Water purifier and control method thereof

Abstract

This water purifier may comprise: a main body; a water dispensing assembly which is connected to the main body and dispenses water supplied from the main body; and a nozzle assembly which is detachably coupled to the water dispensing assembly and includes a water dispensing flow path, wherein: the water dispensing flow path includes a water inlet through which water flows from the water dispensing assembly into the nozzle assembly, and a plurality of water outlets through which water flows out of the nozzle assembly; and the area of the water inlet is greater than the area of the plurality of water outlets.

Description

Water purifier and its control method

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a water purifier that supplies purified water and a control method thereof.

[0002] A water purifier is a device that provides drinking water to users by removing harmful substances from raw water, such as tap water or groundwater, through various purification methods, including sedimentation, filtration, and sterilization. A water purifier is equipped with one or more water filters to filter the incoming water, providing clean water to users.

[0003] When classifying water purifiers based on their form, they can be divided into direct-connected types that are directly connected to a faucet and storage types that store water in a container and pass it through a filter. When classifying them based on their purification principle or method, they can be divided into natural filtration, direct-connected filtration, ion exchange resin, distillation, and reverse osmosis types.

[0004] For example, a direct-filtration system connects the water purifier directly to the water pipe. As water passes through the filter under pressure, impurities are filtered out. This purified water is discharged through a faucet for drinking use. The faucet may also be referred to as a water outlet assembly.

[0005] Coffee brewing machines brew coffee by boiling water and spraying hot water over ground coffee beans. Depending on the coffee brewing recipe, the machine goes through several extraction stages, such as steeping the beans, first extraction, second extraction, and third extraction. At this time, the taste of the coffee varies depending on the temperature, flow rate, and waiting time of the hot water. Therefore, in order to achieve the desired taste, it is important to appropriately adjust the hot water temperature, flow rate, and waiting time for each extraction stage of the coffee brewing recipe.

[0006] Since existing water purifiers do not have a brewing coffee extraction function that controls the water dispensing motion for brewing coffee, a coffee brewing machine may be essential for brewing coffee.

[0007] One aspect of the disclosed invention provides a water purifier and a control method thereof, which include a nozzle assembly coupled to a water outlet assembly of the water purifier and can implement a brewing coffee extraction function using the nozzle assembly.

[0008] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the following description, and in part will be apparent from the following description or may be learned by practicing the embodiments set forth herein.

[0009] A water purifier according to one aspect of the disclosed invention comprises: a main body; a water outlet assembly connected to the main body and discharging water supplied from the main body; and a nozzle assembly detachably coupled to the water outlet assembly and including a water outlet path, wherein the water outlet path includes an inlet through which water flows from the water outlet assembly to the nozzle assembly; and a plurality of water outlets through which water flows from the nozzle assembly; wherein an area of ​​the inlet may be larger than an area of ​​the plurality of water outlets.

[0010] A control method for a water purifier according to one aspect of the disclosed invention comprises: a heat exchanger provided in a main body and cooling or heating water; a water outlet assembly connected to the main body and discharging water supplied from the heat exchanger; and a nozzle assembly detachably coupled to the water outlet assembly and discharging water to the outside; the control method may include: receiving a coffee brewing recipe from an external device through a communication unit or selecting a coffee brewing recipe from a user through a user interface device; and controlling the water outlet assembly and the heat exchanger based on one of the received coffee brewing recipe or the selected coffee brewing recipe.

[0011] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of area A shown in Figure 3.

[0016] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of area B shown in Figure 7.

[0020] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 10 illustrates a network of water purifiers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 11 illustrates a control block of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method for a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 illustrate a function activation UI for activating a brewing coffee extraction function of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 illustrate a recipe selection UI for selecting a coffee brewing recipe of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIGS. 17 to 20 illustrate a water dispensing operation UI that guides a water dispensing operation according to a coffee brewing recipe received from an external device in a user interface device of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIGS. 21 to 23 illustrate a recipe selection UI for selecting a coffee brewing recipe in a user interface device of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 24 illustrates a water dispensing operation UI that guides a water dispensing operation according to a selected coffee brewing recipe in a user interface device of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 25 illustrates a control block of a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Fig. 26 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 27 illustrates a function activation UI for activating a brewing coffee extraction function of a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 28 illustrates a recipe editing UI for editing a coffee brewing recipe of a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 29 illustrates a process of hiding some of the coffee brewing recipes of a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 30 illustrates a process of adding a brand recipe to a coffee brewing recipe of a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figures 31 to 33 illustrate a process of creating one's own recipe among coffee brewing recipes of a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIGS. 34 to 37 illustrate a recipe selection operation for selecting a coffee brewing recipe in a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIGS. 38 to 41 illustrate a recipe selection operation for selecting a newly received coffee brewing recipe in a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 42 illustrates an example of a water dispensing operation according to a coffee brewing recipe in a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 43 illustrates another example of a water dispensing operation according to a coffee brewing recipe in a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 44 illustrates a water quantity setting operation for setting the water quantity of a recipe in a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] 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.

[0042] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any single element among a plurality of related described elements.

[0046] 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).

[0047] 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.

[0048] The terms "include," "have," and the like 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] Below, water purifiers according to various embodiments are specifically described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0052] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a water purifier according to one embodiment.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 1, a water purifier (1) may include a main body (10) and a water outlet assembly (100) connected to the main body (10) to discharge water to the outside of the main body (10). The main body (10) may be disposed in a lower space of a kitchen worktop (2), and the water outlet assembly (100) may be disposed so that at least a portion of the upper portion of the kitchen worktop (2) is exposed. The kitchen worktop (2) may include a sink. The sink may include a sink and a kitchen countertop. The water outlet assembly (100) may be referred to as a water outlet unit (100) and / or a water outlet module (100). The water outlet assembly (100) may include a faucet.

[0054] The water outlet assembly (100) can be installed on the upper part of the kitchen worktop (2). The water outlet assembly (100) can be installed on the upper part of the sink. The water outlet assembly (100) can be rotatably provided on the upper part of the kitchen worktop (2). The water outlet assembly (100) can be connected to the main body (10) via a connecting member (40).

[0055] The main body (10) can be placed inside a kitchen worktop (2). The main body (10) can include a filter unit (20) including at least one filter (21), and a heat exchanger (30) provided to cool or heat water purified by the filter unit (20). The heat exchanger (30) can include a refrigeration cycle device including a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator, and a heater.

[0056] The main body (10) can be supplied with raw water such as tap water through an external pipe (43).

[0057] The connecting member (40) connected to the main body (10) may include a first pipe (41) connected to the outlet assembly (100) and a second pipe (42) connected to a faucet (400) installed on a kitchen worktop (2). The first pipe (41) may include a plurality of first pipes (41).

[0058] A kitchen worktop (2) may be provided with an installation portion (3) for installing a water outlet assembly (100). The installation portion (3) may be formed by opening at least a portion of the kitchen worktop (2). The first pipe (41) and the water outlet assembly (100) may be connected through the installation portion (3) of the kitchen worktop (2).

[0059] The water outlet assembly (100) can be rotatably installed in the installation part (3). The water purifier (1) can include a rotation device (200) that rotatably installs the water outlet assembly (100) in the installation part (3). The rotation device (200) can be coupled to a kitchen worktop (2).

[0060] The water purifier (1) may include a pipe fixing device (300) that is provided to fix the first pipe (41). The pipe fixing device (300) may be placed inside a kitchen worktop (2). The pipe fixing device (300) may be placed between the main body (10) and the water outlet assembly (100). The pipe fixing device (300) may be fixed to at least one of the main body (10) and the kitchen worktop (2). A portion of the first pipe (41) may be wrapped around the pipe fixing device (300), and the length of the first pipe (41) may be extended or shortened as a portion of the first pipe (41) is released or wrapped around the pipe fixing device (300).

[0061] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a water purifier according to one embodiment. Fig. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a water purifier according to one embodiment.

[0062] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the outlet assembly (100) may include a housing (110) that forms an exterior and has various components arranged therein. One side of the housing (110) may be rotatably coupled to a kitchen work surface (2). For example, the housing (110) may include a neck housing (120) that extends vertically and a head housing (130) that extends horizontally from the top of the neck housing (120). The neck housing (120) may be a first housing (120), and the head housing (130) may be a second housing (130). The housing (110) may be coupled to the kitchen work surface (2). For example, the lower end of the neck housing (120) may be rotatably coupled to the kitchen work surface (2) by a rotation device (200).

[0063] The neck housing (120) and the head housing (130) may be formed separately and then combined, or the neck housing (120) and the head housing (130) may be formed integrally.

[0064] The neck housing (120) may be vertical or inclined with respect to one surface of the kitchen worktop (2) on which the installation portion (3) is formed.

[0065] A hand drip device may be placed below the water dispensing assembly (100). For example, a hand drip device may be placed below the head housing (130) and the nozzle assembly (500). The hand drip device may include a dripper (D) and a server (S). A user may supply water from the water dispensing assembly (100) to the dripper (D) where ground coffee beans are placed at a constant rate. Water that has passed through the ground coffee beans in the dripper (D) may be filtered and then stored in the server (S).

[0066] The water outlet assembly (100) may include at least one pipe (171, 172, 173, 174, 175) arranged inside the housing (110). Water supplied from the main body (10) may flow inside the pipe (171, 172, 173, 174, 175). At least one pipe (171, 172, 173, 174, 175) may form a housing passage (180) through which water supplied from the main body (10) may flow. The pipe (171, 172, 173, 174, 175) may be connected to the nozzle assembly (500). The housing passage (180) may be communicated with the water outlet (540a) (see FIG. 4).

[0067] At least one pipe (171, 172, 173, 174, 175) may include a first pipe (171), a second pipe (172), a third pipe (173), a fourth pipe (174), and a fifth pipe (175). One end of the third pipe (173) may be connected to the first pipe (41) by a connector, and the other end of the third pipe (173) may be connected to a discharge valve (150). One end of the second pipe (172) may be connected to the discharge valve (150), and the other end of the second pipe (172) may be connected to the third pipe (171) by a fourth pipe (174). The first pipe (171) may be connected to a nozzle assembly (500) by a fifth pipe (175). At least a portion of the fourth pipe (174) and the fifth pipe (175) may be bent. Two or more of the first pipe (171), the second pipe (172), the third pipe (173), the fourth pipe (174), and the fifth pipe (175) may be formed integrally. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the third pipe (173) may be omitted so that the first pipe (41) may be directly connected to the outlet valve (150).

[0068] The water outlet assembly (100) may include a water outlet valve (150) that can turn on or off water. The water outlet valve (150) can control whether water is discharged from the water outlet (540a). The water outlet valve (150) may be disposed on the housing passage (180). The water outlet valve (150) can open and close the housing passage (180). For example, the water outlet valve (150) can control water flowing from the third pipe (173) to the second pipe (172). The water outlet valve (150) can selectively supply water to the inside of pipes (171, 172, 174, 175) disposed on the opposite side of the first pipe (41) with respect to the water outlet valve (150).

[0069] The outlet valve (150) may be positioned inside the housing (110). The outlet valve (150) may be positioned inside the neck housing (120).

[0070] The head housing (100) may include a user interface device (160) capable of receiving a touch input and outputting an image. The user interface device (160) may form the upper surface of the head housing (100). For example, the head housing (130) may be opened upward, and the user interface device (160) may be coupled to the upper end of the opened head housing (130) to cover the internal space of the head housing (130) where various electronic components are arranged. The user interface device (160) may be the head housing (130).

[0071] However, the type and location of the user interface device (160) are not limited to the above examples, and any type and location that can receive a water dispensing command, the type of water to be dispensed, and / or a hot water setting temperature from the user may be employed without limitation. Hereinafter, the user interface device (160) will be described as an example of a display that displays various types of information and can receive touch input.

[0072] The user interface device (160) may be positioned on the upper portion of the nozzle assembly (500). The user interface device (160) may be positioned on the other end of the head housing (130) opposite to the end of the head housing (130) that is connected to the neck housing (120). For example, the user interface device (160) may extend horizontally from the other end of the head housing (130) toward the end of the head housing (130).

[0073] The user interface device (160) may be electrically connected to the main body (10) by a wire, or may be wirelessly connected to the main body (10). The user interface device (160) may receive a touch input for selecting a type of water desired by the user and / or a touch input for selecting the amount of water discharged from the water outlet assembly (100), and may transmit an input signal corresponding to the received touch input to the main body (10). The main body (10), which receives the input signal from the user interface device (160), may supply the selected type of water to the water outlet assembly (100) according to the input signal when a water outlet command is input, or may adjust the amount of water supplied to the water outlet assembly (100) according to the input signal, and may supply hot water heated to a hot water setting temperature to the water outlet assembly (100).

[0074] For example, the water flow rate can be 120ml, 500ml, 1000ml, or continuous flow. Continuous flow means that water will continue to flow until the user turns off the water.

[0075] The water discharged from the water outlet assembly (100) can be classified into purified water, cold water, and hot water depending on whether it is cooled or heated. Purified water, cold water, and hot water may correspond to water having different temperatures. For example, purified water may refer to water supplied to the water outlet assembly (100) without separate cooling or heating after raw water has been filtered by a filter (21). In addition, for example, cold water may refer to water supplied to the water outlet assembly (100) in a state in which raw water has been filtered by a filter (21) and cooled by a heat exchanger (30). In addition, for example, hot water may refer to water supplied to the water outlet assembly (100) in a state in which raw water has been filtered by a filter (21) and heated by a heat exchanger (30). In other words, purified water, cold water, and hot water may correspond to water having different temperatures. Among cold water, purified water, and hot water, the temperature of cold water is the lowest, the temperature of hot water is the highest, and the temperature of purified water may be higher than that of cold water and lower than that of hot water. Therefore, choosing the type of water can mean choosing one of the three types: purified water, cold water, or hot water, which are classified based on temperature.

[0076] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, water discharged from the discharge assembly (100) may be classified based on chemical composition, such as the concentration of specific ions, or the state of the material, and selecting the type of water may correspond to selecting one of several types of water classified based on such criteria.

[0077] The display (160) can output image buttons so that the user can input for selecting purified water, cold water, or hot water, or for selecting the amount of water to be dispensed. The user can operate the main body (10) by touching the area of ​​the user interface device (160) where the image buttons appear.

[0078] The outlet assembly (100) may include a rotation device (200) that rotatably fixes the housing (110) to the installation portion (3). The rotation device (200) may include a cylindrical rotation bracket (202) having one end rotatably coupled to the lower end of the neck housing (120) and having a through hole (201) through which a first pipe (41) passes, and a mounting member (203) into which the rotation bracket (202) is inserted and fixed. For example, a screw thread may be formed on the outer side of the rotation bracket (202), and the mounting member (203) may be screw-connected to a portion of the rotation bracket (202) that has passed through the installation portion (3) while the rotation bracket (202) has passed through the installation portion (3).

[0079] The water purifier (1) may further include a nozzle assembly (500). The nozzle assembly (500) may enable a water stream supplied to the user from the water outlet assembly (100) to be continuously supplied and discharged without interruption. The nozzle assembly (500) may be detachably coupled to the water outlet assembly (100). For example, the nozzle assembly (500) may be coupled to the housing (110) at the other end of the housing (110) opposite to one end of the housing (110) coupled to the kitchen worktop (2). For example, the nozzle assembly (500) may be placed at the other end of the head housing (130) opposite to one end of the head housing (130) connected to the neck housing (120). The user may press the nozzle assembly (500) from below toward the water outlet assembly (100) so that the nozzle assembly (500) and the water outlet assembly (100) are coupled. The nozzle assembly (500) may be referred to as a nozzle unit (500).

[0080] As the nozzle assembly (500) is coupled to the outlet assembly (100), at least one pipe (171, 172, 173, 174, 175) and the nozzle assembly (500) can be connected. For example, a first member (520) can be inserted into the fifth pipe (175) (see FIG. 4), through which water in the housing passage (180) can flow into the nozzle assembly (500).

[0081] The nozzle assembly (500) can form a water outlet (540a) through which water is discharged to the outside of the water outlet assembly (100). The nozzle assembly (500) can extend vertically. The nozzle assembly (500) can also be included in the water outlet assembly (100).

[0082] Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of a water purifier according to one embodiment. Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of area A shown in Fig. 3. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a water purifier according to one embodiment.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the nozzle assembly (100) may further include a cover member (140). The cover member (140) may cover a portion (175a) of the fifth pipe (175) and a mounting portion (131) of the head housing (130). For example, the cover member (140) may surround a portion (175a) of the fifth pipe (175) and a mounting portion (131) of the head housing (130). The cover member (140) may be disposed inside the case (510, 550) while the nozzle assembly (500) is mounted on the nozzle assembly (100).

[0084] The nozzle assembly (500) can be coupled to the water outlet assembly (100). For example, the nozzle assembly (500) can be coupled to the head housing (130). The nozzle assembly (500) can be coupled to the head housing (130) on the side from which water inside the housing (110) is discharged. For example, the nozzle assembly (500) can be placed on the other end of the head housing (130) opposite to one end of the head housing (130) connected to the neck housing (120). The water inside the housing (110) can be discharged to the outside of the housing (110) without interruption through the nozzle assembly (500) and supplied to the user.

[0085] The nozzle assembly (500) may include a water outlet passage (500a). A water outlet passage (500a) may be formed within the nozzle assembly (500). The water outlet passage (500a) may guide water within the nozzle assembly (500) to the outside of the housing (110) and the nozzle assembly (500). The water outlet passage (500a) may be connected to the housing passage (180). Water flowing into the water outlet passage (500a) through the housing passage (180) may flow to the outside of the housing (110) and the nozzle assembly (500) through the water outlet (540a). The water outlet passage (500a) may include an inlet (520a) and an outlet (540a).

[0086] The nozzle assembly (500) may include a flow path member (520, 530, 540). The flow path member (520, 530, 540) may form an outlet flow path (500a) therein. The flow path member (520, 530, 540) may guide water passing through the housing (110) to the outside of the nozzle assembly (500). The flow path member (520, 530, 540) may include a plurality of flow path members (520, 530, 540). The plurality of flow path members (520, 530, 540) may include a first member (520), a second member (530), and a third member (540). However, without being limited thereto, the euro member (520, 530, 540) may be formed as one euro member (520, 530, 540) integrally.

[0087] The first member (520), the second member (530), and the third member (540) can form an outlet flow path (500a) therein. The first member (520), the second member (530), and the third member (540) can be a first flow path member (520), a second flow path member (530), and a third flow path member (540), respectively. A plurality of flow path members (520, 530, 540) can be arranged between the first case (510) and the second case (550).

[0088] The first member (520) may be arranged on the second member (530) and the third member (540). The first member (520) may cover the upper portions of the second member (530) and the third member (540). The first member (520) may be arranged on the second member (530) and the third member (540) to form a portion of the outlet passage (500a). An inlet (520a) may be formed in the first member (520). For example, the inlet (520a) may be formed inside the upper portion of the first member (520). The first member (520) may include a cock.

[0089] The first member (520) may include a first unit (521) and a second unit (522). The first unit (521) may form a lower portion of the first member (520), and the second unit (522) may form an upper portion of the first member (520). The first unit (521) may extend horizontally, and the second unit (522) may extend vertically. The first unit (521) and the second unit (522) may be connected to form a portion of an internal water outlet passage (500a). The second unit (522) may be provided with a fixing portion (522a) fixed by a fixing portion (190). The fixing portion (522a) may protrude radially from an outer surface of the second unit (522). The fixing member (522a) may be arranged between a plurality of fixing members (190) arranged in a vertical direction. While the nozzle assembly (500) is coupled to the head housing (130), the fixing member (522a) and the plurality of fixing members (190) may be arranged between the first unit (521) and the fifth pipe (175). The user may press the nozzle assembly (500) from below toward the water outlet assembly (100) so that the fixing member (522a) is arranged between the plurality of fixing members (190), thereby coupling the nozzle assembly (500) and the water outlet assembly (100). The fixing member (522a) may be a mounting member.

[0090] The first member (520) can be inserted into the fifth pipe (175). For example, a portion (175a) of the fifth pipe (175) can be mounted on a mounting portion (131) provided at one end of the head housing (130). The first member (520) and the fifth pipe (175) can be coupled. For example, the second unit (522) of the first member (520) can be connected to the fifth pipe (175) so that the housing passage (180) and the outlet passage (500a) are in communication.

[0091] The second member (530) may be arranged between the first member (520) and the third member (540). The second member (530) may be arranged below the first member (520) and above the third member (540). The second member (530) may be arranged between the first member (520) and the third member (540) to form a part of the outlet passage (500a). The second member (530) may seal the space between the first member (520) and the third member (540). The second member (530) may have an annular shape. The second member (530) may include an O-ring.

[0092] The third member (540) may be positioned below the first member (520) and the second member (530). The third member (540) may cover the lower portions of the first member (520) and the second member (530). The third member (540) may be positioned below the first member (520) and the second member (530) to form a portion of the water outlet passage (500a). A water outlet (540a) may be formed in the third member (540). For example, a water outlet (540a) may be formed in the base portion (542) of the third member (540). The third member (540) may include a nozzle.

[0093] The third member (540) may include a guide member (541), a base member (542), and a frame member (543).

[0094] The guide portion (541) can guide water within the outlet passage (500a) toward the outlet (540a). The guide portion (541) can be formed to be inclined. For example, the guide portion (541) can be formed to be inclined downward from the center of the third member (540) toward the radially outer side. For example, the guide portion (541) can rise toward the radially inner side of the third member (540).

[0095] The guide portion (541) may be connected to the base portion (542). Water guided through the guide portion (541) may flow to the base portion (542). The base portion (542) may be provided on the radially outer side of the guide portion (541). For example, the base portion (542) may be formed flat. A water outlet (540a) may be formed in the base portion (542). Water guided through the guide portion (541) may flow to the outside of the nozzle assembly (500) through the water outlet (540a) formed in the base portion (542). A plurality of water outlets (540a) may be provided. A plurality of water outlets (540a) may be formed along the periphery of the base portion (542). For example, six water outlets (540a) may be provided in the base portion (542).

[0096] The border portion (543) can form the border of the third member (540). The border portion (543) can be provided on the radially outer side of the guide portion (541) and the base portion (542). The border portion (543) can support the first member (520) and the second member (530). The border portion (543) can be supported by the second case (550).

[0097] For example, the first member (520) and the third member (540) may include stainless steel. Additionally, for example, the second member (530) may include rubber.

[0098] The diameter (d2) of the outlet (540a) may be smaller than the diameter (d1) of the inlet (520a). The total area of ​​the plurality of outlets (540a) may be smaller than the area of ​​the inlet (520a). For example, the diameter (d2) of the outlet (540a) may be smaller than the diameter (d1) of the inner surface of the second unit (522), and the total area of ​​the plurality of outlets (540a) may be smaller than the area of ​​the outlet path (500a) within the second unit (522). Therefore, the amount of water flowing into the outlet path (500a) through the inlet (520a) may be greater than the amount of water discharged through the outlet (540a), and the water may be discharged from the outlet (540a) to the outside of the nozzle assembly (500) without interruption. For example, the diameter (d2) of the outlet (540a) can be 1.0 to 1.5 mm.

[0099] As interest in hand-drip coffee grows, users are demanding a water purifier to supply water at a constant flow rate to the dripper (D). According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the water hitting the dripper (D) due to the drop during water discharge can be minimized from splashing out together with the coffee.

[0100] Finally, a water purifier including a nozzle assembly (500) according to one embodiment can evenly wet the ground coffee beans placed in the dripper (D) and minimize splashing of the discharged water because water is discharged without interruption at a constant flow rate.

[0101] The nozzle assembly (500) may include a case (510, 550). The case (510, 550) may accommodate a flow path member (520, 530, 540). The case (510, 550) may prevent the user from being injured due to an increase in the temperature of the flow path member (520, 530, 540) forming the water discharge path (500a) even when hot water is discharged. The case (510, 550) may be formed of a material having a low heat transfer coefficient. For example, the case (510, 550) may be injection molded.

[0102] The case (510, 550) may only partially contact the flow member (520, 530, 540). For example, the flow member (520, 530, 540) may be formed of a material having a high heat transfer rate, so that the case (510, 550) can minimize the area in contact with the flow member (520, 530, 540), thereby minimizing the heat transfer to the case (510, 550) and minimizing the case (510, 550) from becoming hot even when hot water passes through the outlet flow path (500a).

[0103] The case (510, 550) can be detachably coupled and / or mounted to the head housing (130). While the nozzle assembly (500) is coupled to the head housing (130), the case (510, 550) can surround the cover member (140) and be positioned on the outside of the cover member (140). After a certain period of use, the case (510, 550) can be detached from the head housing (130), thereby allowing the interior of the case (510, 550) to be cleaned.

[0104] The case (510, 550) may include multiple cases (510, 550). The multiple cases (510, 550) may include a first case (510) and a second case (550). The first case (510) may be an upper case, a first cover, and an upper cover, and the second case (550) may be a lower case, a second cover, and a lower cover. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the cases (510, 550) may be a single case formed integrally.

[0105] The first case (510) and the second case (550) can accommodate a cover member (140), a flow member (520, 530, 540), a part (131) of the head housing (130), and a part of the fifth pipe (175) within the first case (510). For example, the cover member (140), a part (131) of the head housing (130), a part of the fifth pipe (175), and a part of the first member (520) can be accommodated in the internal space (510a) of the first case (510). In addition, for example, another part of the first member (520), the second member (530), and the third member (540) can be accommodated between the first case (510) and the second case (550). Additionally, the internal space (550a) of the second case (550) can accommodate the first case (510), the cover member (140), the euro member (520, 530, 540), a part of the head housing (130), and a part of the fifth pipe (175).

[0106] The first case (510) may be formed with an internal space (510a) and an opening (510b). For example, a portion of the first member (520) may penetrate the opening (510b).

[0107] The first case (510) may include a first mounting protrusion (511) and a mounting groove (512). As the first mounting protrusion (511) protrudes from the outer surface of the first case (510), a mounting groove (512) may be formed. A second mounting protrusion (551) may be inserted into the mounting groove (512). The first mounting protrusion (511) may be formed in a spiral shape along the circumferential direction of the first case (510). Accordingly, the mounting groove (512) may also be formed in a spiral shape along the circumferential direction of the first case (510), and the second case (550) may be rotated and coupled to the first case (510).

[0108] The second case (550) may be formed with an internal space (550a) and an opening (550b). The opening (550b) of the second case (550) may be opened downward. For example, water from the outlet (540a) may flow to the outside of the nozzle assembly (500) through the opening (550b).

[0109] The second case (550) may include a second mounting protrusion (551). The second mounting protrusion (551) may protrude from the inner surface of the second case (550) toward the inside of the second case (550). The second mounting protrusion (551) may be inserted into and / or mounted in the mounting groove (512). The second mounting protrusion (551) may be formed on the upper portion of the second case (550). The second mounting protrusion (551) may be provided in plurality, and the plurality of second mounting protrusions (551) may be arranged along the periphery of the second case (550). The first case (510) and the second case (550) may be detachably coupled through the first mounting protrusion (511), the second mounting protrusion (551), and the mounting groove (512).

[0110] Since the first case (510) and the second case (550) can be separated, after a certain period of use, the nozzle assembly (500) can be separated from the outlet assembly (100) to clean the first case (510), the second case (550), and the urea members (520, 530, 540), respectively.

[0111] The second case (550) may further include a contact protrusion (552). The contact protrusion (552) may protrude from the inner surface of the second case (550) toward the inside of the second case (550).

[0112] A contact protrusion (552) may be formed at the lower portion of the second case (550). The contact protrusion (552) may be formed lower than the second mounting protrusion (551). A plurality of contact protrusions (552) may be provided, and a plurality of contact protrusions (552) may be arranged along the periphery of the second case (550).

[0113] The plurality of contact protrusions (552) can reduce the contact area between the flow member (520, 530, 540) and the second case (550). For example, the plurality of contact protrusions (552) can contact the side of the flow member (520, 530, 540) to minimize the contact area between the flow member (520, 530, 540) and the second case (550). The plurality of contact protrusions (552) can be arranged to surround the flow member (520, 530, 540).

[0114] Since the euro member (520, 530, 540) can be formed of a material having a high heat transfer rate, the area of ​​contact between the second case (550) and the euro member (520, 530, 540) can be minimized, so that even if hot water passes through the outlet passage (500a) formed inside the euro member (520, 530, 540), heat can be transferred to the second case (550) and the case (510, 550) can be minimized from becoming hot.

[0115] The case (510, 550) may include a guide protrusion (513, 553). The guide protrusion (513, 553) may guide the position at which the flow member (520, 530, 540) is placed within the case (510, 550). For example, the guide protrusion (513, 553) may allow the flow member (520, 530, 540) to be placed between the first case (510) and the second case (550). The guide protrusion (513, 553) may be in contact with the flow member (520, 530, 540). The guide protrusion (513, 553) may be a position guide protrusion (513, 553). For example, since the euro member (520, 530, 540) can be formed of a material having a high heat transfer rate, the case (510, 550) can be brought into contact with the euro member (520, 530, 540) through the guide protrusion (513, 553), thereby minimizing the area of ​​contact between the case (510, 550) and the euro member (520, 530, 540). Accordingly, even if hot water passes through the outlet passage (500a), heat can be transferred to the case (510, 550), thereby minimizing the case (510, 550) from becoming hot.

[0116] For example, the first case (510) may include a first guide protrusion (513). The first guide protrusion (513) may be in contact with the cover member (140) and the first member (520). The first guide protrusion (513) may protrude inwardly from the periphery of the first case (510). The first guide protrusion (513) may form a first opening (510b). While the first case (510) and the second case (550) are coupled, the first guide protrusion (513) may be positioned on the flow path member (520, 530, 540).

[0117] For example, the second case (550) may include a second guide protrusion (553). The second guide protrusion (553) may be in contact with the third member (540). The second guide protrusion (553) may protrude inwardly from the periphery of the second case (550). The second guide protrusion (553) may form a second opening (550b). While the first case (510) and the second case (550) are coupled, the second guide protrusion (553) may be positioned below the flow member (520, 530, 540).

[0118] The first case (510), the second case (550), and the flow member (520, 530, 540) can be detachably coupled. For example, the third member (540), the second member (530), and the first member (520) can be sequentially arranged in the internal space (550a) of the second case (550). Thereafter, the first case (510) can be coupled to the second case (550) on the first member (520). While the first case (510) and the second case (550) are coupled, the flow member (520, 530, 540) can be arranged between the first case (510) and the second case (550) by the first guide protrusion (513) and the second guide protrusion (553). The second member (530) can be compressed and thus can seal the space between the first member (520) and the third member (540). The second member (530) can include a sealing member (530).

[0119] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 8 is an enlarged view of area B shown in Fig. 7. Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0120] Any descriptions that overlap with those of the aforementioned embodiments may be omitted. Components substantially identical to the aforementioned configurations are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

[0121] Compared with the nozzle assembly (500) illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 5, the nozzle assembly (500) illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 9 may include a case (510', 550') and a flow member (560). The cases (510', 550') differ only in shape from the cases (510, 550) and may perform substantially the same function. The flow member (560) is provided as a single configuration and may perform substantially the same function as the flow members (520, 530, 540). The nozzle assembly (500) may further include a decorative cover (570).

[0122] The nozzle assembly (500) may include a flow path member (560). The flow path member (560) may form an outlet flow path (500a) therein. The flow path member (560) may guide water passing through the housing (110) to the outside of the nozzle assembly (500). The flow path member (560) may include an inlet (520a) and an outlet (540a). The outlet flow path (500a) may extend from the inlet (520a) to the outlet (540a).

[0123] The euro member (560) can be accommodated inside the case (510', 550'). At least a portion of the euro member (560) can be placed between the first case (510') and the second case (550').

[0124] The flow member (560) may include a body portion (561). For example, the body portion (561) may perform substantially the same function as the first unit (521) described above. The flow member (560) may include an extension portion (562). For example, the extension portion (562) may perform substantially the same function as the second unit (522) described above. An inlet (520a) may be formed in the extension portion (562).

[0125] The body portion (561) and the extension portion (562) may form the upper portion of the flow path member (560). The body portion (561) may extend horizontally, and the extension portion (562) may extend vertically. The body portion (561) and the extension portion (562) may be connected to form a portion of an internal water outlet passage (500a). The extension portion (562) may be provided with a fixing portion (562a) fixed by a fixing member (190). The fixing portion (562a) may protrude radially from the outer surface of the extension portion (562). The fixing portion (562a) may be arranged between a plurality of fixing members (190) arranged vertically. While the nozzle assembly (500) is coupled to the head housing (130), the plurality of fixing members (190) may be arranged between the flow path member (560) and the fifth pipe (175). The user can press the nozzle assembly (500) from below toward the outlet assembly (100) so that the fixing member (562a) is positioned between a plurality of fixing members (190), thereby connecting the nozzle assembly (500) and the outlet assembly (100). The fixing member (562a) can be a mounting member.

[0126] The flow path member (560) can be inserted into the fifth pipe (175). For example, a portion (175a) of the fifth pipe (175) can be mounted on a mounting portion (131) provided at one end of the head housing (130). The flow path member (560) and the fifth pipe (175) can be coupled. For example, an extension portion (562) of the flow path member (560) can be connected to the fifth pipe (175) to allow the housing flow path (180) and the outlet flow path (500a) to communicate.

[0127] The flow member (560) may include a guide portion (563). For example, the guide portion (563) may perform substantially the same function as the aforementioned guide portion (541). The flow member (560) may include a base portion (564). For example, the base portion (564) may perform substantially the same function as the aforementioned base portion (542). The flow member (560) may include a border portion (565). For example, the border portion (565) may perform substantially the same function as the aforementioned border portion (543).

[0128] The guide portion (563) can guide water within the outlet passage (500a) toward the outlet (540a). The guide portion (563) can be spaced apart from the body portion (561) to form a part of the outlet passage (500a). The guide portion (563) can be formed to be inclined. For example, the guide portion (563) can be formed to be inclined downward from the center of the passage member (560) toward the radially outer side. For example, the guide portion (563) can rise toward the radially inner side of the passage member (560).

[0129] The guide portion (563) may be connected to the base portion (564). Water guided through the guide portion (563) may flow to the base portion (564). The base portion (564) may be spaced apart from the body portion (561) to form a portion of the water outlet passage (500a). The base portion (564) may be provided on the radially outer side of the guide portion (563). For example, the base portion (564) may be formed flat. A water outlet (540a) may be formed in the base portion (564). Water guided through the guide portion (563) may flow to the outside of the nozzle assembly (500) through the water outlet (540a) formed in the base portion (564). A plurality of water outlets (540a) may be provided. A plurality of water outlets (540a) may be formed along the periphery of the base portion (564). For example, six outlets (540a) may be provided in the base (564). However, there is no limitation on the number of outlets (540a).

[0130] The rim portion (565) may be provided on the radially outer side of the guide portion (563) and the base portion (564). The rim portion (565) may be provided to support the body portion (561). The rim portion (565) may be provided to contact the body portion (561). The rim portion (565) may be supported by the second case (550'). As will be described later, the rim portion (565) may be supported by the second guide protrusion (553') of the second case (550').

[0131] The flow member (560) may be provided as a single component. The flow member (560) may be formed of a plurality of integrally formed components. For example, the flow member (560) may be formed by welding the first component (520) and the third component (540) described above. Since the flow member (560) is provided as a single component, there is no need to disassemble or assemble the flow member (560) during maintenance of the flow member (560), and leakage can be reduced and / or prevented.

[0132] The nozzle assembly (500) may include a case (510', 550'). The case (510', 550') may accommodate a flow path member (560). The case (510', 550') may prevent the user from being injured due to an increase in the temperature of the flow path member (560) forming the water discharge path (500a) even when hot water is discharged. The case (510', 550') may be formed of a material having a low heat transfer coefficient. For example, the case (510', 550') may be injection molded.

[0133] The case (510', 550') may only partially contact the flow path member (560). For example, the flow path member (560) may be formed of a material having a high heat transfer rate, so that the case (510', 550') can minimize the area in contact with the flow path member (560), thereby minimizing the heat transfer to the case (510', 550') and minimizing the case (510', 550') from becoming hot even when hot water passes through the outlet flow path (500a).

[0134] The case (510', 550') can be detachably coupled and / or mounted to the head housing (130). While the nozzle assembly (500) is coupled to the head housing (130), the case (510', 550') can surround the cover member (140) and be positioned on the outside of the cover member (140). After a certain period of use, the case (510', 550') can be detached from the head housing (130), thereby allowing the interior of the case (510', 550') to be cleaned.

[0135] The case (510', 550') may include multiple cases (510', 550'). The multiple cases (510', 550') may include a first case (510') and a second case (550'). The first case (510') may be an upper case, a first cover, and an upper cover, and the second case (550') may be a lower case, a second cover, and a lower cover. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the cases (510', 550') may be a single case formed integrally.

[0136] For example, the internal space of the first case (510') may accommodate a cover member (140), a portion (131) of the head housing (130), a portion of the fifth pipe (175), and a portion of the flow member (560). For example, the internal space of the second case (550') may accommodate a portion of the first case (510'), a portion of the flow member (560), a portion of the head housing (130), and a portion of the cover member (140).

[0137] The first case (510') may include a first mounting protrusion (511') and a first mounting groove (512'). For example, the first mounting protrusion (511') may perform substantially the same function as the first mounting protrusion (511) described above. For example, the first mounting groove (512') may perform substantially the same function as the first mounting groove (512) described above. The first mounting protrusion (511') may protrude from the outer surface of the first case (510') toward the outside of the first case (510'). The first mounting groove (512') may be formed as the first mounting protrusion (511') protrudes from the outer surface of the first case (510'). The first mounting groove (512') may be a portion that is relatively more recessed than the first mounting protrusion (511'). The first mounting protrusion (511') may be formed in a spiral shape along the circumferential direction of the first case (510'). The first mounting groove (512') may also be formed in a spiral shape along the circumferential direction of the first case (510').

[0138] The second case (550') may include a second mounting protrusion (551') and a second mounting groove (552'). For example, the second mounting protrusion (551') may perform substantially the same function as the second mounting protrusion (551) described above. The second mounting protrusion (551') may protrude from the inner surface of the second case (550') toward the inside of the second case (550'). As the second mounting protrusion (551') protrudes from the inner surface of the second case (520'), a second mounting groove (552') may be formed. The second mounting groove (552') may be a portion that is relatively more recessed than the second mounting protrusion (551'). The second mounting protrusion (551') may be formed in a spiral shape along the circumferential direction of the second case (550'). The second mounting groove (552') may also be formed in a spiral shape along the circumference of the second case (550').

[0139] The first case (510') and the second case (550') can be detachably coupled. The first case (510') and the second case (550') can be configured to be rotationally coupled. The first case (510') and the second case (550') can be coupled to or separated from each other by the first case (510') rotating in a first direction with respect to the second case (550') and / or the second case (550') rotating in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the first case (510'). For example, as the first case (510') and the second case (550') rotate with respect to each other, the second mounting protrusion (551') of the second case (550') can be inserted into and / or mounted in the first mounting groove (512') of the first case (510'). For example, as the first case (510') and the second case (550') rotate with each other, the first mounting protrusion (511') of the first case (510') can be inserted and / or mounted into the second mounting groove (552') of the second case (550'). While the first case (510') and the second case (550') are coupled, the first mounting protrusion (511') can be accommodated in the second mounting groove (552'), and the second mounting protrusion (551') can be accommodated in the first mounting groove (512'). Since the first case (510') and the second case (550') can be separated, after a certain period of use, the nozzle assembly (500) can be separated from the outlet assembly (100), and the first case (510'), the second case (550'), the flow member (560), and the decorative cover (570) can be cleaned, respectively.

[0140] The cases (510', 550') may include a stopper (515'). The stopper (515') may prevent the first case (510') and the second case (550') from being excessively coupled to each other. The stopper (515') may limit the first case (510') and the second case (550') from rotating beyond a predetermined range. Accordingly, the cases (510', 550') may prevent the first case (510') and the second case (550') from being damaged / broken due to excessive rotation by having the stopper (515'). For example, the stopper (515') may protrude from the outer surface of the first case (510'). For example, the stopper (515') may extend along the periphery of the first case (510'). In the drawing, the stopper (515') is shown as being formed in the first case (510'), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the stopper (515') may be formed in the first case (510') and / or the second case (550').

[0141] The case (510', 550') may include a guide protrusion (513', 553'). The guide protrusion (513', 553') may guide a position where the flow member (560) is placed within the case (510', 550'). For example, the guide protrusion (513', 553') may allow at least a portion of the flow member (560) to be placed between the first case (510') and the second case (550'). The guide protrusion (513', 553') may be in contact with the flow member (560). The guide protrusion (513', 553') may be a position guide protrusion (513', 553'). For example, since the guiding member (560) can be formed of a material having a high heat transfer rate, the case (510', 550') can be brought into contact with the guiding member (560) through the guide protrusions (513', 553'), thereby minimizing the area of ​​contact between the case (510', 550') and the guiding member (560). Accordingly, even if hot water passes through the outlet guiding member (500a), heat can be transferred to the case (510', 550'), thereby minimizing the case (510', 550') from becoming hot.

[0142] For example, the first case (510') may include a first guide protrusion (513'). The first guide protrusion (513') may perform substantially the same function as the first guide protrusion (513) described above. The first guide protrusion (513') may be in contact with the flow path member (560). The first guide protrusion (513') may protrude from the inner surface of the first case (510') toward the inside of the first case (510'). For example, the first guide protrusions (513') may be provided in plurality. While the first case (510') and the second case (550') are coupled, the first guide protrusion (513') may be positioned on at least a portion of the flow path member (560). While the first case (510') and the second case (550') are combined, the first guide protrusion (513') can be placed on the body part (561). The first guide protrusion (513') can hold an upper part of the urea member (560).

[0143] For example, the second case (550') may include a second guide protrusion (553'). The second guide protrusion (553') may perform substantially the same function as the second guide protrusion (553) described above. The second guide protrusion (553') may be in contact with the flow path member (560). The second guide protrusion (553') may protrude from the inner surface of the second case (550') toward the inside of the second case (550'). For example, the second guide protrusion (553') may extend along the periphery of the second case (550'). While the first case (510') and the second case (550') are coupled, the second guide protrusion (553') may be positioned below at least a portion of the flow path member (560). While the first case (510') and the second case (550') are combined, the second guide protrusion (553') can be placed below the edge portion (565). The second guide protrusion (553') can hold a lower portion of the urea member (560).

[0144] The nozzle assembly (500) may include a decorative cover (570). The decorative cover (570) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the nozzle assembly (500). The decorative cover (570) may be provided to be exposed to the outside. The decorative cover (570) may be provided to cover the case (510', 550'). The decorative cover (570) may be provided to surround the case (510', 550'). The decorative cover (570) may be provided in a substantially hollow cylindrical shape.

[0145] The decorative cover (570) can be utilized as a design element of the nozzle assembly (500). The decorative cover (570) can have various colors and / or various materials. The user can attach the decorative cover (570) of a desired color and material to the case (510', 550'). Thus, the nozzle assembly (500) can be implemented in various designs. The decorative cover (570) can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the nozzle assembly (500).

[0146] The decorative cover (570) can be detachably coupled to the outside of the case (510', 550'). The decorative cover (570) can be supported by the case (510', 550'). For example, the first case (510') can include a first support protrusion (514'). The first support protrusion (514') can be provided to contact the upper end (571) of the decorative cover (570). The first support protrusion (514') can hold the upper end (571) of the decorative cover (570). For example, the second case (550') can include a second support protrusion (554'). The second support protrusion (554') can be provided to contact the lower end (572) of the decorative cover (570). The second support protrusion (554') can hold the lower end (572) of the decorative cover (570). As a result, the decorative cover (570) can be stably positioned between the first support protrusion (514') and the second support protrusion (554').

[0147] The decorative cover (570) may be provided to cover the case (510', 550'). When hot water is discharged, the temperature of the flow path member (560) forming the water discharge path (500a) may rise. As the temperature of the flow path member (560) rises, the temperature of the case (510', 550') that accommodates the flow path member (560) may also rise. The case (510', 550') may receive heat from the flow path member (560). The decorative cover (570) covers the case (510', 550'), thereby preventing the user from being injured due to the temperature of the case (510', 550') rising. The decorative cover (570) may prevent the user from being burned in advance. For example, the decorative cover (570) may include a material having excellent heat resistance.

[0148] The decorative cover (570) may be referred to as a decorative member, a decorative frame, a decorative ring, etc.

[0149] FIG. 10 illustrates a network of water purifiers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 10, the water purifier (1) can communicate with other home appliances (not shown), user devices (600), or servers (700).

[0151] The other appliance may be at least one of various types of home appliances. For example, the other appliance may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a refrigerator, a dishwasher, an electric range, an electric oven, an air conditioner, a washing machine, a dryer, and a microwave oven. Furthermore, the other appliance may include various types of home appliances not shown in the drawings, such as a cleaning robot, a vacuum cleaner, and a television. Furthermore, the aforementioned appliances are merely examples.

[0152] The server (700) may include a communication module capable of communicating with another server, a water purifier (1), or a user device (600), at least one processor capable of processing data received from another server, a water purifier (1), or a user device (600), and at least one memory capable of storing a program for processing data or processed data. The server (700) may be implemented as various computing devices such as a workstation, a cloud, a data drive, or a data station. The server (700) may be implemented as one or more servers that are physically or logically separated based on function, detailed configuration of function, or data, and may transmit and receive data through communication between each server and process the transmitted and received data.

[0153] The server (700) can perform functions such as managing user accounts, registering a water purifier (1) by linking it to a user account, and managing or controlling the registered water purifier (1). For example, a user can access the server (700) through a user device (600) and create a user account. The user account can be identified by an ID and password set by the user. The server (700) can register the water purifier (1) to the user account according to a set procedure. For example, the server (700) can link identification information (e.g., serial number or MAC address) of the water purifier (1) to the user account, thereby registering, managing, and controlling the water purifier (1).

[0154] The user device (600) may include a communication module capable of communicating with a water purifier (1) or a server (700), a user interface device that receives user input or outputs information to a user, at least one processor that controls the operation of the user device (600), and at least one memory that stores a program for controlling the operation of the user device (600).

[0155] The user device (600) may be carried by the user or placed in the user's home or office, etc. The user device (600) may include, but is not limited to, a personal computer, a terminal, a portable telephone, a smart phone, a handheld device, a wearable device, etc.

[0156] A program for controlling the water purifier (1), i.e., an application, may be stored in the memory of the user device (600). The application may be sold installed in the user device (600) or downloaded and installed from an external server.

[0157] A user can access a server (700) by executing an application installed on a user device (600), create a user account, and communicate with the server (700) based on the logged-in user account to register a water purifier (1).

[0158] For example, when the water purifier (1) is operated so that the water purifier (1) can be connected to the server (700) according to the procedure guided by the application installed on the user device (600), the water purifier (1) can be registered in the user account by registering the identification information (e.g., serial number or MAC address) of the water purifier (1) in the corresponding user account on the server (700).

[0159] A user can control a water purifier (1) using an application installed on a user device (600). For example, when a user logs into a user account using an application installed on a user device (600), a water purifier (1) registered to the user account appears, and when a control command for the water purifier (1) is input, the control command can be transmitted to the water purifier (1) via a server (700).

[0160] A network can include both wired and wireless networks. Wired networks include cable networks or telephone networks, while wireless networks can include any network that transmits and receives signals via radio waves. Wired and wireless networks can be interconnected.

[0161] A network may include a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, a local area network (LAN) formed around an access point (AP), and a short-range wireless network that does not use an access point (AP). A short-range wireless network is a Bluetooth TM , IEEE 802.15.1), Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), Wi-Fi Direct, Near Field Communication (NFC), Z-Wave, etc., but are not limited thereto.

[0162] An access point (AP) can connect a water purifier (1) or a user device (600) to a wide area network (WAN) to which a server (700) is connected. The water purifier (1) or a user device (600) can be connected to the server (700) via the wide area network (WAN).

[0163] Access Point (AP) is a Wi-Fi TM , IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth TM, IEEE 802.15.1), Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), etc., to communicate with the water purifier (1) or user device (600) and connect to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication, but is not limited thereto.

[0164] According to various embodiments, the water purifier (1) may be directly connected to a user device (600) or a server (700) without going through an access point (AP).

[0165] The water purifier (1) can be connected to a user device (600) or a server (700) via a long-distance wireless network or a short-distance wireless network.

[0166] For example, the water purifier (1) can be connected to a user device (600) via a short-range wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct).

[0167] As another example, the water purifier (1) can be connected to a user device (600) or a server (700) through a wide area network (WAN) using a long-distance wireless network (e.g., a cellular communication module).

[0168] As another example, the water purifier (1) can be connected to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication and connected to a user device (600) or a server (700) through the wide area network (WAN).

[0169] If the water purifier (1) can connect to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication, it can also function as a connection relay. Accordingly, the water purifier (1) can connect other home appliances to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server (700) is connected. In addition, other home appliances can connect the water purifier (1) to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server (700) is connected.

[0170] The water purifier (1) can transmit information about its operation or status to another home appliance, a user device (600), or a server (700) via a network. For example, the water purifier (1) can transmit information about its operation or status to another home appliance, a user device (600), or a server (700) when a request is received from the server (700), when a specific event occurs in the water purifier (1), or periodically or in real time. When the server (700) receives information about its operation or status from the water purifier (1), it can update the information about the operation or status of the water purifier (1) that has been stored therein, and transmit the updated information about the operation and status of the water purifier (1) to the user device (600) via a network. Here, updating information can include various operations in which existing information is changed, such as an operation of adding new information to existing information, an operation of replacing existing information with new information, etc.

[0171] The water purifier (1) can obtain various information from other home appliances, user devices (600), or servers (700), and provide the obtained information to the user. For example, the water purifier (1) can obtain information related to the function of the water purifier (1) (e.g., cold water, hot water, purified water, etc.) and various environmental information (e.g., weather, temperature, humidity, etc.) from the server (700), and output the obtained information through a user interface device.

[0172] The water purifier (1) can operate according to a control command received from another home appliance, a user device (600), or a server (700). For example, if the water purifier (1) has obtained prior approval from the user so that it can operate according to the control command of the server (700) even without user input, the water purifier (1) can operate according to the control command received from the server (700). Here, the control command received from the server (700) may include, but is not limited to, a control command input by the user through the user device (600) or a control command based on preset conditions.

[0173] The user device (600) can transmit information about the user to the water purifier (1) or the server (700) via the communication module. For example, the user device (600) can transmit information about the user's location, health status, preferences, schedule, etc. to the server (700). The user device (600) can transmit information about the user to the server (700) with the user's prior consent.

[0174] The water purifier (1), user device (600), or server (700) may determine a control command using technology such as artificial intelligence. For example, the server (700) may receive information regarding the operation or status of the water purifier (1) or information regarding the user of the user device (600), process the information using technology such as artificial intelligence, and transmit the processing result or control command to the water purifier (1) or the user device (600) based on the processing result.

[0175] FIG. 11 illustrates a control block of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0176] Referring to Fig. 11, the water purifier (1) may include a control unit (800) that performs overall control.

[0177] A temperature sensor (900), a detection unit (910), a communication unit (920), a camera (930), a user interface device (160), a heat exchanger (30), a water discharge valve (150), etc. can be electrically connected to the control unit (800).

[0178] The temperature sensor (900) can detect the temperature of hot water.

[0179] The temperature sensor (900) can detect the temperature of hot water heated by the heater of the heat exchanger (30). For example, the temperature sensor (50) can be provided as a conventional type of temperature sensor and can be provided on the downstream side of the heater based on the direction of water flow.

[0180] The temperature sensor (900) can transmit temperature information to the control unit (800). The control unit (800) can obtain the temperature of hot water based on this temperature information.

[0181] The detection unit (910) can detect that the nozzle assembly (500) is coupled to the discharge assembly (100).

[0182] The detection unit (910) can transmit a detection signal to the control unit (800) in response to the nozzle assembly (500) being coupled to the outlet assembly (100). For example, the detection unit (910) can transmit coupling detection information regarding whether the nozzle assembly (500) is coupled to the outlet assembly (100) to the control unit (800). The control unit (800) can detect or recognize the coupling of the nozzle assembly (500) and the outlet assembly (100) based on this coupling detection information.

[0183] The detection unit (910) may include a Hall sensor that detects a change in the magnetic field caused by a magnet provided in the nozzle assembly (500) when the nozzle assembly (500) is coupled to the discharge assembly (100).

[0184] In addition, the detection unit (910) may include a short-range communication module capable of wirelessly communicating with the nozzle assembly (500). 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, a UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0185] The communication unit (920) can communicate with external devices (e.g., a server (700), a user device (600), and / or a home appliance) via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0186] The communication unit (920) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0187] The communication unit (920) can transmit data to an external device (e.g., a server (700), a user device (600), and / or a home appliance) or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit (920) can establish communication with a server and / or a user device and / or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0188] To this end, the communication unit (920) may 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 (920) may 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, a corresponding communication module may 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).

[0189] 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.

[0190] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote 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.

[0191] In one embodiment, the communication unit (920) can communicate with external devices such as a server, user devices, and other home appliances via a surrounding access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the water purifier or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The water purifier or user device can be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

[0192] For convenience of explanation, the external device is described below as a server (700) and / or a user device (600).

[0193] In one embodiment, the communication unit (920) can receive a user command from an external device (600, 700). That is, the external device (600, 700) can transmit a command or information to the water purifier (1), and the water purifier (1) can receive a command or information transmitted from the external device (600, 700) through the communication unit (920).

[0194] The camera (930) can acquire an image of an object to be brewed coffee.

[0195] The camera (930) can recognize an identification code from an image of an object. The identification code may include at least one of a one-dimensional barcode, a two-dimensional QR code, a two-dimensional matrix code, a color code, a three-dimensional code, and an image code.

[0196] The camera (930) can transmit the identification code of the object to the control unit (800). The control unit (800) can obtain information on the type of brewed coffee corresponding to the identification code. The control unit (800) can determine a coffee brewing recipe based on the information on the type of brewed coffee. The control unit (800) can store the determined coffee brewing recipe in the memory (820).

[0197] The user interface device (160) may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0198] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0199] At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a function selection button (hot water, cold water, water output, etc.), etc. The at least one input interface 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.

[0200] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the water purifier to the user.

[0201] For example, at least one output interface may transmit information related to the operating time and settings of the water purifier to the user. Information related to the operation of the water purifier may be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. The at least one output interface may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0202] The heat exchanger (30) can cool purified water to produce cold water and heat purified water to produce hot water.

[0203] The water outlet valve (150) can open and close the housing passage (180). The control unit (800) may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit (800) may include at least one memory (820) that stores data in the form of an algorithm and a program for controlling the operation of components within the water purifier (1), and at least one processor (810) that performs the above-described operation using the data stored in the at least one memory (820). The memory (820) and the processor (810) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (810) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (820) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (820) and the processor (810) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0204] The control unit (800) can control the heat exchanger (30) and the water outlet valve (150). The control unit (800) can control various components of the water purifier (1) (e.g., the water outlet valve, the heat exchanger, etc.). The control unit (800) can control various components of the water purifier (1) to perform at least one operation including hot water, cold water, and / or purified water, etc., according to a user input. For example, the control unit (800) can control the heat exchanger (30) to supply hot water, or control the heat exchanger (30) to supply cold water.

[0205] The control unit (800) controls the communication unit (920) to transmit a request signal requesting a coffee brewing recipe to an external device (600, 700) based on the detection of the combination of the nozzle assembly (500) and the outlet assembly (100) by the detection unit (910), and can control the outlet assembly (100) and the heat exchanger (30) based on the coffee brewing recipe received from the external device (600, 700) through the communication unit (920).

[0206] Accordingly, the water purifier (1) according to one embodiment can control the dispensing operation according to the coffee brewing recipe desired by the user by combining the nozzle assembly (500) with the dispensing assembly (100), thereby implementing the brewing coffee extraction function without using a coffee brewing machine.

[0207] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method for a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0208] Referring to FIG. 12, the control unit (800) can request a coffee brewing recipe from an external device (600, 700) through the communication unit (920) based on the nozzle assembly (500) being coupled to the outlet assembly (100) (1000).

[0209] The control unit (800) can detect the combination of the nozzle assembly (500) and the outlet assembly (100) by the detection unit (910).

[0210] The user can couple the nozzle assembly (500) and the water outlet assembly (100) by pressing the nozzle assembly (500) from below toward the water outlet assembly (100). At this time, the detection unit (910) can transmit a detection signal to the control unit (800) when the nozzle assembly (500) is coupled to the water outlet assembly (100). The control unit (800) can detect that the nozzle assembly (500) is coupled to the water outlet assembly (100) based on the detection signal of the detection unit (910).

[0211] When the control unit (800) detects the combination of the nozzle assembly (500) and the outlet assembly (100), the control unit (800) can transmit a request signal requesting a coffee brewing recipe to the external device (600, 700) through the communication unit (920) to receive the coffee brewing recipe from the external device (600, 700).

[0212] The control unit (800) can receive a coffee brewing recipe from an external device (600, 700) via the communication unit (920) (1002). The control unit (800) can store the received coffee brewing recipe in the memory (820).

[0213] The control unit (800) can control the dispensing operation based on a coffee brewing recipe received from an external device (600, 700) via the communication unit (920) (1004).

[0214] The control unit (800) can control the amount of water discharged, the water discharge temperature, and the waiting time for each extraction step of the coffee brewing recipe received from an external device (600, 700) by controlling the heat exchanger (30) and the outlet valve (150).

[0215] FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 illustrate a function activation UI for activating a brewing coffee extraction function of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0216] In Fig. 13, an app screen (1100) connected to a server (700) connected to a water purifier (1) is shown as the app installed on the user device (600) is executed.

[0217] Referring to FIG. 13, a first function activation UI (1110) for activating the brewing coffee extraction function of the water purifier (1) is displayed on the app screen (1100).

[0218] A user can run an app installed on a user device (600) to access a server (700) that is connected to a water purifier (1) and then manipulate a first UI element (1111) related to “coffee brewing” located on a first function activation UI (1110) of an app screen (1100).

[0219] FIG. 14 shows a second function activation UI (1120) displayed on an app screen (1100) when a user selects a first UI element (1111) related to “coffee brewing” located on a first function activation UI (1110).

[0220] Referring to FIG. 14, when a user selects a first UI element (1111) of a first function activation UI (1110), a second function activation UI (1120) may be displayed on the app screen (1100).

[0221] The user can manipulate a second UI element (1121) related to “Coffee Brewing (A Barista Recipe)” located on the second function activation UI (1120).

[0222] When a user selects a second UI element (1121) of a second function activation UI (1120), the server (700) can activate the brewing coffee extraction function of the water purifier (1). Accordingly, the user can use the brewing coffee extraction function of the water purifier (1).

[0223] FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 illustrate a recipe selection UI for selecting a coffee brewing recipe of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0224] In Fig. 15, a first recipe selection UI (1130) for selecting a coffee brewing recipe for a water purifier (1) is shown on the app screen (1100).

[0225] Referring to FIG. 15, a user can select a third UI element (1131) related to “My Recipe” located on the first recipe selection UI (1130).

[0226] FIG. 16 shows a second recipe selection UI (1140) displayed on the app screen (1100) when a user selects a third UI element (1131) related to “My Recipe” located on the first recipe selection UI (1130).

[0227] Referring to FIG. 16, the second recipe selection UI (1140) may include a fourth UI element (1141), a fifth UI element (1142), a sixth UI element (1143), a seventh UI element (1144), and an eighth UI element (1145).

[0228] The fourth UI element (1141) may be a UI element related to "Barista Recipe A." For example, Barista Recipe A may be a coffee brewing recipe from a well-known Barista A. Barista Recipe A may be a coffee brewing recipe suitable for dark roast coffee beans. Dark roast coffee beans refer to strongly roasted coffee beans.

[0229] The fifth UI element (1142) may be a UI element related to "Barista B Recipe." For example, Barista B Recipe may be a coffee brewing recipe from a well-known Barista B. Barista B Recipe may be a coffee brewing recipe suitable for medium roast beans. Medium roast beans may refer to beans that are roasted more lightly than dark roast beans.

[0230] The sixth UI element (1143) may be a UI element related to "C Barista Recipe." For example, C Barista Recipe may be a coffee brewing recipe from a well-known C Barista. C Barista Recipe may be a coffee brewing recipe suitable for lightly roasted coffee beans. Lightly roasted coffee beans may refer to coffee beans that are roasted less strongly than medium roasted coffee beans.

[0231] The seventh UI element (1144) may be a UI element related to “My Recipe 1 - Mom.” For example, it may be “My Recipe 1 - Mom’s Coffee Brewing Recipe.”

[0232] The eighth UI element (1145) may be a UI element related to “My Recipe 1 - Dad.” For example, it may be “My Recipe 1 - Dad’s Coffee Brewing Recipe.”

[0233] The user can select a coffee brewing recipe corresponding to the selected UI element as the basic recipe of the water purifier (1) by selecting any one of the fourth UI element (1141), the fifth UI element (1142), the sixth UI element (1143), the seventh UI element (1144), and the eighth UI element (1145) located on the second recipe selection UI (1140).

[0234] The server (700) stores a plurality of coffee brewing recipes that are registered or selectable by the user, and the coffee brewing recipe selected by the user may be stored as the default recipe of the water purifier (1). For example, the server (700) stores coffee brewing recipes such as “Barista Recipe A,” “Barista Recipe B,” “Barista Recipe C,” “My Recipe 1 - Mom,” and “My Recipe 1 - Dad,” and “Barista Recipe A” may be stored as the default recipe of the water purifier (1).

[0235] Users can set and save their own personalized coffee brewing recipes via an app on their device (600). The user can adjust the amount of water dispensed, the temperature of the dispensed water, the waiting time, etc. for each brewing step of the personalized coffee brewing recipe. For example, the app displays a recipe creation UI for customizing a coffee brewing recipe, and the customized coffee brewing recipe can be registered via the recipe creation UI.

[0236] A user can select a specific coffee bean and register a corresponding coffee brewing recipe through an app on the user device (600).

[0237] A user can scan the identification code of a specific bean or drip bag through an app on the user device (600) to register a coffee brewing recipe optimized for the specific bean or drip bag.

[0238] A user can transmit a coffee brewing recipe selected by the user to the server (700) via an app on the user device (600).

[0239] The server (700) can transmit a coffee brewing recipe selected by the user to the water purifier (1). Accordingly, the water purifier (1) can receive the coffee brewing recipe from the server (700) and perform a water dispensing operation according to the coffee brewing recipe based on the received coffee brewing recipe.

[0240] In addition, when a request signal requesting a coffee brewing recipe is received from the water purifier (1), the server (700) can transmit the coffee brewing recipe stored as the basic recipe of the water purifier (1) to the water purifier (1). Accordingly, the water purifier (1) can receive the coffee brewing recipe from the server (700) and perform a water dispensing operation according to the coffee brewing recipe based on the received coffee brewing recipe.

[0241] FIGS. 17 to 20 illustrate a water dispensing operation UI that guides a water dispensing operation according to a coffee brewing recipe received from an external device in a user interface device of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0242] In Fig. 17, a user interface device (160) of a water purifier (1) is shown.

[0243] The user interface device (160) may include an output interface (161) and an input interface (162). The input interface (162) may include a number of operation buttons (162) for hot water, cold water, purified water, water output, etc., and a water output button (162a).

[0244] Referring to FIG. 17, when a coffee brewing recipe is received from an external device (600, 700) through a communication unit (920), the control unit (800) controls the heat exchanger (30) and the water dispensing assembly (100) based on the received coffee brewing recipe, thereby controlling the water dispensing operation according to the received coffee brewing recipe.

[0245] In addition, when a coffee brewing recipe is received from an external device (600, 700) through a communication unit (920), the control unit (800) can display a brewing operation UI (1200) to guide a brewing operation according to the received coffee brewing recipe on the output interface (161) of the user interface device (160).

[0246] For example, if the coffee brewing recipe received by the control unit (800) from the external device (600, 700) via the communication unit (920) is Barista Recipe A, the name of the coffee brewing recipe to be executed, “Barista Recipe A” (1201), can be displayed on the output interface (161).

[0247] Typically, a coffee brewing recipe includes several extraction steps, such as steeping, first extraction, second extraction, and third extraction, to extract the brewed coffee, and the corresponding extraction amount, extraction temperature, and waiting time are set for each extraction step.

[0248] Referring to FIG. 18, when the control unit (800) performs the brewing operation according to the brewing of the A barista recipe, it can display “brewing coffee brewing” (1202) related to the brewing operation according to the brewing on the output interface (161).

[0249] Steeping is the first step in brewing coffee. Steeping ensures that the water is dispensed evenly and densely. The water is dispensed in a fine, dense stream without any gaps. When initially pouring water over the coffee grounds, steeping ensures that the water is evenly distributed throughout the grounds. As the coffee particles absorb the water, the water-soluble components in the coffee are fully dissolved, facilitating smooth extraction. Steeping also removes carbon dioxide and air from the coffee. Only when the coffee is properly steeped and expanded can it truly express its unique flavor and aroma.

[0250] The steeping time is typically around 30 seconds. When water is first added to ground coffee, the coffee swells, then settles again after a certain amount of time. This is the steeping time.

[0251] The control unit (800) can control the heat exchanger (30) and the water outlet valve (150) of the water outlet assembly (100) according to the water outlet temperature, water outlet amount, and waiting time of the A barista recipe.

[0252] For example, the steaming water can be dispensed at a temperature of 90 degrees, a water output of 50 ml, and a water flow rate of 0.4 LPM (liter per minute), with a waiting time of 30 seconds.

[0253] Referring to FIG. 19, when performing a water extraction operation according to the first extraction of the A baraster recipe, “1 / 3 of the water extraction” (1203) related to the water extraction operation according to the first extraction can be displayed on the output interface (161).

[0254] The control unit (800) can control the heat exchanger (30) and the water outlet valve (150) of the water outlet assembly (100) according to the water outlet temperature, water outlet amount, and waiting time of the first extraction of the A barista recipe.

[0255] For example, the first extraction may have water extraction temperature of 92 degrees, water extraction amount of 120 ml / 0.35 LPM (liter per minute), and a waiting time of 60 seconds.

[0256] The control unit (800) can perform a water extraction operation according to the second extraction after a water extraction operation according to the first extraction.

[0257] For example, the secondary extraction may have a water temperature of 91 degrees, a water flow rate of 130 ml / 0.4 LPM, and a waiting time of 60 seconds.

[0258] Referring to FIG. 20, when the secondary extraction is completed, the control unit (800) can display “Enjoy your brew!” (1204) related to the completion of brewing coffee extraction on the output interface (161).

[0259] FIGS. 21 to 24 illustrate a recipe selection UI for selecting a coffee brewing recipe in a user interface device of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0260] In Fig. 21, a recipe selection UI (1300) for selecting a coffee brewing recipe by a user is shown on an output interface (161) of a user interface device (160).

[0261] The control unit (800) can display a recipe selection UI (1300) on the output interface (161) based on the detection of the combination of the nozzle assembly (500) and the outlet assembly (100) by the detection unit (910).

[0262] For example, the control unit (800) may display “Please select a coffee brewing recipe” (1301) related to a request for selection of a coffee brewing recipe on the output interface (161).

[0263] Figure 22 shows a recipe list (1302) of a recipe selection UI (1300).

[0264] The output interface (161) can be input by touch by the user.

[0265] When a user touches "Please select a coffee brewing recipe" (1301) of the recipe selection UI (1300), a recipe list (1302) related to a list of coffee brewing recipes stored in the memory (820) may be displayed on the output interface (161). The recipe list (1302) may include Barista Recipe A, Barista Recipe B, Barista Recipe C, etc. For example, a user may touch Barista Recipe A from the recipe list (1302) to select Barista Recipe A.

[0266] In Fig. 23, “Please add xx g of coffee beans” (1303) is displayed in the recipe selection UI (1300).

[0267] When a user selects a recipe from the recipe list (1302), the output interface (161) may display “Please add xx g of coffee beans” in relation to a request to provide an appropriate amount of coffee beans to the dripper (D).

[0268] When a user puts xx g of coffee beans into the dripper (D) and operates the dispensing button (162a), the control unit (800) controls the heat exchanger (30) and the dispensing valve (150) based on the A barista recipe selected through the recipe selection UI (1300), thereby extracting brewed coffee according to the A barista recipe.

[0269] The control unit (800) can control the heat exchanger (30) and the water outlet valve (150) based on one of the coffee brewing recipes received from the external device (600, 700) or the coffee brewing recipe selected through the recipe selection UI (1300) displayed on the user interface device (160). That is, the control unit (800) can control the water outlet operation according to the received coffee brewing recipe based on the coffee brewing recipe received from the external device (600, 700), or control the water outlet operation according to the selected coffee brewing recipe based on the coffee brewing recipe selected through the recipe selection UI (1300) displayed on the user interface device (160).

[0270] FIG. 24 illustrates a water dispensing operation UI that guides a water dispensing operation according to a selected coffee brewing recipe in a user interface of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0271] Referring to FIG. 24, the control unit (800) can perform the steaming and N-th extraction of the A baraster recipe selected through the recipe selection UI (1300).

[0272] For example, in the steeping step of Barista Recipe A, water may be dispensed at a temperature of 90 degrees, a water volume of 50 ml / 0.4 LPM, and a waiting time of 30 seconds. In the first extraction step, water may be dispensed at a temperature of 92 degrees, a water volume of 120 ml / 0.35 LPM, and a waiting time of 60 seconds. In the second extraction step, water may be dispensed at a temperature of 91 degrees, a water volume of 130 ml / 0.4 LPM, and a waiting time of 60 seconds.

[0273] In addition, by guiding the user through the brewing motion UI (1400) for each extraction step of the A barista recipe, the brewing motion according to the brewing coffee of the A barista recipe can be informed.

[0274] Users can customize their desired coffee brewing recipe through the user interface device (160). They can set the extraction temperature, extraction amount, and waiting time for each extraction step of the desired coffee brewing recipe.

[0275] To this end, the control unit (800) can display a recipe creation UI for customizing a coffee brewing recipe through the user interface device (160). The control unit (800) can store the customized coffee brewing recipe in the memory (820) through the recipe creation UI.

[0276] A user can scan the identification code of a specific bean or drip bag through the user interface device (160) to register a coffee brewing recipe optimized for the specific bean or drip bag.

[0277] The control unit (800) can obtain information on the type of brewed coffee corresponding to the identification code recognized from an image acquired through a camera (930) that captures an image of the target object. The control unit (800) can determine a coffee brewing recipe based on the information on the type of brewed coffee. The control unit (800) can store the determined coffee brewing recipe in the memory (820).

[0278] When performing a dispensing operation according to a coffee brewing recipe, coffee particles being extracted may be splashed by the water dispensing onto the coffee beans and contaminate the nozzle assembly (500) coupled to the dispensing assembly (100).

[0279] Accordingly, the number of times the nozzle assembly (500) and the outlet assembly (100) are combined is counted, and when the counted number reaches a preset number, the cleaning cycle of the nozzle assembly (500) can be notified or the nozzle assembly (500) can be cleaned.

[0280] For example, the control unit (800) can count the number of times the nozzle assembly (500) and the outlet assembly (100) are combined, and when the number of combinations reaches a preset number, the control unit (800) can notify the user of a cleaning cycle through the user interface device (160). Accordingly, the user can directly clean the nozzle assembly (500).

[0281] In addition, the control unit (800) can count the number of times the nozzle assembly (500) and the outlet assembly (100) are combined, and when the number of combinations reaches a preset number, the outlet valve (150) can be controlled so that the nozzle assembly (500) is washed. Accordingly, water can be discharged to the nozzle assembly (500) to wash it.

[0282] As described above, a water purifier (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a nozzle assembly (500) coupled to a water outlet assembly (100), and can implement a brewing coffee extraction function using the nozzle assembly (500).

[0283] FIG. 25 illustrates a control block of a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0284] Referring to FIG. 25, the water purifier (1') may include a control unit (800), a temperature sensor (900), a communication unit (920), a user interface device (160), a heat exchanger (30), a water discharge valve (150), etc.

[0285] A temperature sensor (900), a communication unit (920), a user interface device (160), a heat exchanger (30), a water outlet valve (150), etc. can be electrically connected to the control unit (800).

[0286] The temperature sensor (900) can detect the temperature of hot water.

[0287] The temperature sensor (900) can transmit temperature information to the control unit (800). The control unit (800) can obtain the temperature of hot water based on this temperature information.

[0288] The communication unit (920) can communicate with external devices (e.g., a server (700), a user device (600), and / or a home appliance) via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0289] The user interface device (160) may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0290] The heat exchanger (30) can cool purified water to produce cold water and heat purified water to produce hot water.

[0291] The outlet valve (150) can open and close the housing euro (180).

[0292] The control unit (800) can control the heat exchanger (30) and the outlet valve (150).

[0293] The control unit (800) can control the outlet valve (150) and the heat exchanger (30) of the outlet assembly (100) based on one of the coffee brewing recipes received from an external device (600, 700) via the communication unit (920) or the coffee brewing recipe selected by the user via the user interface device (160).

[0294] Accordingly, a water purifier (1') according to another embodiment can control a water dispensing operation according to a coffee brewing recipe desired by a user by combining a nozzle assembly (500) with a water dispensing assembly (100), thereby implementing a brewing coffee extraction function without using a coffee brewing machine.

[0295] Fig. 26 illustrates an example of a flowchart of a control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0296] Referring to Fig. 26, the control unit (800) can communicate with an external device (600, 700) via the communication unit (920) (2000). Accordingly, the water purifier (1') in which the nozzle assembly (500) is coupled to the water outlet assembly (100) can transmit data to the external device (600, 700) or receive data from the external device (600, 700). The nozzle assembly (500) and the water outlet assembly (100) can be coupled by the user pressurizing the nozzle assembly (500) to the water outlet assembly (100).

[0297] The control unit (800) can receive a coffee brewing recipe from an external device (600, 700) connected to the communication unit (920) (2002).

[0298] In one embodiment, the control unit (800) may transmit a request signal requesting a coffee brewing recipe to the external device (600, 700) through the communication unit (920) based on the communication connection with the external device (600, 700). In response to the request signal, the external device (600, 700) may transmit the coffee brewing recipe stored in the external device (600, 700) to the water purifier (1'). The control unit (800) may receive the coffee brewing recipe transmitted from the external device (600, 700) through the communication unit (920).

[0299] The control unit (800) can display the received coffee brewing recipe on the user interface device (160) (2004).

[0300] The control unit (800) can select a desired coffee brewing recipe from among the displayed coffee brewing recipes (2006).

[0301] The control unit (800) can control the dispensing operation based on the selected coffee brewing recipe (2008).

[0302] In one embodiment, the control unit (800) can control the amount of water extracted, waiting time, etc. for each extraction step of the selected coffee brewing recipe by controlling the heat exchanger (30) and the outlet valve (150).

[0303] FIG. 27 illustrates a function activation UI for activating a brewing coffee extraction function of a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0304] Referring to Fig. 27, as the app installed on the user device (600) is executed, an app screen (2100) connected to a server (700) that is in communication with the water purifier (1') is displayed.

[0305] On the app screen (2100), a function activation UI (2110) for activating the brewing coffee extraction function of the water purifier (1') is displayed.

[0306] A user can run an app installed on a user device (600) to access a server (700) that is connected to a water purifier (1') and communicate with the server, and then manipulate a function activation UI element (2111) related to "On" located on a function activation UI (2110) of an app screen (2100). By manipulating the function activation UI element (2111), the user can activate the brewing coffee extraction function.

[0307] The function activation UI (2110) may display recipe information for brewing coffee. This recipe information may include a coffee brewing recipe and may include coffee brewing recipe information pre-registered on the server (700). This recipe information may include basic recipe information including a basic coffee brewing recipe, as well as additional recipe information created or selected by the user.

[0308] The basic recipe information may include "Mild", "Medium", "Strong", etc. In one embodiment, "Mild", "Medium", and "Strong" may be coffee brewing recipes in which the extraction amount and waiting time for each extraction step are set differently.

[0309] Additional recipe information may include "My recipe", "Branded recipe", etc.

[0310] FIG. 28 illustrates a recipe setting UI for setting a coffee brewing recipe of a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0311] Referring to FIG. 28, the app screen (2100) may include a recipe setting UI (2120) for setting registered recipe information. When a user selects “Edit” on the app screen (2100), the recipe setting UI (2120) may be displayed on the app screen (2100).

[0312] The recipe setting UI (2120) may include a registered recipe area (2121) and a hidden recipe area (2122).

[0313] The registered recipe area (2121) can display a list of registered or set coffee brewing recipes that can be used in the water purifier (1'). The registered recipe area (2121) can display coffee brewing recipes to be displayed in the hot water of the water purifier (Recipes to be displayed by a pressing Hot). In one embodiment, this list of coffee brewing recipes can be displayed on the user interface device (160) by pressing the hot water button of the water purifier (1').

[0314] In one embodiment, the list of coffee brewing recipes displayed in the registration recipe area (2121) may include at least one of a first coffee brewing recipe associated with “Mild,” a second coffee brewing recipe associated with “Medium,” a third coffee brewing recipe associated with “Strong,” a fourth coffee brewing recipe associated with “My recipe,” and a fifth coffee brewing recipe associated with “Branded recipe.”

[0315] The hidden recipe area (2122) may display a list of hidden coffee brewing recipes. In one embodiment, there may be no hidden coffee brewing recipes.

[0316] FIG. 29 illustrates a process of hiding some of the coffee brewing recipes of a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0317] Referring to FIG. 29, some recipes in the coffee brewing recipe list in the registered recipe area (2121) can be hidden. The hidden recipes can be displayed in the hidden recipe area (2122).

[0318] In one embodiment, among the registered coffee brewing recipe list in the registered recipe area (2121), a first coffee brewing recipe associated with “Mild”, a second coffee brewing recipe associated with “Medium”, a third coffee brewing recipe associated with “Strong”, and a fifth coffee brewing recipe associated with “Branded recipe” may be hidden.

[0319] A user can hide a coffee brewing recipe he or she wishes to hide from the registered recipe area (2121) by selecting the coffee brewing recipe he or she wishes to hide from the list of registered coffee brewing recipes.

[0320] The first coffee brewing recipe associated with "Mild", the second coffee brewing recipe associated with "Medium", the third coffee brewing recipe associated with "Strong", and the fifth coffee brewing recipe associated with "Branded recipe" hidden in the registered recipe area (2121) may be displayed in the hidden recipe area (2122).

[0321] Meanwhile, some recipes from the hidden coffee brewing recipe list in the hidden recipe area (2122) can be re-registered in the registered recipe area (2121).

[0322] A user can delete a selected coffee brewing recipe from the hidden recipe area (2122) and display it again in the registered recipe area (2121) by selecting the coffee brewing recipe that he or she wants to re-register from the list of hidden coffee brewing recipes.

[0323] FIG. 30 illustrates a process of adding a brand recipe to a coffee brewing recipe of a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0324] Referring to FIG. 30, a new brand recipe can be added to the coffee brewing recipe list in the registration recipe area (2121).

[0325] The recipe setting UI (2120) may include a recipe addition UI element (2123) that can search for and add new brand recipes.

[0326] When a user selects a brand recipe he or she wishes to add by selecting the Add Recipe UI element (2123), the brand recipe selected by the user can be additionally registered in the registration recipe area (2121).

[0327] In one embodiment, when only the fourth coffee brewing recipe related to “My recipe” is registered in the registration recipe area (2121), and the user selects the “Branded recipe” of Fritz, iced, 1 cup through the recipe addition UI element (2123), the “Branded recipe” (2121a) of Fritz, iced, 1 cup can be additionally registered in the registration recipe area (2121).

[0328] Figures 31 to 33 illustrate a process of creating one's own recipe among coffee brewing recipes of a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0329] Referring to Figure 31, users can create their own recipes to enjoy various coffee flavors by setting the desired extraction amount and waiting time.

[0330] The recipe setting UI (2120) may include a custom recipe creation UI element (2124) that allows you to create your own recipe.

[0331] When a user selects a recipe creation UI element (2124), a custom recipe setting UI (2130) for creating my own recipe (Custom My recipe) may be displayed on the app screen (2100).

[0332] The My Recipe Setting UI (2130) may include a first My Recipe Setting UI element (2131), a second My Recipe Setting UI element (2132), a third My Recipe Setting UI element (2133), etc.

[0333] The first personal recipe setting UI element (2131) may be a UI element for the first extraction of brewed coffee. The first personal recipe setting UI element (2131) may be a first brewing (1) for the first extraction. ST You can set the brewing time and steep time.

[0334] The second personal recipe setting UI element (2132) may be a UI element for the secondary extraction of brewed coffee. The second personal recipe setting UI element (2132) may be a secondary brewing (2) for the secondary extraction. ND You can set the brewing time and steep time.

[0335] The third personal recipe setting UI element (2133) may be a UI element for the third extraction of brewed coffee. The third personal recipe setting UI element (2133) may be a third brewing (3) for the third extraction. RD You can set the brewing time and steep time.

[0336] Referring to Figure 32, users can create their own recipes by adding desired extraction steps.

[0337] The My Recipe Setting UI (2130) may include additional My Recipe Setting UI elements (2134).

[0338] When a user selects an additional My Recipe Setting UI element (2134), a fourth My Recipe Setting UI element (2135) may be additionally displayed in the My Recipe Setting UI (2130).

[0339] The 4th My Recipe Setting UI element (2135) may be a UI element for the 4th extraction of brewed coffee. The 4th My Recipe Setting UI element (2135) may be a 4th brewing (4) for the 4th extraction. TH You can set the brewing time and steep time.

[0340] Referring to Figure 33, the extraction amount and waiting time for each extraction step can be freely selected through the My Recipe Setting UI elements (2131 to 2133).

[0341] In one embodiment, the user selects the "1st Brewing (1)" option of the first My Recipe Setting UI element (2131).ST When "brewing" is selected, an extraction amount setting UI (2140) for setting the extraction amount may be displayed. The user can set the primary extraction amount by selecting the desired primary extraction amount in the extraction amount setting UI (2140).

[0342] In one embodiment, when a user selects "Steep time" in the second personal recipe setting UI element (2132), a Steep time setting UI (2150) for setting a Steep time may be displayed. The user can set the secondary Steep time by selecting a desired secondary Steep time in the Steep time setting UI (2150).

[0343] FIGS. 34 to 37 illustrate a recipe selection operation for selecting a coffee brewing recipe in a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0344] Referring to FIG. 34, the water purifier (1') is shown in the user interface device (160).

[0345] The user interface device (160) may include an output interface (161) and an input interface (162).

[0346] The input interface (162) may include a hot water button (163), a cold water button (164), a purified water button (165), a water output button (166), and a water output button (167).

[0347] When the control unit (800) is connected to an external device (600, 700), it can turn on a brewing mode that controls the dispensing operation according to a coffee brewing recipe. In one embodiment, when the water purifier (1') is plugged into the server (700), the water purifier (1') can activate the brewing mode.

[0348] The control unit (800) can display a recipe selection operation UI (2200) for selecting a coffee brewing recipe on the output interface (161) in response to the operation of the hot water button (163). The control unit (800) can maintain the initial state of the recipe selection operation UI (2200) in an off state until the hot water button is operated even when the brewing mode is turned on.

[0349] Referring to FIG. 35, the control unit (800) can receive a coffee brewing recipe from an external device (600, 700). The control unit (800) can display a hot water recipe of a hot water mode and a received coffee brewing recipe on the output interface (161). In one embodiment, the hot water recipe can include a first hot water recipe (2201) of 85°C, coffee, 120mL, a second hot water recipe (2202) of 40°C, lukewarm water, 120mL, and a third hot water recipe (2203) of 75°C, green tea, 120mL. In addition, the coffee brewing recipe can include a first coffee brewing recipe (2204) of one cup of medium brewing.

[0350] The control unit (800) can sequentially display hot water recipes and coffee brewing recipes on the output interface (161) whenever the hot water button (163) is operated. For example, whenever the hot water button (163) is operated, the following recipes can be sequentially displayed: "85°, coffee, 120 mL" (2201), "40°, lukewarm water, 120 mL" (2202), "75°, green tea, 120 mL" (2203), and "1 cup of regular brewing" (2204).

[0351] Referring to FIG. 36, when the user selects the first coffee brewing recipe (2204) of one cup of medium brewing, the control unit (800) displays “one cup of medium brewing” on the output interface (161), and when the user operates the dispensing button (167), the control unit performs a dispensing operation according to the first coffee brewing recipe (2204) of “one cup of medium brewing,” thereby extracting one cup of medium brewing coffee.

[0352] Referring to FIG. 37, the coffee brewing recipe may include multiple coffee brewing recipes.

[0353] If the coffee brewing recipe is a plurality of coffee brewing recipes, each coffee brewing recipe can be displayed on the output interface (161) in the coffee brewing recipe part each time the hot water button (163) is operated.

[0354] In one embodiment, if the plurality of coffee brewing recipes are one Mild brew (2205), one Medium brew (2206), one Strong brew (2207), and one My Recipe brew (2208), each time the hot water button (163) is pressed, “One Mild Brew” (2205), “One Medium Brew” (2204), “One Strong Brew” (2206), and “One My Recipe Brew” (2207) may be displayed in that order. Accordingly, the user can select the coffee brewing recipe he or she wants to execute.

[0355] FIGS. 38 to 41 illustrate a recipe selection operation for selecting a newly received coffee brewing recipe in a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0356] Referring to FIG. 38, the control unit (800) can receive a new coffee brewing recipe from an external device (600, 700).

[0357] When a new coffee brewing recipe is received, the control unit (800) can display a guidance message (2210) notifying that a new recipe has arrived on the output interface (161).

[0358] Referring to FIG. 39, the control unit (800) may display a received new coffee brewing recipe on the output interface (161) when the hot water button (163) is operated. In one embodiment, when the hot water button (163) is operated, the received new coffee brewing recipe, “1 cup of Dark Terra Rossa Iced” (2220), may be displayed on the output interface (161).

[0359] Referring to Fig. 40, if the hot water button (163) is not operated for a preset time in Fig. 38, the screen of the output interface (161) can be turned off.

[0360] Referring to Fig. 41, each time the hot water button (163) is operated, a hot water recipe and a coffee brewing recipe including a new coffee brewing recipe can be sequentially displayed on the output interface (161).

[0361] In one embodiment, if the new coffee brewing recipe is 1 cup of Dark Terrarosa Iced, each time the hot water button (163) is operated, the following sequence may be displayed: "85°, coffee, 120 mL" (2201), "40°, lukewarm water, 120 mL" (2202), "75°, green tea, 120 mL" (2203), "1 cup of regular brewing" (2204), "1 cup of Dark Terrarosa Iced" (2220).

[0362] FIG. 42 illustrates an example of a water dispensing operation according to a coffee brewing recipe in a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0363] Referring to FIG. 42, the control unit (800) can display a brewing operation UI (2230) to guide a brewing operation according to a coffee brewing recipe selected by a user on the output interface (161).

[0364] In (A) of FIG. 42, the control unit (800) can display on the UI (2230) a dispensing operation according to “1 cup of strong brewing” (2206) selected by the user.

[0365] In (B) of FIG. 42, the control unit (800) can display the progress status of the dispensing operation according to “1 cup of strong brewing” (2206). In one embodiment, the control unit (800) can display “1 cup of strong 100% brewing” (2231) when the dispensing operation has progressed 100%. The color of the letters can be changed depending on the progress status. At this time, the dispensing button (167) can blink to indicate that the dispensing operation is in progress.

[0366] In (C) of Fig. 42, when the dispensing operation is completed, the control unit (800) can display "1 cup of strong brewing" (2206). Accordingly, the user can recognize that the dispensing operation according to the coffee brewing recipe of "1 cup of strong brewing" has been completed.

[0367] FIG. 43 illustrates another example of a water dispensing operation according to a coffee brewing recipe in a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0368] In (A) of FIG. 43, the control unit (800) can display “1 cup of regular brewing” (2204) selected by the user on the dispensing operation UI (2230).

[0369] In (B) of FIG. 43, the control unit (800) can display the progress status of the dispensing operation according to "Normal brewing 1 cup" (2204). In one embodiment, the control unit (800) can display "Normal 100% 1 cup" (2232) when the dispensing operation has progressed 100%. The color of the letters can be changed depending on the progress status.

[0370] In (C) of FIG. 43, the control unit (800) may display "Be careful, the brewer kit is hot" (2233) when the dispensing operation is completed. The brewer kit may be a term including a nozzle assembly (500). Accordingly, the user may recognize that the dispensing operation according to the coffee brewing recipe of "1 cup of strong brewing" is completed. In addition, the control unit (800) may display an area (162a) including a hot water button (163), a cold water button (164), a purified water button (165), a dispensing amount button (166), and a dispensing button (167) in red. Accordingly, the user may visually recognize that the brewer kit is hot.

[0371] In (D) of FIG. 43, when the dispensing operation is completed, the control unit (800) can display "1 cup of regular brewing" (2204). Accordingly, the user can recognize that the dispensing operation according to the coffee brewing recipe of "1 cup of regular brewing" has been completed.

[0372] FIG. 44 illustrates a water quantity setting operation for setting the water quantity of a recipe in a water purifier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0373] In (A) of FIG. 44, the control unit (800) can display “1 cup of strong brewing” (2206) selected by the user on the dispensing operation UI (2230).

[0374] In (B) of FIG. 44, the user can increase the brewing amount of the recipe by manipulating the brewing amount button (166). When the user presses the brewing amount button (166), the control unit (800) can display "2 cups of strong brewing" (2234). That is, it can display an increase from 1 cup to 2 cups.

[0375] In (C) of FIG. 44, the control unit (800) can display the progress status of the dispensing operation according to "2 cups of strong brewing" (2234). In one embodiment, the control unit (800) can display "2 cups of strong brewing 100%" (2235) when the dispensing operation has progressed 100%. The color of the text can be changed depending on the progress status.

[0376] In (D) of Fig. 44, when the dispensing operation is completed, the control unit (800) can display "2 cups of strong brewing" (2236). Accordingly, the user can recognize that the dispensing operation according to the coffee brewing recipe of "2 cups of strong brewing" has been completed.

[0377] A water purifier (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a main body (10); a water outlet assembly (100) connected to the main body and discharging water supplied from the main body; and a nozzle assembly (500) detachably coupled to the water outlet assembly and including a water outlet path (500a); wherein the water outlet path comprises: a water inlet (520a) through which water flows from the water outlet assembly to the nozzle assembly; and a plurality of water outlets (540a) through which water flows from the nozzle assembly; and an area of ​​the water inlet (520a) may be larger than an area of ​​the plurality of water outlets (540a).

[0378] The above nozzle assembly may include a case (510, 550; 510', 550'); a flow path member (520, 530, 540; 560) provided within the case and defining the water outlet flow path; and a fixing member (522a; 562a) protruding from the flow path member and fixing the nozzle assembly (500) to the water outlet assembly (100).

[0379] The above-described outlet assembly comprises a housing (110); a pipe (175) provided within the housing and connected to the flow path member; and a plurality of fixing members (190) provided between the pipe and the flow path member in a radial direction of the pipe; wherein the fixing members (522a; 562a) can be arranged between the plurality of fixing members (190) based on the coupling of the nozzle assembly (500) to the outlet assembly (100).

[0380] The above nozzle assembly may further include a contact protrusion (552) that protrudes from the inner surface of the case to the euro member and contacts a side of the euro member.

[0381] The case includes a plurality of cases, and the plurality of cases include a first case (510; 510') including a mounting groove (512; 512'); a second case (550; 550') including a mounting protrusion (551; 551') accommodated in the mounting groove based on the second case being coupled to the first case; and the first case and the second case can be coupled by rotation.

[0382] The water purifier may include a heat exchanger provided in the main body and configured to cool or heat water; a communication unit configured to communicate with an external device; a user interface device; and a control unit configured to control the water dispensing assembly and the heat exchanger based on one of a coffee brewing recipe received from the external device through the communication unit or a coffee brewing recipe selected by a user through the user interface device.

[0383] The water purifier further includes a memory in which a plurality of coffee brewing recipes are stored; the user interface device further includes at least one button, and the control unit can control the user interface device to display a UI for selecting one of the plurality of coffee brewing recipes stored in the memory based on the operation of the at least one button.

[0384] The above control unit can control the user interface device to display a dispensing operation UI for guiding a dispensing operation according to the coffee brewing recipe.

[0385] A sensing unit for detecting the combination of the nozzle assembly and the outlet assembly is further included, and the control unit can receive and store the coffee brewing recipe from the external device based on the detection of the combination of the nozzle assembly and the outlet assembly by the sensing unit.

[0386] The water purifier further includes a detection unit that detects the combination of the nozzle assembly and the water outlet assembly; and a memory in which a plurality of coffee brewing recipes are stored; and the control unit can control the user interface device to display a recipe selection UI for selecting one of the plurality of coffee brewing recipes stored in the memory based on the detection of the combination of the nozzle assembly and the water outlet assembly by the detection unit.

[0387] The water purifier further includes a camera that acquires an image of an object, and the control unit acquires information on a type of brewed coffee corresponding to an identification code recognized from an image acquired through the camera, determines a coffee brewing recipe based on the information on the type of brewed coffee, and stores the determined coffee brewing recipe in a memory.

[0388] The above-mentioned outlet assembly includes a outlet valve, and the control unit can count the number of times the nozzle assembly and the outlet assembly are combined based on the number of times the nozzle assembly and the outlet assembly are combined, and control the outlet valve so that the nozzle assembly is washed based on the number of times the combination has reached a preset number.

[0389] The control unit can control the user interface device to display a washing cycle notification based on the number of combinations reaching the preset number of combinations.

[0390] A control method of a water purifier (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a heat exchanger provided in a main body and cooling or heating water, a water outlet assembly connected to the main body and discharging water supplied from the heat exchanger, and a nozzle assembly detachably coupled to the water outlet assembly and discharging water to the outside, the control method may include: receiving a coffee brewing recipe from an external device through a communication unit or selecting a coffee brewing recipe from a user through a user interface device; and controlling the water outlet assembly and the heat exchanger based on one of the received coffee brewing recipe or the selected coffee brewing recipe.

[0391] A method for controlling a water purifier, wherein the water purifier further comprises a user interface device including at least one button; and a memory in which a plurality of coffee brewing recipes are stored; wherein selecting the coffee brewing recipe comprises controlling the user interface device to display a UI for selecting one of the plurality of coffee brewing recipes stored in the memory based on the operation of the at least one button.

[0392] The control method of the water purifier may further include controlling the user interface device to display a water dispensing operation UI for guiding a water dispensing operation according to the coffee brewing recipe.

[0393] The water purifier may further include a memory in which a plurality of coffee brewing recipes are stored, and selecting the coffee brewing recipe may include: detecting a combination of the nozzle assembly and the water outlet assembly; and controlling the user interface device to display a recipe selection UI for selecting one of the plurality of coffee brewing recipes stored in the memory based on the detection of the combination of the nozzle assembly and the water outlet assembly.

[0394] The water purifier may further include a camera for acquiring an image of an object, and a control method of the water purifier may further include acquiring information on a type of brewed coffee corresponding to an identification code recognized from an image acquired through the camera; determining a coffee brewing recipe based on the information on the type of brewed coffee; and storing the determined coffee brewing recipe in the memory.

[0395] The control method of the water purifier may further include: counting the number of combinations based on the number of times the nozzle assembly and the water outlet assembly are combined; and controlling the water outlet assembly and the heat exchanger so that the nozzle assembly is washed based on the number of combinations reaching a preset number.

[0396] The above-mentioned water dispensing assembly may include a water dispensing valve, and controlling the water dispensing assembly and the heat exchanger may include controlling the water dispensing valve and the heat exchanger to control the amount of water dispensing and the waiting time for each extraction step of the coffee brewing recipe.

[0397] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a storage 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.

[0398] A device-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.

[0399] 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 storage 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 in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0400] The disclosed embodiments have been described above with reference to the attached drawings. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical spirit or essential characteristics of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting. For example, references to "brewing coffee," "brewing coffee types," "coffee brewing recipes," etc. are merely exemplary embodiments and should not be construed as being limited to coffee. Such terms should also be construed to include tea or other similar beverages using a brewing style method.

Claims

1. Main body; A water discharge assembly connected to the main body and discharging water supplied from the main body; and A nozzle assembly, which is detachably connected to the above discharge assembly and includes a discharge path; The above mentioned withdrawal amount is, an inlet through which water flows from the above outlet assembly to the above nozzle assembly; and comprising a plurality of outlets through which water flows from the nozzle assembly; A water purifier wherein the area of ​​the above inlet is larger than the area of ​​the above plurality of outlets.

2. In paragraph 1, The above nozzle assembly, case; A flow path member provided within the case and defining the outlet flow path; and A water purifier including a fixing member protruding from the above euro member and fixing the nozzle assembly to the water outlet assembly.

3. In paragraph 2, The above output assembly is, housing; A pipe provided within the housing and connected to the euro member; and Including a plurality of fixing members provided between the pipe and the urea member in the radial direction of the pipe; A water purifier in which the above-mentioned fixed member is provided between the plurality of fixed members based on the nozzle assembly being coupled to the water discharge assembly.

4. In paragraph 2, The above nozzle assembly, A water purifier further comprising a contact projection protruding from the inner surface of the case to the euro member and contacting a side of the euro member.

5. In paragraph 2, The above case includes multiple cases, The above multiple cases are, A first case including a mounting home; A second case including a mounting protrusion accommodated within the mounting groove, based on the second case being coupled to the first case; The above Euro absence is provided within the first case and the second case, A water purifier in which the first case and the second case are combined by rotation.

6. In paragraph 1, A heat exchanger provided in the above body and cooling or heating water; A communication unit that communicates with external devices; User interface device; and A water purifier comprising a control unit that controls the water dispensing assembly and the heat exchanger based on one of a coffee brewing recipe received from the external device through the communication unit or a coffee brewing recipe selected by a user through the user interface device; 7. In paragraph 6, further comprising a memory having multiple coffee brewing recipes stored therein; The user interface device further comprises at least one button, The above control unit, A water purifier that controls the user interface device to display a UI for selecting one of a plurality of coffee brewing recipes stored in the memory based on the operation of at least one button.

8. In paragraph 6, The above control unit, A water purifier that controls the user interface device to display a dispensing operation UI for guiding the dispensing operation according to the above coffee brewing recipe.

9. In paragraph 6, Further comprising a detection unit for detecting the combination of the nozzle assembly and the outlet assembly; The above control unit, A water purifier that receives and stores the coffee brewing recipe from the external device based on the detection of the combination of the nozzle assembly and the water outlet assembly by the detection unit.

10. In paragraph 6, A detection unit for detecting the combination of the nozzle assembly and the outlet assembly; and. further comprising a memory having multiple coffee brewing recipes stored therein; The above control unit, A water purifier that controls the user interface device to display a recipe selection UI for selecting one of a plurality of coffee brewing recipes stored in the memory based on detection of the combination of the nozzle assembly and the water outlet assembly by the detection unit.

11. In paragraph 6, Further comprising a camera for acquiring an image of the object, The above control unit, A water purifier that obtains information on the type of brewed coffee corresponding to an identification code recognized from an image acquired through the camera, determines a coffee brewing recipe based on the information on the type of brewed coffee, and stores the determined coffee brewing recipe in a memory.

12. In paragraph 6, The above discharge assembly includes a discharge valve, The above control unit, A water purifier that counts the number of combinations based on the number of times the nozzle assembly and the water outlet assembly are combined, and controls the water outlet valve so that the nozzle assembly is washed based on the number of combinations reaching a preset number.

13. In paragraph 12, The above control unit, A water purifier that controls the user interface device to display a washing cycle notification based on the number of combinations reaching the preset number of times.

14. A control method for a water purifier including a heat exchanger provided in a main body and cooling or heating water, a water discharge assembly connected to the main body and discharging water supplied from the heat exchanger, and a nozzle assembly detachably connected to the water discharge assembly and discharging water to the outside, Receiving a coffee brewing recipe from an external device via the communication unit or selecting a coffee brewing recipe from a user via the user interface device; A method for controlling a water purifier, comprising: controlling the outlet assembly and the heat exchanger based on one of the received coffee brewing recipes or the selected coffee brewing recipes.

15. In paragraph 14, further comprising a memory having multiple coffee brewing recipes stored therein; The user interface device further comprises at least one button, Choosing the above coffee brewing recipe is: A method for controlling a water purifier, comprising: controlling the user interface device to display a UI for selecting one of a plurality of coffee brewing recipes stored in the memory based on the manipulation of at least one button;

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