Device for sterilizing water and shower including thereof

Abstract

A sterilization device is described. An exemplary sterilization device may include a housing, a sterilization unit, and a generator assembly. The housing may penetrate axially through the inner surface of the housing. The housing may include an outflow slot, an outflow hole, a branch channel, a first cavity, a second cavity, a feedback channel, and an inflow slot. The sterilization unit may be installed in the first cavity. The generator assembly may be electrically connected to the sterilization unit at an upstream end of the sterilization unit and may be installed in the first cavity. The generator assembly may generate power by utilizing the movement of fluid flowing inside the generator assembly, and the sterilization unit may sterilize the fluid passing through the sterilization unit using the power generated by the generator assembly. A portion of the fluid that passes through the sterilization unit and enters the branch channel may be moved to the feedback channel, and the fluid that passes through the feedback channel may be introduced to an upstream location of the generator assembly.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sterilization device and a shower head including the same. Background Technology

[0002] Unless otherwise noted herein, the contents described in this section are not prior art to the claims of this application and should not be recognized as prior art merely because they are described in this section.

[0003] As living standards have improved due to industrial development over the past few decades, the demand for hygiene has increased. However, such industrial progress has led to issues such as water pollution, which can threaten the health of users. Recently, there has been growing concern regarding the sanitary conditions of domestic and industrial water supplied through social infrastructure, leading to an increasing demand for sterilization devices equipped with sterilization functions.

[0004] Prior art document 1 presents a shower that sterilizes water using ultraviolet light. This shower provides the function of sterilizing the water supplied to the shower without a separate power source by converting a portion of the supplied water pressure into electrical energy and supplying it to a UV LED. According to Prior Art document 1, a blade installed inside the shower generates electricity as it rotates due to water pressure. However, while a portion of the water pressure energy is converted into electrical energy, the flow of water passing through the blade may be obstructed, which can lead to a decrease in the water supply capacity through the shower plate. Furthermore, as this conventional shower continues to be used, foreign substances accumulate on the blade, which consequently can lead to a gradual decrease in the shower's water supply capacity. Prior art literature

[0006] Prior Art Document 1: Korean Published Patent Application No. 10-2016-0053225 The problem to be solved

[0007] The present disclosure aims to solve the above problems by presenting a sterilization device capable of improving electric sterilization capabilities without reducing water supply capacity, and a shower including the same. means of solving the problem

[0008] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a sterilization device is described. An exemplary sterilization device may include a housing, a sterilization unit, and a generator assembly. An exemplary sterilization device may include a housing comprising a branching channel for branching the movement of a fluid and a feedback channel connected to said branching channel; a sterilization unit installed in a first cavity existing inside said housing; and a generator assembly installed in said first cavity and electrically connected to said sterilization unit at an upstream end of said sterilization unit.

[0009] In addition, the generator assembly can generate power by utilizing the movement of the fluid flowing inside the generator assembly, and the sterilization unit can sterilize the fluid passing inside the sterilization unit by utilizing the power generated by the generator assembly.

[0010] In addition, some of the fluid that has passed through the sterilization unit and entered the branch channel is moved to the feedback channel, and the fluid that has passed through the feedback channel can be introduced to an upstream location of the generator assembly.

[0011] Additionally, the housing may include an outflow slot penetrating axially through an inner surface, an outflow hole connected to the outflow slot, a branch channel connected to the outflow hole, a first cavity connected to the branch channel and having a larger diameter than the branch channel, a second cavity extending upstream from the first cavity, a feedback channel communicating the branch channel and the second cavity, and an inflow slot connected to the second cavity.

[0012] Additionally, the sterilization unit comprises a first electrode having a (+) polarity and a second electrode having a (-) polarity, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode electrolyze the fluid to generate a gas, the gas is moved to the feedback channel together with the fluid, and the gas and fluid passing through the feedback channel can be introduced to an upstream location of the generator assembly.

[0013] In addition, a generator nut connected to the generator assembly at the upstream end of the generator assembly and installed in the second cavity, comprising a central channel through which fluid flows and a feedback channel communicating with the generator assembly.

[0014] It may include more.

[0015] Additionally, the generator nut may include an upper plate connected to the generator assembly, a lower plate spaced apart from the upper plate in the axial direction by a predetermined distance, and a plurality of channel walls installed between the upper plate and the lower plate toward the center of the generator nut to form a plurality of feedback communication channels.

[0016] In addition, the sterilization unit includes a light source that emits ultraviolet rays, and the first electrode and the second electrode include a titanium material, and the light source can generate a photocatalyst by irradiating ultraviolet rays onto the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0017] Additionally, it may further include an inlet plug installed in the inlet slot of the housing and having a connecting member capable of connecting the sterilization device to a fluid supply source.

[0018] In addition, the diameter of the above-mentioned outflow hole is smaller than the diameter of the above-mentioned branch channel, and the above-mentioned feedback channel may be multiple.

[0019] Additionally, the generator assembly includes an impeller that rotates by the flow of fluid inside the generator assembly, and the impeller may include a plurality of blades or spiral passages that extend along part or all of the longitudinal length of the generator assembly.

[0020] In some additional embodiments, a shower is described. An exemplary shower may include a sterilization device and a shower head according to the present disclosure. The shower head may include at least one of a second filter and a fragrance unit inside. The shower head may be connected to an outlet slot of the housing of the sterilization device.

[0021] The above brief summary and description of effects are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the technical matters intended in this disclosure. By referring to the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, additional embodiments and technical features may be understood in addition to the exemplary embodiments and technical features described above. Effects of the invention

[0022] First, the present invention can clean and disinfect the generator assembly and the impeller inside the generator assembly, and can remove microorganisms present inside or on the surface of the generator assembly.

[0023] Second, the present invention can increase the rotational speed of the impeller of the generator assembly by utilizing the gas fed back through the feedback channel. As a result, the power generation efficiency of the generator assembly can be increased, which can generate more electrical energy, and the generated electrical energy can be utilized to further improve the performance and efficiency of sterilization and electronic components.

[0024] Third, the present invention can remove microorganisms present in the generator assembly and inside or on the surface of the generator assembly by utilizing gas fed back through a feedback channel.

[0025] Fourth, the present invention can discharge water flowing into the housing after sterilizing it in combination using a sterilization unit. Therefore, the user can use clean, sterilized water. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0026] The foregoing features and other features of the present disclosure will become sufficiently apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings. With the understanding that these drawings illustrate only a few embodiments according to the present disclosure and should therefore not be construed as limiting the scope thereof, the present disclosure will be described more specifically and in detail through the use of the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a sterilization device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a housing according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary sterilization unit according to some embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 3(a) is a perspective view of the sterilization unit, FIG. 3(b) is an exploded perspective view of the sterilization unit, and FIG. 3(c) is a cross-sectional view of the sterilization unit. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a generator unit according to some embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5(a) is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary upper cover portion of a generator, and FIG. 5(b) is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary lower cover portion of a generator. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a generator nut according to some embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7(a) is a cross-sectional view of a sterilization device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 7(b) shows the flow of fluid within the sterilization device of FIG. 7(a). FIG. 8(a) shows a cross-sectional view of a housing according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 8(b) is a cross-sectional view of a sterilization device including the housing of FIG. 8(a), and FIG. 8(c) shows the flow of a fluid flowing within the sterilization device of FIG. 8(b). FIG. 9 illustrates an additional configuration of a sterilization device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary shower comprising a sterilization device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the shower of FIG. 10. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments and examples of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains can easily implement them. However, the present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments and examples described herein.

[0028] It should also be understood that the location or arrangement of individual components within each disclosed embodiment may be changed without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following detailed description is not intended to be limiting, and the scope of the invention is limited only by the appended claims, including all equivalents thereof, provided appropriately described. Similar reference numerals in the drawings refer to the same or similar functions across various aspects, and their forms may be exaggerated for convenience.

[0029] Meanwhile, the terms used in this invention are used to appropriately express preferred embodiments of the invention, and these may vary depending on the user's intent or the conventions of the field to which the invention belongs. Accordingly, the definitions of these terms should be understood based on the content throughout this specification. Hereinafter, in order to enable a person skilled in the art to easily practice the invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0030] The present disclosure relates, in particular, to a sterilization device. The sterilization device according to the present disclosure may be used by being directly connected to an outlet, such as a water pipe or water purifier, hot and cold water dispenser, beverage vending machine, or shower hose, or by being connected in the middle of a waterway, and by sterilizing water flowing in with a predetermined water pressure, it can provide water of clean and safe quality to the user.

[0032] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a sterilization device (100) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The sterilization device (100) includes a housing (110), a sterilization unit (120), and a generator assembly (130). In some additional examples, the sterilization device (100) may further include a generator nut (140).

[0033] The housing (110) may be formed to penetrate axially through the inner surface of the housing (110) as a whole. The housing (110) may include an outlet (112) through which water flows out and an inlet (114) through which water flows in. A sterilization unit (120) and a generator assembly (130) may be installed inside the housing (110). In some examples, the sterilization unit (120) and the generator assembly (130) may be installed by being inserted into the housing (110) at the inlet (114), as shown in FIG. 1.

[0034] According to the present disclosure, the housing (110) includes a feedback channel inside which a portion of the fluid flowing out from the sterilization unit (120) is returned to the inlet of the generator assembly (130). Various embodiments of the structure of the housing (110) are illustrated in FIGS. 2, 7 and 8 and are described in more detail below.

[0035] In some examples, the sterilization unit (120) and the generator assembly (130) may have a predetermined coupling mechanism through which the upstream end of the sterilization unit (120) may be coupled to the downstream end of the generator assembly (130). The sterilization unit (120) and the generator assembly (130) may form a main channel through which fluid introduced through the inlet (114) of the housing (110) passes internally.

[0036] The sterilization unit (120) can be electrically connected to the generator assembly (130). The sterilization unit (120) can perform sterilization using electricity supplied from the generator assembly (130). A specific example of the sterilization unit (120) is described in more detail in FIG. 3.

[0037] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the generator assembly (130) may include a generator upper cover portion (132), a generator unit (134), and a generator lower cover portion (136). The generator unit (134) can perform power generation by converting the linear motion of a fluid into rotational motion. In this regard, the generator unit (134) may include a rotor and a stator, and the rotor may include an impeller. A specific example of the generator unit (134) is described in more detail in FIG. 4.

[0038] The generator upper cover portion (132) and the generator lower cover portion (136) allow some components, such as the rotor of the generator unit (134), to rotate, while stably fixing some components, such as the stator, thereby enabling stable power generation. Specific examples regarding the generator upper cover portion (132) and the generator lower cover portion (136) are described in more detail in FIG. 5.

[0039] In an additional example, the generator nut (140) facilitates the recirculation of some of the fluid fed back from the fluid sterilized by the sterilization unit (120) into the generator unit (134). A specific example of the generator nut (140) is described in more detail in FIG. 6.

[0041] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a housing according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, and the housing (200) shown in FIG. 2 is an example of the housing (110) of FIG. 1. FIG. 2(a) shows a side cross-sectional view of the housing (200), and FIG. 2(b) shows an example in which the outer shape of the housing (200) is a cylinder shape.

[0042] The housing (200) includes an outflow slot (210), an outflow hole (220), a branching channel (230), a feedback channel (240), a first cavity (250), a second cavity (260), and an inflow slot (270). The outflow slot (210) is formed at the downstream end of the housing (200), and its surface is exposed to the outside. In some examples, the outflow slot (210) may provide a connection mechanism, such as a screw thread, to connect a predetermined water outlet device, such as a shower head, to the outlet of the sterilization device. The outflow hole (220) is connected to the outflow slot (210) and may be located upstream of the outflow slot (210). The diameter of the outflow hole (220) may be smaller than the diameter of the outflow slot (210).

[0043] The branch channel (230) is connected to the outflow hole (220) and is located upstream of the outflow hole (220). In the first embodiment, the diameter of the outflow hole (220) is smaller than the diameter of the branch channel (230). Due to the difference in diameter between the outflow hole (220) and the branch channel (230), a resistance element (222) is formed. Some of the fluid flowing into the branch channel (230) may proceed to the feedback channel (240) without passing through the outflow hole (220) due to the resistance element (222).

[0044] The feedback channel (240) may include an inlet (242), an extension (244), and an outlet (246). One end of the inlet (242) extends to the inner side of the branch channel (230). In this respect, an opening leading to the inlet (242) may be formed on the side of the branch channel (230). The inlet (242) may extend radially from the side of the branch channel (230) to the outer periphery of the housing (200). The other end of the inlet (242) may be connected to one end of the extension (244). The extension (244) may extend longitudinally from the outer periphery of the housing (200). In some examples, the extension (244) may be spaced apart from the first cavity (250) and extend parallel to the first cavity (250). The other end of the extension portion (244) may be connected to one end of the outflow portion (246). The outflow portion (246) may extend from the outer circumference of the housing (200) to the side of the second cavity (260). In this respect, an opening leading to the outflow portion (246) may be formed on the side of the second cavity (260). Although two feedback channels (240) are shown formed in FIG. 2, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and depending on the required embodiment, it is possible to form one feedback channel (240) or more than two feedback channels (240). When multiple feedback channels (240) are formed, the feedback channels (240) may be arranged evenly along the circumferential direction of the housing.

[0045] The first cavity (250) is connected to the branch channel (230) and is located upstream of the branch channel (230). The first cavity (250) provides space for installing the sterilization unit (120) and the generator assembly (130) described in FIG. 1. The diameter of the first cavity (250) is larger than the diameter of the branch channel (230). The second cavity (260) extends upstream from the upstream end of the first cavity (250). The second cavity (260) provides space for installing the generator nut (140) described in FIG. 1 and / or additional configurations described later. Although the first cavity (250) and the second cavity (260) have been described as separate configurations, this is for illustrative purposes only, and in various embodiments, the two may not be substantially distinguishable.

[0046] An inlet slot (270) is formed at the upstream end of the housing (200), and its surface is exposed to the outside. The inlet slot (270) may be directly connected to an outlet, or a connection mechanism for connecting to an outlet (e.g., an inlet plug (940) described in FIG. 9) may be installed. The inlet slot (270) extends from the upstream end of the second cavity (260). The diameter of the inlet slot (270) may be larger than the diameter of the second cavity (260).

[0048] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary sterilization unit according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3(a) is a perspective view of an exemplary sterilization unit. FIG. 3(b) is an exemplary exploded perspective view of a sterilization unit. In some examples, the sterilization unit (120) may include a sterilization unit cover (310), a circuit board (320), a sterilization unit gasket (330), a first electrode (340), a second electrode (350), and a light source (360), as shown in FIG. 3(b).

[0049] In some embodiments, the sterilization unit (120) may include a sterilization element that performs one or more sterilization functions. The sterilization function performed by the sterilization unit (120) may include at least one of potentiometric sterilization, hypochlorous acid (HOCL) sterilization, ultraviolet (UV) sterilization, and photocatalytic sterilization.

[0050] In some examples, the sterilization unit (120) may perform potential difference sterilization and hypochlorous acid sterilization by applying an electric field to a fluid passing through the sterilization unit (120), e.g., tap water. In this example, FIG. 3(c) illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary sterilization unit including electrodes. As shown in FIG. 3(c), the sterilization unit cover (310) may include a first electrode hole (312) and a second electrode hole (314), and a first electrode (340) may be installed on the outlet side of the first electrode hole (312), and a second electrode (350) may be installed on the outlet side of the second electrode hole (314). The thickness and width of the first electrode hole (312) and the second electrode hole (314) may be determined such that the first electrode (340) and the second electrode (350) are sufficiently spaced apart. Additionally, the first electrode hole (312), the second electrode hole (314), or the sterilization unit cover (310) may each include a predetermined fixing mechanism to ensure that the first electrode (340) and the second electrode (350) are fixed even during the operation of the sterilization device. For example, the first electrode (340) may be fixed to the first electrode hole (312) or the sterilization unit cover (310) through the first electrode connection part (342), and the second electrode (350) may be fixed to the second electrode hole (314) or the sterilization unit cover (310) through the second electrode connection part (352).

[0051] The sterilization unit cover (310) can transmit current supplied from the circuit board (320) to the first electrode (340) and the second electrode (350). Each of the first electrode (340) and the second electrode (350) may have a structure that allows water flowing in from the upstream side of the inlet to flow downstream. For example, each of the first electrode (340) and the second electrode (350) may be a plate-shaped structure with mesh-like holes formed therein, or a plate-shaped structure with holes formed inside, and various embodiments may be possible. As current flows through the first electrode (340) and the second electrode (350), an electric field is applied to the fluid between the first electrode (340) and the second electrode (350), such as tap water, thereby allowing the water passing through the sterilization unit (120) to be sterilized by a potential difference sterilization and hypochlorous acid sterilization method.

[0052] Potential sterilization refers to sterilization performed by applying an electric field to water passing through a sterilization unit (120). For example, the first electrode (340) may be an oxidation electrode (positive electrode, + electrode) and the second electrode (350) may be a reduction electrode (negative electrode, - electrode), or vice versa. When an electric field is applied between the first electrode (340) and the second electrode (350), microorganisms contained in the water within the electric field are affected by this electric field. For example, the cell membrane of a microorganism is maintained by a balance of cations (e.g., Na+, K+) within the cell, but an imbalance is caused by the electric field applied to the microorganism, and this imbalance leads to the infiltration of water into the cell due to osmotic pressure. Eventually, the microorganisms that have expanded due to the infiltration of water into the cell are destroyed, and sterilization is achieved.

[0053] Hypochlorous acid sterilization refers to sterilization performed using hypochlorous acid (HOCl). This hypochlorous acid is known to be safer and have a sterilizing performance approximately 70 times higher than sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). Tap water contains small amounts of NaCl or chlorine, and when tap water is electrolyzed, chlorine gas (Cl2), hypochlorous acid (HOCl), and hypochlorite ions (OCl), which possess sterilizing power, are produced in the oxidation electrode (anode, positive electrode) region as shown below. - ) can be generated, and after a set amount of time, the generated hypochlorous acid and hydrogen chloride decompose again and return to water and chlorine.

[0055] < Oxidation electrode, Anode (+ electrode >

[0056] H2O -> 4H + + O2+ 4e -

[0057] 2NaCl -> Cl2 + 2e - + 2Na +

[0058] Cl2 + H2O → HCl (hydrogen chloride) + HOCl (hypochlorous acid)

[0060] < Reduction electrode, cathode (- electrode >

[0061] 2H2O + 2e - -> 2OH - + H2

[0062] 2NaCl + 2OH - -> 2NaOH (sodium hydroxide) + Cl -

[0064] In this example, water is electrolyzed to produce hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2), which form bubbles. Additionally, the electrolyte chlorine (Cl -) is also oxidized to produce chlorine gas (Cl2), which forms bubbles. As will be explained in detail in FIG. 6, these bubbles cause a synergistic effect on the fluid fed back to the generator unit, which can increase the overall flow velocity. In addition, the bubbles contained in the fluid fed back into the generator unit can also have a cleaning effect on the impeller. Furthermore, through electrolysis, not only hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2), but also chlorine gas (Cl2), hypochlorous acid (HOCl), and hypochlorite ions (OCl) - ), and hydrogen ions (H + ) are generated, and these provide an additional sterilization effect. In addition, hydroxide ions (OH) are produced by electrolysis. - Oxygen (O2) and chlorine (Cl2) generated during the electrolysis process can contribute to sterilizing microorganisms and viruses. Chlorine (Cl2) acts by destroying cell membranes or damaging protein structures through oxidation. In addition, the generated oxygen (O2) can contribute to sterilizing microorganisms and viruses.

[0065] The reaction equation for the oxidation of organic matter by OH radicals generated at the electrode is as follows.

[0067] OH· + RH → R· + H2O

[0069] In some additional or alternative examples, the sterilization unit (120) may perform UV sterilization. In such examples, the sterilization unit (120) may include a light source (360) that generates ultraviolet light. The light source (360) may generate ultraviolet light having a wavelength of, for example, about 340 nm. The light source (360) may include, for example, a UV LED (Light Emitting Diode), and the UV LED may include a UV-A LED (400 nm to 315 nm), a UV-B LED (314 nm to 280 nm), and a UV-C LED (279 nm to 100 nm). In particular, the light source (360) may be a UV-C LED (279 nm to 100 nm), and the UV-C LED may emit an environmentally friendly and healthy light (UV-C ultraviolet light) that can sterilize 99.9% of microorganisms, bacteria, and viruses in water. UV-C LEDs can eliminate 99.9% of major bacteria, ranging from E. coli to food poisoning-causing bacteria such as Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria, Vibrio, and cholerae. UV-C LEDs can also eliminate viruses that cause enteritis, such as norovirus, hepatitis A, influenza, MERS, and herpes, as well as purify and sterilize water.

[0070] This sterilization mechanism involves UV-C ultraviolet rays acting directly on the DNA and RNA of microorganisms and viruses to induce denaturation and destruction. In this process, UV-C ultraviolet rays act on thymine and cytosine, which are pyrimidine bases in DNA and RNA, to destroy double-stranded DNA and degrade viral RNA. As a result, the viability of microorganisms and viruses is impaired, thereby exerting a sterilization effect. The equation below is an example representing the reaction equation in which UV-C ultraviolet rays act on DNA and RNA to sterilize.

[0072] UV-C ultraviolet rays + DNA / RNA → Denaturation and destruction

[0074] Referring to FIG. 3(c), one or more light sources (360) may be installed in the sterilization unit (120). The light source (360) may be positioned in the center of the first electrode hole (312) and the second electrode hole (314) to sterilize water that has flowed into the sterilization unit (120) through the generator assembly (130). Water that has flowed into the sterilization unit (120) can be sterilized by the light generated from the light source (360) and discharged out of the sterilization unit (120). The light-emitting part (362) of the light source (360) may be positioned to pass through the center of the first electrode (340) and the second electrode (350). To this end, holes may be formed in the center of the first electrode (340) and the second electrode (350) so that the light-emitting part (362) of the light source (360) can pass through. The light source (360) can be fixed to the sterilization unit cover (310) through the first electrode part (364), the second electrode part (366), and other structures, and the first electrode part (364) and the second electrode part (366) can be electrically connected to the circuit board (320) and can be connected to the (+) pole or (-) pole, respectively.

[0075] In addition to the example of performing UV sterilization, the sterilization unit (120) may perform photocatalytic sterilization. Photocatalytic sterilization may refer to a sterilization mechanism utilizing a photocatalyst generated when ultraviolet rays (UV-C ultraviolet or UV-A ultraviolet) are irradiated onto a titanium electrode. Furthermore, photocatalytic sterilization may involve hydroxyl radicals (OH) generated when electrons produced by irradiating a titania photocatalyst with long-wavelength ultraviolet rays react with water. - It can refer to sterilization performed using ).

[0076] When UV-C ultraviolet rays are irradiated onto a titanium plate, a photocatalyst is generated on the surface of the titanium plate. This photocatalyst is activated by light, and the activated photocatalyst generates OH radicals in an environment where moisture and oxygen are present. These OH radicals can play a role in destroying microorganisms and viruses. Additionally, when organic matter is present, it is adsorbed onto the surface of the titanium plate. In this case, the organic matter is oxidized by the activated photocatalyst and decomposed into carbon dioxide and water. This oxidation reaction decomposes organic matter, hindering the survival of microorganisms and exhibiting a sterilization effect. Therefore, in photocatalytic sterilization, a photocatalyst is used to induce the oxidation reaction of organic matter and decompose it into carbon dioxide and water, thereby providing a sterilization effect.

[0077] The oxidation reaction equation of organic matter by photocatalysis is as follows.

[0079] hν+ TiO2+ O2→ TiO2(·OH) + O2(·-)

[0081] Therefore, unlike other disinfection methods such as chlorophyll and ozone treatment, the sterilization mechanism of tap water using electrolysis and photocatalysis can be an effective method with sustained sterilization effects and few side effects.

[0083] For such photocatalytic sterilization, the sterilization unit (120) may include titanium dioxide (TiO2), and a light source (360) may be installed to irradiate the titanium dioxide. In some examples, the sterilization unit (120) may include titanium dioxide in the first electrode (340) and the second electrode (350), and by causing the light source (360) to irradiate the first electrode (340) and the second electrode (350), it may perform all of potentiometric sterilization, hypochlorous acid sterilization, UV sterilization, and photocatalytic sterilization.

[0084] The complex sterilization described above can be summarized as follows. When tap water containing residual chlorine is electrolyzed, OH radicals are generated at the first electrode and the second electrode (titanium plate). These OH radicals can play a role in destroying microorganisms and viruses. Additionally, photocatalysts are generated at the first electrode and the second electrode (titanium plate), and these photocatalysts can be activated by light (UV-C ultraviolet light). The activated photocatalysts and OH radicals induce an oxidation reaction of organic matter, and the organic matter can be oxidized and decomposed into carbon dioxide and water. This process can provide a sterilization effect by destroying microorganisms and viruses.

[0085] Therefore, the aforementioned combined sterilization method is an effective way to sterilize microorganisms and viruses in tap water by combining electrolysis and photocatalysis. Unlike disinfection using residual chlorine, this method provides a long-lasting sterilization effect and can also minimize side effects caused by residual chlorine.

[0087] The circuit board (320) may include a circuit network for converting power supplied from the generator unit into an appropriate voltage and current. For example, alternating current supplied from the generator unit may be converted into direct current by the circuit board (320). The sterilization unit gasket (330) may fix the sterilization unit cover (310) and the circuit board (320) as a single unit and may provide a waterproof function.

[0089] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a generator unit according to some embodiment of the present disclosure. The generator unit (134) shown in FIG. 4 is an example of the generator unit (134) of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the generator unit (134) may include an upper gasket (410), an outer cover (420), an outer core (430), a coil waterproof block (440), an inner magnet pocket cover (450), an inner magnet (460), an inner magnet pocket (470), and a lower gasket (480). As illustrated in FIG. 4, the upper gasket (410) may be mounted on the outer cover (420), the outer core (430) may be mounted inside the outer cover (420), and the coil waterproof block (440) may be mounted inside the outer cover (430). The outer cover (420), outer core (430), and coil waterproof block (440) form the stator of the generator unit (134).

[0090] The inner magnet pocket (470) has a central interior that penetrates axially to form a channel through which fluid flows, and is equipped with an impeller within such a center. In some examples, the impeller equipped within the inner magnet pocket (470) includes a plurality of blades, and the plurality of blades are formed over part or all of the internal channel. There is no limitation on the number or shape of the blades, and they may take, for example, two, three, or four flat or spiral shapes. The outer surface of the inner magnet pocket (470) is provided with a plurality of magnet slots capable of mounting inner magnets (460). The inner magnets (460) are a plurality, such as two or four, and are mounted on the outer surface of the inner magnet pocket (470). The inner magnet pocket cover (450) is coupled to the upper part of the inner magnet pocket cover (470) equipped with an inner magnet (460), and the inner magnet pocket cover (450), inner magnet (460), and inner magnet pocket (470) form the rotor of the generator unit (134). The rotor of the generator unit (134) can be installed inside the stator.

[0092] FIG. 5(a) is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary generator upper cover portion (132), and FIG. 5(b) is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary generator lower cover portion (136). The upper cover portion (132) and lower cover portion (136) shown in FIG. 5 are examples of the configuration shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 5(a), the generator upper cover portion (132) includes an upper cover (510), a first bearing gasket (520), a first bearing cover (530), and a first bearing ball (540), and is joined in the direction indicated by the arrow. As shown in FIG. 5(b), the generator lower cover portion (136) includes a second bearing ball (560), a second bearing cover (570), a second bearing gasket (580), and a lower cover (590), and is joined in the direction indicated by the arrow. As described above, the generator upper cover portion (132) and the generator lower cover portion (136) are coupled to the upper and lower parts of the generator unit (134), allowing the rotor of the generator unit (134) to rotate while the stator is stably fixed and operated. In addition, these generator upper cover portion (132) and generator lower cover portion (136) enable the generator unit (134) to operate stably, thereby allowing the generator unit (134) to produce power having a constant voltage and a constant current.

[0094] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a generator nut according to some embodiment of the present disclosure. The generator nut (140) shown in FIG. 6 is an example of that shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 6, the generator nut (140) may include an upper plate (610), a lower plate (620), and a channel wall (630). The centers of the upper plate (610) and the lower plate (620) are penetrated to form a main channel together with the generator unit.

[0095] The upper plate (610) and the lower plate (620) may be spaced apart, and a channel wall (630) may be installed between the upper plate (610) and the lower plate (620). A feedback communication channel (640) is formed by the upper plate (610), the lower plate (620), and the channel wall (630). The feedback communication channel (640) is connected to the main channel, and the feedback flow path (660) may be connected to the main flow path (650) on the main channel through the feedback communication channel (640).

[0096] As illustrated in FIG. 6, there are multiple channel walls (630). The channel walls (630) are installed vertically on the surfaces of the upper plate (610) and the lower plate (620). Multiple channel walls (630) may be installed spaced apart at a predetermined interval along the circumferential direction. The channel walls (630) extend from the outer circumference of the generator nut (140) toward the center. With the above configuration, the shape of the feedback communication channel (640) can be fan-shaped, thereby increasing the flow velocity of the water flowing along the feedback channel (660). Thus, it is possible to prevent water flowing along the main channel (650) from flowing back into the feedback communication channel (640).

[0097] In some additional examples, the generator nut (140) may further include an additional element coupling member (670). The additional element coupling member (670) may have a shape with a center that penetrates to form a main flow path (650). The additional element coupling member (670) may provide a coupling mechanism to which an additional element, such as an additional filter (e.g., see FIG. 9), can be coupled to the generator nut (140).

[0099] FIG. 7(a) is a cross-sectional view of a sterilization device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. A sterilization unit (120), a generator assembly (130), and a generator nut (140) may be installed inside a housing (200) according to the first embodiment. The sterilization unit (120) may be installed at the upper end, i.e., downstream of the first cavity (250). The outlet of the sterilization unit (120) may be connected to a branch channel (230). The generator assembly (130) may be installed in the first cavity (250) and may be installed at a lower end, i.e. upstream of the sterilization unit (120). The outer surface of the sterilization unit (120) and the generator assembly (130) may be substantially in contact with the inner surface of the first cavity (250). In some examples, it is also possible to provide a predetermined coupling in the first cavity (250) so that the sterilization unit (120) and the generator assembly (130) are fixed. In an additional example, a generator nut (140) may be installed in a second cavity (260), and the feedback communication channel (640) of the generator nut (140) may be connected to a feedback channel (240).

[0101] FIG. 7(b) shows the flow of the main flow path and the feedback flow path in the structure of FIG. 7(a). As illustrated in FIG. 7(b), water discharged from the sterilization unit (120) moves to the branch channel (230), and most of the water entering the branch channel (230) is discharged through the discharge hole (220) and the discharge slot (210). Also, as illustrated in FIG. 7b(b), some of the water discharged from the sterilization unit (120) flows into the feedback channel (240), moves to the feedback communication channel (640) of the generator nut (140), and then flows back into the generator assembly (130).

[0102] The water flowing back into the generator assembly (130) through the feedback channel (240) is water sterilized by composite sterilization and contains bubbles of oxygen (O₂), hydrogen (H₂), chlorine (Cl₂), etc., through electrolysis. The water fed back in this way can provide three effects.

[0103] First, the water being fed back is water that has been sterilized by complex sterilization and contains components that provide sterilization and cleaning functions. Therefore, using these components, the generator assembly (130) and the impeller inside the generator assembly (130) can be cleaned and disinfected, and microorganisms present inside or on the surface of the generator assembly (130) can be removed.

[0104] Second, the water fed back through the feedback channel contains gases such as oxygen (O₂), hydrogen (H₂), and chlorine (Cl₂), and can increase the impeller rotation speed of the generator assembly (130) by utilizing these gases. When gas is generated by electrolyzing tap water, etc., the volume of the gas can be added to a channel of a certain volume, a channel of a certain diameter, or a space of a certain size, and this can increase the pressure (or water pressure) within the channel, channel, or space and increase the flow rate of the water inside.

[0105] Accordingly, when water containing gas flows back into the impeller in the generator assembly (130) through the feedback channel (240), the main flow path inside the impeller is mixed with the unsterilized water flowing in from the second cavity (260) and the sterilized water flowing in from the feedback channel (240), and the pressure of the mixed water inside the impeller increases overall due to the gas.

[0106] Since the volume of the space in the main flow path inside the impeller is fixed, the flow velocity of mixed water containing gas becomes faster than when it does not contain gas. Therefore, the impeller rotates due to the flow of water passing through it, and when mixed water containing gas passes through the impeller, the impeller rotation speed can increase more than when water not containing gas passes through the impeller.

[0107] As a result, the power generation efficiency of the generator assembly (130) can be increased, which can generate more electrical energy, and the generated electrical energy can be utilized to further increase the performance and efficiency of sterilization and electronic components.

[0108] Third, the water fed back through the feedback channel contains gases such as oxygen (O₂), hydrogen (H₂), and chlorine (Cl₂), and these gases can remove microorganisms present in the generator assembly (130) and inside or on the surface of the generator assembly (130). That is, the water containing the gases comes into contact with microorganisms present on the surface of the impeller, and the microorganisms present on the surface of the impeller can be removed by this friction.

[0110] FIG. 8(a) illustrates a cross-sectional view of a housing (800) according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 8(b) is a cross-sectional view of a sterilization device including the housing (800) of FIG. 8(a), and FIG. 8(c) shows the flow of fluid within the sterilization device of FIG. 8(b). The housing (800) is another example of the housing (110) shown in FIG. 1. The housing (800) is identical to the first embodiment except that the shape of the outflow hole (820) is different from that of the outflow hole (220) compared to the first embodiment. Therefore, redundant descriptions are omitted below for the sake of simplification and clarity of the explanation.

[0111] According to the second embodiment, the diameter of the outflow hole (820) is the same at the point connected to the branch channel (830) and gradually decreases as it moves downstream. Since the resistance element (822) according to the second embodiment forms an obtuse angle, it can reduce resistance to the progression of the main flow path, thereby allowing entry into the feedback flow path (140) while preventing a decrease in the discharge capacity of the sterilization device. The resistance element according to the present disclosure is not limited to the first and second embodiments. While the resistance element (822) of the second embodiment is modified to improve the discharge capacity compared to the first embodiment, resistance elements of various shapes may be formed to improve entry into the feedback flow path (140) or to improve the discharge capacity.

[0113] FIG. 9 illustrates an additional configuration of a sterilization device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In the example illustrated in FIG. 9, one end of a first filter (910) may be mounted on an additional element coupling (670) of a generator nut (140). The first filter may be, for example, a cartridge filter. The cartridge filter may be cylindrical and may primarily filter foreign substances, such as rust, pipe debris, microorganisms, etc., from the fluid passing through the cartridge filter. A cartridge filter stopper (920) may be mounted on the other end of the first filter (910). In an additional example, the sterilization device according to the present disclosure may further be provided with an inlet stopper (940). The inlet stopper (940) may be installed, for example, in an inlet slot (270) illustrated in FIG. 2, and an O-ring (930) for the inlet stopper may be further used to improve sealing performance. The inlet plug (940) may include an inlet coupling part (942), a plug part (944), and an outlet coupling part (946) that contact the inlet slot (270). The outlet coupling part (946) may be coupled to an outlet such as a water pipe or hose.

[0115] FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary shower comprising a sterilization device according to some embodiment of the present disclosure. The shower (1000) comprises a sterilization device (100) according to the present disclosure, a shower head (1010) coupled to an outlet of the sterilization device (100), and an inlet plug (1020) coupled to an inlet of the sterilization device (100). The inlet plug (1020) is the same as the inlet plug (840) illustrated in FIG. 8.

[0117] FIG. 11 is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the shower of FIG. 10. For clarity of explanation, an exploded perspective view of the sterilization device (100) is not shown in FIG. 11. In some embodiments, the shower head (1010) includes a shower head cover (1110), a first shower head O-ring (1120), a second filter (1130), and a shower head body (1140), which are joined as shown by the arrows in FIG. 11. The shower head (1010) may be joined to the outlet of the sterilization device via a second shower head O-ring (1160). In additional examples, the shower head (1010) may further include a fragrance unit (1150). In such examples, the shower head cover (1110) may have a mounting slot on its inner outer surface, and the fragrance unit (1150) may be mounted in the corresponding mounting slot. The fragrance unit (1150) may include a fragrance element (1151) and a mounting slot cover (1151). The fragrance element (1151) located inside the mounting slot can be replaced by opening the mounting slot cover (1151).

[0119] Although the detailed description of the present invention has been explained through specific details such as specific components, limited embodiments, and drawings, this is provided merely to aid in a more comprehensive understanding of the invention, and the invention is not limited to the above embodiments. A person skilled in the art to which the invention pertains can make various modifications and variations from this description. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and all things that are equivalent or equivalently modified to the claims set forth below, as well as the claims themselves, shall be considered to fall within the scope of the concept of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0121] 100 : Sterilization device 110 : Housing 120: Sterilization unit 130: Generator assembly

Claims

Claim 1 A housing comprising a branching channel for branching the movement of a fluid and a feedback channel connected to the branching channel; a sterilization unit installed in a first cavity existing inside the housing; A sterilization device comprising a generator assembly installed in a first cavity and electrically connected to the sterilization unit at an upstream end of the sterilization unit, wherein the housing comprises an outlet slot axially penetrating through an inner surface, an outlet hole connected to the outlet slot, a branch channel connected to the outlet hole, a first cavity connected to the branch channel and having a diameter larger than that of the branch channel, a second cavity extending upstream from the first cavity, a feedback channel communicating the branch channel and the second cavity, and an inlet slot connected to the second cavity, wherein the generator assembly generates power using the movement of the fluid flowing inside the generator assembly, and the sterilization unit sterilizes the fluid passing through the sterilization unit using the power produced by the generator assembly, and a portion of the fluid that passes through the sterilization unit and enters the branch channel is moved to the feedback channel, and the fluid that passes through the feedback channel is introduced to an upstream position of the generator assembly. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 A sterilization device according to claim 1, wherein the sterilization unit comprises a first electrode having a (+) polarity and a second electrode having a (-) polarity, the first electrode and the second electrode electrolyze the fluid to generate a gas, the gas is moved together with the fluid to the feedback channel, and the gas and fluid passing through the feedback channel are introduced to an upstream position of the generator assembly. Claim 4 A sterilization device according to claim 1, further comprising a generator nut connected to the generator assembly at the upstream end of the generator assembly and installed in the second cavity, and including a feedback communication channel that communicates a central channel through which fluid flows and a feedback channel with the generator assembly. Claim 5 A sterilization device according to claim 4, wherein the generator nut comprises an upper plate connected to the generator assembly, a lower plate spaced apart from the upper plate by a predetermined distance in the axial direction, and a plurality of channel walls installed between the upper plate and the lower plate toward the center of the generator nut to form a plurality of feedback communication channels. Claim 6 In paragraph 3, the sterilization unit comprises a light source that emits ultraviolet rays, the first electrode and the second electrode comprise a titanium material, and the light source irradiates ultraviolet rays onto the first electrode and the second electrode to generate a photocatalyst, a sterilization device. Claim 7 A sterilization device according to claim 1, further comprising an inlet plug installed in the inlet slot of the housing and having a connecting member capable of connecting the sterilization device to a fluid supply source. Claim 8 In claim 1, the diameter of the outflow hole is smaller than the diameter of the branch channel, and the feedback channel is a plurality of sterilization devices. Claim 9 A sterilization device according to claim 1, wherein the generator assembly comprises an impeller that rotates by the flow of fluid inside the generator assembly, and the impeller comprises a plurality of blades or spiral passages that extend over part or all of the longitudinal length of the generator assembly. Claim 10 A sterilization device according to claim 1; and a shower head comprising a shower head connected to an outlet slot of the housing of the sterilization device and including at least one of a second filter and a fragrance unit inside the shower head.

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