Water purifier

Abstract

One embodiment of the water purifier may comprise: a first pipe through which water flowing in from the outside flows; a filter disposed in the first pipe; a hot water heater into which water flows from a first pipe; a second pipe having one end connected to the hot water heater; a circulation pump that circulates water between the first pipe and the second pipe; a first branch pipe, both ends of which are connected to the first piping and in which a circulation pump is disposed; and a second branch pipe connecting the first pipe and the second pipe.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a water purifier, and more particularly, to a water purifier having a structure capable of effectively sterilizing a filter and piping. Background Art

[0002] The contents described in this section merely provide background information for the present invention and do not constitute prior art.

[0003] A water purifier is a device that filters raw water and removes impurities. It uses a filter to remove suspended solids and harmful substances from tap water, and then delivers the desired amount of purified water based on user input. Recent water purifiers are capable of delivering not only purified water but also hot and cold water, and their compact size allows for installation in a variety of environments.

[0004] The interior of a water purifier is equipped with pipes for water flow, and these pipes are equipped with filters, valves, etc. However, if a water purifier is used for a long time, bacteria and microorganisms may grow in the pipes, filters, valves, etc. Therefore, the interior of the water purifier needs to be cleaned regularly.

[0005] In this regard, Korean Patent No. 10-1194733 and Korean Utility Model No. 0135264 are disclosed.

[0006] In the prior art, as a water purifier for sterilizing a filter, a pump and steam are used to sterilize the filter in the reverse direction, or hot water is used to sterilize the filter.

[0007] However, in the conventional technology, it is impossible to sterilize all the water outlet pipes of the water purifier, and thus there is a problem that bacteria, microorganisms, etc. remain in the pipes that have not been sterilized.

[0008] The water purifier may include a device for producing drinking water for a user, which can discharge purified water at room temperature that has passed through a filter, cool the purified water, and heat the purified water.

[0009] Water purifiers are complexly equipped with piping for connecting to city water. Therefore, effective sterilization of these piping is necessary. Furthermore, effective sterilization of the filters and modules that generate cold and hot water within the water purifier is also necessary.

[0010] In addition, it is necessary to reduce the number of additional devices used for sterilizing the water purifier and perform sterilization using devices required for daily use of the water purifier, thereby simplifying the overall structure of the water purifier. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0012] An object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier having a structure that can reduce the number of additional devices for sterilization and can perform sterilization using the devices required for daily use of the water purifier.

[0013] In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier having a structure that can effectively sterilize a filter provided in the water purifier.

[0014] In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier having a structure that can effectively sterilize each pipe in the case of a complex pipe structure.

[0015] In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier having a structure that can easily sterilize a filter and a device for generating cold water.

[0016] The object of the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned objects, and other objects and advantages of the present invention not mentioned can be understood through the following description and can be further clearly understood through the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, it is easy to understand that the objects and advantages of the present invention can be achieved by the solutions proposed in the claims and their combinations.

[0017] Technical solutions for solving the problems

[0018] A water purifier according to an embodiment may include: a filter disposed in a first pipe; a hot water heater into which water flows from the first pipe; a second pipe having one end connected to the hot water heater; and a circulation pump that circulates water between the first pipe and the second pipe. When the water purifier operates in a sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe can be heated while passing through the hot water heater, and can sterilize each pipe and the devices provided therein while flowing through the pipes.

[0019] Therefore, the hot water generated by the hot water heater used to produce drinking water can be used to sterilize the pipes and the devices provided therein.

[0020] The sterilization hot water heated in the hot water heater can pass through the first pipe at a set time and sterilize the filter disposed in the first pipe. Therefore, it is possible to effectively sterilize the microorganisms inside the filter having a complex structure that is difficult to sterilize.

[0021] When the water purifier operates in a sterilization mode, the third three-way valve can open the third pipe and close the first bypass pipe, or can connect the third pipe and the first bypass pipe. Thereby, the third pipe and the first bypass pipe can be separated and sterilized separately.

[0022] The hot water for sterilization can sterilize the filter disposed in the first pipe while flowing through the first pipe. Additionally, it can sterilize the cooling device disposed in the first bypass pipe while flowing through the first bypass pipe. Therefore, there is no need to separate the filter and the cooling device from the water purifier for sterilization.

[0023] An embodiment of the water purifier may include: a first pipe through which water flowing in from the outside flows; a filter disposed in the first pipe; a hot water heater into which water flows from the first pipe; a second pipe having one end connected to the hot water heater; a circulation pump for circulating water between the first pipe and the second pipe; a first branch pipe having both ends connected to the first pipe and provided with a circulation pump; and a second branch pipe connecting the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0024] The water purifier may include: a circulation control valve disposed in the first branch pipe and opening and closing the first branch pipe; a first check valve disposed in the second branch pipe and inhibiting water from flowing from the first pipe to the second pipe; and a second check valve disposed at a position between two portions where both ends of the first branch pipe are connected to the first pipe and inhibiting the water flowing through the first pipe from flowing in the opposite direction to the hot water heater.

[0025] The water purifier may include: a third pipe branching from the first pipe at a position between the portions where both ends of the first branch pipe branch from the first pipe; and a fourth pipe having one end connected to the second pipe and the third pipe and discharging water for the user to drink.

[0026] The water purifier may include: a first three-way valve disposed in the second pipe; and a second three-way valve disposed in the third pipe.

[0027] When the water purifier operates in the first sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe can be heated while flowing through the hot water heater, and can sequentially flow through the second branch pipe, the first pipe, the first branch pipe, and the first pipe.

[0028] When the water purifier operates in the first sterilization mode, the water heated through the hot water heater can repeatedly circulate in the second branch pipe, the first pipe, the first branch pipe, and the first pipe.

[0029] When the water purifier operates in the first sterilization mode, the first three-way valve and the second three-way valve can be closed, the hot water heater can operate to heat the water, and the circulation pump can operate.

[0030] The water purifier may include: a fifth pipe having one end connected to the first three-way valve and the other end connected to the third pipe; a third three-way valve disposed in the fourth pipe; and a drain pipe having one end connected to the third three-way valve.

[0031] When the water purifier operates in the second sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe can be heated via the hot water heater, and can flow through the second pipe, the fourth pipe, and the drain pipe and be discharged to the outside.

[0032] When the water purifier operates in the second sterilization mode, the first three-way valve can connect the second pipe and the fourth pipe, the second three-way valve can be closed, and the third three-way valve can connect the fourth pipe and the drain pipe.

[0033] The water purifier can include a first bypass pipe having one end connected to the second three-way valve and the other end connected to the fourth pipe, and configured with a cooling device for cooling water.

[0034] When the water purifier operates in the third sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe can be heated via the hot water heater, and can flow through the second pipe, the fifth pipe, the third pipe, the first bypass pipe, the fourth pipe, and the drain pipe and be discharged to the outside.

[0035] When the water purifier operates in the third sterilization mode, the first three-way valve can connect the second pipe and the fifth pipe, and the third three-way valve can connect the fourth pipe and the drain pipe.

[0036] When the water purifier operates in the third sterilization mode, the third three-way valve can open the third pipe and close the first bypass pipe, or connect the third pipe and the first bypass pipe.

[0037] The water purifier can include: a second bypass pipe with both ends connected to the drain pipe; and a drain pump configured in the second bypass pipe to pressurize the water to be discharged to the outside.

[0038] The water purifier can include: a cleaning water pipe branched from the first pipe and through which the water passing through the filter flows; a cleaning water valve configured in the cleaning water pipe to control the flow of the cleaning water; and an electrolyzed water module configured in the cleaning water pipe to generate electrolyzed water using the water flowing through the cleaning water pipe.

[0039] Another embodiment of the water purifier may include: a first pipe through which water flowing in from the outside flows; a filter disposed in the first pipe; a hot water heater into which water flows from the first pipe; a second pipe having one end connected to the hot water heater; a first branch pipe having both ends connected to the first pipe; a second branch pipe connecting the first pipe and the second pipe; a third pipe branching from the first pipe at a position between the portions where the first pipe branches at both ends of the first branch pipe; a fourth pipe having one end connected to the second pipe and the third pipe and discharging water for user drinking; a first three-way valve disposed in the second pipe; and a second three-way valve disposed in the third pipe. When the water purifier operates in the first sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe passes through the hot water heater and is heated, and can sequentially flow through the second branch pipe, the first pipe, the first branch pipe, and the first pipe.

[0040] The water purifier may include: a fifth pipe having one end connected to the first three-way valve and the other end connected to the third pipe; a third three-way valve disposed in the fourth pipe; and a drain pipe having one end connected to the third three-way valve. When the water purifier operates in the second sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe passes through the hot water heater and is heated, and can flow through the second pipe, the fourth pipe, and the drain pipe and be discharged to the outside.

[0041] The water purifier may include a first bypass pipe having one end connected to the second three-way valve and the other end connected to the fourth pipe and provided with a cooling device for cooling water. When the water purifier operates in the third sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe passes through the hot water heater and is heated, and can flow through the second pipe, the fifth pipe, the third pipe, the first bypass pipe, the fourth pipe, and the drain pipe and be discharged to the outside.

[0042] Advantages of the Invention

[0043] In the water purifier of the present invention, the hot water generated by using the hot water heater for generating drinking water can be used for sterilizing the pipes and the devices provided therein. Therefore, additional devices for sterilization in the water purifier can be reduced, and thus, while saving manufacturing costs and reducing the overall size of the water purifier by simplifying the structure of the water purifier, the inside of the water purifier can be effectively sterilized.

[0044] In addition, in the water purifier of the present invention, since the hot water can continuously and repeatedly pass through the filter at a set time to sterilize the inside of the filter, the microorganisms inside the filter having a complex structure that is difficult to sterilize can be effectively sterilized.

[0045] In the water purifier of the present invention, the water purifier can use hot water, separate a plurality of pipes, and sterilize them. As a result, the hot water can flow smoothly in each pipe, and due to the sufficient flow of hot water, the sterilization effect can be improved. In addition, by separating and sterilizing each pipe, it is also possible to sterilize each complex pipe individually, so that all pipes that need to be sterilized can be effectively sterilized.

[0046] In addition, in the water purifier of the present invention, the filter and the cooling device that need to be sterilized can be sterilized by hot water simultaneously during the process of sterilizing the pipes. Therefore, there is no need to separate the filter and the cooling device from the water purifier for sterilization, which can improve the convenience of the sterilization operation.

[0047] In addition to the above effects, the specific effects of the present invention will be described together while explaining the specific matters for implementing the invention below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the piping structure of a water purifier according to an embodiment.

[0049] Figure 2 It is a diagram for explaining the flow of hot water when operating in the first sterilization mode in the water purifier.

[0050] Figure 3 It is a diagram for explaining the flow of hot water when operating in the second sterilization mode in the water purifier.

[0051] Figure 4 It is a diagram for explaining the flow of hot water when operating in the third sterilization mode in the water purifier.

[0052] Figure 5 It is a diagram for explaining the flow of hot water when sterilizing the cooling device in the water purifier.

[0053] Figure 6 It is a diagram for explaining the flow of hot water when sterilizing the third pipe in the water purifier. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0054] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the foregoing objects, features, and advantages will be described in detail, so that those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains can easily implement the technical idea of the present invention. In the process of describing the present invention, when it is determined that a detailed description of the known technology related to the present invention will obscure the gist of the present invention, its detailed description will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar components.

[0055] Although the terms first, second, etc. are used in the present invention to describe a plurality of components, these components are not limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise stated, the first component may also be the second component.

[0056] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specified, each component may be singular or plural.

[0057] Unless otherwise clearly specified in the context, the singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions. In this application, terms such as "comprise" or "include" should not be construed as necessarily including all the various components or steps described in the specification, but should be construed as possibly not including some of the components or steps, or may further include other components or steps.

[0058] Throughout the specification, when referring to "A and / or B", unless otherwise stated, it means A, B, or A and B. When referring to "C to D", unless otherwise stated, it means C or more and D or less.

[0059] The water purifier of the embodiment can provide drinking water for users to drink, and can additionally provide cleaning water for cleaning. The operations of the devices that require an active controller among the various devices provided in the water purifier can be controlled by the control unit provided in the water purifier.

[0060] The water purifier of the embodiment can include an operation mode and a sterilization mode and operate. In the operation mode, the water purifier can produce drinking water for users to drink and cleaning water for cleaning. In the sterilization mode, the water purifier can sterilize each pipe, filter 120, and the device for generating cold water and hot water that make up the water purifier.

[0061] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the piping structure of the water purifier of an embodiment. The water purifier may include a main body 10 and a water outlet part 20. The main body 10 may be provided with a device for filtering the tap water flowing in from the water supply pipe and cooling or heating the filtered water.

[0062] The drinking water and the cleaning water can be discharged from the water outlet part 20. The water outlet part 20 may be provided with a third three-way valve 330 for controlling the discharge of the drinking water. The third three-way valve 330 will be specifically described later.

[0063] Hereinafter, the piping of the water purifier and the devices provided in the main body 10 will be described. The water purifier may include a first pipe 110, a filter 120, a hot water heater 130, a second pipe 140, a circulation pump 150, a first branch pipe 160, and a second branch pipe 170.

[0064] The first pipe 110 allows water flowing in from the outside to pass through. One side of the first pipe 110 can be connected to the water supply pipe, and the other side can be combined with the water heater 130. A pressure reducing valve 510 and a feed valve 530 can be provided in the first pipe 110.

[0065] The pressure reducing valve 510 can reduce the pressure of the raw water flowing in from the water supply pipe so that the water pressure of the water flowing through the water purifier is suitable for the water purifier. In addition, the pressure reducing valve 510 can stabilize the flow of water in the first pipe 110.

[0066] The feed valve 530 can control the flow of water from the water supply pipe into the first pipe 110 and the water purifier. If the feed valve is open, water flows into the water purifier; if the feed valve is closed, water does not flow into the water purifier.

[0067] The filter 120 can be arranged in the first pipe 110 and can filter the water flowing through the first pipe 110. The filter 120 can be provided in plural. Since the filter 120 can filter the water for users to drink, it can allow the minerals required by the users to pass through and filter out the substances harmful to the human body. For example, the filter 120 can be set as a carbon block filter, a UF (ultrafiltration, hollow fiber membrane) filter, or a combination thereof.

[0068] A flow sensor 520 can be arranged at the part of the first pipe 110 adjacent to the outlet of the filter 120. The flow sensor 520 can measure the flow rate of the water flowing through the first pipe 110.

[0069] The water heater 130 can be combined with one end of the first pipe 110, and water can flow in from the first pipe 110. In the use mode of the water purifier, the water heater 130 can heat the purified water passing through the filter 120 and generate hot water for users to drink.

[0070] In addition, in the sterilization mode of the water purifier, the water heater 130 can heat the flowing water and generate sterilizing hot water for sterilizing the pipes and devices. For example, the water heater 130 in the embodiment can be set as an electric heating heater to reduce the volume.

[0071] The way the water heater 130 generates hot water for users to drink in the use mode and the way it generates sterilizing hot water in the sterilization mode can be the same.

[0072] One end of the second pipe 140 can be connected to the water heater 130. The other end of the second pipe 140 can be connected to the fourth pipe 240. The water purifier can include a safety pipe 550 branched from the second pipe 140 and a safety valve 540 arranged on the safety pipe 550.

[0073] The safety pipe 550 can connect the second pipe 140 and the drain pipe 260. If the temperature or pressure of the hot water exceeds the set range, the safety valve 540 will open and discharge the hot water discharged from the water heater 130 to the outside through the safety pipe 550 and the drain pipe 260.

[0074] The circulation pump 150 can be arranged in the first branch pipe 160 to circulate water between the first pipe 110 and the second pipe 140. The circulation pump 150 can operate in the sterilization mode of the water purifier. Specifically, when the first sterilization mode is carried out, it will act and make the sterilization hot water circulate in the filter 120.

[0075] Both ends of the first branch pipe 160 can be connected to the first pipe 110 and the circulation pump 150 is arranged. The first branch pipe 160 can be provided with the circulation pump 150 to make the hot water circulate in the filter 120.

[0076] The second branch pipe 170 can connect the first pipe 110 and the second pipe 140. The second branch pipe 170 and the first branch pipe 160 can be arranged together to make the hot water circulate in the filter 120.

[0077] The water purifier can include a circulation control valve 180. The circulation control valve 180 can be arranged in the first branch pipe 160 to open and close the first branch pipe 160. In the use mode, the circulation control valve 180 will close to prevent water from flowing in the first branch pipe 160. In the sterilization mode, the circulation control valve 180 can open to make water flow in the first branch pipe 160.

[0078] The water purifier can include a first check valve 190. The first check valve 190 can be arranged in the second branch pipe 170 to inhibit water from flowing from the first pipe 110 to the second pipe 140.

[0079] A part of the water can flow from the first pipe 110 to the second pipe 140 through the second branch pipe 170, bypass the water heater 130 and be discharged through the water outlet part 20. The first check valve 190 can prevent the water from being insufficiently heated when the water heater 130 is operating by inhibiting the water flowing in from the first pipe 110 from flowing through the second branch pipe 170 into the second pipe 140.

[0080] The water purifier can include a second check valve 220. The second check valve 220 can be arranged at the position between the two parts where the two ends of the first branch pipe 160 are connected to the first pipe 110, and can inhibit the water flowing through the first pipe 110 from flowing in the opposite direction of the water heater urchased.

[0081] In the case of performing the first sterilization mode, the water flowing from the first branch pipe 160 into the first pipe 110 can flow in the opposite direction to the hot water heater 130. The second check valve 220 can cause the sterilization hot water heated by the hot water heater 130 to circulate in the filter 120 in the first sterilization mode by preventing the water flowing from the first branch pipe 160 into the first pipe 110 from flowing in the opposite direction to the hot water heater 130 and causing the water to flow towards the hot water heater 130.

[0082] A flow control valve 560 can be disposed between the outlet of the first branch pipe 160 and the hot water heater 130 in the first pipe 110. The flow control valve 560 can adjust the flow rate of the water flowing from the first pipe 110 into the hot water heater 130. Additionally, the flow control valve 560 can adjust the flow rate of the hot water circulating in the filter 120 in the first sterilization mode.

[0083] The water purifier can include a third pipe 230 and a fourth pipe 240. The third pipe 230 can branch from the first pipe 110 at a position between the portions where the third pipe branches from the first pipe 110 at both ends of the first branch pipe 160.

[0084] In the use mode, when the user discharges cold water through the water outlet 20, the water passing through the filter 120 does not flow through the hot water heater 130 but can flow towards the first bypass pipe 270 connected to the third pipe 230, is cooled by the cooling device 210 for cooling water, and is discharged from the water outlet 20 through the fourth pipe 240.

[0085] One end of the fourth pipe 240 is connected to the second pipe 140 and the third pipe 230 and discharges water for the user to drink. In the use mode, when the user needs hot water, the water passing through the filter 120 can be heated by the hot water heater 130 and discharged from the water outlet 20 through the second pipe 140 and the fourth pipe 240.

[0086] In the use mode, when the user needs cold water, the water can flow through the aforementioned flow path, be cooled by the cooling device 210, and be discharged from the water outlet 20 through the third pipe 230 and the fourth pipe 240.

[0087] The water purifier can include a first three-way valve 310 and a second three-way valve 320. The three-way valve described in the specification can be combined with three pipes and can connect any two of the three pipes to each other or close all three pipes.

[0088] The first three-way valve 310 can be disposed in the second pipe 140. Two of the three inlets (or outlets) of the first three-way valve 310 can be connected to the second pipe 140, and the remaining one can be connected to the fifth pipe 250.

[0089] The first three-way valve 310 can direct the water discharged from the water heater 130 to the fourth pipe 240 by connecting the second pipes 140, or can connect the second pipe 140 and the fifth pipe 250, or can close the second pipe 140 and the fifth pipe 250.

[0090] The second three-way valve 320 can be arranged in the third pipe 230. Two of the three inlets (or outlets) of the second three-way valve 320 can be connected to the third pipe 230, and the remaining one can be connected to the first bypass pipe 270.

[0091] The second three-way valve 320 can direct the water that has not passed through the water heater 130 to the fourth pipe 240 by connecting the third pipes 230, or can connect the third pipe 230 and the first bypass pipe 270, or can close the third pipe 230 and the first bypass pipe 270.

[0092] The water purifier can include a fifth pipe 250, a third three-way valve 330, and a drain pipe 260. One end of the fifth pipe 250 can be connected to the first three-way valve 310 and the other end can be connected to the third pipe 230.

[0093] When the water purifier operates in the sterilization mode, the sterilizing hot water generated by the water heater 130 can flow through the fifth pipe 250, the third pipe 230, the first bypass pipe 270, and the cooling device 210 to sterilize them.

[0094] The third three-way valve 330 can be arranged in the fourth pipe 240. Two of the three inlets (or outlets) of the third three-way valve 330 can be connected to the fourth pipe 240, and the remaining one can be connected to the drain pipe 260.

[0095] The third three-way valve 330 can allow the drinking water for the user to be discharged through the water outlet part 20 by connecting the fourth pipes 240, or can discharge the water flowing through the fourth pipe 240 to the outside through the drain pipe 260 by connecting the fourth pipe 240 and the drain pipe 260.

[0096] One end of the drain pipe 260 can be connected to the third three-way valve 330. In the use mode, the water flowing through the fourth pipe 240 can be the drinking water for the user. However, in the sterilization mode, since the water flowing through the fourth pipe 240 is not the drinking water for the user, it is suitable to discharge it through a part different from the water outlet of the drinking water.

[0097] Therefore, in the water purifier of the embodiment, in the sterilization mode, the sterilizing hot water flowing through the fourth pipe 240 can be discharged to the outside through the drain pipe 260 connected to the fourth pipe 240.

[0098] The water purifier may include a first bypass pipe 270 and a cooling device 210. One end of the first bypass pipe 270 may be connected to the second three-way valve 320 and the other end may be connected to the fourth pipe 240, and a cooling device 210 configured with cooling water may be provided.

[0099] The cooling device 210 may be disposed on the first bypass pipe 270 and may cool the purified water to produce cold water for the user to drink in the usage mode. In the usage mode, when the user selects cold water, water may flow into the cooling device 210 via the third pipe 230 and the first bypass pipe 270 and be cooled, and may be discharged through the water outlet 20.

[0100] In the usage mode, when the user selects filtered normal-temperature water, i.e., purified water, the water does not flow to the first bypass pipe 270 and may flow through the third pipe 230 and the fourth pipe 240 and be discharged through the water outlet 20.

[0101] In the cooling device 210, the pipe through which the water flows may be configured in a spiral shape. Therefore, it is necessary to sterilize the pipe provided in the cooling device 210. In an embodiment, hot water for sterilization is made to flow in the cooling device 210 to sterilize the pipe inside the cooling device 210.

[0102] The water purifier may include a second bypass pipe 280 and a drainage pump 290. Both ends of the second bypass pipe 280 may be connected to the drainage pipe 260. The drainage pump 290 may be disposed on the second bypass pipe 280 to pressurize the water to be discharged to the outside.

[0103] In order to quickly discharge the water flowing through the fourth pipe 240, the third three-way valve 330 may connect the fourth pipe 240 and the drainage pipe 260. After the fourth pipe 240 and the drainage pipe 260 are connected, the drainage pump 290 operates, and the water flowing through the fourth pipe 240 may be quickly discharged to the outside via the drainage pipe 260.

[0104] In addition, the drainage pump 290 may be used when quick drainage is required. Therefore, in the sterilization mode where it is necessary to relatively reduce the drainage speed in order to keep the hot water in the pipe for a specified time or more, the drainage pump 290 may also operate to discharge the water to the outside via the drainage pipe 260 by gravity drop.

[0105] The water purifier may include a cleaning water pipe 340, a cleaning water valve 350, and an electrolyzed water module 360. The cleaning water pipe 340 may branch from the first pipe 110 and may allow the water that has passed through the filter 120 to flow. The outlet of the cleaning water pipe 340 may be provided at the water outlet 20. Therefore, the cleaning water may be discharged from the water outlet 20 of the water purifier.

[0106] The cleaning water contains a bactericidal substance. Therefore, in the water purifier of the embodiment, the electrolyzed water containing the bactericidal substance generated during the electrolysis of water can be used as the cleaning water.

[0107] The cleaning water valve 350 can be arranged in the cleaning water pipe 340 to control the flow of the cleaning water. The electrolyzed water module 360 can be arranged in the cleaning water pipe 340 and use the water flowing through the cleaning water pipe 340 to generate electrolyzed water. The electrolyzed water module 360 can electrolyze the water passing through the filter 120 and generate electrolyzed water including a bactericidal substance.

[0108] In the water purifier of the embodiment, the cleaning water pipe 340 can be sterilized without using hot water. This is because, since the electrolyzed water containing the bactericidal substance flows through the cleaning water pipe 340, it will be sufficiently sterilized by the electrolyzed water, so there is no need to use hot water additionally for sterilization.

[0109] In the embodiment, the hot water generated can be used to sterilize the pipes and the devices arranged thereon by using the hot water heater 130 for generating drinking water. Therefore, additional devices for sterilizing the water purifier can be reduced. As a result, the structure of the water purifier can be simplified and the manufacturing cost can be saved, and while the overall size of the water purifier can be reduced, the inside of the water purifier can be effectively sterilized.

[0110] Hereinafter, the process of sterilizing the filter 120, the cooling device 210, and each pipe arranged in the water purifier will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. Figure 2 It is a diagram for explaining the flow of hot water when the water purifier operates in the first sterilization mode.

[0111] In Figure 2 In the following drawings, the thicker dashed line (hidden line) indicates the part where the unheated water flows, and the thicker solid line indicates the part where the heated hot water for sterilizing the pipe flows. Additionally, in Figure 2 In the following drawings, the flow of water when the water purifier operates in the sterilization mode is shown.

[0112] The first sterilization mode is a process of circulating the hot water for sterilization through the filter 120 to sterilize the filter 120. Complex structures such as diaphragms for filtration can be provided in the filter 120. Due to such complex structures, microorganisms such as viruses and bacteria multiply inside the filter 120, and foreign substances that become nutrients for the microorganisms will accumulate.

[0113] Due to the internal structure of this filter 120, compared with other devices of the water purifier, the amount of microbial reproduction is larger, but it is difficult to sterilize the inside. Therefore, in the embodiment, hot water for sterilization can be continuously circulated through the filter 120 and the circulation can be continued for a specified time or more, so that the microorganisms inside the filter 120 can be effectively sterilized.

[0114] When the water purifier operates in the first sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe 110 is heated while passing through the hot water heater 130, and can flow through the second branch pipe 170, the first pipe 110, the first branch pipe 160, and the first pipe 110 in sequence.

[0115] When the water purifier operates in the first sterilization mode, the water heated through the hot water heater 130 can repeatedly flow through the second branch pipe 170, the first pipe 110, the first branch pipe 160, and the first pipe 110 and circulate.

[0116] When the water purifier operates in the first sterilization mode, the first three-way valve 310 and the second three-way valve 320 can be closed, the hot water heater 130 can operate to heat the water, and the circulation pump 150 can operate.

[0117] The first sterilization mode can be carried out in the following process. First, the first three-way valve 310, the second three-way valve 320, and the cleaning water valve 350 can be closed, and the circulation control valve 180 and the feed valve 530 can be opened. Water can flow in from the water supply pipe, and the circulation pump 150 and the hot water heater 130 can operate.

[0118] After that, if the water is sufficiently filled inside the pipe, the feed valve 530 will be closed. Whether the water is sufficiently filled inside the pipe can be known, for example, through the flow sensor 520 arranged in the first pipe 110.

[0119] In the state where the feed valve 530 is closed, if the circulation pump and the hot water heater 130 continue to work, the hot water for sterilization can repeatedly flow through the second branch pipe 170, the first pipe 110, the first branch pipe 160, and the first pipe 110 through the circulation pump 150 and circulate. In Figure 2 which, the circulation of the hot water is shown by a larger arrow.

[0120] The hot water can circulate while continuously and repeatedly passing through the filter 120. The circulation of the hot water can continue for a set time. While the hot water passes through the filter 120 for the set time, the inside of the filter 120 with a complex structure can be effectively sterilized by the hot water for sterilization.

[0121] In an embodiment, since hot water continuously and repeatedly sterilizes the interior of the filter 120 for a set time, it is possible to effectively sterilize the microorganisms inside the filter 120 having a complex structure that is difficult to sterilize.

[0122] In addition, after the sterilization operation is completed, the first three-way valve 310 can be connected between the second pipe 140, and the third three-way valve 330 can be connected to the fourth pipe 240 and the drain pipe 260, so that the hot water for sterilization can sequentially pass through the second pipe 140, the fourth pipe 240, the drain pipe 260 and be discharged to the outside.

[0123] Figure 3 It is a diagram for explaining the flow of hot water when the water purifier operates in the second sterilization mode. In the second sterilization mode, the second pipe 140 and the fourth pipe 240 can be sterilized. Since the second pipe 140 and the fourth pipe 240 are the pipes through which the hot water for the user to drink flows in the use mode, they need to be sterilized.

[0124] When the water purifier operates in the second sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe 110 can pass through the hot water heater 130 and be heated, and can flow through the second pipe 140, the fourth pipe 240, and the drain pipe 260 and be discharged to the outside.

[0125] When the water purifier operates in the second sterilization mode, the first three-way valve 310 can connect the second pipe 140 and the fourth pipe 240, the second three-way valve 320 can be closed, and the third three-way valve 330 can connect the fourth pipe 240 and the drain pipe 260.

[0126] In the second sterilization mode, the circulation control valve 180 can be closed and the circulation pump 150 can be inoperative. Therefore, the water flowing through the first pipe 110 does not flow to the first branch pipe 160. In addition, the first check valve 190 disposed on the second branch pipe 170 can prevent water from flowing from the first pipe 110 to the second pipe 140 through the second branch pipe 170.

[0127] Therefore, in the second sterilization mode, the water flowing into the water purifier can flow through the first pipe 110 and pass through the hot water heater 130, thereby becoming heated hot water, and the hot water can flow through the second pipe 140 and the fourth pipe 240 while sterilizing these pipes.

[0128] The second sterilization mode can be continuously performed for a set time, whereby the second pipe 140 and the fourth pipe 240 can be sufficiently sterilized.

[0129] Figure 4 It is a diagram for explaining the flow of hot water when the water purifier operates in the third sterilization mode. InFigure 4 In the third sterilization mode shown, since the water pressure in the first pipe 110 is higher than the water pressure in the fifth pipe 250, the water discharged from the fifth pipe 250 flows toward the third pipe 230, and the flow toward the first pipe 110 can be sufficiently suppressed.

[0130] In the third sterilization mode, the third pipe 230 through which unheated water flows during the use mode, the first bypass pipe 270 connected to the third pipe 230, and the cooling device 210 disposed in the first bypass pipe 270 can be sterilized.

[0131] When the water purifier operates in the third sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe 110 can be heated via the hot water heater 130, and can be discharged to the outside via the second pipe 140, the fifth pipe 250, the third pipe 230, the first bypass pipe 270, the fourth pipe 240, and the drain pipe 260.

[0132] Similar to the second sterilization mode, in the third sterilization mode, the circulation control valve 180 can be closed and the circulation pump 150 can be inoperative. Therefore, the water flowing through the first pipe 110 does not flow toward the first branch pipe 160. In addition, the first check valve 190 disposed in the second branch pipe 170 can suppress the water from flowing from the first pipe 110 to the second pipe 140 via the second branch pipe 170.

[0133] When the water purifier operates in the third sterilization mode, the first three-way valve 310 can connect the second pipe 140 and the fifth pipe 250, and the third three-way valve 330 can connect the fourth pipe 240 and the drain pipe 260.

[0134] In Figure 4 shows the overall flow path through which the sterilizing hot water flows in the third sterilization mode. However, the second three-way valve 320 does not connect the third pipes 230 while connecting the third pipe 230 and the first bypass pipe 270.

[0135] When the water purifier operates in the third sterilization mode, the third three-way valve 330 can open the third pipe 230 and close the first bypass pipe 270, or can connect the third pipe 230 and the first bypass pipe 270.

[0136] In the third sterilization mode, hot water can be used to sterilize the entire third pipe 230. In addition, the first bypass pipe 270 and the cooling device 210 disposed therein can be sterilized. The sterilization of the third pipe 230 and the sterilization of the first bypass pipe 270 and the cooling device 210 can be achieved in sequence, but there is no priority between them.

[0137] Hereinafter, a specific description will be given. In the following Figure 5 andFigure 6 In each of the sterilization processes shown, the fifth pipe 250 and the fourth pipe 240 can be sterilized together.

[0138] Figure 5 It is a diagram for explaining the flow of hot water in the case of sterilizing the cooling device 210 in the water purifier. In Figure 5 In the third sterilization mode shown, sterilizing hot water can be used to sterilize the first bypass pipe 270 and the cooling device 210.

[0139] In this case, the second three-way valve 320 can connect the third pipe 230 and the first bypass pipe 270. Therefore, the sterilizing hot water generated by the hot water heater 130 can sequentially pass through the fifth pipe 250, the third pipe 230, the first bypass pipe 270 and pass through the cooling device 210 disposed in the first bypass pipe 270. The hot water passing through the first bypass pipe 270 can pass through the fourth pipe 240 and the drain pipe 260 and be discharged to the outside.

[0140] Thus, the cooling device 210 and the first bypass pipe 270 can be sterilized, so that the devices and pipes related to the cold drinking water in the water purifier can be sterilized.

[0141] Figure 6 It is a diagram for explaining the flow of hot water in the case of sterilizing the third pipe 230 in the water purifier. In Figure 6 In the third sterilization mode shown, sterilizing hot water can be used to sterilize the third pipe 230.

[0142] In this case, the second three-way valve 320 can be connected between the third pipes 230. Therefore, the sterilizing hot water generated by the hot water heater 130 can sterilize the entire third pipe 230 while passing through the fifth pipe 250 and the third pipe 230. The hot water passing through the third pipe 230 can be discharged to the outside through the fourth pipe 240 and the drain pipe 260.

[0143] The third sterilization mode can be continuously performed for a set time. Thus, the third pipe 230, the fourth pipe 240, the fifth pipe 250, the first bypass pipe 270, and the cooling device 210 can be sufficiently sterilized.

[0144] In addition, in the embodiment, the filter 120 and the cooling device 210 that need to be sterilized can be sterilized by hot water simultaneously during the sterilization of the pipes. Therefore, there is no need to separate the filter 120 and the cooling device 210 from the water purifier for sterilization, thereby improving the convenience of the sterilization operation.

[0145] As described above, although the present invention has been described with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and the drawings disclosed in this specification, and it is obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications can be made within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. And when explaining the embodiments of the present invention before, even if the functions and effects of the components of the present invention are not explicitly described and explained, the predictable effects of such components should be taken for granted.

Claims

1. A water purifier, wherein, Comprising: A first pipe for the flow of water flowing in from the outside; A filter disposed in the first pipe; A water heater into which water flows from the first pipe; A second pipe having one end connected to the water heater; A circulation pump for circulating water between the first pipe and the second pipe; A first branch pipe having both ends connected to the first pipe and provided with the circulation pump; And A second branch pipe connecting the first pipe and the second pipe.

2. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein, Comprising: A circulation control valve disposed in the first branch pipe and opening and closing the first branch pipe; A first check valve disposed in the second branch pipe and inhibiting water from flowing from the first pipe to the second pipe; And A second check valve disposed at a position between two portions where both ends of the first branch pipe are connected to the first pipe and inhibiting the water flowing through the first pipe from flowing in the opposite direction to the water heater.

3. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein, Comprising: A third pipe branching from the first pipe at a position between the portions where both ends of the first branch pipe branch from the first pipe; And A fourth pipe having one end connected to the second pipe and the third pipe and discharging water for user drinking.

4. The water purifier according to claim 3, wherein, Comprising: A first three-way valve disposed in the second pipe; And A second three-way valve disposed in the third pipe.

5. The water purifier according to claim 4, wherein When the water purifier operates in the first sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe is heated while flowing through the water heater, and sequentially flows through the second branch pipe, the first pipe, the first branch pipe, and the first pipe.

6. The water purifier according to claim 4, wherein When the water purifier operates in the first sterilization mode, the water heated via the water heater circulates repeatedly in the second branch pipe, the first pipe, the first branch pipe, and the first pipe.

7. The water purifier according to claim 4, wherein When the water purifier operates in the first sterilization mode, the first three-way valve and the second three-way valve are closed, the water heater operates to heat water, and the circulation pump operates.

8. The water purifier according to claim 4, wherein, Comprising: A fifth pipe having one end connected to the first three-way valve and the other end connected to the third pipe; A third three-way valve disposed in the fourth pipe; And A drain pipe having one end connected to the third three-way valve.

9. The water purifier according to claim 8, wherein, Comprising: When the water purifier operates in the second sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe is heated via the water heater, and flows through the second pipe, the fourth pipe, and the drain pipe and is discharged to the outside.

10. The water purifier according to claim 8, wherein When the water purifier operates in the second sterilization mode, the first three-way valve connects the second pipe and the fourth pipe, the second three-way valve is closed, and the third three-way valve connects the fourth pipe and the drain pipe.

11. The water purifier according to claim 8, wherein Comprising a first bypass pipe having one end connected to the second three-way valve and the other end connected to the fourth pipe and provided with a cooling device for cooling water.

12. The water purifier according to claim 11, wherein when the water purifier operates in the third sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe passes through the hot water heater and is heated, and then flows through the second pipe, the fifth pipe, the third pipe, the first bypass pipe, the fourth pipe, and the drain pipe and is discharged to the outside.

13. The water purifier according to claim 11, wherein when the water purifier operates in the third sterilization mode, the first three-way valve connects the second pipe and the fifth pipe, and the third three-way valve connects the fourth pipe and the drain pipe.

14. The water purifier according to claim 11, wherein when the water purifier operates in the third sterilization mode, the third three-way valve opens the third pipe and closes the first bypass pipe, or connects the third pipe and the first bypass pipe.

15. The water purifier according to claim 8, wherein, Comprising: A second bypass pipe with both ends connected to the drain pipe; And A drain pump disposed in the second bypass pipe and pressurizing the water to be discharged to the outside.

16. The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein, Comprising: A cleaning water pipe branched from the first pipe and through which the water passing through the filter flows; A cleaning water valve disposed in the cleaning water pipe and controlling the flow of the cleaning water; And An electrolyzed water module disposed in the cleaning water pipe and generating electrolyzed water using the water flowing through the cleaning water pipe.

17. A water purifier, wherein, Comprising: A first pipe through which water flowing in from the outside flows; A filter disposed in the first pipe; A hot water heater into which water flows from the first pipe; A second pipe with one end connected to the hot water heater; A first branch pipe with both ends connected to the first pipe; A second branch pipe connecting the first pipe and the second pipe; A third pipe branched from the first pipe at a position between the parts where the first pipe branches at both ends of the first branch pipe; A fourth pipe with one end connected to the second pipe and the third pipe and discharging water for the user to drink; A first three-way valve disposed in the second pipe; And A second three-way valve disposed in the third pipe; When operating in the first sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe is heated while passing through the hot water heater, and then sequentially flows through the second branch pipe, the first pipe, the first branch pipe, and the first pipe.

18. The water purifier according to claim 17, wherein, Comprising: A fifth pipe with one end connected to the first three-way valve and the other end connected to the third pipe; A third three-way valve disposed in the fourth pipe; And A drain pipe with one end connected to the third three-way valve; When the water purifier operates in the second sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe passes through the hot water heater and is heated, and then flows through the second pipe, the fourth pipe, and the drain pipe and is discharged to the outside.

19. The water purifier according to claim 18, wherein it includes a first bypass pipe with one end connected to the second three-way valve and the other end connected to the fourth pipe and configured with a cooling device for cooling water. When the water purifier operates in the third sterilization mode, the water flowing into the first pipe passes through the hot water heater and is heated, and then flows through the second pipe, the fifth pipe, the third pipe, the first bypass pipe, the fourth pipe, and the drain pipe and is discharged to the outside.

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