Bracket assembly, tableware rack, and dishwasher

Abstract

A bracket assembly, a tableware rack, and a dishwasher. The bracket assembly comprises a support frame (10) and a bracket (20). The bracket (20) is connected to the support frame (10), the bracket (20) is capable of being supported on the support frame (10) for supporting objects, and in a first direction, the bracket (20) is capable of retracting / extending in a direction close to / away from the support frame (10), so as to switch between an unfolded state and a folded state.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application 202310078570.1, titled "BRACKET ASSEMBLY, TABLEWARE RACK, AND DISHWASHER" and filed with China National Intellectual Property Administration on February 01, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application 202320148986.1, titled "BRACKET ASSEMBLY, TABLEWARE RACK, AND DISHWASHER" and filed with China National Intellectual Property Administration on February 01, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the field of cleaning technologies, and more particularly, to a bracket assembly, a tableware rack having the bracket assembly, and a dishwasher having the tableware rack.BACKGROUND

[0004] Currently, large capacity loading of tableware in a dishwasher is a future trend. With a constant interior space of the dishwasher, a method of adding accessories such as bowl racks and chopstick / fork racks to a tableware rack to increase tableware loading capacity is generally employed. However, the added accessories will occupy a loading space of an inner tub of the dishwasher when not in use. When the dishwasher is in use, washing pots is a rigid demand, and placements of the pots impose specific space demands on the tableware rack, resulting in a problem that a solution of adding the accessories to the tableware rack has significant usage limitations. Alternatively, users must manually remove the accessories to avoid affecting loading of other tableware, which also leads to an unsatisfactory experience.SUMMARY

[0005] The present disclosure aims to solve at least one of the technical problems. To this end, embodiments of the present disclosure are to provide a bracket assembly. By providing a stowable bracket, the bracket may be deployed when in use to improve storage space. The bracket may be stowed when not in use to facilitate storage.

[0006] Embodiments of the present disclosure are also to provide a tableware rack including the bracket assembly as described above.

[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure are also to provide a dishwasher including the tableware rack as described above.

[0008] A bracket assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a support frame and a bracket connected to the support frame. The bracket is supported on the support frame and configured to support an item. In a first direction, the bracket is retractable to move away from the support frame or towards the support frame and is switchable between a deployed state and a stowed state.

[0009] With the bracket assembly according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, by providing a stowable bracket, the bracket may be deployed when in use to improve the storage space. The bracket may be stowed when not in use to facilitate storage.

[0010] In addition, the bracket assembly according to the above-described embodiments may further have the following additional technical features.

[0011] In some embodiments, the bracket includes a stowable rack and a carrying rack. The stowable rack is connected to the support frame. The carrying rack is connected to the stowable rack. The stowable rack is retractable to move away from the support frame to deploy the carrying rack or move towards the support frame to stow the carrying rack.

[0012] In some embodiments, the stowable rack includes a plurality of rod groups. One rod group of the plurality of rod groups is connected to the support frame, and the plurality of rod groups are sequentially connected in a direction away from the support frame. Each of the plurality of rod groups includes a first link and a second link that are crossed and hinged to each other. The first link of the one rod group is hinged to the support frame, and the second link of the one rod group is slidably connected to the support frame. For two adjacent rod groups of the plurality of rod groups, the first link of one of the two adjacent rod groups is hinged to the second link of the other one of the two adjacent rod groups in a staggered manner.

[0013] In some embodiments, first links of the plurality of rod groups are parallel to one another, and second links of the plurality of rod groups are parallel to one another.

[0014] In some embodiments, the support frame includes a body portion, a hinge portion, and a slide rail portion. The hinge portion is connected to the body portion. The slide rail portion is connected to the body portion. The first link of the one rod group is hinged to the hinge portion, and the second link of the one rod group is slidably connected to the slide rail portion.

[0015] In some embodiments, the hinge portion is vertically opposed to the slide rail portion. The slide rail portion has a guide groove extending in a vertical direction. An end of the second link of the one rod group is provided with a slide portion slidably embedded in the guide groove.

[0016] In some embodiments, the slide rail portion is provided with a reinforcement rib extending in a periphery of the slide rail portion. An inner peripheral surface of the reinforcement rib is flush with an inner peripheral surface of the guide groove.

[0017] In some embodiments, an inner side surface of the guide groove is provided with an engagement structure. The engagement structure for positioning the bracket is arranged at an upper end and / or a lower end of the slide rail portion.

[0018] In some embodiments, the hinge portion is located above the slide rail portion.

[0019] In some embodiments, a plurality of carrying racks are provided. The plurality of carrying racks are in one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of rod groups. Each of the plurality of carrying racks is connected to one link of the first link and the second link of a corresponding rod group.

[0020] In some embodiments, the one link is provided with buckles at two ends of the one link, and the carrying rack is provided with hooks at two ends of the carrying rack. The hooks correspond to the buckles, and are each hooked onto a corresponding buckle.

[0021] In some embodiments, the carrying rack includes a third link. Two ends of the third link are respectively connected to the hooks, and the third link is bent at connections between the third link and the hooks and abuts against the buckles.

[0022] In some embodiments, two stowable racks are provided and spaced apart from each other. The carrying rack is connected between the two stowable racks. The support frame is connected to the two stowable racks in one-to-one correspondence.

[0023] In some embodiments, a plurality of carrying racks are provided and arranged at intervals in the direction toward or away from the support frame. The plurality of carrying racks are located close to one another in the stowed state of the bracket, and the plurality of carrying racks are separated from one another in the deployed state of the bracket to enable the plurality of carrying racks to be adapted to support the item.

[0024] In some embodiments, the carrying rack includes a backrest and a base tray. The backrest is arranged vertically. The base tray is connected to a lower end of the backrest and adapted to support the item placed on the carrying rack.

[0025] In some embodiments, the backrest includes a plurality of first transverse rods and a plurality of first vertical rods. The plurality of first vertical rods extend vertically and are arranged at intervals in a transverse direction. The plurality of first transverse rods are connected to the plurality of first vertical rods. Each of the plurality of first vertical rods has a lower end connected to the base tray. The base tray and the vertical rod form an "L" shape with an upward opening in the deployed state of the bracket.

[0026] A tableware rack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a table ware basket and the bracket assembly as described above. The support frame is connected to the tableware basket and configured to support the bracket assembly. The bracket is suspended above a bottom wall of the tableware basket.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the tableware rack may be connected to the bracket assembly, which enhances flexibility of tableware rack usage, with a simple structure and ease of assembly.

[0028] In some embodiments, the support frame has a mounting cavity. A lower end of the support frame has a mounting opening. The support frame is provided with a snap fastener. The tableware basket is provided with a fixing frame. The fixing frame is inserted to the support frame through the mounting opening and clamped by the snap fastener.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a dishwasher includes a body and the tableware rack as described above. The body defines a washing chamber that is open at a front side of the washing chamber. The tableware rack is disposed in the washing chamber.

[0030] With the dishwasher according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the number of dishes to be stored and washed can be increased, improving cleaning efficiency of the dishwasher.

[0031] In some embodiments, a plurality of tableware racks are vertically arranged in the body.

[0032] In some embodiments, the tableware rack is disposed in the body in the first direction. in a drawable mannerBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] In order to clearly explain technical solutions according to embodiments of the present disclosure, drawings used in the description of the embodiments are briefly described below. Obviously, the drawings as described below are merely some embodiments of the present disclosure. Based on these drawings, other drawings can be obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort. FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a bracket assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a schematic structural view of a bracket assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a tableware rack according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a tableware rack according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of part A in FIG. 4 FIG. 6 is a schematic structural view of a tableware rack according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, with a deployed state of a bracket being shown. FIG. 7 is a schematic structural view of a tableware rack according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, with a stowed state of a bracket being shown. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a tableware rack according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG.9 is a partial cross-sectional view of a support frame according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, without an extension portion being shown.

[0034] Reference numerals of the accompanying drawings: 100, tableware rack; 50, tableware basket; 10, support frame; 101, mounting cavity; 102, mounting opening; 103, through hole; 11, first positioning rib; 12, second positioning rib; 13, snap fastener; 16, body portion; 14, hinge portion; 15, slide rail portion; 105, guide groove; 151, reinforcement rib; 152, engagement structure; 1122, snap hook; 20, bracket; 21, rod group; 21a, first link; 21b, second link; 212, buckle; 23, shaft pin; 24, fixing cap; 211, slide portion; 22, carrying rack; 222, hook; 223, third link; 2231, second bent portion; 221, backrest; 224, first transverse rod; 225, first vertical rod; 226, base tray; 40, fixing frame; 41, first mounting frame; 43, protection frame; 42, second mounting frame; 411, connection rod; 412, first bent portion; 431, support rod; 432, second transverse rod.

[0035] Implementations of the objectives, functional features, and advantages of the present disclosure will be further described in connection with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0036] Currently, large capacity loading of tableware in a dishwasher is a future trend. With a constant interior space of the dishwasher, a method of adding accessories such as bowl racks and chopstick / fork racks to a tableware rack to increase tableware loading capacity is generally employed. However, the added accessories will occupy a loading space of an inner tub of the dishwasher when not in use. When the dishwasher is in use, washing pots is a rigid demand, and placements of the pots impose specific space demands on the tableware rack, resulting in a problem that a solution of adding the accessories to the tableware rack has significant usage limitations. Alternatively, users must manually remove the accessories to avoid affecting loading of other tableware, which also leads to an unsatisfactory experience.

[0037] To this end, a bracket assembly is provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure, which can increase a supporting space. In addition, a bracket is mounted at a side of a support frame. When in use, the bracket is deployed to load an item, and when not in use, the bracket is stowed at the side of the support frame without affecting placement of other items, which is practical, convenient, and provides a good experience.

[0038] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to examples thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which same or similar elements, or elements having same or similar functions, are denoted by same or similar reference numerals. The embodiments described below with reference to the drawings are illustrative only, and are intended to explain, rather than limiting, the present disclosure.

[0039] As illustrated in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, a bracket assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a support frame 10 and a bracket 20 connected to the support frame 10. The bracket 20 is supported on the support frame 10 and configured to support an item. In a first direction, the bracket 20 is retractable to move away from the support frame 10 or towards the support frame 10, and is switchable between a deployed state and a stowed state, which facilitates adjustment by a user, thereby improving practicality. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the bracket 20 has the deployed state and the stowed state. In the deployed state, the user may place the item on the bracket 20, which can increase a storage space. When the user does not need to use the bracket 20, the bracket 20 may be adjusted to the stowed state, and may be stored at a side of the support frame 10, which is convenient for the user to manage. Further, the storage space may be adjusted when the bracket 20 is deployed. When deploying the bracket 20, the bracket 20 needs to be stretched in a direction away from the support frame 10, and the user may select a deployed position or a stretched length of the bracket 20 based on a size of the item to be placed. In this way, a space utilization rate is improved. In addition, a suitable storage space can also improve stability of the item placed on the bracket 20, making the item less likely to shake.

[0040] In the bracket assembly according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, by providing the stowable bracket, the bracket may be deployed when in use to improve the storage space, and may be stowed when not in use to facilitate the storage.

[0041] In practical application, taking the bracket assembly used in a dishwasher as an example, the bracket assembly may be additionally mounted to a tableware rack 100. When a large number of tableware needs to be placed, the bracket 20 may be deployed to increase placement space, improving cleaning efficiency. When the user needs to clean a relatively large item, the bracket 20 may be stored in the stowed state, which can improve flexibility of the bracket assembly, avoid disassembly, and provide use convenience for the user. That is, the bracket assembly may define a supporting space in a washing chamber, which is beneficial to improve the space utilization rate and is convenient for quick storage when not in use. In other embodiments, the bracket assembly may also be used in a cabinet. When the bracket 20 is used in the cabinet, the storage space may be increased to improve space utilization rate in the cabinet.

[0042] As illustrated in FIG. 2, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the bracket 20 includes a stowable rack and a carrying rack 22. The stowable rack is connected to the support frame 10. The carrying rack 22 is connected to the stowable rack. The stowable rack is retractable to move away from the support frame 10 to deploy the carrying rack 22 or move towards the support frame 10 to stow the carrying rack 22. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the carrying rack 22 may be used to support and place the item. The stowable rack may be connected to either the support frame 10 or the carrying rack 22 to allow the carrying rack 22 to stow or deploy the placement space relative to the support frame 10.

[0043] As illustrated in FIG. 1, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the stowable rack includes a plurality of rod groups 21. One rod group 21 of the plurality of rod groups 21 is connected to the support frame 10, and the plurality of rod groups 21 are sequentially connected in a direction away from the support frame 10, enabling the stowable rack to be extendable in the direction away from the support frame 10. Each of the plurality of rod groups 21 includes a first link 21a and a second link 21b that are crossed and hinged to each other. The first link 21a of the one rod group 21 is hinged to the support frame 10, and the second link 21b of the one rod group 21 is slidably connected to the support frame 10. For two adjacent rod groups 21 of the plurality of rod groups 21, the first link 21a of one of the two adjacent rod groups 21 is hinged to the second link 21b of the other one of the two adjacent rod groups 21 in a staggered manner. That is, the second link 21b is slidable at the support frame 10. When an end of the second link 21b slides, another end of the second link 21b may be driven to move towards or away from the support frame 10. When the second link 21b moves, the first link 21a crossed and hinged to the second link 21b may be driven to rotate at a hinge joint between the first link 21a and the second link 21b and at a hinge joint between the first link 21a and the support frame 10, and thus a state of the rod group 21 is changed. In this way, through hinge connection between the first link 21a and the support frame 10 and slide connection between the second link 21b and the support frame 10, the rod group 21 may be movably connected relative to the support frame 10, and has high stability during sliding, which is conducive to rapid adjustment.

[0044] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, both the first link 21a and the second link 21b may be slidably connected to the support frame 10 to improve flexibility of the adjustment.

[0045] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, first links 21a of the plurality of rod groups 21 are parallel to one another, and second links 21b of the plurality of rod groups 21 are parallel to one another. Therefore, balance and stability of the bracket 20 can be enhanced.

[0046] As illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, in the bracket 20 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the plurality of rod groups 21 are sequentially connected to one another. For two adjacent rod groups 21 of the plurality of rod groups 21, ends of two links 411 of one of the two adjacent rod groups 21 are hinged to ends of two links 411 of the other one of the two adjacent rod groups 21. Since the first link 21a and the second link 21b intersect to form an "X"-shaped structure, the balance and structural strength of the bracket 20 can be improved. By providing the plurality of rod groups 21, the bracket 20 is retractable to move away from the support frame 10 or towards the support frame 10 with a large retractable range and a simple structure, which enables construction to be easy, and the stability to be high.

[0047] Each of the first link 21a and the second link 21b may be constructed as a straight rod shape. A diamond-shaped structure is constructed between each rod group 21 and its adjacent rod group 21. The plurality of rod groups 21 composed of the first links 21a and the second links 21b may collectively constitute a plurality of diamond-shaped structures in the deployed state. For example, a stowed state of the plurality of rod groups 21 is illustrated in FIG. 7, and intersections of two adjacent rod groups 21 of the plurality of rod groups 21 are positioned close to one another. Therefore, stowing of the bracket 20 is achieved. A deployed state of the plurality of rod groups 21 is illustrated in FIG. 6, and the intersections of the two adjacent rod groups of the plurality of rod groups 21 are positioned away from one another. Therefore, deploying of the bracket 20 is achieved. By providing the plurality of rod groups 21, an effect of multiple deployments or extensions can be realized to increase a deployed length of the bracket 20 and increase the storage space. In addition, each intersection is composed of the first link 21a and the second link 21b hinged with each other, which can effectively improve the support strength of the support frame.

[0048] As illustrated in FIG.1 and FIG.2, in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a hinge shaft is disposed at the intersection between the first link 21a and the second link 21b corresponding to each other, which facilitates relative rotation of the first link 21a and the second link 21b. As a result, retractable flexibility of the bracket 20 is improved. Further, connection stability between the first link 21a and the second link 21b is enhanced. The first link 21a and the second link 21b are engaged with and fixed to each other by a shaft pin 23 and a fixing cap 24. The fixing cap 24 may be made of plastic.

[0049] As illustrated in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the support frame 10 includes a body portion 16, a hinge portion 14, and a slide rail portion 15. The hinge portion 14 is connected to the body portion 16. The slide rail portion 15 is connected to the body portion 16. The first link 21a of the one rod group 21 is hinged to the hinge portion 14, and the second link 21b of the one rod group 21 is slidably connected to the slide rail portion 15. That is, the first link 21a is rotatably connected to the body portion 16 by the hinge portion 14. The second link 21b is slidable on the slide rail portion 15, and the second link 21b is slidably connected relative to the body portion 16.

[0050] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the body portion 16, the hinge portion 14, and the slide rail portion 15 may be integrally formed to facilitate manufacturing and improve the structural strength.

[0051] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge portion 14 is vertically opposed to the slide rail portion 15. The slide rail portion 15 has a guide groove 105 extending in a vertical direction. An end of the second link 21b of the one rod group 21 is provided with a slide portion 211 slidably embedded in the guide groove 105. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the guide groove 105 defines a slide range of the second link 21b. The slide portion 211 may be engaged with the guide groove 105 to be adapted to slide. In this way, the end of the second link 21b can be prevented from being disengaged from the guide groove 105. In this way, slide stability is improved, facilitating user's operation. Further, the hinge portion and the slide rail portion 15 may be disposed at an upper end and a lower end of the body portion 16, respectively. That is, the first link 21a and the second link 21b may be connected to the upper end and the lower end of the body portion 16, respectively, which can improve connection stability.

[0052] As illustrated in FIG. 5, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the slide rail portion 15 is provided with a reinforcement rib 151 extending in a periphery of the slide rail portion 15. In this way, structural strength of the guide groove 105 can be improved, thereby increasing a supporting force and enhancing load-bearing strength and reliability of the bracket assembly. Since an inner peripheral surface of the reinforcement rib 151 is flush with an inner peripheral surface of the guide groove 105, a contact area between the guide groove 105 and the slide portion 211 can be increased. As a result, rotation and sliding of the slide portion 211 relative to the guide groove 105 can be smoother, enhancing user experience.

[0053] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an inner side surface of the guide groove 105 is provided with an engagement structure 152, and the engagement structure 152 for positioning the bracket 20 is arranged at an upper end and / or a lower end of the slide rail portion 15. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the engagement structure 152 protrudes from the inner side surface of the guide groove 105. When the slide portion 211 slides in the guide groove 105, the engagement structure 152 may engage the slide portion 211 at a predetermined position to position the stowable rack at the predetermined position.

[0054] The engagement structure 152 may be two protruding structures disposed opposite to each other at an inner side of the guide groove 105. In this way, the engagement structure may provide engagement and limitation functions at two ends of the slide portion 211.

[0055] For example, the upper end and the lower end of the slide rail portion 15 are provided with the engagement structure 152. When deploying the bracket 20, the slide rail portion 211 moves upward along the guide groove 105. When the bracket 20 is fully deployed, the slide rail portion 211 slides into the engagement structure 152 with a clear click feedback, indicating to the user that the bracket 20 is fully deployed to facilitate the user to load the item. When stowing the bracket 20, the slide portion 211 moves downward along the guide groove 105 and slides into the lower engagement structure 152. In this way, the bracket 20 is restricted and stably and reliably placed at a side of the support frame 10.

[0056] As illustrated in FIG. 4, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge portion 14 is located above the slide rail portion 15. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper rod group 21 of the support frame 10 is rotatably connected to the hinge portion 14, and the lower rod group 21 of the support frame 10 is movably connected to the slide rail portion 15 in the vertical direction. In this way, when the user performs the stowing or deploying, the second link 21b moves below the support frame 10. This design leverages the second link 21b's own gravity to enhance the stability of engagement, while the slide rail portion 15 located below is less likely to be touched or visible, improving both the practicality and aesthetics. Additionally, movement of the second link 21b below a suspension rack 30 ensures that upper parts of the plurality of rod groups remain aligned during deploying and stowing operations. Therefore, interference with a top or a door body of a device is avoided.

[0057] As illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of carrying racks 22 are provided to increase the storage space. The plurality of carrying racks 22 are in one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of rod groups 21. Each of the plurality of carrying racks 22 is connected to one link 411 of the first link 21a and the second link 21b of a corresponding rod group 21. That is, the plurality of carrying racks 22 may be directly connected to the one link 411. The plurality of carrying racks 22 may be stowed or deployed with the extension or retraction of the plurality of rod groups 21 to facilitate use and simplify the structure.

[0058] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the one link 411 is provided with buckles 212 at two ends of the one link 411, and the carrying rack 22 is provided with hooks 222 at two ends of the carrying rack 22. The hooks correspond to the buckles 212, and are each hooked onto a corresponding buckle 212. In this way, the carrying rack 22 is connected to the one link 411. Therefore, a simple structure is provided, enabling easy assembly and disassembly, thereby enhancing convenience of use.

[0059] As illustrated in FIG. 2, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the carrying rack 22 includes a third link 223. Each of two ends of the third link 223 is connected to the hook 222. The third link 223 is bent at connections between the third link 223 and the hooks 222 and abuts against the buckles 212. In this way, structural strength of the third link 223 can be improved, which facilitates improving the structural strength when the buckles 212 are engaged with the hooks 222.

[0060] As illustrated in FIG. 2, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the third link 223 is provided with a second bent portion 2231. The second bent portion 2231 is adjacent to a position where the first link 21a and the second link 21b are crossed and hinged. The second bent portion 2231 serves to provide clearance while further increasing the structural strength of the third link 223.

[0061] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, two stowable racks are provided and spaced apart from each other. The carrying rack 22 is connected between the two stowable racks, and the support frame 10 is connected to the two stowable racks in one-to-one correspondence. In this way, the structural stability can be improved, and the storage space is facilitated to be increased.

[0062] As illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of carrying racks 22 are provided and arranged at intervals in the direction toward or away from the support frame 10. The plurality of carrying racks 22 are located close to one another in the stowed state of the bracket 20, and are separated from one another in the deployed state of the bracket 20 to enable the plurality of carrying racks 22 to be adapted to support the item. That is, the plurality of carrying racks 22 are located close to one another in the stowed state of the bracket 20, and are separated from one another in the deployed state of the bracket 20. In this way, when a distance between two adjacent carrying racks 22 is reduced, the carrying racks 22 may be stowed to avoid space occupation; and when the distance between the two adjacent carrying racks 22 is increased, a storage space is defined between the two carrying racks 22, and the item may be placed on the carrying racks 22 to fully utilize the storage space of the two carrying racks 22, thereby improving the space utilization rate.

[0063] As illustrated in FIG. 2, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the carrying rack 22 includes a backrest 221 and a base tray 226. The backrest 221 is arranged vertically. The base tray 226 is connected to a lower end of the backrest 221 and adapted to support the item placed on the carrying rack 22. When in use, the item may be placed on the base tray 226 and rest on the backrest 221 to improve carrying stability, simplify a structure of the carrying rack 22, and reduce a volume occupied by the carrying rack 22. Further, when the bracket assembly is provided with the plurality of carrying racks 22, a backrest 221 of a front carrying rack 22 and a backrest 221 and a base tray 226 of a rear carrying rack 22 may define a cavity with an opening at a top, which is convenient for placing the item, preventing the item from falling, and improving a supporting effect.

[0064] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the backrest 221 includes a plurality of first transverse rods 224 and a plurality of first vertical rods 225. The plurality of first vertical rods 225 extend vertically and are arranged at intervals in a transverse direction. The plurality of first transverse rods 224 are connected to the plurality of first vertical rods 225. Each of the plurality of first vertical rods 225 has a lower end connected to the base tray 226. The base tray 226 and the vertical rod form an "L" shape with an upward opening in the deployed state of the bracket 20. The plurality of first transverse rods 224 and the plurality of first vertical rods 225 are arranged at intervals to form a mesh structure, which can prevent the item from falling, which in turn improves the structural strength of the backrest 221. In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the base tray 226 may also be directly constructed by the first transverse rod 224 and the first vertical rod 225. That is, the first vertical rod 225 first extends vertically and then extends transversely to form an "L" shape. The first vertical rod 225 has the lower end connected to the first transverse rod 224. The first transverse rod 224 is connected to the plurality of first vertical rods 225 to construct a base tray 226 adapted to support the item.

[0065] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the base tray 226 includes a plurality of bottom racks arranged at intervals in a second direction. The plurality of bottom racks are all connected to the corresponding backrest 221. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the first direction may be a front-rear direction, and the second direction may be a left-right direction. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of bottom racks may be used to support the item, and are connected to the corresponding backrest 221 to define a storage space. The plurality of bottom racks are arranged at intervals, which can simplify a structure of the base tray 226, and reduce a weight of the bracket 10. When the bracket 20 is applied to a washing apparatus, washing water may pass between the plurality of bottoms racks, and thus washing water may fully come into contact with the item on the base tray 226. As a result, washing effect can be improved.

[0066] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of bottom racks in two adjacent carrying racks 22 are arranged in a staggered manner to facilitate spatial arrangement. In an exemplary embodiment, in combination with the aforementioned contents, a plurality of backrests 221 are arranged in the first direction. The plurality of backrests 221 may move towards or away from one another with the extension or retraction of the stowable rack. The plurality of bottom racks in two connected carrying racks 22 are arranged in a staggered manner. Therefore, when the stowable rack is retracted, the bottom racks in a rear row may be inserted into gaps between the bottom racks in a front row. In this way, the plurality of bottom racks of two adjacent carrying racks 22 do not interfere with one another. When the stowable rack is extended, the plurality of bottom racks may also be used for placement of the item.

[0067] As illustrated in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the tableware rack 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a tableware basket 50 and the bracket assembly as described above. The support frame 10 is connected to the tableware basket 50 and configured to support the bracket 20. The bracket 20 is suspended above a bottom wall of the tableware basket 50. Thus, the bracket 20 may be deployed to increase a storage space of the tableware rack 100, and the bracket 20 may be stowed when not in use to store the bracket 20 without assembly and disassembly, which is beneficial to improve practicality of the tableware rack 100 with a simple structure and is easy to use.

[0068] With the tableware rack 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, by connecting the bracket assembly to the tableware basket 50, the storage space of the tableware basket 50 can be expanded. The bracket 20 has the stowed state and the deployed state, and the user may adjust a state of the bracket 20 based on an actual situation, providing convenience for the user.

[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 9, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the support frame 10 has a mounting cavity 101. A lower end of the support frame 10 has a mounting opening 102. The support frame 10 is provided with a snap fastener 13. The tableware basket 50 is provided with a fixing frame 40. The fixing frame 40 is inserted into the support frame 10 through the mounting opening 102 and clamped by the snap fastener 13. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the mounting opening 102 is used for inserting the fixing frame 40 into the mounting cavity 101. The snap fastener 13 is used for positioning the fixing frame 40 inserted into the support frame 10, which is beneficial to quick assembly and can improve connection stability and structural strength of the fixing frame 40 and the support frame 10.

[0070] In actual use, when the user needs to increase a supporting space, the bracket assembly may be connected to the fixing frame 40 to place the item on the bracket 20. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the user may first orient the mounting opening 102 of the support frame 10 toward an extension direction of the fixed frame 40, and then insert the fixing frame 40 into the mounting cavity 101. Thereafter, the fixing frame 40 may be engaged with the snap fastener 13 at the support frame 10 to enhance connection stability. For example, when the snap fastener 13 is engaged with the fixing frame 40, the user feels a clear click feedback or hears a sound of the snap fastener 13 snapping together to confirm that the support frame 10 and the fixing frame 40 have been stably assembled. As a result, the user experience is improved. Since the bracket 20 is connected to the support frame 10, the bracket 20 may be fixed to the fixing frame 40 by the support frame 10, and the item may be placed on the bracket 20. The support frame 10 may be detachably connected to the fixing frame 40 to facilitate maintenance and replacement by the user, improve versatility, and reduce cost. Thus, mounting the bracket assembly at the tableware basket 50 by the fixing frame 40 can increase the supporting space, and the bracket assembly may be directly connected to the fixing frame 40 without rivets or screws, which is convenient for assembling and has high flexibility.

[0071] As illustrated in FIG. 1, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the support frame 10 has a side wall with a through hole 103. The snap fastener 13 is connected to a lower edge of the through hole 103 and extends upward. The snap fastener 13 is inclined toward an inside of the support frame 10 in an upward extension direction. The through hole 103 may provide a movement space for the snap fastener 13. Further, when the support frame 10 and the fixing frame 40 need to be separated, a shape of the snap fastener 13 may be controlled through the through hole 103 to allow the fixing frame 40 to be released from the snap fastener 13. In an exemplary embodiment, a reinforcement rib 151 may be disposed at an outer side surface of the snap fastener 13. The reinforcement rib 151 can improve structural strength of the snap fastener 13, and the snap fastener 13 may be controlled by pulling the reinforcement rib 151 when adjusting a state of the snap fastener 13.

[0072] As illustrated in FIG. 9, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the support frame 10 is provided with a first positioning rib 11 at a top of the support frame 10. The first positioning rib 11 may be used to position the fixing frame 40 inserted into the mounting cavity 101 to further provide a positioning effect. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an arc-shaped groove with a downward opening is defined by the first positioning rib 11, which can improve structural strength of the first positioning rib 11 and improve the positioning effect. Further, an end of the snap fastener 13 is disposed below the first positioning rib 11 and is opposite to the arc-shaped groove. In this way, the snap fastener 13 may be engaged with the first positioning rib 11 to fix the fixing frame 40, and the fixing frame 40 is defined between a first engagement rib and the snap fastener 13. That is, the fixing frame 40 has a side covered by the arc-shaped groove, and another side engaged with the snap fastener 13. Therefore, assembly stability between the fixing frame 40 and the support frame 10 is improved.

[0073] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the arc-shaped groove is a groove with a circular arc-shaped cross section, to be adapted to be engaged with a tubular structure of the fixing frame 40. The end of the snap fastener 13 is not higher than a circumference of the arc-shaped groove, to be adapted to receive a rod portion of the fixing frame 40 between the arc-shaped groove and the end of the snap fastener 13. Therefore, it is beneficial to improve the positioning effect and the assembly stability.

[0074] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a gap between the snap fastener 13 and the circumference where the arc-shaped groove is located is within a range of 0 mm to 10 mm, to improve the positioning effect and facilitate the disassembly and assembly. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the gap between the snap fastener 13 and the circumference where the arc-shaped groove is located may be 5 mm, 8 mm, or the like. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the gap may be 12 mm, 15 mm, or the like based on the actual situation, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0075] As illustrated in FIG. 9, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the support frame 10 has an inner side surface provided with a second positioning rib 12. The second positioning rib 12 extends in the vertical direction, and an upper end of the second positioning rib 12 is connected to first positioning rib 11. The second positioning rib 12 may position the fixing frame 40 in the transverse direction to prevent the fixing frame 40 from swinging when being fixed in the mounting cavity 101. Therefore, the structural stability is improved.

[0076] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a height of a lower end of the second positioning rib 12 protruding from the inner side surface of the support frame 10 gradually increases from bottom to top. That is, a protrusion height of the second positioning rib 12 at a side close to the mounting opening 102 is smaller, and the protrusion height increases gradually from bottom to top. In this way, in a process of inserting the fixing frame 40 from the mounting opening 102 into the mounting cavity 101, the protrusion height of the second positioning rib 12 is small at a position adjacent to the mounting opening 102, which facilitates the user to insert the fixing frame 40 into the mounting cavity 101. An abutment degree between the fixing frame 40 and the second positioning rib 12 gradually increases after insertion. Therefore, the fixing frame 40 can be prevented from swinging or moving out of the mounting cavity 101.

[0077] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the second positioning rib 12 is disposed at both opposite side surfaces in the support frame 10. The second positioning rib 12 and the first positioning rib 11 form a U shape with a downward opening, which can improve the positioning effect and the structural strength. The first positioning rib 11 and the second positioning rib 12 may be integrally formed.

[0078] Further, the snap fastener 13 and the support frame 10 may be integrally formed to facilitate manufacturing.

[0079] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the snap fastener 13 may also be a protruding structure at an inner side wall of the support frame 10 to be engaged with the fixing frame 40.

[0080] As illustrated in FIG. 3, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the fixing frame 40 includes a first mounting frame 41 configured as a U-shaped rod with a downward opening. The first mounting frame 41 is connected to the tableware basket 50, and is adapted to be inserted into the mounting opening 102 and clamped by the snap fastener 13. The first U-shaped mounting frame 41 can enhance the structural strength when the support frame 10 is connected to the fixing frame 40. The snap fastener 13 may be clamped at a position of the connection rod 411 of the first mounting frame 41. In combination with the aforementioned contents, after a closed end of the first mounting frame 41 is inserted into the mounting cavity 101 from the mounting opening 102, an upper side of the closed end of the mounting frame abuts against the first positioning rib 11, and a lower side of the closed end of the mounting frame is clamped by the snap fastener 13.

[0081] As illustrated in FIG. 4, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the fixing frame 40 further includes a second mounting frame 42 disposed below the first mounting frame 41. The bracket assembly is provided with a snap hook 1122 hooked at the second mounting frame 42. That is, the first mounting frame 41 may be inserted into the mounting cavity 101 at an upper part of the support frame 10, and the second mounting frame 42 may be connected to the snap hook 1122 at a lower part of the support frame 10, improving the assembly stability. Further, based on the aforementioned contents, the snap fastener 13 is located at a first side wall 111, the first mounting frame 41 is clamped at a side close to the first side wall 111, the snap hook 1122 is located at a second side wall 112, and the second mounting frame 42 is connected to a side close to the second side wall 112. Therefore, it is beneficial to balancing forces and improving the connection stability. In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the fixing frame 40 may be made of materials such as steel wire to improve the structural strength.

[0082] As illustrated in FIG. 4, in another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the tableware basket further includes a protection frame 43. The protection frame 43 and the fixing frame 40 are arranged side by side. The protection frame 43 and the bracket assembly are opposite in the first direction. The protection frame 43 can improve the stability of the supporting the item on the bracket assembly. When the item is placed on the bracket 20 of the bracket assembly, the protection frame 43 is connected to the first mounting frame 41, and a limit space defined between the protection frame 43 and the bracket 20 can expand an accommodation space of bracket 20 and can also prevent the item from falling.

[0083] With the fixing frame 40 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, two mounting frames 41 are transversely arranged. Each of the two first mounting frames 41 has an end extending transversely with the connection rod 411 for connection, and another end extending downward to be connected to the tableware basket 50 through welding for example. The two first mounting frames 41 and the connection rod 411 may be integrally formed. When the first mounting frame 41 is connected to the tableware basket 50, the first mounting frame 41 may be provided with a first bent portion 412 that is bent toward an inner side of the tableware basket 50. In this way, an avoidance space is formed between the "U" shaped first mounting frame 41 and an edge of the tableware basket 50, and the support frame 10 is adapted to be mounted in the avoidance space. As a result, the support frame 10 may be flush with the tableware basket 50 or located at the inner side of the tableware basket 50 after mounting, facilitating the spatial arrangement.

[0084] Further, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the protection frame 43 has a plurality of support rods 431 and a second transverse rod 432. The plurality of support rods 431 are arranged at intervals transversely and extend in the vertical direction. A vertical rod has an upper end connected to the second transverse rod 432, and a lower end connected to the connection rod 411. The second transverse rod 432 and the connection rod 411 are arranged in a staggered manner. The second transverse rod 432 is opposite to an edge of the tableware basket 50 in the vertical direction. Lower ends of vertical rods at two ends of the protection frame 43 extend to the tableware basket 50 and are welded to the tableware basket 50. The second mounting frame 42 is connected to the tableware basket 50 opposite to the first mounting frame 41 in the vertical direction, and is in a "U" shape with a downward opening. As a result, the snap hook 1122 may hook a closed end of the second mounting frame 42. In this way, the first mounting frame 41, a protection fence, and the second mounting frame 42 are not on one plane. Therefore, the supporting effect of different positions can be improved, stress concentration can be avoided, and the structural strength can be improved.

[0085] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an outer top surface of the support frame 10 is an inclined surface inclined downward, which is not easy to accumulate water and residue during use. Therefore, it is convenient for cleaning and maintenance.

[0086] With the dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, by applying the above-described tableware rack 100 in the dishwasher, capacity for storing and cleaning the tableware is increased, improving the cleaning efficiency of the dishwasher.

[0087] As illustrated in FIG.1 and FIG. 3, in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first direction is a front-rear direction of a body to facilitate the user to use. That is, the bracket assembly may be connected to the tableware rack 100 and a rear side of the body. When in use, the bracket assembly at the rear side is stowed without affecting normal use of the user, and the storage space can be expanded. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the bracket assembly may be connected to the tableware rack 100 and a left side or a right side of the body.

[0088] When a small number of dishes need to be stored or washed, the user may stow the bracket assembly behind the tableware basket 50, which does not affect the user from putting in or taking out the tableware from an accommodation space of the tableware basket 50. In a case where the tableware basket 50 is used in a device that opens a door by pulling, when the tableware basket 50 is closed or not fully pulled, the bracket assembly will not affect the user from placing the tableware and is easily visible, which can improve the practicality and aesthetics of the tableware rack 100.

[0089] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of tableware racks 100 are vertically arranged in the body, which can make full use of a longitudinal space in the body. In this way, storage capacity in the body can be increased to improve the space utilization rate and the cleaning efficiency.

[0090] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the tableware rack 100 is disposed in the body in the front-rear direction or the left-right direction in a drawable manner, which facilitates the user to take the tableware.

[0091] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the tableware basket 50 may be provided with a pulley to facilitate movement of the tableware basket 50. The user may pull the tableware rack 100 in the front-rear direction through the pulley, which can save labor and improve smoothness of pulling.

[0092] In the description of the present disclosure, it should be understood that the orientation or the position indicated by terms such as "transverse", "length", "over", "below", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "axial", and "circumferential" should be construed to refer to the orientation or the position as shown in the drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing the present disclosure and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the pointed device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation of the present disclosure.

[0093] In the present disclosure, the first feature "on" or "under" the second feature may mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate. Moreover, the first feature "above" the second feature means that the first feature is directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or simply means that the level of the first feature is higher than that of the second feature. The first feature "below" the second feature means that the first feature is directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or simply means that the level of the first feature is smaller than that of the second feature.

[0094] In the description of this specification, descriptions referring to terms such as "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "an example", "specific examples", or "some examples" means that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present disclosure. The illustrative expressions of the above-mentioned terms throughout this specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment or example. Further, the specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, different embodiments or examples and the features of different embodiments or examples described in the specification may be combined and integrated by those skilled in the art without mutual contradiction.

[0095] Although the embodiments of present disclosure have been shown and described above, it should be understood that above embodiments are exemplary, and cannot be construed as limiting the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions, and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A bracket assembly, comprising: a support frame; and a bracket connected to the support frame, the bracket being supported on the support frame and configured to support an item, wherein in a first direction, the bracket is retractable to move away from the support frame or towards the support frame and is switchable between a deployed state and a stowed state.

2. The bracket assembly according to claim 1, wherein the bracket comprises: a stowable rack connected to the support frame; and a carrying rack connected to the stowable rack, wherein the stowable rack is retractable to move away from the support frame to deploy the carrying rack or move towards the support frame to stow the carrying rack.

3. The bracket assembly according to claim 2, wherein: the stowable rack comprises a plurality of rod groups, one rod group of the plurality of rod groups being connected to the support frame, and the plurality of rod groups being sequentially connected in a direction away from the support frame; each of the plurality of rod groups comprises a first link and a second link that are crossed and hinged to each other, the first link of the one rod group being hinged to the support frame, and the second link of the one rod group being slidably connected to the support frame; for two adjacent rod groups of the plurality of rod groups, the first link of one of the two adjacent rod groups is hinged to the second link of the other one of the two adjacent rod groups in a staggered manner.

4. The bracket assembly according to claim 3, wherein: first links of the plurality of rod groups are parallel to one another; and second links of the plurality of rod groups are parallel to one another.

5. The bracket assembly according to claim 3, wherein the support frame comprises: a body portion; a hinge portion connected to the body portion; and a slide rail portion connected to the body portion, wherein the first link of the one rod group is hinged to the hinge portion, and the second link of the one rod group is slidably connected to the slide rail portion.

6. The bracket assembly according to claim 5, wherein: the hinge portion is vertically opposed to the slide rail portion, the slide rail portion having a guide groove extending in a vertical direction; and an end of the second link of the one rod group is provided with a slide portion slidably embedded in the guide groove.

7. The bracket assembly according to claim 6, wherein: the slide rail portion is provided with a reinforcement rib extending in a periphery of the slide rail portion, an inner peripheral surface of the reinforcement rib being flush with an inner peripheral surface of the guide groove; and / or an inner side surface of the guide groove is provided with an engagement structure, wherein the engagement structure is arranged at an upper end and / or a lower end of the slide rail portion for positioning the bracket.

8. The bracket assembly according to claim 5, wherein the hinge portion is located above the slide rail portion.

9. The bracket assembly according to claim 3, wherein a plurality of carrying racks are provided, the plurality of carrying racks being in one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of rod groups, and each of the plurality of carrying racks being connected to one link of the first link and the second link of a corresponding rod group.

10. The bracket assembly according to claim 9, wherein: the one link is provided with buckles at two ends of the one link; and the carrying rack is provided with hooks at two ends of the carrying rack, the hooks corresponding to the buckles and being each hooked on a corresponding buckle.

11. The bracket assembly according to claim 10, wherein the carrying rack comprises a third link, two ends of the third link being respectively connected to the hooks, and the third link being bent at connections between the third link and the hooks and abutting against the buckles.

12. The bracket assembly according to claim 6, wherein two stowable racks are provided and spaced apart from each other, the carrying rack being connected between the two stowable racks, and support frames being connected to the two stowable racks in one-to-one correspondence.

13. The bracket assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein a plurality of carrying racks are provided and arranged at intervals in a direction toward or away from the support frame, wherein: the plurality of carrying racks are located close to one another in the stowed state of the bracket; and the plurality of carrying racks are separated from one another in the deployed state of the bracket to support the item.

14. The bracket assembly according to claim 13, wherein the carrying rack comprises: a backrest arranged vertically; and a base tray connected to a lower end of the backrest and adapted to support the item placed on the carrying rack.

15. The bracket assembly according to claim 14, wherein: the backrest comprises a plurality of first transverse rods and a plurality of first vertical rods, the plurality of first vertical rods extending vertically and being arranged at intervals in a transverse direction, the plurality of first transverse rods being connected to the plurality of first vertical rods, each of the plurality of first vertical rods having a lower end connected to the base tray; and the base tray and the vertical rod form an "L" shape with an upward opening in the deployed state of the bracket.

16. A tableware rack, comprising: a tableware basket; and the bracket assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 15, the support frame being connected to the tableware basket and configured to support the bracket assembly, and the bracket being suspended above a bottom wall of the tableware basket.

17. The tableware rack according to claim 16, wherein: the support frame has a mounting cavity; a lower end of the support frame has a mounting opening; the support frame is provided with a snap fastener; and the tableware basket is provided with a fixing frame, the fixing frame being inserted into the support frame through the mounting opening and clamped by the snap fastener.

18. A dishwasher, comprising: a body defining a washing chamber that is open at a front side of the washing chamber; and the tableware rack according to any one of claim 16 or claim 17, the tableware rack being disposed in the washing chamber.

19. The dishwasher according to claim 18, wherein: a plurality of tableware racks are vertically arranged in the body; and / or the tableware rack is disposed in the body in the first direction in a drawable manner.

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