Water purifier and method for controlling the water purifier

Abstract

This disclosure provides a water purifier and a method for controlling the water purifier. The water purifier includes: a water tank having a cold water path within it; a coolant within the water tank; and a cooling device including an evaporator and a compressor, the evaporator being within the water tank and the refrigerant flowing through it, the compressor being operable to compress the refrigerant. The cooling device is configured to cool the coolant to cool water flowing through a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the coolant and output coolant temperature information regarding the detected temperature. The water purifier also includes a stirrer and a controller, the stirrer being operable to stir the coolant, the controller being configured to control the compressor and stirrer to operate simultaneously and to control the stirrer to stop operating while the compressor is controlled to continue operating based on preset ice-making temperature information and coolant temperature information. A method for controlling the compressor and stirrer also exists.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a water purifier for supplying purified water and a method for controlling the water purifier. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, a water purifier is a device used to filter impurities in raw water or tap water through physical or chemical methods, and then provide the filtered water (i.e., purified water) to the user.

[0003] There exist water purifiers that provide users with purified water at room temperature, purified water at a temperature lower than room temperature (i.e., cold water), and purified water at a temperature higher than room temperature (i.e., hot water).

[0004] Water purifiers that supply cold water include coolers used to lower the water temperature below room temperature. Coolers can utilize ice water accumulation methods as one of the cooling methods.

[0005] Coolers using the ice-water accumulation method have the following problems: the amount of ice produced in the cooling tank by the stirring operation of the agitator cannot exceed the minimum or maximum amount, and the cooler cannot produce cold water within the reference time if the user's requested cold water supply exceeds the reference amount, thus supplying purified water at room temperature. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure provides a water purifier and a method for controlling the water purifier, which continuously supplies cold water by adjusting the simultaneous operation time of the compressor and the agitator and the individual operation time of the compressor.

[0008] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a water purifier and a method for controlling the water purifier, which prevents sudden freezing of the water tank by adjusting the simultaneous operation time of the compressor and the agitator and the individual operation time of the compressor.

[0009] Technical solution

[0010] According to one aspect, a water purifier includes: a water tank having a cold water path within the water tank; a coolant within the water tank; a cooling device including an evaporator and a compressor, the evaporator being within the water tank and the coolant flowing through the evaporator, the compressor being operable to compress the coolant, the cooling device being configured to cool the coolant such that the coolant cools water flowing through a temperature sensor, the temperature sensor being configured to detect the temperature of the coolant and output coolant temperature information regarding the detected coolant temperature; a stirrer operable to stir the coolant; and a controller configured to control the compressor and the stirrer to operate simultaneously, and to control the stirrer to stop operating while the compressor is controlled to continue operating based on preset ice-making temperature information and coolant temperature information.

[0011] According to the controller of one side of the water purifier, it can identify whether the temperature of the coolant is higher than or equal to the preset opening temperature of the compressor based on the coolant temperature information. Based on the identification that the temperature of the coolant is higher than or equal to the preset opening temperature of the compressor, the controller can control the compressor and the agitator to operate simultaneously.

[0012] The preset ice-making temperature of a water purifier can be lower than or equal to the preset opening temperature of the compressor.

[0013] According to the controller of one side of the water purifier, it can identify whether the temperature of the coolant has reached the preset ice-making temperature based on the preset ice-making temperature and coolant temperature information. Based on the identification that the temperature of the coolant has reached the preset ice-making temperature, the controller can control the agitator to stop operating while the compressor is controlled to continue operating.

[0014] The controller of the water purifier can stop the agitator from operating, preventing it from reaching the preset ice-making time.

[0015] After the agitator has stopped operating for the preset ice-making time, the controller of the water purifier can control the agitator to start operating again, thereby controlling the compressor and agitator to operate simultaneously.

[0016] According to the controller of one side of the water purifier, it can identify whether the temperature of the coolant is lower than or equal to the preset shut-off temperature of the compressor based on the coolant temperature information. Based on the identification that the temperature of the coolant is lower than or equal to the preset shut-off temperature of the compressor, the controller can control the compressor and the agitator to stop operating simultaneously.

[0017] According to one aspect, the water purifier may also include: an input device configured to receive a cold water supply command from a user; and a cold water supply valve connected to a cold water path, wherein the controller can control the opening of the cold water supply valve and control the operation of the agitator when it receives a cold water supply command through the input device.

[0018] The controller of a water purifier can control the compressor to operate alone or control the compressor and agitator to operate simultaneously.

[0019] According to one aspect, the agitator of a water purifier may include an agitator motor and an agitator body configured to agitate a coolant by rotating the agitator body.

[0020] One aspect of the water purifier may also include a filter module configured to purify water by removing impurities from the input raw water and deliver the purified water to a water tank.

[0021] One aspect of the water purifier may also include a hot water module configured to provide hot water by heating the purified water.

[0022] According to another aspect, a water purifier includes: a water tank containing a coolant; a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the coolant and output coolant temperature information about the detected coolant temperature; a cold water path provided within the water tank and cooled by a cooling device, wherein water flows through the cold water path; a cooling device configured to cool the coolant; a stirrer provided within the water tank and configured to stir the coolant; and a controller configured to control the operation or stop of the stirrer based on the coolant temperature information and preset ice-making temperature information when the cooling device is operating.

[0023] According to another water purifier controller, the agitator can be controlled to operate when the coolant temperature is lower than or equal to the preset ice-making temperature based on coolant temperature information and preset ice-making temperature information, and the agitator can be controlled to stop when the coolant temperature exceeds the preset ice-making temperature.

[0024] The controller of another water purifier can control the stirrer to operate again based on preset ice-making time information.

[0025] According to another aspect, the water purifier may also include: an input device configured to receive user input; a cold water supply valve connected to a cold water path; and a water supply module configured to supply water to the user, wherein the controller can control the cold water supply valve to open and control the agitator operation when it receives a cold water supply command through the input device.

[0026] According to another water purifier controller, when the agitator is restarted, it can identify whether the coolant temperature is lower than or equal to the compressor's preset shut-off temperature based on the coolant temperature information, and based on the identification that the coolant temperature is lower than or equal to the compressor's preset shut-off temperature, the controller can control the compressor and agitator supplied in the cooling device to stop simultaneously.

[0027] According to another method for controlling a water purifier, the water purifier includes a water tank, a coolant, a cooling device, a temperature sensor, and a stirrer. The water tank has a cold water path within the water tank. The coolant is located within the water tank. The cooling device includes an evaporator and a compressor. The evaporator is located within the water tank, and the coolant flows through the evaporator. The compressor is operable to compress the refrigerant, such that the cooling device is configured to cool the coolant, causing the coolant to cool the water flowing through the cold water path. The temperature sensor is configured to detect the temperature of the coolant and output coolant temperature information regarding the detected coolant temperature. The stirrer is operable to agitate the coolant. The method includes: Based on the output of the temperature sensor indicating that the temperature of the coolant is higher than or equal to the preset opening temperature of the compressor, a first mode is executed, in which the compressor and the agitator operate simultaneously; after the first mode, after the coolant is cooled to a temperature lower than or equal to the preset ice-making temperature, a second mode is executed, in which the operation of the agitator is stopped and the operation of the compressor continues until a preset ice-making time is reached, so that ice is made around the evaporator; and after the preset ice-making time has elapsed since the operation of the agitator was stopped, a third mode is executed, in which the agitator and the compressor operate simultaneously, by restarting the agitator, so that the ice around the evaporator remains frozen.

[0028] According to another method of controlling a water purifier, the water purifier includes an input device configured to receive a cold water supply command from a user and a cold water supply valve connected to a cold water path. The method may further include: controlling the cold water supply valve to open when a cold water supply command is received through the input device; and controlling an agitator to operate after the cold water supply valve is opened.

[0029] According to another method of controlling a water purifier, the water purifier includes an input device configured to receive a cold water supply command from a user and a cold water supply valve connected to a cold water path. The method may further include: when the agitator is controlled to stop operating, controlling the cold water supply valve to open to supply cold water to the cold water path upon receiving a cold water supply command through the input device; and controlling the agitator to operate again based on the temperature of the coolant and a preset ice-making temperature after the cold water supply to the cold water path is completed. Attached Figure Description

[0030] From the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of this disclosure will become more apparent:

[0031] Figure 1 An example of a water purifier based on one aspect is shown.

[0032] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 An example of the main body of a water purifier is shown.

[0033] Figure 3 Show Figure 1An example of the interior of the filter module in a water purifier is shown.

[0034] Figure 4 Show Figure 1 An example of the interior of the cooling and heating module of the water purifier shown.

[0035] Figure 5 An example of a cold water module provided in a water purifier is shown.

[0036] Figure 6 An example is shown of the connection between the cooling device and the water tank in a water purifier according to one embodiment, which provides a cooling heating module.

[0037] Figure 7 An example is shown inside the water tank of a cooling and heating module provided in a water purifier according to one embodiment.

[0038] Figure 8 A modified example is shown, providing a connection between a cooling device and a water tank in a water purifier according to one embodiment of a cooling heating module.

[0039] Figure 9 This is a control configuration diagram of a water purifier according to one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 10a and Figure 10b This is a control flow chart of a water purifier according to one embodiment.

[0041] Figure 11 An example of the operation of the compressor and agitator of a water purifier according to one embodiment is shown.

[0042] Figure 12 This is a control flow chart of a water purifier after the cold water supply ends, according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals will refer to the same components. This specification does not describe all components of an embodiment, and will not describe general information within the technical field to which this disclosure pertains or information that is repeated between embodiments.

[0044] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are merely preferred embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, it will be understood that various modifications may be made to replace the embodiments and drawings described in this specification when this application is filed.

[0045] Furthermore, the same reference numerals or symbols shown in the accompanying drawings of this specification indicate components or parts that perform substantially the same function.

[0046] The terminology used in this specification is for descriptive purposes only and is not intended to limit or restrict this disclosure. Singular expressions cover plural expressions unless they have a distinct meaning in the context. In this specification, it will be understood that terms such as “comprising,” “including,” or “having” are intended to indicate the presence of features, numbers, operations, components, portions, or combinations thereof disclosed in the specification, and are not intended to exclude the possibility that one or more other features, numbers, operations, components, portions, or combinations thereof may be present or added.

[0047] Furthermore, it will be understood that although terms including ordinal numbers such as “first,” “second,” etc., may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. For example, the first component discussed below may be referred to as the second component, and similarly, the second component may be referred to as the first component, without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0048] In the following description, the terms "front surface", "rear surface", etc. are defined based on the accompanying drawings, and the shape and position of the corresponding parts are not limited by these terms.

[0049] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] One aspect of this disclosure provides a water purifier and a method for controlling the water purifier, the water purifier being used to continuously supply cold water by adjusting the simultaneous operation time of the compressor and the agitator and the individual operation time of the compressor.

[0051] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a water purifier and a method for controlling the water purifier, the water purifier being used to prevent sudden freezing of the water tank by adjusting the simultaneous operation time of the compressor and the agitator and the individual operation time of the compressor.

[0052] On one hand, water purifiers can easily create ice on the surface of the evaporator inside the water tank.

[0053] The amount of ice buildup on the evaporator surface can be increased by stirring the coolant with an agitator after ice is formed on the evaporator surface.

[0054] By uniformly adjusting the temperature at which the compressor operates alone (i.e., the preset ice-making temperature) and the time during which the compressor operates alone (i.e., the preset ice-making time) via stopping the agitator, it is possible to prevent the production of the maximum or more ice on the surface of the evaporator and to prevent the agitator's operation from being restricted by excessive ice.

[0055] By repeatedly executing the pre-cooling mode and the ice-making mode, which correspond to the user's need to supply water (i.e., water inflow or outflow), a large amount of cold water can be produced in a short time (i.e., within a reference time). In other words, the user can receive more cold water than the reference amount.

[0056] In other words, the water purifier can continuously supply users with cold water that falls within the preset reference temperature range (i.e., below the first reference temperature), thereby improving user satisfaction and product marketability.

[0057] Figure 1 An example of a water purifier based on one aspect is shown.

[0058] like Figure 1 As shown, the water purifier 1 may include a main body 10 and a water supply module 20. The water supply module 20 is connected to the main body 10 and configured to supply purified water from the main body 10 to the user.

[0059] The main body 10 of the water purifier 1 can be located in a space different from the space where the water supply module is provided. For example, the main body 10 of the water purifier can be located under the kitchen countertop 2, and the water supply module 20 can be located on the kitchen countertop 2.

[0060] The main body 10 of the water purifier can be provided inside the kitchen workbench 2, and the water supply module 20 can be provided outside the kitchen workbench 2.

[0061] The water supply module 20 may include a housing 21 forming the exterior, an input device 22 for user input, and a drain nozzle 23 for receiving purified water from the main body 10 and supplying purified water to the user in response to user input received through the input device 22. It also includes a residual water tray 24, which is separately provided from the housing 21 and collects a portion of the purified water supplied through the drain nozzle 23 that is not contained in the user's container.

[0062] The remaining water tray 24 can be provided at a position corresponding to the drain nozzle 23 of the water supply module 20. The remaining water tray 24 can be located below the drain nozzle 23.

[0063] The main body 10 of the water purifier 1 can be connected to the water supply module 20 through the first connecting pipe 41.

[0064] The first connecting pipe 41 can transport the purified water in the main body 10 to the water supply module 20.

[0065] The main body 10 of the water purifier 1 can be connected to the second connecting pipe 42 and the third connecting pipe 43.

[0066] The second connecting pipe 42 can be connected to a faucet 50 installed in a kitchen sink (not shown).

[0067] The third connecting pipe 43 can receive raw water (such as tap water) and deliver the received raw water to the main body 10. A raw water supply valve 43a can be provided in the third connecting pipe 43 to prevent raw water from being supplied to the main body 10.

[0068] The main body 10 may include a filter module 100 and a cooling and heating module 200. The filter module 100 includes one or at least two filters 120 for generating purified water using raw water. The cooling and heating module 200 is used to cool or heat the water purified by the filter module 100.

[0069] The cooling and heating module 200 can be detachably connected to the filter module 100.

[0070] Furthermore, if the water purifier only has a cold water function, the water purifier may include only the cold water module 200a, instead of the cooling and heating module 200. The cold water module 200a may be detachably connected to the filter module 100.

[0071] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 An example of the main body of the water purifier shown. Figure 3 Show Figure 1 The image shows an example of the interior of the filter module in a water purifier. Figure 4 Show Figure 1 An example of the interior of the cooling and heating module of the water purifier shown.

[0072] like Figure 2 As shown, the main body 10 of the water purifier 1 may include a cooling and heating module 200 and a filter module 100.

[0073] The filter module 100 may include a first housing 110 forming the appearance, a bracket 150 rotatably connected to the first housing 110, and a first inflow / outflow portion 140.

[0074] The bracket 150 can be rotatably connected to the rear side of the first housing 110. The rear side of the first housing 110 can be opened or closed via the bracket 150.

[0075] A first inflow / outflow portion 140 of the filter module 100 may be formed on the front side of the first housing 110. The first inflow / outflow portion 140 may include one or more inlets or outlets.

[0076] like Figure 3 As shown, the filter module 100 may include one or at least two filters 120, a first inflow / outflow portion 140, and a first flow path 130 connected to the filters 120.

[0077] Filter 120 may include a pre-filter, a membrane filter as a water purifier, and a post-filter. Filter 120 can remove odors and impurities from raw water flowing in through the third connecting pipe 43. In addition, filter 120 can add flavor and taste to the filtered purified water.

[0078] Each filter 120 may include a head 160 provided at one end of the filter 120 and connected to the first flow path 130.

[0079] Water entering or exiting the filter 120 through the first inflow / outflow portion 140 may flow along the first flow path 130. The first flow path 130 may include a first inlet path 131 and a first outlet path 132.

[0080] The first inlet path 131 can cause water entering the first inlet / outlet section 140 to flow to the filter 120 or to another inlet or outlet of the first inlet / outlet section 140.

[0081] The first outlet path 132 can allow water discharged from filter 120 to flow to the first inlet / outlet section 140 or to another filter 120.

[0082] The first inflow / outflow section 140 may include a raw water inlet 141, a cooking water outlet 142, a first purified water outlet 143, a discharge inlet 144, and a discharge outlet 145.

[0083] Each component of the first inflow / outflow portion 140 can be connected to the first flow path 130 in the first housing 110 to receive water or supply water to the first flow path 130.

[0084] Raw water inlet 141 can receive raw water through the third connecting pipe 43. The raw water received through raw water inlet 141 can enter the first housing 110, and impurities in the raw water can be filtered by the first flow path 130 and the filter 120.

[0085] The cooking water outlet 142 can be formed adjacent to the raw water inlet 141 and water is discharged to the faucet 50 through the second connecting pipe 42.

[0086] The first purified water outlet 143 can deliver purified water filtered by the filter 120 to the water tank 240 inside the second housing 210.

[0087] The first purified water outlet 143 can be connected to the water supply module 20 to deliver purified water to the water supply module 20. In this case, a purified water supply valve (not shown) can be provided between the first purified water outlet 143 and the water supply module 20, and the purified water supply valve can prevent purified water from being delivered from the first purified water outlet 143 to the water supply module 20. The purified water supply valve can be a solenoid valve.

[0088] The first purified water outlet 143 can be connected to the purified water inlet 261 of the second inflow / outflow section 260.

[0089] In the case where the water purifier includes a hot water module, the first purified water outlet 143 can deliver purified water filtered by the filter 120 to the hot water module.

[0090] Water discharged from water supply module 20 can enter discharge inlet 144.

[0091] Furthermore, the discharge inlet 144 can be connected to the discharge outlet 264. In this case, the water entering the discharge inlet 144 can be discharged together with the water discharged from the cooling heating module 200.

[0092] The discharge outlet 145 can be connected to a discharge pipe (not shown) and discharge water to the outside.

[0093] like Figure 2 As shown, the cooling and heating module 200 may include a second housing 210 forming the appearance, an exhaust grille 216 provided on the front side of the second housing 210, and a second inlet and outlet portion 260.

[0094] The exhaust grille 216 can expel internal heat from the main body to the outside.

[0095] The second inflow / outflow portion 260 of the cooling / heating module 200 may be formed on the front side of the second housing 210. The second inflow / outflow portion 260 may include one or more inlets or outlets.

[0096] like Figure 4 As shown, the cooling and heating module 200 may include a heating device 220, a cooling device 230, and a water tank 240.

[0097] The cooling device 230 and the heating device 220 can be located inside the second housing 210. Therefore, since the cooling and heating module 200 is separate from the filter module 100, the cooling and heating module 200 can be attached to or removed from the water purifier 1 as needed.

[0098] A heating device 220 can be provided on one side of the water tank 240. The heating device 220 can heat the water discharged from the water tank 240 to produce hot water and supply the hot water to the user.

[0099] The heating device 220 can heat the purified water discharged from the filter module to produce hot water and supply the hot water to the user.

[0100] The heating device 220 may include one or at least two heaters. The heaters may include ceramic heaters.

[0101] The cooling heating module 200 may also include a support member 221 provided on one side of the heating device 220. The support member 221 may be located within the second housing 210. The support member 221 can prevent the heating device 220 from being damaged by the ground, even though the heating device 220 is separated from the second housing 210.

[0102] The cooling device 230 may include a compressor 231, an evaporator 232 connected to the compressor 231, a condenser 233 connected to the compressor 231, and an expander 234 connected to the condenser 233. The cooling device 230 may also include refrigerant lines 235 that connect the components to each other and allow refrigerant to flow between the components. The configuration of the cooling device 230 will be described below.

[0103] Water tank 240 can store water purified by filter module 100. Evaporator 232 can be provided within water tank 240 to remove heat from the water stored in water tank 240. Water tank 240 can be a cooling tank.

[0104] The cooling and heating module 200 may also include a fan 250 for dissipating heat from the second housing 210. The fan 250 may be provided adjacent to the condenser 233. Because the fan 250 dissipates heat from the second housing 210 to the outside, the fan 250 can prevent the components in the cooling and heating module 200 from overheating.

[0105] The cooling and heating module 200 may further include a second flow path 270. The second flow path 270 may discharge cold water cooled by the evaporator 233 and hot water heated by the heating device 220 to a second inlet / outlet portion 260. In addition, the second flow path 270 may be extended so that purified water discharged from the filter module 100 enters the cooling and heating module 200 through the second inlet / outlet portion 260 and is stored in the water tank 240.

[0106] The second inflow / outflow section 260 may include a purified water inlet 261, a second purified water outlet 262, a hot water outlet 263, and a discharge outlet 264.

[0107] Each component of the second inflow / outflow section 260 can be connected to the second flow path 270 in the second housing 210 to receive water or supply water to the second flow path 270.

[0108] Water purified by filter module 100 (i.e. purified water) can enter purified water inlet 261 through first purified water outlet 143.

[0109] The second purified water outlet 262 can supply cold water or purified water to the water supply module 20.

[0110] The second purified water outlet 262 can supply hot water to the water supply module 20.

[0111] Hot water outlet 263 can supply hot water to faucet 50.

[0112] The discharge outlet 264 can discharge the wastewater from the cooling and heating module 200 through the discharge inlet 144 of the first inflow-outflow section 140.

[0113] The positions of the components in the first inflow / outflow section and the second inflow / outflow section are not limited to these, and the inlet and outlet can be located in various ways. Some of the components in the first inflow / outflow section and the second inflow / outflow section may be omitted.

[0114] When the water purifier only supplies cold water, the water purifier may include a cold water module 200a.

[0115] Figure 5 An example of a cold water module 200a provided in a water purifier is shown. The cold water module 200a of the water purifier may include... Figure 4 All components of the cooling and heating module 200 shown are excluded, except for the heating device 220 and the flow path connected to the heating device 220. That is, the heating device 220 and the flow path connected to the heating device 220 can be omitted from the cold water module 200a of the water purifier.

[0116] The hot water outlet can be omitted from the housing 210a of the cold water module 200a.

[0117] Figure 6 An example is shown of the connection between a cooling device and a water tank in a water purifier according to one embodiment, comprising a cooling heating module. Figure 7 An example is shown showing the interior of a water tank provided in a cooling and heating module in a water purifier according to one embodiment. Figure 8 A modified example of a cooling device and a water tank provided in a cooling heating module according to one embodiment is shown.

[0118] like Figure 6 As shown, the cooling device 230 of the cooling and heating module may include a compressor 231, an evaporator 232, a condenser 233 and an expander 234, and also includes a refrigerant pipe 235 that connects the components to each other and allows refrigerant to flow between the components.

[0119] The compressor 231 can compress the refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant, which is in a high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous state, to the condenser 233.

[0120] The condenser 233 can be connected to the discharge section of the compressor 231 via the refrigerant pipe 235, and condenses the refrigerant received from the compressor 231 by dissipating heat from the refrigerant. At this time, the refrigerant in a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous state can change phase to a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid state.

[0121] A fan 250 can be provided within the second housing 210 to one side of the condenser 233 and rotated by a fan motor (not shown) to promote the dissipation of refrigerant.

[0122] An expander 234 can be provided within the second housing 210 between the condenser 233 and the evaporator 232 to reduce the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant received from the condenser 233, and then deliver the refrigerant to the evaporator 232, making it easier for the endothermic effect of refrigerant evaporation to occur. That is, the refrigerant passing through the expander 234 can change from a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid state to a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid state.

[0123] Here, the expander 234 can be an expansion valve or a capillary tube.

[0124] Evaporator 232 can transform refrigerant in a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid state into a low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous state.

[0125] like Figure 7 As shown, the evaporator 232 can be located inside the water tank 240 and exchange heat with the coolant in the water tank 240 through heat absorption caused by the evaporation of the refrigerant received from the expander 234.

[0126] The evaporator 232 can be a cooling flow path through which refrigerant flows to cool the surrounding environment. The evaporator 232 can be in the shape of a spring.

[0127] The evaporator 232, which is formed in the shape of a spring, can form a cylindrical cooling flow path.

[0128] Evaporator 232 can be spiral-shaped.

[0129] Evaporator 232 can be submerged in coolant.

[0130] When the compressor is operating, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant can pass through the evaporator to supply cool air. Ice can be made on the surface of the evaporator 232 depending on the temperature of the refrigerant and whether the compressor is operating.

[0131] Evaporator 232 can store the cold air required for cold water to be generated by cold water path 280.

[0132] The coolant can be stored in the internal space 240a of the water tank 240 and can be cooled by heat exchange with the evaporator 232.

[0133] Here, the coolant can be a cold storage medium, which is cooled by the cooling device and carries away heat from the cold water path 280. The coolant can be a material that can change phase from liquid to solid depending on the temperature. The coolant can be a fluid that can form a water flow through the stirring operation of the stirrer 290. Furthermore, water purified by the filter module can be used as a coolant. That is, the coolant can be water.

[0134] Inside the water tank 240, a cold water path 280 is provided through which purified water flows. The purified water flowing through the cold water path 280 can be cooled by a coolant to a temperature lower than a reference temperature.

[0135] Cold water path 280 can be provided around evaporator 232.

[0136] The cold water path 280 can be provided outside the evaporator 232. More specifically, the cold water path 280 can be spring-shaped. Therefore, the cold water path 280 formed in a spring shape can form a cylindrical cold water path.

[0137] The cold water path 280 can be spiral-shaped.

[0138] The cold water path 280 can be a heat exchange tube in which purified water filtered by the filter module exchanges heat with the coolant, and the cold water path 280 can be made of a rust-free material.

[0139] like Figure 6 As shown, the cold water path 280 may include a purified water inlet path 281 and a cold water outlet path 282. The purified water inlet path 281 is connected to the purified water inlet 261 and purified water enters the purified water inlet path 281. The cold water outlet path 282 is connected to the second purified water outlet 262 and supplies the cold water in the cold water path 280 to the second purified water outlet 262.

[0140] A cold water supply valve 283 may be provided on the cold water outlet path 282, which is used to deliver cold water generated in the cold water path 280 to the water supply module 20 or to prevent cold water from being supplied to the water supply module.

[0141] The cold water supply valve 283, which regulates the supply of cold water for cooling in the cold water path 280, can regulate the cold water supply in response to a cold water supply command received via the cold water button on the input device 22, and can cut off the cold water supply in response to a cold water cut-off command received. The cold water supply valve 283 may include a solenoid valve.

[0142] like Figure 8As shown, the water tank 240 of the water purifier provides a cold water path 280 for drinking water and a cold water path 241 for coolant. The cold water for drinking water flows through the cold water path 280, and the cold water for coolant flows through the cold water path 241. Here, the cold water path for drinking water can be... Figure 6 The cold water path is 280.

[0143] In this configuration, the drinking water path 280 and the coolant water path 241 can be connected to the filter module 100 and receive purified water from it. Specifically, the drinking water path 280 and the coolant water path 241 of the water tank 240 can receive purified water from the filter module 100 via the first purified water outlet 143.

[0144] The water purifier may also include a cold water supply valve 284 for drinking water and a cold water supply valve 242 for coolant, the cold water supply valve 284 regulating the supply of cold water to the cold water path 280 for drinking water and the cold water supply valve 242 regulating the supply of cold water to the cold water path 241 for coolant.

[0145] That is, by controlling the opening / closing of the cold water supply valve 284 for drinking and the cold water supply valve 242 for coolant, the water purifier can supply purified water to the cold water path 280 for drinking and the cold water path 241 for coolant, or prevent purified water from being supplied to the cold water path 280 for drinking and the cold water path 241 for coolant.

[0146] The water purifier can be connected to drain pipe 243 to discharge the coolant (i.e., water) from the water tank to the outside. Drain pipe 243 can discharge the water used as coolant to the outside. Drain pipe 243 can be connected to drain outlet 264.

[0147] On the discharge pipe 243, a discharge valve 244 for regulating the discharge of coolant can be provided.

[0148] like Figure 7 As shown, the evaporator 232 can be housed within the internal space of the cylindrical cold water path 280.

[0149] The cold water path 280 can receive cold air from the coolant between the evaporator 232 and the cold water path 280 to cool the purified water.

[0150] That is, the coolant can be cooled by the evaporator 232. At this time, the coolant's cold air can be delivered to the cold water path 280 to cool the purified water flowing through the cold water path 280.

[0151] In the water tank 240, an agitator 290 may be provided for stirring the coolant therein. The agitator 290 may include an agitator motor 291 and an agitator body 292.

[0152] The stirring motor 291 can be provided outside the water tank 240, and the stirring body 22 can be provided inside the water tank 240.

[0153] The stirring body 292 can be connected to one end of the shaft of the stirring motor 291, and the stirring body 292 can rotate by receiving the driving force of the stirring motor 291 through the shaft of the stirring motor. The shaft of the stirring motor 291 can pass through the internal space of the cylindrical evaporator 232.

[0154] A stirring element 292 can be provided within the internal space of a cylinder formed by a cylindrical cold water path 280. The stirring element 292 can agitate the coolant within the water tank 240.

[0155] The agitator 292 can form a rotating water flow in the coolant present in the internal space of the cylinder formed by the cold water path 280.

[0156] The agitator 292 may include blades.

[0157] By rotating the agitator 292 of the agitator 290, the coolant can flow within the water tank. Therefore, the temperature of the coolant can be kept constant within the internal space of the water tank 240.

[0158] At this point, the coolant in the water tank can flow along the vertical (or longitudinal) direction of the tank. The agitator can then accelerate the generation of cold water in the cold water path by increasing the convective heat transfer coefficient.

[0159] Inside water tank 240, a temperature sensor can be provided. Figure 9 245), which is used to detect the internal temperature of water tank 240 and output temperature information about the detected temperature.

[0160] Temperature sensor ( Figure 9 The 245 sensor can detect the temperature of the coolant in the water tank 240. In other words, the temperature sensor (…) Figure 9 245) can provide a region in the area around the cold water path 280 that corresponds to the location where the temperature of the coolant can be easily detected.

[0161] In addition, the cooling and heating module of the water purifier may include a hot water device (not shown).

[0162] The hot water device may include a hot water inlet path for receiving purified water from a first purified water outlet 143, a hot water tank for storing the purified water supplied from the hot water inlet path, and a heater for providing purified water in the hot water tank to heat the hot water tank. The hot water device may also include a hot water outlet path for conveying hot water from the hot water tank to the outside, and may also include a hot water supply valve provided on the hot water outlet path to supply or block hot water from the hot water tank.

[0163] A hot water temperature sensor (not shown) can be provided in the hot water tank to detect the temperature of the hot water.

[0164] The hot water supply valve can regulate the supply of hot water in response to a hot water supply command received via the hot water button on the input device 22, and regulate the shut-off of hot water in response to a hot water shut-off command received. The hot water supply valve can be a solenoid valve.

[0165] Figure 9 This is a control configuration diagram of a water purifier according to one embodiment. More specifically, Figure 9 This is a control configuration diagram used to control the cooling / heating module or the cold water module supplied in the water purifier. In other words, Figure 9 This is a control configuration diagram for a water purifier used to produce cold water.

[0166] The water purifier 1 may include an input device 22, a display 25, a temperature sensor 245, a controller 300, a storage device 301, a first driver 310, a second driver 320, and a third driver 330.

[0167] Input device 22 can receive user input.

[0168] Input device 22 can receive ice-making time as user input. Here, ice-making time can be the time it takes to make ice around the evaporator.

[0169] Input device 22 can receive cold water supply commands and cold water shut-off commands.

[0170] The input device 22 can receive the supply of cold water. Here, the supply of cold water can be large, medium, or small, or it can be a volume, such as 200ml and 500ml.

[0171] The input device 22 can receive purified water supply commands and purified water shut-off commands, and can also receive hot water supply commands and hot water shut-off commands.

[0172] The input device 22 may include hardware devices for user input, such as various buttons or switches, pedals, keyboards, mice, trackballs, various joysticks, handles, and joysticks.

[0173] In addition, the input device 22 may include a graphical user interface (GUI), i.e., a software device, such as a touchpad, for user input. The touchpad may be implemented as a touch screen panel (TSP) and form a sandwich structure with the display.

[0174] When the input device 22 is configured as a touch screen panel (TSP) forming a sandwich structure with the touchpad, the display can also be used as an input device.

[0175] The display 25 can show the operation information of the water purifier and display the operation information corresponding to the user input.

[0176] For example, the display 25 can show information about the type of water selected by the user (such as purified water, cold water, or hot water) and information about the supply of the water selected by the user.

[0177] Purified water can be purified water at room temperature, cold water can be purified water below the first reference temperature, and hot water can be purified water above the second reference temperature.

[0178] Temperatures below the first reference temperature (which is the temperature range of cold water) can be user-defined temperatures.

[0179] The first reference temperature can be lower than room temperature, and the second reference temperature can be higher than room temperature.

[0180] The display can be a digital light processing (DLP) panel, a plasma display panel, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an electroluminescent (EL) panel, an electrophoretic display (EPD) panel, an electrochromic display (ECD) panel, a light-emitting diode (LED) panel, or an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panel, but is not limited to these.

[0181] Temperature sensor 245 can detect the internal temperature of water tank 240 (i.e., the temperature of coolant) and output temperature information about the detected coolant temperature to controller 300.

[0182] Temperature sensor 245 may include a thermistor.

[0183] The controller 300 can control the operation of the water purifier in accordance with the user input received through the input device 22, and control the display of the operation information of the water purifier in accordance with the user input received through the input device 22.

[0184] For example, the controller 300 can control the supply of purified water in response to a purified water supply command received from the user input via the input device 22, control the supply of cold water in response to a cold water supply command, and control the supply of hot water in response to a hot water supply command.

[0185] The controller 300 can adjust the amount of water supplied through the water supply module in response to the supply amount received from the user input via the input device 22.

[0186] The controller 300 can control the opening and closing of various valves supplied in the water purifier based on the control of the supply and quantity of purified water, cold water or hot water.

[0187] The controller 300 can control the cooling and heating modules to keep the purified water in the water tank at a temperature lower than or equal to the first reference temperature and the purified water in the hot water tank at a temperature higher than or equal to the second reference temperature.

[0188] In order to generate hot water and maintain its temperature, the controller 300 can control the heater in the hot water tank to turn on / off based on the temperature information of the hot water detected by a temperature sensor (not shown) installed in the hot water tank.

[0189] More specifically, when the temperature of the hot water in the hot water tank is lower than or equal to the heater's on-time, the controller 300 can control the heater to turn on to heat the hot water in the tank; when the temperature of the hot water is higher than or equal to the heater's off-time, the controller 300 can control the heater to turn off to stop heating the hot water in the tank. Here, the heater's on-time and off-time can be preset based on a second reference temperature.

[0190] Furthermore, in the case where the water purifier only includes a cold water module, the controller 300 can control the cold water module to keep the purified water in the water tank at a temperature lower than or equal to the first reference temperature.

[0191] The control components of controller 300 for generating cold water and maintaining the temperature of the cold water will be described below.

[0192] The controller 300 can control the operation of the compressor 231 and the agitator 290 based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensor 245. Here, the temperature information can be the temperature information of the coolant.

[0193] When the expander of the cooling device is an expansion valve, the controller 300 can control the opening or closing operation of the expansion valve, or control the degree of opening of the expansion valve, based on the temperature information of the coolant.

[0194] The controller 300 can identify whether the temperature of the coolant is higher than or equal to the opening temperature of the compressor based on the temperature information of the coolant, and based on the identification that the temperature of the coolant is higher than or equal to the opening temperature of the compressor, the controller 300 can control the compressor 231 and the agitator 290 to operate simultaneously.

[0195] Controlling the operation of compressor 231 may include rotating the compressor motor at a preset first speed of revolutions per minute (rpm), and controlling the operation of agitator 290 may include rotating the agitator motor at a preset second speed of revolutions per minute (rpm). When the coolant temperature is higher than or equal to the compressor's operating temperature, controller 300 can cool the coolant in the water tank by controlling the simultaneous operation of compressor 231 and agitator 290. This may be referred to as pre-cooling mode or first mode.

[0196] When executing the pre-cooling mode, the controller 300 can identify whether the coolant temperature has reached the preset ice-making temperature based on the coolant temperature information detected by the temperature sensor 245. If the controller 300 identifies that the coolant temperature has reached the preset ice-making temperature, the controller 300 can control the stirrer 290 to stop so that the compressor 231 can operate independently.

[0197] Identifying whether the coolant temperature has reached the preset ice-making temperature can include identifying whether the coolant temperature is lower than or equal to the preset ice-making temperature in pre-cooling mode.

[0198] Identifying whether the coolant temperature has reached the preset ice-making temperature may include identifying whether the compressor's standby time has arrived.

[0199] In pre-cooling mode, the temperature of the coolant can be reduced by operating the compressor.

[0200] The preset ice-making temperature can be lower than the compressor's opening temperature or higher than the compressor's closing temperature.

[0201] The controller 300 can produce ice in the water tank around the evaporator by controlling the compressor to operate independently when the coolant temperature is below or equal to the preset ice-making temperature. This can be referred to as the ice-making mode or the second mode.

[0202] The controller 300 can count the time elapsed since the start time of the individual operation of the compressor, and when the preset ice-making time is reached after the count time is identified, the controller 300 can control the stirrer to operate again.

[0203] The counting time can be the operating time of the compressor operating alone during this period.

[0204] The compressor's individual operation start time can be the same as the agitator's stop time. That is, the counting time can be the elapsed period from the time the agitator stopped to the time the agitator stopped during that period.

[0205] Based on the time elapsed since the compressor operated alone during this period, exceeding the preset ice-making time, the controller 300 can restart the agitator and compressor to operate simultaneously again. At this time, the ice produced around the evaporator can mix with the coolant, thus further reducing the coolant temperature. This can be referred to as the main cooling mode or the third mode.

[0206] The controller 300 can repeatedly control the pre-cooling mode and ice-making mode once, twice or more.

[0207] The controller 300 can change the preset ice-making time to the ice-making time received via the input device 22 and store the ice-making time. The preset ice-making time can be set during the manufacturing process of the water purifier.

[0208] After the main cooling mode ends, the controller 300 can identify whether the coolant temperature has reached the preset ice-making temperature based on the coolant temperature information detected by the temperature sensor. If the controller 300 identifies that the coolant temperature has reached the preset ice-making temperature, it can control the compressor to operate independently, thereby controlling the compressor to operate independently for the preset ice-making time.

[0209] Based on the fact that the preset ice-making time has elapsed since the compressor operated alone during this period, the controller 300 can control the compressor and the agitator to operate simultaneously. That is, the controller 300 can repeatedly control the main cooling mode and the ice-making mode.

[0210] Identifying whether the coolant temperature has reached the preset ice-making temperature may include identifying whether the coolant temperature, which has increased due to the termination of the main cooling mode, has reached the preset ice-making temperature.

[0211] Based on the fact that the time elapsed since the receipt of the cold water supply command is longer than or equal to a preset time, the controller 300 can identify whether the coolant temperature is higher than or equal to the compressor's opening temperature based on the coolant temperature information detected by the temperature sensor 245. Based on the fact that the coolant temperature is higher than or equal to the compressor's opening temperature, the controller 300 can control the compressor and the agitator to operate simultaneously.

[0212] The controller 300 can view coolant temperature information detected by the temperature sensor 245 when controlling the compressor and agitator to operate simultaneously. Based on the viewed coolant temperature information, it can identify whether the coolant temperature is lower than or equal to the compressor's shut-off temperature, and control the compressor and agitator to stop if the identified coolant temperature is lower than or equal to the compressor's shut-off temperature.

[0213] Controlling the compressor and agitator to stop can include stopping the compressor motor and the agitator motor.

[0214] The controller 300 can view the receipt time of the most recent chilled water supply command, count the time elapsed since the receipt time of the chilled water supply command, and identify whether the counted time has reached a preset time. That is, the controller 300 can identify whether the time elapsed since the receipt time of the chilled water supply command is longer than or equal to the preset time.

[0215] Upon receiving a cold water supply command, the controller 300 can control the cold water supply valve 283 to open so as to supply cold water through the water supply module.

[0216] Corresponding to the controller 300's control to open the cold water supply valve 283, purified water from the filter module can flow to the cold water path 280. At this time, the controller 300 can control the raw water supply valve 43a to open to ensure the amount of purified water in the filter module 100, corresponding to the purified water supply from the filter module 100. In this case, raw water can be supplied to the filter module 100 in response to the controller 300's control to open the raw water supply valve 43a.

[0217] Upon receiving a cold water supply command, the controller 300 can control the cold water supply to reach a preset supply time, and based on the passage of the preset supply time, the controller 300 can control the cold water supply valve 283 to close.

[0218] Upon receiving a cold water supply command and selection information regarding the supply volume (or water volume), the controller 300 can view the opening time corresponding to the selected supply volume and control the opening and closing of the cold water supply valve 283 based on the viewed opening time.

[0219] When a cold water supply cut-off command is received while cold water is being supplied, the controller 300 can control the cold water supply valve 283 to close to cut off the cold water supply.

[0220] When completing the supply of chilled water in response to the received chilled water supply command, the controller 300 can control the compressor 231 and the agitator 290 to operate simultaneously, thereby executing the pre-cooling mode.

[0221] After controlling the cold water supply corresponding to the received cold water supply command, the controller 300 can control the compressor to operate independently based on the coolant temperature information detected by the temperature sensor 245, and determine that the coolant temperature is lower than the compressor's opening temperature and higher than the preset ice-making temperature, thereby executing the ice-making mode.

[0222] When a cold water supply command is received during the execution of pre-cooling mode, the controller 300 can control the cold water supply valve to open, identify whether the coolant temperature has reached the preset ice-making temperature based on the coolant temperature information received from the temperature sensor 245, and continue to execute the pre-cooling mode or switch to the ice-making mode based on the identification that the coolant temperature has reached the preset ice-making temperature.

[0223] Switching to ice-making mode can include allowing the compressor to operate independently by controlling the stirrer to stop.

[0224] When a cold water supply command is received while the ice-making mode is being executed, the controller 300 can control the cold water supply valve 283 to open. Based on the coolant temperature information received from the temperature sensor 245, the controller identifies whether the coolant temperature exceeds the preset ice-making temperature. If the coolant temperature exceeds the preset ice-making temperature, the controller switches to the pre-cooling mode. If the coolant temperature is lower than or equal to the preset ice-making temperature, the controller maintains the ice-making mode.

[0225] While maintaining the ice-making mode, the controller 300 can control the compressor to operate independently to execute the ice-making mode from the time the cold water supply is completed until the preset ice-making time.

[0226] While maintaining the ice-making mode, the controller 300 can control the compressor to operate independently, so that after the pre-cooling mode is completed, the ice-making mode is executed from the start time of the ice-making mode until the preset ice-making time is reached.

[0227] Switching to pre-cooling mode can include controlling the simultaneous operation of the agitator and compressor.

[0228] The controller 300 can control the agitator to operate independently when cold water is supplied.

[0229] The controller 300 can control the opening of the cold water supply valve and control the operation of the agitator when it receives a cold water supply command in the compressor's stopped state, pre-cooling mode, ice-making mode or main cooling mode.

[0230] The controller 300 can control the agitator to operate independently if it is determined that the supply of cold water through the water supply module 20 is less than or equal to a reference supply.

[0231] If the controller 300 detects that the supply of cold water through the water supply module 20 exceeds the reference supply, it can control the pre-cooling mode or the ice-making mode based on the coolant temperature information received from the temperature sensor 245.

[0232] The controller 300 can be implemented using a memory (not shown) and a processor (not shown). The memory stores algorithms for controlling the operation of components in the water purifier or data for running programs that execute the algorithms, and the processor uses the data stored in the memory to perform the aforementioned operations. The memory and processor can be implemented as separate chips. Alternatively, the memory and processor can be integrated into a single chip.

[0233] The controller 300 can be implemented as, for example, a CPU (or DSP, MPU, etc.), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a system-on-a-chip (SoC), a microcomputer (MICOM), etc.

[0234] The controller 300 can control multiple hardware or software components connected to the controller 300, and perform various data processing and calculations by driving the operating system (OS) or application.

[0235] The storage device 301 can store temperature information about the preset ice-making temperature, the compressor's on-time temperature, and the compressor's off-time temperature.

[0236] Storage device 301 can store time information about preset ice-making time.

[0237] The storage device 301 can store the water supply time corresponding to the cold water supply command, that is, time information about the time during which the cold water supply valve is opened.

[0238] The storage device 301 can store time information about the opening time of the cold water supply valve corresponding to the water supply volume. Here, the water supply volume can include the supply volume of purified water, the supply volume of cold water, and the supply volume of hot water.

[0239] The storage device 301 can change the preset ice-making time to the ice-making time received by the input device in response to the control command from the controller 300, and store the received ice-making time.

[0240] Storage device 301 may be implemented as at least one of non-volatile storage devices (e.g., cache, read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), and flash memory), volatile storage devices (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), or storage media (such as hard disk drive (HDD) and CD-ROM), but is not limited thereto.

[0241] The storage device 301 can be implemented as a separate chip from the processor described above with respect to the controller 300, or the storage device 301 and the processor can be integrated into a single chip.

[0242] Storage device 301 may store an operating system (OS) program that manages the components and resources (software and hardware) included in the water purifier.

[0243] The first drive 310 can drive or stop the compressor 231 in accordance with control commands from the controller 300. That is, it can turn the compressor 231 on or off in accordance with control commands from the controller 300.

[0244] The first driver 310 can adjust the rpm of the compressor motor inside the compressor 231 in response to control commands from the controller 300. The first driver 310 may include an inverter.

[0245] The second driver 320 can drive the agitator 290 in response to a control command from the controller 300. The second driver 320 can also drive the agitator motor 291 in response to a control command from the controller 300.

[0246] The agitator 290 can be turned on or off in response to control commands from the controller 300.

[0247] The second drive 320 can adjust the rpm of the stirring motor 291 in response to control commands from the controller 300. The second drive 320 may include an inverter.

[0248] The second driver 320 can adjust the pulse width of the current or voltage to regulate the current or voltage applied to the stirring motor 291. In other words, the second driver 320 can adjust the PWM.

[0249] The third actuator 330 can drive the valve 283 in response to a control command from the controller 300. The valve 283 can be opened / closed or its opening degree adjusted in response to a control command from the controller 300.

[0250] Here, valve 283 can be a cold water supply valve 283 connected to the cold water path.

[0251] The third actuator 330 can regulate the current or voltage supplied to valve 283.

[0252] The water purifier may also include a fan driver that controls the drive of the fan used for heat dissipation in accordance with the operation of the compressor, condenser, evaporator and expander.

[0253] At least one component can be added or omitted to correspond to Figure 9 The performance of the components of the water purifier is shown. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the relative positions of the components can be altered to correspond to the performance or structure of the system.

[0254] in addition, Figure 9 Each component shown can be a software component and / or a hardware component (such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) and an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)).

[0255] Figure 10a and Figure 10b This is a control flow chart of a water purifier according to one embodiment, and will be referenced... Figure 11 Describe it. Figure 11 An example of the operation of the compressor and agitator is shown.

[0256] The following section describes the control operations for the water purifier to generate and supply cold water.

[0257] The water purifier can receive purified water from the filter module 100 and store the received purified water in the cold water path.

[0258] The water purifier can view temperature information (401) regarding the coolant temperature detected by temperature sensor 245. The water purifier can view the temperature information at regular time intervals.

[0259] The water purifier can identify whether the temperature of the coolant, Tsensor, is higher than or equal to the compressor's opening temperature, Ton (402), based on the temperature information it has seen, and control the agitator 231 and the compressor 290 to operate simultaneously based on the identification that the coolant temperature is higher than or equal to the compressor's opening temperature.

[0260] Controlling the operation of compressor 231 may include rotating the compressor motor at a preset first rpm, and controlling the operation of agitator 290 may include rotating the agitator motor at a preset second rpm.

[0261] The first and second rpm can be the rpm set during the manufacturing of the water purifier, and can be set based on a reference temperature of cold water.

[0262] The first and second rpm can be changed according to the temperature of the cold water.

[0263] Controlling the operation of compressor 231 may include discharging compressed refrigerant from the compressor by rotating a compressor motor supplied in the compressor.

[0264] In addition, controlling the operation of the stirrer 290 may include causing the stirrer 292 to perform a stirring operation by rotating the stirring motor 291.

[0265] The water purifier can control the compressor 231 and the agitator 290 to operate simultaneously when the coolant temperature is higher than or equal to the compressor's opening temperature, thereby cooling the coolant in the water tank 240. That is, the water purifier can perform a pre-cooling mode or a first mode (403).

[0266] When the pre-cooling mode is executed, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor through the operation of the compressor can move sequentially through the refrigerant pipe to the condenser 233, the expander 234 and the evaporator 233, and then return to the compressor 231.

[0267] When the refrigerant circulates in pre-cooling mode, the refrigerant in tank 240 can be rapidly cooled by forced convection through the operation of an agitator. The refrigerant in tank 240 surrounding evaporator 232 can begin to freeze (make ice) on the surface of the evaporator.

[0268] Then, when executing the pre-cooling mode, the water purifier can identify whether the coolant temperature Tsensor has reached the preset ice-making temperature Tice (404) based on the coolant temperature information detected by the temperature sensor 245, and control the agitator 290 to stop based on the identification that the coolant temperature Tsensor has reached the preset ice-making temperature Tice. That is, the water purifier can allow the compressor to operate independently.

[0269] Here, identifying whether the coolant temperature has reached the preset ice-making temperature can include identifying whether the coolant temperature is lower than or equal to the preset ice-making temperature when executing the pre-cooling mode.

[0270] When the pre-cooling mode is in operation, the temperature of the coolant can be reduced by operating the compressor.

[0271] The preset ice-making temperature can be lower than the compressor's opening temperature or higher than the compressor's closing temperature.

[0272] The water purifier can produce ice in the water tank around the evaporator by controlling the compressor to operate independently when the coolant temperature is lower than or equal to the preset ice-making temperature. That is, the water purifier can operate in ice-making mode or a second mode (405).

[0273] Therefore, since the agitator stops when the ice-making mode is activated, forced convection in the water tank can be stopped, and the temperature of the coolant around the evaporator can be rapidly reduced through natural convection. As a result, the ice-making zone can be widened outwards from around the evaporator. At this point, a large amount of ice can be produced in the water tank.

[0274] The water purifier can count the time elapsed from the time t2 when the compressor starts operating alone, identify whether the counted time has reached the preset ice-making time ts (406), and control the stirrer to operate again based on the identification that the counted time has reached the preset ice-making time ts.

[0275] Here, the start time for controlling the compressor to operate independently can be the same as the stop time for the agitator.

[0276] The time during which the compressor operates alone can be the same as the time during which the agitator stops.

[0277] In other words, since the ice-making mode is only executed for the preset ice-making time, it can prevent the amount of ice in the water tank from being made too much and exceeding the reference amount of ice. Therefore, it can prevent the stirring operation of the stirrer from being restricted.

[0278] Based on the time elapsed since the compressor operated alone during this period, exceeding the preset ice-making time, the water purifier can control the agitator to operate simultaneously with the compressor again. At this time, the ice produced around the evaporator can mix with the coolant to further reduce the coolant's temperature. That is, the water purifier can execute either the main cooling mode or the third mode (407).

[0279] The water purifier can maintain a constant ice level in the water tank by executing the main cooling mode while creating a large amount of ice on the surface of the evaporator. At this time, the cold air from the ice is evenly delivered into the interior of the water tank through forced convection of the coolant. Therefore, the cold water in the cold water path can be rapidly cooled by the forced convection of the coolant.

[0280] When the compressor and agitator are operating simultaneously, the water purifier can view the coolant temperature information detected by the temperature sensor 245, identify whether the coolant temperature Tsensor is lower than or equal to the compressor's shut-off temperature Toff (408) based on the viewed coolant temperature information, and control the compressor and agitator to stop simultaneously (409) based on the identification that the coolant temperature is lower than or equal to the compressor's shut-off temperature Toff.

[0281] When no cold water supply command is received while the compressor and agitator are stopped, the water purifier can detect the coolant temperature at regular intervals and execute a pre-cooling mode based on the detected coolant temperature and the compressor's operating temperature.

[0282] When no cold water supply command is received while the compressor and agitator are stopped, the water purifier can detect the coolant temperature at regular intervals and execute the ice-making mode based on the detected coolant temperature and the preset ice-making temperature.

[0283] The water purifier can identify whether a cold water supply command has been received through the input device 22 (410), and open the cold water supply valve 283 to supply cold water in the cold water path 280 through the water supply module 20, and control the operation of the agitator (411).

[0284] The water purifier can detect when the cold water supply is complete (412) and control the agitator to stop (413) based on the detection that the cold water supply is complete.

[0285] Upon receiving a cold water supply command, the water purifier can control the cold water supply valve 283 to open for a preset supply time to discharge a preset amount of cold water through the water supply module.

[0286] The purified water from the filter module can flow into the cold water path 280, corresponding to the supply of cold water. At this time, the water purifier can supply raw water to the filter module 100 by opening the raw water supply valve 43a to ensure the amount of purified water supplied.

[0287] When the water purifier receives a cold water supply command and selection information about the supply volume, it can view the opening time corresponding to the selected supply volume and open the cold water supply valve based on the viewed time.

[0288] When a cold water supply cut-off command is received while the cold water supply is in progress, the water purifier can close the cold water supply valve to cut off the cold water supply.

[0289] When a cold water supply command is received in the compressor stop state, pre-cooling mode, ice-making mode or main cooling mode, the water purifier can open the cold water supply valve and control the agitator 290 to operate independently.

[0290] In other words, the water purifier can operate the agitator 290 when supplying cold water. This will be described in more detail.

[0291] When supplying cold water to users, purified water with a temperature exceeding a first reference temperature can be supplied to the cold water path in the water purifier. Because of this purified water, the temperature of the coolant around the cold water path can rise to a higher level than the coolant temperature in other areas. Therefore, it may take a longer time to lower the temperature of the purified water in the cold water path.

[0292] Therefore, in order to reduce the time required to lower the temperature of the purified water in the cold water path, the water purifier can agitate the coolant in the water tank 240 by operating the agitator 290. This allows the coolant around the cold water path to mix with or move within other areas. As a result, the ambient temperature of the cold water path can become lower than the temperature before agitation.

[0293] Therefore, by lowering the ambient temperature of the cold water path during cold water supply and thus lowering the temperature of the purified water in the cold water path, a continuous supply of cold water can be provided to users. In other words, a large amount of cold water can be supplied to users.

[0294] After the main cooling mode ends, the water purifier can identify whether the coolant temperature has reached the preset ice-making temperature based on the coolant temperature information detected by the temperature sensor. If the coolant temperature is found to have reached the preset ice-making temperature, the water purifier can control the compressor to operate independently, thereby controlling the compressor to operate independently until the preset ice-making time is reached.

[0295] Identifying whether the coolant temperature has reached the preset ice-making temperature may include identifying whether the coolant temperature, which has increased due to the termination of the main cooling mode, has reached the preset ice-making temperature.

[0296] After that, the water purifier can control the compressor and agitator to operate simultaneously based on the past preset ice-making time. In other words, the water purifier can control the main cooling mode and ice-making mode to alternate repeatedly.

[0297] The water purifier can view the receiving time of the most recent cold water supply command, and based on the identification that the time elapsed since the receiving time of the most recent cold water supply command is longer than or equal to a preset time, and based on the coolant temperature information detected by the temperature sensor 245, it can identify whether the coolant temperature is higher than or equal to the compressor's opening temperature, and based on the identification that the coolant temperature is higher than or equal to the compressor's opening temperature, it can control the compressor 231 and the agitator 290 to operate simultaneously.

[0298] The water purifier can execute a pre-cooling mode or an ice-making mode based on information about the amount or duration of cold water supply.

[0299] This will refer to Figure 12 Describe it.

[0300] The water purifier can display the time elapsed since the compressor stopped and execute pre-cooling mode and ice-making mode based on the preset time elapsed since the displayed time and the temperature of the coolant.

[0301] When the cold water supply is complete, the water purifier can check the amount of cold water supplied. If the checked amount of cold water is greater than or equal to the reference supply, the water purifier can execute the pre-cooling mode and ice-making mode based on the temperature of the coolant.

[0302] When the cold water supply is complete, the water purifier can check the supply time of cold water corresponding to the cold water supply command during this period, and if the checked supply time exceeds the preset supply time, the water purifier can execute the pre-cooling mode or ice-making mode based on the temperature of the coolant.

[0303] That is, when the cold water supply is completed (421) in response to the received cold water supply command, the water purifier can view the coolant temperature information (422) about the coolant temperature detected by the temperature sensor 245, and identify whether the coolant temperature is higher than or equal to the preset ice-making temperature and lower than the compressor opening temperature (423) based on the viewed temperature information about the coolant temperature.

[0304] Based on the detection that the temperature of the coolant is higher than or equal to the preset ice-making temperature and lower than the compressor's opening temperature, the water purifier can execute the ice-making mode by controlling the compressor to operate independently (424).

[0305] Then, based on the recognition that the ice-making mode has been executed for the preset ice-making time, the water purifier can execute the main cooling mode (425) by controlling the compressor and agitator to operate simultaneously.

[0306] Then, based on the recognition that the coolant temperature has reached the compressor's shut-off temperature in the main cooling mode, the water purifier can control the compressor and agitator to stop simultaneously (426).

[0307] In addition, based on the fact that the coolant temperature detected by the temperature sensor 245 is higher than or equal to the compressor's opening temperature (427) after the cold water supply is completed, the water purifier can perform a pre-cooling mode (428) by controlling the compressor and agitator to operate simultaneously.

[0308] Then, based on the recognition that the temperature of the coolant is the preset ice-making temperature, the water purifier can execute the ice-making mode (429) by controlling the agitator to stop while keeping the compressor running.

[0309] Then, based on the recognition that the ice-making mode has been executed for the preset ice-making time, the water purifier can execute the main cooling mode (430) by controlling the compressor and agitator to operate simultaneously.

[0310] Then, based on the detection that the coolant temperature has reached the compressor's shut-off temperature during the execution of the main cooling mode, the water purifier can control the compressor and agitator to stop (431).

[0311] Furthermore, based on the fact that the temperature of the coolant is lower than the preset ice-making temperature after the cold water supply is completed, the water purifier can maintain a constant temperature of the cold water in the cold water path 280 by simply operating the agitator to stir the coolant in the water tank 240 (432).

[0312] Therefore, even if the user inputs multiple cold water supply commands after supplying cold water, and continuously executes stirring or ice-making mode while a large amount of ice is being produced on the surface of the evaporator, the user can receive a large amount of cold water with a temperature lower than or equal to the first reference temperature.

[0313] Furthermore, by alternately and repeatedly executing the pre-cooling mode, ice-making mode, and main cooling mode even after the supply of cold water, large amounts of cold water can be generated and supplied multiple times in a short period of time.

[0314] Furthermore, the disclosed embodiments can be implemented as a recording medium storing commands executable by a computer. The commands can be stored as program code, and when executed by a processor, the commands can create program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium can be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0315] Computer-readable recording media can include all kinds of recording media that store commands that can be interpreted by a computer. For example, computer-readable recording media can be ROM, RAM, magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage devices, etc.

[0316] The disclosed embodiments have now been described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made to this disclosure without altering its technical spirit and essential characteristics. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and not for limiting purposes.

[0317] This application is a continuation to PCT application No. PCT / KR2021 / 010915, filed on August 18, 2021, and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0132335, filed on October 14, 2020, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Claims

1. A water purifier, comprising: A water tank having a cold water path within the water tank; Coolant, inside the water tank; A cooling device includes an evaporator and a compressor, the evaporator being located in the water tank and through which refrigerant flows, the compressor being operable to compress the refrigerant, and the cooling device being configured to cool the refrigerant such that the refrigerant cools water flowing through the cold water path; A temperature sensor is configured to detect the temperature of the coolant and output coolant temperature information about the detected temperature of the coolant; A stirrer, operable to stir the coolant; as well as The controller is configured to control the compressor and the agitator to operate simultaneously to cool the coolant based on the detection that the coolant temperature is higher than or equal to a preset opening temperature of the compressor, and to control the agitator to stop operating while the compressor is controlled to continue operating to make ice around the evaporator based on the detection that the coolant temperature is lower than or equal to a preset ice-making temperature during the cooling process. The preset ice-making temperature is lower than or equal to the preset opening temperature of the compressor.

2. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein the stirrer is controlled to stop operation to prevent the stirrer from operating for a preset ice-making time.

3. The water purifier according to claim 2, wherein after the stirrer has stopped operating for the preset ice-making time, the controller is configured to control the compressor and the stirrer to operate simultaneously by controlling the stirrer to operate again.

4. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to identify whether the temperature of the coolant is lower than or equal to the preset shut-off temperature of the compressor based on the coolant temperature information, and based on identifying that the temperature of the coolant is lower than or equal to the preset shut-off temperature of the compressor, the controller is configured to control the compressor and the agitator to stop operating simultaneously.

5. The water purifier according to claim 1, further comprising: The input device is configured to receive cold water supply commands from the user. as well as The cold water supply valve is connected to the cold water path. The controller is configured to open the cold water supply valve and control the operation of the agitator when it receives the cold water supply command via the input device.

6. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to control the compressor and the agitator, such that... In the first mode, the compressor and the agitator operate simultaneously, and In the second mode, the compressor operates and the agitator stops operating. The first mode and the second mode are executed repeatedly.

7. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein the agitator comprises an agitator motor and an agitator body, the agitator body being configured to agitate the coolant by rotation of the agitator body.

8. The water purifier according to claim 1, further comprising: The filter module is configured to purify water by removing impurities from the input raw water and deliver the purified water to the water tank.

9. The water purifier according to claim 8, further comprising: The hot water module is configured to provide hot water by heating the purified water.

10. A method for controlling a water purifier, the water purifier comprising a water tank, a coolant, a cooling device, a temperature sensor, and a stirrer, the water tank having a cold water path within the water tank, the coolant being within the water tank, the cooling device comprising an evaporator and a compressor, the evaporator being within the water tank and a refrigerant flowing through the evaporator, the compressor being operable to compress the refrigerant, such that the cooling device is configured to cool the coolant, such that the coolant cools water flowing through the cold water path, the temperature sensor being configured to detect the temperature of the coolant and output coolant temperature information regarding the detected temperature of the coolant, the stirrer being operable to stir the coolant, the method comprising: Based on the identification that the temperature of the coolant output by the temperature sensor is higher than or equal to the preset opening temperature of the compressor, The first mode is executed, which causes the compressor and the agitator to operate simultaneously to cool the coolant; After the first mode, after the coolant is cooled to a temperature below or equal to the preset ice-making temperature, a second mode is executed to stop the operation of the agitator and continue the operation of the compressor for a preset ice-making time, so that ice is made around the evaporator. as well as After a preset ice-making time has elapsed since the operation of the stirrer was stopped, a third mode is executed by restarting the stirrer, which operates the stirrer and the compressor simultaneously, thereby keeping the ice around the evaporator frozen. The preset ice-making temperature is lower than or equal to the preset opening temperature of the compressor.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the water purifier includes an input device configured to receive a cold water supply command from a user and a cold water supply valve connected to the cold water path, the method further comprising: When the cold water supply command is received via the input device, the cold water supply valve is opened. as well as After opening the cold water supply valve, control the operation of the agitator.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the water purifier includes an input device configured to receive a cold water supply command from a user and a cold water supply valve connected to the cold water path, the method further comprising: When the agitator is controlled to stop operating, upon receiving the cold water supply command via the input device, the cold water supply valve is controlled to open to supply cold water to the cold water path; as well as When the supply of cold water to the cold water path is completed, the stirrer is controlled to operate again based on the temperature of the coolant and the preset ice-making temperature.

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