Water purifier

Abstract

The present invention relates to a water purifier. Particularly, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the provided water purifier comprising: a water purifier body; a filter part for providing purified water by filtering raw water; a flow channel for providing a passage through which the raw water and the purified water flow; a valve part including one or more valve modules selectively opened and closed in order to regulate the flow of the raw water and the purified water; a sensor part for measuring state information of water; a storage part having an inlet in through which water flows from an external water source, a drain port through which the influent water is discharged to the outside, and a sensor hole into which the sensor part can be inserted; and an external air inflow passage for providing a passage through which external air flows into the storage part, wherein the valve part includes an external air valve for selectively opening and closing the external air inflow passage, and, in a state in which at least a portion of the water purifier body is separated and the sensor part is exposed, the external air inflow passage is closed by means of the external air valve so that the air in the storage part is blocked from directly communicating with the external air.

Description

water purifier

[0001] The present invention relates to a water purifier.

[0002] Typically, a water purifier is a device that receives water from a water source, such as a tap, filters it through an internal filter, and then provides purified water to the user. Furthermore, the purified water can be provided to the user as cold water cooled to a predetermined temperature or as hot water heated to a predetermined temperature or higher by the water purifier.

[0003] Water purifier repairs and part replacements were previously performed by regular service technicians, or by technicians who visited the customer upon reporting a water purifier malfunction. However, recently, demand has been increasing for water purifiers that allow users to replace broken parts themselves, without having to resort to a service technician.

[0004] Water purifiers require the control of various components to provide purified water, and sensors may be required for this control. For example, water purifiers are configured to heat or cool purified water to provide a user-defined temperature, and thus include a temperature sensor to measure the temperature of the heated or cooled water. The water purifier can detect the temperature of hot or cold water before dispensing through the temperature sensor. As another example, water purifiers may include a water level sensor to measure the water level of the stored water to prevent overflow or shortage of purified water. As described above, with the increasing demand for self-maintenance, in order to configure more components to be self-maintaining, the sensor, one of the components requiring replacement, needs to be configured to be easily self-removable.

[0005] However, in existing water purifiers, the sensor is configured as an integral part of the tank or the flow path, or is configured to be detachable only after dismantling other components such as the flow path, which presents a problem in that the sensor is not easily detached from the water purifier. For example, the temperature sensor is screw-attached to the tank, etc., so there is an inconvenience in that the user has to detach the screw to detach the temperature sensor. In addition, since the water inside the tank or flow path may leak out when the temperature sensor is detached, there is a problem in that the water inside the tank or flow path must be drained before the sensor can be detached.

[0006] In this regard, the applicant's Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2022-0166395 "Stand-alone water purifier" (Patent Document 1) discloses a water purifier including a humidifying tank temperature sensor, a cold water temperature sensor, and a hot water temperature sensor.

[0007] In Patent Document 1, the humidifying tank temperature sensor is positioned in the humidifying tank, the cold water temperature sensor is positioned within the cold water generator, and the hot water temperature sensor is positioned within the hot water generator. However, the humidifying tank, the cold water generator, and the hot water generator are all intricately positioned with other water purifier components, such as the water filter, air passage, and heater, within the housing, making it difficult for a user to easily replace them. In other words, in a water purifier like Patent Document 1, the user must disassemble other components before they can access the temperature sensor, making it difficult to detach the temperature sensor. In other words, in the water purifier of Patent Document 1, detaching the temperature sensor requires detaching other components first. In the case of Patent Document 1, there was a problem that it was difficult for a user to easily detach and replace the temperature sensor on their own.

[0008] Meanwhile, among the various components of a water purifier, the display, which is exposed to the outside, can sometimes fail. In conventional water purifiers, the display is tightly integrated with the housing or frame, making it difficult for users to replace it themselves. In other words, if the display breaks, users are forced to use the water purifier with a broken display until a service technician arrives.

[0009] In this regard, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2019-0000065, "Water purifier with ice-making function and operating method thereof" (Patent Document 2) of the present applicant, discloses a display arranged on the front of the water purifier. Patent Document 2 discloses a configuration in which the display portion of the water purifier displays function setting-related information or power-saving function-related information. However, Patent Document 2 does not disclose that the display can be easily separated from the main body. In other words, the display of Patent Document 2 is tightly connected to the main body, which makes it difficult for a user to directly separate or replace it.

[0010] In addition, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0039019, "Coffee Extraction Water Purifier and Residual Water Removal Method Thereof" (Patent Document 3) of the present applicant, discloses a configuration for displaying information related to the operation or control of a coffee extraction water purifier. However, Patent Document 3 does not disclose that the display can be easily separated from the main body. In other words, the display of Patent Document 3 is tightly connected to the main body, making it difficult for the user to directly separate or replace it. The user has the inconvenience of having to request repair service from a service technician who visits the home at the necessary time or on a regular basis.

[0011] In addition, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2019-0036297, "IoT-based water purifier and information synchronization method thereof" (Patent Document 4) of the present applicant, discloses a configuration in which drinking information about a user is displayed through a display unit when a user terminal is recognized. However, Patent Document 4 does not disclose that the display can be easily separated from the main body. In other words, the display of Patent Document 4 is tightly connected to the main body, making it difficult for the user to directly separate or replace it for repairs.

[0012] Meanwhile, the front of the water purifier is the part most easily accessible to users, so it has been common for water purifiers to place filters that require periodic replacement in the front area. However, because the display is placed on the front, there is a problem in that replaceable flow modules or valve modules for easy self-maintenance cannot be placed on the front of the water purifier. Furthermore, these replaceable flow modules or valve modules are often placed near the water outlet where the flow is concentrated, and because the display is placed near the water outlet, there was a problem in that the placement of the flow modules or valve modules became more difficult.

[0013] (Prior art literature)

[0014] (Patent Document)

[0015] (Patent Document 1) Korean Patent Registration No. 10-2022-0166395 (Published on December 19, 2022)

[0016] (Patent Document 2) Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2019-0000065 (Published on January 2, 2023)

[0017] (Patent Document 3) Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2016-0039019 (Published on April 8, 2016)

[0018] (Patent Document 4) Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2019-0036297 (Published on April 4, 2019)

[0019] Embodiments of the present invention have been invented against the background described above, and are intended to provide a water purifier including a sensor that can be more easily replaced by a user, and a display unit on the front of the main body that can be more easily replaced so that a user can replace parts inside the water purifier by himself.

[0020] A water purifier according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a water purifier main body; a filter part that filters raw water to provide purified water; a flow channel that provides a passage through which raw water and purified water flow; a valve part including one or more valve modules that are selectively opened and closed to control the flow of raw water and purified water; a sensor part that measures water condition information; a storage part having an inlet for introducing water from an external water source, a drain part for discharging the introduced water to the outside, and a sensor hole into which the sensor part can be inserted; and an outside air inlet passage that provides a passage through which outside air is introduced to the storage part, wherein the valve part includes an outside air valve that selectively opens and closes the outside air inlet passage, and the storage part is such that the outside air inlet passage is closed by the outside air valve when at least a portion of the water purifier main body is separated and the sensor part is exposed, thereby blocking internal air from directly communicating with external air.

[0021] In addition, it further includes a body cover part that covers at least one of the filter part, the flow channel, and the valve part, and the sensor part can be detachably supported by the body cover part.

[0022] In addition, the water purifier further includes a display unit that displays at least one of the type of water discharged to the outside, the amount of water discharged, and the temperature of the water, and is detachably supported on the water purifier main body; a separation detection sensor that detects at least one of the separation of the display unit from the water purifier main body and the separation of the water purifier main body; and a controller that controls the opening and closing of the valve unit, wherein the controller can block the inflow of outside air into the storage unit through the outside air inlet passage by closing the outside air valve when the separation of the display unit from the water purifier main body or the separation of the water purifier main body is detected by the separation detection sensor.

[0023] In addition, the sensor unit includes a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of water; and a sensor holder for supporting the temperature sensor, and a hook for a user to hang a finger on the sensor holder may be formed.

[0024] In addition, the storage unit has an inlet for introducing water from an external water source and a drain for discharging the introduced water to the outside, and a sensor hole formed in which the sensor unit can be inserted; and a sensor packing disposed in the sensor hole, wherein the sensor unit is inserted into the sensor hole to detect the temperature of water in the storage unit when supported by the body cover unit, and the sensor packing can limit the water in the storage unit from being discharged to the sensor hole when the sensor unit is separated from the body cover unit.

[0025] In addition, the body cover part further includes a body cover fixing part fixed to the water purifier main body; a body cover opening part configured to be rotatable with respect to the body cover fixing part; and a lever for selectively preventing the sensor part from being separated from the body cover fixing part, and a sensor body, which is a space for accommodating at least a part of the sensor part when the sensor part is supported, can be formed in the body cover fixing part.

[0026] Additionally, the lever can prevent the sensor unit from being separated from the body cover fixing unit when positioned in an up-down direction.

[0027] In addition, the valve unit further includes an inlet valve that selectively opens and closes the inlet port and an outlet valve that selectively opens and closes the drain port, and the storage unit may allow the outside air to be communicated with the outside air by opening the outside air inlet passage by the outside air valve when the inlet valve or the outlet valve is open.

[0028] In addition, the device may further include a display unit that displays at least one of the type of water discharged to the outside, the amount of water discharged, and the temperature of the water, and is detachably supported by the main body.

[0029] In addition, the display unit further includes a screw for fixing the display unit to the main body, a main body catch portion is formed on the main body, a display catch portion that engages with the main body catch portion is formed on the display unit, and the screw can be fastened to fix the display unit to the main body in a state where the display catch portion engages with the main body catch portion.

[0030] In addition, it further includes a controller that controls at least one of the valve unit and the display unit; and a body cover unit that is disposed inside the display unit and covers the flow channel, at least one of the valve unit and the controller, and the body cover unit can be exposed to the outside when the display unit is separated.

[0031] In addition, the body cover may include a body cover fixing portion fixed to the main body; and a body cover opening portion arranged inside the display portion and configured to be rotatable relative to the body cover fixing portion so as to expose at least one of the flow channel, the valve portion, and the controller to the outside.

[0032] In addition, the display unit includes a display panel that displays at least one of the type of water discharged to the outside, the amount of water discharged, and the temperature of the water; and a display housing that covers the display panel; and the controller includes a main controller that is disposed within the main body and controls the valve unit to control the flow of raw water and purified water within the flow channel; and a display controller that is disposed within the display housing and controls the display panel, and the display housing can cover the display panel and the display controller so that they are not exposed to the outside when the display unit is separated from the main body.

[0033] Additionally, a molding part may be provided on the inner surface of the display housing to prevent water from entering the display panel when the display part is separated from the main body.

[0034] In addition, the controller includes a main controller disposed within the main body and controlling the valve unit to control the flow of raw water and purified water within the flow channel; and a control port connected to the main controller and configured to electrically connect the main controller to the outside, wherein the control port can be extracted to the outside through the space in which the body cover opening is opened when the body cover opening is opened.

[0035] In embodiments of the present invention, when a portion of the housing of the water purifier body in which the display portion is formed is separated, the body cover is exposed, and the sensor portion is detachably supported by the body cover, so that the user can easily replace the sensor portion by separating a portion of the housing.

[0036] In addition, embodiments of the present invention have a sensor holder formed in the sensor portion, which allows the user to more easily separate the sensor portion from the body cover.

[0037] In addition, embodiments of the present invention have the effect of preventing water leakage when the sensor is separated from the storage unit by providing the storage unit in a sealed form.

[0038] In addition, embodiments of the present invention have the effect of preventing water leakage by providing a sensor packing and blocking the sensor hole by the sensor packing when the sensor is separated from the storage unit.

[0039] In addition, embodiments of the present invention have the effect of allowing the sensor unit to be switched between a fixed state and a detachable state to the body cover by including a lever.

[0040] In addition, embodiments of the present invention have the effect that the display unit is detachably supported on the main body, so that the display unit can be easily detached by the user.

[0041] In addition, embodiments of the present invention have the effect of providing a display unit disposed in front of the water purifier in a detachable manner, and when the display unit is detached, replaceable parts such as a replaceable flow channel or a replaceable valve module are disposed so as to be exposed to the outside, so that a user can easily access the replaceable parts.

[0042] In addition, embodiments of the present invention have the effect that the display unit can be easily fastened to the main body when the main body hook formed on the main body and the display unit hook formed on the display unit are interlocked.

[0043] In addition, embodiments of the present invention have the effect of being able to completely fasten the display unit to the main body using screws so that the display unit does not separate while being temporarily fastened to the main body.

[0044] In addition, embodiments of the present invention have a body cover provided when the display unit is opened, and the body cover includes a body cover opening portion, so that a user can easily replace parts that need to be replaced inside the main body by opening the body cover opening portion.

[0045] In addition, embodiments of the present invention have the effect that the display controller controlling the display unit is placed within the display housing so that it can be easily replaced or repaired by the user, and the control port connected to the main controller can be easily exposed to the user by being pulled out when the body cover opening is opened.

[0046] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of Figure 1.

[0048] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of Ⅰ-Ⅰ of Figure 1.

[0049] Figure 4 shows the display unit separated from Figure 1.

[0050] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of II-II of Figure 1.

[0051] Figure 6 is an enlarged perspective view of A in Figure 5.

[0052] Figure 7 is a right side view of Figure 6.

[0053] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of B in Figure 2.

[0054] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of Ⅲ-Ⅲ of Figure 1.

[0055] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of Ⅳ-Ⅳ of Figure 1.

[0056] Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the sensor unit separated from the body cover.

[0057] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a display unit and a front part of a main body according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 13 is an enlarged perspective view of the main body hanging part after the display part has been separated.

[0059] Figure 14 is an enlarged view of C in Figure 12.

[0060] Figure 15 is an enlarged view of D in Figure 12.

[0061] Fig. 16 is a rear perspective view of Fig. 15.

[0062] Figure 17 is a perspective view showing that the body cover opening can rotate.

[0063] Fig. 18 is a front view of a body cover opening in an open state according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a display unit separated according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Hereinafter, specific embodiments for implementing the technical idea of ​​the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0066] In addition, when explaining the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function may obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description is omitted.

[0067] Additionally, when it is said that a component is 'connected' or 'supported' by another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or supported by that other component, but there may also be other components in between.

[0068] The terminology used herein is intended solely to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0069] Additionally, please note that the terms "upper side," "lower side," and "side" in this specification are based on the illustrations in the drawings and may be expressed differently if the orientation of the subject changes. For the same reason, some components in the attached drawings are exaggerated, omitted, or schematically depicted, and the sizes of each component do not fully reflect the actual size.

[0070] Additionally, terms that include ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but these components are not limited by such terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0071] The term "comprising" as used in the specification means specifying a particular characteristic, region, integer, step, operation, element and / or component, but does not exclude the presence or addition of other particular characteristics, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups.

[0072] Hereinafter, a specific configuration of a water purifier (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14. A water purifier (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention can filter raw water and provide purified water to a user. Raw water is water that has not passed through a filter among the water that has flowed into the water purifier (1), and purified water is water that has been filtered through a water purification device. The water purifier (1) may include a water purifier main body (100), a filter unit (200), a flow channel (300), a valve unit (400), a display unit (500), a body cover unit (600), a sensor unit (700), a storage unit (800), a sensor packing (900), an outside air inlet passage (1000), a separation detection sensor (1100), a controller (1200), and a screw (1300).

[0073] The water purifier main body (100) can support or cover one or more of the filter unit (200), the flow channel (300), and the valve unit (400). The water purifier main body (100) can include a frame and a housing. At least a portion of the water purifier main body (100) can be opened or separated. In this case, the filter unit (200), the flow channel (300), the valve unit (400), the body cover unit (600), the sensor unit (700), and the storage unit (800) can be exposed to the outside. The main body (100) can be provided with a main body hook unit (101) and a screw coupling unit (102).

[0074] Hereinafter, the main body catch portion (101) will be described again with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14. The main body catch portion (101) may be formed to temporarily fasten the display portion (300) to the main body (100). The main body catch portion (101) may include a first main body catch portion (101a) and a second main body catch portion (101b).

[0075] The first body hook (101a) can support the first display hook (501a) to be described later. The first body hook (101a) can be formed in multiple pieces on the upper side of the front of the body (100). The first body hook (101a) can have a protrusion shape such as a hook that can be hooked onto the first display hook (501a). However, this is merely an example, and the first body hook (101a) can have a groove shape, and the first body hook (101a) having a groove shape can also be hooked onto the first display hook (501a) having a protrusion shape.

[0076] The second body hook (101b) can support the second display hook (501b) to be described later. The second body hook (101b) can be provided in multiple pieces on the side of the front body cover (600) of the body (100). For example, the second body hook (101b) can be provided on the side of the body cover opening (620) and the side of the body cover fixing (610). The second body hook (101b) can have a hole shape to which the second display hook (501b) can be fastened. However, this is merely an example, and the second body hook (101b) can have a cylindrical shape, and the second body hook (101b) having the cylindrical shape can be hooked to the second display hook (501b) having the hole shape.

[0077] A screw (1300) may be fastened to the screw-joint portion (102). When the screw (1300) is fastened to the screw-joint portion (102), the display portion (500) and the water purifier main body (100) are screw-joined to be more tightly coupled, and their relative movement with respect to each other may be limited. The screw-joint portion (102) may be formed on the upper portion of the water purifier main body (100). A threaded portion to which the screw (1300) may be fastened may be formed on the screw-joint portion (102).

[0078] The filter unit (200) can filter raw water to provide purified water. Water filtered by the filter unit (200) is defined as purified water, and water that has not passed through the filter unit (200) can be defined as raw water. The filter unit (200) can be replaced when its purification efficiency decreases due to long-term use. The filter unit (200) can be placed, for example, below the valve unit (400).

[0079] The flow channel (300) can provide a passage through which at least one of raw water and purified water flows. The raw water can move to the filter unit (200) through the flow channel (300) and be filtered in the filter unit (200) so that purified water can be discharged to the flow channel (300). In addition, the flow channel (300) can provide a passage through which purified water flows between the storage unit (800) and the filter unit (200). A plurality of flow channels (300) can be provided, and at least some ends of the plurality of flow channels (300) can be connected to the valve unit (400) and the filter unit (200).

[0080] The valve unit (400) can be selectively opened and closed to control the flow of one or more of raw water and purified water in the flow channel (300). The valve unit (400) can include one or more valves. The valve unit (400) can be connected to the flow channel (300) and can be opened and closed. The raw water or purified water in the flow channel (300) can flow or be stopped by the valve unit (400). The valve unit (400) can include an external valve (410) and an outlet valve (420).

[0081] The outside air valve (410) can be opened and closed to allow air to enter and exit the storage unit (800). The outside air valve (410) can control the entry and exit of air into the storage unit (800) by selectively opening and closing the outside air inlet passage (1000). When the outside air valve (410) is opened, air is allowed to flow inside the storage unit (800), and when air is introduced into the storage unit (800), water inside the storage unit (800) can be smoothly discharged to the outside. When the outside air valve (410) is closed, even if the water discharge valve (420) is opened, the pressure inside the storage unit (800) is provided below atmospheric pressure, so water inside the storage unit (800) may not be discharged to the outside due to the negative pressure of the air inside the storage unit (800).

[0082] The outlet valve (420) can be selectively opened and closed to control the flow of at least one of raw water and purified water. The outlet valve (420) can control the discharge of water from the storage unit (800) by selectively opening and closing the drain of the storage unit (800). When the user presses the purified water extraction button of the display unit (500), the external air valve (410) allows air to flow inside the storage unit (800), so that the water inside the storage unit (800) is discharged outside the storage unit (800), and the outlet valve (420) also opens so that purified water can be discharged to the user.

[0083] Although not shown, the valve unit (400) may include various valves for controlling the flow of water in addition to the external air valve (410) and the outlet valve (420). For example, the valve unit (400) may further include an inlet valve (not shown) for introducing purified water into the storage unit (800). The inlet valve (not shown) can control the introduction of water into the storage unit (800) by selectively opening and closing the inlet of the storage unit (800). When purified water needs to be discharged to the user and water needs to be supplied to the inside of the storage unit (800), the inlet valve (not shown) can be opened. In this case, the external air valve (410) allows air inside the storage unit (800) to flow to the outside, so that water can smoothly be introduced into the inside of the storage unit (800).

[0084] The display unit (500) can display one or more pieces of information about water. For example, the display unit (500) can display one or more of the type of water discharged to the outside, the amount of water discharged, and the temperature of the water. As a more detailed example, the display unit (500) can electronically display whether there is an error, whether the filter needs to be replaced, the temperature of the purified water, and the type of purified water discharged. The display unit (500) can be formed integrally with a button, a touch panel, a dial, etc. to further perform a user input function. The display unit (500) can be formed integrally with the frontmost side of the water purifier main body (100) and can be detachably supported on the water purifier main body (100). In other words, the display unit (500) can be placed in a detachable state in which a user can manually detach it from the water purifier main body (100) including the housing, or in a fixed state in which it is fixed to the water purifier main body (100). The display unit (500) may be separated forward or upward from the water purifier main body (100). In addition, the display unit (500) may be arranged at the frontmost side of the water purifier main body (100). An edge (including at least one of the upper, lower, left, and right edges) of the display unit (500) may be in contact with an edge of the housing of the water purifier main body (100). A display catch (501) may be formed in the display unit (500), and the display unit (500) may include a display panel (510) and a display housing (520).

[0085] The display catch (501) can be engaged with the main body catch (101). The display catch (501) can include a first display catch (501a) and a second display catch (501b).

[0086] Hereinafter, the display catch (501) will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. Referring again to FIG. 6, the first display catch (501a) can be engaged with the first body catch (101a). The first display catch (501a) can be provided in multiple pieces on the upper side of the display unit (500). The first display catch (501a) can have, for example, a groove shape. However, this is merely an example, and the first display catch (501a) can have a protrusion shape, and the first display catch (501a) having a protrusion shape can be engaged with the first body catch (101a) having a protrusion shape. When the display catch (501) is pressed from the front to the rear, it can move relatively to the water purifier main body (100) and engage with the body catch (101). When the display catch (501) is pulled forward by the user, it moves relative to the water purifier main body (100) so that the engagement with the main body catch (101) can be released.

[0087] The second display catch (501b) can be engaged with the second body catch (101b). The second display catch (501b) can be provided in multiple pieces on the side of the display unit (500). For example, the second display catch (501b) can be provided in multiple pieces on the upper side of the display unit (500) and the lower side of the display unit (500). The front-back length of the groove of the second display catch (501b) can be less than or equal to the front-back length of the groove formed in the second body catch (101b).

[0088] The display panel (510) can display one or more pieces of information about water. For example, the display panel (510) can display one or more of the type of water discharged to the outside, the amount of water discharged, and the temperature of the water. As a more detailed example, the display panel (510) can electronically display the presence or absence of an error, the need for filter replacement, the temperature of the purified water, and the type of purified water discharged. The display panel (510) can be provided with a groove and connected to the display housing (520).

[0089] The display housing (520) can cover the display panel (510). The display housing (520) can cover the display panel (510) and the display controller (1220) so that they are not exposed to the outside when the display unit (500) is separated from the water purifier main body (100). The display housing (520) can be arranged, for example, behind the display panel (510) and between the display unit (500) and the body cover unit (600). The display controller (1220), which will be described later, can be arranged in the display housing (520). In addition, a molding part can be provided on the inner surface of the display housing (520) to prevent water from entering the display panel (510) when the display panel (510) is separated from the water purifier main body (100) by a user. In other words, a molding part may be provided between the display housing (520) and the display panel (510). A protrusion may be formed on the display housing (520) to which the display panel (510) may be coupled. However, this is merely an example, and the display housing (520) may have a groove shape, and a display panel (510) having a protrusion shape may be coupled to a display housing (520) having a groove shape.

[0090] Referring back to FIG. 5, the body cover part (600) may cover one or more of the filter part (200), the flow channel (300), and the valve part (400). The body cover part (600) may be positioned inside the water purifier main body (100) or the display part (500). The body cover part (600) may be exposed to the outside when a portion of the housing of the water purifier main body (100) in which the display part (500) is formed is separated. The body cover part (600) may be formed integrally with the water purifier main body (100), or may be formed separately from the water purifier main body (100) and configured to be detachable. The body cover part (600) may include a body cover fixing part (610), a body cover opening part (620), and a lever (630).

[0091] The body cover fixing part (610) can be fixed to the water purifier main body (100) and support the sensor part (700). The body cover fixing part (610) can be located on the lower side of the body cover opening part (620). The body cover fixing part (610) can be located on the upper side of the cock. A body for a sensor (611) can be formed on the body cover fixing part (610).

[0092] The sensor body (611) can provide a space for accommodating at least a portion of the sensor unit (700) when the sensor unit (700) is supported by the body cover fixing member (610). When viewed in the direction in which the sensor unit (700) is inserted, the left-right width of the sensor body (611) can be greater than the left-right width of the sensor unit (700) when the sensor unit (700) is inserted. The sensor body (611) can be formed on the right side of the body cover fixing member (610).

[0093] The body cover opening (620) can be selectively opened to expose one or more of the filter unit (200), the flow channel (300), the valve unit (400), and the storage unit (800) arranged inside the body cover opening (620) to the outside. The body cover opening (620) can be configured to be rotatable with respect to the body cover fixing unit (610). In addition, the body cover opening (620) can be located on the upper side of the body cover fixing unit (610). The body cover opening (620) can be arranged inside the display unit (500).

[0094] The lever (630) can selectively prevent the sensor unit (700) from being separated from the body cover fixing unit (610). The lever (630) can be configured to be rotatable with respect to the body cover fixing unit (610). For example, when the lever (630) is rotated to one side, the lever (630) can interfere with the sensor unit (700) and prevent the sensor unit (700) from being separated from the body cover fixing unit (610), and when the lever (630) is rotated to the other side, the lever (630) can allow the sensor unit (700) to be separated from the body cover fixing unit (610) without interfering with the sensor unit (700). As a more detailed example, the lever (630) can be oriented in a vertical direction when rotated to one side, and can be oriented in a horizontal direction when rotated to the other side. The lever (630) can have an oval shape close to a rectangle when viewed from the front.

[0095] Referring back to FIGS. 6 to 10, the sensor unit (700) can measure various status information within the storage unit (800). For example, the sensor unit (700) can measure the temperature of water stored in the storage unit (800), but is not limited thereto, and can measure at least one of various water states such as water level and concentration. The sensor unit (700) can be detachably supported on the body cover unit (600). The sensor unit (700) can be inserted by moving in a direction perpendicular to the body cover unit (600). When the sensor unit (700) is supported on the body cover unit (600), it can be inserted into a sensor hole (801) to be described later to detect the temperature of water within the storage unit (800). The sensor unit (700) can include a sensor holder (710) and a sensor (720).

[0096] The sensor holder (710) can support the sensor (720). The sensor holder (710) can be positioned in front of the sensor (720) when the sensor unit (700) is inserted into the sensor hole (801). The sensor holder (710) can be formed to be long in the direction in which the sensor unit (700) is inserted. A hook (711) can be formed on the sensor holder (710).

[0097] A user can hook a finger on the hook (711). The user can hook a hand on the hook (711) and pull it forward to separate the sensor unit (700) from the sensor hole (801). The hook (711) can be formed on the front of the sensor holder (710).

[0098] The sensor (720) can measure water condition information. For example, the sensor (720) may be a temperature sensor that measures water temperature. The sensor (720) may be positioned behind the sensor holder (710). One side of the sensor (720) may be coupled to the sensor holder (710), and the other side of the sensor (720) may be inserted through the sensor hole (801) so as to be positioned inside the storage unit (800). The sensor (720) may have a shape that extends in the direction in which it is inserted.

[0099] The storage unit (800) can receive water from the outside and store it inside. The storage unit (800) can have an inlet for receiving water from an external water source and a drain for discharging the received water to the outside. A sensor hole (801) into which a sensor unit (700) can be inserted can be formed in the storage unit (800). In addition, an inlet hole for receiving water and a drain hole for discharging water can be formed in the storage unit (800). In addition, when the storage unit (800) is configured to accommodate a cooler (C) inside, a cooler hole for the cooler (C) to pass through can be formed in the storage unit (800).

[0100] This storage unit (800) may be provided in a sealed form. In other words, in the sealed storage unit (800), the internal space may be blocked from communicating with the external space without passing through the inlet, drain, or external air valve (410). When the external air valve (410) and the outlet valve (420) are closed, the pressure inside the storage unit (800) is equal to or lower than the atmospheric pressure, so that even when the sensor unit (700) is separated from the storage unit (800), the water contained inside the storage unit (800) may not leak to the outside. When the inlet valve (not shown) or the outlet valve (420) of the storage unit (800) is open, the external air inlet passage (1000), which will be described later, may be opened by the external air valve (410), allowing the internal air to communicate with the external air.

[0101] The sensor hole (801) may be a space within the storage unit (800) into which the sensor unit (700) is inserted. The sensor hole (801) may be formed at the bottom of the storage unit (800). The diameter of the sensor hole (801) may be larger than the diameter of the temperature sensor (720). The sensor hole (801) may be formed to be long in the front-back direction. The sensor hole (801) may be positioned lower than at least one of the inlet hole, the outlet hole, and the cooler hole.

[0102] The sensor packing (900) can be packed to more effectively prevent water contained in the storage unit (800) from leaking through the sensor hole (801) when the sensor unit (700) is separated from the storage unit (800). The sensor packing (900) can restrict water in the storage unit (800) from being discharged to the sensor hole (801) when the sensor unit (700) is separated from the body cover unit (600), and can be elastically deformed so that the sensor (720) can be inserted and penetrated when the sensor unit (700) is inserted into the body cover unit (600). For example, the sensor packing (900) can be made of rubber. The sensor packing (900) can be a donut-shaped cylinder. The sensor packing (900) may be positioned closer to the sensor holder (710) than the end of the sensor (720) in the insertion direction when the sensor portion (700) is coupled to the sensor hole (801). In addition, the sensor packing (900) may seal the fine gap between the sensor hole (801) and the sensor (720), thereby preventing the risk of water leakage through the sensor hole (801).

[0103] As described above, since the storage unit (800) is provided in a sealed form, the sensor packing (900) may be omitted. In other words, even if the sensor packing (900) is not provided, air does not flow into the interior of the storage unit (800) when the external air valve (410) and the water outlet valve (420) are closed, so the pressure inside the storage unit (800) is equal to or less than the atmospheric pressure, so that even if the sensor unit (700) is separated, water inside the storage unit (800) may not leak to the outside.

[0104] The outside air inlet passage (1000) can provide a space for introducing outside air into the storage unit (800). The opening and closing of the outside air inlet passage (1000) can be controlled by the outside air valve (410). When the outside air inlet passage (1000) is opened by the outside air valve (410), outside air is supplied to the storage unit (800), and when the outside air inlet passage (1000) is closed by the outside air valve (410), the supply of outside air to the storage unit (800) can be blocked. The outside air inlet passage (1000) can include an air inlet hole (1010) formed in the storage unit (800) and an air inlet passage (1020) communicating with the air inlet hole (1010).

[0105] The separation detection sensor (1100) can detect at least one of the separation of the display unit (500) from the water purifier main body (100) and the separation of the water purifier main body (100). When the separation detection sensor (1100) detects at least one of the separation of the display unit (500) from the water purifier main body (100) and the separation of the water purifier main body (100), the outside air valve (410) can block the outside air inflow passage (1000) to prevent outside air from flowing into the storage unit (800).

[0106] The controller (1200) can control the opening and closing of the valve unit (400). When raw water or purified water needs to be discharged, the controller (1200) can open the outside air valve (410) and the discharge valve (420) to allow the raw water or purified water to flow out of the storage unit (800). When the separation detection sensor (1100) detects at least one of separation of the display unit (500) from the water purifier main body (100) and separation of the water purifier main body (100), the controller (1200) can block the inflow of outside air into the outside air inflow passage (1000) by closing the outside air valve (410). The controller (1200) can be implemented by a computing device including a microprocessor, and the implementation method is obvious to those skilled in the art, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted. The controller (1200) may include a main controller (1210) and a display controller (1220).

[0107] The main controller (1210) is positioned within the water purifier body (100) and can control the valve unit to control the flow of raw water and purified water within the flow channel. The main controller (1210) can include a control port (1211).

[0108] The control port (1211) is connected to the main controller (1210) to electrically connect the main controller (1210) to the outside. The control port (1211) can be pulled out to the outside through the space where the body cover opening (620) is opened when the body cover opening (620) is opened. In other words, the control port (1211) can be pulled out by the user when the body cover opening (620) is opened. If the user determines that there is a problem with the main controller (1210), the user can pull out the control port (1211) to easily repair it.

[0109] The display controller (1220) is placed inside the display housing (520) and can control the display panel (510). The display controller (1220) can control the content displayed on the display panel (510). The display unit (500) can be easily detached by the user, and when the display unit (500) is detached, the display housing (520) can be easily exposed to the user. Therefore, the display controller (1220) can be easily repaired or replaced by the user without the user having to disassemble the water purifier main body (100).

[0110] The screw (1300) may be a means for completely fastening the display unit (500) to the water purifier main body (100). In other words, the screw (1300) may be fastened so as to fix the display unit (500) to the water purifier main body (100) while the display catch (501) is engaged with the main body catch (101).

[0111] Hereinafter, referring again to FIG. 11, the operation and effect of a water purifier (1) having a sensor unit (700) having the configuration described above will be described.

[0112] The water purifier (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention has an effect in which the sensor unit (700) can be easily attached and detached by the user for easy self-management. The user can detach the sensor unit (700) coupled to the sensor body (611) formed on the body cover fixing unit (610) after detaching the display unit (500). When the hook (711) formed on the front of the sensor unit (700) is grabbed and pulled forward, the sensor unit (700) can be detached from the storage unit (800). After detaching the sensor unit (700), the user can replace the sensor (720) positioned on the rear side of the sensor unit (700) if necessary.

[0113] In addition, in the water purifier (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention, the sensor unit (700) can be easily coupled to the storage unit (800) by the user. The user can open the display unit (500) and bring the sensor unit (700) closer in a direction perpendicular to the display unit (500). Thereafter, the sensor unit (700) can be coupled to the sensor body (611) formed on the body cover fixing unit (610). The sensor (720) of the coupled sensor unit (700) can be inserted into the storage unit (800) to measure factors such as water temperature. Even when the sensor unit (700) is separated from the body cover unit (600) for replacement, water does not leak through the sensor hole (801) of the storage unit (800). This is because the storage unit (800) is provided in a sealed form, so that the pressure inside the storage unit (800) is lower than the atmospheric pressure when the user does not inject air into the storage unit (800). In addition, the sensor packing (900) can block the sensor hole (801) to prevent water from leaking inside the storage unit (800). When the user presses the water discharge button on the display unit (500), air is injected into the storage unit (800) from the external valve (410) to create an appropriate pressure state required for water discharge, so that water can be discharged outside the storage unit (800).

[0114] Hereinafter, the operation and effect of the display unit (500) having the configuration described above will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19. The display unit (500) can be coupled to or separated from the water purifier main body (100) by the user. The process of coupling the display unit (500) to the water purifier main body (100) will be described below. The display unit (500) can be temporarily coupled to the water purifier main body (100) in such a way that the display engaging portion (501) engages with the main body engaging portion (101), and can be completely coupled by fastening a screw (1300) to the screw coupling portion (102). After the display unit (500) is placed in the front of the water purifier main body (100) by the user, a plurality of first main body engaging portions (101a) having a protrusion shape can be fastened to a plurality of first display engaging portions (501a) having a groove shape. A plurality of second display catches (501b) formed on the display housing (520) can be fastened to a plurality of second body catches (101b). When all of the display catches (501) are fastened to the body catches (101), the screw (1300) can be fastened to the screw joint (102). By fastening the display catch (500) to the water purifier main body (100) using the screw (1300), the display catch (500) can be completely fastened to the water purifier main body (100).

[0115] Hereinafter, the process of separating the display unit (500) from the water purifier main body (100) will be described. When separating the display unit (500), it can be separated by separating the screw (1300) from the screw joint (102) and releasing the fastening of the catch. The user can release the connection by first separating the screw (1300) from the screw joint (102) and then pulling the display unit (500) forward. When the display unit (500) is pulled forward, the first main body catch (101a) can be separated from the first display catch (501a), and the second main body catch (101b) can be separated from the second display catch (501b).

[0116] Since the display unit (500) can be easily detached by the user, the main controller (1210) can be easily repaired by the control port (1211) that is removed, and the display controller (1220) placed in the display housing (520) can be repaired or replaced. Therefore, the user has the advantage of being able to perform necessary repairs and replace simple parts on his / her own without a home visit from a service technician in the case of a simple malfunction.

[0117] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described as specific embodiments, these are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto, but should be construed to have the broadest scope in accordance with the technical concepts disclosed in this specification. Those skilled in the art may combine / substitute the disclosed embodiments to implement patterns of shapes not specified, but this also does not depart from the scope of the present invention. In addition, those skilled in the art may easily modify or alter the disclosed embodiments based on this specification, and it is clear that such modifications or alterations also fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. The basic water purifier; A filter section that filters raw water to provide purified water; A flow channel that provides a passage through which raw and purified water flow; A valve unit including one or more valve modules that are selectively opened and closed to control the flow of raw water and purified water; A sensor section that measures water condition information; A storage unit having an inlet for water to flow in from an external water source, a drain for discharging the flowed in water to the outside, and a sensor hole into which the sensor unit can be inserted; and It includes an outside air inlet passage that provides a passage for outside air to be introduced into the above storage unit, The above valve part includes an outside air valve that selectively opens and closes the outside air inlet passage, The storage unit is such that at least a portion of the water purifier body is separated and the sensor unit is exposed, and the outside air inlet passage is closed by the outside air valve, thereby blocking the internal air from directly communicating with the outside air. water purifier.

2. In paragraph 1, It further includes a body cover part that covers at least one of the filter part, the flow channel, and the valve part, The above sensor part is detachably supported on the body cover part, water purifier.

3. In paragraph 2, A display unit that displays at least one of the type of water discharged to the outside, the amount of water discharged, and the temperature of the water, and is detachably supported on the water purifier body; A separation detection sensor that detects at least one of the display unit being separated from the water purifier body and the water purifier body being separated; and Further comprising a controller for controlling the opening and closing of the above valve part, The controller closes the outside air valve when the display unit is separated from the water purifier main body or the water purifier main body is detected to be separated by the separation detection sensor, thereby blocking the inflow of outside air into the storage unit through the outside air inlet passage. water purifier.

4. In paragraph 1, The above sensor part, a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the water; and Including a sensor holder that supports the above temperature sensor, The above sensor holder has a hook formed on it for the user to hang their finger on. water purifier.

5. In paragraph 1, A storage unit having an inlet for water to flow in from an external water source and a drain for discharging the flowed in water to the outside, and a sensor hole formed into which the sensor unit can be inserted; and Further comprising a sensor packing arranged in the above sensor hole, The above sensor part is inserted into the sensor hole to detect the temperature of the water in the storage part when supported by the body cover part, The above sensor packing restricts water in the storage unit from being discharged into the sensor hole when the sensor unit is separated from the body cover unit. water purifier.

6. In paragraph 1, The above body cover part, A body cover fixing part fixed to the above water purifier body; A body cover opening configured to be rotatable relative to the above body cover fixing part; and It further includes a lever that selectively prevents the sensor unit from being separated from the body cover fixing unit, The above body cover fixing part has a sensor body formed as a space that accommodates at least a part of the sensor part when the sensor part is supported. water purifier.

7. In paragraph 1, The above lever, When positioned in the vertical direction, the sensor part is prevented from being separated from the body cover fixing part. water purifier.

8. In paragraph 1, The above valve section further includes an inlet valve that selectively opens and closes the inlet port and an outlet valve that selectively opens and closes the drain port. The above storage unit is such that when the inlet valve or the outlet valve is open, the outside air inlet passage is opened by the outside air valve, allowing the inside air to communicate with the outside air. water purifier.

9. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a display unit that displays at least one of the type of water discharged to the outside, the amount of water discharged, and the temperature of the water, and is detachably supported on the main body. water purifier.

10. In paragraph 9, It further includes a screw for fixing the display unit to the main body, A body-hook portion is formed in the above body, The above display part is formed with a display catch that engages with the main body catch, The above screw is fastened to fix the display unit to the main body while the display catch unit is engaged with the main body catch unit. water purifier.

11. In paragraph 9, A controller that controls at least one of the valve unit and the display unit; and It further includes a body cover portion that is positioned inside the display portion and covers at least one of the flow channel, the valve portion, and the controller. The above body cover part is exposed to the outside when the display part is separated. water purifier.

12. In paragraph 11, The above body cover, A body cover fixing member fixed to the above main body; and A body cover opening portion is configured to be rotatable relative to the body cover fixing portion so as to expose at least one of the flow channel, the valve portion, and the controller to the outside, and is positioned inside the display portion. water purifier.

13. In paragraph 12, The above display unit, A display panel that displays at least one of the type of water discharged to the outside, the amount of water discharged, and the temperature of the water; and Includes a display housing that covers the above display panel, The above controller, A main controller disposed within the main body and controlling the valve unit to control the flow of raw water and purified water within the flow channel; and A display controller is disposed within the display housing and controls the display panel, The above display housing covers the display panel and the display controller so that they are not exposed to the outside when the display unit is separated from the main body. water purifier.

14. In paragraph 13, On the inner surface of the display housing, a molding part is provided to prevent water from entering the display panel when the display part is separated from the main body. water purifier.

15. In paragraph 12, The above controller, A main controller disposed within the main body and controlling the valve unit to control the flow of raw water and purified water within the flow channel; and A control port is included that is connected to the main controller and configured to electrically connect the main controller to the outside, The above control port can be taken out to the outside through the space where the body cover opening is opened when the body cover opening is opened. water purifier.

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