Water dispensing device

Abstract

A water dispensing device according to the present invention comprises: a filter, including a first filter and a second filter, for purifying water; a water supply flow path for supplying the filter with water supplied from a water supply source; a water dispensing nozzle through which the water that passes through the filter is discharged; a purified water flow path for guiding, toward the water dispensing nozzle, purified water that passes through the filter; a hot water flow path having one side branched from the purified water flow path and the other side connected to the water dispensing nozzle; a hot water module that is provided on the hot water flow path and heats, into hot water, the purified water passing through the hot water flow path; a hot water valve that is installed on the hot water flow path and controls the flow of the hot water discharged from the hot water module and flowing toward the water dispensing nozzle; an intermediate flow path connecting the first filter and the second filter; a first sterilization flow path having one side branched from the intermediate flow path and the other side connected to the hot water flow path; a sterilization valve that is installed in the intermediate flow path and transfers, to the second filter or the first sterilization flow path, the water that has passed through the first filter; and a control unit for controlling the operation of the hot water valve and the sterilization valve.

Description

Water discharge device

[0001] The present invention relates to a water extraction device having an ice-making means, and more specifically, to a water extraction device capable of producing and freezing ice.

[0002] A water dispenser is a device that supplies beverages, purified water, etc.

[0003] An example of a water purifier is a water purifier, which is a device that physically and chemically filters out harmful elements such as foreign substances and heavy metals contained in water. To this end, a typical water purifier largely includes a filter unit that filters out contaminants from raw water containing contaminants, and an outlet unit that extracts purified water that has passed through the filter unit. When power is supplied to such a water purifier, raw water is supplied to the filter unit and purified, and the purified purified water is extracted through the outlet unit according to the user's choice.

[0004] Furthermore, in addition to simply purifying raw water, some purifiers also offer cooling and heating functions, providing cold and hot water by cooling or heating the purified water. Furthermore, water purifiers capable of providing ice in addition to cold and hot water, including ice-making devices, have been developed. These cooling and ice-making functions require a cooling device to cool the water passing through the filter.

[0005] Cooling devices used in water purifiers include thermoelectric elements or refrigerant compression cycle devices used in general refrigerators, and refrigerant compression cycle devices are widely used due to issues such as power consumption and cooling capacity.

[0006] Referring to prior art document 1 (Korean Patent No. 10-1602236), a conventional water purifier with an ice-making function includes a water purification tank in which purified water, after being filtered of foreign substances, is stored. Furthermore, separate from the water purification tank, an ice-making tray is provided for temporarily storing water used to make ice, and a cold water tank is provided for storing cold water cooled by the ice-making tray.

[0007] And, an evaporator is provided adjacent to the ice-making tray, and a compressor, a condenser, and a capillary tube, which form a refrigerant compression cycle device together with the evaporator, are respectively provided. In addition, an ice bank for storing the ice produced is provided below the ice-making tray. The ice bank is arranged together with the ice-making tray within a single insulated space.

[0008] A water purifier having a conventional ice-making means having a structure as described above stores ice produced in an ice-making tray in the ice bank, and moves water remaining in the ice-making tray to the cold water tank to supply cold water to a user.

[0009] Meanwhile, the evaporator is a so-called submerged evaporator, which has fingers that come into direct contact with the cold water filled in the ice tray. The submerged evaporator has been used as an ice-making means in water purifiers for a long time due to its simple structure and low production cost. Recently, an ice-making means that controls the compressor using an inverter has been used for the purpose of improving ice-making efficiency, reducing power consumption, and shortening ice-making time.

[0010] The conventional ice purifier as described above uses a three-way valve to open the cold water side valve when producing cold water, and to open the ice-making side valve when making ice.

[0011] However, the conventional ice purifier as described above has a problem in that after completing ice making, the compressor is stopped and the ice removing heater is operated to remove the ice, so the number of times the compressor is turned on / off is large, resulting in high energy consumption, and the waiting time for turning the compressor on / off is generated, resulting in a decrease in the ice making amount (kg / day).

[0012] Additionally, there were problems such as ice stored in an ice storage after being frozen melting over time, the size and quantity of the ice decreasing, and water being generated as the ice melted.

[0013] In detail, the conventional ice purifier as described above had the following problems when storing frozen ice because it did not store the stored ice under sub-zero temperature conditions.

[0014] First, after freezing, the frozen ice was stored at room temperature and melted during storage.

[0015] And, as the ice melted, there was a problem that the size of the ice supplied to the user was not consistent during ice extraction, and each shape was different.

[0016] For example, there were problems such as broken ice, small ice, and ice that melted easily being extracted.

[0017] Additionally, as the ice melts, water is created, and the water created as the ice melts is drained or used as cold water.

[0018] Additionally, there was a problem of low efficiency because new ice had to be created every time the ice melted.

[0019] Additionally, storing ice at room temperature can cause hygiene problems inside the ice storage.

[0020] That is, there was a problem of poor hygiene as the phenomenon of ice being created and melting repeatedly at room temperature, and the temperature change and water circulation structure inside the ice storage, created a possibility of bacteria and mold growing inside the ice storage.

[0021] Furthermore, existing ice purifiers utilize a finger-type evaporator to complete ice production. During the ice-removal process, the ice tray rotates, discharging any remaining water into the ice storage located below. If this water drips onto the ice stored in the ice bank, the quality of the ice can deteriorate.

[0022] In detail, in the case of an ice purifier that sets the internal temperature of the ice bank below zero for the purpose of long-term storage of ice, the remaining water that falls due to the operation freezes instantaneously with the ice, causing the ice to stick together and clump together, which causes poor ice discharge and ultimately causes poor ice quality and errors in operation.

[0023] Referring to prior art document 2 (Korean Patent No. 10-1631218), in the case of a conventional ice maker, an ice guide grill is provided at the bottom of the ice tray to separate the ice remaining water and the separated ice when discarding the remaining water from the ice tray.

[0024] However, in the case of the ice guide grill of the above ice maker, the size of the frozen ice and the spacing between the ribs of the grill may not match, so the ice may get caught between the ribs as it falls into the storage, and when the internal temperature of the ice room and storage is below zero, water condensation may occur between the ribs of the grill, causing ice to form, which may result in malfunction.

[0025] In the case of a conventional ice tray, it is connected to a motor through a coupler and a clutch, and the surface where the coupler and the clutch are combined is formed to be radially inclined, and a curved surface is formed along the edge.

[0026] In the above case, if the ice bank containing ice is maintained at a freezing temperature, the spring provided in the rotation unit may not operate smoothly.

[0027] Additionally, during the ice-making stage, water may flow into the ice bank where ice is stored because the ice-making residual water is not structured to be collected and flow to one side.

[0028] And, as mentioned above, if water flows into the ice bank where ice is stored and falls, the problem of ice sticking together when stored in a freezer occurs.

[0029] Additionally, the ice tray where ice is created and the water supply unit that supplies water to the ice tray are cooled to produce ice for the user to consume, but then the temperature rises during the ice-making process, raising concerns about bacterial growth. Therefore, even if ice-making and ice-removing are performed repeatedly, they must be sterilized to prevent bacterial growth and remain hygienic at all times.

[0030] In addition, water passing through the filter passes through various channels, and if the channels are not replaced periodically, there is a risk of bacterial growth, so sterilization of various channels and some of the filters is necessary to ensure hygiene.

[0031] In addition, in order to reduce the overall volume of the water outlet device and increase the utilization of the internal space of the water outlet device, sterilization needs to be performed without adding a separate sterilization module and a PCB for the sterilization module for sterilization of various paths and parts of the filter.

[0032] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a water extraction device having a refrigeration system that can perform at least one function selected from among cold water generation, ice generation, ice deicing, and ice freezing storage using refrigerant discharged from one compressor.

[0033] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a water extraction device that can store ice at sub-zero temperatures without melting the ice that has been removed, and that can store ice at sub-zero temperatures without heat energy used for removing ice flowing into the ice storage space even when removing ice is in progress.

[0034] In addition, the purpose is to provide a water outlet device capable of hot water sterilization and hot water washing of the entire water outlet and valve inside the water outlet device connected from the water supply line connected to the water source to the water outlet nozzle or discharge port.

[0035] In addition, the purpose is to provide a water outlet device that can perform hot water sterilization and hot water washing up to the filter installed at the beginning of the flow path in the water outlet device.

[0036] In addition, the purpose is to provide a water outlet device that can prevent safety accidents such as burns that may occur when a large amount of hot water is discharged through the water outlet nozzle by discharging the hot water generated during hot water sterilization and hot water washing of the entire flow path included in the water outlet device through the water outlet nozzle or draining it to the outside of the water outlet device, and to prevent the user from having to deal with a large amount of hot water.

[0037] In addition, the purpose is to provide a water discharge device that can protect the hot water module from contamination by foreign substances contained in the raw water by supplying filtered purified water to a sterilizing path while passing through a filter and heating it as hot water in the hot water module, so that foreign substances contained in the raw water are filtered out and the hot water is heated as hot water in the hot water module.

[0038] In addition, the purpose is to provide a water outlet device that can sterilize the internal flow path of the water outlet device by generating hot water for hot water sterilization using a hot water tank provided for generating hot water for drinking water without having a separate tank or heater for hot water sterilization.

[0039] And, the purpose is to provide a water outlet device that can sterilize various types of water at high temperatures using a hot water heater module without using a separate sterilization module and sterilization heater by sterilizing a part of the filter.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a water discharging device comprises a filter including a first filter and a second filter for purifying water, a water supply channel for supplying water supplied from a water source to the filter, a water discharge nozzle for discharging water passing through the filter, a purified water channel for guiding purified water passing through the filter toward the water discharge nozzle, a hot water channel having one end branched from the purified water channel and the other end connected to the water discharge nozzle, a hot water module provided on the hot water channel for heating purified water passing through the hot water channel into hot water, a hot water valve provided on the hot water channel for controlling the flow of hot water discharged from the hot water module and flowing toward the water discharge nozzle, an intermediate channel for connecting the first filter and the second filter, and a first sterilization channel having one end branched from the intermediate channel and the other end connected to the hot water channel.

[0041] In addition, it includes a sterilizing valve installed in the intermediate channel and transferring water that has passed through the first filter to the second filter or to the first sterilizing channel, and a control unit that controls the operation of the hot water valve and the sterilizing valve.

[0042] In addition, it includes a second sterilization path that guides hot water discharged from the hot water path after being heated in the hot water module to the intermediate path.

[0043] Additionally, the second sterilization path is limited to the intermediate path connecting the sterilization valve and the second filter.

[0044] Additionally, in the second paragraph, the second sterilization path is branched from the hot water path connecting the hot water module and the hot water valve.

[0045] In addition, the control unit controls the first sterilization path side outlet of the sterilization valve to open during hot water sterilization, and controls the hot water valve to close.

[0046] In addition, the control unit controls the second filter side outlet of the sterilizing valve to open when hot water is discharged, and controls the hot water valve to open.

[0047] Additionally, the first sterilization path joins the hot water path connecting the hot water module to the point where the hot water path branches from the water purification path.

[0048] Additionally, it includes an ice tray that is filled with water necessary for ice making and is capable of rotating around a rotation axis.

[0049] Additionally, it includes an ice bank placed at the bottom of the ice tray and storing ice removed from the ice tray.

[0050] In addition, it includes a cooling means including a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an ice evaporator provided for cooling the purified water filled in the ice tray, into which the refrigerant passing through the expansion valve is introduced, and a freezing evaporator provided for freezing the ice stored in the ice bank, into which the refrigerant passing through the expansion valve is introduced.

[0051] In addition, it includes an ice-making channel that supplies water passing through the filter to the ice-making tray side, and an ice-making valve that controls the flow of water flowing through the ice-making channel.

[0052] In addition, the ice-making path is branched from the point where the hot water path is branched from the water purification path and the hot water path connecting the hot water module.

[0053] In addition, a water purification valve is installed in the water purification channel to control the flow of water from the water purification channel to the water outlet nozzle.

[0054] In addition, it includes a cold water channel having one side branched from the water purification valve and the other side extending toward the water discharge nozzle, and a cold water module provided in the cold water channel to cool the purified water passing through the cold water channel with cold water.

[0055] In addition, a cold water valve is installed between the water purification valve and the cold water passage to block the flow of purified water from the water purification valve to the cold water passage.

[0056] In addition, the control unit controls the water purification valve to be opened and the cold water valve to be closed when the purified water is discharged.

[0057] In addition, it includes a water outlet passage connecting the outlet of the water purification passage, hot water passage, and cold water passage to the water outlet nozzle, and a water outlet valve installed in the water outlet passage to control the flow of water flowing to the water outlet nozzle.

[0058] In addition, it includes a drain path branched from the above-mentioned outlet path, and a drain valve installed in the drain path to control the flow of water flowing in the drain path.

[0059] In addition, the control unit controls the drain valve to be opened and the outlet valve to be closed during hot water sterilization.

[0060] Additionally, the above-mentioned water valve and the above-mentioned cold water valve are formed integrally.

[0061] According to the present invention as described above, even if the ice water purifier is miniaturized, there is an advantage in that ice-making performance can be secured.

[0062] Additionally, there is an advantage in that the ice bank where the ice is stored is kept below freezing, preventing the ice that is created from melting.

[0063] Additionally, by keeping the ice bank where the ice is stored below freezing, there is an advantage in that the growth of bacteria and mold in or around the ice bank is suppressed, and hygiene is enhanced.

[0064] Additionally, there is the advantage of providing users with improved quality ice that is firmer and lasts longer as it is stored at sub-zero temperatures.

[0065] In addition, there is an advantage in that the entire flow path and valve inside the water outlet device, connected from the water supply path connected to the water source to the water outlet nozzle or discharge port, can be sterilized and washed with hot water.

[0066] Additionally, there is the advantage of being able to sterilize and wash with hot water up to the filter installed at the inlet of the water outlet.

[0067] In addition, the hot water generated during hot water sterilization and hot water washing of the entire flow path included in the water outlet device can be discharged through the water outlet nozzle or drained to the outside of the water outlet device, thereby preventing safety accidents such as burns that may occur when a large amount of hot water is discharged through the water outlet nozzle, and there is also an advantage in that it can prevent the user from having to deal with a large amount of hot water.

[0068] In addition, as the filtered purified water is supplied to the sterilizing tube and heated as hot water in the hot water module while passing through the filter, foreign substances contained in the raw water are filtered out, and as it is heated as hot water in the hot water module, there is also an advantage in that the hot water module can be protected from contamination by foreign substances contained in the raw water.

[0069] In addition, there is an advantage in that hot water for hot water sterilization can be generated using a hot water tank provided for generating hot water for drinking water without having to have a separate tank or heater for hot water sterilization, thereby sterilizing the internal flow path of the water outlet device.

[0070] In addition, there is an advantage in that various types of filtration can be sterilized at high temperatures using a hot water heater module without using a separate sterilization module and sterilization heater by sterilizing a portion of the filter.

[0071] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a water extraction device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 2 is a drawing showing an embodiment of a refrigeration cycle applied to the water extraction device of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an ice-making unit, which is a component of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the cover portion separated from Figure 3.

[0075] Figure 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of Figure 4.

[0076] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of an ice-making unit, which is a component of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 7 is a water piping diagram of a water extraction device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Figure 8 is a water pipe diagram through which purified water is discharged from a water discharge device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 9 is a water pipe diagram through which cold water is discharged from a water discharge device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 10 is a water pipe diagram through which hot water is discharged from a water discharge device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 11 is a water pipe diagram through which ice-making water is supplied in a water discharging device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 12 is a water pipe diagram showing the water discharged through which hot water sterilization is performed in a water discharge device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the spirit of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented below, and those skilled in the art who understand the spirit of the present invention will be able to easily implement other embodiments within the scope of the same spirit by adding, modifying, deleting, or adding components, and such embodiments will also be considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

[0084] The ice extraction device of the present invention is a water extraction device capable of generating ice, and is characterized by implementing a refrigeration cycle so that the generated ice can be stored without melting.

[0085] Existing ice water purifiers have a structure in which water circulates at room temperature, so the ice produced is also stored at room temperature, which has the problem of hygienic problems such as mold growth, and the problem of ice quality deteriorating as melted ice is extracted.

[0086] The present invention has a feature that the ice produced can be stored in a frozen state so that the ice does not melt.

[0087] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a water extraction device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a drawing showing one embodiment of a refrigeration cycle applied to the water extraction device of the present invention.

[0088] The water extraction device according to the present invention is for extracting water supplied from an external water source immediately after purification, or extracting it after cooling or heating it, and may mean, for example, a direct water extraction device.

[0089] Here, a direct-type water extraction device refers to a water extraction device that does not have a reservoir for storing purified water, but rather a type in which water passes through a filter in real time and purified water is extracted when a user requests purified water extraction.

[0090] In addition, the water extraction device according to the present invention may refer to a refrigerator having a water extraction device function. That is, it may refer to a water extraction device refrigerator that is a refrigerator and has a filter for purifying raw water and a water extraction nozzle through which purified water is extracted.

[0091] In addition, the water outlet device according to the present invention may mean an under-sink type water outlet device in which the main body is installed under the sink and the water outlet nozzle is installed on the outside of the sink.

[0092] In addition, the water discharging device according to the present invention may refer to various types of known devices that receive water from a water source, purify it by passing it through a filter, and then supply it to the outside.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a water discharge device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a main body (10) and a water discharge nozzle (30) coupled to the main body (10) and supplying water downward.

[0094] The above main body (10) is formed to be concave toward the rear at the lower part of the front, and forms a water outlet space (11) in which a container for supplying water and ice is placed.

[0095] That is, the main body (10) forms a water outlet (20) protruding forward at the upper part of the front.

[0096] And, the above-mentioned water discharge nozzle (30) is installed at the lower end of the water discharge portion (20) defining the upper surface of the water discharge space (11).

[0097] In addition, the above-mentioned water outlet (20) may be equipped with various buttons (40). In detail, a purified water / hot water / cold water selection button, a water outlet button, an ice selection button, an ice extraction button, etc. may be equipped.

[0098] At least one filter is arranged inside the main body (10), and purified water passing through the filter can be supplied to the user through the water outlet nozzle (30). A purified water path that guides purified water passing through the filter toward the water outlet nozzle (30) can be arranged inside the main body (10).

[0099] In addition, purified water passing through the filter can be supplied to the water outlet nozzle (30) in the form of cold water or hot water after being cooled or heated.

[0100] To this end, a hot water tank for heating purified water passing through the filter and a hot water path for guiding the heated hot water in the hot water tank toward the water outlet nozzle (30) may be arranged inside the main body (10). For example, the hot water tank may generate hot water by instantaneously heating purified water passing through the hot water tank using an induction heating (IH) method.

[0101] In addition, the hot water tank may be equipped with a thermoelectric element or a heating wire to heat purified water passing through the hot water tank into hot water.

[0102] In addition, instead of the above induction heating method, various heating methods can be applied within the range where purified water passing through the above hot water tank can be heated into hot water.

[0103] In addition, a cooling tank for cooling purified water passing through the filter and a cold water path for guiding the cold water cooled in the cooling tank toward the water outlet nozzle (30) may be arranged inside the main body (10). For example, the cooling tank may be equipped with a compressor, an evaporator, a condenser, a cooling fan, etc., so that purified water passing through the cooling tank can be cooled with cold water. In addition, the cooling tank may be equipped with a thermoelectric element, so that purified water passing through the cooling tank can be cooled with cold water.

[0104] In addition, instead of the above evaporator, various cooling devices can be applied within the range of being able to cool the purified water passing through the cooling tank with cold water.

[0105] In addition, an ice-making means may be provided on the inside of the main body (10) to cool the purified water that has passed through the filter or the cold water cooled in the cooling tank to create ice.

[0106] In addition, the ice produced by the ice making means is stored under sub-zero temperature conditions where the ice does not melt, and can be supplied to the user through the water outlet nozzle (30) or an outlet (50) provided separately from the water outlet nozzle (30).

[0107] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of an ice-making unit, which is a component of the present invention. Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing the cover unit of Fig. 3 separated. Fig. 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of Fig. 4. Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an ice-making unit, which is a component of the present invention.

[0108] Hereinafter, the ice making means will be described in more detail with reference to the above drawings.

[0109] The above ice making means (100) includes an ice making unit (110), a dispenser unit (150), and a cover unit (102).

[0110] First, the ice making means (100) includes an ice making unit (110).

[0111] For reference, the above ice making unit (110) is configured to include a body unit (101) and a cover unit (102) described later.

[0112] The body part (101) and cover part (102) described below can be understood as a housing that forms the exterior of the ice making part (110).

[0113] The above ice-making unit (110) is surrounded by insulating material to secure an insulated space. An ice-making tray (120) is installed in the insulated space formed inside the ice-making unit (110) to temporarily store water to be used for ice-making. Specifically, the ice-making tray (120) is mounted on a driving motor and a rotational shaft, and is mounted so as to be rotatable around the rotational shaft.

[0114] Accordingly, when the ice tray (120) is rotated, the contents such as water and ice contained inside the ice tray (120) fall to the lower side of the ice tray (120). An ice bank (130) is provided so that the falling ice and water can be fed. The ice bank (130) has an opening formed at the top, through which the water and ice that fall from the ice tray (120) can enter the interior of the ice bank (130).

[0115] For reference, at this time, the water and ice that fell from the ice tray (120) are separated, the ice is stored in the ice bank (130), and the water can be drained through a separate path.

[0116] The ice bank (130) above is equipped with an auger (140) that rotates in one direction and pushes ice outward, and an ice discharge unit (158) is located at the outlet side of the auger (140). The ice discharge unit (158) is connected to the interior of the discharge port (50) described above, so that ice discharged by the operation of the auger (140) can be delivered to the user from the discharge port (50).

[0117] The bottom surface of the ice bank (130) is made of a water-permeable material, or is configured so that a plurality of permeable holes are formed so that the supplied water can pass through the bottom surface of the ice bank (130) and flow out downward. The water thus flowed out passes through the passage hole (131) of the ice bank (130), and the water passing through the passage hole (131) is discharged through a separate drain hole formed at the lowest end of the bottom surface of the inner cover (111), and the discharged water can be stored in a separate residual water storage tank or drained to the outside through a separate drain pipe.

[0118] Here, the drain pipe may also be equipped with a pump for drainage, or an external pump may be connected to the drain pipe to perform drainage.

[0119] Meanwhile, the ice-making means (100) includes a refrigerant compression cycle device (200) to freeze water supplied to the ice-making tray (120) or cool water in the cold water tank. Specifically, the refrigerant compression cycle device (200) includes a compressor (210), a condenser (220), a dryer (230), an expansion valve (240), an evaporator (250), and an accumulator. Since the operating principles of each component are known from the prior art, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0120] The refrigerant passing through the compressor (210) is supplied for at least one of the following uses.

[0121] First, the refrigerant passing through the compressor (210) can be supplied to a cold water evaporator provided in the cold water tank to lower the temperature of the cooling water or cold water in the cold water tank.

[0122] Additionally, the refrigerant passing through the compressor (210) can be supplied to an ice evaporator placed on the side of the ice tray to freeze water contained in the ice tray.

[0123] Additionally, the refrigerant passing through the compressor (210) may be supplied to an ice evaporator or a separate heat exchanger placed on the ice tray side to freeze the ice generated in the ice tray.

[0124] Additionally, the refrigerant that has passed through the compressor (210) can be supplied to a freezing evaporator placed on one side of the ice storage space so that the ice separated from the ice tray is stored at sub-zero temperature conditions.

[0125] The above evaporator (250) may be provided in multiple numbers. The above evaporator (250) may be divided into an evaporator for generating cold water, an evaporator for generating ice, and an evaporator for storing ice.

[0126] In addition, the evaporator (250) can perform multiple functions selected from among cold water cooling, ice making, and ice storage, and each evaporator can individually perform the functions of cold water cooling, ice making, and ice storage.

[0127] In addition, when a plurality of evaporators (250) are provided as described above, a plurality of refrigerant pipes may be provided to transfer the refrigerant passing through the dryer (230) to each evaporator (250).

[0128] The above refrigerant pipe may refer to a single pipe, path, etc. through which the refrigerant flows, and may also refer to a plurality of separate pipes, paths, etc. for connection to other devices such as an evaporator or capillary tube.

[0129] In the following description, it is described that the refrigerant that has passed through the condenser and the dryer in sequence flows to the refrigerant valve, but the scope of the present invention is not limited to this, and it is to be noted in advance that the refrigerant that has passed through the condenser may flow directly to the refrigerant valve without passing through the dryer.

[0130] And, each of the above refrigerant pipes may be connected in parallel, or at least some of the refrigerant pipes may be connected in series.

[0131] That is, multiple evaporators may be connected in parallel, or at least some of the evaporators may be connected in series.

[0132] And, when each of the above refrigerant pipes is connected in parallel or series, a refrigerant valve for transmitting or blocking refrigerant to each refrigerant pipe may be provided.

[0133] In a refrigeration cycle where refrigerant discharged from a compressor is returned to the compressor, when one component is said to be connected "in series" with another component, it means that the two components are connected in series so that the refrigerant flowing from one component continues to the other. There may be components between the two series-connected components that form a passage for the refrigerant to flow, such as refrigerant pipes or expansion valves.

[0134] In addition, when it is said that a component is connected “in parallel” with another component in a flow path through which refrigerant discharged from a compressor flows, it means that the flow path connected to one component and the flow path connected to the other component branch off from the upstream side of the two components and join together from the downstream side of the two components based on the flow direction of the refrigerant. The flow path may be implemented as a component in which a passage through which refrigerant flows is formed, such as a refrigerant pipe or an expansion valve, and components such as valves and connecting pipes may be arranged at the points where the flow paths branch off and join together. Hereinafter, a refrigerant cycle according to various embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0135] Referring again to FIG. 2, the evaporator (250) includes a cold water evaporator (251) for generating cold water, an ice evaporator (252) arranged on the side of the ice tray (120) for making ice, and a freezing evaporator (253) for supplying cold air to prevent ice stored in the ice bank (130) from melting.

[0136] The refrigerant that has passed through the compressor (210) passes through the condenser (220) and the dryer (230) and then flows into the refrigerant valve (270). For reference, a condenser fan (280) may be installed on one side of the condenser (220) to dissipate heat from the condenser.

[0137] And, the refrigerant introduced into the refrigerant valve (270) can flow into the first refrigerant pipe (291) or the second refrigerant pipe (292).

[0138] Additionally, the refrigerant introduced into the refrigerant valve (270) may flow into the fourth refrigerant pipe (294) to supply hot gas to the ice evaporator (252).

[0139] For example, the refrigerant valve (270) may be provided as a 4-way valve having one inlet and three outlets, and capable of individually opening and closing each inlet and outlet and controlling the degree of opening.

[0140] For reference, the above refrigerant valve (270) may be configured as a single four-way valve, or may be configured using multiple three-way valves, etc. In addition, a refrigerant valve may be individually installed in each refrigerant pipe (291, 292, 294).

[0141] First, the refrigerant flowing through the first refrigerant pipe (291) passes through the first expansion valve (241) and then flows to the cold water evaporator (251).

[0142] And, the cold water evaporator (251) cools the water in the cold water tank into cold water through heat exchange with purified water passing through the cold water tank.

[0143] The refrigerant that has passed through the above cold water evaporator (251) flows back to the compressor (210).

[0144] Meanwhile, the refrigerant flowing through the second refrigerant pipe (292) passes through the second expansion valve (242) and then flows to the ice evaporator (252).

[0145] And, the refrigerant introduced into the ice evaporator (252) exchanges heat with the water contained in the ice tray (120) to freeze the water into ice.

[0146] In the above embodiment, the ice evaporator (252) has a plurality of fingers (252a) that are immersed at one end in water supplied to the ice tray (120). Therefore, when cold refrigerant flows inside the ice evaporator (252), water in contact with the surrounding area freezes, causing ice to gradually grow.

[0147] In order to separate the ice grown around the ice evaporator (252), a separate ice separating means may be provided on one side of the ice evaporator (252).

[0148] For example, in order to separate ice grown around the ice evaporator (252), the high-temperature refrigerant that has passed through the compressor (210) can be supplied directly to the ice evaporator (252) by bypassing the second refrigerant pipe (292). For this purpose, a fourth refrigerant pipe (294) is provided.

[0149] The fourth refrigerant pipe (294) connects the refrigerant valve (270) and the ice evaporator (252). The fourth refrigerant pipe (240) bypasses the second refrigerant pipe (292) and connects the refrigerant valve (270) and the ice evaporator (252).

[0150] Therefore, in an ice-making situation, the refrigerant of the refrigerant valve (270) flows to the second refrigerant pipe (292), and in an ice-breaking situation, the refrigerant of the refrigerant valve (270) flows to the fourth refrigerant pipe (294).

[0151] That is, in an ice-breaking situation, the high-temperature refrigerant (hot gas) introduced into the refrigerant valve (270) is supplied to the ice-making evaporator (252) through the fourth refrigerant pipe (294) to melt the ice stuck to the ice-making evaporator (252) and cause ice-breaking. As described above, the refrigerant that provides the heat necessary for ice-breaking while passing through the ice-making evaporator (252) can flow to the compressor (210) via the freezing evaporator (253).

[0152] However, when the high-temperature refrigerant flows to the freezing evaporator (253) during the freezing process as described above, if the evaporator fan (260) operates, high-temperature air is supplied to the ice bank (130), and the temperature of the ice bank (130) rises to zero, causing a problem in which the ice melts.

[0153] Accordingly, in an ice-making situation where high-temperature refrigerant is supplied to the ice-making evaporator (252) and the freezing evaporator (253) as described above, the evaporator fan (260) can be controlled to stop operating or to have a rotation speed lower than that in the cooling mode.

[0154] Additionally, in an ice-making situation where high-temperature refrigerant is supplied to the ice-making evaporator (252) and the freezing evaporator (253), the condenser fan (280) may also be controlled to stop operating or have a rotation speed lowered compared to the cooling mode.

[0155] In general, high temperature, high pressure gas discharged from the compressor passes through a condenser (220) and is converted into high temperature, high pressure liquid.

[0156] In the present embodiment, when ice is removed, the operation of the condenser fan (280) is stopped or controlled to rotate at a low speed, so that the refrigerant passing through the condenser (220) can reach the ice-making evaporator (252) in a gaseous state.

[0157] In the present embodiment, a forced convection condenser (220) may be used as a type of condenser. In the case of a forced convection condenser, since air is circulated through a condenser fan (280) to condense the refrigerant, if the condenser fan (280) stops operating, the condensation performance deteriorates. Therefore, if the condenser fan (280) stops operating, the refrigerant may remain in a gaseous state even if it passes through the condenser (220).

[0158] Meanwhile, it is also possible to consider providing a separate electric heater or other means of moving.

[0159] In addition, in the above-described ice-making situation, even if the operation of the evaporator fan is stopped or the rotation speed of the evaporator fan is controlled to a low speed, if ice-making proceeds in a situation where the temperature of the space where ice is stored is not secured, the problem of the ice being stored melting may also occur as the temperature of the ice storage space increases due to the heat source supplied to the ice-making evaporator (252) for ice-making.

[0160] In particular, in the case of a structure in which the ice-making evaporator and the freezing evaporator are connected in series, the temperature of the ice storage space cannot help but rise due to the hot gas flowing through the ice-making evaporator and the freezing evaporator during ice removal.

[0161] Accordingly, when a condition is met that the temperature of the space where ice is stored is below a preset temperature (e.g., -11°C), control can be performed to perform an ice-making operation by supplying hot gas, etc.

[0162] In this embodiment, the refrigerant passing through the ice evaporator (252) flows to the freezing evaporator (253).

[0163] That is, both the ice-making evaporator (252) and the freezing evaporator (253) are installed in the second refrigerant pipe (292), the ice-making evaporator (252) and the freezing evaporator (253) are connected in series, and the ice-making evaporator (252) is located upstream of the freezing evaporator (253) based on the flow direction of the refrigerant.

[0164] In addition, the refrigeration evaporator (253) supplies cold air to prevent the ice stored in the ice bank (130) from melting. In order to supply cold air toward the ice bank (130) as described above, an evaporator fan (260) that forms a discharge airflow toward the ice bank (130) may be formed on one side of the refrigeration evaporator (253).

[0165] As described above, the refrigerant that passes through the ice evaporator (252) and the freezing evaporator (253) in sequence flows back to the compressor (210).

[0166] In the various embodiments described above, the ice bank (130) can be maintained at a temperature at which ice does not melt by the refrigeration evaporator (253) and the evaporator fan (260).

[0167] The present invention as described above can implement cold water generation, ice making, and ice removal in one refrigerant cycle.

[0168] To this end, a 4-way refrigerant valve (270) is installed at the rear end of the dryer (230), so that the refrigerant passing through the dryer (230) can be delivered to the first refrigerant pipe (291) for cold water production, to the second refrigerant pipe (292) for ice production and frozen storage, or to the fourth refrigerant pipe (294) for ice removal.

[0169] In detail, in a situation where cold water generation is required, the refrigerant valve (270) opens the outlet side of the first refrigerant pipe (291) to discharge the refrigerant to the first expansion valve (241) and the cold water evaporator (251).

[0170] Meanwhile, in a situation where ice making is required, the refrigerant valve (270) opens the outlet of the second refrigerant pipe (292) to discharge the refrigerant through the second expansion valve (242). Then, the refrigerant passing through the second expansion valve (242) passes through the ice-making evaporator (252) to create ice, and passes through the freezing evaporator (253) to create cold air to prevent the frozen ice from melting.

[0171] In addition, in a situation where cold water generation and ice making are required at the same time, the refrigerant valve (270) can open both the outlet on the first refrigerant pipe (291) side and the outlet on the second refrigerant pipe (292) side to generate cold water and also generate ice.

[0172] Meanwhile, in a situation where ice removal is required after ice making is completed, the refrigerant valve (270) opens the outlet of the fourth refrigerant pipe (294), supplies the hot refrigerant (hot gas) that has passed through the condenser to the ice making evaporator (252), and melts and separates the ice from the fingers (252a) of the ice making evaporator (252).

[0173] In addition, when the ice-making process is completed, the refrigerant valve (270) opens the outlet of the second refrigerant pipe (292), thereby generating ice or generating cold air to prevent the ice-making ice from melting. In the case of the present invention as described above, the refrigerant cycle is implemented so that the ice produced in the ice purifier does not melt and is stored under sub-zero temperature conditions.

[0174] Conventional ice water purifiers do not have a separate refrigerant cycle to store ice at sub-zero temperatures.

[0175] In the present invention, a refrigerant cycle for storing ice at sub-zero temperatures is established so that ice can be stored in a frozen state without melting even after ice making and ice removal.

[0176] The refrigerating evaporator (253) used in the present invention can be manufactured by miniaturizing the fin type evaporator (Fin Type EVA) used in a general refrigerator, and can be installed downstream of the ice-making evaporator (Finger Type EVA) based on the refrigerant flow direction.

[0177] And, an evaporator fan is installed to allow cold air generated from a refrigerated evaporator (253), which is a fin type evaporator (Fin Type EVA), to flow into the ice bank, thereby forming a cooling path.

[0178] The above evaporator fan causes cold air to flow from the above refrigerated evaporator toward the ice bank.

[0179] Accordingly, when the refrigerant flowing through the second refrigerant pipe (292) passes through the second expansion valve (242), ice making is performed firstly while passing through the finger type ice evaporator (252), and secondly while passing through the fin type refrigeration evaporator (253), cold air is generated. Then, as the evaporator fan (260) operates, the cold air generated in the refrigeration evaporator (253) flows into the ice bank (130), so that the ice in the ice bank can be stored at sub-zero temperature conditions.

[0180] Additionally, while the freezing evaporator (253) cools the ice-making and ice-storage space, the ice-making evaporator (252) may not produce ice.

[0181] While ice is being created in the ice evaporator (252), the refrigerant passing through the ice evaporator (252) exchanges heat with water and its temperature rises.

[0182] In a configuration of a refrigeration cycle in which a freezing evaporator (253) is placed downstream of an ice-making evaporator (252) based on the direction of refrigerant flow, refrigerant whose temperature has increased by passing through the ice-making evaporator (252) flows into the freezing evaporator (253), so it may be difficult to cool the ice-making and ice-storage space below a certain temperature.

[0183] Considering these problems, low-temperature refrigerant can be supplied to the ice-making evaporator (252) and the freezing evaporator (253) in a state where the ice-making evaporator (252) does not generate ice. In this case, the refrigerant passes through the ice-making evaporator (252) without generating ice in the ice-making evaporator (252), and thus enters the freezing evaporator (253) with minimized heat loss. Accordingly, the freezing evaporator (253) can quickly cool the ice-making and ice-storage space or cool it to a temperature below a certain level.

[0184] For example, the control unit may not supply water to the ice tray (120) or drain the water contained in the ice tray (120) to prevent ice making. Even if ice making is not performed, low-temperature refrigerant may flow into the ice evaporator (252), and in this case, the ice evaporator (252) may only serve as a passage through which the refrigerant flows toward the freezing evaporator (253). The evaporator fan (260) may be installed on a separate fan bracket (118) and placed on the upper portion of the freezing evaporator (253).

[0185] The above fan bracket (118) may be formed to surround the edge of the evaporator fan (260) to secure the evaporator fan (260) in place.

[0186] Additionally, the fan bracket (118) can serve as an intermediate wall that divides one space into two spaces.

[0187] For example, the fan bracket (118) can partition a space where a refrigerating evaporator (253) is placed and a space where an ice-making evaporator (252) is placed. In addition, a defrosting heater (116) is installed on one side of the refrigerating evaporator (253). The defrosting heater (116) is provided to remove frost formed on the refrigerating evaporator (253), and during defrosting operation, power is supplied to melt and control the frost formed on the refrigerating evaporator (253).

[0188] In addition, the ice making unit (110) may be provided with a refrigerant pipe insulation material (117) that covers the refrigerant pipe through which the refrigerant flows to the ice making evaporator (252) or through which the refrigerant passes through the ice making evaporator (252).

[0189] According to the present invention as described above, even if the ice water purifier is miniaturized, there is an advantage in that ice-making performance can be secured.

[0190] Additionally, there is an advantage of improving the amount of ice produced per unit time by reducing the waiting time (5 minutes) due to the compressor protection logic in existing ice purifiers.

[0191] Additionally, it can reduce noise that may occur when turning the compressor ON / OFF.

[0192] In addition, there is an advantage in that the heat transfer efficiency is improved and the ice-making time can be shortened by directly transferring hot gas to the inside of the finger of the ice-making evaporator without installing a separate heater in the finger type ice-making evaporator.

[0193] Additionally, since there is no ON / OFF of the compressor during ice making, power consumption can be minimized, resulting in energy savings.

[0194] Additionally, there is an advantage in that the ice bank where the ice is stored is kept below freezing, preventing the ice that is created from melting.

[0195] Additionally, by keeping the ice bank where the ice is stored below freezing, there is an advantage in that the growth of bacteria and mold in or around the ice bank is suppressed, and hygiene is enhanced.

[0196] Additionally, there is the advantage of providing users with improved quality ice that is firmer and lasts longer as it is stored at sub-zero temperatures.

[0197] For reference, existing ice purifiers store ice at room temperature of around 3 to 4 degrees, so if ice is stored for a long time, there is a problem that the ice melts, shrinks in size, and becomes deformed.

[0198] In order to maintain a certain amount of ice, there was also the problem of electricity waste as the melted ice water had to be drained and new ice had to be continuously made.

[0199] Additionally, there was a problem in that it was difficult to maintain a constant ice-making speed or ice size depending on the external environment (season, weather, temperature, etc.) of the ice-making device.

[0200] On the other hand, according to the extraction device of the present invention, ice can be stored at a sub-zero temperature.

[0201] For example, while the refrigeration evaporator (253) is operating, the temperature range of the ice storage room can be maintained at -18 to -2 degrees, and suitably -11 to -9 degrees.

[0202] Above all, since the finger-type ice evaporator does not have a separate heater installed and heat is transferred by directly supplying hot gas to the inside of the finger, the heat transfer efficiency is increased and the ice-making time can be shortened.

[0203] In addition, it has the advantage of being equipped with a four-way refrigerant valve, so that one compressor can be operated to produce cold water, produce ice, separate ice, and store frozen ice.

[0204] Hereinafter, the structure of the ice making means of the present invention will be described in more detail.

[0205] In the following description, the term “front” refers to the direction in which the water outlet nozzle (40) through which water is supplied and the ice outlet (50) through which ice is supplied are arranged.

[0206] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, the ice making means of the present invention may include a body part (101) having an open upper side and forming a space on the inside, and an open upper side, and a cover part (102) detachably coupled to the upper end of the body part (101) to cover the open upper side of the body part (101).

[0207] The above cover part (102) is formed as a single body and can cover the entire open upper side of the body part (101).

[0208] The above cover part (102) has an opening / closing structure that can be separated from and then reattached to the body part (101).

[0209] In addition, the cover part (102) may be provided in multiple numbers to partially open and close the open upper side of the body part (101).

[0210] The above cover part (102) is detachably connected to the upper part of the body part (101), and can be separated and then reconnected.

[0211] A clip portion (101a) that is coupled to the cover portion (102) can be formed in the body portion (101).

[0212] The above clip portion (101a) has a center of rotation at the upper end of the body portion (101), and can be attached to or separated from the cover portion (102) while rotating.

[0213] The above clip portion (101a) forms a fixing clip (101c) that is secured to the upper end of the cover portion (102). The fixing clip (101c) extends inward from the clip portion (101a). The extension direction of the fixing clip (101c) and the extension direction of the clip portion (101a) intersect.

[0214] In addition, a clip groove (102c) that is concavely formed inward to accommodate the clip portion (101a) can be formed in the cover portion (102).

[0215] In the above case, when the cover part (102) is arranged on the upper part of the body part (101) and the clip part (101a) is fastened, the clip part (101a) is received in the clip home (102c), the fixing clip (101c) is located on the upper part of the cover part (102), and a force is generated that presses the upper part of the cover part (102) by the fixing clip (101c), so that the cover part (102) can be coupled to the body part (101).

[0216] For example, the above clip portion (101a) may be formed on the front and rear sides of the body portion (101), and a total of four clip portions may be provided.

[0217] In addition, clip grooves (102c) may be formed on both sides of the cover portion (102) at the front and rear, respectively, to accommodate and fasten each of the clip portions (101a).

[0218] Additionally, a gasket (105) may be installed between the body portion (101) and the cover portion (102) for sealing.

[0219] The above gasket (105) can be fixed to the lower part of the cover part (102).

[0220] Conversely, the gasket may be formed at the upper end of the body portion (101).

[0221] In addition, a configuration in which a clip portion is formed on the cover portion (102) and the clip portion is fastened to and then released from the body portion (101) is also possible.

[0222] With the configuration of the clip portion (101a), the cover portion (102) can be easily separated from and then reattached to the body portion (101).

[0223] The above cover part (102) is provided in an overall rectangular panel shape.

[0224] And, it has a lower cover and an upper cover, and the space between them can be filled with insulation.

[0225] A vacuum insulation panel may be attached to the inner surface of the lower or upper cover. Then, with the vacuum insulation panel attached, an insulation material such as urethane may be foamed inside to form an insulation layer.

[0226] Additionally, a gasket (105) can be fixed to the lower part of the lower cover to seal between the body part (101) and the cover part (102).

[0227] Additionally, a detection means may be installed on one side of the body part (101) and the cover part (102) to detect whether the cover part (102) is separated.

[0228] The above detection means is connected to the control unit and can detect whether the cover part (102) is separated from the body part (101).

[0229] If the cover part (102) is separated from the body part (101), the ice bank (130) is exposed to the outside, and the control unit confirms the opening of the ice bank (130) in real time through the detection means.

[0230] The above detection means may include various known sensors of various structures.

[0231] For example, a magnet may be installed in the cover portion (102) or the inner cover (103) described below.

[0232] And, when the cover part (102) or the inner cover (103) or the top cover described below is opened, a separate reed switch detects this, and the control part can control the operation of the evaporator fan to stop or control the evaporator fan to rotate at a low speed.

[0233] In addition, in the ice-making state, when the cover part (102) or the inner cover (103) described later is opened, the control unit can control the ice-making tray to return from the open position (ice-making position) to the closed position (ice-making position).

[0234] That is, when hot gas is supplied to the ice evaporator (252) or the ice heater is operated while ice is being made, if the opening of the cover part (102) or the inner cover (103) or the top cover described below is detected, the control unit stops the ice making operation and returns the ice making tray (130) to the ice making position.

[0235] For reference, the reed switch can detect the opening and closing of the cover part (102) in which the magnet is installed or the inner cover (103) described later by detecting a magnetic field. When the opening of the cover part (102) or the inner cover (103) described later is detected, the control unit can control the operation of at least one of the evaporator fan and the condenser fan to stop, or control the rotation speed (rpm) of at least one of the fans to decrease.

[0236] Additionally, the reed switch may be installed on a front cover forming the front of the water purifier body, a side panel forming the side of the water purifier body, or a rear cover forming the rear of the water purifier body.

[0237] In addition, the reed switch can be installed in various locations, such as the ice bank (130) or ice making unit (110), dispenser unit (150), etc., which are not separated from the cover unit (102) or the inner cover (103) described below, but are maintained in a fixed state.

[0238] Additionally, the body part (101) may be provided with an inner cover (103) separately from the cover part (102).

[0239] The above cover part (102) can cover the upper side of the inner cover (103).

[0240] The inner cover (103) above maintains a state of being coupled to the body part (101) even if the cover part (102) is separated from the body part (101).

[0241] Unlike the cover portion (102), the inner cover (103) must be separated from the body portion (101) and then reattached using a separate fastening means such as a screw or a tool.

[0242] For example, the internal space of the body part (101) can be divided into an ice-making space, an ice-storing space, and a cooling space.

[0243] First, the ice-making space (1011) is a space where the ice-making evaporator (252) is placed, the ice storage space (1012) is a space where the ice is made and stored, and the cooling space (1013) is a space where the refrigeration evaporator (253) that generates cold air so that the ice stored in the ice storage space (1012) is stored at a sub-zero temperature is placed.

[0244] In the case of the above ice storage space (1012), the user needs to open it to check the ice, check the internal cleanliness, wash, etc. Therefore, in the case of the ice storage space (1012), a separate inner cover is not provided, and when the cover part (102) is separated, it is immediately exposed to the outside.

[0245] On the other hand, in the case of an ice evaporator (252), a freezing evaporator (253), etc., if easily exposed, problems such as parts breaking down or the user's hand being injured may occur.

[0246] Accordingly, the ice-making space (1011) and the cooling space (1013) that accommodate the ice-making evaporator (252), the freezing evaporator (253), the evaporator fan (260), etc. have a structure in which the upper side is covered with a separate inner cover (103).

[0247] In addition, this inner cover (103) is fastened with a fastening means such as a screw so that the user cannot easily open or access it, and is configured so that it can be opened only with a separate tool.

[0248] For example, the inner cover (103) may be provided separately with an inner cover covering the ice-making space (1011) and an inner cover covering the cooling space (1013).

[0249] As another example, the inner cover (103) may be provided as one, so that the ice-making space (1011) and the cooling space (1013) may be covered at once with one inner cover (103), and may be opened at once.

[0250] The above body part (101) may have an overall rectangular shape when viewed from above.

[0251] In addition, an ice-making space (1011) and an ice-storage space (1012) may be arranged on the front side where the above-mentioned outlet (50) is arranged, and a cooling space (1013) may be arranged at the rear of the ice-making space (1011) and the ice-storage space (1012).

[0252] And, an ice storage space (1012) may be formed on one front side (left side as shown in FIG. 6) of the body part (101), and an ice-making space (1011) may be formed on the other front side (right side as shown in FIG. 6) of the body part (101).

[0253] At this time, the ice making space (1011) and cooling space (1013) have an overall ‘ㄱ’ shape when viewed from above.

[0254] In addition, the inner cover (103) may have an overall ‘ㄱ’ shape to simultaneously open and cover the ice-making space (1011) and the cooling space (1013).

[0255] That is, the cover part (102) can cover the ice-making space (1011), the ice-storage space (1012), and the cooling space (1013). In addition, the inner cover (103) can cover the cooling space (1013) or the ice-storage space (1012). The inner cover (103) can cover only the cooling space (1013) and only the ice-storage space (1012).

[0256] In addition, one inner cover (103) can cover the cooling space (1013) and the ice storage space (1012) at the same time, and an inner cover covering the cooling space (1013) and an inner cover covering the ice storage space (1012) can be provided separately.

[0257] In addition, the inner cover (103) is secured with a fastening means such as a screw so that the user can open it only by using a separate tool such as a screwdriver. This prevents the user from inadvertently opening the inner cover covering the refrigerating evaporator (253) or the ice-making evaporator (252), thereby preventing damage to the refrigerating evaporator (253) or the ice-making evaporator (252) or injury to the user.

[0258] On the other hand, the cover part (102) covering the ice storage space (1012) can be opened and closed by the user to clean the inside of the ice bank (130) or to take the ice bank (130) out of the inner cover (111), and thus can be opened without a separate tool. In the present invention, the cover part (102) can be easily opened and closed with a clip provided at the top of the ice storage part (110).

[0259] Meanwhile, a dispenser unit (150) is placed in front of the body unit (101) to supply ice toward the outlet (50).

[0260] All or part of the ice tray (120), ice bank (130), and auger (140) may be placed inside the above body part (101).

[0261] Additionally, a fan bracket (118) may be placed between the above-mentioned storage space (1012) and the cooling space (1013).

[0262] An evaporator fan (260) is installed on the above fan bracket (118).

[0263] By the above fan bracket (118), the ice storage space (1012) and the cooling space (1013) can be partitioned.

[0264] The above body part (101) may include an inner cover (111) and an outer cover (112).

[0265] For reference, the body part (101) may be equipped with only an inner cover (111) without an outer cover. In this case, an insulating material may be provided in the space between the inner cover (111) and the case forming the exterior of the water purifier.

[0266] Meanwhile, when the outer cover (112) is provided as described above, the outer cover (112) may include a first outer cover (112a) that covers one side of the inner cover (111) and a second outer cover (112b) that covers the other side of the inner cover (112b), and the outer covers (112a, 112b) may be separated into two sides and then combined.

[0267] A space is formed between the inner cover (111) and the outer cover (112), and the space can be filled with insulating material.

[0268] For example, the insulation material may be formed by foaming polyurethane (PU foam) between the inner cover (111) and the outer cover (112).

[0269] In addition, vacuum insulated panels (VIP) may be attached to the inner surface of the outer cover (112a, 112b) before foaming polyurethane (PU foam).

[0270] For example, vacuum insulation panels may be attached to the inner side surfaces on both sides, a vacuum insulation panel may also be attached to the inner bottom surface, and a vacuum insulation panel may also be attached to the inner side surface on the back.

[0271] Referring to the drawing, the inner surface of the outer cover (112a, 112b) forms a generally flat surface, making it easy to attach a vacuum insulation panel.

[0272] Inside the outer cover (112a, 112b), an inner cover (111), a cold water tank (160), and a drain tank (170) are arranged, and while the inner cover (111), the cold water tank (160), and the drain tank (170) are arranged inside the outer cover (112a, 112b), a foaming liquid is sprayed to secure an insulating layer.

[0273] In addition, since cold water is stored inside the drain tank (170) or the cold water tank (160), insulation is required to prevent condensation. In this case, if the drain tank (170) or the cold water tank (160) is placed inside the outer cover (112a, 112b), insulation can be performed all at once, thereby minimizing the number of insulation components. If the drain tank (170) or the cold water tank (160) is placed outside the outer cover (112a, 112b), separate insulation is required.

[0274] In addition, the outer covers (112a, 112b) are formed with all surfaces being flat, making it easy to attach vacuum insulation panels. The outer surface of the inner cover (111) is partially curved, particularly the bottom surface. In order to attach a vacuum insulation panel (VIP) to the curved surface, the insulation material must be cut into small pieces, making the process cumbersome.

[0275] However, since most of the outer cover (112a, 112b) is flat, if a vacuum insulation panel (VIP) is attached flatly to the inner surface, the insulation can be used in a large size, thereby reducing the number of attached insulation materials.

[0276] The first outer cover (112a) and the second outer cover (112b) can be connected to each other using hooks or screws, etc. In addition, during the foaming process, the jig holds the outer covers (112a, 112b) from both sides, so they can be fixed using only hooks.

[0277] For reference, the vacuum insulated panel (VIP) has excellent insulation performance relative to its thickness, so the gap between the outer cover (112a, 112b) and the inner cover (111) can be reduced. As a result, the size of the ice making unit (110) can be reduced.

[0278] In the present invention, since the temperature of the ice bank (130) is maintained below zero, high insulation performance is required. However, if insulation is provided only with foamed urethane, the thickness of the insulation material becomes too thick and the size of the ice-making part becomes large. Therefore, a vacuum insulation panel (VIP) with good insulation performance relative to its thickness is attached to the inner surface of the outer cover (112a, 112b), and urethane is foamed into the empty space where the vacuum insulation panel (VIP) is not attached to form an insulation layer.

[0279] The vacuum insulation panel (VIP) can be fixed to the inner surface of the outer cover (112a, 112b) using double-sided tape, etc. Since the urethane foaming process will fix the vacuum insulation panel (VIP) to the outer cover (112a, 112b) anyway, it can be fixed simply before foaming.

[0280] For reference, the thickness of the vacuum insulation panel (VIP) can be approximately 8 to 11 mm, and in the case of urethane, it can be formed to be 5 mm or more to ensure flowability when foaming. That is, the gap between the vacuum insulation panel (VIP) on which urethane is foamed and the inner cover (111) can be formed to be 5 mm or more.

[0281] If the flowability of urethane is not good, empty spaces that are not filled with foaming liquid may be formed during urethane foaming.

[0282] As a prime example, a vacuum insulation panel (VIP) can be formed to a thickness of 10 mm, and PU (foamed polyurethane) can also be formed to a thickness of 10 mm.

[0283] The bottom surface of the outer cover (112a, 112b) is formed to slope downward from the front to the rear.

[0284] In addition, the rear lower portion of the outer cover (112a, 112b) may be formed to be convex toward the rear so that the drain tank (170) can be accommodated therein.

[0285] And, an inner cover (111) is placed on the inside of the outer cover (112a, 112b), and the inner bottom surface of the inner cover (111) is also formed to slope downward from the front to the rear.

[0286] The outer cover (112a, 112b) and the inner cover (111) above both have an open front, and the open front can be covered by the dispenser portion (150).

[0287] The inner cover (111) forms an ice-making space (1011), an ice-storing space (1012), and a cooling space (1013) on the inner side.

[0288] Additionally, an ice bank (130) may be placed on the inside of the inner cover (111).

[0289] A plurality of passage holes (131) can be formed in the above ice bank (130).

[0290] A plurality of passage holes (131) may be formed on the bottom surface, side surface, etc. of the ice bank (130), and the bottom surface of the ice bank (130) may be formed to slope downward from the front side to the rear side. In addition, the bottom surface of the ice bank (130) may be formed as a curved surface. In addition, the ice bank (130) may have a shape in which the front side is open and the rear side is closed.

[0291] In the above ice-making space (1011), an ice-making tray (120) is installed to temporarily store water to be used for ice-making. Specifically, the ice-making tray (120) is mounted on a driving motor and a rotational shaft, and is mounted so as to be rotatable around the rotational shaft.

[0292] The ice evaporator (252) may be placed on the upper side of the ice tray (120).

[0293] Ice making is performed in the ice making evaporator (252) while the above ice making tray (120) is fixed in the ice making position. Then, when ice making is completed, the ice making tray (120) rotates.

[0294] When the ice tray (120) rotates, the water contained inside the ice tray (120) falls to the lower side of the ice tray (120). The water that falls in this way is collected in the drain tank (170) through a separate path.

[0295] In addition, when water is drained from the ice tray (120), ice frozen in the ice evaporator (252) falls below the ice evaporator (252), and the fallen ice moves to the ice bank (130) and is stored.

[0296] The above ice bank (130) has an opening formed at the top, through which ice falling from the ice tray (120) can enter the interior of the ice bank (130).

[0297] In addition, the ice bank (130) is equipped with an auger (140) that rotates in one direction and pushes ice outward, and an ice discharge unit (158) is located on the outlet side of the auger (140). The ice discharge unit (158) is connected to the interior of the discharge port (50) described above, so that ice discharged by the operation of the auger (140) can be delivered to the user from the discharge port (50).

[0298] The bottom and rear surfaces of the ice bank (130) are made of a water-permeable material, or are configured so that a plurality of passage holes (131) are formed so that any water that may have entered can pass through the bottom surface of the ice bank (130) and flow out downward. The water that flows out in this way passes through the ice bank (130) and is received in the drain tank (170) located at the bottom of the inner cover (111), or is drained through a separate drain pipe.

[0299] Here, a pump for drainage may be provided in the drain pipe, or an external pump may be connected to the drain pipe to perform drainage.

[0300] In addition, a lower hole is formed in the lower part of the fan bracket (118) to allow air to flow from the ice storage space (1102) to the cooling space (1103), and an upper hole is formed in the upper part of the fan bracket (118) to allow air discharged from the evaporator fan (260) to flow to the ice storage space (1102).

[0301] In addition, the fan bracket (118) is configured to divide the ice storage space (1102) and the cooling space (1103), and an insulating material may be provided inside.

[0302] When hot gas is supplied to the ice evaporator and the freezing evaporator for ice removal, the heat of the freezing evaporator may melt the ice in the ice storage space (1102), so an insulating material is placed inside the fan bracket (118) to provide insulation between the ice storage space (1102) and the cooling space (1103).

[0303] As a variation, in a configuration of a refrigeration cycle that does not supply hot gas to the refrigeration evaporator, the inside of the fan bracket (118) may not be provided with insulation.

[0304] The above fan bracket (118) acts as a passage for air to flow between the cooling space (1103) where the refrigerant evaporator (253) is placed and the ice storage space (1102).

[0305] In addition, an evaporator fan (260) may be coupled to the rear upper portion of the fan bracket (118). The evaporator fan (260) sucks in air from the side of the freezer evaporator (253) and creates a flow of air from the lower side to the upper side. Then, the cold air that has passed through the freezer evaporator (253) is supplied to the upper side of the ice storage space (1012) through the evaporator fan (260), and accordingly, the ice stored in the ice storage space (1012) can be stored at a sub-zero temperature by the cold air.

[0306] Since cold air has the property of going down, an evaporator fan (260) is installed at the top of the cold evaporator (253) to pull up the cold air generated in the cold evaporator (253) and supply it to the upper side of the ice storage space (1012).

[0307] The above storage space (1012) is located adjacent to the outlet (50), and the cooling space (1103) is arranged in a direction away from the outlet (50).

[0308] Additionally, the cold water tank (160) and cold water evaporator (251) can also be placed inside the body part (101).

[0309] A separate cold water tank (160) installation space can be formed on the right side of the body part (101) (based on FIG. 9).

[0310] The cold water tank (160) may be installed between the inner cover (111) and the outer cover (112). The cold water tank (160) may be positioned adjacent to the ice evaporator (252) and the freezing evaporator (253) to facilitate installation of refrigerant pipes.

[0311] The inner cover (111) above forms a recessed portion (1113) concavely inward at the bottom of one side, and the cold water tank (160) can be installed by being accommodated in the recessed portion (1113).

[0312] The above-mentioned depression (1113) can be formed at the bottom of the ice-making space (1011).

[0313] The above cold water tank (160) is fixed to the inner cover (111) and can be placed apart from the outer cover (112).

[0314] And, when the cold water tank (160) is installed between the inner cover (111) and the outer cover (112), and insulation is foamed between the inner cover (111) and the outer cover (112), the cold water tank (160) can be automatically insulated.

[0315] Additionally, in the water extraction device of the present invention, the refrigerant compression cycle device (200) and various valves, components, lighting, etc. can be controlled through a separate control unit. In this case, the control unit may include one or more PCBs. The control unit may operate according to a programmed algorithm.

[0316] Fig. 7 is a water piping diagram of a water outlet device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 8 is a water piping diagram through which purified water is discharged from a water outlet device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 9 is a water piping diagram through which cold water is discharged from a water outlet device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 10 is a water piping diagram through which hot water is discharged from a water outlet device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 11 is a water piping diagram through which ice-making water is supplied from a water outlet device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 12 is a water piping diagram through which hot water sterilization is performed from a water outlet device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0317] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 12, a water dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention has purified water, cold water, and hot water dispensing functions.

[0318] Additionally, it has ice generation and ice storage functions and hot water sterilization functions.

[0319] A water discharge nozzle (30) is formed on the front of the above main body (10).

[0320] In detail, the main body (10) forms a water outlet (20) protruding forward at the upper portion of the front. In addition, the water outlet nozzle (30) may be formed to protrude downward at the lower end of the water outlet (20) defining the upper surface of the water outlet space (11). Accordingly, purified water can be discharged while passing through the filter through the water outlet nozzle (30).

[0321] A filter is installed in the inner space of the main body (10) to filter the raw water introduced from the outside into purified water.

[0322] Meanwhile, purified water that has passed through the filter passes through several channels and valves before being discharged through the discharge nozzle (30).

[0323] At this time, if the water outlet device is used for a long time, foreign substances contained in the water may get stuck in the flow path, valve, etc., and microorganisms may grow.

[0324] Therefore, it is necessary to periodically sterilize the Euro, valves, etc.

[0325] In the case of the present invention, the flow path and valve can be sterilized using hot water generated in the hot water module (80) equipped for hot water generation.

[0326] It includes a water supply path (310) through which raw water supplied from an external water source flows.

[0327] And, at least one filter (90) is installed in the above water supply path (310).

[0328] Accordingly, the raw water supplied from the above water source and flowing through the water supply path (310) is filtered as it passes through the filter (90) and discharged as purified water.

[0329] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, purified water passing through the filter (90) flows into the purified water passage (320).

[0330] A flow sensor (3201) is installed in the above-mentioned water purification channel (320) to check the flow rate of the purified water flowing in the water purification channel (320), and the flow rate detected by the flow sensor (3201) is input to the control unit.

[0331] The real-time flow rate input to the above control unit can be used as information for feedback control of the output of the hot water module (80).

[0332] In addition, the purified water flowing into the above-mentioned water purification channel (320) can be supplied to the outlet nozzle (30) in a purified water state without being heated or cooled.

[0333] A water purification valve (451) that controls the flow of water flowing toward the water outlet nozzle (30) may be installed in the above water purification path (320).

[0334] When purified water is discharged, the purified water valve (451) is opened, and purified water in the purified water passage (320) can be supplied to the discharge nozzle (30) through the purified water valve (451).

[0335] Afterwards, when the purified water of the target flow rate is discharged, the purified water valve (451) closes, and the discharge of purified water is terminated.

[0336] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 7 and FIG. 10, the purified water flowing through the purified water passage (320) may also flow into the hot water passage (340).

[0337] The hot water path (340) branches off from the above-mentioned water path (320) and is connected to the water outlet nozzle (30).

[0338] A hot water module (80) equipped with a heating means and a hot water tank is installed in the above hot water path (340).

[0339] The above hot water module (80) includes the hot water tank. And, it includes a heating means for heating the hot water tank.

[0340] For example, the heating means can heat purified water into hot water using an induction heating method.

[0341] As another example, the heating means may be provided as a surface heating element.

[0342] In addition, the heating means may be equipped with various known heating methods within a range capable of heating the hot water tank and the purified water passing through the hot water tank into hot water.

[0343] Additionally, a flow control valve (471) that controls the flow rate of purified water flowing to the hot water module (80) may be installed in the hot water path (340).

[0344] Additionally, a temperature sensor may be installed in the hot water path (340) to detect the temperature of purified water flowing to the hot water module (80) or to detect the temperature of hot water discharged from the hot water module (80).

[0345] The purified water flowing from the above-mentioned water passage (320) to the hot water passage (340) passes through the hot water module (80), is heated into hot water, and is supplied to the water outlet nozzle (30) in the form of hot water.

[0346] When hot water is discharged, the control unit controls the hot water module (80) to turn on, and further controls the output of the hot water module.

[0347] In addition, the hot water module (80) can be controlled to maintain a predetermined temperature range so that hot water can be stored in a storage manner or hot water can be generated in real time in a direct manner.

[0348] A hot water valve (430) that controls the flow of hot water toward the outlet nozzle (30) may be installed in the above hot water passage (340).

[0349] When hot water is discharged, the hot water valve (430) is opened, and hot water heated in the hot water module (80) can be supplied to the discharge nozzle (30) through the hot water path (340) and the hot water valve (430).

[0350] Afterwards, when the target amount of hot water is discharged, the hot water valve (430) closes, and the discharge of hot water is terminated.

[0351] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 7 and 9, the purified water flowing through the purified water path (320) may also flow through the cold water path (350).

[0352] The cold water path (350) branches off from the above-mentioned water path (320) and is connected to the water outlet nozzle (30).

[0353] A cold water module (70) equipped with a cooling means and a cold water tank (160) is installed in the above cold water path (350).

[0354] The purified water flowing into the cold water channel (350) from the above-mentioned water channel (320) passes through the cold water module (70), is cooled into cold water, and is supplied to the water outlet nozzle (30) in the form of cold water.

[0355] The above cold water path (350) can be branched from the water purification path (320) at the water purification valve (451).

[0356] And, at the point where the cold water path (350) branches off from the water purification path (320), a cold water valve (452) can be installed together with a water purification valve (451).

[0357] When cold water is discharged, the cold water valve (452) is opened, and purified water flows from the purified water path (320) to the cold water path (350). Then, the cold water cooled in the cold water module (70) can be supplied to the discharge nozzle (30) through the cold water path.

[0358] When cold water is discharged, the control unit can control the cold water module to turn on and further control the output of the cold water module.

[0359] In addition, the cold water module can be controlled to maintain a predetermined temperature range so as to store cold water in a storage manner or generate cold water in real time in a direct water manner.

[0360] Afterwards, when the target flow of cold water is discharged, the cold water valve (452) closes, and the discharge of cold water is terminated.

[0361] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 10, purified water, hot water, and cold water each flow toward the water outlet nozzle (30).

[0362] And, purified water, hot water, and cold water can flow toward the water outlet nozzle (30) and be supplied to the water outlet nozzle (30) through the water outlet passage (390).

[0363] The above-mentioned water outlet (390) is configured to connect the outlet of the purified water outlet, hot water outlet, and cold water outlet to the above-mentioned water outlet nozzle.

[0364] A water discharge valve (490) that controls the flow of water discharged through the water discharge nozzle (30) may be installed in the above water discharge path (390).

[0365] In addition, a temperature sensor (391) that detects the temperature of water discharged through the discharge nozzle (30) may also be installed in the discharge passage (390).

[0366] The above water discharge valve (490) is opened when purified water, hot water, or cold water is discharged.

[0367] Therefore, when purified water is discharged, the purified water valve and the discharge valve are opened, and the purified water passes through the purified water path and the discharge path in sequence and is discharged through the discharge nozzle.

[0368] Additionally, when hot water is discharged, the hot water valve and the discharge valve are opened, and the hot water passes through the hot water path and the discharge path in sequence and is discharged through the discharge nozzle.

[0369] Additionally, when cold water is discharged, the cold water valve and the discharge valve are opened, and the cold water passes through the cold water path and the discharge path in sequence and is discharged through the discharge nozzle.

[0370] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 7 and FIG. 11, the purified water flowing through the purified water passage (320) may also flow toward the ice tray (120).

[0371] For this purpose, an ice-making euro (380) is provided.

[0372] The above ice-making path (380) can be branched to various positions within a range that can supply purified water that has passed through the filter (90) to the ice-making tray (120).

[0373] For example, the ice-making path (380) may be branched from the hot water path (340). Specifically, the hot water path (340) may be branched from the water purification path (320), and may be branched from the hot water path (340) before passing through the hot water module (80).

[0374] Based on the direction of water flow, a branch point where the hot water flow path (340) branches from the water purification flow path (320), a flow control valve (471), a branch point where the ice-making flow path (380) branches from the hot water flow path (340), a hot water module (80), and a hot water valve (430) can be arranged in sequence.

[0375] And, a water supply unit for supplying water to the ice tray (120) is formed at one end of the ice making channel (380).

[0376] An ice-making valve (480) that controls the flow of purified water toward the water supply unit may be installed in the above ice-making passage (380).

[0377] Therefore, in a situation where water supply to the ice tray (120) is required for ice making, when cold water is discharged, the ice making valve (480) is opened, and the purified water that has flowed from the water purification channel (320) to the hot water channel (340) flows to the ice making channel (380). Then, after passing through the ice making valve (480), it can be supplied to the ice making tray (120) for ice making.

[0378] Afterwards, when the targeted flow rate of purified water is supplied to the ice tray (120), the ice valve (480) closes, thereby ending the supply of purified water.

[0379] The above ice-making path (380) can be supplied with purified water that has passed through the flow control valve (471).

[0380] Therefore, in a situation where purified water is supplied to the ice-making channel (380), the flow rate per unit time or the flow rate per unit area of ​​water flowing to the ice-making channel (380) can be controlled.

[0381] In addition, as the flow rate supplied to the water supply tray (120) increases, the problem of water splashing from the ice tray can be prevented.

[0382] For example, the control unit can control the flow rate control valve (471) so that the flow rate is lower in a situation where purified water is supplied to the ice making system than in a situation where hot water is generated.

[0383] In the above case, there is an advantage in that the flow rate of purified water flowing toward the hot water module and purified water flowing toward the ice tray can be controlled using one flow rate control valve (471).

[0384] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 7 and FIG. 12, as described above, the filter (90) may be provided in multiple numbers.

[0385] For example, the filter may include a first filter (91) through which raw water passes first and a second filter (92) through which water passing through the first filter (91) passes secondarily.

[0386] The above first filter (91) may be provided as a pre-carbon filter.

[0387] The first filter (91) may be provided as a sediment filter.

[0388] The above second filter (92) may be provided as a post carbon filter.

[0389] The above second filter (92) may be provided as an RO filter or a UF filter.

[0390] Additionally, the second filter (92) may be provided in multiple numbers.

[0391] In addition, the second filter (92) may be provided as a composite filter in which various filter media, including carbon blocks, hollow fiber membranes, and ion exchange resins, are accommodated in one filter housing.

[0392] Of course, there is no limitation on the number and type of the above filters, but it would be desirable to apply different types of functional filters to accommodate the number of filters that can be stored inside the water outlet and for efficient water purification.

[0393] Additionally, the outlet of the first filter (91) and the inlet of the second filter (92) can be connected through an intermediate passage (311).

[0394] In addition, it may further include a first sterilization channel (331) having one side branched from the intermediate channel (311) and the other side connected to the hot water channel (340).

[0395] In detail, the intermediate channel (311) can be connected to the hot water channel (340) that connects the hot water module (80) and the water purification channel (320).

[0396] Accordingly, the water flowing through the intermediate channel (311) flows through the hot water channel (340) and then flows into the hot water module (80).

[0397] The above intermediate channel (311) may include a sterilizing valve (420) that changes the flow direction of water flowing through the intermediate channel (311) after passing through the first filter (91) to flow toward the second filter (92) or to flow toward the first sterilizing channel (331).

[0398] The above sterilizing valve (420) may include an inlet connected to the first filter (91) side, a first outlet connected to the second filter (92) side, and a second outlet connected to the first sterilizing passage (331) side.

[0399] In a normal mode situation, i.e., in a situation of dispensing purified water, cold water, hot water, and ice, the sterilizing valve (420) opens the first outlet connected to the second filter (92) side. At this time, the second outlet connected to the first sterilizing path (331) side is closed.

[0400] On the other hand, in the sterilization mode, the sterilization valve (420) opens the second outlet connected to the first sterilization path (331). The first outlet connected to the second filter (92) side is closed.

[0401] The above sterilizing valve (420) may include a first valve installed in the intermediate passage (311) and a second valve installed in the first sterilizing passage (331).

[0402] In addition, the opening and closing degrees of the first valve and the second valve can be individually controlled.

[0403] In the normal mode, i.e., in the case of dispensing purified water, cold water, hot water, and ice making, the first valve is open so that water passing through the first filter (91) can flow toward the second filter (92). At this time, the second valve installed in the first sterilization channel (331) is closed, and water does not flow into the sterilization channel (331).

[0404] On the other hand, in the sterilization mode, the second valve is opened so that water passing through the first filter (91) can flow into the sterilization path (331). At this time, the first valve installed in the intermediate path (311) is closed.

[0405] At this time, based on the direction of water flow (from left to right in the drawing), the point where the sterilizing channel (331) branches from the intermediate channel (311) can be formed upstream of the point where the first valve is installed.

[0406] The water dispensing device of the present invention can purify water supplied from an external water source and then supply it to a user, or can heat purified water into hot water and then supply it to a user.

[0407] During hot water sterilization, the control unit can control the hot water module (80) to turn on and further control the output of the hot water module.

[0408] In addition, the hot water module (80) can be controlled to maintain a predetermined temperature range so that hot water can be stored in a storage manner or hot water can be generated in real time in a direct manner.

[0409] The above water outlet device can be connected to an external water source through a water supply path (310) to receive water.

[0410] In addition, the water supply path (310) may be equipped with a water supply valve that controls the flow of water supplied from the water source to the filter (90). For example, when the water supply valve is opened, water is supplied from the water source to the filter (90), and when the water supply valve is closed, the flow of water from the water source to the filter (90) may be blocked.

[0411] The above water supply valve can be replaced with the above sterilizing valve (420). That is, the sterilizing valve (420) can perform the function of the water supply valve without installing a separate water supply valve.

[0412] Additionally, a pressure reducing valve (460) for controlling the water pressure of raw water flowing toward the filter (90) may be installed in the water supply path (310).

[0413] As described above, water supplied from the water source through the water supply path (310) passes through the pressure reducing valve (460) and then passes through the filter (90) to be purified into purified water.

[0414] The purified water passing through the above filter (90) is discharged to the outside of the water discharge device. At this time, the purified water can be discharged to the outside of the water discharge device through the water discharge nozzle (30).

[0415] For example, purified water that has passed through the filter (90) can flow through the purified water path (320) and be supplied to the outlet nozzle (30) in a purified water state.

[0416] As another example, purified water passing through the filter (90) is branched from the purified water path (320) to the hot water path (340), heated in the hot water module (80), and then supplied to the water outlet nozzle (30) in the form of hot water.

[0417] The above water purification path (320) is equipped with a water purification valve (451), which can control the flow of water flowing from the water purification path (320) toward the water outlet nozzle (30).

[0418] Meanwhile, the hot water path (340) branches off from the purified water path (320) and delivers purified water that has passed through the filter (90) to the outlet nozzle (30), and after heating the purified water in the hot water module (80) provided on the hot water path (340), delivers the heated hot water to the outlet nozzle (30). In addition, the hot water path (340) is provided with a flow rate control valve (471) to control the amount of purified water supplied to the hot water module (80).

[0419] Additionally, a hot water valve (430) that controls the flow of hot water may be provided in the hot water passage (340) connecting the hot water module (80) and the water outlet nozzle (30).

[0420] In addition, a flow sensor (3201) that checks the flow rate of purified water passing through the purified water path (320) or the hot water path (340) in real time may be installed in the purified water path (320) or the hot water path (340).

[0421] In addition, in the case of the present invention, various types of channels (pipes), valves, tanks, water outlet nozzles, etc. inside the water purifier can be sterilized, and hot water sterilization can be performed by circulating hot water generated in the hot water module (80) without providing a separate sterilization means.

[0422] In detail, hot water generated in the hot water module (80) is not supplied to the outlet nozzle (30) side, but is supplied to the intermediate channel (311) side, so that hot water sterilization can be performed from the intermediate channel (311) toward the second filter (92).

[0423] As described above, a second sterilization path (332) is provided to supply hot water generated in the hot water module (80) to the intermediate path (311).

[0424] The above second sterilization path (332) branches off from the hot water path connecting the hot water module (80) and the hot water valve (430) and then joins the intermediate path (311).

[0425] The first sterilization path (331) branches off from the intermediate path (311), and the second sterilization path (332) joins the intermediate path (311).

[0426] At this time, based on the direction of water flow, the confluence point of the second sterilization channel (332) is located downstream from the branch point of the first sterilization channel (331).

[0427] A check valve may be installed in the second sterilization path (332).

[0428] The above check valve prevents the fluid passing through the second sterilization path (332) from flowing in only one direction.

[0429] For example, the check valve can control the flow direction of hot water so that, when sterilizing hot water, hot water generated in the hot water tank flows only toward the intermediate flow path (311) in the hot water module (80).

[0430] As another example, the check valve may be controlled to close in the hot water discharge mode and open in the hot water sterilization mode. A temperature sensor (3321) that detects the temperature of the hot water flowing through the second sterilization channel (332) may be installed in the second sterilization channel (332), and the temperature of the hot water flowing through the second sterilization channel (332) detected by the temperature sensor may be input to the control unit.

[0431] Therefore, in the hot water sterilization mode, the water supplied from the water source through the water supply path (310) passes through the pressure reducing valve (460) and then passes through the first filter (91).

[0432] And, the water discharged through the intermediate channel (311) flows into the sterilizing valve (420) and is then discharged toward the first sterilizing channel (331).

[0433] And, the water flowing into the first sterilization channel (331) joins the hot water channel (340) and flows into the hot water module (80).

[0434] And, the hot water heated as it passes through the hot water module (80) flows toward the water outlet nozzle (30) through the hot water path (340) and then flows into the second sterilization path (332).

[0435] At this time, the hot water valve (430) is closed, and the hot water discharged from the hot water tank (80) can flow to the second sterilization path (332).

[0436] And, the hot water flowing through the second sterilization channel (332) joins the intermediate channel (311) and then flows toward the second filter (92).

[0437] At this time, the sterilizing valve (420) has the outlet on the first sterilizing channel (331) side open and the outlet on the second filter (92) side closed. Therefore, the hot water that joins the intermediate channel (311) from the second sterilizing channel (332) can flow toward the second filter (92) side instead of toward the sterilizing valve (420).

[0438] And, hot water sterilization is performed as hot water flows from the middle channel (311) toward the second filter (92).

[0439] That is, based on the flow of water, the flow path, valves, various tanks, etc. located downstream from the sterilizing valve (420) can be sterilized with hot water.

[0440] First, the hot water flowing from the intermediate channel (311) toward the second filter (92) sterilizes the second filter (92) and the water purification channel (320) while flowing through the second filter (92) and the water purification channel (320).

[0441] And, the hot water that has passed through the water purification path (320) flows through the water purification valve, sterilizes the water purification valve (451), and then is discharged through the water discharge path (390) to the water discharge nozzle (30), or can be discharged to the outside through a separately provided drain path (370).

[0442] The drain path (370) branches off from the above-mentioned outlet path (390).

[0443] In addition, a drain valve (470) that controls the flow of water flowing through the drain path (370) may be installed in the drain path (370).

[0444] Therefore, the drain path (370) branches off from the upstream side of the water outlet path (390) relative to the water outlet valve (490) based on the direction of water flow.

[0445] Accordingly, when the drain valve (470) is opened while the outlet valve (490) is closed, the hot water that has passed through the water purification path (320) flows through the water purification valve (451), sterilizes the water purification valve (451), and then can be discharged to the outside through the outlet path (390) and the drain path (370).

[0446] In addition, the hot water flowing from the intermediate channel (311) toward the second filter (92) sterilizes the second filter (92) and the water purification channel (320) while flowing through the second filter (92) and the water purification channel (320).

[0447] And, the hot water that has passed through the water purification channel (320) flows into the cold water channel (350) when the cold water valve (452) is opened, and the cold water channel (350) and the cold water module (70) can be sterilized with hot water.

[0448] And, hot water that has passed through the cold water channel (350) and the cold water module (70) can be discharged through the outlet channel (390) to the outlet nozzle (30) or discharged to the outside through a separately provided drain channel (370).

[0449] The drain path (370) branches off from the above-mentioned outlet path (390).

[0450] In addition, a drain valve (470) that controls the flow of water flowing through the drain path (370) may be installed in the drain path (370).

[0451] Therefore, the drain path (370) branches off from the upstream side of the water outlet path (390) relative to the water outlet valve (490) based on the direction of water flow.

[0452] Therefore, when the drain valve (470) is opened while the outlet valve (490) is closed, the hot water that has passed through the water purification channel (320), cold water valve (451), cold water channel (350), and cold water module (70) can be discharged to the outside through the outlet channel (390) and drain channel (370).

[0453] In addition, the hot water flowing from the intermediate channel (311) toward the second filter (92) sterilizes the second filter (92) and the water purification channel (320) while flowing through the second filter (92) and the water purification channel (320).

[0454] And, when the ice-making valve (480) is opened, the hot water that has passed through the water purification channel (320) flows into the ice-making channel (380), and the ice-making valve (480), the ice-making channel (380), the water supply unit, the ice-making tray (120), etc. can be sterilized with hot water.

[0455] And, hot water that has passed through the ice-making valve (480), ice-making channel (380), water supply unit, and ice-making tray (120) can be discharged into the drain tank (170).

[0456] And, the water collected in the drain tank (170) can be discharged to the outside through the drain path (370) using a drain pump (171) or the like.

[0457] The water discharged through the above drain path (370) can be discharged to the outside of the water discharge device through a separate discharge port formed at the rear or side of the water discharge device rather than through the water discharge nozzle (30). At this time, the drain path (370) can be extended to the outside of the water discharge device, and the end of the drain path (370) can be connected to a sink or sewer, etc.

[0458] As another example, a second sterilization path (332) is provided to supply hot water generated in the hot water module (80) to the intermediate path (311). The second sterilization path (332) may be branched from the hot water path connecting the hot water module (80) and the hot water valve (430) and then joined to the water supply path (310).

[0459] The first sterilization path (331) branches off from the intermediate path (311), and the second sterilization path (332) joins the water supply path (310).

[0460] At this time, based on the direction of water flow, the confluence point of the second sterilization channel (332) is located upstream from the branch point of the first sterilization channel (331).

[0461] A temperature sensor (3321) that detects the temperature of hot water flowing through the second sterilization channel (332) may be installed in the second sterilization channel (332), and the temperature of hot water flowing through the second sterilization channel (332) detected by the temperature sensor may be input to the control unit.

[0462] Therefore, in the hot water sterilization mode, the water supplied from the water source through the water supply path (310) passes through the pressure reducing valve (460) and then passes through the first filter (91).

[0463] And, the water discharged through the intermediate channel (311) flows into the sterilizing valve (420) and is then discharged toward the first sterilizing channel (331).

[0464] And, the water flowing into the first sterilization channel (331) joins the hot water channel (340) and flows into the hot water module (80).

[0465] And, the hot water heated as it passes through the hot water module (80) flows toward the water outlet nozzle (30) through the hot water path (340) and then flows into the second sterilization path (332).

[0466] At this time, the hot water valve (430) is closed, and the hot water discharged from the hot water tank (80) can flow to the second sterilization path (332).

[0467] And, the hot water flowing through the second sterilization channel (332) joins the above-mentioned water supply channel (310) and then flows toward the first filter (91).

[0468] At this time, the sterilizing valve (420) has the outlet on the first sterilizing channel (331) side open and the outlet on the second filter (92) side closed. Therefore, the hot water that joins the intermediate channel (311) from the second sterilizing channel (332) can flow toward the second filter (92) side instead of toward the sterilizing valve (420).

[0469] In addition, hot water sterilization may be performed as hot water flows from the water supply path (310) toward the first filter (91).

[0470] Meanwhile, in a state where hot water sterilization is in progress as described above, even if the user is unaware of this and attempts to dispense purified water, cold water, or hot water, the water dispensing may be controlled to be restricted for safety reasons.

[0471] According to the present invention as described above, in order to perform hot water sterilization of pipes, valves, etc., hot water sterilization can be performed on the entire pipes and valves, etc., by using a hot water tank equipped to produce drinking hot water, without having to provide a separate heater.

[0472] That is, by generating hot water for sterilizing the filter and the filtration unit with one hot water tank and providing hot water for drinking by the user, the hot water tank can be hygienically managed by allowing water that has passed through at least one filter to flow into the hot water tank.

[0473] Additionally, there is an advantage in that at least one of the first filter (91) or the second filter (92) can be sterilized with hot water as needed.

[0474] Additionally, hot water sterilization can be performed automatically when a sterilization command is input through a sterilization button or smartphone installed on the outside of the water outlet device.

[0475] Additionally, hot water sterilization can be performed automatically when the accumulated water output amount or accumulated usage time is checked and the preset standard water output amount or standard usage time is reached.

[0476] In addition, if the user reserves a hot water sterilization time, hot water sterilization can be automatically performed at the designated time. In addition, the water discharge device of the present invention may further include a steam path and a safety valve (81) for discharging steam generated when heating hot water within the hot water tank of the hot water module (80). Accordingly, the pressure inside the hot water tank can be prevented from increasing excessively due to steam. The safety valve is configured to open at a set pressure, and may have various structures within a range where steam within the hot water tank can be smoothly discharged.

[0477] Meanwhile, the steam path may also be connected to a drain path (370). Accordingly, steam discharged from the hot water tank may also be discharged to the outside of the water discharge device through the drain path (370).

[0478] Hereinafter, with reference to Fig. 12, an example of a hot water sterilization process of a water extraction device configured as described above will be described.

[0479] First, the raw water flowing in from the water source is primarily filtered as it passes through the first filter (91).

[0480] Then, the intermediate oil (311) flows and flows into the sterilization valve (420).

[0481] In hot water sterilization mode, the control unit opens the sterilization valve (420) toward the first sterilization path (331) and blocks it toward the second filter (92).

[0482] Therefore, the water flowing into the sterilization valve (420) flows only toward the first sterilization path (331).

[0483] In the present invention, the purified water that has been primarily filtered while passing through the first filter (91) is supplied to the first sterilization path (331) and heated into hot water in the hot water module (80).

[0484] Therefore, since the hot water is heated as hot water in the hot water module while the foreign substances contained in the raw water are filtered out, the hot water module (80) can be protected from contamination by the foreign substances contained in the raw water.

[0485] Meanwhile, water flowing into the first sterilization channel (331) is joined to the hot water channel (340).

[0486] And as the hot water (340) flows through the hot water module (80), it is heated into hot water.

[0487] The hot water heated in the hot water module (80) flows through the hot water path (340) and then flows into the second sterilization path (332).

[0488] In hot water sterilization mode, the control unit controls the hot water valve (430) and the water outlet valve (490) to be blocked.

[0489] Accordingly, the hot water that is heated in the hot water module (80) and then discharged to the hot water path (340) can flow to the second sterilization path (332).

[0490] The hot water flowing through the second sterilization channel (332) joins the intermediate channel (311).

[0491] Afterwards, the water is sterilized in hot water through the water purification channel (320) and flows through the water purification valve (451) to the outlet channel (390).

[0492] While the water purification valve (451) and the drain valve (470) are being sterilized with hot water, the control unit controls the water purification valve (451) and the drain valve (470) to be open. In addition, the water discharge valve (490) is controlled to be closed.

[0493] Accordingly, hot water that flows through the water supply valve (451) to the outlet channel (390) can flow to the drain channel (370) and then be discharged to the outside.

[0494] In addition, for hot water sterilization in the cold water path, the control unit can control the water purification valve (451) to close and the cold water valve (452) to open.

[0495] Accordingly, the hot water that has been sterilized in the water purification channel (320) flows through the open cold water valve (452) to the cold water channel (350). Then, the cold water channel (350) and the cold water module (70) are sterilized in hot water.

[0496] In order to sterilize the cold water passage (350), the control unit controls the cold water valve (452) and drain valve (470) to be open. In addition, the water purification valve (451) and the water outlet valve (490) are controlled to be closed.

[0497] Therefore, after the cold water channel (350) is sterilized with hot water, the hot water flowing through the outlet channel (390) can flow through the drain channel (370) and then be discharged to the outside.

[0498] In hot water sterilization mode, the ice making valve can be controlled to close to prevent hot water from flowing into the ice making path.

[0499] The various valves mentioned in the above description may be electronically controlled valves capable of opening or closing the inlet or outlet via electronic control. For example, at least one of the various valves mentioned in the above description may be provided as a solenoid valve.

[0500] Additionally, the various valves mentioned in the above description may be provided as a three-way valve having one inlet and two outlets, or may be provided by combining multiple valves.

[0501] Additionally, at least some of the flow paths mentioned in the above description may be constructed of stainless steel. In this case, the flow path after the filter (downstream of the filter) in the direction of water flow may be constructed of stainless steel. If the flow path is constructed of stainless steel as described above, it is virtually impossible to replace the flow path. However, through hot water sterilization, the flow path can be hygienically maintained without the need for pipe or flow path replacement.

[0502] In addition, the above-mentioned cold water module (70) can cool purified water into cold water using the cooling power generated through a refrigerant system including a compressor. In addition, purified water can be cooled into cold water using a thermoelectric element or the like, and cold water can be cooled using various known cooling means.

[0503] In addition, various valves and hot water modules and cold water modules can be controlled by a control unit, which includes a PCB and a processor. The control unit may include a microcomputer, etc. The control unit may include one or more PCBs. The control unit may operate according to a programmed algorithm.

[0504] Additionally, in the above description, each branch point or junction may be equipped with a connecting means for connecting the flow paths. For example, a T-shaped connector may be installed. Additionally, various fittings may be installed.

[0505] Additionally, in the above description, each branch point or junction may be equipped with a valve that selectively opens and closes the connection of the flow path while connecting the flow path. In this case, the valve can be controlled to open only when water flows through the corresponding flow path.

[0506] Additionally, a check valve that restricts the flow of fluid in one direction may be installed in each of the above-described channels to prevent reverse flow of fluid.

[0507] For example, a check valve may be installed in the hot water passage to allow the flow of fluid from the water purification valve to the hot water passage, while restricting the flow of fluid from the hot water passage to the water purification passage.

[0508] In addition, a check valve may be installed in the first sterilization path to allow the flow of fluid from the intermediate path toward the hot water path while restricting the flow of fluid from the hot water path side to the intermediate path side.

[0509] In addition, a check valve may be installed in the second sterilization path to allow the flow of fluid from the hot water path toward the intermediate path while restricting the flow of fluid from the intermediate path toward the hot water path.

[0510] In addition, a check valve may be installed in the cold water path to allow fluid flow from the cold water module side to the outlet nozzle side, while restricting fluid flow from the outlet nozzle side to the cold water module side.

[0511] Additionally, a check valve may be installed in the above drain induction to prevent the fluid from flowing backward in the direction opposite to the drain direction.

[0512] In addition, the temperature sensor mentioned in the above description can be equipped with various sensors within a range capable of detecting the temperature of a conventional fluid.

[0513] According to the present invention as described above, there is an effect of being able to sterilize and wash with hot water the entire flow path and valve inside the water outlet device connected from the water supply path connected to the water source to the water outlet nozzle or discharge port.

[0514] In addition, according to the present invention as described above, there is a possible effect of being able to perform hot water sterilization and hot water washing up to the filter installed at the beginning of the water purifier flow path.

[0515] According to the present invention as described above, the hot water generated during hot water sterilization and hot water washing of the entire flow path included in the water purifier can be discharged through the water outlet nozzle or drained to the outside of the water outlet device, thereby preventing safety accidents such as burns that may occur when a large amount of hot water is discharged through the water outlet nozzle, and also has the effect of preventing the user from having to deal with the inconvenience of having to handle a large amount of hot water.

[0516] In addition, in the case of the present invention, the purified water that has been primarily filtered while passing through the first filter (91) is supplied to the first sterilization path (331) and heated into hot water in the hot water module (80).

[0517] Therefore, since the hot water is heated as hot water in the hot water module while the foreign substances contained in the raw water are filtered out, the hot water module (80) can be protected from contamination by the foreign substances contained in the raw water.

[0518] In addition, hot water for hot water sterilization can be generated by using a hot water tank provided for generating hot water for drinking water without having to have a separate tank or heater for hot water sterilization, and the internal flow path of the water outlet can be sterilized with hot water.

[0519] In addition, there is an advantage in that various paths can be sterilized at high temperatures using a hot water heater module without using a separate sterilization module and sterilization heater by sterilizing only the second filter.

[0520] The foregoing description of the present invention is for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention can be readily modified into other specific forms without altering the technical spirit or essential characteristics of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. For example, each component described as a single entity may be implemented in a distributed manner, and similarly, components described as distributed may be implemented in a combined manner.

[0521] The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims described below rather than the detailed description above, and all changes or modifications derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and their equivalent concepts should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water supply line that supplies water supplied from a water source to a second filter; A water outlet nozzle through which water passing through the second filter is discharged; A purified water path that guides purified water that has passed through the second filter to the water outlet nozzle; A hot water flow path having one side branched from the above-mentioned water flow path and the other side connected to the above-mentioned water outlet nozzle side; A hot water module provided on the hot water passage and heating purified water passing through the hot water passage into hot water; A water outlet device including a second sterilization channel branching off from a point downstream of the hot water module on the hot water channel and joining at a point upstream of the second filter on the water supply channel.

2. In paragraph 1, Including a check valve installed in the second sterilization path, In the hot water discharge mode in which hot water heated in the above hot water module is supplied to the above discharge nozzle, the check valve is closed, In the hot water sterilization mode in which hot water heated in the above hot water module passes through the second sterilization path and is supplied to the second filter, the check valve is an outlet device that opens.

3. In paragraph 2, Including a first filter provided upstream of a second filter, The above water supply path includes an intermediate path connecting the first filter and the second filter, The above second sterilization path is a discharge device that joins the above intermediate path.

4. In paragraph 3, A hot water valve installed on the hot water path to control the flow of hot water discharged from the hot water module and flowing toward the water discharge nozzle; A first sterilization path, one end of which is branched from the intermediate path and the other end is connected to the hot water path; A sterilizing valve installed in the above intermediate channel to transfer water passing through the first filter to the second filter or to the first sterilizing channel; A water outlet device including a control unit that controls the operation of the above hot water valve and sterilization valve.

5. In paragraph 4, A water outlet device including a second sterilization channel that guides hot water discharged from the hot water channel after being heated in the hot water module to the intermediate channel.

6. In paragraph 5, The above second sterilization path is a discharge device that joins the intermediate path connecting the sterilization valve and the second filter.

7. In paragraph 5, The above second sterilization path is a water outlet device branching from the hot water path connecting the hot water module and the hot water valve.

8. In paragraph 4, The above control unit, When sterilizing with hot water, the outlet of the first sterilization path of the sterilization valve is controlled to open, The above hot water valve is a water outlet device that controls the closing.

9. In paragraph 4, The above control unit, When hot water is discharged, the outlet of the second filter side of the sterilizing valve is controlled to open, The above hot water valve is a water outlet device that controls the opening.

10. In paragraph 4, An ice tray filled with water required for ice making and capable of rotating around a rotation axis; An ice bank placed at the bottom of the ice tray and storing ice removed from the ice tray; A water extraction device comprising a cooling means including a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an ice evaporator into which refrigerant passing through the expansion valve is introduced and provided for cooling purified water filled in the ice tray, and a freezing evaporator into which refrigerant passing through the expansion valve is introduced and provided for freezing ice stored in the ice bank.

11. In paragraph 10, An ice-making channel that supplies water passing through the filter to the ice-making tray; A water discharge device including an ice-making valve that controls the flow of water flowing through the ice-making device.

12. In paragraph 11, The above ice-making path is a water outlet device that branches from the hot water path connecting the hot water module to the point where the hot water path branches from the water purification path.

13. In paragraph 4, A water discharge device in which a water purification valve is installed in the above water purification channel to control the flow of water flowing from the above water purification channel to the water discharge nozzle side.

14. In paragraph 13, A cold water path having one side branched from the above-mentioned water valve and the other side extending toward the above-mentioned water outlet nozzle; A water outlet device including a cold water module installed in the cold water channel and cooling purified water passing through the cold water channel with cold water.

15. In paragraph 14, A water discharge device including a cold water valve installed between the above-mentioned water purification valve and the cold water passage to control the flow of purified water from the above-mentioned water purification valve to the cold water passage.

16. In paragraph 15, The above control unit, A water discharge device that controls the water purification valve to open and the cold water valve to close when the purified water is discharged.

17. In paragraph 14, A water outlet connecting the outlet of the above-mentioned water channel, hot water channel, and cold water channel to the above-mentioned water outlet nozzle; A water discharge device including a water discharge valve installed in the above water discharge path and controlling the flow of water flowing to the water discharge nozzle.

18. In paragraph 17, A drain path branching from the above-mentioned outlet path; A drainage device including a drain valve installed in the above drain path to control the flow of water flowing through the drain path.

19. In paragraph 18, The above control unit, A water discharge device that controls the drain valve to be open and the water discharge valve to be closed during hot water sterilization.

20. A water supply line that supplies water supplied from a water source to a second filter; A water outlet nozzle through which water passing through the second filter is discharged; A hot water flow path having one side connected to the second filter side and the other side connected to the water outlet nozzle side; A hot water module provided on the hot water passage and heating purified water passing through the hot water passage into hot water; A second sterilization channel branching off from a point downstream of the hot water module on the hot water channel and joining at a point upstream of the second filter on the water supply channel; A hot water valve installed downstream of the branch point of the second sterilization flow path on the hot water flow path to control the flow of hot water flowing from the hot water module to the water outlet nozzle; A water outlet device in which the hot water valve is controlled to close so that hot water discharged from the hot water tank flows into the second sterilization path in the hot water sterilization mode.

Images