Dishwasher

Abstract

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

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a dishwashing apparatus for washing a plurality of types of dishes.

Background Art

[0002] In the automatic dish brush washing apparatus described in Patent Document 1, there are provided a cleaning brush for brushing the inner surface of used dishes intermittently conveyed by a conveyor, a rotary cleaning brush for brushing the outer surface of the dishes, and a cleaning nozzle pipe for injecting warm water. Here, the cleaning brush is connected to lifting means, and the lifting means moves the cleaning brush between a position below the conveyor and a position where it contacts the dishes conveyed by the conveyor.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In Patent Document 1, it is premised on washing the same type of dishes, and washing a plurality of types of dishes is not assumed. An object of the present invention is to provide a dishwashing apparatus capable of appropriately washing a plurality of types of dishes.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The present invention is a dishwashing apparatus for washing a plurality of types of used dishes, and includes a conveyance unit, a brush unit, and a cleaning nozzle. The conveyance unit conveys a storage basket in which dishes are stored for each type along a conveyance path. The brush unit has a brush for cleaning a specific dish among a plurality of types of dishes, and moves the brush between a retracted position retracted from the conveyance path and an entry position entered into the conveyance path. The cleaning nozzle injects a cleaning liquid toward the storage basket being conveyed on the conveyance path.

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

[0007] The dishwashing apparatus may be equipped with a determination means for determining whether a storage basket being transported by a transport unit contains a specific type of dish. The transport unit and the brush unit can operate according to the determination result of the determination means.

[0008] The brush unit can move multiple brushes integrally between a retracted position and an entry position. Here, the multiple brushes can be positioned in locations corresponding to the storage positions of multiple specific dishes in the storage basket. The transport unit can consist of rails and a drive unit. The rails are arranged along the transport path and guide the wheels provided on the storage basket. The drive unit engages with pins provided on the storage basket to move the storage basket along the rails.

[0009] A dishwashing machine can be equipped with an input port and an input-side lifting unit. A storage basket containing used dishes is placed in the input port. The input-side lifting unit supports the storage basket installed in the input port and lowers the storage basket from the input port to place it on the conveying unit. On the other hand, a dishwashing machine can also be equipped with a discharge port and an discharge-side lifting unit. A storage basket containing washed dishes is discharged from the discharge port. The discharge-side lifting unit supports the washed storage basket placed on the conveying unit and raises it towards the discharge port.

[0010] A cup can be used as the specific tableware. Here, the brush can consist of a first sub-brush and a second sub-brush. When the brush is in the entry position, the first sub-brush cleans the inner wall surface of the cup, and the second sub-brush cleans the outer wall surface of the cup. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, the dishwashing method is switched depending on the type of dish. Specifically, for certain types of dish, a cleaning solution is sprayed from a cleaning nozzle and cleaned with a brush, while for other types of dish, cleaning is performed by spraying a cleaning solution from a cleaning nozzle. This makes it possible to properly clean multiple types of dish. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is an external view of a dishwashing machine. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of a dishwashing machine. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the transport unit, with the storage basket in the pre-cleaning standby position. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the transport unit, with the storage basket in the waiting position after cleaning. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the input-side lifting unit and the discharge-side lifting unit, with the storage basket installed at the input and discharge openings. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the input-side lifting unit and the discharge-side lifting unit, with the storage basket in the pre-washing standby position and the post-washing standby position. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a brush unit, with the brush in the retracted position. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a brush unit, with the brush in the entry position. [Figure 9] This is a diagram showing the brush viewed from above. [Figure 10] It is an external view of the storage basket. [Figure 11] It is an external view of the storage basket in which tableware is stored. [Figure 12] It is an external view of the storage basket. [Figure 13] It is an external view of the storage basket in which tableware is stored. [Figure 14] It is an external view of the storage basket. [Figure 15] It is an external view of the storage basket in which tableware is stored. [Figure 16] It is a flowchart for explaining the conveyance process and the washing process of the storage basket in which used tableware is stored.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] (Dishwashing Device 1) FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the dishwashing device 1 according to the present embodiment. On the upper surface of the dishwashing device 1, an inlet 1a and an outlet 1b are provided. A storage basket containing a plurality of used tableware is inserted into the inlet 1a. Inside the dishwashing device 1, a plurality of tableware are washed while being stored in the storage basket. A storage basket containing the washed plurality of tableware is discharged from the outlet 1b.

[0014] Around the inlet 1a, a pair of standing walls 1c, 1d protruding upward are provided, and the pair of standing walls 1c, 1d are arranged in directions perpendicular to each other in a plane including the inlet 1a. Specifically, the standing wall 1c is arranged on the back side of the dishwashing device 1 with respect to the inlet 1a, and the standing wall 1d is arranged on the side of the outlet 1b with respect to the inlet 1a. By bringing the storage basket into contact with the standing walls 1c, 1d, it becomes easier to insert the storage basket into the inlet 1a in a positioned state.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing the internal structure of the dishwashing device 1. Hereinafter, the internal structure of the dishwashing device 1 will be described.

[0016] Below the input opening 1a, multiple stoppers 11 are positioned to support the storage baskets. When an operator places a storage basket containing multiple used dishes into the input opening 1a, the basket is supported by the multiple stoppers 11. Here, multiple storage baskets can be stacked vertically in the input opening 1a, and by operating the stoppers 11 between a position that supports the storage basket and a position that retracts from the storage basket, only the storage basket located at the bottom can be taken into the dishwashing machine 1.

[0017] Below the discharge opening 1b, multiple stoppers 12 are positioned to support the storage basket. The storage basket, containing multiple washed dishes, rises towards the discharge opening 1b, and when it reaches the position where the stoppers 12 are positioned, the basket is supported by the stoppers 12. This allows the operator to remove the storage basket, supported by the stoppers 12, from the dishwashing machine 1. By operating the stoppers 12 between the position supporting the storage basket and the position where it is retracted from the basket, the washed storage baskets can be stacked sequentially from the bottom up.

[0018] Inside the dishwashing device 1, multiple washing nozzles 13 are arranged to spray washing solution onto a storage basket containing multiple dishes. Some of the washing nozzles 13 are positioned above the transport path of the storage basket and spray washing solution onto the dishes in the basket from above. Other washing nozzles 13 are positioned below the transport path of the storage basket and spray washing solution onto the dishes in the basket from below. The washing solution sprayed from the washing nozzles 13 can be discharged from the bottom of the dishwashing device 1.

[0019] The dishwashing machine 1 contains a transport unit 20, an input-side lifting unit 30, an output-side lifting unit 40, and a brush unit 50. Each of the units 20 to 50 will be described in detail below.

[0020] (Transport unit 20) The structure of the transport unit 20 will be explained using Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 shows the storage basket containing multiple used dishes in the pre-washing standby position, and Figure 4 shows the storage basket containing multiple washed dishes in the post-washing standby position. Note that the input-side lifting unit 30 and the discharge-side lifting unit 40 are omitted in Figures 3 and 4. The pre-washing standby position is the position where the transport unit 20 receives the storage basket 60 as it descends from the input port 1a, and is the position where the storage basket 60 is kept waiting before washing the dishes. The post-washing standby position is the position where the storage basket 60 is kept waiting immediately after washing the dishes in order to raise the storage basket 60 toward the discharge port 1b.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0027] The storage basket 60 is moved to the post-cleaning standby position (Figure 4), and after the storage basket 60 is discharged to the discharge port 1b, the drive motor 21 reverses the drive screw 24 to move the mobile body 26 in the direction of arrow D2 in Figure 4, returning it from the post-cleaning standby position (Figure 4) to the pre-cleaning standby position (Figure 3). As a result, the mobile body 26 can receive another storage basket 60 at the pre-cleaning standby position.

[0028] (Input side lifting unit 30 and payout side lifting unit 40) Next, the structure of the input-side lifting unit 30 and the output-side lifting unit 40 will be explained using Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 shows the input-side lifting unit 30 and the output-side lifting unit 40 in the raised position, and Figure 6 shows the input-side lifting unit 30 and the output-side lifting unit 40 in the lowered position. Here, the input-side lifting unit 30 and the output-side lifting unit 40 operate independently of each other. Note that the transport unit 20 is omitted in Figures 5 and 6.

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

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

[0031] When the input-side lifting unit 30 is in the raised position (Figure 5), the upper end of the lifter 34 supports the storage basket 60 installed in the input opening 1a. Here, the storage basket 60 is supported in the input opening 1a by a plurality of stoppers 11, and the storage basket 60 is supported by the lifter 34 when the upper end of the lifter 34 comes into contact with the storage basket 60.

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

[0033] By moving the lifter 34 in the direction of arrow D3, the storage basket 60, which is supported by the upper end of the lifter 34, moves downward to the state shown in Figure 6. When the storage basket 60 is moved downward, the stopper 11 separates from the storage basket 60. In Figure 6, the transport unit 20 is omitted, but when the storage basket 60 is lowered to the position shown in Figure 6 by the input-side lifting unit 30, the pin 61 of the storage basket 60 is supported by the support part 26a of the movable body 26, and the wheels 62 of the storage basket 60 come into contact with the rail 27, as shown in Figure 3. As a result, the storage basket 60 is placed in the pre-washing standby position (Figure 3).

[0034] After the transport unit 20 has transported the storage basket 60, the input-side lifting unit 30, which is in the lowered state (Figure 6), drives the electric cylinder 31 to move the rod 31a downward, causing the drive arm 32 to rotate clockwise around its shaft portion 32b. The tip portion 32c of the drive arm 32 then moves the guide pin 34a upward along the guide hole 33a, causing the lifter 34 to move in the direction of arrow D5. As a result, the input-side lifting unit 30 returns to the state shown in Figure 5.

[0035] The dispensing-side lifting unit 40 includes an electric cylinder 41, a drive arm 42, a guide member 43, and a lifter 44. The electric cylinder 31 operates in response to a drive signal from a controller (not shown). The electric cylinder 41 has a rod 41a that is movable in the vertical direction, and the base end of the drive arm 42 is connected to the tip of the rod 41a. Here, the tip of the rod 41a and the base end of the drive arm 42 are rotatably connected via a shaft portion 42a.

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

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

[0038] Moving the rod 41a further downward causes the lifter 44 to move further upward, allowing the storage basket 60, supported by the upper end of the lifter 44, to be raised to the discharge opening 1b. In the state shown in Figure 5, the storage basket 60 is supported by a plurality of stoppers 12 provided at the discharge opening 1b, and the worker can remove the storage basket 60 containing the washed dishes from the discharge opening 1b.

[0039] When the dispensing-side lifting unit 40 is in the state shown in Figure 5, the drive arm 42 rotates clockwise around its shaft portion 42b by driving the electric cylinder 41 to move the rod 41a upward. The tip portion 42c of the drive arm 42 then moves the guide pin 44a downward along the guide hole 43a, thereby moving the lifter 44 in the direction of arrow D4. As a result, the dispensing-side lifting unit 40 returns to the state shown in Figure 6.

[0040] (Brush unit 50) Next, the structure of the brush unit 50 will be explained using Figures 7 to 9. Here, Figure 7 shows the brush unit 50 in the retracted state, Figure 8 shows the brush unit 50 in the extended state, and Figure 9 is a top view of the brush.

[0041] The brush unit 50 includes an electric cylinder 51, a brush drive unit 52, and a plurality of brushes 53. The electric cylinder 31 operates in response to a drive signal from a controller (not shown). The electric cylinder 51 has a rod 51a that can move in the vertical direction, and the brush drive unit 52 is connected to the tip of the rod 51a. The upper surface of the brush drive unit 52 is provided with the same number of rotating shafts 52a as the total number of brushes 53, and a brush 53 is connected to the tip of each rotating shaft 52a. A motor (not shown) is located inside the brush drive unit 52, and by transmitting the power of the motor to each rotating shaft 52a and rotating each rotating shaft 52a, the brushes 53 can be rotated around the axis of the rotating shaft 52a.

[0042] When the brush unit 50 is in the retracted position, as shown in Figure 7, the multiple brushes 53 are positioned below the rail 27. As a result, the storage basket 60 is transported along the rail 27 without interfering with the brushes 53.

[0043] In the state shown in Figure 7, when the electric cylinder 51 is driven to move the rod 51a upward, the brush drive unit 52 moves in the direction indicated by arrow D7, causing the multiple brushes 53 to move above the rail 27. As a result, the brush unit 50 returns to the state shown in Figure 8. In the state shown in Figure 8, when the electric cylinder 51 is driven to move the rod 51a downward, the brush drive unit 52 moves in the direction indicated by arrow D8, causing the multiple brushes 53 to move below the rail 27. As a result, the brush unit 50 returns to the state shown in Figure 7.

[0044] After the transport unit 20 stops the storage basket 60 at a position corresponding to the brush unit 50 (hereinafter referred to as the "brush cleaning position"), the brush unit 50 is moved from the retracted state (Figure 7) to the extended state (Figure 8), thereby allowing the dishes stored in the storage basket 60 to be cleaned by the brush 53. The structure of the brush 53 and the cleaning of dishes by the brush 53 will be described below.

[0045] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the brush 53 has a first subbrush 53a and a second subbrush 53b, which are fixed to a base 53c. The base 53c is connected to the rotating shaft 52a of the brush drive unit 52, and the base 53c rotates as the rotating shaft 52a rotates. Here, the first subbrush 53a and the rotating shaft 52a are arranged coaxially (rotating shaft AXL shown in Figure 9), and the first subbrush 53a and the second subbrush 53b rotate around the rotating shaft AXL.

[0046] The brush 53 is used to wash cups (a type of tableware). Figure 10 is a perspective view showing a storage basket 60A for holding cups, and Figure 11 shows the storage basket 60A with multiple cups C1 stored inside. The storage basket 60A is used to store only cups.

[0047] As shown in Figure 10, the storage cage 60A has a base frame 63, and each of the two sides of the base frame 63 is provided with a pin 61 and a pair of wheels 62, as described above. The four corners of the base frame 63 are provided with vertically extending support columns 64, to which auxiliary frames 65 formed along the outer edge of the base frame 63 are fixed. In the storage cage 60A, the auxiliary frames 65 are fixed to the upper end of each support column 64.

[0048] Inside the base frame 63, a plurality of first support frames 66 are arranged in a predetermined direction, and both ends of each first support frame 66 are fixed to the inner surface of the base frame 63. A plurality of second support frames 67 are fixed to each first support frame 66 at predetermined intervals. As shown in Figure 11, the cup C1 can be placed in the storage basket 60A in an inverted state such that the second support frames 67 are positioned inside the cup C1. Here, the opening of the cup C1 is supported by the first support frames 66.

[0049] With the storage basket 60A containing multiple cups C1 stopped in a position corresponding to the brush unit 50, when the brush unit 50 is moved from the retracted state (Figure 7) to the extended state (Figure 8), each brush 53 makes contact with each cup C1. Here, the brushes 53 pass through the space formed between two adjacent first support frames 66 in the storage basket 60A to make contact with the cups C1. Furthermore, the multiple brushes 53 are positioned in the brush drive unit 52 at positions corresponding to the storage positions of the multiple cups C1 in the storage basket 60A. This allows each brush 53 to make contact with each cup C1.

[0050] As described above, by predetermining the storage position of each cup C1 in the storage basket 60A, the positions for arranging multiple brushes 53 can be determined. Furthermore, when an operator places the cups C1 into the storage basket 60A, the position and shape of the second support frame 67 can be appropriately determined so that each cup C1 is placed in the desired storage position.

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

[0052] After the brush 53 is brought into contact with the cup C1, when the brush 53 is rotated around the rotation axis AXL (Figure 9), the first sub-brush 53a slides along the inner wall surface of the cup C1, and the second sub-brush 53b slides along the outer wall surface of the cup C1. This makes it possible to remove dirt adhering to the inner and outer walls of the cup C1.

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

[0054] The storage cage 60B shown in Figure 12 has the same basic structure as the storage cage 60A shown in Figure 10, and in storage cage 60B, the same reference numerals are used for parts that have a function common to the parts of storage cage 60A. Compared to storage cage 60A, in storage cage 60B, three auxiliary frames 65 are fixed to the support column 64, and the three auxiliary frames 65 are arranged at predetermined intervals.

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

[0056] The storage cage 60C shown in Figure 14 has the same basic structure as the storage cage 60A shown in Figure 10, and in storage cage 60C, the same reference numerals are used for parts that have a function common to the parts of storage cage 60A. Compared to storage cage 60A, in storage cage 60C, three auxiliary frames 65 are fixed to the support column 64, and the three auxiliary frames 65 are arranged at predetermined intervals.

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

[0058] When cleaning the storage basket 60B containing plate C2, or the storage basket 60C containing plate C3, the brush unit 50 remains in the retracted state (Figure 7). The storage baskets 60B and 60C are then transported along a pair of rails 27 by the transport unit 20, and cleaning fluid is sprayed from the cleaning nozzle 13 onto the storage baskets 60B and 60C while they are being transported, thereby cleaning plates C2 and C3.

[0059] The operation of the brush unit 50 is controlled by determining the type of tableware (i.e., storage baskets 60A to 60C) to be stored in the storage basket 60. As described above, when cleaning storage basket 60A containing cup C1, the brush unit 50 is moved from the retracted state (Figure 7) to the extended state (Figure 8), and when cleaning storage baskets 60B and 60C containing plates C2 and C3, the brush unit 50 is kept in the retracted state (Figure 7).

[0060] (Identification of containment cage 60) As described above, in order to control the drive of the brush unit 50, it is sufficient to distinguish between housing basket 60A and housing baskets 60B and 60C. When housing basket 60A is identified, the brush unit 50 is operated between the retracted state (Figure 7) and the extended state (Figure 8). On the other hand, when housing basket 60A is not identified, in other words, when housing baskets 60B and 60C are identified, the brush unit 50 is kept in the retracted state (Figure 7).

[0061] Three methods for identifying the containment cage 60A are exemplified below. However, the methods are not limited to those described below, and any known method can be used as appropriate to identify the containment cage 60A.

[0062] As a first means of identification, a sensor can be used. Examples of sensors include reading sensors that read identification information such as code information (one-dimensional codes or two-dimensional codes), and optical sensors equipped with a light-emitting element that emits detection light and a light-receiving element that receives the detection light.

[0063] When using a reading sensor, identification information that identifies the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60 is provided on the storage basket 60, and the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60 can be identified by reading this identification information with the reading sensor. Here, the identification information can be printed directly on the storage basket 60, or a sticker with the identification information printed on it can be attached to the storage basket 60. The reading of the identification information should be done before the storage basket 60 is transported by the transport unit 20.

[0064] When using an optical sensor, the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60 can be identified by varying the light reception state of the light-receiving element according to the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60. Specifically, a light-shielding section is provided in the storage basket 60 to block the detection light, and the shape of the light-shielding section is made different according to the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60 (specifically, storage baskets 60A to 60C), thereby varying the light reception state of the light-receiving element. Based on the light reception state of the detection light, the type of tableware corresponding to this light reception state can be identified.

[0065] Alternatively, instead of shielding the detection light, the state of light reception by the light-receiving element can be varied by differentiating the reflection state of the detection light depending on the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60. Specifically, a reflective part that reflects the detection light can be provided in the storage basket 60, and the position of the reflective part can be varied depending on the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60. If an optical sensor is provided at each position of the reflective part, the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60 can be identified based on the state of light reception of the detection light at each optical sensor.

[0066] A second identification method can be used, which involves using a switch. Depending on the type of tableware stored in the storage basket 60, the shape of a part of the storage basket 60 can be made different, and by making only storage basket 60A contact the switch, storage basket 60A can be identified. For example, the length of the pins 61 of storage basket 60A can be made longer than the length of the pins 61 of storage baskets 60B and 60C. Then, by placing the switch in a position where only the pins 61 of storage basket 60A contact the switch, storage basket 60A can be identified based on the output of the switch.

[0067] As a third identification means, the dishwashing machine 1 can be provided with an input unit for inputting information indicating that the storage basket 60A is installed in the input port 1a. When the operator installs the storage basket 60A in the input port 1a, they can operate the input unit and identify the storage basket 60A based on the output signal of the input unit. Here, a touch panel or buttons can be used as the input unit.

[0068] (Drive control of the transport unit 20 and the brush unit 50) Next, the drive control of the transport unit 20 and the brush unit 50 will be explained using the flowchart shown in Figure 16. The process shown in Figure 16 is performed by a controller (not shown) provided in the dishwashing machine 1. In the following explanation, the operation of the dishwashing machine 1 is controlled by one controller, but this control can also be distributed to multiple controllers. The process shown in Figure 16 begins when the input-side lifting unit 30 lowers the storage basket 60 installed in the input opening 1a and places it in the pre-washing standby position.

[0069] In step S101, the controller determines whether the storage basket 60 in the pre-washing standby position (Figure 3) is the storage basket 60A containing the used cup C1. The identification means described above can be used for this determination. If storage basket 60A is in the pre-washing standby position, the process proceeds to step S102. If any other storage basket 60 (specifically, storage baskets 60B, 60C) is in the pre-washing standby position, the process proceeds to step S109.

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

[0071] In step 104, the controller temporarily stops the transport of the storage basket 60A at the brush cleaning position. Here, the brush unit 50 is in the retracted state (Figure 7), and the storage basket 60A is positioned above the brush 53. In step S105, the controller drives the brush unit 50 to clean the cup C1 stored in the storage basket 60A. Specifically, as the brush unit 50 changes from the retracted state to the extended state, the brush 53 comes into contact with the cup C1 and cleans the inner and outer walls of the cup C1.

[0072] In step S106, the controller drives the transport unit 20 to resume transporting the storage basket 60A, which had stopped at the brush cleaning position. In step S107, the controller controls the drive of the transport unit 20 to stop the storage basket 60A at the post-cleaning standby position. In step S108, the controller terminates the spraying of cleaning fluid from the cleaning nozzle 13. The storage basket 60A, which has stopped at the post-cleaning standby position, is moved from the post-cleaning standby position to the discharge port 1b by the discharge side lifting unit 40.

[0073] In step S109, the controller starts spraying cleaning fluid from the cleaning nozzle 13. In step S110, the controller drives the transport unit 20 to start transporting the storage baskets 60B and 60C. As a result, the storage baskets 60B and 60C are transported from the pre-cleaning waiting position (Figure 3) to the post-cleaning waiting position (Figure 4). After the process in step S110, the process proceeds to step S107.

[0074] During the process from step S109 to step S107, the brush unit 50 is kept in a retracted state (Figure 7), and the storage baskets 60B and 60C move from the pre-washing standby position (Figure 3) to the post-washing standby position (Figure 4) without stopping at the brush washing position. Since the dishes C2 and C3 are stored upright in the storage baskets 60B and 60C, the dishes C2 and C3 can be washed by spraying washing liquid from the washing nozzles 13 located above and below the transport path.

[0075] Note that the timing of steps S102 and S109 (start of spraying the cleaning solution) and step S108 (end of spraying the cleaning solution) is not limited to the timing explained in the flowchart shown in Figure 16, but can be determined as appropriate. In other words, it is sufficient that the dishes stored in the storage basket 60 are cleaned by the cleaning solution.

[0076] Furthermore, the storage baskets 60B and 60C can be temporarily stopped on the transport path from the pre-washing standby position (Figure 3) to the post-washing standby position (Figure 4). Specifically, the storage baskets 60B and 60C can be temporarily stopped at the position where the cleaning solution sprayed from the cleaning nozzle 13 reaches them. Here, the position at which the storage baskets 60B and 60C are temporarily stopped can be determined appropriately considering the points mentioned above, and is not limited to the brush cleaning position where the storage basket 60A is temporarily stopped. Depending on the amount of dirt adhering to the plates C2 and C3 stored in the storage baskets 60B and 60C, temporarily stopping the storage baskets 60B and 60C and continuing to spray cleaning solution from the cleaning nozzle 13 makes it easier to remove the dirt adhering to the plates C2 and C3.

[0077] In this embodiment, a brush 53 is used to clean cup C1, but the structure of the brush 53 can be appropriately changed depending on the type of tableware to be cleaned. That is, the structure of the brush 53 can be designed to clean specific tableware. Also, in this embodiment, the brush unit 50 is operated to clean cup C1, but the brush unit 50 can be operated to clean specific tableware other than cup C1. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0078] 1: Dishwashing machine, 1a: Inlet, 1b: Outlet, 13: Washing nozzle, 20: Transport unit, 26: Mobile body, 27: Rail, 30: Input side lifting unit, 40: Dispensing side lifting unit, 50: Brush unit, 53: Brush, 53a: First sub-brush, 53b: Second sub-brush, 60, 60A, 60B, 60C: Storage basket, 61: Pin, 62: Wheel,

Claims

1. A dishwashing device for washing multiple types of used dishes, A transport unit that transports storage baskets containing tableware of each type along a transport path, A brush unit having a brush for washing a specific piece of tableware from among several types of tableware, and moving the brush between a retracted position where it is moved out of the transport path and an entry position where it is entered into the transport path, The transport path includes a cleaning nozzle that sprays cleaning liquid toward the storage basket being transported, When the transport unit transports a storage basket containing the specified tableware, it temporarily stops the storage basket at the brush cleaning position in the transport path, and when transporting a storage basket containing tableware other than the specified tableware, it transports this storage basket without stopping it at the brush cleaning position. The dishwashing apparatus is characterized in that, when the storage basket is stopped in the brush washing position, the brush unit moves the brush from the retracted position to the entry position to wash the specific dish.

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

3. The system includes a determination means for determining whether the storage basket transported by the transport unit is a storage basket containing the specified tableware, The dishwashing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the transport unit and the brush unit operate according to the determination result of the determination means.

4. The brush unit moves a plurality of brushes integrally between the retracted position and the entry position. The dishwashing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the plurality of brushes are arranged in positions corresponding to the storage positions of the plurality of specific dishes in the storage basket.

5. The aforementioned transport unit is A rail is arranged along the transport path and guides the wheels provided on the storage basket, A drive unit that engages with a pin provided on the storage basket to move the storage basket along the rail, A dishwashing device according to claim 1, characterized by having the following features.

6. An opening into which a storage basket containing used dishes is installed, The dishwashing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: an input-side lifting unit that supports the storage basket installed at the input opening and lowers the storage basket from the input opening to place it on the transport unit.

7. A dispensing port for dispensing the storage basket containing the washed dishes, The dishwashing apparatus according to claim 1 or 6, further comprising a discharge-side lifting unit that supports the washed storage basket placed on the transport unit and raises it toward the discharge outlet.

8. The aforementioned specific tableware is a cup. The dishwashing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the brush has, at the entry position, a first sub-brush for cleaning the inner wall surface of the cup and a second sub-brush for cleaning the outer wall surface of the cup.

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