Water treatment apparatus and method for controlling same

Abstract

This water treatment apparatus comprises: a first channel including a first current collector and an anion exchange membrane; a second channel including a second current collector and a cation exchange membrane; a third channel including the anion exchange membrane and the cation exchange membrane; and at least one processor in which: in a deionization operation, cations contained in the water in the third channel are moved to the second channel by applying a negative voltage to the second current collector; in a regeneration operation, cations in the second channel are moved to the third channel by applying a first positive voltage to the second current collector; and in a scale removal operation, the water in the second channel is electrolyzed by applying a second positive voltage greater than the magnitude of the first positive voltage to the second current collector.

Description

Water treatment device and control method of water treatment device

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a water treatment device using a capacitive desalination technology and a control method for the water treatment device.

[0002] Desalination technology is a technology that is widely demanded across industries, such as removing hardness components such as calcium and magnesium from areas with high hardness of water to use it for drinking or boiler water, or as cooling water for power plants or factories.

[0003] Capacitive deionization (CDI) technology is an example of desalination technology, which removes ions by electrochemically adsorbing them on an electrode with a high specific surface area.

[0004] The capacitive desalination module performs a water treatment process by moving and removing ions using an electric field generated in a direction perpendicular to the direction of fluid flow inside the channel.

[0005] If the capacitive desalination module performs water treatment for a long time, scale accumulates on the electrodes, reducing the efficiency of the water treatment process.

[0006] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a water treatment device can generate acidic water on its own to remove scale attached to electrodes.

[0007] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, the water treatment device can remove scale attached to electrodes only when scale removal is required.

[0008] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, it is possible to prevent acidic water generated by the water treatment device from flowing into a deionized water path.

[0009] A water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a first channel including a first collector and an anion exchange membrane; a second channel including a second collector and a cation exchange membrane; a third channel including the anion exchange membrane and the cation exchange membrane; and at least one processor for electrolyzing water in the second channel by applying a negative voltage to the second collector in a deionization operation, moving cations contained in water in the third channel to the second channel, applying a first positive voltage to the second collector in a regeneration operation, moving cations in the second channel to the third channel, and applying a second positive voltage to the second collector in a scale removal operation, the second positive voltage being greater than the magnitude of the first positive voltage.

[0010] A control method of a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes: in a deionization operation, a step of applying a negative voltage to the second current collector to move cations contained in water in the third channel to the second channel; in a regeneration operation, a step of applying a first positive voltage to the second current collector to move cations in the second channel to the third channel; and in a scale removal operation, a step of electrolyzing water in the second channel by applying a second positive voltage greater than the magnitude of the first positive voltage to the second current collector.

[0011] Figure 1 illustrates an example of a conceptual diagram of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 is a control block diagram of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the movement of ions that occurs when a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs deionization operation.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the movement of ions that occurs when a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs regenerative operation.

[0016] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a chemical reaction that occurs when a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs scale removal operation.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a drawing for relatively comparing the size of the gap between the first electrode and the anion exchange membrane of a water treatment device according to one embodiment and the size of the gap between the second electrode and the cation exchange membrane.

[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a spacer installed between a second electrode and a cation exchange membrane of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0019] Fig. 9 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 10 is a diagram conceptually illustrating a period during which a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs deionization operation, regeneration operation, and scale removal operation.

[0021] Fig. 11 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 12 illustrates an example of water flow when a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs deionization operation.

[0023] Figure 13 illustrates an example of water flow when a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs regeneration operation.

[0024] Figure 14 illustrates an example of water flow when a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs scale removal operation.

[0025] Fig. 15 illustrates another example of a conceptual diagram of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 16 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method of a water treatment device according to an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15.

[0027] FIG. 17 illustrates an example of the flow of water when the water treatment device according to one embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15 performs deionization operation.

[0028] Fig. 18 illustrates an example of the flow of water when the water treatment device according to one embodiment illustrated in Fig. 15 performs regeneration operation.

[0029] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of the flow of water when the water treatment device according to one embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15 performs scale removal operation.

[0030] FIG. 20 illustrates a washing machine connected to a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 21 illustrates a cross-section of a washing machine to which a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is applied.

[0032] FIG. 22 illustrates a refrigerator having a water treatment device connected thereto according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 23 illustrates a state in which the door of a refrigerator connected to a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is open.

[0034] Fig. 24 illustrates a cross-section of a refrigerator to which a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is applied.

[0035] FIG. 25 illustrates a dishwasher having a water treatment device connected thereto according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 26 illustrates a cross-section of a dishwasher to which a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is applied.

[0037] Fig. 27 illustrates a water purifier to which a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is applied.

[0038] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0039] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0040] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0041] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0042] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0043] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0044] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0045] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0046] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0047] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0048] Water treatment devices, according to various embodiments, can purify contaminated water and make it clean. Water treatment devices are used in sewage treatment facilities, industrial processes, and water supply systems in homes and offices, playing a vital role in environmental protection and human health. Water purified by water treatment devices can be released back into the environment, used for cleaning, used as drinking water, or reused in industrial processes.

[0049] According to various embodiments, the water treatment device may include not only a household water treatment device such as a water purifier or a water softener, but also an industrial water treatment device.

[0050] Water treatment devices can purify polluted water through various methods, including biological treatment methods, chemical treatment methods, and physical treatment methods.

[0051] A water treatment device according to one embodiment can purify contaminated water through a capacitive deionization (CDI) method.

[0052] The capacitive desalination method refers to a method for removing ions from contaminated water by utilizing the principle of ions being adsorbed and desorbed from the surface of electrodes by the electrical force generated between the electrodes. In the present specification, removing ions from contaminated water may include removing ionic substances from the contaminated water.

[0053] A water treatment device may include various components such as a plurality of pipes through which water flows, a plurality of valves to control the flow of water, and a capacitive desalination module to purify water using a capacitive desalination method.

[0054] A capacitive desalination module may include a housing, electrodes and ion exchange membranes provided within the housing. Depending on the voltage supplied to the electrodes, ions contained in water flowing into the housing may be adsorbed onto or desorbed from the electrodes.

[0055] According to various embodiments, the water treatment device may further include various components, such as a pretreatment filter for pretreating raw water and supplying it to the capacitive desalination module, and / or a posttreatment filter for filtering water purified by the capacitive desalination module once again.

[0056] The term "capacitive deionization module" can be replaced with terms such as "ion removal module" in that it removes ions.

[0057] Figure 1 illustrates an example of a conceptual diagram of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 1, a water treatment device (1) according to one embodiment may include a capacitive desalination module (100), at least one flow path (20) formed by a pipe, and at least one valve (30) for controlling the flow of water within the at least one flow path (20).

[0059] The capacitive desalination module (100) may include electrodes (11ab, 12ab) and ion exchange membranes (11c, 12c).

[0060] The first electrode (11ab) and the second electrode (12ab) can be arranged to face each other, and the first electrode (11ab) and the second electrode (12ab) arranged to face each other can form a capacitor.

[0061] The first electrode (11ab) may include a first current collector (11a) and a first porous electrode (11b).

[0062] As will be described later, the first electrode (11ab) can be an anode (positive electrode) during deionization operation of the water treatment device (1), and can be a cathode (negative electrode) during regeneration operation or scale removal operation.

[0063] In one embodiment, the first current collector (11a) may include a plate electrically connected to the first porous electrode (11b). The plate may include a metal plate and / or a non-metal plate.

[0064] The material of the first current collector (11a) may be a conductor. For example, the material of the first current collector (11a) may be graphite, but the material of the first current collector (11a) is not limited thereto.

[0065] The first porous electrode (11b) may include a solid electrode including an empty space or void space. The first porous electrode (11b) may be formed of a material that is easy to adsorb ions. For example, the first porous electrode (11b) may be a carbon porous electrode, but the type of the first porous electrode (11b) is not limited thereto.

[0066] The second electrode (12ab) may include a second current collector (12a) and a second porous electrode (12b).

[0067] As will be described later, the second electrode (12ab) can be a negative electrode (cathode) during deionization operation of the water treatment device (1), and can be a positive electrode (anode) during regeneration operation or scale removal operation.

[0068] In one embodiment, the second current collector (12a) may include a plate electrically connected to the second porous electrode (12b). The plate may include a metal plate and / or a non-metal plate.

[0069] The material of the second collector (12a) may be a conductor.

[0070] As will be described later, in the scale removal operation of the water treatment device (1), acidic water may be generated by electrolysis of water at the second electrode (12ab). In order for water to be electrolyzed at the second electrode (12ab), a relatively large voltage must be applied to the second electrode (12ab), and accordingly, the consumption of electrical energy may be relatively large in the scale removal operation.

[0071] In one embodiment, the second current collector (12a) may be made of a material that is desirable as a catalyst that is easy to electrolyze water. The second current collector (12a) may be exposed to a 1000 ppm NaCl aqueous solution at 25 mA / cm 2 It can be made of a material that can be made to have a pH of 4 or lower for a time of 7 minutes or less at a current density of .

[0072] For example, the material of the second current collector (12a) may be selected from the group consisting of a transition metal, a transition metal oxide, a transition metal alloy, aluminum, an aluminum oxide, an aluminum alloy, graphene, a catalytic oxide electrode (Dimensionally Stable Anode, DSA), and a Boron doped diamond (BDD) electrode.

[0073] Transition metals may include, for example, platinum (Pt), ruthenium (Ru), iridium (Ir), rhodium (Rh), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), etc. Transition metal alloys may include, for example, nickel-containing materials such as nickel cobalt (NiCo), nickel boron (Ni / B), etc.

[0074] In one embodiment, the transition metal alloy may comprise an alloy of a transition metal oxide.

[0075] The catalytic oxide electrode may include a material in which a metal oxide is coated on a titanium (Ti) material. The catalytic oxide electrode may include, for example, ruthenium oxide / titanium (RuO2 / Ti), iridium oxide / titanium (IrO2 / Ti), or platinum oxide / titanium (PtO2 / Ti).

[0076] According to the present disclosure, since the second collector (12a) is made of a catalytic material that is easy to electrolyze water, the capacitive desalination module (100) can easily produce acidic water on its own.

[0077] The material of the first collector (11a) may also be the same as that of the second collector (12a).

[0078] However, for economic reasons, in one embodiment, the materials of the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a) may be different from each other. For example, the material of the first current collector (11a) may be graphite, and the material of the second current collector (12a) may be selected from the group consisting of a transition metal, a transition metal oxide, a transition metal alloy, aluminum, an oxide of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, graphene, a catalytic oxide electrode (Dimensionally Stable Anode, DSA), and a Boron doped diamond (BDD) electrode.

[0079] The second porous electrode (12b) may include a solid electrode including void space. The second porous electrode (12b) may be made of a material that is easy to adsorb ions. For example, the second porous electrode (12b) may be a carbon porous electrode, but the type of the second porous electrode (12b) is not limited thereto.

[0080] According to various embodiments, the second porous electrode (12b) may be formed of a material that is desirable as a catalyst that is easy to electrolyze water. For example, the material of the second porous electrode (12b) may be selected from the group consisting of a transition metal, a transition metal oxide, a transition metal alloy, aluminum, an aluminum oxide, an aluminum alloy, graphene, a catalytic oxide electrode (Dimensionally Stable Anode, DSA), and a boron doped diamond (BDD) electrode. For example, the second porous electrode (12b) may include a nickel porous electrode.

[0081] The material of the second porous electrode (12b) may also be the same as the material of the second porous electrode (12b).

[0082] However, for economic reasons, in one embodiment, the materials of the first porous electrode (11b) and the second porous electrode (12b) may be different from each other. For example, the material of the first porous electrode (11b) may be carbon, and the material of the second porous electrode (12b) may be selected from the group consisting of a transition metal, a transition metal oxide, a transition metal alloy, aluminum, an oxide of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, graphene, a catalytic oxide electrode (Dimensionally Stable Anode, DSA), and a Boron doped diamond (BDD) electrode.

[0083] A capacitive desalination module (100) may include a housing (101) having at least one inlet (102, 104) and at least one outlet (103, 105). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the surface of the housing (101) may be configured as a current collector (11a, 12a). However, at least a portion of the surface of the housing (101) may also be configured as a pad for supporting the current collector (11a, 12a).

[0084] The capacitive desalination module (100) may include a first channel (11) formed by a first current collector (11a) and an anion exchange membrane (11c), a second channel (12) formed by a second current collector (12a) and a cation exchange membrane (12c), and a third channel (13) formed by an anion exchange membrane (11c) and a cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0085] The first channel (11) may include a space between the first current collector (11a) and the anion exchange membrane (11c). The second channel (12) may include a space between the second current collector (12a) and the cation exchange membrane (12c). The third channel (13) may include a space between the anion exchange membrane (11c) and the cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0086] The first channel (11), the second channel (12), and the third channel (13) may be used interchangeably with terms such as compartment, space, room, or chamber in that they can be separated from each other by ion exchange membranes (11c, 12c).

[0087] The anion exchange membrane (11c) and the cation exchange membrane (12c) may include a membrane through which a fluid can pass.

[0088] The first channel (11), the second channel (12), and the third channel (13) may be fluidically connected to each other. For example, fluid in the third channel (13) may be able to move to the first channel (11) and / or the second channel (12), and conversely, fluid in the first channel (11) and / or the second channel (12) may be able to move to the third channel (13).

[0089] The cation exchange membrane (12c) may include a membrane that allows only cations to pass through among cations and anions. The cation exchange membrane (12c) has a negative charge, so it repels anions and does not allow them to pass through, but only allows cations to pass through.

[0090] The anion exchange membrane (11c) may include a membrane that allows only anions to pass through among cations and anions. The anion exchange membrane (11c) has a positive charge, so it repels cations and does not allow them to pass through, but only allows anions to pass through.

[0091] The ion exchange membranes (11c, 12c) may include a synthetic resin membrane.

[0092] When a positive voltage is applied to the first current collector (11a), the first electrode (11ab) becomes a positive electrode (anode), and when a negative voltage is applied to the second current collector (12a), the second electrode (12ab) becomes a negative electrode (cathode). Accordingly, when a positive voltage is applied to the first current collector (11a) and a negative voltage is applied to the second current collector (12a), positive ions in the third channel (13) can move to the second channel (12), and negative ions in the third channel (13) can move to the first channel (11).

[0093] Applying a positive voltage to the first collector (11a) may include applying a negative voltage to the second collector (12a).

[0094] Applying a positive voltage to the first current collector (11a) and a negative voltage to the second current collector (12a) may include applying a positive voltage between the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a).

[0095] Applying a positive voltage between the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a) may include making the potential of the first current collector (11a) higher than the potential of the second current collector (12a).

[0096] When a negative voltage is applied to the first current collector (11a), the first electrode (11ab) becomes a negative electrode (cathode), and when a positive voltage is applied to the second current collector (12a), the second electrode (12ab) becomes a positive electrode (anode). Accordingly, when a negative voltage is applied to the first current collector (11a) and a positive voltage is applied to the second current collector (12a), positive ions in the second channel (12) can move to the third channel (13), and negative ions in the first channel (11) can move to the third channel (13).

[0097] Applying a negative voltage to the first collector (11a) may include applying a positive voltage to the second collector (12a).

[0098] Applying a negative voltage to the first collector (11a) and a positive voltage to the second collector (12a) may include applying a negative voltage between the first collector (11a) and the second collector (12a).

[0099] Applying a negative voltage between the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a) may include making the potential of the first current collector (11a) lower than the potential of the second current collector (12a).

[0100] A first porous electrode (11b) may be provided in the first channel (11), and a second porous electrode (12b) may be provided in the second channel (12).

[0101] When a positive voltage is applied between the first collector (11a) and the second collector (12a), the negative ions moved to the first channel (11) can be adsorbed to the first porous electrode (11b), and the positive ions moved to the second channel (12) can be adsorbed to the second porous electrode (12b).

[0102] By applying a negative voltage between the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a), the negative ions adsorbed on the first porous electrode (11b) can be desorbed from the first porous electrode (11b), and the positive ions adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b) can be desorbed from the second porous electrode (12b).

[0103] In one embodiment, the housing (101) may include a first inlet (102) through which water can flow into the third channel (13), and a first outlet (103) through which water within the third channel (13) can flow out.

[0104] In one embodiment, the housing (101) may include a second inlet (104) through which water can flow into the second channel (12), and a second outlet (105) through which water within the second channel (12) can flow out.

[0105] Water can be introduced from the outside of the capacitive desalination module (100) into the third channel (13) through the first inlet (102). Water in the third channel (13) can be discharged to the outside of the capacitive desalination module (100) through the first outlet (103).

[0106] Water can be introduced into the second channel (12) from the outside of the capacitive desalination module (100) through the second inlet (104). Water in the second channel (12) can be discharged to the outside of the capacitive desalination module (100) through the second outlet (105).

[0107] The water treatment device (1) can store raw water or treat water supplied from a water source (15) from which raw water is supplied from outside. The raw water may include water to be treated by the water treatment device (1).

[0108] The water treatment device (1) may include a pump (16) for pumping external water (e.g., water supplied from a water source).

[0109] The water treatment device (1) may include at least one flow path (20) and at least one valve (30). At least one flow path (20) may be branched by at least one valve (30).

[0110] Water pumped by the pump (16) can flow into the flow paths (20) of the water treatment device (1).

[0111] In one embodiment, external water may be pumped by a pump (16) and flow into a first flow path (21). The first flow path (21) may be configured to allow external water to flow into it.

[0112] The first valve (30a) can cause water flowing into the first flow path (21) to flow into either the second flow path (22) or the third flow path (23). The second flow path (22) can include a flow path configured to allow water to flow from the first flow path (21) into the second channel (12). The third flow path (23) can include a flow path configured to allow water to flow from the first flow path (21) into the third channel (13).

[0113] The third euro (23) can be connected to the first inlet (102). The second euro (22) can be connected to the second inlet (104).

[0114] The second valve (30b) can open and close the third flow path (23). The second valve (30b) can block or allow the flow of water flowing into the third flow path (23).

[0115] In one embodiment, the second valve (30b) may be omitted if the first valve (30a) can block water flowing from the first flow path (21).

[0116] Water flowing into the third channel (13) through the third flow path (23) can be discharged to the fourth flow path (24). The fourth flow path (24) can be connected to the first discharge port (103).

[0117] The fourth valve (30d) can allow water flowing into the fourth flow path (24) to flow into either the first discharge flow path (26) or the second discharge flow path (27). For example, the fourth valve (30d) can allow water discharged from the third channel (13) to flow into either the first discharge flow path (26) or the second discharge flow path (27). In one embodiment, the fourth valve (30d) can also close the fourth flow path (24) to prevent water flowing into the fourth flow path (24) from flowing into the first discharge flow path (26) and the second discharge flow path (27).

[0118] The first discharge path (26) may include a path through which purified water (or deionized water) is discharged. The second discharge path (27) may include a path through which contaminated water (or wastewater) is discharged.

[0119] Water flowing into the second channel (12) through the second flow path (22) can be discharged through the fifth flow path (25). The fifth flow path (25) can be connected to the second outlet (105). The fifth flow path (25) can be connected to the first inlet (102). For example, the fifth flow path (25) can include a flow path configured to allow water discharged from the second channel (12) to flow into the third channel (13). Accordingly, the fifth flow path (25) can be referred to as a circulation flow path.

[0120] The third valve (30c) can open and close the fifth flow path (25).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the water treatment device (1) includes a fifth channel (25) configured to allow water discharged from the second channel (12) to flow into the third channel (13), thereby providing an effect of washing the third channel (13) using acidic water generated within the second channel (12), as will be described later.

[0122] According to various embodiments, the number of inlets (102, 104), the number of outlets (103, 105), the type of the flow path (20) and / or the type of at least one valve (30) are not limited to the example illustrated in FIG. 1. For example, the water treatment device (1) may include two outlets connected to the third channel (13) and two valves for opening and closing the flow paths connected to the two outlets.

[0123] As another example, the water treatment device (1) may include two inlets connected to a third channel (13), and each of the two inlets may be connected to a third channel (23) and a fifth channel (25).

[0124] In one embodiment, the water treatment device (1) may include at least one capacitive desalination module (100).

[0125] According to various embodiments, the water treatment device (1) may include a plurality of capacitive desalination modules (100). Each of the plurality of capacitive desalination modules (100) may include a capacitor formed by a pair of electrodes (11ab, 12ab), and the plurality of capacitors may be connected in series or in parallel with each other.

[0126] Figure 2 is a control block diagram of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 2, a water treatment device (1) according to one embodiment may include a user interface (40), a sensor unit (50), a communication unit (60), a pump (16), at least one valve (30), a capacitive desalination module (100), and / or a control unit (70).

[0128] The user interface (40) may include at least one input interface (41) and at least one output interface (42).

[0129] At least one input interface (41) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0130] At least one input interface (41) may include a power input interface for turning on the power of the water treatment device (1), an operation input interface for starting the operation of the water treatment device (1), an operation mode selection input interface, and a setting input interface. The at least one input interface (41) may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0131] A water treatment device (1) according to one embodiment may have at least three operating modes. For example, a water treatment device (1) according to one embodiment may have a deionization operating mode, a regeneration operating mode, and a scale removal operating mode.

[0132] The water treatment device (1) can perform a deionization process on water provided to the capacitive deionization module (100) in deionization operation.

[0133] The water treatment device (1) can perform a regeneration process to desorb ions adsorbed on the electrodes (11ab, 12ab) of the capacitor-type desalination module (100) during regeneration operation.

[0134] The water treatment device (1) can perform a scale removal process to remove scale generated on the electrodes (11ab, 12ab) of the capacitor type desalination module (100) in scale removal operation.

[0135] The driving mode selection input interface may include an interface for selecting the driving mode to be started first when the operation of the water treatment device (1) is initiated by the operation input interface.

[0136] Through the operation mode selection input interface, the operator of the water treatment device (1) can select the operation mode to be started first among the operation modes of the water treatment device (1).

[0137] The setting input interface may include an interface for setting setting values ​​for various components of the water treatment device (1) (e.g., pump (16), electrodes (11ab, 12ab)).

[0138] For example, the setting input interface may include an interface for various settings, such as adjusting the flow rate of water provided to the capacitive desalination module (100) by changing the operating RPM of the pump (16), or adjusting the strength of the voltage applied to the electrodes (11ab, 12ab).

[0139] At least one output interface (42) can transmit various information related to the operation of the water treatment device (1) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0140] For example, at least one output interface (42) can transmit to the user the operating time of the water treatment device (1), information related to the settings of the water treatment device (1), and information obtained from the sensor unit (50). The information of the water treatment device (1) can be output through a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. The at least one output interface (42) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0141] The sensor unit (50) may include at least one sensor that obtains information related to the operating status of the water treatment device (1).

[0142] In one embodiment, the sensor unit (50) may include various sensors for measuring the scale degree within the second channel (12).

[0143] For example, the sensor unit (50) may include a water quality sensor for detecting the water quality of water discharged through the first discharge port (103).

[0144] Water quality sensors may include various sensors, such as, for example, a turbidity sensor, a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) sensor, a pH sensor, an electrical conductivity sensor, a hardness sensor, and a flow sensor.

[0145] The water quality sensor may be provided in the fourth flow path (24), the first discharge flow path (26) and / or the second discharge flow path (27) to detect the water quality of water discharged through the first discharge port (103), but any location for sensing the water quality of water discharged from the capacitive desalination module (100) may be employed as the location of the water quality sensor without limitation.

[0146] Information acquired by the sensor unit (50) can be transmitted to the control unit (70). The control unit (70) can start scale removal operation based on the scale removal condition detected by the sensor unit (50).

[0147] The scale removal conditions may be preset to conditions in which a relatively large amount of scale is estimated to have been deposited in the first channel (11), the second channel (12), and / or the third channel (13).

[0148] For example, the control unit (70) may start a scale removal operation based on the TDS value measured by the TDS sensor being greater than a predetermined value. As another example, the control unit (70) may start a scale removal operation based on the turbidity value detected by the turbidity sensor being greater than a predetermined value.

[0149] Information acquired by the sensor unit (50) may also be output through the output interface (42).

[0150] The water treatment device (1) may include a communication unit (60) for communicating with an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance) via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0151] The communication unit (60) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0152] The communication unit (60) can transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit (60) can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0153] To this end, the communication unit (60) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication unit (60) can include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These different types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0154] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0155] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0156] In one embodiment, the communication unit (60) can communicate with external devices such as a server, user devices, and home appliances through a surrounding access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the water treatment device (1), home appliances, and / or user devices are connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The water treatment device (1), home appliances, and / or user devices can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN).

[0157] The communication unit (60) can receive information on the water quality of water discharged through the first discharge port (103) from an external device.

[0158] For example, if a sensor for detecting the water quality of water discharged through the first discharge port (103) is installed outside the water treatment device (1), the communication unit (60) can receive information about the water quality of water discharged through the first discharge port (103) from the sensor installed outside the water treatment device (1).

[0159] Information acquired by the communication unit (60) can be transmitted to the control unit (70). The control unit (70) can start scale removal operation based on the detection of scale removal conditions from information acquired from an external sensor via the communication unit (60).

[0160] The communication unit (60) can transmit information on water quality obtained from the sensor unit (50) to an external device (e.g., server, user device, home appliance).

[0161] The control unit (70) can control various components of the water treatment device (1) (e.g., user interface (40), sensor unit (50), communication unit (60), pump (16), capacitive desalination module (100), and / or at least one valve (30)). For example, the control unit (70) can control the voltage applied to the first electrode (11ab) and the second electrode (12ab).

[0162] The control unit (70) may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit (70) may include at least one memory (72) storing data in the form of a program, an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the water treatment device (1), and at least one processor (71) that performs the operations described above and operations to be described below using data stored in the at least one memory (72). The memory (72) and the processor (71) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (71) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (72) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (72) and the processor (71) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0163] The control unit (70) can be electrically connected to the user interface (40), the sensor unit (50), the communication unit (60), the pump (16), the capacitive desalination module (100), and / or at least one valve (30).

[0164] The pump (16) can pump external water into the first flow path (21) according to a control signal from the control unit.

[0165] At least one valve (30) can change the flow of water flowing into at least one conduit (20) according to a control signal from the control unit (70). The at least one valve (30) can include a first valve (30a), a second valve (30b), a third valve (30c), and / or a fourth valve (30d).

[0166] Figure 3 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0167] The order, operation time, cycle, and / or number of times in which the operations (410, 420, 430) illustrated in FIG. 3 are performed are not limited to those illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0168] For example, the operating time of the deionization operation (410) may be longer than the operating time of the regeneration operation (420).

[0169] In one embodiment, the water treatment device (1) can perform a deionization operation (410) for a first predetermined time and a regeneration operation (420) for a second predetermined time. In this case, the first predetermined time may be set longer than the second predetermined time. Additionally, the first predetermined time and the second predetermined time may be set by the user.

[0170] In one embodiment, the water treatment device (1) can perform a scale removal operation (430) based on a predetermined number of times of performing the deionization operation (410) and the regeneration operation (420). For example, the predetermined number of times can be set by a user.

[0171] If the predetermined number of times is set to multiple times, the operation cycle of the deionization operation (410) and the operation cycle of the regeneration operation (420) may be shorter than the operation cycle of the scale removal operation (430). For example, the water treatment device (1) may perform the deionization operation (410) and the regeneration operation (420) n times each (where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 2) and then perform the scale removal operation (430) once.

[0172] In one embodiment, the water treatment device (1) may perform a scale removal operation (430) based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition by the sensor unit (50).

[0173] As another example, the water treatment device (1) can perform a scale removal operation (430) after the deionization operation (410) is performed or after the regeneration operation (420) is performed.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 3, a water treatment device (1) according to one embodiment can perform deionization operation, regeneration operation, and / or scale removal operation.

[0175] Deionization operation may mean operation to remove ions contained in water flowing into a capacitive deionization module (100) and discharge deionized water from which ions have been removed to the outside of the capacitive deionization module (100).

[0176] The water treatment device (1) can apply a negative voltage to the second collector (12a) in deionization operation (410).

[0177] Applying a negative voltage to the second collector (12a) may include applying a positive voltage to the first collector (11a).

[0178] Applying a negative voltage to the second current collector (12a) may include applying a negative voltage between the second current collector (12a) and the first current collector (11a).

[0179] Applying a negative voltage between the second current collector (12a) and the first current collector (11a) may include making the difference between the voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) and the voltage applied to the first current collector (11a) a negative voltage.

[0180] Applying a negative voltage to the second collector (12a) may include applying a positive voltage between the first collector (11a) and the second collector (12a).

[0181] Applying a positive voltage between the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a) may include making the difference between the voltage applied to the first current collector (11a) and the voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) a positive voltage.

[0182] The control unit (70) can cause positive ions contained in water in the third channel (13) to move to the second channel (12) by applying a negative voltage to the second collector (12a) in the deionization operation.

[0183] In deionization operation, the magnitude of the negative voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) may be approximately 0.6 V or less. The magnitude of the negative voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) being 0.6 V or less may include that the negative voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) is -0.6 V or more.

[0184] In deionization operation, the magnitude of the positive voltage applied to the first current collector (11a) may be approximately 0.6 V or less. The magnitude of the positive voltage applied to the first current collector (11a) being 0.6 V or less may include that the positive voltage applied to the first current collector (11a) is +0.6 V or less.

[0185] In deionization operation, cations in the third channel (13) can move to the second channel (12) through the cation exchange membrane (12c) and be adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b).

[0186] When a negative voltage of a predetermined magnitude or greater is applied to the second current collector (12a), a positive voltage of a predetermined magnitude or greater may be applied to the first current collector (11a). When a positive voltage of a predetermined magnitude or greater is applied to the first current collector (11a), electrolysis of water occurs at the positive electrode, the first electrode (11ab), and hydrogen ions and electrons are generated, which may hinder the adsorption of ions.

[0187] In deionization operation, the magnitude of the positive voltage applied to the first collector (11a) can be preset within a range in which water in the first channel (11) is not electrolyzed.

[0188] For example, it is preferable that the magnitude of the positive voltage applied to the first collector (11a) during deionization operation be 0.6 V or less.

[0189] Regeneration operation may mean operation in which cations adsorbed on the second electrode (12ab) used as a cathode in deionization operation are desorbed and moved to the third channel (13), and wastewater containing a relatively large amount of cations is discharged to the outside of the capacitive deionization module (100).

[0190] The water treatment device (1) can apply a first positive voltage to the second collector (12a) in regeneration operation (420).

[0191] Applying a first positive voltage to the second collector (12a) may include applying a first negative voltage to the first collector (11a).

[0192] Applying the first positive voltage to the second current collector (12a) may include applying a positive voltage between the second current collector (12a) and the first current collector (11a).

[0193] Applying a positive voltage between the second current collector (12a) and the first current collector (11a) may include making the difference between the voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) and the voltage applied to the first current collector (11a) a positive voltage.

[0194] Applying a positive voltage to the second collector (12a) may include applying a negative voltage between the first collector (11a) and the second collector (12a).

[0195] Applying a negative voltage between the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a) may include making the difference between the voltage applied to the first current collector (11a) and the voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) a negative voltage.

[0196] The control unit (70) can cause positive ions in the second channel (12) to move to the third channel (13) by applying a first positive voltage to the second collector (12a) in the regenerative operation.

[0197] The magnitude of the first positive voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) in the regeneration operation can be preset within a range in which water in the second channel (12) is not electrolyzed. The magnitude of the first positive voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) in the regeneration operation can be the same as or similar to the magnitude of the negative voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) in the deionization operation. The magnitude of the negative voltage applied to the first current collector (11a) in the regeneration operation can be the same as or similar to the magnitude of the negative voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) in the deionization operation.

[0198] For example, the magnitude of the first positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) in regenerative driving may be approximately 0.6 V or less. For example, the first positive voltage may be +0.6 V or less.

[0199] In regeneration operation, cations adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b) can move to the third channel (13) through the cation exchange membrane (12c). In regeneration operation, cations adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b) can move to water in the third channel (13) through the cation exchange membrane (12c). However, cations in the third channel (13) cannot move to the first channel (11) due to the anion exchange membrane (11c).

[0200] When a positive voltage of a predetermined size (e.g., 0.6 V) or more is applied to the second collector (12a), electrolysis of water occurs at the second electrode (12ab), which is the anode, and acidic water is generated. When the regeneration operation is terminated and the deionization operation is performed again, there may be a problem in that acidic water is discharged from the storage deionization module (100).

[0201] Accordingly, it is preferable that the magnitude of the first positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) during regeneration operation be 0.6 V or less.

[0202] The water treatment device (1) can perform deionization operation (410) and regeneration operation (420) repeatedly according to a predetermined cycle.

[0203] The water treatment device (1) can perform scale removal operation based on the satisfaction of certain conditions.

[0204] The scale removal operation may mean an operation to remove scale attached to the cation exchange membrane (12c) and the second porous electrode (12b), unlike the regeneration operation that desorbs cations adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b). Scale is impurities such as metallic oxides and precipitates (e.g., CaCO). 3, It may contain Mg(OH)2).

[0205] When the deionization operation (410) and the regeneration operation (420) are repeatedly performed according to a predetermined cycle, scale may be attached to the side of the second electrode (12ab) used as the cathode in the deionization operation (410). For example, scale may be attached to both sides of the cation exchange membrane (12c) and the second porous electrode (12b).

[0206] Scale attached to both sides of the cation exchange membrane (12c) and the second porous electrode (12b) may cause a problem of reducing the efficiency of deionization operation.

[0207] Scale can be removed with acidic water.

[0208] According to the prior art, scale was removed by injecting an acidic solution, such as a citric acid solution, into the interior of a capacitor desalination module. Consequently, the prior art had the inconvenience of requiring manual injection of acidic water for each scale removal cycle.

[0209] According to the present disclosure, the capacitive desalination module (100) of the water treatment device (1) according to one embodiment can automatically remove scale at each scale removal cycle by generating acidic water on its own without a separate external device.

[0210] The water treatment device (1) can apply a second positive voltage to the second collector (12a) in scale removal operation (430).

[0211] The magnitude of the second positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) in the scale removal operation may be greater than the magnitude of the first positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) in the regeneration operation.

[0212] Applying a second positive voltage to the second collector (12a) may include applying a second negative voltage to the first collector (11a). The magnitude of the second negative voltage applied to the first collector (11a) in the scale removal operation may be greater than the magnitude of the first negative voltage applied to the first collector (11a) in the regeneration operation.

[0213] Applying a second positive voltage to the second current collector (12a) may include applying a positive voltage between the second current collector (12a) and the first current collector (11a).

[0214] Applying a positive voltage between the second current collector (12a) and the first current collector (11a) may include making the difference between the voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) and the voltage applied to the first current collector (11a) a positive voltage.

[0215] Applying a positive voltage to the second collector (12a) may include applying a negative voltage between the first collector (11a) and the second collector (12a).

[0216] Applying a negative voltage between the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a) may include making the difference between the voltage applied to the first current collector (11a) and the voltage applied to the second current collector (12a) a negative voltage.

[0217] In the scale removal operation, the magnitude of the second positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) can be preset within the range in which water in the second channel (12) is electrolyzed.

[0218] The magnitude of the first positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) in the regeneration operation is 0.6 V or less, whereas the magnitude of the second positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) in the scale removal operation may be greater than 0.6 V.

[0219] For example, the control unit (70) can apply a first positive voltage to the second collector (12a) in the regeneration operation, and can apply a second positive voltage, the magnitude of which is greater than the first positive voltage, to the second collector (12a) in the scale removal operation.

[0220] The control unit (70) can cause water in the second channel (12) to be electrolyzed by applying a second positive voltage, the magnitude of which is greater than the magnitude of the first positive voltage, to the second collector (12a) in the scale removal operation.

[0221] The control unit (70) can cause water in the second channel (12) to be electrolyzed by applying a second negative voltage, the magnitude of which is greater than the magnitude of the first negative voltage, between the first collector (11a) and the second collector (12a) in the scale removal operation.

[0222] In scale removal operation, acidic water generated in the second channel (12) can remove scale attached to the second porous electrode (12b) and the cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0223] As will be described later, according to various embodiments, the acidic water generated in the second channel (12) flows into the third channel (13) through the circulation path (25), thereby efficiently removing scale attached to both sides of the cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0224] The water treatment device (1) can terminate scale removal operation based on satisfaction of a predetermined condition.

[0225] According to the present disclosure, the capacitive desalination module (100) generates acidic water on its own, thereby removing scale within the capacitive desalination module (100) without user intervention or a separate additional device.

[0226] Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the movement of ions that occurs when a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs deionization operation.

[0227] Referring to FIG. 4, the control unit (70) can apply a negative voltage to the second collector (12a) in deionization operation.

[0228] When a negative voltage is applied to the second collector (12a), the positive ions contained in the water in the third channel (13) can move to the second channel (12).

[0229] Cations contained in water include, for example, sodium ions (Na + ), magnesium ions (Mg 2+ ), calcium ions (Ca 2+ ) may include, etc.

[0230] The cations contained in the water in the third channel (13) can be adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b) by moving to the second channel (12).

[0231] Accordingly, when the water treatment device (1) performs deionization operation, cations in the water in the third channel (13) can be removed.

[0232] Applying a negative voltage to the second collector (12a) may include applying a positive voltage to the first collector (11a).

[0233] When a positive voltage is applied to the first collector (11a), negative ions contained in water in the third channel (13) can move to the first channel (11).

[0234] Since the magnitude of the positive voltage applied to the first collector (11a) in the deionization operation is preset within a range in which water in the first channel (11) is not electrolyzed, electrolysis of water does not occur at the first electrode (11ab), which is the anode.

[0235] The fact that electrolysis of water does not occur may mean that the reaction rate of the electrolysis reaction of water is significantly slow, so that electrolysis of water hardly occurs.

[0236] For example, the fact that electrolysis of water does not occur at the first electrode (11ab) may include that the acidity of water within the first channel (11) does not drop below pH 5 even if a positive voltage is applied to the first current collector (11a) for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 10 minutes or more).

[0237] FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the movement of ions that occurs when a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs regenerative operation.

[0238] Referring to FIG. 5, the control unit (70) can apply a first positive voltage to the second collector (12a) in regenerative operation.

[0239] When a first positive voltage is applied to the second collector (12a), cations within the second channel (12) can move to the third channel (13). The cations within the second channel (12) may include cations adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b) during deionization operation.

[0240] The cations adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b) are, for example, sodium ions (Na + ), magnesium ions (Mg 2+ ), calcium ions (Ca 2+ ) may include, etc.

[0241] The cations adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b) can be desorbed from the second porous electrode (12b) and moved to the third channel (13).

[0242] The cations in the third channel (13) cannot move to the first channel (11) due to the anion exchange membrane (11c).

[0243] Accordingly, when the water treatment device (1) performs regeneration operation, the cations adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b) can be desorbed, and accordingly, the ion adsorption efficiency of the second porous electrode (12b) can be regenerated.

[0244] Since the magnitude of the first positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) in the regenerative operation is preset within a range in which water in the second channel (12) is not electrolyzed, electrolysis of water does not occur at the second electrode (12ab), which is the anode.

[0245] The fact that electrolysis of water does not occur may mean that the reaction rate of the electrolysis reaction of water is significantly slow, so that electrolysis of water hardly occurs.

[0246] For example, the fact that electrolysis of water does not occur at the second electrode (12ab) may include that the acidity of water within the second channel (12) does not drop below pH 5 even when a first positive voltage is applied to the second current collector (12a) for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 10 minutes or more).

[0247] Applying the first positive voltage to the second current collector (12a) may include applying a negative voltage to the second current collector (11a).

[0248] When a negative voltage is applied to the first collector (11a), the negative ions within the first channel (11) can move to the third channel (13). The negative ions within the first channel (11) may include negative ions adsorbed to the first porous electrode (11b) during deionization operation.

[0249] The anions in the third channel (13) cannot move to the second channel (12) due to the cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0250] Accordingly, when the water treatment device (1) performs regeneration operation, the negative ions adsorbed on the first porous electrode (11b) can be desorbed, and accordingly, the ion adsorption efficiency of the first porous electrode (11b) can be regenerated.

[0251] The water treatment device (1) can alternately perform deionization operation and regeneration operation. Meanwhile, when the water treatment device alternately performs deionization operation and regeneration operation, scale (e.g., calcium carbonate (CaCO3)) is removed according to the movement of cations and anions. , Magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2)) may be precipitated. Scale may be mainly formed on the second electrode (12ab) with a high cation concentration or on both sides of the cation exchange membrane (12c). The both sides of the cation exchange membrane (12c) may include a side adjacent to the second channel (12) and a side adjacent to the third channel (13).

[0252] If a relatively large amount of scale is deposited on both sides of the second electrode (12ab) or the cation exchange membrane (12c), not only will the space for water to flow within the second channel (12) become narrow, but smooth ion adsorption to the second porous electrode (12b) will also be hindered, so that the efficiency of the deionization operation may be significantly reduced.

[0253] Accordingly, there is a need to remove the scale precipitated inside the capacitor-type desalination module (100).

[0254] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the water treatment device can remove scale deposited inside a capacitive desalination module without the use of an external device or user intervention by performing a scale removal operation.

[0255] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a chemical reaction that occurs when a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs scale removal operation.

[0256] Referring to FIG. 6, the control unit (70) can apply a second positive voltage to the second collector (12a) in scale removal operation.

[0257] The magnitude of the second positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) can be preset to a range in which electrolysis of water can occur at the second electrode (12ab), which is the anode.

[0258] When a second positive voltage is applied to the second collector (12a), the cations within the second channel (12) can move to the third channel (13). The cations within the second channel (12) may include cations adsorbed to the second porous electrode (12b) during deionization operation.

[0259] The cations adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b) are, for example, sodium ions (Na + ), magnesium ions (Mg 2+ ), calcium ions (Ca 2+ ) may include, etc.

[0260] The cations adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b) can be desorbed from the second porous electrode (12b) and move to the third channel (13). Meanwhile, the cations in the third channel (13) cannot move to the first channel (11) due to the anion exchange membrane (11c).

[0261] Furthermore, when a second positive voltage is applied to the second collector (12a), water within the second channel (12) can be electrolyzed.

[0262] Since the magnitude of the second positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) in the scale removal operation is preset within the range in which electrolysis of water in the second channel (12) occurs, electrolysis of water occurs at the second electrode (12ab), which is the anode.

[0263] The progress of water electrolysis may involve a rapid reaction rate. When water is electrolyzed, hydrogen ions are produced, gradually decreasing the water's pH value.

[0264] The electrolysis of water in the second electrode (12ab) may include the acidity of water in the second channel (12) dropping to pH 5 or lower when a second positive voltage is applied to the second current collector (12a) for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 7 minutes or more).

[0265] The magnitude of the second positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) in the scale removal operation may be greater than the magnitude of the positive voltage applied to the first collector (11a) in the deionization operation and the magnitude of the first positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) in the regeneration operation.

[0266] Considering the time required for scale removal operation, it is preferable that scale removal operation be performed when a relatively large amount of scale is deposited within the capacitive deionization module (100) and the deionization performance of the water treatment device (1) is seriously deteriorated.

[0267] In one embodiment, the water treatment device (1) alternately performs deionization operation and regeneration operation, and can perform scale removal operation only when a predetermined condition related to the amount of scale precipitation is satisfied.

[0268] According to the present disclosure, in a scale removal operation, acidic water is generated by electrolysis of water in the second channel (12), and scale deposited in the capacitive desalination module (100) can be removed.

[0269] FIG. 7 is a drawing for relatively comparing the size of the gap between the first electrode and the anion exchange membrane of a water treatment device according to one embodiment and the size of the gap between the second electrode and the cation exchange membrane.

[0270] Referring to Fig. 7, a gap (g1) for smooth fluid flow may be formed between the first electrode (11ab) and the anion exchange membrane (11c). For example, a gap (g1) may be formed between the first porous electrode (11b) and the anion exchange membrane (11c).

[0271] A gap (g2) for smooth fluid flow may be formed between the second electrode (12ab) and the cation exchange membrane (12c). For example, a gap (g2) may be formed between the second porous electrode (12b) and the cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0272] As the thickness (d1, d2) of the gap (g1, g2) formed between the electrodes (11ab, 12ab) and the ion exchange membranes (11c, 12c) increases, the distance between the electrodes (11ab, 12ab) increases, and thus the strength of the electric field formed between the electrodes (11ab, 12ab) may be weakened. Accordingly, the thickness (d1, d2) of the gap (g1, g2) formed between the electrodes (11ab, 12ab) and the ion exchange membranes (11c, 12c) may be minimized.

[0273] The thickness (d1) of the gap (g1) formed between the first electrode (11ab) and the anion exchange membrane (11c) may mean the distance (d1) between the first porous electrode (11b) and the anion exchange membrane (11c).

[0274] The thickness (d2) of the gap (g2) formed between the second electrode (12ab) and the cation exchange membrane (12c) may mean the distance (d2) between the second porous electrode (12b) and the cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0275] However, if the thickness (d1, d2) of the gap (g1, g2) formed between the electrodes (11ab, 12ab) and the ion exchange membranes (11c, 12c) is small, the space through which the fluid can flow within the first channel (11) or the second channel (12) may be narrow, and thus the flow of the fluid within the first channel (11) or the second channel (12) may not be smooth.

[0276] On the other hand, when operating the scale removal, sufficient space must be secured for acid water to flow around the cation exchange membrane (12c) so that the scale removal performance can be improved.

[0277] In one embodiment, the thickness (d1) of the gap (g1) formed between the first electrode (11ab) and the anion exchange membrane (11c) may be smaller than the thickness (d2) of the gap (g2) formed between the second electrode (12ab) and the cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0278] For example, the distance (d1) between the first electrode (11ab) and the anion exchange membrane (11c) may be shorter than the distance (d2) between the second electrode (12ab) and the cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0279] In one embodiment, the thickness (d1) of the gap (g1) formed between the first electrode (11ab) and the anion exchange membrane (11c) may be less than 10 μm. The thickness (d1) of the gap (g1) formed between the first electrode (11ab) and the anion exchange membrane (11c) being less than 10 μm may include a case where the thickness (d1) of the gap (g1) formed between the first electrode (11ab) and the anion exchange membrane (11c) is 0 μm.

[0280] The thickness (d1) of the gap (g1) formed between the first electrode (11ab) and the anion exchange membrane (11c) being 0 μm may include that the first porous electrode (11b) and the anion exchange membrane (11c) are in contact with each other. For example, the thickness (d1) of the gap (g1) formed between the first electrode (11ab) and the anion exchange membrane (11c) being 0 μm may include that no gap is formed between the first electrode (11ab) and the anion exchange membrane (11c).

[0281] In one embodiment, the thickness (d2) of the gap (g2) formed between the second electrode (12ab) and the cation exchange membrane (12c) may be greater than 10 μm. For example, the thickness (d1) of the gap (g1) formed between the second electrode (12ab) and the cation exchange membrane (12c) may be 10 μm to 500 μm.

[0282] According to the present disclosure, a space through which acidic water must flow can be secured between the second electrode (12ab) and the cation exchange membrane (12c) during scale removal operation.

[0283] According to the present disclosure, since acidic water can flow smoothly between the second electrode (12ab) and the cation exchange membrane (12c) during scale removal operation, scales deposited around the cation exchange membrane (12c) can be smoothly removed.

[0284] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a spacer installed between a second electrode (12ab) and a cation exchange membrane (12c) of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0285] Referring to FIG. 8, in one embodiment, the capacitive desalination module (100) may include a spacer (sc) provided between the second electrode (12ab) and the cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0286] The spacer (sc) can secure a space between the second porous electrode (12b) and the cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0287] The spacer (sc) can be configured so that the second porous electrode (12b) and the cation exchange membrane (12c) do not come into direct contact and maintain a constant gap.

[0288] In one embodiment, the spacer (sc) may be configured such that the second porous electrode (12b) and the cation exchange membrane (12c) do not come into close contact and maintain a gap of 10 μm or more. For example, the spacer (sc) may be configured such that the second porous electrode (12b) and the cation exchange membrane (12c) do not come into close contact and maintain a gap of 10 μm to 500 μm.

[0289] The spacer (sc) may be composed of a flat sheet or membrane, and the fluid may be able to pass through the spacer (sc).

[0290] One side of the spacer (sc) may face the cation exchange membrane (12c), and the other side may face the second porous electrode (12b).

[0291] According to various embodiments, a spacer may not be provided between the first porous electrode (11b) and the anion exchange membrane (11c).

[0292] According to the present disclosure, a spacer (sc) is provided between the second porous electrode (12b) and the cation exchange membrane (12c), thereby securing a space for acidic water to flow between the second electrode (12ab) and the cation exchange membrane (12c) during scale removal operation.

[0293] According to the present disclosure, since acid water can flow smoothly into the space formed by the spacer (sc) during scale removal operation, scales deposited around the cation exchange membrane (12c) can be smoothly removed.

[0294] Fig. 9 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method of a water treatment device according to one embodiment. Fig. 10 is a diagram conceptually explaining a period during which a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs deionization operation, regeneration operation, and scale removal operation.

[0295] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the water treatment device (1) can proceed with the water treatment process based on the satisfaction of the water treatment start condition.

[0296] For example, the control unit (70) can proceed with the water treatment process in response to receiving a user input for starting the water treatment process through at least one input interface (41).

[0297] As another example, the control unit (70) may proceed with the water treatment process in response to receiving a control command to start the water treatment process from an external device (e.g., a remote control device, a user device, etc.) through the communication unit (60).

[0298] Water treatment operations may include deionization and regeneration operations.

[0299] The control unit (70) can repeatedly perform the deionization operation (500) and the regeneration operation (510) based on the start of the water treatment process.

[0300] The control unit can alternately perform the deionization operation (500) and the regeneration operation (510). For example, the control unit can repeatedly perform the regeneration operation (510) after the deionization operation (500) is completed, and perform the deionization operation (500) after the regeneration operation (510) is completed.

[0301] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can perform the deionization operation (500) for a first predetermined time (k1), and can perform the regeneration operation (510) for a second predetermined time (k2) based on the end of the deionization operation (500).

[0302] For example, the first predetermined time (k1) may be set longer than the second predetermined time (k2). In addition, the first predetermined time (k1) and the second predetermined time (k2) may be set through user input via at least one input interface (41) and / or user input received from an external device via the communication unit (60).

[0303] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) continuously performs the deionization operation (500), but may also perform the regeneration operation (510) based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition by the sensor unit (50).

[0304] For example, the sensor unit (50) may include an electrical conductivity sensor, and the control unit (70) may perform a regeneration operation (510) for a predetermined period of time based on the electrical conductivity of water discharged through the first discharge port (103) falling below a predetermined value during the deionization operation (500).

[0305] In this way, the control unit (70) can only repeatedly perform the deionization operation (500) and the regeneration operation (510) unless the scale removal condition is satisfied.

[0306] The control unit (70) can perform scale removal operation (520) based on the scale removal condition being satisfied during the water treatment process (example 505 or example 515).

[0307] For example, the control unit (70) can perform a scale removal operation (520) based on the scale removal condition being satisfied (example of 505) while performing a deionization operation (500).

[0308] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can perform a scale removal operation (520) at a time point (t1) when a scale removal condition is satisfied while performing a deionization operation (500).

[0309] According to various embodiments, if a scale removal condition is satisfied while performing the deionization operation (500), the control unit (70) may perform the scale removal operation (520) at the time when the deionization operation (500) is terminated.

[0310] The control unit (70) can perform a scale removal operation (520) based on the scale removal condition being satisfied (example of 515) while performing a regeneration operation (510).

[0311] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can perform a scale removal operation (520) at a time point (t3) when a scale removal condition is satisfied while performing a regeneration operation (510).

[0312] According to various embodiments, if a scale removal condition is satisfied while performing the regeneration operation (510), the control unit (70) may perform the scale removal operation (520) at the time when the regeneration operation (510) is terminated.

[0313] The control unit (70) can terminate the scale removal operation (520) based on the satisfaction (525) of the termination condition (hereinafter referred to as the 'termination condition') of the scale removal operation.

[0314] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can immediately terminate the scale removal operation (520) based on the satisfaction of the termination condition (525) while performing the scale removal operation (520) and then perform the regeneration operation (510) for a predetermined period of time to discharge the acidic water into the second discharge path (27).

[0315] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may stop applying positive voltage to the second collector (12a) and operate only the pump (16) for a predetermined period of time based on the satisfaction of a termination condition (525) while performing the scale removal operation (520), thereby discharging acidic water to the second discharge path (27), and then terminate the scale removal operation.

[0316] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can perform the deionization operation (500) based on the termination of the scale removal operation.

[0317] During the scale removal operation, the scale attached to the cation exchange membrane (12c) and the second porous electrode (12b) can be removed, and at the same time, the cations adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b) can be desorbed. Therefore, when the scale removal operation is finished, the control unit (70) can perform the deionization operation (500) regardless of whether the operation previously being performed was the deionization operation (500) or the regeneration operation (510).

[0318] For example, the control unit (70) may perform the deionization operation (500) when the scale removal condition is satisfied and the scale removal operation (520) is performed, and when the scale removal operation (520) is terminated, the deionization operation (500) may be restarted.

[0319] As another example, the control unit (70) may perform a scale removal operation (520) when a scale removal condition is satisfied while performing a regeneration operation (510), and may restart the deionization operation (500) when the scale removal operation (520) is terminated.

[0320] According to the present disclosure, the deionization efficiency of the water treatment device (1) can be immediately improved by omitting the unnecessary regeneration operation (510) after the scale removal operation (520) is performed.

[0321] According to various embodiments, the control unit (70) may resume the operation that was previously being performed when the scale removal operation (520) is terminated.

[0322] When a second positive voltage is applied to the second collector (12a), acidic water is generated, and if the scale removal operation is terminated before the generated acidic water is discharged as wastewater, the acidic water may remain in the second channel and / or the third channel. If the deionization operation (500) is performed immediately while the acidic water remains in the second channel and / or the third channel, there is a possibility that the acidic water may be discharged into the first discharge path (26).

[0323] To solve this, according to various embodiments, the control unit (70) may perform a regeneration operation (510) regardless of whether the operation previously being performed was a deionization operation (500) or a regeneration operation (510) when the scale removal operation is terminated.

[0324] For example, the control unit (70) may perform a scale removal operation (520) when the scale removal condition is satisfied while performing a deionization operation (500), and may restart the regeneration operation (510) when the scale removal operation (520) is terminated.

[0325] As another example, the control unit (70) may perform the regeneration operation (510) when the scale removal condition is satisfied and the scale removal operation (520) is performed, and when the scale removal operation (520) is terminated, the regeneration operation (510) may be restarted.

[0326] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent acidic water generated during scale removal operation from being discharged into the first discharge path (26).

[0327] The scale removal conditions may be preset to conditions in which a large amount of scale is estimated to have been deposited in the first channel (11), the second channel (12), and / or the third channel (13).

[0328] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can determine whether the scale removal condition is satisfied based on information obtained from the sensor unit (50).

[0329] The control unit (70) can perform scale removal operation based on the scale removal condition being satisfied by the sensor unit (50).

[0330] Performing a scale removal operation based on the scale removal condition being satisfied by the sensor unit (50) may include performing a scale removal operation when it is determined that the scale removal condition is satisfied based on information obtained from the sensor unit (50).

[0331] The scale removal conditions may include, for example, at least one of: a TDS value measured by a TDS sensor of the sensor unit (50) being greater than a predetermined value; a turbidity value detected by a turbidity sensor of the sensor unit (50) being greater than a predetermined value; a pH value detected by a pH sensor of the sensor unit (50) falling within a predetermined pH range; an electrical conductivity detected by an electrical conductivity sensor of the sensor unit (50) falling within a predetermined electrical conductivity range; a hardness value detected by a hardness sensor of the sensor unit (50) being greater than a predetermined value; and / or a flow rate detected by a flow rate sensor of the sensor unit (50) being slower than a predetermined speed.

[0332] Examples of scale removal conditions that can be detected based on information acquired by the sensor unit (50) are not limited to the examples described above.

[0333] According to various embodiments, when the control unit (70) receives sensor data from an external sensor (e.g., turbidity sensor, TDS sensor, pH sensor, electrical conductivity sensor, hardness sensor, flow sensor, etc.) through the communication unit (60), the control unit (70) can determine whether the scale removal condition is satisfied based on the sensor data obtained through the communication unit (60).

[0334] A scale removal condition may include receipt of a scale removal command.

[0335] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may determine that the scale removal condition is satisfied when receiving a scale removal command through the input interface (41) and / or the communication unit (60).

[0336] The scale removal condition may include that the cumulative number of deionization operations (500) exceeds a predetermined number.

[0337] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may determine that the scale removal condition is satisfied based on the number of times the deionization operation (500) has been performed exceeding a predetermined number of times.

[0338] At this time, the control unit (70) can initialize the accumulated number of deionization operations (500) based on the scale removal operation performed.

[0339] The termination condition may be preset to a condition in which most of the scale deposited in the first channel (11), the second channel (12) and / or the third channel (13) is presumed to have been removed.

[0340] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can determine whether the termination condition is satisfied based on information obtained from the sensor unit (50).

[0341] For example, the termination condition may include at least one of the following: a TDS value measured by a TDS sensor of the sensor unit (50) is less than a predetermined value, a turbidity value detected by a turbidity sensor of the sensor unit (50) is less than a predetermined value, a pH value detected by a pH sensor of the sensor unit (50) does not fall within a predetermined pH range, an electrical conductivity detected by an electrical conductivity sensor of the sensor unit (50) does not fall within a predetermined electrical conductivity range, a hardness value detected by a hardness sensor of the sensor unit (50) is less than a predetermined value, and / or a flow rate detected by a flow rate sensor of the sensor unit (50) is faster than a predetermined speed. At this time, for a safety margin, the predetermined value, the predetermined range, and / or the predetermined speed for determining the termination condition may be different from the predetermined value, the predetermined range, and / or the predetermined speed for determining the scale removal condition.

[0342] Examples of termination conditions that can be detected based on information acquired by the sensor unit (50) are not limited to the examples described above.

[0343] According to various embodiments, when the control unit (70) receives sensor data from an external sensor (e.g., turbidity sensor, TDS sensor, pH sensor, electrical conductivity sensor, hardness sensor, flow sensor, etc.) through the communication unit (60), the control unit (70) can determine whether the termination condition is satisfied based on the sensor data obtained through the communication unit (60).

[0344] The scale removal condition may include receipt of a scale removal operation termination command.

[0345] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may determine that the termination condition is satisfied when it receives a scale removal operation termination command through the input interface (41) and / or the communication unit (60).

[0346] The scale removal condition may include that the execution time of the scale removal operation exceeds a predetermined time.

[0347] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may determine that the termination condition is satisfied based on the execution time of the scale removal operation exceeding a predetermined time.

[0348] As described above, in one embodiment, the control unit (70) can terminate the scale removal operation by discharging acidic water to the second discharge path (27) by operating only the pump (16) for a predetermined period of time while stopping the positive voltage application to the second collector (12a) based on the satisfaction of the termination condition, and the control unit (70) can perform the deionization operation (500) at the time point (t2, t4) at which the scale removal operation is terminated.

[0349] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can immediately terminate the scale removal operation based on the satisfaction of the termination condition, and in order to discharge the acid water generated in the scale removal operation to the second discharge path (27), the control unit (70) can perform the regeneration operation (510) based on the termination of the scale removal operation.

[0350] According to the present disclosure, since scale removal operation is performed only when a large amount of scale has been deposited in the water treatment device (1), water treatment efficiency can be improved.

[0351] According to the present disclosure, the water treatment device (1) can discharge all acidic water generated during scale removal operation into wastewater and then proceed with the water treatment process again.

[0352] Fig. 11 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0353] The order, operation time, cycle, and / or number of times in which the operations (610, 620, 630) illustrated in FIG. 11 are performed are not limited to those illustrated in FIG. 11.

[0354] Referring to FIG. 11, a water treatment device (1) according to one embodiment can control at least one valve (30) and / or pump (16) based on an algorithm corresponding to each operation mode during deionization operation, regeneration operation, and / or scale removal operation.

[0355] Figure 12 illustrates an example of water flow when a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs deionization operation.

[0356] Referring to Fig. 12, it can be confirmed that water introduced into the capacitor type desalination module (100) from the outside passes through the third channel (13) and is discharged into the first discharge path (26).

[0357] The control unit (70) can control at least one valve (30) and / or pump (16) to allow external water to flow through the third channel (13) to the first discharge path (26) in deionization operation (610).

[0358] For example, the control unit (70) can operate the pump (16) to cause external water to flow into the first flow path (21) in deionization operation.

[0359] In deionization operation, the control unit (70) can control the first valve (30a) so that water pumped to the first flow path (21) flows to the third flow path (23).

[0360] In deionization operation, the control unit (70) can open the second valve (30b) so that water flowing into the third flow path (23) flows into the third channel (13) through the first inlet (102).

[0361] In deionization operation, the control unit (70) can control the fourth valve (30d) so that water in the third channel (13) flows through the first discharge port (103) to the first discharge path (26).

[0362] In deionization operation, the control unit (70) can close the third valve (30c) to prevent water flowing through the circulation path (25) from flowing into the third channel (13).

[0363] According to various embodiments, the structure of the flow path (20) and the arrangement of at least one valve (30) may be changed. For example, the housing (101) may include an outlet connected to the first discharge flow path (26) and an outlet connected to the second discharge flow path (27), and an opening / closing valve may be installed in each of the outlet connected to the first discharge flow path (26) and the outlet connected to the second discharge flow path (27).

[0364] As another example, the first euro (21) may be branched into the second euro (22) and the third euro (23), and an on-off valve may be installed in each of the second euro (22) and the third euro (23).

[0365] The control unit (70) can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to a first target RPM during deionization operation. At this time, the first target RPM can be preset to ensure sufficient time for ions in the water flowing into the third channel (13) to be removed when the water flowing into the third channel (13) flows into the fourth flow path (24).

[0366] According to the present disclosure, when the water treatment device performs a deionization operation, external water can be discharged through the third channel (13) through a deionization process and then discharged to the first discharge path (26).

[0367] Figure 13 illustrates an example of water flow when a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs regeneration operation.

[0368] Referring to Fig. 13, it can be confirmed that water introduced into the capacitor type desalination module (100) from the outside passes through the third channel (13) and is discharged to the second discharge path (27).

[0369] The control unit (70) can control at least one valve (30) and / or pump (16) to cause water in the third channel (13) to flow into the second discharge path (27) in regenerative operation (620).

[0370] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can operate the pump (16) in regenerative operation to allow external water to flow into the first flow path (21).

[0371] In regenerative operation, the control unit (70) can control the first valve (30a) so that water pumped to the first flow path (21) flows to the third flow path (23).

[0372] In regenerative operation, the control unit (70) can open the second valve (30b) so that water flowing into the third euro (23) flows into the third channel (13) through the first inlet (102).

[0373] In regenerative operation, the control unit (70) can control the fourth valve (30d) so that water in the third channel (13) flows through the first discharge port (103) to the second discharge path (27).

[0374] In regenerative operation, the control unit (70) can close the third valve (30c) to prevent water flowing through the circulation path (25) from flowing into the third channel (13).

[0375] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may operate the pump (16) based on the start of the regeneration operation.

[0376] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can continuously operate the pump (16) during regenerative operation.

[0377] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may operate the pump (16) after applying a first positive voltage to the second collector (12a) for a predetermined period of time in regenerative operation.

[0378] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may repeat the process of operating the pump (16) for a predetermined period of time after applying a first positive voltage to the second collector (12a) for a predetermined period of time in the regenerative operation a predetermined number of times.

[0379] The control unit (70) can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to a second target RPM during regenerative operation. At this time, the second target RPM can be preset so as to secure sufficient time for ions desorbed from the electrodes (11ab, 12ab) to move to the water flowing into the third channel (13) when the water flowing into the third channel (13) flows into the fourth flow path (24).

[0380] According to various embodiments, the first target RPM, which is the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in the deionization operation, and the second target RPM, which is the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in the regeneration operation, may be the same. For example, the first target RPM, which is the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in the deionization operation, and the second target RPM, which is the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in the regeneration operation, may be the first RPM.

[0381] The control unit (70) can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in deionization operation to the first RPM, and can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in regeneration operation to the first RPM.

[0382] According to various embodiments, the first target RPM, which is the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in deionization operation, and the second target RPM, which is the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in regeneration operation, may be different from each other.

[0383] For example, the control unit (70) can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in deionization operation to the first RPM, and can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in regeneration operation within a range lower than the first RPM.

[0384] As another example, the control unit (70) can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in regenerative operation to the first RPM, and can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in deionization operation within a range below the first RPM.

[0385] According to the present disclosure, waste of water used in regeneration operation can be prevented by operating the pump (16) after securing time for the ions adsorbed on the first electrode (11ab) and the second electrode (12ab) to be desorbed and move to the third channel (13).

[0386] According to the present disclosure, when the water treatment device (1) performs regeneration operation, ions desorbed from the first electrode (11ab) and the second electrode (12ab) can be discharged to the second discharge path (27).

[0387] Figure 14 illustrates an example of water flow when a water treatment device according to one embodiment performs scale removal operation.

[0388] Referring to Fig. 14, it can be confirmed that water introduced into the capacitor type desalination module (100) from the outside passes through the second channel (12) and then flows into the third channel (13) through the first inlet (102), and the water in the third channel (13) is discharged into the second discharge path (27).

[0389] According to various embodiments, the structure of the flow path (20) and the arrangement of at least one valve (30) may be changed. For example, the water treatment device (1) may not include a circulation flow path (25). If the water treatment device does not include a circulation flow path (25), the second discharge port (105) may be connected to a second discharge flow path (27), and water introduced into the capacitive desalination module (100) from the outside may pass through the second channel (12) and then be discharged directly to the second discharge flow path (27).

[0390] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control at least one valve (30) and / or pump (16) to allow external water to flow into the third channel (13) through the second channel (12) and to discharge water within the third channel (13) into the second discharge path (27) in a scale removal operation (630).

[0391] For example, the control unit (70) can operate the pump (16) to cause external water to flow into the first flow path (21) in scale removal operation.

[0392] In scale removal operation, the control unit (70) can control the first valve (30a) so that water pumped to the first flow path (21) flows to the second flow path (22).

[0393] Water flowing into the second flow path (22) can flow into the circulation flow path (25) through the second channel (12).

[0394] In scale removal operation, the control unit (70) can open the third valve (30c) so that water flowing through the circulation path (25) flows through the first inlet (102) to the third channel (13).

[0395] In scale removal operation, the control unit (70) can control the fourth valve (30d) so that water in the third channel (13) flows through the first discharge port (103) to the second discharge path (27).

[0396] According to the present disclosure, during scale removal operation, acidic water generated in the second channel (12) can remove scale attached to one surface of the second electrode (12ab) and / or the cation exchange membrane (12c), and as the acidic water generated in the second channel (12) moves to the third channel (13), scale attached to the other surface of the first electrode (11ab), the anion exchange membrane (11c) and / or the cation exchange membrane (12c) can also be removed.

[0397] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may operate the pump (16) based on the initiation of a scale removal operation.

[0398] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can continuously operate the pump (16) during scale removal operation.

[0399] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may operate the pump (16) after applying a second positive voltage to the second collector (12a) for a predetermined period of time in a scale removal operation.

[0400] At this time, the predetermined time can be preset to a time period in which the pH of the water in the second channel (12) can drop to 4 or lower.

[0401] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can increase the operating RPM of the pump (16) for a predetermined period of time during scale removal operation. The control unit (70) can increase the operating RPM of the pump (16) to the maximum operating RPM for a predetermined period of time during scale removal operation.

[0402] The control unit (70) can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to the third target RPM in scale removal operation.

[0403] At this time, the third target RPM can be preset to ensure sufficient mechanical cleaning power to remove precipitated scales when water flowing into the third channel (13) flows into the fourth flow path (24), or when water flowing into the second channel (12) through the second inlet (104) flows into the circulation flow path (25).

[0404] The first target RPM, which is the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in deionization operation, and / or the second target RPM, which is the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in regeneration operation, may be smaller than the third target RPM, which is the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in scale removal operation.

[0405] The control unit (70) can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to a first RPM in deionization operation and / or regeneration operation, and can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to a second RPM greater than the first RPM in scale removal operation.

[0406] The control unit (70) can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to be lower than the first RPM in the deionization operation and / or the regeneration operation, and can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to be higher than the first RPM in the scale removal operation.

[0407] According to the present disclosure, the control unit (70) can increase the operating RPM of the pump (16) for a predetermined period of time in scale removal operation, thereby improving the physical cleaning power according to the increased flow rate.

[0408] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may repeat the process of operating the pump (16) for a predetermined time after applying a second positive voltage to the second collector (12a) for a predetermined time in the scale removal operation a predetermined number of times.

[0409] Fig. 15 illustrates another example of a conceptual diagram of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0410] To avoid duplicate description, the configurations described in the water treatment device (1) illustrated in FIG. 1 that are identical to the configurations of the water treatment device (2) illustrated in FIG. 15 are indicated with the same drawing reference numerals.

[0411] Referring to FIG. 15, a water treatment device (2) according to one embodiment may include a capacitive desalination module (200), at least one flow path (220) formed by a pipe, and at least one valve (230) for controlling the flow of water within the at least one flow path (220).

[0412] The capacitive desalination module (200) may include electrodes (11ab, 12ab), a third current collector (13a), and ion exchange membranes (11c, 12c, 13c).

[0413] The first electrode (11ab) and the second electrode (12ab) can be arranged to face each other, and the first electrode (11ab) and the second electrode (12ab) arranged to face each other can form a capacitor.

[0414] The first electrode (11ab) may include a first current collector (11a) and a first porous electrode (11b).

[0415] The first electrode (11ab) can be a positive electrode (anode) during deionization operation of the water treatment device (2) and can be a negative electrode (cathode) during regeneration operation.

[0416] In one embodiment, the first current collector (11a) may include a plate electrically connected to the first porous electrode (11b). The plate may include a metal plate and / or a non-metal plate.

[0417] The material of the first current collector (11a) may be a conductor. For example, the material of the first current collector (11a) may be graphite, but the material of the first current collector (11a) is not limited thereto.

[0418] The first porous electrode (11b) may include a solid electrode including void space. The first porous electrode (11b) may be formed of a material that is easy to adsorb ions. For example, the first porous electrode (11b) may be a carbon porous electrode, but the type of the first porous electrode (11b) is not limited thereto.

[0419] The second electrode (12ab) may include a second current collector (12a) and a second porous electrode (12b).

[0420] The second electrode (12ab) can be a negative electrode (cathode) during deionization operation or scale removal operation of the water treatment device (2), and can be a positive electrode (anode) during regeneration operation.

[0421] In one embodiment, the second current collector (12a) may include a plate electrically connected to the second porous electrode (12b). The plate may include a metal plate and / or a non-metal plate.

[0422] The material of the second collector (12a) may be a conductor.

[0423] The second porous electrode (12b) may include a solid electrode including void space. The second porous electrode (12b) may be made of a material that is easy to adsorb ions. For example, the second porous electrode (12b) may be a carbon porous electrode, but the type of the second porous electrode (12b) is not limited thereto.

[0424] The second current collector (12a) and the third current collector (13a) can be arranged to face each other, and the second current collector (12a) and the third current collector (13a) arranged to face each other can form a capacitor.

[0425] In the scale removal operation of the water treatment device (2), acidic water may be generated by electrolysis of water in the third collector (13a). In order for water to be electrolyzed in the third collector (13a), a high voltage must be applied to the third collector (13a), and accordingly, the consumption of electrical energy may increase in the scale removal operation.

[0426] In one embodiment, the third current collector (13a) may be made of a material that is desirable as a catalyst that is easy to electrolyze water. The third current collector (13a) may be exposed to a 1000 ppm NaCl aqueous solution at 25 mA / cm 2 It can be made of a material that can be made to have a pH of 4 or lower for a time of 7 minutes or less at a current density of .

[0427] For example, the material of the third current collector (13a) may be selected from the group consisting of a transition metal, a transition metal oxide, a transition metal alloy, aluminum, an oxide of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, graphene, a catalytic oxide electrode (Dimensionally Stable Anode, DSA), and a Boron doped diamond (BDD) electrode.

[0428] Transition metals may include, for example, Pt, Ru, Ir, Rh, Ni, Fe, Co, Cu, Fe, etc. Transition metal alloys may include, for example, Ni-containing materials such as NiCo, Ni / B, etc.

[0429] In one embodiment, the transition metal alloy may comprise an alloy of a transition metal oxide.

[0430] The catalytic oxide electrode may include a material in which a metal oxide is coated on a Ti material. The catalytic oxide electrode may include, for example, RuO2 / Ti, IrO2 / Ti, or PtO2 / Ti.

[0431] According to the present disclosure, since the third collector (13a) is made of a catalytic material that is easy to electrolyze water, the capacitive desalination module (200) can easily produce acidic water on its own.

[0432] The materials of the first collector (11a) and the second collector (12a) may also be the same as those of the third collector (13a).

[0433] However, for economic reasons, in one embodiment, the materials of the first current collector (11a), the second current collector (12a), and the third current collector (13a) may be different from each other. For example, the materials of the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a) may be graphite, and the material of the third current collector (13a) may be selected from the group consisting of a transition metal, a transition metal oxide, a transition metal alloy, aluminum, an oxide of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, graphene, a catalytic oxide electrode (Dimensionally Stable Anode, DSA), and a Boron doped diamond (BDD) electrode.

[0434] A capacitive desalination module (200) may include a housing (201) having at least one inlet (202, 204, 206) and at least one outlet (203, 205). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the surface of the housing (201) may be configured as a current collector (11a, 12a). However, at least a portion of the surface of the housing (201) may also be configured as a pad for supporting the current collector (11a, 12a).

[0435] The capacitive desalination module (200) may include a first channel (11) formed by a first current collector (11a) and an anion exchange membrane (11c), a second channel (12) formed by a second current collector (12a) and a first cation exchange membrane (12c), a third channel (13) formed by an anion exchange membrane (11c) and the first cation exchange membrane (12c), and a fourth channel (14) formed by a second cation exchange membrane (13c) and the third current collector (13a).

[0436] The first channel (11) may include a space between the first current collector (11a) and the anion exchange membrane (11c). The second channel (12) may include a space between the second current collector (12a) and the first cation exchange membrane (12c). The third channel (13) may include a space between the anion exchange membrane (11c) and the first cation exchange membrane (12c). The fourth channel (14) may include a space between the second cation exchange membrane (13c) and the third current collector (13a).

[0437] The first channel (11), second channel (12), third channel (13) and fourth channel (14) can be separated from each other by ion exchange membranes (11c, 12c), and thus terms such as compartment, space, room or chamber may be substituted.

[0438] The anion exchange membrane (11c), the first cation exchange membrane (12c), and the second cation exchange membrane (13c) may include membranes through which a fluid can pass.

[0439] The first channel (11), the second channel (12), and the third channel (13) may be fluidically connected to each other. For example, fluid in the third channel (13) may be able to move to the first channel (11) and / or the second channel (12), and conversely, fluid in the first channel (11) and / or the second channel (12) may be able to move to the third channel (13).

[0440] On the other hand, the fourth channel (14) cannot be fluidly connected to the first channel (11), the second channel (12), and the third channel (13) by the second collector (12a). For example, water contained in the fourth channel (14) can only move to the first channel (11), the second channel (12), and the third channel (13) through the flow path (225).

[0441] The first cation exchange membrane (12c) may include a membrane that allows only cations to pass through among cations and anions. The first cation exchange membrane (12c) has a negative charge, so it repels anions and does not allow only cations to pass through.

[0442] The second cation exchange membrane (13c) may include a membrane that allows only cations to pass through among cations and anions. The second cation exchange membrane (13c) has a negative charge, so it repels anions and does not allow only cations to pass through.

[0443] The anion exchange membrane (11c) may include a membrane that allows only anions to pass through among cations and anions. The anion exchange membrane (11c) has a positive charge, so it repels cations and does not allow them to pass through, but only allows anions to pass through.

[0444] The ion exchange membranes (11c, 12c, 13c) may include a synthetic resin membrane.

[0445] When a positive voltage is applied to the first current collector (11a), the first electrode (11ab) becomes a positive electrode (anode), and when a negative voltage is applied to the second current collector (12a), the second electrode (12ab) becomes a negative electrode (cathode). Accordingly, when a positive voltage is applied to the first current collector (11a) and a negative voltage is applied to the second current collector (12a), positive ions in the third channel (13) can move to the second channel (12), and negative ions in the third channel (13) can move to the first channel (11).

[0446] Applying a positive voltage to the first current collector (11a) and a negative voltage to the second current collector (12a) may include applying a positive voltage between the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a).

[0447] Applying a positive voltage between the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a) may include making the potential of the first current collector (11a) higher than the potential of the second current collector (12a).

[0448] When a negative voltage is applied to the first current collector (11a), the first electrode (11ab) becomes a negative electrode (cathode), and when a positive voltage is applied to the second current collector (12a), the second electrode (12ab) becomes a positive electrode (anode). Accordingly, when a negative voltage is applied to the first current collector (11a) and a positive voltage is applied to the second current collector (12a), positive ions in the second channel (12) can move to the third channel (13), and negative ions in the first channel (11) can move to the third channel (13).

[0449] Applying a negative voltage to the first collector (11a) and a positive voltage to the second collector (12a) may include applying a negative voltage between the first collector (11a) and the second collector (12a).

[0450] Applying a negative voltage between the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a) may include making the potential of the first current collector (11a) lower than the potential of the second current collector (12a).

[0451] A first porous electrode (11b) may be provided in the first channel (11), and a second porous electrode (12b) may be provided in the second channel (12).

[0452] When a positive voltage is applied between the first collector (11a) and the second collector (12a), the negative ions moved to the first channel (11) can be adsorbed to the first porous electrode (11b), and the positive ions moved to the second channel (12) can be adsorbed to the second porous electrode (12b).

[0453] By applying a negative voltage between the first current collector (11a) and the second current collector (12a), the negative ions adsorbed on the first porous electrode (11b) can be desorbed from the first porous electrode (11b), and the positive ions adsorbed on the second porous electrode (12b) can be desorbed from the second porous electrode (12b).

[0454] When a positive voltage is applied to the third current collector (13a), the third current collector (13a) becomes a positive electrode (anode), and when a negative voltage is applied to the second current collector (12a), the second electrode (12ab) becomes a negative electrode (cathode).

[0455] Applying a positive voltage to the third collector (13a) may include applying a negative voltage to the second collector (12a).

[0456] Applying a positive voltage to the third current collector (13a) and applying a negative voltage to the second current collector (12a) may include applying a positive voltage between the third current collector (13a) and the second current collector (12a).

[0457] Applying a positive voltage between the third current collector (13a) and the second current collector (12a) may include making the potential of the third current collector (13a) higher than the potential of the second current collector (12a).

[0458] In one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a first inlet (202) through which water can flow into the third channel (13), and a first outlet (203) through which water within the third channel (13) can flow out.

[0459] In one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a second inlet (204) through which water can flow into the second channel (12).

[0460] In one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a third inlet (206) through which water can flow into the fourth channel (14), and a second outlet (205) through which water within the fourth channel (14) can flow out.

[0461] Water can flow into the third channel (13) from the outside of the capacitive desalination module (200) through the first inlet (202). Water can flow into the third channel (13) from the circulation path (225) to be described later through the first inlet (202). Water in the third channel (13) can be discharged to the outside of the capacitive desalination module (200) through the first outlet (203).

[0462] Water can flow into the second channel (12) from the circulation path (225) through the second inlet (204).

[0463] Water can be introduced into the fourth channel (14) from the outside of the capacitive desalination module (200) through the third inlet (206). It can be discharged into the circulation path (225) within the fourth channel (14) through the second outlet (205).

[0464] The water treatment device (2) can store raw water or treat water supplied from a water source (15) from which raw water is supplied from outside. The raw water may include water to be treated by the water treatment device (2).

[0465] The water treatment device (2) may include a pump (16) for pumping external water (e.g., water supplied from a water source).

[0466] The water treatment device (2) may include at least one flow path (220) and at least one valve (230). At least one flow path (220) may be branched by at least one valve (230).

[0467] Water pumped by the pump (16) can flow into the flow paths (220) of the water treatment device (2).

[0468] In one embodiment, external water may be pumped by a pump (16) and flow into a first flow path (221). The first flow path (221) may be configured to allow external water to flow into it.

[0469] The first valve (230a) can cause water flowing into the first flow path (221) to flow into either the second flow path (222) or the third flow path (223). The second flow path (222) can include a flow path configured to allow water to flow from the first flow path (221) into the fourth channel (14). The third flow path (223) can include a flow path configured to allow water to flow from the first flow path (221) into the third channel (13).

[0470] The third euro (223) can be connected to the first inlet (202). The second euro (222) can be connected to the third inlet (206).

[0471] The second valve (230b) can open and close the third flow path (223). The second valve (230b) can block or allow the flow of water flowing into the third flow path (223).

[0472] In one embodiment, the second valve (230b) may be omitted if the first valve (230a) can block water flowing from the first flow path (221).

[0473] Water flowing into the third channel (13) through the third flow path (223) can be discharged to the fourth flow path (224). The fourth flow path (224) can be connected to the first discharge port (203).

[0474] The fourth valve (230d) can allow water flowing into the fourth flow path (224) to flow into either the first discharge flow path (226) or the second discharge flow path (227). For example, the fourth valve (230d) can allow water discharged from the third channel (13) to flow into either the first discharge flow path (226) or the second discharge flow path (227). In one embodiment, the fourth valve (230d) can also close the fourth flow path (224) to prevent water flowing into the fourth flow path (224) from flowing into the first discharge flow path (226) and the second discharge flow path (227).

[0475] The first discharge path (226) may include a path through which purified water (or deionized water) is discharged. The second discharge path (227) may include a path through which contaminated water (or wastewater) is discharged.

[0476] Water flowing into the fourth channel (14) through the second flow path (222) can be discharged through the fifth flow path (225). The fifth flow path (225) can be connected to the second outlet (205). The fifth flow path (225) can be connected to the first inlet (202) and / or the second inlet (204). For example, the fifth flow path (225) can include a flow path configured to allow water discharged from the fourth channel (14) to flow into the third channel (13) and / or the second channel (12). Accordingly, the fifth flow path (225) can be referred to as a circulation flow path (225).

[0477] The third valve (230c) can open and close the fifth euro (225).

[0478] According to one embodiment, the water treatment device (2) includes a fifth channel (225) configured to allow water discharged from the fourth channel (14) to flow into the third channel (13) and / or the second channel (12), thereby having the effect of washing the third channel (13) and / or the second channel (12) using acidic water generated in the fourth channel (14), as will be described later.

[0479] According to various embodiments, the number of inlets (202, 204, 206), the number of outlets (203, 205), the type of the flow path (220) and / or the type of at least one valve (230) are not limited to the example illustrated in FIG. 15. For example, the water treatment device (2) may include two outlets connected to the third channel (13) and two valves for opening and closing the flow paths connected to the two outlets.

[0480] As another example, the water treatment device (2) may include two inlets connected to a third channel (13), and each of the two inlets may be connected to a third flow path (223) and a fifth flow path (225).

[0481] In one embodiment, the water treatment device (2) may include at least one capacitive desalination module (200).

[0482] A description of the control block diagram of the water treatment device (2) is omitted because it overlaps with the description made with reference to FIG. 2. In the water treatment device (2), the capacitive desalination module (100) illustrated in FIG. 2 is replaced with a capacitive desalination module (200) including a first electrode (11ab), a second electrode (12ab), and a third current collector (13a), and at least one valve (30) can be replaced with at least one valve (230).

[0483] FIG. 16 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method of a water treatment device according to an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15.

[0484] Referring to FIG. 16, a water treatment device (2) according to one embodiment can perform deionization operation, regeneration operation, and / or scale removal operation.

[0485] The water treatment device (2) can apply a negative voltage to the second collector (12a) during deionization operation (710). The related description is omitted as it overlaps with the description of the process (410) of FIG. 3.

[0486] The control unit (70) can control at least one valve (230) and / or pump (16) to allow external water to flow through the third channel (13) to the first discharge path (226) during deionization operation (710). The related description is omitted as it overlaps with the description of the process (610) of FIG. 11.

[0487] FIG. 17 illustrates an example of the flow of water when the water treatment device according to one embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15 performs deionization operation.

[0488] Referring to Fig. 17, it can be confirmed that water introduced into the capacitor-type desalination module (200) from the outside passes through the third channel (13) and is discharged into the first discharge path (226). The related description is omitted as it overlaps with the description of the water flow in Fig. 12.

[0489] Referring again to FIG. 15, the water treatment device (2) can apply a first positive voltage to the second collector (12a) during regeneration operation (720). The related description is omitted as it overlaps with the description of the process (420) of FIG. 3.

[0490] The control unit (70) can control at least one valve (230) and / or pump (16) to allow external water to flow through the third channel (13) to the second discharge path (227) during regeneration operation (720). The related description is omitted as it overlaps with the description of the process (620) of FIG. 11.

[0491] Fig. 18 illustrates an example of the flow of water when the water treatment device according to one embodiment illustrated in Fig. 15 performs regeneration operation.

[0492] Referring to Fig. 18, it can be confirmed that water introduced into the capacitor-type desalination module (200) from the outside passes through the third channel (13) and is discharged into the second discharge path (227). The related description is omitted as it overlaps with the description of the water flow in Fig. 13.

[0493] Referring again to FIG. 15, the water treatment device (2) can apply a second positive voltage to the third collector (13a) in scale removal operation (730).

[0494] The magnitude of the second positive voltage applied to the third collector (13a) in the scale removal operation may be greater than the magnitude of the first positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) in the regeneration operation.

[0495] In the scale removal operation, the magnitude of the second positive voltage applied to the third collector (13a) can be preset within the range in which water in the fourth channel (14) is electrolyzed.

[0496] The magnitude of the first positive voltage applied to the second collector (12a) in the regeneration operation may be 0.6 V or less, whereas the magnitude of the second positive voltage applied to the third collector (13a) in the scale removal operation may be greater than 0.6 V.

[0497] For example, the control unit (70) can apply a first positive voltage to the second collector (12a) in the regeneration operation, and can apply a second positive voltage, the magnitude of which is greater than the first positive voltage, to the third collector (13a) in the scale removal operation.

[0498] The control unit (70) can cause water in the fourth channel (14) to be electrolyzed by applying a second positive voltage, the magnitude of which is greater than the magnitude of the first positive voltage, to the third collector (13a) in the scale removal operation.

[0499] In scale removal operation, the acidic water generated in the fourth channel (14) can remove scale attached to the second porous electrode (12b) and the cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0500] According to the present disclosure, the capacitive desalination module (200) generates acidic water on its own, thereby removing scale within the capacitive desalination module (200) without user intervention or a separate additional device.

[0501] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of the flow of water when the water treatment device according to one embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15 performs scale removal operation.

[0502] Referring to FIG. 19, it can be confirmed that water introduced into the capacitor type desalination module (200) from the outside passes through the fourth channel (14) and then flows into the third channel (13) and / or the second channel (12) through the first inlet (202) and / or the second inlet (204), and the water in the third channel (13) and / or the second channel (12) is discharged into the second discharge path (227).

[0503] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control at least one valve (230) and / or pump (16) to allow external water to flow into the third channel (13) and / or the second channel (12) through the fourth channel (14) in a scale removal operation, and to discharge water within the third channel (13) and / or the second channel (12) into the second discharge path (227) (730).

[0504] For example, the control unit (70) can operate the pump (16) to cause external water to flow into the first flow path (221) in scale removal operation.

[0505] In scale removal operation, the control unit (70) can control the first valve (30a) so that water pumped to the first flow path (221) flows to the second flow path (222).

[0506] Water flowing into the second flow path (222) can flow into the circulation flow path (225) through the fourth channel (14).

[0507] In scale removal operation, the control unit (70) can open the third valve (30c) so that water flowing through the circulation path (225) flows through the first inlet (202) to the third channel (13).

[0508] In scale removal operation, the control unit (70) can open the third valve (30c) so that water flowing through the circulation path (225) flows through the second inlet (204) into the second channel (12).

[0509] In scale removal operation, the control unit (70) can control the fourth valve (230d) to allow water in the third channel (13) and / or the second channel (12) to flow through the first discharge port (203) to the second discharge path (27).

[0510] According to the present disclosure, when the scale removal operation is performed, the acidic water generated in the fourth channel (14) flows into the third channel (13) and / or the second channel (12), thereby removing the scale attached to one surface of the second electrode (12ab) and / or the cation exchange membrane (12c), and as the acidic water generated in the fourth channel (14) moves into the third channel (13) and / or the second channel (12), the scale attached to the other surface of the first electrode (11ab), the anion exchange membrane (11c), and / or the cation exchange membrane (12c) can also be removed.

[0511] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may operate the pump (16) based on the initiation of a scale removal operation.

[0512] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can continuously operate the pump (16) during scale removal operation.

[0513] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may operate the pump (16) after applying a second positive voltage to the third collector (13a) for a predetermined period of time in a scale removal operation.

[0514] At this time, the predetermined time can be preset to a time period in which the pH of the water in the fourth channel (14) can drop below 4.

[0515] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can increase the operating RPM of the pump (16) for a predetermined period of time during scale removal operation. The control unit (70) can increase the operating RPM of the pump (16) to the maximum operating RPM for a predetermined period of time during scale removal operation.

[0516] The control unit (70) can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to the third target RPM in scale removal operation.

[0517] At this time, the third target RPM can be preset to ensure sufficient mechanical cleaning power to remove precipitated scales when water flowing into the third channel (13) through the first inlet (202) flows into the fourth flow path (224), or when water flowing into the second channel (12) through the second inlet (204) flows into the fourth flow path (224).

[0518] The first target RPM, which is the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in deionization operation, and / or the second target RPM, which is the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in regeneration operation, may be smaller than the third target RPM, which is the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) in scale removal operation.

[0519] The control unit (70) can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to a first RPM in deionization operation and / or regeneration operation, and can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to a second RPM greater than the first RPM in scale removal operation.

[0520] The control unit (70) can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to be lower than the first RPM in the deionization operation and / or the regeneration operation, and can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to be higher than the first RPM in the scale removal operation.

[0521] According to the present disclosure, the control unit (70) can increase the operating RPM of the pump (16) for a predetermined period of time in scale removal operation, thereby improving the physical cleaning power according to the increased flow rate.

[0522] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) may repeat the process of operating the pump (16) for a predetermined time after applying a second positive voltage to the second collector (12a) for a predetermined time in the scale removal operation a predetermined number of times.

[0523] According to various embodiments, the embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 10 may also be applied to the water treatment device (2).

[0524] FIG. 20 illustrates a washing machine to which a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is connected. FIG. 21 illustrates a cross-section of a washing machine to which a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is applied.

[0525] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, a washing machine (1010) to which a water treatment device (1, 2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is connected and / or applied is described.

[0526] The washing machine (1010) may include a washing machine housing (1011) that accommodates various components therein. The washing machine housing (1011) may form the exterior of the washing machine (1010). The washing machine housing (1011) may have a box shape with one portion open.

[0527] The washing machine housing (1011) may include a housing opening (1012) formed to allow access to the interior of the drum (1030). The housing opening (1012) may open approximately forward.

[0528] The washing machine (1010) may include a door (1013) for opening and closing a housing opening (1012) provided in the washing machine housing (1011). The door (1013) may be rotatably mounted to the washing machine housing (1011) by a hinge (1014). At least a portion of the door (1013) may be transparent or translucent to allow the interior of the washing machine housing (1011) to be visible.

[0529] The washing machine (1010) may include a tub (1020) provided inside the washing machine housing (1011) to store water. The tub (1020) may be disposed inside the washing machine housing (1011). The tub (1020) may include a tub opening (1022) provided to correspond to the housing opening (1012). The tub opening (1022) may be opened approximately forward. The tub (1020) may be supported inside the washing machine housing (1011). The tub (1020) may have an approximately cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0530] The tub (1020) can be elastically supported from the washing machine housing (1011) by a damper (1080). The damper (1080) can connect the washing machine housing (1011) and the tub (1020). The damper (1080) can be provided to absorb vibration energy between the tub (1020) and the washing machine housing (1011) to attenuate vibration when vibration generated when the drum (1030) rotates is transmitted to the tub (1020) and / or the washing machine housing (1011).

[0531] A washing machine (1010) may include a drum (1030) configured to accommodate laundry. The drum (1030) may be rotatably provided within a tub (1020). The drum (1030) may perform washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration while rotating within the tub (1020). The drum (1030) may include a hole (1034) connecting an internal space of the drum (1030) and an internal space of the tub (1020). The drum (1030) may have a generally cylindrical shape with one side open. At least one lifter (1035) may be installed on an inner surface of the drum (1030) so that laundry may be lifted and lowered when the drum (1030) rotates.

[0532] The drum (1030) may include a drum opening (1032) that is arranged to correspond to the housing opening (1012) and the tub opening (1022). Laundry may be introduced into the drum (1030) or taken out from the drum (1030) through the housing opening (1012), the tub opening (1022), and the drum opening (1032).

[0533] The washing machine (1010) may include a washing machine drive device (1040) configured to rotate a drum (1030). The washing machine drive device (1040) may include a drive motor (1041) and a rotation shaft (1042) for transmitting a driving force generated by the drive motor (1041) to the drum (1030). The rotation shaft (1042) may pass through the tub (1020) and be connected to the drum (1030).

[0534] The washing machine (1010) can be divided into a direct drive type in which a rotating shaft (1042) is directly connected to a driving motor (1041) to rotate a drum (1030) and an indirect drive type in which a pulley (1043) is connected between a driving motor (1041) and a rotating shaft (1042) to drive a drum (1030).

[0535] The washing machine (1010) according to one embodiment may be provided as an indirect drive type, but is not limited thereto and may also be provided as a direct drive type.

[0536] A rotary shaft (1042) may be connected at one end to a drum (1030) and at the other end to a pulley (1043) to transmit power from a drive motor (1041). A motor pulley (1041a) may be formed on a rotational axis of the drive motor (1041). A drive belt (1044) may be provided between the motor pulley (1041a) and the pulley (1043), so that the rotary shaft (1042) may be driven by the drive belt (1044).

[0537] A bearing housing (1045) may be installed on a rear portion of the tub (1020) to rotatably support a rotating shaft (1042). The bearing housing (1045) may be made of an aluminum alloy and may be inserted into a rear portion of the tub (1020) when the tub (1020) is injection molded.

[0538] The washing machine driving device (1040) may be configured to rotate the drum (1030) forward or backward to perform washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, or drying operations.

[0539] The washing machine (1010) may include a water supply device (1050). The water supply device (1050) may supply water to the tub (1020). The water supply device (1050) may be located above the tub (1020). The water supply device (1050) may include a water supply pipe (1051) and a water supply valve (1056) provided in the water supply pipe (1051). The water supply pipe (1051) may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe (1051) may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device (1060) and / or the tub (1020). Water may be supplied to the tub (1020) via the detergent supply device (1060). Water can be supplied to the tub (1020) without passing through the detergent supply device (1060).

[0540] The water supply valve (1056) can open or close the water supply pipe (1051) in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valve (1056) can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub (1020). The water supply valve (1056) can include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0541] The washing machine (1010) may include a detergent supply device (1060) configured to supply detergent to the tub (1020). The detergent supply device (1060) may be configured to supply detergent into the tub (1020) during the water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe (1051) may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device (1060). The water mixed with the detergent may be supplied into the tub (1020). The detergent may include not only laundry detergent but also a dryer rinse, a deodorant, a sterilizer, or an air freshener. The detergent supply device (1060) may be connected to the tub (1020) through a connection pipe (1061).

[0542] The washing machine (1010) may include a drainage device (1070). The drainage device (1070) may be configured to discharge water contained in the tub (1020) to the outside. The drainage device (1070) may include a drainage pump (1073) for discharging water in the tub (1020) to the outside of the washing machine housing (1011), a connection hose (1071) for connecting the tub (1020) and the drainage pump (1073) so that water inside the tub (1020) can flow into the drainage pump (1073), and a drainage hose (1074) for guiding water pumped by the drainage pump (1073) to the outside of the washing machine housing (1011). The drainage device (1070) may include a drainage valve (1072) provided in the connection hose (1071) for opening and closing the connection hose (1071).

[0543] The washing machine (1010) may provide a user interface device (1015) for interaction between the user and the washing machine (1010).

[0544] The washing machine (1010) may include at least one user interface device (1015). The user interface device (1015) may include at least one input interface (1016) and at least one output interface (1017).

[0545] At least one input interface (1016) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0546] At least one input interface (1016) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface (1016) may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0547] At least one output interface (1017) can transmit various data related to the operation of the washing machine (1010) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0548] For example, at least one output interface (1017) can transmit information related to a washing course and the operating time of the washing machine (1010), washing settings / rinsing settings / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine (1010) can be output through a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface (1017) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0549] A water treatment device (1, 2) according to various embodiments may be provided to remove ions from water supplied to a washing machine (1010).

[0550] For example, the water treatment device (1, 2) may be placed outside the washing machine (1010), as illustrated in FIG. 20. The water treatment device (1, 2) may be placed outside the washing machine (1010) and configured to remove ions from water supplied to the washing machine (1010). The water treatment device (1, 2) may be installed in a water path connecting an external water source and the washing machine (1010).

[0551] For example, the water treatment device (1, 2) may be placed inside the washing machine (1010), as illustrated in FIG. 21. The water treatment device (1, 2) may be connected to a water supply pipe (1051). For example, the first flow path (21) of the capacitive deionization module (100) may be connected to the water supply pipe (1051). The water treatment device (1, 2) may be configured to remove ions from water passing through the water supply pipe (1051). The location of the water treatment device (1, 2) is not limited to the water supply pipe (1051), and may be provided at various locations through which water supplied to the washing machine (1010) may pass.

[0552] The water treatment device (1, 2) according to various embodiments may be placed outside and / or inside the washing machine (1010).

[0553] The water treatment device (1, 2) can perform a deionization operation during the water supply cycle of the washing machine (1010). In one embodiment, the washing machine (1010) can transmit a water supply signal to the water treatment device (1, 2) based on the satisfaction of a start condition of the water supply cycle. The water treatment device (1, 2) can perform a deionization operation in response to receiving the water supply signal from the washing machine (1010).

[0554] The water treatment device (1, 2) can perform a regeneration operation based on the completion of the water supply operation of the washing machine (1010). In one embodiment, the washing machine (1010) can transmit a water supply completion signal to the water treatment device (1, 2) based on the satisfaction of the water supply completion condition. The water treatment device (1, 2) can perform a regeneration operation in response to receiving the water supply completion signal from the washing machine (1010).

[0555] The water treatment device (1, 2) can perform scale removal operation when the washing machine (1010) is not performing a water supply operation if the scale removal operation conditions are satisfied.

[0556] FIG. 22 illustrates a refrigerator with a water treatment device connected according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 23 illustrates a refrigerator with the door open with the water treatment device connected according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 24 illustrates a cross-section of a refrigerator with a water treatment device applied according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0557] Referring to FIGS. 22 to 24, a refrigerator (2000) to which a water treatment device (1, 2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is connected and / or applied is described.

[0558] A refrigerator (2000) according to one embodiment may include a main body (2010).

[0559] The main body (2010) may include an inner case, an outer case arranged on the outside of the inner case, and an insulating material provided between the inner case and the outer case.

[0560] The inner case may include at least one of a case, a plate, a panel, or a liner forming a storage compartment (2020, 2030). The inner case may be formed as a single body, or may be formed by assembling a plurality of plates. The outer case may form the outer appearance of the main body, and may be joined to the outer side of the inner case so that insulation is placed between the inner case and the outer case.

[0561] The insulation can insulate the interior of the storage room (2020, 2030) and the exterior of the storage room (2020, 2030) so that the temperature inside the storage room (2020, 2030) can be maintained at a set appropriate temperature without being affected by the external environment of the storage room (2020, 2030). In one embodiment, the insulation can include a foam insulation. The foam insulation can be formed by injecting and foaming a urethane foam mixed with polyurethane and a foaming agent between the inner and outer layers.

[0562] In one embodiment, the insulation may include a vacuum insulation material in addition to the foam insulation, or the insulation may consist solely of the vacuum insulation material instead of the foam insulation. The vacuum insulation material may include a core material and an outer shell material that accommodates the core material and seals the interior under a vacuum or near-vacuum pressure. However, the insulation material is not limited to the foam insulation or vacuum insulation material described above, and may include various materials that can be used for insulation.

[0563] The storage rooms (2020, 2030) may include a space defined by an inner wall. The storage rooms (2020, 2030) may further include an inner wall defining a space corresponding to the storage rooms (2020, 2030). Various items such as food, medicine, and cosmetics may be stored in the storage rooms (2020, 2030), and the storage rooms (2020, 2030) may be formed so that at least one side is open for inserting and taking out items.

[0564] A refrigerator (2000) may include one or more storage compartments (2020, 2030). When two or more storage compartments (2020, 2030) are formed in the refrigerator (2000), each storage compartment (2020, 2030) may have a different purpose and may be maintained at different temperatures. To this end, each storage compartment (2020, 2030) may be partitioned from each other by a partition wall (2011) including an insulating material.

[0565] The storage room (2020, 2030) may be designed to maintain an appropriate temperature range depending on its intended use, and may include a refrigerator, a freezer, or an alternating temperature room, which are distinguished by their intended use and / or temperature range. The refrigerator may be maintained at an appropriate temperature for refrigerating items, and the freezer may be maintained at an appropriate temperature for freezing items. Refrigeration may refer to cooling items to a temperature that does not freeze them, and for example, the refrigerator may be maintained at a temperature ranging from 0 degrees Celsius to +7 degrees Celsius. Freezing may refer to cooling items to freeze them or keep them in a frozen state, and for example, the freezer may be maintained at a temperature ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius. The alternating temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator or a freezer, at the user's discretion or regardless.

[0566] The storage room (2020, 2030) may be called by various names, such as a vegetable room, a fresh room, a cooling room, and an ice room, in addition to the names of a refrigerator room, a freezer room, and an alternating temperature room, and the terms refrigerator room, freezer room, and alternating temperature room used below should be understood to encompass the storage room (2020, 2030) with the corresponding purpose and temperature range.

[0567] The storage room (2020, 2030) may be provided with a shelf (2023) for placing food and at least one storage box (2027) for storing food in a sealed manner.

[0568] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (2000) may include at least one door (2021, 2022, 2031) configured to open and close an open side of a storage compartment (2020, 2030). The door (2021, 2022, 2031) may be provided to open and close each of one or more storage compartments (2020, 2030), or one door (2021, 2022, 2031) may be provided to open and close a plurality of storage compartments (2020, 2030). The door (2021, 2022, 2031) may be installed on the front of the main body (2010) in a rotatable or slidable manner.

[0569] The doors (2021, 2022, 2031) may be configured to seal the storage compartment (2020, 2030) when the doors (2021, 2022, 2031) are closed. The doors (2021, 2022, 2031) may include insulation, similar to the body (2010), to insulate the storage compartment (2020, 2030) when the doors (2021, 2022, 2031) are closed.

[0570] According to one embodiment, the door (2021, 2022, 2031) may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door (2021, 2022, 2031), a door inner panel forming the rear of the door (2021, 2022, 2031) and facing the storage compartment (2020, 2030), an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided inside these.

[0571] A gasket (2028) may be provided on the edge of the door inner panel to seal the storage compartment (2020, 2030) by being pressed against the front of the main body (2010) when the door (2021, 2022, 2031) is closed. The door inner panel may include a dyke (2025) that protrudes rearward to accommodate a door basket (2024) capable of storing items.

[0572] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (2000) may include a rotating bar (2026) for sealing between the two doors (2021, 2022) to control cold air in the storage compartment (2020) when the two doors (2021, 2022) open and close.

[0573] According to one embodiment, a door (2021, 2022, 2031) may include a door body and a front panel detachably coupled to a front side of the door body and forming a front surface of the door. The door body may include a door outer panel forming a front surface of the door body, a door inner panel forming a rear surface of the door body and facing a storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and a door insulation material provided inside these.

[0574] The refrigerator (2000) can be classified into a French door type, a side-by-side type, a bottom mounted freezer (BMF), a top mounted freezer (TMF), or a single-door refrigerator depending on the arrangement of the doors (2021, 2022, 2031) and the storage compartment (2020, 2030).

[0575] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (2000) may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment (2020, 2030).

[0576] The cold air supply device may include a system comprising a machine, mechanism, electronic device and / or a combination thereof that can generate cold air and guide the cold air to cool the storage room (2020, 2030).

[0577] In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can generate cold air through a refrigeration cycle that includes the processes of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant. To this end, the cold air supply device can include a refrigeration cycle device having a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator capable of driving the refrigeration cycle. In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can include a semiconductor, such as a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element can cool the storage compartment (2020, 2030) through heat generation and cooling through the Peltier effect.

[0578] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (2000) may include a machine room in which at least some components belonging to the cold air supply device are arranged.

[0579] The machine room may be designed to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room (2020, 2030) to prevent heat generated from components placed in the machine room from being transferred to the storage room (2020, 2030). The interior of the machine room may be configured to be in communication with the exterior of the main body (2010) to dissipate heat from components placed inside the machine room.

[0580] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (2000) may include a dispenser (2090) provided in at least one door (2021) to provide water and / or ice. The dispenser (2090) may be provided in the door (2021) so that it is accessible to a user without opening the door (2021).

[0581] The dispenser (2090) may include a water intake space (2091) for placing a container to obtain water or ice, and an operating lever (2093) for operating the dispenser (2090) to discharge water or ice.

[0582] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (2000) may include an ice making device (2080) configured to produce ice. The ice making device (2080) may include an ice making tray that stores water, an ice separating device that separates ice from the ice making tray, and an ice bucket (2083) that stores ice produced in the ice making tray.

[0583] An ice making device (2080) may be located in an ice making room (2081) provided at an upper corner of one of the storage rooms (2020). The ice making room (2081) may be provided to be partitioned from the storage room (2020) by an ice making room wall (2082). An auger (2084) may be provided in the ice making room (2081) to transport ice stored in an ice bucket (2083) to a chute (2094).

[0584] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (2000) may include a water tank (2070) capable of storing water. The water tank (2070) may be connected to an external water source. The water tank (2070) may store purified water through a water filter (2050). A valve (2063) may be provided in the water supply line connecting the external water source and the water tank (2070).

[0585] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (2000) may include an ice-making water supply line (2061) for supplying water to an ice-making device (2080) and a dispenser water supply line (2062) for supplying water to a dispenser (2090).

[0586] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (2000) may include a control unit (not shown) for controlling the refrigerator (2000).

[0587] The control unit can process user input of the user interface (2092) and control the operation of the user interface (2092). The user interface (2092) can be provided using an input interface and an output interface. The control unit can receive user input from the user interface (2092). In addition, the control unit can transmit a display control signal and image data for displaying an image on the user interface (2092) in response to the user input to the user interface (2092).

[0588] The input interface may include keys, a touchscreen, a microphone, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0589] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0590] A water treatment device (1, 2) according to various embodiments may be provided to remove ions from water supplied to a refrigerator (2000).

[0591] The water treatment device (1, 2) according to various embodiments may be placed outside and / or inside the refrigerator (2000).

[0592] For example, the water treatment device (1, 2) may be placed outside the refrigerator (2000), as illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23. The water treatment device (1, 2) may be placed outside the refrigerator (2000) and configured to remove ions from water supplied to the refrigerator (2000). The water treatment device (1, 2) may be installed in a path connecting an external water source and the refrigerator (2000).

[0593] For example, the water treatment device (1, 2) may be placed inside the refrigerator (2000), as illustrated in FIG. 24. The water treatment device (1, 2) may be connected to a water supply line. For example, the first flow path (21) of the capacitive desalination module (100) may be connected to the water supply line. The water treatment device (1, 2) may be configured to remove ions from water passing through the water supply line. The location of the water treatment device (1, 2) is not limited to the water supply line, and may be provided at various locations through which water supplied to the refrigerator (2000) may pass.

[0594] FIG. 25 illustrates a dishwasher to which a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is connected. FIG. 26 illustrates a cross-section of a dishwasher to which a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is applied.

[0595] Referring to FIGS. 25 and 26, a dishwasher (3100) to which a water treatment device (1, 2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is connected and / or applied is described.

[0596] The dishwasher (3100) includes a main body (3110), a door (3120), a storage unit (3130), a sliding member (3140), a washing assembly (3150), and a user interface (3160).

[0597] The main body (3110) forms the exterior of the dishwasher (3100). An opening (3111) may be formed on one side of the main body (3110), and a washing tank (3112) that is opened and closed by a door (3120) and a machine room (3113) that is spatially separated from the washing tank (3112) may be provided inside.

[0598] The door (3120) is rotatably provided on the main body (3110) and opens and closes the opening (3111) of the main body. The door (3120) may be hingedly connected to the lower portion of the main body (3110). A handle or a groove for a handle may be formed on the outside of the door (3120) to allow a user to manually open the door (3120).

[0599] The storage unit (3130) is spaced apart from each other in the washing tank (3112) and can slide back and forth, has holes of various sizes, and includes first and second baskets (3131, 3132) for storing dishes, etc., and cutlery (cutlery 3133).

[0600] Here, the first basket (3131) accommodates various tableware such as bowls, plates, and cooking utensils to be washed, the second basket (3132) accommodates cups, etc., and the cutlery (3133) accommodates forks, table knives, spoons or chopsticks, cutlery, ladles, etc.

[0601] A sliding member (3140) is provided in the washing tank (3112) and guides and slides the movement of the first and second baskets (3131, 3132) and cutlery (3133), respectively.

[0602] The washing assembly (3150) is provided in the machine room (3113) and the washing tank (3112) and includes a water supply unit (3151), a sump (3152), a heating unit (3153), a circulation unit (3154), a nozzle unit (3155), and a drain unit (3156) that perform washing operations, rinsing operations, drying operations, etc.

[0603] The water supply unit (3151) is located between an external water supply source and a sump (3152) and includes a water supply pipe (3151a) that guides water flowing in from the outside to the sump (3152) and a water supply valve (3151b) that blocks the inflow of water from the outside.

[0604] The sump (3152) stores water introduced through the water supply pipe (3151a). This water contains detergent dissolved therein to become wash water, which circulates through the wash tank (3112), sump (3152), circulation unit (3154), and nozzle unit (3155).

[0605] The heating unit (3153) is located around the sump (3152) and heats the wash water in the sump (3152).

[0606] Additionally, the sump (3152) may further be provided with a temperature detection unit (not shown) to detect the temperature of the water.

[0607] The circulation unit (3154) is provided between the sump (3152) and the nozzle unit (3155), and pumps the washing water in the sump (3152) and supplies it to the nozzle unit (3155) through the circulation pipe (3154b).

[0608] This circulation unit (3154) includes a circulation pump (3154a) that pumps washing water in a sump (3152), a plurality of circulation pipes (3154b) that guide the pumped washing water to a nozzle unit (3155), and a valve (3154c) that is provided in each of the circulation pipes (3154b) and controls the circulation of the pumped washing water.

[0609] The nozzle unit (3155) sprays the washing water supplied through the circulation unit (3154) toward various dishes contained in the first and second baskets (3131, 3132) and cutlery (3133).

[0610] This nozzle unit (3155) includes a first nozzle (3155a) provided at the bottom of the first basket (3131), a second nozzle (3155b) provided between the first basket (3131) and the second basket (3132), and a third nozzle (3155c) provided at the top of the cutlery (3133). The first, second, and third nozzles (3155a, 3155b, 3155c) can be rotated by a rotor.

[0611] The drain (3156) discharges the wash water inside the sump (3152) to the outside.

[0612] This drain unit (3156) includes a drain pump (3156a) that pumps the washing water inside the sump (3152) and a drain pipe (3156b) that guides the pumped washing water to the outside. In addition, the drain unit (3156) may further include a drain valve (not shown) that controls the external discharge of the washing water inside the sump (3152).

[0613] The user interface (3160) is provided on the main body (3110) and controls and displays operation information of the dishwasher.

[0614] The user interface (3160) receives various washing courses (e.g., standard course, manual course, etc.) and operation information such as additional rinsing according to the user's command, displays operation information in progress, and displays error information when an error occurs.

[0615] Here, the washing course includes a washing cycle in which washing water is sprayed onto the dishes to wash them, a rinsing cycle in which rinsing water is sprayed onto the dishes to rinse them, and a drying cycle in which the rinsed dishes are dried.

[0616] A water treatment device (1, 2) according to various embodiments may be provided to remove ions from water supplied to a dishwasher (3100).

[0617] The water treatment device (1, 2) according to various embodiments may be placed outside and / or inside the dishwasher (3100).

[0618] For example, the water treatment device (1, 2) may be placed outside the dishwasher (3100), as illustrated in FIG. 25. The water treatment device (1, 2) may be placed outside the dishwasher (3100) and configured to remove ions from water supplied to the dishwasher (3100). The water treatment device (1, 2) may be installed in a flow path connecting an external water supply source and the dishwasher (3100).

[0619] For example, the water treatment device (1, 2) may be placed inside the dishwasher (3100), as illustrated in FIG. 26. The water treatment device (1, 2) may be connected to a water supply pipe (3151a). For example, the first flow path (21) of the capacitive deionization module (100) may be connected to the water supply pipe (3151a). The water treatment device (1, 2) may be configured to remove ions from water passing through the water supply pipe (3151a). The location of the water treatment device (1, 2) is not limited to the water supply pipe (3151a), and may be provided at various locations through which water supplied to the dishwasher (3100) may pass.

[0620] The water treatment device (1, 2) can perform deionization operation during the water supply cycle of the dishwasher (3100). The water supply cycle of the dishwasher (3100) can include a washing cycle and a rinsing cycle.

[0621] In one embodiment, the dishwasher (3100) may transmit a water supply signal to the water treatment device (1, 2) based on the satisfaction of a start condition for a water supply operation. The water treatment device (1, 2) may perform a deionization operation in response to receiving the water supply signal from the dishwasher (3100).

[0622] The water treatment device (1, 2) can perform a regeneration operation based on the completion of the water supply operation of the dishwasher (3100). In one embodiment, the dishwasher (3100) can transmit a water supply completion signal to the water treatment device (1, 2) based on the satisfaction of the water supply completion condition. The water treatment device (1, 2) can perform a regeneration operation in response to receiving the water supply completion signal from the dishwasher (3100).

[0623] The water treatment device (1, 2) can perform scale removal operation when the dishwasher (3100) is not performing a water supply operation if the scale removal operation conditions are satisfied.

[0624] Fig. 27 illustrates a water purifier to which a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is applied.

[0625] Referring to FIG. 27, a water purifier (4001) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is described. The water purifier (4001) illustrated in FIG. 27 may include a water treatment device (1, 2).

[0626] Referring to FIG. 27, a water purifier (4001) may include a filtering body (4010) and a dispenser (4050) connected to the filtering body (4010) to discharge liquid to the outside of the filtering body (4010). The filtering body (4010) may be placed below a kitchen worktop (4002), and the dispenser (4050) may be placed above the kitchen worktop (4002). The kitchen worktop (4002) may include a sink. The sink may include a sink and a kitchen countertop.

[0627] The dispenser (4050) may be rotatably installed on top of a kitchen worktop (4002). For example, the dispenser (4050) may be rotatably installed on top of a sink. The dispenser (4050) may be connected to the water purifier body (4010) via a connecting pipe (4040).

[0628] The purifier body (4010) may be placed inside a kitchen worktop (4002). The purifier body (4010) may include a filter unit (4020) including at least one filter (4021), and a heat exchange unit (4030) provided to cool or heat the liquid purified by the filter unit (4020). The heat exchange unit (4030) may include a cooler and a heater.

[0629] The water purifier body (4010) can be supplied with raw water such as tap water through an external pipe (4043).

[0630] The connection pipe (4040) of the water purifier body (4010) may include a first pipe (4041) connecting the water purifier body (4010) to a dispenser (4050), and a second pipe (4042) connecting the water purifier body (4010) to a faucet (4080) installed on a kitchen worktop (4002).

[0631] A kitchen worktop (4002) may be provided with an installation member (4003) for installing a dispenser (4050). The installation member (4003) may be formed by opening at least a portion of the kitchen worktop (4002). The dispenser (4050) may be connected to the first pipe (4041) through the installation member (4003) of the kitchen worktop (4002).

[0632] The dispenser (4050) may be rotatably installed on the installation member (4003). The water purifier (4001) may include a rotation member (4060) that rotatably installs the dispenser (4050) on the installation member (4003). The rotation member (4060) may be coupled to a kitchen worktop (4002).

[0633] The water purifier (4001) may include a pipe fixing member (4070) that is provided to fix pipes (4041, 4042). The pipe fixing member (4070) may be placed inside a kitchen worktop (4002). The pipe fixing member (4070) may be placed between the water purifier body (4010) and the dispenser (4050). The pipe fixing member (4070) may be fixed to at least one of the water purifier body (4010) and the kitchen worktop (4002). The pipe fixing member (4070) may have a portion of the pipes (4041, 4042) wound around it, and the length of the pipes (4041, 4042) may be extended or shortened as a portion of the pipes (4041, 4042) are unwound or wound around the pipe fixing member (4070).

[0634] A water purifier (4001) according to one embodiment may include a water treatment device (1, 2). The water treatment device (1, 2) may be connected to an external pipe (4043). For example, a first flow path (21) of a capacitive desalination module (100) may be connected to the external pipe (4043). The water treatment device (1, 2) may be configured to remove ions from water passing through the external pipe (4043). The location of the water treatment device (1, 2) is not limited to the external pipe (4043), and may be provided at various locations through which water supplied to the water purifier (4001) may pass.

[0635] According to the present disclosure, the water treatment device (1, 2) can be applied to various products.

[0636] A water treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a first channel (11) formed by a first current collector (11a) and an anion exchange membrane (11c); a second channel (12) formed by a second current collector (12a) and a cation exchange membrane (12c); a third channel (13) formed by the anion exchange membrane (11c) and the cation exchange membrane (12c); And in the deionization operation, by applying a negative voltage to the second current collector (12a), the cations contained in the water in the third channel (13) move to the second channel (12), in the regeneration operation, by applying a first positive voltage to the second current collector (12a), the cations in the second channel (12) move to the third channel (13), and in the scale removal operation, by applying a second positive voltage greater than the magnitude of the first positive voltage to the second current collector (12a), the water in the second channel (12) is electrolyzed.

[0637] The second current collector (12a) may be selected from the group consisting of a transition metal, a transition metal oxide, a transition metal alloy, aluminum, an oxide of aluminum, graphene, a catalytic oxide electrode (Dimensionally Stable Anode, DSA), and a Boron doped diamond (BDD) electrode.

[0638] The water treatment device (1) may further include a porous electrode (12b) electrically connected to the second collector (12a); and a spacer (sc) for securing a space between the porous electrode (12b) and the cation exchange membrane (12c).

[0639] The water treatment device (1) further includes a first porous electrode (11b) electrically connected to the first current collector (11a); and a second porous electrode (12b) electrically connected to the second current collector (12a); and a gap (g1) between the anion exchange membrane (11c) and the first porous electrode (11b) may be characterized in that it is smaller than a gap (g2) between the cation exchange membrane (12c) and the second porous electrode (12b).

[0640] It further includes a porous electrode (12b) electrically connected to the second collector (12a); and the thickness (d2) of the gap (g2) between the cation exchange membrane (12c) and the porous electrode (12b) may be 10 μm to 500 μm.

[0641] Applying a negative voltage to the second current collector (12a) may include applying a positive voltage to the first current collector (11a), and applying a positive voltage to the second current collector (12a) may include applying a negative voltage to the first current collector (11a).

[0642] The above second collector (12a) may be made of a material capable of making a 1000 ppm NaCl aqueous solution have a pH of 4 or lower for 7 minutes or less at a current density of 25 mA / cm2.

[0643] The water treatment device (1) may further include a first channel (21) configured to allow external water to flow in; a second channel (22) configured to allow water to flow from the first channel (21) to the second channel (12); a third channel (23) configured to allow water to flow from the first channel (21) to the third channel (13); and at least one valve (30) configured to allow water to flow from the first channel (21) to either the second channel (22) or the third channel (23).

[0644] The control unit (70) can control at least one valve (30) to allow water to flow from the first flow path (21) to the third flow path (23) in the deionization operation, and can control at least one valve (30) to allow water to flow from the first flow path (21) to the second flow path (22) in the scale removal operation.

[0645] The water treatment device (1) further includes a pump (16) that pumps the external water into the first flow path (21), and the control unit (70) can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to a first RPM in the regeneration operation, and can control the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to a second RPM that is greater than the first RPM in the scale removal operation.

[0646] The water treatment device (1) may further include a circulation path (25) configured to allow water discharged from the second channel (12) to flow into the third channel (13); and a circulation valve (30; 30c) that opens and closes the circulation path (25).

[0647] The above control unit (70) can control the circulation valve (30; 30c) to close the circulation path (25) in the deionization operation and the regeneration operation, and can control the circulation valve (30; 30c) to open the circulation path (25) in the scale removal operation.

[0648] The water treatment device (1) further includes a first discharge path (26) configured to allow water discharged from the third channel (13) to flow; a second discharge path (27) configured to allow water discharged from the third channel (13) to flow; and at least one valve (30; 30d) configured to allow water discharged from the third channel (13) to flow into either the first discharge path (26) or the second discharge path (27); and the control unit (70) can control the at least one valve (30; 30d) to allow water discharged from the third channel (13) to flow into the first discharge path (26) in the deionization operation, and can control the at least one valve (30; 30d) to allow water discharged from the third channel (13) to flow into the second discharge path (27) in the regeneration operation and the scale removal operation.

[0649] It further includes at least one sensor (50) for detecting the water quality of water discharged from the third channel (13), and the control unit (70) can perform the regeneration operation based on the deionization operation being performed for a predetermined period of time and perform the scale removal operation based on the scale removal condition being satisfied by the at least one sensor (50).

[0650] A control method of a water treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include, in a deionization operation, a step of applying a negative voltage to the second current collector (12a) so that cations contained in water in the third channel (13) move to the second channel (12); in a regeneration operation, a step of applying a first positive voltage to the second current collector (12a) so that cations in the second channel (12) move to the third channel (13); and in a scale removal operation, a step of applying a second positive voltage greater than the magnitude of the first positive voltage to the second current collector (12a) so that water in the second channel (12) is electrolyzed.

[0651] The control method of the water treatment device (1) may further include a step of controlling at least one valve (30) so that water flows from the first flow path (21) to the third flow path (23) in the deionization operation; and a step of controlling at least one valve (30) so that water flows from the first flow path (21) to the second flow path (22) in the scale removal operation.

[0652] The control method of the water treatment device (1) may further include a step of controlling the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to a first RPM in the regeneration operation; and a step of controlling the maximum operating RPM of the pump (16) to a second RPM greater than the first RPM in the scale removal operation.

[0653] The control method of the water treatment device (1) may further include a step of controlling the circulation valve (30; 30c) to close the circulation path (25) in the deionization operation and the regeneration operation; and a step of controlling the circulation valve (30; 30c) to open the circulation path (25) in the scale removal operation.

[0654] The control method of the water treatment device (1) may further include a step of controlling at least one valve (30) so that water flows from the third channel (13) to the first discharge path (26) in the deionization operation; and a step of controlling at least one valve (30) so that water flows from the third channel (13) to the second discharge path (27) in the regeneration operation and the scale removal operation.

[0655] The control method of the water treatment device (1) may further include a step of performing the regeneration operation based on the deionization operation being performed for a predetermined period of time; and a step of performing the scale removal operation based on the scale removal condition being satisfied by at least one sensor (50) that detects the water quality of water discharged from the third channel (13).

[0656] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0657] A computer-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0658] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated on a machine-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0659] At least one of the components, elements, modules, or units (collectively, "components") represented as blocks in the drawings may be implemented by various hardware, software, and / or firmware structures that perform each of the functions described above, according to exemplary embodiments. For example, at least one of these components may utilize direct circuit structures such as memory, processors, logic circuits, look-up tables, etc., which may perform each function under the control of one or more microprocessors or other control devices. Furthermore, at least one of these components may be specifically implemented as part of a module, program, or code that includes one or more execution instructions for performing a specified logical function and is executed by one or more microprocessors or other control devices. Furthermore, at least one of these components may include or be implemented by a processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU), microprocessor, etc., that performs the function. Two or more of these components may be combined into a single component that performs all operations or functions of the two or more combined components. Furthermore, at least a portion of the function of at least one of these components may be performed by another of these components. Additionally, while the above block diagram does not illustrate a bus, communication between components may be performed via a bus. The functional aspects of the exemplary embodiments described above may be implemented in algorithms executed on one or more processors. Furthermore, components represented as blocks or processing steps may utilize any relevant technology for electronic configuration, signal processing and / or control, data processing, etc.

[0660] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. A first channel including a first collector and an anion exchange membrane; A second channel comprising a second collector and a cation exchange membrane; a third channel including the anion exchange membrane and the cation exchange membrane; and In the deionization operation, by applying a negative voltage to the second collector, the positive ions contained in the water in the third channel are moved to the second channel, In the regenerative operation, by applying a first positive voltage to the second collector, positive ions in the second channel are moved into the third channel, A water treatment device comprising: at least one processor for electrolyzing water in the second channel by applying a second positive voltage greater than the magnitude of the first positive voltage to the second collector in a scale removal operation.

2. In paragraph 1, The above second collector, A water treatment device comprising at least one of a transition metal, a transition metal oxide, a transition metal alloy, aluminum, an oxide of aluminum, graphene, a catalytic oxide electrode (Dimensionally Stable Anode, DSA), and a boron doped diamond (BDD) electrode.

3. In paragraph 1, a porous electrode electrically connected to the second collector; and A water treatment device further comprising a spacer between the porous electrode and the cation exchange membrane.

4. In paragraph 1, a first porous electrode electrically connected to the first collector; and Further comprising a second porous electrode electrically connected to the second collector; A water treatment device, characterized in that the gap between the anion exchange membrane and the first porous electrode is smaller than the gap between the cation exchange membrane and the second porous electrode.

5. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a porous electrode electrically connected to the second collector; A water treatment device wherein the thickness of the gap between the cation exchange membrane and the porous electrode is 10 μm to 500 μm.

6. In paragraph 1, Applying a negative voltage to the second collector includes applying a positive voltage to the first collector, A water treatment device wherein applying a positive voltage to the second collector includes applying a negative voltage to the first collector.

7. In paragraph 1, The above second collector, 1000ppm NaCl aqueous solution at 25mA / cm 2 A water treatment device made of a material capable of making the pH 4 or lower for 7 minutes or less at a current density of .

8. In paragraph 1, A first channel configured to allow external water to flow in; A second channel configured to allow water to flow from the first channel into the second channel; a third channel configured to allow water to flow from the first channel to the third channel; and A water treatment device further comprising at least one valve for allowing water to flow from the first flow path to either the second flow path or the third flow path.

9. In paragraph 8, At least one processor of the above, In the above deionization operation, at least one valve is controlled so that water flows from the first flow path to the third flow path, A water treatment device that controls at least one valve to allow water to flow from the first flow path to the second flow path in the above scale removal operation.

10. In paragraph 8, Further comprising a pump for pumping the external water into the first urea; At least one processor of the above, In the above regenerative operation, the maximum operating RPM of the pump is controlled to the first RPM, A water treatment device that controls the maximum operating RPM of the pump to a second RPM greater than the first RPM in the above scale removal operation.

11. In paragraph 1, A circulation path configured to allow water discharged from the second channel to flow into the third channel; and A water treatment device further comprising a circulation valve for opening and closing the above circulation path.

12. In paragraph 11, At least one processor of the above, In the above deionization operation and the above regeneration operation, the circulation valve is controlled to close the circulation path, A water treatment device that controls the circulation valve to open the circulation path in the above scale removal operation.

13. In paragraph 1, A first discharge path configured to allow water discharged from the third channel to flow; A second discharge path configured to allow water discharged from the third channel to flow; and further comprising at least one valve for allowing water discharged from said third channel to flow into either said first discharge path or said second discharge path; At least one processor of the above, In the above deionization operation, at least one valve is controlled so that water flows from the third channel to the first discharge path, A water treatment device that controls at least one valve to allow water to flow from the third channel to the second discharge path during the above regeneration operation and the above scale removal operation.

14. In paragraph 1, further comprising at least one sensor for detecting the water quality of water discharged from the third channel; At least one processor of the above, The regeneration operation is performed based on the deionization operation being performed for a predetermined period of time, A water treatment device that performs the scale removal operation based on the scale removal condition being satisfied by at least one sensor.

15. A method for controlling a water treatment device comprising a first channel including a first collector and an anion exchange membrane, a second channel including a second collector and a cation exchange membrane, and a third channel including the anion exchange membrane and the cation exchange membrane, In the deionization operation, a step of applying a negative voltage to the second collector to move positive ions contained in water in the third channel to the second channel; In the regenerative operation, a step of moving positive ions in the second channel into the third channel by applying a first positive voltage to the second collector; and A control method of a water treatment device, comprising: a step of electrolyzing water in the second channel by applying a second positive voltage greater than the magnitude of the first positive voltage to the second collector in a scale removal operation;

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