Cup washer

Abstract

To provide a cup washer to be used efficiently and conveniently.SOLUTION: A cup washer includes a tub having a space to accommodate a cup to be washed therein, a drying part disposed at a rear surface of the tub, a first portion of the drying part being spaced apart from the tub to define a first space between the rear surface of the tub and the first portion of the drying part, a second portion of the drying part being connected to the rear surface of the tub, the drying part being configured to heat incoming outside air and then supply the heated air to the tub, and an additive supply part located in the first space, the additive supply part being coupled to the rear surface of the tub and configured to supply an additive to the tub.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cup washer, and more particularly, to a cup washer [cup washer] that sprays water to wash (launder) cups.

[0002] 〔Cross-reference to Related Applications〕 This application is accompanied by a claim of priority under Article 4 of the Paris Convention based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-**2023-0180145** (filing date: December 12, 2023; DAS: 9A26), and the invention of this application is based on the content disclosed in the said Korean patent application. For reference, the contents of the specification, claims, and drawings of the said Korean patent application are incorporated into a part of this specification.

Background Art

[0003] A cup washer is a device that sprays water to wash cups. In recent years, the awareness of carbon neutrality practice has spread throughout society, and the number of people carrying their own cups and reusable cups has increased. Along with this, public offices, companies, and stores that install cup washers have increased in consideration of the hygiene and convenience of users (employees).

[0004] Regarding the above-mentioned cup washer, Korean Utility Model Publication No. 20-1994-0020198 (hereinafter referred to as "Patent Document 1") discloses a cup washer.

[0005] Specifically, Patent Document 1 discloses a brush that rotates to wash cups, a detergent dispensing container that supplies detergent to the brush, and a configuration for attaching the cup washer to a faucet.

[0006] ​However, the cup washer described in Patent Document 1 does not have a structure for drying any remaining moisture inside the cup after washing, making it difficult to use the washed cup immediately. Furthermore, this can lead to hygiene problems and inconvenience for the user.

[0007] Furthermore, an automatic cup washer is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0016470 (hereinafter referred to as "Patent Document 2").

[0008] Specifically, Patent Document 2 discloses a configuration in which the user inserts a used cup into a cup washer, and the inserted cup is automatically cleaned with steam.

[0009] However, the cup washer described in Patent Document 2 also has the problem that it does not have a separate structure for drying the cups after washing.

[0010] As mentioned above, in the case of a cup washer that cleans cups by spraying water, not only is a structure for cleaning the cups necessary, but also a structure for drying the cleaned cups. These structures must be designed to ensure that the cup washer can be used efficiently and conveniently. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0011] [Patent Document 1] Korean Utility Model Publication No. 20-1994-0020198 [Patent Document 2] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0016470 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0012] This invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems with cup washers that clean cups by spraying water.

[0013] Specifically, this invention provides a cup washer that optimizes the structure and configuration for washing cups and the structure and configuration for drying washed cups (washed cups), and efficiently arranges each component to fully perform its respective function.

[0014] The present invention also optimizes the structure for washing cups and the structure for drying washed cups, providing a cup washer that users can use conveniently.

[0015] The present invention further provides a cup washer configured to optimize the structure for washing cups and the structure for drying washed cups, so that each component can stably maintain and perform its function.

[0016] In the disclosures of this invention, the technical problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other technical problems not described in this invention will also be easily and clearly understood by a person skilled in the art to which this invention belongs (a person skilled in the art) from the content of the disclosures of this invention. [Means for solving the problem]

[0017] [One aspect of the present invention] One aspect of the present invention is described below. [Claim 1] It is a cup washer. A tab with a compartment for storing cups to be washed inside; A drying part located on the rear surface of the tab; and The first portion of the drying section is positioned away from the tab and defines a first space between the rear surface of the tab and the first portion of the drying section. The second portion of the drying section is connected to the rear surface of the tab, The drying section is configured to heat incoming outside air and supply the heated air to the tab. An additive supply part disposed within the first space; and The additive supply part is coupled to the rear surface of the tab, and the additive supply part is configured to supply an additive to the tab, a cup washer. [Claim 2] A front panel configured to cover the front side of the tab; and A rear panel configured to cover the rear side of the drying part; are further provided, The drying part includes an outside air inlet, The rear panel includes a vent communicating with the outside air inlet of the drying part, the container cup washer according to claim 1. [Claim 3] The drying part is A blowing fan configured to suck the outside air from the outside air inlet and blow the outside air toward the tab; and A drying duct having a first end coupled to the blowing fan and an internal flow path defined along a surface of the drying duct parallel to the rear panel, the cup washer according to claim 2. [Claim 4] The drying part is Further includes a tub connection pipe extending from a second end of the drying duct, The tub connection pipe includes a tub connector connected to the rear surface of the tab, the cup washer according to claim 3. [Claim 5] The blowing fan is disposed at a position relatively higher than the tub connector, the cup washer according to claim 4. [Claim 6] The drying part further includes an air heater disposed within the drying duct, The air heater is configured to heat the air passing through the internal passage, The aforementioned internal flow path is A first section extending upward from the aforementioned blower fan, A second section extending laterally from the first section, and The air heater is located in the second section. The cup washer according to claim 4, further comprising: a third section extending downward from the second section to the tab connecting pipe. [Claim 7] The cup washer according to claim 4, wherein the tab connecting pipe extends downward between the second end of the drying duct and the tab connector. [Claim 8] The aforementioned drying duct is A first assembly positioned between the tab and the rear panel, and The present invention further comprises a second assembly coupled to the first assembly, The second assembly is positioned between the first assembly and the rear panel. The first assembly and the second assembly define the internal flow path of the drying duct and the second end of the drying duct, The cup washer according to claim 4, wherein the tab connecting pipe is inserted into and connected to the second end of the drying duct. [Claim 9] The cup washer according to claim 8, wherein the tab connecting pipe is in a tubular shape. [Claim 10] Front frame located in front of the aforementioned tab; and The drying section is further provided with a rear frame located behind it. The front frame is configured to support the front panel, and The cup washer according to claim 8, wherein the rear frame is configured to support the rear panel. [Claim 11] The cup washer according to claim 10, wherein the drying section is connected to and supported by the rear frame. [Claim 12] The cup washer according to claim 11, wherein the second assembly is fixed to the rear frame. [Claim 13] The cup washer according to claim 4, wherein the tab connecting pipe is attached to and connected to the second end of the drying duct. [Claim 14] The cup washer according to claim 13, wherein the second end of the drying duct is positioned relatively higher than the maximum water level in the tub. [Claim 15] The cup washer according to claim 13, wherein the second end of the drying duct is positioned at a relatively lower position than the outside air inlet. [Claim 16] The cup washer according to claim 4, further comprising an air discharge part positioned at the upper end of the tab for discharging air from within the tab. [Claim 17] The cup washer according to claim 16, wherein the air discharge section is connected between the rear surface of the tab and the rear panel. [Claim 18] The cup washer according to claim 17, wherein the first portion of the air discharge unit connected to the tab is positioned at a relatively lower position than the second portion of the air discharge unit connected to the rear panel. [Claim 19] The cup washer according to claim 18, wherein the air discharge section is provided with a water barrier extending in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the air discharge section. [Claim 20] It is a cup washer. A tab having a space for accommodating a cup to be washed inside; and It comprises a drying part located on the rear surface of the tab, The drying section is configured to heat incoming outside air and supply the heated air to the tab. The drying section is Outside air inlet, A blowing fan is configured to draw in outside air from the outside air inlet and blow the outside air toward the tab, The device comprises a drying duct having a first end, a second end, and an internal flow path, which are connected to the aforementioned blower fan. The aforementioned drying duct is First assembly and, A second assembly coupled to the first assembly, and The drying duct comprises a tub connection pipe extending from the second end, The first assembly is positioned between the second assembly and the tab, and The second assembly defines the internal flow path, The tab connecting tube is equipped with a tab connector (tub connector) connected to the rear surface of the tab, The aforementioned tab connecting tube is tubular in shape, in a cup washer.

[0018] As described above, a cup washer according to one aspect of the present disclosure (the present invention) is characterized in that each component has a structure that allows it to efficiently perform its respective function. Specifically, the cup washer according to the present invention is configured to have a unique structure in which the drying section is located at the rear of the tab (container, tub, bucket), separated from each other by a first space of the tab, and the additive supply section is located in the first space.

[0019] Furthermore, a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention is configured to have a structure that is convenient for the user to use. Specifically, the cup washer is configured to have a structure in which the tab is located at the front, the drying section is located at the rear, and the outside air inlet of the drying section is connected to the rear panel.

[0020] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, an internal flow path may be provided in the drying duct of the drying section along a surface parallel to the rear panel.

[0021] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the tab connecting pipe of the drying section may connect the tab and the drying duct.

[0022] Furthermore, a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention may be configured such that each component can maintain its function stably. Specifically, the blower fan is positioned relatively higher than the position where the tab connecting pipe is connected to the tab.

[0023] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the air heater (air heating device) in the drying section may be located at the upper end of the internal flow path.

[0024] Furthermore, a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention may be configured with a sloping structure in which the tab connecting pipe is inclined downward toward the tab.

[0025] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the drying duct may be constructed by coupling (connecting, joining, combining) a first assembly and a second assembly.

[0026] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the tab connecting pipe may be configured as an integrated pipe (tubular shape).

[0027] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the drying duct and the tab connecting pipe may be fixed (fitting, securing, or connecting) to each other.

[0028] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the position where the drying duct and the tub connecting pipe are connected is positioned relatively higher than the maximum water level in the tub.

[0029] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the position where the drying duct and the tab connecting pipe are connected may be located relatively lower than the outside air inlet.

[0030] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the front frame may support the front panel, and the rear frame may support the rear panel.

[0031] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the drying section may be connected to and supported by the rear frame.

[0032] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the second assembly may be fixed to the rear frame.

[0033] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the air inside the tub is discharged through an air discharge section provided at the upper end of the tub.

[0034] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the air discharge section may be connected between the rear surface of the tab and the rear panel.

[0035] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the position where the air discharge unit is connected to the tab may be located at a relatively lower position than the position where the air discharge unit is connected to the rear panel.

[0036] Furthermore, in a cup washer according to one aspect of the present invention, the water barrier (waterproof body, waterproof wall) may be formed in the air discharge path of the air discharge section.

[0037] The solutions (means) to the technical problems to be achieved in this disclosure (the present invention) are not limited to the solutions described above, and other solutions not described above will be readily and clearly understood by a person skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs from the following description (disclosure). [Effects of the Invention]

[0038] The effects of the cup washer of the present invention are described below.

[0039] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the drying section is located behind the tab and is separated from it by a first space, and the additive supply section is located within the first space. This minimizes the transmission of tab vibrations to the drying section, prevents performance degradation, and allows for smooth supply of additives to the tab.

[0040] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the tab is located at the front, the drying section is located at the rear, and the outside air inlet of the drying section is connected to the rear panel, outside air flows smoothly into the drying section, maintenance and repair of the drying section are easily performed, and at the same time, the user has easy access to the tab.

[0041] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the internal flow path is formed in the drying duct of the drying section along a plane parallel to the rear panel, the internal flow path can be efficiently arranged within the limited internal space of the cup washer.

[0042] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the tab connecting pipe of the drying section internally connects the tab and the drying duct, dry air can be smoothly supplied to the tab, while at the same time, the tab and the drying duct can be positioned at a distance from each other.

[0043] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the blower fan is positioned relatively higher than the position where the tab connector is connected to the tab, it is possible to efficiently provide a path for the air blown from the blower fan to the tab, while at the same time effectively preventing the cleaning water contained in the tab during the cleaning process (step) from being affected by the blower fan.

[0044] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the air heater of the drying section is positioned at the upper end of the internal flow path, the cleaning water contained in the tub can be effectively prevented from being affected by the air heater during the cleaning process.

[0045] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the tab connecting pipe is configured to be inclined downward toward the tab, even if the cleaning water contained in the tab flows into the tab connecting pipe during the cleaning process, the cleaning water can be returned to the tab, and the air blown from the blower fan, which is positioned relatively high, can be blown more smoothly toward the tab.

[0046] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the drying duct is constructed by joining a first assembly and a second assembly, the drying section can be easily assembled.

[0047] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the tab connecting pipe is an integrated (preferred) tube (tubular shape), leakage can be minimized even when the cleaning water contained in the tab flows into the tab connecting pipe during the cleaning process.

[0048] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the drying duct and the tab connecting pipe are connected by a fixed fitting, even if cleaning water flows into a position higher than the tab connecting pipe in an unintended situation, the cleaning water can be discharged from the connection between the drying duct and the tab connecting pipe that is not completely sealed, thereby minimizing the amount of cleaning water flowing into the drying duct.

[0049] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the connection point between the drying duct and the tab connecting pipe is positioned relatively higher than the maximum water level in the tab, the amount of cleaning water flowing into the drying duct when the water level in the tab is at its maximum can be minimized.

[0050] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the connection point between the drying duct and the tab connecting pipe is positioned relatively lower than the outside air inlet, it is possible to minimize the unintended flow (inflow) of cleaning water discharged from the connection between the drying duct and the tab connecting pipe into the outside air inlet.

[0051] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the front frame supports the front panel and the rear frame supports the rear panel, the cup washer can be maintained in a stable state with a predetermined rigidity.

[0052] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the drying section is supported by the rear frame, the drying section can be maintained in a stable state even when vibrations from the tab are transmitted.

[0053] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the second assembly is fixed (fastened; attached; fastened) to the rear frame, assembly and disassembly of the drying section and the rear frame are facilitated.

[0054] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the air inside the tub is discharged from an air discharge section provided at the upper end of the tub, the air can be discharged without being affected by the cleaning water inside the tub.

[0055] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the exhaust unit is connected between the rear surface of the tab and the rear panel, the exposure of the exhausted air to the user can be minimized.

[0056] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the position where the discharge section is connected to the tab is located at a relatively lower position than the position where the discharge section is connected to the rear panel, even if the cleaning water in the tab flows into the discharge section, the cleaning water can still be returned to the tab.

[0057] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the water barrier is provided in the air discharge path of the air discharge section, the amount of cleaning water discharged to the air discharge section after flowing into the air discharge section can be minimized.

[0058] Further scope of application of this disclosure (the present invention) will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, various changes and modifications and improvements within the concepts and scope of this disclosure (the present invention) will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and therefore the detailed description and specific embodiments of this disclosure (the present invention) should be understood to be provided only as examples. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0059] The above-mentioned aspects of disclosure (the present invention), as well as other aspects, features, and advantages, will be more clearly understood by reading the following detailed description of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a cup washer according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the front and above. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the cup washer shown in Figure 1, viewed from the rear and upper side. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the cup washer shown in Figure 1 with the front panel removed. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the cup washer door in the open position, as shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a side view of the cup washer shown in Figure 1, and the frame, panel, door, and display unit are not shown. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the cup washer shown in Figure 5, with the cups and cup lids mounted on the rack indicated by dashed lines. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a cup washer according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the connection state of the tub, additive supply unit, and drying unit in a cup washer according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the connection state of the tub, additive supply unit, and drying unit in a cup washer according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows the drying section in a cup washer according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows the drying section in a cup washer according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows the arrangement relationship between the tub and the drying section in a cup washer according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows the connection state between the drying duct and the tab connecting pipe in a cup washer according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows the state of connection between the rear frame and the drying section in a cup washer according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows the air discharge section in a cup washer according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16]Figure 16 shows the air discharge section in a cup washer according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the air discharge section shown in Figure 16. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0060] The following embodiments illustrating (disclosing) the content of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, in order to clarify the gist of the present invention, the following detailed description of the invention will omit explanations of matters already known or familiar, functions and configurations. However, the content of these prior art matters will, of course, be assumed to be disclosed in this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0061] In the embodiments (examples) of the present invention, the X, Y, and Z directions described and used may be orthogonal to each other. The X and Y directions may be parallel to the horizontal direction (lateral direction), and the Z direction may be parallel to the vertical direction (up and down direction, vertical direction). If the X direction is parallel to the left-right direction, the Y direction may be parallel to the front-back direction. If the X direction is parallel to the front-back direction, the Y direction may be parallel to the left-right direction.

[0062] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the front and above. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the cup washer 1000 of Figure 1, viewed from the rear and above. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the cup washer 1000 of Figure 1 with the front panel 21 removed.

[0063] Recently, as awareness of practicing carbon neutrality has spread throughout society, more people are carrying personal or reusable cups. Consequently, the number of government offices, companies, and stores installing cup washers for the hygiene and convenience of users (employees) is increasing. Cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention has been introduced to government offices, companies, stores, etc. Note that the above-mentioned personal or reusable cups include all types of cups (glass or plastic), mugs, tumblers, etc.

[0064] One embodiment of the present invention, the cup washer 1000, has a vertically elongated tower shape. Therefore, the floor area required for the installation of the cup washer 1000 can be small compared to the total volume of the cup washer 1000.

[0065] A cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a frame 10, a panel 20, a display unit 30, a tab 100, a spray unit 300, a water storage unit 50, a sump (water reservoir, drain tank) 60, a circulation pump 70, a discharge pump 80, an additive storage unit 500, an additive supply unit 600, a drying unit 400, and a control unit (controller) 40. The control unit 40 can integrally control the display unit 30, the circulation pump 70, the discharge pump 80, and the additive supply unit 600.

[0066] Frame 10 constitutes the framework of the cup washer 1000. Frame 10 comprises a base frame 13, a front frame 11, a rear frame 12, and a horizontal frame 14.

[0067] The base frame 13 may constitute the lowest part of the cup washer 1000. The base frame 13 may be in contact with (seat on) the ground. The front frame 11 and rear frame 12 may be defined as extending upward from the edge of the base frame 13. The horizontal frame 14 connects the front frame 11 and rear frame 12 horizontally.

[0068] The panel 20 is coupled to the frame 10 and can separate the components of the cup washer 1000 from the external environment. The panel 20 may include a front panel 21, a rear panel 22, a door 25, and a storage compartment cover 26.

[0069] The front panel 21 is connected to the frame 10 and can define the area below the door 25 and the front and both sides of the cup washer 1000. The rear panel 22 is connected to the frame 10 and can define the area below the display unit 30 and the rear of the cup washer 1000.

[0070] A vent (discharge port, air vent) 22a may be provided on the rear panel 22. Outside air flows into the drying section 400 through vent 22a. A vent 22b may be provided on the rear panel 22. Air from the drying section 400 is discharged to the outside through vent 22b. A handle 23 may be provided on the rear panel 22. The operator can easily move the cup washer 1000 by gripping the handle 23.

[0071] The display unit 30 may be located on top of the cup washer 1000. The screen of the display unit 30 may face the front of the cup washer 1000. Therefore, the user of the cup washer 1000 can visually view the screen of the display unit 30 from the front of the cup washer 1000. The display unit 30 can output the operating status of the cup washer 1000, such as "washing," "rinsing," and "drying."

[0072] The display unit 30 is a touch panel, and the user can input operation commands for the cup washer 1000 via the display unit 30.

[0073] The user can select a cleaning mode through the screen of the display unit 30. For example, the user can select "normal cleaning mode" or "quick cleaning mode" through the screen of the display unit 30. Normal cleaning mode is a mode in which cup C is cleaned using detergent and conditioner. Quick cleaning mode is a mode in which cup C is cleaned simply by spraying water without using detergent or conditioner.

[0074] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the cup washer 1000 of Figure 1, showing the door 25 in the open position. Figure 5 is a side view of the cup washer 1000 of Figure 1, where the frame 10, panel 20, door 25, and display unit 30 are not shown.

[0075] Panel 20 may include a top panel 24. The top panel 24 can be coupled to the upper end of the front panel 21. The top panel 24 can separate (separate) the components (parts, components) inside the front panel 21 from the external environment at the upper end of the front panel 21, except for the upper opening of the tab 100 and the upper opening of the additive storage section 500. The storage section cover 26 can open and close the upper opening of the additive storage section 500.

[0076] The door 25 can open and close the upper opening of the tab 100. The door 25 can be rotatably coupled to the upper panel 24. When the door 25 is closed (see Figure 1), the door 25 can protrude forward from the front panel 21. When the door 25 is closed, the user can easily rotate (open) the door 25 by lifting the protruding portion upward.

[0077] Figure 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the cup washer 1000 shown in Figure 5, with dashed lines indicating the cups C and cup lids Ca attached to the rack 200.

[0078] The tab 100 has an internal space for washing cup C (hereinafter referred to as the "washing space"). The tab 100 may be in the form (shape) of a hollow three-dimensional object having an opening (hereinafter referred to as the "cup inlet") near its upper end. The door 25 can open and close the cup inlet. The user can put cup C into the washing space or take cup C out of the washing space through the cup inlet.

[0079] The washing space is equipped with a rack 200 on which cup C and cup lid Ca are placed (mounted, attached). The rack 200 can be introduced through the cup inlet or removed from the washing space. Cup C and cup lid Ca are placed on the rack 200, while being positioned away from the inner surface of tab 100. Cup C is placed on the rack 200 upside down.

[0080] A cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a spray unit 300. The spray unit 300 is installed at the bottom of the tab 100. When a cup C is placed on the rack 200, the upper opening of the cup C is positioned above the spray unit 300. The spray unit 300 can spray water to the inside and outside of the cup C within the washing space. The spray unit 300 includes a first spray nozzle 310 and a second spray nozzle 320.

[0081] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 also shows the movement paths of water, additives, and air, and the relative arrangement of the components may differ.

[0082] In Figure 7, the dotted arrows indicate the path of water sprayed by the first spray nozzle 310. The solid arrows indicate the path of water sprayed by the second spray nozzle 320. The thick black arrows indicate the path of additive movement. The thick white arrows indicate the path of air movement.

[0083] The water reservoir 50 can store (retain) water. The water reservoir 50 may be heavier than the other components. The water reservoir 50 may be coupled to the upper surface of the base frame 13. Therefore, the center of gravity of the cup washer 1000 as a whole may be lower. Therefore, the cup washer 1000 may be configured in a substantially vertically elongated tower shape. As a result, the possibility of the cup washer 1000 tipping over can be reduced.

[0084] The water storage unit 50 may be connected to a water supply pipe. Water is supplied from the water supply pipe to the water storage unit 50. A water level sensor may be provided in the water storage unit 50. An on / off valve may be provided between the water supply pipe and the water storage unit 50. The controller 40 can receive signals from the water level sensor and control the on / off valve.

[0085] A heater and a temperature sensor can be provided in the water reservoir 50. The heater heats the water in the water reservoir 50. The controller 40 can receive signals from the temperature sensor and control the heater.

[0086] Water in the water storage section 50 is supplied into the tub 100 via the cleaning water supply section 90. The cleaning water supply section 90 comprises a cleaning water supply pipe 91 and an on / off valve 92. The control unit 40 controls the on / off valve 92.

[0087] The additive storage unit 500 stores additives inside. The additive supply unit 600 supplies the additives stored in the additive storage unit 500 into the tab 100.

[0088] As described above, the user can select a cleaning mode through the screen of the display unit 30. For example, the user can select either "Normal Cleaning Mode" or "Quick Cleaning Mode" through the screen of the display unit 30.

[0089] The normal cleaning mode uses detergent and rinse aid to clean cup C. The quick cleaning mode cleans cup C simply by spraying it with water, without using detergent or rinse aid.

[0090] The normal cleaning mode comprises a normal cleaning process and a drying process. When the user selects "Normal Cleaning Mode" via the screen of the display unit 30, water from the water reservoir 50 is supplied to the tub 100 from the cleaning water supply unit 90. The cleaning water supply unit 90 comprises a cleaning water supply pipe 91 and an on / off valve. In this case, the additive supply unit 600 supplies the additive to the tub 100 for a set time. The additive is mixed with the water in the tub 100.

[0091] The water mixed with the additive passes through the filter section 800 by gravity and flows into the sump 60 below the tab 100, and the circulation pump 70 pressurizes the water that has flowed into the sump 60 and directs it toward the first injection nozzle 310.

[0092] The first spray nozzle 310 sprays the additive-mixed water towards the inside and outside of cup C. The circulation pump 70 also supplies water flowing into the sump 60 into the tab 100 via the cleaning water spray unit 95. The cleaning water spray unit 95 sprays the additive-mixed water towards the cup lid Ca.

[0093] The circulation pump 70 operates for a set period of time. After the set period of time has elapsed, the water that has flowed into the sump 60 moves to the discharge pipe 81 via the drain pump 80 and is discharged to the outside of the cup washer 1000 (the normal cleaning process is completed).

[0094] The additive may include a first additive and a second additive. The first additive may be provided as a detergent. The second additive may be provided as a conditioner. In this case, the normal cleaning process may include a first normal cleaning process and a second normal cleaning process.

[0095] The first normal washing step may be a step of washing cup C with water mixed with the first additive. The second normal washing step may be a step of washing cup C with water mixed with the second additive. The first normal washing step and the second normal washing step may be performed sequentially (continuously).

[0096] Once the normal washing process is complete, a drying process is performed. The drying unit 400 supplies heated air into the tab 100. During this process, the humid air inside the tab 100 is discharged to the outside. The drying process is carried out for a certain period of time (completion of the drying process).

[0097] The second spray nozzle 320 may be connected to the water supply pipe. A three-way valve may be introduced (installed) between the water supply pipe and the water storage section 50. The second spray nozzle 320 may be connected to the water supply pipe via the three-way valve. An on / off valve may be introduced (installed) between the second spray nozzle 320 and the three-way valve. The controller 40 may control the three-way valve and the on / off valve.

[0098] The quick cleaning mode may include a quick cleaning step and a drying step. When the user selects "quick cleaning mode" via the screen of the display unit 30, the second spray nozzle 320 is connected to the water supply pipe via a three-way valve. In quick cleaning mode, no additive is supplied into the tab 100.

[0099] The second spray nozzle 320 sprays water without additives into cup C. The on / off valve opens the flow path between the water supply pipe and the second spray nozzle 320 for a certain period of time. After the period of time has elapsed, the water that has flowed into the sump 60 moves to the discharge pipe 81 via the discharge pump 80 and is discharged to the outside of the cup washer 1000 (completion of the quick cleaning process).

[0100] Once the quick cleaning process is complete, the drying process is performed. The drying unit 400 supplies heated air into the tab 100. During this process, the humid air inside the tab 100 is discharged to the outside. The drying process is performed for a certain period of time (completion of the drying process).

[0101] Figures 8 and 9 show the configuration of the tab 100, additive supply unit 600, and drying unit 400 in a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] A cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a tab 100, a drying section 400, and an additive supply section 600.

[0103] The tab 100 is a component that provides (gives) a space for cleaning the cup C housed inside it. When the cup C is introduced (put into) the cleaning space of the tab 100, water is sprayed onto the cup C and the cup C is cleaned.

[0104] The drying section 400 is partially connected to and positioned on the rear surface of the tab 100, and a second portion of the drying section 400 is connected to the rear surface of the tab 100, heating the incoming outside air and supplying heated air to the tab 100. In this configuration, at least a portion of the drying section 400 is positioned to be separated from the rear surface of the tab 100 by a first space S1.

[0105] Specifically, the drying unit 400 is configured to dry any remaining moisture in the washed cup C, as described above. That is, the drying unit 400 can be configured to supply heated air to the tab 100 and dry the washed (cleaned) cup C. The drying unit 400 may be equipped with a heater for heating the air and a blower for forcibly blowing air.

[0106] On the other hand, during the process of spraying water into cup C, vibrations may occur in tab 100, and if these vibrations are transmitted to the drying section 400, the components of the drying section 400, such as the heater and blower, may not be able to perform their intended functions.

[0107] Therefore, it is desirable to position the drying section 400 at a distance of the first space S1 from the rear surface of the tab 100 in order to minimize the transmission of vibrations of the positioned tab 100 to the drying section 400. However, in order to supply the air heated in the drying section 400 to the tab 100, it is necessary to connect a part of the drying section 400 to the rear surface of the tab 100.

[0108] The additive supply unit 600 is located in the first space S1 and is coupled to the rear surface of the tab 100, supplying the additive to the tab 100.

[0109] Specifically, the additive supply unit 600 may be configured to supply additives such as detergent and rinse to the tab 100. That is, the additive supply unit 600 can improve cleaning efficiency by supplying additives to the tab 100 during the cleaning process of cup C.

[0110] Therefore, it is desirable that the additive supply unit 600 be positioned close to the tab 100 in order to smoothly supply the additive to the tab 100. Furthermore, in order to properly arrange each component within the limited specifications of the cup washer 1000, both performance and space efficiency must be considered when arranging the tab 100, drying unit 400, and additive supply unit 600.

[0111] It is desirable to place the additive supply unit 600 in the first space S1 between the tab 100 and the drying unit 400, and to connect the additive supply unit 600 to the rear surface of the tab 100.

[0112] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the drying unit 400 is positioned at a distance of the first space S1 from the rear of the tab 100, and the additive supply unit 600 is positioned within the first space S1. This minimizes the transmission of vibrations from the tab 100 to the drying unit 400, effectively preventing performance degradation, and also allows for smooth supply of additives to the tab 100.

[0113] A cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a front panel 21 and a rear panel 22.

[0114] The front panel 21 covers the front of the tab 100, and the rear panel 22 covers the rear of the drying section 400. The front panel 21 and the rear panel 22 define the exterior of the cup washer 1000. That is, the main components of the cup washer 1000 (tab 100, drying section 400, additive supply section 600, etc.) can be arranged inside the area covered by the front panel 21 and the rear panel 22, so as not to be exposed to the outside.

[0115] In this case, the rear panel 22 may be connected to the outside air inlet 401 of the drying section 400. That is, the vent 22a is provided on a part of the rear panel 22, allowing outside air from the cup washer 1000 to flow into the cup washer 1000. The vent 22a may be provided on the rear panel 22 from the viewpoint of minimizing exposure to the outside.

[0116] Furthermore, the air that flows into the cup washer 1000 from the vent 22a of the rear panel 22 is introduced into the outside air inlet 401 of the drying section 400, heated, and then supplied to the tub 100.

[0117] Therefore, since the outside air inlet 401 of the drying unit 400 needs to be located near the rear panel 22, it is desirable to place the drying unit 400 behind the cup washer 1000.

[0118] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the drying unit 400, which is equipped with a heater and blower, requires frequent inspection and replacement. Therefore, it is desirable to position the drying unit 400 behind the cup washer 1000 so that the drying unit 400 can be inspected by simply removing the rear panel 22.

[0119] Furthermore, in terms of the overall structure of the cup washer 1000, the tab 100 is configured to allow the user to insert or remove cup C. Therefore, it is desirable to position the tab 100 on the front side of the cup washer 1000 to make it easily accessible to the user.

[0120] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the tub 100 is positioned at the front, the drying section 400 is positioned at the rear, and the outside air inlet 401 of the drying section 400 is connected to the rear panel 22. This allows outside air to be smoothly introduced into the drying section 400, facilitating user access to the tub 100 while also facilitating maintenance of the drying section 400.

[0121] Figures 10 and 11 show the drying section 400 in a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 shows the arrangement relationship between the tab 100 and the drying section 400 in a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 shows the connection state between the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430 in a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 shows the connection state between the rear frame 12 and the drying section 400 in a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0122] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the drying section 400 may include a blower fan 410 and a drying duct 420.

[0123] The blower fan 410 is configured to draw in outside air from the outside air inlet 401 and blow the outside air toward the tub 100. The blower fan 410 forcibly blows air, which can be forced into the dryer 400 and the tub 100.

[0124] One end of the drying duct 420 is connected to the blower fan 410, and the internal flow path F10 is defined along a plane parallel to the rear panel 22. That is, the internal flow path F10, which is the air movement path, is defined (defined) in the drying duct 420, and the air forcibly blown by the blower fan 410 can move along the internal flow path F10 to the tab 100.

[0125] On the other hand, in order to supply heated air from the drying section 400 to the tab 100, it is necessary to heat the air in a portion of the internal flow path F10. Therefore, the internal flow path F10 needs to have a predetermined length. In this case, if the internal flow path F10 occupies space in the front-to-back direction of the cup washer 1000, the structure in which the tab 100, drying section 400, and additive supply section 600 are arranged in the front-to-back direction of the cup washer 1000 may reduce space efficiency.

[0126] Therefore, it is desirable to provide an internal flow path F10 along a plane parallel to the rear panel 22, and to minimize the space occupied by the internal flow path F10 in the front-rear direction of the cup washer 1000.

[0127] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by forming an internal flow path F10 in the drying duct 420 of the drying section 400 along a plane parallel to the rear panel 22, the internal flow path F10 can be efficiently arranged within the limited internal space of the cup washer 1000.

[0128] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the drying section 400 may further include a tab connecting pipe 430 that extends from the other end of the drying duct 420 and is connected to the rear surface of the tab 100 via a tab connector 431 provided at its end.

[0129] As described above, when the internal passage F10 is defined (defined) to the drying duct 420 along a plane parallel to the rear panel 22, in light of the fact that the additive supply unit 600 is located in the first space S1 between the drying unit 400 and the tab 100, the drying duct 420 may be located at a position separated from the tab 100.

[0130] Therefore, in order to supply heated air from the drying section 400 to the tab 100, a component is required to connect the internal flow path F10 of the drying duct 420 to the tab 100.

[0131] Therefore, the tab connecting pipe 430 can connect the other end of the drying duct 420 to the rear surface of the tab 100. In this case, the portion of the tab connecting pipe 430 that is connected to the rear surface of the tab 100 becomes the tab connector 431.

[0132] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by connecting the tab 100 to the drying duct 420 via the tab connecting pipe 430 of the drying section 400, the tab 100 and the drying duct 420 are located at a distance from each other, thereby enabling a smooth supply of drying air to the tab 100.

[0133] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the blower fan 410 is positioned relatively higher than the tab connecting pipe 431. That is, the blower fan 410 is positioned relatively higher than the position where the tab connecting pipe 430 is connected to the tab 100.

[0134] Given that cleaning water is contained within the tab 100 when cleaning cup C, the cleaning water may also flow into the tab connecting pipe 430 connected to the tab 100 via the tab connector 431. In this case, if the blower fan 410 is positioned lower than the tab connector 431, there is a relatively high possibility that the cleaning water flowing into the tab connecting pipe 430 via the tab connector 431 will affect the blower fan 410.

[0135] Therefore, it is desirable to minimize the impact of the cleaning water on the cleaning water on the cleaning water by positioning the blower fan 410 at a relatively higher position than the tab connector 431, even if the cleaning water in the tab 100 flows into the tab connecting pipe 430.

[0136] On the other hand, when air is forcibly supplied via the blower fan 410, it is advantageous to shorten the internal flow path F10 between the tab 100 and the blower fan 410 in order to supply a larger volume of air to the tab 100. It is also advantageous to position the blower fan 410 at a high position and forcibly supply air towards the tab 100 in a constant downward direction.

[0137] Therefore, it is desirable to position the blower fan 410 at a relatively higher position than the tab connector 431 so that the air forcibly blown out by the blower fan 410 is directed to a certain part below.

[0138] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by positioning the tab connecting pipe 430 at a position relatively higher than the position where it is connected to the tab 100, the airflow path from the blower fan 410 to the tab 100 can be efficiently formed without the washing water contained in the tab 100 affecting the blower fan 410 during the washing process.

[0139] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the drying section 400 may further include an air heater 440. In this case, the internal flow path F10 may include a first section F10a, a second section F10b, and a third section F10c.

[0140] Specifically, the air heater 440 is installed inside the drying duct 420 and can heat the air passing through the internal flow path F10, as well as heat the air through heat exchange with the relatively low-temperature air in contact with the air heater.

[0141] The first section F10a is part of the internal flow path F10 that extends upward from the blower fan 410, and the air that flows into the drying section 400 from the outside air inlet 401 moves upward along the first section F10a in the drying duct 420 via the blower fan 410.

[0142] The second section F10b is a portion that extends laterally from the first section F10a, and an air heater 440 is located therein. That is, air that has moved upward along the first section F10a in the drying duct 420 can move laterally along the second section F10b. The air passing through the second section F10b is then heated by the air heater 440 located therein.

[0143] The third section F10c is the portion that extends downward from the second section F10b to the tab connecting pipe 430. Air that has moved laterally along the second section F10b in the drying duct 420 moves downward along the third section F10c and is supplied to the tab 100 via the tab connecting pipe 430.

[0144] As described above, the internal flow path F10 generally has an n-shape or an inverted "U" shape, and the air heater 440 may be positioned above the internal flow path F10. This minimizes the impact of the cleaning water on the air heater 440, even if the cleaning water in the tab 100 flows into the tab connecting pipe 430.

[0145] On the other hand, in order to ensure that heated air is supplied into the tab 100 with minimal heat loss, it is desirable to place the air heater 440 relatively close to the tab 100.

[0146] Therefore, it is desirable to place the air heater 440 in the third section F10c of the drying duct 420. However, if the air heater 440 is placed too close to the tab connector 431, there is a high risk that the air heater 440 will be affected by the cleaning water flowing into the tab connecting pipe 430.

[0147] Therefore, in order to minimize heat loss of the heated air and to minimize the effects of the washing water, the air heater 440 may be located at the upper end of the third section F10c of the drying duct 420.

[0148] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by positioning the air heater 440 of the drying section 400 at the upper end of the internal flow path F10, it is possible to prevent the washing water contained in the tub 100 from affecting the air heater 440 during the washing process.

[0149] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the tab connecting pipe 430 may have a configuration in which its height relative to the base decreases toward the tab connector 431. That is, the tab connecting pipe 430 may be configured to have a structure that is inclined downward toward the tab 100.

[0150] As mentioned above, when cleaning cup C, the cleaning water in tab 100 may flow into the tab connecting pipe 430. Therefore, it is desirable to form the tab connecting pipe 430 with a structure that slopes downward toward tab 100 so that the cleaning water that flows into the tab connecting pipe 430 returns to tab 100.

[0151] Furthermore, as described above, if the blower fan 410 is positioned relatively higher than the tab connecting pipe 431, the air pressurized by the blower fan 410 will move to a certain part below, and it is desirable to form the tab connecting pipe 430 to have a structure that slopes downward toward the tab 100 when viewed from the direction of the air.

[0152] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by forming the tab connecting pipe 430 in a structure that is inclined downward toward the tab 100, even if the washing water contained in the tab 100 flows into the tab connecting pipe 430 during the washing process, the washing water can still be returned to the tab 100, and the air blown (air-supplied) from the blower fan 410, which is positioned relatively high, can be blown more smoothly toward the tab 100.

[0153] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the drying duct 420 may comprise a first assembly 421 and a second assembly 422. In this case, a tab connecting pipe 430 can be inserted into and connected to the connecting ends of the first assembly 421 and the second assembly 422.

[0154] Specifically, the first assembly 421 is the part that covers the front side of the internal flow path F10, and the second assembly 422 is the part that is coupled to the first assembly 421 and covers the rear side of the internal flow path F10.

[0155] That is, the internal space provided by joining the first assembly 421 and the second assembly 422 can define the internal flow path F10 of the drying duct 420. The drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430 can be joined by inserting the tab connecting pipe 430 into the joint end of the first assembly 421 and the second assembly 422.

[0156] Considering that the air heater 440 is located in the internal flow path F10 of the drying duct 420 (particularly the second section F10b), assembling the drying duct 420 and the air heater 440 may be difficult. Therefore, it is preferable to manufacture the drying duct 420 separately into a first assembly 421 and a second assembly 422, and then assemble the first assembly 421 and the second assembly 422 with the air heater 440 already installed.

[0157] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the drying section 400 can be easily assembled by joining the first assembly 421 and the second assembly 422 to form a drying passage 420.

[0158] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the tab connecting pipe 430 is formed in an integrated pipe shape (tubular body) and extends from the other end of the drying duct 420. That is, unlike the drying duct 420 which is manufactured separately, the tab connecting pipe 430 may be composed of an integrated pipe member.

[0159] As mentioned above, considering that cleaning water from the tab 100 may flow into the tab connecting pipe 430 when cleaning cup C, it is desirable to configure the tab connecting pipe 430 as an integrated component to minimize water leakage.

[0160] In particular, since the tab connecting tube 430 is the part that most directly receives vibrations from the tab 100, it is necessary to integrally mold it to have a predetermined rigidity so that its original function can be properly performed.

[0161] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by forming the tab connecting pipe 430 into an integrated pipe shape (tubular body), leakage can be minimized when the washing water contained in the tab 100 flows into the tab connecting pipe 430 during the washing process.

[0162] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, a tab connecting pipe 430 can be fixed (fitted, secured, connected) to the other end of the drying duct 420. That is, the joint between the tab connecting pipe 430 and the drying duct 420 can be simply fixed (fitted, secured, connected) without forming a separate airtight structure.

[0163] As mentioned above, when cleaning cup C, the cleaning water in tab 100 may flow into tab connecting pipe 430. However, in the event of an unintended abnormal situation, the cleaning water may flow beyond tab connecting pipe 430 into drying duct 420.

[0164] In this case, considering that the cleaning water may damage the air heater 440 or the blower fan 410 and degrade the performance of the air heater or blower fan, it is considered less detrimental for the cleaning water to be discharged outside the tab connecting pipe 430 and the drying duct 420 rather than flowing into the drying duct 420.

[0165] Therefore, it is desirable to fix (fit, fasten, connect) the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430 before the cleaning water flows over the tab connecting pipe 430 into the drying duct 420, so that the cleaning water is discharged from the joint between the tab connecting pipe 430 and the drying duct 420.

[0166] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by connecting the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430 using a fixing (fitting, fixing, linking) method, even if an unintended situation occurs, for example, if the washing water flows into a position higher than the tab connecting pipe 430, the washing water flowing into the drying duct 420 can be minimized by being discharged from the connection between the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430, which is not completely sealed.

[0167] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the other end of the drying duct 420 is positioned at a relatively higher position than the maximum water level of the tab 100. That is, the position where the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430 are connected is positioned at a higher position than the maximum water level of the tab 100.

[0168] As described above, since the tab 100 and the tab connecting pipe 430 are connected via the tab connector 431, it is possible for the cleaning water to flow into the tab connecting pipe 430 to the same height as the water level in the tab 100.

[0169] In this case, since it is necessary to prevent the washing water from flowing in from the drying duct 420 beyond the tab connecting pipe 430, it is desirable that the connection point between the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430 be positioned higher than the maximum water level in the tab 100.

[0170] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by positioning the connection point between the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430 at a position relatively higher than the maximum water level in the tab 100, the amount of washing water flowing into the drying duct 420 at the maximum water level in the tab 100 can be minimized.

[0171] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the other end of the drying duct 420 can be positioned at a relatively lower position than the outside air inlet 401. That is, the position where the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430 are connected can be positioned at a lower position than the outside air inlet 401.

[0172] As mentioned above, if an unintended abnormal situation occurs, cleaning water may be discharged from the connection between the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430, and in this case, the discharged cleaning water may flow into the outside air inlet 401.

[0173] In this case, since the cleaning water may cause malfunctions (problems) such as damage to the blower fan 410 or a decrease in its performance, it is necessary to prevent the cleaning water discharged from the connection between the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430 from flowing into the outside air inlet 401.

[0174] Therefore, even if the cleaning water is discharged to the relevant section, it is desirable to position the connection point between the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430 at a lower position than the outside air inlet 401, thereby minimizing the inflow of cleaning water into the outside air inlet 401.

[0175] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by positioning the connection point between the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430 at a position relatively lower than the outside air inlet 401, it is possible to minimize the inflow of washing water into the outside air inlet 401 when washing water is discharged from the connection point between the drying duct 420 and the tab connecting pipe 430 in unintended circumstances.

[0176] A cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a front frame 11 and a rear frame 12.

[0177] The front frame 11 is positioned in front of the tab 100 and supports the front panel 21, while the rear frame 12 is positioned behind the drying section 400 and supports the rear panel 22.

[0178] In other words, the front frame 11 and the rear frame 12 form the framework of the cup washer 1000, and the main components of the cup washer 1000 can be supported by the front frame 11 and the rear frame 12.

[0179] In this case, the front frame 11 may be arranged as a pair on the front side of the tab 100, and the rear frame 12 may be arranged as a pair on the rear side of the drying section 400. Furthermore, the front frame 11 and the rear frame 12 can be connected to a separate frame structure, allowing the loads applied to each to be distributed and transmitted.

[0180] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the front frame 11 supports the front panel 21 and the rear frame 12 supports the rear panel 22, thereby enabling the cup washer 1000 to be maintained in a stable state with a certain degree of rigidity.

[0181] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the drying section 400 may be supported by being coupled to the rear frame 12. That is, the drying section 400 may be supported by the rear frame 12 instead of the tab 100.

[0182] As mentioned above, vibrations occur in the washing tub 100 during the washing process, so it is necessary to minimize the transmission of such vibrations to the drying unit 400. In this case, if the drying unit 400 is supported by the washing tub 100, it is undesirable because the vibrations of the tub 100 are transmitted to the drying unit 400 in a relatively large amount.

[0183] Therefore, it is desirable to minimize the influence of vibrations from the tab 100 on the drying section 400 by supporting the drying section 400, which is located behind the tab 100, with the rear frame 12 that supports the rear panel 22.

[0184] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by connecting the drying section 400 to be supported by the rear frame 12, the drying section 400 can be maintained in a stable state even when vibrations from the tab 100 are transmitted.

[0185] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the second assembly 422 is fixed and coupled to the rear frame 12. That is, the drying section 400 is coupled to the rear frame 12 by fixing the second assembly 422, which is located behind the drying duct 420, to the rear frame 12.

[0186] As mentioned above, given that the drying unit 400 requires frequent inspection and replacement, the drying unit 400 is located behind the cup washer 1000, allowing it to be inspected simply by removing the rear panel 22.

[0187] In this case, by fixing the second assembly 422 of the drying duct 420 to the rear frame 12, the drying duct 420 and the rear frame 12 can be easily assembled and disassembled as needed, and the drying duct 420, comprising the first assembly 421 and the second assembly 422, can also be easily assembled and disassembled.

[0188] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by fixing the second assembly 422 to the rear frame 12, the drying section 400 and the rear frame 12 can be easily assembled and disassembled.

[0189] Figures 15 and 16 show the air discharge section 700 in a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the air discharge section 700 shown in Figure 16.

[0190] A cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention further comprises an air discharge section 700 installed at the upper end of the tub 100, which discharges the air inside the tub 100.

[0191] As described above, when heating air is supplied from the drying section 400 to the tab 100 to dry the cup C, it is necessary to discharge the air used for drying, which is at a relatively low temperature, to the outside of the tab 100.

[0192] In this case, it is undesirable to discharge the cleaning water remaining in the tab 100 along with the discharged air. Therefore, it is desirable to have a structure that discharges only air while suppressing the discharge of cleaning water.

[0193] Therefore, by providing an air discharge section 700 at the upper end of the tab 100 and discharging air at a position above the highest water level inside the tab 100, it is possible to discharge only air without discharging the washing water.

[0194] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by discharging the air inside the tab 100 through the air discharge section 700 provided at the upper end of the tab 100, the air can be discharged without being affected by the washing water inside the tab 100.

[0195] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the air discharge section 700 is connected between the rear surface of the tub 100 and the rear panel 22. That is, an air outlet 22b is provided in a part of the rear panel 22, and the air inside the tub 100 is discharged to the outside of the cup washer 1000.

[0196] Similar to the vent 22a described above, it is desirable to minimize the exposure of the air outlet 22b to the outside, and considering that the air discharged from the cup washer 1000 may cause discomfort to the user if it comes into contact with the user, the air outlet 22b may be provided on the rear panel 22.

[0197] Therefore, since the air discharge section 700 is connected between the rear surface of the tab 100 and the rear panel 22, the air inside the tab 100 can be discharged to the rear side of the cup washer 1000 via the rear panel 22.

[0198] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by connecting the air discharge section 700 between the rear surface of the tab 100 and the rear panel 22, the exposure of the discharged air to the user can be minimized.

[0199] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the portion of the air discharge section 700 connected to the tab 100 can be positioned at a relatively lower position than the portion connected to the rear panel 22.

[0200] As described above, even if the discharge section 700 is positioned at the upper end of the tab 100 to prevent the washing water from being discharged into the discharge section 700, in some cases, the washing water may still flow into the discharge section 700 due to splashing or other circumstances.

[0201] The portion of the discharge section 700 that connects to the tab 100 is positioned relatively lower than the portion of the discharge section 700 that connects to the rear panel 22, and it is desirable that the cleaning water that flows into the discharge section 700 is returned to the tab 100.

[0202] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the position where the air discharge unit 700 is connected to the tab 100 is positioned relatively lower than the position where the air discharge unit 700 is connected to the rear panel 22. As a result, even if washing water flows into the air discharge unit 700, the washing water in the tab 100 can still be returned to the tab 100.

[0203] In a cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the air discharge section 700 may include a water barrier 710 formed along a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction.

[0204] As described above, even if the cleaning water flowing into the air discharge section 700 is recovered by varying the height of both ends of the air discharge section 700, there is still a risk that a certain amount of cleaning water will be discharged to the outside through the air discharge section 700.

[0205] Therefore, it is desirable to form a step, such as a water barrier 710, in the longitudinal direction of the air discharge section 700 so that the cleaning water flowing into the air discharge section 700 is blocked by the water barrier 710 and prevented from being discharged to the outside.

[0206] Thus, in the cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by forming a water barrier 710 on the air discharge path of the air discharge section 700, the amount of washing water that flows into the air discharge section 700 that is discharged to the outside can be minimized.

[0207] A cup washer 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a tub 100 and a drying section 400. In this case, the drying section 400 may include a blower fan 410, a drying duct 420, and a tub connecting pipe 430.

[0208] Specifically, the tab 100 may have a space for cleaning the cup C housed inside it.

[0209] The drying unit 400 is positioned on the rear surface of the tab 100, with a portion of it connected to the rear surface of the tab 100, and can heat incoming outside air and supply it into the tab 100.

[0210] The blower fan 410 can draw in outside air from the outside air inlet 401 and blow this outside air toward the tab 100.

[0211] The drying duct 420 may include a first assembly 421, one end of which is connected to a blower fan 410 and which covers the front side of the internal flow path F10, and a second assembly 422, which is connected to the first assembly 421 and which covers the rear side of the internal flow path F10.

[0212] The tab connecting pipe 430 has an integrated pipe shape (tubular body) extending from the other end of the drying duct 420 and may be connected to the rear surface of the tab 100 via a tab connector 431 provided at its end.

[0213] Although a specific embodiment of the present invention has been described and illustrated above, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the described embodiment, and that various modifications and alterations are possible without departing from the technical spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, such modifications or alterations should not be understood individually from the technical concept and viewpoint of the present invention, and should be considered to be included within the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. It is a cup washer, A tab with a space for accommodating cups to be washed inside; A drying section disposed on the rear surface of the tab; and The first portion of the drying section is positioned away from the tab and defines a first space between the rear surface of the tab and the first portion of the drying section. The second portion of the drying section is connected to the rear surface of the tab, The drying section is configured to heat incoming outside air and supply the heated air to the tab. The system comprises an additive supply unit located within the first space; A cup washer in which the additive supply unit is coupled to the rear surface of the tab, and the additive supply unit is configured to supply additives to the tab.

2. A front panel configured to cover the front side of the aforementioned tab; and A rear panel configured to cover the rear side of the drying section; further comprising The drying section is equipped with an outside air inlet. The container cup washer according to claim 1, wherein the rear panel is provided with a vent that communicates with the outside air inlet of the drying section.

3. The drying section is A blower fan configured to draw in outside air from the outside air inlet and blow the outside air toward the tab, The cup washer according to claim 2, comprising a drying duct having a first end connected to the blower fan and an internal flow path defined along the surface of the drying duct parallel to the rear panel.

4. The drying section is The drying duct further comprises a tab connecting pipe extending from the second end, The cup washer according to claim 3, wherein the tab connecting pipe is provided with a tab connector connected to the rear surface of the tab.

5. The cup washer according to claim 4, wherein the blower fan is positioned relatively higher than the tab connector.

6. The drying section further comprises an air heater located within the drying duct. The air heater is configured to heat the air passing through the internal passage, The aforementioned internal flow path is A first section extending upward from the aforementioned blower fan, A second section extending laterally from the first section, and The air heater is located in the second section. The cup washer according to claim 4, further comprising: a third section extending downward from the second section to the tab connecting pipe.

7. The cup washer according to claim 4, wherein the tab connecting pipe extends downward between the second end of the drying duct and the tab connector.

8. The aforementioned drying duct is A first assembly positioned between the tab and the rear panel, and The present invention further comprises a second assembly coupled to the first assembly, The second assembly is positioned between the first assembly and the rear panel. The first assembly and the second assembly define the internal flow path of the drying duct and the second end of the drying duct, The cup washer according to claim 4, wherein the tab connecting pipe is inserted into and connected to the second end of the drying duct.

9. The cup washer according to claim 8, wherein the tab connecting pipe is in a tubular shape.

10. Front frame positioned in front of the tab; and The system further comprises a rear frame positioned behind the drying section; The front frame is configured to support the front panel, and The cup washer according to claim 8, wherein the rear frame is configured to support the rear panel.

11. The cup washer according to claim 10, wherein the drying section is connected to and supported by the rear frame.

12. The cup washer according to claim 11, wherein the second assembly is fixed to the rear frame.

13. The cup washer according to claim 4, wherein the tab connecting pipe is attached to and connected to the second end of the drying duct.

14. The cup washer according to claim 13, wherein the second end of the drying duct is positioned relatively higher than the maximum water level in the tub.

15. The cup washer according to claim 13, wherein the second end of the drying duct is positioned at a relatively lower position than the outside air inlet.

16. The cup washer according to claim 4, further comprising an air discharge unit positioned at the upper end of the tab for discharging air from within the tab.

17. The cup washer according to claim 16, wherein the air discharge section is connected between the rear surface of the tab and the rear panel.

18. The cup washer according to claim 17, wherein the first portion of the air discharge unit connected to the tab is positioned at a relatively lower position than the second portion of the air discharge unit connected to the rear panel.

19. The cup washer according to claim 18, wherein the air discharge section comprises a water barrier extending in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the air discharge section.

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