Drain unit and water purifier comprising the same

Abstract

Provided are a drain unit including a display device and a water purifier including the drain unit. The water purifier includes a water purifier body and a drain unit connected to the water purifier body. The drain unit includes a body having one end rotatably provided, a drain pipe whose position is changeable according to rotation of the body, and a display device provided to provide information about water discharged from the drain pipe by using light. The display device includes first and second light sources, a guide housing for guiding light emitted from the first and second light sources in one direction without mixing with each other, and a light guide cover on which the light guided by the guide housing is incident, wherein the light guide cover emits light of the first light source to below the drain pipe to indicate a position of the discharged water, and the light guide cover emits light from the second light source to an outer peripheral surface of the display device to indicate which one of purified water, cold water, and hot water is selected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a drainage unit and a water purifier including the drainage unit, and more specifically, to a water purifier equipped with a display device. Background Technology

[0002] A water purifier is a device that provides drinking water to users by removing harmful substances from raw water, such as tap water or groundwater, using various purification methods such as sedimentation, filtration, and sterilization. A water purifier is configured to supply clean water to users through one or more water purification filters that filter the water introduced into it.

[0003] When classified based on form, water purifiers can be categorized into direct connection type and storage type. In the direct connection type, the water purifier is directly connected to the faucet, while in the storage type, the water is held in a container and allowed to travel through the filter. When classified according to the water purification principle or method, water purifiers can be categorized into natural filtration type, direct filtration type, ion exchange resin type, distillation type, and reverse osmosis type.

[0004] In a direct-filtration water purifier, the purifier connects directly to the water pipe, and impurities are filtered out as water travels through the filter due to water pressure. Water purified in this way can be discharged through a faucet and used as drinking water. The faucet can also be referred to as a drain unit.

[0005] In a direct filtration water purifier, the main body with the embedded filter can be installed in the space under the sink, and the faucet can be installed in the sink. This type of water purifier is called an under-sink water purifier.

[0006] In many cases, the faucet of an under-sink water purifier is designed to rotate to improve user convenience by changing the position of the drain hole. However, in such cases, the change in the drain hole's position may make it difficult for the user to visually identify where the drain is located.

[0007] In addition, users who are washing dishes or cooking need to be able to get immediate information about the water currently flowing from the faucet without having to keep an eye on the faucet's display. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical problems to be solved

[0009] This disclosure provides a drainage unit that can provide information fragments related to the water being discharged, and a water purifier that includes the drainage unit.

[0010] Technical solution

[0011] One aspect of this disclosure provides a water purifier comprising: a body disposed in a lower space of a kitchen cabinet; and a drain unit connected to the body and configured such that at least a portion is exposed above the kitchen cabinet, wherein the drain unit includes a body, a drain pipe, and a display device, the body having a rotatable end, the position of the drain pipe being changeable according to rotation of the body, the display device being configured to display information about water discharged from the drain pipe, and the display device including a first light source and a second light source, a guide housing, and a light guide shield, the guide housing being configured to guide light emitted from the first light source and light emitted from the second light source in one direction to prevent the light from mixing with each other, and the light guide shield being configured to: allow light guided by the guide housing to be incident on the light guide shield, project light from the first light source toward a portion below the drain pipe to indicate the drainage location, and project light from the second light source toward an outer peripheral surface of the display device to indicate which type of water—purified water, cold water, or hot water—is selected.

[0012] The guide housing and light guide can surround the drain pipe.

[0013] The guide housing may include a first guide hole and a second guide hole, the first guide hole being configured to guide light from a first light source in the one direction, and the second guide hole being spaced apart from the first guide hole and configured to guide light from a second light source in the one direction.

[0014] The display device may include a diffuse space formed between the guide housing and the light guide cover, spaced apart from the first guide hole and configured to communicate with the second guide hole, and the light guide cover may include a sidewall portion and a light emitting rib, the sidewall portion having an inner peripheral surface configured to form the diffuse space, and the light emitting rib being configured to protrude from the outer peripheral surface of the sidewall portion and be exposed to the outer peripheral surface of the display device.

[0015] The light guide can project light from the second light source, which is guided into the diffuse space and incident on the inner peripheral surface of the light guide, through the light emitting ribs.

[0016] The light guide cover may include a bottom wall portion configured to form the lower surface of the display device and cover the lower end of the first guide hole, and light from the first light source guided by the first guide hole can travel through the bottom wall portion and be projected.

[0017] The light guide cover may include a lens disposed on the bottom wall portion, the lens being positioned corresponding to the first guide hole and configured to converge the light from the first light source guided by the first guide hole.

[0018] The display device may further include a light-shielding member disposed on the bottom wall portion and configured to prevent light from the second light source from traveling through the bottom wall portion.

[0019] The guide housing may include a leakage-reducing curved surface formed on the upper end of the first guide hole to allow a first light source to be placed on the leakage-reducing curved surface, and the leakage-reducing curved surface is configured to reduce light leakage from the first light source.

[0020] The drainage unit may further include a detection sensor and a controller, the detection sensor being configured to detect the approach of a user, and the controller being configured to control the detection sensor, the first light source, and the second light source, and in response to the detection sensor detecting the approach of a user, the controller may turn on the first light source.

[0021] The second light source can emit light of a variety of different colors, and in response to the selection of any one of the purified water, cold water, and hot water, the controller can control the second light source to emit light of a color among the variety of colors corresponding to the selection of any one of the purified water, cold water, and hot water.

[0022] The drainage unit may also include a display configured to output an image, and in response to the detection sensor detecting the approach of a user, the controller may turn on the display and the first light source.

[0023] The light guide may include a connecting hook configured to extend upward, and the light guide may be attached to the guide housing when the connecting hook is fastened to the guide housing.

[0024] The guide housing can form a hollow section through which the drain pipe travels.

[0025] One end of the body can be rotatably connected to a kitchen cabinet.

[0026] One aspect of this disclosure provides a drainage unit for a water purifier, the drainage unit comprising: a body; a drain pipe disposed on one side of the body and through which water is discharged; a first light source and a second light source disposed within the body and adjacent to the drain pipe; a guide housing configured to guide light emitted from the first and second light sources in a direction extending from the drain pipe; and a light guide shield coupled to the guide housing and configured to guide the light from the first and second light sources guided by the guide housing, wherein the light guide shield is configured to project light from the first light source in the direction extending from the drain pipe and light from the second light source in a radial direction of the drain pipe.

[0027] The light from the first light source can indicate the location of the drain, and the light from the second light source can indicate which type of water to select: purified water, cold water, or hot water.

[0028] The guide housing may include a first guide hole and a second guide hole. The first guide hole is configured to allow light from a first light source to travel through it. The second guide hole is spaced apart from the first guide hole and configured to allow light from a second light source to travel through it. The light guide cover may include a bottom wall portion, a side wall portion, and a light emitting rib. The bottom wall portion is configured to project light from the first light source that has traveled through the first guide hole. The side wall portion is configured to protrude from the outer peripheral side of the bottom wall portion and allow light from the second light source that has traveled through the second guide hole to be incident on the side wall portion. The light emitting rib is connected to the side wall portion and configured to extend in the radial direction of the drain pipe.

[0029] The light guide cover may include a lens disposed on the bottom wall portion, the lens being positioned corresponding to the first guide hole and configured to converge the light from the first light source guided by the first guide hole.

[0030] The guide housing may include a leakage-reducing curved surface formed on one end of the first guide hole to allow a first light source to be placed on the leakage-reducing curved surface, and the leakage-reducing curved surface is configured to reduce light leakage from the first light source.

[0031] Beneficial effects

[0032] According to one aspect of the invention, the drainage unit may use light to enable the user to identify the location where water will be discharged.

[0033] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the drainage unit may use light to notify the user of information about the user's selection.

[0034] According to one aspect of this disclosure, multiple indicators configured to provide different information segments using light can be provided in a single device, and thus, while promoting size reduction, the light from multiple indicators can be clearly identified by the user without mixing with each other. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of the drainage unit.

[0037] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows a side sectional view of the drainage unit.

[0038] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged view of part A.

[0039] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows a perspective view of the display device.

[0040] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 The bottom perspective view of the display device shown in the figure.

[0041] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows an exploded view of the light source module and guide components in the display device.

[0042] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The diagram shows an exploded view of the light source module.

[0043] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 The diagram shows an exploded view of the guide components.

[0044] Figure 10 It is along Figure 5 A sectional view taken by the line X-Xˈ.

[0045] Figure 11 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken by the line Y-Yˈ.

[0046] Figure 12 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the control block diagram of a water purifier.

[0047] Figure 13 yes Figure 1 The flowchart in the middle shows the control method of the water purifier. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The embodiments described herein and the configurations illustrated in the accompanying drawings are merely exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, and various modifications may exist to replace the embodiments and drawings herein at the time of filing this application.

[0049] Furthermore, similar reference numerals or symbols presented in the accompanying drawings of this application indicate parts or elements that perform substantially the same function.

[0050] Furthermore, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments only and is not intended to limit and / or constrain this disclosure. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as “comprising” or “having” are used to specify the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, and do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0051] Furthermore, the terms used herein, including serial numbers such as “first” and “second”, may be used to describe various elements, but these elements are not limited by these terms, and these terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one element from another. For example, a first element may be referred to as a second element without departing from the scope of the claims of this disclosure, and likewise, a second element may also be referred to as a first element. The term “and / or” includes a plurality of associated listed items, or a combination of any one of a plurality of associated listed items.

[0052] Meanwhile, terms such as “upward,” “downward,” “front end,” and “rear end” used in the following description are defined based on the accompanying drawings, and the shape and position of each element are not limited by these terms.

[0053] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] See Figure 1 The water purifier 1 may include a water purifier body (or "body") 10 and a drain unit 100 connected to the water purifier body 10 and configured to drain water to the outside of the water purifier body 10. The water purifier body 10 may be disposed in the lower space of the kitchen cabinet 2, and the drain unit 100 may be configured such that at least a portion is exposed to the upper portion of the kitchen cabinet 2. The cabinet 2 may include a sink. The sink may include a sink and a kitchen countertop. The drain unit 100 may be referred to as a faucet.

[0055] The drain unit 100 can be installed on the upper part of the kitchen cabinet 2. The drain unit 100 can be installed on the upper part of the sink. The drain unit 100 can be rotatably mounted on the upper part of the kitchen cabinet 2. The drain unit 100 can be connected to the water purifier body 10 via the connecting member 40.

[0056] The water purifier body 10 can be installed inside the kitchen cabinet 2. The water purifier body 10 includes a filter unit 20 and a heat exchange unit 30. The filter unit 20 includes at least one or more filters 21, and the heat exchange unit 30 is configured to cool or heat the water purified by the filter unit 20. Although not shown, the heat exchange unit 30 may include a heater and a refrigeration cycle device, which includes a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator.

[0057] The main body 10 of the water purifier receives raw water such as tap water through an external pipe 43.

[0058] The connecting member 40 connected to the main body of the water purifier may include a first pipe 41 connected to the drain unit 100 and a second pipe 42 connected to the faucet 400 installed on the kitchen cabinet 2. The first pipe 41 may include multiple first pipes 41.

[0059] The mounting portion 3 for installing the drainage unit 100 can be provided in the kitchen cabinet 2. The mounting portion 3 can be formed by opening or creating an opening in at least a portion of the kitchen cabinet 2. The first pipe 41 and the drainage unit 100 can be connected through the mounting portion 3 of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0060] The drain unit 100 can be rotatably mounted at the mounting location 3. The water purifier 1 may include a rotating device 200 configured to rotatably mount the drain unit 100 at the mounting location 3. The rotating device 200 may be connected to the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0061] The water purifier 1 may include a pipe fixing device 300 configured to secure the pipe 40. The pipe fixing device 300 may be disposed inside the kitchen cabinet 2. The pipe fixing device 300 may be disposed between the water purifier body 10 and the drain unit 100. The pipe fixing device 300 may be fixed to at least one of the water purifier body 10 and the drain unit 100. A portion of the pipe 40 may be wrapped around the pipe fixing device 300, and the length of the pipe 40 may be extended or shortened depending on whether this portion of the pipe 40 is unwound from or wrapped around the pipe fixing device 300.

[0062] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of the drainage unit. Figure 3 yes Figure 2The diagram shows a side sectional view of the drainage unit. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged view of part A.

[0063] refer to Figures 2 to 4 The drainage unit 100 may include a body 110, which forms the exterior and may house various components. The body 110 may be formed in a generally L-shaped manner. One side of the body 110 may be rotatably connected to the kitchen cabinet 2. Specifically, the body 110 may include a generally upwardly extending neck housing 120 and a generally horizontally extending head housing 130 from the upper end of the neck housing 120, and the lower end of the neck housing 120 may be rotatably connected to the kitchen cabinet 2 via a rotating device 200.

[0064] The neck shell 120 and the head shell 130 can be formed separately and connected to each other, or the neck shell 120 and the head shell 130 can be formed integrally.

[0065] The neck housing 120 may be perpendicular to a surface of the cabinet 2 on which the mounting portion 3 is formed, or may be inclined from said surface.

[0066] The drainage unit 100 may include a drain pipe 140 disposed at the other end of the body 110, opposite to the end of the body 110 connected to the kitchen cabinet 2. The drain pipe 140 may also be disposed at the other end of the head housing 130, opposite to the end of the head housing 130 connected to the neck housing 120. The drain pipe 140 may form a drain hole 141 through which water is discharged to the outside of the drainage unit 100. The drain pipe 140 may extend vertically, and the drain hole 141 may be disposed at the lower portion of the other end of the body 110. Since the drain pipe 140 can be fixed to the head housing 130, its position can be changed according to the rotation of the body 110.

[0067] The drainage unit 100 may include one or more pipes 171, 172, 173, 174, and 175 disposed within the main body 110. Water supplied by the main body 10 flows within the pipes 171, 172, 173, 174, and 175. One or more pipes 171, 172, 173, 174, and 175 may form a drainage path 180 to allow the flow of water supplied by the main body 10. Pipes 171, 172, 173, 174, and 175 may be connected to a drain pipe 140. The drainage path 180 may communicate with a drain hole 141.

[0068] One or more pipes 171, 172, 173, 174, and 175 may include first to third pipes 173, 172, and 171, and first and second bends 174 and 175. One end of the first pipe 173 may be connected to the first pipe 41 via a connector, and the other end of the first pipe 173 may be connected to the drain valve 150. One end of the second pipe 172 may be connected to the drain valve 150, and the other end of the second pipe 172 may be connected to the third pipe 171 via the first bend 174. The third pipe 171 may be connected to the drain pipe 140 via the second bend 175. Two or more of the first pipe 173, the second pipe 172, the third pipe 171, the first bend 174, and the second bend 175 may be integrally formed. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first pipe 173 may be omitted, and the first pipe 41 may be directly connected to the drain valve 150.

[0069] The drainage unit 100 may include a drain valve 150 configured to turn water on or off. That is, the drain valve 150 can control whether water is discharged through the drain hole 141. The drain valve 150 may be disposed in the drainage path 180. The drain valve 150 can regulate the flow of water from the first pipe 173 to the second pipe 172. In other words, the drain valve 150 can open and close the drainage path 180. Alternatively, the drain valve 150 can selectively supply water to the interiors of pipes 171, 172, 174, and 175 disposed on the opposite side of the first pipe 41 relative to the drain valve 150.

[0070] The drain valve 150 can be located inside the body 110. The drain valve 150 can be located inside the neck housing 120.

[0071] The drainage unit 100 may include a drainage mechanism 101 configured to control the drain valve 150. The drainage mechanism 101 can control the drain valve 150 to control whether water is discharged through the drain hole 141. The drainage mechanism 101 may be made of a lever or a button.

[0072] The drainage unit 100 may include a display 160 configured to receive touch input and output images. The display 160 may form the upper surface of the drainage unit 100. Specifically, the head housing 130 may be open or have an opening to the top, and the display 160 may be attached to the upper end of the opening of the head housing 130 and cover the internal space of the head housing 130 in which various electronic components are disposed.

[0073] The display 160 can be positioned above the drain pipe 140. The display 160 can also be positioned at the opposite end of the head housing 130, which is the side opposite to the end of the head housing 130 that connects to the neck housing 120. The display 160 can extend a predetermined length from the opposite end of the head housing 130 toward one end of the head housing 130.

[0074] The display 160 can be electrically connected to the water purifier body 10 via a wire, or it can be wirelessly connected to the water purifier body 10. The display 160 can receive user touch input for selecting the desired type of water and / or for selecting the amount of water discharged through the drain hole 141, and can send an input signal corresponding to the received touch input to the water purifier body 10. The water purifier body 10, having received the input signal from the display 160, can supply the selected type of water to the drain unit 100 according to the input signal, or control the amount of water supplied to the drain unit 100 according to the input signal.

[0075] For example, the selected drainage volume can be one of 120 ml, 500 ml, 1,000 ml, or continuous drainage. Continuous drainage can refer to a state where drainage continues until the user operates the drainage mechanism 101 to shut off the water.

[0076] Meanwhile, the water discharged through drain hole 141 can be classified into purified water, cold water, and hot water based on whether it is cooled or heated. Purified water refers to water supplied to drain unit 100 without separately cooling or heating the raw water filtered by filter 21. Cold water refers to water supplied to drain unit 100 after the raw water filtered by filter 21 is cooled by heat exchange unit 30. Hot water refers to water supplied to drain unit 100 after the raw water filtered by filter 21 is heated by heat exchange unit 30. That is, purified water, cold water, and hot water can correspond to water at different temperatures. Among cold water, purified water, and hot water, cold water has the lowest temperature, hot water has the highest temperature, and purified water has a temperature higher than cold water but lower than hot water. Therefore, selecting the type of water can correspond to selecting any one of purified water, cold water, and hot water based on temperature classification.

[0077] However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the water discharged from the drainage unit 100 may be classified based on a chemical configuration such as the concentration of specific ions or based on the state of matter, and the selection of the water type may correspond to selecting any of the various types of water classified based on these factors.

[0078] The display 160 can output image buttons to allow users to select purified water, cold water, or hot water, or to select the discharge water volume. Users can touch the area of ​​the display 160 where the image buttons appear to operate the water purifier body 10.

[0079] The drainage unit 100 may include a rotating device 200 configured to rotatably fix the body 110 to the mounting portion 3. The rotating device 200 may include: a cylindrical rotating bracket 202, one end of which is rotatably connected to the lower end of the neck housing 120 and has a through hole 201 formed in the cylindrical rotating bracket through which the first pipe 41 passes; and a fixing member 203 into which the rotating bracket 202 is inserted for fixation. Specifically, threads may be formed on the outer surface of the rotating bracket 202, and with the rotating bracket 202 passing through the mounting portion 3, the fixing member 203 may be threaded onto the portion of the rotating bracket 202 passing through the mounting portion 3, like a nut.

[0080] The drainage unit 100 may include a display device 500 configured to provide information about the water discharged from the drain pipe 140 by using light.

[0081] The display device 500 may include a first indicator 510 configured to indicate the location of drainage, and a second indicator 520 configured to indicate a selection made by a user. The first indicator 510 and the second indicator 520 may be positioned adjacent to the drain pipe 140.

[0082] The first indicator 510 can indicate the position (or "drainage position") from which water is discharged from the drain pipe 140 when the drain pipe 140 is moved to a specific position by the rotation of the body 110. The selection made by the user and indicated by the second indicator 520 can be the type of water. The second indicator 520 can indicate whether the user has selected purified water, cold water, or hot water.

[0083] The display device 500 can surround and cover the outer peripheral surface of the drain pipe 140. In other words, the drain pipe 140 can be inserted into approximately the center of the display device 500. Here, the end of the second bend 175 connected to the drain pipe 140 can also be inserted into the display device 500.

[0084] The position of the display device 500 can be changed along with the position of the drain pipe 140 depending on the rotation of the main body 110. The first indicator 510 can be formed on the lower surface of the display device 500, and the second indicator 520 can be formed in an annular shape on the outer peripheral surface of the display device 500.

[0085] The first indicator 510 can radiate light towards a portion below the drain pipe 140 to form an image below the drain pipe 140. Specifically, the first indicator 510 can form an image on the surface of a region of the kitchen cabinet 2 located below the drain hole 141. The user can visually identify the location of the drain by observing the image formed by the first indicator 510, and can place a container at the location where the image is formed and fill the container with water.

[0086] The second indicator 520 can emit light onto the outer peripheral surface of the display device 500. The second indicator 520 can emit light of a color corresponding to the selection made by the user, and the user can check information about the discharged water based on his or her selection by viewing the color of the light emitted by the second indicator 520. For example, when cold water is being discharged, the second indicator 520 can emit light of a first color; when hot water is being discharged, the second indicator 520 can emit light of a second color; and when purified water is being discharged, the second indicator 520 can emit light of a third color. The first to third colors can be different colors.

[0087] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows a perspective view of the display device. Figure 6 yes Figure 2 The bottom perspective view of the display device shown in the figure. Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows an exploded view of the light source module and guide components in the display device. Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The diagram shows an exploded view of the light source module. Figure 9 yes Figure 7 The diagram shows an exploded view of the guide components. Figure 10 It is along Figure 5 A sectional view taken by the line X-Xˈ. Figure 11 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken by the line Y-Yˈ.

[0088] refer to Figures 5 to 11 The display device 500 may include: a light source module 600, which includes a plurality of light sources 610 and 620; and a guiding component 700, which is configured to guide light emitted from the light source module 600.

[0089] The light source module 600 can be positioned above the guide assembly 700. The light source module 600 can be coupled to the guide assembly 700. Specifically, the guide assembly 700 may include a support member 730 configured to project upwards from the upper surface of the guide housing 740 and support the housing 601 of the light source module 600, and the light source module 600 can be secured to the support member 730 by fastening members such as pins, screws, or bolts. The light source module 600 can be positioned inside the head housing 130. The light source module 600 can be configured such that a plurality of light sources 610 and 620 are adjacent to the drain pipe 140. The light source module 600 may have a mounting groove 630 on which the second bend 175 is mounted.

[0090] The light source module 600 may include a first light source 610 and a pair of second light sources 620. The first light source 610 and the second light source 620 may be spaced apart from each other. The first light source 610 and the second light source 620 may be configured to face the guide component 700.

[0091] The first light source 610 and the second light source 620 can emit light downwards. The second light source 620 can emit light of multiple colors. For example, the second light source 620 can selectively emit light of any one of the first, second, and third colors, and can emit any color of light and change the color of the light. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second light source 620 can emit two different colors of light, or emit four or more different colors of light.

[0092] The first light source 610 may include a first light-emitting diode (LED) 611. Each second light source 620 may include a second LED 621 configured to emit light of multiple colors. The second LED 621 may correspond to an RGB LED.

[0093] The light source module 600 may include a housing 601 configured to house a printed circuit board 623, on which a first LED 611 and a second LED 621 are mounted. The housing 601 may include an upper housing 602 configured to form the upper surface of the light source module 600, and a lower housing 603 configured to form the lower surface of the light source module 600. The upper housing 602 may be coupled to the upper end of the lower housing 603. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the upper housing 602 and the lower housing 603 may be integrally formed.

[0094] The lower housing 603 may include a through-hole 612 and a cover 622. The through-hole 612 is configured to correspond to and allow the first LED 611 to pass through it. Each cover 622 is configured to correspond to and cover one of the second LEDs 621. The lower housing 603 may be formed of a generally transparent material or a translucent material. When the first LED 611 is inserted into the through-hole 612, a first light source 610 can be formed, and when the second LED 621 is covered by the cover 622, a second light source 620 can be formed.

[0095] The guide component 700 can be positioned below the light source module 600 and form the exterior of the drainage unit 100.

[0096] The guiding assembly 700 may include a guiding housing 740 configured to form a hollow portion 760 through which the drain pipe 140 passes, and the guiding housing is configured to guide the light from the first light source 610 and the second light source 620 in one direction to prevent the light from mixing with each other. Specifically, the guiding housing 740 may guide the light from the first light source 610 and the second light source 620 downward in a direction parallel to the direction in which the drain pipe 140 extends, while preventing the light from mixing with each other.

[0097] The guide housing 740 may surround and cover the outer peripheral surface of the drain pipe 140. The guide housing 740 may be formed of a material such as metal (e.g., aluminum), synthetic resin, etc.

[0098] The guide housing 740 may include: a first guide hole 741 configured to guide light from a first light source 610 downwards; and a second guide hole 742 configured to guide light from a second light source 620 downwards. The first guide hole 741 and the second guide hole 742 may pass through the upper and lower surfaces of the guide housing 740. Light from the first light source 610 may be introduced through the upper end of the first guide hole 741. Light from the second light source 620 may be introduced through the upper end of the second guide hole 742. Light from the first light source 610 may be emitted through the lower end of the first guide hole 741. Light from the second light source 620 may be emitted through the lower end of the second guide hole 742. The first guide hole 741 and the second guide hole 742 may be spaced apart from each other. The first guide hole 741 may be positioned corresponding to the first light source 610. The second guide hole 742 may be positioned corresponding to the second light source 620. The second guide hole 742 may include a pair of second guide holes 742, each second guide hole being arranged at a position corresponding to one of the pair of second light sources 620.

[0099] The guide housing 740 may include a leakage-reducing curved surface 741a formed on the upper end of the first guide hole 741 to allow the first light source 610 to be disposed on the leakage-reducing curved surface 741a, and the leakage-reducing curved surface 741a is configured to reduce light leakage from the first light source 610. The leakage-reducing curved surface 741a may be formed in a shape corresponding to a surface of the first LED 611 having a curved shape. The leakage-reducing curved surface 741a may contact the curved surface of the first LED 611, and the leakage-reducing curved surface 741a in contact with this surface of the first LED 611 may reflect light emitted into a space other than the first guide hole 741 back to the first LED 611, such that most of the light emitted from the first LED 611 is incident on the first guide hole 741. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the curved surface 741a for reducing leakage may be omitted, and a region of the guide housing 740 connected to the upper surface of the first guide hole 741 may be flat like other parts of the upper surface of the guide housing 740.

[0100] The guiding assembly 700 may include a light guide 750 onto which light guided by the guiding housing 740 is incident. The light guide 750 may cover the first guiding hole 741 and the second guiding hole 742. The light guide 750 may be formed of a substantially transparent material. The light guide 750 may be formed of plastic, acrylic, glass, etc., so as to be substantially transparent.

[0101] The light guide 750 can be attached to the guide housing 740. Specifically, the light guide 750 may include a connecting hook 754 configured to extend upward from the bottom wall portion 753, and the light guide 750 can be attached to the guide housing 740 when the connecting hook 754 is fastened to the guide housing 740.

[0102] The light guide cover 750 may include a bottom wall portion 753, a side wall portion 752, and a light emitting rib 751. The bottom wall portion 753 is configured to form a lower surface of the guide assembly 700 corresponding to the lower surface of the display device 500. The side wall portion 752 is configured to project upward from the outer periphery of the bottom wall portion 753. The light emitting rib 751 is configured to extend from the outer peripheral surface of the side wall portion 752 along the radial direction of the side wall portion 752 and / or along the radial direction of the drain pipe 140. The light guide cover 750 can project light from the second light source 620 guided by the guide housing 740 in the radial direction of the side wall portion 752 and / or the radial direction of the drain pipe 140 via the light emitting rib 751.

[0103] The bottom wall portion 753 can be formed in a generally annular shape with an open central portion, forming an opening 753a at a position corresponding to the hollow portion 760. The side wall portion 752, extending upward from the outer periphery of the bottom wall portion 753, can be formed in a cylindrical shape. The light-emitting rib 751, extending radially from the outer peripheral surface of the side wall portion 752, can be formed in a generally annular shape. Therefore, the drain pipe 140 can pass through the light guide 750, and the light guide 750 can surround and cover the outer peripheral surface of the drain pipe 140. The lower end of the guide housing 740 can be inserted into and connected to the opening 753a in the central portion of the bottom wall portion 753.

[0104] The bottom wall portion 753 can cover or block the lower end of the first guide hole 741. Light from the first light source 610, guided by the first guide hole 741, can enter the bottom wall portion 753, and the light guide cover 750 can project the light from the first light source 610 that has traveled through the bottom wall portion 753 onto the portion below the drain pipe 140. Here, an area of ​​the bottom wall portion 753 that projects the light from the first light source 610 can correspond to the first indicator 510.

[0105] Meanwhile, the light guide cover 750 may include a lens 755, which is formed on the bottom wall portion 753 and positioned corresponding to the first guide hole 741, and configured to converge the light guided by the first guide hole 741 of the first light source 610. The lens 755 may include a convex lens. The light guide cover 750 can project the light from the first light source 610, which is converged as it travels through the lens 755, onto the portion below the drain pipe 140. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the lens 755 may be omitted.

[0106] The light guide cover 750 can project light from the second light source 620 onto the outer peripheral surface of the display device 500. The process by which light from the second light source 620 is guided onto the outer peripheral surface of the display device 500 will be described below.

[0107] The guiding assembly 700 may include a diffuse space 780 formed between the light guide 750 and the guiding housing 740. The diffuse space 780 may correspond to the partition space between the light guide 750 and the guiding housing 740. The diffuse space 780 may form a closed loop around the drain pipe 140. The bottom surface of the diffuse space 780 may be formed by a bottom wall portion 753, and at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the diffuse space 780 may be formed by a side wall portion 752. The inner peripheral surface of the diffuse space 780 may be formed by the guiding housing 740.

[0108] To prevent light from the first light source 610, guided by the first guide hole 741, from leaking into the diffuse space 780, the diffuse space 780 can be separated from the first guide hole 741. The diffuse space 780 can communicate with the second guide hole 742. The lower end of the second guide hole 742 can be connected to the diffuse space 780. In other words, since the first guide hole 741 can be separated from the diffuse space 780 and extends downward from the upper surface of the guide housing 740 until the lower end of the first guide hole 741 contacts the bottom wall portion 753, and the second guide hole 742 can extend downward from the upper surface of the guide housing 740 until the lower end of the second guide hole 742 is connected to the diffuse space 780 disposed above the bottom wall portion 753, the length of the first guide hole 741 extending in the vertical direction can be longer than the length of the second guide hole 742 extending in the vertical direction. The length of the first guide hole 741 extending in the vertical direction can be approximately longer than or equal to the sum of the length of the second guide hole 742 extending in the vertical direction and the height of the diffuse space 780 in the vertical direction.

[0109] The light from the second light source 620, guided by the second guide hole 742, can be incident on the diffuse space 780. The light from the second light source 620, guided by the second guide hole 742, can be diffused and / or irregularly reflected from the diffuse space 780 and incident on the inner peripheral surface of the sidewall portion 752.

[0110] The light-emitting rib 751 connected to the sidewall portion 752 can be exposed on the outer peripheral surface of the display device 500. That is, the light-emitting rib 751 can be exposed on the outer peripheral surface of the guide assembly 700. Specifically, the guide assembly 700 may include a first decorative plate 710 and a second decorative plate 720, which are configured to form the exterior of the display device 500, and the light-emitting rib 751 can be arranged vertically between the first decorative plate 710 and the second decorative plate 720 so as to be exposed on the outer peripheral surface of the display device 500 while forming the exterior of the display device 500.

[0111] The light incident on the inner peripheral surface of the sidewall portion 752 from the second light source 620 can be guided to the light emitting rib 751 and projected from the light emitting rib 751 to the outside of the display device 500. Here, an area of ​​the light emitting rib 751 exposed to the outside of the display device 500 can correspond to the second indicator 520.

[0112] The first decorative plate 710 and the second decorative plate 720 may extend in a direction toward the outer periphery of the guide assembly 700. The first decorative plate 710 and the second decorative plate 720 may each be formed in an annular shape to form the outer peripheral surface of the display device 500. The guide housing 740 may be inserted into the first decorative plate 710, and the first decorative plate 710 may be attached to the outer peripheral surface of the guide housing 740. The light guide cover 750 may be inserted into the second decorative plate 720, and the second decorative plate 720 may be attached to the outer peripheral surface of the sidewall portion 752 of the light guide cover 750.

[0113] The guiding assembly 700 may include a light-shielding member 770 disposed on the upper surface of the bottom wall portion 753 and configured to prevent light from the second light source 620 from being projected through the bottom wall portion 753. The light-shielding member 770 may be configured in a shape corresponding to the bottom wall portion 753. The light-shielding member 770 may be formed in a generally annular shape. The light-shielding member 770 may include a cutout 771 formed at a position corresponding to the lower end of the first guiding hole 741, so as to prevent the lower end of the first guiding hole 741 from being covered by the light-shielding member 770.

[0114] The light-shielding member 770 can reflect or absorb light from the second light source 620 that is traveling toward the bottom wall portion 753 back into the diffuse space 780, thereby preventing the light from the second light source 620 from passing through the bottom wall portion 753. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the light-shielding member 770 may be omitted.

[0115] In this way, the display device 500 can incorporate multiple indicators 510 and 520 that can operate independently into a single device, thereby reducing the size of the product and lowering manufacturing costs. It can also prevent the light from the multiple light sources 610 and 620 used in the indicators 510 and 520 from mixing with each other or leaking into unwanted areas, so that the information segments indicated by the indicators 510 and 520 can be conveyed to the user more clearly.

[0116] Figure 12 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the control block diagram of a water purifier. Figure 13 yes Figure 1 The flowchart in the middle shows the control method of the water purifier.

[0117] Reference Figures 12 to 13 Describe the operating sequence of the display device.

[0118] The drainage unit 100 may include a detection sensor 800 configured to detect a user approaching the drainage unit 100. When a user approaches the drainage unit 100 within a predetermined distance, the detection sensor 800 may send a detection signal to the controller 900.

[0119] The drainage unit 100 may include a controller 900. The controller 900 may be disposed inside the drainage unit 100 or within the water purifier body 10. The controller 900 may be electrically connected to a first light source 610 and a second light source 620. The controller 900 may control the first light source 610 and the second light source 620. Specifically, the controller 900 may turn the first LED 611 and the second LED 621 on and off, and may set the color of the light emitted by the second LED 621. Furthermore, the controller 900 may control the opening and closing of the display 160.

[0120] When a user approaches the drain unit 100 in order to use the water purifier 1, the detection sensor 800 can detect the approach and send the detection signal to the controller 900 (1000).

[0121] The controller 900, having received the detection signal, can activate the display 160 and the first indicator 510. Specifically, the controller 900, having received the detection signal, can activate the display 160 and the first LED 611 (2000).

[0122] In response to the operation of the first indicator 510, the user can place the container at the position indicated by the first indicator 510 and operate the display 160 to select the type of water (3000). Specifically, one of cold water, hot water, and purified water can be selected. In addition, the user can operate the display 160 to select the amount of water discharged.

[0123] When a user operates the drain mechanism 101 after selecting one of cold water, hot water, or purified water and the amount of water to be discharged, the drain unit 100 can discharge water reflecting the user's selection. While water is being discharged through the drain hole 141, the controller 900 can activate the second indicator 520, causing it to emit light (4000) of a color corresponding to the user's selection. Specifically, the controller 900 can activate the second LED 621 to emit light of a color corresponding to the user's selection. For example, the controller 900 can cause the second LED 621 to emit light of a first color when cold water is discharged, light of a second color when hot water is discharged, and light of a third color when purified water is discharged.

[0124] When the drainage unit 100 has completed the water supply as selected by the user, or when the user has operated the drainage mechanism 101 to disconnect the water, the controller 900 may turn off the first indicator 510 and the second indicator 520. Specifically, the controller 900 may turn off the first LED 611 and the second LED 621.

[0125] The specific embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings have been described above. However, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains can make various modifications without departing from the spirit and essence of the technical aspects of this disclosure as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A water purifier, comprising: The main body is located in the lower space of the kitchen cabinet; and A drainage unit is connected to the main body and is configured such that at least a portion of it is exposed on the upper side of the kitchen cabinet. The drainage unit includes a main body, a drain pipe, and a display device. One end of the main body is rotatable, the position of the drain pipe can be changed according to the rotation of the main body, and the display device is configured to display information about the water discharged from the drain pipe. The display device includes a first light source and a second light source, a guide housing, and a light guide cover. The guide housing is configured to guide light emitted from the first light source and light emitted from the second light source in one direction to prevent the light from mixing with each other. The light guide is configured to: allow light guided by the guide housing to be incident on the light guide, project the light from the first light source toward a portion below the drain pipe to indicate the drainage location, and project the light from the second light source toward the outer peripheral surface of the display device, so as to indicate the selected discharged water with different colors of light in response to which of the purified water, cold water, and hot water is selected to be discharged from the same drain pipe.

2. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The guide housing and the light guide cover surround the drain pipe.

3. The water purifier according to claim 2, wherein, The guide housing includes: A first guide aperture, configured to guide light from the first light source in the one direction; and A second guide hole, spaced apart from the first guide hole and configured to guide the light from the second light source in the one direction.

4. The water purifier according to claim 3, wherein: The display device includes a diffuse space formed between the guide housing and the light guide cover, spaced apart from the first guide hole, and configured to communicate with the second guide hole; and The light guide cover includes a sidewall portion and a light emitting rib. The sidewall portion has an inner peripheral surface configured to form the diffuse space, and the light emitting rib is configured to protrude from the outer peripheral surface of the sidewall portion and be exposed to the outer peripheral surface of the display device.

5. The water purifier according to claim 4, wherein, The light guide shield projects light from the second light source, which is guided into the diffuse space and incident on the inner peripheral surface of the light guide shield, through the light emitting ribs.

6. The water purifier according to claim 3, wherein: The light guide cover includes a bottom wall portion, which is configured to form the lower surface of the display device and cover the lower end of the first guide hole; and The light from the first light source, guided by the first guide hole, travels through the bottom wall and is projected.

7. The water purifier according to claim 6, wherein, The light guide cover includes a lens disposed on the bottom wall portion, the lens being positioned corresponding to the first guide hole and configured to converge the light from the first light source guided by the first guide hole.

8. The water purifier according to claim 6, wherein, The display device further includes a light-shielding member disposed on the bottom wall portion and configured to prevent light from the second light source from traveling through the bottom wall portion.

9. The water purifier according to claim 3, wherein, The guide housing includes a leakage-reducing curved surface formed on the upper end of the first guide hole to allow the first light source to be placed on the leakage-reducing curved surface, and the leakage-reducing curved surface is configured to reduce light leakage from the first light source.

10. The water purifier according to claim 2, wherein: The drainage unit also includes a detection sensor and a controller, the detection sensor being configured to detect the approach of a user, and the controller being configured to control the detection sensor, the first light source, and the second light source; and In response to the detection sensor detecting the user's approach, the controller turns on the first light source.

11. The water purifier according to claim 10, wherein: The second light source emits various colors of light; and In response to the selection of any one of the purified water, cold water, and hot water, the controller controls the second light source to emit light having a color from the plurality of colors corresponding to the selection of any one of the purified water, cold water, and hot water.

12. The water purifier according to claim 11, wherein: The drainage unit also includes a display, which is configured to output an image; and In response to the detection sensor detecting the user's approach, the controller turns on the display and the first light source.

13. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein: The light guide includes a connecting hook configured to extend upwards; and When the connecting hook is fastened to the guide housing, the light guide cover is connected to the guide housing.

14. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The guide housing forms a hollow section, through which the drain pipe travels.

15. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein: The kitchen cabinet includes a sink; and One end of the body is rotatably connected to the water tank.

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