Dishwasher

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dishwasher which, when there is a need to open the door in an emergency situation in which a handle does not pop up automatically, such as situations where power cannot be supplied and situations where power supply is cut off, allows the door to be partially popped up manually and moved manually to a deployment position, thereby allowing effective opening of the door even in emergency situations and improving user convenience.

Description

dishwasher

[0001] The present invention relates to a dishwasher, and more particularly, to a dishwasher configured to allow the door to be opened in an emergency situation where the handle does not automatically pop up, such as when power is unavailable or the power supply is cut off, by manually partially popping up the handle and manually moving the handle to the unfolded position, thereby enabling the door to be opened effectively even in an emergency situation and improving user convenience.

[0002]

[0003] A dishwasher is a device that washes items stored inside, such as dishes and cooking utensils, by spraying a cleaning solution, such as water. The cleaning solution may contain detergent.

[0004] A dishwasher is generally configured to include a washing tank forming a washing space, a storage section for receiving objects to be washed inside the washing tank, a spray arm for spraying washing water into the storage section, and a sump for storing water and supplying washing water to the spray arm.

[0005] By using this dishwasher, the time and effort required to wash dishes and other items after a meal can be reduced, contributing to user convenience.

[0006] Typically, a dishwasher is configured to perform a washing cycle for washing an object to be washed, a rinsing cycle for rinsing the object to be washed, and a drying cycle for drying the object to be washed after washing and rinsing are completed.

[0007] Before the process, the user must open and close the door to store the dishes inside the dishwasher and to take out the washed and dried dishes after the process is completed.

[0008] As a means to facilitate the opening and closing of such doors, the doors are usually equipped with handles that the user can grasp.

[0009] In this regard, Korean Patent Publication No. 1020200082114 (Prior Document 001) discloses a dishwasher having a recessed handle provided on the door for gripping when opening and closing the door.

[0010] The handle of the dishwasher disclosed in prior art document 001 is provided in the form of a grip groove configured to be sunken to a predetermined depth from the front surface of the door toward the rear side.

[0011] Meanwhile, Korean Patent Publication No. 1020200020510 (Prior Document 002) discloses a dishwasher having a protruding handle provided on the door for gripping when opening and closing the door.

[0012] The handle of the dishwasher disclosed in prior art document 002 is provided in a T-shape, with a predetermined protruding height and always protruding forward from the front surface of the door.

[0013]

[0014] The handle disclosed in the aforementioned prior art document 001 is provided in a form in which a portion of the front surface of the door is sunken toward the inside of the door, and is not provided with a separate cover or the like, so it is always exposed to the outside.

[0015] Therefore, the handle disclosed in prior document 001 has a structure in which external foreign substances such as dust cannot help but accumulate in the sunken part for gripping, so it requires frequent cleaning, which may cause inconvenience to the user.

[0016] In addition, the handle disclosed in prior art document 001 has a problem in that it may act as an element that harms the aesthetic sense of the front appearance of the door because a part of the front of the door is concavely sunken.

[0017] In contrast, the handle disclosed in prior art document 002 has the advantage of being able to solve some of the problems of prior art document 001 because it is positioned so as to always protrude toward the front of the door.

[0018] However, the handle disclosed in prior document 002 has a problem in that it is highly likely that a user who is not aware of it may collide with the protruding part from the front surface of the door, causing injury to the user.

[0019] In addition, the handle disclosed in prior art document 002 has a problem in that it is very likely that a collision may occur between the handle and other kitchenware when taking dishes out of the dishwasher other than by the user, and as a result, the handle itself may be damaged or items such as dishes may be damaged.

[0020] The present invention has been devised to solve the problems of the prior art, and the first object of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher in which the handle is configured to protrude forward from the door only when necessary, such as when opening or closing the door, thereby preventing the accumulation of external foreign substances such as dust on the handle, thereby maintaining a clean state and significantly improving user convenience.

[0021] In addition, the present invention provides a dishwasher in which the aesthetic appearance of the dishwasher can be improved by configuring the handle to be at least partially retracted and retracted toward the inside of the door in a situation where the use of the handle is unnecessary, and configuring the front end surface of the handle and the front surface of the door to have a sense of unity with each other.

[0022] In addition, the third object of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher in which the handle is configured to be at least partially retracted and retracted toward the inside of the door in situations where the use of the handle is unnecessary, thereby significantly reducing the possibility of injury to the user and damage to the handle that may occur due to collision with the handle.

[0023] In addition, the fourth object of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher that can effectively open the door even in an emergency situation and improves user convenience by configuring the handle to be manually partially popped up and moved to the unfolded position when the door is to be opened in an emergency situation where the handle does not automatically pop up, such as a situation where power cannot be supplied or a situation where power supply is cut off.

[0024] The objectives of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Other objectives and advantages of the present invention not mentioned above can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the objectives and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0025]

[0026] A dishwasher according to the present invention comprises: a tub that accommodates dishes and forms a washing space with an open front; a door that opens and closes the open front of the tub; a handle that is arranged to automatically reciprocate between a deployed position protruding forward from the door and a retracted position accommodated entirely within the door; a handle driving unit that is arranged within the door and reciprocates the handle from the retracted position toward the deployed position or from the deployed position toward the retracted position; and a manual pop-up device that pops up the handle so that it at least partially protrudes from the inside of the door toward the outside of the door while the handle is stopped at the retracted position; wherein the manual pop-up device is characterized in that the handle pops up when the handle is retracted rearward toward the inside of the door by a predetermined retraction stroke.

[0027] In addition, the handle includes a handle body that reciprocates between the deployed position and the retracted position by the driving force of the handle driving unit; and a sliding block that is connected to the handle body so as to be able to move relative to the handle body and transmit the driving force of the handle driving unit to the handle body; and the manual pop-up device can pop up the handle body by moving it forward relative to the sliding block toward the outside of the door when the handle is retracted rearward by the predetermined retraction stroke.

[0028] In addition, the manual pop-up device includes a latch portion fixed to the handle body; and a latch holder fixed to the sliding block and detachably coupled to the latch portion; and the latch holder may be provided with a compression spring that presses the latch portion forward toward the outside of the door.

[0029] In addition, when the handle body is moved rearward relative to the sliding block toward the inside of the door by the predetermined inlet stroke, the compression spring can push the latch portion forward toward the outside of the door and move it.

[0030] Additionally, the connection between the latch portion and the latch holder can be released before the latch portion moves forward by the compression spring.

[0031] Additionally, after the latch portion and the latch holder are released from each other, when the handle body is retracted rearward toward the inside of the door, the latch portion and the latch holder can be reconnected.

[0032] Additionally, when the latch portion and the latch holder are recombined, the handle body can be prevented from moving forward relative to the sliding block toward the outside of the door.

[0033] In addition, the handle body includes a first body extending in the left-right direction and gripped by a user when opening and closing the door; and a second body extending rearward from the first body and having the sliding block accommodated in an internal space; and an inner panel is provided inside the second body to divide the internal space into a front space and a rear space, and the inner panel has a protruding surface formed convexly toward the sliding block, and the latch portion can be fixed to the protruding surface.

[0034] Additionally, the latch holder can be fixed to the inside of the sliding block.

[0035] In addition, when the handle body is moved rearward relative to the sliding block toward the inside of the door by the predetermined inlet stroke, the protruding surface can be drawn into the inside of the sliding block.

[0036] In addition, the handle further includes a pop-up blocking unit that allows or blocks a pop-up of the handle body; when the handle is moved to the retracted position, the pop-up of the handle body is not blocked by the pop-up blocking unit, but when the handle is moved to the deployed position, the pop-up of the handle body can be blocked by the pop-up blocking unit.

[0037] In addition, the pop-up blocking unit is positioned inside the handle body so as to be able to move relative to the handle body, and is positioned inside the handle body in front of the pop-up blocking unit and spaced apart from the pop-up blocking unit, and a catch is formed to limit the relative movement of the handle body with respect to the pop-up blocking unit, and when the handle is moved to the retracted position, a first gap can be formed between the catch and the pop-up blocking unit in the front-back direction.

[0038] Additionally, the first gap may be greater than the inlet stroke.

[0039] Additionally, when the handle is moved to the unfolded position, a second gap may be formed between the catch and the pop-up blocker in the front-back direction.

[0040] Additionally, the second gap may be smaller than the inlet stroke.

[0041]

[0042] The dishwasher according to the present invention has the effect of preventing the accumulation of foreign substances such as dust on the handle, thereby maintaining a clean state and significantly improving user convenience.

[0043] In addition, the dishwasher according to the present invention has the effect of improving the aesthetics of the appearance of the dishwasher by configuring the front end surface of the handle and the front surface of the door to have a sense of unity with each other.

[0044] In addition, the dishwasher according to the present invention has the effect of significantly reducing the possibility of injury to the user and damage to the handle that may occur due to collision with the handle.

[0045] In addition, the dishwasher according to the present invention is configured so that when the door is to be opened in an emergency situation where the handle does not automatically pop up, such as a situation where power cannot be supplied or a situation where power supply is cut off, the handle can be manually partially popped up and moved to the unfolded position, thereby enabling the door to be opened effectively even in an emergency situation and improving user convenience.

[0046] In addition to the effects described above, specific effects of the present invention are described below while explaining specific details for carrying out the invention.

[0047]

[0048] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dishwasher illustrated in Figure 1.

[0050] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view showing a state in which the handle of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present invention is moved to a retracted position.

[0051] Figure 4 is a front side view showing the handle shown in Figure 3 moved to the unfolded position.

[0052] Figure 5 is an enlarged side view of Figure 3.

[0053] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration that distinguishes and recognizes a user and a pet through a proximity sensor placed on the upper surface of the door to determine the user's intention to open the door.

[0054] Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of the door illustrated in Figure 3, showing the door with its rear panel removed.

[0055] Fig. 8 is a rear perspective view of the handle driving unit illustrated in Fig. 7.

[0056] Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the handle driving unit illustrated in Fig. 7.

[0057] Fig. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the pivot link, link connector, and connecting pin among the components of the handle driving unit illustrated in Fig. 9.

[0058] Figure 11 is a side view illustrating the operation of the handle drive unit to initiate movement from the retracted position to the deployed position for the handle.

[0059] Figure 12 is a side view showing the state in which movement to the unfolded position for the handle is completed.

[0060] Figure 13 is a side view illustrating the operation of the handle drive unit to initiate movement from the unfolded position to the retracted position for the handle.

[0061] Fig. 14 is a partial enlarged view of Fig. 12, and is a drawing for explaining a structure that prevents the handle from moving backward due to an external force applied to the handle.

[0062] Figure 15 is a rear perspective view showing the handle and handle drive unit installed and the handle frame supporting them.

[0063] Figure 16 is an exploded perspective view to explain the detailed configuration of the handle.

[0064] Fig. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the manual pop-up device and pop-up blocker provided in the handle illustrated in Fig. 16.

[0065] Fig. 18 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the handle and handle drive unit showing the handle moved to the retracted position.

[0066] Figure 19 is a partial enlarged view of Figure 18.

[0067] Figure 20 is a front perspective view of the door, and is a drawing for explaining the position where the user's pressing pressure is input to initiate manual pop-up of the handle.

[0068] Fig. 21 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a handle and a handle drive unit showing a state in which the handle is manually moved to the deployed position by a user after the handle has been manually popped up.

[0069] Figure 22 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the handle and handle drive unit showing the handle automatically moved to the deployed position.

[0070] Figure 23 is a partial enlarged view of Figure 22.

[0071]

[0072] The above-described objects, features, and advantages will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the technical idea of ​​the present invention. In describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of known technologies related to the present invention may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar components.

[0073] Although terms like "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a "first" component may also be a "second" component.

[0074] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0075] Hereinafter, the phrase "any configuration is placed on (or below)" a component or "on (or below)" a component may mean that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of said component, and that other configurations may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0076] Additionally, when it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected or connected to one another, but that other components may also be "interposed" between the components, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through another component.

[0077] As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "consisting of" or "comprising" should not necessarily be construed to include all of the components or steps described in the specification, and should be construed to mean that some of the components or steps may not be included, or that additional components or steps may be included.

[0078] Additionally, the singular expressions used herein include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "consist of" or "comprises" should not be construed to necessarily include all of the various components or various steps described in the specification, and should be construed to mean that some of the components or some of the steps may not be included, or that additional components or steps may be included.

[0079] Throughout the specification, when we refer to "A and / or B", this means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated, and when we refer to "C through D", this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0080] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to drawings showing a configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] [Overall structure of a dishwasher]

[0082] Hereinafter, the overall structure of a dishwasher (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0083] Fig. 1 is a front perspective view showing a dishwasher according to the present invention, and Fig. 2 is a simplified cross-sectional view briefly showing the internal structure of the dishwasher according to the present invention.

[0084] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a dishwasher (1) according to the present invention comprises a case (10) forming an outer shape, a tub (20) installed inside the case (10) and forming a washing space (21) in which an object to be washed is washed and having an open front surface, a door (30) for opening and closing the open front surface of the tub (20), a driving unit (40) located at the bottom of the tub (20) for supplying, collecting, circulating, and draining washing water for washing an object to be washed, a storage unit (50) detachably provided in the internal washing space (21) of the tub (20) for placing an object to be washed, and a spray unit installed adjacent to the storage unit (50) for spraying washing water for washing an object to be washed.

[0085] At this time, the objects to be washed placed in the storage unit (50) may be, for example, dishes, plates, spoons, chopsticks, and other cooking utensils. Unless otherwise stated, the objects to be washed will be referred to as dishes.

[0086] The tub (20) can be formed in a box shape with the front surface entirely open, and corresponds to a configuration known as a so-called washing tank.

[0087] A washing space (21) is formed inside the tub (20), and the open front surface can be opened and closed by a door (30).

[0088] The tub (20) can be formed by pressing a metal plate that is resistant to high temperature and moisture, for example, a plate made of stainless steel.

[0089] In addition, a number of brackets may be arranged on the inner surface of the tub (20) for the purpose of supporting and installing functional components such as the storage section (50) and the injection section described later inside the tub (20).

[0090] Meanwhile, the driving unit (40) may be configured to include a sump (41) for storing washing water, a sump cover (42) for dividing the sump (41) from the tub (20), a water supply unit (43) for supplying washing water from the outside to the sump (41), a drain unit (44) for discharging the washing water of the sump (41) to the outside, and a washing pump (45) and a supply path (46) for supplying the washing water of the sump (41) to the injection unit. The sump cover (42) is arranged on the upper side of the sump (41) and may serve to divide the tub (20) and the sump (41).

[0091] Additionally, the sump cover (42) may be provided with a plurality of recovery holes for recovering the washing water sprayed into the washing space (21) through the spray unit into the sump (41).

[0092] That is, the washing water sprayed from the spray unit toward the dishes falls to the lower part of the washing space (21) and can be returned to the sump (41) through the sump cover (42).

[0093] The washing pump (45) is provided on one side of the sump (41) and serves to pressurize washing water and supply it to the spray unit.

[0094] One end of the washing pump (45) may be connected to the sump (41) and the other end may be connected to the supply path (46). The washing pump (45) may be equipped with an impeller (451) and a motor (453). When power is supplied to the motor (453), the impeller (451) rotates, and the washing water in the sump (41) is pressurized and then supplied to the injection unit through the supply path (46).

[0095] Although not shown, the washing pump (45) may be equipped with a washing water heater to heat the washing water supplied during the washing cycle or the heated rinsing cycle.

[0096] Meanwhile, the supply path (46) can play a role in selectively supplying the washing water supplied from the washing pump (45) to the spray unit.

[0097] For example, the supply path (46) may include a first supply path (461) connected to the lower injection arm (61), a second supply path (463) connected to the upper injection arm (62) and the top nozzle (63), and the supply path (46) may be provided with a supply path switching valve (465) that selectively opens and closes the supply paths (461, 463).

[0098] At this time, the supply path switching valve (465) can be controlled so that each of the supply paths (461, 463) is opened sequentially or simultaneously.

[0099] Meanwhile, the spray unit is provided to spray washing water onto dishes, etc. stored in the storage unit (50).

[0100] More specifically, the spray unit may include a lower spray arm (61) located at the bottom of the tub (20) and spraying washing water to the lower rack (51), an upper spray arm (62) located between the lower rack (51) and the upper rack (52) and spraying washing water to the lower rack (51) and the upper rack (52), and a top nozzle (63) located at the top of the tub (20) and spraying washing water to the top rack (53) or the upper rack (52).

[0101] In particular, the lower spray arm (61) and the upper spray arm (62) are rotatably provided in the washing space (21) of the tub (20) so that they can spray washing water while rotating toward the dishes in the storage section (50).

[0102] The lower spray arm (61) can be rotatably supported on the upper side of the sump cover (42) so as to be able to spray washing water toward the lower rack (51) while rotating at the lower side of the lower rack (51).

[0103] Additionally, the upper spray arm (62) can be rotatably supported by the spray arm holder (467) so as to be able to spray the washing water while rotating between the lower rack (51) and the upper rack (52).

[0104] Meanwhile, although not shown, the lower surface (25) of the tub (20) may be further provided with a means for diverting the washing water sprayed from the lower spray arm (61) in an upward direction (U-direction) to increase the washing efficiency.

[0105] Since the detailed configuration of the injection unit is applicable to a configuration already known in the art, a description of the specific configuration of the injection unit is omitted below.

[0106] Meanwhile, a storage compartment (50) for storing dishes may be provided in the washing space (21).

[0107] The storage section (50) is provided so as to be withdrawable from the inside of the tub (20) through the open front surface of the tub (20).

[0108] By way of example, FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment in which a storage compartment is provided, including a lower rack (51) located at the bottom of a tub (20) and capable of storing relatively large dishes, an upper rack (52) located above the lower rack (51) and capable of storing medium-sized dishes, and a top rack (53) located at the top of the tub (20) and capable of storing small dishes, etc. The present invention is not limited thereto, but will be described based on an embodiment of a dishwasher (1) provided with three storage compartments (50) as illustrated.

[0109] These lower racks (51), upper racks (52) and top racks (53) can each be configured to be pulled out through the open front face of the tub (20).

[0110] For this purpose, guide rails (not shown) may be provided on both sides of the wall forming the inner surface of the tub (20), and for example, the guide rails (54) may include an upper rail, a lower rail, and a top rail.

[0111] Wheels may be provided at the bottom of each of the lower racks (51), upper racks (52), and top racks (53). Users can store dishes in these lower racks (51), upper racks (52), and top racks (53) by pulling them out through the front of the tub (20), or can easily take out washed dishes from them.

[0112] The guide rail (54) may be provided as a fixed guide rail in the form of a simple rail for guiding withdrawal and insertion of the storage unit (50) or as an elastic guide rail for guiding withdrawal and insertion of the storage unit (50) and increasing the withdrawal distance according to withdrawal of the storage unit (50).

[0113] Meanwhile, the door (30) has the purpose of opening and closing the open front surface of the above-described tub (20).

[0114] A hinge part (not shown) for opening and closing the door (30) is provided at the lower part of the front surface that is normally open, and the door (30) can be opened by rotating around the hinge part as a rotation axis.

[0115] Here, the outer surface of the door (30) may be provided with a handle (31) for opening the door (30) and a control panel (32) for controlling the operation of the dishwasher (1).

[0116] As illustrated, the control panel (32) may be equipped with a display (33) that visually displays information about the current operating status of the dishwasher (1), a button section (34) including a selection button for inputting a user's course selection operation, and a power button for inputting a user's operation for turning the dishwasher on and off.

[0117] Meanwhile, the rear panel (30b) forming the inner side of the door (30) can form one side of the tub (20) when the door (30) is closed and at the same time form a seating surface on which the lower rack (51) of the storage section (50) can be supported when the door (30) is fully opened.

[0118] For this purpose, when the door (30) is fully opened, it is preferable that the rear panel (30b) of the door (30) form a horizontal plane in the same direction as the direction in which the guide rail (54) along which the lower rack (51) is guided extends.

[0119] Meanwhile, unlike the conventional dishwasher, the handle (31) of the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention can be configured to be at least partially accommodated on the inner side of the door (30) when not in use, and to automatically protrude forward from the door (30) when necessary for opening and closing the door (30).

[0120] In this way, since it is provided so as to be protrusively movable from the inside of the door (30) toward the outside, it can be referred to by various names such as a pop-up handle, a retractable handle, etc.

[0121] Hereinafter, a handle movably provided on the door (30) of a dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be referred to as a pop-up handle (31).

[0122] Although not shown, the rear panel (30b) forming the inner side of the door (30) may further be equipped with a detergent supply device for automatically supplying detergent into the interior of the tub (20).

[0123] Additionally, a door position detection unit (36) may be provided on the outer side of the upper surface of the tub (20) to detect whether the door (30) is closed or open. For example, the door position detection unit (36) may include a door position sensor (S_d) or a latch sensor that detects the position of a door latch (not shown).

[0124] Meanwhile, a drying air supply unit (80) may be provided at the bottom of the tub (20) to generate and supply high-temperature or low-temperature drying air to the washing space inside the tub (20).

[0125] As shown, the drying air supply unit (80) may be configured to include a filter member (883) that filters outside air, a blower fan (825) that generates a drying air stream, a heater (84) that heats the drying air stream, and an air flow guide (83) that is placed inside the tub (20) and guides the drying air stream.

[0126] A drying air supply hole may be provided on the lower surface of the tub (20) so that high-temperature drying air generated from the drying air supply unit (80) can be introduced into the interior of the tub (20).

[0127] By supplying high-temperature drying air or low-temperature drying air through a drying air supply unit (80) like this into the interior of the tub (20) during the drying cycle (S5), the drying efficiency and sterilization effect on dishes can be significantly improved compared to the past.

[0128] Meanwhile, the air current supplied to the inside of the tub (20) and humidified while drying dishes can be configured to be discharged to the outside, and the discharge of the air current can be done through partial opening of the door (30) or through a separate exhaust means not shown.

[0129] [Pop-up handle appearance and operation]

[0130] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5, the appearance and operation method of a pop-up handle (31) provided on a door (30) of a dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0131] As described above, the door (30) of the dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be provided with a pop-up handle (31) that can move back and forth.

[0132] At this time, as described above, the door (30) can be provided to be rotatable through a hinge part (not shown) connected to the lower side.

[0133] Taking this into consideration, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a pop-up handle (31) can be positioned so that it can be pulled out on the front panel (30a) forming the front surface of the door (30) at a position close to the upper surface of the door (30) where the user can easily reach the handle.

[0134] In addition, to facilitate the user's grip, the pop-up handle (31) can be arranged parallel to the upper surface of the door (30) along the left-right direction, and can be formed to have an overall T-shape.

[0135] In order to withdraw and withdraw the pop-up handle (31), an opening (30e) having a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the pop-up handle (31) can be formed through the front panel (30a) of the door (30) in the forward-rear direction (FR direction).

[0136] The pop-up handle (31) can be arranged to move back and forth through the opening (30e) of the front panel (30a) in the forward and backward direction by the operation of the handle driving unit (35) described later.

[0137] In more detail, the pop-up handle (31) can be arranged to be reciprocally moved between the most forward position and the most rearward position according to the operation of the handle driving unit (35).

[0138] For convenience, in the following, the position where the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the most forward position is defined as the deployment position (Pd), and the position where the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the most rearward position is defined as the retracted position (Pa).

[0139] Figure 3 shows a state in which the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the rearmost position (Pa) and inserted into the interior of the door (30).

[0140] As shown, when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the retracted position (Pa), the pop-up handle (31) is at least partially retracted into the interior of the door (30).

[0141] At this time, preferably, the pop-up handle (31) can be brought into the interior of the door (30) by passing through the opening (30e) of the door (30) as a whole.

[0142] In addition, when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the retracted position (Pa), the pop-up handle (31) can be in a state where a portion protruding from the front panel (30a) of the door (30) does not occur.

[0143] Furthermore, when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the retracted position (Pa), the front end surface of the pop-up handle (31) can be made parallel to the front panel (30a) so as to form a continuous surface with the front panel (30a) of the door (30).

[0144] That is, a state in which no step is formed between the front panel (30a) of the door (30) and the front end surface of the pop-up handle (31) can be formed.

[0145] Through this, when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the retracted position (Pa), the opening (30e) of the front panel (30a) is completely blocked, and since no step is formed between the front panel (30a) and the front end surface of the pop-up handle (31), the phenomenon of foreign substances such as dust accumulating in the convex part of the door (30) or accumulating on the handle itself as in the past can be fundamentally prevented.

[0146] Meanwhile, as described later, the front end surface of the pop-up handle (31) can be formed through a decorative panel (315) provided separately from the handle body (311) that forms the overall outer shape of the pop-up handle (31).

[0147] At this time, the decorative panel (315) can be formed to have a material having the same texture as the front panel (30a) of the door (30).

[0148] Through this, a sense of unity can be formed between the decorative panel (315) and the front panel (30a) of the door (30), and the aesthetic sensibility of the exterior of the door (30) can be improved and the user's aesthetic sense can be improved.

[0149] Figures 4 and 5 illustrate a state in which the pop-up handle (31) is moved from the retracted position (Pa) to the deployed position (Pd), which is the most forward position.

[0150] As described above, the door (30) of the dishwasher (1) must be opened and closed in order to store dishes that need to be washed inside or to take out dishes that have been washed.

[0151] When the user's intention to open the door (30) is confirmed at a time when opening and closing of the door (30) is required, the pop-up door (30) can be automatically moved from the retracted position (Pa) to the deployed position (Pd) via the handle driving unit (35).

[0152] To this end, the dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further be provided with a means for detecting the user's intention to open the door (30).

[0153] For example, a means for detecting a user's intention to open the door (30) may include a proximity sensor (S_p).

[0154] The proximity sensor (S_p) can be a sensor that can detect whether a user is within a specific range from the door (30).

[0155] For example, the proximity sensor (S_p) may include any one of a radar sensor, an image sensor, or an infrared sensor (IR sensor).

[0156] However, the present invention is not limited to this, and can be applied without limitation to any means capable of detecting the proximity of a user. The following description will be based on an example in which a radar sensor is applied as the proximity sensor (S_p).

[0157] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the radar sensor as a proximity sensor (S_p) can be placed on the control panel (32) in a position close to the display (33) so that the proximity of the user can be easily confirmed and modularization with an existing display (33) can be easily achieved.

[0158] In this way, by placing the control panel (32) on the upper surface of the door (30), it is possible to distinguish between the user and non-user pets, etc.

[0159] However, the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention is not configured so that the pop-up handle (31) moves immediately even if a user is recognized within a predetermined distance range from the door (30) through a radar sensor.

[0160] This is because there may be cases where a user simply passes by the dishwasher (1) without the intention of opening the door (30).

[0161] Accordingly, the present invention can further add a time condition to confirm the intention to open the door (30) through a proximity sensor (S_p) such as a radar sensor.

[0162] That is, the dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention can determine that the user has an intention to open the door (30) when it is confirmed through the radar sensor that the user is within a specific distance range from the door (30) and continues to stay within the specific distance range for a specific time condition.

[0163] Here, the specific distance range and specific time conditions may be set differently depending on the environment in which the dishwasher (1) is placed and the physical condition of the user.

[0164] When specific distance range conditions and specific time conditions are satisfied, the operation of the handle driving unit (35) is initiated and the pop-up handle (31) can be moved forward from the retracted position (Pa) to the deployed position (Pd).

[0165] Figures 4 and 5 illustrate a state in which the pop-up handle (31) has completed forward movement to the deployed position (Pd).

[0166] In this way, when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the deployment position (Pd), the handle body (311) of the pop-up handle (31) can be exposed to the outside of the door (30) and can be gripped by the user.

[0167] At this time, the stroke (Ls) by which the pop-up handle (31) moves from the retracted position (Pa) to the deployed position (Pd) may be 40 mm or more and 50 mm or less, preferably 45 mm.

[0168] The stroke (Ls) of the pop-up handle (31) is determined by considering that if the stroke (Ls) is too small, such as less than 40 mm, it is not easy for the user to grip, and if the stroke (Ls) is too large, such as more than 50 mm, the size of the pop-up handle (31) in the front-back direction becomes large, which may cause a problem in that the pop-up handle (31) is not fully inserted into the interior of the door (30).

[0169] However, the movement stroke (Ls) of the pop-up handle (31) is merely exemplary and may be set differently depending on the overall size of the dishwasher (1) and the front-back size of the door (30).

[0170] FIG. 5 discloses a configuration for detecting a user's intention to open a door (30) using a single radar sensor as a proximity sensor (S_p).

[0171] As is known in the art, a radar sensor can perform the function of detecting the presence of a user or an object within a detection area (as), the distance to the user or object, and the moving speed of the user or object by transmitting electromagnetic waves through a sensing surface (S_p1) and analyzing the electromagnetic waves reflected when they collide with a user or an object.

[0172] As illustrated, the detection area (as) of the radar sensor applied to the present invention may have an angular range of about 100 degrees in the forward / backward direction and about 100 degrees in the left / right direction based on the sensing surface (S_p1).

[0173] At this time, as described above, in order to easily check whether a user is approaching the front area of ​​the door (30) and to distinguish between the user and a pet other than the user, the radar sensor functioning as a proximity sensor (S_p) may be configured to be placed as close as possible to the center of the upper surface of the front panel (30a) of the door (30) as possible inside the door (30).

[0174] In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 5, since the radar sensor is placed inside the door (30) close to the upper surface of the front panel (30a) of the door (30), the sensing surface (S_p1) of the radar sensor can be arranged to generally face the upper side of the door (30).

[0175] Furthermore, the sensing surface (S_p1) of the radar sensor can be arranged in a tilted state at a predetermined angle toward the front of the door (30).

[0176] Therefore, the sensing surface (S_p1) of the radar sensor can be arranged to face the upper front side of the door (30).

[0177] In this way, by tilting the sensing surface (S_p1) of the radar sensor so that it faces the upper front side of the door (30) rather than the lower front side of the door (30), the detection area (as) of the radar sensor can be formed in a state of being tilted toward the upper front side of the door (30).

[0178] By placing the sensing surface (S_p1) of the radar sensor in a tilted state in the tilting holder (30f3) so that it faces the upper front side of the door (30), the radar sensor can be configured so that even if an object that cannot be expected to use the dishwasher (1), such as a pet or an infant with a height smaller than that of the dishwasher (1), approaches the front side of the door (30), the radar sensor cannot detect it.

[0179] Therefore, the pop-up handle is prevented from being operated inadvertently by detecting pets or infants, thereby minimizing power loss.

[0180] Here, the tilting angle (at) of the sensing surface (S_p1) of the radar sensor with respect to the vertical direction may be, for example, 25 degrees or more and 35 degrees or less, and preferably 30 degrees.

[0181] However, the tilting angle (at) of the sensing surface (S_p1) of the radar sensor provided in the present invention with respect to the vertical direction can be adjusted according to the physical condition of the user who is expected to use the dishwasher (1).

[0182] For example, when the tilting angle (at) of the sensing surface (S_p1) of the radar sensor with respect to the vertical direction is set to 30 degrees, the minimum vertical detection height (H_min) of the radar sensor can be 100 cm or more and 110 cm or less, preferably 105 cm, and the maximum detection distance (L_max) based on the horizontal direction can be 75 cm or more and 85 cm or less, preferably 80 cm.

[0183] That is, when the tilting angle (at) is set to 30 degrees, a user with a height of 105 cm or more can be recognized as being close if he or she enters the detection range within 80 cm from the radar sensor in the horizontal direction.

[0184] In contrast, for example, if the tilt angle (at) is set to 15 degrees, a user with a height of 127 cm or more may be recognized as being close if he or she comes within 50 cm of the radar sensor in the horizontal direction.

[0185] [Detailed configuration of the handle drive unit]

[0186] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 7 to 14, the detailed configuration of the handle driving unit (35) that operates the pop-up handle (31) so that the pop-up handle (31) moves back and forth between the deployed position (Pd) and the retracted position (Pa) will be described.

[0187] First, referring to Fig. 7, considering the shape of the handle body (311) of the pop-up handle (31) that extends long in the left-right direction, a pair of handle driving parts (35) can be arranged in a separated state on the left end side and the right end side of the pop-up handle (31).

[0188] That is, a pair of handle driving parts (35) can be arranged in a spaced and separated state in the left-right direction so that the driving force for moving the pop-up handle (31) can be transmitted to the left and right ends of the pop-up handle (31) respectively, which are arranged in a state of being accommodated inside the handle housing (30d4).

[0189] In this way, as a pair of handle driving units (35) are arranged in a separated state along the left and right directions, the driving force generated from each handle driving unit (35) can be transmitted to each pop-up handle (31).

[0190] Accordingly, since the driving load applied to the individual handle driving unit (35) is distributed, the individual handle driving unit (35) can be miniaturized, which can have the effect of reducing manufacturing costs.

[0191] However, this is merely an example, and it is also possible to configure the pop-up handle (31) to be driven by only a single handle driving unit. The present invention is not limited thereto, but will be described based on an embodiment in which a pair of handle driving units (35) are provided.

[0192] As shown, the left handle driving part (35) and the right handle driving part (35) have symmetrical shapes and can be installed and fixed to the handle frame (30d) in a state of being arranged symmetrically with respect to the pop-up handle (31).

[0193] Therefore, each handle driving unit (35) can be configured identically to each other except that they have a symmetrical shape and are arranged symmetrically.

[0194] Therefore, the following description will be based on the handle driving unit (35) placed on the left, and unless otherwise stated, the following contents can be equally applied to the handle driving unit (35) placed on the right.

[0195] As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, a handle driving unit (35) that generates a driving force for reciprocating movement of a pop-up handle (31) may be configured to include a driving motor (351) that receives power and generates a rotational driving force, a driving cam (352) that rotates by the rotational driving force of the driving motor (351), a pivot link (353) that rotates about one end in conjunction with the rotation of the driving cam (352) and serves to push or pull the pop-up handle (31), a link connector (354) that connects the pivot link (353) and the pop-up handle (31), and a housing (355) that accommodates the driving motor (351), the driving cam (352), and the pivot link (353).

[0196] The drive motor (351) receives power and generates rotational driving force.

[0197] As described above, the pop-up handle (31) according to one embodiment of the present invention can be configured to reciprocate between the deployed position (Pd) and the retracted position (Pa) while repeatedly moving forward from the retracted position (Pa) toward the deployed position (Pd) and moving backward from the deployed position (Pd) toward the retracted position (Pa).

[0198] In order to easily implement such reciprocating movement, the driving motor (351) constituting the handle driving unit (35) can be configured to generate a bidirectional rotational driving force.

[0199] Accordingly, the driving motor (351) applied to the handle driving unit (35) according to one embodiment of the present invention can be applied without limitation in its type as long as it is a motor capable of generating a bidirectional rotational driving force.

[0200] Hereinafter, among the bidirectional rotational driving forces, the driving in the direction in which the output shaft (3512) of the driving motor (351) rotates to move the pop-up handle (31) forward toward the unfolded position (Pd) is referred to as forward rotational driving or forward rotational driving force, and the driving in the direction in which the output shaft (3512) of the driving motor (351) rotates to move the pop-up handle (31) backward toward the retracted position (Pa) is referred to as reverse rotational driving or reverse rotational driving force.

[0201] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the motor body (3511) of the driving motor (351) can be accommodated in a receiving space formed between the second housing (3552) and the third housing (3553), and the output shaft (3512) of the driving motor (351) can be connected to the driving cam (352) by passing through the second housing (3552).

[0202] As described below, the output shaft (3512) of the drive motor (351) is inserted into the shaft hole (3522) of the drive cam (352) and can be forcibly coupled to the shaft hole (3522).

[0203] Through this, the output shaft (3512) of the drive motor (351) can be rotated integrally with the drive cam (352).

[0204] Meanwhile, the drive cam (352) receives rotational driving force from the output shaft (3512) of the drive motor (351) and transmits it to the pivot link (353).

[0205] In more detail, the drive cam (352) pressurizes the pivot link (353) so that the pivot link (353) pivots forward when the drive motor (351) rotates in the forward direction by the output shaft (3512) and pressurizes the pivot link (353) so that the pivot link (353) pivots backward when the drive motor (351) rotates in the reverse direction by the output shaft (3512).

[0206] To this end, the driving cam (352) may be configured to include a cam body (3521) that rotates by a rotational driving force transmitted from an output shaft (3512) of a driving motor (351), and a driving pin (3523) that is provided on one side of the cam body (3521) and protrudes toward a pivot link (353).

[0207] The cam body (3521) may be provided in the form of a disc having an approximately constant thickness, for example.

[0208] An axial hole (3522) is formed through the center of the cam body (3521) to which the output shaft (3512) of the drive motor (351) is forcibly connected.

[0209] In order to easily implement integral rotation through forced coupling to the output shaft (3512), the output shaft (3512) and the shaft hole (3522) can be connected through spline coupling or the like.

[0210] Meanwhile, the drive pin (3523) serves to transmit the rotational driving force of the cam body (3521) to the pivot link (353).

[0211] As shown, the drive pin (3523) may be formed to protrude from one side of the cam body (3521) toward the pivot link (353) and may be provided at a position spaced apart from the shaft hole (3522) by a predetermined distance in the radial direction.

[0212] Therefore, when the cam body (3521) rotates around the shaft hole (3522), the drive pin (3523) revolves around the shaft hole (3522).

[0213] The drive pin (3523) is connected to the pivot link (353) by being inserted into the guide groove (3533) of the pivot link (353) described later.

[0214] Accordingly, the drive pin (3523) revolves around the shaft hole of the cam body (3521) and pressurizes the pivot link (353) so that the pivot link (353) pivots forward or backward.

[0215] Meanwhile, the rotation range of the drive pin (3523) or the rotation range of the cam body (3521) needs to be formed smaller than the extension length of the guide groove (3533) provided in the pivot link (353). This is because if the rotation range is larger than the extension length of the guide groove (3533), there is a possibility that the drive pin (3523) or the guide groove (3533) may be damaged.

[0216] As a means for limiting the rotation range of the drive pin (3523) or the rotation range of the cam body (3521), a stopper projection (3524) protruding along the radial direction may be provided on the edge of the cam body (3521).

[0217] As illustrated, the stopper projection (3524) may be a predetermined step formed on the edge of the cam body (3521).

[0218] The stopper projection (3524) implemented as a step portion may be provided as a pair spaced apart along the circumferential direction to limit the rotation range of the driving pin (3523) or the rotation range of the cam body (3521) in both directions.

[0219] In this way, the stopper projections (3524) can limit the rotational range of the driving pin (3523) or the rotational range of the cam body (3521) within the circumferential range formed between a pair of stopper projections (3524).

[0220] As illustrated in FIG. 8, a cam stopper (3552b) corresponding to a pair of stopper projections (3524) may be provided inside the second housing (3552) that accommodates the driving cam (352).

[0221] Meanwhile, the pivot link (353) receives driving force from the driving pin (3523) of the driving cam (352) and pushes the pop-up handle (31) so that the pop-up handle (31) moves forward, or pulls the pop-up handle (31) so that the pop-up handle (31) moves backward.

[0222] As illustrated in FIG. 10, the pivot link (353) may be, for example, a bar-type link extending in a bar shape from the first end (3531) toward the second end (3532).

[0223] At this time, the first end (3531) of the pivot link (353), which becomes a bar-shaped link, can be supported by the first housing (3551) and the second housing (3552) in a state in which only relative rotation is possible with respect to the first housing (3551) and the second housing (3552), that is, in a state in which only pivoting is possible.

[0224] Accordingly, the pivot link (353) can pivot around the first end (3531) when the pressure of the driving pin (3523) of the driving cam (352) is applied.

[0225] For this purpose, a pair of shaft bosses (3531a) that serve as the entire rotation center or pivot center of the pivot link (353) may be provided at the first end (3531) of the pivot link (353).

[0226] A pair of shaft bosses (3531a) may be formed to protrude toward the first housing (3551) and the second housing (3552) on one side and the other side of the pivot link (353) so as to have a predetermined protruding height from these one side and the other side, respectively.

[0227] A bushing (356) or bearing can be fitted into these pair of shaft bosses (3531a) to reduce friction, and each of the pair of shaft bosses (3531a) can be connected to the first housing (3551) and the second housing (3552) with the bushing (356) fitted thereto.

[0228] The first housing (3551) and the second housing (3552) may each be provided with a cylindrical bushing joint into which a bushing (356) can be inserted.

[0229] The pivot link (353) may be provided with a guide groove (3533) into which the drive pin (3523) of the aforementioned drive cam (352) is inserted.

[0230] As shown, the guide home (3533) is formed between the first end (3531) and the second end (3532), and can be provided in the first extension (353a) of the pivot link (353) described later.

[0231] The guide groove (3533) can be linearly extended along the length direction of the first extension portion (353a), and the movement path of the drive pin (3523) can be guided so that the drive pin (3523) moves relative to the extension direction of the guide groove (3533) while being inserted into the guide groove (3533).

[0232] Meanwhile, the second end (3532) of the pivot link (353) is connected to the handle body (311) of the pop-up handle (31) so as to be relatively movable, and is configured to move the pop-up handle (31) forward or backward by pushing or pulling the handle body (311) when the pivot link (353) pivots.

[0233] The second end (3532) of the pivot link (353) can be connected to the handle body (311) via a connecting pin (3534) so ​​that the second end (3532) of the pivot link (353) can move relative to the handle body (311). More specifically, it can be connected to a sliding block (316) arranged inside the handle body (311).

[0234] At this time, a link connector (354) may be further provided as a configuration for connecting the second end (3532) of the pivot link (353) and the sliding block (316) of the handle body (311) to each other.

[0235] As illustrated, the link connector (354) may be configured to include a handle connection part (3541) that is connected to a sliding block (316) described later, and a link connection part (3542) that is indirectly connected through a connection pin (3534).

[0236] The handle connection part (3541) may be provided in a flat shape so as to be in surface contact with the sliding block (316) in order to secure the maximum contact area with the sliding block (316).

[0237] The handle connection part (3541) may be provided with a plurality of screw holes (3541h) through which a fastening means such as a screw bolt can pass.

[0238] The link connection portion (3542) can be indirectly connected to the second end (3532) of the pivot link (353) via the aforementioned connection pin (3534).

[0239] For this purpose, a pin guide hole (3543) formed through the left and right directions may be formed in the link connection portion (3542).

[0240] As shown, the pin guide hole (3543) can be linearly extended in the up-down direction, and the connecting pin (3534) can be guided along a movement path so that it moves relative to the up-down direction while being inserted into the pin guide hole (3543).

[0241] Accordingly, when the pivot link (353) rotates, the connecting pin (3534) coupled to the second end (3532) of the pivot link (353) moves along the pin guide hole (3543) to push the link connector (354) forward or pull it backward, thereby causing the pop-up handle (31) to move forward or backward.

[0242] In order to enable the connecting pin (3534) to be coupled in this way, a pinhole (3532h) through which the connecting pin (3534) passes may be formed penetrating along the left and right directions in the second end (3532) of the pivot link (353).

[0243] Additionally, the second end (3532) of the pivot link (353) may be provided in a branched form as shown in order to prevent interference with the relative moving link connection part (3542).

[0244] Meanwhile, as described above, the pivot link (353) pivots around the first end (3531) and pushes or pulls the link connector (354) and the sliding block (316) to generate a forward / backward movement stroke (Ls) of the pop-up handle (31).

[0245] In order to keep the rotational amount of the pivot link (353) to a minimum while maximizing the forward / backward movement stroke (Ls) of the pop-up handle (31), the second end (3532) of the pivot link (353) may be arranged in a form that is inclined forward toward the pop-up handle (31).

[0246] That is, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the pivot link (353) may include a first extension portion (353a) extending radially from a first end portion (3531), and a second extension portion (353b) extending in a bent manner toward the pop-up handle (31) between the first extension portion (353a) and the second end portion (3532).

[0247] In this way, the second extension (353b) is formed to be bent or curved toward the pop-up handle (31), thereby greatly increasing the stroke (Ls) for pushing or pulling the pop-up handle (31).

[0248] [Movement of the pop-up handle according to the operation of the handle drive unit]

[0249] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 14 below, the process of moving the pop-up handle (31) forward to the deployed position (Pd) or backward to the retracted position (Pa) according to the operation of the handle driving unit (35) will be described.

[0250] First, Fig. 11 illustrates a situation in which the pop-up handle (31) automatically moves forward along the forward direction (Dfw) from the retracted position (Pa) to the deployed position (Pd).

[0251] Referring to Fig. 11, when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the retracted position (Pa) and power is supplied to the drive motor (351) in a stopped state, the drive motor (351) starts operating, and the drive motor (351) generates a forward rotational driving force.

[0252] Accordingly, forward rotation of the output shaft (3512) of the drive motor (351) is initiated, and forward rotation of the drive cam (352) forcibly connected to the output shaft (3512) can be initiated.

[0253] At this time, when forward rotation is initiated, the output shaft (3512) and the driving cam (352) can begin to rotate counterclockwise based on the illustrated state.

[0254] Meanwhile, as the forward rotation of the drive cam (352) is initiated, the forward revolution of the drive pin (3523) can be initiated.

[0255] As shown in Fig. 11, the driving pin (3523) positioned at the bottom of the guide groove (3533) of the pivot link (353) can begin to move relative to the top of the guide groove (3533).

[0256] As the drive pin (3523) rotates in the forward direction and moves relative to the guide groove (3533) from the bottom to the top, the drive pin (3523) forces the pivot link (353) to pivot forward about the first end (3531). That is, based on the illustrated state, the pivot link (353) pivots counterclockwise about the first end (3531).

[0257] At this time, as the pivot link (353) pivots around the first end (3531), the second end (3532) of the pivot link (353) also rotates forward, and the connecting pin (3534) connected to the second end (3532) also rotates forward.

[0258] Accordingly, the driving pin (3523) positioned at the bottom of the guide hole (3543) of the link connector (354) moves relative to the top of the guide hole (3543).

[0259] As the connecting pin (3534) moves relative to the guide hole (3543) from the bottom to the top, the connecting pin (3534) applies pressure to the link connector (354) and the sliding block (316) to push them forward. That is, the connecting pin (3534) applies a pressure to the link connector (354) to push the link connector (354) forward while moving relative to the guide hole (3543).

[0260] In this way, after the operation of the handle driving unit (35) is initiated and the driving cam (352) completes rotation to a preset rotation range, the power supply to the driving motor (351) is stopped and the forward movement of the pop-up handle (31) to the deployed position (Pd) can be completed.

[0261] Figure 12 shows a state in which the pop-up handle (31) has completed forward movement to the deployment position (Pd) and has stopped.

[0262] When the forward movement of the pop-up handle (31) to the deployment position (Pd) is completed in this way, the handle body (311) can be exposed entirely to the outside of the door (30), and the user can easily perform the action of opening or closing the door (30) while holding the handle body (311).

[0263] At this time, when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the deployment position (Pd) as shown in Fig. 14, the first extension (353a) of the pivot link (353) becomes a state in which it stands upright in a state close to vertical, and the driving pin (3523) of the driving cam (352) can be re-moved to the bottom of the guide groove (3533).

[0264] Accordingly, as shown, a virtual first extension line (Lc1) connecting the center (Cr) of the drive pin (3523) and the rotation center (Cc) of the shaft hole (3522), which is the rotation center of the cam body (3521), forms a predetermined intersection angle (a) with a virtual second extension line (Lc2) that is parallel to the movement direction (Drw / Dfw) of the pop-up handle (31) and passes through the rotation center (Cc) of the shaft hole (3522) of the cam body (3521), but the intersection angle (a) may be formed to be a very small angle.

[0265] For example, the intersection angle (a) can be 0 degrees or more and 5 degrees or less.

[0266] In this way, as a very small intersection angle (a) of less than 5 degrees is formed, a structure can be achieved in which the handle body (311) can be fixed without being dislodged from the deployed position (Pd) even when a user's pressure is applied to open or close the door (30) through the handle body (311) of the pop-up handle (31).

[0267] That is, a structure can be achieved in which the pop-up handle (31) can be effectively fixed in the deployed position (Pd) through the positional arrangement of the pivot link (353) and the driving cam (352) without a separate fixing means being provided to the pop-up handle (31) and the handle frame (30d) described later.

[0268] Figure 13 illustrates a situation in which the pop-up handle (31) automatically moves backward along the backward direction (Drw) from the deployed position (Pd) toward the retracted position (Pa).

[0269] Referring to Fig. 13, when a predetermined waiting time has elapsed after the pop-up handle (31) has moved to the deployment position (Pd) and stopped, power is supplied to the drive motor (351), operation of the drive motor (351) begins, and the drive motor (351) generates a reverse rotation driving force.

[0270] Accordingly, the reverse rotation of the output shaft (3512) of the drive motor (351) is initiated, and the reverse rotation of the drive cam (352) forcibly connected to the output shaft (3512) can be initiated.

[0271] At this time, when reverse rotation is initiated, the output shaft (3512) and the driving cam (352) can begin to rotate clockwise based on the illustrated state.

[0272] Meanwhile, as the reverse rotation of the drive cam (352) is initiated, the reverse revolution of the drive pin (3523) can be initiated.

[0273] As shown, the driving pin (3523) positioned at the bottom of the guide groove (3533) of the pivot link (353) can begin to move relative to the top of the guide groove (3533).

[0274] As the drive pin (3523) rotates in the reverse direction and moves relative to the guide groove (3533) from the bottom to the top, the drive pin (3523) forces the pivot link (353) to pivot rearward about the first end (3531). That is, based on the illustrated state, the pivot link (353) pivots clockwise about the first end (3531).

[0275] At this time, as the pivot link (353) pivots around the first end (3531), the second end (3532) of the pivot link (353) also rotates toward the rear, and the connecting pin (3534) connected to the second end (3532) also rotates toward the rear.

[0276] Accordingly, the driving pin (3523) positioned at the top of the guide hole (3543) of the link connector (354) moves relative to the bottom of the guide hole (3543).

[0277] As the connecting pin (3534) moves relative to the top of the guide hole (3543) toward the bottom, the connecting pin (3534) applies pressure to the link connector (354) to pull it rearward. That is, the connecting pin (3534) applies a pressure to the link connector (354) to pull it rearward while moving relative to the guide hole (3543).

[0278] In this way, after the operation of the handle driving unit (35) is initiated and the driving cam (352) completes the reverse rotation to the preset rotation range, the power supply to the driving motor (351) is cut off and the backward movement of the pop-up handle (31) to the retracted position (Pa) can be completed.

[0279] [Linear movement guide for pop-up handles]

[0280] As described above, the pop-up handle (31) is configured to move forward or backward by the forward driving force or reverse driving force of the handle driving unit (35).

[0281] However, as described above, the pop-up handle (31) can be configured to move horizontally or linearly along the forward direction (Dfw) or the backward direction (Drw).

[0282] Means for implementing such horizontal or linear movement may be provided in a pop-up handle (31) and a handle frame (30d) in which the pop-up handle (31) is accommodated.

[0283] As described above, the pop-up handle (31) may be configured to include a handle body (311) that is exposed to the outside of the door (30) when moved to the unfolded position (Pd) and becomes a state in which a user can grip it.

[0284] More specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 16, the handle body (311) may include a first body (3111) that extends in the left-right direction and is configured to be gripped by a user when opening and closing the door (30), and a second body (3112) that extends rearward from the first body (3111) and has a hollow shape.

[0285] At this time, a pair of second bodies (3112) may be integrally provided on both ends of the first body (3111) so as to form an overall T-shape.

[0286] At this time, the outer surfaces of a pair of second bodies (3112) may be provided with guide protrusions (3112a) that protrude in the left and right directions, respectively.

[0287] As shown, the guide protrusion (3112a) may have a shape that maintains a constant vertical thickness and extends in a direction parallel to the forward direction (Dfw) or backward direction (Drw) of the pop-up handle (31).

[0288] FIG. 15 illustrates a handle frame (30d) including a handle housing (30d4) in which a handle body (311) is movably accommodated.

[0289] The handle frame (30d) may include a panel portion (30d1) and an outer wall portion (30d3) that serve as a support surface or attachment surface to support the handle driving portion (35).

[0290] The panel portion (30d1) and the outer wall portion (30d3) of the handle frame (30d) can be aligned on the inner surface of the front panel (30a) or inner panel (30c) of the door (30).

[0291] Meanwhile, the handle frame (30d) may further include a handle housing (30d4) to movably accommodate and support the pop-up handle (31).

[0292] As illustrated in Fig. 15, the handle housing (30d4) may be provided with a rail groove (30d45) into which a guide projection (3112a) of the handle body (311) is inserted.

[0293] The rail home portion (30d45) can be formed on the left and right sides of the handle housing (30d4), and can be formed by partially protruding the left and right sides toward the outer wall portion (30d3).

[0294] Accordingly, when the guide protrusion (3112a) is inserted into the rail groove (30d45), the handle body (311) can move horizontally or linearly as the guide protrusion (3112a) moves along the rail groove (30d45).

[0295] Meanwhile, as shown, the handle housing (30d4) may be provided in a box shape with the front and rear sides open so that the handle body (311) can be accommodated as a whole when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the retracted position (Pa).

[0296] The open front surface of the handle housing (30d4) can be an opening (30d2) through which the handle body (311) enters and exits.

[0297] The opening (30d2) of the first handle housing (30d4) can be formed at a position corresponding to the opening (30e) of the front panel (30a) of the door (30) and can be formed through the opening to have a corresponding size.

[0298] Meanwhile, as illustrated, a cutting portion (30d44) may be formed on the lower surface (30d42) of the handle housing (30d4) to provide a movement path for the pivot link (353) of the handle driving unit (35). However, the upper surface (30d41) of the handle housing (30d4) may be formed to have a plate shape in which no cutting portion or the like is formed in order to maintain the rigidity of the handle housing (30d4).

[0299] [Detailed structure of the pop-up handle]

[0300] Figure 16 shows the detailed configuration of the pop-up handle (31) described above.

[0301] Referring to FIG. 16, a pop-up handle (31) provided in a dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a handle board (313) that is disposed on the front of a handle body (311) and on which at least one light source element (3131) is mounted, a light guide plate (314) that is disposed in front of the handle board (313) and diffuses visible light generated from the light source element (3131), and a decorative panel (315) that is disposed in front of the light guide plate (314).

[0302] The light source element (3131) generates visible light or light when the pop-up handle (31) moves, thereby visually informing the user that the pop-up handle (31) is operating normally.

[0303] The light source element (3131) can be applied without limitation as long as it is a means that can receive power and generate a predetermined amount of visible light, and can be an LED element as an example.

[0304] The present invention is not limited thereto, but will be described below based on an embodiment in which an LED element is applied as a light source element (3131).

[0305] Although Fig. 16 illustrates a configuration in which a total of 9 LED elements are mounted on the handle substrate (313), the present invention is not limited thereto, and the number of LED elements may be added or reduced depending on the size and shape of the first handle body (311).

[0306] Meanwhile, the light guide plate (314) serves to diffuse visible light generated from the light source element (3131).

[0307] More specifically, visible light generated from the light source element (3131) can be introduced through the rear surface of the light guide plate (314) and then dispersed within the light guide plate (314) and spread toward the edge of the light guide plate (314).

[0308] At this time, the decorative panel (315) placed in front of the light guide plate (314) is surface-treated to have the same texture as the front panel (30a) of the door (30) as described above.

[0309] Therefore, visible light introduced into the light guide plate (314) cannot pass through the decorative panel (315) and may be projected to the outside through the edge of the light guide plate (314).

[0310] In order to project such visible light, the edge of the light guide plate (314) may be exposed to the outside.

[0311] That is, the light guide plate (314) is placed between the decorative panel (315) and the front of the handle body (311), but the edge of the light guide plate (314) can be placed without being covered by them.

[0312] Accordingly, as illustrated, the light generated from the light source element (3131) can be effectively projected to the outside through the edge of the light guide plate (314) via the inside of the light guide plate (314), and the user can effectively check the operating ecology of the pop-up handle (31) through the light projected through the edge of the light guide plate (314) in this way.

[0313] In addition, since visible light is projected only through the edge of the light guide plate (314), a lighting effect similar to indirect lighting can be achieved, thereby improving the aesthetic sensibility of the user.

[0314] [Manual pop-up device with pop-up handle]

[0315] Meanwhile, the pop-up handle (31) of the dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a manual pop-up device (312) as a means for manually popping up the handle body (311).

[0316] As described above, the pop-up handle (31) provided in the dishwasher (1) according to the present invention is automatically driven using the power supplied to the handle driving unit (35).

[0317] Therefore, in a situation where the pop-up handle (31) cannot be automatically driven, such as in a situation where power cannot be supplied to the handle driving unit (35) due to a power outage, a situation where the power supply to the handle driving unit (35) is cut off due to a location where it cannot be connected to an external power source, or a situation where the handle driving unit (35) is broken, if the pop-up handle (31) is stopped in the retracted position (Pa), the user cannot open the door (30) using the pop-up handle (31).

[0318] Accordingly, the present invention may include a manual pop-up device (312) as a means for manually moving the pop-up handle (31) from the retracted position (Pa) to the deployed position (Pd).

[0319] For example, the manual pop-up device (312) may be configured to include a latch portion (3121) fixed to a handle body (311) and a latch holder (3122) fixed to a sliding block (316).

[0320] These latch parts (3121) and latch holders (3122) are configured to be detachably coupled to each other, and correspond to a configuration known in the art as a latch switch, a pop-up switch push button, etc.

[0321] Accordingly, as is known, when the latch part (3121) and the latch holder (3122) are mutually fastened and a pressing force is applied to the latch part (3121) so that the latch part (3121) is drawn into the inside of the latch holder (3122), the coupling between the latch part (3121) and the latch holder (3122) is released, and the latch part (3121) can be configured to be bounced in the opposite direction to the direction of the pressing force by the restoring force of the compression spring (3122c) arranged inside the latch holder (3122).

[0322] In this way, the minimum amount of pressure movement to release or reconnect the engagement state between the latch portion (3121) and the latch holder (3122) can be defined as the inlet stroke.

[0323] For example, the inlet stroke may be 2.3 mm to 2.7 mm, and preferably 2.5 mm.

[0324] At this time, as described later, the handle body (311) is placed in the handle housing (30d4) in a state in which it can move relative to the sliding block (316) forcibly connected to the link connector (354) of the handle driving unit (35).

[0325] Accordingly, when the connection between the latch portion (3121) and the latch holder (3122) is released, the handle body (311) is formed in a state where it can move relative to the handle housing (30d4) and the sliding block (316), so that the restoring force of the compression spring (3122c) can be transmitted to the handle body (311) through the latch portion (3121), and the front side of the handle body (311) can be popped up from the front panel (30a) of the door (30).

[0326] When a part of the front side of the handle body (311) pops up from the front panel (30a) of the door (30), the user can manually move the pop-up handle (31) by grasping the pop-up part using a finger or tool and moving it forward to the unfolding position (Pd).

[0327] The detailed process of manually moving the pop-up handle (31) using the manual pop-up device (312) is described below with reference to FIG. 20.

[0328] Figures 16 to 19 illustrate exemplary detailed configurations of a manual pop-up device (312) accommodated in a handle body (311).

[0329] As shown in Fig. 16, similarly to the handle driving unit (35), the manual pop-up device (312) can be provided as a pair, and the manual pop-up device (312) on the left and the manual pop-up device (312) on the right can be installed and fixed to the second body (3112) of the handle body (311) in a state in which they are arranged symmetrically with respect to the handle body (311).

[0330] Therefore, each manual pop-up device (312) can be configured identically to each other except that they are arranged symmetrically.

[0331] Therefore, the following description will be based on the manual pop-up device (312) placed on the left, and unless otherwise stated, the following contents can be equally applied to the manual pop-up device (312) placed on the right.

[0332] The latch portion (3121) and the latch holder (3122) constituting the manual pop-up device (312) can be respectively placed and accommodated in the second body (3112) constituting the handle body (311), more specifically, in the interior of the second body (3112) having a hollow shape.

[0333] In this way, the latch portion (3121) and the latch holder (3122) constituting the manual pop-up device (312) are configured to be entirely accommodated within the second body (3112), thereby effectively preventing the front-rear size of the handle body (311) from increasing as the manual pop-up device (312) is added.

[0334] In more detail, the latch portion (3121) can be directly fixed to the second body (3112) as an interior of the second body (3112) of the handle body (311).

[0335] Inside the second body (3112), an inner panel (3112b) that divides the internal space of the second body (3112) into a front space and a rear space may be integrally provided.

[0336] The flange (3121b) of the latch portion (3121) can be fixed to the protruding surface (3112b1) of the inner panel (3112b) of the second body (3112) through a fastening means such as a bolt or the like.

[0337] As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the protruding surface (3112b1) of the inner panel (3112b) can be configured to protrude toward the sliding block (316).

[0338] As described below, when the handle body (311) is pressed toward the inside of the door (30) for manual pop-up and moves relative to the sliding block (316) beyond the inlet stroke, the protruding surface (3112b1) can enter the inside of the sliding block (316).

[0339] In this way, by fixing the flange (3121b) of the latch portion (3121) to the protruding surface (3112b1) that enters the interior of the sliding block (316) during manual pop-up, the relative movement stroke of the handle body (311) for releasing the connection between the latch portion (3121) and the latch holder (3122) can be effectively secured while minimizing the front-back size of the latch portion (3121) and the latch holder (3122) and the front-back size of the sliding block (316).

[0340] Meanwhile, a latch projection (3121a) that protrudes and extends toward the latch holder (3122) may be integrally formed on the flange (3121b).

[0341] As illustrated, the latch projection (3121a) may be configured to be hooked onto a catch arm (3122b) provided in the latch holder (3122). To facilitate the formation and release of the hooked connection, the latch projection (3121a) may be formed to have a hook shape.

[0342] The latch holder (3122) may be fixed to the inside of a sliding block (316) accommodated in the second body (3112) so as to be positioned inside the second body (3112) and move relative to the second body (3112).

[0343] Similar to the second body (3112), the sliding block (316) may be provided in a hollow shape, and a connecting rib (3161) for supporting and fixing the latch holder (3122) may be integrally provided inside the sliding block (316).

[0344] The latch holder (3122) can be forcibly connected to the joining rib (3161) by forcibly fitting the holder body (3122a) of the latch holder (3122) into the joining rib (3161).

[0345] The front surface of the holder body (3122a) is entirely open, and a pair of catch arms (3122b) can be arranged to be movable in the forward and backward direction through the open front surface of the holder body (3122a).

[0346] The gap between a pair of catch arms (3122b) gradually narrows as it enters the interior of the holder body (3122a).

[0347] Accordingly, as the latch portion (3121) moves rearward to reconnect the latch portion (3121) with the latch holder (3122), the latch projection (3121a) presses the pair of catch arms (3122b) to move the catch arms (3122b) into the interior of the holder body (3122a), and as the pair of catch arms (3122b) move into the interior of the holder body (3122a) and the gap narrows, the latch projection (3121a) can be caught and connected to the pair of catch arms (3122b).

[0348] Meanwhile, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, a compression spring (3122c) that presses in a direction that pushes out a pair of catch arms (3122b) may be placed inside the holder body (3122a).

[0349] As described above, the compression spring (3122c) serves to generate a force that causes the latch portion (3121) and the handle body (311) to bounce in the direction opposite to the direction of the pressing force, that is, toward the outside of the door (30).

[0350] In addition, the manual pop-up device (312) can be applied with a configuration known in the art, and a detailed description of the configuration will be omitted below.

[0351] In this way, the pop-up handle (31) of the dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention is configured so that the handle body (311) is manually popped up when moved to the retracted position (Pa).

[0352] Therefore, it is necessary to configure the handle body (311) so that it does not pop up manually in a state where the user can grasp the pop-up handle (31), such as when it is moved from the retracted position (Pa) to the deployed position (Pd).

[0353] That is, if the handle body (311) is configured to allow manual pop-up when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the deployment position (Pd), there is a possibility that the handle body (311) may be manually popped up even in a situation where the user does not want it, which may cause inconvenience to the user.

[0354] In this way, the pop-up handle (31) of the dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a pop-up blocking unit (317) as a means for preventing manual pop-up of the handle body (311) from occurring when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the unfolded position (Pd).

[0355] The pop-up blocking unit (317) can be configured to prevent a manual pop-up from occurring when the handle body (311) is moved to the deployed position by limiting the relative movement of the handle body (311) with respect to the sliding block (316) so that the relative movement of the handle body (311) is not generated to be greater than the inlet stroke.

[0356] As illustrated in Fig. 17, the pop-up blocking unit (317) is configured to move together with the link connector (354) when the handle driving unit (35) is operated, and may be configured to include a main body (3171) that limits the relative movement amount of the handle body (311) to less than the inlet stroke when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the deployment position (Pd), and a pair of pin holes (3172) formed through the left and right sides of the main body (3171), respectively.

[0357] As illustrated, the main body (3171) of the pop-up blocker (317) may be positioned at the rear of the link connector (354), but may have a hollow box shape so that the link connection part (3542) of the link connector (354) can be accommodated inside.

[0358] Additionally, like the link connector (354), the main body (3171) of the pop-up blocker (317) can be accommodated inside the second body (3112).

[0359] At this time, in order to minimize interference with the pivot link (353) that rotates when the handle driving unit (35) is operated, the main body (3171) of the pop-up blocking unit (317) can be in a state where the front, rear, and bottom surfaces are entirely open.

[0360] Accordingly, the main body (3171) of the pop-up blocker (317) may have a cross-section in the shape of the letter ㄷ.

[0361] The front edge of the main body (3171) of the pop-up blocker (317) can function as a stopper that limits the relative movement of the handle body (311) with respect to the sliding block (316).

[0362] On the inner surface of the second body (3112), a catch (3112c) configured to collide with the front edge of the main body (3171) of the pop-up blocking part (317) when the handle body (311) moves relative to the sliding block (316) may be provided.

[0363] As illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19, the catch (3112c) may be formed lengthwise in the front-back direction at an upper edge formed by the upper surface and both sides meeting and at a lower edge formed by the lower surface and both sides meeting among the inner surfaces of the second body (3112).

[0364] The rear end of the catch (3112c) is configured to collide with the front edge of the main body (3171) of the pop-up blocker (317) depending on the relative movement amount of the handle body (311), and the relative movement of the handle body (311) can be limited by such collision.

[0365] At this time, a predetermined distance in the front-back direction can be formed between the rear end of the catch (3112c) and the front edge of the main body (3171), and this distance in the front-back direction can be set differently depending on the position of the handle body (311).

[0366] That is, when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the retracted position (Pa) as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, a first gap (D1) can be formed in the front-back direction between the rear end of the catch (3112c) and the front edge of the main body (3171).

[0367] In addition, as described later, when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the deployment position (Pd), a second gap (D2) can be formed in the front-back direction between the rear end of the catch (3112c) and the front edge of the main body (3171).

[0368] The second gap (D2) can be formed larger than the first gap (D1), and as the pop-up handle (31) moves from the retracted position (Pa) to the deployed position (Pd), the front-back distance between the rear end of the catch (3112c) and the front edge of the main body (3171) can be varied to gradually decrease from the first gap (D1) to the second gap (D2).

[0369] At this time, the first gap (D1) can be formed larger than the inlet stroke of the handle body (311).

[0370] Additionally, the second gap (D2) can be formed smaller than the inlet stroke of the handle body (311).

[0371] For example, the first gap (D1) may be 3 mm to 3.2 mm, and the second gap (D2) may be 0.5 mm to 1 mm.

[0372] In this way, the first gap (D1) is formed to be larger than the inlet stroke of the handle body (311), and the second gap (D2) is formed to be smaller than the inlet stroke of the handle body (311). Therefore, manual pop-up of the handle body (311) may be permitted in the retracted position (Pa), but manual pop-up of the handle body (311) may be blocked in the deployed position (Pd).

[0373] This is because in the unfolded position (Pd), the relative movement due to the pressing of the handle body (311) cannot occur more than the retraction stroke.

[0374] The pinholes (3172) formed on both sides of the main body (3171) can act as a means to allow the front-back distance between the rear end of the catch (3112c) and the front edge of the main body (3171) to be variable.

[0375] More specifically, as illustrated in FIGS. 17 to 19, similar to the pin guide hole (3543) of the link connector (354), the pin hole (3172) can be linearly extended on both sides of the main body (3171).

[0376] Both ends of the connecting pin (3534) can be inserted into the pinhole (3172).

[0377] Therefore, when the handle driving unit (35) is operated, the connecting pin (3534) is inserted into the pin guide hole (3543) and pin hole (3172) simultaneously and moves in the up-and-down direction.

[0378] However, the extension direction of the pinhole (3172) may be configured to form an intersecting angle with respect to the extension direction of the pin guide hole (3543).

[0379] That is, when the pin guide hole (3543) extends approximately vertically in the up-down direction, the pin hole (3172) of the pop-up blocker (317) can form an inclination angle that tilts toward the rear.

[0380] Therefore, the distance between the pinhole (3172) and the front edge of the main body (3171) gradually increases from the bottom to the top of the pinhole (3172).

[0381] In this way, by configuring the extension direction of the pin hole (3172) to form an inclined angle or an intersecting angle with respect to the extension direction of the pin guide hole (3543), the distance in the front-back direction between the rear end of the catch (3112c) and the front edge of the main body (3171) can be varied in conjunction with the movement of the connecting pin (3534).

[0382] More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, when the pop-up handle (31) is driven to move from the retracted position (Pa) toward the deployed position (Pd), the connecting pin (3534) located at the bottom of the pin guide hole (3543) and the bottom of the pin hole (3172) moves upward.

[0383] As the connecting pin (3534) moves upward, the pop-up blocker (317) and the link connector (354) move together toward the deployment position (Pd), but the pop-up blocker (317) moves relatively more than the link connector (354) due to the inclination angle of the pinhole (3172).

[0384] That is, relative movement occurs between the pop-up blocker (317) and the link connector (354), and accordingly, the front-back gap between the rear end of the catch (3112c) and the front edge of the main body (3171) can gradually decrease.

[0385] The gap gradually decreases in this way, and when the pop-up handle (31) is moved to the deployment position (Pd), it reaches the second gap (D2), and accordingly, the handle body (311) may be in a state where manual pop-up is not possible.

[0386] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 20 to 23, the process of manually popping up the handle body (311) from the retracted position (Pa) and the process of retracting the manually popped up handle body (311) to the original position will be described.

[0387] First, referring to FIG. 20, as described above, the manual pop-up device (312) can be provided as a pair, and the manual pop-up device (312) on the left and the manual pop-up device (312) on the right can be installed and fixed to a pair of second bodies (3112) that constitute the handle body (311).

[0388] Therefore, in order to manually pop up the pop-up handle (31) stopped in the retracted position (Pa), the user must press both ends of the handle body (311) to pull the handle body (311) toward the inside of the door (30).

[0389] At this time, if the two ends of the handle body (311) are individually and sequentially pressed, there is a possibility that the handle body (311) may not pop up effectively.

[0390] Therefore, when the handle body (311) is retracted so that the handle body (311) has a movement amount greater than the retraction stroke toward the inside of the door (30) by simultaneously pressurizing both ends of the handle body (311), the handle body (311) can be popped up toward the outside of the door (30), i.e., toward the front, by the action of the compression spring (3122c) of the manual pop-up device (312) described above.

[0391] By configuring the handle body (311) to pop up only when both ends of the handle body (311) are pressed simultaneously, it is possible to prevent the handle body (311) from popping up regardless of the user's intention.

[0392] When the handle body (311) is popped up by the manual pop-up device (312) due to the user's pressure, the decorative panel (315) and the light guide plate (314) portions constituting the front end surface of the pop-up handle (31) can protrude outward from the front panel (30a) of the door (30).

[0393] In this way, a part of the front side of the pop-up handle (31) protrudes outward from the front panel (30a) of the door (30), so that the user can manually move the handle body (311) to the unfolded position (Pd) using a finger or a tool, as shown in FIG. 21.

[0394] The user can effectively open the door (30) by pulling the handle body (311) forward by grasping the handle body (311) moved to the deployment position (Pd).

[0395] At this time, the sliding block (316) provided inside the handle body (311) is in a state where the connection between the latch portion (3121) and the latch holder (3122) is released as shown in FIG. 21, so only the handle body (311) can be moved relative to the unfolded position (Pd).

[0396] That is, the sliding block (316), link connector (354), and pop-up blocker (317) can be maintained in a stopped state at the retracted position (Pa).

[0397] Meanwhile, the manually popped-up handle body (311) can be moved back to the original retracted position (Pa) by the user simply pushing the handle body (311) toward the inside of the door (30).

[0398] At this time, when the user moves the handle body (311) away from the retracted position (Pa) and then applies pressure to retract the handle body (311) by the amount of the retraction stroke, the latch portion (3121) can be reattached to the latch holder (3122), and the handle body (311) can be reconnected to the sliding block (316) through the manual pop-up device (312).

[0399] Figures 22 and 23 illustrate a state in which the handle body (311) and the sliding block (316) are moved together from the unfolded position (Pd) and stopped by the operation of the handle driving unit (35).

[0400] In this way, when the sliding block (316), link connector (354), and pop-up blocker (317) together with the handle body (311) are moved forward to the deployment position (Pd), a second gap (D2) can be formed in the front-back direction between the rear end of the catch (3112c) provided on the inner surface of the second body (3112) and the front edge of the pop-up blocker (317).

[0401] At this time, as described above, the second gap (D2) is formed to be much smaller than the inlet stroke for disconnecting the latch portion (3121) and the latch holder (3122), so even if a pressing force is applied to the handle body (311) toward the inside of the door (30), the relative movement of the handle body (311) does not occur more than the second gap (D2).

[0402] Accordingly, the disconnection between the latch portion (3121) and the latch holder (3122) does not occur, and accordingly, a state in which manual pop-up of the handle body (311) does not occur can be maintained.

[0403] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings exemplified above, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed herein, and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. Furthermore, even if the operational effects according to the configuration of the present invention have not been explicitly described while describing the embodiments of the present invention, it is natural that the effects predictable by the corresponding configuration should also be acknowledged.

[0404]

[0405]

Claims

1. A tub that accommodates dishes and forms a washing space with an open front; A door for opening and closing the open front surface of the above tub; A handle automatically arranged to reciprocate between a deployed position protruding forward from the door and a retracted position accommodated entirely within the door; A handle driving unit disposed inside the door and reciprocating the handle from the retracted position toward the deployed position or from the deployed position toward the retracted position; and A manual pop-up device that pops up the handle so that the handle protrudes at least partially from the inside of the door toward the outside of the door while the handle is stopped in the retracted position; Including, The above manual pop-up device is a dishwasher that pops up the handle when the handle is pulled backward toward the inside of the door by a predetermined inlet stroke.

2. In paragraph 1, The above handle is, A handle body that reciprocates between the deployed position and the retracted position by the driving force of the handle driving unit; and A sliding block connected to the handle body so as to be movable relative to the handle body and transmitting the driving force of the handle driving unit to the handle body; Including, The above manual pop-up device is a dishwasher that pops up the door by moving the handle body forward relative to the sliding block when the handle is pulled back by the predetermined amount of the pull-in stroke.

3. In paragraph 2, The above manual pop-up device is, A latch portion fixed to the above handle body; and A latch holder fixed to the sliding block and detachably connected to the latch portion; Including, A dishwasher in which the above latch holder has a compression spring that presses the latch portion forward toward the outside of the door.

4. In paragraph 3, A dishwasher in which, when the handle body is moved rearward relative to the sliding block toward the inside of the door by the predetermined inlet stroke, the compression spring moves the latch portion forward toward the outside of the door.

5. In paragraph 4, Before the latch part moves forward by the compression spring A dishwasher in which the connection between the latch portion and the latch holder is released.

6. In paragraph 3, A dishwasher in which the latch portion and the latch holder are reconnected when the handle body is retracted rearward toward the inside of the door after the latch portion and the latch holder are disconnected.

7. In paragraph 5, When the above latch portion and the above latch holder are recombined, A dishwasher in which the handle body is prevented from moving forward relative to the outside of the door with respect to the sliding block.

8. In paragraph 3, The above handle body, A first body extending in the left-right direction and held by the user when opening and closing the door; and The second body extending rearward from the first body and having the sliding block accommodated in the internal space; Including, Inside the second body, an inner panel is provided that divides the internal space into a front space and a rear space. A dishwasher in which the inner panel has a protruding surface formed convexly toward the sliding block, and the latch portion is fixed to the protruding surface.

9. In paragraph 8, The above latch holder is a dishwasher fixed to the inside of the sliding block.

10. In paragraph 8, When the above handle body moves rearward relative to the sliding block toward the inside of the door by the predetermined inlet stroke, A dishwasher in which the above protruding surface is inserted into the interior of the above sliding block.

11. In paragraph 2, The above handle is, A pop-up blocker that allows or blocks pop-ups of the above handle body; Including more, When the above handle is moved to the above retreat position, the pop-up of the handle body is not blocked by the pop-up blocker. A dishwasher in which the pop-up of the handle body is blocked by the pop-up blocker when the handle is moved to the unfolded position.

12. In paragraph 11, The above pop-up blocking part is positioned inside the handle body so as to be able to move relative to the handle body, Inside the handle body, a catch is formed that is spaced apart from the pop-up blocker in front of the pop-up blocker and restricts the relative movement of the handle body with respect to the pop-up blocker. A dishwasher in which a first gap is formed between the catch and the pop-up blocker in the front-back direction when the handle is moved to the rearward position.

13. In paragraph 11, A dishwasher wherein the first gap is greater than the inlet stroke.

14. In paragraph 11, A dishwasher in which a second gap is formed between the catch and the pop-up blocker in the front-back direction when the handle is moved to the unfolded position.

15. In paragraph 13, A dishwasher wherein the second gap is smaller than the inlet stroke.

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