Cup washer

Abstract

A cup washer according to an embodiment may include a washing unit for washing cups placed in the cup washer. The washing unit may include a tub providing a space for accommodating cups, and a rack provided inside the tub for placing the cups. The rack may include a bottom for supporting the cups placed in the rack from below, a side portion protruding from one side of the tub for supporting the cups from one side, and tines protruding from the bottom toward the top of the tub.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cup washer, and more particularly to a cup washer for washing cups carried by a user. [Background technology]

[0002] The material described herein merely provides background information regarding the present invention and may not constitute prior art.

[0003] In recent years, in order to prevent environmental pollution, beverage counters have refrained from providing disposable cups to customers, and customers visiting the counters are increasingly carrying reusable cups such as tumblers and having their drinks poured into them.

[0004] In order to provide convenience to customers, i.e., users of reusable cups, it is necessary to provide a cup washer at the point of sale to wash the cups carried by users so that they can conveniently wash the cups they carry.

[0005] Therefore, cup washers that can wash cups carried by users can be installed in sales areas to provide users with the convenience of washing their own cups. These cup washers must have a structure that makes them easy for anyone to use.

[0006] The cup washer may be provided with a rack on which cups can be placed in the washing section. Related prior art is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication Nos. 10-2012-0107225 and 10-2014-0064119.

[0007] The rack provided in the washing section must have a structure that allows the cups to be washed and other items, such as cup lids and reusable straws, to be placed stably.

[0008] Meanwhile, detergent for washing the cups and rinse water for rinsing the cups may be injected into the washing unit during the washing process, and the washing unit needs to be provided with a structure that allows these detergents and rinse water to mix well with the water injected into the washing unit. If these structures are provided in the rack, washing efficiency can be improved.

[0009] In addition, after washing with water, air can be sprayed onto the cups, lids, straws, etc. to dry the water remaining on them. There is a need to develop a means to improve drying efficiency by providing a structure that allows the air to flow smoothly toward the rack on which the cups are placed. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] An object of the present invention is to provide a cup washer including a rack having a structure that allows for stable placement of objects to be washed, such as cups, cup lids, and reusable straws.

[0011] It is also an object of the present invention to provide a cup washer including a rack with a structure that allows detergent or rinse to be smoothly mixed with water.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a cup washer including a washing unit having a structure that allows air to flow smoothly toward cups placed on a rack for drying.

[0013] The objects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other objects and advantages of the present invention not mentioned above can be understood from the following description and can be more clearly understood from the examples of the present invention. Furthermore, it can be easily understood that the objects and advantages of the present invention can be achieved by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] An example of the cleaning unit may include a rack that is provided inside the tub, on which the cup is placed, and that is formed by connecting a plurality of wires to each other.

[0015] The rack may include a bottom portion that is mounted on the tub and supports the cups mounted on the rack from below, and a side portion that protrudes from one side of the tub and supports the cups mounted on the rack from one side.

[0016] The bottom may include a first inclined portion disposed so that its length direction is inclined relative to the lateral direction of the tub, and the side portion may include a second inclined portion connected to the first inclined portion and disposed so that its length direction is inclined relative to the up-down direction of the tub. The cup to be washed may have its bottom supported by the first inclined surface and its side supported by the second inclined surface.

[0017] The rack may include tines that protrude from the bottom toward the top of the tub and are at least partially disposed within the interior of a cup when the cup is placed on the rack. The tines may include a second section that is disposed such that its length is inclined relative to the length of the other section, thereby increasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the tine when viewed longitudinally.

[0018] The rack may include a first flow path guide disposed toward the wash water inlet to direct water flowing from the wash water inlet toward detergent flowing into the detergent inlet. The first flow path guide changes the flow direction of the wash water toward the detergent, allowing the detergent and water to mix smoothly with each other.

[0019] The tub may include a guide cone connected to the air inlet hole and disposed inside the tub to guide the flow of hot air flowing into the tub. A cross-sectional area of ​​a flow path formed in the guide cone may decrease toward an outlet of the guide cone.

[0020] The tub may include an auxiliary outlet that discharges water to the outside of the tub to adjust the water level inside the tub. The rack may include a second flow path guide that is disposed at a position corresponding to the auxiliary outlet and guides the flow path of water flowing from the auxiliary outlet into the inside of the tub. Water that flows back into the inside of the tub through the auxiliary outlet may be blocked by the second flow path guide so as not to come into contact with objects to be washed, such as cups, placed on the rack.

[0021] The cup washer according to an embodiment may include a washing unit that washes the cups stored therein.

[0022] The washing unit may include a tub that provides a space for accommodating cups, and a rack that is provided inside the tub and on which the cups are placed.

[0023] The rack may include a bottom portion that supports the cups placed on the rack from below, a side portion that protrudes to one side of the tub and supports the cups from one side, and tines that protrude from the bottom toward the upper side of the tub.

[0024] The bottom may include an edge portion that forms the edge of the bottom and is formed so that a portion thereof protrudes upward toward the tab, a first inclined portion that is positioned so that its length is inclined relative to the lateral direction of the tab, and a first folded portion that is bent from the first inclined portion and joined to the edge portion.

[0025] The side portion may include a vertical portion having one end connected to the edge portion and a lengthwise direction aligned with the vertical direction of the tab, a second bent portion bent from the vertical portion, and a second inclined portion extending from one end of the second bent portion and aligned with the vertical direction of the tab.

[0026] The tine may include a first section protruding from the bottom, a second section extending from the first section and positioned such that its length is inclined relative to the length of the first section, and a third section extending from the second section and positioned such that its length is inclined relative to the length of the second section.

[0027] The first and third sections may be arranged longitudinally alongside one another.

[0028] The tub may include a detergent inlet through which detergent flows, and a wash water inlet located above the detergent inlet and through which water flows into the tub, and the rack may include a first flow path guide portion connected to the bottom, located so as to face the wash water inlet, and guiding the flow direction of the water.

[0029] The first flow path guide portion may include a base portion that is connected to the bottom portion, and a first pad that is connected to the base portion and positioned at a position corresponding to the cleaning water inlet, changes the flow direction of the water flowing into the tub, and is formed in a curved shape in cross section to guide the water to flow toward the bottom of the tub.

[0030] The tub is disposed apart from the detergent inlet and includes a rinse inlet through which rinse flows, and the first flow path guide portion can direct water flowing in from the cleaning water inlet toward the rinse flowing in the rinse inlet.

[0031] The tub may include an air inlet through which air flows in for drying, and a guide cone connected to the air inlet to guide the flow of hot air flowing into the tub.

[0032] The guide cone may be configured so that a flow path through which air flows is formed inside the guide cone, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path decreases toward the outlet of the guide cone.

[0033] The guide cone may be provided pointing upwards towards the outlet.

[0034] The guide cone may be arranged such that the outlet is located below the first slope.

[0035] The tub may include an auxiliary outlet positioned at a height corresponding to the height of the bottom and configured to discharge water outside the tub, and the rack may include a second flow path guide portion positioned at a position corresponding to the auxiliary outlet and configured to guide the flow path of water flowing from the auxiliary outlet into the inside of the tub.

[0036] The second flow path guide portion may include a second pad that guides water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet so that it flows downward toward the tab, a third pad that is bent from the second pad and prevents water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet from flowing upward toward the tab, and an insertion hole formed to pass through the third pad.

[0037] The tub may include an outer panel and an inner panel disposed inside the outer panel, and the detergent inlet, the rinse inlet, and the cleaning water inlet may be formed to pass through the outer panel and the inner panel. [Effects of the Invention]

[0038] In the cup washer according to the present invention, a cup placed on the rack may be supported at its lower portion by a first inclined portion on the bottom and at its side by a second inclined portion on the side. Thus, the cup may be placed on the rack at an angle overall, so that not only the bottom of the cup but also the sides of the cup are supported by the rack. Therefore, the rack according to the embodiment allows cups to be placed more stably than a structure that supports only the bottom of the cup.

[0039] In addition, in the cup washer according to the present invention, the tines may include a second section that is tilted relative to the other sections, thereby effectively reducing the length of the tines and tightly securing the straws to the tines, allowing the straws to remain stably secured in the rack even when subjected to external impacts such as water jets.

[0040] In addition, in the cup washer according to the present invention, the rack may include a first flow path guide portion for guiding the flow direction of water adjacent to the wash water inlet of the tub. As a result, the water flowing into the tub can flow toward the detergent or rinse by the first flow path guide portion. As the flowing water mixes with the detergent or rinse, the water and the detergent or rinse can be smoothly mixed with each other, thereby improving the cleaning efficiency of the cup washer.

[0041] In addition, the cup washer according to the present invention may be provided with a guide cone through which air flows into the inside of the tub for drying. The guide cone guides the flow of air entering the tub and directs the air directly toward the object to be washed, such as a cup, at the outlet. With this structure, the drying efficiency of the cup washer can be significantly improved by using the guide cone to spray air directly onto the cup, etc., compared to when hot air is sprayed uniformly over the entire washing section.

[0042] In addition, in the cup washer according to the present invention, the second flow path guide is positioned so as to directly face the auxiliary outlet, and changes the flow direction of water that flows back through the auxiliary outlet and into the tub so that it flows toward the bottom of the tub, thereby preventing the backflowing contaminated water from flowing down onto cups placed on the rack and contaminating the cups.

[0043] The above-mentioned effects and specific effects of the present invention will be described in conjunction with the following description of the preferred embodiment of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0044] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a cup washer according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a view of FIG. 1 as seen from another direction. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the door of the cup washer according to the embodiment is open. [Figure 4]FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a cup washer with some parts omitted. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a side view of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a cleaning unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a front view showing a cleaning unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a side view showing a cleaning unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a rear view showing the cleaning unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a tab and rack according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a rack according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a side view showing a rack according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of the rack shown in FIG. 12. [Figure 14] 10 is a perspective view showing a rack to which a first flow path guide portion is added according to an embodiment; FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the rack shown in FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a rack with air inlet holes according to an embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a rack at a location where an air inlet hole is arranged. [Figure 18] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an auxiliary outlet and a second flow path guide portion according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0045] The above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the technical concept of the present invention. In describing the present invention, if a detailed description of known technologies relating to the present invention is deemed to obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals in the drawings are used to indicate the same or similar components.

[0046] Although terms such as "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, it is understood that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a first component may also be a second component.

[0047] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specified, each element may be singular or plural.

[0048] As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Terms such as "comprise" or "include" (comprise; constitute; construct; set; encompass; include; contain) in this application should not be interpreted as including all of the multiple components or multiple steps described in the specification, but should be interpreted as meaning that some of the components or some of the steps may not be included, or that additional components or steps may be further included.

[0049] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specified, "A and / or B" means A, B or A and B, and "C to D" means C or more and D or less.

[0050] Throughout the specification, "vertical direction" refers to the vertical direction of the cup washer when it is installed for daily use. "left-right direction" refers to the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, and "front-rear direction" refers to the direction perpendicular to both the vertical direction and the left-right direction. "Both sides" or "side directions" have meanings that include the left-right direction and the front-rear direction.

[0051] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a cup washer according to an embodiment, and Fig. 2 is a view of Fig. 1 as seen from another direction.

[0052] The cup washer according to the embodiment can be installed in a sales point where beverages are served. The user of the cup washer can be a customer who buys and drinks the beverage. In recent years, in order to protect the environment, service points have refrained from providing customers with disposable cups, and the scope of these restrictions is expanding.

[0053] Therefore, a cup washer may be provided at a service counter so that a user carrying a reusable cup can wash the cup and use it at the service counter. The cup to be washed may be a reusable cup such as a tumbler carried by the user. Therefore, the cup washer may have a structure that is convenient for the user to use.

[0054] A washing unit 130 for receiving and washing cups may be provided at the top of the cup washer. The washing unit 130 can be opened and closed by a door 150. In this case, the door 150 can be hinged and rotated in the vertical direction of the cup washer to open and close the washing unit 130.

[0055] With this structure, the user can conveniently wash the cup by manually opening the door 150 without bending over, placing the cup in the washing section 130, and then operating the cup washer after closing the door 150.

[0056] The height of the washing unit 130 of the cup washer needs to be adjusted appropriately to fit the adult body so that the user can use the cup washer without bending over. Also, to improve space efficiency, the cup washer needs to be provided with a relatively small volume.

[0057] For this reason, the cup washer may have a tower-type configuration with a relatively small cross-sectional area and a relatively long vertical length, which requires that components with a relatively large volume be arranged vertically.

[0058] Furthermore, due to its tower-type shape, the cup washer may be at risk of tipping over, but in order to prevent the cup washer from tipping over, it is necessary to place parts with relatively heavy loads at the bottom and lower the overall center of gravity.

[0059] The structure of the cup washer will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings. Figure 3 is a diagram showing a cup washer according to an embodiment with door 150 open. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the cup washer with some components omitted. Figure 5 is a side view of Figure 4.

[0060] In one embodiment, the cup washer may include a base plate 110 , a reservoir 120 , a washing section 130 , a middle plate 140 , a door 150 , and a frame 160 .

[0061] The base plate 110 is disposed at the lowest part of the cup washer and can support other components of the cup washer. The lower part of the base plate 110 can be placed on the ground. The base plate 110 can include a first part 111 and a second part 112. The lower surface of the first part 111 can be placed on the ground and can support the second part 112.

[0062] The second part 112 may be disposed above the first part 111, and may have the water tank 120 disposed therein. A frame 160 may be coupled to the second part 112. For example, a front supporter 161, a rear supporter 162, and an intermediate supporter 163 may be coupled to the second part 112. Thus, the frame 160 may be supported by the second part 112.

[0063] The water tank 120 is disposed above the base plate 110 and can store water for washing cups. The water tank 120 may be connected to a city water supply via a pipe. Thus, water from the city water supply can flow into the water tank 120 and be stored therein. The water tank 120 may also be connected to the washing unit 130 via a pipe. Thus, the water in the water tank 120 can flow into the washing unit 130 and be used to wash cups accommodated in the washing unit 130.

[0064] A heating device may be provided inside the water tank 120. The water in the water tank 120 may be heated by the heating device and then flow into the cleaning unit 130. As a result, cups can be washed using the heated water, thereby improving the efficiency of cup washing.

[0065] The water tank 120 may be filled with water. Therefore, the water tank 120 filled with water may have a relatively large weight compared to other components. The water tank 120 may be placed on the base plate 110 and disposed at the bottom of the cup washer.

[0066] The weight of the water tank 120 filled with water placed at the bottom of the cup washer may lower the height of the overall center of gravity of the cup washer. As a result, the cup washer, which is installed in a tower type with a relatively long vertical length, is less likely to tip over even when subjected to external impact and can maintain a stable state.

[0067] The washing unit 130 is disposed above the water tank 120 and can wash the cups contained therein. The washing unit 130 may be formed with a space for accommodating the cups. The washing unit 130 may be connected to the water tank 120 by a pipe. Therefore, water for washing can flow from the water tank 120 into the washing unit 130.

[0068] In another embodiment, the washing unit 130 may be directly connected to the water supply without going through the water tank 120. Therefore, the user can choose to wash the cup using water flowing from the water tank 120 or water flowing directly from the water supply.

[0069] The intermediate plate 140 is disposed between the water tank 120 and the cleaning unit 130 and can support the cleaning unit 130. The cleaning unit 130 is disposed on the intermediate plate 140, and the intermediate plate 140 can support part of the load of the cleaning unit 130. The intermediate plate 140 may have a roughly plate-like shape and be connected to the frame 160 at its edges and supported by the frame 160.

[0070] The door 150 is disposed above the washing unit 130 and is hinged in the vertical direction to open and close the open top of the washing unit 130. Referring to Fig. 3, the door 150 is hinged in the vertical direction of the cup washer. Thus, a user can manually open the door 150, place the cup 10 inside the washing unit 130, and then close the door 150 to wash the cup 10.

[0071] A top cover 210 may be provided on the top end of the cleaning unit 130. A portion of the top cover 210 may be coupled to the upper edge of the cleaning unit 130, and the door 150 may be placed on top of it.

[0072] An inlet cover 213 may be provided on another part of the top cover 210. The inlet cover 213 can open and close the inlet for detergent and rinse to be dispensed into the cleaning unit 130, and may be provided so as to be detachable from the top cover 210.

[0073] A user can open or close the door 150 at the top of the dishwasher to put cups into or remove cups from the washing section 130. At this time, the door 150 rotates on a hinge in the vertical direction, so the user can easily open the door 150 without having to bend over.

[0074] Door 150 may also be configured so that the area occupied by the cup washer in a plan view remains unchanged even when door 150 is open by rotating the hinge. This allows the planar cross-sectional area of ​​the cup washer to remain constant whether door 150 is open or closed, eliminating the need for additional space to open door 150.

[0075] In this embodiment, the cup is hinged at the top of the washing unit 130 so that it can rotate up and down in the cup washer, allowing the user to open and close the door 150 without bending over, making it convenient to use the cup washer. In addition, this structure eliminates the need for additional space to open the door 150, improving space efficiency.

[0076] The frame 160 is supported by the base plate 110 and can support the washing unit 130 by connecting the intermediate plate 140. The frame 160 defines an internal space of the cup washer, in which various components can be connected and supported.

[0077] The frame 160 may include a front supporter 161, a rear supporter 162, a middle supporter 163, and an upper supporter 164. Each component of the frame 160 can support the weight of the washing unit 130, the door 150, and the like, which are provided on the top of the cup washer.

[0078] The front supporters 161 may be arranged in a pair spaced apart from each other at the front of the cup washer, with their lower portions connected to the base plate 110 and their lengths aligned vertically. The pair of front supporters 161 may be arranged in front of the cup washer at positions spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the cup washer to form a front corner of the cup washer.

[0079] The front supporter 161 may have an L-shaped cross section to form a corner of the cup washer. The front supporter 161 may be connected to the base plate 110 by a connecting device such as a wood screw.

[0080] The rear supporters 162 may be arranged in a pair spaced apart from each other at the rear of the cup washer, with their lower portions connected to the base plate 110 and their lengths aligned vertically. The pair of rear supporters 162 may be arranged at positions spaced apart from each other laterally at the rear of the cup washer, adjacent to rear corners of the cup washer. The rear supporters 162 may be connected to the base plate 110 by connecting devices.

[0081] The intermediate supporters 163 may be arranged in a pair spaced apart from each other, between the front supporter 161 and the rear supporter 162, with their lower portions connected to the base plate 110 and their longitudinal directions aligned vertically. The pair of intermediate supporters 163 may be arranged at positions spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the cup washer in the center of the cup washer.

[0082] The intermediate supporter 163 can be connected to the base plate 110 by a connecting device. The intermediate supporter 163 can also be connected to the intermediate plate 140 and the upper supporter 164 by a connecting device to stably maintain its position and support the weight of the cup washer components.

[0083] The upper supporters 164 may be arranged above the intermediate supporter 163, arranged in a pair spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction, with their length aligned in the front-to-rear direction, and connected to the cleaning unit 130. The pair of upper supporters 164 may be arranged at positions spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the cup washer at the top of the cup washer.

[0084] The cleaning unit 130 can be connected to the upper supporter 164 by a connecting device. Thus, the upper supporter 164 can support the weight of the cleaning unit 130.

[0085] A plurality of upper supporters 164 may be provided, spaced apart from one another in the vertical direction of the cup washer. Thus, in Fig. 5 and other figures, an embodiment is shown in which a pair is provided on each side of the cup washer and a pair is provided above and below the cup washer, for a total of four upper supporters. However, the number of upper supporters 164 is not limited to this.

[0086] Each upper supporter 164 can be connected to the front supporter 161, the rear supporter 162, and the middle supporter 163. Therefore, the load of the cleaning unit 130 can be transmitted to the front supporter 161, the rear supporter 162, and the middle supporter 163 via the upper supporter 164, and finally transmitted to the base plate 110.

[0087] With this structure, the cup washer can stably support the cleaning unit 130 provided therein. The upper supporter 164 can be connected to the front supporter 161, the rear supporter 162, and the middle supporter 163 by means of wood screw connecting devices.

[0088] In an embodiment, the components provided on the upper part of the cup washer, including the cleaning unit 130, may be supported by the frame 160, and each component may ultimately be supported by the base plate 110. With this structure, even when a relatively heavy component such as the cleaning unit 130 is provided on the upper part of the cup washer, each component may be stably supported by the frame 160 and the base plate 110.

[0089] The cup washer may include a front panel 170 and a rear panel 180. The front panel 170 may be disposed at the front of the cup washer and cover the water reservoir 120 and the washing section 130. The front panel 170 may be connected to the rear supporter 162 of the frame 160 by a connecting device.

[0090] The rear panel 180 can be coupled to the frame 160 to cover the rear of the cup washer. The rear panel 180 can be provided with a first ventilation hole 181 to allow ventilation between the inside and outside of the cup washer. Air flowing into the drying module 132, which will be described below, can flow into the inside of the cup washer through the first ventilation hole 181.

[0091] The rear panel 180 may have a handle 260 coupled thereto to allow a user or administrator to pick up the cup washer for easy access.

[0092] The cup washer may include a display unit 190 coupled to an upper portion of the rear supporter 162 and disposed on one side of the door 150. The display unit 190 may be disposed on one side of the door 150 and may be configured to protrude from the door 150.

[0093] Therefore, a user can see the display unit 190 at the front of the cup washer. The display unit 190 can display various information regarding the use of the cup washer in the form of images, text, and videos.

[0094] A user can operate the cup washer or know the operating status of the cup washer by looking at the information displayed on the display unit 190. The display unit 190 may also be provided with a command input means, for example, input by electrostatic touch. Thus, the user can control the operation of the cup washer using the display unit 190.

[0095] The cup washer may include a first circuit board unit 220 and a board unit supporter 230. The first circuit board unit 220 may be disposed on one side of the water tank 120 and include a control unit that controls the operation of the cup washer. The first circuit board unit 220 may be disposed on one side of the water tank 120 below the cup washer, where a water channel having a relatively smaller volume than the washing unit 130 is disposed, creating extra space.

[0096] The substrate supporter 230 may have a lower portion connected to the base plate 110, an upper portion connected to the intermediate plate 140, and a first circuit substrate portion 220 connected thereto. The substrate supporter 230 can be stably connected to the base plate 110 by a connecting device.

[0097] The board unit supporter 230 may be used not only to fix the first circuit board unit 220 but also to fix the piping arranged at the bottom of the cup washer.

[0098] The cup washer may include an exterior portion 250 that couples to the rear panel 180 and covers the rear supporter 162. The rear supporter 162 may have a number of fasteners coupled thereto for coupling to other components of the cup washer.

[0099] Therefore, if the rear supporter 162 fastened by the fastening device is left exposed to the outside, the visual aesthetics of the cup washer may be diminished. Therefore, a structure that covers the rear supporter 162 fastened by the fastening device is required.

[0100] The exterior part 250 covers the rear supporter 162 and may have a relatively small number of fasteners attached thereto compared to the rear supporter 162. With this structure, the exterior part 250 is positioned on the outside of the cup washer at a position corresponding to the rear supporter 162, allowing the cup washer to look neat overall.

[0101] Hereinafter, the specific structure of the cleaning unit 130 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the cleaning unit 130 according to an embodiment. Figure 7 is a front view showing the cleaning unit 130 according to an embodiment.

[0102] Fig. 8 is a side view of the cleaning unit 130 according to one embodiment. Fig. 9 is a rear view of the cleaning unit 130 according to one embodiment. The cleaning unit 130 may include a tub 131, a drying module 132, a sump 133, a circulation pump 134, and a drain pump 135.

[0103] The tub 131 may provide a space for accommodating cups and may spray cleaning water. A rack for placing cups may be provided inside the tub 131, and a spraying means for spraying water may be provided underneath. The open top end of the tub 131 may be opened and closed by a door 150.

[0104] The drying module 132 is disposed on one side of the tub 131 so as to be connected to the tub 131, and can spray heated air into the inside of the tub 131 for drying. After the cup 10 has been washed with water, moisture remains on the surface of the cup. The drying module 132 can dry the cup by spraying heated air, i.e., hot air, onto the cup to dry the water remaining in the cup.

[0105] The drying module 132 may be provided with a heating device for heating the air flowing into the drying module 132. The drying module 132 may also be provided with a blower fan 1321 for forcibly flowing air through a flow path formed in the drying module 132.

[0106] The sump 133 is disposed below the tub 131 so as to be connected to the tub 131, and can store water to be sprayed from the tub 131. The water stored in the sump 133 can be sprayed by a spray device in the tub 131 while circulating between the tub 131 and the sump 133 by a circulation pump 134, thereby washing the cup 10 accommodated in the tub 131.

[0107] The circulation pump 134 is disposed below the tub 131 so as to be connected to the tub 131 and the sump 133, and is capable of circulating water between the tub 131 and the sump 133. The circulation pump 134 is capable of forcing water to flow from the sump 133 to the tub 131.

[0108] The circulation pump 134 may be connected to a sprayer disposed below the tub 131. Therefore, when the circulation pump 134 operates, the water stored in the sump 133 flows into the sprayer and is sprayed into the inside of the tub 131 by the sprayer to wash the cup.

[0109] The drain pump 135 is disposed below the tub 131 and connected to the sump 133, and can discharge water from the sump 133 to the outside. When the cups have been washed with water, the drain pump 135 operates to discharge the water stored in the sump 133 to the outside of the cup washer through a drain pipe connected to the drain pump 135.

[0110] The process of rinsing the cup 10 with water stored in the water tank 120 is as follows. Water may flow from the water supply through a pipe into the water tank 120 and be stored therein. The water in the water tank 120 may be heated by a heating device provided in the water tank 120. The heated water in the water tank 120 may flow into the inside of the tub 131 through a pipe and be stored in the sump 133 located below the tub 131.

[0111] When the circulation pump 134 is operated to wash the cups, the hot water passes from the sump 133 through the sprayer and is sprayed into the inside of the tub 131 to wash the cups. The hot water sprayed into the tub 131 flows further into the sump 133, and is further flowed by the circulation pump 134 into the sprayer, where it can be sprayed into the inside of the tub 131 by the sprayer.

[0112] While the circulation pump 134 is operating, the hot cleaning water flows sequentially through the sump 133, the sprayer, and the tub 131, and these flows can be repeated. Once the cups have been washed with hot water, the circulation pump 134 stops and the drain pump 135 can be operated to drain the water stored in the sump 133 to the outside.

[0113] When drainage by the drain pump 135 is completed, the drying module 132 operates to spray hot air into the inside of the tub 131, and after the hot air spraying is completed for the set time, the cup cleaning operation including the drying process can be completed.

[0114] The cup washer can perform both cleaning using detergent and rinsing using rinse. The following describes in detail the structure provided for adding detergent and rinse to the tub.

[0115] Meanwhile, in the process of washing the cup with warm water, the washing process using detergent and the rinsing process using rinse can be separated from each other. After the process of washing the cup by mixing detergent with warm water is completed, the water in sump 133 contains detergent and foreign matter. Therefore, this contaminated water can be discharged to the outside by operating drain pump 135.

[0116] After the contaminated water is discharged to the outside, warm water is introduced into the sump 133, and rinse is mixed with the warm water, and the circulating pump 134 is operated to perform the rinsing process. In this manner, the cleaning process using detergent and the rinsing process using rinse are separated, thereby improving the cleaning efficiency of the cup washer.

[0117] The cleaning section 130 may include a detergent reservoir 136 , a rinse reservoir 137 , a detergent inlet 138 , a rinse inlet 139 , a detergent pump 1301 , and a rinse pump 1302 .

[0118] The detergent storage section 136 is disposed behind the tub 131 and can store a detergent. The rinse storage section 137 is disposed behind the tub 131 separately from the detergent storage section 136 and can store a rinse. Therefore, the detergent and the rinse do not need to be mixed with each other.

[0119] The top cover 210 may be provided with a detergent inlet 211 through which a detergent is introduced and a rinse inlet 212 through which a rinse is introduced. The detergent inlet 211 may be connected to the detergent storage unit 136, and the rinse inlet 212 may be connected to the rinse storage unit 137. Therefore, the detergent and rinse flowing into the detergent inlet 211 and the rinse inlet 212 may be stored in the detergent storage unit 136 and the rinse storage unit 137.

[0120] The detergent injection unit 138 is connected to the detergent storage unit 136 and the tub 131, and can inject detergent into the tub 131. The inlet of the detergent injection unit 138 may be connected to the detergent storage unit 136, and the outlet may be connected to the tub 131.

[0121] The rinse inlet 139 may be connected to the rinse reservoir 137 and the tub 131 to inject rinse into the tub 131. The inlet of the rinse inlet 139 may be connected to the rinse reservoir 137, and the outlet may be connected to the tub 131.

[0122] The detergent pump 1301 is connected to the detergent injector 138 and can pump detergent into the tub 131. The rinse pump 1302 is connected to the rinse injector 139 and can pump rinse into the tub 131. The operations of the detergent pump 1301 and the rinse pump 1302 can be controlled by a control unit.

[0123] The control unit can operate the detergent pump 1301 in the washing process to mix the detergent with water, and can operate the rinse pump 1302 in the rinsing process to mix the rinse with water.

[0124] The water tank 120 may be connected to the tub 131 by a pipe so that the water in the water tank 120 flows into the tub 131. Therefore, the water in the water tank 120 flows into the tub 131 after being heated to become hot water, and can be stored in the sump 133 until the circulation pump 134 starts operating.

[0125] Meanwhile, as mentioned above, the tub 131 may also be provided with a water supply path that is directly connected to the water supply, so that the cup can be washed normally or quickly depending on the user's choice.

[0126] A general wash uses hot water heated in the water reservoir 120 to wash the cups, and uses detergent and rinse, which can result in a clean cup, but can take a relatively long time.

[0127] The quick wash uses room-temperature water supplied from the water supply to wash the cups, and does not require detergent or rinse, so the washing time is relatively short, making it convenient for users who want to quickly wash relatively uncontaminated cups.

[0128] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a tub 131 and a rack 400 according to an embodiment. Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing a rack 400 according to an embodiment. The cup washer according to the embodiment may include a washing unit 130 that washes cups stored therein. The washing unit 130 may include a tub 131 and a rack 400.

[0129] The tub 131 may provide a space for receiving the cup 10 and may spray cleaning water therein. The rack 400 may be provided inside the tub 131, for receiving the cup, and may be formed by connecting a plurality of wires. For example, the rack 400 may have the cup, the cup lid 12, the straw 11, etc., placed thereon.

[0130] In this case, the cups 10 may be placed upside down on the rack 400. That is, the open entrance of the cup may be placed at the bottom of the rack 400, and the bottom of the cup may be placed at the top of the rack 400. In this way, water sprayed upward from the bottom of the rack 400 can smoothly flow into the inside of the cups to clean the inside of the cups.

[0131] The rack 400 may be formed as a three-dimensional mesh structure with wires connected to each other as a whole. This shape allows cups and the like to be easily placed on the rack 400, and the sprayed water passes under the rack 400, making it easy to wash the cups and the like placed on the rack 400.

[0132] The rack 400 may include a bottom 410, side portions 420, and tines 430. The bottom 410 is seated on the tub 131 and can support cups seated on the rack 400 from below. In order to stably support cups, the bottom 410 may be provided in a shape that is widely open in all directions, approximately in the lateral direction of the tub 131.

[0133] The side portion 420 is formed to protrude from one side of the tub 131 and can support a cup placed on the rack 400 from one side. The side portion 420 protrudes upward from the tub 131 and can stably support the side of a cup placed on the rack 400.

[0134] The tines 430 may protrude from the bottom 410 above the tub 131, and at least a portion of the tines may be disposed inside the cup when the cup is placed on the rack 400. A plurality of tines 430 may be provided, and the tines 430 may be spaced apart from each other at an appropriate distance.

[0135] The tines 430 may be provided in a rod shape, and the length direction may be arranged substantially in the vertical direction of the tab 131. In this way, the cup, the lid 12, the straw 11, etc. may be stably supported by the tines 430.

[0136] The bottom 410 may include an edge 411, a first inclined portion 412, and a first bent portion 413. The edge 411 forms the edge of the bottom 410, and may be formed so that portions of both sides protrude upward from the tab 131.

[0137] Protruding edges 4111 may be formed on portions of both sides of the edge 411. The protruding edges 4111 are provided to contact the inner surfaces of the side walls of the tab 131, and when the rack 400 swings sideways, they come into contact with the tab 131 and limit the movement of the rack 400, thereby enabling the rack 400 to stably hold its position on the tab 131.

[0138] Additionally, the protruding edge 4111 can act as a handle when an administrator places the rack 400 on or separates it from the tab 131 .

[0139] The first inclined portion 412 may be disposed such that its length is inclined relative to the lateral direction of the tab 131. A plurality of first inclined portions 412 may be provided and disposed at positions spaced apart from each other. As a result, the plurality of first inclined portions 412 may form the bottom surface of the rack 400 on which cups or the like are placed.

[0140] Since the plurality of first inclined portions 412 are inclined, the cups placed on the first inclined portions 412 may be placed on the rack 400 at an angle relative to the up-down direction of the tub 131. By placing the cups at an angle, one side of the cups may be biased toward the side portion 420 and supported by the side portion 420.

[0141] With this structure, the cup is supported by the bottom portion 410 and the side portion 420 simultaneously, and thus the cup may be placed stably on the rack 400 as a whole.

[0142] The first bent portion 413 may be bent from the first inclined portion 412 and coupled to the edge portion 411. In order for the first inclined portion 412 to have an inclined structure, the first bent portion 413 may be formed at one end of the first inclined portion 412.

[0143] A plurality of first bent portions 413 may be provided, and each first bent portion 413 may be arranged spaced apart from each other, and each first bent portion 413 may extend from each first inclined portion 412.

[0144] The side surface portion 420 may include a vertical portion 421, a second bent portion 422, a second inclined portion 423, and a horizontal portion 424. A plurality of vertical portions 421, second bent portions 422, and second inclined portions 423 may be provided. The respective vertical portions 421, second bent portions 422, and second inclined portions 423 may be spaced apart from each other to form an area on which a cup or the like is placed.

[0145] In an embodiment, the vertical portion 421, the second bent portion 422, and the second inclined portion 423 of the side portion 420 and the first inclined portion 412 and the first bent portion 413 of the bottom portion 410 may be integrally formed, or each portion may be formed by bending a single wire.

[0146] The vertical portion 421 may have one end connected to the edge portion 411 and may be disposed in the vertical direction of the tab 131. The second bent portion 422 may be bent from the vertical portion 421 and may be disposed in the lateral direction of the tab 131.

[0147] The second inclined portion 423 may extend from one end of the second bent portion 422, with the other end connected to the first inclined portion 412, and may be disposed so that its length is inclined with respect to the up-and-down direction of the tab 131. A cup placed at an angle on the rack 400 by the first inclined portion 412 of the bottom 410 may have a portion of its side supported by the second inclined portion 423. With this structure, the cup may have its bottom supported by the first inclined portion 412 and its side supported by the second inclined portion 423.

[0148] The horizontal portion 424 may be disposed with its length in the lateral direction of the rack 400 and may be fixedly coupled to each of the plurality of side portions 420. For example, the horizontal portion 424 may be coupled to each of the plurality of vertical portions 421. The horizontal portion 424 may be coupled to each of the plurality of side portions 420, thereby preventing the side portions 420 from deforming relative to each other and maintaining a designed separation distance.

[0149] In the embodiment, a cup placed on rack 400 may have its lower portion supported by first inclined portion 412 of bottom portion 410 and its side portion supported by second inclined portion 423 of side portion 420. Thus, the cup may be placed on rack 400 at an angle as a whole, and thus not only the bottom of the cup but also the sides of the cup may be supported by rack 400. Therefore, rack 400 according to the embodiment may allow cups to be placed more stably compared to a structure that supports only the bottom of the cup.

[0150] Fig. 12 is a side view showing a rack 400 according to one embodiment. Fig. 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of the rack 400 shown in Fig. 12. The tines 430 are provided to protrude from the first inclined portion 412 of the bottom portion 410, and are arranged such that their length direction is substantially in the vertical direction of the tab 131. Since the first inclined portion 412 is inclined, the tines may be arranged in a slightly oblique form with respect to the vertical direction of the tab 131.

[0151] The tines 430 may be spaced apart from one another. With this structure, for example, cup lids 12 may be placed between the tines 430. The lids 12 may be supported by the tines 430 and placed on the rack 400.

[0152] Meanwhile, since the upper end of the tines 430 is not connected to other components, when the reusable straw 11 is to be washed, the straw 11 can be inserted into the tines 430 and placed on the rack 400. In order for the straw 11 to be stably placed on the tines 430, the tines 430 must have a structure that can tightly support the placed straw 11.

[0153] To meet these needs, the tines 430 according to the present embodiment may be formed with angled sections to keep the inserted straw 11 tight without loosening. Specifically, the tines 430 may include a first section 431, a second section 432, and a third section 433, which may be integrally formed.

[0154] The first section 431 may protrude from the bottom portion 410. The first section 431 may protrude from the first inclined portion 412 of the bottom portion 410, and may be disposed such that its length direction is substantially perpendicular to the first inclined portion 412.

[0155] The second section 432 may extend from the first section 431 and be disposed so that its length direction is inclined relative to the length direction of the first section 431. The third section 433 may extend from the second section 432 and be disposed so that its length direction is inclined relative to the length direction of the second section 432. Furthermore, the first section 431 and the third section 433 may be disposed so that their length directions are aligned with each other.

[0156] 12, the cross-sectional area of ​​the tines 430 can be expanded when viewed in the longitudinal direction. By expanding the cross-sectional area of ​​the tines 430, the straw 11 may be tightly seated on the tines 430.

[0157] That is, a portion of the straw 11 may be in contact with and supported by the first section 431, and another portion of the straw 11 may be in contact with and supported by the third section 433.

[0158] With this structure, the straws 11 are stably supported by the tines 430, so that the straws 11 do not come off the tines 430 due to external impacts such as sprayed water, and the straws 11 may be stably placed on the rack 400 during the cleaning process. Also, the inclined second section 432 may reduce the length of the tines 430 and allow the straws 11 to be stably placed on the tines 430.

[0159] In some embodiments, the tines 430 may include a second section 432 that is angled relative to the other sections, effectively reducing the length of the tines 430 and allowing the straws 11 to be tightly attached to the tines 430, ensuring that the straws 11 remain stably attached to the rack 400 even when subjected to external impacts such as a water jet.

[0160] 14 is a perspective view showing a rack 400 to which a first flow path guide unit 440 according to an embodiment is added. FIG. 15 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the rack 400 shown in FIG.

[0161] The tub 131 may include a detergent inlet 1312, a rinse inlet 1311, and a wash water inlet 1315. The detergent inlet 1312 is connected to the detergent pump 1301 by piping, so that the detergent pumped from the detergent pump 1301 can flow into the tub 131 through the detergent inlet 1312.

[0162] The rinse inlet 1311 is connected to the rinse pump 1302 by piping, and rinse pumped from the rinse pump 1302 can flow into the tub 131 through the rinse inlet 1311. The cleaning water inlet 1315 is connected to the water tank 120 by piping, and water discharged from the water tank 120 can flow into the tub 131 through the cleaning water inlet 1315.

[0163] Water flowing from the water reservoir 120 is stored in the sump 133 and then circulates between the sump 133 and the tub 131, thereby washing the cups and other items placed in the tub 131. To effectively wash and rinse the cups, the water flowing into the tub 131 must be smoothly mixed with detergent or rinse.

[0164] The cleaning water inlet 1315 may be located at a position separated from the detergent inlet 1312 or the rinse inlet 1311. Thus, the water flowing into the cleaning water inlet 1315 does not encounter the detergent or rinse flowing into the tub 131, but flows into the sump 133 below the tub 131. Similarly, after the detergent or rinse also flows into the sump 133, the water and the detergent or rinse can be mixed.

[0165] When the water is stored in the sump 133, the flow of the water is somewhat sluggish, so when the water and the detergent or rinse mix in the sump 133, the water may not mix well with the detergent or rinse.

[0166] Therefore, to improve mixing efficiency, it is necessary to ensure that the water, detergent, and rinse are mixed with each other near the inlets through which the water, detergent, and rinse flow into the tub 131. Because the flow of water, especially water, is vigorous at the inlet of the tub 131, if mixing occurs near the inlets of the tub 131, the detergent or rinse can be mixed with the water smoothly. Such a structure will be described below.

[0167] The tub 131 may include a cleaning water inlet 1315, a detergent inlet 1312, and a rinse inlet 1311. The cleaning water inlet 1315, the detergent inlet 1312, and the rinse inlet 1311 may be formed at the rear of the tub 131. Meanwhile, the tub 131 may include an outer panel 131a and an inner panel 131b.

[0168] The outer panel 131a can form the outer shape of the tab 131. Since many other components are attached to the outer panel 131a, the outer panel 131a may have a somewhat complicated structure and may be provided with a structure for fastening a connecting device in order to ensure space for attaching these components.

[0169] The inner panel 131b may be disposed inside the outer panel 131a and have a relatively simple structure. The inner panel 131b may have a shape corresponding to the inner shape of the outer panel 131a and may be provided so as to cover all or part of the inner surface of the outer panel 131a.

[0170] The outer panel 131a may be made of a material with good formability, such as a plastic material, since it has a complex shape, while the inner panel 131b may be made of a material with excellent corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal, such as stainless steel, since water and foreign matter come into contact with the surface of the inner panel 131b.

[0171] In this way, the tab 131 is provided with a separate outer panel 131a and an inner panel 131b made of materials that meet the required characteristics, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and ensuring the required corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal.

[0172] Water, detergent, and rinse can pass through the entire tub 131 and flow into the interior of the tub 131. Therefore, the detergent inlet 1312, rinse inlet 1311, and cleaning water inlet 1315 may be formed to pass through the outer panel 131a and the inner panel 131b.

[0173] The detergent inlet 1312 may be formed to penetrate one side of the tub 131 and serve as a passage through which detergent flows in. The washing water inlet 1315 may be disposed above the detergent inlet 1312 and serve as a passage through which water flows into the tub 131.

[0174] The rinse inlet 1311 may be spaced apart from the detergent inlet 1312 and may serve as a passage through which the rinse flows in. The rinse inlet 1311 may be located at the same or a similar height as the detergent inlet 1312, and may be located lower than the detergent inlet 1312.

[0175] The rack 400 may include a first flow path guide unit 440. The first flow path guide unit 440 is coupled to the bottom 410 and disposed facing the cleaning water inlet 1315, so that the water flowing in from the cleaning water inlet 1315 can be directed toward the detergent flowing into the detergent inlet 1312. In addition, the first flow path guide unit 440 can guide the flow direction of the water flowing in from the cleaning water inlet 1315 toward the rinse flowing into the rinse inlet 1311.

[0176] The first flow path guide portion 440 may be disposed at the rear of the tub 131, adjacent to the cleaning water inlet 1315. Therefore, water that flows into the cleaning water inlet 1315 and drops into the inside of the tub 131 may change its flow path as it collides with the first flow path guide portion 440.

[0177] The first flow path guide portion 440 may include a base portion 441 and a first pad 442. The base portion 441 may be coupled to the bottom portion 410. The base portion 441 may be formed to protrude rearward from the bottom portion 410, and may be formed as a whole by bending a wire.

[0178] The first pad 442 is coupled to the base 441 and disposed at a position corresponding to the cleaning water inlet 1315, and can change the flow direction of the water flowing into the tub 131. The first pad 442 is formed in a curved shape in cross section, and can guide the water to flow downwards in the tub 131.

[0179] The first pad 442 may be positioned so as to directly face the cleaning water inlet 1315. Thus, water flowing into the cleaning water inlet 1315 may be jetted toward the first pad 442, collide with the first pad 442, and change its flow direction toward the bottom of the tub 131.

[0180] The cross section of the first pad 442 may be formed in a curved shape, and the first pad 442 may have a curved surface that faces the direction of the cleaning water inlet 1315 at the lower end. Therefore, water that hits the first pad 442 can flow downward due to gravity and approach the wall surface of the tub 131.

[0181] On the other hand, the detergent inlet 1312 and the rinse inlet 1311 may be disposed below the cleaning water inlet 1315. The detergent and rinse that flow into the detergent inlet 1312 and the rinse inlet 1311 have relatively high viscosity and can flow along the wall surface of the tub 131.

[0182] The water that hits first pad 442 flows downward and approaches the wall of tub 131, so that it can meet the detergent or rinse flowing along the wall of tub 131. Therefore, the water flowing inside tub 131 can meet the detergent or rinse.

[0183] With this structure, the flowing water meets the detergent or rinse before it flows into the sump 133, so the water can mix with the detergent or rinse more smoothly than if the detergent and rinse were mixed with the water stored in the sump 133.

[0184] During the washing process, the control unit provided in the cup washer can control the operation of the detergent pump 1301 or the rinse pump 1302 so that the detergent or rinse flows into the tub 131 when water flows into the tub 131 through the wash water inlet 1315. As a result, the flowing water and the detergent or rinse mix with each other, allowing the water to mix smoothly with the detergent or rinse.

[0185] In this embodiment, the rack 400 may include a first flow path guide 440 for guiding the flow direction of water at a position adjacent to the washing water inlet 1315 of the tub 131. As a result, the water flowing into the tub 131 can flow toward the detergent or rinse by the first flow path guide 440. As the flowing water mixes with the detergent or rinse, the water and the detergent or rinse can be smoothly mixed with each other, thereby improving the cleaning efficiency of the cup washer.

[0186] Fig. 16 is a perspective view showing a rack 400 to which an air inlet hole 1316 is added according to one embodiment. Fig. 17 is a view showing the rack 400 at the location where the air inlet hole 1316 is arranged. The tab 131 may include the air inlet hole 1316 and a guide cone 1317.

[0187] Air can flow in through the air inlet hole 1316 for drying. The air inlet hole 1316 may be formed to penetrate the tub 131 and connected to the drying module 132. Therefore, air heated in the drying module 132, i.e., hot air, can be sprayed into the inside of the tub 131 through the air inlet hole 1316.

[0188] The hot air sprayed onto the tub 131 through the air inlet 1316 evaporates the water remaining in the cups and other items placed on the rack 400, thereby drying the items to be washed, such as the cups, and providing convenience to the user.

[0189] The guide cone 1317 is connected to the air inlet hole 1316 and is disposed inside the tub 131 to guide the flow of hot air flowing into the tub 131. The guide cone 1317 may be formed in a substantially hollow rectangular or triangular shape.

[0190] Considering the direction of air flow as a reference, the inlet of the guide cone 1317 may be connected to the air inlet hole 1316, and the outlet 1317a of the guide cone 1317 may be positioned so as to face the object to be cleaned, such as a cup placed on the rack 400.

[0191] Guide cone 1317 may have a flow path formed therein through which air flows, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path may be configured to decrease toward the outlet of guide cone 1317. With this structure, the flow speed of air increases at outlet 1317a of guide cone 1317, and the air discharged from outlet 1317a of guide cone 1317 can smoothly reach a cup or the like.

[0192] Guide cone 1317 may be provided so as to be inclined with respect to the side direction of tab 131 so as to be angled upward as it approaches the outlet. With such a structure, outlet 1317a of guide cone 1317 may be positioned closer to a cup or the like placed on rack 400.

[0193] The guide cone 1317 may be provided such that its outlet is located below the first inclined portion 412. With this structure, air can be discharged from the guide cone 1317 below the first inclined portion 412 where a cup or the like is placed, and can be smoothly sprayed onto the cup or the like placed on the first inclined portion 412.

[0194] 16 shows the state in which the cups are washed and dried while they are placed on rack 400. Referring to FIG. 16, due to the above-described structure of guide cone 1317, outlet 1317a of guide cone 1317 may be located directly below the cup, at a position corresponding to the open portion of the cup.

[0195] Therefore, the warm air flowing from the drying module 132 into the tub 131 flows along the guide cone 1317, which has an upward slope and a structure in which the cross-sectional area decreases as it approaches the outlet, and the warm air discharged from the outlet 1317a of the guide cone 1317 increases in speed and can flow into the inside of the cup through the open part of the cup placed directly above.

[0196] In an embodiment, a guide cone 1317 may be provided to guide the flow of air flowing into the tub 131 for drying, and the guide cone 1317 may guide the flow of air flowing into the tub 131 so that the air is immediately directed toward the object to be cleaned, such as a cup, at the outlet.

[0197] With this structure, the drying efficiency of the cup washer can be significantly improved by using the guide cone 1317 to spray air immediately onto the cup, etc., compared to when hot air is sprayed uniformly over the entire cleaning section 130.

[0198] 18 is a diagram showing an auxiliary outlet 1318 and a second flow path guide unit 450 according to one embodiment. The water in the tub 131 can be used to wash glasses and other items as it circulates between the tub 131 and the sump 133. If too much water is stored inside the tub and the water level in the tub 131 becomes high, glasses and other items placed on the rack 400 may become partially submerged in the water.

[0199] In such a case, it is necessary to prevent the cup from being submerged in water, since foreign matter contained in the circulating water may adhere to the cup. For this reason, the tub 131 may be provided with an auxiliary outlet 1318.

[0200] The tub 131 is positioned at a height corresponding to the height of the bottom 410 and may include an auxiliary outlet 1318 for discharging water to the outside of the tub 131 to adjust the internal water level of the tub 131.

[0201] As a result, when the water level in the tub 131 reaches the bottom 410 of the rack 400, the water is discharged to the outside through the auxiliary outlet 1318, so that the water level in the tub 131 does not rise any further and cups and other items placed on the rack 400 may not become submerged in water.

[0202] Meanwhile, water may flow from the outside of the tub 131 into the inside of the tub 131 through the auxiliary outlet 1318. For example, when the drain pump 135 is operating and used for cleaning, some of the contaminated water may flow into the inside of the tub 131 through the auxiliary outlet 1318 while the contaminated water is being drained to the outside.

[0203] That is, contaminated water may flow back into the tub 131 via the auxiliary outlet 1318. This is because the water discharged to the outside via the auxiliary outlet 1318 and the water discharged to the outside using the drain pump 135 are discharged to the outside of the cup washer via the same drain pipe.

[0204] Such backflowing water may contaminate glasses and the like placed on the rack 400, so in order to prevent backflow of water, the rack 400 may include a second flow path guide unit 450. The second flow path guide unit 450 is disposed at a position corresponding to the auxiliary outlet 1318 and can guide the flow path of water flowing from the auxiliary outlet 1318 into the inside of the tub 131.

[0205] The second flow path guide section 450 is positioned so as to directly face the auxiliary outlet 1318, and changes the flow direction of water that flows back through the auxiliary outlet 1318 and into the tub 131 so that it flows toward the bottom of the tub 131, thereby preventing the backflowing contaminated water from flowing down into cups placed on the rack 400 and contaminating the cups.

[0206] The second flow path guide portion 450 may include a second pad 451, a third pad 452, and an insertion hole 453. The second pad 451 collides with the water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet 1318, thereby guiding the water to flow downwards in the tub 131.

[0207] The second pad 451 is disposed facing the auxiliary outlet 1318 and can block the flow path of the water sprayed from the auxiliary outlet 1318. Therefore, the water sprayed from the auxiliary outlet 1318 hits the second pad 451 and can flow downwards in the tub 131 due to gravity. This prevents contaminated water from flowing back and coming into contact with an object to be cleaned, such as a cup, disposed on the opposite side of the auxiliary outlet 1318 via the second pad 451.

[0208] The third pad 452 is bent from the second pad 451 to prevent water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet 1318 from flowing upward in the tub 131. The third pad 452 may be bent toward the auxiliary outlet 1318.

[0209] As a result, the third pad 452 can prevent the water sprayed from the auxiliary outlet 1318 from flowing upward and to both sides of the tub 131. When the water sprayed from the auxiliary outlet 1318 hits the second pad 451, some of the water flows downward of the tub 131, and the rest of the water flows upward or to both sides of the tub 131.

[0210] Water flowing upward or toward both sides of the tub 131 may then collide with the third pad 452 and eventually flow downward by gravity toward the tub 131. As a result, contaminated water flowing back into the tub 131 through the auxiliary outlet 1318 may be blocked by the second pad 451 and the third pad 452 and may not come into contact with cups or the like placed on the rack 400.

[0211] The insertion hole 453 may be formed to penetrate the third pad 452 and provided for inserting the second flow path guide unit 450 into the edge portion 411. The second flow path guide unit 450 may be attached to the edge portion 411 of the rack 400 via the insertion hole 453.

[0212] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to the illustrative drawings, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed in this specification, and it is clear that various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, even if the effects of the configurations of the present invention are not explicitly described in the above-described embodiments of the present invention, it is natural that the effects that can be predicted by the configurations should also be recognized.

[0213] [Claims at the time of international application] [Claim 1] A cup washer, A cleaning unit for cleaning the stored cups is provided, The cleaning unit includes: a tub that provides a space for the cup to be accommodated; and a rack provided inside the tub for placing cups; The rack is a bottom portion for supporting the cups seated on the rack from below; a side portion formed to protrude from one side of the tub and supporting the cup from one side; and The cup washer includes tines projecting from the bottom toward an upper side of the tub. [Claim 2] The bottom portion is a rim that forms an edge of the bottom and that is formed so that a portion of the rim projects upwardly of the tab; a first inclined portion disposed such that the length direction is inclined relative to the lateral direction of the tab; and The cup washer according to claim 1, further comprising: a first bent portion bent from the first inclined portion and connected to the end portion. [Claim 3] The side surface portion is a vertical portion having one end connected to the end portion and having a length extending vertically above and below the tab; a second bent portion bent from the vertical portion; and 3. The cup washer according to claim 2, further comprising: a second inclined portion extending from one end of the second bent portion and disposed so that the length direction thereof is inclined relative to the vertical direction of the tub. [Claim 4] The tines are a first section protruding from said bottom; a second section extending from the first section and positioned such that the length direction of the second section is inclined relative to the length direction of the first section; and 2. The cup washer of claim 1, further comprising: a third section extending from the second section and positioned such that the length direction of the third section is inclined relative to the length direction of the second section. [Claim 5] The cup washer according to claim 4, wherein the first section and the third section are arranged so as to be aligned with each other in the longitudinal direction. [Claim 6] The tab a detergent inlet through which the detergent flows; and a wash water inlet located above the detergent inlet through which water flows into the tub; The rack is 2. The cup washer according to claim 1, further comprising: a first flow path guide portion coupled to the bottom and positioned to face the wash water inlet, for guiding the flow direction of the water. [Claim 7] The first flow path guide portion is a base portion coupled to the bottom; and 7. The cup washer of claim 6, further comprising: a first pad coupled to the base, positioned at a position corresponding to the wash water inlet, for changing the flow direction of water flowing into the tub, and curved in cross section to guide the water to flow downwards in the tub. [Claim 8] the tub has a rinse inlet spaced apart from the detergent inlet and through which rinse flows; 8. The cup washer according to claim 7, wherein the first flow path guide guides water flowing in from the cleaning water inlet toward the rinse water flowing in from the rinse water inlet. [Claim 9] The tab an air inlet through which air flows in for drying; and 3. The cup washer according to claim 2, further comprising: a guide cone connected to the air inlet hole for guiding the flow of hot air into the tub. [Claim 10] The guide cone is A flow path for air to flow is formed inside, The cup washer according to claim 9, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path decreases toward the outlet of the guide cone. [Claim 11] The cup washer according to claim 9, wherein the guide cone is provided so as to point upward as it approaches the outlet. [Claim 12] 10. The cup washer of claim 9, wherein the guide cone is provided such that an outlet is located below the first inclined portion. [Claim 13] the tub is provided with an auxiliary outlet disposed at a height corresponding to the height of the bottom portion and configured to discharge water to the outside of the tub; 3. The cup washer according to claim 2, wherein the rack comprises a second flow path guide portion disposed at a position corresponding to the auxiliary outlet and configured to guide the flow path of water flowing from the auxiliary outlet into the inside of the tub. [Claim 14] The second flow path guide portion is a second pad for guiding the water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet toward the underside of the tub; a third pad bent from the second pad to prevent water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet from flowing upward toward the tub; and 14. The cup washer of claim 13, further comprising: an insertion hole formed through the third pad. [Claim 15] The tab outer panels; and an inner panel disposed inside the outer panel; 9. The cup washer according to claim 8, wherein the detergent inlet, the rinse inlet, and the cleaning water inlet are formed to penetrate the outer panel and the inner panel.

Claims

1. A cup washer, A cleaning unit for cleaning the stored cups is provided, The cleaning unit includes: a tub that provides a space for the cup to be received; and a rack provided inside the tub for placing cups; The rack is a bottom portion for supporting the cups seated on the rack from below; a side portion formed to protrude from one side of the tub and supporting the cup from one side; and a tine projecting from said bottom toward an upper side of said tub.

2. The bottom portion is a rim that forms an edge of the bottom and that is formed so that a portion of the rim projects upwardly of the tab; a first inclined portion disposed such that the length direction is inclined relative to the lateral direction of the tab; and The cup washer of claim 1 , further comprising: a first bent portion bent from the first inclined portion and connected to the end portion.

3. The side surface portion is a vertical portion having one end connected to the end portion and a lengthwise direction of the tab; a second bent portion bent from the vertical portion; and The cup washer according to claim 2 , further comprising: a second inclined portion extending from one end of the second bent portion and disposed so that the length direction thereof is inclined relative to the vertical direction of the tub.

4. The tines are a first section projecting from said bottom; a second section extending from the first section and disposed such that the length direction thereof is inclined relative to the length direction of the first section; and 2. The cup washer of claim 1, further comprising: a third section extending from the second section and disposed such that the length of the third section is inclined relative to the length of the second section.

5. The cup washer according to claim 4 , wherein the first section and the third section are arranged to be aligned with each other in the longitudinal direction.

6. The tab a detergent inlet through which the detergent flows; and a wash water inlet disposed above the detergent inlet and through which water flows into the tub; The rack is The cup washer according to claim 1 , further comprising: a first flow path guide portion coupled to the bottom portion and positioned to face the washing water inlet, for guiding the flow direction of the water.

7. The first flow path guide portion is a base portion coupled to the bottom; and 7. The cup washer of claim 6, further comprising: a first pad coupled to the base, positioned at a position corresponding to the wash water inlet, for changing the flow direction of water flowing into the tub, and curved in cross section to guide the water to flow downwards in the tub.

8. the tub includes a rinse inlet spaced apart from the detergent inlet and through which rinse flows; The cup washer according to claim 7 , wherein the first flow path guide guides the water flowing in from the washing water inlet toward the rinse water flowing in from the rinse water inlet.

9. The tab an air inlet through which air flows in for drying; and The cup washer according to claim 2, further comprising: a guide cone connected to the air inlet hole for guiding the flow of hot air into the tub.

10. The guide cone is A flow path for air to flow is formed inside, The cup washer of claim 9, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path decreases toward the outlet of the guide cone.

11. The cup washer according to claim 9, wherein the guide cone is provided so as to point upward as it approaches the outlet.

12. The cup washer according to claim 9, wherein the guide cone is provided such that an outlet thereof is located below the first inclined portion.

13. the tub is provided with an auxiliary outlet disposed at a height corresponding to the height of the bottom portion and configured to discharge water to the outside of the tub; 3. The cup washer according to claim 2, wherein the rack comprises a second flow path guide portion disposed at a position corresponding to the auxiliary outlet and configured to guide a flow path of water flowing from the auxiliary outlet into the tub.

14. The second flow path guide portion is a second pad for guiding the water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet toward the underside of the tub; a third pad bent from the second pad to prevent water flowing in from the auxiliary outlet from flowing upward toward the tub; and 14. The cup washer of claim 13, further comprising: an insertion hole formed through the third pad.

15. The tab outer panel; and an inner panel disposed inside the outer panel; The cup washer according to claim 8 , wherein the detergent inlet, the rinse inlet, and the wash water inlet are formed to penetrate the outer panel and the inner panel.

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