and a tongue 330 that surround the lowermost track 130 of the drying rack 105. The uppermost part of the hook 320 can include a curved portion 335 that extends and hangs on the uppermost track 130 of the drying rack 105, as Figure 6 shown. Thus, the weight of the fittings and the kitchen utensils placed therein is safely suspended on the track 130 while allowing for the replacement and repositioning of the fittings.

[0054] Referring to Figure 6 , the modular attachment 355 for glassware is shown extending from the end track 130 in a more vertical direction. Additionally, each of the attachments 355 for glassware has a silicone sleeve 356 covering its end to more securely hold the glassware thereon. Referring to Figure 6 , the cutlery attachment 345 can include an insert 346, the inner end of which is made of elastic silicone material or other suitable material to contact the ends of the cutlery without damaging the tips of the cutlery.

[0055] Referring to Figure 9 , the underframe 125 can have certain parts with holes of different sizes from other parts to accommodate specific dinner plates or kitchen utensils such as pots, pans, etc. For example, as previously mentioned, the underframe 225 can have an intermediate part 125B with longer holes than the ends 125A and 125C to allow larger plates and bowls to pass through the underframe 225 and be supported by the lower rack 126.

[0056] The drying rack 105 is generally rectangular with rounded corners, having an underframe 125 and opposing downwardly inclined end supports 130 made of metal rails. The end supports 130 can be further connected together by connectable lateral supports 135, which also provide lateral support for a cutting board or other larger dinner plates placed in the recessed container 140 of the underframe 125. The recessed container 140 can extend along the length of the drainage tray 105, thus allowing for additional placement of dinner plates in and perpendicular to the underframe 125.

[0057] As Figure 10 shown, the legs 120 of the drainage rack 105 can be pivotally connected to the underframe 125 so that the legs 120 and the rails 130 can pivot more closely parallel to the underframe 125, thereby reducing the height of the drainage rack when packing. When assembling the drying appliance, for example, from Figure 4Starting with the disassembly components shown, the legs 120 and rails 130 of the drying rack 105 rotate to Figure 9 the available positions shown, where the connector 147 of the transverse rail 145 is connected to the upright rail 130, thereby fixing the upright rail 130 for placing accessories thereon. The transverse rail 145 also provides support for the cutting board, and the cutting board is placed in the longitudinal hole 140.

[0058] Referring again to Figures 9 to 11 , the components of the device 200 of the second embodiment may include a drying rack 205, the components of which are welded together, and a unique channel design is formed within the drainage tray 210. However, according to certain embodiments, one or more components may be connectable or connectable together as described above. For example, according to some embodiments, one or more components of the drying rack may be connected by fasteners such as threaded screws or bolts so that they can be packaged or stored in a disassembled manner and then assembled during use.

[0059] For example, according to Figures 9 to 11 the embodiment shown, the drying rack may include six joint positions 260 connected by welding, screws, bolts or other fasteners. The joints 260 may include two rear joints 260A, two front joints 260B and two upper support joints 260C, as Figure 9 shown. Thus, when using detachable fasteners, the drying rack 205 and its components can be assembled and disassembled.

[0060] Referring to Figure 11 , the disassembled drying rack 205 and drainage tray 210 are shown. The drainage tray 210 may include a series of channels 260, including the outermost channel 260A, the middle channel 260B and the innermost channel 260C. The channels 260 may be connected to one or more outlets 265. According to Figure 11 the example shown, the drainage tray 210 may have multiple outlets 265, so that the drainage tray 210 can be tilted in different directions using legs or brackets to selectively select the direction and outlet 265 to which the drainage tray directs the water, as Figure 11 indicated by the arrows in the channels in. In some embodiments, the channels 160 may be cut into the diatomaceous earth material of the drying rack 105 after the drying rack forms a solid flat plate.

[0061] Still referring to Figures 9 to 11, the drying apparatus 200 shown includes a drying rack 205 and a drain tray 210. The drain tray 210 is similar to the drain tray 110. The drain tray 210 is generally rectangular with rounded corners and has four cutouts 215 to receive and locate the four cantilever legs 220 of the drying rack 205, so that the drain tray 210 can be placed relative to the drying rack 205 firmly and precisely during assembly in certain embodiments. The drain tray 210 is made of diatomaceous earth water-absorbing material, rather than the molded plastic or rubber polymer material in the prior art, so as to draw moisture from dinner plates, glassware, and tableware placed on the drying rack 205 more quickly. Using the diatomaceous earth drain tray 210 can evaporate the moisture on the dinner plates (not shown), the drying rack 205, and the drain tray 210 more quickly and completely, as described above.

[0062] Compared with the embodiments discussed previously, the position of the assembly 200 relative to the sink, countertop, or placement layout may be less important because the illustrated embodiment omits one or more drain outlets. Referring again to Figure 4 , the drain tray 110 may include a series of channels 160, including the outermost channel 160A and a plurality of internal channels 160B. The channels 260 in the first embodiment are not interconnected with one or more outlets as shown in the second embodiment. According to Figure 4 the example shown, the inventors of this patent application have found that in some cases, the combination of the channels 160 and the absorbent material of the drain tray 110 makes one or more drain outlets unnecessary because the absorbent characteristics of the absorbent drain tray 110 can absorb and evaporate the water dripping on the absorbent drain tray 110 without an outlet, without the need for traditional drainage to, for example, a sink below.

[0063] Figure 12Ais a top right perspective view of another exemplary drying device 1201. As shown, the drying device 1201 includes an appliance basket 1240, a knife basket 1250, and a plurality of supports 1261 (for example, for glassware or other containers). The drying device 1201 may include a frame 1202 (for example, aluminum in some embodiments, metal wrapped with silicone or rubber in other embodiments, and silicone, plastic, or other polymers in still other embodiments), which supports one or more diatomaceous earth plates 1225a, 1225b. A first grille 1215 may be included to form a main drying surface and may be configured to support large items (such as kitchen dinner plates and other items). A second grille 1220 may be disposed below the first grille 1215 to allow certain items (such as plates) to be placed vertically - partially through the first grille 1215 and supported on the second grille 1220. One or more diatomaceous earth plates 1225a, 1225b may be placed on the frame 1202 to receive and absorb water that may flow down from items placed on the main drying surface (such as the first grille 1215), the utensil basket 1240, the knife basket 1250, or the plurality of supports 1261.

[0064] Figure 12B is Figure 12A a top left perspective view of the exemplary drying device 1201 in Figure 12C is a bottom perspective view of the same device. Figure 12D is a first side view; Figure 12E is a second side view opposite the first side view; Figure 12F is a first end view; Figure 12G is a second end view opposite the first end view; Figure 12H is a bottom view; Figure 12I is a top view.

[0065] Figures 13A - 13D shows another exemplary drying device 1301. As Figures 13A - 13B shown, the drying device 1301 includes a support frame 1302, which, as shown, includes a first rectangular end 1303a and a second rectangular end 1303b. Each rectangular end 1303a and 1303b includes a top rail 1304, a bottom rail 1305, a first side rail 1306, and a second side rail 1307. A lower cross rail 1308 connects the first rectangular end 1303a and the second rectangular end 1303b. In certain embodiments, the connection is made at or near the intersection of the side rail and the bottom rail (such as at the intersection of rails 1305 and 1306 or 1305 and 1307). An upper cross rail 1309 further connects the first rectangular end 1303a and the second rectangular end 1303b.

[0066] The planar drying rack 1315 can be placed between the upper cross rail 1309 and the lower cross rail 1308. The planar drying rack 1315 can be defined by the rack width 1316 (see Figure 13D ). The planar drying rack 1315 can include a secondary grille 1320 located below the top surface 1317 of the planar drying rack 1315 (see Figure 13C ), and the width 1321 of the secondary grille 1320 is less than the rack width 1316. In the embodiment described above, a dinner plate (e.g., plate 1322) placed through a hole vertically through the planar drying rack 1315 can be supported by the secondary grille 1320. In this context, a "dinner plate" can include tableware (e.g., plates, bowls, etc.) and cooking utensils (e.g., pots, pans, pot lids, etc.).

[0067] As shown, the drying device 1301 includes a water-absorbing tray. As in other embodiments, the shown water-absorbing tray includes a first diatomaceous earth plate 1325a and a second diatomaceous earth plate 1325b. As Figure 13A shown, when the drying device 1301 is assembled for use, the first diatomaceous earth plate 1325a and the second diatomaceous earth plate 1325b can be placed on the lower cross rail 1308 and the bottom rail 1305 respectively. The support frame 1302 can be defined by a length 1310 parallel to the upper cross rail 1309 and the lower cross rail 1308 (see Figure 13C ), and when the drying device 1301 is assembled for use as shown, the first diatomaceous earth plate 1325a and the second diatomaceous earth plate 1325b can extend beyond the length 1310.

[0068] In some embodiments, the drying device 1301 includes an appliance compartment 1340. The appliance compartment 1340 can be configured to be placed on one of the first rectangular end 1303a or the second rectangular end 1303b. See Figures 14A - 14C , the appliance compartment 1340 can include a lower hook 1341 placed on the planar drying rack 1315, and an upper hook 1342 connected to the corresponding top rail 1304 of one of the rectangular ends (e.g., 1303b). The upper hook 1342 can also include a buckle 1343 to detachably clip the appliance compartment 1340 to the top rail 1304.

[0069] In some embodiments, as Figure 13A 、 Figure 13C and Figure 13D shown, the appliance compartment includes a lid 1351 with a plurality of slits 1352 (e.g., configured to each accommodate the blade of a knife (not shown) and support such a knife to dry upside down). In some embodiments, as shown, an open-top appliance compartment 1340 and a second appliance compartment 1350 with a lid 1351 are provided (e.g., to facilitate drying of knives and other tableware).

[0070] SeeFigures 15A - 15C A glass rack 1360 can also be provided, configured to be placed on one of the first rectangular end 1303a or the second rectangular end 1303b (e.g., opposite the appliance compartment 1340). As shown, the glass rack 1360 can include a plurality of upwardly extending supports 1361 and a plurality of mounting arms 1362. Each mounting arm 1362 can include a support portion 1363 configured to be placed on the top and two opposite sides of the first rail 1366 of the flat drying rack 1315.

[0071] A transverse section 1367 can extend from the support portion 3163 and can provide a clip 1368 configured to contact more than a quarter of the perimeter of a second rail 1369 parallel to the first rail 1366 on the flat drying rack 1315. (As used herein, "perimeter" can more broadly refer to the "periphery" of a rail having a non-circular cross-section, and "quarter" can more broadly refer to approximately 90 degrees of the transverse perimeter of a non-circular cross-section rail. "About" or "approximately" can mean within 1%, 2%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 50% or 100% of the nominal value. "Substantially at" can mean within at least 20%, 50% or 90% of the nominal value.) A snap can be provided to removably secure the glass rack 1360 to the second rail 1369.

[0072] The glass rack 1360 can include a curved channel 1372 having a wall 1373 opposite the support portion 1363 and extending along the length 1374 of the glass rack 1360; the glass rack 1360 may include a plurality of upwardly extending glassware hooks 1361 that extend in a direction opposite to the wall 1373 and are configured to support an inverted glassware while the edge of the inverted glassware contacts the wall 1373. One or more drain grooves 1375 may be provided in the channel 1372, and the wall 1373 of the curved channel 1372 may be inclined towards the drain grooves 1375.

[0073] In some embodiments, a compressible and resilient pad 1380 can be provided at the end of each glassware hook 1361 (e.g., for protecting fragile glassware that may be placed on the hook 1361 to dry).

[0074] Moving on to Figures 16A - 16B, the support frame 1302 can be configured such that two internal spaces are defined by respective portions of the support frame 1302. In particular, the upper internal space 1385 can be defined by the top surface 1317 of the drying rack 1315, the inner edge 1386 of the upper cross rail 1309, and the upper edge 1387 of the top rail 1304. In some embodiments, the planar drying rack 1315 has no upwardly extending protrusions within the upper internal space 1385. The lower internal space 1390 can be defined by the bottom portion 1391 of the planar drying rack 1315 (i.e., the bottom edge 1391 of the secondary grille 1320), the inner edges 1392 of the first and second side rails 1306 and 1307, and the upper edge 1393 of the bottom rail 1305.

[0075] In some embodiments, as Figures 17A - 17B shown, when the drying device 1301 is disassembled for transportation, the first diatomaceous earth plate 1325a and the second diatomaceous earth plate 1325b can be contained within the lower box 1394, which can be fully contained within the lower internal space 1390. (As used herein, "box" can refer to any suitable form of packaging, including, for example, cardboard, paper, pulp, polymer, or other protective packaging that partially encloses and protects internal elements.)

[0076] Similarly, each appliance compartment 1340 (and the second appliance compartment 1350 if present) and the glass rack 1360 can be contained within the upper box 1396, which can be fully contained within the upper internal space 1385.

[0077] In the above embodiment, when the drying device 1301 is disassembled for transportation, the upper box 1396 can be placed within the upper internal space 1385, and the lower box 1394 can be placed within the lower internal space 1390 within the support frame 1302. Then, the support frame 1302 with the upper box 1396 and the lower box 1394 can be placed within an outer box 1397 for transportation such that the support frame 1302 surrounds and protects the first diatomaceous earth plate 1325a, the second diatomaceous earth plate 1325b, the appliance compartment 1340 (optionally 1350), and the glass rack 1360.

[0078] Although the preferred embodiments are described above, the present disclosure should not be so limited. Other embodiments that utilize the teachings herein are also within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. For example, elements described herein as rectangular or circular may take other forms or shapes; the tracks may have square, rectangular, circular, or other cross-sectional shapes; various materials may be used; the packaging may take various forms; additional packaging may be used; elements may be removed or other elements added; the dimensions and proportions may be different from those described or illustrated; the connections between elements may be made in various ways (e.g., rivets, adhesives, fasteners, detachable fasteners); multiple separate elements may be molded or formed into a single assembly; two diatomaceous earth plates are described, but other quantities may be used (e.g., one, three, etc.); the first and second appliance compartments (e.g., an open compartment and a knife compartment) may be connected to the support frame in a similar manner. The described embodiments are illustrative only and not restrictive in all respects. Accordingly, the scope is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. A drying device, characterized in that, Comprising: A support frame, comprising: (a) A first rectangular end and a second rectangular end, each of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end including a top rail, a bottom rail, a first side rail, and a second side rail; (b) A lower cross rail connecting the first rectangular end to the second rectangular end, the connection being near the intersection of the first side rail and the bottom rail or the intersection of the second side rail and the bottom rail; and (c) An upper cross rail connecting the first rectangular end to the second rectangular end; A planar drying rack, located between the upper cross rail and the lower cross rail and defined by a rack width, the planar drying rack including a secondary grille below the top surface of the planar drying rack, the grille width of the secondary grille being less than the rack width, such that tableware placed vertically through the holes in the planar drying rack can be supported by the secondary grille; And A drainage tray, including a first diatomaceous earth plate and a second diatomaceous earth plate; Wherein an upper internal space is defined by a top surface, the inner edge of the upper cross rail, and the upper edges of the top rails of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end; and wherein the planar drying rack has no upward protrusions within the upper internal space.

2. The drying device according to claim 1, wherein the support frame is defined by a length parallel to the upper cross rail and the lower cross rail, and wherein when the drying device is assembled for use, the first diatomaceous earth plate and the second diatomaceous earth plate extend beyond this length.

3. The drying device according to claim 1, wherein, The drying device further includes an appliance compartment configured to be placed on one of the first rectangular end or the second rectangular end, the appliance compartment including a lower hook placed on the planar drying rack and an upper hook connected to the corresponding top rail of one of the first rectangular end or the second rectangular end; the upper hook further includes a snap that removably secures the appliance compartment to the corresponding top rail.

4. The drying device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The drying device further includes a glass rack configured to be placed on one of the first rectangular end or the second rectangular end, the glass rack including: a plurality of mounting arms, each mounting arm including a support portion configured to be placed on top of and around two opposite sides of a first rail on the planar drying rack; a transverse section extending from the support portion; a clip configured to contact more than a quarter of the circumference of a second rail parallel to the first rail on the planar drying rack; and a snap that removably secures the glass rack to the second rail.

5. The drying device according to claim 4, wherein the glass rack includes a curved channel, the curved channel including walls disposed opposite the plurality of support portions and extending along the length of the glass rack, the glass rack further including a plurality of glass hooks extending from the walls, configured to support an inverted glass article, and the edge of the inverted glass article contacts the wall.

6. The drying device according to claim 5, wherein The drying device further includes a compressible and elastic pad placed at the end of each of the plurality of glass hooks.

7. The drying device according to claim 5, wherein the curved channel includes one or more drainage grooves, and the walls of the curved channel are inclined towards the drainage grooves.

8. The drying device according to claim 4, characterized in that The drying device further includes a second appliance compartment, the second appliance compartment including a lid with a plurality of slits, each slit configured to receive the blade of a knife.

9. The drying device according to claim 8, wherein when the drying device is disassembled for transportation, each of the appliance compartment, the second appliance compartment, and the glass rack is placed in an upper box that can be fully accommodated within the upper internal space.

10. The drying device according to claim 9, wherein a lower internal space is defined by the bottom of the planar drying rack, the inner edges of the first and second side rails, and the upper edges of the bottom rails of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end; wherein when the drying device is assembled for use, each of the first diatomaceous earth plate and the second diatomaceous earth plate is placed on the lower cross rail and the bottom rail; and when the drying device is disassembled for transportation, each of the first diatomaceous earth plate and the second diatomaceous earth plate is placed in a lower box that can be fully accommodated within the lower internal space.

11. The drying device according to claim 10, wherein when the planar drying rack is disassembled for transportation, the support frame, the upper box placed within the upper internal space, and the lower box placed within the lower internal space are all placed in the outer box for transportation, such that the support frame surrounds and protects the first diatomaceous earth plate, the second diatomaceous earth plate, the appliance compartment, the second appliance compartment, and the glass rack.

12. The drying device according to claim 1, wherein a lower internal space is defined by the bottom of the planar drying rack, the inner edges of the first and second side rails, and the upper edges of the bottom rails of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end; wherein when the drying device is assembled for use, each of the first diatomaceous earth plate and the second diatomaceous earth plate is placed on the lower cross rail and the bottom rail; and when the drying device is disassembled for transportation, each of the first diatomaceous earth plate and the second diatomaceous earth plate is placed in a box that can be fully accommodated within the lower internal space.

13. A drying device, characterized in that, Comprising: A support frame, comprising: (a) A first rectangular end and a second rectangular end, each of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end comprising a top rail, a bottom rail, a first side rail, and a second side rail; (b) A lower cross rail connecting the first rectangular end to the second rectangular end, the connection being near the intersection of the first side rail and the bottom rail or the intersection of the second side rail and the bottom rail; and (c) An upper cross rail connecting the first rectangular end to the second rectangular end; A planar drying rack, located between the upper cross rail and the lower cross rail and defined by the rack width, the planar drying rack comprising a secondary grille below the top surface of the planar drying rack, the grille width of the secondary grille being less than the rack width, such that a dinner plate vertically placed through a hole in the planar drying rack can be supported by the secondary grille; and A drainage tray, comprising a first diatomaceous earth plate and a second diatomaceous earth plate; Wherein an upper internal space is defined by the top surface, the inner edge of the upper cross rail, and the upper edges of the top rails of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end; Wherein the planar drying rack has no upwardly extending protrusions within the upper internal space; Wherein a lower internal space is defined by the bottom of the planar drying rack, the inner edges of the first and second side rails, and the upper edges of the bottom rails of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end; Wherein when the drying device is assembled for use, each of the first diatomaceous earth plate and the second diatomaceous earth plate is placed on the lower cross rail and the bottom rail; and When the drying device is disassembled for transportation, each of the first diatomaceous earth plate and the second diatomaceous earth plate is placed in a lower box that can be fully accommodated within the lower internal space.

14. A drying device, characterized in that, Comprising: Support frame, comprising: Support frame, comprising: (a) A first rectangular end and a second rectangular end, each of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end including a top rail, a bottom rail, a first side rail, and a second side rail; (b) A lower cross rail connecting the first rectangular end to the second rectangular end, the connection being near the intersection of the first side rail and the bottom rail or the intersection of the second side rail and the bottom rail; and (c) An upper cross rail connecting the first rectangular end to the second rectangular end; A planar drying rack, located between the upper cross rail and the lower cross rail and defined by a rack width, the planar drying rack including a secondary grille below the top surface of the planar drying rack, the grille width of the secondary grille being less than the rack width, such that tableware placed vertically through the holes in the planar drying rack can be supported by the secondary grille; and A drainage tray, comprising a first diatomaceous earth plate and a second diatomaceous earth plate; An appliance compartment configured to be placed on one of the first rectangular end or the second rectangular end; A glass rack configured to be placed on one of the first rectangular end or the second rectangular end; Wherein an upper internal space is defined by the top surface, the inner edge of the upper cross rail, and the upper edges of the top rails of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end; and wherein the planar drying rack has no upward projections within the upper internal space.

15. The drying device according to claim 14, wherein the appliance compartment includes a lower hook placed on the planar drying rack and an upper hook connected to the corresponding top rail of one of the first rectangular end or the second rectangular end; the upper hook further includes a snap that removably fixes the appliance compartment to the corresponding top rail.

16. The drying equipment according to claim 14, wherein the glass rack comprises: A plurality of mounting arms, each mounting arm including a support portion configured to be placed around the top and two opposite sides of a first rail on the planar drying rack; A lateral segment extending from the support portion; A clip configured to contact more than a quarter of the circumference of a second rail parallel to the first rail on the planar drying rack; and a snap that removably fixes the glass rack to the second rail.

17. The drying device according to claim 14, wherein a lower internal space is defined by the bottom of the planar drying rack, the inner edges of the first and second side rails, and the upper edges of the bottom rails of the first rectangular end and the second rectangular end; wherein when the drying device is assembled for use, each of the first diatomaceous earth plate and the second diatomaceous earth plate is placed on the lower cross rail and the bottom rail; and when the drying device is disassembled for transportation, each of the first diatomaceous earth plate and the second diatomaceous earth plate is placed in a lower box that can be fully accommodated within the lower internal space.

18. The drying device according to claim 17, wherein when the drying device is disassembled for transportation, each of the appliance compartment, the second appliance compartment, and the glass rack is placed in an upper box that can be fully accommodated within the upper internal space.

19. The drying device according to claim 18, wherein when the planar drying rack is disassembled for transportation, the support frame, the upper box placed within the upper internal space, and the lower box placed within the lower internal space are all placed in an outer box for transportation, such that the support frame surrounds and protects the first diatomaceous earth plate, the second diatomaceous earth plate, the appliance compartment, the second appliance compartment, and the glass rack.

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