Dishwasher

Abstract

To wash many kinds of dishes appropriately.SOLUTION: A dishwasher washes many kinds of used dishes. A conveyance unit conveys a housing basket housing the dishes by the kind along a conveyance path. A brush unit has a brush washing specific dishes of the many kinds of dishes and moves the brush between an evacuation position evacuating from the conveyance path and an entrance position entering the conveyance path. A washing nozzle jets washing liquid to the housing basket during conveyance on the conveyance path. The conveyance unit temporarily stops the housing basket at a brush washing position in the conveyance path when the housing basket housing the specific dishes is conveyed. The conveyance unit conveys the housing basket without stopping it at the brush washing position when a housing basket housing dishes other than the specific dishes is conveyed. The brush unit moves the brush from the evacuation position to the entrance position to wash the specific dishes while the housing basket stops at the brush washing position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a dishwashing machine for washing a variety of types of dishes. [Background technology]

[0002] The automatic dishwashing brush washing device described in Patent Document 1 is provided with washing brushes for brushing the inner surfaces of used dishes intermittently carried by a conveyor, rotating washing brushes for brushing the outer surfaces of the dishes, and washing nozzle pipes for spraying warm water. Here, the washing brushes are connected to a lifting means, which moves the washing brushes between a position below the conveyor and a position where they come into contact with the dishes carried by the conveyor. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Utility Model Registration No. 3068761 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In Patent Document 1, it is assumed that the same type of tableware is washed, and washing multiple types of tableware is not assumed. An object of the present invention is to provide a tableware washing device that can properly wash multiple types of tableware. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention is a dishwashing device for washing multiple types of used tableware, and includes a transport unit, a brush unit, and a washing nozzle. The transport unit transports storage baskets containing tableware by type along a transport path. The brush unit has a brush for washing specific tableware among the multiple types of tableware, and moves the brush between a retracted position where it is retracted from the transport path and an entry position where it is entered into the transport path. The washing nozzle sprays washing liquid toward the storage basket being transported along the transport path.

[0006] When the transport unit transports a storage basket containing the specified tableware, it temporarily stops the storage basket at a brush cleaning position in the transport path. When the transport unit transports a storage basket containing tableware other than the specified tableware, it transports the storage basket without stopping it at the brush cleaning position. When the storage basket is stopped at the brush cleaning position, the brush unit moves the brush from the retracted position to the entry position to wash the specified tableware. Here, when the transport unit transports a storage basket containing tableware other than the specified tableware along the transport path, the brush unit can keep the brush stopped at the retracted position.

[0007] The dishwashing apparatus may be provided with a discrimination means for discriminating whether or not the storage basket transported by the transport unit is a storage basket containing specific dishes. The transport unit and the brush unit may operate according to the discrimination result of the discrimination means.

[0008] The brush unit can move the multiple brushes as a unit between a retracted position and an entry position. Here, the multiple brushes can be positioned at positions corresponding to the storage positions of the multiple specific tableware in the storage basket. The transport unit can be composed of a rail and a drive unit. The rail is positioned along the transport path and guides wheels provided on the storage basket. The drive unit engages with a pin provided on the storage basket to move the storage basket along the rail.

[0009] The dishwashing machine may be provided with an input port and an input side lifting unit. A storage basket containing used tableware is placed at the input port. The input side lifting unit supports the storage basket placed at the input port and lowers the storage basket from the input port to place it on the transport unit. Meanwhile, the dishwashing machine may be provided with a discharge port and a discharge side lifting unit. The storage basket containing washed tableware is discharged from the discharge port. The discharge side lifting unit supports the washed storage basket placed on the transport unit and lifts it towards the discharge port.

[0010] The specific tableware may be a cup. Here, the brush may be composed of a first sub-brush and a second sub-brush. When the brush is in the approach position, the first sub-brush cleans the inner wall surface of the cup, and the second sub-brush cleans the outer wall surface of the cup. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, the washing method of the tableware is switched according to the type of tableware. That is, for certain types of tableware, the washing liquid is sprayed from the washing nozzle and the tableware is washed with a brush, and for other types of tableware, the washing liquid is sprayed from the washing nozzle. This allows multiple types of tableware to be washed appropriately. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an external view of a dishwashing apparatus. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of a dishwashing apparatus; [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the transport unit, with the storage basket in a pre-cleaning standby position; [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the transport unit, with the storage basket in a standby position after cleaning; [Diagram 5] This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the input side lifting unit and the output side lifting unit, showing the state when the storage basket is installed at the input port and the output port. [Figure 6] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams showing the structure of the input side lifting unit and the output side lifting unit, respectively, when the storage basket is in the pre-washing standby position and the post-washing standby position. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the brush unit, in which the brush is in a retracted position. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the brush unit, in which the brush is in the advanced position; [Figure 9] FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is an external view of a storage basket containing tableware. [Figure 12] FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is an external view of a storage basket containing tableware. [Figure 14] FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is an external view of a storage basket containing tableware. [Figure 16] 11 is a flowchart illustrating the transport process and cleaning process of a storage basket containing used tableware. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] (Dishwashing Equipment 1) Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing the exterior of a dishwashing machine 1 according to this embodiment. An input port 1a and a discharge port 1b are provided on the top surface of the dishwashing machine 1. A storage basket containing multiple used dishes is input into the input port 1a. Inside the dishwashing machine 1, the multiple dishes are washed while they are stored in the storage basket. The storage basket containing the washed dishes is discharged from the discharge port 1b.

[0014] A pair of vertical walls 1c, 1d protruding upward are provided around the input port 1a, and the pair of vertical walls 1c, 1d are arranged in directions perpendicular to each other in a plane including the input port 1a. Specifically, the vertical wall 1c is arranged on the back side of the dishwashing apparatus 1 with respect to the input port 1a, and the vertical wall 1d is arranged on the side of the outlet 1b with respect to the input port 1a. By bringing the storage basket into contact with the vertical walls 1c, 1d, it becomes easier to insert the storage basket into the input port 1a while positioning it.

[0015] 2 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the dishwashing machine 1. The internal structure of the dishwashing machine 1 will now be described.

[0016] A number of stoppers 11 that support the storage basket are arranged below the input port 1a, and when an operator inputs a storage basket containing a number of used dishes into the input port 1a, the storage basket is supported by the number of stoppers 11. Here, a number of storage baskets can be stacked vertically at the input port 1a, and only the lowest storage basket can be taken into the dishwashing apparatus 1 by operating the stoppers 11 between a position that supports the storage basket and a position that retracts it from the storage basket.

[0017] A number of stoppers 12 are disposed below the outlet 1b to support the storage basket. The storage basket containing a number of washed dishes rises toward the outlet 1b, and when the storage basket rises to the position where the stoppers 12 are disposed, the storage basket is supported by the stoppers 12. This allows an operator to remove the storage basket supported by the stoppers 12 from the dishwashing apparatus 1. Here, by operating the stoppers 12 between the position where the storage basket is supported and the position where the stoppers are retracted from the storage basket, the washed storage baskets can be stacked from the bottom up.

[0018] Inside the dishwashing apparatus 1, multiple washing nozzles 13 are arranged to spray washing liquid toward a basket in which multiple dishes are stored. Some washing nozzles 13 are arranged above the basket transport path and spray washing liquid from above onto the dishes stored in the basket. Other washing nozzles 13 are arranged below the basket transport path and spray washing liquid from below onto the dishes stored in the basket. The washing liquid sprayed from the washing nozzles 13 can be discharged from the bottom of the dishwashing apparatus 1.

[0019] Arranged inside the dishwashing apparatus 1 are a transport unit 20, a loading side lifting unit 30, a dispensing side lifting unit 40, and a brush unit 50. Each of the units 20 to 50 will be described in detail below.

[0020] (Transport unit 20) The structure of the transport unit 20 will be described with reference to Figs. 3 and 4. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing a storage basket containing multiple used dishes in a pre-washing standby position, and Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a storage basket containing multiple washed dishes in a post-washing standby position. Note that the input side lifting unit 30 and the discharge side lifting unit 40 are omitted in Figs. 3 and 4. The pre-washing standby position is a position where the transport unit 20 receives the storage basket 60 that has been lowered from the input port 1a, and is a position where the storage basket 60 is made to wait before washing the dishes. The post-washing standby position is a position where the storage basket 60 is made to wait immediately after washing the dishes in order to raise the storage basket 60 toward the discharge port 1b.

[0021] The transport unit 20 moves a storage basket 60, which stores a plurality of tableware, in a predetermined direction (left and right direction in FIG. 2) from a pre-washing standby position to a post-washing standby position. The transport unit 20 has a drive motor 21, a power transmission mechanism 22, a pair of brackets 23, a drive screw 24, a guide bar 25, a moving body 26, and a pair of rails 27.

[0022] A power transmission mechanism 22 is connected to the output shaft of the drive motor 21, and one end of a drive screw 24 is connected to the power transmission mechanism 22. As a result, the rotational force of the drive motor 21 is transmitted to the drive screw 24 via the power transmission mechanism 22, causing the drive screw 24 to rotate. The drive motor 21 operates upon receiving a drive signal from a controller (not shown).

[0023] Both ends of drive screw 24 are rotatably supported by a pair of brackets 23 fixed inside dishwashing apparatus 1, and drive screw 24 passes through a first through hole formed in movable body 26. Here, a threaded portion formed on the outer circumferential surface of drive screw 24 engages with a threaded portion formed on the inner circumferential surface of the first through hole. Meanwhile, both ends of guide bar 25 are fixed to the pair of brackets 23, and guide bar 25 passes through a second through hole formed in movable body 26.

[0024] When the drive screw 24 is rotated, the threaded portion of the drive screw 24 and the threaded portion of the first through hole mesh with each other, thereby moving the movable body 26 along the longitudinal direction of the drive screw 24. Here, since the guide bar 25 is engaged with the second through hole of the movable body 26, the movable body 26 is prevented from rotating about the axis of the drive screw 24, and the movable body 26 can be moved only in the longitudinal direction of the drive screw 24. When the drive screw 24 is rotated forward, the movable body 26 can be moved from the pre-cleaning standby position to the post-cleaning standby position, and when the drive screw 24 is rotated backward, the movable body 26 can be moved from the post-cleaning standby position to the pre-cleaning standby position.

[0025] A support portion 26a is provided at the upper end of the moving body 26, and the support portion 26a supports a pin 61 provided on the storage cage 60. The storage cage 60 is also provided with wheels 62, which engage with the rails 27 and are movable along the rails 27. Although a pair of wheels 62 provided on one side of the storage cage 60 is shown in Figs. 3 and 4, a pair of wheels (not shown) is also provided on the opposite side of the storage cage 60. A pair of rails 27 is arranged so as to engage with the wheels 62 arranged on both sides of the storage cage 60, and each rail 27 extends in the transport direction of the storage cage 60 (the left-right direction in Figs. 3 and 4).

[0026] When the support portion 26a of the movable body 26 supports the pin 61 of the storage basket 60, the movable body 26 moves along the drive screw 24, so that the storage basket 60 can be moved along the pair of rails 27. This allows the storage basket 60 to move in the direction of arrow D1 from the pre-cleaning standby position (FIG. 3) to the post-cleaning standby position (FIG. 4). Here, by controlling the drive of the drive motor 21, the position of the movable body 26 in the longitudinal direction of the drive screw 24 can be controlled.

[0027] After moving the storage basket 60 to the post-wash standby position (FIG. 4) and dispensing the storage basket 60 to the dispensing outlet 1b, the drive motor 21 reversely rotates the drive screw 24 to move the movable body 26 in the direction of arrow D2 in FIG. 4 from the post-wash standby position (FIG. 4) back to the pre-wash standby position (FIG. 3). This enables the movable body 26 to receive another storage basket 60 at the pre-wash standby position.

[0028] (Input-side lifting unit 30 and output-side lifting unit 40) Next, the structures of the input side lifting unit 30 and the dispensing side lifting unit 40 will be described with reference to Figs. 5 and 6. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the input side lifting unit 30 and the dispensing side lifting unit 40 when they are both in an elevated state, and Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the input side lifting unit 30 and the dispensing side lifting unit 40 when they are both in a lowered state. Here, the input side lifting unit 30 and the dispensing side lifting unit 40 operate independently of each other. Note that the transport unit 20 is omitted in Figs. 5 and 6.

[0029] The input side lifting unit 30 has an electric cylinder 31, a drive arm 32, a guide member 33, and a lifter 34. The electric cylinder 31 operates upon receiving a drive signal from a controller (not shown). The electric cylinder 31 has a rod 31a that is movable in the vertical direction, and a base end of a drive arm 32 is connected to a tip end of the rod 31a. Here, the tip end of the rod 31a and the base end of the drive arm 32 are rotatably connected via a shaft portion 32a.

[0030] The drive arm 32 is rotatable about the shaft portion 32b, and the tip portion 32c of the drive arm 32 is formed in a U-shape. The guide member 33 has a guide hole 33a extending in the vertical direction, and a lifter 34 that is movable in the vertical direction is housed inside the guide member 33. The lifter 34 is provided with a guide pin 34a, which passes through the guide hole 33a and protrudes to the outside of the guide member 33. The tip portion 32c of the drive arm 32 engages with the guide pin 34a.

[0031] When the input side lifting unit 30 is in the raised state (FIG. 5), the upper end of the lifter 34 supports the storage cage 60 installed at the input port 1a. Here, at the input port 1a, the storage cage 60 is supported by a plurality of stoppers 11, and the upper end of the lifter 34 comes into contact with the storage cage 60, whereby the storage cage 60 is supported by the lifter 34.

[0032] 5, when the electric cylinder 31 is driven to move the rod 31a upward, the drive arm 32 rotates counterclockwise about the shaft 32b. Then, the tip 32c of the drive arm 32 moves the guide pin 34a downward along the guide hole 33a, thereby moving the lifter 34 in the direction of the arrow D3.

[0033] By moving the lifter 34 in the direction of the arrow D3, the storage basket 60 supported by the upper end of the lifter 34 moves downward, and assumes the state shown in Fig. 6. When the storage basket 60 is moved downward, the stopper 11 moves away from the storage basket 60. Although the transport unit 20 is omitted in Fig. 6, when the input side lifting unit 30 lowers the storage basket 60 to the position shown in Fig. 6, as shown in Fig. 3, the pin 61 of the storage basket 60 is supported by the support portion 26a of the movable body 26, and the wheel 62 of the storage basket 60 comes into contact with the rail 27. As a result, the storage basket 60 is placed in the pre-cleaning standby position (Fig. 3).

[0034] After the transport unit 20 transports the storage basket 60, in the input-side lifting unit 30 in the lowered state (FIG. 6), the electric cylinder 31 is driven to move the rod 31a downward, causing the drive arm 32 to rotate clockwise about the shaft 32b. Then, the tip 32c of the drive arm 32 moves the guide pin 34a upward along the guide hole 33a, thereby moving the lifter 34 in the direction of the arrow D5. This returns the input-side lifting unit 30 to the state shown in FIG.

[0035] The dispensing side lifting unit 40 has an electric cylinder 41, a drive arm 42, a guide member 43, and a lifter 44. The electric cylinder 41 operates upon receiving a drive signal from a controller (not shown). The electric cylinder 41 has a rod 41a that can move in the vertical direction, and a base end of a drive arm 42 is connected to a tip end of the rod 41a. Here, the tip end of the rod 41a and the base end of the drive arm 42 are rotatably connected via a shaft portion 42a.

[0036] The drive arm 42 is rotatable about the shaft portion 42b, and the tip portion 42c of the drive arm 42 is formed in a U-shape. The guide member 43 has a guide hole 43a extending in the vertical direction, and a lifter 44 that is movable in the vertical direction is housed inside the guide member 43. The lifter 44 is provided with a guide pin 44a, which passes through the guide hole 43a and protrudes to the outside of the guide member 43. The tip portion 42c of the drive arm 42 engages with the guide pin 44a.

[0037] Although the transport unit 20 is omitted in FIG. 6, when the storage basket 60 moves to the post-cleaning standby position (FIG. 4), the upper end of the lifter 44 can support the storage basket 60. Specifically, in the state shown in FIG. 6, when the electric cylinder 41 is driven to move the rod 41a downward, the drive arm 42 rotates counterclockwise around the shaft 42b. Then, the tip 42c of the drive arm 42 moves the guide pin 44a upward along the guide hole 43a, thereby moving the lifter 44 in the direction of the arrow D6. As a result, the upper end of the lifter 44 comes into contact with the storage basket 60 and supports the storage basket 60.

[0038] When the rod 41a is moved further downward, the lifter 44 moves further upward, and the storage basket 60 supported by the upper end of the lifter 44 can be raised to the dispensing opening 1b. In the state shown in Fig. 5, the storage basket 60 is supported by a plurality of stoppers 12 provided at the dispensing opening 1b, and the worker can remove the storage basket 60 containing the washed tableware from the dispensing opening 1b.

[0039] When the dispensing-side lifting unit 40 is in the state shown in Fig. 5, the electric cylinder 41 is driven to move the rod 41a upward, causing the drive arm 42 to rotate clockwise about the shaft 42b. The tip 42c of the drive arm 42 then moves the guide pin 44a downward along the guide hole 43a, thereby moving the lifter 44 in the direction of the arrow D4. This returns the dispensing-side lifting unit 40 to the state shown in Fig. 6.

[0040] (Brush unit 50) Next, the structure of the brush unit 50 will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 9. Here, Figure 7 is a diagram of the brush unit 50 in the retracted state, Figure 8 is a diagram of the brush unit 50 in the advanced state, and Figure 9 is a top view of the brush.

[0041] The brush unit 50 includes an electric cylinder 51, a brush driving unit 52, and a plurality of brushes 53. The electric cylinder 51 operates upon receiving a drive signal from a controller (not shown). The electric cylinder 51 includes a rod 51a that can move in the vertical direction, and a brush driving unit 52 is connected to the tip of the rod 51a. On the upper surface of the brush driving unit 52, a number of rotating shafts 52a equal to the total number of brushes 53 are provided, and a brush 53 is connected to the tip of each rotating shaft 52a. A motor (not shown) is disposed inside the brush driving unit 52, and the brush 53 can be rotated around the axis of the rotating shaft 52a by transmitting the power of the motor to each rotating shaft 52a to rotate each rotating shaft 52a.

[0042] When the brush unit 50 is in the retracted state, as shown in Fig. 7, the brushes 53 are positioned below the rails 27. This allows the storage basket 60 to be transported along the rails 27 without interfering with the brushes 53.

[0043] In the state shown in Fig. 7, when the electric cylinder 51 is driven to move the rod 51a upward, the brush driving unit 52 moves in the direction indicated by the arrow D7, and the multiple brushes 53 move above the rail 27. This brings the brush unit 50 into the state shown in Fig. 8. In the state shown in Fig. 8, when the electric cylinder 51 is driven to move the rod 51a downward, the brush driving unit 52 moves in the direction indicated by the arrow D8, and the multiple brushes 53 move below the rail 27. This returns the brush unit 50 to the state shown in Fig. 7.

[0044] After the transport unit 20 stops the storage basket 60 at a position corresponding to the brush unit 50 (hereinafter referred to as the "brush cleaning position"), the brush unit 50 is operated from the retracted state (Fig. 7) to the advanced state (Fig. 8), whereby the tableware stored in the storage basket 60 can be cleaned by the brush 53. The structure of the brush 53 and cleaning of the tableware by the brush 53 will be described below.

[0045] 8 and 9, the brush 53 has a first sub-brush 53a and a second sub-brush 53b, and the first sub-brush 53a and the second sub-brush 53b are fixed to a base 53c. The base 53c is connected to a rotation shaft 52a of the brush driving unit 52, and the base 53c rotates when the rotation shaft 52a rotates. Here, the first sub-brush 53a and the rotation shaft 52a are arranged coaxially (rotation shaft AXL shown in FIG. 9), and the first sub-brush 53a and the second sub-brush 53b rotate around the rotation shaft AXL.

[0046] Brush 53 is used to wash cups (a type of tableware). Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing storage basket 60A for storing cups, and Fig. 11 is a view showing a state in which multiple cups C1 are stored in storage basket 60A. Storage basket 60A is used to store only cups.

[0047] 10, the storage cage 60A has a base frame 63, and as described above, the pins 61 and a pair of wheels 62 are provided on each of the two side surfaces of the base frame 63. Support columns 64 extending in the vertical direction are provided on the four corners of the base frame 63, and auxiliary frames 65 formed along the outer edge of the base frame 63 are fixed to these support columns 64. In the storage cage 60A, the auxiliary frames 65 are fixed to the upper ends of the support columns 64.

[0048] A plurality of first support frames 66 are arranged in a line in a predetermined direction inside the base frame 63, and both ends of each first support frame 66 are fixed to the inner surface of the base frame 63. A plurality of second support frames 67 are fixed to each first support frame 66 and arranged at predetermined intervals. As shown in FIG. 11, the cup C1 can be stored in the storage basket 60A with the cup C1 turned upside down so that the second support frames 67 are located inside the cup C1. Here, the opening of the cup C1 is supported by the first support frames 66.

[0049] When the brush unit 50 is moved from the retreated state (FIG. 7) to the advanced state (FIG. 8) in a state in which the storage basket 60A containing the cups C1 is stopped at a position corresponding to the brush unit 50, each brush 53 comes into contact with each cup C1. Here, the brush 53 comes into contact with the cup C1 by passing through a space formed between two adjacent first support frames 66 of the storage basket 60A. The multiple brushes 53 are also disposed in the brush drive unit 52 at positions corresponding to the storage positions of the multiple cups C1 in the storage basket 60A. This allows each brush 53 to come into contact with each cup C1.

[0050] As described above, by determining in advance the storage position of each cup C1 in the storage basket 60A, it is possible to determine the positions at which the brushes 53 are arranged. Furthermore, when the worker stores the cup C1 in the storage basket 60A, the position at which the second support frame 67 is provided and the shape of the second support frame 67 can be appropriately determined so that each cup C1 is placed in the desired storage position.

[0051] When the brush 53 comes into contact with the cup C1, the first sub-brush 53a enters the inside of the cup C1 and comes into contact with the inner wall surface of the cup C1, and the second sub-brush 53b comes into contact with the outer wall surface of the cup C1. A part of the cup C1 is located between the first sub-brush 53a and the second sub-brush 53b.

[0052] After the brush 53 is brought into contact with the cup C1, the brush 53 is rotated around the rotation axis AXL (FIG. 9), whereby the first sub-brush 53a slides on the inner wall surface of the cup C1 and the second sub-brush 53b slides on the outer wall surface of the cup C1, thereby removing dirt adhering to the inner and outer wall surfaces of the cup C1.

[0053] The dishwashing apparatus 1 can also wash types of tableware other than cups C1. Figs. 12 to 15 show storage baskets (examples) for storing other types of tableware. The storage basket 60B shown in Figs. 12 and 13 is used for storing rectangular dishes (a type of tableware) C2, and the storage basket 60C shown in Figs. 14 and 15 is used for storing circular dishes (a type of tableware) C3. In this embodiment, storage baskets 60 (storage baskets 60A to 60C) are used according to the types of tableware (cups C1 and dishes C2, C3).

[0054] The storage cage 60B shown in Fig. 12 has the same basic structure as the storage cage 60A shown in Fig. 10, and the same reference numerals are used for components in the storage cage 60B that have the same functions as the components in the storage cage 60A. Compared to the storage cage 60A, the storage cage 60B has three auxiliary frames 65 fixed to the support columns 64, and the three auxiliary frames 65 are arranged at predetermined intervals.

[0055] The second support frame 67 of the storage basket 60B is used to support the dish C2 in an upright state, and the multiple second support frames 67 are arranged at predetermined intervals in the longitudinal direction of the first support frame 66. The second support frames 67 are fixed to two different first support frames 66. That is, one end of the second support frame 67 is fixed to one of the first support frames 66, and the other end of the second support frame 67 is fixed to the other first support frame 66.

[0056] The storage cage 60C shown in Fig. 14 has the same basic structure as the storage cage 60A shown in Fig. 10, and the same reference numerals are used for components in the storage cage 60C that have the same functions as the components in the storage cage 60A. Compared to the storage cage 60A, the storage cage 60C has three auxiliary frames 65 fixed to the support columns 64, and the three auxiliary frames 65 are arranged at predetermined intervals.

[0057] The second support frame 67 of the storage cage 60C is used to support the dish C3 in an upright state, and the multiple second support frames 67 are arranged at predetermined intervals in the longitudinal direction of the first support frame 66. The second support frames 67 are fixed to two different first support frames 66. That is, one end of the second support frame 67 is fixed to one of the first support frames 66, and the other end of the second support frame 67 is fixed to the other first support frame 66.

[0058] When cleaning the storage basket 60B containing the dish C2 or cleaning the storage basket 60C containing the dish C3, the brush unit 50 remains in the retracted state (FIG. 7). The storage baskets 60B, 60C are transported by the transport unit 20 along the pair of rails 27, and the cleaning liquid is sprayed from the cleaning nozzle 13 onto the storage baskets 60B, 60C during transportation, thereby cleaning the dishes C2, C3.

[0059] The operation of the brush unit 50 is controlled by identifying the type of tableware contained in the storage basket 60 (i.e., storage baskets 60A to 60C). As described above, when cleaning the storage basket 60A containing the glass C1, the brush unit 50 is operated from the retracted state (Fig. 7) to the advanced state (Fig. 8), and when cleaning the storage baskets 60B and 60C containing the dishes C2 and C3, the brush unit 50 is maintained in the retracted state (Fig. 7).

[0060] (Identification of storage cage 60) As described above, in order to control the drive of the brush unit 50, it is necessary to distinguish between the storage cage 60A and the storage cages 60B and 60C. When the storage cage 60A is identified, the brush unit 50 is operated between the retracted state (FIG. 7) and the entered state (FIG. 8). On the other hand, when the storage cage 60A is not identified, in other words, when the storage cages 60B and 60C are identified, the brush unit 50 is maintained in the retracted state (FIG. 7).

[0061] The means for identifying the storage cage 60A include the following three exemplary identification means. However, the means are not limited to those described below, and any known means may be appropriately adopted as long as the storage cage 60A can be identified.

[0062] The first identification means may be a sensor, such as a reading sensor that reads identification information such as code information (one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code) or an optical sensor that includes a light-projecting element that irradiates detection light and a light-receiving element that receives the detection light.

[0063] When using a reading sensor, identification information for specifying the type of tableware contained in the storage basket 60 is provided on the storage basket 60, and the identification information can be read by the reading sensor to identify the type of tableware contained in the storage basket 60. Here, the identification information can be printed directly on the storage basket 60, or a sticker with the identification information printed on it can be affixed to the storage basket 60. The identification information can be read before the storage basket 60 is transported by the transport unit 20.

[0064] When an optical sensor is used, the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60 can be identified by varying the light receiving state of the detection light at the light receiving element depending on the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60. Specifically, a light shielding portion that blocks the detection light is provided in the storage basket 60, and the shape of the light shielding portion is varied depending on the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60 (specifically, storage baskets 60A-60C), thereby making it possible to vary the light receiving state of the detection light at the light receiving element. Then, based on the light receiving state of the detection light, the type of tableware corresponding to this light receiving state can be identified.

[0065] On the other hand, instead of blocking the detection light, the reflection state of the detection light can be changed depending on the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60, thereby changing the reception state of the detection light at the light receiving element. Specifically, a reflecting section that reflects the detection light can be provided in the storage basket 60, and the position of the reflecting section can be changed depending on the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60. If an optical sensor is provided at each position of the reflecting section, the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60 can be identified based on the reception state of the detection light at each optical sensor.

[0066] A switch can be used as the second identification means. The shape of a part of the storage basket 60 is made different depending on the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60, and the storage basket 60A can be identified by making only the storage basket 60A of the storage baskets 60A to 60C come into contact with the switch. As an example of making the shape of the storage basket 60 different, the length of the pin 61 of the storage basket 60A can be made longer than the length of the pin 61 of the storage baskets 60B and 60C. Then, if the switch is disposed at a position where only the pin 61 of the storage basket 60A comes into contact, the storage basket 60A can be identified based on the output of the switch.

[0067] As a third identification means, an input unit for inputting information indicating that storage basket 60A is placed at input port 1a can be provided in dishwashing apparatus 1. If an operator operates the input unit when placing storage basket 60A at input port 1a, storage basket 60A can be identified based on the output signal of the input unit. Here, a touch panel, buttons, etc. can be used as the input unit.

[0068] (Drive control of the transport unit 20 and the brush unit 50) Next, the drive control of the conveying unit 20 and the brush unit 50 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 16. The process shown in Fig. 16 is executed by a controller (not shown) provided in the dishwashing machine 1. In the following description, the operation of the dishwashing machine 1 is controlled by one controller, but this control can also be distributed among multiple controllers. The process shown in Fig. 16 is started when the input-side lifting unit 30 lowers the storage basket 60 installed at the input port 1a and places it in the pre-wash standby position.

[0069] In step S101, the controller determines whether the storage basket 60 in the pre-cleaning standby position (FIG. 3) is the storage basket 60A that contains the used cup C1. The above-mentioned identification means can be used as a method for this determination. When the storage basket 60A is in the pre-cleaning standby position, the process proceeds to step S102, and when a storage basket 60 other than the storage basket 60A (specifically, the storage baskets 60B and 60C) is in the pre-cleaning standby position, the process proceeds to step S109.

[0070] In step S102, the controller starts spraying the cleaning liquid from the cleaning nozzle 13. In step S103, the controller starts transporting the storage basket 60A by driving the transport unit 20 (specifically, the drive motor 21). As a result, the storage basket 60A is transported from the pre-cleaning standby position (FIG. 3) to the post-cleaning standby position (FIG. 4).

[0071] In step S104, the controller temporarily stops the transport of the storage basket 60A at the brush cleaning position. Here, the brush unit 50 is in the retracted state (FIG. 7), and the storage basket 60A is located above the brush 53. In step S105, the controller drives the brush unit 50 to clean the cup C1 stored in the storage basket 60A. Specifically, the brush unit 50 changes from the retracted state to the advanced state, causing the brush 53 to come into contact with the cup C1 and clean the inner and outer wall surfaces of the cup C1.

[0072] In step S106, the controller drives the transport unit 20 to resume transport of the storage basket 60A that was stopped at the brush cleaning position. In step S107, the controller controls the drive of the transport unit 20 to stop the storage basket 60A at the post-cleaning standby position. In step S108, the controller ends the spraying of cleaning liquid from the cleaning nozzle 13. The storage basket 60A that was stopped at the post-cleaning standby position is moved from the post-cleaning standby position to the dispensing outlet 1b by the dispensing-side lifting unit 40.

[0073] In step S109, the controller starts spraying the cleaning liquid from the cleaning nozzle 13. In step S110, the controller starts transporting the storage baskets 60B, 60C by driving the transport unit 20. As a result, the storage baskets 60B, 60C are transported from the pre-cleaning standby position (FIG. 3) to the post-cleaning standby position (FIG. 4). After performing the process of step S110, the process proceeds to step S107.

[0074] In the process from step S109 to step S107, the brush unit 50 is maintained in the retracted state (Fig. 7), and the storage baskets 60B, 60C move from the pre-washing standby position (Fig. 3) to the post-washing standby position (Fig. 4) without stopping at the brush washing position. Since the storage baskets 60B, 60C store the tableware C2, C3 in an upright state, the tableware C2, C3 can be washed by spraying washing liquid from the washing nozzles 13 arranged above and below the conveying path.

[0075] The timing of steps S102 and S109 (start of spraying cleaning liquid) and step S108 (end of spraying cleaning liquid) is not limited to the timing described in the flow chart of Fig. 16, but can be determined appropriately. In other words, it is sufficient if the tableware stored in the storage basket 60 can be washed with the cleaning liquid.

[0076] The storage baskets 60B, 60C can also be temporarily stopped on the transport path from the pre-cleaning standby position (FIG. 3) to the post-cleaning standby position (FIG. 4). Specifically, the storage baskets 60B, 60C can be temporarily stopped at a position where the cleaning liquid sprayed from the cleaning nozzle 13 reaches the storage baskets 60B, 60C. Here, the position where the storage baskets 60B, 60C are temporarily stopped can be appropriately determined in consideration of the above points, and is not limited to the brush cleaning position where the storage basket 60A is temporarily stopped. Depending on the dirt adhering to the dishes C2, C3 stored in the storage baskets 60B, 60C, the dirt adhering to the dishes C2, C3 can be easily removed by temporarily stopping the storage baskets 60B, 60C and continuing to spray the cleaning liquid from the cleaning nozzle 13.

[0077] In this embodiment, the brush 53 is used for washing the cup C1, but the structure of the brush 53 can be changed as appropriate depending on the type of tableware to be washed. That is, the structure of the brush 53 can be designed to be capable of washing a specific type of tableware. Also, in this embodiment, the brush unit 50 is operated to wash the cup C1, but the brush unit 50 can be operated to wash a specific type of tableware other than the cup C1. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 1: dishwashing device, 1a: inlet, 1b: outlet, 13: washing nozzle, 20: transport unit, 26: moving body, 27: rail, 30: input side lifting unit, 40: discharge side lifting unit, 50: brush unit, 53: brush, 53a: first sub-brush, 53b: second sub-brush, 60, 60A, 60B, 60C: storage cage, 61: pin, 62: wheel,

Claims

1. A dishwashing machine for washing a plurality of types of used dishes, a conveying unit that conveys storage baskets in which tableware is accommodated by type along a conveying path; a brush unit having a brush for cleaning a specific type of tableware among a plurality of types of tableware, and moving the brush between a retracted position where the brush is retracted from the conveying path and an entrance position where the brush is entered into the conveying path; a cleaning nozzle that sprays a cleaning liquid toward the storage basket being transported along the transport path, When the transport unit transports a storage basket containing the specific tableware, the transport unit temporarily stops the storage basket at a brush cleaning position in the transport path, and when the transport unit transports a storage basket containing tableware other than the specific tableware, the transport unit transports the storage basket without stopping the storage basket at the brush cleaning position; The dishwashing apparatus is characterized in that, when the storage basket is stopped at the brush washing position, the brush unit moves the brush from the retracted position to the entry position to wash the specific dish.

2. The dishwashing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that when the transport unit transports a storage basket containing dishes other than the specific dishes along the transport path, the brush unit keeps the brush stopped in the retracted position.

3. a determining means for determining whether the storage basket transported by the transport unit is a storage basket containing the specific tableware, 2. The dishwashing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transport unit and the brush unit are operated in accordance with the result of the determination by the determination means.

4. The brush unit moves the plurality of brushes integrally between the retracted position and the advanced position, 4. The dishwashing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the brushes are arranged at positions corresponding to the storage positions of the specific dishes in the storage basket.

5. The transport unit includes: A rail is disposed along the conveying path and guides wheels provided on the storage cage; a drive unit that engages with a pin provided on the storage cage to move the storage cage along the rail; 2. The dishwashing machine of claim 1, further comprising:

6. an insertion port in which a storage basket for storing used tableware is placed; 2. The dishwashing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an input side lifting unit that supports the storage basket installed at the input port and lowers the storage basket from the input port to place it on the transport unit.

7. a dispensing outlet for dispensing a storage basket containing washed tableware; 7. The dishwashing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a discharge-side lifting unit which supports the washed storage basket placed on the transport unit and lifts it towards the discharge opening.

8. The specific tableware is a cup, 2. The dishwashing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the brush has a first sub-brush for cleaning an inner wall surface of the cup and a second sub-brush for cleaning an outer wall surface of the cup when in the entered position.

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