Cooling water tank, water purifier provided with the cooling water tank, and manufacturing method of the cooling water tank

Abstract

A cooling water tank is provided, comprising: a tank body with an internal water-containing space; a foaming shell surrounding the outer periphery of the tank body; and a foamed heat insulation component formed by foaming after a foaming agent flows into the foaming space between the outer periphery of the tank body and the foaming shell. The foamed heat insulation component is integrally formed with the tank body and the shell through foaming, and the foaming shell has an air outlet for discharging air from the foaming space during the foaming process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooling water tank for a water purifier, a water purifier having the cooling water tank, and a method for manufacturing the cooling water tank. More specifically, it relates to a cooling water tank that forms a foamed insulation component by injecting a foaming agent between a foaming shell and a water tank body, a water purifier having the cooling water tank, and a method for manufacturing the cooling water tank. Background Technology

[0002] A water purifier is a device used to filter out impurities or harmful elements such as heavy metals contained in water. In a broad sense, ion water machines and water softeners also fall under the category of water purifiers. Such water purifiers can be configured to provide hot and / or cold water, and to achieve these purposes, they have heating and / or cooling devices (cold water generation units) inside.

[0003] This chilled water generation unit employs either a box-type cooling method or a cold storage cooling method. In box-type cooling, the water stored in the chilled water tank is directly cooled through evaporator tubes (evaporators). In cold storage cooling, evaporator tubes (evaporators) for refrigerant flow and cold water pipes for purified water flow are first installed inside the cold storage tank. The cold storage liquid stored in the tank is then cooled through the evaporator tubes (evaporators). Afterward, heat exchange occurs between the cooled cold storage liquid or ice and the purified water flowing through the cold water pipes, allowing the chilled water to be discharged through the cold water pipes. For this purpose, the evaporator tubes (evaporators) are connected to the compressor, condenser, and expansion valve to form a refrigeration cycle.

[0004] However, the cooling water tank that holds chilled water (purified water or chilled liquid) in the chilled water generation unit exchanges heat with the outside, so the temperature of the water inside may rise. Moreover, condensation may form on the surface of the tank body, which is at a lower temperature. In particular, when condensation occurs, mold spores in the air may easily grow on the surface of the tank body, often causing discomfort to users.

[0005] To ensure cooling performance and / or anti-condensation performance, thermal insulation materials are usually installed on the surface of the water tank body. These thermal insulation materials are mostly made of expandable polystyrene (EPS), which is manufactured separately to match the surface shape of the water tank body and then attached to the surface of the water tank body.

[0006] However, because these EPS insulation components are manufactured separately and attached to the tank body, gaps may form between the cooling water tank and the EPS insulation component, allowing external air to permeate. Therefore, if EPS insulation is used, not only will the requirements for thermal insulation performance (heat preservation performance) not be met, but condensation may also occur on the surface of the tank body. Furthermore, when external air permeates into the condensation area, it may create an environment conducive to mold growth.

[0007] To address the issues with EPS insulation as described above, a bare foaming method is currently being employed, where the foam insulation is directly formed on the surface of the water tank body. Korean Patent Publication No. 2017-0022775 discloses a bare foaming method in which a cold water tank assembly is first introduced into a foaming fixture, and then polyurethane foam insulation is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cold water tank assembly through a foaming process.

[0008] However, in this bare foaming process, because the foamed insulation is formed between the surface of the foaming fixture (or the plastic on the surface of the foaming fixture) and the cold water tank assembly, the foamed surface is not clean. Furthermore, post-processing operations such as polishing or removing plastic from the foamed surface generate a large amount of foaming powder, which may remain inside the water tank as impurities. In particular, in this bare foaming process, the foamed insulation is directly exposed to ambient air, allowing air to move through the micropores formed in the foamed insulation. Moreover, foamed insulation produced using the bare foaming process not only suffers from the problem of mold continuously multiplying in the pores inside the foamed insulation, but the mold generated in the pores is also difficult to remove. Especially when mold continuously spreads into the interior of the foamed insulation through the pores, it not only causes discomfort to users but also poses hygiene problems.

[0009] Existing technical documents

[0010] Patent document 1KR2017-0022775A Summary of the Invention

[0011] The problem to be solved

[0012] The present invention is made to solve at least some of the problems of the prior art as described above, and its object is to provide a cooling water tank that can ensure anti-condensation performance and heat insulation performance, a water purifier having the cooling water tank, and a method for manufacturing the cooling water tank.

[0013] Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention aims to provide a cooling water tank that minimizes the non-foamed area, a water purifier having the cooling water tank, and a method for manufacturing the cooling water tank.

[0014] In addition, one aspect of the present invention is to provide an easy-to-manufacture cooling water tank, a water purifier having the cooling water tank, and a method for manufacturing the cooling water tank.

[0015] Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention aims to provide a cooling water tank capable of preventing the main body of the water tank and the foamed insulation component from contacting the outside air, a water purifier having the cooling water tank, and a method for manufacturing the cooling water tank.

[0016] In addition, an objective of the present invention is to provide a cooling water tank that is easy to clean on its outer surface and easy to remove condensation (condensate), a water purifier having the cooling water tank, and a method for manufacturing the cooling water tank.

[0017] Methods for solving problems

[0018] As one aspect of achieving the above-mentioned objective, the present invention provides a cooling water tank, the cooling water tank comprising: a tank body having a water-containing space formed inside, a foaming shell surrounding the outer peripheral surface of the tank body, and a foaming insulation component formed by foaming after a foaming agent flows into the foaming space between the outer peripheral surface of the tank body and the foaming shell; the foaming insulation component is integrally formed with the tank body and the foaming shell by foaming, and the foaming shell has an air outlet for discharging air from the foaming space during the foaming process.

[0019] Furthermore, the foaming shell may have an injection port for injecting foaming agent.

[0020] Additionally, the injection port is formed adjacent to one side of the foaming shell, and the air outlet includes a main outlet, which faces the injection port and is formed adjacent to the other side of the foaming shell. The diameter of the main outlet can be from 4 mm to 15 mm.

[0021] Furthermore, the air outlet may also include a corner outlet located at the corner of the foaming shell. In this case, the diameter of the corner outlet may be between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0022] In addition, the foamed housing discharges air through the main outlet, and the main outlet may be provided with a barrier membrane component to prevent leakage of the foamed insulation.

[0023] Furthermore, the foaming shell can have a split structure.

[0024] In addition, the foam shell can be gradually tilted downwards from the outer side of the lower surface toward the center.

[0025] Furthermore, the foamed insulation component can achieve a temperature of 0.065 g / cm³ after curing.3 Up to 0.085 g / cm 3 The density.

[0026] In addition, the main body of the water tank has a water tank edge portion corresponding to the opening area, and the foaming shell has a shell edge portion corresponding to the water tank edge portion, and the water tank edge portion and the shell edge portion are fitted together.

[0027] At this time, the edge of the water tank has a protrusion that protrudes toward the edge of the shell, and the edge of the shell has a receiving portion formed between the protrusions for the protrusions to fit into.

[0028] Furthermore, the water tank body has a water flow port protruding towards the foaming shell side to accommodate water flow in the water holding space. The outer surface of the water flow port is provided with a sealing member that is in close contact with the foaming shell to isolate the foaming space from the external space.

[0029] At this time, the water flow port has a stepped structure with decreasing diameter formed sequentially towards the outside of the water tank body, namely a first stepped portion, a second stepped portion, and an end portion. The foaming shell includes: a through hole for exposing the end portion of the water flow port to the outside; a mounting surface formed around the through hole and corresponding to the second stepped portion; and a mounting protrusion protruding towards the water tank body on the circumference of the mounting surface to correspond to the first stepped portion. Furthermore, the sealing member can be disposed between the first stepped portion and the mounting protrusion.

[0030] In addition, the water tank body has a protrusion that protrudes from the water tank body toward the foaming shell side. The outer surface of the protrusion can be provided with a sealing member that is in close contact with the foaming shell so as to isolate the foaming space from the external space.

[0031] The protrusions are formed in a stepped structure with decreasing diameter in sequence towards the outer side of the water tank body, namely a first stepped portion, a second stepped portion, and an end portion. The foaming shell includes: a through hole for exposing the end portion of the protrusions to the outside; a mounting surface formed around the through hole and corresponding to the second stepped portion; and a mounting protrusion protruding towards the water tank body on the circumference of the mounting surface to correspond to the first stepped portion. The sealing member can be disposed between the first stepped portion and the mounting protrusion.

[0032] In another aspect, the present invention provides a cooling water tank assembly comprising: a cooling water tank as described above, and a tank cover covering the open upper surface of the cooling water tank; the tank cover is connected to at least a portion of a pipe member and a sensor.

[0033] In another aspect, the present invention provides a water purifier comprising: a filter unit for filtering incoming raw water to produce purified water; a cold water generating unit for generating cold water through a cooling water tank assembly including the aforementioned cooling water tank and a water tank cover covering the upper surface of the cooling water tank; and a water dispensing unit for supplying the cold water generated from the cold water generating unit to a user.

[0034] Furthermore, the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a cooling water tank, the method comprising: an installation step, wherein a foaming component is installed on a foaming fixture, the foaming component being assembled from a water tank body having an internal water-containing space and a foaming shell surrounding the outer peripheral surface of the water tank body; an injection step, wherein a foaming agent is injected into the foaming space through an injection port formed on the foaming shell, the foaming space being formed between the outer peripheral surface of the water tank body of the foaming component and the inner surface of the foaming shell; an upper surface closing step, wherein the upper surface of the foaming fixture is closed; and a foaming curing step, wherein the foaming agent foams and cures to form a foamed heat insulation component in the foaming space; the foamed heat insulation component is integrally formed with the water tank body and the foaming shell through the foaming curing step, and the air in the foaming space is discharged through an air outlet formed on the foaming shell during the foaming curing step.

[0035] Invention Effects

[0036] According to one embodiment of the invention having this structure, sufficient anti-condensation performance and thermal insulation performance can be ensured.

[0037] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, it has the effect of minimizing the unfoamed area.

[0038] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to achieve the effect of easy manufacturing of cooling water tanks.

[0039] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, it has the effect of preventing the water tank body and the foamed insulation from contacting the outside air.

[0040] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the outer surface can be easily cleaned and condensation (condensation) can be easily removed. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a cooling water tank assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 2 Viewed from the lower rear side Figure 1 A perspective view of the cooling water tank assembly shown.

[0043] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the cooling water tank assembly shown.

[0044] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the cover assembly of the cooling water tank assembly shown.

[0045] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 3 A perspective view of the cooling water tank in the cooling water tank assembly shown.

[0046] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'.

[0047] Figure 7 The setting shown below Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of the foaming components of the cooling water tank shown.

[0048] Figure 8 Shown from the top side Figure 7 An exploded perspective view of the interior of the foaming shell of the foaming component shown.

[0049] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 The image shows a bottom view of the foaming shell.

[0050] Figure 10 part (a) and Figure 10 Part (b) shows Figure 9 A bottom view of a modified example of a foam shell shown.

[0051] Figure 11 part (a) and Figure 11 Part (b) shows Figure 9 A perspective view of a modified example of a foam shell shown.

[0052] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a cooling water tank according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 13 It is shown in Figure 12 A three-dimensional view showing the preparation steps of the foaming component and the state of the foaming component.

[0054] Figure 14 This shows the foaming components in Figure 12 A three-dimensional diagram showing the state of the foaming agent injection step.

[0055] Figure 15 This shows the foaming components in Figure 12 A 3D view of the state of the foaming component during the stopping injection step.

[0056] Figure 16 By completing Figure 12 A three-dimensional view of a cooling water tank manufactured by the foaming and curing process of a foaming agent.

[0057] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of a water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0058] Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, embodiments of the invention can be modified in various other ways, and the scope of the invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. Furthermore, embodiments of the invention are provided to provide a more complete description of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, the shapes and dimensions of elements may be exaggerated for clearer depiction.

[0059] Furthermore, in this specification, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form also includes the plural form, and throughout the specification, the same reference numerals indicate the same or corresponding elements.

[0060] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0061] Cooling water tank assembly 200

[0062] First, refer to Figures 1 to 4 A cooling water tank assembly 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described, the cooling water tank assembly 200 including a cooling water tank 100.

[0063] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a cooling water tank assembly 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 Viewed from the lower rear side Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of the cooling water tank assembly 200. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The exploded perspective view of the cooling water tank assembly 200 shown is as follows. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the cover assembly 201 of the cooling water tank assembly 200 shown.

[0064] Reference Figures 1 to 4 According to one embodiment of the present invention, a cooling water tank assembly 200 may include a cooling water tank 100, a cover assembly 201, and a cover heat insulation member 250.

[0065] like Figure 3 As shown, the cooling water tank 100 may include a tank body 110, a foaming shell 130, and a foaming insulation component 150. The interior of the tank body 110 forms a water-containing space S1, which will be referred to later. Figures 1 to 3 and Figures 5 to 11Detailed description of cooling water tank 100.

[0066] The cover assembly 201 is located on the upper part of the water tank body 110. The cover assembly 201 may include: a water tank cover 210, which is connected to the water tank body 110; a cold water pipe 220, which is connected to the water tank cover 210; an evaporation pipe 230; and a stirring unit 240. Furthermore, a temperature sensor ST and a water level sensor SL may be installed on the water tank cover 210. The temperature sensor ST is used to measure the temperature of the water contained in the water containing space S1, and the water level sensor SL is used to measure the water level in the water containing space S1.

[0067] To accommodate various components such as the cold water pipe 220, evaporator pipe 230, stirring unit 240, temperature sensor ST, and water level sensor SL, multiple openings 215 can be formed on the cover body 211 of the water tank cover 210, allowing these components to be introduced into the water-containing space S1 of the water tank body 110 through these openings 215. Furthermore, to secure the water tank cover 210 to the water tank body 110, a fastening port H1 (…) can be used on the water tank cover 210. Figure 4 The fastening port H2 of the water tank body 110 Figure 5 Multiple fastening bolts are used to form fastening connections. In addition, in order to seal the water tank cover 210 and the water tank body 110, a gasket (not shown) can be installed between the water tank cover 210 and the water tank body 110.

[0068] Refrigerant flows in evaporator 230 to cool the refrigerant stored in the water-containing space S1 of the water tank body 110. Evaporator 230 can be combined with a compressor, condenser, and expansion valve (not shown) to form a cooling cycle (cooling system). The upper side of this evaporator 230 can be supported by the water tank cover 210, and the lower side can be supported by an evaporator support groove 118 formed in the water-containing space S1 of the water tank body 110. Figure 6 The refrigerant is supported. Furthermore, the evaporator tube 230 needs to ensure sufficient flow path length to allow for adequate heat exchange with the refrigerant; for this purpose, the evaporator tube 230 may have a spiral shape. Additionally, the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator tube 230 can be connected to the cooling system via a connecting member 235 that is sealed to the end of the evaporator tube 230.

[0069] Furthermore, the chilled water pipe 220 is disposed outside the evaporator pipe 230 within the water containing space S1 and has a shape that surrounds the evaporator pipe 230. Similar to the evaporator pipe 230, the chilled water pipe 220 also needs to ensure sufficient flow path length to allow for adequate heat exchange with the refrigerant; therefore, the chilled water pipe 220 can have a spiral shape. Additionally, one side of the chilled water pipe 220 is connected to the filter unit 310 (… Figure 17The purified water filtered by the filter unit 310 can flow through the interior of the cold water pipe 220. Therefore, the purified water flowing through the cold water pipe 220 can exchange heat with the refrigerant or ice refrigerant cooled by the evaporator pipe 230 and be cooled, then discharged as cold water. Furthermore, the upper side of the cold water pipe 220 can be connected to the water tank cover 210, and the lower side can be connected via the cold water pipe support groove 119. Figure 6 The cold water pipe support groove is formed in the water-containing space S1 of the water tank body 110.

[0070] In addition, the other side of the cold water pipe 220 can be connected to the water intake unit 330 via a pipe connection member FT and a pipe (not shown) connected to the pipe connection member FT. Figure 17 Therefore, the cold water discharged from the cold water pipe 220 can be supplied to the user through the water intake unit 330.

[0071] Additionally, the stirring unit 240 is used to maintain a uniform temperature of the refrigerant contained in the water-containing space S1 of the water tank body 110, so that the purified water flowing through the cold water pipe 220 can effectively exchange heat with the refrigerant. This stirring unit 240 may include: a motor 241 providing rotational driving force; stirring blades 243 rotating under the driving force of the motor 241; and a circulation guide member 245, arranged above the evaporator pipe 230 around the stirring blades 243, for guiding the circulation of the refrigerant, so that the circulation of the refrigerant is easily achieved when the stirring blades 243 rotate. That is, when the stirring blades 243 rotate, the refrigerant moves to the lower side of the water-containing space S1, then to the radially outer side of the water-containing space S1, rises through the space between the cold water pipe 220 and the inner surface of the water tank body 110, moves to the radial center, and flows into the stirring blades 243 through the circulation guide member 245.

[0072] Furthermore, a support groove 245a for supporting the upper side of the evaporation tube 230 can be formed on the lower surface of the circulation guide member 245. Thus, the upper side of the evaporation tube 230 can be supported by the support groove 245a, and the lower side can be supported by the evaporation tube support groove 118 formed in the water containing space S1 of the water tank body 110. Figure 6 The evaporator tube 230 is supported, so it can be stably supported.

[0073] This cold storage structure is being used in various forms in water purifiers. Korean Patent Publication No. 2019-0119444, filed by the applicant, also discloses a cold water manufacturing device with the same internal structure as the present invention. Therefore, a detailed description will be omitted and replaced by the description in Korean Patent Publication No. 2019-0119444.

[0074] Furthermore, the heat insulation element 250 is integrated into the water tank cover 210 of the cover assembly 201 so that the water tank cover 210 portion is heat-insulated. And, as... Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the cover insulation 250 may have multiple openings 251 corresponding to the exposed positions of the components, so as to connect various components such as the cold water pipe 220, evaporation pipe 230, stirring unit 240, temperature sensor ST and water level sensor SL installed in the water tank cover 210 to the outside.

[0075] On the other hand, since various components are installed in the cover assembly 201, the cover assembly 201 has a complex shape. Therefore, the cover insulation 250 must also have a complex shape. Therefore, the cover insulation 250 can be manufactured separately using expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) to easily form a complex shape and attach it to the outer surface of the cover assembly 201.

[0076] In this configuration, as described below, cold water is contained in a tank body 110 located at the lower part of the cold water tank assembly 200, and a tank cover 210 is attached to the upper part of the tank body 110 and serves only to seal the upper part of the tank body 110. That is, because the density of water varies with temperature, the water temperature is relatively lower at the lower part of the tank body 110 and relatively higher at the upper part, depending on the location within the tank body 110. Therefore, the requirements for the cooling (insulation) performance and anti-condensation performance of the tank cover 210 attached to the upper part of the tank body 110 are relatively lower than those for the portion of the tank body 110. With this in mind, the heat insulation cover 250 can be formed of EPS (expanded polystyrene). However, the cover insulation 250 according to one embodiment of the present invention is not limited to EPS. In order to achieve higher cooling (insulation) performance and anti-condensation performance, similar to the cooling water tank 100 described below, a foamed insulation component corresponding to the water tank cover 210 can be provided. The foamed insulation component can be formed by creating a foaming space S2 between the foaming shell and the water tank cover 210 and injecting a foaming agent FA into the foaming space S2. Figure 14 It is composed of )

[0077] On the other hand, regarding the cooling water tank assembly 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention, although based on Figures 1 to 4 The cold storage cooling method has been described, but the cooling water tank assembly 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the cold storage cooling method described above, and can also be configured as a water tank cooling method, that is, the water contained in the cold water tank is directly cooled by the evaporator tube (evaporator) 230 to generate cooling water.

[0078] Cooling water tank 100

[0079] Next, we will refer to Figures 1 to 3 and Figures 5 to 11 A cooling water tank 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0080] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 3 A perspective view of the cooling water tank 100 in the cooling water tank assembly 200 shown. Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'. Figure 7 The setting shown below Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of the foaming component 101 of the cooling water tank 100 shown. Figure 8 Shown from the top side Figure 7 An exploded perspective view of the interior of the foaming shell 130 of the foaming component 101 shown. Figure 9 yes Figure 7 The diagram shows a bottom view of the foam housing 130. Figure 10 part (a) and Figure 10 Part (b) shows Figure 9 The bottom view of a modified example of the foam shell 130 shown. Figure 11 part (a) and Figure 11 Part (b) shows Figure 9 A perspective view of a modified example of the foam shell 130 shown.

[0081] Reference Figures 1 to 3 and Figures 5 to 11 According to one embodiment of the present invention, a cooling water tank 100 includes a tank body 110, a foaming shell 130, and a foaming insulation member 150. Furthermore, the tank body 110 and the foaming shell 130 are coupled together to form a foaming assembly 101 before the foaming agent FA is injected.

[0082] The water tank body 110 has a structure that is combined with the water tank cover 210, and a water-containing space S1 is formed inside the water tank body 110. When cooling is performed by ice storage, the water-containing space S1 contains a refrigerant. When cooling is performed by directly cooling the water contained in the cooling water tank 100 through the evaporator tube (evaporator) 230 to generate cold water, the water-containing space S1 can contain purified water.

[0083] Furthermore, at least one water flow port 111 may be formed at the lower part of the water tank body 110 for water to flow in the water containing space S1. To install the water tank body 110 inside the outer casing (not shown) of the water purifier, a protrusion 115 may be formed on the side of the water tank body 110 for connecting the water tank body 110 to a frame (not shown) or the like using bolts (screws). However, the protrusion 115 is not only used for fastening the water tank body 110, but can also be used for other purposes.

[0084] Furthermore, the foaming shell 130 is configured to internally house the water tank body 110 and surround the outer peripheral surface of the water tank body 110. A foaming space S2 is formed between the outer surface of the water tank body 110 and the inner surface of the foaming shell 130, for the foaming agent FA ( Figure 14 Foaming is performed. In addition, in order to accommodate the water tank body 110 in the foaming shell 130, the foaming shell 130 may have a split structure divided into a first shell 131 and a second shell 135.

[0085] On the other hand, the foaming assembly 101, which is composed of the water tank body 110 and the foaming shell 130, can have a joining member T joined at the dividing portion 138, which is divided into the first shell 131 and the second shell 135. Figure 13 This allows the foaming fixture to be inserted in the assembled state described below. Because the deformation of the outer surface of the foaming housing 130 is limited by the foaming fixture, the joining member T only needs to provide a joining force to prevent the foaming housings 130 from separating from each other during the insertion of the foaming assembly 101 into the foaming fixture. Therefore, the joining member T can be made of adhesive tape attached to the dividing portion 138 of the first housing 131 and the second housing 135, but is not limited thereto. For example, the joining member T can be made of adhesive applied to the dividing portion 138, or a fitting member capable of physically bonding the first housing 131 and the second housing 135 can be used, and various other modifications can be made.

[0086] Additionally, the first housing 131 and the second housing 135 may have an overlapping configuration in the segment 138 to prevent the foaming agent FA from leaking to the outside during the foaming process.

[0087] Furthermore, the foamed insulation component 150 can be formed by foaming after the foaming agent FA flows into the foaming space, which is located between the outer peripheral surface of the water tank body 110 and the foaming shell 130. Thus, the foamed insulation component 150 can be integrally formed with the water tank body 110 and the foaming shell 130 through foaming.

[0088] At this time, the foaming agent FA can be a foaming liquid capable of forming urethane (polyurethane) foam. Polyurethane foam is typically a foamed product made by reacting isocyanate compounds with glycols as the constituent material, and by incorporating a foaming agent FA, which is a volatile solvent such as carbon dioxide and Freon generated by reacting isocyanate as a component with water as a crosslinking agent. Depending on the type of ethylene glycol raw material used, polyurethane foam can have various hardnesses, such as ultra-soft, soft, semi-rigid, and rigid. However, if polyurethane foam can be formed, the composition and preparation method of the polyurethane foam using the foaming agent FA used in this invention can be varied. Furthermore, the foamed insulation 150 provided in the cooling water tank 100 of this invention is not limited to polyurethane foam; various known foaming agents can be used as long as the water tank body 110 can be accommodated inside the foaming shell and uniform foaming can be performed between the foaming shell and the outer surface of the water tank body 110.

[0089] On the other hand, the foaming housing 130 may be formed with an injection port 136 for injecting the foaming agent FA, and an air outlet AE for venting air from the foaming space S2 during the foaming process. In this case, the injection port 136 may be formed adjacent to one side of the foaming housing 130 and may be sized to meet the requirements of the injection operation. This injection port 136 may be a through-hole formed by complete cutting, but it may also be as follows: Figure 10 As shown in part (b), a partially cut-out portion 137 is formed in the injection port 136. Figure 10 As shown in part (b), when a partially cut portion 137 is formed in the injection port 136, the following structure can be provided: when the foaming agent FA is injected, the cut portion 137 is folded toward the injection direction; during the foaming process of the foaming agent FA, the cut portion 137 moves to the opposite direction (outer direction) to close the injection port 136.

[0090] Additionally, the air outlet AE may include a main outlet AE1, which is formed facing the injection port 136 and adjacent to the other side of the foaming housing 130. When the main outlet AE1 is installed facing the injection port 136, a large amount of air is discharged through the main outlet AE1, thereby facilitating foaming to the main outlet AE1. Furthermore, the main outlet AE1 can be installed adjacent to a portion of the foaming housing 130 that has a complex shape. That is, as... Figure 9As shown, the main outlet AE1 can be offset from the center of the foaming shell 130 towards the water flow port 111, rather than located at the center of the foaming shell 130, allowing air to be discharged from the portion adjacent to the water flow port 111, thereby enabling sufficient foaming to be generated around the water flow port 111, which has a complex shape. However, as Figure 10 As shown in part (a), the main outlet AE1 can also be located at the center, corresponding to the injection port 136 located at the center of the foaming housing 130.

[0091] Furthermore, since the main outlet AE1 has a relatively large size within the air outlet AE, a barrier membrane member MB can be used to shield the main outlet AE1. In this case, the barrier membrane member MB can be made of a material capable of preventing leakage of the blowing agent FA during the foaming process while allowing air to escape. As an example, the barrier membrane member MB can be a non-woven fabric or a mesh with small gaps. However, the material of the barrier membrane member MB is not limited to these, and various materials and types of members can be used, as long as they can allow air to escape while preventing leakage of the blowing agent FA. In addition, the barrier membrane member MB can be attached to the inner surface of the foaming housing 130, but since the foaming housing 130 is supported by the foaming clamps during the foaming process, the barrier membrane member MB can also be attached to the outer surface of the foaming housing 130.

[0092] Because the foaming pressure of the foaming agent FA is very high during the foaming process, therefore, Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown in section (a), the main outlet AE1 is preferably provided with multiple smaller main outlets AE1 so that the main outlets AE1 and / or the barrier membrane member MB can adequately resist leakage of the foaming agent FA. As mentioned above, in order to facilitate air discharge, the main outlet AE1 can have a diameter of approximately 4 mm to 15 mm, more preferably 4 mm to 10 mm. Furthermore, the number of main outlets AE1 can be three or more. However, as... Figure 10 As shown in part (b), the main outlet AE1 can have an elongated groove shape.

[0093] On the other hand, the air outlet AE may also include a corner outlet AE2 located at the corner of the foaming housing 130. When only the main outlet AE1 is provided in the foaming housing 130, the airflow at the corner of the foaming housing 130 is less, so unfoamed areas (unfilled areas) are prone to appear at the corner. Taking this into consideration, a corner outlet AE2 can be installed at the corner of the foaming housing 130. According to the inventor's experiments, it has been confirmed that the corner portion foams more fully when the corner outlet AE2 is provided in the area adjacent to the corner (apex) of the foaming housing 130 compared to providing multiple outlets at the sharp corner.

[0094] On the other hand, if the corner outlet AE2 is formed to be large, the blowing agent FA may leak through the corner outlet AE2 during the foaming process. Therefore, the corner outlet AE2 also needs to be provided with a barrier membrane member MB. However, the operation of providing multiple barrier membrane members MB to shield the corner outlet AE2 formed at each corner may be cumbersome. Considering this, the diameter of the corner outlet AE2 can be about 1 mm, preferably in the range of 0.3 mm to 2.0 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, so as to allow air to be discharged and prevent leakage of the blowing agent FA. Furthermore, one corner outlet AE1 can be formed in each corner portion.

[0095] Because this corner outlet AE2 is formed on the curved surface of the corner, it is not easy to form using a stamping operation with a die. Taking this into consideration, as... Figure 11 As shown in part (b), the corner outlet AE2 can also be located in the planar area adjacent to the corner. Furthermore, regarding... Figure 11 part (a) and Figure 11 Regarding part (b), by increasing the radius of curvature of the corner portion, the foaming agent FA can be made to foam smoothly at the corner portion. Therefore, as... Figure 11 As shown in part (b), even if the corner outlet AE2 is set in a flat area adjacent to the corner, no unfilled (unfoamed) area will appear at the corner of the foam housing 130.

[0096] In addition, the foam housing 130 is made of plastic materials such as PE or PP, which are easy to mold and have a smooth surface, making it easy to clean. That is, even if condensation (condensation water) or contaminants such as mold are present on the surface of the foam housing 130, it is easy to clean and can prevent contaminants from moving into the foam insulation component 150 inside the foam housing 130.

[0097] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown, the foaming housing 130 is configured to gradually slope downward from the outside of the lower surface 145 toward the center, so that when condensation occurs on the surface of the foaming housing 130, it can also accumulate at the center of the lower surface 145 and fall off easily, thereby reducing the amount of condensation remaining on the surface of the foaming housing 130.

[0098] On the other hand, refer to Figures 6 to 8 The joint between the foaming shell 130 and the water tank body 110 can be sealed. This sealing structure not only prevents the foaming agent FA from leaking to the outside during the foaming process, but also completely separates the outer surface of the foaming shell 130 from the foaming insulation 150 after the foaming agent FA has cured and formed the foamed insulation 150.

[0099] The water tank body 110 has a water tank edge portion 120 corresponding to the opening area, and the foaming shell 130 has a shell edge portion 140 corresponding to the water tank edge portion 120. Leakage of the foaming agent FA needs to be prevented at the boundary between the water tank edge portion 120 and the shell edge portion 140. To prevent leakage of the foaming agent FA at the boundary between the water tank edge portion 120 and the shell edge portion 140, the water tank edge portion 120 and the shell edge portion 140 can have a structure that interlocks with each other. Specifically, as shown... Figure 6 As shown, the water tank edge portion 120 has a protrusion 121 protruding towards the shell edge portion 140, and the shell edge portion 140 has a receiving portion 141 formed between the protrusions 142, into which the protrusion 121 fits. That is, the upper and lower surfaces of the protrusions 121 of the water tank edge portion 120 contact the inner surfaces of the receiving portions 141 formed by the protrusions 142 of the shell edge portion 140, thereby forming a "U"-shaped contact structure with the shell edge portion 140. The upper and lower surfaces of the protrusions 142 located on the upper side of the receiving portion 141 contact the inner surfaces of the recesses 122 of the water tank edge portion 120, thereby forming a "U"-shaped contact structure with the water tank edge portion 120. Furthermore, the protrusions 142 located on the lower side of the receiving portion 141 may have a structure that contacts the stepped portion 123 of the water tank edge portion 120. As described above, the multi-serrated contact structure between the tank edge 120 and the shell edge 140 not only reliably prevents leakage of the foaming agent FA during the foaming step, but also minimizes the flow of external air through the boundary between the tank edge 120 and the shell edge 140 after the foaming agent FA has cured. Furthermore, for a more complete sealing structure, the following sealing member can be further installed between the protrusion 121 and the receiving portion 141, or between the protrusion 142 and the recess 122.

[0100] In addition, the water tank body 110 has a water flow port 111 protruding toward the foaming shell 130 so as to accommodate the water flow in the water holding space S1. The outer surface of the water flow port 111 may be provided with a sealing member OR that is in close contact with the foaming shell 130 so as to isolate the foaming space S2 from the external space. Furthermore, in order to form a multi-stage contact structure between the water inlet 111 and the foaming shell 130, the water inlet 111 may have a stepped structure with decreasing diameter formed sequentially towards the outside of the water tank body 110, namely a first stepped portion 111a, a second stepped portion 111b, and an end portion 111c. Correspondingly, a through hole 132 is formed on the foaming shell 130, through which the end portion 111c of the water inlet 111 is exposed to the outside. A mounting surface 134 corresponding to the second stepped portion 111b is formed on the circumference of the through hole 132, and a mounting protrusion 133 corresponding to the first stepped portion 111a protruding towards the water tank body 110 is formed on the circumference of the mounting surface 134. At this time, the sealing member OR is inserted between the first stepped portion 111a and the mounting protrusion 133, thereby achieving a seal between the water inlet 111 and the foaming shell 130.

[0101] Furthermore, the water tank body 110 has a protrusion 115 that protrudes from the water tank body 110 toward the foaming shell 130, and a frame (not shown) can be fastened to the inside of the shell (not shown) by means of the protrusion 115. At this time, a sealing member OR that is in close contact with the foaming shell 130 can be provided on the outer surface of the protrusion 115 so as to isolate the foaming space S2 from the external space. Furthermore, in order to form a multi-level contact structure between the protrusion 115 and the foaming shell 130, the protrusion 115 may have a stepped structure with decreasing diameter formed sequentially towards the outside of the water tank body 110, namely a first stepped portion 115a, a second stepped portion 115b, and an end portion 115c. Correspondingly, a through hole 132 is formed on the foaming shell 130, through which the end portion 115c of the protrusion 115 is exposed to the outside. A mounting surface 134 corresponding to the second stepped portion 115b is formed around the through hole 132, and a mounting protrusion 133 corresponding to the first stepped portion 115a protruding along the side of the water tank body 110 is formed on the circumference of the mounting surface 134. At this time, the sealing member OR is inserted between the first stepped portion 115a and the mounting protrusion 133, thereby achieving a seal between the protrusion 115 and the foaming shell 130.

[0102] On the other hand, the foamed insulation 150 is formed by foaming a foaming agent FA injected into the space between the foaming shell 130 and the water tank body 110, and the inventors have found that its performance varies depending on the amount of foaming agent FA injected.

[0103] Table 1 shows the results of the polyurethane foam formation test. As an example of the blowing agent FA, a mixture of BILLYOL (RF-334T) and ECO FOAM-A in a predetermined ratio (1:1.1) was used, and a polyurethane high-pressure foaming machine (not shown) was used with varying FA injection times (in seconds). To achieve complete curing, the temperature of the foaming fixture was maintained at 40°C, and the foaming curing time was set to 20 minutes.

[0104] The weights in Table 1 are the weights measured after cutting the foamed insulation component 150 samples obtained from each test into 50mm×50mm×17mm sizes. The density is a value calculated from the measured weights and the volume of the samples.

[0105] In addition, to measure thermal insulation and anti-condensation properties, it was placed in a room with a temperature of 35°C and a relative humidity of 93% and measured under summer condensation conditions.

[0106] The remaining ice amount (g) used to measure insulation performance was obtained by adding 2000g of ice and measuring the remaining ice amount after 1.5 days; the condensation amount (g) used to measure anti-condensation performance was obtained by continuously adding ice water and measuring the condensation amount after 1 day (measured primarily from the side).

[0107] Furthermore, the foaming quality was judged by visual inspection for any unfoamed areas. Additionally, the EPS on the far right of Table 1 was measured using EPS with the same shape and volume as the foamed insulation component 150.

[0108] Table 1

[0109]

[0110] As shown in Table 1, the remaining ice content (g) gradually decreases as the density of the cured foamed insulation 150 increases. This indicates that when the density of the foamed insulation 150 is high, the number of pores inside the foamed insulation 150 is small, and heat transfer occurs in a manner similar to that of plastic, thus reducing the cooling effect (insulation effect). However, experiments have shown that the insulation performance using the foamed shell 130 is better than that using EPS.

[0111] Furthermore, as shown in Table 1, when the density of the cured foamed insulation 150 increases, the condensation amount (g) shows a gradual increasing trend. The reason is similar to that of the insulation performance, because when the density of the foamed insulation 150 is high, the number of pores inside the foamed insulation 150 is not large.

[0112] On the other hand, as shown in Table 1, when the density of the foamed insulation 150 is low (Comparative Example 1 and Comparative Example 2), due to insufficient foaming amount and foaming pressure, some areas are not foamed.

[0113] As mentioned above, when the density of the foamed thermal insulation component 150 is less than 0.065 g / cm³ 3 (Comparative Examples 1 and 2) exhibit excellent thermal insulation and anti-condensation properties, but unfoamed areas exist. In these unfoamed areas, condensation may occur in the internal region of the foamed housing 130, and this condensation (condensate) may lead to contamination problems such as mold growth. On the other hand, when the density of the foamed insulation 150 is greater than 0.085 g / cm³... 3 (Comparative Example 3) shows that the insulation and anti-condensation properties deteriorate.

[0114] As described above, considering thermal insulation, anti-condensation properties, and foaming quality, the density of the foamed thermal insulation component 150 is preferably 0.065 g / cm³. 3 Up to 0.085 g / cm 3 Within the range (Examples 1 to 3).

[0115] Method S100 for preparing cooling water tank 100

[0116] The following will refer to Figures 12 to 17 A method S100 for preparing a cooling water tank 100 according to one aspect of the present invention is described.

[0117] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a method S100 for preparing a cooling water tank 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 It is shown in Figure 12 A perspective view of the state of the foaming component 101 in preparation step S110. Figure 14 This shows the foaming component 101 in... Figure 12 A three-dimensional view of the state of the foaming agent injection step S150. Figure 15 It is shown in Figure 12 A perspective view of the state of the foaming component 101 in step S160, after the injection port 136 is closed. Figure 16 By completing Figure 12 A perspective view of the cooling water tank 100 manufactured by the foaming and curing step S180 of the foaming agent.

[0118] like Figure 12As shown, a method for manufacturing a cooling water tank 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: an installation step S130, installing a foaming component 101 on a foaming fixture; a partial closing step S140, closing the front, rear, left, and right sides of the foaming fixture; an injection step S150, injecting a foaming agent FA; an upper surface closing step S170, closing the upper surface of the foaming fixture; and a foaming and curing step S180, where the foaming agent FA foams and cures, and may further include at least a portion of the following steps: a preparation step S110, preparing the foaming component 101; an opening step S120, opening the foaming fixture (not shown); an injection port 136 closing step S160, closing the injection port 136; and a post-processing step S190, post-processing and / or inspecting the cured cooling water tank 100.

[0119] In the preparation step S110 of preparing the foaming component 101, as follows Figure 7 As shown, the water tank body 110 is combined with the foaming shell 130 to form a foaming space S2 between the water tank body 110 and the foaming shell 130. At this time, the ends of the bulges provided in the water tank body 110, such as the water inlet 111 and the protrusion 115, can be exposed to the outside of the foaming shell 130 through the through-hole 132 provided in the foaming shell 130. Furthermore, the water inlet 111 and the protrusion 115 are mounted on the mounting surface 134 of the foaming shell 130 and on the mounting protrusion 133 formed on the circumference of the mounting surface 134. A sealing member OR can be mounted on the outer peripheral surface of the step formed between the water inlet 111 and the protrusion 115 to achieve a seal between the water inlet 111 and the foaming shell 130. (Refer to...) Figure 6 As described, this sealing member OR can be composed of an O-ring. Furthermore, the sealing member OR is installed between the first stepped portions 111a and 115a and the mounting protrusion 133, which not only prevents the foaming agent FA from leaking to the outside during foaming, but also completely separates the outer surface of the foaming shell 130 from the foaming insulation 150 after the foaming agent FA has cured and formed the foamed insulation 150.

[0120] On the other hand, the preparation step S110 of preparing the foaming component 101 may include a process of using a barrier membrane member MB to block the main outlet AE1, which has a larger size, in the air outlet AE. In this case, the barrier membrane member MB may be made of a material that prevents leakage of the blowing agent FA during the foaming process and allows air to escape; as an example, non-woven fabric may be used. However, the material of the barrier membrane member MB is not limited to this, and various materials and types of components may be used, as long as leakage of the blowing agent FA is prevented while escaping air. Furthermore, the barrier membrane member MB may be attached to the inner surface of the foaming housing 130, but since the foaming housing 130 is supported by the foaming fixture during the foaming process, the barrier membrane member MB may also be attached to the outer surface of the foaming housing 130.

[0121] On the other hand, since the foaming shell 130 is a structure that houses the water tank body 110 therein, and has a structure divided into a first shell 131 and a second shell 135, it may also include a joining process, that is, joining the joining member T at the dividing portion 138 corresponding to the interface between the first shell 131 and the second shell 135, so that the first shell 131 and the second shell 135 do not separate.

[0122] In the foaming and curing step S180 described below, due to the foaming fixture, the deformation of the outer surface of the foaming shell 130 is limited. Therefore, the bonding member T only needs to provide a bonding force to prevent the foaming shells 130 from separating from each other during the insertion of the foaming component 101 into the foaming fixture. Therefore, the bonding member T can be made of adhesive tape attached to the dividing portion 138 of the first shell 131 and the second shell 135, but is not limited thereto. For example, the bonding member T can be made of an adhesive applied to the dividing portion 138, or a fitting member capable of physically bonding the first shell 131 and the second shell 135 can be used, and various modifications can be made.

[0123] Next, in the opening step S120 of opening the foaming fixture, a space is opened for inserting the foaming component 101 so that the foaming component 101 can be mounted on the foaming fixture. At this time, the foaming fixture may have a structure divided into multiple parts, so that it has an inner surface shape corresponding to the outer shape of the foaming component 101. However, the shape and number of divisions of the foaming fixture depend on the shape of the foaming component 101. For example, when the foaming component 101 has a cylindrical shape, it may have a circumferential surface and upper and lower surfaces for supporting the cylinder, and a division structure. For ease of description, the following will describe the case where the foaming component 101 has a hexahedral shape and the foaming fixture has a corresponding six-sided support structure. Figure 13As shown, when the foaming component 101 has a hexahedral shape, the foaming fixture can have a split structure to support the six surfaces of the foaming component 101: front, back, left, right, top, and bottom. Therefore, in the opening step S120, the top surface of the foaming fixture is opened, making it easy to insert the foaming component 101 into the foaming fixture, and the front, back, left, and right surfaces of the foaming fixture can be spaced apart from at least a portion of the foaming component 101. At this time, the opening form of the front, back, left, and right surfaces of the foaming fixture can be a form in which the lower surface is rotated and the upper part opens outward, but it is not limited to this. The front, back, left, and right surfaces can have a structure that moves outward as a whole with the foaming component 101 as the center.

[0124] In the installation step S130, the foaming component 101 is installed onto the foaming fixture by means of the open upper surface of the foaming fixture.

[0125] After the foaming component 101 is installed into the foaming fixture, a partial closing step S140 can be performed to close a portion of the foaming fixture. This partial closing step S140 allows the front, rear, left, and right surfaces of the foaming fixture, opened in the opening step S120, to contact the outer peripheral surfaces of the front, rear, left, and right sides of the foaming component 101, thereby supporting the outer peripheral surfaces of the front, rear, left, and right sides of the foaming component 101. Therefore, in the foaming and curing step S180 described below, deformation of the foaming component 101 can be prevented during the foaming of the foaming agent FA.

[0126] Next, injection step S150 is performed to inject the blowing agent FA into the foaming component 101. For example... Figure 14As shown, in this injection step S150, the blowing agent FA can be injected through the injection port 136 of the foaming shell 130. At this time, the blowing agent FA can be a foaming liquid capable of forming urethane (polyurethane) foam. Polyurethane foam is typically a foamed product made by reacting isocyanate compounds with ethylene glycol as the constituent material, and by incorporating the blowing agent FA, which is a volatile solvent such as carbon dioxide and Freon generated by reacting isocyanate as a component with water as a crosslinking agent. Depending on the type of ethylene glycol raw material used, polyurethane foam can have various hardnesses, such as ultra-soft, soft, semi-rigid, and rigid. Furthermore, the foaming molding method employs a one-shot foaming method and a prepolymer process. The prepolymer process involves pre-reacting a portion of ethylene glycol with diisocyanate to create a prepolymer (partial polymerizer), and then foaming by mixing the remaining ethylene glycol, foaming agent FA, catalyst, etc. Because this method produces uniform foam, it is suitable for use in the foamed insulation component 150. However, if polyurethane foam can be formed, the composition and preparation method of the polyurethane foam using the foaming agent FA used in this invention are not limited to the methods described above. Moreover, the foamed insulation component 150 provided in the cooling water tank 100 of this invention is not limited to polyurethane foam; various known foaming agents FA can be used as long as the water tank body 110 can be housed inside the foaming shell and foaming can be performed between the foaming shell and the outer surface of the water tank body 110.

[0127] In this injection step S150, the injection time of the foaming agent FA can be preset (e.g., a selected value within 1.3 to 1.7 seconds) taking into account the injection speed and pressure of the foaming agent FA, so as to inject a predetermined amount of foaming agent FA into the foaming space S2. As described above, by injecting the foaming agent FA according to predetermined conditions, the foamed insulation 150 can have a constant quality (e.g., constant density). In particular, the density of the foamed insulation 150 after curing is formed to be 0.065 g / cm³. 3 Up to 0.085 g / cm 3 At this time, no unfoamed areas will appear, and sufficient thermal insulation and anti-condensation properties can be ensured. Therefore, the dosage of foaming agent FA and the corresponding addition time of foaming agent FA can be set to make the density of the foamed thermal insulation component 150 reach 0.065 g / cm³. 3 Up to 0.085 g / cm 3 .

[0128] The injection step S150 can be performed using a polyurethane high-pressure foaming machine (not shown). As an example of a foaming agent FA, a mixture of BILLYOL (RF-334T) and ECO FOAM-A in a predetermined ratio (e.g., 1:1.1 to 1.2) can be used.

[0129] After the injection of the blowing agent FA is completed, the injection port 136 closing step S160 can also be performed. When the blowing agent FA is injected into the foaming space S2, the blowing agent FA foams in the foaming space S2. In order to prevent the blowing agent FA from being exposed to the outside through the injection port 136, the operation of closing the injection port 136 can be performed. This injection port 136 closing step S160 can be performed by using a blocking member BM ( Figure 15 This is performed by closing the injection port 136 portion of the foam housing 130. As an example of the blocking member BM, tape can be used for ease of operation. However, the blocking member BM is not limited to this; it can be changed to various materials and shapes as long as the injection port 136 can be easily closed. On the other hand, in situations such as... Figure 10 As shown in part (b), when a partially cut portion 137 is formed at the injection port 136, the cut portion 137 folds in the injection direction when the foaming agent FA is injected; during the foaming process of the foaming agent FA, the cut portion 137 moves to the opposite direction to close the injection port 136. Furthermore, as described below, the upper surface of the foaming fixture can be closed after the injection of the foaming agent FA is completed, so that the injection port 136 is in a closed state by the foaming fixture. Therefore, the injection port 136 closing step S160 can be selectively performed.

[0130] As described above, after the injection step S150 is completed, or after the injection step S150 and the injection port 136 closing step S160 are completed, the upper surface closing step S170 for closing the upper surface of the foaming fixture can be performed.

[0131] Additionally, after the upper surface closing step S170, a foaming and curing step S180 is performed to foam and cure the foaming agent FA.

[0132] When the blowing agent FA is first injected into the foaming space S2, the blowing agent FA foams within the foaming space S2, therefore, as Figure 15As indicated by the arrow, air within the foaming space S2 is discharged to the outside through the air outlet AE. The position of the air outlet AE can be set so that the blowing agent FA completely fills the foaming space S2 during the foaming and curing step S180 without forming unfoamed spaces. In particular, by forming a corner outlet AE2 at a portion corresponding to the corner of the foaming housing 130, thorough foaming can also be achieved at the corner portion of the foaming housing 130. Here, the diameter of the corner outlet AE2 can be approximately 1 mm, preferably in the range of 0.3 mm to 2.0 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, in order to discharge air and prevent leakage of the blowing agent FA.

[0133] Furthermore, when the main outlet AE1 is installed facing the injection port 136, a large amount of air is discharged through the main outlet AE1, thus allowing for smooth foaming to the main outlet AE1.

[0134] This foaming and curing step S180 can be performed for a preset time (e.g., 20 minutes ± 2 minutes) so that the foaming agent FA is fully foamed and the foamed foam is cured.

[0135] On the other hand, in order to ensure smooth foaming, the foaming fixture can be maintained at a preset temperature (e.g., 40°C ± 5°C). Therefore, the foaming fixture can be configured to maintain the preset temperature from the opening step S120 until the subsequent process is performed.

[0136] Additionally, when the foaming and curing step S180 is completed, such as Figure 16 As shown, the manufacturing of the cooling water tank 100 will be completed. Afterwards, a post-processing step S190 can be performed for post-processing and / or inspecting the cured cooling water tank 100. In the post-processing step, operations such as inspecting the appearance of the cooling water tank 100, removing burrs that may have partially appeared during foaming, sanding, air cleaning, and packaging can be performed.

[0137] On the other hand, since the foam housing 130 is provided with an injection port 136 and an air outlet AE, in order to prevent the foam insulation 150 from coming into contact with the outside air through these spaces, the injection port 136 and the air outlet AE can be sealed with a filler material made of a material such as silicone resin or hot melt.

[0138] As described above, the manufacturing method of the cooling water tank 100 according to the present invention involves foaming by injecting a foaming agent FA into the foaming space S2 formed between the foaming shell 130 and the water tank body 110. By blocking the leakage of the foaming liquid as much as possible, not only are the quality problems of foam powder flowing into the internal space of the water tank body minimized, but the foaming shell 130 also completely isolates the foamed insulation component 150 from the external space, thus preventing the growth of mold or bacteria inside the foamed insulation component 150. Furthermore, the foamed insulation component 150 can sufficiently ensure heat insulation and anti-condensation properties.

[0139] Water purifier 300

[0140] On the other hand, such as Figure 17 As shown, the water purifier 300 includes: a filter unit 310 for filtering incoming raw water to produce purified water; a cold water generating unit 320 for generating cold water by cooling the purified water filtered in the filter unit 310; and a water extraction unit 330 for extracting the cold water cooled from the cold water generating unit 320.

[0141] The filter unit 310 may include a plurality of known filters for filtering and purifying raw water.

[0142] Furthermore, the cold water generating unit 320 may include a cooling water tank assembly 200 having the aforementioned cooling water tank 100 and tank cover 210. In addition, the cooling water tank assembly 200 may be composed of… Figures 1 to 4 The cold storage cooling method shown can also be configured as a water tank cooling method by directly cooling the water contained in the cold water tank in the evaporator tube (evaporator) 230 to generate cooling water.

[0143] Additionally, the water intake unit 330 may include a stopcock or faucet to supply cold water to the user.

[0144] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the technical spirit of the present invention as set forth in the claims.

[0145] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0146] 100: Cooling water tank; 101: Foaming component

[0147] 110: Water tank body 111: Water flow outlet

[0148] 111a: First step 111b: Second step

[0149] 111c: End portion; 115: Protrusion.

[0150] 115a: First step 115b: Second step

[0151] 115c: End end; 118: Evaporator tube support groove

[0152] 119: Cold water pipe support; 120: Water tank edge.

[0153] 121: convex part 122: concave part

[0154] 123: Stepped section; 130: Foaming shell

[0155] 131: First housing; 132: Through hole

[0156] 133: Mounting protrusion 134: Mounting surface

[0157] 135: Second housing 136: Injection port

[0158] 137: Incision section 138: Division section

[0159] 140: Shell edge portion; 141: Receiving portion

[0160] 142: Protrusion 145: Lower surface

[0161] 150: Foamed thermal insulation component; 200: Cooling water tank assembly

[0162] 201: Cover assembly; 210: Water tank cover

[0163] 211: Cover body 215: Opening

[0164] 220: Cold water pipe; 230: Evaporator pipe

[0165] 235: Connecting component; 240: Mixing unit

[0166] 241: Motor; 243: Agitator blades

[0167] 245: Circulation guide component; 245a: Support groove

[0168] 250: Insulating cover 251: Opening

[0169] 300: Water purifier; 310: Filter unit

[0170] 320: Cold water generation unit; 330: Water intake unit

[0171] AE: Air exhaust outlet; AE1: Main exhaust outlet

[0172] AE2: Corner outlet; BM: Blocking component

[0173] FA: Foaming agent; FT: Pipe connection component

[0174] H1, H2: Fastening port; MB: Barrier membrane component

[0175] OR: Sealing component S1: Water containment space

[0176] S2: Foaming space; SL: Water level sensor

[0177] ST: Temperature sensor T: Connecting component

Claims

1. A cooling water tank, wherein, include: The main body of the water tank has an internal water-containing space. A foaming shell surrounds the outer periphery of the main body of the water tank, and The foamed insulation component is formed by foaming after the foaming agent flows into the foaming space between the outer peripheral surface of the water tank body and the foaming shell. The foamed insulation component is integrally formed with the water tank body and the foaming shell through foaming. The foaming shell has an air outlet and a barrier membrane component. The air outlet is used to discharge air from the foaming space during the foaming process. The barrier membrane component is disposed at the air outlet and allows the air that has passed through the air outlet to be discharged while preventing the foaming agent from leaking.

2. The cooling water tank according to claim 1, wherein, The foaming shell has an injection port for injecting foaming agent.

3. The cooling water tank according to claim 2, wherein, The injection port is formed adjacent to one side of the foaming shell. The air outlet includes a main outlet, which faces the injection port and is formed on the other side adjacent to the foaming shell.

4. The cooling water tank according to claim 3, wherein, The diameter of the main outlet is 4mm to 15mm.

5. The cooling water tank according to claim 3, wherein, The air outlet also includes a corner outlet located at the corner of the foaming shell.

6. The cooling water tank according to claim 5, wherein, The diameter of the corner outlet is 0.5mm to 1.5mm.

7. The cooling water tank according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The foaming shell has a split structure.

8. The cooling water tank according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The foaming shell gradually slopes downwards from the outer side of the lower surface toward the center.

9. The cooling water tank according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The foamed thermal insulating member has a density of 0.065 g / cm 3 to 0.085 g / cm 3 after the curing is completed.

10. The cooling water tank according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The main body of the water tank has an edge portion corresponding to the opening area. The foaming shell has a shell edge portion corresponding to the edge portion of the water tank. The edge of the water tank fits into the edge of the shell.

11. The cooling water tank according to claim 10, wherein, The water tank has a protrusion at its edge that extends toward the edge of the shell. The edge of the housing has a receiving portion formed between the protrusions for the protrusions to fit into.

12. The cooling water tank according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The water tank body has a water flow port protruding towards the foaming shell side to accommodate water flow within the water holding space. The outer surface of the water flow port is provided with a sealing member that is in close contact with the foaming shell, so as to isolate the foaming space from the external space.

13. The cooling water tank according to claim 12, wherein, The water inlet has a stepped structure with decreasing diameter that extends outward from the main body of the water tank, consisting of a first stepped section, a second stepped section, and an end section. The foaming shell includes: A through-hole is provided to expose the end of the water flow port to the outside. Mounting surfaces are formed around the through hole and correspond to the second stepped portion, and The mounting protrusion protrudes circumferentially toward the tank body on the mounting surface to correspond to the first stepped portion.

14. The cooling water tank according to claim 13, wherein, The sealing member is disposed between the first stepped portion and the mounting protrusion.

15. The cooling water tank according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The water tank body has a protrusion that extends from the water tank body toward the foaming shell side. The outer surface of the protrusion is provided with a sealing member that is in close contact with the foaming shell, so as to isolate the foaming space from the external space.

16. The cooling water tank according to claim 15, wherein, The protrusion has a stepped structure with decreasing diameter formed sequentially towards the outer side of the water tank body, namely a first stepped section, a second stepped section, and an end section. The foaming shell includes: A through hole is provided to expose the end of the protrusion to the outside. Mounting surfaces are formed around the through hole and correspond to the second stepped portion, and The mounting protrusion extends circumferentially toward the tank body on the mounting surface to correspond with the first stepped portion. The sealing member is disposed between the first stepped portion and the mounting protrusion.

17. A cooling water tank assembly, in, include: The cooling water tank according to any one of claims 1 to 6, and A water tank cap that covers the open upper surface of the cooling water tank; The water tank cover is connected to at least a portion of the pipe components and sensors.

18. A water purifier, in, include: The filter unit filters the incoming raw water to produce purified water; A cold water generating unit generates cold water via a cooling water tank assembly comprising a cooling water tank as described in any one of claims 1 to 6 and a tank cover covering the top of the cooling water tank; and The water intake unit supplies cold water generated by the cold water generation unit to the user.

19. A method for manufacturing a cooling water tank, wherein, include: The step of preparing a foaming component involves assembling a water tank body with an internal water-containing space and a foaming shell surrounding the outer periphery of the water tank body. The installation step involves installing the foaming component onto the foaming fixture. In the injection step, a foaming agent is injected into a foaming space formed through an injection port in the foaming shell, the foaming space being formed between the outer peripheral surface of the water tank body of the foaming component and the inner surface of the foaming shell. The upper surface closing step involves closing the upper surface of the foaming fixture, and The foaming and curing step involves foaming and curing a foaming agent to form a foamed insulation in the foamed space. The foamed thermal insulation component is integrally formed with the water tank body and the foamed shell through the foaming and curing step. The foaming and curing step discharges air from the foaming space through an air outlet formed on the foaming shell. The step of preparing the foaming component includes the process of setting a barrier membrane component at the air outlet, the barrier membrane component allowing air passing through the air outlet to escape and preventing the foaming agent from leaking.

20. The method for manufacturing a cooling water tank according to claim 19, wherein, The air outlet includes a main outlet, which faces the injection port and is formed adjacent to the other side of the foaming shell.

21. The method for manufacturing a cooling water tank according to claim 20, wherein, The air outlet also includes a corner outlet located at the corner of the foaming shell. The diameter of the corner outlet is 0.5mm to 1.5mm.

22. The method for manufacturing a cooling water tank according to claim 19, wherein, The water tank body has a bulge, the end of which is exposed to the outside of the foaming shell through a through hole provided in the foaming shell, and the bulge has a stepped structure. The preparation steps include the process of installing a sealing component on the outer peripheral surface of the bulge.

23. The method for manufacturing a cooling water tank according to claim 19, wherein, The foaming shell has a split structure. The preparation steps include the process of joining the joining components to the segmented portion of the foamed shell.

24. The method for manufacturing a cooling water tank according to claim 19, wherein, In the injection step, the amount and time of the foaming agent are set so that the density of the cured foamed insulation reaches 0.065 g / cm³. 3 Up to 0.085 g / cm 3 .

25. The method for manufacturing a cooling water tank according to claim 19, wherein, Also includes: The injection port is closed after the injection step is completed.

26. The method for manufacturing a cooling water tank according to claim 25, wherein, The injection port closing step includes the process of closing the injection port using a blocking member.

27. The method for manufacturing a cooling water tank according to claim 19, wherein, The foaming and curing step is performed at a preset temperature for a preset time.

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