Water dispensing apparatus

Abstract

A water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a water supply channel through which raw water supplied from a water source flows; a filter that filters the raw water supplied to the water supply channel to produce purified water; a purified water channel through which purified water that has passed through the filter flows; a water quality measuring unit connected to the purified water channel to measure the water quality of the purified water; a sterilization channel, one side of which branches off from the water supply channel and the other side of which is connected to the filter side; a sterilization module provided on the sterilization channel to heat the water passing through the sterilization channel; a water outlet through which the purified water is discharged; a water outlet channel that guides the purified water to the water outlet; and a water outlet sterilization module that irradiates ultraviolet rays onto the water outlet.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a water dispensing device and a method of operating the same, and more specifically, to a water dispensing device including a sensor capable of determining water quality and a method of operating the same. Background Technology

[0002] A water dispensing device is a device that supplies water and can dispense a desired amount of water at a desired temperature according to user operation. While such water dispensing devices can be applied in various fields, they are typically applied to refrigerators and water purifiers. In particular, water dispensing devices equipped in refrigerators and water purifiers are configured to have a function that allows them to supply a preset amount of water according to user operation. Recently, water dispensing devices are being developed that can supply not only purified water but also cold and hot water.

[0003] For example, water purifiers are configured to receive raw water by connecting to a water source, such as a water supply, remove suspended solids or harmful substances contained in the raw water using filters, and dispense purified water in the desired amount according to user operation. Various such water purifiers are being released that are capable of supplying not only purified water but also hot or cold water by heating or cooling the purified water. Furthermore, in recent years, water purifiers that are compact in size and can be installed in various environments are being developed.

[0004] When a water dispensing device is used for a long time, microorganisms may proliferate or contaminate the pipes, valves, and outlets, and suspended solids or harmful substances contained in the raw water may not be removed as the filter replacement cycle has passed. Therefore, it is important to accurately measure water quality and manage the water dispensing device hygienically, and to manage the water purification quality performance.

[0005] In particular, there is a high possibility that the outlet area will be contaminated by airborne bacteria in the indoor air. As a solution to this, prior art Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0085145 is equipped with a UV lamp that irradiates light to the inside or outside of the outlet nozzle. Prior art Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0085145 prevents internal contamination by UV sterilizing the outlet according to a predetermined operating cycle, but it did not operate by reflecting the contamination level of each product in the actual usage environment, which varies depending on the indoor air quality of the usage environment, the actual user's usage pattern, and the degree of contamination of the raw water. The problem to be solved

[0007] The problem that the present disclosure aims to solve is to provide a water dispensing device capable of managing water purification quality and supplying safe water by measuring water quality in real time and performing sterilization operations in response.

[0008] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a water dispensing device that can automatically detect abnormal water quality and sterilize to hygienically manage the water flow path and outlet.

[0009] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a water dispensing device capable of responding appropriately to water quality measurement results.

[0010] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a water dispensing device capable of accurately measuring the water quality of raw water and purified water.

[0011] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a water dispensing device that can improve sensing accuracy and efficiency through a water piping configuration for sensor commonality and a rinsing operation. means of solving the problem

[0012] To achieve the above objective, a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a water supply channel through which raw water supplied from a water source flows; a filter that filters the raw water supplied to the water supply channel to produce purified water; a purified water channel through which purified water that has passed through the filter flows; a water quality measuring unit connected to the purified water channel to measure the water quality of the purified water; a sterilization channel, one side of which branches off from the water supply channel and the other side of which is connected to the filter side; a sterilization module provided on the sterilization channel to heat the water passing through the sterilization channel; a water outlet through which the purified water is discharged; a water outlet channel that guides the purified water to the water outlet; and a water outlet sterilization module that irradiates ultraviolet rays onto the water outlet.

[0013] A water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a control unit that controls the sterilization module and the outlet sterilization module to selectively operate and perform a sterilization operation based on water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit.

[0014] If the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit corresponds to pollution level 1, the purified water is discharged normally through the outlet, and if the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit corresponds to pollution level 2 or higher, which is higher than pollution level 1, the discharge can be stopped.

[0015] A water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a drainage channel branched from the discharge channel between the water quality measuring unit and the water outlet, through which the raw water or the purified water is drained, and a drainage pump disposed in the drainage channel.

[0016] If the water quality data measured by the above water quality measuring unit corresponds to the pollution level 2, the above drainage pump can be operated to discharge the residual water into the above drainage channel.

[0017] If the water quality data measured by the above water quality measuring unit corresponds to the above pollution level 2, the above water outlet sterilization module can be operated.

[0018] A water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a discharge valve that selectively supplies the raw water or the purified water to the discharge channel and the drainage channel.

[0019] If the water quality data measured by the above water quality measuring unit corresponds to a contamination level 3, which is higher than the contamination level 2, the above sterilization module can be operated.

[0020] The water purification channel and the water discharge channel can be sterilized with high-temperature water discharged from the above sterilization module.

[0021] If the water quality data measured by the above water quality measuring unit corresponds to the above pollution level 3, the above water outlet sterilization module can be operated.

[0022] If the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit corresponds to a contamination level 4, which is higher than the contamination level 3, the sterilization module and the water outlet sterilization module can operate together.

[0023] When the above-mentioned outlet sterilization module operates at contamination level 3 and contamination level 4, the above-mentioned outlet sterilization module can irradiate ultraviolet rays for a longer time at contamination level 4 than at contamination level 3.

[0024] The above water quality measuring unit may re-measure the water quality of the purified water after passing the purified water through it at least once if the measured water quality data is above the pollution standard value.

[0025] A water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an output unit that displays water quality information if the measured water quality data is not greater than or equal to a pollution standard value.

[0026] The above water quality measuring unit can increase the waiting time until the next water quality measurement when performing the above water quality re-measurement.

[0027] A water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a sensing channel branched from the water supply channel through which the raw water flows, and the water quality measuring unit can measure the water quality of the purified water when the purified water flows in through the purified water channel, and measure the water quality of the raw water when the raw water flows in through the sensing channel.

[0028] The above water quality measuring unit can measure the water quality of the purified water after performing a rinsing operation in which the purified water passes through one or more times, when the above water quality measuring unit measures the water quality of the above raw water.

[0029] A water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a switching valve for supplying the raw water to the water supply path or the sterilization path, and a sensing valve for opening and closing the sensing path.

[0030] The above water quality measuring unit may include a turbidity sensor that irradiates light onto a portion of the raw water or the purified water and senses turbidity based on the pattern of scattered light received.

[0031] A water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a hot water channel, one end of which is branched from the purified water channel; a hot water module provided on the hot water channel to heat purified water passing through the hot water channel; a cold water channel, one end of which is branched from the purified water channel; and a cold water module provided on the cold water channel to cool purified water passing through the cold water channel. Effects of the invention

[0032] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, water quality can be measured in real time and a sterilization operation can be performed in response, thereby managing water purification quality and supplying safe water.

[0033] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, water quality abnormalities can be automatically detected and sterilized to hygienically manage the water flow path and outlet.

[0034] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a water dispensing device capable of responding appropriately to water quality measurement results can be provided.

[0035] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, sensing accuracy and efficiency can be improved through the configuration of water piping for sensor commonality and rinsing operation.

[0036] Meanwhile, various other effects will be disclosed directly or implicitly in the detailed description according to the embodiments of the present disclosure to be described below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0037] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the main components of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 3 to 5 are drawings referenced in the description of the operation of the water dispensing device of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a drawing referenced in the description of the hygiene management standards for a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method of operation of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a drawing referenced in the description of sterilization of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a drawing referenced in the description of emptying residual water of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11 is a figure referenced in the explanation regarding turbidity standards of various countries and the provision of information based thereon. FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method of operation of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0038] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and can be modified in various forms.

[0039] In the drawings, parts unrelated to the description have been omitted to clearly and briefly explain the present disclosure, and the same drawing reference numerals are used for identical or extremely similar parts throughout the specification.

[0040] Meanwhile, the suffixes "module" and "part" for components used in the following description are assigned solely for the ease of drafting this specification and do not inherently confer any particularly significant meaning or role. Accordingly, the terms "module" and "part" may be used interchangeably.

[0041] Additionally, in this specification, terms such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various elements, but these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the main components of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 1, a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a water quality measuring unit (50). The water quality measuring unit (50) may include a turbidity sensor. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, turbidity (contamination level) can be detected through optical sensing. Optical sensing methods for measuring turbidity include a transmitted light method and a scattered light method. The transmitted light method senses turbidity by irradiating light onto a fluid, receiving light transmitted through the fluid, and processing data. The scattered light method senses turbidity by receiving scattered light and processing data, and is subdivided according to a method of generating scattered light and a method of processing received data. A turbidity sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can irradiate light onto a part of the raw water or purified water and sense turbidity based on the pattern of the received scattered light. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, particles and microorganisms are distinguished by patterning the intensity and movement of light scattered by microorganisms, and the types of indicator microorganisms for water quality / hygiene standards are distinguished through big data processing. In addition, the detected microorganism concentration values ​​and safety indicators are provided through a display so that the user can intuitively check them.

[0044] Additionally, the water quality measuring unit (50) may utilize water quality measuring sensors, such as a turbidity sensor, a microorganism sensor, and a TDS sensor, to detect water quality contamination of the water within the waterway. The water quality measuring unit (50) includes at least one of a turbidity sensor, a microorganism detection sensor, a chlorine sensor, a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) sensor, and a BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) sensor, and can measure at least one of the turbidity, microorganisms, residual chlorine, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids), and dissolved oxygen of the incoming water. At least one of the sensors provided by the water quality measuring unit (50) may be a common sensor that measures the water quality of both raw water and purified water.

[0045] In this specification, the inflow of purified water or raw water into the water quality measuring unit (50) does not mean only that the purified water or raw water flows into the interior of the water quality measuring unit (50). For example, a portion of the purified water or raw water may be sampled and discharged after measuring the water quality inside the water quality measuring unit (50). Additionally, at least some of the sensors provided by the water quality measuring unit (50) may measure the water quality of a flowing liquid. In this case, the inflow of purified water or raw water into the water quality measuring unit (50) may mean that at least a portion of the purified water or raw water passes through the sensing section of the water quality measuring unit (50).

[0046] For example, if the turbidity sensor is equipped with an internal chamber, the turbidity sensor can measure water quality by irradiating light onto the filled water and receiving a scattered light pattern when water flows into and fills the internal chamber connected to the flow path (20). Additionally, the water in the internal chamber can be discharged after measuring the water quality. Alternatively, the light source and light receiving parts of the turbidity sensor may be positioned in a specific flow path section (for example, a section after the water purification flow path (20) and the sensing flow path (12) are combined), so that light is irradiated onto purified or raw water passing through the specific flow path section and a scattered light pattern is received.

[0047] A water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can measure the water quality of raw water and purified water using a common sensor for the same measurement items, such as turbidity. The turbidity sensor measures the turbidity of the raw water and the turbidity of the purified water and transmits the sensing data to a control unit (60). The control unit (60) can control other configurations of the water dispensing device based on the sensing data of the water quality measuring unit (50), such as the turbidity sensor.

[0048] A water dispensing device includes a filter (see 10 in FIG. 2, etc.) that filters raw water supplied from a water source to produce purified water. The filter (10) is for purifying the supplied raw water and filters out various impurities and harmful substances contained in the raw water. The filter (10) is provided in one or more units, and if multiple units are provided, it can be configured to combine filters having various functions. For example, the filter (10) may be provided in three units and may include a pre-carbon filter, a post-carbon filter, and a membrane filter or hollow fiber membrane filter placed between the pre-carbon filter and the post-carbon filter. Alternatively, the filter (10) may be composed of a pre-carbon filter and a UF composite filter.

[0049] The purified water purified in the above filter (10) flows into a storage tank or a flow path (see 20 in FIG. 2, etc.). Since the water stored in the storage tank becomes a better environment for microbial growth over time, it is more desirable for it to flow directly through the flow path (20). The purified water that has passed through the above filter (10) flows into the purified water flow path (20).

[0050] Additionally, the water dispensing device includes a valve section (90) equipped with valves for controlling the flow of water. The valve section (90) may include a plurality of valves (V1, V2, V3, etc.) to be described below.

[0051] When the water quality measuring unit (50) measures the water quality of the raw water, the control unit (60) can control the valve unit (90), etc., to perform a rinsing operation in which the purified water passes through the water quality measuring unit (50) at least once.

[0052] The above water quality measuring unit (50) can minimize the influence of raw water on the measurement of the water quality of purified water by measuring the water quality of the purified water after the rinsing operation is performed. Accordingly, raw water and purified water can be efficiently and accurately sensed respectively even with only one water quality sensor of the same type.

[0053] In the case of tap water and purified water, the water quality contamination level is usually low, and in order to measure low concentrations of contamination, it is important to minimize deviations in measurement values. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, compared to a technology that measures raw water and discharge water separately, a flow path configuration and control that allows simultaneous measurement of raw water and discharge water using a single sensor minimizes the increase in material costs and enables a compact product configuration.

[0054] Since tap water quality (raw water) and water purifier water quality (purified water) are mostly in the low concentration range, it is most important to minimize measurement deviation between devices by comparing with a single sensor in order to clearly express the performance difference between the raw water and the discharged water.

[0055] Additionally, the water dispensing device may include a hot water module (30) and a cold water module (40) for providing hot / cold water. The hot water module (30) heats purified water and then discharges it toward the outlet (see 90a in Fig. 2 C, etc.). The cold water module (40) cools purified water and then discharges it toward the outlet (90a).

[0056] Additionally, the water dispensing device further includes an operating unit (75) and an output unit (85).

[0057] The control unit (75) may include one or more buttons for receiving user input. For example, the control unit (75) may be equipped with a touch panel and may include a capacity button for selecting the water output capacity, a hot water button for selecting hot water and further selecting the temperature of the hot water to be output, a water purification button for selecting purified water, a cold water button for selecting cold water, and other function buttons.

[0058] The output unit (85) may be equipped with a display device such as a display (not shown) or a light-emitting diode (LED) (not shown). For example, the output unit (85) may display information such as the operating status of the water dispensing device, the occurrence of an error, or the degree of water contamination.

[0059] The output unit (85) may be equipped with an audio device such as a speaker (not shown) or a buzzer (not shown). For example, the output unit (85) may output a sound effect regarding the operating status of the water dispensing device and may output a predetermined warning sound when an error occurs.

[0060] Additionally, the water dispensing device includes one or more modules for hygiene. For example, the water dispensing device includes a sterilization module (70) using high-temperature water. Additionally, the water dispensing device further includes a water outlet sterilization module (80) for sterilizing the water outlet (90a) side, where there is a high possibility of contamination.

[0061] The sterilization module (70) can sterilize bacteria proliferating in the water by instantaneously heating the water to a high temperature. Additionally, the control unit (60) can operate the sterilization module (70) and circulate the sterilized water (high-temperature water) coming out of the sterilization module (70) to another waterway to sterilize the waterway. Based on the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit (50), the control unit (60) can control the high-temperature water discharged from the sterilization module (70) to move to the waterway area to perform a sterilization operation on the waterway.

[0062] The outlet sterilization module (80) removes bacteria or viruses by irradiating ultraviolet rays toward the outlet (90a). The outlet sterilization module (80) may include at least one UV lamp (Ultraviolet rays lamp) or at least one UV LED (Ultraviolet rays Light Emitting Diode).

[0063] The water outlet sterilization module (80) may be driven periodically under the control of the control unit (60). Alternatively, the water outlet sterilization module (80) may be driven during a predetermined period prior to water discharge. More preferably, the control unit (60) may improve efficiency by driving the water outlet sterilization module (80) only when necessary, based on water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit (50). For example, the control unit (60) may control the water outlet sterilization module (80) based on the water quality measurement results of purified water.

[0064] The control unit (60) can be connected to each component provided in the water dispensing device. For example, the control unit (60) can transmit and / or receive signals to and from each component provided in the water dispensing device and can control the overall operation of each component.

[0065] The above control unit (60) may include at least one processor and can control the overall operation of the water dispensing device using the included processor. Here, the processor may be a general processor such as a CPU (central processing unit). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC or a processor based on other hardware.

[0066] The above control unit (60) can perform various operations based on data received through a water quality measuring unit (50) including various sensors such as a turbidity sensor (51). In addition, the above control unit (60) can store the data received through the water quality measuring unit (50) in a memory (not shown).

[0067] The water quality measuring unit (50) can measure the water quality and output it to the control unit (60). The control unit (60) can control a feedback operation in response to the water quality measurement data of raw water and / or purified water. Alternatively, the water quality measuring unit (50) can directly determine the pollution level and transmit it to the control unit (60), and the control unit (60) can control other components to perform an appropriate feedback operation based on the received pollution level.

[0068] The above control unit (60) can control the output unit (85) to recognize the contamination status of raw water and / or purified water and provide information to the user regarding a cleaning alarm or filter replacement cycle.

[0069] In addition, the control unit (60) can detect in advance any odors that may occur depending on the contamination level of the raw water and / or purified water, and can operate an automatic cleaning / sterilization logic through the sterilization module (70) and the water outlet sterilization module (80) before the customer notices them. Accordingly, the convenience and hygiene of non-professional users can be improved.

[0070] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIGS. 3 to 5 are drawings referenced in the description of the operation of the water dispensing device of FIG. 2.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 2, the water dispensing device includes a water supply channel (11) through which raw water supplied from a water source flows, and a filter unit (10) that filters the raw water supplied to the water supply channel (11) to produce purified water.

[0072] The purified water that has passed through the filter unit (10) flows through the purified water flow path (20) toward the outlet (90a). The purified water that has passed through the filter unit (10) can be introduced into the water quality measuring unit (50). When purified water is introduced into the water quality measuring unit (50), the water quality of the purified water can be measured.

[0073] Additionally, the sensing channel (12) may be branched from the above water supply channel (11) so that raw water can flow directly into the water quality measuring unit (50) through the above sensing channel (12). When raw water flows into the above water quality measuring unit (50), the water quality of the raw water can be measured.

[0074] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a water supply valve (V1) that controls the supply of water to the filter section (10) and the water purification section (20) may be disposed in the water supply channel (11). The water supply valve (V1) can open and close the water purification section (20). When the water supply valve (V1) is opened, raw water is purified by passing through the filter section (10) along the first line (L1) of FIG. 3, and purified water can be introduced into the water quality measuring section (50) through the water purification section (20).

[0075] Meanwhile, the above water supply channel (11) may include a first water supply channel (11a) connecting the water source and the water supply valve (V1), and a second water supply channel (11b) connecting the water supply valve (V1) and the filter (10).

[0076] Additionally, one end of the sensing channel (12) may be connected to the first water supply channel (11a), and the other end may be connected to the water quality measuring unit (50). A sensing valve (V2) for opening and closing the sensing channel (12) may be provided in the sensing channel (12). When the sensing valve (V2) is opened, raw water may flow directly into the water quality measuring unit (50) through the sensing channel (12) along the second line (L2) of FIG. 4.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 2, the water dispensing device may further include an outlet (90a) through which the purified water is discharged, a discharge path (13) that guides the purified water to the outlet (90a), a drainage path (14) that branches off from the discharge path (13) between the water quality measuring unit (50) and the outlet (90a) to drain the raw water or the purified water, and a discharge valve (V3) that selectively supplies the raw water or the purified water to the discharge path (13) and the drainage path (14).

[0078] The above-mentioned discharge valve (V3), under the control of the control unit (60), can divert water for which water quality measurement has been completed to the drain (90b) and the discharge port (90a). When the drainage operation is performed, the water for which water quality measurement has been completed flows into the drainage channel (14) along the third line (L3) of FIG. 5. By draining and washing the raw water, it is possible to prevent the raw water from being discharged as drinking water.

[0079] Meanwhile, the above-mentioned water outlet (13) may include a first water outlet (13a) connecting the water quality measuring unit (50) and the water outlet valve (V3), and a second water outlet (13b) connecting the water outlet valve (V3) and the water outlet (90a).

[0080] An outlet sterilization module (80) that irradiates ultraviolet rays onto the outlet (90a) is disposed on the side of the outlet (90a) where the purified water is discharged. The outlet sterilization module (80) can sterilize the outlet space and residual water. The control unit (60) can operate the outlet sterilization module (80) for a predetermined time based on water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit (50).

[0081] Referring to FIG. 2, one side of the sterilization channel (71) branches off from the water supply channel (11) and the other side is connected to the filter (10). A sterilization module (70) for heating water passing through the sterilization channel (71) is disposed on the sterilization channel (71). The control unit (60) can operate the sterilization module (70) for a predetermined time based on water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit (50).

[0082] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the water supply valve (V1) may be a switching valve that selectively supplies the raw water to the water supply path (11) or the sterilization path (71).

[0083] Referring to FIG. 2, the water dispensing device may further include a hot water channel (21) having one side branched from the purified water channel (20) and a hot water module (30) provided on the hot water channel (21) to heat purified water passing through the hot water channel (21), and a cold water channel (22) having one side branched from the purified water channel (20) and a cold water module (40) provided on the cold water channel (22) to cool purified water passing through the cold water channel (22).

[0084] Referring to FIG. 2, the hot water channel (21) and the cold water channel (22) can be combined again with the purified water channel (2). Alternatively, the hot water channel (21) and the cold water channel (22) can be combined with the water outlet channel (13).

[0085] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a drainage pump (65) may be installed in the drainage channel (14). After measuring water quality, when the drainage pump (65) is operated, the water with measured water quality can be discharged to the outside more quickly at a faster speed.

[0086] Additionally, the drainage pump (65) can operate during the sterilization operation for each flow path area. Accordingly, high-temperature water can be discharged to the outside more quickly after sterilization. In particular, when the water outlet (13) connected to the outlet (90a) side tap is also sterilized, some of the high-temperature water is discharged toward the outlet (90a), but a large amount of high-temperature water can be discharged toward the drain (90b). Accordingly, the occurrence of safety accidents, user discomfort, and the inconvenience of the user having to handle a large amount of hot water can be prevented as a large amount of hot water is discharged toward the outlet (90a).

[0087] Meanwhile, the water quality measuring unit (50) can measure the water quality of the purified water when the purified water flows in through the purified water channel (20), and measure the water quality of the raw water when the raw water flows in through the sensing channel (12).

[0088] If the water quality measuring unit (50) measures the water quality of the raw water, it can measure the water quality of the purified water after performing a rinsing operation in which the purified water passes through one or more times. In this way, the sensing accuracy and efficiency can be improved through the water piping configuration and rinsing operation for sensor commonality.

[0089] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a water pipe of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] A water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be a various water treatment device or purification device that receives water from the outside, such as a water purifier or refrigerator, purifies the received water, and then discharges it.

[0091] For example, the water dispensing device may be equipped with an under-sink type water purifier in which at least a portion is placed in the lower space of the sink.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 6, a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a water outlet (200) installed such that at least a portion is exposed to the outside of the sink, and the remaining main body part installed inside the sink.

[0093] The water dispensing device includes a water supply channel (11) that guides raw water supplied from the outside into the inside, a filter (10) that purifies the raw water supplied along the water supply channel (11) into purified water, and a purified water channel (20) that flows the purified water that has passed through the filter (10) toward the outlet (200).

[0094] Meanwhile, the water supply channel (11) connects an external water source and a filter (10). Through the water supply channel (11), raw water supplied from the external water source can be supplied to the filter (10).

[0095] As described above, the water (raw water) supplied to the filter (10) is purified into purified water as it passes through the filter (10). At least one filter (10) may be provided. For example, multiple filters (10) may be provided. Accordingly, water passing through the water supply channel (11) can be purified into cleaner water as it passes through multiple filters (10).

[0096] Additionally, the purified water that has passed through the filter (10) can flow through the purified water channel (20) toward the outlet (200) exposed on the outside of the sink (10).

[0097] To this end, one end of the water purification channel (20) is connected to the filter (10) side, and the other end is connected to the water outlet (200) side. Meanwhile, at least one of the cold water channel (22), the hot water channel (21), and the washing water channel (90c) may be branched from the water purification channel (20).

[0098] FIG. 6 illustrates an example in which the cold water channel (22) is integrated into the purified water channel (20), and the hot water channel (21) and washing water channel (90c) are branched off from the purified water channel (20).

[0099] One end of the above water purification channel (20) is connected to the filter (10), and water that has passed through the filter (10) flows toward the water outlet (200) through the connected water outlet channel (13). The water outlet (200) includes a water outlet (90a) and can discharge water, etc.

[0100] The water can be supplied to the water outlet side in the state of sterilized water while passing through the water module (1030) provided on the water outlet (90c). In the case where the water outlet (200) includes a plurality of water outlets, a water outlet may also be formed in the water outlet (200) according to the embodiment.

[0101] Meanwhile, a pressure reducing valve (1010) for controlling the flow rate of water supplied to the filter (10) may be installed in the above water supply channel (11).

[0102] In addition, at least one of a flow sensor (1011) for detecting the flow rate of water, an inlet valve for controlling the flow rate of water or controlling the flow of water, or a flow rate sensor (not shown) for detecting the flow rate of water may be installed in the above water supply channel (11) or water purification channel (20).

[0103] Additionally, a shut-off valve for controlling the flow of water in each of the above water purification channel (20), the above hot water channel (21), and the above washing water channel (90c) may be separately installed. For example, a washing water valve (1019) may be installed in the washing water channel (90c).

[0104] Alternatively, a cold / hot / water purification valve (1015) capable of selectively supplying purified water to the purified water channel (20) and the hot water channel (21) may be installed at the branching point of the purified water channel (20) and the hot water channel (21). Also,

[0105] Additionally, a safety element (1025), such as a backflow prevention device, may be installed in the hot water channel (21). Furthermore, a safety valve (1016) for steam discharge may be installed in the hot water module (30). The steam from the hot water module (30) may be drained toward the drain (90b) through the connected channel (15).

[0106] Meanwhile, a water outlet valve (1018) is positioned on the water outlet channel (13) to supply or block purified water, cold water, and hot water flowing toward the water outlet section (200).

[0107] Additionally, a drainage channel (14) is branched from the water outlet channel (13), and a drain valve (1017) is installed in the drainage channel (14) so ​​that purified water, cold water, hot water, and raw water can be discharged to the drain (90b).

[0108] Meanwhile, as an example above, the water outlet valve (1018) and the drain valve (1017) may each be provided with a single inlet and a first outlet and a second outlet that are selectively opened, and may be provided as a three-way valve including an actuator that selectively opens and closes the two outlets. In this case, the first outlet may be connected to the water outlet section (200) side, and the second outlet may be connected to the drain outlet (90b) side.

[0109] Meanwhile, raw water is supplied through a water supply channel (11) connected to a water source such as a water pipe, water tank, or groundwater pipe. A pressure reducing valve (1010) is installed on the water supply channel (11), and as the raw water passes through the pressure reducing valve (1010), the pressure is reduced to a set pressure.

[0110] Then, the raw water that has passed through the filter (10) has foreign substances removed and becomes purified. The purified water flows along the purified water channel (20). Then, it can be branched into a cold water-purified water side and a hot water side.

[0111] First, the purified water branched into the cold water-purified water side is further branched into the cold water side and the purified water side, and purified water or cold water can be supplied to the user through the water outlet (200) according to the operation of the cold water module (40) corresponding to the user's operation to select purified water or cold water.

[0112] When a user requests the discharge of cold water, the purified water passes through a cooling coil inside the cold water module (40). The water flowing along the cooling coil exchanges heat with the cooling water inside the cold water module (40) and is cooled into cold water. To this end, the cooling water is continuously cooled to maintain a set temperature. For reference, a compressor may be driven to cool the cooling water. The operation of the compressor may be determined by a cold water temperature sensor provided inside the cold water module (40). Therefore, the cooling water can always maintain a set temperature, and the operation of the compressor can be controlled for this purpose. The compressor is an inverter compressor, and its frequency is adjusted in response to the required load, and its cooling capacity can be adjusted. That is, the compressor can be driven by inverter control, and the cooling water can be cooled with optimal efficiency.

[0113] Meanwhile, when a user requests the discharge of hot water, the purified water can be heated to a set temperature while passing through the hot water module (30). The hot water module (30) can be heated by an induction heating method, and for this purpose, the output of the working coil included in the hot water module (30) can be adjusted. The purified water passing through the hot water module (30) can be heated to a set temperature. The hot water heated while passing through the hot water module (30) flows toward the discharge section (200).

[0114] Meanwhile, one side of the sterilization channel (71) branches off from the water supply channel (11), and the other side is connected to the filter (10). On the sterilization channel (71), a sterilization module (70) that heats the water passing through the sterilization channel (71) and a flow control valve (1013) that controls the flow rate of the sterilization channel (71) may be arranged.

[0115] Meanwhile, a feed valve (1012) that selectively supplies raw water to the water supply channel (11) or the sterilization channel (71) may be disposed at the location where the sterilization channel (71) branches off from the water supply channel (11).

[0116] Meanwhile, the above water supply channel (11) may include a first water supply channel (11a) connecting the water source and the feed valve (1012), and a second water supply channel (11b) connecting the feed valve (1012) and the filter (10).

[0117] Meanwhile, the above-described sensing path (12) may be branched from the first water supply path (11a) upstream of the feed valve (1012). A sensing valve (1014) for opening and closing the sensing path (12) and a backflow prevention element (1020) for preventing backflow of raw water may be disposed in the sensing path (12).

[0118] The above control unit (60) can control the feed valve (1012) to be closed and the sensing valve (1014) to be opened so that raw water is supplied to the water quality measuring unit (50) through the sensing path (1014).

[0119] After measuring the water quality of the raw water, the control unit (60) closes the water outlet valve (1018) and opens the drain valve (1017) to discharge the raw water measured by the water quality measuring unit (50) to the drain (90b).

[0120] The control unit (60) can control the feed valve (1012) to open toward the water purification channel (20) and the sensing valve (1014) to close so that purified water is supplied to the water quality measuring unit (50).

[0121] In addition, the control unit (60) performs a rinsing operation by controlling the water discharge valve (1018) to close and the drain valve (1017) to open so that the purified water passing through the water quality measuring unit (50) is discharged toward the drain (90b).

[0122] Afterward, the control unit (60) can supply purified water to the water quality measuring unit (50) with the same valve control to measure the quality of the purified water. Accordingly, the influence of the raw water is eliminated, and the quality of the purified water can be accurately measured at the same water quality measuring unit (50).

[0123] FIG. 7 is a drawing referenced for the description of hygiene management standards for a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an example of hygiene management standards set according to a contamination level standard value and a corresponding hygiene management plan.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 7, the control unit (60) determines that the contamination level is normal when it is at level 1 and proceeds with a normal water discharge mode, and does not perform additional hygiene management measures.

[0125] The control unit (60) can stop the water discharge when the contamination level is 2 to 4 stages and carry out the operation of a hygiene management plan suitable for each contamination level stage.

[0126] The contamination levels can be classified based on standard values ​​determined according to the drinking water quality standards of each country, such as South Korea. For example, based on South Korea's domestic drinking water quality standards, 100 CFU / mL can be set as the standard distinguishing between Level 1 and Level 2. Since the bacterial count standard for general drinking water is 100 CFU / mL or less, normal water dispensing is possible when the sensor measurement value is at the Level 1 contamination level.

[0127] When the contamination level exceeds 100 CFU / mL, the contamination level is set to level 2, and the control unit (60) can control the operation to perform a residual water emptying operation to discharge residual water in the flow path. When the contamination level is at a relatively low level of level 2, the filter unit (10) and additional contamination in the flow path can be reduced by only emptying the residual water in the flow path.

[0128] Additionally, at contamination level 2, the outlet sterilization module (80) can operate in basic mode. The outlet (200) is a part that can come into direct or indirect contact with the outside, so it has a high possibility of contamination. If microbial contamination occurs at the outlet (200), contamination may spread within the water pipe, and to prevent this, an outlet sterilization module (80) including a UV light source (e.g., UV-C LED (278nm)) can be used. For example, the outlet UV-C LED (0.2mW) operates with a cycle of 10 minutes On and 50 minutes Off, and 99.99% sterilization of E. coli and S. aureus is possible.

[0129] Generally, levels of hundreds to thousands of CFU / mL are considered to be contamination requiring hygiene management. If water stagnation increases due to prolonged non-use, leading to the formation of internal biofilms and an increase in contamination levels to 10,000 CFU / mL, there is a risk of detecting general bacteria; therefore, a higher contamination standard of 10,000 CFU / mL may be set. 10,000 CFU / mL can be established as the Level 3 standard.

[0130] If the contamination level exceeds 10,000 CFU / mL, the contamination level is set to level 3, and the control unit (60) can control the sterilization module (70) to sterilize the flow path with high-temperature water. Particulate contaminants, such as organic matter and inorganic matter (minerals, etc.) contained in raw water, always remain in the water in small amounts, and as the usage time of the water dispensing device accumulates, particulate contaminants may settle, causing contamination of the filter or internal flow path. At this time, hot water sterilization can be used as a measure to manage the internal contamination level. Due to the cleaning effect of hot water sterilization (70℃), attached bacteria and floating bacteria in the internal flow path can be sterilized by 99.99%.

[0131] Meanwhile, the high-temperature water generated in the sterilization module (70) flows through the water purification channel (20) and the water outlet channel (13) to sterilize the water purification channel (20) and the water outlet channel (13). The water outlet channel (13) is a channel connected to the tap of the water outlet section (200) and may also be named as a tap channel. In addition, the water outlet sterilization module (80) can operate in basic mode even in the third stage.

[0132] Additionally, if the contamination level exceeds a higher level, for example, 1,000,000 CFU / mL, the contamination level is set to level 3, and the control unit (60) operates the sterilization module (70) to sterilize the water flow path, and the water outlet sterilization module (80) can operate in power mode. In the power mode of the water outlet sterilization module (80), the ultraviolet irradiation time may be set longer than in the basic mode. Alternatively, in the power mode, the ultraviolet irradiation intensity may be set higher than in the basic mode. Alternatively, in the power mode, the ultraviolet irradiation time may be longer and the ultraviolet irradiation intensity may be set higher than in the basic mode. Alternatively, the ultraviolet irradiation cycle may be adjusted according to the operation mode.

[0133] Depending on the intensity (output) of the light source of the above-mentioned outlet sterilization module (80), there is a difference in the irradiation time required to reach 99.99% sterilization capability. For example, a 0.2mW UV-C LED has a low output, so the operation cycle must be repeated several times to achieve sterilization performance. Since sterilization power is related to UV light intensity x irradiation time, the optimal operating time may vary depending on the LED output. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the operating mode can be controlled by the sensor measurement value of the water quality measuring unit (50). The basic UV operation mode is to turn on the LED for only the minimum time sufficient to sterilize at a low contamination level (e.g., repeating a cycle of 10 minutes On, 50 minutes Off). In addition, the power mode is a mode that increases sterilization power by keeping the LED on for xx minutes (e.g., 30 minutes On) to quickly lower a high contamination level to level 1.

[0134] As shown in Fig. 7, as the contamination level increases, gradually strengthened hygiene management measures can be performed. When the contamination level increases, the above-mentioned outlet sterilization module (80) is operated to strengthen hygiene management of the outlet water section (200), and if the contamination level increases further, the above-mentioned sterilization module (70) can be operated additionally or the operation mode of the above-mentioned outlet sterilization module (80) can be varied.

[0135] Meanwhile, in this specification, 'greater than' and 'greater than' are interchangeable, and 'less than' and 'less than or equal to' are interchangeable. For example, if the contamination level is 100 CFU / mL or more, it can be determined as contamination level 2; if the contamination level is 10,000 CFU / mL or more, it can be determined as contamination level 3; and if the contamination level is 1,000,000 CFU / mL or more, it can be determined as contamination level 4.

[0136] Alternatively, the criteria for classifying pollution levels may be determined based on the drinking water turbidity quality standards of countries such as South Korea. For example, pollution levels can be classified based on Nephelometry Turbidity Units (NTU) of 0.3, 0.5, and 1.0.

[0137] If the contamination level is 0.3 NTU or less (or less than), it is determined as contamination level 1; if the contamination level is greater than 0.3 NTU (or greater than) and 0.5 NTU or less (or less than), it is determined as contamination level 2; if the contamination level is greater than 0.5 NTU (or greater than) and 1.0 NTU or less (or less than), it is determined as contamination level 3; and if the contamination level is greater than 1.0 NTU (or greater than), it can be determined as contamination level 4.

[0138] Meanwhile, in other embodiments, a management method different from the hygiene management method exemplified in FIG. 7 may be applied.

[0139] For example, if the contamination level is level 1, the control unit (60) controls normal water discharge, and if the contamination level is level 2, the control unit (60) can stop water discharge and control only the operation of emptying residual water in the flow path. When the contamination level is at a relatively low level of level 2, the filter unit (10) and additional contamination in the flow path can be reduced by emptying residual water in the flow path.

[0140] Additionally, if the contamination level is 2, the control unit (60) can control the sterilization of hot water in the waterway by operating the sterilization module (70). Additionally, if the contamination level is 3, the control unit (60) can control the sterilization of hot water in the waterway and the sterilization of the water outlet by operating the sterilization module (70) and the water outlet sterilization module (80) together.

[0141] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method of operation of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 8, prior to the discharge of water from a water dispensing device such as a water purifier (S800), a water quality measuring unit (50) operates to measure the water quality of the purified water (S810). For example, the turbidity sensor of the water quality measuring unit (50) senses the turbidity of the purified water that has passed through the filter (10) in real time (S810). The water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit (50) is transmitted to a control unit (60), and the control unit (60) compares the measured water quality data with a water quality standard value (S820).

[0143] When the comparison result (S820) satisfies the water quality standard (S822), the control unit (60) controls normal water output, and the output unit (85) can provide the user with water quality data that satisfies the water quality standard as intuitive information such as safe water, blue, etc. (S830).

[0144] If, as a result of comparison (S820), the water quality standard is not satisfied (S824), the control unit (60) controls entry into the hygiene management mode described with reference to FIG. 7, etc., and the output unit (85) can provide the user with intuitive information such as the entry into the hygiene management mode and red color, water quality data that is not satisfied with the water quality standard (S840).

[0145] The control unit (60) can stop the water discharge according to the contamination level when entering the hygiene management mode and control the execution of 2 to 4 stages of management measures (S850).

[0146] FIG. 9 is a drawing referenced in the description of sterilization of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 10 is a drawing referenced in the description of emptying residual water of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0147] Referring to FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10, the water dispensing device includes a water supply channel (11) through which raw water supplied from a water source flows, and a filter unit (10) that filters the raw water supplied to the water supply channel (11) to produce purified water.

[0148] The purified water that has passed through the filter unit (10) flows through the purified water flow path (20) toward the outlet (90a). The purified water that has passed through the filter unit (10) can be introduced into the water quality measuring unit (50). When purified water is introduced into the water quality measuring unit (50), the water quality of the purified water can be measured.

[0149] Meanwhile, a sterilization channel (13) may be branched from the water supply channel (11). One side of the sterilization channel (13) branches off from the water supply channel (11), and the other side is connected to the filter unit (10). A sterilization module (70) is placed in the sterilization channel (13) to generate high-temperature water for sterilization.

[0150] The water dispensing device moves the high-temperature water discharged from the sterilization module (70) to the flow path area based on the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit (50), and performs sterilization operations for each flow path area.

[0151] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the water dispensing device comprises an outlet (90a) through which purified water is discharged, a discharge path (13) that guides the purified water to the outlet (90a), a drainage path (14) that branches off from the discharge path (13) between the water quality measuring unit (50) and the outlet (90a) to drain the raw water or the purified water, and the discharge path (13) through which the raw water or the purified water is discharged. Additionally, an outlet sterilization module (80) that irradiates ultraviolet rays toward the outlet (90a) is disposed at the end of the discharge path (13).

[0152] An outlet valve (V3) is installed in the above-mentioned outlet channel (13) so that the above-mentioned raw water or the above-mentioned purified water can be selectively supplied to the above-mentioned outlet channel (13b) and the above-mentioned drainage channel (14).

[0153] Meanwhile, the above-mentioned water purification channel (20) branches into a hot water channel (21) and a cold water channel (22). A hot water module (30) and a cold water module (40) for heating and cooling the purified water can be placed in the above-mentioned hot water channel (21) and cold water channel (22), respectively.

[0154] The control unit (60) controls the sterilization module (70) and the water outlet sterilization module (80) to perform sterilization operations by selectively operating them according to hygiene management mode standards based on water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit (50).

[0155] For example, if the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit (50) corresponds to pollution level 1, the purified water is discharged normally through the outlet (90a), and if the water quality data corresponds to pollution level 2 or higher, which is higher than pollution level 1, the discharge is stopped.

[0156] If the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit (50) corresponds to the contamination level 3 or 4, a hot water sterilization operation can be performed to sterilize the water path with high-temperature water discharged from the sterilization module (70). The control unit (60) can determine that the contamination level is 3 or higher if the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit (50) is greater than or equal to the second standard value (e.g., 0.5 NTU).

[0157] Referring to FIG. 9, at contamination level 3 or 4, the control unit (60) can control the water purification channel (20) and the water discharge channel (13) to be sterilized with high-temperature water discharged from the sterilization module (70). The high-temperature water sterilizes the water purification channel (20) and the water discharge channel (13) along the fourth line (L4) and is discharged through the water outlet (90a).

[0158] In some cases, a portion of the high-temperature water may be configured to be drained into the drainage channel (14). The water outlet channel (13) may include a first water outlet channel (13a) connecting the water quality measuring unit (50) and the water outlet valve (V3), and a second water outlet channel (13b) connecting the water outlet valve (V3) and the water outlet (90a). The high-temperature water from the sterilization module (90) flows into the water purification channel (20) and the first water outlet channel (13a), and sterilizes the water purification channel (20) and the first water outlet channel (13a). Additionally, a portion of the high-temperature water is drained into the drainage channel (14), and the remaining portion sterilizes the second water outlet channel (13b) and is discharged into the water outlet (90a).

[0159] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, at contamination level 3, the outlet sterilization module (80) operates in basic mode, and at contamination level 4, the outlet sterilization module (80) can operate in power mode.

[0160] In another embodiment, at contamination level 3, only hot water sterilization using the sterilization module (70) is performed, and at contamination level 4, hot water sterilization using the sterilization module (70) and sterilization of the outlet using the outlet sterilization module (80) can be performed in parallel.

[0161] According to the embodiment, if the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit (50) corresponds to the contamination level 2, the water outlet sterilization module (80) can be operated and the residual water emptying operation can be performed.

[0162] In another embodiment, if the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit (50) corresponds to the pollution level 2, only the residual water emptying operation may be performed.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 10, a drainage pump (65) is installed in the drainage channel (14), and residual water can be discharged through the drainage channel (14) according to the operation of the drainage pump (65). The residual water is discharged to the drain (90b) via the drainage channel (14) along the fifth line (L5).

[0164] Figure 11 is a figure referenced in the explanation regarding turbidity standards of various countries and the provision of information based thereon.

[0165] The standard value for distinguishing pollution levels can be set based on turbidity values ​​according to domestic and international legal water quality standards. Referring to FIG. 11, water treatment plants or general drinking water standards in Korea, the EU, the US, Canada, Japan, Australia, and India are illustrated. Based on these turbidity standards of each country, pollution levels can be distinguished, and different hygiene management measures can be implemented for the corresponding pollution level. Additionally, the output unit (85) can provide turbidity information visualized in different colors according to the turbidity value.

[0166] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method of operation of a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0167] Referring to FIG. 12, the water quality measuring unit (50) detects the degree of water contamination in real time (S1210). For example, the turbidity sensor of the water quality measuring unit (50) operates at a predetermined sensing cycle to measure the water quality. During the time when the water dispensing device is not in use, the water quality within the flow path may deteriorate due to microbial growth and biofilm formation. Therefore, even during the time when the device is not in use, the internal water quality condition can be sensed to detect the occurrence of contamination.

[0168] Meanwhile, if the measured water quality data is above the contamination standard (S1220), the control unit (60) supplies clean purified water through the water quality measuring unit (50) to the water outlet channel (13) and / or drainage channel (14), and the residual water in the channel can be drained through the drainage channel (14) (S1230). Since the purified water passes through the water quality measuring unit (50) at least once, the supply of purified water and the drainage of residual water (S1230) can correspond to the rinsing operation described above. Accordingly, not only can the channel be cleaned, but the sensing accuracy can also be improved.

[0169] Afterward, the water quality measuring unit (50) can re-measure the water quality of the purified water (S1240), and the output unit (85) can display water quality information (S1250). The contaminated water is drained, new purified water is filled into the waterway, and a clean alarm is displayed so that the user can always drink clean water.

[0170] In addition, if the measured water quality data is not above the pollution standard value (S1220), the output unit (85) can display water quality information (S1270).

[0171] Meanwhile, the above water quality measuring unit (50) can adjust the waiting time until the next sensing cycle (S1260, S1280) depending on whether the water quality is re-measured (S1240), that is, whether it is above the pollution standard value (S1220).

[0172] If water quality is re-measured (S1240), the water quality measuring unit (50) waits for a first reference time (S1260) and then performs water quality measurement according to the next sensing cycle (S1210). When measuring water quality according to the original sensing cycle (S1210), if it is not above the pollution standard value (S1220), the water quality measuring unit (50) waits for a second reference time (S1280) and then performs water quality measurement according to the next sensing cycle (S1210).

[0173] Here, the first standard time applied when water quality re-measurement is performed is longer than the second standard time applied when it is not performed. That is, if the water quality re-measurement is performed, the waiting time until the next water quality measurement can be increased.

[0174] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the contamination indicator concentration is measured after a certain period of time, and if no abnormal value is detected, additional measurements are taken at shorter intervals to continuously monitor the internal flow path and water quality contamination, and if a contamination value is detected, newly purified water is filled to prevent contamination of the internal flow path itself.

[0175] The water quality of the internal flow path, which is refilled with clean water, is remeasured through a sensor, and the fact that the water quality is continuously maintained can be visualized and provided to the user at the output unit (85).

[0176] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Furthermore, various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the essence of the invention as claimed in the patent claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical spirit or perspective of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0178] 11: Water supply route 12 : Sensing Euro 13: Outflow channel 14 : Drainage channel 20 : Jungsuyuro 50 : Water quality measurement unit

Claims

Claim 1 A water supply channel through which raw water supplied from a water source flows; a filter that filters the raw water supplied to the water supply channel to produce purified water; a purified water channel through which the purified water that has passed through the filter flows; a water quality measuring unit connected to the purified water channel to measure the water quality of the purified water; a sterilization channel, one end of which branches off from the water supply channel and the other end of which is connected to the filter; a sterilization module provided on the sterilization channel to heat the water passing through the sterilization channel; an outlet through which the purified water is discharged; and a water outlet that guides the purified water to the outlet. A water dispensing device comprising: a water outlet sterilization module that irradiates ultraviolet rays onto the water outlet; a drainage channel branched from the water outlet between the water quality measuring unit and the water outlet, through which the raw water or the purified water is drained; and a control unit that controls the sterilization module and the water outlet sterilization module to selectively operate and perform a sterilization operation based on water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit; wherein water passing through the sterilization channel is also drained through the drainage channel; wherein the water quality measuring unit includes a single common sensor; and the control unit controls the water outlet sterilization module to selectively operate and perform a sterilization operation based on water quality data from a single measurement by the single common sensor. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 A water dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein if the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit corresponds to pollution level 1, the purified water is discharged normally through the outlet, and if the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit corresponds to pollution level 2 or higher, which is higher than pollution level 1, the discharge is stopped. Claim 4 A water dispensing device further comprising, in paragraph 3, a drainage pump disposed in the drainage channel. Claim 5 A water dispensing device according to claim 4, which operates the drainage pump to discharge residual water into the drainage channel when the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit corresponds to the pollution level 2. Claim 6 A water dispensing device that operates the outlet sterilization module when the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit corresponds to the contamination level 2 in paragraph 4. Claim 7 A water dispensing device according to claim 4, further comprising a discharge valve that selectively supplies the raw water or the purified water to the discharge channel and the drainage channel. Claim 8 A water dispensing device that operates the sterilization module when the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit corresponds to a contamination level 3, which is higher than the contamination level 2. Claim 9 A water dispensing device according to claim 8 that sterilizes the purified water channel and the discharge channel with high-temperature water discharged from the sterilization module. Claim 10 A water dispensing device that operates the outlet sterilization module when the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit corresponds to the contamination level 3 in claim 8. Claim 11 A water dispensing device according to claim 8, wherein if the water quality data measured by the water quality measuring unit corresponds to a contamination level of 4, which is higher than the contamination level of 3, the sterilization module and the outlet sterilization module operate together. Claim 12 In claim 11, when the outlet sterilization module operates at contamination level 3 and contamination level 4, the outlet sterilization module is a water dispensing device that irradiates ultraviolet rays for a longer time at contamination level 4 than at contamination level 3. Claim 13 In claim 1, the water quality measuring unit is a water dispensing device that, if the measured water quality data is greater than or equal to a contamination standard, passes the purified water through one or more times and then re-measures the water quality of the purified water. Claim 14 A water dispensing device according to claim 13, further comprising an output unit that displays water quality information if the measured water quality data is not above the pollution standard value. Claim 15 In paragraph 13, the water quality measuring unit is a water dispensing device that increases the waiting time until the next water quality measurement when the water quality re-measurement is performed. Claim 16 A water dispensing device according to claim 1, further comprising a sensing channel branched from the water supply channel through which the raw water flows; wherein the water quality measuring unit measures the water quality of the purified water when the purified water flows in through the purified water channel, and measures the water quality of the raw water when the raw water flows in through the sensing channel. Claim 17 In claim 16, the water quality measuring unit is a water dispensing device that measures the water quality of the purified water after performing a rinsing operation in which the purified water passes through one or more times, when the water quality of the raw water is measured. Claim 18 A water dispensing device according to claim 16, further comprising: a switching valve for supplying the raw water to the water supply path or the sterilization path; and a sensing valve for opening and closing the sensing path. Claim 19 A water dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the water quality measuring unit comprises a turbidity sensor that irradiates light onto a portion of the raw water or purified water and senses turbidity based on a pattern of scattered light received. Claim 20 A water dispensing device according to claim 1, further comprising: a hot water channel on one side branching from the purified water channel; a hot water module provided on the hot water channel for heating purified water passing through the hot water channel; a cold water channel on one side branching from the purified water channel; and a cold water module provided on the cold water channel for cooling purified water passing through the cold water channel.

Images