Water purifier and method for detecting service life of front filter element

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a water purifier and a method for detecting the service life of a front filter element. The water purifier comprises a raw water path provided with a front filter element; the water purification waterway is provided with a core filter element; water inlets of the purified water path and the living water path are communicated to a water outlet of the raw water path; the turbidimeters are arranged on one or more of the water paths and are used for detecting turbidity information of the water paths; the flow meter is arranged on the raw water path or the living water path and used for detecting flow information of the water path where the flow meter is located; the control module is used for determining the total amount of filtered water of the front filter element based on the flow information or the flow information and the working duration information of the water purification path; the processor is also used for determining the effluent turbidity of the front filter element based on the turbidity information; the processor is also used for determining that the service life of the front filter element expires when any one of the effluent turbidity and the total amount of the filtered water reaches a corresponding first preset threshold value. Therefore, the expiration of the service life of the front filter element can be accurately detected, and a user is reminded to replace the front filter element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water purifier technology, specifically to a method for detecting the lifespan of a pre-filter cartridge in a water purifier, and a water purifier using the detection method to detect the lifespan of the filter cartridge. Background Technology

[0002] Dual-outlet water purifiers can provide two different types of water: one is pre-filtered domestic water, suitable for daily washing and cleaning; the other is purified water that has undergone multiple filtrations and can be used for drinking. This design not only improves water resource utilization but also meets the different water quality needs of families.

[0003] In a dual-outlet water purifier, the pre-filter primarily intercepts large particles of impurities in the water. Water filtered through the pre-filter can be provided directly to the user as drinking water, or it can be filtered further by the downstream secondary filter before being provided for consumption. Current replacement strategies mainly rely on flow rate decay and the manufacturer's recommended replacement interval. Flow rate decay refers to a significant decrease in water flow as the filter's usage time increases, indicating that the filter may be clogged. Manufacturers typically provide a recommended replacement interval based on the filter material and the usage environment; users should replace the filter within this interval to ensure effective water purification.

[0004] Replacing filter cartridges based on their wear and tear is largely a matter of user judgment, which can vary significantly between users. This can lead to filters being used even when they are actually ineffective. Manufacturer-recommended replacement cycles are estimates based on general usage conditions and cannot accurately adapt to the specific environments and water quality of all users. Delayed filter replacement can result in decreased water quality from the water purifier and may even negatively impact the user's health. Replacing filters before they are fully utilized increases the user's operating costs. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To at least partially address the problems existing in the prior art, embodiments of the present invention provide a water purifier. The water purifier includes: a raw water path, on which a pre-filter is installed; a purified water path, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the raw water path, and a core filter is installed in the purified water path; a domestic water path, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the raw water path; a turbidity meter, installed in one or more of the following water paths: the raw water path downstream of the pre-filter, the domestic water path, and the purified water path upstream of the core filter, for detecting turbidity information of the water in the path; and a flow meter, installed in the raw water path or the domestic water path, for detecting... The system measures the flow rate of water within the water circuit and includes a control module. When the flow meter is installed on the raw water circuit, the control module determines the total filtration volume of the pre-filter based on the flow rate information. When the flow meter is installed on the domestic water circuit, the control module determines the total filtration volume of the pre-filter based on the flow rate information and the operating time information of the purified water circuit. The control module determines the turbidity of the effluent from the pre-filter based on turbidity information. Furthermore, the control module determines the expiration of the pre-filter's lifespan when either the effluent turbidity or the total filtration volume reaches a corresponding first preset threshold.

[0006] This application employs a collaborative detection method for the effluent turbidity and total filtered water volume of the pre-filter cartridge. When either the effluent turbidity or the total filtered water volume reaches its corresponding first preset threshold, the control module determines that the pre-filter cartridge has reached the end of its lifespan. In areas with poor water quality, the effluent turbidity generally reaches its corresponding first preset threshold first, allowing the determination of the pre-filter cartridge's lifespan based on this turbidity. In areas with good water quality, the total filtered water volume generally reaches its corresponding first preset threshold first, allowing the determination of the pre-filter cartridge's lifespan based on this total filtered water volume. Therefore, the expiration of the pre-filter cartridge's lifespan can be accurately detected, reminding users to replace it in a timely manner.

[0007] For example, the water purifier may further include a booster pump, which can be installed in the purified water path upstream of the core filter element. The control module can also be used to determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter element based on the operating time of the booster pump, the water flow rate of the core filter element, and the water production rate of the core filter element. Specifically, the control module can determine the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water path based on the operating time of the booster pump, the water flow rate of the core filter element, and the water production rate of the core filter element. Thus, the control module can determine the amount of raw water consumed by the domestic water path based on the flow rate information detected by the flow meter, and then determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter element based on the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water path.

[0008] For example, the operating time of the booster pump can be directly obtained based on the pump's on and off times. By accumulating the booster pump's operating time, the amount of raw water consumed by the water purification circuit can be determined, thereby determining the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter cartridge.

[0009] For example, the operating time of the booster pump can be indirectly obtained based on the closing and opening times of the high-pressure switch located in the purified water circuit downstream of the core filter element. When the booster pump is controlled to start and stop via the high-pressure switch, the closing time of the high-pressure switch can be accumulated to determine the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water circuit.

[0010] For example, the operating time of the booster pump can be indirectly obtained based on an electrical signal sent by a smart faucet connected to the outlet of the purified water circuit. When a user operates the smart faucet to start and stop water dispensing, they can send an electrical signal to the control module. The control module can then use this signal to accumulate the water production time of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge, thereby determining the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water circuit. The user can also input the amount of water dispensed each time through the smart faucet; thus, the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water circuit can be determined based on the amount of water dispensed each time.

[0011] For example, the turbidity meter can be installed in the raw water circuit. The control module can also be used to determine the turbidity of the effluent based on turbidity information when the purified water circuit and the domestic water circuit stop supplying water, based on flow information and the working status of the booster pump. When the turbidity meter is installed in the raw water circuit, it can more promptly measure the changes in the turbidity of the effluent from the pre-filter and determine in a timely manner whether the pre-filter has reached the end of its lifespan.

[0012] For example, a turbidity meter can be installed in the purified water circuit, and the control module can also be used to determine the turbidity of the effluent based on turbidity information when the purified water circuit stops supplying water, based on the operating status of the booster pump. Installing the turbidity meter in the purified water circuit can reduce the computational load on the control module.

[0013] For example, both the turbidity meter and the flow meter can be installed in the domestic water circuit. The control module can also be used to determine the turbidity of the effluent based on the turbidity information when the domestic water circuit stops supplying water, based on the flow information. Thus, the water flow rate in the pure water circuit is not limited by the flow meter.

[0014] For example, a pre-filter may include multiple filter cartridges arranged in series on the raw water path, and the first preset threshold corresponding to the total amount of water filtered is determined by the filter cartridge with the smallest filtration capacity among the multiple filter cartridges. This allows for full utilization of the filter cartridges' filtration capacity, reducing user operating costs.

[0015] For example, the water purifier may also include a reminder module, and the control module may be used to control the reminder module to issue a first-level reminder when either the turbidity of the effluent or the total filtered water volume reaches a corresponding first preset threshold. Thus, the user can replace the filter cartridge in a timely manner based on the reminder.

[0016] For example, the control module can also be used to issue a secondary reminder when either the effluent turbidity or the total filtered water volume reaches a corresponding second preset threshold, wherein the second preset threshold for effluent turbidity is less than its corresponding first preset threshold, and the second preset threshold for total filtered water volume is less than its corresponding first preset threshold. Thus, a secondary reminder can be issued in advance before the pre-filter cartridge's lifespan expires, providing users with preparation time to replace the cartridge.

[0017] For example, when the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge is determined to have expired based on the effluent turbidity exceeding a corresponding first preset threshold, the control module is specifically used to determine the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge to have expired when the effluent turbidity exceeds the corresponding first preset threshold n times consecutively or m times cumulatively, where n is less than m. This avoids misjudgments of the lifespan expiration due to one or more inaccuracies in the turbidity meter.

[0018] An embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for detecting the lifespan of a pre-filter cartridge. The pre-filter cartridge is installed in the raw water path, and the outlet of the raw water path is connected to a parallel purified water path and a domestic water path. A core filter cartridge is installed in the purified water path. The method includes: detecting the turbidity information of the water effluent from the pre-filter cartridge to determine the turbidity of the effluent; detecting the flow rate information of the raw water path to determine the total filtration volume of the pre-filter cartridge, or detecting the flow rate information of the domestic water path and the operating time of the purified water path to determine the total filtration volume of the pre-filter cartridge; and determining that the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge has expired when either the turbidity of the effluent or the total filtration volume reaches a corresponding first preset threshold. Therefore, the expiration of the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge can be accurately detected, reminding the user to replace it in a timely manner.

[0019] For example, the step of detecting the turbidity information of the effluent from the pre-filter cartridge specifically includes: detecting the turbidity information in the raw water path downstream of the pre-filter cartridge. The method further includes: determining the effluent turbidity based on the turbidity information when both the purified water path and the domestic water path are shut down.

[0020] For example, the step of detecting the turbidity information of the water outlet from the pre-filter cartridge specifically includes: detecting the turbidity information in the domestic water supply line. The method further includes: determining the turbidity of the outlet water based on the turbidity information when the domestic water supply line stops supplying water.

[0021] For example, the step of detecting the turbidity information of the water outlet of the pre-filter cartridge specifically includes: detecting the turbidity information in the water purification path upstream of the core filter cartridge. The method also includes: determining the turbidity of the outlet water based on the turbidity information when the water purification path stops supplying water.

[0022] A series of simplified concepts are introduced in the description of the invention, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This description is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0023] The advantages and features of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The following figures are included as part of this invention for understanding its principles. The figures illustrate embodiments of the invention and their descriptions, serving to explain the principles of the invention. In the figures,

[0025] Figure 1 This is a water circuit diagram of a water purifier according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a water circuit diagram of a water purifier according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a water circuit diagram of a water purifier according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 4 A water circuit diagram for a water purifier according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; and

[0029] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a method for detecting the lifespan of a pre-filter element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0031] 100. Raw water circuit; 110. Raw water inlet; 120. Pre-filter; 200. Purified water circuit; 210. Booster pump; 220. Core filter; 230. Check valve; 240. High-pressure switch; 250. Purified water outlet; 260. Wastewater circuit; 270. Wastewater solenoid valve; 280. Inlet solenoid valve; 300. Domestic water circuit; 310. Domestic water outlet; 400, 400', 400”, Turbidity meter; 500, 500', Flow meter. Detailed Implementation

[0032] In the following description, numerous details are provided to enable a thorough understanding of the invention. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the following description merely illustrates preferred embodiments of the invention, and that the invention can be practiced without one or more of these details. Furthermore, to avoid obscuring the invention, some technical features well-known in the art have not been described in detail.

[0033] To fully understand the embodiments of the present invention, detailed structures will be presented in the following description. Obviously, the implementation of the embodiments of the present invention is not limited to the specific details familiar to those skilled in the art. Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below; however, in addition to these detailed descriptions, the present invention may have other embodiments.

[0034] According to one aspect of this application, a water purifier is provided. The principle of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] See also Figure 1 The water purifier may include a raw water path 100, a purified water path 200, and a domestic water path 300. The inlet 110 of the raw water path 100 (hereinafter referred to as the raw water inlet) is used to obtain raw water, including but not limited to municipal tap water, bottled water, and well water. A pre-filter 120 may be installed on the raw water path 100. The pre-filter 120 is used for primary filtration of the raw water flowing through the raw water path 100, mainly filtering out large particulate impurities in the water. The pre-filter 120 may include, but is not limited to, one or more of PP cotton filters, activated carbon filters, stainless steel mesh filters, and ceramic filters, or may include composite filters composed of any of the aforementioned materials. The outlet of the raw water path 100 can be connected to the inlet of the purified water path 200 and the inlet of the domestic water path 300. That is, the purified water path 200 and the domestic water path 300 can be connected in parallel to the outlet of the raw water path 100. The purified water path 200 may be equipped with a core filter element 220. The core filter element 220 may include, but is not limited to, one or more of reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration, and nanofiltration filters. The core filter element 220 is used for secondary filtration of the water that has undergone primary filtration by the pre-filter element 120. The pre-filter element 120 can extend the service life of the core filter element 220. The purified water obtained through the core filter element 220 can be consumed directly or after heating or simple treatment. The domestic water path 300 can be used to directly provide the user with the primary filtered water obtained from the raw water path 100 for daily use such as washing clothes and vegetables. For example, the outlet of the domestic water path 300 (hereinafter referred to as the domestic water outlet) 310 and the outlet of the purified water path 200 (hereinafter referred to as the purified water outlet) 250 can be connected to faucets for convenient control of the flow of the two water paths.

[0036] Exemplarily, the water purifier may also include a turbidity meter 400, a flow meter 500, and a control module (not shown). Exemplarily, as... Figure 1As shown, a turbidity meter 400 can be installed on the raw water path 100 downstream of the pre-filter cartridge 120. The turbidity meter 400 can be used to detect the turbidity information of the water in its path. The control module can be used to determine the turbidity of the effluent from the pre-filter cartridge 120 based on the turbidity information. A flow meter 500 can be installed on the raw water path 100, and the flow meter 500 can be used to detect the flow rate information of the water in its path. The control module can be used to determine the total filtration volume of the pre-filter cartridge 120 based on the flow rate information of the raw water path 100 detected by the flow meter 500. Although in Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the flow meter 500 is located downstream of the turbidity meter 400. However, in other embodiments not shown, the flow meter may be located on the raw water line between the pre-filter and the turbidity meter, or on the raw water line upstream of the pre-filter.

[0037] The control module can be used to determine the expiration of the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge 120 when either the effluent turbidity or the total filtered water volume reaches a corresponding first preset threshold. For example, the first preset threshold corresponding to the effluent turbidity can be any value between 0.9 NTU and 1 NTU. NTU is a unit of scattering turbidity, a measure of the relative clarity of water. It is an optical property of water, representing the degree to which light is impeded when passing through a water layer, indicating the water layer's ability to scatter and absorb light. It is related not only to the content of suspended solids but also to the composition, particle size, shape, and surface reflectivity of impurities in the water. 1 NTU corresponds to 1 mg / L (i.e., a mass ratio of one part per million) of silica in the water. For example, the first preset threshold corresponding to the total filtered water volume can be any value between 80% and 100% of the nominal filtered water volume of the pre-filter cartridge 120.

[0038] This application employs a collaborative detection method for the effluent turbidity and total filtered water volume of the pre-filter cartridge 120. When either the effluent turbidity or the total filtered water volume reaches its corresponding first preset threshold, the control module determines that the pre-filter cartridge 120 has reached the end of its lifespan. In areas with poor water quality, the effluent turbidity generally reaches its corresponding first preset threshold first, allowing the determination of the pre-filter cartridge 120's lifespan based on the effluent turbidity. In areas with good water quality, the total filtered water volume generally reaches its corresponding first preset threshold first, allowing the determination of the pre-filter cartridge 120's lifespan based on the total filtered water volume. Therefore, the expiration of the pre-filter cartridge 120's lifespan can be accurately detected, reminding users to replace it in a timely manner.

[0039] Figure 2 A water circuit diagram of a water purifier according to a second embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 2 and Figure 1The main difference lies in the location of the flow meter 500'. The flow meter 500' can be installed on the domestic water circuit 300. In actual use, flow meters may have a flow-limiting effect, such as differential pressure flow meters, volumetric flow meters, and float flow meters. Factors such as the size of the flow meter's interface can also limit the water flow. Installing these flow meters in the raw water circuit will indirectly limit the flow rate in the purified water circuit, potentially affecting the water production efficiency of the core filter element. For this situation, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 2 The flow meter 500' can be installed in the domestic water circuit 300. The control module can be used to determine the amount of raw water consumed by the domestic water circuit 300 based on the flow information detected by the flow meter 500'. For the purified water circuit 200, the control module can be used to determine the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water circuit 200 based on the working time information of the purified water circuit 200. The control module can also be used to determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter 120 based on the amount of raw water consumed by the domestic water circuit and the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water circuit 200.

[0040] Typically, the raw water consumption of the domestic water circuit 300 is significantly greater than that of the purified water circuit 200. Therefore, accurately determining the raw water consumption of the domestic water circuit 300 is crucial for precisely calculating the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge 120. Furthermore, as usage time increases, clogging of the pre-filter cartridge 120 significantly impacts the flow rate in the domestic water circuit 300. Taking the core filter cartridge 220 in the purified water circuit 200 as an example—a high-flow reverse osmosis cartridge—a 600G reverse osmosis cartridge has a flow rate of approximately 1.6 L / min. Even with a water production rate as low as 50%, its raw water flow rate is only about 3.2 L / min. The flow rate of municipal tap water typically depends on pipe diameter, water pressure, and water usage. For example, commonly used household pipe diameters are DN15 (4-point pipes), with water pressures between 0.1-0.3 MPa. Based on these parameters, the flow rate is approximately between 6-12 L / min. Even during peak water usage, such as when multiple taps are turned on simultaneously, the flow rate may drop to 3-6 L / min. This demonstrates that the water flow rate in the raw water path 100 has little or no impact on the required water flow rate of the core filter element 220. On the other hand, the core filter element 220 in the purified water path 200 is typically equipped with a booster pump 210. Although the booster pump 210 provides a limited increase in flow rate, it can generally ensure that the core filter element 220 produces water at a normal flow rate even if the pre-filter element 120 becomes clogged. Therefore, the output water flow rate of the purified water path 200 can be considered stable, and the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water path 200 can be determined based on the duration of water usage.

[0041] Therefore, in Figure 2In this embodiment, the control module can determine the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water path 200 based on the flow information of the domestic water path 300 detected by the flow meter 500', the amount of raw water consumed by the domestic water path 300, and the water usage time of the purified water path 200, and thus determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter cartridge 120. Then, the control module can determine the expiration of the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge 120 when either the effluent turbidity or the total amount of filtered water reaches a corresponding first preset threshold. Figure 2 In the embodiments described, with Figure 1 The same or corresponding parts in the embodiments shown are referred to by the same reference numerals, and these same or corresponding parts will not be described in further detail herein.

[0042] As mentioned earlier, flow meters may have a flow-limiting effect in practical applications. Assumption: The flow rate limited by the flow meter is Q. 限 (Unit: L / min), the water flow rate of core filter element 220 is G (unit: gallons per day), and the water production rate of core filter element 220 is R. The water flow rate is limited to Q. 限 The flow rate is related to the structure of flow meters 500 and 500', the water pressure in the water circuit they are located in, and the pipe diameter of the water circuit in which the flow meter is located. Taking a domestic water circuit 300 using a 2-point pipe, a domestic water circuit 300 with a water pressure of 0.24 MPa, and a flow meter including a Hall switch and an impeller as an example, the allowable flow rate of the flow meter is approximately 1.5 L / min. The water production rate is the ratio of the amount of pure water produced by the core filter element 220 per unit time to the amount of raw water consumed.

[0043] When Q 限 When the flow rate is ≥G / (R×380.4), the flow meter can be installed on the raw water circuit 100 or on the domestic water circuit 300; and

[0044] When Q 限 When <G / (R×380.4), the flow meter 500' can be installed on the domestic water circuit 300, such as Figure 2 As shown.

[0045] Therefore, in choosing to adopt Figure 1 The proposed solution is still Figure 2 When considering the proposed scheme, the limiting water flow rate Q of the flow meter can be determined first. 限 The water flow rate G and water production rate R of the core filter element 220 are determined, and then the installation location of the flow meter is determined based on the above judgment conditions.

[0046] In an embodiment of the water purifier including a booster pump 210, to Figure 2Taking the illustrated embodiment as an example, the booster pump 210 can be installed on the purified water path 200 upstream of the core filter element 220. The control module can also determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter element 120 based on the operating time of the booster pump 210, the water flow rate of the core filter element 220, and the water production rate of the core filter element 220. Specifically, the control module can determine the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water path 200 based on the operating time of the booster pump 210, the water flow rate of the core filter element 220, and the water production rate of the core filter element 220. Thus, the control module can determine the amount of raw water consumed by the domestic water path 300 based on the flow information detected by the flow meter 500', and then determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter element 120 based on the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water path 200.

[0047] Optionally, the operating time of the booster pump 210 can be directly obtained based on the start and stop times of the booster pump 210. For reverse osmosis filter cartridges, normal water production is usually only possible when the booster pump 210 is turned on; therefore, the start-up of the booster pump 210 is directly related to the water production of the reverse osmosis filter cartridge. By accumulating the operating time of the booster pump 210, the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water circuit 200 can be determined, thereby determining the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter cartridge 120.

[0048] Optionally, the operating time of the booster pump 210 can be indirectly obtained based on the closing and opening times of the high-pressure switch 240 located in the purified water path 200 downstream of the core filter element 220. A mechanical faucet can be connected to the purified water outlet 250, and a check valve 230 and a high-pressure switch 240 can be installed in the purified water path 200 downstream of the core filter element 220. When the mechanical faucet is closed, the booster pump 210 continues to operate, allowing the reverse osmosis filter element to produce water normally, thus establishing high pressure in the purified water path 200 downstream of the check valve 230. This high pressure causes the high-pressure switch 240 to open, and the booster pump 210 stops operating. When the mechanical faucet is opened, water flows out of the purified water path 200 downstream of the check valve 230, causing a drop in water pressure, which then closes the high-pressure switch 240, and the booster pump 210 starts operating. In other words, when the booster pump 210 is started and stopped by the high-pressure switch 240, the closing time of the high-pressure switch 240 can be accumulated, thereby determining the amount of raw water consumed by the water purification circuit 200.

[0049] Optionally, the operating time of the booster pump 210 can be indirectly obtained based on an electrical signal sent by a smart faucet connected to the purified water outlet 250. The purified water outlet 250 can be connected to a smart faucet; in this case, the check valve 230 and the high-pressure switch 240 can be omitted. When the user operates the smart faucet to start and stop water dispensing, an electrical signal can be sent to the control module. The control module can then determine the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water circuit 200 based on the accumulated water production time of the reverse osmosis filter element using this electrical signal. In other embodiments, the amount of water dispensed each time can be input via the smart faucet, thus determining the amount of raw water consumed by the purified water circuit 200 based on the amount of water dispensed each time.

[0050] In addition, reverse osmosis filter cartridges and similar products typically produce wastewater during operation. (Refer to reference) Figure 1 The wastewater outlet of the core filter element 220 can be connected to the wastewater passage 260. Wastewater produced by the core filter element 220 during operation can be discharged through the wastewater passage 260. A wastewater solenoid valve 270 can be installed on the wastewater passage 260. The wastewater solenoid valve 270 can control the flow rate of wastewater through an internal flow-limiting orifice, ensuring the working pressure inside the core filter element 220. When it is necessary to flush the core filter element 220, the wastewater solenoid valve 270 can be fully opened. At this time, the water pressurized by the booster pump 210 will not penetrate beyond the membrane of the reverse osmosis filter element (i.e., almost no purified water will be produced), and will all be discharged through the wastewater passage 260, thereby achieving the purpose of flushing the core filter element 220.

[0051] In addition, alternatively, the turbidity meter 400 can be installed not only on the raw water path 100 downstream of the pre-filter 120, but also on the domestic water path 300 (e.g., Figure 3 The turbidity meter 400' shown or the water purification channel 200 located upstream of the core filter element 220 (such as...) Figure 4 The turbidity meter 400" shown. Alternatively, optionally, a turbidity meter 400' is installed on the domestic water circuit 300, and a turbidity meter 400" is installed on the purified water circuit 200. Furthermore, it should be noted that although in Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the turbidity meter 400 on the purified water path 200 is located upstream of the inlet solenoid valve 280. However, in other embodiments not shown, the turbidity meter can be located anywhere downstream of the inlet solenoid valve, as long as it is upstream of the core filter element.

[0052] Even if the water supply to the turbidity meter stops, the water pressure of the raw water will cause water filtered by the pre-filter 120 to accumulate in the light-transmitting detection chamber of the turbidity meter, resulting in higher detection accuracy for static water. For example, the turbidity meter may include a transmitting module and a receiving module respectively disposed on both sides of the detection chamber. The transmitting module, for example, emits infrared light. When the turbidity of the liquid in the detector changes, it causes a change in the optical properties of the liquid. By detecting the change in the scattered light received by the receiving module, the turbidity information of the liquid can be determined.

[0053] For example, in an embodiment where the turbidity meter 400 is installed in the raw water path 100, to Figure 2 For example, the control module is also used to determine the effluent turbidity based on turbidity information when both the purified water path 200 and the domestic water path 300 stop supplying water, based on flow information and the operating status of the booster pump 210. For instance, when both the purified water path 200 and the domestic water path 300 stop supplying water, the control module can control the turbidity meter 400 to detect the turbidity information of the raw water path 100. Alternatively, the control module may acquire the turbidity information detected by the turbidity meter 400 when both the purified water path 200 and the domestic water path 300 stop supplying water. Alternatively, the turbidity meter 400 may detect the turbidity information of the raw water path 100 in real time, and the control module may acquire the turbidity information detected by the turbidity meter 400 in real time, but the control module determines the effluent turbidity based on the turbidity information when both the purified water path 200 and the domestic water path 300 stop supplying water. This ensures that the turbidity information used for determining the end-of-life of the filter cartridge accurately reflects the effluent turbidity of the pre-filter cartridge 120. Understandably, in Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the control module can determine that both the purified water circuit 200 and the domestic water circuit 300 should stop supplying water based solely on the flow information obtained by the flow meter 500.

[0054] For example, in an embodiment where the turbidity meter 400 is installed in the water purification path 200, to Figure 4 For example, the control module is also used to determine the effluent turbidity based on turbidity information when the purified water circuit 200 stops supplying water, based on the working status of the booster pump 210. Similar to the above embodiment, the turbidity meter 400” can only detect the turbidity information of its circuit and send it to the control module when the purified water circuit 200 stops supplying water; or the turbidity meter 400” can detect the turbidity information in real time, and the control module can acquire the turbidity information detected by the turbidity meter 400” when the purified water circuit 200 stops supplying water; or the turbidity meter 400” can detect the turbidity information of the purified water circuit 200 in real time, and the control module can acquire the turbidity information detected by the turbidity meter 400” in real time, except that the control module determines the effluent turbidity based on the turbidity information when the purified water circuit 200 stops supplying water. In this embodiment, the flow meter can be installed on the domestic water circuit 300 or the raw water circuit 100.

[0055] For example, in an embodiment where both the turbidity meter 400' and the flow meter 500' are installed in the domestic water circuit 300, in order to Figure 3 For example, the control module is also used to determine the effluent turbidity based on turbidity information when the domestic water supply to the 300 waterway stops, based on flow information. Similar to the above embodiment, the turbidity meter 400' can detect the turbidity information of its waterway only when the domestic water supply to the 300 waterway stops and send it to the control module; or the turbidity meter 400' can detect the turbidity information in real time, and the control module can acquire the turbidity information detected by the turbidity meter 400' when the domestic water supply to the 300 waterway stops; or the turbidity meter 400' can detect the turbidity information of the domestic water supply to the 300 waterway in real time, and the control module can acquire the turbidity information detected by the turbidity meter 400' in real time, except that the control module determines the effluent turbidity based on the turbidity information when the domestic water supply to the 300 waterway stops.

[0056] In the above Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the embodiment where the turbidity meter 400 is installed in the raw water path 100, regardless of whether the user draws water through the purified water path 200 or the domestic water path 300, the water in the detection chamber of the turbidity meter 400 will be replaced once. Therefore, the turbidity information detected by the turbidity meter 400 can be updated once (theoretically, it will be different from the previous detection data). This allows for more timely detection of changes in the turbidity of the pre-filter 120's effluent, and timely determination of whether the pre-filter 120 has reached the end of its lifespan. In contrast, in... Figure 3 and Figure 4 In this embodiment, the water in the detection chambers of turbidimeters 400' and 400" is replaced only once when the user takes domestic water and purified water, respectively, and the turbidity information detected by turbidimeters 400' and 400" is updated only once. However, this reduces the computational load on the control module.

[0057] For example, when the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge 120 is determined to have expired based on the turbidity of the effluent exceeding a corresponding first preset threshold, the control module is specifically used to determine the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge 120 to have expired when the turbidity of the effluent exceeds the corresponding first preset threshold n times consecutively or m times cumulatively, where n is less than m. This avoids misjudgments of lifespan expiration due to one or more inaccuracies in the turbidimeter. Optionally, each time the water in the turbidimeter's detection chamber is replaced, the control module can perform a judgment on whether the effluent turbidity exceeds the corresponding first preset threshold based on the turbidity information detected by the turbidimeter. Alternatively, the control module can perform fewer than n judgments after each water replacement in the turbidimeter's detection chamber. In this case, the turbidity information relied upon for the judgments on adjacent sides is detected by the turbidimeter at sufficiently long intervals to prevent external factors such as water purifier vibration from affecting the detection results.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the pre-filter 120 can be a single filter element or a single composite filter element. However, in other embodiments not shown, the pre-filter can include multiple filter elements arranged in series on the raw water path. In this case, the first preset threshold corresponding to the total water filtration capacity of the aforementioned pre-filter is determined by the filter element with the smallest filtration capacity among the multiple filter elements. For example, when two filter elements are included, they are referred to as the first filter element and the second filter element for distinction, wherein the service life of the first filter element is 1 year and the service life of the second filter element is 1.5 years. In comparison, the first filter element has the smallest filtration capacity. Therefore, the first preset threshold corresponding to the total water filtration capacity can be 1 year. When the first filter element is replaced after 1 year of use, the service life of the second filter element is 0.5 years remaining. In this case, the second filter element has the smallest filtration capacity, therefore, the first preset threshold corresponding to the total water filtration capacity can be 0.5 years. Thus, the filtration capacity of the filter elements can be fully utilized, reducing the user's operating costs.

[0059] Exemplarily, the water purifier may also include an alert module (not shown). The control module may also control the alert module to issue a first-level alert when either the turbidity of the effluent or the total filtered water volume reaches a corresponding first preset threshold. Exemplarily, the alert module may include an alarm device that issues an alarm in one or more forms, such as sound, light, or electricity. Exemplarily, the alert module may also include a display device.

[0060] For example, the control module is further configured to issue a secondary reminder when either the effluent turbidity or the total filtered water volume reaches a corresponding second preset threshold. The second preset threshold corresponding to the effluent turbidity is less than its corresponding first preset threshold. The second preset threshold corresponding to the total filtered water volume is less than its corresponding first preset threshold. For example, the second preset threshold corresponding to the effluent turbidity can be any value within 80%-100% (excluding 100%) of its corresponding first preset threshold. For example, the second preset threshold corresponding to the total filtered water volume can be any value within 80%-100% (excluding 100%) of its corresponding first preset threshold. Thus, a secondary reminder can be issued in advance before the pre-filter cartridge 120 reaches its lifespan, providing the user with preparation time to replace the filter cartridge.

[0061] According to another aspect of this application, a method for detecting the lifespan of a pre-filter cartridge 120 is also included. The pre-filter cartridge 120 can be installed on a raw water path 100. The outlet of the raw water path 100 is connected to a parallel purified water path 200 and a domestic water path 300. A core filter cartridge 220 can be installed on the purified water path 200. The water path upon which this method relies can be any of the water paths mentioned above. Figure 5 shows a flowchart of a detection method according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 As shown, the method includes:

[0062] Step 601: Detect the turbidity information of the water output from the pre-filter 120 to determine the turbidity of the water output from the pre-filter 120.

[0063] Step 602: Detect the flow rate information of the raw water path 100 to determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter 120, or detect the flow rate information of the domestic water path 300 and the working time of the purified water path 200 to determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter 120.

[0064] Step 603: When either the effluent turbidity or the total filtered water volume reaches the corresponding first preset threshold, determine that the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge 120 has expired.

[0065] The steps 601 and 602 mentioned above are not in any particular order.

[0066] For example, the step of detecting the turbidity information of the water outlet of the pre-filter 120 specifically includes: detecting the turbidity information on the raw water path 100 downstream of the pre-filter 120. In this case, the method further includes: determining the turbidity of the outlet water based on the turbidity information when both the purified water path 200 and the domestic water path 300 stop supplying water.

[0067] For example, the step of detecting the turbidity information of the water outlet of the pre-filter 120 specifically includes: detecting the turbidity information on the domestic water circuit 300. The method further includes: determining the turbidity of the outlet water based on the turbidity information when the domestic water circuit 300 stops supplying water.

[0068] For example, the step of detecting the turbidity information of the water outlet of the pre-filter 120 specifically includes: detecting the turbidity information on the water purification path 200 upstream of the core filter 220. The method further includes: determining the turbidity of the outlet water based on the turbidity information when the water purification path 200 stops supplying water.

[0069] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front", "rear", "up", "down", "left", "right", "horizontal", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", and "bottom" is generally based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings and is only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0070] For ease of description, relative terms such as "above," "over," "on the upper surface of," and "above" are used here to describe the regional positional relationship of one or more components or features shown in the figures to other components or features. It should be understood that relative terms include not only the orientation of the component as depicted in the figure but also different orientations during use or operation. For example, if the components in the figures are inverted as a whole, "above" or "above other components or features" will include cases where the component is "below" or "under" other components or features. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." Furthermore, these components or features may also be positioned at other different angles (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or other angles), and this document intends to include all such cases.

[0071] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0072] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in sequences other than those illustrated or described herein.

[0073] The present invention has been described through the above embodiments. However, it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention to the scope of the described embodiments. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and many more variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of the present invention, all of which fall within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A water purifier, characterized in that, include: Raw water path, wherein a pre-filter is installed in the raw water path; A water purification system, wherein the inlet of the water purification system is connected to the outlet of the raw water system, and a core filter element is provided in the water purification system; A domestic water supply system, wherein the inlet of the domestic water supply system is connected to the outlet of the raw water supply system; A turbidity meter is installed on one or more of the following water paths: the raw water path downstream of the pre-filter, the domestic water path, and the purified water path upstream of the core filter, for detecting the turbidity information of the water in the water path in which it is located. A flow meter is installed in the raw water circuit or the domestic water circuit to detect the flow rate of water in the circuit. as well as Control module, wherein: When the flow meter is installed on the raw water line, the control module is used to determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter based on the flow information; When the flow meter is installed on the domestic water circuit, the control module is used to determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter based on the flow information and the working time information of the purified water circuit; The control module is used to determine the turbidity of the effluent from the pre-filter based on the turbidity information; and The control module is also used to determine the expiration of the lifespan of the pre-filter when either the turbidity of the effluent or the total amount of filtered water reaches the corresponding first preset threshold.

2. The water purifier as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The water purifier also includes a booster pump, which is located on the water purification path upstream of the core filter element. The control module is also used to determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter based on the working time of the booster pump, the water flow rate of the core filter element, and the water production rate of the core filter element.

3. The water purifier as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The operating time of the booster pump is directly obtained based on the start-up and shutdown times of the booster pump; or The operating time of the booster pump is indirectly obtained based on the closing and opening time of the high-pressure switch on the purified water circuit downstream of the core filter element; or The operating time of the booster pump is indirectly obtained based on the electrical signal sent by the smart faucet connected to the outlet of the purified water circuit.

4. The water purifier as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The turbidity meter is installed on the raw water circuit. The control module is also used to determine the turbidity of the effluent based on the turbidity information when the purified water circuit and the domestic water circuit stop supplying water, based on the flow information and the operating status of the booster pump; or The turbidity meter is installed on the purified water circuit, and the control module is also used to determine the turbidity of the effluent based on the turbidity information when the purified water circuit stops supplying water based on the working status of the booster pump.

5. The water purifier as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Both the turbidity meter and the flow meter are installed on the domestic water circuit. The control module is also used to determine the turbidity of the effluent based on the turbidity information when the domestic water circuit stops supplying water, based on the flow information.

6. The water purifier as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The pre-filter includes multiple filter elements connected in series in the raw water path, and the first preset threshold corresponding to the total amount of filtered water is determined by the filter element with the least amount of filtered water among the multiple filter elements.

7. The water purifier as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The water purifier also includes a reminder module, and the control module is further used to control the reminder module to issue a first-level reminder when either the turbidity of the effluent or the total amount of filtered water reaches the corresponding first preset threshold.

8. The water purifier as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The control module is also used to control the reminder module to issue a secondary reminder when either the effluent turbidity or the total filtered water volume reaches the corresponding second preset threshold, wherein: the second preset threshold corresponding to the effluent turbidity is less than its corresponding first preset threshold, and the second preset threshold corresponding to the total filtered water volume is less than its corresponding first preset threshold.

9. The water purifier as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge is determined to have expired based on the turbidity of the effluent being greater than the corresponding first preset threshold, the control module is specifically used to determine that the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge has expired when the turbidity of the effluent is determined to be greater than the corresponding first preset threshold n times consecutively or m times cumulatively, where n is less than m.

10. A method for detecting the lifespan of a pre-filter element, characterized in that, The pre-filter is installed in the raw water path, and the outlet of the raw water path is connected to a parallel purified water path and a domestic water path. The core filter is installed in the purified water path. The method includes: The turbidity information of the water effluent from the pre-filter is detected to determine the turbidity of the water effluent from the pre-filter. The flow rate of the raw water path is detected to determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter, or the flow rate of the domestic water path and the working time of the purified water path are detected to determine the total amount of water filtered by the pre-filter. When either the effluent turbidity or the total filtered water volume reaches the corresponding first preset threshold, the lifespan of the pre-filter cartridge is determined to have expired.

11. The method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The step of detecting the turbidity information of the effluent from the pre-filter specifically includes: detecting the turbidity information of the raw water path downstream of the pre-filter. The method further includes: determining the turbidity of the effluent based on the turbidity information when both the purified water circuit and the domestic water circuit stop supplying water.

12. The method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The step of detecting the turbidity information of the water effluent from the pre-filter specifically includes: detecting the turbidity information in the domestic water supply path. The method further includes: determining the turbidity of the effluent based on the turbidity information when the domestic water supply line stops supplying water.

13. The method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The step of detecting the turbidity information of the water effluent from the pre-filter specifically includes: detecting the turbidity information in the purified water path upstream of the core filter. The method further includes: determining the turbidity of the effluent based on the turbidity information when the water supply to the purified water circuit is stopped.

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