Bracket assemblies, cupboards and dishwashers

Abstract

A bracket assembly, a cupboard, and a dishwasher, the bracket assembly including a support frame (10) and a bracket (20), the bracket (20) being connected to the support frame (10), the bracket (20) being supported by the support frame (10) and capable of supporting an article, and the bracket (20) being extendable and retractable along a first direction in a direction toward the support frame (10) and a direction away from the support frame (10), and being switchable between an unfolded state and a folded state.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure claims priority to a Chinese patent disclosure filed with the China Patent Office on February 1, 2023, with disclosure number 202310078570.1, entitled "Bracket Assembly, Dish Cabinet and Dishwasher," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This disclosure claims priority to a Chinese patent disclosure filed with the China Patent Office on February 1, 2023, with disclosure number 202320148986.1, entitled "Bracket Assembly, Dish Cabinet and Dishwasher," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the field of cleaning technology, and in particular to a bracket assembly, a dish cabinet including the bracket assembly, and a dishwasher including the dish cabinet. [Background technology]

[0004] Currently, increasing the dish capacity of dishwashers is a future trend. Since the internal space of a dishwasher is fixed, related technologies generally employ methods such as attaching accessories such as bowl racks or chopstick / fork racks to the dish rack to increase dish capacity. However, these accessories take up internal space inside the dishwasher when not in use. Furthermore, washing pots and pans is an essential need when using a dishwasher, and their placement places a certain demand on the space in the dish rack. This means that attaching accessories to the dish rack has significant limitations, or users must manually remove the accessories, which affects the loading of other dishes and creates a poor experience. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The present disclosure aims to solve one of the technical problems in the prior art to a certain extent, and therefore, one object of the present disclosure is to provide a bracket assembly that has a foldable bracket, which can be unfolded when in use to expand storage space, and folded when not in use to facilitate storage.

[0006] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a cupboard including the above bracket assembly.

[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher including the above-mentioned dish cabinet. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to an embodiment of the disclosed bracket assembly, the bracket assembly includes a support frame and a bracket, the bracket is connected to the support frame, the bracket is supported by the support frame and can support an article, and the bracket is extendable and retractable along a first direction toward the support frame and away from the support frame, thereby switching between an unfolded state and a folded state.

[0009] According to the bracket assembly of the presently disclosed embodiment, a foldable bracket is provided, which allows the bracket to be unfolded when in use to expand storage space, and folded when not in use for convenient storage.

[0010] Furthermore, the bracket assembly of the above embodiment of the present disclosure further has the following additional technical features.

[0011] In some embodiments, the bracket includes a folding frame and a shelf, the folding frame connected to the support frame, and the shelf connected to the folding frame, wherein the folding frame is extendable along directions toward and away from the support frame, thereby allowing the shelf to fold and unfold.

[0012] In some embodiments, the folding frame includes a plurality of rod groups, one of which is connected to the support frame, and the plurality of rod groups are sequentially connected in a direction away from the support frame, wherein the rod groups include a first connecting rod and a second connecting rod hingedly connected to each other and crossing each other, the first connecting rod in one rod group is hingedly connected to the support frame, the second connecting rod in one rod group is slidably connected to the support frame, and the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod in an adjacent rod group are hingedly connected in a zigzag manner.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first plurality of connecting rods are parallel to one another, and the second plurality of connecting rods are parallel to one another.

[0014] In some embodiments, the support frame includes a main body portion, a hinge connection portion, and a guide portion, the hinge connection portion being connected to the main body portion, and the guide portion being connected to the main body portion, wherein a first connecting rod in one rod group is hingedly connected to the hinge connection portion, and a second connecting rod in one rod group is slidably connected to the guide portion.

[0015] In some embodiments, the hinge connection portion and the guide portion are located opposite each other in the vertical direction, and the guide portion is provided with a guide groove extending along the vertical direction, and a sliding portion is provided at the end of the second connecting rod of one of the rod groups, and the sliding portion is slidably inserted into the guide groove.

[0016] In some embodiments, the guide portion is provided with a reinforcing rib extending along the periphery of the guide portion, and the inner peripheral surface of the reinforcing rib is flush with the inner peripheral surface of the guide groove.

[0017] In some embodiments, a locking structure is provided on the inner surface of the guide groove, and the locking structure is provided at the upper end and / or lower end within the guide part to position the bracket.

[0018] In some embodiments, the hinge joint is located above the guide portion.

[0019] In some embodiments, the shelf includes a plurality of shelves, and the plurality of shelves correspond one-to-one to the plurality of rod groups, and the shelf is connected to one of the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod in the corresponding rod group.

[0020] In some embodiments, the two ends of the connecting rod are each provided with a locking device, and the shelves are each provided with a hook corresponding to the locking device, which engages with the corresponding locking device.

[0021] In some embodiments, the shelf includes a third connecting rod, both ends of which are connected to the hooks, and the connection point between the third connecting rod and the hooks is bent and abuts against the locking device.

[0022] In some embodiments, the folding frames include two spaced apart folding frames, the shelf is connected between the folding frames, and the support frame is connected to the folding frames in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0023] In some embodiments, the shelves include a plurality of shelves spaced apart along directions toward and away from the support frame, and when the bracket is in a folded state, the plurality of shelves are close to each other, and when the bracket is in an unfolded state, the plurality of shelves are spaced apart, making it suitable for placing items on the shelves.

[0024] In some embodiments, the shelf includes a backrest and an undertray, the backrest being installed vertically and the undertray being connected to a lower end of the backrest and adapted to support items placed on the shelf.

[0025] In some embodiments, the backrest includes a plurality of first horizontal rods and a plurality of first vertical rods, the first vertical rods extending along the vertical direction and the plurality of first vertical rods arranged at intervals along the horizontal direction, the first horizontal rods connecting to the plurality of vertical rods, lower ends of the first vertical rods connected to the undertray, and when the bracket is in an unfolded state, the undertray and the vertical rods form an "L" shape with an opening facing upward.

[0026] According to the disclosed embodiment of the dish cabinet, it includes a dish basket and the above-mentioned bracket assembly, wherein the support frame is connected to the dish basket and supports the bracket, and the bracket is suspended above the bottom wall of the dish basket.

[0027] The cupboard of the disclosed embodiment can be connected to a bracket assembly, which improves the flexibility of use of the cupboard, and has a simple structure and is easy to assemble.

[0028] In some embodiments, the support frame has an attachment cavity therein, an attachment opening is provided at the lower end of the support frame, a snap clip is provided on the support frame, and a fixing frame is provided on the dish basket, and the fixing frame is inserted into the support frame through the attachment opening and engaged by the snap clip.

[0029] According to the dishwasher of the disclosed embodiment, the dishwasher includes a main body and the above-mentioned dish cabinet, wherein a washing cavity with an open front is formed in the main body, and the dish cabinet is disposed in the washing cavity.

[0030] According to the dishwasher of the presently disclosed embodiment, the number of dishes that can be accommodated and the number of dishes that can be washed can be increased, thereby improving the washing efficiency of the dishwasher.

[0031] In some embodiments, a plurality of cupboards are provided in the main body and arranged along the vertical direction.

[0032] In some embodiments, the cupboard is disposed within the body so as to be removable along a first direction.

[0033] In order to more clearly explain the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure or the prior art, the following will briefly introduce the drawings necessary for describing the embodiments or the prior art. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are only some embodiments of the present disclosure, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on the structures shown in these drawings without any creative work. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0034] [Figure 1] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a bracket assembly in some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of a bracket assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a cupboard according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a cupboard according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the circled portion A in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a cupboard configuration in some embodiments of the present disclosure (showing the brackets in an expanded state). [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram of a cupboard configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure (showing the brackets in a folded state). FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a kitchen cabinet according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1A and 1B are cross-sectional views of a support frame (extensions not shown) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] The realization of the objectives, functional features and advantages of the present disclosure will be further explained in detail in combination with the embodiments and with reference to the drawings.

[0036] Currently, increasing the dish capacity of dishwashers is a future trend. Since the internal space of a dishwasher is fixed, related technologies generally employ methods such as attaching accessories such as bowl racks or chopstick / fork racks to the dish rack to increase dish capacity. However, these accessories take up internal space inside the dishwasher when not in use. Furthermore, washing pots and pans is an essential need when using a dishwasher, and their placement places a certain demand on the space in the dish rack. This means that attaching accessories to the dish rack has significant limitations, or users must manually remove the accessories, which affects the loading of other dishes and creates a poor experience.

[0037] For this reason, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, a bracket assembly is provided, which can expand the supporting space, and the bracket is attached to one side of the support frame. When in use, the bracket is unfolded to load items, and when not in use, the bracket is stored on one side of the support frame, which does not affect the placement of other items, and is practical, convenient, and has a good user experience.

[0038] The following describes in detail the embodiments of the present disclosure, and examples of the embodiments are shown in the drawings, where the same or similar designations throughout refer to the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the drawings are illustrative and are used to explain the present disclosure, but should not be understood as limiting the present disclosure.

[0039] 1 to 9 , a bracket assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a support frame 10 and a bracket 20. The bracket 20 is connected to the support frame 10 and is supported by the support frame 10 to support an item. The bracket 20 is extendable in a first direction toward and away from the support frame 10, allowing it to be switched between an unfolded state and a folded state, making it easier for users to adjust and improving practicality. Specifically, the bracket 20 has an unfolded state and a folded state. In the unfolded state, a user can place items on the bracket 20 to expand storage space. When the bracket 20 is not in use, the user can adjust the bracket 20 to a folded state, storing the bracket 20 on one side of the support frame 10 for easier management. Furthermore, the storage space can be adjusted when the bracket 20 is unfolded. When the bracket 20 is unfolded, it needs to be pulled away from the support frame 10. The user can select the unfolded position or extended length of the bracket 20 according to the size of the item to be placed on it, thereby improving space utilization. In addition, adequate storage space can also improve the stability of items placed on the bracket 20, making them less likely to shake.

[0040] According to the bracket assembly of the presently disclosed embodiment, a foldable bracket is provided, which allows the bracket to be unfolded when in use to expand storage space, and folded when not in use for convenient storage.

[0041] In practical applications, for example, when the bracket assembly is applied to a dishwasher, the bracket assembly can be added to the dish cabinet 100. When more dishes need to be stored, the bracket 20 can be unfolded to expand the storage space and improve washing efficiency. When larger items need to be washed, the bracket 20 can be folded and stored, improving the flexibility of the bracket assembly and eliminating the need for removal, improving user convenience. In other words, the bracket assembly can form a supporting space within the washing cavity, which is advantageous for improving space utilization and allows for quick storage when not in use. Of course, the bracket assembly can also be applied to a cupboard, and when the bracket 20 is attached to the cupboard body, it can expand the storage space and improve space utilization within the cupboard body.

[0042] 2 , the bracket 20 optionally includes a folding frame and a shelf 22, the folding frame is connected to the support frame 10, and the shelf 22 is connected to the folding frame, where the folding frame can expand and contract along a direction toward the support frame 10 and a direction away from the support frame 10 to fold and unfold the shelf 22. Specifically, the shelf 22 can be used to support and place items, and the folding frame can be connected to the support frame 10 and also to the shelf 22, so that the shelf 22 can be folded or unfolded relative to the support frame 10 to provide a storage space.

[0043] Combining Figure 1, optionally, the folding frame includes a plurality of rod groups 21, one of which is connected to the support frame 10, and the rod groups 21 are sequentially connected in a direction away from the support frame 10, so that the folding frame can extend in a direction away from the support frame 10, wherein the rod groups 21 include a first connecting rod 21a and a second connecting rod 21b that are hingedly connected to each other and cross each other, the first connecting rod 21a in one rod group 21 is hingedly connected to the support frame 10, the second connecting rod 21b in one rod group 21 is slidably connected to the support frame 10, and the first connecting rod 21a and the second connecting rod 21b in an adjacent rod group 21 are hingedly connected in a zigzag manner. That is, the second connecting rod 21b is slidable on the support frame 10, and when one end of the second connecting rod 21b slides, the other end of the second connecting rod 21b can be driven to move closer to or away from the support frame 10. When the second connecting rod 21b moves, the first connecting rod 21a, which is hingedly connected to the second connecting rod 21b across the second connecting rod 21b, rotates at the hinge connection point, thereby rotating the hinge connection point between the first connecting rod 21a and the support frame 10, thereby changing the state of the rod group 21. In this way, the rod group 21 can be movably connected to the support frame 10 through the hinge connection between the first connecting rod 21a and the support frame 10 and the slidable connection between the second connecting rod 21b and the support frame 10, and this provides high stability during sliding, which is advantageous for quick adjustment.

[0044] Optionally, both the first connecting rod 21a and the second connecting rod 21b can be slidably connected to the support frame 10 to improve the flexibility of adjustment.

[0045] Optionally, the plurality of first connecting rods 21a are parallel to each other, and the plurality of second connecting rods 21b are parallel to each other, so that the balance and stability of the bracket 20 can be improved.

[0046] 1 and 2 , in some embodiments of the bracket 20 of the present disclosure, multiple rod groups 21 are connected in sequence, and in two adjacent rod groups 21, the ends of one pair of connecting rods 411 are hingedly connected to the ends of the other pair of connecting rods 411. The first connecting rod 21a and the second connecting rod 21b cross to form an “X”-shaped structure, which improves the balance and structural strength of the bracket 20. By installing multiple rod groups 21, the bracket 20 can expand and contract in directions toward and away from the support frame 10, with a large expansion range, simple configuration, easy construction, and high stability.

[0047] Here, the first connecting rod 21a and the second connecting rod 21b can both be installed as straight rods, and each rod group 21 forms a diamond structure with the adjacent rod group 21, and in the unfolded state, the multiple rod groups 21 consisting of the multiple first connecting rods 21a and the multiple second connecting rods 21b can jointly form multiple diamond structures. For example, as shown in Figure 7 when the multiple rod groups 21 are folded, the intersections of two adjacent rod groups 21 are close to each other, thereby achieving the folding of the bracket 20, and as shown in Figure 6 when the multiple rod groups 21 are unfolded, the intersections of two adjacent rod groups 21 are farther apart, thereby achieving the unfolding of the bracket 20. By installing multiple rod groups 21, the effect of multiple unfolding or extension can be achieved, thereby increasing the unfolded length of the bracket 20 and expanding the storage space. In addition, each intersection consists of a first connecting rod 21a and a second connecting rod 21b hinged to each other, which effectively improves the support strength of the frame.

[0048] 1 and 2, a hinge coupling axis may be optionally provided at the intersection of the corresponding first connecting rod 21a and second connecting rod 21b, which facilitates relative rotation of the first connecting rod 21a and the second connecting rod 21b, improves the flexibility of the bracket 20, and also improves the connection stability of the first connecting rod 21a and the second connecting rod 21b. The first connecting rod 121a and the second connecting rod 121b are aligned and fixed to each other via a pivot pin 23 and a fixing cap 24, which may be made of plastic.

[0049] 3 and 4 , the support frame 10 optionally includes a main body 16, a hinge joint 14, and a guide part 15, the hinge joint 14 is connected to the main body 16, and the guide part 15 is connected to the main body 16, where a first connecting rod 21a in one rod group 21 is hingedly connected to the hinge joint 14, and a second connecting rod 21b is slidably connected to the guide part 15. That is, the first connecting rod 21a is rotatably connected to the main body 16 via the hinge joint 14, the second connecting rod 21b can slide in the guide part 15, and the second connecting rod 21b is slidably connected to the main body 16.

[0050] Alternatively, the main body 16, the hinge joint 14 and the guide 15 may be integrally formed, which is advantageous for manufacturing and for improving the structural strength.

[0051] Alternatively, the hinge coupling part 14 and the guide part 15 may be located on opposite sides of the main body 16, and the guide part 15 may be provided with a guide groove 105 extending in the vertical direction. A sliding part 211 may be provided at the end of the second connecting rod 21b of one of the rod groups 21, and the sliding part 211 may be slidably fitted into the guide groove 105. Specifically, the guide groove 105 is used to limit the sliding range of the second connecting rod 21b, and the sliding part 211 may be fitted into the guide groove 105 to facilitate sliding, preventing the end of the second connecting rod 21b from slipping out of the guide groove 105, improving sliding stability and facilitating user operation. Furthermore, the hinge coupling part and the guide part 15 may be installed at the upper and lower ends of the main body 16, respectively. That is, the first connecting rod 21a and the second connecting rod 21b may be connected to the upper and lower ends of the main body 16, respectively, improving connection stability.

[0052] 5, optionally, the guide part 15 is provided with a reinforcing rib 151 extending along the periphery of the guide part 15, which can improve the structural strength of the guide groove 105, is advantageous in improving the supporting force, and improves the load-bearing strength and reliability of the bracket assembly. The inner surface of the reinforcing rib 151 is flush with the inner surface of the guide groove 105, which can increase the contact area between the guide groove 105 and the sliding part 211, thereby making the relative rotation and sliding between the sliding part 211 and the guide groove 105 smoother and improving the user experience.

[0053] Optionally, a locking structure 152 is provided on the inner surface of the guide groove 105, and a locking structure 152 is provided at the upper end and / or lower end of the guide part 15 to position the bracket 20. Specifically, the locking structure 152 protrudes from the inner surface of the guide groove 105, and when the sliding part 211 slides in the guide groove 105, the locking structure 152 locks the sliding part 211 in a predetermined position, thereby positioning the folding frame in a predetermined position.

[0054] Here, the locking structure 152 may be two protrusion structures installed opposite each other on the inside of the guide groove 105, so that the locking structure can perform the locking and regulating functions at either end of the sliding portion 211.

[0055] For example, locking structures 152 are provided at both the upper and lower ends of the guide part 15, and when the bracket 20 is unfolded, the sliding part 211 moves upward along the guide groove 105, and when the bracket 20 is unfolded to its maximum angle, the sliding part 211 slides into the locking structure 152, creating a noticeable step, alerting the user that the bracket 20 has been unfolded to its maximum angle and making it easier for the user to load items. When the bracket 20 is folded, the sliding part 211 moves downward along the guide groove 105 and slides into the lower locking structure 152, limiting the position of the bracket 20 and positioning it stably and reliably on one side of the support frame 10.

[0056] 4, the hinge connection part 14 is optionally located above the guide part 15. Specifically, the rod group 21 at the top of the support frame 10 is rotatably connected to the hinge connection part 14, and the rod group 21 at the bottom of the support frame 10 is connected to the guide part 15 so as to be vertically movable. Thus, when the user unfolds or folds the device, the second connecting rod 21b moves below the support frame 10, which is advantageous for utilizing gravity to improve the stability of the fit. In addition, since the guide part 15 is located below, it is difficult to touch and difficult to see, which is advantageous for improving practicality and aesthetics. Meanwhile, the second connecting rod 21b moves below the rack 30, which ensures that the tops of the multiple rod groups are always flush when unfolding or folding the device, thereby avoiding interference with the top of the device or the device door.

[0057] 1 and 2, the shelves 22 can be optionally configured to include a plurality of shelves, thereby increasing storage space, and the plurality of shelves 22 correspond one-to-one to the plurality of rod groups 21, and the shelves 22 are connected to one of the connecting rods 411, the first connecting rod 21a and the second connecting rod 21b, in the corresponding rod group 21. In other words, the plurality of shelves 22 can be directly connected to the connecting rod 411, and the plurality of shelves 22 can be folded or unfolded according to the extension and contraction of the plurality of rod groups 21, which is easy to use and simplifies the structure.

[0058] Optionally, a locking device 212 is provided at each of the two ends of one connecting rod 411, and hooks 222 corresponding to the locking device 212 are provided at each end of the shelf 22. The hooks 222 are hooked onto the corresponding locking devices 212, thereby connecting the shelf 22 to the connecting rod 411. This has a simple structure, is easy to attach and detach, and improves usability.

[0059] 2, optionally, the shelf 22 includes a third connecting rod 223, both ends of which are connected to hooks 222, and the connecting portion between the third connecting rod 223 and the hooks 222 is bent and abuts against the locking member 212, thereby improving the structural strength of the third connecting rod 223 and favoring the improvement of the structural strength when the locking member 212 is mated with the hooks 222.

[0060] 2, optionally, a second bent portion 2231 is provided on the third connecting rod 223, and the second bent portion 2231 is close to the position where the first connecting rod 21a and the second connecting rod 21b intersect and are hinged together, and the second bent portion 2231 not only provides a relief effect but also increases the structural strength of the third connecting rod 223.

[0061] Optionally, the folding frame includes two spaced apart folding frames, and the shelf 22 is connected between the folding frames, and the support frame 10 is connected to the folding frames in a one-to-one correspondence, which can improve structural stability and is advantageous for expanding storage space.

[0062] 1 and 2 , the shelves 22 are selectively arranged at intervals along the direction toward and away from the support frame 10, and the shelves 22 are close to each other when the bracket 20 is folded, and are spaced apart when the bracket 20 is unfolded, making it suitable for placing items on the shelves 22. That is, the shelves 22 are close to each other when the bracket 20 is folded, and are spaced apart when the bracket 20 is unfolded, thereby changing the distance between two adjacent shelves 22. When the distance is small, the shelves 22 can be accommodated to avoid taking up space, and when the distance is large, an accommodation space can be formed between the two shelves 22, and items can be placed on the shelves 22 to fully utilize the accommodation space between the two shelves 22, improving space utilization.

[0063] 2 , the shelf 22 optionally includes a backrest 221 and an undertray 226. The backrest 221 is installed vertically, and the undertray 226 is connected to the lower end of the backrest 221 and is suitable for supporting items placed on the shelf 22. In use, the items are placed on the undertray 226 and leaned against the backrest 221, which improves the supporting stability and is advantageous for simplifying the structure of the shelf 22 and reducing the volume occupied by the shelf 22. Furthermore, when multiple shelves 22 are provided on the bracket assembly, the backrest 221 of the front shelf 22 and the backrest 221 and undertray 226 of the next shelf 22 can form a cavity with an open top, which is advantageous for placing items, preventing the items from falling, and improving the supporting effect.

[0064] Optionally, the backrest 221 includes a plurality of first horizontal rods 224 and a plurality of first vertical rods 225, the first vertical rods 225 extending along the vertical direction and spaced apart in the horizontal direction, the first horizontal rod 224 connecting with the plurality of vertical rods, the lower ends of the first vertical rods 225 connected to an undertray 226, and when the bracket 20 is in an unfolded state, the undertray 226 and the vertical rods form an "L" shape with the opening facing upward. The plurality of first horizontal rods 224 and the plurality of first vertical rods 225 spaced apart form a net-like structure, which can prevent items from falling and can also improve the structural strength of the backrest 221. Optionally, the undertray 226 is directly composed of the first horizontal rod 224 and the first vertical rod 225, i.e., the first vertical rod 225 extends vertically and then horizontally to form an "L" shape, the lower end of the first vertical rod 225 is connected to the first horizontal rod 224, and the first horizontal rod 224 is connected to a plurality of first vertical rods 225 to form an undertray 226 suitable for supporting articles.

[0065] Optionally, the undertray 226 includes a plurality of base frames arranged at intervals along a second direction, each of which is connected to a corresponding backrest 221, where the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. Referring to FIG. 1 , the first direction may be the front-to-back direction, and the second direction may be the left-to-right direction. Specifically, the plurality of base frames may be used to support items, and the plurality of base frames may be connected to the corresponding backrests 221 to form a storage space. By arranging the plurality of base frames at intervals, the structure of the undertray 226 can be simplified and the weight of the bracket 20 can be reduced. When the bracket 20 is used in a washing machine, washing water can pass between the plurality of base frames, allowing the washing water to fully contact the items in the undertray 226 and improving the washing effect.

[0066] Optionally, the base frames of two adjacent shelves 22 may be arranged in a staggered manner, which is advantageous for space arrangement. Specifically, by combining the above, the backrests 221 are arranged along a first direction, and the backrests 221 can move closer to or farther away from each other as the folding frames expand and contract, and the base frames of two connected shelves 22 are arranged in a staggered manner, so that when the folding frames contract, the rear base frame can be inserted into the gap between the front base frame, so that the base frames of two adjacent shelves 22 do not interfere with each other, and when the folding frames expand, the base frames can be used to place items.

[0067] Combining Figures 1 to 9, the cupboard 100 of the disclosed embodiment includes a dish basket 50 and the above-mentioned bracket assembly, the support frame 10 is connected to the dish basket 50 and supports the bracket 20, and the bracket 20 is suspended above the bottom wall of the dish basket 50, allowing the bracket 20 to be unfolded to expand the storage space of the cupboard 100, and the bracket 20 can be folded when not in use, eliminating the need to store and attach / detach the bracket 20, which is advantageous to improving the practicality of the cupboard 100 and has a simple structure and is easy to use.

[0068] According to the cupboard 100 of the disclosed embodiment, the bracket assembly is connected to the tableware basket 50, thereby expanding the storage space of the tableware basket 50, and the bracket 20 has a folded state and an unfolded state, allowing the user to adjust the state of the bracket 20 according to the actual situation, providing convenience to the user.

[0069] 9, an optional mounting cavity 101 is provided in the support frame 10, a mounting hole 102 is provided at the bottom of the support frame 10, snap clips 13 are provided on the support frame 10, and a fixing frame 40 is provided on the tableware basket 50, and the fixing frame 40 is inserted into the support frame 10 through the mounting hole 102 and locked by the snap clips 13. Specifically, the mounting hole 102 is used to insert the fixing frame 40 into the mounting cavity 101, and the snap clips 13 are used to position the fixing frame 40 inserted into the support frame 10, which is advantageous for quick assembly and can improve the connection stability and structural strength between the fixing frame 40 and the support frame 10.

[0070] In actual application, when a user needs to expand the support space, they can connect the bracket assembly with the fixing frame 40 and place an item on the bracket 20. Specifically, the user orients the mounting opening 102 of the support frame in the extension direction of the fixing frame 40, inserts the fixing frame 40 into the mounting cavity 101, and then engages the snap clips 13 on the support frame 10 after inserting the fixing frame 40, thereby improving the connection stability. For example, when the snap clips 13 engage the fixing frame 40, the user feels a step or hears the sound of the snap clips 13 engaging, confirming that the support frame 10 and the fixing frame 40 are stably assembled, improving the user experience. The bracket 20 is connected to the support frame 10, so that the bracket 20 can be fixed to the fixing frame 40 via the support frame 10, and an item can be placed on the bracket 20. Here, the support frame 10 and the fixing frame 40 may be detachably connected, which facilitates user maintenance and replacement, increases versatility, and reduces costs. As a result, by attaching the bracket assembly to the tableware basket 50 via the fixed frame 40, the supporting space can be expanded, and since the bracket assembly is directly connected to the fixed frame 40, there is no need to fix it with rivets or screws, making assembly easy and highly flexible.

[0071] 1 , optionally, a through hole 103 is provided on the side wall of the support frame 10, and the snap clip 13 connects with the lower edge of the through hole 103 and extends upward, with the snap clip 13 inclined toward the inside of the support frame 10 in the upward extending direction. The through hole 103 can provide movement space for the snap clip 13, and when it is necessary to separate the support frame 10 and the fixing frame 40, the shape of the snap clip 13 can be controlled via the through hole 103 so that the snap clip 13 can release the fixing frame 40. In addition, a reinforcing rib 151 is provided on the outer surface of the snap clip 13, which can improve the structural strength of the snap clip 13, and when it is necessary to adjust the state of the snap clip 13, the snap clip 13 can be controlled by pulling the reinforcing rib 151.

[0072] 9 , a first positioning rib 11 is optionally provided at the top of the support frame 10, which is used to position the fixing frame 40 inserted into the mounting cavity 101, thereby further achieving a positioning effect. Specifically, the first positioning rib 11 forms a downward-facing arch-shaped groove, which improves the structural strength of the first positioning rib 11 and enhances the positioning effect. Furthermore, the end of the snap clip 13 is provided below the first positioning rib 11 and faces the arch-shaped groove. In this way, the snap clip 13 engages with the first positioning rib 11 to fix the fixing frame 40, and the fixing frame 40 is limited between the first engaging rib and the snap clip 13. That is, one side of the fixing frame 40 is covered by the arch-shaped groove, and the other side of the fixing frame 40 is locked by the snap clip 13, improving the assembly stability of the fixing frame 40 and the support frame 10.

[0073] Optionally, the arched groove is a groove with an arc-shaped cross section, which is suitable for fitting with the tubular structure of the fixing frame 40, and the end of the snap clip 13 is not higher than the circumference of the arced groove, which is suitable for receiving the rod part of the fixing frame 40 between the arched groove and the end of the snap clip 13, which is advantageous for improving the positioning effect and assembly stability.

[0074] Optionally, the gap between the snap clip 13 and the circumference on which the arched groove is formed is within the range of 0 to 10 mm, which improves the positioning effect and facilitates attachment and detachment. Specifically, the gap between the snap clip 13 and the circumference on which the arched groove is formed may be 5 mm or 8 mm, or may be 12 mm or 15 mm depending on the actual situation, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0075] 9, a second positioning rib 12 is optionally provided on the inner surface of the support frame 10, the second positioning rib 12 extends in the vertical direction, and the upper end of the second positioning rib 12 is connected to the first positioning rib 11. The second positioning rib 12 positions the fixing frame 40 in the horizontal direction, thereby fixing it within the mounting cavity 101, making it less likely to shake and improving structural stability.

[0076] Optionally, the height that the lower end of the second positioning rib 12 protrudes from the inner surface of the support frame 10 increases stepwise from bottom to top, that is, the protrusion height of the second positioning rib 12 is small on one side closer to the mounting opening 102 and the protrusion height increases stepwise from bottom to top. As a result, during the process of inserting the fixing frame 40 into the mounting cavity 101 through the mounting opening 102, the protrusion height of the second positioning rib 12 is small at the position closer to the mounting opening 102, making it easier for the user to insert the fixing frame 40 into the mounting cavity 101, and after insertion, the degree of contact between the fixing frame 40 and the second positioning rib 12 increases stepwise, preventing the fixing frame 40 from shaking or slipping out of the mounting cavity 101.

[0077] Optionally, second positioning ribs 12 may be provided on both of the two opposing sides of the support frame 10, and the second positioning ribs 12 and the first positioning rib 11 may be connected to form a U-shape with the opening facing downward, which can improve the positioning effect and structural strength. The first positioning rib 11 and the second positioning rib 12 may be integrally formed.

[0078] Also, the snap clip 13 and the support frame 10 can be constructed integrally, which facilitates manufacturing.

[0079] Alternatively, the snap clip 13 may be a protruding structure on the inner wall of the support frame 10, thereby serving to lock the fixed frame 40.

[0080] 3, the fixing frame 40 optionally includes a first mounting frame 41, which is U-shaped and has a downward-facing opening. The first mounting frame 41 is connected to the dish basket 50 and is suitable for insertion into the mounting opening 102 and secured by a snap clip 13. The U-shaped first mounting frame 41 improves the structural strength of the connection between the support frame 10 and the fixing frame 40, and the snap clip 13 can be secured to the connecting rod 411 of the first mounting frame 41. After the closed end of the first mounting frame 41 is inserted into the mounting cavity 101 through the mounting opening 102, the upper side of the closed end of the mounting frame abuts against the first positioning rib 11 and the lower side is secured by the snap clip 13.

[0081] 4 , optionally, the fixing frame 40 further includes a second mounting frame 42, which is disposed below the first mounting frame 41, and the bracket assembly is provided with an engaging hook 1122 that hooks onto the second mounting frame 42 for connection. That is, the first mounting frame 41 can be inserted into the mounting cavity 101 at the top of the support frame 10, and the second mounting frame 42 can be connected to the engaging hook 1122 at the bottom of the support frame 10, improving assembly stability. Furthermore, according to the above, the snap clip 13 is located on the first side wall 111 to fasten the first mounting frame 41 to one side closer to the first side wall 111, and the engaging hook 1122 is located on the second side wall 112 to connect the second mounting frame 42 to one side closer to the second side wall 112, which is advantageous for balancing forces and improving connection stability. Optionally, the stationary frame 40 may be made of a material such as wire, which provides increased structural strength.

[0082] 4, optionally, the tableware basket further includes a guard frame 43, which is installed alongside the fixed frame 40 and faces the bracket assembly in the first direction. The guard frame 43 can improve the stability of the bracket assembly in supporting items. When an item is placed on the bracket 20 of the bracket assembly, the guard frame 43 is connected to the first mounting frame 41. The regulating space formed between the guard frame 43 and the bracket 20 can expand the storage space of the bracket 20 and also prevent the items from falling.

[0083] According to some embodiments of the fixed frame 40 of the present disclosure, two first mounting frames 41 are installed horizontally, and a connecting rod 411 extends horizontally to connect one end of the two first mounting frames 41, and the outer end extends downward to connect to the dish basket 50, for example, by welding. Here, the two first mounting frames 41 and the connecting rod 411 can be integrally formed. When the first mounting frame 41 is connected to the dish basket 50, a first bent portion 412 can be provided at the bottom of the first mounting frame 41, and the first bent portion 412 is bent inward of the dish basket 50. This leaves a clearance space between the "U"-shaped first mounting frame 41 and the edge of the dish basket 50, which is suitable for attaching the support frame 10. After the support frame 10 is attached, it can be flush with the dish basket 50 or positioned inside the dish basket 50, which is advantageous for space arrangement.

[0084] 3, the guard frame 43 further includes a plurality of support rods 431 and a second horizontal rod 432, the support rods 431 being spaced apart horizontally and extending vertically, the upper ends of the vertical rods being connected to the second horizontal rods 432 and the lower ends being connected to the connecting rods, the second horizontal rods 432 being alternately arranged with the connecting rods 411 and facing the edges of the dish basket 50 in the vertical direction, the lower ends of the vertical rods on both ends of the guard frame 43 extending to the dish basket 50 and welded to the dish basket 50. The second mounting frame 42 is connected to the dish basket 50, facing the first mounting frame 41 in the vertical direction, and is shaped like a "U" that opens downwards, allowing the engaging hook 1122 to hook onto the closed end of the second mounting frame 42. As a result, the first mounting frame 41, the guardrail and the second mounting frame 42 are not on the same plane, which improves the support effect at different positions, avoids stress concentration and improves structural strength.

[0085] Optionally, the outer top surface of the support frame 10 is sloped downwards to prevent water and dust from accumulating during use, making cleaning and maintenance easier.

[0086] According to the dishwasher of the embodiment of the present disclosure, by applying the above-mentioned dish rack 100 in the dishwasher, the number of dishes that can be stored and washed can be increased, thereby improving the washing efficiency of the dishwasher.

[0087] 1 and 3, the first direction is selectable from the front-to-rear direction of the main body, which is convenient for users. That is, the bracket assembly can be connected to the rear side of the cupboard 100 and the main body, and when in use, after the rear bracket assembly is folded, it does not affect the user's normal use and can expand the storage space. Of course, the bracket assembly can be connected to the left or right side of the cupboard 100 and the main body.

[0088] When there are only a few dishes to store or wash, the user can fold the bracket assembly behind the dish basket 50, so that it does not interfere with the user's ability to put or take out dishes within the storage space of the dish basket 50. Particularly when the dish basket 50 is applied to an appliance with a drawer door, even when the dish basket 50 is closed or not fully pulled out, the bracket assembly does not interfere with the user's ability to place dishes and is not easily visible, thereby improving the practicality and aesthetics of the dish cabinet 100.

[0089] Optionally, multiple cupboards 100 are arranged vertically within the main body, which fully utilizes the vertical space within the main body, thereby increasing the storage capacity within the main body and improving space utilization and cleaning efficiency.

[0090] Optionally, the cupboard 100 is provided in the main body so that it can be pulled out in the front-to-back or left-to-right direction, making it easier for the user to take out dishes.

[0091] Optionally, a pulley can be installed at the bottom of the dish basket 50 to make it easier to move the dish basket 50, and the user can pull out the dish rack 100 in the forward and backward directions via the pulley, thereby saving effort and improving the smoothness of the pull-out.

[0092] In the description of this application, the orientation or positional relationship indicated by terms such as "lateral," "length," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "axial," "circumferential," and the like, is intended to facilitate and simplify the description of this application only, and does not indicate or imply that the indicated device or element has a particular orientation, is configured, or should be operated in a particular orientation, and therefore should not be understood as limiting this disclosure.

[0093] In the present disclosure, when a first feature is located "above" or "below" a second feature, the first and second features may be in direct contact or indirect contact via an intermediate medium. Furthermore, a first feature being located "above," "above," or "on" a second feature may mean that the first feature is located directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or may simply mean that the horizontal elevation of the first feature is higher than that of the second feature. A first feature being located "below," "below," or "below" a second feature may mean that the first feature is located directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or may simply mean that the horizontal elevation of the first feature is lower than that of the second feature.

[0094] In the description herein, references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "examples," "specific examples," or "some examples" mean that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in the relevant embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present disclosure. The exemplary expressions of the above terms in the present specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any appropriate manner in any embodiment or example. Furthermore, if not mutually inconsistent, a person skilled in the art may combine different embodiments or examples and features of different embodiments or examples described herein.

[0095] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described above, the embodiments are merely illustrative and should not be understood as limiting the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art may make changes, modifications, substitutions, and variations to the embodiments described above within the scope of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 100 cupboard, 50 dish basket, 10 support frame, 101 mounting cavity, 102 mounting hole, 103 through hole, 11 first positioning rib, 12 second positioning rib, 13 snap clip, 16 main body, 14 hinge connection portion, 15 guide portion, 105 guide groove, 151 reinforcing rib, 152 locking structure, 1122 engagement hook, 20 bracket, 21 rod group, 21a first connecting rod, 21b second connecting rod, 212 locking device, 23 axial pin, 24 fixing cap, 211 sliding portion, 22 shelf, 222 hook, 223 third connecting rod, 2231 second bending portion, 221 backrest, 224 first horizontal rod, 225 first vertical rod, 226 undertray, 40 fixing frame, 41 First mounting frame, 43 guard frame, 42 second mounting frame, 411 connecting rod, 412 first bending portion, 431 support rod, 432 second cross rod

Claims

1. 1. A bracket assembly comprising: a support frame and a bracket; A bracket assembly, wherein the bracket is connected to the support frame, the bracket is supported by the support frame and used to support an article, and the bracket is extendable and retractable along a first direction in a direction toward the support frame and a direction away from the support frame, thereby switching between an unfolded state and a folded state.

2. The bracket is a folding frame and a shelf, the folding frame is connected to the support frame; the shelf is connected to the folding frame; 2. The bracket assembly of claim 1, wherein the folding frame is extendable along a direction toward the support frame and a direction away from the support frame to fold and unfold the shelf.

3. The folding frame includes:

3. The bracket assembly of claim 2, comprising a plurality of rod groups, one of which is connected to the support frame and is sequentially connected in a direction away from the support frame, wherein the rod groups comprise first and second connecting rods hingedly connected to each other across each other, the first connecting rod in one rod group is hingedly connected to the support frame, the second connecting rod in one rod group is slidably connected to the support frame, and the first and second connecting rods in adjacent rod groups are hingedly connected in a zigzag manner.

4. The bracket assembly of claim 3 , wherein the first plurality of connecting rods are parallel to one another and the second plurality of connecting rods are parallel to one another.

5. The support frame includes: The device includes a main body, a hinge joint, and a guide. the hinged portion is connected to the main body portion; the guide portion is connected to the main body portion, 4. The bracket assembly of claim 3, wherein a first connecting rod in the one rod group is hingedly connected to the hinge connection portion, and a second connecting rod in the one rod group is slidably connected to the guide portion.

6. 6. The bracket assembly according to claim 5, wherein the hinge connection portion and the guide portion are located opposite each other in the vertical direction, and the guide portion is provided with a guide groove extending along the vertical direction, and a sliding portion is provided at the end of the second connecting rod of one of the rod groups, and the sliding portion is slidably inserted into the guide groove.

7. The guide portion is provided with a reinforcing rib extending along the periphery of the guide portion, and the inner peripheral surface of the reinforcing rib is flush with the inner peripheral surface of the guide groove, and / or The bracket assembly according to claim 6 , wherein an engagement structure is provided on an inner surface of the guide groove, and the engagement structure is provided at an upper end and / or a lower end within the guide portion to position the bracket.

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

9. 4. The bracket assembly of claim 3, wherein the shelf includes a plurality of shelves, and the plurality of shelves correspond one-to-one with the plurality of rod groups, and the shelf is connected to one of the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod in the corresponding rod group.

10. The bracket assembly of claim 9, wherein each of the two ends of the connecting rod is provided with a locking device, and each of the shelves is provided with a hook corresponding to the locking device, and the hook is hooked onto the corresponding locking device.

11. 11. The bracket assembly of claim 10, wherein the shelf includes a third connecting rod, both ends of the third connecting rod are connected to the hooks, and the connection point between the third connecting rod and the hooks is bent and abuts against the locking device.

12. 7. The bracket assembly of claim 6, wherein the folding frames include two spaced apart folding frames, the shelf is connected between the folding frames, and the support frames correspond one-to-one to the folding frames.

13. The bracket assembly of any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein the shelves include a plurality of shelves spaced apart along directions approaching and away from the support frame, and the shelves are close to each other when the bracket is in a folded state, and are spaced apart when the bracket is in an unfolded state, making it suitable for placing items on the shelves.

14. The shelf includes: A backrest and an undertray are included.

14. The bracket assembly of claim 13, wherein the backrest is installed vertically, and the undertray is connected to a lower end of the backrest and is adapted to support an item placed on the shelf.

15. 15. The bracket assembly of claim 14, wherein the backrest includes a plurality of first horizontal rods and a plurality of first vertical rods, the first vertical rods extending along the vertical direction and the plurality of first vertical rods arranged at intervals along the horizontal direction, the first horizontal rods connecting to the plurality of vertical rods, lower ends of the first vertical rods connected to the undertray, and when the bracket is in an unfolded state, the undertray and the vertical rods are configured as an "L" shape with an opening facing upward.

16. A cupboard, a dish basket and a bracket assembly; A cupboard, wherein the bracket assembly is a bracket assembly described in any one of claims 1 to 15, the support frame is connected to the dish basket to support the bracket assembly, and the bracket is suspended above the bottom wall of the dish basket.

17. 17. The cupboard of claim 16, wherein the support frame has an attachment cavity therein, and the support frame has an attachment opening at its lower end, and the support frame is provided with a snap clip, and the dish basket has a fixing frame, which is inserted into the support frame through the attachment opening and is fastened by the snap clip.

18. A dishwasher, The device includes a main body and a cupboard. A dishwasher, wherein the body defines a washing cavity with an open front, and the dish cabinet is provided within the washing cavity, the dish cabinet being the dish cabinet according to claim 16 or 17.

19. A plurality of cupboards are provided in the main body and arranged along the vertical direction, and / or The dishwasher according to claim 18, wherein the dish rack is provided in the main body so as to be removable along a first direction.

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