Steam heat recovery system of dish washing machine

By setting a polytetrafluoroethylene sliding surface and a limiting plate structure at the bottom of the dishwasher's conveying channel, the problem of low drying efficiency in traditional commercial dishwashers is solved, enabling fast and stable conveying and efficient drying of tableware, meeting the needs of efficient cleaning and drying in commercial environments.

CN223489681UActive Publication Date: 2025-10-31NINGBO JIAINUO ENERGY SAVING TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202422887480.X
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-11-26
Publication Date
2025-10-31
Estimated Expiration
2034-11-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional commercial dishwashers' steam heat recovery systems have low drying efficiency when processing large quantities of tableware, and the inadequate design of the conveyor channels results in tableware staying in the drying process for too long, failing to meet the rapid processing needs of commercial environments.

Method used

Made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) material, the inclined sliding surface and limiting plate structure reduce friction between the tableware and the limiting plate ensures stable delivery of the tableware through a roller structure and elastic elements. The design is adjustable to accommodate tableware of different sizes and uses gravity to move the tableware quickly, preventing it from tipping over or being damaged.

Benefits of technology

It improves the efficiency of dish drying, reduces the time that dishes spend in the drying process, ensures stable movement of dishes in the conveyor channel, enhances the overall working efficiency of the dishwasher, and meets the needs of rapid cleaning and drying of large quantities of commercial tableware.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model provides a steam heat recovery system of a dish washing machine, which relates to the field of dish washing equipment and comprises a main body structure, and a conveying channel is arranged in a channel of the main body structure and used for conveying tableware. The gradient sliding surface made of the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) material is arranged at the bottom of the conveying channel, and the material is low in friction coefficient, so that tableware can slide down quickly under the action of gravity, the retention time of the tableware in the drying link is shortened, and the drying efficiency is improved. And the roller structures in the limiting plates can further reduce friction, so that the tableware can pass through the conveying channel more smoothly, and the tableware can pass through the conveying channel in a shorter time while being prevented from being blocked. The bottom slope slide way provides power for movement of the box body through gravity, the gradient of the bottom slope slide way is meticulously designed, rapid movement of the box body can be guaranteed, tableware can be prevented from toppling over or being damaged, then the working efficiency of the whole dish washing machine is improved, and the requirements for rapid cleaning and drying of a large number of commercial tableware are met.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of dishwasher equipment, and more particularly to a steam heat recovery system for a dishwasher. Background Technology

[0002] In the modern catering industry, with the continuous increase in business volume, the demand for dishwashing is growing. Commercial dishwashers have become indispensable equipment for many catering establishments, and their steam heat recovery systems play a key role in energy saving and efficient operation.

[0003] Traditional commercial dishwasher steam heat recovery systems primarily focus on recovering and utilizing the heat from steam. Their core component is the heat exchanger, which, through a complex piping design and steam circulation mechanism, transfers the heat from the steam generated during dishwasher operation to the cold water entering the dishwasher, thus preheating the incoming water and reducing overall energy consumption.

[0004] However, these systems often have shortcomings in terms of tableware handling processes. In the drying stage after washing, traditional systems have relatively simple conveyor channel designs, typically only considering the flow of steam and the direction of heat transfer. Tableware moves primarily within the conveyor channel by its own weight or a simple conveyor belt. This may be barely sufficient for processing small batches of tableware, but it exposes many problems when faced with the need for rapid processing of large quantities of tableware in commercial environments. Considering the urgent need for rapid processing of large quantities of tableware in commercial environments, a dishwasher steam heat recovery system is proposed to allow tableware to pass through the conveyor channel in a shorter time. Utility Model Content

[0005] This invention addresses the shortcomings of existing technologies by providing a steam heat recovery system for a dishwasher. By incorporating a sloping sliding surface made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) at the bottom of the conveyor channel—a material with a low coefficient of friction—the system allows tableware to slide down quickly under gravity, shortening the time it spends in the drying process and improving drying efficiency. The roller structure within the limiting plate further reduces friction, allowing tableware to pass through the conveyor channel more smoothly, avoiding jamming and enabling faster passage. The bottom sloping slide utilizes gravity to power the movement of the dishwasher; its carefully designed slope ensures rapid movement while preventing tableware from tipping over or being damaged, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the dishwasher and meeting the needs of commercial applications for rapid washing and drying of large quantities of tableware.

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention solves the problem that the steam heat recovery system of the dishwasher can enable the tableware to pass through the conveying channel in a shorter time during the application process through the following technical solution.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0008] A dishwasher steam heat recovery system includes a main structure, the channel of which is provided with: a conveying channel installed inside the main structure for conveying tableware; and a heat recovery module installed below the conveying channel for drying the steam in the tableware and recovering the heat.

[0009] A sliding surface, located at the bottom of the conveyor channel and having a slope, allows the tableware to slide down along it and leave the conveyor channel;

[0010] The limiting plate has two sets symmetrically arranged on both sides of the sliding surface to stabilize the tableware during the conveying process; the limiting plate is provided with several roller structures to help the tableware slide smoothly out of the main structure from the sliding surface.

[0011] Preferably, the width of the limiting plate is equal to the width of the internal channel of the main structure, and its width can be adjusted relative to the main structure.

[0012] Preferably, the limiting plate is connected to the main structure via an adjustment structure, which includes an adjustment plate, a movable slot, a connecting screw, and a locking element. The adjustment plate is connected to the front and rear ends of the limiting plate and can extend to the outside of the main structure. The movable slot is formed on the adjustment plate. Movable slots are provided at the four corners of the outer wall of the main structure. The movable slots can be moved into the interior through the openings of the movable slots. The connecting screw matches the locking element to thread the adjustment plate onto the outside of the main structure.

[0013] Preferably, the connecting screw is fixedly connected to the corresponding position on the outer wall of the main structure by the fixing plate, and the inner end face of the locking member is glued with an anti-slip pad and is in close contact with the outer wall of the adjusting plate.

[0014] Preferably, the sliding surface and the conveying channel are connected by a fixing structure, the fixing structure including a plug plate and a plug slot. The plug plate is connected to the front and rear ends of the bottom of the sliding surface, and the conveying channel is provided with a plug slot that matches the plug plate so that the plug plate is inserted accordingly.

[0015] Preferably, a magnet structure is connected to the bottom of the inner wall of the insertion slot, and a magnetic groove matching the magnet structure is opened at the bottom of the insertion plate. The magnetic groove allows the magnet structure to be inserted into it and generate a magnetic attraction state.

[0016] Preferably, both the magnet structure and the magnetic groove are constructed in a matching arc shape.

[0017] Preferably, the limiting plate has a built-in slot, and the roller structure is rotatably connected to the corresponding position in the built-in slot via a bearing.

[0018] Preferably, the end of the limiting plate facing the inner wall of the main structure is provided with a plurality of elastic elements, the elastic elements are provided with contact portions, and the inner walls of the main structure are provided with inner grooves on both sides, the contact portions are pressed against the inner grooves to maintain the position of the limiting plate.

[0019] Preferably, the end of the sliding surface with a higher slope is provided with an arc and is located at the inlet of the main structure, and the end of the limiting plate facing the inlet of the main structure is provided with a corresponding arc to accommodate the entry and conveying of tableware.

[0020] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0021] The dishwasher steam heat recovery system provided in this application features a sloping sliding surface made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) at the bottom of the conveyor channel. This material has a low coefficient of friction, allowing the dishes to slide down quickly under gravity, shortening their dwell time in the drying stage and improving drying efficiency. The roller structure within the limiting plate further reduces friction, allowing the dishes to pass through the conveyor channel more smoothly, avoiding jamming and enabling them to pass through in a shorter time. The bottom sloping slide utilizes gravity to power the movement of the cabinet; its slope is carefully designed to ensure rapid movement of the cabinet while preventing the dishes from tipping over or being damaged, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the dishwasher and meeting the needs of commercial applications for rapid washing and drying of large quantities of tableware.

[0022] This application utilizes symmetrically arranged limiting plates on both sides of the sliding surface to effectively restrict the horizontal movement of tableware, ensuring its stability during the drying process. The limiting plates are connected to the conveying channel via elastic elements. The contact portion of the elastic element presses against the inner groove of the conveying channel's inner wall. This design allows the limiting plates to adapt to changes in tableware size, consistently providing stable support and guidance, and preventing the tableware from shaking or colliding during transport.

[0023] The width of the limiting plate in this application can be adjusted via an adjustable structure, including an adjusting plate body, a movable slot, a connecting screw, and a locking component. Users can flexibly adjust the width of the limiting plate according to the actual size of the tableware used, so that it can perfectly adapt to tableware of different sizes and shapes, greatly enhancing the adaptability of the system, which is difficult to achieve with traditional conveying channels. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of this utility model;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the overall disassembled structure of this utility model;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a frontal, disassembled partial structural diagram of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a partial structural diagram of the left side view of the main structure and conveying channel of this utility model;

[0029] Figure 5 This is a partial structural diagram of a single limiting plate of this utility model;

[0030] Figure 6 This is a bottom-view, partially disassembled structural diagram of the sliding surface and magnet structure of this utility model;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a partial structural diagram of the left side cross-section of a single limiting plate of this utility model;

[0032] Figure 8 This is a partial structural diagram of the locking component of this utility model.

[0033] Drawing number descriptions: 1. Main structure; 101. Heat recovery module; 1001. Inner groove; 102. Conveying channel; 1002. Insertion slot; 1003. Magnet structure; 2. Sliding surface; 201. Insertion plate; 2001. Magnetic groove; 3. Limiting plate; 301. Roller structure; 3001. Built-in slot; 4. Elastic element; 401. Contact part; 5. Adjusting plate; 501. Movable slot; 502. Connecting screw; 5002. Fixing plate; 503. Locking part; 504. Anti-slip inner pad. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] The following description is intended to disclose the present invention so that those skilled in the art can implement it. The preferred embodiments described below are merely examples, and other obvious modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The basic principles of the present invention defined in the following description can be used in other embodiments, modifications, improvements, equivalents, and other technical solutions that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0036] Those skilled in the art should understand that in the disclosure of this utility model, the terms "longitudinal", "lateral", "up", "down", "left", "right", "front", "rear", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or position based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the purpose of simplifying the description of this utility model and do not indicate or imply that the device or component referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the above terms should not be construed as limitations on this utility model.

[0037] It is understood that the term "a" should be understood as "at least one" or "one or more", that is, in one embodiment, the number of an element can be one, while in another embodiment, the number of the element can be multiple, and the term "a" should not be understood as a limitation on the number. Example

[0038] Please see Figure 1 - Figure 8 A dishwasher steam heat recovery system includes: 1. a main structure 1, the channel of which is provided with: a conveying channel 102, installed inside the main structure 1 for conveying tableware; a heat recovery module 101, installed below the conveying channel 102 for drying steam in the tableware and recovering heat; a sliding surface 2, located at the bottom of the conveying channel 102 and having a slope, so that the tableware can slide down along it and leave the conveying channel 102; two sets of limiting plates 3, symmetrically arranged on both sides of the sliding surface 2, for stabilizing the tableware during conveying; and several roller structures 301 on the limiting plates 3 for assisting the tableware to slide smoothly off the sliding surface 2 from the main structure 1.

[0039] I. Overall Structure and Principle

[0040] This invention relates to a dishwasher steam heat recovery system, primarily designed for the modern catering industry to address the problem of low drying efficiency after washing large quantities of tableware in commercial environments. Its core structure includes a main structure 1, a heat recovery module 101, and a conveying channel 102. Through the coordinated operation of these components, efficient tableware drying and steam heat recovery are achieved.

[0041] II. Main Structure 1 and Core Modules

[0042] Main structure 1

[0043] The main structure 1 serves as the outer shell of the entire system and is typically made of stainless steel. Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, high-strength, and easy to clean, and can withstand the wear and tear and humid environments caused by frequent use of commercial dishwashers. The heat recovery module 101 and the conveying channel 102 are integrated within the channels of the main structure 1, providing structural support and protection for the entire system.

[0044] Heat recovery module 101

[0045] The heat recovery module 101 is installed below the conveyor channel 102, and its main function is to recover the steam heat generated during the dish drying process. The heat recovery module 101 contains a complex heat exchange pipe made of copper or stainless steel, which has good thermal conductivity. Through a steam circulation mechanism, the steam exchanges heat with the cold water entering the dishwasher, thus preheating the incoming water and reducing overall energy consumption.

[0046] III. Conveying channel 102 and its related components

[0047] Conveyor Channel 102

[0048] The conveyor channel 102 is the main area for drying tableware, and its internal structural design is crucial to drying efficiency. The conveyor channel 102 can be made of a high-temperature resistant metal alloy to ensure stability and durability in a high-temperature steam environment.

[0049] The conveying channel 102 is equipped with a sliding surface 2 and a limiting plate 3 to assist in the rapid movement and stable conveying of tableware.

[0050] Sliding surface 2

[0051] The sliding surface 2 is located at the bottom of the conveying channel 102 and has a certain slope so that the tableware can slide down along it and leave the conveying channel 102. The sliding surface 2 can be made of smooth polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) material, which has an extremely low coefficient of friction and excellent high temperature resistance, allowing the tableware to slide down smoothly. The sliding surface 2 made of PTFE material can significantly reduce the friction between the tableware and the sliding surface 2, allowing the tableware to slide down the sliding surface 2 easily and smoothly, reducing wear on the surface of the tableware, and also improving drying efficiency.

[0052] The sliding surface 2 and the conveying channel 102 are connected by a fixing structure. The fixing structure includes a plug-in plate 201 connected to the front and rear ends of the bottom of the sliding surface 2, and a plug-in groove 1002 matching the plug-in plate 201 is provided on the conveying channel 102. A magnet structure 1003 is connected to the bottom of the inner wall of the plug-in groove 1002, and a magnetic groove 2001 matching the magnet structure 1003 is provided at the bottom of the plug-in plate 201. When the plug-in plate 201 is inserted into the plug-in groove 1002, the magnet structure 1003 is inserted into the magnetic groove 2001 and a magnetic attraction is generated, ensuring a stable connection of the sliding surface 2. This connection method is convenient for installation and disassembly, and also ensures a stable connection of the sliding surface 2.

[0053] Limit plate 3

[0054] To ensure the stability of the tableware during transport, limiting plates 3 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the sliding surface 2. These limiting plates 3 not only restrict the horizontal movement of the tableware, but also ensure the vertical stability of the tableware through their width matching the width of the internal channel of the main structure 1. In addition, the width of the limiting plates 3 can be adjusted as needed to accommodate tableware or boxes of different sizes and shapes.

[0055] It should also be noted that the lower end surface of the limiting plate 3 is flush with the sliding surface 2. The flush lower end surface of the limiting plate 3 and the sliding surface 2 ensure that the tableware will not encounter sudden steps or height changes during the sliding process, thereby reducing the resistance and friction during the sliding process and ensuring the smooth sliding of the tableware.

[0056] The connection between the limiting plate 3 and the conveying channel 102 is achieved through an adjustment structure. This adjustment structure includes an adjusting plate body 5, a movable slot 501, a fixed plate 5002, a connecting screw 502, and a locking element 503. When installing the limiting plate 3, the connecting screw 502 passes through the movable slot 501 on the adjusting plate body 5, allowing the adjusting plate body 5 to move left and right along the connecting screw 502. This design allows users to adjust the position of the limiting plate 3 according to the size of the tableware or container, ensuring optimal stability and adaptability. After adjustment, the adjusting plate body 5 can be threaded onto the fixed plate 5002 by rotating the locking element 503. The anti-slip inner pad 504 glued to the inner end face of the locking element 503 ensures a tight fit with the outer wall of the adjusting plate body 5, preventing stability issues caused by loosening during use.

[0057] A roller structure 301 is rotatably connected to the built-in slot 3001 within the limiting plate 3 via a bearing. This design aims to further reduce friction between the cutlery and the limiting plate 3, allowing them to slide more smoothly along the sliding surface 2. The roller structure 301 is typically made of wear-resistant, low-friction materials, such as stainless steel or special plastics, to ensure its long-term stability and durability. When the cutlery or container comes into contact with the roller structure 301, the roller structure 301 rotates as it moves, providing a smooth transition surface and reducing resistance and wear caused by direct friction. This design not only improves sliding efficiency but also reduces noise, providing users with a more comfortable experience.

[0058] Several elastic elements 4, primarily return springs, are provided on the end of the limiting plate 3 facing the inner wall of the main structure 1. Each elastic element 4 has a contact portion 401 for contacting the inner grooves 1001 on both sides of the inner wall of the main structure 1. When the limiting plate 3 is installed into the main structure 1, the elastic force of the elastic elements 4 causes the contact portions 401 to press tightly against the inner grooves 1001. This design not only ensures the stable installation of the limiting plate 3 but also allows for adaptive adjustment within a certain range.

[0059] For example, when the size of the tableware or container changes slightly, the elastic element 4 can be finely adjusted by its elasticity to ensure that the limiting plate 3 always maintains proper contact with the tableware or container, thereby providing stable support and guidance. This adaptive adjustment function improves the system's flexibility and compatibility, making it suitable for a wider variety of tableware and loading methods.

[0060] The end of the sliding surface 2 with a higher slope is provided with an arc and is located at the entrance of the main structure 1 channel. The end of the limiting plate 3 facing the entrance of the main structure 1 is provided with a corresponding arc to accommodate the entry and conveying of tableware. This ensures that when the tableware enters the conveying channel 102 from the entrance of the main structure 1 channel, it can smoothly transition onto the sliding surface 2 and pass smoothly through the conveying channel 102 with the assistance of the limiting plates 3 on both sides.

[0061] It should also be noted that the tableware mentioned above is all transported inside dedicated boxes. These boxes are designed to fit the dimensions of the transport channel 102, ensuring that there is no excessive friction or collision with the inner wall of the main structure 1 during transport. Once the boxes enter the transport channel 102, they will slowly slide down along the sliding surface 2.

[0062] Working principle: After washing, the tableware enters the conveyor channel 102 and is placed on the sliding surface 2. Under the action of gravity, it slides down the sliding surface 2. At the same time, the roller structure 301 on the two side limit plates 3 assists in the movement of the tableware and reduces friction. The heat recovery module 101 in the conveyor channel 102 recovers the heat of the steam generated during the drying of the tableware and uses it to preheat the water inlet of the dishwasher, achieving energy saving. By adjusting the width of the limit plates 3, tableware of different sizes can be accommodated, ensuring that the tableware can move smoothly and stably in the conveyor channel 102 when processing a large number of tableware quickly, thereby improving drying efficiency.

[0063] Those skilled in the art should understand that the embodiments of the present invention described above and shown in the accompanying drawings are merely examples and do not limit the present invention. The purpose of the present invention has been fully and effectively achieved. The functions and structural principles of the present invention have been shown and explained in the embodiments. Without departing from the stated principles, the implementation of the present invention may have any variations or modifications.

Claims

1. A steam heat recovery system for a dishwasher, characterized in that: include The main structure (1) has the following components: a conveying channel (102) installed inside the main structure (1) for conveying tableware; and a heat recovery module (101) installed below the conveying channel (102) for drying the steam in the tableware and recovering the heat. A sliding surface (2) is provided at the bottom of the conveying channel (102) and has a slope so that the tableware slides down along it and leaves the conveying channel (102). The limiting plate (3) is provided with two sets and symmetrically arranged on both sides of the sliding surface (2) to stabilize the tableware during the conveying process; the limiting plate (3) is provided with several roller structures (301) to assist the tableware to slide smoothly out of the main structure (1) from the sliding surface (2).

2. The dishwasher steam heat recovery system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The width of the limiting plate (3) is equal to the width of the internal channel of the main structure (1) and can be adjusted relative to the main structure (1).

3. The dishwasher steam heat recovery system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The limiting plate (3) is connected to the main structure (1) through an adjustment structure. The adjustment structure includes an adjustment plate (5), a movable slot (501), a connecting screw (502), and a locking member (503). The adjustment plate (5) is connected to the front and rear ends of the limiting plate (3) and can extend to the outside of the main structure (1). The movable slot (501) is opened on the adjustment plate (5). The four corners of the outer wall of the main structure (1) are provided with movable slots (501). The movable slots (501) can enter the interior through the opening of the movable slots (501). The connecting screw (502) matches the locking member (503) to thread the adjustment plate (5) to the outside of the main structure (1).

4. A dishwasher steam heat recovery system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The connecting screw (502) is fixedly connected to the corresponding position on the outer wall of the main structure (1) by the fixing plate (5002). The inner end face of the locking part (503) is glued with an anti-slip inner pad (504) and is in close contact with the outer wall of the adjusting plate (5).

5. A dishwasher steam heat recovery system according to claim 4, characterized in that: The sliding surface (2) and the conveying channel (102) are connected by a fixed structure. The fixed structure includes a plug plate (201) and a plug groove (1002). The plug plate (201) is connected to the front and rear ends of the bottom of the sliding surface (2). The conveying channel (102) is provided with a plug groove (1002) that matches the plug plate (201) and the plug plate (201) is inserted into it accordingly.

6. A dishwasher steam heat recovery system according to claim 5, characterized in that: A magnet structure (1003) is connected to the bottom of the inner wall of the insertion slot (1002). A magnetic groove (2001) matching the magnet structure (1003) is opened at the bottom of the insertion plate (201). The magnetic groove (2001) allows the magnet structure (1003) to be inserted and generate a magnetic attraction state.

7. A dishwasher steam heat recovery system according to claim 6, characterized in that: The magnet structure (1003) and the magnetic groove (2001) are both constructed in a matching arc shape.

8. A dishwasher steam heat recovery system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The limiting plate (3) has an internal slot (3001), and the roller structure (301) is rotatably connected to the corresponding position in the internal slot (3001) through a bearing.

9. A dishwasher steam heat recovery system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The limiting plate (3) has several elastic elements (4) at one end facing the inner wall of the main structure (1). The elastic elements (4) have contact parts (401). The inner walls of the main structure (1) have inner grooves (1001) on both sides. The contact parts (401) are pressed against the inner grooves (1001) to maintain the position of the limiting plate (3).

10. A dishwasher steam heat recovery system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sliding surface (2) has a higher slope and is located at the entrance of the main structure (1). The limiting plate (3) has a corresponding arc at the end facing the entrance of the main structure (1) to accommodate the entry and transport of tableware.