Dishwasher

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dishwasher comprising: a main body that forms a washing space having an opening at the front; a door that opens and closes the washing space; a rack that can be inserted into and withdrawn from the washing space in the front-rear direction; and an accessory which is seated on top of the rack and on which dishes for washing are seated. The accessory includes: a frame that forms the perimeter of a storage part for storing the dishes; and a support that extends downward from the frame and is coupled to the rack. The support extends such that the lower end of the frame is higher than the top of the rack.

Description

dishwasher

[0001] The present invention relates to a dishwasher.

[0002] A dishwasher is a kitchen appliance that washes dishes by spraying high-pressure water through a washing nozzle to wash away food or dirt remaining on the dishes.

[0003] In general, the dishwasher has a configuration including a dishwasher body that provides a space where dishes are washed, a sump that is provided at the bottom of the body to store washing water and supply washing water to the washing space, and a washing nozzle that is provided inside the body to spray high-pressure washing water into the washing space.

[0004] In addition, a rack may be provided inside the washing tank to store dishes to be washed. The rack is generally formed in a structure such as a drawer or a mesh to facilitate the storage of dishes, and may be formed of a wire material to allow the stored dishes to be washed by washing water sprayed from above and below.

[0005] The above rack may be configured like a drawer for the user's convenience and may have a drawer-like structure for pulling out and inserting. Furthermore, multiple racks may be arranged vertically, with each rack capable of storing appropriately sized utensils. Furthermore, accessories, such as dedicated racks for storing silverware such as spoons, forks, and knives, may be additionally provided on the rack, as needed.

[0006] However, conventional dishwashers have a problem in that when additional accessories are placed on the rack, the storage space of the rack is lost in proportion to the space occupied by the accessories.

[0007] In addition, if the accessories interfere with the tableware stored on the rack, the accessories may not be properly positioned and may move or fall off, causing silverware such as spoons, forks, and knives to spill out for washing.

[0008] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a dishwasher that can secure storage space in a rack even when accessories are installed.

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a dishwasher that minimizes interference with dishes stored in a rack when mounting an accessory.

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a dishwasher in which stable mounting of accessories is ensured.

[0011] A dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a main body forming a washing space with an open front; a door for opening and closing the washing space; a rack provided to be drawn in and out in the washing space in a front-back direction; and an accessory mounted on the upper end of the rack and on which dishes for washing are mounted; wherein the accessory comprises: a frame forming a perimeter of a storage portion in which the dishes are stored; and a supporter extending downward from the frame and coupled to the rack, wherein the supporter can be extended such that a lower end of the frame is positioned higher than an upper end of the rack.

[0012] The above rack includes a main wire arranged along the top of the rack; and a plurality of vertical wires and horizontal wires arranged between the main wires and bent a plurality of times to form a space for accommodating dishes; and a fixing groove into which the main wire is inserted may be formed at the bottom of the supporter.

[0013] The front upper portion of the above rack is provided with a front cover formed to wrap around the main wire and formed to be thicker than the main wire, the fixing groove is formed to a corresponding size so that the front cover can be inserted, and the supporter is formed at the front and rear ends of the frame, so that one end of the supporter can be fixed to the front cover, and the other end of the supporter can be fixed to the main wire.

[0014] The storage section is composed of a plurality of ribs that connect between the frames and intersect each other, and the lower end of the storage section is positioned lower than the lower end of the frame and may be positioned higher by a set distance than the upper end of the rack.

[0015] The above rib extends parallel to the frame, and both ends of the rib can be bent upward and connected to the inner surface of the frame.

[0016] The frame includes a pair of first side portions arranged on both left and right sides of the storage portion to form both sides; and a pair of second side portions arranged on the front and rear sides of the storage portion to form the front and rear sides, and the supporter can extend downward from the second side portion.

[0017] It may include a corner portion that is formed to be inclined or rounded, connecting the end of the first side portion and the end of the second side portion.

[0018] The first side part may include an inner part forming the inner surface of the frame facing the storage part; and an outer part positioned outside the inner part and forming the outer surface of the frame.

[0019] The above storage part is connected to the inner part, and the lower end of the storage part can be positioned lower than the lower end of the inner part.

[0020] The above outer part can be formed so that the lower end of the outer part is positioned higher than the lower end of the inner part.

[0021] The supporter includes an outer supporter that forms the outer surface of the supporter and passes over the upper outer side of the rack; and an inner supporter that is provided on the back surface of the outer supporter and passes over the upper inner side of the rack; and a fixing groove into which the upper end of the rack is inserted may be formed at the lower ends of the outer supporter and the inner supporter.

[0022] The outer supporter includes an extension extending from the frame; and a mounting portion connecting the lower end of the extension portion and mounted on the upper end of the rack, and an opening is formed between the end of the frame and the extension portion and the mounting portion, and the opening can be formed so that the contact state of the mounting portion and the rack is exposed.

[0023] The extension portion includes an upper extension portion extending from an end of the frame; and a lower extension portion extending from a lower end of the upper extension portion to an upper end of the rack, and the upper extension portion may have a slope that becomes farther away from the frame as it extends downward.

[0024] The inner supporter may include a lower portion extending to the same height as the lower portion of the outer supporter; and a recessed portion recessed between the lower portion and the outer supporter to form the seating groove.

[0025] The inner supporter extends downward from the storage portion, and a drainage portion may be formed penetrating the inner supporter to connect the storage portion and the lower portion of the supporter.

[0026] The following effects can be expected from the dishwasher according to the proposed embodiment.

[0027] In a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention, there is an advantage in that the supporter is extended so that the storage section and frame are positioned higher than the upper end while the accessory is mounted on the rack, thereby securing a storage space of the rack.

[0028] In addition, there is an advantage in that the accessory can slide along the top of the rack even when the storage section is positioned higher than the top of the rack and tableware protruding above the rack is stored, thereby preventing interference with the stored tableware.

[0029] Additionally, the lower portion of the outer part forming the outer surface of the frame may be formed to be positioned higher than the inner part. Accordingly, interference between the tableware stored on both sides of the accessory and the frame can be minimized, thereby improving the storage performance of the rack.

[0030] In addition, there is an advantage in that the upper part of the rack is supported by the inner supporter and outer supporter of the supporter, thereby ensuring more stable mounting of the accessory.

[0031] In addition, the opening of the supporter can expose the position of the supporter and the rack, which has the advantage of inducing accurate mounting of the accessory.

[0032] In addition, a pair of inner supporters support the inner side of the rack, and the mounting portion has a structure in which the outer side of the rack is in surface contact, thereby preventing movement of the accessory and preventing the accessory from being separated during washing.

[0033] In addition, the corners of the supporter and the corners of the frame are formed to be inclined or rounded so that the accessories do not come off and move left and right even if they collide during the process of pulling out or pulling out the rack or during the storage of dishes, thereby ensuring smooth pulling out and pulling out operations of the rack.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the door of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention with the door open.

[0035] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a rack equipped with accessories according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the above accessory.

[0037] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 2.

[0038] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 of Figure 3.

[0039] Figure 6 is a partial side view of the above accessory.

[0040] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of Figure 3.

[0041] Fig. 8 is a partial bottom view of the above accessory.

[0042] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the accessory separated from the rack.

[0043] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing one end of the above accessory mounted on the rack.

[0044] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the above accessory mounted on the rack.

[0045] Figure 12 is a cutaway perspective view of the above accessory mounted on the rack.

[0046] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of the above accessories and dishes placed on the rack.

[0047] Figure 14 is a drawing showing the state of the rack being inserted with the above accessories installed.

[0048] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing an accessory mounted on a rack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 16 is a partial side view of an accessory according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments that present the spirit of the present invention, and other regressive inventions or embodiments within the scope of the present invention can be easily proposed by adding, modifying, or deleting other components.

[0051] Before explanation, directions are defined. In an embodiment of the present invention, based on the center of the washing space of the dishwasher shown in FIG. 1, the direction toward the door can be defined as forward, the direction toward the main body based on the front of the door can be defined as rear, the direction toward the upper surface based on the center of the main body can be defined as upward, and the direction toward the lower surface based on the center of the main body can be defined as downward.

[0052] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the door of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention with the door open.

[0053] As illustrated in the drawing, a dishwasher (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may have an exterior formed by a main body (10) and a door (20). The main body (10) may include a washing tank (11) in which a washing space for washing dishes is formed inside. In addition, the main body (10) may form the exterior of the dishwasher (1), and may have different configurations depending on the installation state, such as a freestanding type or a built-in type.

[0054] The above door (20) can open and close the washing tank (11) with an open front. The lower part of the door (20) is rotatably connected to the front of the main body (10) to open and close the washing tank (11).

[0055] The above washing tank (11) forms a washing space (110) where dishes are washed, and can be formed in a box shape with an open front, and can occupy most of the interior area of ​​the main body (10).

[0056] The washing tank (11) may be formed of stainless steel, and a rack (31, 32) for storing dishes may be arranged so as to be removable. The rack (31, 32) may be formed in a basket shape in which a plurality of wires intersect, so as to facilitate the washing of the stored dishes. The racks (31, 32) may be formed in various shapes, and a plurality of them may be arranged vertically. For example, the racks (31, 32) may be composed of a lower rack (31) and an upper rack (32).

[0057] Rails (12) may be provided on both left and right sides of the washing tank (11), and the rails (12) may be connected to the upper rack (32) or the lower rack (31) so that the upper rack (32) and the lower rack (31) may be extended or lowered. For example, the upper rack (32) may be extended or lowered along the rail (12), and the lower rack (31) may be extended or lowered along the rear side of the door (20).

[0058] A plurality of nozzles (14, 15) for spraying water for washing dishes may be arranged inside the washing tank (11). For example, the nozzles (14, 15) may be arranged between the upper and lower surfaces of the washing tank (11) and the racks (31, 32) arranged vertically. Accordingly, dishes stored inside the racks (31, 32) may be washed by the washing water sprayed in the vertical direction from the plurality of nozzles (14, 15).

[0059] A sump (13) may be provided at the bottom of the washing tank (11). The sump (13) may be placed in the lower part of the main body (10), i.e., in the space below the washing tank (11), and the opening of the sump (13) is positioned at the bottom of the washing tank (11) so that water falling from the washing tank (11) flows in.

[0060] And, the sump (13) may be equipped with a circulation pump for circulating the washing water. The circulation pump may suck the water in the sump (13) and discharge it toward the nozzles (14, 15). Therefore, by the operation of the circulation pump, the water in the sump (13) is continuously supplied to the nozzles (14, 15), thereby enabling the circulation and spraying of the washing water. And, a drainage part through which the water in the sump (13) is drained may be equipped on the other side of the sump (13). Therefore, the washing water can be drained through the drainage part during or after the washing operation is completed. To this end, a flow path for the washing water may be configured between the sump (13), the circulation pump, the nozzles (14, 15), and the drainage part. And, the main body (10) may be equipped with a heat pump or a heater to enable heating of the washing water and the washing tank.

[0061] Hereinafter, the structure of the rack (32) and the accessory (40) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The accessory (40) can be mounted on both the upper rack (32) and the lower rack (31), but for convenience of explanation, the accessory (40) will be described below as being mounted on the upper rack (32) as an example. In addition, the upper rack (32) may be referred to as a rack (32) hereinafter.

[0062] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a rack equipped with accessories according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] As illustrated, the rack (32) may have a mesh-shaped basket structure formed by a plurality of wires. For example, the wires may be formed of a metal material, and may be formed of a stainless steel material.

[0064] The above wire may include a main wire (321) forming the upper circumference of the rack (32). In addition, a plurality of horizontal wires (322) and vertical wires (323) may be provided to cross between the main wires (321). The horizontal wires (322) and vertical wires (323) may be continuously arranged in multiple numbers and spaced apart from each other to form a lattice-shaped mesh structure. In addition, the horizontal wires (322) and vertical wires (323) may have both ends bent upward and connected to the main wire (321), thereby forming a shape such as a basket. In addition, the horizontal wires (322) and vertical wires (323) may be bent into various shapes to suit the type and shape of dishes stored in the rack (32). The wires may also be in the form of thick rods or bars.

[0065] In addition, a guide member (33) may be formed on both left and right sides of the rack (32). The guide member (33) may be formed of a plastic material and may be coupled to the main wire (321), and may be exposed to the outer surfaces of the left and right sides of the rack (32).

[0066] The above guide member (33) can be coupled with the rail (12) to allow the rack (32) to move forward and backward. To this end, the guide member (33) may be provided with a plurality of rollers. In addition, the guide member (33) can be moved up and down while coupled with the rack (32), and the gap with the lower rack (31) or the space above the rack (32) can be adjusted.

[0067] A cup mounting member (35) may be provided on both left and right sides of the above rack (32). The cup mounting member (35) may be rotatably mounted on both left and right sides of the rack (32). The cup mounting member (35) may be unfolded from the side of the rack (32) by rotation, and may provide a space for mounting a tableware (3) such as a cup.

[0068] A front cover (34) may be provided at the front end of the rack (32). The front cover (34) may be formed along the main wire (321) forming the front end of the rack (32). In addition, both ends of the front cover (34) may extend to the rear end and be connected to the guide member (33).

[0069] The front cover (34) may be formed of a plastic material and may be formed to wrap around the main wire (321). Accordingly, the front upper portion of the rack (32) on which the front cover (34) is formed becomes thicker than the main wire (321) and may be used as a handle when a user pulls out or inserts the rack (32).

[0070] In addition, a middle nozzle (15) that is drawn in and out together with the rack (32) is provided at the bottom of the rack (32), and water sprayed upward from the middle nozzle (15) can pass through the rack (32) and wash dishes stored in the rack (32).

[0071] Meanwhile, an accessory (40) may be mounted on the rack (32). The accessory (40) can store small tableware (2) such as silverware, such as spoons, forks, and knives, and is mounted on the upper portion of the rack (32) and can be moved left and right to be installed at a desired location. For example, the accessory (40) may have a structure suitable for storing the knife, and thus, the accessory (40) may be called a knife rack.

[0072] In addition, the accessory (40) can be mounted on the main wire (321). The front and rear ends of the accessory (40) can be mounted on the main wire (321) forming the front upper part and the rear upper part of the rack (32). To this end, the front-to-rear length of the accessory (40) can be formed to be equal to or slightly larger than the front-to-rear length of the rack (32).

[0073] A storage portion (410) may be formed on the upper surface of the above-mentioned accessory (40) in which small tableware (2) such as silverware, spoons, forks, and knives, can be placed. The storage portion (410) may form a sunken space and provide a space in which the tableware (2) can be placed. For example, the storage portion (410) may be opened in a grid shape so that water sprayed from below can pass through.

[0074] The front and rear ends of the above accessory (40) can be extended in the vertical direction so that the storage portion (410) can be sufficiently spaced from the top of the rack (32). Accordingly, the above accessory (40) can have a structure and shape that can secure a space for placing dishes on the rack (32) when mounted, and minimize interference with dishes placed on the rack (32).

[0075] For example, the above accessory (40) can be injection-molded with a plastic material to implement a three-dimensional shape.

[0076] Below, the structure of the above accessory (40) will be examined in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0077] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the accessory. Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of section A of Fig. 2. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 of Fig. 3. Fig. 6 is a partial side view of the accessory. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of Fig. 3. Fig. 8 is a partial bottom view of the accessory.

[0078] As illustrated, the accessory (40) may include a frame (41) in which a storage portion (410) is formed, and a supporter (42) extending downward from the front and rear ends of the frame (41).

[0079] The frame (41) forms the upper part of the accessory (40) and can form a space in which tableware (2) such as silverware is placed. The frame (41) can form the perimeter of the storage part (410). In addition, the frame (41) can protrude upwards more than the storage part (410). The frame (41) can be formed in a rectangular frame shape when viewed from above. For example, the frame (41) can include a pair of first side parts (411) that form left and right outer surfaces and extend in the front-back direction, and a pair of second side parts (412) that form front-back outer surfaces and connect the front and rear ends of the pair of first side parts (411). The first side part (411) can be referred to as a side part, and the second side part (412) can be referred to as a front part and a rear part.

[0080] The length of the accessory (40) may be determined by the first side portion (411) and may correspond to the front-back length of the rack (32). In addition, the width of the accessory (40) may be determined by the second side portion (412) and may have a smaller width than the length of the accessory (40). For example, the width of the accessory (40) may be smaller than half of the left-right length of the rack (32). Therefore, the accessory (40) may be positioned at any left-right position of the rack (32) so as not to interfere with dishes placed on the rack (32).

[0081] Meanwhile, the frame (41) may further include a corner portion (413). The corner portion (413) connects the end of the first side portion (411) and the end of the second side portion (412), and may be formed in an inclined or rounded shape. Accordingly, the corner of the frame (41) may have an inclined or rounded shape.

[0082] The shape of the corner portion (413) can prevent interference or snagging between the accessory (40) and other components. For example, the shape of the corner portion (413) can allow the accessory (40) to move and naturally reposition itself when the corner portion (413) comes into contact with the main body or other components during the insertion or withdrawal process of the rack (32).

[0083] In addition, a storage section (410) for storing tableware (2) such as silverware may be formed in the inner region of the frame (41). The storage section (410) may include a plurality of vertical ribs (44) and horizontal ribs (45). The vertical ribs (44) and horizontal ribs (45) may be arranged to intersect each other so that the bottom of the storage section (410) may be formed in a plurality of grid shapes.

[0084] At this time, the vertical rib (44) is arranged parallel to the first side portion (411), and a plurality of vertical ribs can be formed at regular intervals in the left and right lateral directions. In addition, both ends of the vertical rib (44) can be connected to the second side portion (412).

[0085] The above-mentioned horizontal rib (45) is arranged parallel to the second side portion (412) and may be formed at regular intervals in the front-back direction. In addition, the horizontal rib (45) may extend to intersect the vertical rib (44). Therefore, the overall grid shape of the storage portion (410) may be formed by the horizontal rib (45) and the vertical rib (44). In addition, both ends of the horizontal rib (45) may be connected to the first side portion (411).

[0086] In addition, a plurality of alignment portions (451) protruding upward may be formed on the horizontal rib (45). The alignment portions (451) serve to partition the dishes (2) placed in the storage portion (410) so that they can be separately placed, and a plurality of them may be formed along the horizontal rib (45). In addition, the alignment portions (451) may protrude at different heights from each of the horizontal ribs (45). For example, the alignment portions (451) may be formed in various shapes such as an inclined rib, a sawtooth shape, a protrusion shape, etc.

[0087] Both ends of the vertical rib (44) and the horizontal rib (45) can be bent upward. Accordingly, the storage portion (410) can be positioned lower than the frame (41). That is, the frame (41) functions as a border that protrudes upward along the perimeter of the storage portion (410), thereby allowing the tableware (2) placed in the storage portion (410) to remain stably seated without falling.

[0088] Meanwhile, the first side part (411) may include an inner part (411a) forming the inner surface of the frame (41) and an outer part (411b) forming the outer surface of the frame (41). The inner part (411a) and the outer part (411b) may be spaced apart from each other. In addition, the first side part (411) may include a connecting part (411c) connecting the upper ends of the inner part (411a) and the outer part (411b). The connecting part (411c) forms the upper end of the frame (41) and may have a rounded shape. The gap between the inner part (411a) and the outer part (411b) may increase from the upper end to the lower end.

[0089] The inner part (411a) may extend downward further than the outer part (411b). Furthermore, the transverse rib (45) may be connected to the lower end of the inner part (411a). At this time, the inner part (411a) may be formed to be inclined so as to face outward as it extends upward. Accordingly, the space above the storage portion (410) may be expanded, and sufficient storage space for the dishes (2) placed in the storage portion (410) may be secured.

[0090] The height (H1) of the lower end of the storage portion (410) based on the lower end of the accessory (40) may be formed lower than the height (H2) of the lower end of the inner part (411a). In addition, the height (H3) of the lower end of the outer part (411b) may be formed higher than the height (H2) of the lower end of the inner part (411a). In addition, the outer part (411b) may extend further outward than the inner part (411a). Therefore, when viewed from the side, the lower end of the inner part (411a) and the storage portion (410) may be exposed in a state in which they protrude downwards further than the lower end of the outer part (411b).

[0091] In detail, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the lower end of the storage portion (410) located most inside may be positioned at the lowest height, the lower end of the inner part (411a) outside the storage portion (410) may be positioned at a higher height than the storage portion (410), and the lower end of the outer part (411b) outside the inner part (411a) may be positioned at a higher height than the lower end of the inner part (411a). Accordingly, the heights of the storage portion (410), the inner part (411a), and the outer part (411b) may increase in order from the inside to the outside. In addition, when viewed from the front, the extension line connecting the lower ends of the storage portion (410), the inner part (411a), and the outer part (411b) may have an inclined arrangement structure.

[0092] Due to this structure, space can be secured on both sides of the accessory (40), i.e., on the lower sides of the left and right sides of the frame (41). Accordingly, interference between the tableware placed on the rack (32) and the accessory (40) can be avoided.

[0093] Meanwhile, the supporter (42) may form the front and rear sides of the accessory (40). In addition, the supporter (42) may be mounted on the rack (32). The supporter (42) may extend downward from the front and rear ends of the frame (41). At this time, a pair of the supporters (42) may be formed in the same shape. That is, the accessory (40) may be formed to be symmetrical with respect to the center in the front-rear direction.

[0094] The supporter (42) may extend downward from the second side portion (412). The supporter (42) may be formed integrally with the second side portion (412). That is, the upper end of the supporter (42) may form the second side portion (412), in which case the supporter (42) may become a part of the frame (41).

[0095] In addition, the supporter (42) can be extended in the vertical direction so that the storage portion (410) can be positioned upwards by a set distance from the rack (32). In addition, the lower end of the supporter (42) can be mounted on the upper end of the rack (32). For example, the front supporter (42) can be mounted on the front cover (34), and the rear supporter (42) can be mounted on the main wire (321).

[0096] For example, the supporter (42) may include an outer supporter (426) and an inner supporter (43). The outer supporter (426) may form the front and rear sides of the supporter (42) and the accessory (40). The outer supporter (426) may include an extension portion (420) extending downward from both left and right sides of the front end of the frame (41). The extension portion (420) may include an upper extension portion (421) and a lower extension portion (422).

[0097] The upper extension portion (421) extends downward from the frame (41) and may be formed to be inclined so as to face outward as it extends downward. That is, the upper extension portion (421) may be formed so that the lower portion protrudes more than the upper portion. In addition, the upper extension portion (421) may be formed to be inclined or rounded.

[0098] The upper extension (421) may be connected to the corner portion (413). In addition, the corner portion formed by the front and side of the accessory (40) may be formed to be inclined or rounded overall by the corner portion (413) and the upper extension (421). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the rack (32) or the accessory (40) from being caught or impacted by other components during the movement process.

[0099] The lower extension (422) may extend downward from the lower end of the upper extension (421). The lower extension (422) may extend downward in a direction perpendicular to the frame (41). In addition, the lower extension (422) may extend at a smaller incline than the upper extension (421). The lower extension (422) may extend to a position where it contacts the upper end of the rack (32).

[0100] In addition, the extension portion (420) may be formed to protrude further than the front or rear end of the frame (41). That is, the extension portion (420) may protrude further than the outer surface of the second side portion (412).

[0101] The outer supporter (426) may further include a mounting portion (423). The mounting portion (423) provides a surface that is mounted on the upper end of the rack (32) and may connect the lower ends of the extension portions (420) on both sides. In addition, the mounting portion (423) may form the lower end of the outer supporter (426).

[0102] The above-mentioned mounting portion (423) may extend in parallel with the front or rear end of the frame (41). In addition, the mounting portion (423) may include a first part (423a) and a second part (423b). The first part (423a) forms the upper surface of the mounting portion (423) and may connect between the lower ends of the extension portion (420). In addition, when the accessory (40) is mounted on the rack (32), the first part (423a) may be supported on the upper end of the rack (32).

[0103] The second part (423b) may extend downward from the end of the first part (423a) and form the outer surface of the mounting portion (423). In addition, the lower end of the second part (423b) may form the lower end of the mounting portion (423) and the lower end of the supporter (42), and may form the lowest end of the accessory (40). When the accessory (40) is mounted on the rack (32), the lower end of the second part (423b) may extend further downward than the upper end of the rack (32). Therefore, the second part (423b) restrains the upper end of the rack (32) from the outside of the rack (32) to prevent the accessory (40) from leaving the rack (32).

[0104] The first part (423a) and the second part (423b) may intersect each other. In addition, the mounting portion (423) formed by the first part (423a) and the second part (423b) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the outer surface of the front cover (34). Accordingly, when the accessory (40) is mounted on the rack (32), the first part (423a) and the second part (423b) may come into surface contact to surround the outer surface of the front cover (34).

[0105] Meanwhile, an opening (425) may be formed between the end of the frame (41) and the extension (420) and the mounting portion (423). Through the opening (425), the contact state between the mounting portion (423) and the upper end of the rack (32) may be exposed. In addition, the opening (425) may be formed to a size that allows a user's finger to sufficiently enter, and may serve as a handle capable of holding the front and rear ends of the accessory (40). The opening (425) may be defined by the extension portion (420), the second side portion (412), and the mounting portion (423).

[0106] The above supporter (42) may include an outer surface portion (424) that connects the frame (41) and the extension portions (420) and the mounting portions (423) on the left and right sides. The outer surface portion (424) may connect each component of the supporter (42), and may be formed in a stepped shape with respect to the mounting portion (423) and the extension portion (420) to reinforce the strength of the supporter (42).

[0107] And, the opening (425) may be formed in the outer surface (424). The lower end of the opening (425) may be formed by the mounting portion (423). Therefore, the support state of the supporter (422) and the rack (32), i.e., the exact mounting state of the accessory (40), may be confirmed through the opening (425).

[0108] The above supporter (42) may further include an inner supporter (43). The inner supporter (43) may be provided in pairs on the left and right sides of the supporter (42), and may extend in the vertical direction from a position closer to the center of the frame (41) than the outer supporter (426).

[0109] The inner supporter (43) may extend to a height (H) equal to the height (H1) of the lower end of the storage portion (410) and the height (H0) of the mounting portion (423). The inner supporter (43) may form the lower end of the supporter (42) together with the mounting portion (423). The inner supporter (43) may come into contact with the ground together with the lower end of the outer supporter (426) when the accessory (40) is separated from the rack (32) and placed independently. Therefore, the inner supporter (43) may also be referred to as a leg.

[0110] In addition, a fixing groove (435) is formed at the bottom of the inner supporter (43) so that the upper end of the rack (32) can be inserted and fixed. When the accessory (40) is mounted, the upper end of the rack (32) can be accommodated within the fixing groove (435), and stable mounting and fixing of the accessory (40) can be ensured.

[0111] In detail, the inner supporter (43) may be provided between the opening (425) and the extension (420). In addition, it may protrude from the back surface of the outer surface (424) in a direction away from the outer surface (424). That is, the inner supporter (43) may be formed integrally with the outer supporter (426).

[0112] The inner supporter (43) may extend from the storage portion (410) to the lower end of the supporter (42). In addition, the inner supporter (43) may be formed to have a predetermined length in the front-back direction and a width in the left-right direction to ensure stable mounting of the accessory (40) on the upper end of the rack (32). In addition, a drainage portion (430) for draining water from the storage portion (410) may be formed in the inner supporter (43).

[0113] For example, the inner supporter (43) may include side walls (431) spaced apart from each other and a connecting wall (432) connecting the ends of the side walls (431). One end of the side walls (431) may be connected by the outer surface (424), and the other end may be connected by the connecting wall (432).

[0114] The distance between the side walls (431) may correspond to the distance between the vertical ribs (44), and the position of the connecting wall (432) may correspond to the horizontal rib (45). Accordingly, the inner supporter (43) may be formed on the pair of side walls (431) and connecting wall (432) and the outer surface (424). In addition, the upper and lower surfaces of the inner supporter (43) may be opened to form a drainage portion (430) that is connected in the vertical direction. At this time, the upper surface of the drainage portion (430), that is, the opened upper surface of the inner supporter (43), may be aligned with a single grid formed by the vertical ribs (44) and the horizontal ribs (45). Accordingly, water in the storage portion (410) may pass through the drainage portion (430) and be smoothly drained downward.

[0115] In addition, the lower end of the inner supporter (43) may be formed in a step manner to form the mounting groove (435). In detail, the lower end of the inner supporter (43) may include a lower end (434) extending at the same height as the end of the mounting portion (423), and a recessed portion (433) formed in a step manner from the lower end (434) to form the mounting groove (435).

[0116] The above-mentioned recessed portion (433) may be formed to be at least larger than the diameter of the main wire (321) so that the main wire (321) can be completely accommodated within the mounting groove (435). In addition, the recessed portion (433) may be formed to a size into which the front cover (34) can be inserted. In detail, the mounting groove (435) into which the upper end of the rack (32) is accommodated may be formed by the mounting portion (423), the recessed portion (433), and the lower end of the out supporter (42).

[0117] In addition, the supporter (42) may be formed to extend so that the height difference from the end of the mounting groove (435) to the bottom of the storage portion (410) becomes a set height (H). For example, the set height (H) may be 30 mm. Accordingly, when the accessory is mounted, a space can be secured in which the dishes stored in the rack do not interfere with the storage portion (410).

[0118] In addition, the front end of the recessed portion (433) or the back surface of the outer supporter (426) may be formed to be inclined. Accordingly, when the main wire (321) is inserted into the interior of the mounting groove (435), it may be guided toward the inside of the recessed portion (433).

[0119] In addition, the size of the mounting groove (435) is formed to correspond to the size of the upper part of the front cover (34), so that when the accessory (40) is mounted, the front cover (34) can be inserted into the inside of the mounting groove (435). Therefore, the accessory (40) does not move excessively in the front-back direction when mounted on the rack (32).

[0120] Below, the operation of the dishwasher (1) having the above structure will be examined.

[0121] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the accessory separated from the rack. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing one end of the accessory mounted on the rack. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the accessory fully mounted on the rack.

[0122] As illustrated, the rack (32) may be equipped with the accessory (40) for effective washing of the dishes (2). The dishes (2) may be placed on the accessory (40) and washed. The accessory (40) may be mounted on the top of the rack (32).

[0123] In detail, as illustrated in FIG. 9, in order to store dishes in the rack (32), dishes for washing can be stored inside the rack (32) without the accessory (40) being installed. Then, in order to store the dishes (2), the accessory (40) can be placed above the rack (32). At this time, the accessory (40) can be mounted on a rack (32) among a plurality of racks (32) that is suitable for placement depending on the storage state of the dishes.

[0124] In addition, depending on the arrangement of the dishes stored in the rack (32), the accessory (40) can be moved and positioned by sliding it left and right. Of course, excessive movement of the accessory (40) can be restricted by a rack protrusion (321a) formed protruding from the central portion of the main rack (32).

[0125] And, in order to accurately mount the accessory (40) on the rack (32), the supporter (42) at the rear end of the accessory (40) can first be secured to the main wire (321).

[0126] As shown in Fig. 10, when mounting the accessory (40), the main wire (321) at the rear end of the rack (32) is inserted into the mounting groove (435) formed in the supporter (42) at the rear end of the accessory (40). At this time, since the diameter of the main wire (321) is smaller than the width of the mounting groove (435), the main wire (321) can be easily mounted in the mounting groove (435). In addition, while the main wire (321) is mounted in the mounting groove (435), the accessory (40) can be moved forward and backward to finely adjust the position to mount the supporter (42) at the front end of the accessory (40). In particular, the main wire (321) can be guided to an accurate position within the mounting groove (435) through the inclined portion at the bottom of the outer supporter (426).

[0127] When the position of the rear end of the accessory (40) is fixed at an accurate mounting position, the supporter (42) at the front end of the accessory (40) can be easily seated on the front end of the rack (32). In a state where the supporter (42) at the rear end of the accessory (40) is seated on the main wire (321) at the rear end of the rack (32), the accessory (40) can be rotated so that the supporter (42) at the front end of the accessory (40) is seated on the front cover (34) at the front end of the rack (32).

[0128] As shown in Fig. 11, when the accessory (40) is mounted on the top of the rack (32), the supporters (42) at the front and rear ends of the accessory (40) can be respectively mounted on the front cover (34) at the front end of the rack (32) and the main wire (321) at the rear end.

[0129] At this time, the mounting portion (423) of the front end of the accessory (40) wraps around the outer surface of the front cover (34). At this time, the exact mounting state of the accessory (40) can be confirmed through the opening (425) as illustrated in FIG. 4. When the first mounting portion (423) is supported on the upper surface of the front cover (34) and the second mounting portion (423) is in contact with the front surface of the front cover (34), the accessory (40) can be in an exact mounting state.

[0130] In addition, the front cover (34) can be inserted into the interior of the mounting groove (435) and come into contact with the mounting portion (423) and the lower portion (434). Accordingly, the accessory (40) can be maintained in a state of being stably mounted on the rack (32) without moving in the forward and backward direction.

[0131] Figure 12 is a cutaway perspective view of the above accessory mounted on the rack.

[0132] As illustrated, when the accessory (40) is fully mounted, the accessory (40) can be slidably moved in the left and right directions. In particular, since the mounting groove (435) is open in the left and right directions, the accessory (40) can be moved in the left and right directions to adjust its position depending on the state of the dishes stored in the rack (32) even when mounted on the rack (32).

[0133] In addition, since the supporter (42) is maintained in a stable support state by a pair of inner supporters formed on both the left and right sides, the accessory (40) does not tilt or come off from the rack (32) during the process of moving left and right along the rack (32).

[0134] In particular, the inner side of the rack (32) is in contact with a pair of inner supports (43), and the outer side of the rack (32) is in contact with the mounting portion (423), so that the end of the rack (32) has a stable support structure at three points with the supporters (42) and can prevent the accessory (40) from coming off.

[0135] In addition, the inner supporter (43) can more effectively discharge water above the storage portion (410) toward the bottom of the accessory (40) through the drain portion (430) that is opened in the vertical direction. Water at the corner of the storage portion (410) can be discharged downward through the opening (425) on the upper surface of the drain portion (430) and can fall downward through the space formed by the side wall (431) and the connecting wall (432).

[0136] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of the above accessories and dishes placed on the rack.

[0137] As illustrated, when the accessory (40) is placed on the rack (32), the lower end of the storage portion (410) can be spaced upward by a set height (H) from the upper end of the rack (32). Accordingly, even if a tableware (4), such as a water cup, stored on the rack (32) protrudes upward more than the upper end of the rack (32), it does not interfere with the lower end of the storage portion (410).

[0138] Accordingly, even when the above accessory (40) is mounted, the restrictions on placing dishes (4) for washing on the rack (32) can be minimized. In addition, even when dishes (4) protruding above the rack (32) are placed, the placement and sliding movement of the accessory (40) is enabled.

[0139] Meanwhile, the above accessory (40) is arranged to be biased to the left or right of the rack (32), and since it occupies only a portion of the space on either the left or right sides of the entire upper space of the rack (32), tall dishes can be freely arranged in the remaining space.

[0140] And, even if the accessory (40) is placed on one of the left and right sides of the rack (32) while the tableware (3) such as the cup is placed using the cup mounting member (35), the side edge of the accessory (40) and the tableware (3) do not interfere with each other.

[0141] In detail, among the first side portion (411) forming the side edge of the accessory (40), the outer part (411b) is formed higher than the inner part (411a). Therefore, even when the tableware (3) is placed at an angle, the accessory (40) can provide space due to the height difference between the lower ends of the outer part (411b) and the inner part (411a). That is, an additional space can be formed on the lower left and right sides of the accessory (40) by the amount of the angle of the extension line passing through the lower ends of the outer part (411b) and the inner part (411a).

[0142] Accordingly, the above accessory (40) provides a space in which dishes (3) can be placed along the side, thereby securing storage capacity and ensuring the mounting of the accessory (40).

[0143] Figure 14 is a drawing showing the state of the rack being inserted with the above accessories installed.

[0144] As illustrated, when the accessory (40) is mounted on the rack (32), the rack (32) can be slidably pulled in and out from the washing space of the washing tank (11). At this time, when the accessory (40) is positioned at the outermost end of the rack (32), the outer end of the accessory (40) may protrude further laterally than the side end of the rack (32).

[0145] In this state, when the rack (32) is introduced, the rear end of the accessory (40) comes into contact with the side wall of the main body (10). In addition, since the corner portion (413) of the accessory (40) is formed to be inclined or rounded, it can come into contact with the side wall of the main body (10) during the introduction process of the rack (32).

[0146] Accordingly, the corner portion (413) can be moved along the side wall of the main body (10), and the accessory (40) can be moved toward the center of the rack (32), that is, toward the inside of the washing tank (11). Since the accessory (40) has a structure that can slide along the top of the rack (32), even if the accessory (40) comes into contact with the side wall of the main body (10) when the rack (32) is inserted, the accessory (40) moves naturally, and the smooth insertion of the rack (32) can be ensured without being detached from the rack (32) or the insertion of the rack (32) being interrupted.

[0147] Meanwhile, the present invention may have various other embodiments despite the aforementioned exceptions. Below, other embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Components not described below are identical to those of the aforementioned embodiments, and thus, to avoid redundancy, their detailed descriptions and illustrations may be omitted, and the same reference numerals may be used for description. In other words, below, only components that differ from the aforementioned embodiments will be described in detail.

[0148] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing an accessory mounted on a rack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0149] As illustrated, a dishwasher (1) according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a rack (32') in which dishes for washing are stored. The overall structure of the rack (32') is the same as that of the aforementioned embodiment, except that the rack (32') does not include the front cover (34) of the aforementioned embodiment.

[0150] That is, the upper part of the rack (32') can be formed by the main wire. In addition, the upper front and upper rear parts of the rack (32') on which the accessory (40) is mounted can also be formed by the main wire (321).

[0151] The above accessory (40) can be formed in the same manner as the accessory (40) of the above-described embodiment. Accordingly, both the supporters (42) at the front and rear ends of the accessory (40) can be secured to the main wire (321). In detail, a securing groove (435) is formed at the lower end of the supporters (42) at the front and rear ends of the accessory (40), and the main wire (321) can be accommodated in the securing groove (435).

[0152] At this time, the outer supporter (426) is positioned outside the main wire (321), and the inner supporter (43) is positioned inside the main wire (321) to ensure that the accessory (40) is maintained in a stable mounting state. In addition, the main wire (321) can support the supporter (42) from below by coming into contact with the mounting groove (435).

[0153] In this way, the above accessory (40) can be mounted on the top of the rack (32') regardless of the presence or absence of the front cover (34), and can maintain a stable mounting state.

[0154] FIG. 16 is a partial side view of an accessory according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0155] As illustrated, the rack (32) of the dishwasher (1) according to another embodiment of the present invention may be equipped with an accessory (40') for storing the dishes (2) for washing. The accessory (40') may have the same structure as the above-described embodiment, with only a slight difference in the structure of the inner supporter (43).

[0156] In detail, the above accessory (40') includes a rectangular frame (41), and a plurality of horizontal ribs (45) and vertical ribs (44) are formed inside the frame (41) to form a storage portion (410). The frame (41) may include a first side portion (411) forming left and right sides and a second side portion (412) forming front and rear sides. In addition, the first side portion (411) may include an inner part (411a) and an outer part (411b).

[0157] In addition, a supporter (42) extending downwardly may be formed at the front and rear ends of the frame (41). The supporter (42) may include an outer supporter (426) forming the outer surface of the supporter (42), and an inner supporter (43) protruding from the rear surface of the outer supporter (426).

[0158] The outer supporter (426) may include a pair of extension parts (420) extending downward from the left and right ends. The extension parts (420) may include an upper extension part (421) extending downwardly from the frame (41) in an inclined manner, and a lower extension part (422) extending downwardly from the lower end of the upper extension part (421). In addition, the outer supporter (426) may include a fixing part (423) connecting the lower ends of the extension parts (420).

[0159] And, the inner supporter (43) protrudes from the back surface of the outer supporter (426) and can extend downward from the storage portion (410). And, a lower portion (434') and a recessed portion (433) can be formed at the lower end of the inner supporter (43). And, the recessed portion (435) can be formed by the lower portion (434'), the mounting portion (423), and the recessed portion (433).

[0160] When the above accessory (40') is mounted, the main wire (321) of the rack (32) can be accommodated within the mounting groove (435). In addition, the accessory (40') can be maintained mounted on the upper portion of the rack (32) by the ear supporter (42) and the outer supporter (426).

[0161] Meanwhile, the lower end of the above-described ear supporter (42), i.e., the lower end (434'), may extend downwards further than the lower end of the outer supporter (426), i.e., the lower end of the mounting portion (423). The lower end of the inner supporter (43) may extend downwards by a set height (H4) further than the lower end of the outer supporter (426).

[0162] Accordingly, when the accessory (40') is separated from the rack (32) and placed on the ground, only the lower end of the inner supporter (43), i.e., the lower end (434'), comes into contact with the ground, and the outer supporter (426) can be spaced apart from the ground. In addition, the user can easily grasp the spaced-apart mounting portion (423) by putting his / her hand into the opening (425), thereby facilitating movement and handling of the accessory (40').

[0163] The dishwasher according to the embodiment of the present invention has improved storage performance and ensures stable mounting, so it has high potential for industrial use.

Claims

1. A main body forming a washing space with an open front; A door for opening and closing the above washing space; A rack provided in the above washing space that can be pulled out in the forward and backward directions; and An accessory mounted on the top of the above rack, wherein dishes for washing are mounted; The above accessories are, A frame forming the perimeter of the storage compartment in which the above dishes are stored; and extending downward from the above frame and including a supporter coupled with the above rack, A dishwasher wherein the supporter extends so that the lower portion of the frame is positioned higher than the upper portion of the rack.

2. In paragraph 1, The above rack, A main wire arranged along the top of the above rack; and It includes a plurality of vertical wires and horizontal wires arranged between the above main wires and bent multiple times to form a space for accommodating dishes. A dishwasher in which a fixing groove is formed at the bottom of the above supporter into which the main wire is inserted.

3. In paragraph 2, The front upper portion of the above rack is provided with a front cover formed to wrap around the main wire and formed to be thicker than the main wire. The above-mentioned fixing groove is formed in a size corresponding to that into which the front cover can be inserted, The above supporters are formed at the front and rear ends of the above frame, A dishwasher in which one end of the supporter is secured to the front cover and the other end of the supporter is secured to the main wire.

4. In paragraph 1, The above storage section connects between the above frames and is composed of a number of ribs that intersect each other. A dishwasher in which the lower part of the storage compartment is positioned lower than the lower part of the frame and higher than the upper part of the rack by a set distance.

5. In paragraph 4, A dishwasher in which the rib extends parallel to the frame, and both ends of the rib are bent upward and connected to the inner surface of the frame.

6. In paragraph 1, The above frame is, A pair of first side parts arranged on both left and right sides of the storage unit to form both sides; and It includes a pair of second side parts arranged at the front and rear of the storage section to form a front and rear side, A dishwasher wherein the above supporter extends downward from the second side section.

7. In paragraph 6, A dishwasher including a corner portion formed to be inclined or rounded, connecting an end portion of the first side portion and an end portion of the second side portion.

8. In paragraph 6, The above first side section, An inner part forming the inner surface of the frame facing the storage compartment; and A dishwasher including an outer part disposed outside the inner part and forming an outer surface of the frame.

9. In paragraph 8, The above storage section is connected to the inner part, A dishwasher wherein the lower part of the above storage compartment is positioned lower than the lower part of the inner part.

10. In paragraph 8, A dishwasher wherein the outer part is formed so that the lower part of the outer part is positioned higher than the lower part of the inner part.

11. In paragraph 1, The above supporters, An outer supporter forming the outer surface of the above supporter and passing through the upper outer side of the above rack; and An inner supporter is provided on the back surface of the outer supporter and passes through the upper inner side of the rack; A dishwasher in which a fixing groove is formed at the bottom of the outer supporter and inner supporter into which the upper part of the rack is inserted.

12. In paragraph 11, The above outer supporter is, an extension extending from the above frame; and Connecting the lower end of the above extension and including a mounting portion that is mounted on the upper end of the above rack, An opening is formed between the end of the above frame and the extension and the fixing portion, A dishwasher wherein the above opening is formed so as to expose the contact state of the above mounting portion and the above rack.

13. In paragraph 12, The above extension part, an upper extension extending from an end of the above frame; and A lower extension extending from the lower end of the upper extension to the upper end of the rack, A dishwasher wherein the upper extension portion has a slope that extends downward and away from the frame.

14. In paragraph 11, The above inner supporter is, A lower portion extending to the same height as the lower portion of the outer supporter; and A dishwasher including a recessed portion that is recessed between the lower portion and the outer supporter to form the fixing groove.

15. In paragraph 11, The above inner supporter is, Extending downward from the above storage compartment, A dishwasher in which a drain is formed through the inner supporter to connect the storage section and the lower part of the supporter.

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