Food waste disposer

Abstract

This embodiment provides a food waste processor that includes a filter section that receives food waste from an input port and separates liquid from the food waste, a solid-liquid separation section that transports at least a portion of the filter section on a horizontal plane while holding the solid food waste and drops it to the bottom, a decomposition section located below the solid-liquid separation section in which the dropped food waste is decomposed by microorganisms, and a collection section for storing the decomposed food waste, wherein the filter section can be separated from the solid-liquid separation section to the outside via the input port.Therefore, all individual components that come into contact with food waste in the horizontal transport structure can be separated, washed and managed, and kept clean.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This embodiment relates to a food waste processor, and more specifically, to a built-in type of food waste processor that can be installed inside a sink cabinet.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, food waste processors are classified into built-in type (built-in type) food waste processors that are installed under the sink cabinet and directly inject food waste from the sink cabinet inlet for processing, and standing type food waste processors that are provided separately from the sink cabinet and collect and process dehydrated solid food waste.

[0003] In the case of a standing type food waste processor, dehydrated solid food waste is collected, and mainly, decomposition into inorganic substances proceeds by decomposition using microorganisms, and the decomposed decomposition products are collected and discharged.

[0004] On the other hand, in the case of a sink cabinet built-in type food waste processor, it includes a crusher that crushes the food waste introduced through the inlet, and a dehydrator that dehydrates the crushed food waste.

[0005] Generally, the crushing and dehydration treatment of food waste is configured to be performed sequentially. Food waste passes through the crusher, goes through the dehydrator, and is loaded into the loading cylinder. The liquid separated from the food waste is discharged through the drain hose. Also, the remaining food waste is collected in the food waste collection box, and when a certain amount accumulates, it is discarded.

[0006] Users select and use a food waste processor according to the food waste treatment method and installation method, considering various factors such as environmental conditions and preferences.

[0007] However, both built-in and stand-alone food waste disposers collect food waste for a set period of time for processing, during which time the food waste decomposes and emits a foul odor. In particular, food waste disposers that use microorganisms to decompose food waste create high temperatures and humidity during the decomposition process, resulting in a problem of extremely strong odors.

[0008] Korean Patent No. 2017-0107837 discloses a food waste processing device installed under a sink counter for processing food waste. In Korean Patent No. 2017-0107837, microorganisms are used in the decomposition section to ferment food waste by stirring it, forming rotten material. However, with this technology, once the particle size of the resulting rotten material becomes small, it passes through perforations and is discharged into the sewer pipe along with water.

[0009] Furthermore, if food waste is continuously discharged through the perforations on the bottom surface as small particles without any additional food waste being added to the decomposition section, a problem arises in which all the food waste and microorganisms in the decomposition section are discharged. In particular, if the food waste processor is not used for a long period of time, a problem arises in which the microorganisms in the decomposition section die.

[0010] In an attempt to prevent the discharge of such microorganisms, microbial carriers are sometimes placed in the decomposition section. However, when the decomposition section is used for a long period of time, the carriers are usually deformed by friction between the agitator and the perforations, and lose their function.

[0011] On the other hand, Korean Patent No. 2011-0031805 discloses a built-in type food waste disposer that is directly connected to the drain at the bottom of the sink and separates solids from liquids, with the separated water being immediately drained into the sewer. In this Korean Patent No. 2011-0031805, a cylindrical transfer with a rotating blade is disclosed as the transfer for separating solids from liquids.

[0012] The aforementioned transfer device moves food waste from above the drain outlet to above the drying section by rotation.

[0013] However, such cylindrical transfers require a transfer space equivalent to four times the space of a typical sink drain, and at least three times the space is essential. Consequently, the space for transfers occupies almost the entire space of the food waste processor, making the drying space where the main operation takes place relatively smaller.

[0014] Furthermore, document number 2011-0031805 discloses only crushing and drying as a method of food waste treatment, rather than decomposition, which could cause environmental problems.

[0015] On the other hand, prior art, Japanese Patent No. 4022036B2, relates to a dewatering and crushing apparatus for food waste, disclosing a plurality of separate processing chambers as spaces for dewatering and crushing. In the processing chambers, the dewatered food waste is mixed with an agitator through a fermentation chamber and a drying chamber to perform fermentation and drying treatment.

[0016] In this type of processing chamber, as drying progresses through agitation, the first space is completely filled, then it overflows and moves to the second space. Once the second space is filled, it overflows again and moves to the third space, and then is discharged to the outlet.

[0017] However, this type of overflow system only discharges the amount of processed food waste that exceeds the height of the partition wall once it has accumulated, making it impossible to precisely control the amount of processed waste discharged. Furthermore, there is the problem of fermented waste being discharged through an inclined outlet.

[0018] In the case of a sink-integrated type, such as Korean Patent No. 2011-0031805, the food waste disposer is installed in the lower part of a regular sink, for example. The sink bowl's outlet is replaced by the food waste input port of the food waste disposer, allowing the user to conveniently dispose of food waste. Furthermore, once installed, it has the advantage of maintaining a stable water supply and drainage structure, and the food waste disposer is not visible from the outside, contributing to aesthetics.

[0019] However, once a sink-mounted food waste disposer is installed, it is not easy to manage, such as separating and replacing waste. If the area that comes into contact with food waste is not cleaned at the appropriate time, disadvantages such as bacterial growth and foul odors become apparent.

[0020] Therefore, the need for technology that can improve upon the problems of conventional patents in sink-integrated food waste processors is further emphasized. In particular, consideration is needed for a method that allows only food waste that has been decomposed to a certain level or higher to be moved, and in the case of dewatering after crushing, a technology that can proceed with dewatering without crushing is required to prevent the risk of crushed food waste being discharged into the drain along with water. Furthermore, in order to realize an environmentally friendly food waste processor, highly efficient decomposition conditions for fermentation of incoming food waste without crushing are required.

[0021] Furthermore, miniaturization of the entire device is required by reducing the size of the space other than the area where food waste is fermented or collected.

[0022] Furthermore, there is a risk of foul odors and bacterial growth in almost all components that come into contact with food waste, requiring individual cleaning capabilities. Additionally, minimizing the space required in the transport sections, excluding spaces where food waste is stored for extended periods, such as the decomposition and collection sections, is essential. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0023] Korean Published Patent Publication No. 2017-0107837 (Publication Date: 2017.09.26.) Japanese Patent Publication No. 4022036B2 (Publication date: 2001.12.18.) Korean Published Patent Publication No. 2011-0031805 (Publication Date: 2011.03.29.) [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0024] This embodiment provides a built-in food waste processor in an integrated sink-type food waste processor, which can ferment without grinding the food waste, collect the decomposed matter, and then remove it.

[0025] Another object of this embodiment is to provide a solid-liquid separation module having a horizontal movement structure that can horizontally move the solid matter from which liquid has been removed at the input where the food waste is input and transfer it to the lower decomposition part.

[0026] This embodiment provides a separable and assemblable structure that can separate all the individual components touched by the food waste in the horizontal transfer structure for cleaning and management.

[0027] This embodiment provides a solid-liquid separation module having a suction module that forms a negative pressure inside the food waste processor, sucks the malodor inside from the input part connected to the drain of the sink, and discharges it through the sewer pipe.

[0028] And, in order to collect only the decomposed matter fermented in the decomposition part into the adjacent collection part, a decomposed matter transfer part is arranged above the collection part, thereby utilizing the space limited to the lower part of the sink. In particular, there is still another object of this embodiment to provide a food waste processor that can minimize the space other than the space where the food waste is fermented or collected.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0029] This embodiment includes a filter part that accommodates food waste from the input port and separates liquid from the food waste, and a solid-liquid separation part that horizontally transfers at least a part of the filter part on a horizontal plane while holding the food waste and drops it downward, and a decomposition part that is arranged below the solid-liquid separation part and decomposes the dropped food waste by microorganisms. The filter part provides a food waste processor that can be separated from the outside from the solid-liquid separation part through the input port.

[0030] The filter section may include a side surface with perforations for separating and discharging only the liquid from the food waste, and a bottom surface that can be separated from and joined to the side surface.

[0031] The side surface of the filter portion is perforated to form a filter surface for separating and discharging the liquid from the food waste, and has a lower rim that supports the lower part of the filter surface and has at least one coupling projection for sliding coupling with the bottom surface of the filter portion. The bottom surface of the filter portion has a flat support surface and a guide projection that protrudes upward from the support surface to guide sliding coupling with the side surface, and at least one coupling hole may be formed on the side surface of the guide projection into which the coupling projection of the lower rim of the side surface of the filter portion fits.

[0032] We provide food waste disposers.

[0033] Therefore, in the horizontal transport structure, all individual components that come into contact with food waste can be separated, washed, and managed, allowing for cleanliness to be maintained.

[0034] Therefore, the side of the filter section is separable from the bottom, and the structure is provided that allows for the transfer of food waste by selectively moving only the side.

[0035] The solid-liquid separation unit may be divided into a solid-liquid separation space where the solid and liquid parts of the food waste are separated, and a transfer space where the solid food waste is transferred to the decomposition unit.

[0036] The lower part of the solid-liquid separation space may be connected to a drain outlet that discharges only the liquid from the food waste, and the lower part of the transfer section may have an outlet for the solid-liquid separation section that communicates with the inlet of the decomposition section.

[0037] When the filter section is placed in the solid-liquid separation space, the transfer space may be sealed off from the solid-liquid separation space.

[0038] By sealing the solid-liquid separation space and the transfer space, it is possible to prevent liquid from penetrating the decomposition section which is connected to the transfer space.

[0039] The solid-liquid separation unit may further include a transfer module that performs motion to move the solid food waste from the solid-liquid separation space to the transfer space.

[0040] The transfer module may include a transfer body connected to the side surface of the filter section and moving along the side surface of the filter section on a horizontal plane, and a moving motor for moving the transfer body.

[0041] The transfer module further comprises a pinion that rotates in conjunction with the shaft of the moving motor, and a linear rack that moves linearly by the pinion, and the transfer body may be connected to the linear rack so that the side surface of the filter section moves on a horizontal plane between the solid-liquid separation space and the transfer space.

[0042] Thus, the realization of the transfer module makes it possible to reduce the size of the solid-liquid separation unit by using a short movement path.

[0043] The transfer body may include a first body extending from the linear rack, and a second body elastically coupled to the first body and fixed to the side surface of the filter section, thereby moving the side surface of the filter section as the linear rack moves.

[0044] The second body includes a front surface facing the first body and a rear surface that is slidably coupled to the side surface of the filter portion, and a fixing projection for fixing an elastic body that elastically couples with the first body may protrude from the front surface.

[0045] The fixing projection may protrude from the central part of the second main body.

[0046] One side of the first body may be bent and extend from the linear rack, and the other side of the first body may be a free end.

[0047] The travel distance of the second main body may be the same as the travel distance of the filter section.

[0048] A first sealing member may be formed on the edge of the transfer body, and a second sealing member may be formed at the boundary between the solid-liquid separation space and the transfer space, so that the first sealing member and the second sealing member form a double sealing structure.

[0049] The second sealing member may form a closed loop on the inner surface of the case of the solid-liquid separation unit so as to surround the boundary between the solid-liquid separation space and the transfer space, and when the filter unit is located in the solid-liquid separation space and the transfer body stops at the boundary between the solid-liquid separation space and the transfer space, the first sealing member may be in close contact with the front surface of the second sealing member to form the double sealing structure.

[0050] This double-sealing structure allows for the sealing of the transfer space, i.e., the decomposition section, during solid-liquid separation.

[0051] The transfer module may further include at least one guide bar extending from the case of the solid-liquid separation unit for guiding the linear movement of the linear rack. [Effects of the Invention]

[0052] Through the above solution, the food waste disposer facilitates post-processing by decomposing food waste with microorganisms, making it environmentally friendly.

[0053] According to at least one of the embodiments of this model, a sink-integrated food waste disposer allows fermentation to proceed in a solid state without grinding the food waste, preventing the discharge of food waste into the drain due to grinding, making it environmentally friendly.

[0054] In this embodiment, once food waste is introduced, the liquid is removed from the inlet and the solid material moves horizontally to the decomposition section below. This provides various structures that utilize minimal space and allow the solid material to be transmitted to the decomposition section below with minimal movement.

[0055] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since all individual components that come into contact with food waste in the horizontal transport structure can be separated, washed, and managed separately, a food waste processor that can be used hygienically can be provided.

[0056] Furthermore, by creating negative pressure inside the food waste disposer, foul odors can be drawn in through the input section connected to the sink drain and discharged through the sewer pipe, minimizing the user's discomfort caused by the odor.

[0057] Furthermore, the lower module, which includes a decomposition section and a collection section, is designed as a pull-out type, allowing for complete separation from the main body and easy removal of microorganisms and decaying matter, as well as spilled material.

[0058] Furthermore, moisture is removed at the entrance, and the food waste is thrown horizontally into the decomposition section below through horizontal-vertical movement. In addition, the decomposed material generated in the decomposition section is moved to the adjacent collection section through horizontal movement at a high position that takes particle size into consideration, and then vertically dropped into the collection section, thereby optimizing the limited space under the sink. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0059] [Figure 1] This is a front perspective view of a food waste disposer according to an embodiment of this specification. [Figure 2] This is an exploded perspective view of the main body and lower module of a food waste disposer according to an embodiment of this specification. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the inside of a food waste disposer. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a front view showing the inside of the food waste disposer. [Figure 5] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing the input section of the food waste disposer. [Figure 6] Figure a is a partial cross-sectional view of the input section in Figure 5, cut along line I-I', and figure b is a detailed perspective view of the cover section and cover guide. [Figure 7a] Figure 1 is a detailed view of the solid-liquid separation section of the first embodiment of the food waste processing machine. [Figure 7b] Figure 1 is a detailed view of the solid-liquid separation section of the first embodiment of the food waste processing machine. [Figure 7c] Figure 1 is a detailed view of the solid-liquid separation section of the first embodiment of the food waste processing machine. [Figure 7d] Figure 1 is a detailed view of the solid-liquid separation section of the first embodiment of the food waste processing machine. [Figure 7e] Figure 1 is a detailed view of the solid-liquid separation section of the first embodiment of the food waste processing machine. [Figure 7f] Figure 1 is a detailed view of the solid-liquid separation section of the first embodiment of the food waste processing machine. [Figure 8a] Figure 1 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the solid-liquid separation unit. [Figure 8b] Figure 1 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the solid-liquid separation unit. [Figure 8c] Figure 1 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the solid-liquid separation unit. [Figure 8d] Figure 1 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the solid-liquid separation unit. [Figure 9] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the inside of the lower module of the food waste disposer. [Figure 10] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the inside of the transfer section of the lower module of the food waste disposer. [Figure 11a] This is a diagram showing the connection between the transfer unit and the collection unit. [Figure 11b] This is a diagram showing the connection between the transfer unit and the collection unit. [Figure 12a] Figure 1 is a simplified diagram showing the wastewater deodorization module of a food waste disposer. [Figure 12b] Figure 1 is a simplified diagram showing the wastewater deodorization module of a food waste disposer. [Figure 12c] Figure 1 is a simplified diagram showing the wastewater deodorization module of a food waste disposer. [Figure 12d]Figure 1 is a simplified diagram showing the wastewater deodorization module of a food waste disposer. [Figure 13a] Figure 1 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the food waste disposer. [Figure 13b] Figure 1 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the food waste disposer. [Figure 13c] Figure 1 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the food waste disposer. [Figure 13d] Figure 1 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the food waste disposer. [Figure 14a] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation section of the second embodiment. [Figure 14b] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation section of the second embodiment. [Figure 15a] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation unit in the third embodiment. [Figure 15b] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation unit in the third embodiment. [Figure 16a] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation unit of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 16b] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation unit of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 17a] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation unit in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 17b] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation unit in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 18] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation unit of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 19a] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation section of the seventh embodiment. [Figure 19b] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation section of the seventh embodiment. [Figure 20a] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation section of the eighth embodiment. [Figure 20b] This is a diagram showing the state of the solid-liquid separation section of the eighth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0060] The directional terms such as "front (F) / back (R) / left (Le) / right (Ri) / up (U) / down (D)" mentioned below are defined as they appear in the drawings. However, this is merely to explain the embodiment in a way that makes it easy to understand, and it is certainly possible to define each direction differently depending on where the reference point is set.

[0061] The use of terms such as "first," "second," etc., before the components mentioned below is intended to avoid confusion between the components being referred to, and does not relate to any order, importance, or hierarchical relationship between the components. For example, embodiments including only the second component without the first component are also possible.

[0062] In the drawings, the thickness and size of each component are exaggerated, omitted, or schematically represented for the sake of clarity and ease of explanation. Furthermore, the size and area of ​​each component do not fully reflect their actual size and area.

[0063] Furthermore, the angles and directions mentioned in the process of describing the structure of this embodiment shall be based on those shown in the drawings. If the reference point and positional relationship with respect to angles are not clearly mentioned in the description of the structure in the specification, refer to the relevant drawings.

[0064] The food waste disposer 10 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 4.

[0065] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a food waste disposer 10 according to one embodiment of this specification, Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the main body 700 and lower module 750 of the food waste disposer 10 according to one embodiment of this specification, Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the interior of the food waste disposer 10 of Figure 1, and Figure 4 is a front view showing the interior of the food waste disposer 10 of Figure 1.

[0066] The food waste processor 10 of this embodiment uses a microbial decomposition method, in which food waste, which is the material to be processed, flows into an inlet 11 located at the upper end of the food waste processor 10 and undergoes a decomposition process inside the food waste processor 10. The composted material, which is formed when the food waste is decomposed by microorganisms, is discharged to an outlet 12 located at the lower end of the food waste processor 10, collected in a collection unit 500, and can be discharged to the outside all at once.

[0067] The food waste disposer 10 can be integrated into the interior 3 of the sink unit 1. When the food waste disposer 10 is built into the sink unit 1, the input section 100 of the food waste disposer 10 may be provided in a size and shape that corresponds to the drain outlet 4 at the bottom of the sink bowl 2. Therefore, when the food waste disposer 10 is installed in the sink unit 1, it can be conveniently used by connecting the input section 100 of the food waste disposer 10 to the drain outlet 4 of the existing sink bowl 2, without the need to provide a separate sink bowl 2 for connection.

[0068] The food waste disposer 10 of this embodiment, which is built into the interior 3 of the sink unit 1, is realized to have an upper surface positioned parallel to the sink bowl 2 of the sink unit 1, a lower surface parallel to the upper surface and facing the bottom of the sink unit 1, and front, rear, left and right sides between the upper and lower surfaces, and to have an internal space.

[0069] The front of the food waste disposer 10 is defined as the side facing the user when the user is standing in front of the sink unit 1, and the rear is defined as the side parallel to the front and facing the rear of the sink unit 1, with the side folded to the left of the front being defined as the left side and the side folded to the right of the front being defined as the right side.

[0070] In Figures 1 and 2, the upper and lower surfaces of the food waste disposer 10 have different areas, and a recessed area 15 is formed on the back due to the difference in area between the upper and lower surfaces. The distributor (not shown) inside the sink base 1 may be located in the recessed area 15 on the back.

[0071] The left and right sides are also made up of a rectangular shape in which at least a portion of the edge facing the back is recessed by the back recessed portion 15.

[0072] Therefore, although the food waste disposer 10 according to this embodiment has a hexahedral shape overall, a part of the lower rear section may be recessed, and it can be equipped in various ways depending on the shape of the sink base 1. In other words, as long as the top input section 100 of the food waste disposer 10 can be connected to the drain outlet 4 of the sink base 1, and the drainage / deodorization module 600 of the food waste disposer 10 can be connected to the drain pipe of the sink base 1, it can be modified into any structure as long as it has internal space.

[0073] The food waste disposer 10 has an inlet 11 located on the top surface of the food waste disposer 10, and consists of an upper module 710 which is connected to the inlet and implements a solid-liquid separation unit 200 that separates the food waste being fed in into solid and liquid and transports the solid, and a lower module 750 which is located below the upper module 710.

[0074] The upper module 710 may be equipped with a display unit 14 on the front of the food waste disposer 10, and is integrated with the main body 700 (overall housing) of the food waste disposer 10.

[0075] The display unit 14 may also display information such as the temperature and humidity inside the decomposition unit 300, the degree of decomposition, and the remaining amount in the collection unit 500.

[0076] The lower module 750 is a functional module for receiving food waste from the upper module 710, fermenting and preserving it, and is integrated into a single module, and is separable from the main body 700 on which the upper module 710 is located.

[0077] The lower module 750 may be pulled out from the front of the food waste processor 10 in a first direction, i.e., in the front-to-back direction, and separated from the main body 700. Separation of the lower module 750 makes it possible to directly collect the decomposed material and microorganisms that are decomposed in the decomposition unit 300 installed in the lower module 750, and to clean the inside of the decomposition unit 300.

[0078] Various techniques can be applied to facilitate the assembly and separation of the lower module 750 from the main body 700. For example, the lower module 750 can be detached from the main body 700 by being pulled out.

[0079] The input cover 111 covers the entrance 11 so that it can be opened and closed, but is also provided to cover most of the area of ​​the entrance 11 so that the foul odor of the food waste being put in does not leak out.

[0080] The collection unit 500 stores the decomposed food waste, which is rotten material. The collection unit 500 has a sealed structure so that the foul odor generated inside the food waste processor 10 does not leak out.

[0081] In this embodiment, the food waste disposer 10 has a water supply unit 730 connected to a water supply pipe formed in the sink base 1 to supply moisture to the interior, and a drainage / deodorizing module 600 connected to a drainage pipe formed in the sink base 1. The liquid discharged after separating the solids and liquids of the food waste is immediately discharged, while the malodorous odor or moisture discharged from each module is guided to be discharged to the drainage pipe via the drainage / deodorizing module 600. Therefore, since it has a structure that is directly connected to the water supply pipe and drainage pipe of the sink base 1 and does not have a separate hole to discharge malodorous odor to the outside, when the food waste disposer 10 is in operation, the interior has a sealed structure when the input cover 111 is placed over the inlet 11.

[0082] The collection unit 500, which is connected to the outlet 12 of the food waste disposer 10, is detachable from the outlet 12. The detached collection unit 500 can be emptied of the contained compost and reassembled into the food waste disposer 10. The collection unit 500 can be permanently fixed to the food waste disposer 10.

[0083] The input cover 111 may be circular in shape so that it can be rotated at the inlet 11. Specifically, the input cover 111 can be secured by simply being sandwiched between the input opening 11 to ensure a tight seal between the input cover 111 and the input opening 11. Therefore, the connection between the input cover 111 and the input opening 11 is required to be such that they fit or are secured without engaging with the inlet 11 in any way, such as with a screw structure.

[0084] Furthermore, if the input cover 111 rotates beyond a predetermined angle while it is fixed in place, the sensor will detect the rotation, allowing the sensor to recognize that the input cover 111 has been fixed in place and that it has started to operate.

[0085] In other words, the rotation of the input cover 111 may be used as an operating switch for the food waste disposer 10. For example, the input cover 111 and the input section 100 to which the input cover 111 is connected may be equipped with a sensing structure of a magnet and a Hall sensor. That is, after the input cover 111 is fastened to the inlet 11, the Hall sensor periodically senses the magnet while the cover rotates, thereby recognizing the rotational movement and thus recognizing the start of operation.

[0086] In other words, the operation of fixing the input cover 111 and the command to start the operation of the food waste disposer 10 can be recognized separately. Therefore, the operation of fixing the input cover 111 to prevent foul odors and the rotation operation for the command to start the operation of the food waste disposer 10 are separated, enabling accurate operation while minimizing user intervention.

[0087] Figures 3 and 4 are a perspective view and a front view showing the inside of the food waste disposer 10 according to this embodiment.

[0088] The following description will be based on the configuration of the food waste processing process of the food waste disposer 10 of this embodiment.

[0089] The input section 100 is the inlet 11 of the food waste processor 10, which guides the food waste into it and transmits it to the solid-liquid separation section 200 below.

[0090] The solid-liquid separation unit 200 is located below the input unit 100 and separates the liquid from the food waste that has moved from the input unit 100. For the food waste to decompose easily, it is preferable that it has a function rate below a certain level, and the solid-liquid separation unit 200 plays the role of separating the liquid without crushing and discharging it to the external sink drain via the drainage / deodorization module 600.

[0091] The solid-liquid separation unit 200 may receive water from a water supply unit connected to an external sink water supply pipe and supply it to the decomposition unit 300 below. The inside of the decomposition unit 300 must maintain a predetermined amount of humidity for microbial activity, and this humidity may be sprayed from the water supply unit 730 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200.

[0092] A water supply section 730 is formed that penetrates from the outside to the inside of the case 201 of the solid-liquid separation section 200, and a water supply pipe can extend from such a water supply section 730 so as to connect to an external water supply pipe. On the other hand, the internal water supply pipe 730 provided inside the food waste processor 10 connects the solid-liquid separation section 200 to the external sink water supply pipe via a pipe connection section 732, and the internal drainage / deodorization module 600 connects the solid-liquid separation section 200 to the external drain outlet via a pipe connection section 680 (see Figure 12a). The internal drainage / deodorization module 600 is partially branched and connected to perform a deodorizing function, and also functions as a deodorization module that discharges malodorous odors along with liquid to the external drain outlet.

[0093] The solid-liquid separation unit 200 moves only the solid material from which the liquid has been separated, from the food waste introduced from the input unit 100, in a straight line or rotational motion on a horizontal plane, and drops it into the decomposition unit 300 below.

[0094] The decomposition unit 300 can decompose solid food waste through the use of microorganisms. The decomposition unit 300 is located below the solid-liquid separation unit 200, within the lower module 750, and receives the food waste from which the liquid has been removed, which is then mixed with microorganisms and composted into decomposed ferment. The food waste that is decomposed into ferment has small particle sizes and is broken down into a uniform, compost-like form without the need for further crushing.

[0095] Therefore, because the decomposed material has a small particle size and low weight, it can move along a relatively large trajectory due to stirring by the stirring member 350 and be fed into the transfer unit 400 located at the top.

[0096] The collection unit 500 temporarily stores food waste that has been decomposed in the decomposition unit 300 and is then discharged to the outside of the food waste processor 10. The collection unit 500 may be arranged horizontally with respect to the decomposition unit 300. The decomposition unit 300 and the collection unit 500 can be separated by a side wall 360, and the decomposed material from the decomposition unit 300 can be moved to the collection unit 500 through a side wall opening formed in the side wall 360.

[0097] The transfer unit 400 transfers at least a portion of the compost generated by decomposition in the decomposition unit 300 to the collection unit 500. The transfer unit 400 is positioned horizontally with the decomposition unit 300 and above the collection unit 500, allowing the food waste from the decomposition unit 300 to be moved through the inlet 361 in the side wall 360 and through the top opening of the collection unit 500. The transfer unit 400 moves the food waste from the decomposition unit 300 to the collection unit 500 by mechanical drive.

[0098] In other words, when the light, small particles of decaying material are moved upward by the agitation of the decomposition section 300, they are drawn into the transfer section 400 through the inlet 361 of the side wall 360, and are then mechanically driven by the transfer section 400 to be dropped through the outlet 12 into the upper opening of the collection section 500.

[0099] The main body 700, which determines the external appearance and internal volume of the food waste disposer 10, mounts each module.

[0100] Specifically, the input section 100 and the solid-liquid separation section 200 are integrated into the housing of the main body 700, which forms the exterior of the food waste processor 10 as the upper module 710, while the disassembly section 300, collection section 500, and transfer section 400 are mounted in a pull-out type lower module 750 that is physically separable from the housing of the main body 700.

[0101] The following sections will explain the detailed configuration of each individual functional module, referring to the respective diagrams.

[0102] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the input section of the food waste processor 10 in Figure 1, Figure 6a is a partial cross-sectional view of the input section 100 in Figure 5 cut along line I-I', and Figure 6b is a detailed perspective view of the input cover and cover guide.

[0103] The food waste disposer 10 according to this embodiment includes an input section 100 that protrudes from the upper surface of the main body 700 and is aligned with the drain outlet 4 on the bottom surface of the sink bowl 2 of the sink counter 1.

[0104] The input section 100 includes a sink rack 120 connected to the inlet of the solid-liquid separation section 200, an input cover 111, and a cover guide 130 assembled with the input cover 111 that senses the presence and start of operation of the input cover 111.

[0105] The inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 is inserted into the drain outlet 4 on the bottom surface of the sink bowl 2 and connected to the upper opening of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 inside the sink stand 1, forming the input inlet 11 of the food waste disposer 10.

[0106] The inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 is formed to have the same diameter as, or a smaller diameter than, the drain outlet 4 at the bottom of the sink bowl 2. Generally, the diameter of the drain outlet 4 is standardized, and the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 can also be manufactured, distributed, and sold in accordance with this standard.

[0107] As shown in Figures 5 and 6a, the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation section 200 is formed to cover and compensate for the separation space caused by the difference in diameter between the sink bowl 1's drain outlet 4 and the side surface, by extending from the side surface to the upper surface of the sink bowl 2.

[0108] At this time, the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 has a step formed on its side surface, and a fixing surface is formed having a diameter even narrower than the upper opening, and the fixing surface is formed so that the cover guide 130 is fixed to it.

[0109] The sink rack 120 is formed on the side surface of the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200, completely covering the separation space between the sink base 1 and the sink bowl 2, and is screw-connected to the side surface of the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 so as to be in close contact with the upper surface of the sink bowl 2. Therefore, the sink rack 120 connects the food waste disposer 10 and the sink base 1 within the sink bowl 2 without any separation space.

[0110] A cover guide 130 is positioned on the side surface of the sink rack 120.

[0111] The cover guide 130 has a fixing surface 137 on which the input cover 111 is fixed, and guides the fixing of the input cover 111.

[0112] Specifically, as shown in Figure 6b, the cover guide 130 has a cylindrical structure with a diameter smaller than the side surface of the sink rack 120.

[0113] The cover guide 130 includes a side surface 132 that overlaps with the side surface of the sink rack 120 within the side surface of the sink rack 120, and a fixing surface 137 that is bent inward from below the side surface 132, on which the input cover 111 is fixed.

[0114] Furthermore, the cover guide 130 is provided with an expanded rim 131 having a step 133 so that the cover guide 130 is fixed on the fixing surface 137 of the solid-liquid separation section 200 inlet above the side surface 132.

[0115] The expanded rim 131 can be formed such that its inner surface is inclined to have a predetermined slope from the upper end to the lower end, and the diameter of its cross-section decreases as it goes downwards.

[0116] In this case, the outer surface of the expansion rim 131 can be formed vertically along the vertical direction. Therefore, a step 133 is formed between the expansion rim 131 and the side surface 132, and the cover guide 130 is supported with the step 133 straddling the fixing surface of the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation section 200.

[0117] A rocker slot 134 is formed in at least a portion of the side surface 132 of the cover guide 130.

[0118] The rocker slot 134 is an opening into which the rocker 280 is pulled, and into which the input cover 111 and the cover guide 130 are fixed.

[0119] The rocker slot 134 may be formed as a rectangular opening that is long and open to have a predetermined width along the side surface 132, and may include a peak in the middle region that slopes upward in a manner corresponding to the shape of the arm of the rocker 280.

[0120] In this case, the fixing surface 137 may be removed at the bottom in a manner corresponding to the region where the rocker slot 134 is formed, but is not limited to this. That is, if the fixing surface 137 is removed, the fixing surface 137 may have a C-shape with a portion removed, rather than being ring-shaped.

[0121] On the other hand, a guide portion 136 is formed on the inner surface of the expansion rim 131 of the cover guide 130.

[0122] The guide section 136 provides a light guide path for guiding and transmitting to the upper part a guide display received from a control unit (not shown) located in the lower solid-liquid separation section 200.

[0123] In other words, the guide portion 136 is formed of a light-emitting light-guiding material and is connected to a control unit which is located adjacent to the solid-liquid separation portion 200 described below, passing through the expansion rim 131.

[0124] The guide unit 136 provides the user with a guide display emitted from the control unit. The guide display can show the current operating status of the food waste disposer 10, for example, "operating," "operation complete," or "error." The "operating," "operation complete," and "error" displays can be simply indicated by the light color, flicker, etc. Therefore, the user can intuitively recognize the set light color of the guide unit 136 and quickly recognize the current status of the food waste disposer 10.

[0125] By positioning such guide section 136 on the inclined surface of the expansion rim 131, the drain outlet 4 of the sink bowl 2 can be immediately recognized by the user when they look at it from above.

[0126] A feedback magnet 135 may be positioned below the guide portion 136 of the cover guide 130, and the feedback magnet 135 can work in conjunction with the magnet 112 of the input cover 111 to provide resistance when the input cover 111 rotates.

[0127] In this case, the magnetic force of the feedback magnet 135 may be even greater than the magnetic force of the magnet 112 of the input cover 111.

[0128] The input cover 111 flows into the side surface of the sink rack 120 of the input section 100 and is inserted so as to be placed on the fixing surface 137 of the cover guide 130.

[0129] In this case, the input cover 111 is fixed within the cover guide 130 without any separate connecting structure such as screw connections, and a cover is available to prevent food waste from detaching to the outside when the food waste disposer 10 is being operated and when it is being operated.

[0130] Specifically, the input cover 111 may be formed in the shape of a disc with a predetermined thickness so as to be rotatable on the cover guide 130, as shown in Figure 6b.

[0131] The input cover 111 can be realized by a cover housing 1111 that forms a disc and an upper plate 1112 that covers the upper part of the cover housing 1111.

[0132] The cover housing 1111 has an internal space and can be formed in a cylindrical shape. In this case, the diameter of the cover housing 1111 may be smaller than the diameter of the upper plate 1112.

[0133] A predetermined number of magnets 112 may be arranged inside the cover housing 1111 at a distance from each other.

[0134] The magnets 112 are of the same size and have the same magnetic force, and are formed to have the same polarity. Such magnets 112 are arranged to have the same separation distance and can be formed at a predetermined distance from the center point of the cover housing 1111, for example, at an angle of 360 / n. The n is defined as the number of magnets 112.

[0135] For example, if six magnets 112 are arranged, they may be arranged so that they have a separation angle of 60 degrees.

[0136] The upper plate 1112 can be made smooth and flat so as to cover the cover housing 1111 and form the upper surface of the input cover 111.

[0137] After the input cover 111 is fixed onto the fixing surface 137 of the cover guide 130, it can be rotated by a predetermined angle or more to initiate operation.

[0138] In this embodiment, the food waste disposer 10 does not generate rotation for crushing or dewatering of the food waste introduced from the input section 100 and the solid-liquid separation section 200. Therefore, it is not required that the input cover 111 completely seal the input section 100, and only a covering force equivalent to preventing the discharge of foul odors that may be generated during the operation of the food waste disposer 10 by covering the drain outlet 4 is required. Consequently, engagement shapes such as screw structures are not essential.

[0139] However, after the input cover 111 is fixed to the inlet 11, it rotates, and the rotation of the input cover 111 is recognized by the detection of the magnet 112 mounted on the input cover 111 and the Hall sensor mounted on the control unit of the solid-liquid separation unit 200.

[0140] The rotation of the input cover 111 allows for the recognition of the command to fix the input cover 111 in place and to start its operation. In other words, the rotation of the input cover 111 can also be used as an operation switch for the food waste disposer 10.

[0141] Specifically, after the input cover 111 is fixed to the inlet 11, the Hall sensor periodically detects the magnet 112 while the cover is rotating, thereby recognizing the rotational movement and thus recognizing the command to start operation.

[0142] In other words, the control unit can distinguish between the operation of fixing the input cover 111 and the command to start the operation of the food waste disposer 10. Therefore, the operation of fixing the input cover 111 to prevent foul odors and the rotation operation for the command to start the operation of the food waste disposer 10 are separated, enabling accurate operation while minimizing user intervention.

[0143] The following describes the main body 700 and the solid-liquid separation unit 200 of the food waste disposer 10.

[0144] Figures 7a to 7f are detailed diagrams of the solid-liquid separation section of the first embodiment of the food waste processing machine shown in Figure 1.

[0145] As shown in Figures 7a and 7d, the solid-liquid separation unit 200 is located in the upper module 710 of the main body 700 of the food waste processor 10, between the input unit 100 and the decomposition unit 300.

[0146] The solid-liquid separation unit 200 performs the function of filtering out liquid from the food waste drawn into the input unit 100, that is, the food waste immediately drawn in by the sink bowl 2 of the sink unit 1, and transmitting only the solid material to the decomposition unit 300.

[0147] The solid-liquid separation unit 200 has an inlet 2011 and an outlet 208. The inlet 2011 is connected to the drain outlet 4 of the sink unit 1, as described above, and the outlet 208 is located on the lower surface of the upper module 710, that is, on the lower surface of the case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200, and communicates with the decomposition unit 300.

[0148] For this purpose, the solid-liquid separation unit 200 is provided such that at least one area overlaps the decomposition unit 300, and the outlet 208 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 is provided so as to be located in this overlapping area. As a result, the food waste discharged through the outlet 208 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 is transmitted to the decomposition unit 300 by free fall.

[0149] The inlet 2011 and outlet 208 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 are not arranged in a straight line with respect to the second direction, which is the vertical direction.

[0150] For example, the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 may be positioned towards the rear of the food waste processor 10, and the outlet 208 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 may be positioned towards the front of the food waste processor 10. Therefore, the solid-liquid separation unit 200 can transport the input food waste horizontally from rear to front to the decomposition unit 300.

[0151] The solid-liquid separation unit 200 includes a case 201 that defines the interior of the upper module 710.

[0152] The case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 has a shape in which the length and depth are greater than the height, and the height is even greater than the height of the filter unit 210 in which the input food waste is temporarily contained, and an inlet 2011 is provided on the upper surface of the case 201 and an outlet 208 is provided on the lower surface.

[0153] In this case, case 201 can form a hexahedron, which means not only does it have the exact shape of a hexahedron, but also that a part of it has a quadrilateral cross-section.

[0154] The food waste from the input section 100 is transmitted to the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation section 200. After passing through the solid-liquid separation section 200, the food waste moves horizontally and is transmitted to the decomposition section 300 via the outlet 208 of the solid-liquid separation section 200. The outlet 208 of the solid-liquid separation section 200 is in communication with the inlet of the decomposition section 300 and the inlet / outlet 751 of the lower module 750, and its shape may match that of the inlet / outlet 751 of the lower module 750.

[0155] The internal space of the solid-liquid separation unit 200, as defined by the case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200, can be divided into a solid-liquid separation space A and a transfer space B.

[0156] The solid-liquid separation space A may be a region located at the rear within the case 201, and is a space that houses the filter section 210 as the space between the inlet 2011 and the drain hole 270. The filter section 210 may consist of a cylindrical side surface 211 and a bottom surface 212, and the side surface 211 comprises a filter surface that forms the main area of ​​the side surface, an upper rim 2112 that extends upward from the filter surface, and a lower rim 2113 of the side surface.

[0157] The side surface 211 of the filter section 210 is mainly cylindrical and can be realized as a filter mesh, i.e., a strainer, with a predetermined size of hole formed therein. Liquid flows out onto the side surface 211 and is injected into the drain hole connecting section 271 along the inclined surface of the bottom surface 2016 of the solid-liquid separation space A.

[0158] The upper rim 2112 is formed with an inclined surface such that its diameter increases towards the top, while the lower rim 2113 may extend from the side surface 211 and be formed to function as a frame.

[0159] In this case, the lower rim 2113 may be provided with at least one fixing projection 2111, 2115 that protrudes from a part of it and is fixed to the bottom surface of the solid-liquid separation space A, i.e., the bottom surface 212 of the filter section 210.

[0160] The at least one fixing projection 2111, 2115 may be realized by two consecutive fixing projections 2111, but is not limited thereto.

[0161] Furthermore, the lower rim 2113 may also be provided with at least one side fixing projection 2115 that fixes the bottom surface 212 of the filter portion 210 to its side, in addition to the continuous fixing projections 2111. The filter portion 210 is formed so that the side surface 211 and the bottom surface 212 are separable, and the bottom surface 212 is formed as a closed structure in which no holes are formed.

[0162] At this time, the bottom surface 212 has a guide projection 2121 formed on a part of its edge, which is bent upward to guide the side surface 211 of the filter portion 210, and a continuous fixing hole corresponding to the continuous fixing projection 2111 is formed in a part between the guide projection 2121 and the bottom surface 212.

[0163] As shown in Figure 7b, the continuous fixing protrusions 2111 on the side surface 211 and the continuous fixing holes on the bottom surface 212 are fitted together and assembled into the filter section 210. At this time, the upper part 2122 of the edge of the guide protrusion 2121 protrudes toward the end and is fixed onto the side fixing protrusions 2115 of the filter section 210. As the side surface 211 and bottom surface 212 of the filter section 210 slide together, a strong physical bond is formed simultaneously between the continuous fixing protrusions 2111 and the fixing holes in the radial direction (enlarged area A) and between the side fixing protrusions 2115 and the upper part 2122 of the end of the guide protrusion 2121 in the circumferential direction (enlarged area B).

[0164] The filter section 210 is separated or joined to the case 201 of the solid-liquid separation space A with its side surface 211 and bottom surface 212 joined together. At this time, the bottom surface 212 is joined to a part of the case 201 and the guide projection 2121, specifically the region where the guide projection 2121 extends outward from the circumference and the lower part of the side surface 2015 of the case 201, and can only be separated by physical pressure.

[0165] Furthermore, the bottom surface 212 is provided with a plurality of support rims 2124 on its back surface.

[0166] The plurality of support rims 2124 can act as support bases to maintain a horizontal position when the bottom surface 212 of the filter section 210 is fixed in place in accordance with the inclined surface of the bottom surface 2016 of the case.

[0167] The plurality of support rims 2124 may be arranged radially at intervals such that they have equivalent angles with respect to the center of the back surface of the bottom surface 212, and at least three support rims 2124 can be realized.

[0168] These multiple support rims 2124 allow the filter section 210 to remain horizontal with respect to the inclined surface of the case bottom 2016, and the height of the support rims 2124 creates a separation space between the back of the filter section 210 and the case bottom 2016, allowing the liquid from food waste to flow into the separation space.

[0169] When the filter unit 210 is placed in the solid-liquid separation space A, a separation distance is formed between the side surface 211 of the filter unit 210 and the side surface 2015 of the case, as shown in Figure 7d. Through the perforations in the side surface 211 of the filter unit 210, only the liquid is separated from the food waste and flows into the space created by this separation distance and into the inside of the case 201.

[0170] When the bottom surface 212 of the filter section 210 is located in the solid-liquid separation space A, the liquid flowing inside the case 201 flows to the bottom surface 2016 of the case via the separation space 2017 between the side surface 2015 of the case formed by the extended region of the guide projection 2121 and the bottom surface 212 of the filter section 210, and is drawn into the discharge hole connecting section 271.

[0171] Thus, the bottom surface 212 of the filter section 210 is not integrated with the bottom surface of the case 201, but is joined in a separable structure when pressurized, allowing it to be separated from the case 201 for washing and drying as needed. Furthermore, by separating the bottom surface 212, the bottom surface of the case 201, that is, the inclined surface that guides the flow of liquid to the discharge hole 270 connected to the drain outlet 4 of the sink unit 1, can be washed to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.

[0172] The filter section 210 can be removed to the outside by the user lifting it from the inlet 11 of the input section 100. This is a structure similar to the filter mesh of the drain outlet 4 of the sink unit 1, and because the filter section 210 can be removed to the outside for washing and drying, individual management of the space in which food waste comes into contact is possible.

[0173] The case 201 includes a side wall 2015 surrounding the filter section 210, and the side wall 2011 can be formed to have a curved surface in the region corresponding to the filter section 210, as shown in Figure 7c.

[0174] A transfer space B is formed in front of the solid-liquid separation space A.

[0175] The transfer space B is mainly an empty space, and may be either a space into which the filter unit 210 is placed by the movement of the filter unit 210 by the transfer unit 400, or a space that is empty when the filter unit 210 retracts.

[0176] The transfer space B is open at the bottom, and the open bottom is connected to the entrance of the disassembly section 300 as an exit 208.

[0177] The case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 surrounding the transfer space B may be a folded rectangular shape, and a separate transfer cover may be provided to seal the front of the case 201. If a separate transfer cover to seal the front is provided and connected, it can be opened and closed for cleaning and repair.

[0178] The solid-liquid separation unit 200 is provided with a transfer module on one side of the case 201 for moving the filter unit 210 horizontally between the transfer space B and the solid-liquid separation space A.

[0179] The transfer module may include a transfer motor 220, a pinion 221 connected to the shaft of the transfer motor 220, and a linear rack 222 that moves forward and backward by the pinion 221.

[0180] The system may also further include a guide bar 223 for the linear rack 222 to move, and a transfer body 230 that is bent from the linear rack 222 and has a planar structure facing forward.

[0181] The motor 220 rotates the pinion 221 in one direction to move the filter unit 210 horizontally from the solid-liquid separation space A to the transfer space B, from rear to front. If necessary, the pinion 221 may also be rotated in the opposite direction to return the filter unit 210 from the transfer space B to the solid-liquid separation space A.

[0182] Specifically, after food waste is placed in the filter section 210, the transfer motor 220 can be rotated once the input cover 111 is rotated and the start of operation is recognized. Alternatively, the transfer motor 220 can be operated if a disclosure signal is received from the user, and such a user disclosure signal can be received from a user terminal equipped with an application that can be linked with the food waste processor 10. The rotational drive of the transfer motor 220 may be controlled by the control unit.

[0183] The transfer motor 220 may be located outside the case 201, for example, on the side of the case 201, but is not limited to this, and can also be located inside the case 201. When the transfer motor 220 is located outside the case 201, the shaft of the transfer motor 220 may penetrate the side wall of the case 201 and be connected to the pinion 221. The pinion 221 meshes with the gear of the linear rack 222 by the motor shaft, causing the linear rack 222 to move linearly in the front-rear direction.

[0184] In this case, a guide bar 223 may be further provided to allow the linear movement of the linear rack 222 in the front-rear direction to proceed along the horizontal plane.

[0185] The transfer module includes an extension surface 2221 that extends in a vertical direction (second direction) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (first direction) of the linear rack 222. The extension surface 2221 extends longitudinally together with the linear rack 222 and is formed integrally with the linear rack 222.

[0186] At least one holder 2222 for holding the guide bar 223 protrudes from the upper and lower parts of the expansion surface 2221. The at least one holder 2222 may be formed as a cylindrical structure through which the guide bar 223 passes, or it may be formed as a semicircle, and if it is semicircular, it can be arranged so as to open in opposite directions from each other. Thus the expansion surface 2221 can move linearly without shaking along the guide bar 223 which is provided to pass over a plurality of semicircular holders 2222 simultaneously.

[0187] When multiple guide bars 223 are arranged, holders 2222 may be provided at the top and bottom of the expansion surface 2221, and the guide bars 223 are connected to the upper and lower holders 2222, respectively, so that the linear rack 222 can move in a more horizontal and stable state.

[0188] The guide bar 223 may be an STS guide in which one end, i.e., the rear end, is fixed to the case 201 and the front end remains free, but is not limited to this. Alternatively, the linear rack 222 can move linearly while the angle is calculated in real time and the horizontal position is controlled, including a horizontal sensor. In this case, the side of the case facing the linear rack 222 may further be provided with a touch sensor 235 that senses the position of a protrusion at the bottom of the linear rack 222.

[0189] In this case, the touch sensor 235 is positioned to limit the displacement caused by the movement of the linear rack 222, and if the touch sensor 235 detects a touch on the protruding part, the control unit C can stop the motor 220 from driving. The touch sensor 235 may be positioned at both ends of the displacement of the linear rack 222.

[0190] The linear rack 222 is positioned inside the side wall of the case 201 and moves linearly in the forward and backward directions by the rotation of the pinion 221. A planar transfer body 230 is positioned in front of the linear rack 222 by bending from its front edge.

[0191] The transfer body 230 is a coupling member that connects to the filter section 210 and moves together with the filter section 210 when the linear rack 222 moves linearly.

[0192] The transfer body 230 can be formed to form a cover on its own, and the transfer body 230 can be formed to have the same area and shape as the cross-section of the case 201 perpendicular to the direction of movement, so as to divide the case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 into front and rear sections.

[0193] Therefore, the area behind the transfer body 230 where food waste is present and the area in front of the transfer body 230 where food waste is not present are separated and sealed from each other.

[0194] This sealing force of the transfer body 230 is made possible by the sealing portion 2332 surrounding the edge of the transfer body 230.

[0195] Furthermore, the sealing force of the transfer body 230 prevents liquid from seeping forward of the transfer body 230 and flowing into the decomposition section 300 during solid-liquid separation of food waste, without the need for a separate cover.

[0196] The transfer body 230 may have two bodies, which are two separate and coupled structures, but is not limited to this, and can be formed as a one-body structure.

[0197] As shown in Figure 7b, the transfer body 230 is slidably coupled to a fixed portion 2114 formed on the side surface of the filter portion 210, which faces the transfer space B, and the movement of the linear rack 222 causes the side surface of the filter portion 210 to move horizontally into the transfer space B.

[0198] During horizontal movement, only the side surface 211 of the filter section 210 moves, while the bottom surface 212 remains in the solid-liquid separation space A. As a result, only the solid matter of the food waste separated from the solid-liquid held in the filter section 210 moves to the transfer space B and falls into the decomposition section 300 via the lower outlet 208.

[0199] The case in which the transfer body 230 is formed as a two-body system will be explained in more detail with reference to Figures 7d and 7e.

[0200] As shown in Figures 7e and 7f, the transfer body 230 is divided into a first body 235 which is bent and integrated from the linear rack 222, and a second body 233 which is elastically coupled to the first body 235.

[0201] The first body 235 may have a smaller area than the second body 233, but is not limited thereto.

[0202] The first body 235 is located forward, and the second body 233 is located behind the first body 235, with a coupling groove 2335 in the center of the second body 233. An elastic coupling projection 2333 for elastic coupling protrudes from the center of the coupling groove 2335.

[0203] The elastic body connecting projection 2333 may include a groove 2337 in which a screw thread is formed.

[0204] The first body 235 has a coupling hole 2353 formed in a region corresponding to the coupling projection 2333 of the second body 233, and a first projection 2357 may be further formed on the rear surface of the coupling hole 2353, extending and protruding from the coupling projection 2333.

[0205] The elastic body 234 is wound around from the connecting projection 2333 of the second body 233 to the first projection 2357 of the first body 235, and flexibly connects the first body 235 and the second body 233.

[0206] Furthermore, the first body 235 and the second body 233 may further include a connecting body 237 that penetrates the connecting hole 2353 in front of the first body 235 and is screw-connected to the threads in the connecting projection 2333 of the second body 233.

[0207] The physical connection between the first body 235 and the second body 233 is made by screw connection using the connecting body 237. However, the connection between the first body 235 and the second body 233 is not only made by screw connection, but also by the elastic body 234 surrounding the space between the connecting projection 2333 and the first projection 2357. By applying a force in the opposite direction to any deflection that may occur in a specific direction, the second body 233 can be kept flat and not tilted.

[0208] More specifically, as the transfer of the transfer module proceeds with force applied to only one side of the transfer body 230, that is, the linear rack 222 is formed on only one side, causing the entire transfer body 230 to move horizontally, a gap may be created at the left or right end of the transfer body 230 in some cases.

[0209] In other words, at the right end, which is the free end where the linear rack 222 is not connected, the side of the case 201 and the transfer body 230 open up without being sealed to each other.

[0210] To compensate for this force imbalance, the transfer body 230 is formed as a two-body structure, and an elastic body 234 is applied to the connection between the first body 235 and the second body 233 to compensate for the imbalance.

[0211] When the thrust force applied from one side of the first body 235 is deflected or deformed, the load on the filter section 210 increases on one side of the second body 233. At this time, a moment is generated in the central elastic body 234, which in turn generates a repulsive force on the opposite side, and as a result, the right end on the opposite side engages with the side edge of the case 201.

[0212] In this case, a sealing portion 2332 may be formed on the edge of the second body 233 to buffer the engagement with the edge of the case 201, and the sealing portion 2332 may buffer the engagement with the edge of the case 201.

[0213] Even when the transfer body 230 is in a stopped state, maintaining the filter section 210 in the solid-liquid separation space A without transferring it, the edge sealing section 2332 of the transfer body 230 may have a double sealing structure with the sealing member 2018 of the edge of the case 201.

[0214] In other words, the side wall of the case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 may further be provided with a case sealing member 2018 that engages with the sealing portion 2332 of the transfer body 230 in the boundary region between the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B.

[0215] This double-sealing structure ensures that during solid-liquid separation of food waste, the solid-liquid separation space is sealed by the transfer body 230, preventing the liquid from penetrating into the decomposition section 300.

[0216] In this case, the area around the coupling hole 2353 of the first body 235 may further include a recessed portion 2351, and a buffer member 236 may be placed in the recessed portion 2351, so that the coupling body 237 penetrates the buffer member 236 and connects with the screw threads in the coupling projection 2333 of the second body 233.

[0217] In this case, the cushioning member 236 can be made of an elastic material such as silicone or resin, and can be omitted.

[0218] The motor 220 may be mounted on the side of the case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 where there is sufficient space.

[0219] The solid-liquid separation unit 200 has a sealed structure via a case 201 and is configured to have a predetermined level of sealing force when the input cover 111 of the upper inlet 2011 is closed.

[0220] Therefore, with the exception of the drainage / deodorizing module 600 connected to the pinion 221 hole of the motor 220 and the drainage hole of the sink base 1, and the outlet 208 connected to the disassembly unit 300, the solid-liquid separation unit 200 is sealed by the case 201.

[0221] On the other hand, the solid-liquid separation unit 200 further includes another upper deodorizing module 250 for absorbing and discharging malodorous odors and water vapor from inside the case 201 to the outside of the case 201. The upper deodorizing module is shown in detail in Figures 12b to 12d.

[0222] As shown in Figures 12b to 12d, the upper deodorization module 250 is equipped with a deodorization pipe 260 connected to a deodorization hole 261 on the side wall of the transfer space B, with one end connected to the deodorization pipe 260 and the other end connected to a leak hole 251 on the side wall of the solid-liquid separation space A, and is designed to send malodorous odors through the deodorization pipe 260 to the decomposition section 300 where negative pressure is set. The upper deodorization module 250 is designed so that a large amount of water flows from the solid-liquid separation section 200 through the leak hole 251 and is injected through the leak hole 251, with the leak hole 251 positioned lower than the deodorization hole 261, and is operable to close valves 253 and 254 when water fills the space between the leak hole 251 and the deodorization hole 261.

[0223] On the other hand, the solid-liquid separation unit 200 may further include a nozzle module 731 connected to the water supply pipe of the sink unit 1 for supplying a predetermined humidity to the decomposition unit 300.

[0224] If the solid-liquid separation unit 200 includes a nozzle module 731, the nozzle module 731 may be connected to the water supply connecting pipe 730 by passing through the case 201 at the top of the transfer space B. Therefore, the water supply connecting pipe 730 extends from the water supply pipe to the nozzle 731 at the top of the case 201, and the nozzle module 731 can pass through the top of the case 201 and supply water from the top of the transfer space B toward the outlet 208.

[0225] Such a nozzle module 731 is controlled by the control unit and, when the humidity sensor in the decomposition unit 300 detects that the humidity is below a predetermined value, it is turned on and can spray a predetermined amount of water. However, if the decomposition unit 300 functions as a drying unit that does not contain microorganisms, the nozzle module 731 can be omitted.

[0226] Furthermore, one side of the solid-liquid separation section 200 may be further provided with a rocker 280 that penetrates the cover guide 130 and secures the input cover 111.

[0227] As described above, the rocker 280 is controlled by the control unit and, when the side surface of the filter section 210 is coupled to the bottom surface of the filter section 210 within the solid-liquid separation space A, it senses the coupling. When the cover guide 130 is fixed on the side surface of the filter section 210, it senses the fixing of the cover guide 130. When the input cover 111 is fixed on the cover guide 130, it senses the fixing of the input cover 111. After this, the rocker 280 moves horizontally toward the input cover 111. The rocker 280 is equipped with a fixing hand 281 that branches off to fix one side surface of the input cover 111. The fixing hand 281 passes through the rocker slit 134 of the cover guide 130 and grasps and fixes the side surface of the input cover 111.

[0228] By fixing the locker 280 in this manner, when the transfer body 230 at the bottom of the input cover 111 moves, causing the side of the filter section 210 to move horizontally, it is possible to prevent the input cover 111 from detaching due to the shaking of food waste inside the filter section 210.

[0229] Therefore, even if there is vibration inside, the input cover 111 maintains a tight seal, preventing unpleasant odors from leaking to the outside.

[0230] Thus, in this specification, the solid-liquid separation unit 200 has an inlet 2011 and an outlet 208 that are not aligned in a straight line in the vertical direction. Therefore, it performs filtering of solids and liquids upon input of the food waste, while simultaneously moving only the filtered solid material horizontally to fall into the decomposition unit 300 below and draw it in.

[0231] Various modifications of the basic module and operation of such a solid-liquid separation unit 200 may exist, and this is not limited to Figure 7.

[0232] Furthermore, the positions of the motor 220, rocker 280, and upper deodorizing module 250 are merely examples of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 in the first embodiment, and various modifications are possible.

[0233] The structure is greatly simplified by the solid-liquid separation section 200, which moves horizontally from rear to front, for example, only a part of the filter section 210, specifically only the side surface 211, and the decomposition section 300 can be isolated.

[0234] The operation of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 will be explained below with reference to Figure 8.

[0235] As shown in Figure 8a, the food waste disposer 10 of this embodiment, which is built into the internal space 3 of the sink unit 1, receives food waste 800 into the input section 100 via the drain outlet 4 of the sink bowl 2 of the sink unit 1 whenever food waste is generated.

[0236] Once food waste 800 has passed through the input section 100 and entered the filter section 210, the liquid 810 in the food waste flows by gravity through the perforations in the filter section 210 to the first pipe 650 of the drainage / deodorization module 600 via the hole between the bottom surface 212 of the filter section 200 and the case 201 of the solid-liquid separation section 200. The liquid is then discharged through the first pipe 650 to the drain of the sink 1, leaving only solid matter 820 inside the filter section 210.

[0237] As shown in Figure 8b, the filter unit 210 may be vibrated in order to effectively separate the liquid 810 in the food waste.

[0238] Specifically, the filter section 210 can be vibrated in the left-right or front-back direction. Preferably, the filter section 210 moves in the front-back direction, so the filter section 210 vibrates in the front-back direction. The vibration amplitude of the filter section 210 is preferably 2% to 10% of the diameter of the filter section 210.

[0239] More specifically, the motor 220 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 drives alternately in the forward and reverse directions, causing the linear rack 222 to reciprocate back and forth on the horizontal plane due to the rotation of the pinion 221. This causes the connected transfer body 230 to reciprocate back and forth along the side surface 211 of the filter unit 210.

[0240] The vibrations of the filter section 210 are transmitted to the food waste located inside the filter section 210, and these vibrations cause the liquid inside the food waste to fall to the bottom.

[0241] As shown in Figure 8c, when the user rotates the input cover 111 by a predetermined angle or more while it is placed on the cover guide 130, the control unit C of the food waste processor 10 instructs the transfer operation of the solid-liquid separation unit 200.

[0242] The solid-liquid separation unit 200 horizontally moves forward only the solid material 820 from which the liquid has been separated from the food waste that has been moved from the input unit 100, and drops it into the decomposition unit 300 below.

[0243] Specifically, as the motor 220 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 is driven, the rotation of the pinion 221 causes the linear rack 222 to move linearly forward on the horizontal plane. This causes the connected transfer body 230 to move the side surface 211 of the filter unit 210 forward. At this time, the bottom surface 212 of the filter unit 210 remains in the solid-liquid separation space A, so only the side surface 211 of the filter unit 210 exists in the transfer space B, and the solid matter 820 inside the filter unit 210 falls into the decomposition unit 300 below due to gravity.

[0244] As shown in 8d, the solid-liquid separation unit 200 can vibrate the filter unit 210 in order to cause solid matter that adheres to the filter unit 210 and is not dropped into the decomposition unit 300 to fall.

[0245] Specifically, the filter section 210 can be vibrated in the left-right or front-back direction. Preferably, the filter section 210 moves in the front-back direction, so the filter section 210 vibrates in the front-back direction. The vibration amplitude of the filter section 210 is preferably 2% to 10% of the diameter of the filter section 210.

[0246] More specifically, the motor 220 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 drives alternately in the forward and reverse directions, causing the linear rack 222 to reciprocate back and forth on the horizontal plane due to the rotation of the pinion 221. This causes the connected transfer body 230 to reciprocate back and forth along the side surface 211 of the filter unit 210.

[0247] The vibrations of the filter section 210 are transmitted to the solid object 823 attached to the side surface 211 of the filter section 210, and these vibrations cause the solid object 823 attached to the side surface 211 of the filter section 210 to fall into the disassembly section 300.

[0248] After a predetermined time has elapsed, the motor 220 can rotate in the opposite direction, allowing the filter unit 210 to move back into the solid-liquid separation space A.

[0249] Meanwhile, the solid food waste 820 that falls into the decomposition unit 300 is mixed with the microorganisms contained inside, the previously decomposed food waste, and the currently added food waste by the rotation of the stirring member 350 caused by the rotation of the motor 330 of the decomposition unit 300. The subsequent food waste processing process is described in detail in Figure 13.

[0250] The detachable lower module 750 of this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 9 to 12.

[0251] The lower module 750, which houses the disassembly unit 300, the transfer unit 400, and the collection unit 500, is packaged as individual modules that can be separated from the main body 700. Since the lower module 750 houses the internal case 320 of each module within the lower case 751, each functional module has a double-case structure.

[0252] The lower module 750 case 751 can be made of the same material as the main body 700, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, and is formed in the shape of a rectangular hexahedron so that it can be inserted into the main body 700.

[0253] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the inside of the lower module 750 of the food waste disposer 10 shown in Figure 1.

[0254] The internal case 320 defines the positions of the disassembly section 300, the transfer section 400, and the collection section 500, and can be provided in a single injection form.

[0255] In this case, the transfer unit 400 and the collection unit 500 may each have individual cases arranged within the internal case 320, but the disassembly unit 300 can have the internal case 320 itself define the space of the disassembly unit 300.

[0256] In other words, the decomposition section 300 is defined as a space for stirring while containing microorganisms and food waste. The decomposition section 300 is a space 310 that is kept mostly empty on one side of the internal case 320 and occupies 1 / 2 to 2 / 3 of the volume of the lower module 750.

[0257] The disassembly unit 300 may be positioned towards the lower left side of the front of the food waste processor 10, with the collection unit 500 and the transfer unit 400 overlapping on the lower right side.

[0258] Therefore, the space 310 of the disassembly section 300 maintains a deep, recessed shape so as to occupy the entire overlapping length of the collection section 500 and the transfer section 400, and the internal case 320 has a partition wall 360 that separates the collection section 500 and the transfer section 400 from the disassembly section 300.

[0259] The decomposition unit 300 within the lower module 750 agitates the solid food waste, from which the liquid transmitted to the decomposition unit 300 has been removed, with microorganisms. Agitation of the food waste with microorganisms increases the decomposition efficiency. The agitation shaft 331 rotates within the decomposition unit 300, and the agitation member 350 is connected to the agitation shaft 331 and rotates together with the agitation shaft 331. The agitation member 350 may be a screw type that spirally surrounds the agitation shaft 331 as its axis.

[0260] The stirring shaft 331 may be arranged below the decomposition part 300 and may be a horizontal rotation axis crossing the left and right, and the stirring member 350 may branch in the radial direction perpendicular to the stirring shaft 331. The stirring member 350 may be formed in an integral screw shape and may protrude at different heights with respect to the stirring shaft 331.

[0261] Therefore, if the part that protrudes farthest from the stirring shaft is defined as a peak for the stirring member 350, it may be formed such that a peak is located again on the 180-degree opposite side, and it may be formed such that the height decreases between the peaks, but it is not limited to this, and it can be formed in a screw shape of the same length.

[0262] Further, the stirring member 350 includes a recessed part 351 at least partially, and the recessed parts are arranged irregularly to generate turbulence so as to smoothly mix the decomposed small particle compost.

[0263] The inner case 320 of the decomposition part 300 may be formed such that the lower left side is recessed and sunken, and may have a structure in which the cross-sectional area becomes narrower as it goes downward. In particular, the lower part that is recessed and sunken in the inner case 320 of the decomposition part 300 is formed such that the bottom surface has a curved surface, and it is possible to prevent food waste or scraps from remaining at the corners.

[0264] Further, the bottom surface having a curved surface is formed such that a curved surface is formed along the locus of the stirring member 350, and the centrifugal force due to the rotation of the stirring member 350 uniformly affects each space below, so that the stirring of food waste and microorganisms may proceed uniformly below.

[0265] One side of the stirring shaft 331 having a horizontal rotation axis in the first direction which is the left-right direction may be fixed to the outer wall of the decomposition part 300 so as to be rotatable, and the other side may be fixed to the inner wall facing the outer wall so as to be rotatable.

[0266] The stirring shaft 331 may be transmitted with driving force from a motor 330 provided in the food waste processor 10. The motor 330 is disposed outside the left side wall and is disposed in a recessed space 352 in the lower region of the case 320, that is, in the space 352 between the case 751 of the lower module 750 and the inner case 320. The driving force of the motor 330 may be transmitted via a gear fixed to the stirring shaft 331.

[0267] The decomposing unit 300 may be provided with heating means 328 for heating the internal space. The heating means 328 may be, for example, a heat ray heater. The heating means 328 may be provided on the outer surface of the case 320 of the decomposing unit 300 so as to indirectly transmit heat to the internal space of the decomposing unit 300 through the case 320 of the decomposing unit 300. The case 320 of the decomposing unit 300 is provided with a metal plate 1112 having a high thermal conductivity to enable efficient heat transfer. For this purpose, a part of the surface of the case 320 of the decomposing unit 300 may be made of a deformed material of metal and non-metal as necessary.

[0268] By heating the internal space 310 of the decomposing unit 300, the temperature suitable for microorganisms to decompose food waste can be reached, and the moisture of the food waste can be sufficiently evaporated or vaporized to facilitate the treatment.

[0269] When the upper part of the decomposing unit 300 is opened, the opened upper part of the decomposing unit 300 is aligned with the outlet 208 of the case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200.

[0270] At this time, the upper part of the decomposing unit 300 may be larger than the outlet 208 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200. Since the lower module 750 can be packaged in another case 751 and can be independently separated, a user's hand can enter the internal space 310 through the opening at the upper part of the decomposing unit 300. Therefore, it is possible to easily clean the internal space 310 of the decomposing unit 300, remove the food waste that is stuck or adhered, etc. When foreign objects (as an example, a spoon, chopsticks, a bottle cap, etc.) are drawn into the lower space 310, they can be easily removed.

[0271] The disassembled section 300 has a deodorizing port 322 for connection to the rear drainage / deodorizing module 600. The rear surface of the case 320 of the disassembled section 300 may have a deodorizing port 322 that can be aligned with the deodorizing fan located above the main body 700.

[0272] The decomposition unit 300 decomposes the dewatered solid food waste without a separate drainage structure, and discharges only the vaporized malodorous odor or water vapor through deodorization. Therefore, except for the deodorization port 322, it does not have any structure that connects to the outside.

[0273] In cases where a separate drainage structure is required, the pull-out lower module 750 may include a module for connecting a drainage structure to connect the drain channel to the sink unit 1 drainpipe, or alternatively, it may further include a tank for collecting and discharging liquid separately.

[0274] In the decomposition section 300, the transmitted food waste and the food waste being decomposed by microorganisms are mixed and accumulated. Of the accumulated food waste, the food waste that has been completely decomposed is rotten material, and its particles become very small and its weight decreases.

[0275] Such decaying material, due to the weight difference between it and the newly drawn-in food waste, is moved over a wider trajectory by the rotation of the stirring member 350 and transmitted to the collection unit 500 via the transfer unit 400 located at the upper end of the decomposition unit 300.

[0276] The transfer unit 400 and the collection unit 500 will be described below with reference to Figures 10 and 11.

[0277] Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the inside of the transfer section 400 of the lower module 750 of the food waste processor 10 shown in Figure 1, and Figures 11a and 11b are state diagrams showing the connection between the transfer section 400 and the collection section 500.

[0278] First, as shown in Figure 10, the transfer unit 400 may achieve its transfer function via a transfer screw 430 and a disassembly chamber propeller 410.

[0279] The transfer unit 400 is located on one side of the disassembly unit 300, for example, on the right side, and is positioned at the upper end of the collection unit 500.

[0280] Due to the height difference between the transfer section 400 and the agitator 350 of the decomposition section 300, only the lighter decomposed material can selectively reach the transfer section 400. In other words, the transfer section 400 is designed so that only the decomposed material that forms a large trajectory up to the height due to the weight difference and undergoes agitation flows into the transfer section 400, and the decomposed material that flows in is moved to the collection section 500.

[0281] Specifically, the transfer section 400 has a partition wall 360, and the partition wall 360 has an inlet 361 that is open at the bottom, so the disassembly section 300 and the transfer section 400 are connected through the inlet 361.

[0282] The partition wall 360 is formed so that only rotten material can pass through the inlet 361, and as the food waste rots, the rotten material undergoes the greatest displacement due to the weight difference and can reach the inlet 361. In this way, when the rotten material that reaches the inlet 361 of the partition wall 360 is drawn into the inlet 361, a decomposition chamber propeller 410 is positioned inside the partition wall 360 to transport it inward.

[0283] In other words, the decomposition chamber propeller 410 is positioned in close proximity to the bulkhead 360 and serves to sweep and clear the area in front of the inlet 361.

[0284] The transfer screw 430 transfers the rotten material that has flowed into the transfer space 501 to the collection unit 500. The transfer screw 430 can be configured so that the direction of transfer of the rotten material is on the rotating shaft 451, and the spiral blades 511 protruding from the rotating shaft 451 rotate to push the food waste towards the collection unit 500 or in the opposite direction.

[0285] The motor 450 rotates the transfer screw 430 in one direction so that the decaying material moves from the decomposition area 300 to the collection area 500.

[0286] At this time, when a signal indicating that the collection box 510 provided in the collection unit 500 is full is received, it is possible to move the decomposed matter from the area of the collection unit 500 back to the area of the decomposition unit 300, or to stop the motor 450. The rotational drive of the motor 450 may be controlled by the control unit C.

[0287] The transfer unit 400 may include a screen 420 covering the transfer screw 430, and the decomposed matter transferred by the screen 420 can be prevented from escaping to the outside. The screen 420 can be formed in a cylindrical shape extending from the partition wall, and houses the transfer screw 430 and the motor 450. The screen 420 surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the transfer screw 430, moves the decomposed matter from the left side to the right side, discharges it toward the outlet 12, and drops it into the collection unit 500.

[0288] The bracket 470 of the transfer unit 400 protrudes from the lower part of the screen 420 toward the collection unit 500, and the transfer unit 400 can be fixed to the cover 520 of the collection unit 500. The bracket 470 of the transfer unit 400 has an outlet 12 at the bottom, the edge of the outlet 12 forms a rail 471, and it can be fixed and communicated by slidingly coupling with the opening and closing lid 521 of the collection unit 500.

[0289] The rotation of the transfer screw 430 may be realized by the drive of the motor 450. The driving force of the motor 450 may be transmitted through a shaft 451 fixed to the transfer screw 430. At this time, the shaft 451 is fixed together with the propeller 410, and the transfer screw 430 and the propeller 410 can be rotated simultaneously by one motor 450. At this time, if they have different rotational speeds, the rotational speeds may be controlled through separate gears. In this way, the space occupied by the motor 450 can be minimized, contributing to the miniaturization of the device, and the power consumption can also be minimized.

[0290] Thus, the transfer unit 400 is located only on the collection unit 500, and only small, light particles of rotten material selectively flow into the transfer unit 400 through the inlet 361, thereby fundamentally preventing unrotted food waste from flowing into the transfer unit 400.

[0291] Therefore, it is extremely rare for food waste to remain on the transfer section 400 for an extended period or for residue to stick and generate a foul odor.

[0292] Furthermore, by individually providing motors 330 and 450 for the disassembly unit 300 and the transfer unit 400, the stirring of the disassembly unit 300 and the transfer of the transfer unit 400 may be controlled independently. For example, if the stirring shaft 331 rotates in only one direction, food waste may accumulate in one area, resulting in uneven stirring of the food waste. Therefore, in this case, the stirring shaft 331 may rotate periodically in the opposite direction, while the transfer screw 510 rotates continuously to move the food waste from the disassembly unit 300 to the collection unit 500.

[0293] Furthermore, even when transfer is interrupted in the transfer unit 400 due to the capacity of the collection unit 500, stirring can continue continuously. For example, while the collection box 520 is separated from the fixed space of the collection unit 500 for processing the decomposed food waste, stirring of the food waste can continue.

[0294] The drive speed and drive direction of the motor 450 may be driven based on control signals from a control unit C, such as a processor. The specific power transmission structure is not limited thereto and may be configured considering torque, rotational speed, spatial arrangement, etc.

[0295] The collection unit 500 may be located in the lower right corner of the internal case 320 of the lower module 750 in the shape of a rectangular hexahedron, as shown in Figures 11a and 11b.

[0296] The collection unit 500 is inserted into the collection space 326 of the internal case 320 of the lower module 750.

[0297] The collection unit 500 is a single module that can be individually assembled and separated from the main body 700, and can also be assembled and separated from the lower module 750.

[0298] In other words, the collection unit 500 is a module that is inserted into the collection space 326 in a manner similar to an insertable trash can.

[0299] The collection unit 500 consists of a collection unit 500 cover 520 and a collection box 510.

[0300] A cover 520 for the collection section 500 is fitted with an opening / closing lid 521.

[0301] The opening / closing lid 521 opens when connected to the transfer unit 400, connecting the internal space of the collection box 510 to the outlet 12 of the transfer unit 400.

[0302] The opening / closing lid 521 is closed when the user separates the collection unit 500 from the collection space 326 and removes it outside, and opens when the user reattaches the collection unit 500 to the food waste processor 10, as it rises on the inclined surface 475 of the bracket 470 of the transport unit 400. For this purpose, the opening / closing lid 521 is hinged to the front side.

[0303] Therefore, when the collection unit 500 is removed, the user can avoid seeing the decaying material, and the foul odor of the decaying material can be prevented from escaping.

[0304] The collection box 510 may have a recessed shape to provide an internal collection space and may have a stepped structure to allow it to be covered with plastic sheeting.

[0305] When a certain amount accumulates in the collection unit 500, a sensor 530 is provided that can measure the amount of decaying material in the collection unit 500, allowing the user to collect and dispose of it.

[0306] The sensor 530 of the collection unit 500 may be a weight sensor, and a weight plate 540 is formed on the bottom surface of the collection box 510, and the weight of the decomposed material can be sensed via a load cell located below the weight plate 540 and transmitted to the control unit C.

[0307] Unlike the above, the sensor 530 of the collection unit 500 may be a water level sensor placed inside the collection space, and various sensors such as ultrasonic sensors, laser sensors, and image sensors can be used as the water level sensor.

[0308] In this way, the connection and communication between the collection unit 500 and the transfer unit 400 are carried out by the sliding connection between the outlet 12 of the transfer unit 400 and the opening / closing lid 521 of the cover 520 of the collection unit 500. This allows for sealing so that the user does not experience discomfort from internal decaying matter when removing the collection unit 500, and the two modules can be easily fastened and separated.

[0309] On the other hand, the food waste disposer 10 of this embodiment further includes a drainage / deodorization module 600 in the space between the main body 700 and the lower module 750, i.e., the rear space.

[0310] Figures 12a to 12d are simplified configuration diagrams showing the drainage / deodorization module 600 of the food waste disposer 10 in Figure 1.

[0311] The lower module 750 has an internal space defined by a case 751 of the lower module 750, which is a rectangular hexahedron that is shallower in depth than the main body 700.

[0312] Due to this difference in depth, a separation space exists between the main body 700 and the case 751 of the lower module 750 behind the lower module 750.

[0313] Such a separation space is positioned towards the lower rear of the entire main body 700 of the food waste disposer 10. An exhaust fan 620 is formed on the rear surface of the separation space, that is, on the rear surface of the main body 700. In addition, a sewer pipe connection part is formed on the bottom surface of the separation space, that is, on the bottom surface of the main body 700, which connects to the sewer pipe of the external sink stand 1.

[0314] The exhaust fan 620 creates negative pressure inside the food waste disposer 10, and the malodorous odors and water vapor inside are discharged to the sewer pipe of the sink unit 1 via the deodorizing duct 610 connected to the exhaust fan 620.

[0315] The deodorizing duct 610 is a spiral-shaped (snail-shaped) duct 610, with one side facing the exhaust fan 620 and connected to a ventilation opening 322 formed on the rear surface of the case of the lower module 750, and the other side connected to the drainage deodorizing pipes 650 and 660.

[0316] A connection can be formed between the deodorizing duct 610 and the drainage deodorizing pipes 650 and 660 via a connecting unit 630, which can be achieved using an O-ring or the like.

[0317] The drainage and deodorizing pipes 650 and 660 are formed by connecting a first inlet connected to the sewer pipe 270 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200, a second inlet connected to the deodorizing duct 610, and an outlet connected to the sewer pipe of the external sink unit 1, and are pipes having multiple bends.

[0318] The drainage deodorizing pipes 650 and 660 have an S-shaped trap between the first inlet and the outlet. The first pipe 650 forms a path for the cleaning water flowing from the filter screen through the first inlet, allowing the filtered liquid from the solid-liquid separation unit 200 to flow into the external sewer pipe. Since the S-shaped trap always contains water, it can prevent odor backflow from the sewer outlet 4.

[0319] On the other hand, the drainage deodorizing pipes 650 and 660 further have a second pipe 660 formed between the second inlet and the outlet, which has at least one bend.

[0320] At this time, a backflow prevention cover 670 is formed between the second pipe 660 and the outlet to prevent liquid from flowing back from the first pipe 650 into the second pipe 660.

[0321] The aforementioned backflow prevention cover 670 is intended to prevent an accident in which liquid flows back into the second pipe 660 and is injected into the decomposition section 300, thereby killing all the microorganisms in the decomposition section 300. A check valve can be used as the backflow prevention cover 670.

[0322] The check valve may be configured to open the second pipe 660 and connect it to the outlet when malodorous odors and water vapor are discharged into the second pipe 660, and to prevent backflow of liquid through the outlet or the first pipe 650 by reverse gravity. In other words, the check valve can be opened and closed by gravity. As an example of how to give elasticity to the check valve, the check valve may be made of silicone material and its upper edge may be fixed to the upper side of the second pipe 660. The fixing part of the check valve can serve the same purpose as a hinge fastening.

[0323] Thus, the integration of the two paths 650 and 660, formed between the case of the main body 700 and the case 751 of the lower module 750, is advantageous for space utilization. Furthermore, by not forming a separate odor discharge path and discharging all wastewater and odors through the drain outlet of the sink unit 1, it is possible to prevent odors from being discharged to the outside, eliminating the need for a separate filter structure to minimize odor discharge to the outside. Consequently, the product can be simplified and costs can be reduced.

[0324] Furthermore, when the lower module 750 and the main body 700 are joined, the connection with the deodorizing duct 610 is facilitated, allowing them to be fitted together without any other physical joining structure. For this reason, a sealing portion may be formed between the ventilation opening of the lower module 750 and the deodorizing duct 610.

[0325] At this time, the aforementioned upper deodorizing module 250 draws the malodorous odor and water vapor from the solid-liquid separation space A into the transfer space B of the solid-liquid separation section 200, and the malodorous odor and moisture are drawn into the decomposition section 300 via the outlet 208 of the solid-liquid separation section 200. Therefore, all the malodorous odor and water vapor from the upper module 710 and the lower module 750 are discharged into the second piping 660 through the rear opening 322 in the decomposition section 300 and the deodorizing duct 610.

[0326] The ventilation openings of the lower module 750 are aligned to communicate with the rear opening 322 of the decomposition section 300 case, creating negative pressure in both the interior of the decomposition section 300 and the internal space of the solid-liquid separation section 200 via the opening at the top of the decomposition section 300, as well as in the transfer section 400 and the collection section 500 connected to the transfer section 400, thereby creating an airflow that allows all malodorous odors and water vapor to be discharged through the opening 322.

[0327] Furthermore, a guide seal is formed between the exhaust fan 620 and the deodorizing duct 610. The guide seal helps the deodorizing duct 610 of the lower module 750 to properly engage with and be sandwiched by the exhaust fan 620 of the main body 700, while also forming a sealed structure that prevents unpleasant odors from the disassembly section 300 from leaking to the outside.

[0328] The food waste disposer 10 of this embodiment recognizes disclosure orders by the rotation of the input cover 111 and includes a control unit C for controlling each module.

[0329] The control unit C can be implemented using a processor or microcontroller, and communicates wirelessly with various sensors and display units 14 in each module, thereby controlling the operation of each module.

[0330] The operation of the food waste disposer 10 of this embodiment will be explained below with reference to Figures 13a to 13d.

[0331] Figures 13a to 13d are sequence diagrams showing the operation of the food waste disposer 10 shown in Figure 1.

[0332] First, as shown in Figure 13a, the food waste disposer 10 of this embodiment, which is built into the internal space 3 of the sink unit 1, receives food waste 800 into the input section 100 via the drain outlet 4 of the sink bowl 2 of the sink unit 1 whenever food waste is generated.

[0333] Once food waste 800 has passed through the input section 100 and entered the filter section 210, the liquid 810 in the food waste flows by gravity through the perforations in the filter section 210 to the first pipe 650 of the drainage / deodorization module 600 via the hole between the bottom surface 212 of the filter section 200 and the case 201 of the solid-liquid separation section 200. The liquid is then discharged through the first pipe 650 to the drain of the sink 1, leaving only solid matter 820 inside the filter section 210.

[0334] As shown in Figure 13b, when the user rotates the input cover 111 by a predetermined angle or more while it is placed on the cover guide 130, the control unit C of the food waste processor 10 instructs the transfer operation of the solid-liquid separation unit 200.

[0335] The solid-liquid separation unit 200 horizontally moves forward only the solid material 820 from which the liquid has been separated from the food waste that has been moved from the input unit 100, and drops it into the decomposition unit 300 below.

[0336] In other words, as the motor 220 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 is driven, the rotation of the pinion 221 causes the linear rack 222 to move linearly forward on the horizontal plane. This causes the connected transfer body 230 to move the side surface 211 of the filter unit 210 forward. At this time, the bottom surface 212 of the filter unit 210 remains in the solid-liquid separation space A, so only the side surface 211 of the filter unit 210 exists in the transfer space B, and the solid matter 820 inside the filter unit 210 falls into the decomposition unit 300 below due to gravity.

[0337] After a predetermined time has elapsed, the motor 220 can rotate in the opposite direction, causing the filter unit 210 to move back into the solid-liquid separation space A.

[0338] Meanwhile, the solid food waste 820 that falls into the decomposition unit 300 is mixed with the microorganisms contained inside, the previously decomposed food waste, and the currently added food waste by the rotation of the stirring member 350 caused by the rotation of the motor 330 of the decomposition unit 300.

[0339] Through this continuous mixing and maintenance of a predetermined temperature by the heating element 328, the microbial fermentation process proceeds, and the food waste is fermented and decomposed into rotten material 821.

[0340] This type of decomposition is a process that transforms organic matter into inorganic matter, and can be described as composting.

[0341] Thus, the decomposed rotten material 821 has a smaller particle size and is lighter than the food waste that is introduced. Therefore, when the food waste is stirred by the motor 330 of the decomposition unit 300, it moves from bottom to top, from left to right in the wide space above, and from top to bottom, utilizing the entire space of the decomposition unit 300. Such large trajectories are created by the low-speed rotation of the stirring member 350, the integrated screw shape of the stirring member 350, and the irregular depressions 351.

[0342] As shown in Figure 13d, the decomposed rotten material, due to its small and light particle characteristics, leaves a larger trajectory during agitation, thereby allowing it to move to the transfer section 400 via the inlet 361 at the bottom of the partition wall 360 located on the upper right side.

[0343] When the motor 450 of the transfer unit 400 is driven and rotates the transfer screw 430, the rotten material that has flowed in through the inlet 361 is moved to the right, and the rotten material flows into the collection unit 500 below through the outlet 12 formed on the right side.

[0344] The control unit C controls the drive of the motors in each module, enabling each module's motor to rotate its shaft in a direction and at a speed determined according to its characteristics, thereby achieving optimal drive.

[0345] For example, if a water level sensor 370 is placed inside the decomposition unit 300, and the water level sensor 370 detects decaying material 821 that is tracing a trajectory larger than a predetermined height, the motor of the transfer unit 400 can be operated to proceed with the transfer of the decaying material 821 by the transfer unit 400.

[0346] Therefore, it is possible to easily control multiple modules independently without the need for a complex gear linkage structure to rotate them with a single motor.

[0347] Furthermore, if the weight of the decaying material 830 in the collection unit 500 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the control unit C receives a value from the weight sensor 530, and thereby can provide an alarm for discharge from the collection unit 500 to the display unit 14 or a linked user terminal.

[0348] Such an alarm allows the user to separate only the collection unit 500 from the lower module 750 case 751 and empty the decaying material 830 inside.

[0349] Thus, the food waste disposer 10 of this embodiment is built into the sink unit 1 and communicates with the drain outlet 4 of the sink unit 1. It is connected to the water supply pipe and drain pipe of the sink unit 1 to receive water, and can discharge liquid and odors from food waste into the drain pipe. As a result, the results from the food waste disposer 10 are limited to the composted material in the collection unit 500, and the user can use it without various modules for ventilation and deodorization for other exhaust by emptying only the composted material via an alarm.

[0350] As described above, the food waste processor 10 of this embodiment is configured to be separated into an upper module 710 that houses the input section 100 and the solid-liquid separation section 200, and a lower module 750 that houses the decomposition section 300, the transfer section 400, and the collection section 500. The lower module 750 is packaged in a separate case 751 and can be attached to and detached from the main body 700 in a pull-out manner.

[0351] In the following, various embodiments of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 applicable to this specification will be described with reference to Figures 14 to 19.

[0352] The solid-liquid separation unit 200 is inserted into the upper module 710 so as to be compatible with the other modules described in Figures 1 to 12.

[0353] Figures 14a and 14b are state diagrams of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 of the second embodiment.

[0354] As shown in Figures 14a and 14b, the solid-liquid separation unit 200A according to the second embodiment of this specification is a module for separating the solid and liquid components of food waste flowing in through the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200A and then transmitting them to the decomposition unit 300, as previously described.

[0355] As shown in Figure 14a, the solid-liquid separation unit 200A of the second embodiment is divided into a solid-liquid separation space A where solid-liquid separation is performed and a transfer space B where solid material is transferred. While solid-liquid separation is performed in the solid-liquid separation section A, the transfer space B is sealed away from the food waste and structured to prevent liquid from the food waste from flowing in.

[0356] The solid-liquid separation unit 200A in Figure 14 has an inlet formed at the rear of the upper surface of the solid-liquid separation unit 200A case and is connected to the drain outlet 4 of the sink unit 1 as described above, and the outlet 208A may be located in front of the lower surface of the upper module 710, that is, the lower surface of the case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200A, and communicate with the decomposition unit 300.

[0357] For this purpose, the solid-liquid separation unit 200A is provided such that at least one area overlaps the decomposition unit 300, and the outlet 208A of the solid-liquid separation unit 200A is provided so as to be located in this overlapping area. As a result, the food waste that comes out through the outlet 208A of the solid-liquid separation unit 200A is transmitted to the decomposition unit 300 by free fall. Therefore, the solid-liquid separation unit 200A rotates and moves the input food waste from rear to front on a horizontal plane to transfer it to the decomposition unit 300.

[0358] The case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200A may be formed along the movement trajectory of the filter unit 210A, as shown in Figure 14a. Specifically, the case 201 is formed to accommodate both the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B. For example, the case 201 may be formed to surround the filter unit 210A inserted into the inlet 2011, and the filter unit 210A is separable from each other into a side surface 211 and a bottom surface 212, as described above.

[0359] The outlet 208A of the solid-liquid separation section 200A is in communication with the inlet of the decomposition section 300, and its shape may match that of the inlet of the lower module 750. For example, as shown in Figure 14a, the outlet 208A on the bottom surface can be provided in the shape of a polygon that has a diameter even larger than the opening 211 on the side of the filter section 210A, and is not limited to that shape.

[0360] Solid-liquid separation space A is a region located at the rear of the case, and is the space between the inlet and the drain hole in which the filter unit 210 is housed.

[0361] The filter section 210A has a coupling portion on its side surface 211 that connects to the transfer body 230A.

[0362] When the filter section 210A and the case 201 are fitted together, the liquid flowing from the side of the filter section 210A through a separation space created at a part of the edge flows to the outlet 270 via the slope of the case bottom of the solid-liquid separation space A.

[0363] The case 201 is provided with side walls surrounding the filter section 210A, and the side walls can be formed to have a curved surface in the region corresponding to the filter section 210, as shown in Figure 14a.

[0364] A transfer space B is formed in front of the solid-liquid separation space A.

[0365] The transfer space B is mainly an empty space, and may be either a space into which the filter unit 210A is placed due to the movement of the filter unit 210A by the transfer module, or a space that is empty due to the retraction of the filter unit 210A.

[0366] The case 201 of the solid-liquid separation section 200A surrounding the transfer space B may be formed with a curved surface along the trajectory of the moving circular filter section 210.

[0367] The solid-liquid separation unit 200A is equipped with a transfer module on one side of the case 201 for rotating the filter unit 210A horizontally between the transfer space B and the solid-liquid separation space A.

[0368] The transfer module comprises a transfer motor 220A and a transfer arm 230A connected to the shaft of the transfer motor 220A.

[0369] The motor 220A rotates the transfer arm 230A in order to rotate the filter section 210A from the solid-liquid separation space A to the transfer space B from rear to front.

[0370] The transfer arm 230A is composed of a transfer body 238 and a motor connecting portion 239. The transfer body 238 is formed to cover the side surface 211 of the filter portion 210A and to seal the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B. Therefore, the transfer body 238 may be formed of a curved surface having the same curvature while maintaining a separation distance of a predetermined distance from the side surface 211 so as to cover the side surface 211 of the filter portion 210A.

[0371] Therefore, the transfer arm 230A can be realized in a form in which a part of the cylinder is cut off.

[0372] The motor connecting portion 239 extends from one side of the transfer body 238 and is connected to the shaft of the motor 220A. When the motor 220A is driven, the transfer body 230A may rotate around the shaft as it rotates due to the rotation of the shaft.

[0373] Therefore, the transfer body 230A, which rotates around the shaft, has its other end connected to the side fixing portion of the filter section 210A, so that only the side 211 of the filter section 210A can move selectively. At this time, the fixing of the transfer body 230A and the side 211 of the filter section 210A is rotatably connected, so that the side 211 of the filter section 210A rotates with respect to the shaft of the motor 220A and moves on a horizontal plane. Such movement on a horizontal plane is defined as moving the side 211 of the filter section 210A from rear to front.

[0374] As a result, as shown in Figure 14b, once food waste is fed into the filter section 210A and the input cover 111 is rotated to recognize the start of operation, the motor 220A can be rotated. Alternatively, the motor can be operated when a disclosure signal is received from the user, and such a user disclosure signal can be received from a user terminal equipped with an application that can be linked with the food waste processor 10. The rotational drive of the motor 220A may be controlled by the control unit.

[0375] The motor 220A may be located inside the case 201, for example, on one side of the central region of the case 201, that is, in the boundary space between the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B.

[0376] Therefore, the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B may be arranged along a circular trajectory with respect to the position of the motor 220A.

[0377] The sealing force of the transfer body 230A is achieved by the sealing portion surrounding the edges of the transfer body 230A.

[0378] Furthermore, the sealing force of the transfer body 230A prevents liquid from seeping forward of the transfer body 230A and flowing into the decomposition section 300 during solid-liquid separation of food waste, without the need for a separate cover to separate the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B, or, if a cover exists, without the need to move the cover.

[0379] At this time, when the transfer body 230A is in a stopped state and is maintained in the solid-liquid separation space A without transferring the filter section 210A, the edge sealing portion of the transfer body 230A may have a double sealing structure with the edge of the case.

[0380] In other words, the side wall of the case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200 may be further provided with a case sealing member that engages with the sealing portion of the transfer body 230A in the boundary region between the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B.

[0381] This double-sealing structure ensures that during solid-liquid separation of food waste, the solid-liquid separation space A is sealed by the transfer body 230, preventing the liquid from penetrating into the decomposition section 300.

[0382] Similarly, the solid-liquid separation unit 200A in Figures 14a and 14b may also be further equipped with another upper deodorizing module outside the case 201 to absorb and discharge malodorous odors and water vapor from inside the case 201.

[0383] Figures 15a and 15b are state diagrams of the solid-liquid separation unit 200B of the third embodiment.

[0384] As shown in Figures 15a and 15b, the solid-liquid separation unit 200B according to the third embodiment of this specification is a module for separating the solid and liquid components of food waste flowing in through the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200B and then transmitting them to the decomposition unit 300, as previously described.

[0385] As shown in Figure 15a, the solid-liquid separation unit 200B of the third embodiment is divided into a solid-liquid separation space A where solid-liquid separation is performed and a transfer space B where solid material is transferred. While solid-liquid separation is performed in the solid-liquid separation space A, the transfer space B is sealed away from the food waste to prevent the liquid from the food waste from flowing in.

[0386] The solid-liquid separation unit 200B in Figure 15 has an inlet 2011 formed at the rear of the upper surface of the solid-liquid separation unit 200B case 201, and is connected to the drain outlet 4 of the sink unit 1 as described above, and the outlet 208B is located in front of the lower surface of the upper module 710, that is, the lower surface of the housing of the solid-liquid separation unit 200B, and communicates with the disassembly unit 300.

[0387] For this purpose, the solid-liquid separation unit 200B is provided such that at least one area overlaps the decomposition unit 300, and the outlet of the solid-liquid separation unit 200B is provided so as to be located in this overlapping area. As a result, the food waste that comes out through the outlet of the solid-liquid separation unit 200B is transmitted to the decomposition unit 300 by free fall. Therefore, the solid-liquid separation unit 200B rotates and moves the input food waste from rear to front on a horizontal plane to transfer it to the decomposition unit 300.

[0388] The case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200B may be formed with a curved surface along the movement trajectory of the filter unit 210B, as shown in Figure 15a. Specifically, it is formed to accommodate both the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B. For example, the case may be formed to surround the filter unit 210B inserted into the inlet, and the filter unit 210B is separable from each other into its side and bottom surfaces, as described above.

[0389] The outlet 208 of the solid-liquid separation section 200B is in communication with the inlet of the decomposition section 300, and its shape may match that of the inlet of the lower module 750.

[0390] In this case, the solid-liquid separation unit 200B may further include an outlet lid 290 that can open and close the outlet.

[0391] The solid-liquid separation unit 200 may also be provided with a motor 271 for opening and closing the outlet lid 290. For example, as shown in Figures 15a and 15b, it may further include a second motor 271 and a lid connecting member 273 connected to the shaft 272 of the second motor 271 to raise the outlet lid 290 upward.

[0392] The lid connecting member 273 includes a first surface extending perpendicularly from the axial direction of the shaft 272, a second surface bent from the first surface and extending parallel to the outlet lid 290, and a third surface bent from the second surface and extending parallel to the first surface.

[0393] The first, second, and third surfaces are, JPEG2026516177000002.jpg7169 It has a letter shape, with the second surface being the longest, and the other end of the third surface is connected to the upper surface of the outlet cover 270 so as to rotate with the upper surface coupling portion 275.

[0394] Therefore, the shaft 272 rotates as the second motor 271 drives the shaft 272 The lid connecting member 273 is rotated so that the third surface rotates relative to the upper surface of the lid 270 and overlaps with the upper surface of the lid 270.

[0395] This rotation lifts the outlet cover 290 upward by the sum of the lengths of the second and third surfaces.

[0396] As the outlet cover 290 moves upward in this manner, the outlet 208 is opened, and a space is formed between the cover 270 and the outlet 208.

[0397] On the other hand, in the third embodiment, as in the second embodiment, the motor 220B is provided, and a transfer coupling portion 239 for driving the rotation of the filter portion 210B is provided on the shaft of the motor 220B. In this case, unlike in the second embodiment, the transfer coupling portion 239 does not include a body for sealing the solid-liquid separation space A, and may exist only as an extension of the coupling portion 239 connected to the shaft. That is, the other end of the coupling portion 239 is directly connected to the filter portion 210B, and the filter portion 210B is directly rotated.

[0398] Therefore, the transfer coupling portion 239, which rotates around the shaft, has its other end connected to the side surface 211 fixing portion of the filter portion 210B, so that only the side surface 211 of the filter portion 210B moves selectively and is fixed in the space between the lid 270 and the outlet 208.

[0399] In other words, the transfer coupling portion 239 and the side surface 211 of the filter portion 210B are rotatably coupled, and the side surface 211 of the filter portion 210B rotates relative to the shaft of the motor 220B, thereby changing its position on the horizontal plane. Such rotational movement on the horizontal plane is defined as moving the side surface 211 of the filter portion 210B from rear to front.

[0400] As a result, as shown in Figure 15b, once food waste is placed in the filter section 210B and the input cover 111 is rotated to recognize the start of operation, the first motor 220B and the second motor 271 can be rotated. Alternatively, the first and second motors 220B and 271 can be operated by receiving a disclosure signal from the user, and such a user disclosure signal can be received from a user terminal equipped with an application that can be linked with the food waste processor 10. The rotational drive of the first motor 220B may be controlled by the control unit.

[0401] The first and second motors 220B and 271 are located inside the case 201, for example, on the side of the case 201; that is, the first motor 200B may be located on one side of the boundary space between the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B, and the second motor 271 may be located on the transfer space B side.

[0402] Therefore, the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B may be arranged along a circular trajectory with respect to the position of the first motor 200B.

[0403] Thus, by providing a separate outlet lid 290, the decomposition section 300 during solid-liquid separation is sealed, eliminating the need for a separate transfer body 230. Therefore, since the moving transfer arm 239 does not require a sealing function, a complex structure can be omitted.

[0404] The solid-liquid separation unit 200B in Figures 15a and 15b also similarly includes another upper deodorizing module for absorbing and discharging malodorous odors and water vapor to the outside of the case 201.

[0405] Figures 16a and 16b are state diagrams of the solid-liquid separation unit 200C of the fourth embodiment.

[0406] As shown in Figures 16a and 16b, the solid-liquid separation unit 200C according to the fourth embodiment of this specification is a module for separating the solid and liquid components of food waste flowing in through the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200C and then transmitting them to the decomposition unit 300, as previously described.

[0407] As shown in Figure 16a, the solid-liquid separation unit 200C of the fourth embodiment is divided into a solid-liquid separation space A where solid-liquid separation is performed and a transfer space B where solid material is transferred. While solid-liquid separation is performed in the solid-liquid separation section A, the transfer space B is sealed away from the food waste and structured to prevent liquid from the food waste from flowing in.

[0408] The solid-liquid separation unit 200C in Figure 16a has an inlet 2011 formed at the rear of its upper surface and is connected to the drain outlet 4 of the sink unit 1 as described above, and the outlet 208 is located on the lower surface of the upper module 710, that is, in front of the lower surface of the solid-liquid separation unit 200C, and communicates with the decomposition unit 300.

[0409] For this purpose, the solid-liquid separation unit 200C is provided such that at least one area overlaps the decomposition unit 300, and the outlet 208 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200C is provided so as to be located in this overlapping area. As a result, the food waste that comes out through the outlet 208 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200C is transmitted to the decomposition unit 300 by free fall. Therefore, the solid-liquid separation unit 200C transports the input food waste to the decomposition unit 300 by moving it horizontally from rear to front.

[0410] The case 201 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200C may be formed with a curved surface along the movement trajectory of the filter unit 210C, as shown in Figure 16a. Specifically, it is formed to accommodate both the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B. For example, it may be formed to surround the filter unit 210C inserted into the inlet, and as described above, the filter unit 210C is separable from each other into a side surface 211 and a bottom surface 212.

[0411] The outlet 208 of the solid-liquid separation section 200C is in communication with the inlet of the decomposition section 300, and its shape may match that of the inlet of the lower module 750. As an example, as shown in Figure 16a, the outlet on the bottom surface may be provided in the shape of a polygon with a diameter even larger than the opening of the side surface 211 of the filter section 210C, and is not limited to that shape.

[0412] In this case, the solid-liquid separation unit 200C may further include an outlet lid 290 that can open and close the outlet 208.

[0413] The solid-liquid separation unit 200C may also be provided with a motor 271 for opening and closing the outlet lid 290. For example, as shown in Figures 16a and 16b, a second motor 271 may be provided, and the outlet lid 290 connected to the shaft 272 of the second motor 271 rotates to open the outlet 208.

[0414] Driven by the second motor 271, the shaft 272 rotates, causing the outlet cover 290 to rotate along with it, rotating vertically and opening the outlet 208.

[0415] On the other hand, the first motor 220C is included as in the second embodiment, and the shaft of the first motor 220C is provided with a transfer coupling portion 239 for driving the rotation of the filter portion 210C. In this case, unlike in the second embodiment, the transfer coupling portion 239 does not include a body for sealing the solid-liquid separation space A, and can exist only as an extension of the coupling portion 239 connected to the shaft. That is, the other end of the coupling portion 239 is directly connected to the filter portion 210, directly rotating the filter portion 210C.

[0416] Therefore, the transfer coupling portion 239, which rotates around the shaft, has its other end connected to the side surface 211 fixing portion of the filter portion 210C, so that only the side surface 211 of the filter portion 210C moves selectively and the lid 270 rotates and is fixed in the space above the outlet 208 that is opened.

[0417] In other words, the transfer coupling portion 239 and the side surface 211 of the filter portion 210C are rotatably coupled, and the side surface 211 of the filter portion 210C rotates on the shaft of the motor 220C, moving its position on the horizontal plane. Such rotational movement on the horizontal plane is defined as moving the side surface 211 of the filter portion 210C from rear to front.

[0418] As a result, as shown in Figure 16b, once food waste is placed in the filter section 210C and the input cover 111 is rotated to recognize the start of operation, the first motor and the second motors 220C and 271 can be rotated. Alternatively, the first and second motors 220C and 271 can be operated by receiving a disclosure signal from the user, and such a user disclosure signal can be received from a user terminal equipped with an application that can be linked with the food waste processor 10. The rotational drive of motors 220C and 271 may be controlled by the control unit.

[0419] The first and second motors 220C and 271 may be arranged inside the case, for example, biased toward one side of the case. The first motor 220C may be arranged on one side of the boundary space between the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B, and the second motor 271 is formed biased toward the transfer space B side.

[0420] Therefore, the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B may be arranged along a circular trajectory with respect to the position of the first motor 220C.

[0421] Thus, by providing a separate outlet lid 290, the decomposition section 300 during solid-liquid separation is sealed, eliminating the need for a separate transfer body. Therefore, since a sealing function is not required for the moving transfer, a complex structure can be omitted.

[0422] Figures 17a and 17b are state diagrams of the solid-liquid separation unit 200D of the fifth embodiment.

[0423] As shown in Figures 17a and 17b, the solid-liquid separation unit 200D according to the fifth embodiment of this specification is a module for separating the solid and liquid components of food waste flowing in through the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200D and then transmitting them to the decomposition unit 300, as previously described.

[0424] As shown in Figure 17a, the solid-liquid separation section 200D is divided into a solid-liquid separation space A where solid-liquid separation takes place and a transfer space B where solid material is transferred. While solid-liquid separation is taking place in the solid-liquid separation section A, the transfer space B is sealed away from the food waste to prevent the liquid from the food waste from flowing in.

[0425] The basic structure of the fifth embodiment is the same as that of the second embodiment.

[0426] However, in the fifth embodiment, the structure includes a transfer body 230D, and further includes an outlet cover 290.

[0427] In the embodiments described above, the transfer body 230D was provided as an optional structure in which the outlet cover 290 is not provided. However, in the fifth embodiment, both the transfer body 230D and the outlet cover 290 may be provided.

[0428] Thus, when both the transfer body 230D and the outlet cover 290 are provided, the liquid flowing to the filter section 210D is first blocked from flowing to the outside by the sealing of the transfer body 230D while solid-liquid separation is progressing, and is secondarily blocked from entering the decomposition section 300 by the outlet cover 290.

[0429] Furthermore, by separately forming an outlet cover 290 on the decomposition section 300, it is possible to always prevent the malodorous odor generated while decomposition is continuously progressing in the decomposition section 300 from being transmitted to the user through the drain outlet 4, i.e., the input opening 11, of the sink unit 1 in various cases.

[0430] However, due to the complexity of the structure, as shown in Figure 17a, the outlet cover 290 may be pushed up in conjunction with the rotational movement of the transfer body 230D without a separate motor.

[0431] In other words, one end of the outlet cover 290 can be hinged 276 so as to be rotatable relative to the bottom surface of the case 201, which means a structure that allows the outlet cover 290 to be opened and closed upwards.

[0432] At this time, one side of the outlet cover 290 and the bottom edge of the transfer body 230D are positioned to abut each other, and the side wall of the outlet cover 290 has an inclined surface that slopes downwards with respect to the rotational direction of the transfer body 230D. Therefore, when the transfer body 230D rotates toward the outlet 208, the inclined surface of the outlet cover 290 is pushed upward, causing the outlet cover 290 to rotate in such a way that it is lifted.

[0433] Therefore, a single motor 220D can simultaneously rotate both the transfer body 230D and the outlet cover 290.

[0434] In this case, as shown in the sixth embodiment in Figure 18, the transfer coupling portion 239 can be replaced with a transfer body 230D, which is configured similarly to the fourth embodiment having a transfer coupling portion 239 and an outlet cover 290.

[0435] At this time, the side surface of the filter section 210D rotates due to the transfer coupling section 239, and the end 219 of the lower rim 2114 of the side surface 211 of the filter section 210D is inclined to protrude outward and is positioned to contact the inclined surface 290a of the outlet cover 290. At this time, the inclined surface 290a of the outlet cover 290 is inclined to recede inward as it goes down, so that the rotational movement of the side surface 211 of the filter section 210D pushes up the inclined surface 290a of the outlet cover 290, causing the outlet cover 290 to rotate so that it is lifted and the outlet 208 can be opened. In other words, the end 219 of the lower rim 2114 of the side surface 211 of the filter section 210D is inclined to protrude outward, and the movement begins with the inclined surface 290a of the outlet cover 290 resting on the end 219, and the movement and the opening of the outlet cover 290 occur simultaneously.

[0436] In the case of Figure 18, both structural simplicity and sealing force can be ensured, it can be driven by a single motor, and it can be economical.

[0437] Figures 19a to 19c are state diagrams of the solid-liquid separation unit 200F of the seventh embodiment.

[0438] As shown in Figures 19a to 19c, the solid-liquid separation unit 200F according to the seventh embodiment of this specification is a module for separating the solid and liquid components of food waste flowing in through the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200F and then transmitting them to the decomposition unit 300, as previously described.

[0439] As shown in Figure 19a, the solid-liquid separation unit 200F is divided into a solid-liquid separation space A where solid-liquid separation takes place and a transfer space B where solid material is transferred. While solid-liquid separation is taking place in the solid-liquid separation space A, the transfer space B is sealed away from the food waste to prevent the liquid from the food waste from flowing in.

[0440] The basic structure of the seventh embodiment is the same as that of the fifth embodiment. That is, it is a structure that includes a transfer body 230, and further includes an outlet cover 290.

[0441] However, in the seventh embodiment, the bottom surface 212a of the filter section 210F may have an aperture structure.

[0442] In other words, the filter section 210F is not separated into the side surface 211 and the bottom surface 212a, and the bottom surface 212a has an aperture structure, so that the bottom surface 212a opens and closes automatically depending on the position.

[0443] In the seventh embodiment, when the filter section 210F is located in the solid-liquid separation space A, the throttling closes, causing the liquid to flow out from the side 211 through a partial opening, or to be separated and flow through the opening in the bottom surface 212a.

[0444] Next, after food waste is placed in the filter section 210F, the input cover 111 rotates and the start of operation is recognized, allowing the motor 220F to rotate. Alternatively, the motor 220F can be operated if a disclosure signal is received from the user, and such a user disclosure signal can be received from a user terminal equipped with an application that can be linked with the food waste processor 10. The rotational drive of the motor 220F may be controlled by the control unit.

[0445] The outlet cover 290 is positioned so that one side and the bottom edge of the transfer body 230F are in contact with each other, and the side wall of the outlet cover may have an inclined surface that slopes downwards with respect to the rotational direction of the transfer body 230F. Therefore, when the transfer body 230 rotates toward the outlet 208, the outlet cover 290 may rotate in such a way that it is lifted by pushing up the inclined surface of the outlet cover 290.

[0446] Therefore, a single motor 220F can simultaneously rotate both the transfer body 230F and the outlet cover 290.

[0447] At this time, as shown in Figure 19b, the filter section 210F rotates on the shaft and moves to the solid-liquid separation space A and the transfer space B, and the aperture gear 215 engages with the gear 209, which is arranged in the path, causing the bottom surface 212a to open. Therefore, the bottom surface 212a of the filter section 210F gradually opens from the central region, and as shown in Figure 19c, the outlet cover 290 is completely opened, exposing the lower outlet 208. When the filter section 210F is positioned above the outlet 208, the aperture is completely opened, the bottom of the filter section 210 is completely open, and it communicates with the outlet 208.

[0448] The gear 209, located on the side of the case 201, is positioned on the rotational trajectory of the filter section 210F and is formed to mesh with the aperture gear 215 of the filter section 210F.

[0449] When the gears 209 and 215 are engaged, the filter section 210F rotates due to the drive of the motor 220F. This rotational movement opens the aperture at the bottom surface 212a of the filter section 210F. As a result, when the filter section 210F is precisely positioned on the outlet 208, the aperture is fully open.

[0450] If the bottom surface 212a of the filter section 210F has an opening and closing structure, food waste can be transported without the physical separation and connection of the filter section 210F, and food waste can be prevented from being injected into the drain due to misalignment.

[0451] Furthermore, when both the transfer body 230F and the outlet cover 290 are provided, while solid-liquid separation is progressing, the liquid flowing to the filter section 210F is first blocked from flowing to the outside by the sealing of the transfer body 230F, and secondarily blocked from entering the decomposition section 300 by the outlet cover 290.

[0452] Furthermore, by separately forming the outlet cover 290 of the decomposition section 300, it is possible to always prevent the unpleasant odor generated during continuous decomposition in the decomposition section 300 from being transmitted to the user through the drain outlet 4 of the sink unit 1, i.e., the input opening, in various cases.

[0453] Figures 20a and 20b are state diagrams of the solid-liquid separation unit 200G of the eighth embodiment.

[0454] As shown in Figures 20a and 20b, the solid-liquid separation unit 200G according to the eighth embodiment of this specification is a module for separating the solid and liquid components of food waste flowing in through the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200G and then transmitting them to the decomposition unit 300, as previously described.

[0455] In this case, the solid-liquid separation unit 200G of the eighth embodiment has a different arrangement from that of the first to seventh embodiments described above.

[0456] In other words, in the eighth embodiment, the solid-liquid separation unit 200G has its inlet and outlet aligned in a straight line in the vertical direction. Therefore, the opening 208 of the case is formed such that the decomposition unit 300, into which solid food waste is introduced and which overlaps with the outlet 208, also overlaps with the inlet 2011 of the solid-liquid separation unit 200G.

[0457] Therefore, the solid-liquid separation unit 200G according to the eighth embodiment is not positioned to move in the front-to-back direction of the filter unit 210, but rather covers the bottom surface of the case 201 as part of the case, and is positioned so that the movable plate 2015 moves in the left-to-right direction.

[0458] Therefore, the opening connected to the drain port 270 is positioned towards the rear of the bottom surface of the case, and the bottom surface is formed to have an inclined surface toward the opening.

[0459] At this time, a transfer module is formed on the bottom surface so as to move horizontally in the left-right direction by a motor 220G.

[0460] An outlet 208 is formed on the left side of the bottom surface, and a movable plate 2015 is positioned over the outlet 208. The movable plate 2015 is formed to cover a portion of the bottom surface, for example, 1 / 2 or 1 / 3, and preferably to cover the area of ​​the outlet 208, more preferably the area of ​​the bottom surface of the filter section 210G.

[0461] A motor 220G, a pinion 221G, and a linear rack 222G for horizontally moving the movable plate 2015 in the left-right direction may be formed on one side of the movable plate 2015.

[0462] The configuration of the motor 220G, pinion 221G, and linear rack 222G is similar to that of the first configuration, so a description of it will be omitted.

[0463] In other words, the movable plate 2015 is attached to the linear rack 222G, the pinion 221G is rotated by the motor 220G, and the gears of the linear rack 222G that mesh with the pinion 221G cause the linear rack 222G to move from side to side, thereby causing the movable plate 2015 to move from side to side.

[0464] In this case, a fixing plate 2019 for fixing the filter section 210G may be separately formed on the movable plate 2015.

[0465] The fixing plate 2019 is formed to be coupled to the lower rim of the filter section 210G and plays the role of fixing the filter section 210G with the bottom of the filter section 210G open. The fixing plate 2019 can be formed integrally with the case.

[0466] In this configuration, the filter unit 210G is fixed to the fixing plate 2019 and positioned between the inlet 2011 and the outlet 208, allowing solid-liquid separation of food waste to proceed. The filter unit 210G does not move during this process, while the bottom moving plate 2015 moves, opening the bottom of the filter unit 210G and throwing the food waste into the decomposition unit 300 via the outlet 208.

[0467] Thus, by moving the movable plate 2015 without moving the filter section 210G, similar effects to those of the previous embodiment can be achieved, and the movable plate 2015 enables the sealing of the decomposition section 300 during solid-liquid separation.

[0468] As described above, this embodiment describes various embodiments of the solid-liquid separation unit 200, but is not limited thereto. Various embodiments can be applied in which the liquid can be prevented from being introduced by sealing the decomposition unit during the solid-liquid separation of food waste on a horizontal surface.

[0469] This embodiment includes each of the embodiments and various variations thereof discussed herein. According to this embodiment, at least one feature described above in one embodiment or example can be similarly applied to other embodiments or examples described above. The features of one or more embodiments or examples described above can be combined with each of the embodiments or examples described above. One or more embodiments or partial combinations of embodiments of this embodiment are also part of this embodiment. [Explanation of symbols]

[0470] 10: Food waste disposer 700: Main unit 710: Upper module 750: Lower module 11: Entrance to the food waste disposer 12: Outlet of food waste disposer 100: Input section 111: Input cover 200: Solid-liquid separation section 300: Decomposition part 400:Transfer section 500: Collection Department

Claims

1. It includes a filter section that receives food waste from an input opening and separates liquid from the food waste, and a solid-liquid separation section that, while holding the food waste, transports at least a portion of the filter section on a horizontal plane and drops it to the bottom, A decomposition unit is located below the solid-liquid separation unit, and the food waste that is dropped into it is decomposed by microorganisms. Equipped with, The aforementioned filter section is a food waste processor that can be separated from the solid-liquid separation section to the outside via the input port.

2. The food waste processor according to claim 1, wherein the filter section comprises a side surface including perforations for separating and discharging only the liquid from the food waste, and a bottom surface that can be separated from and joined to the side surface.

3. The side surface of the filter portion is perforated to form a filter surface for separating and discharging the liquid from the food waste, and the lower rim has at least one coupling projection that supports the lower part of the filter surface and slides together with the bottom surface of the filter portion. The bottom surface of the filter section is provided with a flat support surface and a guide projection that protrudes upward from the support surface to guide the sliding connection with the side surface. The food waste disposer according to claim 2, wherein at least one coupling hole is formed on the side surface of the guide projection, into which the coupling projection of the lower side rim of the filter portion is fitted.

4. The food waste processing machine according to claim 2, wherein the solid-liquid separation unit is divided into a solid-liquid separation space in which the solid and liquid parts of the food waste are separated, and a transfer space in which the solid food waste is transferred to the decomposition unit.

5. The food waste processing machine according to claim 4, wherein the lower part of the solid-liquid separation space is connected to a drain outlet that discharges only the liquid from the food waste, and the lower part of the transfer section has an outlet for the solid-liquid separation section that communicates with the inlet of the decomposition section.

6. The food waste processing machine according to claim 5, wherein when the filter section is placed in the solid-liquid separation space, the transfer space is sealed from the solid-liquid separation space.

7. The food waste processing machine according to claim 6, wherein the solid-liquid separation unit further comprises a transfer module that performs motion to move the solid food waste from the solid-liquid separation space to the transfer space.

8. The food waste disposer according to claim 7, wherein the transfer module is connected to the side surface of the filter section and comprises a transfer body that moves along the side surface of the filter section on a horizontal plane and a moving motor that moves the transfer body.

9. The transfer module is The system further comprises a pinion that rotates in conjunction with the shaft of the aforementioned moving motor, and a linear rack that moves in a straight line by the pinion, The food waste processing machine according to claim 8, wherein the transfer body is connected to the linear rack and moves the side surface of the filter section between the solid-liquid separation space and the transfer space on a horizontal plane.

10. The food waste disposer according to claim 9, wherein the transfer body comprises a first body extending from the linear rack, and a second body elastically coupled to the first body and fixed to the side surface of the filter section, causing the side surface of the filter section to move as the linear rack moves.

11. The second body includes a front surface facing the first body and a rear surface coupled to the side surface of the filter section. The food waste disposer according to claim 10, wherein a fixing projection for fixing an elastic body that elastically connects to the first main body is provided protruding from the front surface.

12. The food waste disposer according to claim 11, wherein the fixing projection protrudes from the central part of the second main body.

13. The food waste disposer according to claim 10, wherein one side of the first body extends from the linear rack by being bent, and the other side of the first body is a free end.

14. The food waste disposer according to claim 10, wherein the travel distance of the second main body is the same as the travel distance of the filter section.

15. The food waste processing machine according to claim 8, wherein a first sealing member is formed on the edge of the transfer body, a second sealing member is formed at the boundary between the solid-liquid separation space and the transfer space, and the first sealing member and the second sealing member form a double sealing structure.

16. The food waste processor according to claim 15, wherein the second sealing member forms a loop on the inner surface of the case of the solid-liquid separation unit so as to surround the boundary between the solid-liquid separation space and the transfer space, and when the filter unit is located in the solid-liquid separation space and the transfer body stops at the boundary between the solid-liquid separation space and the transfer space, the first sealing member is in close contact with the front surface of the second sealing member to form the double sealing structure.

17. The transfer module is The food waste disposer according to claim 9, further comprising at least one guide bar extending from the case of the solid-liquid separation section for guiding the linear movement of the linear rack.

18. The transfer module is The food waste processor according to claim 8, further comprising a transfer coupling that rotates with respect to the shaft of the moving motor to move the side surface of the filter between the solid-liquid separation space and the transfer space.

19. The solid-liquid separation unit is The system further includes an outlet cover that covers the outlet of the solid-liquid separation section, The food waste disposer according to claim 8, wherein the outlet lid is opened when the side surface of the filter section moves into the transfer space.

20. The food waste disposer according to claim 19, wherein the side of the filter section rotates and moves, and the outlet lid is hinged to the bottom surface of the case such that the side of the outlet lid pushes against the side of the outlet lid and lifts the outlet lid upward.

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