water purifier

Abstract

The present application can provide a water purifier. The water purifier includes an RO filter including a non-filtering portion into which raw water flows, a filtering portion from which purified water is discharged, and a reverse osmosis membrane that divides the non-filtering portion and the filtering portion and filters the raw water into the purified water; a purified water storage portion that stores the purified water; a raw water storage portion that stores the raw water; a flow passage that provides a passage through which the raw water and the purified water flow; a valve portion including at least one valve module that selectively opens and closes to adjust the flow of the raw water and the purified water in the flow passage; a sterilization module that sterilizes the raw water discharged from the non-filtering portion; and a controller that controls the opening and closing of the valve module and the sterilization module based on a plurality of flow modes. Among the plurality of flow modes, there is a flushing mode in which the reverse osmosis membrane is cleaned with the purified water of the purified water storage portion, and the controller, in the flushing mode, opens and closes the at least one valve module so that the purified water discharged from the purified water storage portion flows into the non-filtering portion side, and the flushing drain water discharged from the non-filtering portion flows toward the raw water storage portion, drives the sterilization module to sterilize the flushing drain water.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a water purifier. Background Technology

[0002] Generally speaking, a water purifier is a device that obtains raw water from a water supply source such as a tap water pipe, filters it through an internal filter, and then provides the purified water to the user. Additionally, the purified water can be provided to the user as either cold water cooled to a predetermined temperature or hot water heated to a predetermined temperature.

[0003] These traditional water purifiers may include a raw water tank for storing raw water, an RO filter (Reverse Osmosis filter) for filtering the raw water, and a storage tank for storing the purified water filtered from the RO filter. The RO filter may include a non-filtration section that allows raw water to flow in, a reverse osmosis membrane for filtering the raw water, and a filtration section that holds the purified water filtered from the reverse osmosis membrane. In other words, a portion of the raw water is filtered by the reverse osmosis membrane, becoming purified water, and is contained in the filtration section, while the remaining unfiltered water becomes concentrated water containing impurities, which can be contained in the non-filtration section.

[0004] On the one hand, water purifiers are generally used in conjunction with water pipes. However, in situations where connecting to water pipes is difficult or where it's necessary to carry the purifier, install-free water purifiers with a water supply tank are used and do not require connection to water pipes. In other words, these install-free water purifiers do not draw raw water directly from water pipes but from a water supply tank. Moreover, the longer the raw water remains in the water supply tank, the more likely it is to become contaminated.

[0005] In this regard, the applicant’s Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0005319, “Water Purifier Capable of Recycling Domestic Water” (Patent Document 1), discloses a water purifier that includes a water supply tank for storing raw water and domestic water, a reverse osmosis filter section for filtering raw water and discharging domestic water, and a purified water tank for storing purified water filtered from the reverse osmosis filter section.

[0006] However, in Patent Document 1, the raw water in the water supply tank is only filtered into purified water from the reverse osmosis filter section and supplied to the purified water tank when the water level in the purified water tank drops and needs to be replenished. Therefore, the raw water in the water supply tank and the purified water in the purified water tank are not circulated separately. In other words, when the water levels of the raw water and purified water in the purified water tank are maintained for a long time, there is a potential problem of contamination because they are stored in the water tank and the raw water tank in a state of long-term stagnation.

[0007] In addition, if the domestic water in Patent Document 1 contains impurities and flows into the water supply tank, there is a possibility of further contamination of the raw water in the water supply tank.

[0008] In addition, the applicant’s Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2013-0077383, entitled “Water Purifier” (Patent Document 2), discloses a water purifier that includes a filter section for purifying water through reverse osmosis, a main water tank for storing the purified water passing through the filter section, and a water supply tank for supplying water to be purified and storing domestic water discharged from the filter section.

[0009] However, in Patent Document 2, the water in the supply tank is only filtered through the reverse osmosis filter and supplied to the main water tank as purified water when it is necessary to replenish the main water tank's discharge water. Therefore, the water in the supply tank and the purified water in the purified water tank are not circulated separately. In other words, when it is not necessary to replenish the main water tank's purified water, the water and purified water are stored in the supply tank and the main water tank in a state of long-term stagnation, which may lead to contamination.

[0010] In addition, when the domestic water in Patent Document 2 contains impurities and flows into the water supply tank, there is a possibility of further contamination of the raw water in the water supply tank.

[0011] Existing technical documents

[0012] Patent documents

[0013] (Patent Document 1) Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0005319 (Published on January 14, 2016)

[0014] (Patent Document 2) Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2013-0077383 (Published on July 9, 2013) Summary of the Invention

[0015] (The problem to be solved)

[0016] An embodiment of the present invention is proposed in the context described above, providing a water purifier in which raw water stored in a raw water storage section and purified water stored in a purified water storage section can be recycled.

[0017] In addition, a water purifier is provided that can prevent the raw water in the raw water storage section from being contaminated when the raw water is circulated inside the water purifier.

[0018] In addition, a water purifier that allows for cleaning of the filter assembly is provided.

[0019] (Solution to the problem)

[0020] According to one embodiment of the invention, a water purifier is provided, comprising: an RO filter including a non-filtration section for receiving raw water, a filtration section for discharging purified water, and a reverse osmosis membrane that divides the non-filtration section and the filtration section and filters the raw water into purified water; a purified water storage section for storing the purified water; a raw water storage section for storing the raw water; a flow channel for providing a channel for the flow of the raw water and the purified water; a valve section including at least one valve module for selectively switching on and off to regulate the flow of the raw water and the purified water in the flow channel; a sterilization module for sterilizing the raw water discharged from the non-filtration section; and a controller for controlling the switching on and off of the valve module and controlling the sterilization module based on multiple flow modes, wherein the multiple flow modes include a flushing mode in which the reverse osmosis membrane is cleaned with purified water from the purified water storage section, and in the flushing mode, the controller switches on and off the at least one valve module to allow the purified water discharged from the purified water storage section to flow into the non-filtration section side, and the flushing wastewater discharged from the non-filtration section to flow toward the raw water storage section, thereby driving the sterilization module to sterilize the flushing wastewater.

[0021] Furthermore, it also includes a filter module, which includes a pretreatment filter for pretreating the raw water supplied to the RO filter. The plurality of flow modes also include a raw water sterilization mode for sterilizing the raw water stored in the raw water storage section. The controller, in the raw water sterilization mode, switches on or off the at least one valve module to allow the raw water to flow through the pretreatment filter into the non-filtration section, and the raw water discharged from the non-filtration section to flow into the raw water storage section, thereby driving the sterilization module.

[0022] In addition, the controller can switch at least one valve module in the raw water sterilization mode to allow the purified water discharged from the filtration unit to flow into the purified water storage unit.

[0023] Furthermore, the plurality of flow modes also includes a purified water circulation mode in which the purified water stored in the purified water storage section circulates through the flow channel. In the purified water circulation mode, the controller can switch on or off at least one valve module to allow the purified water stored in the purified water storage section and the raw water stored in the raw water storage section to flow into the non-filtration section, and the purified water discharged from the filtration section to flow into the purified water storage section.

[0024] In addition, the raw water is discharged from the non-filtration section and flows into the raw water storage section in the water purification circulation mode, and the controller can drive the sterilization module in the water purification circulation mode.

[0025] Furthermore, it also includes a filter module, which includes a post-treatment filter for post-processing the purified water discharged from the filter unit, and the purified water can flow into the purified water storage unit after passing through the post-treatment filter in the purified water circulation mode.

[0026] Additionally, the flow channels include: an RO filter inflow path, connected to the raw water storage section, providing a channel for either the raw water or the purified water to flow into the RO filter; a purified water supply path, merging with the RO filter inflow path, providing a channel for purified water discharged from the purified water storage section to flow into the RO filter inflow path; a circulation path, providing a channel for at least one of the raw water discharged from the non-filtration section and the domestic water to flow into the raw water storage section, and connected to the raw water storage section; and a purified water storage path, providing a channel for purified water discharged from the filtration section to flow into the purified water storage section, wherein the sterilization module may be disposed in the circulation path.

[0027] Furthermore, the purified water storage section and the raw water storage section can be formed independently of each other.

[0028] Furthermore, the purified water storage unit and the raw water storage unit can be formed integrally.

[0029] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a water purifier is provided, comprising: a filter assembly including an inlet for receiving raw water, a first filter for filtering the raw water flowing through the inlet and providing first-filtered water, a second filter for further filtering the first-filtered water and providing second-filtered water, a first outlet for discharging the first-filtered water, and a second outlet for discharging the second-filtered water; a raw water storage section for storing the raw water; a flow channel for providing a channel for the flow of the raw water, the first-filtered water, and the second-filtered water; and a valve assembly including at least one valve module for selectively opening and closing to regulate the flow of the raw water, the first-filtered water, and the second-filtered water in the flow channel; and a filter assembly. The system includes a sterilization module for sterilizing the first filtered water discharged from the first discharge section and the second filtered water discharged from the second discharge section; and a controller for controlling the opening and closing of the valve module and the sterilization module based on multiple flow modes, wherein the multiple flow modes include a raw water sterilization mode for sterilizing the raw water in the raw water storage section. In the raw water sterilization mode, the controller opens and closes at least one valve module to allow the raw water discharged from the raw water storage section to flow into the first filtration section through the inlet section, and the first filtered water discharged from the first discharge section to flow into the raw water storage section through the sterilization module. The sterilization module sterilizes the first filtered water in the raw water sterilization mode.

[0030] The plurality of flow modes include a filter cleaning mode for cleaning the filter assembly, wherein the controller, in the filter cleaning mode, switches at least one valve module to allow raw water discharged from the raw water storage section to flow into the inlet section, and the second filtered water discharged from the second outlet section to flow toward the raw water storage section, and the sterilization module can sterilize the second filtered water in the filter cleaning mode.

[0031] The water purifier further includes a pump unit for pressurizing the raw water to the inlet section. In the raw water sterilization mode, the pump unit pressurizes the raw water at a predetermined first pressure, causing the raw water to flow through the inlet section to the first filter section. In the filter cleaning mode, the pump unit pressurizes the raw water at a predetermined second pressure, causing the raw water to flow through the inlet section, through the first filter section, to the second filter section. The second pressure is greater than the first pressure.

[0032] The flow channel includes a filter inflow path connected to the raw water storage section and the inflow section, providing a channel for the flow of the raw water between the raw water storage section and the inflow section; and a circulation path connected to the first discharge section and the raw water storage section, providing a channel for the first filtered water discharged from the first discharge section to flow to the raw water storage section, wherein the sterilization module may be disposed in the circulation path.

[0033] The flow channel further includes a flow path that merges with the circulation path and provides a channel for the flow of the second filtered water discharged from the second discharge section. The portion where the flow path and the circulation path merge is located between the first discharge section and the sterilization module on the circulation path. The second filtered water flowing in the flow path can flow to the raw water storage section through the circulation path.

[0034] The first filtration unit includes a nano-trap filter or an electrostatic filter, and the second filtration unit may include a carbon filter.

[0035] (The effect of the invention)

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present invention, since the raw water can be circulated in the raw water sterilization mode, the raw water can be effectively managed, and since the purified water is circulated in the purified water circulation mode, the purified water can be effectively managed.

[0037] In addition, since the raw water can be sterilized through the sterilization mode, it can prevent the raw water in the raw water storage section from being contaminated.

[0038] In addition, in the flushing mode, raw water sterilization mode, and purified water circulation mode, the raw water in the raw water storage section can be prevented from being contaminated because the flushing drainage or raw water can be sterilized in the sterilization mode.

[0039] In addition, since the filter assembly can be cleaned in the filter cleaning mode, it has the effect of allowing the filter assembly to be used cleanly. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a water purifier according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the flow paths of raw water and purified water during the intermediate flushing mode.

[0042] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the flow path of raw water during the sterilization mode of Zhongyuan water.

[0043] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the flow paths of purified water and raw water in the medium-purified water circulation mode.

[0044] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a water purifier according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the flow paths of raw water and purified water during the sterilization mode of Zhongyuan Water.

[0046] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the flow paths of raw water and purified water during the intermediate flushing mode.

[0047] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a water purifier according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the flow paths of raw water and first-filtered water during the raw water sterilization mode.

[0049] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the flow paths of raw water and second-filtered water during filter cleaning mode.

[0050] Figure 11 yes Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the flow paths of raw water and second-filtered water during the purified water discharge mode. Detailed Implementation

[0051] The specific embodiments for implementing the technical concept of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] Furthermore, in describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of an associated, well-known configuration or function may obscure the spirit of the present invention, such a detailed description will be omitted.

[0053] Furthermore, it should be understood that when a component is referred to as “connecting,” “supplying,” or “flowing” to another component, it can be directly connected to, support, supplied to, or flow to another component, but other components may also exist between them.

[0054] The terminology used in this specification is for describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular expressions include plural expressions.

[0055] Additionally, it should be noted beforehand that the descriptions of "top," "bottom," and "side" in this specification are based on the illustrations in the accompanying drawings. If the orientation of the object changes, different descriptions may be used. Similarly, in these flow path drawings, some components are exaggerated, omitted, or shown schematically, and the dimensions of each component do not perfectly reflect their actual dimensions.

[0056] Furthermore, various components may be described using ordinal terms such as first, second, etc., but these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another.

[0057] As used herein, “includes” means to specify a particular feature, area, purification process, procedure, component, and / or ingredient, without excluding the presence or addition of other specific features, areas, purification processes, procedures, components, ingredients, and / or groups.

[0058] Hereinafter, a water purifier 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] Reference Figure 1 According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the water purifier 1 can provide clean water to a user by filtering water. For example, the water purifier 1 can filter water pre-stored inside. The water purifier 1 can control the flow of water inside based on multiple flow patterns. In addition, the water purifier 1 can be an installation-free type that does not require connection to water pipes. The water purifier 1 may include an RO filter 100, a purified water storage unit 200, a raw water storage unit 300, a flow channel 400, a valve unit 500, a sterilization module 600, a pump unit 700, a filter module 800, and a controller 900.

[0060] The RO filter 100 filters a portion of the raw water flowing into the reverse osmosis filter and provides it as purified water. In this specification, raw water is defined as water that is not filtered by the RO filter 100, regardless of whether it is filtered in the pretreatment filter 810 of the filter module 800 (described later). Purified water is defined as water filtered from the RO filter 100, regardless of whether it is filtered in the posttreatment filter 820 of the filter module 800 (described later). Additionally, flushing water can be defined as purified water stored in the purified water storage section 200 for cleaning the RO filter 100. Furthermore, flushing wastewater is defined as water flowing into the RO filter 100 to flush it.

[0061] This RO filter 100 may include a reverse osmosis membrane 110, a non-filtration section 120, a filtration section 130, a filter inlet 140, a purified water outlet 150, and a raw water outlet 160.

[0062] The reverse osmosis membrane 110 is divided into a non-filtration section 120 and a filtration section 130, which can filter raw water into purified water. In other words, a portion of the raw water flowing into the RO filter 100 is filtered by the reverse osmosis membrane 110 and discharged as purified water through the purified water outlet 150, while the rest that does not pass through the reverse osmosis membrane 110 can be discharged through the raw water outlet 160.

[0063] The non-filtration section 120 is connected to the filter inlet 140 and is a space that accommodates at least one of the raw water (in raw water sterilization mode or purified water circulation mode) and purified water (in flushing mode or purified water circulation mode) flowing in from the filter inlet 140. Additionally, the non-filtration section 120 may be connected to the raw water outlet 160. In such a non-filtration section 120, impurities contained in the raw water cannot pass through the reverse osmosis membrane 110 and can be accumulated. The raw water containing impurities accumulated in the non-filtration section 120 can be discharged to the outside of the RO filter 100 through the raw water outlet 160. Most of the impurities flowing into the RO filter 100 are discharged to the outside of the RO filter 100 through the raw water discharge, but some impurities are adsorbed onto the reverse osmosis membrane 110 and may not be discharged during raw water discharge. These impurities adsorbed onto the reverse osmosis membrane 110 can be removed from the reverse osmosis membrane 110 by flushing with purified water flowing into the non-filtration section 120. In other words, the non-filtration section 120 and the reverse osmosis membrane 110 can be cleaned by clean water flowing into the non-filtration section 120.

[0064] The filter section 130 is a space that contains purified water filtered from the reverse osmosis membrane 110. Furthermore, the filter section 130 is connected to the purified water outlet 150, and the purified water from the filter section 130 can be discharged to the outside of the RO filter 100 through the purified water outlet 150.

[0065] The filter inlet 140 is a through-hole for connecting the non-filtered section 120 to the RO filter inflow path, which will be described later, in the flow channel 400. Purified water or raw water flowing in the RO filter inflow path 410 can flow into the interior of the non-filtered section 120 through the filter inlet 140.

[0066] The purified water outlet 150 is a through-hole for discharging purified water filtered through the reverse osmosis membrane 110 to the outside of the RO filter 100. The purified water from the filtration section 130 can be discharged through the purified water outlet 150 to the purified water storage flow path 440 of the flow channel 400, which will be described later.

[0067] Raw water outlet 160 is a through-hole for discharging raw water contained in the non-filtration section 120 into the circulation path 430, which will be described later in the flow channel 400. Additionally, raw water outlet 160 can discharge flushing wastewater, allowing flushing wastewater from rinsing the reverse osmosis membrane 110 and the non-filtration section 120 to flow into the circulation path 430. In other words, raw water or flushing water can be discharged into the circulation path 430 through raw water outlet 160.

[0068] The purified water storage unit 200 can store purified water. This purified water can be discharged to the outside of the water purifier 1 and can be provided to the user. In addition, the purified water stored in the purified water storage unit 200 can flow into the flow path 410 through the RO filter of the flow channel 400 so that the flushing water is provided to the non-filtration section 120 of the RO filter 100.

[0069] The raw water storage unit 300 can store raw water. This raw water can be supplied to the RO filter 100 through the RO filter in the flow channel 400 and the flow path 410. Furthermore, the raw water storage unit 300 and the purified water storage unit 200 can be formed independently. In other words, the raw water storage unit 300 and the purified water storage unit 200 can be arranged spaced apart from each other. Additionally, the raw water storage unit 300 is not connected to a water pipe.

[0070] The flow channel 400 provides a passage for the flow of raw water and purified water. This raw water and purified water can flow between the purified water storage unit 200, the raw water storage unit 300, and the RO filter 100 through the flow channel 400. Additionally, the flow channel 400 may include an RO filter inlet flow path 410, a purified water supply flow path 420, a circulation flow path 430, a purified water storage flow path 440, and a purified water outlet flow path 450.

[0071] The RO filter inlet flow path 410 provides a channel for water to flow into the non-filtration section 120 of the RO filter 100. The water flowing within the RO filter inlet flow path 410 can be determined as either raw water or purified water depending on the flow mode (rinsing mode, raw water sterilization mode, purified water circulation mode, purified water discharge mode). This RO filter inlet flow path 410 can communicate with the raw water storage section 300 and the filter inlet 140 of the RO filter 100. For example, the RO filter inlet flow path 410 can be located between the raw water storage section 300 and the non-filtration section 120 of the RO filter 100. Furthermore, the RO filter inlet flow path 410 can be divided into a flow path connecting the raw water storage section 300 and the filter module 800, and a flow path connecting the filter module 800 and the RO filter 100.

[0072] The purified water supply path 420 provides a channel through which purified water discharged from the purified water storage unit 200 can flow. This purified water supply path 420 communicates with the purified water storage unit 200 and can merge into the RO filter inlet path 410. In other words, purified water flowing in the purified water supply path 420 can flow into the RO filter inlet path 410. For example, the purified water supply path 420 can be located between the purified water storage unit 200 and the RO filter inlet path 410. However, in this embodiment, the purified water supply path 420 is described as merging into the RO filter inlet path 410; however, it can be directly connected to the filter module 800 or directly connected to the filter inlet 140.

[0073] The circulation path 430 provides a channel for raw water or flushing wastewater discharged from the non-filtration section 120 of the RO filter 100 to flow. Additionally, the circulation path 430 can be connected to the raw water storage section 300 and the raw water discharge port 160 of the RO filter 100. This raw water or flushing wastewater flowing into the circulation path 430 can then flow into the raw water storage section 300.

[0074] The purified water storage flow path 440 provides a channel through which purified water discharged from the RO filter 100 can flow. This purified water storage flow path 440 can be connected to the purified water storage section 200 and the purified water discharge port 150 of the RO filter 100. In other words, purified water flowing in the purified water storage flow path 440 can flow to the purified water storage section 200.

[0075] The purified water discharge path 450 provides a channel for the purified water from the purified water storage unit 200 to be discharged to the outside of the water purifier 1. This purified water discharge path 450 can be connected to the purified water storage unit 200. In other words, purified water discharged from the purified water storage unit 200 can be discharged to the outside of the water purifier 1 through the purified water discharge path 450.

[0076] The valve unit 500 may include at least one valve module for selectively opening and closing to regulate the flow of raw water and purified water in the flow channel 400. For example, as described above, when the flow channel 400 includes an RO filter inlet flow path 410, a purified water supply flow path 420, a circulation flow path 430, a purified water storage flow path 440, and a purified water outlet flow path 450, the valve unit 500 can control the water flow by opening and closing each flow path included in the flow channel 400. Figure 1 As shown, this at least one valve module can be a three-way valve installed at the fulcrum of the flow path branching or merging for the flow of raw water and purified water, but the concept of the present invention is not limited to this, and commonly used on / off valves can be provided in each flow path. At least one valve module may include a first valve module 510.

[0077] The first valve module 510 can switch the purified water supply path 420 on and off to allow raw water to flow into the RO filter 100 or purified water to flow into the RO filter inlet path 410. In other words, the first valve module 510 can close the purified water supply path 420, preventing purified water flowing in the RO filter inlet path 410 from flowing into the purified water supply path 420, and also preventing purified water from flowing into the RO filter inlet path 410. Alternatively, the first valve module 510 can open the purified water supply path 420, allowing purified water flowing in the purified water supply path 420 to flow into the RO filter 100. For example, the first valve module 510 can be a three-way valve located at the fulcrum where the RO filter inlet path 410 and the purified water supply path 420 merge.

[0078] The sterilization module 600 can sterilize raw water or flushing wastewater discharged from the non-filtration section 120 and flowing in the circulation path 430. In other words, the sterilization module 600 can be installed in the circulation path 430. This sterilization module 600 can provide sterilizing substances for sterilization to the raw water or flushing wastewater or sterilize the raw water or flushing wastewater by electrolysis.

[0079] Pump unit 700 pressurizes raw water to allow it to pass through reverse osmosis membrane 110, and can pressurize purified water to RO filter 100 or externally. Such pump unit 700 may include a first pump 710 and a second pump 720.

[0080] The first pump 710 can pressurize at least one of the raw water and purified water flowing in the RO filter inlet flow path 410 to the RO filter 100. Alternatively, the first pump 710 can be connected to the RO filter inlet flow path 410 to pressurize the raw water and purified water. Such a first pump 710 can be disposed within the RO filter inlet flow path 410 between the first module 510 and the pretreatment filter 810, or between the pretreatment filter 810 and the RO filter 100.

[0081] The second pump 720 can pressurize the purified water, causing the purified water flowing in the purified water discharge path 450 to flow to the outside of the water purifier 1. Such a second pump 720 can be installed in the purified water discharge path 450.

[0082] The filter module 800 can additionally filter the raw water or purified water flowing inside the water purifier 1. In other words, the filter module 800 can pre-treat the raw water or purified water flowing to the RO filter 100, or post-treat the purified water discharged from the RO filter 100. This filter module 800 may include a pre-treatment filter 810 and a post-treatment filter 820.

[0083] The pretreatment filter 810 can filter raw water flowing in the RO filter inlet flow path 410 or purified water before it flows into the RO filter 100. For example, the pretreatment filter 810 can be a carbon filter including granular activated carbon for filtering raw water or purified water. Such a pretreatment filter 810 can be connected to the RO filter inlet flow path 410. For example, the pretreatment filter 810 can be connected to the RO filter inlet flow path 410 to be located between the first valve module 510 and the RO filter 100.

[0084] The post-treatment filter 820 filters purified water flowing through the purified water storage path 440 before it enters the purified water storage section 200. For example, the post-treatment filter 820 may be a carbon filter including granular activated carbon for filtering raw water or purified water. Such a post-treatment filter 820 can be connected to the purified water storage path 440. Alternatively, the post-treatment filter 820 and the pre-treatment filter 810 can be integrated into one unit.

[0085] The controller 900 controls the switching of at least one valve module based on multiple flow modes. The controller 900 can be implemented using a computing device including a microprocessor, memory, etc., and since its implementation method is obvious to those skilled in the art, further detailed description will be omitted. The multiple flow modes may include a flushing mode, a raw water sterilization mode, a purified water circulation mode, and a purified water discharge mode.

[0086] Reference Figure 2Describing the flushing mode. The flushing mode is a mode in which the reverse osmosis membrane 110 can be flushed with purified water from the purified water storage unit 220. In this flushing mode, the controller 900 can control the flow path switch of at least one valve module, causing purified water discharged from the purified water storage unit 200 to flow into the non-filtration section 120 of the RO filter 100, and causing the flushing wastewater discharged from the non-filtration section 120 to flow into the raw water storage unit 300. In other words, in the flushing mode, the controller 900 can control the first valve module 510 to open the RO filter inflow path 410 and the purified water supply path 420. In addition, in the flushing mode, purified water can flow into the non-filtration section 120 through the pretreatment filter 810.

[0087] Additionally, in flushing mode, the controller 900 can drive the sterilization module 600 to sterilize the flushing wastewater discharged from the non-filtration section 120. In other words, in flushing mode, the sterilized flushing wastewater can flow into the raw water storage section 300.

[0088] In addition, in flushing mode, the first pump 710 can pressurize the purified water flowing in the RO filter inlet flow path 410 to the RO filter 100.

[0089] Reference Figure 3 Describes the raw water sterilization mode. The raw water sterilization mode is a mode for sterilizing the raw water stored in the raw water storage section 300. In this raw water sterilization mode, the controller 900 can open and close at least one valve module to allow raw water to flow into the non-filtration section 120, and raw water discharged from the non-filtration section 120 to flow into the raw water storage section 300. That is, in the raw water sterilization mode, the controller 900 can control the valve module 510 to close the purified water supply path 420. Furthermore, in the raw water sterilization mode, raw water can flow into the non-filtration section 120 through the pretreatment filter 810.

[0090] In addition, in raw water sterilization mode, controller 900 can drive sterilization module 600 to sterilize raw water discharged from non-filtration section 120. That is, in raw water sterilization mode, raw water stored in raw water storage section 300 can be sterilized by sterilization module 600 and then stored back in raw water storage section 300.

[0091] In addition, in the raw water sterilization mode, the first pump 710 can pressurize the raw water flowing in the RO filter inlet path to the RO filter 100.

[0092] Reference Figure 4Describe the purified water circulation mode. The purified water circulation mode is a mode in which purified water stored in the purified water storage section 200 circulates through the flow channel 400. In this purified water circulation mode, the controller 900 can open and close at least one valve module to allow purified water stored in the purified water storage section 200 and raw water stored in the raw water storage section 300 to flow into the non-filtration section 120, purified water discharged from the filtration section 130 to flow into the purified water storage section 200, and raw water discharged from the non-filtration section 120 to be stored in the raw water storage section 300. In other words, in the purified water circulation mode, the controller 900 can control the first valve module 510 to open the RO filter inflow path 410 and the purified water supply path 420. In addition, in the water purification circulation mode, the raw water discharged from the raw water storage unit 300 and the purified water discharged from the purified water storage unit 200 can flow into the non-filtration unit 120 after passing through the pretreatment filter 810, and the purified water discharged from the filtration unit 130 can flow into the purified water storage unit 200 after passing through the post-treatment filter 820.

[0093] Additionally, in the water purification circulation mode, the controller 900 can drive the sterilization module 600 to sterilize the raw water discharged from the non-filtration section 120. That is, in the water purification circulation mode, the sterilized raw water can flow into the purified water storage section 200.

[0094] In addition, in the water purification circulation mode, the first pump 710 can pressurize the purified water and raw water flowing in the RO filter inlet flow path 410 to the RO filter 100.

[0095] Next, the purified water discharge mode will be described. The purified water discharge mode is a mode in which purified water stored in the purified water storage section 200 is discharged to the outside of the water purifier 1. In this purified water discharge mode, the controller 900 can control at least one valve module so that the purified water in the purified water storage section 200 is discharged to the outside through the purified water discharge flow path 450.

[0096] In addition, in the purified water discharge mode, the second pump 720 can pressurize the purified water so that the purified water flowing in the purified water discharge path 450 flows to the outside of the water purifier 1.

[0097] The function and effects of the water purifier 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0098] As will be described below, the water purifier 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention can flow raw water and purified water based on multiple flow patterns.

[0099] In flushing mode, since the reverse osmosis membrane 110 is cleaned with purified water, impurities can be prevented from adsorbing onto the reverse osmosis membrane 110 of the RO filter 100. In addition, the flushing drainage containing impurities can be sterilized by the sterilization module 600 and flow into the raw water storage section 300, thus preventing the raw water from being contaminated.

[0100] Furthermore, in the raw water sterilization mode, raw water can circulate in the following order: raw water storage unit 300, pretreatment filter 810, RO filter 100, and raw water storage unit 300. Since it can be sterilized by the sterilization module 600, contamination of the raw water in the raw water storage unit 300 can be prevented. In other words, even if the raw water storage unit 300 is installed in an install-free water purifier that does not require water pipe connection, and raw water cannot be obtained through water pipes, the raw water in the raw water storage unit 300 can still be circulated and sterilized.

[0101] Furthermore, in the purified water circulation mode, purified water can circulate in the order of purified water storage unit 200, pretreatment filter 810, RO filter 100, posttreatment filter 820, and purified water storage unit 200, thus preventing the purified water in purified water storage unit 200 from being contaminated. Also, in the purified water circulation mode, at least a portion of the raw water can be filtered by the RO filter 100 into purified water and flow into the purified water storage unit 200, thus supplying purified water to the purified water storage unit 200.

[0102] Below, we will refer to Figures 5 to 7 A water purifier 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0103] In describing the second embodiment, the main differences from the above embodiments are: the purified water storage unit 200 and the raw water storage unit 300 can be integrally formed, the purified water discharge flow path 450 can be connected to the purified water storage flow path 440, and the valve unit 500 can also include a second valve module 520 and a third valve module 530. These differences will be described in detail, and the same descriptions and reference numerals refer to the descriptions and reference numerals of the above embodiments.

[0104] Reference Figure 5 The purified water storage section 200 and the raw water storage section 300 may be separated by a partition formed within a water tank unit, but the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto. The RO filter inflow path 410, the purified water supply path 420, and the purified water storage path 440 may be connected to a water tank unit.

[0105] The second valve module 520 can open and close the purified water discharge path 450 to allow purified water discharged from the purified water storage section 200 to be discharged to the outside of the water purifier 1, or to allow purified water discharged from the RO filter 100 to flow into the purified water storage section 200. In other words, the second valve module 520 can open the purified water discharge path 450 to allow purified water discharged from the purified water storage section 200 to flow into the purified water discharge path 450. Furthermore, the second valve module 520 can close the purified water discharge path 450 to prevent purified water discharged from the RO filter 100 from flowing into the purified water discharge path 450. For example, the second valve module 520 can be a three-way valve located at the fulcrum where the purified water storage path 440 and the purified water discharge path 450 merge.

[0106] The third valve module 530 can switch the purified water supply path 420 and the purified water storage path 440 on and off. In other words, the third valve module 530 can open the purified water storage path 440 and close the purified water supply path 420, allowing purified water discharged from the purified water storage unit 200 to flow into the purified water supply path 420 or allowing purified water discharged from the RO filter 100 to flow into the purified water storage unit 200. Alternatively, the third valve module 530 can open the purified water supply path 420 and close the purified water storage path 440, allowing purified water discharged from the purified water storage unit 200 to flow into the purified water supply path 420. For example, the third valve module 530 can be a three-way valve simultaneously connected to the purified water storage unit 200, the purified water supply path 420, and the purified water storage path 440.

[0107] Additionally, refer to Figure 6 In the raw water sterilization mode, the controller 900 can switch at least one valve module to allow purified water discharged from the RO filter 100 to flow into the purified water storage section 200. That is, in the raw water sterilization mode, the controller 900 can control the second valve module 520 and the third valve module 530 to close the purified water supply path 420 and the purified water discharge path 450, and open the purified water storage path 440.

[0108] Additionally, refer to Figure 7 In flushing mode, controller 900 can switch at least one valve module to allow purified water discharged from purified water storage unit 200 to flow into RO filter 100. In other words, in flushing mode, controller 900 can control second valve module 520 and third valve module 530 to close purified water storage flow path 440 and open purified water supply flow path 420.

[0109] In addition, in the purified water discharge mode, the controller 900 can switch at least one valve module to allow purified water discharged from the purified water storage section 200 to be discharged to the outside of the water purifier 1. In other words, in the purified water discharge mode, the controller 900 can control the second valve module 520 and the third valve module 530 to open the purified water storage flow path 440 and the purified water discharge flow path 450, and close the purified water supply flow path 420.

[0110] The function and effect of the water purifier 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0111] According to the second embodiment of the present invention, in the raw water sterilization mode, since the purified water discharged from the RO filter 100 can flow to the purified water storage unit 200, purified water used in the flushing mode can be supplied to the purified water storage unit 200. Furthermore, since the raw water and purified water can be circulated through the raw water sterilization mode and the flushing mode, contamination of the purified water in the purified water storage unit 200 and the raw water in the raw water storage unit 300 can be prevented.

[0112] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 8 to 11 A water purifier 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0113] Reference Figure 8 According to a third embodiment of the present invention, the water purifier 1 can provide clean water to the user by filtering water. For example, the water purifier 1 can filter water that has been stored inside in advance. In addition, the water purifier 1 can be an install-free water purifier that does not require connection to a water pipe. Such a water purifier 1 may include a filter assembly 1100, a raw water storage section 1200, a flow channel 1300, a valve section 1400, a sterilization module 1500, a pump unit 1600, and a controller 1700.

[0114] The filter assembly 1100 can filter incoming raw water. This filter assembly 1100 may include an inlet section 1110, a first filter section 1120, a second filter section 1130, a first outlet section 1140, and a second outlet section 1150.

[0115] The inlet 1110 is a through-hole for connecting the first filter section 1120 to the filter inlet flow path 1310 of the flow channel 1300, which will be described later. Through this inlet 1110, raw water flowing in the filter inlet flow path 1310 can flow into the first filter section 1120.

[0116] The first filtration section 1120 can filter the raw water flowing in from the inlet section 1110 to provide first-filtered water. Additionally, the first filtration section 1120 can be connected to the first outlet section 1140. Through this first filtration section 1120, the first-filtered water can flow into the second filtration section 1130 or be discharged through the first outlet section 1140. For example, the first filtration section 1120 may include a nano-trap filter or an electrostatic filter. The electrostatic filter can be made of an electrostatic material that carries static electricity to adsorb foreign matter contained in the flowing water. For example, this material may be a nano-trap material.

[0117] The second filtration section 1130 can further filter the first filtered water to provide a second filtered water. Additionally, the second filtration section 1130 can be connected to a second discharge port. Through this second filtration section 1130, the second filtered water can be discharged through the second discharge section 1150. For example, the second filtration section 1130 may include a carbon filter. The carbon filter may be a carbon block formed by solidifying carbon powder into a cylindrical or polygonal prism shape.

[0118] The first filter section 1120 and the second filter section 1130 can be formed as a single component, but are not limited thereto. In other words, the first filter section 1120 and the second filter section 1130 can be formed as separate components, and the filter assembly 1100 is not limited to a single filter.

[0119] The first discharge section 1140 is a through-hole for connecting the first filter section 1120 to the circulation path 1430, which will be described later, in the flow channel 1300. Through this first discharge section 1140, the first filtered water can flow into the circulation path 1430.

[0120] The second discharge section 1150 is a through-hole for connecting the second filter section 1130 to the discharge flow path 1340 of the flow channel 1300, which will be described later. Through this second discharge section 1150, the second filtered water can flow into the discharge flow path 1340.

[0121] The raw water storage unit 1200 provides space for storing raw water. Such raw water flows through the filter in the flow channel 1300 into the flow path 1310 and can be supplied to the filter assembly 1100. In addition, the raw water storage unit 1200 may not be connected to a water pipe.

[0122] The flow channel 1300 provides a passage for the flow of raw water, first-filtered water, and second-filtered water. This raw water, first-filtered water, and second-filtered water can flow between the filter assembly 1100, the raw water storage section 1200, and the sterilization module 1500 via the flow channel 1300. Additionally, the flow channel 1300 may include a filter inlet flow path 1310, a circulation flow path 1320, a flow path 1330, a discharge flow path 1340, and a discharge flow path 1350.

[0123] The filter inflow path 1310 provides a channel for raw water to flow between the raw water storage section 1200 and the inflow section 1110 of the filter assembly 1100. The filter inflow path 1310 can communicate with both the raw water storage section 1200 and the inflow section 1110 of the filter assembly 1100. For example, the filter inflow path 1310 can be provided between the raw water storage section 1200 and the filter assembly 1100. Through such a filter inflow path 1310, raw water can flow from the raw water storage section 1200 toward the inflow section 1110 of the filter assembly 1100.

[0124] The circulation path 1320 provides a flow channel for at least one of the first-filtered water and the second-filtered water. The circulation path 1430 can communicate with the first discharge section 1140 and the raw water storage section 1200. Additionally, the circulation path 1430 can merge with the flow path 1330. Through this circulation path 1430, at least one of the first-filtered water and the second-filtered water can flow into the raw water storage section 1200.

[0125] The flow path 1330 provides a channel for the flow of water filtered in the second stage. The flow path 1330 can be connected to the discharge flow path 1340 and the circulation flow path 1430. For example, the flow path 1330 can be positioned between the discharge flow path 1340 and the circulation flow path 1430. Through such a flow path 1330, the water filtered in the second stage can flow into the circulation flow path 1430.

[0126] The discharge flow path 1340 provides a channel for the flow of second-filtered water discharged from the second discharge section 1150. The discharge flow path 1340 can communicate with the second discharge section 1150 and can merge with the flow path 1330. Through this discharge flow path 1340, the second-filtered water discharged from the second discharge section 1150 can flow into the flow path 1330. Furthermore, the portion where the discharge flow path 1340 and the flow path 1330 merge can be located in the circulation flow path 1430 between the first discharge section 1140 and the sterilization module 1500.

[0127] The discharge path 1350 provides a channel for discharging the second-filtered water to the outside. The discharge path 1350 is connected to the discharge path 1340, allowing the second-filtered water discharged from the discharge path 1340 to flow into it. Through this discharge path 1350, the second-filtered water can be discharged to the outside.

[0128] The valve section 1400 may include at least one valve module for selectively opening and closing to regulate the flow of raw water, first-filtered water, and second-filtered water in the flow channel 1300. For example, the valve module is disposed on the first discharge section 1140 and can selectively open and close the first discharge section 1140. In other words, if the valve module is opened, first-filtered water can be discharged from the first discharge section 1140, and if the valve module is closed, second-filtered water can be discharged from the second discharge section 1150.

[0129] The sterilization module 1500 can sterilize the first filtered water discharged from the first discharge section 1140 and the second filtered water discharged from the second discharge section 1150. Furthermore, the sterilization module 1500 can be installed in the circulation path 1430. In other words, the sterilization module 1500 can sterilize the first filtered water and the second filtered water flowing in the circulation path 1430. This sterilization module 1500 can provide sterilizing substances to the first filtered water and the second filtered water, or it can sterilize the first filtered water and the second filtered water through electrolysis.

[0130] Pump unit 1600 can pressurize raw water to flow into filter assembly 1100. Additionally, pump unit 1600 can pressurize the first filtered water toward the first discharge section 1140 or the second filter section 1130, or pressurize the second filtered water toward the second discharge section 1150. Such pump unit 1600 can be installed in the filter inflow path 1310.

[0131] The controller 1700 controls the switching of at least one valve module based on multiple flow modes, and can control the sterilization module 1500. The multiple flow modes may include a raw water sterilization mode, a filter cleaning mode, and a purified water discharge mode.

[0132] Further reference Figure 9The raw water sterilization mode is used to sterilize the raw water in the raw water storage unit 1200. When the controller 1700 is in the raw water sterilization mode, at least one valve module can be opened and closed, allowing raw water discharged from the raw water storage unit 1200 to flow into the first filtration unit 1120 through the inlet 1110, and first-filtered water discharged from the first outlet 1140 to flow into the raw water storage unit 1200 through the sterilization module 1500. For example, when the controller 1700 is in the raw water sterilization mode, the valve module can be controlled to open to open the first outlet 1140. In addition, when the controller 1700 is in the raw water sterilization mode, the sterilization module 1500 can be driven to sterilize the first-filtered water. Furthermore, in the raw water sterilization mode, the pump unit 1600, controlled by the controller 1700, can pressurize the raw water at a predetermined first pressure, so that the raw water flows into the first filtration unit 1120 through the inlet 1110. In this raw water sterilization mode, the raw water is filtered from the first filtration section 1120, sterilized by the sterilization module 1500, and can be stored again in the raw water storage section 1200.

[0133] Further reference Figure 10 The filter cleaning mode is used to clean the filter assembly 1100. When the controller 1700 is in filter cleaning mode, at least one valve module can be switched on and off, allowing raw water discharged from the raw water storage section 1200 to flow into the inlet section 1110, and second filtered water discharged from the second outlet section 1150 to flow towards the raw water storage section 1200. For example, when the controller 1700 is in filter cleaning mode, the controller 1700 can control the valve module to close, thereby closing the first outlet section 1140. In this filter cleaning mode, the second filtered water can be defined as water used to clean the filter assembly 1100. Additionally, when the controller 1700 is in filter cleaning mode, the sterilization module 1500 can be driven to sterilize the second filtered water. Furthermore, in filter cleaning mode, the pump unit 1600, controlled by the controller 1700, can pressurize the raw water at a second pressure greater than the first pressure, causing the raw water to flow through the inlet section 1110, through the first filter section 1120, and towards the second filter section 1130. In this filter cleaning mode, the raw water cleans the filter assembly 1100, is sterilized by the sterilization module 1500, and can be stored again in the raw water storage section 1200.

[0134] Additionally, the filter cleaning mode can be performed after the raw water sterilization mode. In other words, the raw water filtered from the filter assembly 1100 and sterilized by the sterilization module 1500 can be used to flush the filter assembly 1100.

[0135] Further reference Figure 11The purified water discharge mode is used to discharge purified water. When the controller 1700 is in purified water discharge mode, at least one valve module can be switched on or off, allowing the second filtered water discharged from the second discharge section 1150 to be discharged to the outside. For example, when the controller 1700 is in purified water discharge mode, the valve module can be controlled to close, thereby closing the first discharge section 1140. In this purified water discharge mode, the second filtered water can be defined as purified water. Additionally, in purified water discharge mode, the pump unit 1600, controlled by the controller 1700, can pressurize the raw water at a second pressure greater than the first pressure, causing the raw water to flow through the inlet section 1110, through the first filter section 1120, and towards the second filter section 1130. In this purified water discharge mode, the second filtered water can be discharged to the outside through the discharge path 1340 and the discharge path 1350.

[0136] Additionally, the purified water discharge mode can be executed after the filter cleaning mode. In other words, purified water filtered by the cleaned filter assembly 1100 can be discharged to the outside.

[0137] The controller 1700 described above can be implemented by means of a computing device including a microprocessor, a measuring device including a sensor, and a memory, and since its implementation method is obvious to those skilled in the art, further detailed description will be omitted.

[0138] The function and effects of the water purifier 1 according to the third embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0139] In the water purifier 1 according to the third embodiment of the present invention, in the raw water sterilization mode, since the raw water circulates between the raw water storage section 1200 and the filter assembly 1100, and can be sterilized by the sterilization module 1500, the raw water in the raw water storage section 1200 can be prevented from being contaminated. In other words, even if the raw water storage section 1200 is installed in an install-free water purifier that does not require connection to water pipes and the raw water is not obtained through water pipes, the raw water in the raw water storage section 1200 can still be circulated and sterilized.

[0140] In filter cleaning mode, raw water circulates between the raw water storage section 1200 and the filter assembly 1100. Since the filter assembly 1100 can be cleaned, the accumulation of impurities within the filter assembly 1100 can be prevented. In addition, the second-filtered water containing impurities can be sterilized by the sterilization module 1500 before flowing into the raw water storage section 1200, thus preventing the raw water in the raw water storage section 1200 from becoming contaminated.

[0141] In addition, the filter cleaning mode is executed after the raw water sterilization mode because the raw water filtered by the filter assembly 1100 and sterilized by the sterilization module 1500 can clean the filter assembly 1100, so the impurities in the filter assembly 1100 can be cleaned more efficiently.

[0142] In addition, the purified water discharge mode can be executed after the filter cleaning mode, so purified water filtered from the cleaned filter assembly 1100 can be provided to the user.

[0143] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above as specific examples, these are merely illustrative, and the invention is not limited thereto, and should be interpreted as encompassing the widest scope of the technical ideas disclosed herein. Those skilled in the art can implement patterns of shapes not shown by combining / substituting the disclosed embodiments, but this does not depart from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, those skilled in the art can readily change or modify the disclosed embodiments based on this specification, and it is obvious that such changes or modifications also fall within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A water purifier, comprising: An RO filter includes a non-filtration section for incoming raw water, a filtration section for outgoing purified water, and a reverse osmosis membrane that divides the non-filtration section and the filtration section and filters the raw water into purified water. The purified water storage section stores the purified water; Raw water storage section, for storing the raw water; A flow channel provides a passage for the flow of the raw water and the purified water; The valve section includes at least one valve module for selectively switching on and off to regulate the flow of the raw water and the purified water in the flow channel; A sterilization module sterilizes the raw water discharged from the non-filtration section; as well as The controller controls the switching of the valve module and the sterilization module based on multiple flow patterns. The plurality of flow modes include a rinsing mode in which the reverse osmosis membrane is cleaned with the purified water from the purified water storage unit. The controller In the flushing mode, at least one valve module is switched on and off to allow the purified water discharged from the purified water storage section to flow into the non-filtration section side, and the flushing wastewater discharged from the non-filtration section to flow toward the raw water storage section. Drive the sterilization module to sterilize the flushing drainage.

2. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The water purifier also includes a filter module, which includes a pre-treatment filter for the raw water supplied to the RO filter. The plurality of flow modes also includes a raw water sterilization mode for sterilizing the raw water stored in the raw water storage section. The controller In the raw water sterilization mode, at least one valve module is switched on and off to allow the raw water to flow through the pretreatment filter into the non-filtration section, and the raw water discharged from the non-filtration section flows into the raw water storage section. Drive the sterilization module.

3. The water purifier according to claim 2, wherein, In the raw water sterilization mode, the controller switches at least one valve module to allow the purified water discharged from the filtration unit to flow into the purified water storage unit.

4. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of flow modes also includes a purified water circulation mode in which the purified water stored in the purified water storage unit circulates through the flow channel. In the purified water circulation mode, the controller switches at least one valve module to allow the purified water stored in the purified water storage section and the raw water stored in the raw water storage section to flow into the non-filtration section, and the purified water discharged from the filtration section to flow into the purified water storage section.

5. The water purifier according to claim 4, wherein, The raw water is discharged from the non-filtration section and flows into the raw water storage section in the water purification circulation mode. The controller drives the sterilization module in the purified water circulation mode.

6. The water purifier according to claim 4, wherein, The water purifier further includes a filter module, which includes a post-treatment filter for the purified water discharged from the filtration unit. The purified water flows into the purified water storage unit after passing through the post-treatment filter in the purified water circulation mode.

7. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The flow channel includes: The RO filter inflow path is connected to the raw water storage section, providing a channel for either the raw water or the purified water to flow into the RO filter; The purified water supply path merges with the RO filter inlet path, providing a channel for the purified water discharged from the purified water storage unit to flow into the RO filter inlet path; A circulation path provides a channel for the raw water discharged from the non-filtration section to flow into the raw water storage section, and is in communication with the raw water storage section; and A purified water storage flow path provides a channel for purified water discharged from the filtration unit to flow into the purified water storage unit. The sterilization module is located in the circulation path.

8. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The purified water storage section and the raw water storage section are formed independently of each other.

9. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The purified water storage unit and the raw water storage unit are integrally formed.

Images