Dishwasher

Abstract

The dishwasher of the present disclosure comprises: a tub providing a washing chamber having a front opening; a door exposing / covering the washing chamber, the door comprising a front surface having an opening; a handle provided on the door, disposed behind the opening, and connected to the opening; and a handle cover disposed in the opening so as to cover the space of the handle, the upper portion of the handle cover being rotated so as to move into the space of the handle, thereby exposing the space of the handle. The center of rotation of the handle cover is disposed below the door opening.

Description

dishwasher

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher, and more particularly, to a dishwasher having a handle.

[0002] A dishwasher is a device that sprays washing water onto dishes and other objects stored in a tub to remove food residue and wash the objects.

[0003] The dishwasher has a door for opening and closing the tub. A handle is provided on the door for the user to open and close the door.

[0004] Most modern dishwashers have doors that open and close automatically after the wash cycle is complete, but in some cases, the user must open the door manually. Therefore, it is recommended to have a handle regardless of whether the door opens and closes automatically.

[0005] Typically, the handle has a space for the user's hand to fit through, and for user accessibility, this space is often exposed to the outside.

[0006] EP2096360B1 discloses a dishwasher equipped with a door handle. The door handle is rotatably mounted on the door. However, since the handle is configured to open the door by applying force to the user, the durability of the handle may be compromised.

[0007] DE102021102827B4 discloses a dishwasher having a control panel that opens and closes the door handle. The center of rotation of the control panel is located at the lower edge where the control panel and the handle space interlock. This structure allows the center of rotation to be exposed to the outside when the control panel is opened.

[0008] Additionally, the control equipment is located at the rear of the control panel. This structure makes it difficult for the control panel to secure a sufficient angle to open the handle space.

[0009] Korean Patent Publication No. 1020200082114 discloses a dishwasher having a recessed handle provided on the door for gripping when opening and closing the door.

[0010] The handle of the above dishwasher is provided in the form of a grip groove configured to be recessed to a predetermined depth from the front side of the door toward the rear side.

[0011]

[0012] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned and other problems.

[0013] Another object may be to provide a dishwasher having a handle cover for opening and closing the handle of the door.

[0014] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher in which the pivot of the handle cover is positioned at the bottom.

[0015] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher in which the rotational axis of the handle cover is not exposed to the outside.

[0016] Another object may be to provide a dishwasher in which the pivot of the handle cover is located on the inner side of the exterior of the door.

[0017] Another object may be to provide a dishwasher having a reduced gap between the rotational axis of the handle cover and the front surface of the door.

[0018] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher with easy user access to the handle.

[0019] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher that automatically opens and closes the handle cover.

[0020] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher that reduces the torque of the motor required to rotate the handle cover.

[0021] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher in which the handle cover is structurally capable of rotating smoothly.

[0022] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher having an efficient arrangement of a rotating handle cover in a narrow space inside the door.

[0023] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher having handles and handle covers that extend in the width direction of the door.

[0024] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher with a large opening angle of the handle cover.

[0025] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher that prevents the user's fingers from being caught in the automatically opening and closing handle cover.

[0026] Another object may be to provide a dishwasher having a handle cover that not only opens and closes automatically, but can also be opened and closed manually by a user.

[0027] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher in which the movement of the handle cover is not restricted to the motor when the user manually opens and closes the handle cover.

[0028] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher in which the handle cover is closed by elastic force.

[0029] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher with a handle cover that opens quickly when opened and closes slowly when closed.

[0030] Another purpose may be to provide a dishwasher having improved aesthetics in appearance.

[0031] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0032]

[0033] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described purpose, a dishwasher is provided including a door, a handle provided on the door, and a handle cover for opening and closing the handle.

[0034] The above dishwasher may be equipped with a tub. The tub may provide a washing compartment.

[0035] The above washing room can be opened forward.

[0036] The above door can open and close the above washing room.

[0037] The above door may include a front surface. The front surface may have an opening.

[0038] The above door may include a door cover providing the front surface.

[0039] The door cover may include a rim defining a lower edge of the opening.

[0040] The handle may be positioned at the rear of the opening. The handle may have a space connected to the opening.

[0041] The above handle cover can close the space of the handle. The handle cover can be placed in the opening to close the space of the handle.

[0042] The handle cover can open the space of the handle. The handle cover can rotate in a first direction so as to be drawn into the space of the handle. The handle cover can open the space of the handle by rotating in the first direction.

[0043] The handle cover can be rotated so that the upper portion of the handle cover is inserted into the space of the handle. At this time, the direction of rotation of the handle cover may be referred to as the first direction. The handle cover can be rotated in the first direction to open the space of the handle.

[0044] The above handle cover may include a cover part that closes the opening.

[0045] The above handle cover may include a boss surrounding an axis that provides the center of rotation.

[0046] The center of rotation of the above handle cover may be positioned lower than the door opening.

[0047] The center of rotation of the above handle cover may be located at the rear of the above door cover.

[0048] The above rim may be positioned above the rotation center of the handle cover.

[0049] The rim may be positioned vertically above at least a portion of the boss. The rim may surround at least a portion of the boss.

[0050] The handle cover may further include a recessed groove recessed rearward from the lower portion of the cover part. When the handle cover closes the space of the handle, the rim may be positioned in the recess.

[0051] The front surface of the handle cover and the front surface of the door cover can be arranged on the same plane.

[0052] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a dishwasher may be provided, comprising: a tub providing a washing room open to the front; a door including a front surface having an opening and opening and closing the washing room; a handle provided on the door, the handle being arranged at a rear side of the opening and having a space connected to the opening; and a handle cover arranged at the opening and closing the space of the handle and rotating so that an upper portion thereof is drawn into the space of the handle to open the space of the handle, wherein a center of rotation of the handle cover is arranged lower than the door opening.

[0053] The dishwasher may further include a drive system. The drive system may rotate the handle cover.

[0054] The above drive system may further include a drive unit that rotates the handle cover.

[0055] The above driving unit may include a motor.

[0056] The above driving unit may include a pinion coupled to the motor shaft of the motor and rotating integrally with the motor shaft.

[0057] The above driving unit may include an actuator that rotates by the motor.

[0058] The above driving unit may include a connector that rotates by the motor. The connector may have a lever part that contacts the actuator.

[0059] The connector can rotate the handle cover. The connector can be connected to the handle cover so as to rotate together when the handle cover rotates.

[0060] The lever part may be arranged on the first direction side with respect to the actuator. The lever part may rotate together with the actuator when the actuator rotates in the first direction.

[0061] The above connector may not be bound to the actuator when the handle cover rotates in the first direction.

[0062] The above connector may have a space extending in a second direction opposite to the first direction from the lever part based on the rotation center of the actuator.

[0063] The connector may include a body having the lever part, and a groove extending from the lever part in a second direction opposite to the first direction based on the rotation center of the actuator, and into which the actuator is inserted.

[0064] The above actuator may include a first gear part that meshes with the pinion.

[0065] The above first gear part may be positioned forward of the pinion.

[0066] The actuator may include an arm extending outwardly from the gear part along a rotational radius of the actuator. The arm may rotate integrally with the gear part.

[0067] The actuator may include a finger that is inserted into the connector groove.

[0068] The above finger may protrude from the arm.

[0069] The above driving unit may include a driving unit shaft that provides a center of rotation of the above connector and the above actuator. The driving unit shaft may pass through the above connector and the above actuator.

[0070] The driving unit may include a link connected to the handle cover. The driving unit may include a link rotatably connected to the handle cover. The link may be connected to the handle cover at a position spaced from the center of rotation of the handle cover.

[0071] The above link may have a first connecting portion connected to the handle cover and a second connecting portion connected to the connector.

[0072] The first connecting portion may be connected to the handle cover at a position radially spaced from the center of rotation of the handle cover.

[0073] The dishwasher may further include a bracket coupled to the handle cover and connected to the first connecting portion of the link.

[0074] The above first connecting portion can be rotatably coupled to the bracket.

[0075] The above bracket can be spaced radially from the center of rotation of the handle cover.

[0076] When the handle cover is open, the angle between the handle cover and the link may be less than 90 degrees. When the handle cover is opened, the angle between the handle cover and the link may be less than 90 degrees. When the handle cover rotates between the closed state and the open state, the angle between the handle cover and the link may be less than 90 degrees.

[0077] The connector may be connected to the link. The connector may include a joint extending from the body and connected to the second connecting portion.

[0078] The second connecting portion may be rotatably coupled to the joint.

[0079] The center of rotation of the above connector can be arranged between the motor shaft of the above motor and the center of rotation of the above handle cover in the vertical direction.

[0080] The center of rotation of the above connector can be placed between the motor shaft of the above motor and the center of rotation of the above handle cover in the front-rear direction.

[0081] The connector may include a second gear part. The second gear part may be disposed on an outer surface of the body.

[0082] The above drive system may include a rotary damper that engages the second gear part of the connector.

[0083] The rotary damper may be a one-way damper that applies force to the connector in a second direction opposite to the first direction when the connector rotates in the first direction. The rotary damper may also be a two-way damper that applies force to the connector in the first direction when the connector rotates in the second direction.

[0084] The handle cover may extend in the width direction of the door. The two ends of the handle cover may be adjacent to the two ends of the door, respectively. Alternatively, the two ends of the handle cover may extend to the two ends of the door.

[0085] The above motor may be positioned lower than the handle cover.

[0086] The length of the driving part in the width direction of the door may be longer than the gap between the side edge of the door and the side edge of the handle cover.

[0087] The above drive system may further include a spring that applies an elastic force to the handle cover in a direction in which the handle cover closes the space of the handle. The spring may apply a force to the handle cover in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0088] The above spring may be arranged between the side end of the handle cover and the side end of the door.

[0089] The housing of the handle may include a spring housing arranged on the outside of the handle cover in the width direction of the door. The spring housing may accommodate the spring.

[0090] The handle cover may include a handle cover axis that provides a center of rotation of the handle cover. The handle cover axis may extend in the width direction of the door. The handle cover axis may penetrate a side wall of the housing.

[0091] The above drive system may include a holder connected to the spring. The holder may be coupled to the handle cover shaft and rotate together with the handle cover shaft. The holder may be disposed in the spring housing.

[0092] The above handle cover may include a decoration made of the same material as the above door cover.

[0093] When the handle cover closes the space of the handle, the front surface of the deco and the door cover can be arranged on the same plane.

[0094] The above handle cover may include a body. The above decoration may be placed at the front of the body.

[0095] The handle may further include a housing that provides space for the handle. The handle may be positioned inside the door.

[0096] The above handle cover can be rotatably coupled to the housing.

[0097] The housing may include a side wall.

[0098] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a dishwasher may be provided having a handle cover that moves along a side wall of a housing of a handle. The housing may include an arc-shaped guide provided on the side wall. The handle cover may include a cover part positioned at the opening when the handle cover closes the space of the handle, and a slider provided at a side end of the cover part that moves along the guide.

[0099] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided that includes a driving unit that rotates a handle cover. The motor of the driving unit can be positioned below the handle cover.

[0100] The above driving unit may be located on the lower side of the housing.

[0101] The housing may include a bottom surface facing the rear surface of the handle cover when the handle cover is in an open state.

[0102] The housing may include a through hole provided in the bottom surface.

[0103] The link of the above driving unit can be connected to the handle cover by passing through the through hole.

[0104] The housing may include a step provided on the lower side of the front end of the bottom surface. The housing may include an axis holder that protrudes from the step and supports the rotation axis of the handle cover.

[0105] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided that includes a handle housing, a handle cover for opening and closing the handle housing, and a drive system for rotating the handle cover.

[0106] The handle housing may be provided on the door. The handle housing may provide a space connected to the opening of the door. The handle housing may be positioned at the rear of the opening.

[0107] The handle cover can be positioned in the opening to close the handle housing. The handle cover can open the handle housing by rotating in a first direction in which the upper portion thereof is inserted into the interior of the handle housing.

[0108] The above drive system may include a drive unit that rotates the handle cover in a first direction, including a motor.

[0109] The above motor may be placed on the lower side of the handle housing.

[0110] The above drive system may include a spring that applies force to the handle cover in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0111] The above spring may be arranged on the outside of the handle housing in the width direction of the door.

[0112] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided, including a handle cover that opens and closes a space of a handle, and a drive system that rotates the handle cover. The drive system can include: a motor; an actuator that rotates by the motor to rotate the handle cover in a first direction; and a spring that applies a force to the handle cover in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0113] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided, including a handle cover for opening and closing a space of a handle, and a drive system for rotating the handle cover. The drive system may include: a motor; an actuator that rotates by the motor to rotate the handle cover in a first direction; and a strap that connects the actuator and the handle cover, and is bent when the handle cover rotates in the first direction by an external force while the motor is stopped.

[0114] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a dishwasher comprises: a tub that accommodates dishes and forms a washing space with an open front surface; a door that opens and closes the open front surface of the tub while rotating; a handle portion that is concavely formed toward the inside of the door from an opening formed in the front surface of the door so that a user can grip it when opening and closing the door; and a cover portion that opens and closes the opening of the door while rotating within the handle portion; wherein the cover portion can be rotatably connected to the door between a forwardmost position that is a position that is rotated the most forward and a rearmost position that is a position that is rotated the most rearward.

[0115] Additionally, when the cover part is moved to the forwardmost position, the opening can be closed by the cover part.

[0116] Additionally, when the cover part is moved to the forwardmost position, a step may not be formed between the front end surface of the cover part and the front surface of the door.

[0117] In addition, the front end surface of the cover portion may have a surface having the same texture as the front surface of the door.

[0118] Additionally, when the cover part is moved to the rearmost position, the opening can be opened entirely.

[0119] In addition, the cover part may include a return spring that applies a restoring force to the cover part so that the cover part rotates toward the forwardmost position; and a driving part that blocks or allows the cover part to rotate toward the forwardmost position by the return spring in conjunction with the rotation angle of the door.

[0120] In addition, the door is rotatably arranged between a closed position that closes the open front face of the tub and a fully open position that completely opens the open front face of the tub, and when the door is rotated at a rotation angle smaller than a rotation angle of a cover release position defined between the closed position and the fully open position, the driving unit can prevent the cover from rotating toward the forwardmost position.

[0121] Additionally, when the door is rotated at a rotation angle greater than or equal to the rotation angle of the cover release position, the driving unit may allow the cover unit to rotate toward the forwardmost position.

[0122] Additionally, the rotation angle of the cover release position can be 45 to 55 degrees.

[0123] In addition, the driving unit may include a rack gear connected to the cover unit and rotating together with the cover unit; a first pinion gear meshed with a first gear portion of the rack gear and rotating in an opposite direction to the rack gear; a second pinion gear meshed with the first pinion gear and rotating in the same direction as the rack gear; a shaft rotatably supporting the second pinion gear; a one-way clutch controlling the connection between the second pinion gear and the shaft; a ratchet gear rotatably supported on the shaft and rotating integrally with the shaft; and a latch link having a latch portion that is rotatably arranged around a rotation axis disposed at a position spaced downward from the shaft and is engaged with or disengaged from the ratchet gear in accordance with a rotation angle of the door.

[0124] In addition, by the one-way clutch, when the cover part rotates backward, the rotational force of the second pinion gear is blocked from being transmitted to the shaft, and when the cover part rotates forward, the rotational force of the second pinion gear is allowed to be transmitted to the shaft.

[0125] In addition, the clasp link further includes a weight balance arranged on the opposite side of the clasp part with the rotation axis as the center, and the entire center of gravity of the clasp link can be formed on the weight balance.

[0126] In addition, when the door is in the closed position, an imaginary extension line connecting the rotation axis of the latch link and the center of gravity forms a predetermined intersection angle with respect to the vertical direction, and the predetermined intersection angle may be greater than or equal to the rotation angle of the cover release position.

[0127] In addition, the driving unit may further include a rotary damper that reduces the rotational speed of the rack gear, and the rack gear may have a second gear unit that meshes with the damper gear of the rotary damper.

[0128] Additionally, the return spring may include a torsion spring having one end connected to the door and the other end connected to the cover portion.

[0129] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0130]

[0131] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher having a handle cover for opening and closing a door handle can be provided.

[0132] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher may be provided in which the rotation axis of the handle cover is located at the bottom.

[0133] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided in which the rotation axis of the handle cover is not exposed to the outside.

[0134] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher may be provided in which the rotation axis of the handle cover is located on the inner side of the exterior of the door.

[0135] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided in which the gap between the rotational axis of the handle cover and the front surface of the door is reduced.

[0136] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher having an easily accessible handle for a user can be provided.

[0137] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher that automatically opens and closes a handle cover can be provided.

[0138] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided in which the torque of a motor required to rotate a handle cover is reduced.

[0139] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided in which a handle cover can structurally rotate smoothly.

[0140] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided in which a configuration for rotating a handle cover is efficiently arranged in a narrow space inside a door.

[0141] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided in which a handle and a handle cover are extended in the width direction of the door.

[0142] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher having a handle cover with a large opening angle can be provided.

[0143] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided that prevents a user's finger from being caught in an automatically opening and closing handle cover.

[0144] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher may be provided having a handle cover that can be opened and closed automatically as well as manually by a user.

[0145] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided in which movement of the handle cover is not restricted to the motor when a user manually opens and closes the handle cover.

[0146] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided in which a handle cover is closed by elastic force.

[0147] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher can be provided in which a handle cover opens quickly when opened and closes slowly when closed.

[0148] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a dishwasher having improved aesthetics of appearance can be provided.

[0149]

[0150] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0151] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a state in which the door of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is open.

[0152] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the interior of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing the door of the dishwasher disclosed in Fig. 1 with the handle cover open.

[0154] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the door illustrated in FIG. 4, showing a handle cover and a driving unit of a dishwasher according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0155] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the housing and handle cover of the handle shown in Figure 5.

[0156] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the interior of a door of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the rear.

[0157] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a driving unit of a dishwasher according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0158] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the operation of the driving unit illustrated in FIG. 8, where (a) shows a state in which the handle cover closes the handle, (b) shows a state in which the driving unit rotates the handle cover to open the handle, and (c) shows a state in which the driving unit rotates the handle cover in the direction of closing the handle in the open state of the handle cover and the handle cover closes the handle.

[0159] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the driving unit illustrated in Fig. 9.

[0160] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the operation of opening the handle cover while the driving unit is stopped. (a) shows the state where the handle cover closes the handle, and (b) shows the state where the handle cover is opened while the driving unit is stopped.

[0161] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the driving unit illustrated in Fig. 11.

[0162] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the connection relationship between the handle cover, link, and connector when the handle cover is open.

[0163] Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a handle cover and a driving unit of a dishwasher according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0164] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a driving unit of a dishwasher according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, where (a) shows a state in which the handle cover closes the handle, and (b) shows a state in which the driving unit rotates the handle cover to open the handle.

[0165] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the handle cover being opened while the driving part of the dishwasher disclosed in Fig. 15 is stopped.

[0166] FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 are cross-sectional perspective views showing a handle cover and a driving unit of a dishwasher according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0167] Figure 19 is a rear perspective view of the drive unit.

[0168] Fig. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the driving unit shown in Fig. 19.

[0169] Figure 21 is a side view of the driving unit in a situation where the rearward rotation of the cover part due to external force is permitted when the door is in the closed position, but the forward rotation is blocked.

[0170] Figure 22 is a side view showing the driving unit in a situation where forward rotation of the cover portion is permitted when the door reaches the cover release position.

[0171] Fig. 23 is a partial enlarged view of Fig. 21, and is a drawing for explaining the relative arrangement angle and rotation angle of the ratchet gear and latch link of the driving part in a situation where the forward rotation of the cover part is blocked.

[0172] Fig. 24 is a partial enlarged view of Fig. 22, and is a drawing for explaining the relative arrangement angle and rotation angle of the ratchet gear and latch link of the driving unit in a situation where forward rotation of the cover unit is permitted.

[0173] FIGS. 25 and 26 are partial enlarged views of a ratchet gear and a latch link for explaining an engagement structure between a ratchet gear and a latch portion of a latch link according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0174]

[0175] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components are given the same reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0176] The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing specifications, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

[0177] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0178] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0179] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0180] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0181] Dishwasher General

[0182] Referring to FIG. 1, the dishwasher includes a tub (1). The tub (1) may provide a washing chamber (11). The washing chamber (11) may be provided on the inside of the tub (1).

[0183] The tub (1) may have a hexahedral shape with one side open. The front of the tub (1) may be open.

[0184] The washing room (11) can be opened forward (see Fig. 2). The direction facing rearward from the opening of the washing room (11), i.e., the front-back direction, can be referred to as the depth direction of the washing room (11).

[0185] The dishwasher may include a door (2) for opening and closing the washing compartment (11). The door (2) may be provided at the front of the tub (1). The door (2) may be rotatably coupled to the front of the tub (1).

[0186] The lower portion of the door (2) may be coupled to the tub (1). The door (2) may be hinged to the front lower portion of the tub (1). The dishwasher may include a hinge (28) that rotatably couples the door (2) to the tub (1).

[0187] The door (2) can be opened so that the upper part of the door (2) faces forward (see Fig. 2). The door (2) can be rotated in a first direction (d1, see Fig. 10) in which the handle cover (4) described later is opened to close the tub (1). The door (2) can be rotated in a second direction (d2, see Fig. 10) in which the handle cover (4) described later is closed to open the tub (1).

[0188]

[0189] The door (2) may include a front surface (211). An opening (20, see Fig. 4) may be provided in the front surface (211) of the door (2).

[0190] The door (2) may include a door cover (21). The door cover (21) may provide a front surface (211) of the door (2). The door cover (21) may provide a side surface (218) of the door (2). The door cover (21) may provide an upper surface (213) of the door (2).

[0191] The dishwasher may include a handle (3). The handle (3) may provide a space that connects to an opening (20) of the door (2). The handle (3) may be positioned at the rear of the opening (20).

[0192] The handle (3) may be provided at the front of the door (2). The handle (3) may be provided at the upper portion of the door (2). The handle (3) may be provided at the upper portion of the front surface (211) of the door. The upper portion (212) of the front surface of the door (2) may be arranged above the handle (3).

[0193] The dishwasher may include a handle cover (4). The handle cover (4) can open and close the handle (3).

[0194] The dishwasher may include a base (12). The base (12) may provide a bottom surface of the dishwasher.

[0195] The bottom of the tub (1) may be spaced upward from the base (12). A space (13) may be provided between the bottom of the tub (1) and the base (12). Components such as a PCB (14, or control unit), a sump (61) described below, and a pump (62) may be placed in the space. Hereinafter, the space (13) is referred to as a machine room (13).

[0196] An interface (23) may be provided on the upper portion of the door (2). The interface (23) may be arranged on the upper side (213) of the door.

[0197] The interface (23) can receive commands from a user. The interface (23) can provide the user with information related to the dishwasher.

[0198] For example, a user can input commands for washing operations and options through the interface (23). For example, the interface (23) can display information about washing operations and options.

[0199] The control unit (14) can control the dishwasher. The control unit (14) can receive commands from the user through the interface (23). The control unit (14) can provide information about the dishwasher to the user through the interface (23).

[0200] The configurations described below can be controlled by the control unit (14).

[0201]

[0202] Referring to FIG. 2, the dishwasher may further include a casing (15). The casing (15) may be positioned on the outside of the tub (1).

[0203] The casing (15) may include a cabinet (16) and a top plate (17). The cabinet (16) may cover a side wall of the tub (1). The top plate (17) may cover the upper surface of the tub (1).

[0204] As described above, the washing room (11) is opened forward, and the door (2) can open and close the washing room (11).

[0205] The dishwasher may include a rack (67) placed in the washing room (11). Objects to be washed, such as bowls, plates, and cutlery, may be placed on the rack (67).

[0206] The rack (67) may include a first rack (671). The first rack (671) may be placed in the lower portion of the washing room (11).

[0207] The rack (67) may include a second rack (672) arranged above the first rack (671). The height of the position where the second rack (672) is arranged may be adjusted.

[0208] The dishwasher may include a spray arm (661, 662). The spray arm (661, 662) may spray washing water toward the rack (67).

[0209] The spray arms (661, 662) can be placed on the lower side of the rack (67). The spray arms (661, 662) can spray washing water upward.

[0210] The injection arm (661, 662) may include a first injection arm (661). The first injection arm (661) may be placed on the lower side of the first rack (671).

[0211] The injection arm (661, 662) may include a second injection arm (662). The second injection arm (662) may be positioned on the lower side of the second rack (672).

[0212] The door (2) can be opened so that the upper part of the door (2) faces forward. The door (2) can open the tub (1) by rotating the handle cover (4) in the second direction (d2, see FIG. 10) described later, in which the handle (3) is closed.

[0213] The door (2) may include an inner panel (22). The inner panel (22) may face upward when the door (2) is open. When a user places an object to be washed on the rack, water falling from the object to be washed or the rack may fall on the inner panel (22).

[0214] The dishwasher may include a steam nozzle (665). The steam nozzle (665) may be provided on the door (2). The steam nozzle (665) may be provided on the inner panel (22).

[0215] The dishwasher may include a dispenser (24). The dispenser (24) may be provided in the inner panel (22).

[0216]

[0217] Referring to FIG. 3, the rack (67) can be pulled out forward from the washing room (11). The rack (67) can be brought in rearward and placed in the washing room (11).

[0218] The rack (67) may include a third rack (33). The third rack (33) may be arranged above the first rack (671). The third rack (33) may be arranged above the second rack (672). The third rack (33) may be arranged at the uppermost side among the plurality of racks (67).

[0219] The spray nozzle (661, 662) may include a nozzle. The nozzle may spray the washing water.

[0220] The injection rock (661, 662) may be provided to be rotatable.

[0221] The first spray arm (661) can be placed on the lower side of the first rack (671). The first spray arm (661) can spray washing water toward the first rack (671).

[0222] The first spray arm (661) may be provided to be rotatable. The first spray arm (661) may be rotated by a motor. Alternatively, the first spray arm (661) may be rotated by the counter force of the force with which the washing water is sprayed from the first nozzle (6613).

[0223] The second spray arm (662) can be placed on the lower side of the second rack (672). The second spray arm (662) can be coupled to the second rack (672). The second spray arm (662) can spray washing water toward the second rack (672).

[0224] The second spray arm (662) may be provided to be rotatable. It may rotate by the reaction force of the force with which the washing water is sprayed from the second nozzle (6623). Alternatively, the second spray arm (662) may rotate by a motor.

[0225] The dishwasher may include a top nozzle (663). The top nozzle (663) may be positioned above the rack (67). The top nozzle (663) may be provided on the ceiling of the washing room (11). The top nozzle (663) may spray washing water downward. The top nozzle (663) may spray washing water toward the rack (67). The top nozzle (663) may spray washing water toward the third rack (33).

[0226] The door (2) may include a door cover (21). When the door (2) closes the washing room (11), the door cover (21) may be exposed to the outside.

[0227] The door (2) may include an inner panel (22). When the door (2) closes the washing room (11), the inner panel (22) may face the washing room (11). When the door (2) closes the washing room (11), the inner panel (22) may provide the front surface of the washing room (11).

[0228] The dishwasher may include a dispenser (24). The dispenser (24) may contain detergent. The dispenser (24) may contain tablet-type detergent. Alternatively, the dispenser may contain powdered detergent.

[0229] Meanwhile, some of the nozzles of the spray gun (661, 662) may be directed toward the dispenser (24) provided in the door (2).

[0230] The dishwasher can supply steam to the washing chamber (11). The steam nozzle (665) can supply steam to the washing chamber (11). The steam nozzle (665) is provided at the front of the washing chamber (11) and can supply steam toward the rear. The steam nozzle (665) is provided at the lower part of the washing chamber (11) and can supply steam toward the upper part. The steam nozzle (665) is provided at the lower part of the front of the washing chamber (11) and can supply steam toward the upper part and rear.

[0231] A steam nozzle (665) may be provided on the door (2). The steam nozzle (665) may be provided on the inner panel (22). The steam nozzle (665) may be provided on the lower part of the inner panel (22). The steam nozzle (665) may be arranged at an angle with respect to the horizontal.

[0232] The dishwasher may include a sump (61). The sump (61) may receive water from an external water source such as a tap. The sump (61) may store water supplied from an external source.

[0233] The sump (61) can receive water from an external water source through a water supply pipe (64). The water supply pipe (64) can be connected to the external water source. The water supply pipe (64) can connect the external water source and the sump (61).

[0234] The water supply valve (641) can control the water supply pipe (64). The water supply valve (641) can control the flow of water from an external water source to the sump (61).

[0235] A sump (61) may be provided on the lower side of the tub (1). The sump (61) may be arranged on the lower side of the bottom of the tub (1). The sump (61) may be arranged in the machine room (26). The sump (61) may be connected to the bottom of the tub (1) and may be arranged in the machine room (26).

[0236] The sump (61) can store water drained from the washing room (11).

[0237] The dishwasher may include a filter (611). The filter (611) may filter out foreign substances from water flowing from the washing chamber (11) to the sump (61). The filter (611) may be placed in the sump.

[0238] The dishwasher may include a pump (62) that supplies wash water to the wash chamber (11). The pump (62) may pump water from the sump (61). The pump (62) may pump water and supply it to the spray arms (661, 662). The pump (62) may pump water and supply it to the top nozzle (663).

[0239] The pump (62) may include an impeller (623), a pump housing (625) that accommodates the impeller (623), and a cleaning motor (621) that rotates the impeller (623). The cleaning motor (621) may be a motor whose rotational speed may be variable. For example, the cleaning motor (621) may be a brushless DC motor (BLDC motor).

[0240] The dishwasher may include a heater (63) for heating wash water. The heater (63) may be connected to a pump (62). The heater (63) may heat water introduced into the pump (62).

[0241] The switching valve (65) can be connected to the washing pump (62). The switching valve (65) can receive washing water from the pump (62).

[0242] The switching valve (65) can be connected to the spray arms (661, 662) and the top nozzle (663). The switching valve (65) can distribute the washing water. The switching valve (65) can selectively supply the washing water to at least one of the first spray arm (661), the second spray arm (662), and the top nozzle (663).

[0243] The pump inlet pipe (642) can connect the sump (61) and the pump (62). When the pump (62) operates, water in the sump (61) can flow into the pump (62) through the inlet pipe (642).

[0244] The discharge pipe (644) can be connected to the pump (62). The discharge pipe (644) can guide water discharged from the pump (62) toward the spray arms (661, 662) and the top nozzle (663).

[0245] The discharge pipe (644) can be connected to the switching valve (65). The discharge pipe (644) can connect the pump (62) and the switching valve (65).

[0246] The connecting pipes (651, 652, 653) can connect the injection rock (661, 662) and the top nozzle (663) to the switching valve (65).

[0247] The connecting pipes (651, 652, 653) may include a first connecting pipe (651) connected to a first injection arm (661). The first connecting pipe (651) may be provided inside the first injection arm (661).

[0248] The connecting pipes (651, 652, 653) may include a second connecting pipe (652) connected to a second injection arm (662). The second connecting pipe (652) may be provided on the rear wall of the tub (1).

[0249] The connecting pipes (651, 652, 653) may include a third connecting pipe (653) connected to the top nozzle (663). The third connecting pipe (653) may be provided on the upper surface (114) of the tub (1).

[0250] When the pump (62) operates, the washing water discharged from the pump (62) can flow into the switching valve (65). The washing water flowing into the switching valve (65) can flow into at least one of the plurality of connecting pipes (651, 652, 653) by the switching valve (65).

[0251] When the washing water flows into the first connecting pipe (651), the washing water can be sprayed from the nozzle (6613) of the first spray arm (661). When the washing water flows into the second connecting pipe (652), the washing water can be sprayed from the nozzle (6623) of the second spray arm (662). When the washing water flows into the third connecting pipe (653), the washing water can be sprayed from the top nozzle (663).

[0252] Washing water sprayed into the washing room (11) collects on the floor and flows into the sump (61). Washing water flowing into the sump (61) is sprayed into the washing room by the pump (62) and can be circulated again.

[0253] The sump (61) can be connected to a drain pump (78). A drain pipe (79) can connect the sump (61) and the drain pump (78). When the drain pump (78) operates, water in the sump (61) can be drained outside the dishwasher.

[0254]

[0255] <Doors, handles and handle covers>

[0256] Referring to FIG. 4, a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a door (2), a handle (3) provided on the door (2), and a handle cover (4) for opening and closing the handle (3).

[0257] The door (2) may include a door cover (21) providing a front surface (211), an upper surface (213), and a side surface (218). The front surface (211) of the door (2) may include an upper portion (212) disposed above the handle (3).

[0258] An interface (23) can be placed on the upper surface (213) of the door (2).

[0259] The door (2) may include an inner panel (27). The inner panel (27) may have a narrower width in the left-right direction compared to the door cover (21). Hereinafter, the left-right direction is also referred to as the width direction of the door.

[0260] The front surface (211) of the door (2) may have an opening (20).

[0261] The handle (3) may be positioned at the rear of the opening (20). The handle (3) may have a space (30) connected to the opening (20).

[0262] The opening (20) may refer to the space (30) of the handle or the front end of the handle groove (30). The opening (20) may refer to a portion located on the same plane as the front surface (211) of the door (2) in the space (30) of the handle.

[0263] Meanwhile, the handle cover (4) of Fig. 1 shows a closed state, and the handle cover (4) of Fig. 4 shows an open state.

[0264] The handle cover (4) can close the space (30) of the handle (3) (see Fig. 1). The handle cover (4) can be placed in the opening (20) to close the space (30) of the handle.

[0265] The handle cover (4) can open the space (30) of the handle (3). The handle cover (4) can rotate in a first direction (d1, see Fig. 10) so as to be drawn into the space (30) of the handle (3). The handle cover (4) can open the space (30) of the handle (3) by rotating in the first direction (d1).

[0266] The rotation axis of the handle cover (4) can be located at the lower side or bottom of the handle cover (4).

[0267] The handle cover (4) can be rotated so that the upper part of the handle cover (4) is drawn into the space (30) of the handle. The handle cover (4) can be rotated so that the upper part of the handle cover (4) is drawn into the space (30) of the handle, thereby opening the space (30).

[0268] The handle (3) may extend in the width direction of the door (2). Both side ends of the handle (3) may be adjacent to the side surfaces (218) of the door (2). Alternatively, the handle (3) may extend to (218) of the door (2).

[0269] The handle cover (4) may extend in the width direction of the door (2). Both side ends of the handle cover (4) may be adjacent to the side surface (218) of the door (2). Alternatively, the handle cover (40) may extend to the side surface (218) of the door (2).

[0270]

[0271] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the center of rotation of the handle cover (4) may be located at the lower side or bottom of the handle cover (4).

[0272] The handle cover (4) may include a cover part (42) that closes the handle (3). The cover part (42) may be placed in the opening (20, see FIG. 4) to close the handle (3).

[0273] The handle cover (4) may include a boss (44) surrounding an axis (43) that provides a center of rotation of the handle cover (4). The boss (44) may extend downward from the cover part (42).

[0274] The front surface of the cover part (42) may be positioned forward relative to the front portion of the boss (44). The front surface of the cover part (42) may be positioned forward relative to the rotation center (43) of the handle cover (4).

[0275] The front surface of the cover part (42) can be arranged on the same plane as the front part (211) of the door cover (21). The center of rotation (43) of the handle cover (4) can be arranged at the rear of the front part (211) of the door cover (21).

[0276] The cover part (42) may include a deco (40) described later. The deco (40) may provide the front surface of the cover part (42). The deco (40) may be arranged on the same plane as the front surface (211) of the door cover (21).

[0277] A rearwardly sunken groove (45) can be placed between the boss (44) and the cover part (42).

[0278] The door cover (21) may include a rim (210) forming the upper portion (210) of the front portion (211) excluding the upper portion (212), that is, the portion located below the opening (20) among the front portion (211). The rim (210) may form the lower portion or lower edge of the opening (20). The rim (210) may extend rearward from the upper portion of the front portion (211).

[0279] The center of rotation (43) of the handle cover (4) may be positioned lower than the opening (20) of the door (2). The center of rotation of the handle cover (4) may be located at the rear of the door cover (21).

[0280] The rim (210) may be positioned above the rotation center (43) of the handle cover (4). The rim (210) may be positioned vertically above at least a portion of the boss (44). The rim (210) may surround at least a portion of the boss (44).

[0281] The rotation axis (43) of the handle cover (4) may not be exposed to the outside through the opening (20).

[0282] The rim (210) can be inserted into the groove (45) of the handle cover (4). The rim (210) can be inserted into the groove (45) of the handle cover (4) when the handle cover (4) closes the handle (3).

[0283] The handle (3) can be placed inside the door (2).

[0284] The handle (3) may further include a housing (31) that provides a space (30) for the handle (3).

[0285] The housing (31) can be placed in the door (2). The housing (31) can be placed inside the door (2).

[0286] The housing (31) can provide a space (30) connected to the opening (20) of the door (2). The housing (30) can be positioned at the rear of the opening (20).

[0287] The housing (30) may include a first housing (311) positioned at the rear of the opening (20). The first housing (311) may provide a first groove (301) connected to the opening (20) and positioned at the rear of the opening (20).

[0288] The housing (30) may include a second housing (312) positioned on the upper side of the first housing (311). The second housing (312) may be positioned on the upper side of the first groove (301) and may provide a second groove (302) connected to the first groove (301).

[0289] The first groove (301) may extend to both ends of the housing (30) in the width direction of the door (20). The second groove (302) may extend shorter than the first groove (301) in the width direction of the door (20). The second groove (302) may be positioned in the center in the width direction of the door (20).

[0290] An interface (23) and an interface control unit (24) can be placed on the upper side of the second housing (312).

[0291] The handle cover (4) can be rotatably coupled to the housing (3). The housing (3) can include a holder (323) that supports the shaft (43) of the handle cover (4). The housing (3) can include an shaft hole (393, see FIG. 6) that supports the shaft (43) of the handle cover (940).

[0292] The dishwasher may include a drive system (5) that rotates a handle cover (4). The drive system (5) may include a motor and a drive unit (50) that is moved by the motor.

[0293] The driving unit (50) may be located on the lower side of the housing (31).

[0294] The housing (31) may include a bottom (32). The bottom (32) may include a bottom surface (321). The bottom surface (321) may face the rear surface of the handle cover (4) when the handle cover (4) is in an open state.

[0295] The bottom surface (321) can be inclined so that the rear is positioned upward.

[0296] The driving part (50) is placed on the lower side of the floor surface (321), and some of the components can pass through the through hole (325) and be connected to the handle cover (4).

[0297] When the handle cover (4) is opened, the driving unit (50) is not interposed between the bottom surface (321) of the handle cover (4), and the handle cover (4) and the bottom surface (321) may be in contact or adjacent to each other.

[0298] The housing (31) may include a through hole (325) provided in the bottom surface (321).

[0299] The link (56, see Fig. 8) described later of the driving unit (50) can be connected to the handle cover (4) through the through hole (325).

[0300] The housing (31) may include a step (322) provided on the lower side of the front end of the bottom surface (321). The step (322) may be stepped downward from the front end of the bottom surface (321).

[0301] The shaft holder (323) can protrude from the step (322).

[0302] A stopper (47) may be provided at the bottom of the handle cover (4). The stopper (47) may protrude downward from the boss (44).

[0303] The stopper (47) may be placed on the opposite side of the cover part (42) with respect to the rotation axis (43). For example, when the handle cover (4) closes the handle (3), the cover part (42) may be placed on the upper side of the rotation axis (43), and the stopper (47) may be placed on the lower side of the rotation axis (43).

[0304] The stopper (47) can be placed on the upper side of the step (322). The stopper (47) can be placed in the space formed in front of the bottom surface (321) by the step (322).

[0305] The handle cover (4) is positioned in the opening (20), and when the handle (3) is closed as shown in Fig. 5, the stopper (47) can contact the bottom surface (321) or the step to prevent the handle cover (4) from rotating further in the first direction.

[0306] The handle cover (4) may include a body (41) and a decoration (40) arranged at the front of the body (41). The body (41) may include the cover part (42) described above. The body (41) may include a boss (44), a groove (45), and a stopper (47).

[0307] The body (41) may be made of a different material than the deco. The body (41) may be made of plastic. The body (41) may be an injection molded product.

[0308] The deco (40) may include the same material as the door cover (21). For example, the deco (40) may be made of metal or plated with metal.

[0309] The deco (40) can be placed on the same plane as the front surface (211, 212) of the door cover (21) when the handle cover (4) is in the closed state.

[0310]

[0311] Referring to FIG. 6, the drive system (5) may include a spring (59) that applies an elastic force to the handle cover (4) in a direction in which the handle cover (4) closes the handle (3). The spring (59) may apply a force to the handle cover (4) in a second direction (d2, see FIG. 10) opposite to the first direction (d1, see FIG. 10).

[0312] The spring (59) may be a torsion spring.

[0313] The spring (59) can be placed on the outside of the handle housing (31) in the width direction of the door (2). The spring (59) can be placed between the side edge of the handle cover (4) and the side surface (218) of the door (2).

[0314] A spring housing (39) that accommodates a spring (59) may be provided on the outside of the space (30) inside the housing (31) in the width direction of the door (2).

[0315] The spring housing (39) may be formed integrally with the housing (31).

[0316] The spring housing (39) can be arranged on the outside of the handle cover in the width direction of the door (2). The spring housing (39) can be arranged on the outside of the side wall of the housing (31) in the width direction of the door (2).

[0317] The handle cover (4) may include a handle cover shaft (43) that provides a center of rotation of the handle cover (4). The handle cover shaft (4) may extend in the width direction of the door (2). The handle cover shaft (43) may penetrate the side wall (38) of the housing (31).

[0318] The handle cover (4) can rotate integrally with the handle cover shaft (43).

[0319] The handle cover shaft (435) may include a coupling portion (435) that couples with the holder (591). The coupling portion (435) may have a non-circular outer circumference. For example, the coupling portion (435) may have a hexagonal column shape.

[0320] The drive system (5) may include a holder (591) connected to a spring (59). The holder (591) may be arranged in the spring housing (39).

[0321] The holder (591) is coupled to the handle cover shaft (43) and can rotate together with the handle cover shaft (43). The holder (591) may include a coupling hole having a shape corresponding to the coupling portion of the handle cover shaft (435).

[0322] The holder (591) may include a slider (593) protruding toward the side wall (38). The slider (593) may be radially spaced from the handle cover axis (43).

[0323] The spring housing (39) may include an arc-shaped guide (594) into which a slider (593) is inserted.

[0324] Meanwhile, the deco (40) of the handle cover (4) may include a connecting portion (401) protruding toward the body (41). The deco (40) may be connected to the body (41) through the connecting portion (401).

[0325]

[0326] Referring to Fig. 7, the driving unit (50) can be placed on the lower side of the housing (31).

[0327] The handle (3) and handle cover (4) can be extended left and right. The handle (3) and handle cover (4) can be extended to both sides of the door (2) or can be extended adjacent to both sides of the door (2).

[0328] For example, the length (w3) of the handle (3) and the cover (4) in the width direction of the door (2) may be greater than the distance (w2) between the handle (3) or the cover (4) and the side surface (218) of the door (2). The distance (w2) between the handle (3) or the cover (4) and the side surface (218) of the door (2) may be smaller than the width (w1) of the driving unit (50).

[0329] The spring (59) can be placed on the outside of the housing (31) in the width direction of the door (2). The spring (59) can be placed between the housing (31) and the side surface (218, see FIG. 1) of the door (20).

[0330] The driving unit (50) may be provided in multiple numbers. The driving system (5) may include a connecting shaft (532) connecting a pinion (523, see FIG. 8) of a motor (52, see FIG. 8) of one driving unit and a pinion (523) of a motor (52) of another driving unit.

[0331] The dishwasher may include a sensor (25). The sensor (25) can detect an object near the dishwasher. For example, when a user approaches the dishwasher, the sensor (25) detects this, and the control unit (14) operates the drive unit (50) to open the handle cover (4).

[0332]

[0333] Drivetrain

[0334] Referring to FIG. 8, the drive system (5) may further include a drive unit (50) that rotates the handle cover (4).

[0335] The driving unit (50) may include a motor (52). The motor (52) may have a motor shaft (521).

[0336] The driving unit (50) may include a pinion (523) that is coupled to the motor shaft (521) of the motor (52) and rotates integrally with the motor shaft.

[0337] The driving unit (50) may include an actuator (54) that rotates by a motor (52).

[0338] The actuator (54) may include a first gear part (543) that meshes with the pinion (523).

[0339] The first gear part (543) may be positioned forward of the pinion (523). The first gear part (543) may be positioned above the pinion (523).

[0340] The actuator (54) may include an arm (542) extending outwardly of the first gear part (543) along the rotational radius of the actuator (54). The arm (542) may rotate integrally with the gear part (543).

[0341] The actuator (54) may include a finger (541) connected to a connector described later. The finger (541) may be inserted into a groove (552) of a connector (55) described later.

[0342] The finger (541) may protrude from the arm (542).

[0343] The driving part (50) may include a connector (55) that rotates by a motor (52). The connector (55) may have a lever part (551) that comes into contact with an actuator (54).

[0344] The lever part (551) can be arranged on the first direction (d1, see FIG. 10) side with respect to the actuator (54). The lever part (551) can rotate together with the actuator (54) when the actuator (54) rotates in the first direction (d1).

[0345] The connector (55) may not be bound to the actuator (54) when the handle cover (4) rotates in the first direction (d1).

[0346] The connector (55) may have a space (552) extending from the lever part (551) in a second direction (d2, see FIG. 10) opposite to the first direction (d1) based on the center of rotation of the actuator (54).

[0347] The connector (55) may include a body (550) having a lever part (551), and a groove (552) extending from the lever part (551) in a second direction (d2) opposite to the first direction (d1) based on the rotation center of the actuator (54), and into which the actuator (54) is inserted.

[0348] The connector (55) can rotate the handle cover (4). The connector (55) can be connected to the handle cover (4) so ​​that it rotates together when the handle cover (4) rotates.

[0349] The drive unit (50) may include a drive shaft (53) that provides a center of rotation of the connector (55) and the actuator (54). The drive shaft (53) may pass through the connector (55) and the actuator (54).

[0350] The above driving unit (50) may include a link (56) connected to the handle cover (4). The link (56) may be rotatably connected to the handle cover (4). The link (56) may be connected to the handle cover (4) at a position spaced apart from the rotation center of the handle cover (4).

[0351] The above link (56) may have a first connecting portion (564) connected to the handle cover (4) and a second connecting portion (565) connected to the connector (55).

[0352] The above first connecting portion (564) can be connected to the handle cover (4) at a position spaced radially (r, see FIG. 10) from the center of rotation of the handle cover (4).

[0353] The dishwasher may further include a bracket (57) coupled to the handle cover (4) and connected to the first connecting portion (564) of the link (56). The first connecting portion (564) may be rotatably coupled to the bracket (57).

[0354] The above bracket (57) can be spaced radially (r) from the rotation center (43) of the handle cover (4).

[0355] The connector (55) may be connected to the link (56). The connector (55) may include a joint (556) extending from the body (550) and connected to the second connecting portion (565). The second connecting portion (565) may be rotatably coupled to the joint (556).

[0356] The above connector (55) may include a second gear part (558). The second gear part (558) may be arranged on the outer surface of the body (550).

[0357] The above drive system (5) may include a rotary damper (58) that engages with the second gear part (558) of the connector (55).

[0358] The above rotary damper (58) may be a one-way damper that applies force to the connector (55) in a second direction (d2) opposite to the first direction (d1) when the connector (55) rotates in the first direction (d1).

[0359] Alternatively, the rotary damper (58) may be a bidirectional damper that applies force to the connector (55) in the first direction (d1) when the connector (55) rotates in the second direction (d2).

[0360] The driving unit (50) may include a driving unit housing (51). The driving unit housing (51) may include a first driving unit housing (511) and a second driving unit housing (512) that are coupled to each other.

[0361] The first and second bearings (531, 532) can be arranged in the drive unit housing (51). The first and second bearings (531, 532) can rotatably support the drive unit shaft (53) in the drive unit housing (51).

[0362]

[0363] <Automatic opening and closing of the handle cover by the driving unit>

[0364] FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 are a schematic diagram and a cross-sectional diagram showing the operation of the driving unit (50), where (a) shows a state in which the handle cover is closed, (b) shows a state in which the driving unit rotates the handle cover to open the handle, and (c) shows a state in which the driving unit rotates the handle cover in the direction of closing the handle in the open state of the handle cover and the handle cover closes the handle.

[0365] Referring to FIG. 9(a) and FIG. 10(a), the handle cover (4) can close the space (30) of the handle (3). The handle cover (4) can be placed in the opening (20) to close the space (30) of the handle.

[0366] Referring to FIG. 9(b) and FIG. 10(b), the handle cover (4) can open the space (30) of the handle (3). The handle cover (4) can rotate in the first direction (d1, see FIG. 10) so as to be introduced into the space (30) of the handle (3). The handle cover (4) can open the space (30) of the handle (3) by rotating in the first direction (d1).

[0367] When the motor (52) rotates, the pinion (523) is engaged with the first gear part (543) of the actuator (54), so the actuator (54) rotates.

[0368] The finger (541) of the actuator applies force to the lever part (551) of the connector (55) to rotate the connector (55) in the first direction (d1).

[0369] A link (56) coupled to a bracket (57) rotates the handle cover (4) in the first direction (d1), and the handle cover (4) is opened.

[0370]

[0371] Referring to Fig. 13, when the handle cover (4) is open, the angle between the handle cover (4) and the link (56) may be less than 90 degrees. When the handle cover (4) rotates between the closed state and the open state, the angle (θ) between the handle cover (4) and the link (56) may be less than 90 degrees.

[0372]

[0373] Referring to FIG. 9(c) and FIG. 10(c), when the motor (52) rotates in the opposite direction to when the handle cover (4) is opened, the actuator (54) rotates in the second direction (d2) by the engagement of the pinion (523) and the gear part (543).

[0374] When the actuator (54) rotates in the second direction (d2), the force that restrains the lever part (551) of the finger (541) is removed, and the spring (59) applies a force (Fs) in the second direction (d2) to the handle cover (4). The handle cover (4) is opened by the spring (59) and rotates the connector (55) in the second direction (d2) through the link.

[0375] When the connector (55) rotates in the second direction, the damper (58) applies force to the connector (55) in the first direction, so that the connector (55) rotates in the second direction more slowly than the actuator (54), and the finger (541) and the lever part (551) are separated from each other.

[0376] By the spring (59), the handle cover (4) is again closed as shown in Figures 9(a) and 10(a).

[0377] When an external object such as a user's hand blocks the rotation of the handle cover (4) in the second direction (d2) during the closing process of the handle cover (4), the actuator (54) rotates, but the finger (541) moves within the groove (552) of the connector (55), preventing the connector (55) from rotating. Consequently, the handle cover (4) can be stopped by an external force regardless of the operation of the motor during the closing process.

[0378]

[0379] Referring to Fig. 10, the rotation center (53) of the connector (55) can be arranged between the motor shaft (521) of the motor (52) and the rotation center (43) of the handle cover (4) in the vertical direction. The rotation center (53) of the connector (55) can be arranged between the motor shaft (521) of the motor (52) and the rotation center (43) of the handle cover (4) in the front-back direction.

[0380]

[0381] <Manual opening and closing of the handle cover>

[0382] Figures 11 and 12 are a schematic diagram and a cross-sectional view showing an operation of opening a handle cover while the driving unit is stopped. (a) shows a state where the handle cover is closed, and (b) shows a state where the handle cover is opened while the driving unit is stopped.

[0383] Referring to FIG. 11(a) and FIG. 12(a), the handle cover (4) can close the space (30) of the handle (3). The handle cover (4) can be placed in the opening (20) to close the space (30) of the handle.

[0384] Referring to FIG. 11(b) and FIG. 12(b), the handle cover (4) can open the space (30) of the handle (3). The handle cover (4) can rotate in the first direction (d1, see FIG. 10) so as to be drawn into the space (30) of the handle (3). The handle cover (4) can open the space (30) of the handle (3) by rotating in the first direction (d1).

[0385] When the motor (52) is stopped, the pinion (523) and the actuator (54) remain stopped.

[0386] When an external force is applied to the handle cover (4) in the first direction (d1), the handle cover (4) rotates around the rotation center axis (43) of the handle cover to open, and the connector (55) rotates around the driving shaft (53).

[0387] During this process, the relative position of the finger (541) to the groove (552) of the connector (55) moves, and the movement of the handle cover (4) does not affect the motor (52).

[0388] When the external force applied to the handle cover (4) in the first direction (d1) is removed, the handle cover (4) rotates in the second direction (d2) by the spring (59) and slowly returns to the closed state as shown in FIGS. 11(a) and 12(a) by the damper (58).

[0389]

[0390] <Other embodiments of the handle cover>

[0391] Referring to FIG. 14, the housing (7) of the dishwasher according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure includes an arc-shaped guide (781, 782) on the side wall (78), and the handle cover (8) includes a cover part (82) and a slider (871, 872) protruding from the cover part (82) toward the side wall (7).

[0392] The guides (781, 782) may include a first guide (781) and a second guide (782) having concentric arc shapes with different diameters.

[0393] The radius (R1) of the first guide (781) may be smaller than the radius (R2) of the second guide (782).

[0394] The first and second sliders (871, 872) can be inserted into the first and second guides (781, 782) at a radial distance of R1 and R2 from the center of rotation, respectively.

[0395] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the handle cover (8) of the dishwasher has a center of rotation located at the opening (20) of the handle (3), unlike the aforementioned embodiment, but since the center of rotation is not a physical axis, the central axis of the handle cover (4) is not exposed to the outside.

[0396] The other configurations are the same as those in the above-described embodiment, so their description is omitted.

[0397]

[0398] <Other embodiments for the driving unit>

[0399] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the drive unit of the dishwasher according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure has a difference in that the connector and link are replaced with a strap (96) compared to the above-described embodiment.

[0400] The actuator (94) includes a connecting portion (946) connected to an arm (942), a gear part (943) and a strap (96).

[0401] The strap (96) is connected to the connection (946) of the bracket (57) and the actuator (94).

[0402] The strap (96) is made of a flexible material that bends under gravity when no tension is applied.

[0403] Referring to Fig. 15(a), the handle cover (4) can close the opening (20). When the handle cover (4) is in a closed state, one end of the strap (96) may be fixed to the actuator (94), and tension may be applied to the strap (96) by the elastic force of the spring acting on the handle cover (4).

[0404] The gear part (943) of the actuator (94) is engaged with the pinion (523), and when the motor (52) rotates, the actuator (94) rotates and rotates the handle cover (4) in the first direction (d1) through the strap (96).

[0405] Referring to Fig. 16, when the motor (52) rotates in the opposite direction, the distance between the connecting portion (946) of the actuator (94) and the bracket (57) becomes closer, the tension is removed, and the handle cover (4) is closed by the spring (59). When the spring (59) is closed, the damper (58) applies force to the handle cover (4) in the first direction, so that the handle cover (4) can be slowly closed.

[0406] The other configurations are the same as those in the above-described embodiment, so their description is omitted.

[0407]

[0408] <Another embodiment for the driving part and handle cover>

[0409] A dishwasher according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 26.

[0410] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, for example, the handle cover (4) may include a body (41). The body (41) may include a cover part (42) having an outer shape corresponding to the opening (20) of the front surface (211) of the door. Hereinafter, the cover part (42) is also referred to as a first cover body (42).

[0411] The handle cover (4) may include a second cover body (421) extending downward from the first cover body (42). The second cover body (421) may be coupled to the rear of the first cover body (42).

[0412] The handle cover (4) may include a decoration (40) attached to the front of the first cover body (42).

[0413] The first cover body (42) forms the overall appearance of the handle cover (4) and serves to form the overall strength of the handle cover (4).

[0414] In response to the shape of the opening (20) of the front surface (211) of the door, the first cover body (42) may be provided in the shape of a plate whose left-right width is longer than its up-down width.

[0415] The second cover body (421) is attached to the rear of the first cover body (42) and serves to rotatably support the first cover body (42).

[0416] As described above, a cover hinge (430) may be provided on the second cover body (421) so that the handle cover (4) can be rotatably arranged around the lower portion. The cover hinge (430) may be arranged lower than the opening (20) of the door (2). The center of rotation of the handle cover (4) may be arranged lower than the opening (20) of the door (2). The cover hinge (430) may be located at the rear of the door cover (21). The center of rotation of the handle cover (4) may be located at the rear of the door cover (21).

[0417] The handle cover (4) of the above-described embodiment is provided with a boss (44) at the bottom of the body (41), and the shaft (43) of the handle cover is inserted into the boss (44). In the case of the present embodiment, the cover hinge (430) may be configured to receive the shaft (43) of the handle cover like the boss (44) of the above-described embodiment, or the shaft of the handle cover may be configured to protrude from the cover hinge (430).

[0418] As illustrated, the cover hinge (430) can be rotatably connected to the housing (31). The housing (31) can include a first housing (311) and a second housing (312), as in the above-described embodiment. The first housing (311) and the second housing (312) can be provided separately and then combined, or can be formed as one piece.

[0419] Meanwhile, the cover hinge (430) may be formed at a position lower than the lower end of the first cover body (42) in the vertical direction.

[0420] Through this, when the second cover body (421) is rotated to the forwardmost position, the second cover body (421) comes into contact with the housing (31), thereby blocking further forward rotation of the handle cover (4). Accordingly, the second cover body (421) and the cover hinge (430) can function as a stopper to prevent further forward rotation of the handle cover (4).

[0421] A return spring (not shown) that applies a restoring force to the handle cover (4) so ​​that the handle cover (4) rotates toward the forwardmost position can be connected to the cover hinge (430).

[0422] Although not limited thereto, the return spring may include a torsion spring having one end connected to the door (2) or housing (31) and the other end connected to the cover hinge (430) of the handle cover (4).

[0423] Meanwhile, the driving unit (36) may include a rack gear (361) described later, and one end of the rack gear (361) may be connected to the second cover body (421).

[0424] Accordingly, the rack gear (361) moves together with the forward or backward rotation of the handle cover (4).

[0425] The detailed configuration of the driving unit (36) including the rack gear (361) is described later with reference to FIG. 19 and below.

[0426] The deco (40) is attached to the front of the first cover body (42) and serves to form the front end surface of the handle cover (4).

[0427] At this time, the deco (40) can be formed to have a material having the same texture as the front surface (211) of the door (2).

[0428] Through this, a sense of unity can be formed between the decorative panel (315) and the front surface (211) of the door (2), and the aesthetic sensibility of the exterior of the door (2) can be improved and the aesthetic appeal of the user can be improved.

[0429] In addition, when the handle cover (4) is rotated to the forwardmost position as shown in Fig. 17, the deco (40) can be in a state parallel to the front surface (211) so as to form a continuous surface with the front surface (211) of the door (2).

[0430] That is, it can be configured so that no step is formed between the front surface (211) of the door (2) and the front end surface of the handle portion (31).

[0431] Through this, when the handle cover (4) is rotated to the most forward position, the opening (20) of the front surface (211) is completely blocked, and since no step is formed between the front surface (211) and the deco (40), the phenomenon of foreign substances such as dust accumulating in the convex part of the door (2) or accumulating on the handle itself as in the past can be fundamentally prevented.

[0432] Meanwhile, as described above, the handle cover (4) can be configured to automatically return to the forwardmost position by the restoring force of the return spring connected to the cover hinge (430) from the rearmost position as shown in Fig. 18.

[0433] However, when the handle cover (4) returns to the forwardmost position while the user's finger is in the groove (30) inside the housing (31), there is a possibility that the user's finger may become caught between the opening (20) of the front surface (211) and the top of the handle cover (4).

[0434] In order to prevent injury to the user due to such finger catching, a driving unit (36) may be further included as a means for limiting the forward rotation of the handle cover (4) in conjunction with the rotation angle of the door (2) generated when opening and closing the door (2).

[0435] In more detail, the driving unit (36) can block or allow the handle cover (4) to rotate from a state in which the opening (20) is open to a state in which the opening (20) is closed by the return spring.

[0436] At this time, whether the forward rotation of the handle cover (4) is blocked or allowed can be determined according to the rotation angle of the door (2).

[0437] The door (2) of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present invention can open the tub (1) by rotating forward with the hinge portion as the rotation axis as described above.

[0438] For this purpose, the door (2) can be rotatably arranged between a closed position that closes the open front surface of the tub (1) and a fully open position that completely opens the open front surface of the tub (20).

[0439] As described later, the position of the door (2) that serves as a reference for allowing or blocking the forward / backward rotation of the handle cover (4) can be a cover release position defined between the closed position and the fully open position.

[0440] When the door (2) is rotated by the user at a smaller rotation angle than the rotation angle corresponding to the cover release position, the handle cover (4) can be prevented from rotating to the most forward position by the driving unit (36), and when the door (2) is rotated by the user at a rotation angle corresponding to the cover release position, the handle cover (4) can be configured to be allowed to rotate to the most forward position by the driving unit (36).

[0441] Here, the cover release position may be a position where it is highly likely that the user will remove his / her hand from the handle portion (4) after the door (2) has been opened by the user. More specifically, the rotation angle of the door (2) corresponding to the cover release position may be 45 to 55 degrees, and preferably 50 degrees.

[0442] Details of allowing or blocking forward rotation of the handle cover (4) in conjunction with the rotation angle range of the door (2) are described later with reference to FIG. 21 and below.

[0443] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20, the detailed configuration of the driving unit (36) configured to allow or block forward rotation of the handle cover (4) will be described.

[0444] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the driving unit (36) is exemplarily provided with a driving unit housing (368) having a predetermined receiving space formed therein, a rack gear (361) having one end connected to the handle cover (4) and rotating together with the handle cover (4), a rotary damper (362) connected to the rack gear (361) and reducing the rotational speed of the rack gear (361) and the handle cover (4), a pinion gear (363) that rotates by the rotational force transmitted from the rack gear (361), a one-way clutch (364) having an outer ring connected to the pinion gear (363), a ratchet gear (365) connected to the inner ring of the one-way clutch (364), and a latch link (366) having a latch portion (3661a) that engages with the gear teeth of the ratchet gear (365). It can be configured to include a weight balance (367) that forms the center of gravity of the clasp link (366).

[0445] The drive unit housing (368) forms the outer shape of the drive unit (36) and serves to house and protect the components of the drive unit (36) described later.

[0446] For convenience of assembly, the drive housing (368) may include a first drive housing (368) and a second drive housing (3682) that form a divided body divided along the left and right directions.

[0447] A predetermined accommodation space can be formed between the first drive housing (368) and the second drive housing (3682).

[0448] To facilitate the function of allowing or blocking forward rotation of the handle cover (4), the driving housing (368) can be placed on the lower side of the handle cover (4) inside the door (2).

[0449] Meanwhile, the rack gear (361) rotates together with the handle cover (4) and transmits the user's pressure or the restoring force of the return spring to the pinion gear (363) described later.

[0450] The rack body (3611) of the handle cover (4) can be connected to the handle cover (4) so ​​that it can rotate together with the handle cover (4).

[0451] More specifically, based on the illustrated state, the front end of the rack body (3611) can be integrally connected to the second cover body (421).

[0452] In addition, in order to move in conjunction with the rotation of the handle cover (4) but to minimize the range of movement of the rack gear (361), the rack body (3611) may be configured to have a cylindrical surface shape with a cross-section that is an arc shape.

[0453] At this time, the center of the arc shape of the rack body (3611) can be formed on the rotation axis of the cover hinge (430) of the handle cover (4) as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22.

[0454] Hereinafter, to distinguish from the rotation axes described later, the rotation axis of the rack body (3611) and the rotation axis of the handle cover (4) are referred to as the first rotation axis (X1).

[0455] In this way, since the rack body (3611) is provided with a cylindrical shape that is arranged to be rotatable around the first rotation axis (X1) that is concentric with the rotation axis of the handle cover (4), it can be arranged to rotate around the first rotation axis (X1) by the rotation of the handle cover (4).

[0456] Accordingly, the operating range of the rack body (3611) can be minimized, and the overall size of the driving unit (36) can be prevented from increasing.

[0457] Meanwhile, as described above, the rack body (3611) rotates together with the handle cover (4) in conjunction with the forward and backward rotation of the handle cover (4).

[0458] Hereinafter, the rotation direction of the rack body (3611) according to the backward movement of the handle cover (4) is defined as the first rotation direction (R1), and the rotation direction of the rack body (3611) according to the forward movement of the handle cover (4) is defined as the second rotation direction (R2).

[0459] As shown, a first gear part (3612) and a second gear part (3613) may be integrally provided on the outer surface of the rack body (3611).

[0460] The first gear unit (3612) can be meshed with the first pinion gear (3631) described later.

[0461] Accordingly, the rack body (3611) can be rotated together with the first pinion gear (3631) by the first gear unit (3612) or can be prevented from rotating together with the first pinion gear (3631).

[0462] The second gear part (3613) can be meshed with the damper gear (3621) of the rotary damper (362).

[0463] As shown, since the damper gear (3621) of the rotary damper (362) can be maintained in a constant engagement state, the rotation speed can be reduced by the damping unit (3622) of the rotary damper (362) for both the rotation in the first rotation direction (R1) and the rotation in the second rotation direction (R2) of the rack body (3611).

[0464] Accordingly, the rotation of the rack body (3611) and the rotational movement of the handle cover (4) can proceed smoothly, so the possibility of the user's fingers being caught or colliding with the fingers when the handle cover (4) rotates forward is significantly reduced.

[0465] FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate a configuration in which a first gear portion (3612) is arranged on the middle side of the outer surface of a rack body (3611), and a pair of second gear portions (3613) are arranged on each side of the first gear portion (3612). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the arrangement and shape of the first gear portion (3612) and the second gear portion (3613) may be configured differently depending on the size and shape of the handle cover (4), the arrangement position of the driving portion (36), etc.

[0466] Meanwhile, the pinion gear (363) is meshed with the first gear portion (3612) of the rack gear (361) and rotates together with the rack gear (361) or blocks the rotation of the rack gear (361).

[0467] Below in Fig. 19, an embodiment is illustrated in which a pinion gear (363) includes a first pinion gear (3631) that is directly meshed with a first gear portion (3612) of a rack gear (361), and a second pinion gear (3632) that is meshed with the first pinion gear (3631). Although the present invention is not limited thereto, the following description will be made based on a configuration including a first pinion gear (3631) and a second pinion gear (3632).

[0468] The first pinion gear (3631) is meshed with the first gear portion (3612) of the rack gear (361), rotates in the opposite direction to the rotational direction of the rack gear (361), and serves to simply transmit the rotational force of the first gear portion (3612) of the rack gear (361) to the second pinion gear (3632).

[0469] Accordingly, when the rack gear (361) rotates along the first rotation direction (R1), the first pinion gear (3631) rotates along the second rotation direction (R2), and when the rack gear (361) rotates along the second rotation direction (R2), the first pinion gear (3631) rotates along the second rotation direction (R2).

[0470] Since the first pinion gear (3631) only serves to transmit simple rotational force, it can be supported in an idle state so as to be able to rotate relative to the first shaft (SH1) forming the second rotational axis (X2).

[0471] The second pinion gear (3632) is meshed with the first pinion gear (3631) and serves to reduce the rotational force transmitted from the first pinion gear (3631).

[0472] Therefore, the second pinion gear (3632) can have a greater number of gear teeth arranged along the outer surface than the first pinion gear (3631).

[0473] The second pinion gear (3632) can be rotatably supported on a second shaft (SH2) forming a third rotation axis (X3).

[0474] However, the second pinion gear (3632) may be connected to the second shaft (SH2) via the one-way clutch (364). For example, the second pinion gear (3632) may be connected to the outer ring of the one-way clutch (364).

[0475] That is, when the second pinion gear (3632) rotates along the first rotation direction (R1), it can rotate relative to the second shaft (SH2) connected to the inner ring of the one-way clutch (364) by the one-way clutch (364), but when it rotates along the second rotation direction (R2), it can be supported on the second shaft (SH2) so as not to rotate relative to the second shaft (SH2).

[0476] In this way, only the rotational force in the second rotational direction (R2) can be transmitted to the ratchet gear (365) described later through the second shaft (SH2) by the one-way clutch (364).

[0477] Accordingly, as described later, in a state where the ratchet gear (365) is constrained to be prevented from rotating in the second rotation direction (R2) by the latch portion (3661a) of the latch link (366), a state can be formed in which the second shaft (SH2) and the second pinion gear (3632) cannot rotate in the second rotation direction (R2).

[0478] Through this, a state can be formed in which rotation of the rack gear (361) in the second rotation direction (R2) is blocked and forward rotation of the handle cover (4) is blocked.

[0479] However, as described later, in a state where the constraint on the ratchet gear (365) is released, a state in which the second shaft (SH2) and the second pinion gear (3632) can rotate in the second rotation direction (R2) can be formed.

[0480] Through this, a state can be created in which rotation of the rack gear (361) in the second rotation direction (R2) is permitted and forward rotation of the handle cover (4) is permitted. Accordingly, the handle cover (4) can be rotated forward toward the forwardmost position by the return force of the return spring.

[0481] In this way, the second shaft (SH2) must be supported in a state in which it is connected to the inner ring of the ratchet gear (365) and the one-way clutch (364) and rotates together with them. Accordingly, both ends of the second shaft (SH2) can be connected to the driving housing (368) through the first bearing (B1).

[0482] The ratchet gear (365) is connected to the second shaft (SH2) described above and allows or blocks rotation of the second shaft (SH2) in the second rotation direction (R2) according to the action of the latch link (366) described later.

[0483] Therefore, the ratchet gear (365) needs to rotate integrally with the second shaft (SH2), and for this purpose, the second shaft (SH2) can be connected through an axial hole formed in the center of the ratchet gear (365) in a state where relative rotation is impossible.

[0484] The outer surface of the ratchet gear (365) may be provided with a plurality of gear teeth (3651) having an asymmetrical shape as described below.

[0485] Unlike the first pinion gear (3631) and second pinion gear (3632) described above, the ratchet gear (365) does not have the purpose of transmitting rotational force, and it allows or blocks rotation of the second shaft (SH2) in the second rotational direction (R2) depending on whether or not it engages with the latch portion (3661a) of the latch link (366) described later.

[0486] Accordingly, the gear teeth (3651) of the ratchet gear (365) can be configured to have a predetermined asymmetrical shape so that the formation and release of the engagement state with respect to the latch link (366) can be easily implemented.

[0487] Meanwhile, the latch link (366) pivots by gravity in conjunction with the rotation angle of the door (2) and forms a locking connection with the ratchet gear (365) to block rotation of the ratchet gear (365) in the second rotation direction (R2), or releases the locking connection to allow rotation of the ratchet gear (365) in the second rotation direction (R2).

[0488] As illustrated by way of example, the latch link (366) may be a bar-type link extending in a bar shape from the first end toward the second end.

[0489] More specifically, the latch link (366) may include a first link body (3661) extending approximately linearly from a shaft hole (3663) described later toward a first end, and a second link body (3662) extending approximately linearly from the shaft hole (3663) toward a second end.

[0490] At this time, as described later, in order to facilitate the formation and release of a catch defect for the ratchet gear (365) while pivoting according to the action of gravity, the extension direction of the first link body (3661) and the extension direction of the second link body (3662) can be set to be opposite to each other with respect to the shaft hole (3663).

[0491] Meanwhile, the first end of the first link body (3661) may be provided with a catch portion (3661a) that engages with the gear teeth (3651) of the ratchet gear (365) described above.

[0492] The latch portion (3661a) may be provided in a hook shape or hook shape, for example, so that the engagement state and disengagement state with respect to the gear tooth (3651) of the ratchet gear (365) can be easily formed according to the pivot of the latch link (366).

[0493] However, as described later, in order to maximally prevent the ratchet gear (365) from rotating along the second rotation direction (R2) in the engaged state, the latch portion (3661a) may be configured to make surface contact with the gear teeth (3651) of the ratchet gear (365).

[0494] A weight balance hole (3662a) into which a first weight (3671) among the weight balances (367) described later is inserted and connected may be formed at the second end of the second link body (3662).

[0495] As shown, the weight balance hole (3662a) can be formed to have a non-circular cross-section corresponding to the outer shape of the first weight (3671).

[0496] Meanwhile, the latch link (366) pivots by gravity in conjunction with the rotation angle of the door (2) as described above and allows or blocks rotation of the ratchet gear (365) in the second rotation direction (R2).

[0497] In order to generate the greatest possible torque by gravity, the straight-line distance from the shaft hole (3663), which serves as the center of rotation, to the weight balance hole (3662a) to which the weight balance (367) is coupled can be set to be much greater than the straight-line distance from the shaft hole (3663) to the latch portion (3661a).

[0498] That is, the extension length of the second link body (3662) can be formed to be much larger than the extension length of the first link body (3661).

[0499] Meanwhile, a third shaft (SH3) that pivotally supports the latch link (366) can be coupled between the first end and the second end of the latch link (366).

[0500] A shaft hole (3663) through which the third shaft (SH3) extends may be provided between the first end and the second end so that the third shaft (SH3) can be inserted and coupled.

[0501] The clasp link (366) can be supported in a pivotable state around a fourth rotation axis (X4) formed on a third shaft (SH3).

[0502] At this time, it is necessary to support the weight balance (367) so that it can be easily pivoted by gravity acting on it. For this purpose, both ends of the third shaft (SH3) can be connected to the driving housing (368) through the second bearing (B2).

[0503] Meanwhile, the weight balance (367) is coupled to the second end side of the latch link (366) opposite the latch part (3661a) with the fourth rotation axis mentioned above as the center, and serves to move the center of gravity of the entire latch link (366) toward the weight balance (367).

[0504] In more detail, the entire center of gravity can be formed in the weight balance (367) when the weight balance (367) and the latch link (366) are combined by the weight balance (367).

[0505] Accordingly, the weight balance (367) can serve as a weight that generates a rotational force in the latch portion (3661a) to maintain the engaged state between the latch portion (3661a) and the gear teeth (3651) of the ratchet gear (365) according to the rotation angle range of the door (2), or stops the latch portion (3661a) to maintain the released state between the latch portion (3661a) and the gear teeth of the ratchet gear (365).

[0506] FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate a configuration in which a weight balance (367) includes a first weight (3671) inserted into a weight balance hole (3662a) of the aforementioned latch link (366), and a pair of second weights (3672) each coupled to both ends of the first weight (3671).

[0507] The present invention is not limited thereto, but will be described based on an embodiment in which a weight balance (367) is formed by one first weight (3671) and a pair of second weights (3672).

[0508] As shown, the first weight (3671) can be configured to have a long, tapered shape extending in the left-right direction.

[0509] The first weight (3671) can be connected to the clasp link (366) by being inserted into and penetrating the aforementioned weight balance hole (3662a).

[0510] Additionally, both ends of the first weight (3671) can be connected to the second weight (3672) in a manner that they are inserted into insertion holes (3672a) formed in each of the second weights (3672).

[0511] To this end, the left-right length of the first weight (3671) may be formed to be larger than the left-right length of the weight balance hole (3662a) of the clasp link (366).

[0512] Meanwhile, as illustrated, the first weight (3671) may have a cross-section that is non-circular. By having the first weight (3671) have a cross-section that is non-circular, the first weight (3671) and the second weight (3672) can be prevented from rotating relative to the latch link (366) about the weight balance hole (3662a).

[0513] That is, when the first weight (3671) and the second weight (3672) are connected to the latch link (366) so as to be able to rotate relative to each other about the weight balance hole (3662a), the relative position of the center of gravity with respect to the latch link (366) changes depending on the pivot position of the latch link (366), and depending on the change in the position of the center of gravity, there is a possibility that the engagement between the latch portion (3661a) and the gear teeth (3651) of the ratchet gear (365) may be released before the door (2) reaches the cover release position.

[0514] In this way, since the relative position of the center of gravity with respect to the latch link (366) can be maintained constant regardless of the pivot of the latch link (366), the engagement between the latch portion (3661a) and the gear teeth (3651) of the ratchet gear (365) can be effectively prevented from being released before the door (2) reaches the cover release position.

[0515] Meanwhile, the second weight (3672) coupled to both ends of the first weight (3671) may be provided in a block shape that is smaller in the left-right direction width than the first weight (3671), but larger in the front-back direction width and the up-down direction width, as shown.

[0516] Therefore, the combined weight of a pair of second weights (3672) can be formed to be greater than the first weight (3671).

[0517] Additionally, a pair of second weights (3672) can be positioned symmetrically around the first weight (3671).

[0518] Through this, the entire center of gravity including the weight balance (367) and the latch link (366) can be formed on the inner side of a pair of second weights (3672).

[0519]

[0520] Referring to FIGS. 21 to 24 below, the rotational restraint and release action for the ratchet gear (365) linked to the rotation angle of the door (2) will be described.

[0521] FIG. 21 and FIG. 23 illustrate a state in which the door (2) is closed and the handle home (30) is closed by the handle cover (4), and the second rotation direction (R2) of the ratchet gear (365) is blocked and restrained by the latch link (366).

[0522] Referring to Fig. 21, when the door (2) is closed and the handle home (30) is closed by the handle cover (4), if the user presses the handle cover (4) to open the door (2), the backward movement of the handle cover (4) can be initiated.

[0523] As the handle cover (4) moves backward, the rack gear (361) connected to the handle cover (4) rotates in the first rotation direction (R1) along the first rotation axis (X1).

[0524] When the rack gear (361) rotates in the first rotation direction (R1), the first pinion gear (3631) meshed with the first gear portion (3612) of the rack gear (361) rotates in the second rotation direction (R2).

[0525] Additionally, when the first pinion gear (3631) rotates along the second rotation direction (R2), the second pinion gear (3632) meshed with the first pinion gear (3631) rotates along the first rotation direction (R1).

[0526] At this time, the second pinion gear (3632) rotates according to the rotation of the first pinion gear (3631), but the rotation of the second pinion gear (3632) is not transmitted to the second shaft (SH2) by the one-way clutch (364).

[0527] As described above, the one-way clutch (364) is configured not to transmit the rotational force in the first rotational direction (R1) to the second shaft (SH2).

[0528] Accordingly, rotational force is not transmitted to the second shaft (SH2) and the ratchet gear (365) and the stationary state can be maintained.

[0529] After the user's pressure is released after the handle cover (4) continues to move backward, the rack gear (361) rotates to a corresponding angle range and then stops. That is, even if the handle cover (4) does not rotate to the rearmost position, it can be configured to stop at an intermediate position.

[0530] At this time, after the rack gear (361) is stopped, a restoring force along the second rotation direction (R2) is applied to the handle cover (4) and the rack gear (361) by the return spring acting on the cover hinge (430) of the handle cover (4).

[0531] However, as illustrated in Fig. 21, since the ratchet gear (365) is engaged with the latch portion (3661a) of the latch link (366) and is in a restrained state, rotation of the ratchet gear (365) in the second rotation direction (R2) is blocked.

[0532] Accordingly, the second shaft (SH2), the second pinion gear (3632), the first pinion gear (3631), and the rack gear (361) are blocked from rotating in the second rotation direction (R2), and the handle cover (4) can be maintained in the currently stopped position.

[0533] In Fig. 23, a state is illustrated in which the ratchet gear (365) is engaged with the latch portion (3661a) of the latch link (366) and rotation in the second rotation direction (R2) is blocked and restrained.

[0534] As shown in Fig. 23, when the latch part (3661a) of the latch link (366) is engaged with the ratchet gear (365) while the door (2) is closed, a state can be formed in which the center of gravity (CM) of the weight balance (367) is rotated forward at a predetermined angle.

[0535] More specifically, a first intersection angle (a1) can be formed between a vertical line (VL) passing through the fourth rotation axis (X4) and a virtual first extension line (L1) passing through the fourth rotation axis (X4) and the center of gravity (CM) of the weight balance (367).

[0536] In this way, as a first intersection angle (a1) is formed between a vertical line (VL) passing through the fourth rotation axis (X4) and a virtual first extension line (L1) passing through the fourth rotation axis (X4) and the center of gravity (CM) of the weight balance (367), a rotational force or torque can be generated to rotate the latch link (366) counterclockwise around the fourth rotation axis (X4) based on the illustrated state by gravity acting on the center of gravity (CM).

[0537] For the rotational force or torque generated by gravity, a force that pressurizes the gear teeth (3651) of the ratchet gear (365) can be generated in the latch portion (3661a) positioned on the opposite side with respect to the fourth rotation axis (X4).

[0538] By the action of the latch portion (3661a) as described above, the state in which the ratchet gear (365) is prevented from rotating in the second rotation direction (R2) and is restrained can be continuously maintained.

[0539] At this time, the first crossing angle (a1) can be set to be the same as the rotation angle of the door (2) corresponding to the cover release position described above.

[0540] Therefore, the first crossing angle (a1) can be 45 degrees to 55 degrees, and preferably 50 degrees.

[0541] Meanwhile, as illustrated, a predetermined second intersection angle (a2) may be formed between a virtual second extension line (L2) passing through the fourth rotation axis (X4) and parallel to the extension direction of the second link body (3662) of the latch link (366), and a virtual first extension line (L1).

[0542] That is, the center of gravity (CM) of the weight balance (367) can be formed at a position moved rearward by a second intersection angle (a2) with respect to the extension direction of the second link body (3662) of the latch link (366).

[0543] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIG. 23, when the latch portion (3661a) of the latch link (366) is engaged with the ratchet gear (365), a predetermined third intersecting angle (a3) ​​can be formed between a virtual third extension line (L3) passing through the fourth rotation axis (X4) and the front end of the latch portion (3661a), and a virtual fourth extension line (L4) passing through the third rotation axis (X3) and the fourth rotation axis, which are the rotation centers of the ratchet gear (365).

[0544] As shown, the third intersection angle (a3) ​​can be formed smaller than the first intersection angle (a1) and the rotation angle of the door (2) corresponding to the cover release position.

[0545] Accordingly, as described later, when the door (2) is rotated to reach a rotation angle corresponding to the cover release position, the engagement between the latch portion (3661a) of the latch link (366) and the gear teeth of the ratchet gear (365) can be easily released as the third intersection angle (a3) ​​gradually increases.

[0546] FIG. 22 and FIG. 24 illustrate a state in which the door (2) is opened and rotated at a rotation angle corresponding to the cover release position, and a state in which the restraint is released so that rotation of the ratchet gear (365) in the second rotation direction (R2) is permitted by the latch link (366).

[0547] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 24, when the rotation angle of the door (2) reaches a rotation angle corresponding to the cover release position after the opening of the door (2) is initiated, the engagement state between the ratchet gear (365) and the latch portion (3661a) of the latch link (366) can be released.

[0548] More specifically, as the rotation angle of the door (2) increases, the intersection angle formed between the virtual fourth extension line (L4) and the vertical line (VL) gradually increases, but the first intersection angle (a1) described above gradually decreases.

[0549] After this, when the opening of the door (2) continues and the rotation angle of the door (2) reaches the rotation angle corresponding to the cover release position as shown in Fig. 24, the intersection angle formed between the vertical line (VL) passing through the fourth rotation axis (X4) and the aforementioned virtual fourth extension line (L4) can be formed to be larger than the rotation angle corresponding to the cover release position.

[0550] At this time, when the rotation angle of the door (2) reaches the rotation angle corresponding to the cover release position, the first intersection angle (a1) can become 0 degrees and the virtual first extension line (L1) can be formed in a state aligned along the vertical direction.

[0551] This is because, as described above, the rotation angle corresponding to the first intersection angle (a1) and the cover release position are set to be the same.

[0552] Accordingly, even if the rotation angle of the door (2) exceeds the rotation angle corresponding to the cover release position due to the gravity acting on the center of gravity (CM) of the weight balance (367), the virtual first extension line (L1) can continue to be aligned along the vertical direction.

[0553] Accordingly, the position of the latch link (366) is maintained constant regardless of the rotation angle of the door (2), and the intersection angle formed between the vertical line (VL) passing through the fourth rotation axis (X4) and the aforementioned virtual fourth extension line (L4) gradually increases, so that the distance between the ratchet gear (365) and the latch portion (3661a) gradually increases, and accordingly, the engagement state between the ratchet gear (365) and the latch portion (3661a) can be automatically released.

[0554] In this way, when the engagement state between the ratchet gear (365) and the latch portion (3661a) is released, the constraint state of the ratchet gear (365) and the third shaft (SH3) in the second rotation direction (R2) can be released.

[0555] Accordingly, the rotational constraint state in the second rotation direction (R2) for the second pinion gear (3632), the first pinion gear (3631), and the rack gear (361) connected to the third shaft (SH3) through the one-way clutch (364) is released, and as described above, the handle cover (4) and the rack gear (361) can begin to rotate along the second rotation direction (R2) by the restoring force of the return spring connected to the cover hinge (430) of the handle cover (4), as illustrated in FIG. 22.

[0556] In this way, after rotation along the second rotation direction (R2) is initiated, the handle cover (4) stops after reaching the aforementioned forwardmost position, and the opening (20) of the front surface (211) of the door (2) can be closed again.

[0557]

[0558] Referring to FIGS. 25 and 26 below, embodiments of the shape of the gear teeth (3651) of the ratchet gear (365) according to the present invention will be described.

[0559] As described above, the gear teeth of the ratchet gear can be configured to have a predetermined asymmetrical shape so that the formation and release of the engagement state with respect to the latch link (366) can be easily realized.

[0560] More specifically, the individual gear teeth of the ratchet gear can be formed to have an asymmetrical shape with respect to the radial direction of the ratchet gear.

[0561] First, Fig. 25 illustrates an example of a gear tooth of a ratchet gear.

[0562] As illustrated in FIG. 25, the gear teeth (3651a) of the ratchet gear (365a) according to one embodiment can have an asymmetrical shape with respect to the radial direction, such that the extension direction of one side that directly contacts the latch portion (3661a) of the latch link (366) and the extension direction of the other side opposite to the one side can be formed differently.

[0563] At this time, the extension direction of one side can be configured to coincide with the radial direction as shown, and the extension direction of the other side can be formed to be a direction inclined along the second rotation direction (R2).

[0564] In this way, by specifying the extension direction of one side and the extension direction of the other side, the rotation blocking effect for the second rotation direction (R2) can be maximized.

[0565] Meanwhile, a ratchet gear (365a) according to one embodiment may be configured so that the circumferential width of each individual gear tooth (3651a) remains approximately constant while progressing along the radial direction.

[0566] Additionally, the circumferential width of the individual gear teeth (3651a) maintained at a constant level in this manner can be formed to be larger than the circumferential width of the latch portion (3661a).

[0567] Accordingly, it is possible to have the advantage of greatly securing rigidity for the individual gear teeth (3651a) that constitute the ratchet gear (365a).

[0568] However, since the circumferential width of the individual gear teeth (3651a) is formed large in this way, the width between adjacent gear teeth can be formed relatively narrow, but since the circumferential width of the latch portion (3661a) can be formed correspondingly small, the separation and re-engagement of the latch portion (3661a) can be easily performed.

[0569] Meanwhile, Fig. 26 illustrates a second embodiment of the gear teeth of a ratchet gear.

[0570] As illustrated in FIG. 26, the gear teeth (3651b) of the ratchet gear (365b) according to another embodiment can have an asymmetrical shape with respect to the radial direction, such that the extension direction of one side that directly contacts the latch portion (3661a) of the latch link (366) and the extension direction of the other side opposite to the one side can be formed to be the same.

[0571] At this time, the extension direction of one side and the extension direction of the other side can be formed to be inclined along the second rotation direction (R2).

[0572] In this way, by defining the extension direction of one side and the extension direction of the other side as the same, the rotation blocking effect for the second rotation direction (R2) can be further maximized.

[0573] Meanwhile, the ratchet gear (365b) according to the second embodiment can be configured so that the circumferential width of each individual gear tooth (3651b) gradually decreases as it progresses in the radial direction.

[0574] Additionally, as illustrated, the circumferential width of the individual gear teeth (3651b) can be formed smaller than the circumferential width of the latch portion (3661a).

[0575] Accordingly, the rigidity of the individual gear teeth (3651b) constituting the ratchet gear (365b) can be relatively reduced, but since the width between adjacent gear teeth can be formed relatively large, the separation and re-engagement of the latch portion (3661a) can be easily performed.

[0576] Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above may have their respective components or functions combined or used together.

[0577] For example, it means that a configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with a configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that a combination is possible, except in cases where a combination is described as impossible.

[0578] The above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in any respect and should be considered illustrative only. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A tub providing a washing room open to the front; A door comprising a front surface having an opening and opening and closing the washing room; A handle provided on the door and positioned at the rear of the opening and having a space connected to the opening; and A handle cover is disposed in the above opening to close the space of the handle and rotates so that the upper part thereof is drawn into the space of the handle to open the space of the handle. A dishwasher in which the center of rotation of the above handle cover is positioned lower than the door opening.

2. In paragraph 1, The above door further includes a door cover providing the front surface, A dishwasher in which the center of rotation of the above handle cover is located at the rear of the above door cover.

3. In paragraph 2, The above door cover includes a rim defining the lower edge of the opening, A dishwasher wherein the above rim is located above the center of rotation of the handle cover.

4. In paragraph 3, The above handle cover: A cover part that closes the above opening; and Including a boss surrounding an axis that provides the center of rotation, A dishwasher wherein the rim is positioned vertically above at least a portion of the boss and surrounds at least a portion of the boss.

5. In paragraph 4, The above handle cover further includes a groove sunken rearward from the bottom of the cover part, A dishwasher in which, when the handle cover closes the space of the handle, the rim is positioned in the groove so that the front surface of the handle cover and the front surface of the door cover are arranged on the same plane.

6. In paragraph 1, It further includes a driving unit that rotates the handle cover, A dishwasher wherein the driving unit includes a link rotatably connected to the handle cover at a position spaced from the center of rotation of the handle cover.

7. In paragraph 6, The above driving part: motor; and A dishwasher further comprising a connector that is rotated by the motor and connected to the link.

8. In paragraph 6, A dishwasher in which the angle between the handle cover and the link is less than 90 degrees when the handle cover is open.

9. In paragraph 8, A dishwasher in which the center of rotation of the connector is positioned between the motor shaft of the motor and the center of rotation of the handle cover in the up-down and front-back directions.

10. In paragraph 1, It further includes a driving unit that includes a motor and rotates the handle cover, The handle cover extends in the width direction of the door, so that both ends thereof are adjacent to both ends of the door or extend to both ends of the door, A dishwasher in which the above motor is positioned lower than the handle cover.

11. In paragraph 10, A dishwasher in which the length of the driving part in the width direction of the door is longer than the gap between the side edge of the door and the side edge of the handle cover.

12. In paragraph 10, The handle cover further includes a spring that applies elastic force to the handle cover in a direction that closes the space of the handle, The side edge of the above handle cover and the side edge of the above door are spaced apart from each other, A dishwasher wherein the spring is positioned between the side edge of the handle cover and the side edge of the door.

13. In paragraph 1, The above door further includes a door cover providing the front surface, The above handle cover: body; and It further includes a decoration placed at the front of the body and made of the same material as the door cover, A dishwasher in which the front surface of the deco and the door cover are arranged on the same plane when the handle cover closes the space of the handle.

14. In paragraph 1, The handle is disposed inside the door and further includes a housing that provides space for the handle, A dishwasher in which the above handle cover is rotatably connected to the housing.

15. In paragraph 14, The above housing: side walls; and Including an arc-shaped guide provided on the above side wall, The above handle cover: When the handle cover closes the space of the handle, a cover part located in the opening; and A dishwasher including a slider provided on the side of the cover part and moving along the guide.

16. A tub providing a washing room open to the front; A door comprising a front surface having an opening and opening and closing the washing room; A handle provided on the door and positioned at the rear of the opening and having a space connected to the opening; A handle cover positioned in the above opening to close the space of the handle and rotate so that its upper part is drawn into the space of the handle to open the space of the handle; and It includes a motor and a driving unit that rotates the handle cover, A dishwasher in which the above motor is positioned lower than the handle cover.

17. In paragraph 16, The handle is disposed inside the door and further includes a housing that provides space for the handle, A dishwasher wherein the above driving unit is located on the lower side of the housing.

18. In paragraph 17, The above housing: When the handle cover is in the open state, the bottom surface facing the rear of the handle cover; and Including a through hole provided on the above floor surface, A dishwasher wherein the driving unit further includes a link that passes through the through hole and is connected to the handle cover.

19. In paragraph 17. The above housing: When the handle cover is in an open state, the bottom surface facing the rear of the handle cover; and A step provided on the lower side of the front end of the above floor surface; and A dishwasher further comprising an axis holder protruding from the step and supporting the rotation axis of the handle cover.

20. A tub providing a washing room open to the front; A door comprising a front surface having an opening and opening and closing the washing room; A handle housing provided on the door and positioned at the rear of the opening to provide a space connected to the opening; A handle cover disposed in the opening to close the handle housing and rotate in a first direction such that the upper portion thereof is drawn into the interior of the handle housing to open the handle housing; and Including a drive system that rotates the above handle cover, The above drivetrain: A driving unit that rotates the handle cover in the first direction, including a motor; and It includes a spring that applies force to the handle cover in a second direction opposite to the first direction, The above motor is placed on the lower side of the handle housing, A dishwasher wherein the spring is disposed on the outside of the handle housing in the width direction of the door.

Images