How to control a cup washer

Abstract

A method for controlling a cup washer is disclosed. The method operates in a control mode for checking whether the cup washer is operating normally and in a use mode for washing cups. The use modes may include a preparation mode in which the water stored in the water tank of the cup washer is below a set temperature, a standby mode in which the water stored in the water tank is above a set temperature, and a wash mode in which cups stored in the cup washer are washed.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for controlling a cup washer, and more particularly to a method for controlling a cup washer that washes 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] Related prior art is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0016470.

[0006] Users only use the cup washer to wash cups, and do not manage the cup washer for maintenance purposes (there is a separate administrator for this purpose), so it is appropriate for users to simply use the cup washer conveniently and avoid directly touching and operating the cup washer as much as possible.

[0007] In order to reduce the frequency with which users have to operate the cup washer by directly touching it and to make it more convenient to use, it is necessary to develop technology that allows the operation of the cup washer to be controlled using an application implemented on a mobile device such as a smartphone carried by the user.

[0008] Furthermore, in order to ensure that the cup washer can be used for a long time without any breakdowns, it is necessary to have a manager manage it. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a control algorithm for the cup washer that will facilitate both the manager's management and the user's use.

[0009] It is also necessary to develop a method for controlling the cup washer so that the user can choose to wash the cup quickly or to take a little longer to wash the cup thoroughly.

[0010] However, the above-mentioned prior art does not disclose such a technique. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a cup washer that has a structure that allows the user to control the cup washer using a mobile device carried by the user.

[0012] It is also an object of the present invention to provide a method for controlling a cup washer having an algorithm that integrates management by an administrator and use by a user.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a cup washer, which allows the cup washer to operate in a quick wash mode or a normal wash mode according to a user's selection.

[0014] 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]

[0015] The cup washer according to the embodiment can be controlled by inputting a command to a control unit provided in the cup washer.

[0016] A command can be input to the control unit through an application that is programmed and implemented in a smart device such as a smartphone carried by a user who wants to wash a cup, or through an input unit provided in the cup washer. The command can be input by a user or a manager who maintains the cup washer.

[0017] The smart device may be connected to a remotely located main server so as to be able to communicate with the main server, and the control unit of the cup washer may also be connected to the main server so as to be able to communicate with the main server, so that commands input to the smart device may be transmitted to the control unit of the cup washer via the main server.

[0018] In the cup washer control method, the cup washer can operate in a control mode for checking whether the cup washer is operating normally, and in a use mode for washing cups using the cup washer.

[0019] Therefore, the control method for the cup washer may have an algorithm that integrates a management mode for maintaining the cup washer with a usage mode in which a user uses the cup washer to clean the cups.

[0020] The cup washer can perform normal washing or quick washing according to the user's selection. The cup washer can be changed from the ready mode or standby mode to the sleep mode when a command is input from the input unit or when a set time has elapsed since the start of the ready mode or standby mode.

[0021] In a method for controlling a cup washer that operates in a management mode for checking whether the cup washer is operating normally and in a use mode for washing cups, the use mode may include a preparation mode in which the water stored in the water tank of the cup washer is below a set temperature, a standby mode in which the water stored in the water tank is above a set temperature, and a washing mode in which cups stored in the cup washer are washed.

[0022] The use modes include a sleep mode in which the heater contained in the reservoir is deactivated, and the sleep mode can be changed to either a ready mode or a standby mode upon input of a command.

[0023] The cup washer can be changed from the sleep mode to either the preparation mode or the standby mode according to a command input from a mobile device carried by a user or an input unit provided on the cup washer.

[0024] When the cup washer is in the preparation mode or standby mode, it can be changed from the preparation mode or standby mode to the sleep mode if a command is input from the input unit or if a set time has elapsed since the start of the preparation mode or standby mode.

[0025] The cup washer can be changed from either a sleep mode or a standby mode to a cleaning mode by command input from a mobile device.

[0026] The cup washer can perform a quick wash mode in which the cup is washed using room temperature water, or a normal wash mode in which the cup is washed using warm water supplied from a water tank, according to the command input in the wash mode.

[0027] The cup washer can immediately perform washing when the rapid washing mode is entered.

[0028] When the normal washing mode is selected, the cup washer immediately washes the cups if it is currently in standby mode, and waits for the water stored in the water tank to reach a set temperature if it is currently in preparation mode.

[0029] The cup washer receives reservations for washing cups from users in a use mode, sequentially arranges a plurality of reservations input by a plurality of users, and transmits a notification signal to each user who has reserved the washing when it is their turn to wash each of the plurality of reservations.

[0030] When the cup washer is in sleep mode and a user makes a reservation, the cup washer can be changed from sleep mode to either ready mode or standby mode depending on the temperature of the water stored in the water tank.

[0031] The cup washer may be configured to remain in a sleep mode during a set time period without receiving a reservation from a user for washing a cup.

[0032] In the cleaning mode, a door for opening and closing the cleaning section of the cup washer may be configured to close with the cleaning section closed.

[0033] The management mode may include an initial mode in which, after the cup washer is turned on, water that has flowed into the washing section of the cup washer is drained to the outside and the main server and the cup washer are connected so that they can communicate with each other, and an installation mode in which a computer program that controls the operation of the cup washer is installed or updated.

[0034] In the control mode, the cup washer can drain the water stored in the water tank to the outside.

[0035] If a command regarding draining is input, the cup washer may change to use mode after the draining operation and the installation mode are completed, and if no command regarding draining is input, the cup washer may change to use mode after the installation mode is completed.

[0036] The door may be arranged to unlock after the wash mode has finished, after a set time has elapsed, or after receiving a command to abort the wash mode process.

[0037] After the cleaning mode is completed or after receiving a command to stop the progress of the cleaning mode, the cup washer drains the water that has flowed into the cleaning section to the outside, and after the draining is completed, the cup washer can be changed to the preparation mode. [Effects of the Invention]

[0038] In the cup washer control method according to the present invention, a user can remotely control the cup washer using a portable smart device, thereby reducing the number of times the user has to wait in line in front of the cup washer until their turn comes or input control commands directly into the cup washer, thereby providing convenience to the user of the cup washer.

[0039] Furthermore, the cup washer control method according to the present invention may have an algorithm that integrates a management mode for maintaining the cup washer with a usage mode for users to wash cups using the cup washer, thereby providing smooth management of the cup washer and convenience for users.

[0040] In addition, in the cup washer control method according to the present invention, the cup washer can perform normal washing or quick washing according to the user's selection. The user simply inputs the command using a mobile device, and the control unit washes cups in either normal washing mode or quick washing mode, thereby providing convenience to the user.

[0041] 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]

[0042] [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] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a cup washer according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 11] 4 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a method for controlling a cup washer according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 1 is a table illustrating a method for controlling a cup washer according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specified, each element may be singular or plural.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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 .

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] A heating device may be provided inside the water tank 120. The heating device may include, for example, an electric resistance heater. The water in the water tank 120 may be heated by the heating device and then flow into the cleaning unit 130. This allows cups to be washed using heated water, thereby improving the efficiency of cup washing.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] The rear panel 180 may have a handle 260 attached thereto to allow a user or administrator to pick up the cup washer for easy access.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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 operates to drain the water stored in the sump 133 to the outside.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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 .

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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 used for general cleaning or quick cleaning according to the user's choice.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a cup washer according to an embodiment of the present invention. The cup washer can be controlled by inputting a command to a control unit provided in the cup washer.

[0127] The command may be input to the control unit through an application that is programmed and implemented in a mobile device such as a smartphone carried by a user who intends to wash a cup, or through an input unit provided in the cup washer. The command may be input by a user or a manager who maintains the cup washer.

[0128] The mobile device may be connected to a remotely located main server so as to be able to communicate with the main server, and the control unit of the cup washer may also be connected to the main server so as to be able to communicate with the main server, so that commands input to the mobile device may be transmitted to the control unit of the cup washer via the main server.

[0129] The method for controlling the cup washer according to the embodiment may mean that a control unit (to be described later) maintains or changes each operation mode of the cup washer.

[0130] The cup washer according to the embodiment may operate in a control mode and a use mode. In the control mode, a control unit may check whether the cup washer is operating normally. When the cup washer is powered on and operating, it may enter the control mode.

[0131] The management mode may include an initial mode and an installation mode. In the initial mode, after the cup washer is turned on, water flowing into the washing unit 130 of the cup washer is drained to the outside, and the main server and the cup washer are connected so that they can communicate with each other.

[0132] When the cup washer is turned on and enters the control mode, the control unit can temporarily drain the water that has flowed into the washing unit 130 to the outside. The purpose of draining the water is to clean the washing unit 130 because there may be water that has not been drained before in the washing unit 130, and even if the washing unit 130 has been drained before, dirt may remain inside the washing unit 130.

[0133] The drain can simply discharge the water stored in the tub 131 and the sump 133 to the outside of the cup washer. Alternatively, to keep the cup washer in a cleaner state, water can be introduced from the outside into the tub 131 and the sump 133 and then drained. For example, water can be introduced from the water supply into the tub 131, and then the water stored in the tub 131 and the sump 133 can be drained to the outside to clean the inside of the washing unit 130.

[0134] After the control unit connects the main server and the cup washer in the initial mode so that they can communicate with each other, the cup washer can enter the installation mode.

[0135] In the installation mode, the computer program that controls the operation of the cup washer can be installed or updated. The program required to control the cup washer can be periodically installed or updated. The program can be installed or updated by transmitting data from a main server connected to the cup washer.

[0136] If these programs are installed or updated in the use mode described below, the operation of the cup washer may be stopped or slowed down, causing inconvenience to the user.

[0137] Therefore, the user can install or update the program in a management mode when the user does not actually use the cup washer, thereby reducing the inconvenience to the user.

[0138] In the management mode, the control unit can check whether the communication state with the main server is good and whether the electrical components of the cup washer are operating normally without any errors. If the check detects an error in the communication state or components, information about the error can be displayed on the display unit 190.

[0139] Once the program installation or update is complete, the cup washer may enter a use mode, in which a user carrying a cup can use the cup washer to wash the cup.

[0140] The use modes may include a preparation mode, a standby mode, and a washing mode. The preparation mode and the standby mode may be distinguished according to the temperature of the water stored in the water tank 120. The preparation mode may be when the water stored in the water tank 120 of the cup washer is below a set temperature.

[0141] The standby mode may be when the water stored in the water tank 120 is at or above a set temperature. In this case, the set temperature may be, for example, about 70°C. In the general cleaning mode, when the water stored in the water tank 120 reaches the standby mode, where the temperature is at or above the set temperature, the warm water in the water tank 120 flows into the cleaning unit 130 to perform cleaning.

[0142] Therefore, in the use mode, if the cup washer is in the preparation mode, it will not change to the washing mode, but will change to the standby mode and then to the washing mode so that the user can perform washing.

[0143] When the cup washer is in standby mode and a user inputs a washing reservation, the cup washer is changed to washing mode to perform washing. When a command is input in standby mode, the cup washer is changed to washing mode, and in washing mode, cups placed in the cup washer can be washed. When washing is completed, the cup washer can be changed to preparation mode again.

[0144] In an embodiment, an algorithm may be provided that integrates a management mode for maintenance of the cup washer with a usage mode for users to use the cup washer, thereby providing smooth management of the cup washer and convenience for users.

[0145] The use mode may include a sleep mode in which the heater contained in the water tank 120 is deactivated. The sleep mode can be changed to either a ready mode or a standby mode by inputting a command, in which case the heater in the water tank 120 can still operate to heat the water stored in the water tank 120.

[0146] However, if the cup washer is used infrequently and washing is not performed for a long period of time, it is appropriate to stop the heater and wait. Therefore, the cup washer may stop the heater and enter a sleep mode upon receiving a command.

[0147] In sleep mode, the heater is turned off to reduce the cup washer's power consumption. In sleep mode, the control unit can be changed to either ready mode or standby mode by inputting a command.

[0148] Since sleep mode stops the heater from operating, even if the heater is stopped, the temperature of the water stored in the water tank 120 may remain above the set temperature for a certain period of time, and over time the water may drop below the set temperature.

[0149] Therefore, if a command is input when the water in the water tank 120 is at or above the set temperature in sleep mode, the device will enter standby mode, and if a command is input when the water in the water tank 120 is below the set temperature, the device will enter preparation mode.

[0150] The cup washer can be changed from the sleep mode to either the preparation mode or the standby mode according to a command input from a mobile device carried by a user or an input unit provided on the cup washer.

[0151] For example, a user can input a reservation for washing a cup via an application on a mobile device, and the cup washer can immediately switch from sleep mode to either ready mode or standby mode with the heater turned on as soon as the reservation is input.

[0152] As another example, the user may input a command to activate the heater and prepare for washing, i.e., a wake-up command, into an input section provided on the cup washer, thereby changing the cup washer from sleep mode to either preparation mode or standby mode.

[0153] The command to change the cup washer into the sleep mode may be input by a user or an administrator, or may be embodied as a command signal after a set time has elapsed.

[0154] Therefore, when the cup washer is in the preparation mode or standby mode, if a command is input from the input unit, or if a set time has elapsed since the start of the preparation mode or standby mode, the cup washer can be changed from the preparation mode or standby mode to the sleep mode.

[0155] The cleaning mode may include a normal cleaning mode and a rapid cleaning mode, and the user can select between the normal cleaning mode and the rapid cleaning mode. The normal cleaning mode and the rapid cleaning mode have already been described above.

[0156] In the washing mode, the cup washer can perform a quick washing mode in which the cup is washed using room temperature water supplied from the water supply, or a general washing mode in which the cup is washed using warm water supplied from the water tank 120, according to commands input by the user.

[0157] The cup washer can be switched from a sleep mode or standby mode to a wash mode by receiving a command from a user's mobile device. The wash can be a quick wash or a general wash, depending on the user's selection.

[0158] The user can select either quick wash or general wash and input a command in the mobile device application, which will change the cup washer from sleep mode or standby mode to quick wash mode or general wash mode.

[0159] As mentioned above, the cup washer cannot immediately start washing in the preparation mode. Therefore, when a washing command is input, the cup washer must first enter the standby mode and then switch to the washing mode to start washing.

[0160] However, if a cleaning command is input while in sleep mode, if the water in the water tank 120 in sleep mode is at or above the set temperature, the sleep mode may immediately switch to standby mode, and therefore the sleep mode may immediately switch to cleaning mode without going through preparation mode.

[0161] The cup washer can immediately start washing when the progress of the quick washing mode is input. In the quick washing mode, the cup washer uses raw water at room temperature flowing from the water supply, so it does not use water stored in the water tank 120 and does not need to heat water, so it can start washing immediately without considering the standby mode or preparation mode.

[0162] When the general washing mode is selected, the cup washer will immediately wash the cups if it is currently in standby mode, and will wait until the water stored in the water tank 120 reaches the set temperature if it is currently in preparation mode.

[0163] In the general washing mode, washing can be performed only when the temperature of the hot water in the water tank 120 is equal to or higher than the set temperature. Therefore, if the device is currently in standby mode and the hot water is equal to or higher than the set temperature, washing of glasses can be performed immediately.

[0164] If the machine is currently in preparation mode, it waits for the water stored in the water tank 120 to be heated sufficiently by the heater, and once the water reaches a set temperature or higher, it switches to standby mode and can then start washing the cups.

[0165] In an embodiment, the cup washer can perform normal washing or quick washing according to the user's selection. The user can simply input the desired mode using a mobile device, and the control unit can separate the normal washing mode and quick washing mode to wash the cup, thereby providing convenience to the user.

[0166] 11 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a method for controlling the cup washer according to an embodiment. In the control mode, the cup washer can drain the water stored in the water tank 120 to the outside.

[0167] The draining of the water tank 120 can be performed by an administrator in the management mode. The draining of the water tank 120 can be performed at the administrator's discretion. For example, if the cup washer is left turned off for a long period of time and then turned on again, water may remain in the water tank 120, which may cause a hygiene problem, so the water tank 120 needs to be drained.

[0168] If there is no water stored in the water tank 120 in the management mode or if the water has not been stored for a long time, there is no significant hygiene problem, so there is no need to drain the water tank 120 in the management mode.

[0169] Therefore, in the management mode, draining of the water tank 120 can be selected by the manager. When draining of the water tank 120 is necessary, the manager can input a command to drain the water tank 120 through an input unit provided in the cup washer, and the control unit can then drain the water tank 120. Draining of the water tank 120 can always be performed when the cup washer is in the management mode.

[0170] The cup washer can drain the water stored in the water tank 120 to the outside according to a command input from an input unit provided in the cup washer. The command to drain the water tank 120 may or may not be input.

[0171] If a command for draining is input, the cup washer may change to the use mode after the draining operation and the installation mode are completed. If a command for draining is not input, the cup washer may change to the use mode after the installation mode is completed.

[0172] When the wash starts, the washing machine can perform a normal wash or a quick wash according to the user's selection. Meanwhile, for the user's convenience, the wash is performed by the control unit through a set process, and the user can cancel the wash at any time before the wash is completed by the control unit.

[0173] The washing can be canceled by inputting a command to interrupt the washing mode through an input unit provided on the user's mobile device or the dishwasher.

[0174] The washing mode may include a drying mode. When washing is completed in a normal manner, after the washing using water is completed, a drying process for drying the water remaining on the surface of the cup can be automatically performed by the drying module 132. On the other hand, when washing is interrupted by the user, the drying process may not be performed.

[0175] After the cleaning mode is completed or after receiving a command to stop the cleaning mode, the cup washer may drain the water that flowed into the cleaning unit 130 to the outside. After one cleaning is performed, water mixed with detergent, rinse, or dirt may remain in the tub 131 and sump 133 of the cleaning unit 130.

[0176] Therefore, when the previous cleaning is completed in order to perform the next cleaning, the water that has flowed into the cleaning unit 130 can be drained to the outside to prepare for the next cleaning.

[0177] After the draining is completed, the cup washer can be switched to the preparation mode. After the draining is completed, the water tank 120 is empty because one flush has already been performed, so in the preparation mode, water can be introduced from the water supply into the water tank 120 and the water stored in the water tank 120 can be heated.

[0178] After the water is heated, the cup washer may be in a ready mode, a standby mode or a sleep mode depending on the conditions, in which it can be ready for the next cup washer.

[0179] In the washing mode, a user can open the door 150 of the cup washer, place a cup in the washing unit 130, and then press a start button provided on the input unit of the cup washer to start washing. In another embodiment, the control unit can detect that a cup has been placed in the washing unit 130, recognize that the door 150 is closed, and start washing without the user having to manually input a command. In this case, a normal wash or a quick wash can be performed according to the command previously input by the user on the mobile device.

[0180] In the washing mode, the door 150 for opening and closing the washing unit 130 of the cup washer may be configured to close while the washing unit 130 is closed. The control unit closes the door 150 while washing is being performed, thereby preventing water from splashing outside the washing unit 130 if the door 150 is opened during washing.

[0181] After the cleaning mode is completed, the door 150 may be configured to unlock after a set time has elapsed or after receiving a command to abort the cleaning mode. Once the door 150 is unlocked, the user can open the door 150 and retrieve the cup.

[0182] The cup washer can receive cup wash reservations from multiple users. Multiple users input cup wash reservations using their mobile devices, and multiple reservations can be transmitted to a main server connected to the multiple mobile devices. The main server can transmit multiple reservations to the cup washer connected to itself.

[0183] In the cup washer, a user inputs a reservation for washing a cup in a use mode, and the cup washer can arrange a plurality of reservations input by a plurality of users in the order in which the reservations were input.

[0184] The cup washer can transmit a notification signal to each user who has reserved the cup when it is their turn to wash the cup for each of the multiple reservations. The notification signal may be transmitted to a mobile device carried by each user via the main server.

[0185] When a user receives a signal that it is their turn, they can go to the cup washer and wash their cup.

[0186] When the cup washer receives a reservation from a user while in sleep mode, the cup washer can be changed from sleep mode to either ready mode or standby mode depending on the temperature of the water stored in the water tank.

[0187] If there is no user reservation, the cup washer can be changed to sleep mode to save electricity. If a user reservation is entered in sleep mode, the dish washer can be immediately woken up and changed to ready or standby mode.

[0188] As mentioned above, if the hot water in the water tank 120 is at or above the set temperature in the sleep mode, when a reservation is input, the sleep mode can be immediately changed to the wash mode to prepare for washing.

[0189] The cup washer can be installed in a sales area that provides beverage service. These sales areas cannot be accessed by customers after closing time, so it is necessary to prevent customers from reserving cups for washing outside of business hours.

[0190] If a reservation is made for washing cups outside business hours, the cup washer will change from sleep mode to preparation mode or standby mode due to the reservation, even though the cups cannot actually be washed, and will heat the water in the water tank 120, thereby consuming electricity and posing a risk of fire in an empty sales area.

[0191] Therefore, the cup washer may be configured to remain in sleep mode during set time periods without accepting reservations for cup washing from users. These time periods may be non-business hours of the sales floor or may be set by an administrator.

[0192] This structure allows the cup washer to remain in sleep mode without the heater operating during non-business hours or other times when the cup washer is not in use on the sales floor, thereby reducing power waste and preventing fires even when the cup washer is not turned off, and providing convenience to the manager.

[0193] 12 is a table for explaining a method for controlling the cup washer according to an embodiment of the present invention, which specifically shows the operation of the cup washer in each of the modes described above.

[0194] The heater of the water tank 120 can operate in the preparation mode, the standby mode, and the cleaning mode. In the cleaning mode, the heater also operates, and the hot water in the water tank 120 can be supplied to the cleaning unit 130 during cleaning.

[0195] The error detection is performed by the control unit to detect whether there is an abnormality in the operation of the electrical components of the cup washer or whether the cup washer is communicating smoothly with the main server. If an error is detected and there is an abnormality in the cup washer, the control unit can display information about this on the display unit 190. Error detection can be performed continuously in all modes of the cup washer.

[0196] The cleaning section 130 can be drained in the initial mode of the maintenance mode to sanitize the cleaning section 130. The cleaning section 130 can also be drained at the end of the cleaning mode to allow for the next cleaning.

[0197] Draining of the reservoir 120 can be performed during either the initial mode or the installation mode of the management mode, and this may or may not be performed at the option of the administrator.

[0198] A user can schedule a wash using the mobile device application in the preparation mode, standby mode, and wash mode. In sleep mode, a wash can be scheduled at any time except for the set time period during which the above-mentioned reservation is prohibited.

[0199] The user can select the cleaning mode, either normal cleaning or quick cleaning, in the mobile device application. At this time, since the user may change their mind, the cleaning mode selection in the application can be done in standby mode just before the cleaning starts.

[0200] The door 150 is closed during the wash mode and can be unlocked during other modes. The door 150 is closed during the wash mode to prevent water from splashing outside the cup washer through the door 150 or gaps in the door 150 that may be opened during the wash mode.

[0201] In an embodiment, a user can remotely control the cup washer using a mobile device that he or she carries, thereby reducing the number of times the user has to wait in line in front of the cup washer until their turn comes or input control commands directly into the cup washer, thereby providing convenience to the user of the cup washer.

[0202] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to illustrative drawings, it is clear that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed in this specification, and 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.

[0203] [Claims at the time of international application] [Claim 1] A method for controlling a cup washer, comprising: The cup washer comprises: A control mode for checking whether the cup washer is operating normally; and a use mode in which the cup washer is used to wash a cup; The use mode is: a preparation mode in which the water stored in the water reservoir of the cup washer is below a set temperature; a standby mode in which the water stored in the water tank is at or above a set temperature; and a cleaning mode for cleaning cups contained in the cup washer. [Claim 2] The use mode includes a sleep mode in which the heater housed in the water tank is deactivated; 2. The method for controlling a cup washer according to claim 1, wherein the sleep mode is changed to either the preparation mode or the standby mode by inputting a command. [Claim 3] 3. The cup washer control method according to claim 2, wherein the cup washer is changed from the sleep mode to either the preparation mode or the standby mode in accordance with a command input from a mobile device carried by a user or an input unit provided in the cup washer. [Claim 4] The cup washer comprises: A command is input from the input unit while the device is in the preparation mode or the standby mode, or 4. The cup washer control method according to claim 3, wherein the preparation mode or the standby mode is changed to the sleep mode when a set time has elapsed since the start of the preparation mode or the standby mode. [Claim 5] 4. The method for controlling a cup washer according to claim 3, wherein the cup washer is changed from either the sleep mode or the standby mode to the washing mode in response to a command input from the mobile device. [Claim 6] The cup washer comprises: a quick wash mode in which the cup is washed with room temperature water according to the commands entered in the wash mode; or 6. The cup washer control method according to claim 5, wherein a general washing mode is performed in which cups are washed using the warm water supplied from the water tank. [Claim 7] 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the cup washer immediately performs washing when a command to proceed with the quick washing mode is input. [Claim 8] The cup washer comprises: When the general cleaning mode is entered, If the machine is currently in the standby mode, immediately wash the cup, or 8. The cup washer control method according to claim 7, wherein, if the standby mode is currently in effect, cups are washed after the water stored in the water tank reaches a set temperature. [Claim 9] The cup washer comprises: In the use mode, a user inputs a reservation for washing a cup, and the reservation is sequentially arranged for a plurality of users. 3. The method for controlling a cup washer according to claim 2, wherein when the turn for washing comes for each of the multiple reservations, a notification signal is transmitted to each user who has reserved the washing. [Claim 10] 10. The cup washer control method according to claim 9, wherein when a reservation is received from a user while the cup washer is in the sleep mode, the cup washer is changed from the sleep mode to either the preparation mode or the standby mode depending on the temperature of the water stored in the water tank. [Claim 11] 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the cup washer is configured to maintain the sleep mode without accepting a reservation for washing a cup from a user during a set time period. [Claim 12] 2. The method of claim 1, wherein in the cleaning mode, a door for opening and closing a cleaning unit of the cup washer is configured to close with the cleaning unit closed. [Claim 13] The management mode is An initial mode in which, after the power supply of the cup washer is turned on, the water flowing into the washing unit of the cup washer is drained to the outside, and the main server and the cup washer are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other; and 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: an installation mode for installing or updating a computer program that controls the operation of the cup washer. [Claim 14] 14. The method for controlling a cup washer according to claim 13, wherein the cup washer in the management mode performs an operation of draining the water stored in the water tank to the outside. [Claim 15] The cup washer comprises: If a command for draining is input, the mode is changed to the use mode after the draining operation and the progress of the installation mode are completed, 15. The method for controlling a cup washer according to claim 14, wherein if there is no command input for draining, the mode is changed to the use mode after the installation mode is completed. [Claim 16] 13. The method for controlling a cup washer according to claim 12, wherein the door is configured to be unlocked after a set time has elapsed or after receiving a command to interrupt the progress of the washing mode after the washing mode has ended. [Claim 17] After the cleaning mode is completed or after receiving a command to stop the cleaning mode, the cup washer drains the water that has flowed into the cleaning unit to the outside, 2. The method for controlling a cup washer according to claim 1, wherein the cup washer is changed to the preparation mode after draining is completed.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a cup washer, comprising: The cup washer comprises: A control mode for checking whether the cup washer is operating normally; and a use mode in which the cup washer is used to wash a cup; The use mode is: a ready mode in which the water stored in the water reservoir of the cup washer is below a set temperature; a standby mode in which the water stored in the water tank is at or above a set temperature; and a cleaning mode for cleaning cups contained in the cup washer.

2. The use mode includes a sleep mode in which the heater housed in the water tank is deactivated; The method of claim 1 , wherein the sleep mode is changed to either the preparation mode or the standby mode by inputting a command.

3. 3. The cup washer control method according to claim 2, wherein the cup washer is changed from the sleep mode to either the preparation mode or the standby mode in accordance with a command input from a mobile device held by a user or an input unit provided in the cup washer.

4. The cup washer comprises: A command is input from the input unit while the device is in the preparation mode or the standby mode, or The cup washer control method according to claim 3 , wherein the preparation mode or the standby mode is changed to the sleep mode when a set time has elapsed since the start of the preparation mode or the standby mode.

5. The method of claim 3 , wherein the cup washer is changed from the sleep mode or the standby mode to the washing mode in response to a command input from the mobile device.

6. The cup washer comprises: a quick wash mode in which the cup is washed with room temperature water according to the commands entered in the wash mode; or 6. The method for controlling a cup washer according to claim 5, further comprising the step of: performing a general washing mode in which the cups are washed using the hot water supplied from the water tank.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the cup washer immediately performs washing when a command to proceed with the quick washing mode is input.

8. The cup washer comprises: When the general cleaning mode is entered, If the machine is currently in the standby mode, immediately wash the cup, or 8. The method of claim 7, wherein if the standby mode is currently being used, cups are washed after the water stored in the water tank reaches a set temperature.

9. The cup washer comprises: In the use mode, a user inputs a reservation for washing a cup, and the reservation is sequentially arranged for a plurality of users.

3. The method for controlling a cup washer according to claim 2, wherein when the turn for washing comes for each of a plurality of reservations, a notification signal is transmitted to each user who has reserved washing.

10. 10. The cup washer control method of claim 9, wherein when the cup washer receives a reservation from a user while in the sleep mode, the cup washer is changed from the sleep mode to either the preparation mode or the standby mode depending on the temperature of the water stored in the water tank.

11. The cup washer control method of claim 9, wherein the cup washer is configured to maintain the sleep mode without receiving a reservation for washing a cup from a user during a set time period.

12. The method of claim 1 , wherein in the cleaning mode, a door for opening and closing a cleaning unit of the cup washer is configured to close with the cleaning unit closed.

13. The management mode is An initial mode in which, after the cup washer is turned on, water flowing into a washing unit of the cup washer is drained to the outside, and a main server and the cup washer are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other; and 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: an installation mode for installing or updating a computer program that controls the operation of the cup washer.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the cup washer in the management mode performs an operation of draining the water stored in the water tank to the outside.

15. The cup washer comprises: If a command for draining is input, the mode is changed to the use mode after the draining operation and the progress of the installation mode are completed, The method for controlling a cup washer according to claim 14, wherein if there is no command input for draining, the mode is changed to the use mode after the installation mode is completed.

16. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the door is configured to be unlocked after a set time has elapsed or a command to stop the cleaning mode is received after the cleaning mode is completed.

17. After the cleaning mode is completed or after receiving a command to stop the cleaning mode, the cup washer drains the water that has flowed into the cleaning unit to the outside, 2. The method for controlling a cup washer according to claim 1, wherein the cup washer is changed to the preparation mode after draining is completed.

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