Water distribution device

Abstract

A water distribution device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a water supply flow path through which raw water supplied from a water supply source flows; a filter for filtering the raw water supplied to the water supply flow path to generate purified water; a purified water flow path through which the purified water that has passed through the filter flows; the water quality detection part is connected with the purified water flow path and is used for detecting the water quality of the purified water; one side of the sterilization flow path is branched from the water supply flow path, and the other side of the sterilization flow path is connected with the filter side; the sterilization module is arranged on the sterilization flow path and is used for heating water flowing through the sterilization flow path; a water outlet for discharging the purified water; a water outlet flow path for guiding the purified water to the water outlet; and a water outlet sterilization module for irradiating the water outlet with ultraviolet rays.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a water distribution device and a method of operating the same, and more particularly, to a water distribution device including a sensor capable of discriminating water quality and a method of operating the same. Background Art

[0002] A water distribution device is a device that supplies water and can take out a required amount of water at a required temperature according to a user's operation. The water distribution device as described above can be applied to various fields, and as a representative, it can be applied to a refrigerator and a water purifier. In particular, the water distribution device provided in the refrigerator and the water purifier is configured to have a function of supplying a preset amount of water according to a user's operation. In recent years, as such a water distribution device, a water distribution device that can supply not only purified water but also cold water and warm water is being developed.

[0003] For example, a water purifier is configured to receive raw water by connecting to a water supply source such as a faucet, and uses a filter to remove floating substances or harmful components contained in the raw water, and can take out a required amount of purified water according to a user's operation. As such a water purifier, there are currently various products on the market that can heat or cool the purified water to supply cold water or warm water in addition to supplying purified water. In addition, recently, a water purifier that is small in size and can be installed in various installation environments is being developed.

[0004] When the water distribution device is used for a long time, microorganisms or the like may multiply or be contaminated in the pipes, valves, and water outlets, and as the filter replacement cycle progresses, it may not be possible to remove floating substances or harmful components contained in the raw water. Therefore, in the water distribution device, accurate detection of water quality and hygiene management become important, and it is also necessary to manage the purified water quality performance.

[0005] In particular, due to floating bacteria in the indoor air, the water outlet part is highly likely to be contaminated. As a method for solving this problem, the prior art Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0085145 includes an ultraviolet lamp that irradiates light to the inside or outside of the water outlet nozzle. In the prior art Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0085145, internal contamination is prevented by UV sterilization of the water outlet based on a predetermined operation cycle, but it does not operate in accordance with the pollution level of the actual real-time use environment of each product that varies according to the indoor air quality, the actual user's usage pattern, the pollution degree of the raw water, etc. of the use environment. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a water distribution device that can detect water quality in real time and perform a sterilization action accordingly, thereby being able to manage the purified water quality and supply safe water.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a water distribution device that can hygienically manage a flow path and a water outlet by automatically sensing water quality abnormalities and performing disinfection.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a water distribution device that can appropriately respond corresponding to a water quality detection result.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a water distribution device that can accurately detect the water quality of raw water and purified water.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a water distribution device that can improve the sensing accuracy and efficiency through a water pipe configuration for sensor sharing and a flushing operation.

[0012] Technical solution for solving the problem

[0013] To achieve the above object, a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a water supply flow path through which raw water supplied from a water supply source flows; a filter that filters the raw water supplied to the water supply flow path to generate purified water; a purified water flow path through which the purified water that has passed through the filter flows; a water quality detection unit that is connected to the purified water flow path and detects the water quality of the purified water; a disinfection flow path that branches from the water supply flow path on one side and is connected to the filter side on the other side; a disinfection module that is provided on the disinfection flow path and heats the water flowing through the disinfection flow path; a water outlet that discharges the purified water; a water outlet flow path that guides the purified water to the water outlet; and a water outlet disinfection module that irradiates ultraviolet rays to the water outlet.

[0014] The water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a control unit that controls the disinfection module and the water outlet disinfection module to selectively operate to perform a disinfection action based on the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit.

[0015] If the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit corresponds to pollution level one, the purified water may be normally discharged to the water outlet; if the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit is pollution level two or higher, which is higher than the pollution level one, the water discharge may be stopped.

[0016] The water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include: a drainage flow path that branches from the water outlet flow path between the water quality detection unit and the water outlet and discharges the raw water or the purified water; and a drainage pump disposed on the drainage flow path.

[0017] If the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit corresponds to the pollution level two, the residual water may be discharged to the drainage flow path by operating the drainage pump.

[0018] If the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit corresponds to the second level of pollution degree, the outlet sterilization module can be actuated.

[0019] The water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a water outlet valve that selectively supplies the raw water or the purified water to the water outlet flow path and the drainage flow path.

[0020] If the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit corresponds to the third level of pollution degree, which is higher than the second level of pollution degree, the sterilization module can be actuated.

[0021] The purified water flow path and the water outlet flow path can be sterilized by using the high-temperature water discharged from the sterilization module.

[0022] If the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit corresponds to the third level of pollution degree, the outlet sterilization module can be actuated.

[0023] If the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit corresponds to the fourth level of pollution degree, which is higher than the third level of pollution degree, the sterilization module and the outlet sterilization module can be actuated together.

[0024] When the outlet sterilization module is actuated in the third and fourth levels of pollution degree, the time for the outlet sterilization module to irradiate ultraviolet rays in the fourth level of pollution degree can be longer than the time for irradiating ultraviolet rays in the third level of pollution degree.

[0025] If the detected water quality data is above the pollution reference value, the water quality detection unit can re-detect the water quality of the purified water after the purified water has flowed through more than once.

[0026] The water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include an output unit. If the detected water quality data is not above the pollution reference value, the output unit displays water quality information.

[0027] If the re-detection of the water quality is performed, the water quality detection unit can increase the waiting time until the next water quality detection.

[0028] The water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a sensing flow path that branches from the water supply flow path and through which the raw water flows. If the purified water flows into through the purified water flow path, the water quality detection unit can detect the water quality of the purified water. If the raw water flows into through the sensing flow path, the water quality detection unit can detect the water quality of the raw water.

[0029] If the water quality of the raw water is detected, the water quality detection unit may detect the water quality of the purified water after performing a flushing operation in which the purified water flows through one or more times.

[0030] A water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include: a switching valve that supplies the raw water to the water supply flow path or the sterilization flow path; and a sensing valve that opens and closes the sensing flow path.

[0031] The water quality detection unit may include a turbidity sensor that irradiates light onto a part of the raw water or the purified water and senses turbidity based on the received scattered light pattern.

[0032] A water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include: a hot water flow path that branches from the purified water flow path on one side; a hot water module that is provided on the hot water flow path and heats the purified water flowing through the hot water flow path; a cold water flow path that branches from the purified water flow path on one side; and a cold water module that is provided on the cold water flow path and cools the purified water flowing through the cold water flow path.

[0033] Advantages of the Invention

[0034] According to at least one embodiment of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to detect the water quality in real time and perform a sterilization operation accordingly, thereby being able to manage the quality of purified water and supply safe water.

[0035] According to at least one embodiment of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to hygienically manage the flow path and the water outlet by automatically sensing water quality abnormalities and performing sterilization.

[0036] According to at least one embodiment of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to provide a water distribution device that appropriately responds corresponding to the water quality detection result.

[0037] According to at least one embodiment of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to improve the sensing accuracy and efficiency through a water pipe configuration for sensor sharing and a flushing operation.

[0038] On the other hand, various other effects are directly or implicitly disclosed in the detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1 is a block diagram of the main configuration of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figures 3 to 5 is for explaining Figure 2 the operation of the water distribution device.

[0042] Figure 6 It is a conceptual diagram of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 7 It is a diagram for explaining the hygiene management standards of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 8 It is a flowchart of the operation method of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 9 It is a diagram for explaining the sterilization of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 10 It is a diagram for explaining the emptying of residual water of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 11 It is a diagram for explaining the turbidity standards of various countries and providing information based on them.

[0048] Figure 12 It is a flowchart of the operation method of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0049] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments and can be modified into various forms.

[0050] In the accompanying drawings, in order to clearly and briefly illustrate the present invention, illustrations of parts irrelevant to the description are omitted, and throughout the specification, the same or extremely similar parts are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0051] On the other hand, the suffixes "module" and "section" of the components used in the following description are given only for convenience in writing the specification, and they do not have distinct meanings or functions by themselves. Therefore, the "module" and "section" can be used interchangeably with each other.

[0052] In addition, in this specification, the terms first, second, etc. may be used to describe various elements, but these structural elements are not limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one structural element from another.

[0053] Figure 1 It is a block diagram of the main components of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Refer to Figure 1, the water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a water quality detection unit 50. The water quality detection unit 50 may include a turbidity sensor. According to an embodiment of the present invention, turbidity (pollution degree) can be sensed by optical sensing. The optical sensing methods for detecting turbidity include the transmitted light method and the scattered light method. The transmitted light method senses turbidity by irradiating light to the fluid, receiving the light transmitted through the fluid, and then processing the data. The scattered light method, as a method of receiving the scattered light and processing the data to sense turbidity, is subdivided according to the method of generating the scattered light and the processing method of the received data. The turbidity sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention can irradiate light to a part of the raw water or the purified water, and sense turbidity based on the received scattered light pattern. According to an embodiment of the present invention, particles and microorganisms are distinguished by patterning the intensity and movement of the light scattered by microorganisms, and the water quality / hygiene standard index microorganism species are distinguished by processing big data. In addition, the sensed microorganism concentration value and safety index are provided through a display so that the user can visually confirm.

[0055] In addition, in order to sense the water quality pollution of the water in the flow path, the water quality detection unit 50 may use water quality detection sensors such as a turbidity sensor, a microorganism sensor, and a TDS sensor. The water quality detection unit 50 may include at least one of a turbidity sensor, a microorganism detection sensor, a residual chlorine sensor, a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) sensor, and a BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) sensor, and detect at least one of the turbidity, microorganisms, residual chlorine, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids), and dissolved oxygen of the inflowing water. At least one of the plurality of sensors included in the water quality detection unit 50 may be a common sensor that detects the water quality of both the raw water and the purified water.

[0056] In this specification, the inflow of the purified water or the raw water into the water quality detection unit 50 does not only mean that the purified water or the raw water flows into the interior of the water quality detection unit 50. For example, a part of the purified water or the raw water can be sampled, the water quality can be detected inside the water quality detection unit 50, and then discharged. In addition, at least a part of the sensors included in the water quality detection unit 50 can detect the water quality of the flowing liquid. In this case, the inflow of the purified water or the raw water into the water quality detection unit 50 can mean that at least a part of the purified water or the raw water passes through the sensible interval of the water quality detection unit 50.

[0057] For example, in the case where the turbidity sensor has an internal chamber, after the internal chamber connected to the flow path 20 is filled with water flowing in, the turbidity sensor can detect the water quality by irradiating light onto the filled water and receiving the scattered light pattern. Additionally, after the water quality is detected, the water in the internal chamber can be discharged. Alternatively, the light source unit and the light receiving unit of the turbidity sensor can be arranged in a specific flow path section (for example, the section after the clean water flow path 20 and the sensing flow path 12 are combined), irradiate light onto the clean water or raw water passing through the specific flow path section, and receive the scattered light pattern.

[0058] The water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention can use a common sensor to detect the water quality of raw water and clean water for the same detection items such as turbidity. The turbidity sensor detects the turbidity of the raw water and the turbidity of the clean water, and transmits its sensed data to the control unit 60. The control unit 60 can control other components of the water distribution device based on the sensed data of the water quality detection unit 50 such as the turbidity sensor.

[0059] The water distribution device includes a filter (refer to Figure 2 10 etc.) that filters the raw water supplied from the water supply source and generates clean water. The filter 10 is used to purify the supplied raw water and filter out various impurities and harmful substances contained in the raw water. One or more filters 10 can be provided. In the case where a plurality of filters 10 are provided, filters with various functions can be combined. For example, three filters 10 can be provided, which can include a pre-activated carbon (PRE CARBON) filter, a post-activated carbon filter, and a membrane filter or a hollow fiber membrane filter disposed between the pre-activated carbon filter and the post-activated carbon filter. Alternatively, the filter 10 can be composed of a pre-activated carbon filter and a UF composite filter.

[0060] The clean water purified in the filter 10 flows to a water storage tank or a flow path (refer to Figure 2 20 etc.). The water stored in the water storage tank will become an environment more conducive to the proliferation of microorganisms over time. Therefore, it is preferably directly flowed through the flow path 20. The clean water flowing through the filter 10 flows to the clean water flow path 20.

[0061] In addition, the water distribution device includes a valve unit 90 having a plurality of valves for controlling the flow of water. The valve unit 90 can include a plurality of valves V1, V2, V3, etc. described later.

[0062] If the water quality detection unit 50 detects the water quality of the raw water, the control unit 60 can control the valve unit 90 etc. to perform a flushing action in which the clean water passes through the water quality detection unit 50 more than once.

[0063] Since the water quality detection unit 50 detects the water quality of the purified water after performing the flushing operation, the influence of raw water on the detection of the water quality of the purified water can be minimized. Thus, even if only one water quality sensor of the same type is provided, the raw water and the purified water can be effectively and accurately sensed respectively.

[0064] In normal cases when tap water and purified water flow out, the water pollution degree is relatively low. However, in order to detect a low concentration of pollution degree, the key lies in minimizing the deviation of the detection value as much as possible. According to an embodiment of the present invention, compared with the technology of separately detecting raw water and effluent water, by means of a flow path structure and control that can use one sensor to simultaneously detect raw water and effluent water, the increase in material costs can be minimized, and the product structure can be made more compact.

[0065] The water quality of tap water (raw water) and the water quality of a water purifier (purified water) are mostly in a low concentration range. Therefore, in order to reliably represent the performance difference between raw water and effluent water, the key lies in using one sensor for comparison to minimize the detection deviation between devices.

[0066] In addition, the water distribution device may include a warm water module 30 for providing warm water and a cold water module 40 for providing cold water. The warm water module 30 can heat the purified water and discharge it to the outlet (refer to Figure 2 such as 90a) side. The cold water module 40 cools the purified water and discharges it to the outlet 90a side.

[0067] In addition, the water distribution device further includes an operation unit 75 and an output unit 85.

[0068] The operation unit 75 is used to receive user input and may include more than one button. For example, the operation unit 75 is a touch panel, which may include: a capacity button for selecting the effluent water capacity; a warm water button for selecting warm water and further selecting the temperature of the flowing warm water; a purified water button for selecting purified water; a cold water button for selecting cold water; and other function buttons.

[0069] The output unit 85 may have display devices such as a display (not shown), a light emitting diode (LED) (not shown), etc. For example, the output unit 85 can display information such as the operating state of the water distribution device, the action state associated with an error occurrence, or the water pollution degree.

[0070] The output unit 85 may have audio devices such as a speaker (not shown), a buzzer (not shown), etc. For example, the output unit 85 can output an effect sound for the operating state of the water distribution device and output a specified warning sound when an error occurs.

[0071] In addition, the water distribution device includes more than one module for sanitation. For example, the water distribution device includes a sterilization module 70 that utilizes high-temperature water. In addition, the water distribution device further includes an outlet sterilization module 80 for sterilizing the side of the water outlet 90a where the possibility of contamination is high.

[0072] The sterilization module 70 can instantaneously heat the water to a high temperature to sterilize the bacteria breeding in the water. In addition, the control unit 60 can also operate the sterilization module 70 and circulate the sterilized water (high-temperature water) discharged from the sterilization module 70 to other flow paths to sterilize the flow paths. The control unit 60 can be controlled to move the high-temperature water discharged from the sterilization module 70 to the flow path area based on the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit 50, thereby performing a sterilization operation on the flow path.

[0073] The outlet sterilization module 80 can be periodically driven according to the control of the control unit 60. Alternatively, the outlet sterilization module 80 can be driven for a specified period before water is discharged. More preferably, the control unit 60 can drive the outlet sterilization module 80 only when necessary based on the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit 50, thereby improving efficiency. For example, the control unit 60 can control the outlet sterilization module 80 based on the water quality detection result of the purified water.

[0074] The control unit 60 can be connected to each component provided in the water distribution device. For example, the control unit 60 can send and / or receive signals to and from each component provided in the water distribution device, and can control the overall operation of each component.

[0075] The control unit 60 can include at least one processor, and can use the processor included therein to control the overall operation of the water distribution device. Here, the processor can be a general-purpose processor such as a CPU (central processing unit, central processor). Of course, the processor can be a dedicated device such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or other hardware-based processor.

[0076] The control unit 60 can perform various operations based on the data received through the water quality detection unit 50 including various sensors such as the turbidity sensor 51. In addition, the control unit 60 can store the data received through the water quality detection unit 50 in a memory (not shown).

[0077] The water quality detection unit 50 can detect the water quality and output it to the control unit 60. The control unit 60 can be controlled to perform a feedback action corresponding to the water quality sensing data of the raw water and / or the purified water. Alternatively, the water quality detection unit 50 directly determines the pollution degree and transmits it to the control unit 60, and the control unit 60 can be controlled to cause other components to perform a suitable feedback action based on the received pollution degree.

[0078] The control unit 60 can identify the pollution state of the raw water and / or the purified water, and control the output unit 85 to provide the user with information on cleaning notifications or filter replacement cycles.

[0079] In addition, the control unit 60 can detect in advance the possible odors generated according to the pollution degree of the raw water and / or the purified water, and activate the automatic cleaning / sterilization logic using the sterilization module 70 and the outlet sterilization module 80 before the user notices. Thereby, the usability and hygiene of non-professional users can be improved.

[0080] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figures 3 to 5 is for explaining Figure 2 the operation of the water distribution device.

[0081] Referring to Figure 2 , the water distribution device includes: a water supply flow path 11 through which raw water supplied from a water supply source flows; and a filtration unit 10 that filters the raw water supplied to the water supply flow path 11 and generates purified water.

[0082] The purified water passing through the filtration unit 10 flows toward the outlet 90a side through the purified water flow path 20. The purified water passing through the filtration unit 10 can flow into the water quality detection unit 50. The water quality detection unit 50 can detect the water quality of the purified water after the purified water flows in.

[0083] In addition, since the sensing flow path 12 branches from the water supply flow path 11, the raw water can directly flow into the water quality detection unit 50 through the sensing flow path 12. The water quality detection unit 50 can detect the water quality of the raw water after the raw water flows in.

[0084] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a water supply valve V1 can be arranged in the water supply flow path 11, and the water supply valve V1 controls the supply of water to the filtration unit 10 and the purified water flow path 20 side. The water supply valve V1 can open and close the purified water flow path 20. If the water supply valve V1 is opened, the raw water can flow along Figure 3 the first line L1, be purified through the filtration unit 10, and the purified water can flow into the water quality detection unit 50 through the purified water flow path 20.

[0085] On the other hand, the water supply flow path 11 may include: a first water supply flow path 11a connecting the water supply source and the water supply valve V1; and a second water supply flow path 11b connecting the water supply valve V1 and the filter 10.

[0086] In addition, one end of the sensing flow path 12 may be connected to the first water supply flow path 11a, and the other end may be connected to the water quality detection unit 50. A sensing valve V2 for opening and closing the sensing flow path 12 may be arranged in the sensing flow path 12. If the sensing valve V2 is opened, the raw water may flow along Figure 4 the second line L2 directly through the sensing flow path 12 into the water quality detection unit 50.

[0087] Referring to Figure 2 , the water distribution device may further include: a water outlet 90a for discharging the purified water; a water outlet flow path 13 for guiding the purified water to the water outlet 90a; a drainage flow path 14 branched from the water outlet flow path 13 between the water quality detection unit 50 and the water outlet 90a for discharging the raw water or the purified water; and a water outlet valve V3 for selectively supplying the raw water or the purified water to the water outlet flow path 13 and the drainage flow path 14.

[0088] According to the control of the control unit 60, the water outlet valve V3 may switch the water that has completed the water quality detection to the drain port 90b and the water outlet 90a. If the drainage operation is performed, the water that has completed the water quality detection is made to flow along Figure 5 the third line L3 to the drainage flow path 14. By discharging and flushing the raw water, it is possible to prevent the raw water from flowing out as drinking water.

[0089] On the other hand, the water outlet flow path 13 may include: a first water outlet flow path 13a connecting the water quality detection unit 50 and the water outlet valve V3; and a second water outlet flow path 13b connecting the water outlet valve V3 and the water outlet 90a.

[0090] A water outlet sterilization module 80 for irradiating ultraviolet rays to the water outlet 90a is arranged on the water outlet 90a side for discharging the purified water. The water outlet sterilization module 80 can sterilize the water outlet space and the residual water. The control unit 60 can make the water outlet sterilization module 80 act for a specified time based on the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit 50.

[0091] Referring to Figure 2 , one side of the sterilization flow path 71 branches from the water supply flow path 11, and the other side is connected to the filter 10 side. A sterilization module 70 for heating the water passing through the sterilization flow path 71 is arranged on the sterilization flow path 71. The control unit 60 can make the sterilization module 70 act for a specified time based on the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit 50.

[0092] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the water supply valve V1 may be a switching valve that selectively supplies the raw water to the water supply flow path 11 and the sterilization flow path 71.

[0093] Referring to Figure 2 , the water distribution device may further include: a warm water flow path 21, branched from the purified water flow path 20 at one side; a warm water module 30, disposed on the warm water flow path 21 to heat the purified water passing through the warm water flow path 21; a cold water flow path 22, branched from the purified water flow path 20 at one side; and a cold water module 40, disposed on the cold water flow path 22 to cool the purified water passing through the cold water flow path 22.

[0094] Referring to Figure 2 , the warm water flow path 21 and the cold water flow path 22 may be recombined into the purified water flow path 20. Alternatively, the warm water flow path 21 and the cold water flow path 22 may be combined into the water outlet flow path 13.

[0095] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a drain pump 65 may be disposed in the drain flow path 14. After detecting the water quality, if the drain pump 65 operates, the water for detecting the water quality can be discharged to the outside at a faster speed.

[0096] In addition, the drain pump 65 may operate during the sterilization operation performed in each flow path area. Thus, the sterilized high-temperature water can be discharged to the outside more quickly. In particular, when sterilizing the water outlet flow path 13 connected to the cock on the outlet 90a side, a part of the high-temperature water may be discharged to the outlet 90a side, but a large amount of high-temperature water may be discharged to the drain port 90b side. Thus, it is possible to prevent safety accidents, discomfort of users, and the trouble of users having to handle a large amount of hot water that may occur when a large amount of hot water is discharged to the outlet 90a.

[0097] On the other hand, if the purified water flows in through the purified water flow path 20, the water quality detection unit 50 may detect the water quality of the purified water, and if the raw water flows in through the sensing flow path 12, the water quality of the raw water may be detected.

[0098] If the water quality of the raw water is detected, the water quality detection unit 50 may detect the water quality of the purified water after performing the flushing operation of the purified water one or more times. As described above, by the water pipe configuration for sensor sharing and the flushing operation, the sensing accuracy and efficiency can be improved.

[0099] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention and is a water pipe of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] The water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention can be equivalent to various water treatment devices and purification devices such as water purifiers and refrigerators that flow in water from the outside, purify the flowing-in water, and then discharge it.

[0101] As an example, the water distribution device can be set as an under-sink type water purifier with at least a part thereof disposed in the lower space of the sink.

[0102] Refer to Figure 6 , the water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention can include: a water outlet part 200, which is set to expose at least a part thereof to the outside of the sink; and the remaining main body part, which is disposed inside the sink.

[0103] The water distribution device includes: a water supply flow path 11 that guides raw water supplied from the outside to the inside; a filter 10 that purifies the raw water supplied along the water supply flow path 11 into purified water; and a purified water flow path 20 that allows the purified water flowing through the filter 10 to flow toward the water outlet part 200 side.

[0104] On the other hand, the water supply flow path 11 is connected to an external water supply source and the filter 10. The raw water supplied from the external water supply source can be supplied to the filter 10 through the water supply flow path 11.

[0105] As described above, the water (raw water) supplied to the filter 10 is purified into purified water by the filter 10. At least one filter 10 can be provided. As an example, a plurality of filters 10 can be provided. Therefore, the water flowing through the water supply flow path 11 can be purified into cleaner water by the plurality of filters 10.

[0106] In addition, the purified water flowing through the filter 10 can flow toward the water outlet part 200 side that is exposed outside the sink 10 via the purified water flow path 20.

[0107] For this purpose, one end of the purified water flow path 20 is connected to the filter 10 side, and the other end is connected to the water outlet part 200 side. On the other hand, at least one of a cold water flow path 22, a warm water flow path 21, and a washing water flow path 90c can be branched from the purified water flow path 20.

[0108] Figure 6 An example is shown in which the cold water flow path 22 is integrated with the purified water flow path 20, and the warm water flow path 21 and the washing water flow path 90c branch from the purified water flow path 20.

[0109] One end of the purified water flow path 20 is connected to the filter 10, and the water flowing through the filter 10 flows toward the water outlet part 200 side through the connected water outlet flow path 13. The water outlet part 200 can include a water outlet 90a, and purified water and the like can be taken out.

[0110] Via the washing water module 1030 provided on the washing water flow path 90c, it is supplied to the washing water outlet side in the state of sterilized water. In the case where the water outlet part 200 includes a plurality of water outlets, according to an embodiment, the washing water outlet may also be formed in the water outlet part 200.

[0111] On the other hand, a pressure reducing valve 1010 for adjusting the flow rate of the water supplied to the filter 10 may be provided in the water supply flow path 11.

[0112] In addition, at least one of a flow rate sensor 1011, an inflow valve, and a flow velocity sensor (not shown) may be provided in the water supply flow path 11 or the purified water flow path 20. The flow rate sensor 1011 detects the flow rate of water, the inflow valve adjusts the flow rate of water or restricts the flow of water, and the flow velocity sensor (not shown) detects the flow velocity of water.

[0113] In addition, on-off valves for restricting the flow of water in each flow path may be additionally provided in the purified water flow path 20, the warm water flow path 21, and the washing water flow path 90c. For example, a washing water valve 1019 may be arranged in the washing water flow path 90c.

[0114] Alternatively, a cold water / hot water / purified water valve 1015 may be provided at the branch point of the purified water flow path 20 and the warm water flow path 21 to selectively supply purified water to the purified water flow path 20 and the warm water flow path 21.

[0115] In addition, components 1025 for safety such as preventing backflow may be provided in the warm water flow path 21. In addition, a safety valve 1016 for discharging steam may be provided in the warm water module 30. The steam of the warm water module 30 may be discharged to the drain port 90b side through the connected flow path 15.

[0116] On the other hand, an outlet valve 1018 is arranged on the outlet water flow path 13, so that purified water, cold water, and warm water flowing toward the water outlet part 200 side can be supplied to the water outlet part 200 or blocked.

[0117] In addition, a drain water flow path 14 may be branched from the outlet water flow path 13, and a drain valve 1017 may be arranged in the drain water flow path 14 to discharge purified water, cold water, warm water, and raw water to the drain port 90b side.

[0118] On the other hand, as an example, the outlet valve 1018 and the drain valve 1017 are respectively provided as three-way valves including actuators. The three-way valve has one inlet and a first outlet and a second outlet that are selectively opened, and the actuator selectively opens and closes the two outlets. At this time, the first outlet may be connected to the water outlet part 200 side, and the second outlet may be connected to the drain port 90b side.

[0119] On the other hand, raw water is supplied through a water supply flow path 11 connected to a water supply source such as a water pipe, a water tank, and an underground water pipe. A pressure reducing valve 1010 is provided on the water supply flow path 11, and the raw water is reduced in pressure to a set pressure by the pressure reducing valve 1010.

[0120] In addition, the raw water that has passed through the filter 10 is removed of foreign substances and becomes in a purified water state. The purified water flows along a purified water flow path 20. In addition, it can branch to a cold water - purified water side and a warm water side.

[0121] First, the purified water that branches to the cold water - purified water side branches again to the cold water side and the purified water side. According to the operation of a cold water module 40 corresponding to a user's purified water or cold water selection operation, purified water or cold water can be supplied to the user through a water outlet part 200.

[0122] If a user requests cold water to flow out, the purified water passes through a cooling coil inside the cold water module 40. The water flowing along the cooling coil exchanges heat with the cooling water inside the cold water module 40 and is cooled to cold water. For this purpose, the cooling water is continuously cooled to be able to maintain a set temperature. For reference, in order to cool the cooling water, a compressor can be driven. The driving of the compressor can be determined according to a cold water temperature sensor provided inside the cold water module 40. Therefore, the cooling water can always maintain the set temperature, and for this purpose, the driving of the compressor can be adjusted. The compressor is a variable frequency compressor, and the frequency can be adjusted corresponding to the required load, and the cooling capacity can be adjusted. That is, the compressor can be driven by variable frequency control to cool the cooling water with optimal efficiency.

[0123] On the other hand, in the case where a user requests warm water to flow out, the purified water can be heated to a set temperature during the process of passing through the warm water module 30. The warm water module 30 can be heated by an induction heating method, and for this purpose, the output of a working coil included in the warm water module 30 can be adjusted. The purified water that has passed through the warm water module 30 can be heated to a set temperature. The warm water heated by the warm water module 30 flows toward the water outlet part 200 side.

[0124] On the other hand, one side of a sterilization flow path 71 branches from the water supply flow path 11, and the other side is connected to the filter 10 side. A sterilization module 70 for heating the water passing through the sterilization flow path 71 and a flow regulating valve 1013 for controlling the flow rate of the sterilization flow path 71 can be arranged on the sterilization flow path 71.

[0125] On the other hand, a water supply valve 1012 for selectively supplying the raw water to the water supply flow path 11 and the sterilization flow path 71 can be arranged at the position where the sterilization flow path 71 branches from the water supply flow path 11.

[0126] On the other hand, the water supply flow path 11 may include: a first water supply flow path 11a connecting the water supply source and the water supply valve 1012; and a second water supply flow path 11b connecting the water supply valve 1012 and the filter 10.

[0127] On the other hand, a sensing flow path 12 may branch from the front end of the water supply valve 1012 of the first water supply flow path 11a. A sensing valve 1014 for opening and closing the sensing flow path 12 and a backflow prevention element 1020 for preventing backflow of raw water may be arranged in the sensing flow path 12.

[0128] The control unit 60 may be controlled to close the water supply valve 1012 and open the sensing valve 1014 to supply raw water to the water quality detection unit 50 through the sensing flow path 12.

[0129] After the water quality of the raw water is detected, the control unit 60 closes the water outlet valve 1018 and opens the drain valve 1017 to discharge the raw water detected in the water quality detection unit 50 to the drain port 90b side.

[0130] The control unit 60 may be controlled to open the water supply valve 1012 to the purified water flow path 20 side and close the sensing valve 1014 to supply purified water to the water quality detection unit 50.

[0131] In addition, the control unit 60 controls to close the water outlet valve 1018 and open the drain valve 1017 to discharge the purified water passing through the water quality detection unit 50 to the drain port 90b side, thereby performing a flushing operation.

[0132] After that, the control unit 60 may supply purified water to the water quality detection unit 50 and detect the water quality of the purified water by using the same valve control. Thus, the influence of the raw water can be removed and the water quality of the purified water can be accurately detected in the same water quality detection unit 50.

[0133] Figure 7 It is a diagram for explaining the hygiene management standard of the water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 It is a diagram showing an example of the hygiene management standard set according to the pollution degree reference value and the corresponding hygiene management plan.

[0134] Refer to Figure 7 When the pollution degree is at the first level, the control unit 60 determines that it is normal and performs the general water outlet mode without executing an additional hygiene management plan.

[0135] When the pollution degree is from the second level to the fourth level, the control unit 60 stops the water outlet and executes the actions of the hygiene management plan matching each pollution degree level.

[0136] The contamination level can be distinguished by a reference value determined based on the drinking water quality standards of various countries such as South Korea. For example, based on the domestic drinking water quality standards of South Korea, 100 CFU / mL can be set as the reference for distinguishing between the first and second levels. The reference for the number of bacteria in general drinking water can be 100 CFU / mL or less. Therefore, when the sensor measurement value is at the first-level contamination level, normal water output can be achieved.

[0137] If the contamination level exceeds 100 CFU / mL, the contamination level is the second level, and the control unit 60 can control the execution of the residual water emptying operation to empty the residual water in the discharge flow path. When the contamination level is at the relatively low second level, the occurrence of additional contamination in the filtration unit 10 and the flow path can be reduced only by emptying the residual water in the flow path.

[0138] In addition, in the second-level contamination, the outlet sterilization module 80 can operate in the basic mode. The water outlet part 200 is a part that can be directly or indirectly contacted with the outside, and the possibility of contamination is high. In the case of microbial contamination occurring in the water outlet part 200, contamination in the flow path tube may spread. To prevent this phenomenon, the outlet sterilization module 80 including a UV light source (for example, UV-C LED (278 nm)) can be used. For example, the UV-C LED (0.2 mW) at the water outlet part can operate in a cycle of turning on (On) for 10 minutes and turning off (Off) for 50 minutes, and can achieve 99.99% sterilization of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).

[0139] Generally, contamination up to the level of several hundred to several thousand CFU / mL can be judged as requiring sanitary management. If the water stagnation time becomes longer due to long-term non-use and is affected by the formation of internal biofilms, and if the contamination level rises to reach the 10,000 CFU / mL level, there is a risk of detecting common bacteria. Therefore, 10,000 CFU / mL can be set as a higher contamination reference value. 10,000 CFU / mL can be set as the third-level reference.

[0140] If the contamination level exceeds 10,000 CFU / mL, the contamination level is the third level, and the control unit 60 can control the sterilization module 70 to operate and use high-temperature water to sterilize the flow path. Particulate contaminants such as organic matter and inorganic matter (minerals, etc.) included in the raw water always remain in the water in a small amount. If the usage time of the water distribution device accumulates, the particulate contaminants precipitate, which may cause contamination of the filter or the internal flow path tube. At this time, as a solution for managing the internal contamination level, hot water sterilization can be used. Due to the washing effect based on hot water sterilization (70 °C), 99.99% sterilization of the attached bacteria and floating bacteria in the internal flow path can be achieved.

[0141] On the other hand, the high-temperature water generated in the sterilization module 70 flows into the purified water flow path 20 and the water outlet flow path 13, so that the purified water flow path 20 and the water outlet flow path 13 can be sterilized. The water outlet flow path 13, as the flow path connecting to the cock of the water outlet part 200, can also be named the cock flow path. In addition, in the third stage, the water outlet sterilization module 80 can also operate in the basic mode.

[0142] In addition, if the pollution degree exceeds a higher level, such as 1,000,000 CFU / mL, the pollution degree is at the fourth level. The control unit 60 can sterilize the flow path by operating the sterilization module 70, and the water outlet sterilization module 80 can operate in the power mode. The power mode of the water outlet sterilization module 80 can be set such that, compared with the basic mode, the UV irradiation time is longer. Or, the power mode can be set such that, compared with the basic mode, the UV irradiation intensity is stronger. Or, the power mode can be set such that, compared with the basic mode, the UV irradiation time is longer and the UV irradiation intensity is stronger. Or, the UV irradiation cycle can be adjusted according to the operation mode.

[0143] There are differences in the irradiation time required to achieve a sterilization ability of 99.99% according to the intensity (output) of the light source of the water outlet sterilization module 80. For example, since the output of the 0.2 mW UV-C LED is low, it is necessary to perform multiple repeated operation cycles (Cycles) to achieve the sterilization performance. The sterilization power is related to the UV light quantity × irradiation time, so the optimal operation time may be different according to the LED output. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the operation mode can be adjusted using the sensor measurement value of the water quality detection unit 50. The basic UV operation mode is to turn on the LED only for the minimum time sufficient for sterilization in the low pollution level (for example: a cycle of turning on for 10 minutes and turning off for 50 minutes). In addition, the power mode is a mode to increase the sterilization power by continuously turning on for xx minutes (for example: turning on for 30 minutes) in order to quickly reduce the high pollution level to the first level.

[0144] As Figure 7 shown, as the pollution degree increases, a gradually strengthened sanitation management plan operation can be executed. If the pollution degree increases, the sanitation management of the water outlet part 200 can be strengthened by operating the water outlet sterilization module 80. If the pollution degree further increases, the sterilization module 70 can be additionally operated or the operation mode of the water outlet sterilization module 80 can be changed.

[0145] On the other hand, in this specification, "above" and "more than" can be used interchangeably, and "less than" and "below" can be used interchangeably. For example, if the contamination level is 100 CFU / mL or above, it can be determined as contamination level two; if the contamination level is 10,000 CFU / mL or above, it can be determined as contamination level three; if the contamination level is 1,000,000 CFU / mL or above, it can be determined as contamination level four.

[0146] Alternatively, a plurality of reference values for distinguishing contamination levels can be determined based on the drinking water turbidity water quality standards of various countries such as South Korea. For example, the contamination levels can be distinguished based on 0.3, 0.5, and 1.0 nephelometry turbidity units (NTU).

[0147] If the contamination level is 0.3 NTU or less (or less than), it can be determined as contamination level one; if the contamination level is more than 0.3 NTU (or above) and 0.5 NTU or less (or less than), it can be determined as contamination level two; if the contamination level is more than 0.5 NTU (or above) and 1.0 NTU or less (or less than), it can be determined as contamination level three; if the contamination level is more than 1.0 NTU (or above), it can be determined as contamination level four.

[0148] On the other hand, in another embodiment, a management scheme different from the Figure 7 sanitation management scheme illustrated in can be adopted.

[0149] For example, if the contamination level is one, the control unit 60 can control normal water outlet; if the contamination level is two, the control unit 60 can control to stop water outlet and only perform the action of emptying the residual water in the flow path. When the contamination level is at the relatively low level of two, only by emptying the residual water in the flow path, the occurrence of additional contamination in the filtration unit 10 and the flow path can be reduced.

[0150] In addition, if the contamination level is two, the control unit 60 can control hot water sterilization of the flow path by activating the sterilization module 70. In addition, if the contamination level is three, the control unit 60 can control hot water sterilization of the flow path and sterilization of the water outlet part by activating the sterilization module 70 and the water outlet sterilization module 80 together.

[0151] Figure 8 is a flowchart of the operation method of the water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] Refer to Figure 8, before the water distribution device such as a water purifier discharges water (S800), the water quality detection unit 50 operates to detect the quality of the purified water (S810). For example, the turbidity sensor of the water quality detection unit 50 senses the turbidity of the purified water passing through the filter 10 in real time (S810). The water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit 50 is transmitted to the control unit 60, and the control unit 60 compares the detected water quality data with the water quality standard value (S820).

[0153] If the comparison result (S820) meets the water quality standard (S822), the control unit 60 controls normal water discharge, and the output unit 85 can provide the water quality data meeting the water quality standard to the user in intuitive information such as safe water, blue, etc. (S830).

[0154] If the comparison result (S820) does not meet the water quality standard (S824), the control unit 60 can control to enter the Figure 7 and other described health management modes, and the output unit 85 provides the water quality data that does not meet the water quality standard to the user in intuitive information such as entering the health management mode, red, etc. (S840).

[0155] The control unit 60 can control to stop water discharge according to the pollution degree when entering the health management mode and execute the management plans from level two to level four (S850).

[0156] Figure 9 It is a diagram for explaining the sterilization of the water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 It is a diagram for explaining the emptying of residual water of the water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0157] Refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 , the water distribution device includes: a water supply flow path 11 through which raw water supplied from a water supply source flows; and a filtering unit 10 that filters the raw water supplied to the water supply flow path 11 and generates purified water.

[0158] The purified water passing through the filtering unit 10 flows toward the water outlet 90a side through the purified water flow path 20. The purified water passing through the filtering unit 10 can flow into the water quality detection unit 50. If the purified water flows in, the water quality detection unit 50 can detect the water quality of the purified water.

[0159] On the other hand, the sterilization flow path 71 can branch from the water supply flow path 11. One side of the sterilization flow path 71 branches from the water supply flow path 11, and the other side is connected to the filtering unit 10. A sterilization module 70 is arranged in the sterilization flow path 71 to generate high-temperature water for sterilization.

[0160] Based on the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit 50, the water distribution device causes the high-temperature water discharged from the sterilization module 70 to move to the flow path area, thereby performing a sterilization operation for each flow path area.

[0161] Refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The water distribution device includes: a water outlet 90a that discharges the purified water; a water outlet flow path 13 that guides the purified water to the water outlet 90a; a drainage flow path 14 that branches from the water outlet flow path 13 between the water quality detection unit 50 and the water outlet 90a to discharge the raw water or the purified water; and the water outlet flow path 13 that discharges the raw water or the purified water. In addition, a water outlet sterilization module 80 that irradiates ultraviolet rays to the water outlet 90a is arranged at the end of the water outlet flow path 13.

[0162] An outlet valve V3 may be arranged in the water outlet flow path 13 to selectively supply the raw water or the purified water to the water outlet flow path 13b and the drainage flow path 14.

[0163] On the other hand, a hot water flow path 21 and a cold water flow path 22 branch from the purified water flow path 20. A hot water module 30 for heating the purified water and a cold water module 40 for cooling the purified water may be respectively arranged in the hot water flow path 21 and the cold water flow path 22.

[0164] The control unit 60 controls to selectively operate the sterilization module 70 and the water outlet sterilization module 80 based on the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit 50 according to the hygiene management mode standard to perform a sterilization operation.

[0165] For example, if the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit 50 corresponds to the first-level pollution degree, the purified water is normally discharged to the water outlet 90a. If the water quality data is the second-level pollution degree or higher than the first-level pollution degree, the water discharge is stopped.

[0166] If the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit 50 corresponds to the third-level or fourth-level pollution degree, a flow path hot water sterilization operation of sterilizing the flow path with the high-temperature water discharged from the sterilization module 70 may be performed. If the water quality data detected by the water quality detection unit 50 is above the second reference value (for example, 0.5 NTU), the control unit 60 may determine that the pollution degree is above the third level.

[0167] Refer to Figure 9, in the third or fourth level of contamination, the control unit 60 can be controlled to sterilize the clean water flow path 20 and the water outlet flow path 13 with the high-temperature water discharged from the sterilization module 70. The high-temperature water sterilizes the clean water flow path 20 and the water outlet flow path 13 along the fourth line L4 and discharges it to the water outlet 90a.

[0168] According to the situation, a part of the high-temperature water can be set to be discharged to the drainage flow path 14. The water outlet flow path 13 can include a first water outlet flow path 13a connecting the water quality detection unit 50 and the water outlet valve V3 and a second water outlet flow path 13b connecting the water outlet valve V3 and the water outlet 90a. The high-temperature water flowing out from the sterilization module 90 flows to the clean water flow path 20 and the first water outlet flow path 13a to sterilize the clean water flow path 20 and the first water outlet flow path 13a. In addition, a part of the high-temperature water is discharged to the drainage flow path 14, and the other part sterilizes the second water outlet flow path 13b and is discharged to the water outlet 90a.

[0169] On the other hand, according to an embodiment of the present invention, in the third level of contamination, the water outlet sterilization module 80 can operate in the basic mode, and in the fourth level of contamination, the water outlet sterilization module 80 can operate in the power mode.

[0170] In another embodiment, in the third level of contamination, only the flow path hot water sterilization using the sterilization module 70 can be performed, and in the fourth level of contamination, the flow path hot water sterilization using the sterilization module 70 and the water outlet sterilization of the water outlet sterilization module 80 can be performed together.

[0171] According to the embodiment, if the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit 50 corresponds to the second level of contamination, the water outlet sterilization module 80 can be activated and the residual water emptying operation can be performed.

[0172] In another embodiment, if the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit 50 corresponds to the second level of contamination, only the residual water emptying operation can be performed.

[0173] Refer to Figure 10 , a drainage pump 65 can be arranged in the drainage flow path 14. According to the operation of the drainage pump 65, the residual water can be discharged through the drainage flow path 14. The residual water is discharged to the drainage port 90b along the fifth line L5 via the drainage flow path 14.

[0174] Figure 11 It is a diagram for explaining the turbidity standards of various countries and providing information based on this.

[0175] The reference value for distinguishing the contamination level can be set as the turbidity value based on the legal water quality standards at home and abroad. Refer to Figure 11, showing the purification treatment plants or general drinking water standards in South Korea, the EU (European Union), the US (United States), Canada, Japan, Australia, and India. The pollution degree levels can be distinguished based on the turbidity standards of each country, and different sanitation management programs can be implemented in the corresponding pollution degree levels. Additionally, the output unit 85 can provide visual turbidity information in different colors according to the turbidity value.

[0176] Figure 12 is a flowchart of the operation method of a water distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0177] Referring to Figure 12 , the water quality detection unit 50 senses the pollution degree of water in real time (S1210). For example, the turbidity sensor of the water quality detection unit 50 operates at a specified sensing period and detects the water quality. During the period when the water distribution device is not in use, the water quality in the flow path may deteriorate due to microbial growth and biofilm formation, etc. Therefore, during the non-use period, the occurrence of pollution can also be sensed by sensing the internal water quality state.

[0178] On the other hand, if the detected water quality data is above the pollution reference value (S1220), the control unit 60 can supply clean purified water to the water outlet flow path 13 and / or the drainage flow path 14 via the water quality detection unit 50, and the residual water in the flow path can be discharged through the drainage flow path 14 (S1230). Since the purification passes through the water quality detection unit 50 more than once, the purified water supply and the residual water drainage (S1230) can correspond to the above flushing operation. Thus, not only can the flow path be made clean, but also the sensing accuracy can be improved.

[0179] After that, the water quality detection unit 50 can re-detect the water quality of the purified water (S1240), and the output unit 85 can display the water quality information (S1250). By discharging the polluted water, filling the new purified water into the flow path and displaying the purification notice, users can always drink clean water.

[0180] In addition, when the detected water quality data is not above the pollution reference value (S1220), the output unit 85 can display the water quality information (S1270).

[0181] On the other hand, the water quality detection unit 50 adjusts the waiting time until the next sensing period (S1260, S1280) according to whether to re-detect the water quality (S1240), that is, according to whether it is above the pollution reference value (S1220).

[0182] If the water quality has been re-detected (S1240), then after the water quality detection unit 50 waits for the first reference time (S1260), it performs water quality detection based on the next sensing cycle (S1210). If the water quality is not above the pollution reference value when detecting the water quality based on the original sensing cycle (S1210) (S1220), then after the water quality detection unit 50 waits for the second reference time (S1280), it performs water quality detection based on the next sensing cycle (S1210).

[0183] Here, the first reference time applicable to the case of performing water quality re-detection is longer than the second reference time applicable to the case of not performing water quality re-detection. That is, if the water quality re-detection is performed, the waiting time until the next water quality detection can be increased.

[0184] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the concentration of the pollution index is detected after a constant time. If no abnormal value is sensed, it is further detected at shorter intervals and the internal flow path and water quality pollution are continuously monitored. If a pollution value is sensed, the internal flow path itself can be prevented from being polluted by filling it with newly purified water.

[0185] The water quality of the internal flow path refilled with clean purified water can be re-detected by the sensor, and the continuously maintained water quality purification state can be displayed on the output unit 85 and provided to the user.

[0186] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, but the present invention is not limited to the above specific embodiments. Without departing from the gist of the present invention claimed in the scope of the claims, those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains can perform various modified implementations, and these modified implementations cannot be separately understood from the technical idea or prospect of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water distribution device, wherein, Comprising: A water supply flow path through which raw water supplied from a water supply source flows; A filter that filters the raw water supplied to the water supply flow path to generate purified water; A purified water flow path through which the purified water that has passed through the filter flows; A water quality detection unit connected to the purified water flow path to detect the water quality of the purified water; A sterilization flow path that branches from the water supply flow path on one side and is connected to the filter side on the other side; A sterilization module provided on the sterilization flow path to heat the water flowing through the sterilization flow path; A water outlet for discharging the purified water; A water outlet flow path that guides the purified water to the water outlet; And A water outlet sterilization module that irradiates ultraviolet rays to the water outlet.

2. The water distribution device according to claim 1, wherein It further includes a control unit that controls the sterilization module and the water outlet sterilization module to selectively operate to perform a sterilization action based on the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit.

3. The water distribution device according to claim 1, wherein If the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit corresponds to pollution level one, the purified water is discharged to the water outlet normally; If the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit is pollution level two or above with a pollution degree higher than pollution level one, the water discharge is stopped.

4. The water distribution device according to claim 3, wherein, It further includes: A drainage flow path that branches from the water outlet flow path between the water quality detection unit and the water outlet to discharge the raw water or the purified water; and A drainage pump disposed on the drainage flow path.

5. The water distribution device according to claim 4, wherein If the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit corresponds to pollution level two, the drainage pump is operated to discharge the residual water to the drainage flow path.

6. The water distribution device according to claim 4, wherein If the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit corresponds to pollution level two, the water outlet sterilization module is operated.

7. The water distribution device according to claim 4, wherein It further includes a water outlet valve that selectively supplies the raw water or the purified water to the water outlet flow path and the drainage flow path.

8. The water distribution device according to claim 3, wherein If the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit corresponds to pollution level three with a pollution degree higher than pollution level two, the sterilization module is operated.

9. The water distribution device according to claim 8, wherein The purified water flow path and the water outlet flow path are sterilized by using the high-temperature water discharged from the sterilization module.

10. The water distribution device according to claim 8, wherein If the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit corresponds to pollution level three, the water outlet sterilization module is operated.

11. The water distribution device according to claim 8, wherein If the water quality data detected in the water quality detection unit corresponds to pollution level four with a pollution degree higher than pollution level three, the sterilization module and the water outlet sterilization module operate together.

12. The water distribution device according to claim 11, wherein When the outlet sterilization module operates in the third and fourth levels of contamination, the time for the outlet sterilization module to irradiate ultraviolet rays in the fourth level of contamination is longer than the time for irradiating ultraviolet rays in the third level of contamination.

13. The water distribution device according to claim 1, wherein If the detected water quality data is above the pollution reference value, the water quality detection unit re-detects the water quality of the purified water after flowing the purified water through more than once.

14. The water distribution device according to claim 13, wherein It further includes an output unit. If the detected water quality data is not above the pollution reference value, the output unit displays water quality information.

15. The water distribution device according to claim 13, wherein If the re-detection of the water quality is performed, the water quality detection unit increases the waiting time until the next water quality detection.

16. The water distribution device according to claim 1, wherein It further includes a sensing flow path that branches from the water supply flow path, and the raw water flows in the sensing flow path; If the purified water flows in through the purified water flow path, the water quality detection unit detects the water quality of the purified water. If the raw water flows in through the sensing flow path, the water quality detection unit detects the water quality of the raw water.

17. The water distribution device according to claim 16, wherein If the water quality of the raw water is detected, the water quality detection unit performs a flushing operation of flowing the purified water through more than once and then detects the water quality of the purified water.

18. The water distribution device according to claim 15, wherein, It further includes: A switching valve that supplies the raw water to the water supply flow path or the sterilization flow path; And A sensing valve that opens and closes the sensing flow path.

19. The water distribution device according to claim 1, wherein The water quality detection unit includes a turbidity sensor that irradiates light to a part of the raw water or the purified water and senses the turbidity based on the received scattered light pattern.

20. The water distribution device according to claim 1, wherein, It further includes: A hot water flow path that branches from the purified water flow path on one side; A hot water module that is provided on the hot water flow path and heats the purified water flowing through the hot water flow path; A cold water flow path that branches from the purified water flow path on one side; And A cold water module that is provided on the cold water flow path and cools the purified water flowing through the cold water flow path.

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