Method for preventing supercooling and water purifier for implementing the method

Abstract

The present invention is a technology relating to a method for preventing supercooling and a water purifier for implementing the method. The water purifier for preventing supercooling, according to an embodiment of the present invention, comprises: a cooling water tank accommodating cooling water; an evaporator disposed inside the cooling water tank to cool the cooling water according to a freeze cycle; a cold water coil disposed below the evaporator inside the cooling water tank to allow water to pass therethrough and be cooled; a stirring member disposed in the cooling water tank, which is rotatable and allows the cooling water to flow; a temperature sensor for controlling cooling water, which is disposed in a first space in the cooling water tank; a temperature sensor for sensing supercooling, which is disposed in a second space in the cooling water tank; and a controller for controlling operation of the evaporator and operation of the stirring member by using temperature information detected by the temperature sensor for controlling cooling water and the temperature sensor for sensing supercooling.

Description

Method for preventing supercooling and a water purifier implementing the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for preventing supercooling and a technology for a water purifier implementing the method.

[0002] In general, a water purifier is a device that converts water, such as tap water or groundwater, into safe and hygienic drinking water by purifying various harmful substances that are harmful to the human body through multiple stages of filters installed inside the body.

[0003] To this end, the water purifier is a device that forms a cold water path, a hot water path, and a purified water path so that purified water that has passed through the filter can be supplied to a water outlet according to the user's choice, and controls the flow of water with a mechanical or electronic valve.

[0004] Water purifiers can be categorized as tank-type or direct-flow type, depending on whether they have a water reservoir. Tank-type water purifiers store purified water in a tank and dispense it when the user operates the water outlet. In contrast, direct-flow water purifiers do not have a tank and purify water immediately when the user operates the water outlet, providing the purified water. Direct-flow water purifiers are perceived as more hygienic and water-saving than tank-type water purifiers, and thus, their popularity has been increasing recently.

[0005] Water purifiers can also provide cold water in addition to room temperature water. There are several ways a cooling device can generate cold water. One method involves using coolant at a lower temperature than the purified water. Because cooling water using coolant allows for rapid cooling, this method is particularly advantageous for direct-flow water purifiers.

[0006] Recently, in implementing the cold water module of a water purifier, a technology is required to resolve supercooling and provide appropriate cold water.

[0007] In order to solve the aforementioned problem, this specification aims to implement a water purifier that can detect whether the coolant is overcooled and discharge the coolant without freezing.

[0008] In this specification, we aim to implement a water purifier capable of stable cold water discharge independent of the installation environment of the water purifier.

[0009] This specification aims to prevent overcooling of the coolant and solve the problem of cold water discharge due to overcooling and water leakage due to condensation.

[0010] The objectives of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Other objectives and advantages of the present invention not mentioned above can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the objectives and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0011] A water purifier for preventing supercooling according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a cooling water tank that receives cooling water, an evaporator that is disposed inside the cooling water tank and cools the cooling water according to a refrigeration cycle, a cold water coil that is disposed below the evaporator inside the cooling water tank and is cooled by passing water through it, a rotatable stirring member that is disposed inside the cooling water tank and allows the cooling water to flow, a temperature sensor for controlling cooling water that is disposed in a first space inside the cooling water tank, a temperature sensor for detecting supercooling that is disposed in a second space inside the cooling water tank, and a control unit that controls the operation of the evaporator and the operation of the stirring member using temperature information detected by the temperature sensor for controlling cooling water and the temperature sensor for detecting supercooling.

[0012] A method for preventing supercooling according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a water purifier including an evaporator disposed inside a cooling water tank containing cooling water and cooling the cooling water according to a refrigeration cycle, a cold water coil disposed below the evaporator inside the cooling water tank and cooled by passing water therethrough, and a rotatable stirring member disposed inside the cooling water tank and allowing the cooling water to flow, the method comprising: a step in which a control unit of the water purifier controls the operations of the evaporator and the stirring member using a temperature detected by a temperature sensor for controlling cooling water disposed in a first space inside the cooling water tank; a step in which the control unit detects a supercooling state of the cooling water using a temperature detected by a supercooling detection temperature sensor disposed in a second space inside the cooling water tank; and a step in which the control unit detects the supercooling state and then controls the operation of the evaporator and the operation of the stirring member to relieve the supercooling state.

[0013] When the present invention is applied, a water purifier can be implemented that detects whether the cooling water is supercooled and can discharge the cold water without freezing.

[0014] When the present invention is applied, a water purifier capable of stably dispensing cold water independently of the installation environment of the water purifier can be implemented.

[0015] When the present invention is applied, supercooling of the coolant can be prevented, thereby solving the problem of cold water discharge due to supercooling and water leakage due to condensation.

[0016] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and those skilled in the art can easily derive various effects of the present invention from the composition of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 is a configuration diagram of a piping system of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cold water generating unit of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a cold water generating unit of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a stirring member of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a configuration in which a control unit controlling the operation of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention prevents overcooling by using two or more temperature sensors.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a process in which a control unit detects and resolves supercooling using temperature information detected by each temperature sensor to prevent supercooling according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 are drawings showing a process of performing a supercooling release process according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a temperature change process that resolves coolant supercooling by applying a process for detecting and resolving coolant supercooling according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing an example in which a supercooling detection temperature sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention is placed in a heat exchange space within a water purifier.

[0027] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing an example in which a supercooling detection temperature sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention is placed in a cooling space within a water purifier.

[0028] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a configuration in which temperature sensors are arranged on a case cover of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a structure coupled to a supercooling detection temperature sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0031] In order to clearly explain the present invention, parts that are not related to the description have been omitted, and the same or similar components are designated by the same reference numerals throughout the specification. In addition, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When adding reference numerals to components in each drawing, the same components may have the same numerals as much as possible even if they are shown in different drawings. In addition, when explaining the present invention, if it is determined that a specific description of a related known configuration or function may obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description may be omitted.

[0032] When describing components of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, sequence, or number of the components are not limited by the terms. When it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but that other components may also be "interposed" between each component, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through another component.

[0033] In addition, in implementing the present invention, components may be described in detail for convenience of explanation, but these components may be implemented in one device or module, or one component may be implemented by being divided into multiple devices or modules.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 1, a water purifier (10) according to one embodiment is intended to purify water supplied directly from an external water source and then cool or heat the purified water before discharging it. For example, it may be a direct-flow hot and cold water purifier.

[0036] Here, a direct-flow water purifier refers to a water purifier that does not have a water storage tank and water is purified and extracted immediately when the user takes it out.

[0037] The water purifier (10) can have an exterior shape formed by combining a plurality of panels. More specifically, the water purifier (10) can have an overall shape of approximately a hexahedron by combining a front panel (11) forming the front exterior, side panels (12) forming the exteriors on both sides, an upper panel (13) forming the upper exterior, a rear panel (not shown) forming the rear exterior, and a base panel (not shown) forming the lower exterior. In addition, a plurality of components are mounted in the internal space formed by combining the panels.

[0038] The front panel (11) is provided with an operation display unit (14) for displaying the operating status of the water purifier (10) while the user inputs an operating command for the water purifier (10).

[0039] The operation display unit (14) is provided in the form of a plurality of buttons or a touch screen, and is formed so that each button can emit light. When a user presses or touches a button on the operation display unit (14), light is emitted to the selected button, making it easy to recognize whether the button has been selected, and simultaneously performing the function of the display unit.

[0040] The operation display unit (14) is provided with buttons for selecting the type of water to be dispensed. For example, buttons for selecting cold water, hot water, or room temperature water may be provided on the operation display unit (14). In addition, the operation display unit (14) may be provided with buttons for continuous water dispensing, etc. In addition, a button for checking whether the hot water is on and a display unit (status display unit) for displaying the temperatures of the hot and cold water are provided. The operation display unit (14) may further include buttons for performing additional functions, and a configuration in which some buttons are omitted may also be possible.

[0041] A water chute (15) that can be operated by the user to discharge purified water is provided on the lower side of the operation display unit (14). The water chute (15) is provided so that the user can operate it to discharge water. Since the water chute (15) has the function of opening and closing the discharge port for the user to discharge water, it can be expressed as an opening / closing device or an opening / closing nozzle, etc.

[0042] The water chute (15) is configured to discharge purified water, cold water, or hot water, etc., depending on the function of the water purifier (10) by the user's operation, and a tray is provided on the lower side of the water chute (15), specifically, on the lower front side of the front panel (11), to receive water falling from the water chute (15).

[0043] Figure 2 is a configuration diagram of a piping system of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] A water supply line (L) is formed from a water source (S) to a water chute (15) of a water purifier (10), and various valves and water purification components can be connected to the water supply line (L).

[0045] A water supply line (L) is connected to a water source (S), such as a household faucet, and a filter assembly (17) is placed at some point in the water supply line (L). The filter assembly (17) purifies foreign substances contained in water supplied from the water source (S).

[0046] A water supply valve (61) and a flow sensor (70) may be sequentially arranged in a water supply line (L) connected to the outlet of the filter assembly (17). When the supply amount detected by the flow sensor (70) reaches a set flow rate, the water supply valve (61) may be controlled to close.

[0047] The water supply line (L) extending from the outlet of the flow sensor (70) can be branched at any point into a water supply line (L1) for hot water supply, a water supply line (L3) for cold water supply, and a water supply line (L2) for cooling water supply.

[0048] A purified water outlet valve (66) is mounted at the end of a water supply line (L) extending from the outlet of a flow sensor (70), and a hot water outlet valve (64) is mounted at the end of a water supply line (L1) for hot water supply. A cold water outlet valve (65) is mounted at the end of a water supply line (L3) for cold water supply, and a cooling water valve (63) is mounted at some point in a water supply line (L2) for cooling water supply. The cooling water valve (63) controls the amount of cooling water supplied to the cold water generation unit (30).

[0049] The water supply lines extending from the outlets of the hot water outlet valve (64), the cold water outlet valve (65), and the purified water outlet valve (66) are all connected to the water chute (15). Depending on the embodiment, purified water, cold water, and hot water may be configured to be connected to a single outlet, or in some cases, they may be configured to be connected to independent outlets, respectively.

[0050] The drain valve (32) drains the cooling water contained in the cold water generation unit (30) to the outside. The drain valve (32) is shown in the drawing as being mounted on a water supply line extending outside the cold water generation unit (30), but in reality, the drain valve (32) is included in the cold water generation unit (30).

[0051] A flow control valve (62) may be mounted at any point in the water supply line (L1) for hot water supply, and a hot water heater (22) may be connected to the water supply line (L1) for hot water supply extending from the outlet end of the flow control valve (62). A hot water discharge valve (64) may be mounted at any point in the water supply line (L1) extending from the outlet end of the hot water heater (22).

[0052] Below, the cold and hot water supply processes will be explained.

[0053] When the cooling water valve (63) is opened and water is supplied to the cold water generation unit (30), the water is cooled by the cold water generation unit (30) and becomes cooling water. The cold water generation unit (30) may include a compressor or compressing module, a condenser or condensing module, an expansion valve or expension module, an evaporator or evaporating module, etc. for cooling the cooling water. According to an embodiment, unpurified water may be supplied to the cold water generation unit (30), and water cooled in the cold water generation unit (30) may be purified in the filter assembly (17) and then discharged.

[0054] When the cold water selection button on the operation display is pressed, cold water is generated as the water flowing along the cold water supply line (L3) is cooled by the cooling water of the cold water generation unit (30), and the cold water can be discharged through the water chute (15).

[0055] In the case of hot water, when the hot water selection button on the operation display is pressed to open the hot water outlet valve (64), hot water is generated as water flowing along the hot water supply line (L1) is heated by the hot water heater (22), and the hot water can be discharged through the water chute (15).

[0056]

[0057] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cold water generating unit of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a cold water generating unit of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a stirring member of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] A cold water generating unit (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: an insulating case (31) forming an exterior; a case cover (40) covering an open upper surface of the insulating case (31); a cooling water tank (33) containing cooling water; a drain valve (32) for discharging the cooling water inside the cooling water tank (33) to the outside; an evaporator (35) disposed inside the cooling water tank for cooling the cooling water according to a refrigeration cycle; a cooling coil (34) disposed below the evaporator (35) inside the cooling water tank (33) for cooling water by passing through it; a rotatable agitating member (Agitator) (39) disposed inside the cooling water tank (33) for flowing the cooling water; a partition member (36) dividing the cooling water tank (33) into upper and lower parts; a tank cover (37) coupled to the upper side of the cooling water tank (33); and a motor (38) disposed in the tank cover (37) for rotating the agitating member (39). Includes.

[0059] The upper region divided by a partition member (36) having a mesh shape as an example is referred to as a cooling space (91) that controls the generation of cooling water. In addition, the lower region divided by the partition member (36) is referred to as a heat exchange space (92) that exchanges heat with cold water.

[0060] The insulating case (31) surrounds the coolant tank (33) and insulates it from indoor air. The insulating case (31) may be made of an insulating material such as Styrofoam. The coolant tank (33) is installed inside the insulating case (31). The insulating case (31) has a case cover (40) attached to the upper side.

[0061] The case cover (40) is connected to the upper periphery of the insulating case (31) and covers the open upper surface of the insulating case (31). A cooling water pipe guide groove (401) may be formed in the case cover (40) through which a cooling water supply line (L2) connected to a cooling water inlet port (371) passes. A refrigerant pipe (351) for supplying refrigerant to the evaporator (35) may pass through the side of the case cover (40), and an inlet port (341) and an outlet port (342) may pass through the upper side.

[0062] The cooling water tank (33) may be formed in a cylindrical or hexahedral shape with an open upper surface to accommodate cooling water. The interior of the cooling water tank (33) is divided into upper and lower spaces by a partition member (36), an evaporator (35) is arranged in the upper space, and a cold water coil (34) is arranged in the lower space. The cooling water tank (33) accommodates cooling water in the upper space in the form of ice or slush.

[0063] The cooling water tank (33) has a stirring member (39) vertically arranged in the center of the internal horizontal direction. The cooling water tank (33) has a tank cover (37) attached to the upper side. The cooling water tank (33) has a drain valve (32) provided on the lower side. The cooling water tank (33) has a coil support member (331) arranged on the upper side of the bottom.

[0064] The drain valve (32) is installed through the insulating case (31) and the cooling water tank (33), and is positioned on the side adjacent to the bottom of the cooling water tank (33). When the drain valve (32) is opened, the cooling water stored in the cooling water tank (33) flows out to the outside of the water purifier (10).

[0065] The evaporator (35) is wound in a spiral shape and placed in the upper space of the cooling water tank (33). The evaporator (35) is placed on the upper side of the partition member (36) and supported by the partition member (36). The refrigerant compressed by the compressor, condensed by the condenser, and then expanded by the expansion valve flows into the evaporator (35) through the refrigerant pipe (351). The refrigerant evaporates in the evaporator (35) and cools the surrounding cooling water to form ice. The refrigerant evaporated in the evaporator (35) flows to the compressor through the refrigerant pipe (351).

[0066] The evaporator (35) cools the cooling water by exchanging heat between the refrigerant and the cooling water. The cooling water freezes on the surface of the evaporator (35) to form ice. The evaporator (35), which is wound in a spiral shape, has a mesh (361) and an upper blade (392) arranged inside.

[0067] The cold water coil (34) is wound in a spiral shape and placed in the lower space of the cooling water tank (33). The cold water coil (34) is placed on the lower side of the partition member (36). The cold water coil (34) is supported by a coil support member (331) placed on the bottom surface of the cooling water tank (33). The cold water coil (34) may be wound in a spiral shape in one or more layers. For example, in the present embodiment, the cold water coil (34) is formed by being wound in two layers. The inlet end (341) and the outlet end (342) of the cold water coil (34) may be formed to extend vertically toward the case cover (40). The inlet end (341) of the cold water coil (34) is connected to a cold water supply water line (L3) so that water flows in, and the outlet end (342) is connected to a cold water discharge valve (65) so that cooled cold water flows out.

[0068] The cold water coil (34) has water flowing through the inlet (341) therein. The cold water coil (34) cools the water by exchanging heat between the cooling water and the water. The cold water coil (34) cools the water to produce cold water, and discharges the produced water to the outlet (342). The cold water coil (34), which is wound in a spiral shape, has a guide (362) and a lower blade (393) arranged therein.

[0069] A partition member (36) is placed inside the cooling water tank (33) to partition the cooling water tank (33) into an upper space and a lower space. The partition member (36) has an evaporator (35) coupled to its upper side and supports the evaporator (35). A cold water coil (34) is placed on the upper side of the partition member (36).

[0070] The partition member (36) has a hole formed in the center to allow communication between the upper space and the lower space of the cooling water tank (33). The partition member (36) has a mesh (361) formed on the upper side centered on the hole and a guide (362) formed on the lower side.

[0071] A mesh (361) is arranged on the upper side of the partition member (36) to filter ice generated in the evaporator (35) so that it does not pass through the hole of the partition member (36) and flow into the lower part of the cooling water tank (33). An upper blade (392) is arranged inside the cylindrical mesh (361).

[0072] A cylindrical guide (362) is arranged on the lower side of the partition member (36) to guide the coolant generated by melting ice in the upper space of the coolant tank (33) to flow into the lower space. The guide (362) is arranged higher than the lower blade (393).

[0073] The tank cover (37) is connected to the upper circumference of the coolant tank (33) and covers the open upper surface of the coolant tank (33). The tank cover (37) has a coolant inlet port (371) formed on the upper side. The tank cover (37) seals the coolant tank, fixes the pipe through which the coolant flows in and out, and fixes the pipes of the inlet and outlet of the evaporator. In addition, the tank cover (37) can fix a temperature sensor and fix a motor (38). A shaft (391) of a stirring member (39) passes through the center of the lower surface of the tank cover (37).

[0074] A motor (38) is provided in the tank cover (37) and rotates the stirring member (39). The motor (38) is coupled to the shaft (391) of the stirring member (39) and rotates the shaft (391).

[0075] The stirring member (39) is generally formed in a vertical direction. The stirring member (39) is vertically arranged in the horizontal center of the cooling water tank (33). The stirring member (39) penetrates the hole of the partition member (36) and is arranged in the upper space and the lower space of the cooling water tank (33). The stirring member (39) is rotated by the motor (38) to flow the cooling water contained in the cooling water tank (33).

[0076] Referring to FIG. 5, the stirring member (39) includes a shaft (391) formed in a vertical direction, a plurality of upper blades (392) coupled to the shaft (391) and positioned higher than the lower end of the evaporator (35), and a lower blade (393) coupled to the shaft (391) and positioned lower than the upper end of the cold water coil (34).

[0077] The shaft (391) rotates by being connected to the motor (38) at the top. The shaft (391) is formed in the shape of a long vertical rod. The shaft (391) is positioned by penetrating the hole of the partition member (36).

[0078] A plurality of upper blades (392) are arranged on the upper side of the partition member (36) to cause the coolant to flow to the evaporator (35). The plurality of upper blades (392) cause the coolant to flow to the ice around the evaporator (35) to quickly cool the ice. The plurality of upper blades (392) are provided inside the mesh (361) to prevent large ice from coming into contact. The plurality of upper blades (392) are arranged closer to the partition member (36) than to the tank cover (37).

[0079] A plurality of lower blades (393) are arranged on the lower side of the partition member (36) to cause the coolant to flow to the cold water coil (34). The plurality of lower blades (393) cause the coolant to flow to the cold water coil (34) to increase the heat exchange efficiency between water and the coolant in the cold water coil (34). The plurality of lower blades (393) are arranged lower than the lower end of the guide (362). The plurality of lower blades (393) are arranged upper than the coil support member (331).

[0080] It is preferable that each of the plurality of upper blades (392) have a larger area than each of the plurality of lower blades (393). As a result of the inventors' research, it was confirmed that when each of the plurality of upper blades (392) has a larger area than each of the plurality of lower blades (393), the flow rate in the evaporator (35) and the cold water coil (34) increases and the shear stress increases.

[0081] It is preferable that each of the plurality of upper blades (392) have a blade angle, which is an angle formed by a chord line and a plane (horizontal plane) perpendicular to the direction of rotation, smaller than the blade angle of each of the plurality of lower blades (393). That is, each of the plurality of upper blades (392) is arranged to lie further down than each of the plurality of lower blades (393). As a result of the inventors' research, it was confirmed that when each of the plurality of upper blades (392) has a blade angle smaller than each of the plurality of lower blades (393), the flow rate in the evaporator (35) and the cold water coil (34) increases and the shear stress increases.

[0082] Below, the operation of the cold water generation unit (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0083] The cooling water is filled in the cooling water tank (33) and flows inside the cooling water tank (33) by the operation of the stirring member (39). When the temperature of the cooling water around the evaporator (35) drops, ice is generated, and the temperature of the upper and lower portions of the cooling water decreases by the operation of the stirring member (39). In one embodiment, when the stirring member (39) is rotated by the motor (38), the cooling water in the upper space of the cooling water tank (33) flows to the evaporator (35) by the plurality of upper blades (392) to melt the ice around the evaporator (35).

[0084] By the operation of the stirring member (39), continuous flow occurs in the upper and lower parts of the cooling water, thereby lowering the temperature of the cooling water and maintaining the temperatures of the upper and lower parts of the cooling water uniformly.

[0085] Meanwhile, when the cold water outlet valve (65) is opened, water flowing along the cold water supply water line (L3) flows into the cold water coil (34) through the inlet (341). The water flowing into the cold water coil (34) is cooled by heat exchange with the cooling water, and the cooled cold water flows out through the outlet (342) and is then discharged through the water chute (15).

[0086] The aforementioned configuration implements an ice storage cooling system, in which the cooling water freezes around the evaporator (35) and grows into ice chunks of a predetermined size. The cooling water in an ice state and the cooling water in a liquid state exchange heat through a stirring member (39), so that the cooling water in a liquid state can be maintained at a temperature below a certain level.

[0087] Therefore, the water purifier's coolant must maintain an appropriate coolness level for cold water to be dispensed. Conversely, if the coolant is supercooled, problems with cold water dispensing can occur. Furthermore, supercooling can cause condensation in the coolant tank (33) and its surroundings, potentially leading to water leaks.

[0088] Here, we will look at how the water purifier prevents overcooling of the coolant and how it operates when overcooling is detected.

[0089] The evaporator (35) of the water purifier exchanges heat with the cooling water. Therefore, it is necessary to control the temperature during the process in which the evaporator (35) exchanges heat with the cooling water. Next, it is necessary to prevent supercooling of the cooling water in the cooling water tank (33) where the cooling water actually exchanges heat with the cooling water coil (34).

[0090] To this end, a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided with a temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control arranged in a first space inside a cooling water tank (33) and a temperature sensor (170) for supercooling detection arranged in a second space inside the cooling water tank (33), and generates cold water using temperature information detected by these two sensors. The first space and the second space may be divided vertically or horizontally. By arranging the two temperature sensors separately, refrigeration cycle control and supercooling detection can be separated, thereby precisely controlling the operation of the water purifier.

[0091] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration in which a control unit controlling the operation of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention prevents overcooling by using two or more temperature sensors. Refer to the embodiments of FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0092] The control unit (150) controls the operation of the evaporator (35) and the stirring member (39) using the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (160) for controlling the cooling water placed in the first space inside the cooling water tank. In addition, the control unit (150) detects the supercooling state of the cooling water using the temperature detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) placed in the second space inside the cooling water tank (33). Then, after the control unit (150) detects the supercooling state of the cooling water, it can control the operation of the evaporator (35) and the operation of the stirring member (39) to relieve the supercooling state.

[0093] The temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control is placed in the cooling space (91) as shown in Fig. 4. The temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control is placed around the evaporator (35) to detect the temperature at which the cooling water becomes ice, and the control unit (150) can control the cooling cycle using the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control. Alternatively, the control unit (150) can control the operation of the stirring member (39) during this process.

[0094] The supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) are one or more temperature sensors and may be arranged in the heat exchange space (92). If two or more supercooling detection temperature sensors are arranged, they may be arranged at different heights within the heat exchange space (92). For example, if there are two supercooling detection temperature sensors, the first supercooling detection temperature sensor may be arranged to detect the temperature of the highest region in terms of location in the heat exchange space (92), and the second supercooling detection temperature sensor may be arranged to detect the temperature of the lowest region in terms of location in the heat exchange space (92), in order to measure temperatures at different heights.

[0095] Alternatively, according to another embodiment, the supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) may be placed in the cooling space (91) and spaced apart from the evaporator (35).

[0096] The supercooling detection temperature sensor (170a to 170n) detects the temperature of the coolant tank (33), and the control unit (150) can determine whether the coolant is in a supercooled state and control the cooling cycle. Alternatively, the control unit (150) can control the operation of the stirring member (39) during this process. The control unit (150) may include a software or hardware configuration that executes an algorithm that detects and resolves supercooling of the coolant.

[0097] Using the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control and the temperature sensor (170a to 170n) for detecting supercooling, the control unit can control the cooling system and the stirring member (39) and detect and respond to supercooling of the cooling water.

[0098] If only the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control is placed in the cooling space (91), there is a limit to the environment that the control unit (150) can determine using the temperature detected at that location. The temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control detects the temperature of the cooling space (91) where the evaporator (35) is placed, and in particular, detects the temperature of the cooling water that has been phase-changed into ice around the evaporator (35).

[0099] Accordingly, the control unit (150) uses the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control to perform the necessary control for cooling, such as the evaporator (35) and the stirring member (39), according to the state of the cooling water in the form of ice. At this time, the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control may include a temperature below 0 degrees Celsius as the standard for the normal cooling control temperature.

[0100] When the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control is positioned at a certain distance from the evaporator (35), the temperature can be detected based on the amount of ice formed on the surface of the evaporator (35), so that the control unit (150) can control the amount of ice. Accordingly, a temperature below 0 degrees Celsius can be included as the standard for setting the normal control temperature.

[0101] The supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) arranged in the heat exchange space (92) can determine whether the coolant is in a supercooled state. Since the supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) are arranged in a space separate from the evaporator (35), they can detect the temperature of the coolant independently of the evaporator (35) or the amount of ice formed on the surface of the evaporator (35).

[0102] The supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) are provided in one embodiment, but may be positioned in multiple locations in the heat exchange space (92) depending on the height or size of the heat exchange space (92). The supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) are positioned in a different space from the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control, so as to precisely detect the supercooling state of the cooling water.

[0103] The supercooling detection temperature sensor (170a to 170n) can detect the temperature of the coolant that maintains a sub-zero liquid state.

[0104] In particular, when the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170a to 170n) is placed in a heat exchange space (92) that is distinct from the cooling space (91) where the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control is located, it can be spaced apart from the evaporator (35), so that the temperature can be detected precisely, unlike the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control.

[0105] Accordingly, one embodiment of the present invention includes preventing the phenomenon of false detection of the supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) due to an increase in the amount of ice caused by a deviation by installing the supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) at a lower position than the temperature sensor (160) for coolant control. For example, if the supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) are installed at a lower position than the temperature sensor (160) for coolant control, the supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) can operate accurately even if the amount of ice increases due to a deviation.

[0106] Meanwhile, another embodiment of the present invention includes arranging the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170a to 170n) at the same height or in the same space (e.g., cooling space (91) for controlling coolant generation) as the temperature sensor (160) for coolant control, but adding a separate structure to apply a structure that minimizes the influence of ice formed in the evaporator.

[0107] Applying the configuration of Fig. 6, the water purifier ice storage cooling module can detect whether the cooling water is overcooled using an algorithm that detects and resolves overcooling of the cooling water. Furthermore, applying the configuration of Fig. 6 enables stable cold water discharge independent of the water purifier's installation environment. Furthermore, by preventing overcooling of the cooling water, the problem of overcooling preventing cold water discharge and water leakage due to condensation can be resolved.

[0108] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a process in which a control unit detects and resolves supercooling using temperature information detected by each temperature sensor to prevent supercooling according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0109] When one supercooling detection temperature sensor is installed, the temperature detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor is called the calculated temperature (Temp_SCL). If there are two or more supercooling detection temperature sensors, the control unit (150) can calculate the average temperature of the temperatures detected by these multiple supercooling detection temperature sensors or select the lowest temperature. Alternatively, the control unit (150) can calculate a specific temperature by applying a weight to each of the temperatures detected by the multiple supercooling detection temperature sensors. In this case, the calculated temperature is also called Temp_SCL.

[0110] Or, even if there is only one supercooling detection temperature sensor, the control unit (150) can generate Temp_SCL by applying a predetermined weight to the supercooling detection temperature sensor. For example, the control unit (150) can generate Temp_SCL as a result of adjusting the temperature currently detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor based on the temperature detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor 10 minutes ago.

[0111] That is, the output temperature (Temp_SCL) may be a temperature detected by one supercooling detection temperature sensor or a result calculated by the control unit (150) by combining previous temperature data or multiple temperature data with the temperature detected by one or more supercooling detection temperature sensors.

[0112] Next, the temperature that detects supercooling or serves as a reference for performing normal ice storage control according to the output temperature (Temp_SCL) is referred to as the "normal ice storage control reference temperature" and is denoted as Temp_Normal_Ice. In one embodiment, Temp_Normal_Ice is -0.5 degrees Celsius (-0.5 ℃), but the present invention is not limited thereto. In addition, the control unit (150) may not fix the normal ice storage control reference temperature (Temp_Normal_Ice) but may change it according to the surrounding conditions, environment, water discharge environment, etc.

[0113] Refer to Fig. 7. The control unit (150) checks the temperature of the supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) (S1). If there are multiple supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n), the control unit (150) can check the temperature detected by each supercooling detection temperature sensor (170a to 170n).

[0114] Next, the control unit (150) generates an output temperature (Temp_SCL) using the confirmed temperature information (S2). Then, the output temperature (Temp_SCL) is compared with the normal ice storage control reference temperature (Temp_Normal_Ice) (S3). If the comparison result shows that the output temperature (Temp_SCL) is lower than the normal ice storage control reference temperature (Temp_Normal_Ice), the control unit (150) performs a supercooling release process (S4).

[0115] The de-supercooling process is a process in which the control unit (150) temporarily suspends the refrigeration cycle to resolve the supercooling condition, for example, by controlling the refrigeration cycle according to the control of the compressor and turning off the agitator (39) to increase the temperature of the cooling water or increase the possibility of ice formation in the evaporator. For a more detailed process, please refer to FIG. 8.

[0116] If the output temperature (Temp_SCL) is higher than or equal to the normal ice storage control reference temperature (Temp_Normal_Ice), the control unit (150) performs a normal ice storage control process (S5). The normal ice storage control process refers to a process of performing or stopping a cooling cycle using the temperature sensed by the coolant control temperature sensor (160) and the supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n). For a more detailed process, refer to FIG. 9.

[0117] By applying the process of Fig. 7, if coolant overcooling is detected, an algorithm and process for resolving coolant overcooling, such as S4, can be applied, enabling a stable ice storage system to be implemented regardless of the product installation environment. Furthermore, by preventing overcooling, problems associated with coolant overcooling (such as failure to discharge cold water, leakage due to condensation) can be resolved.

[0118] S1 to S3 of Fig. 7 are processes for detecting supercooling. If the temperature detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is higher than or equal to the normal ice storage control reference temperature (Temp_Normal_Ice), the control unit (150) determines that supercooling has not occurred.

[0119] If the temperature detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is lower than the normal ice storage control reference temperature (Temp_Normal_Ice), the control unit (150) determines that supercooling has occurred and may stop the operation of the compressor or evaporator or the operation of the stirring member to increase the idle period of the refrigeration cycle. Alternatively, if the supercooling is not resolved despite such measures, the control unit (150) may resolve the supercooling through ice storage control (see S9 of FIG. 8).

[0120] FIGS. 8 and 9 are diagrams illustrating a process for performing a supercooling release process according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram exemplarily showing a temperature range and profile to which the process of FIG. 8 is applied.

[0121] To address the supercooling condition of the coolant, sensible heat control can be performed to address the supercooling (S7). More specifically, the control unit (150) can initially address the supercooling of the coolant by securing a refrigeration cycle pause time (pause time) during which the refrigeration cycle is stopped, thereby changing the temperature and pressure at which the refrigeration cycle operates. For example, the temperature and pressure of the cycle can be lowered by securing a pause time for the refrigeration cycle.

[0122] The sensible heat control method adjusts the reference temperature (Temp_Cooling_Start) at which the refrigeration cycle (the section in which the compressor operates) starts and the reference temperature (Temp_Cooling_End) at which the refrigeration cycle stops. In one embodiment of the adjustment method, the control unit (150) increases the reference temperature at which the refrigeration cycle starts and the reference temperature at which the refrigeration cycle ends, thereby increasing the refrigeration cycle downtime.

[0123] For example, in the case of normal ice storage control, the control unit (150) sets Temp_Cooling_Start to +0.5 degrees Celsius (0.5 ℃) and Temp_Cooling_End to -2.5 degrees Celsius (-2.5 ℃). Then, if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control is +0.5 degrees Celsius (0.5 ℃) or higher, the cooling cycle is started, and if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control is -2.5 degrees Celsius (-2.5 ℃), the cooling cycle is stopped. The above temperatures are all exemplary and may be changed in the process of implementing an actual water purifier.

[0124] On the other hand, in the sensible heat control process to resolve supercooling, the control unit (150) sets Temp_Cooling_Start to +2.2 degrees Celsius (2.5 ℃) and Temp_Cooling_End to +1.2 degrees Celsius (+1.2 ℃). As a result, the reference temperature at which the refrigeration cycle starts and the reference temperature at which the refrigeration cycle ends rise, thereby securing a refrigeration cycle pause time and lowering the cycle temperature and pressure to primarily resolve the supercooling state of the cooling water.

[0125] Likewise, in the process of resolving supercooling through sensible heat control, the control unit (150) can control the operation of the stirring member (39) according to the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control or the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170a to 170n).

[0126] In one embodiment, in the case of normal cooling control, the temperature range at which the stirring member (39) starts operating while the refrigeration cycle is in operation and the on / off time of the stirring member (39) can be set as follows in the normal cooling profile (Normal_Cooling_Profile). The temperature and time are exemplary and may be changed depending on the implementation.

[0127] Normal_Cooling_Profile

[0128] 0.0 to 0.5 degrees Celsius On (+0.5 to +0.0 ℃ On)

[0129] -2.5 to -1.5 degrees Celsius 15 seconds On / 45 seconds Off (-1.5 to -2.5 ℃ 15s On / 45s Off)

[0130]

[0131] However, when performing the supercooling solution process through sensible heat control, the control unit (150) can control the stirring member (39) by loading an exceptional profile (Exceptional_Cooling_Profile). The temperature and time are exemplary and may vary depending on the implementation. When the temperature is +1.7 degrees, the stirring member (39) operates, and when it reaches +1.2 degrees, the operation of the stirring member (39) can be stopped.

[0132] Exceptional_Cooling_Profile

[0133] +1.7 degrees Celsius On ~ +1.2 degrees Celsius Off (+1.7℃ On ~ +1.2 ℃ Off)

[0134] That is, in the process of performing the supercooling solution process through sensible heat control, the control unit (150) increases the start reference temperature and end reference temperature of the existing refrigeration cycle to increase the rest time of the refrigeration cycle and increases the temperature range at which the stirring member (39) operates, that is, increases the range of the reference temperature at which the stirring member operates, so that the temperature of the supercooled cooling water can gradually increase.

[0135] Here, the temperature checked by the control unit (150) in the process of performing S7 is, in one embodiment, the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control. Alternatively, the control unit (150) may also use the temperature detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170a to 170n).

[0136] After performing the process of S7, the control unit (150) checks the supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) and determines whether supercooling has been resolved (S8). After performing step S7 and a preset time (e.g., 100 seconds, 200 seconds, etc.) has elapsed, the control unit (150) can check the supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n).

[0137] That is, after performing the sensible heat control, the control unit (150) uses the temperature information detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) to generate a second output temperature (for example, when the output temperature in FIG. 7 is referred to as the first output temperature). Then, the second output temperature is compared with the normal ice storage control reference temperature (Temp_Normal_Ice) as previously discussed in S3.

[0138] If the second output temperature is lower than the normal ice storage control reference temperature as a result of the comparison, the control unit (150) determines that supercooling has not been resolved.

[0139] That is, if the confirmation result shows that supercooling has been resolved, the control unit (150) terminates the supercooling release process. If the confirmation result shows that supercooling has not been resolved, the control unit (150) proceeds with the supercooling resolution process through ice storage control (S9).

[0140] As one embodiment of the supercooling solution process, the control unit (150) lowers the reference temperature for starting the refrigeration cycle and the reference temperature for ending the refrigeration cycle to control the water purifier to operate according to the refrigeration cycle.

[0141] In more detail, the control unit (150) can delete (stop) the operation of the stirring member (39). If the operation of the stirring member (39) is stopped, the load of the refrigeration cycle can be lowered and the evaporator temperature can be lowered to increase the possibility of ice formation. In addition, if the operation of the stirring member (39) is deleted, the time during which the temperature of the lower part of the cooling water is maintained below 0 degrees Celsius (0°C) due to the operation of the stirring member (39) in the cooling water supercooling state can be minimized, thereby preventing freezing of the water inside the cold water coil (34) located below the cooling water.

[0142] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a control unit (150) performing a supercooling solution process can lower a reference temperature (Temp_Cooling_End) at which a refrigeration cycle ends. For example, in the case of normal ice storage control, the control unit (150) sets the reference temperature (Temp_Cooling_Start) at which a refrigeration cycle starts to +0.5 degrees Celsius (0.5 ℃) and Temp_Cooling_End to -2.5 degrees Celsius (-2.5 ℃).

[0143] On the other hand, in the supercooling solution process (S9) for ice formation control, the control unit (150) sets Temp_Cooling_Start to +0.5 degrees Celsius (0.5 ℃) and Temp_Cooling_End to -5 degrees Celsius (-5 ℃). As a result of the control by the control unit (150), the temperature at which the evaporator stops operating is lowered, thereby increasing the possibility of ice formation.

[0144] When applying the embodiments of FIGS. 6 to 9, the water purifier according to the embodiment of the present invention uses a temperature sensor (160) for controlling the cooling water to control the temperature required to control the refrigeration cycle, and uses a temperature sensor (170) for detecting the supercooling to detect the temperature required to resolve the supercooling of the cooling water.

[0145] Conventionally, a single temperature sensor was used to control the operation of the cooling system and stirring element, but this method had limitations in accurately detecting supercooling of the coolant. Depending on the location of the temperature sensor, there were limitations in detecting supercooling (e.g., when the temperature sensor was located on the side of the evaporator) or in detecting ice formation in the refrigeration cycle (e.g., when the temperature sensor was located at the bottom of the coolant tank).

[0146] That is, if only one temperature sensor is placed on the top of the cooling water tank (33), there is a limit to determining the supercooling of the cooling water because the normal control temperature includes a temperature lower than 0℃. This is because the normal control temperature includes a temperature lower than 0℃ in order to control the amount of ice formed on the surface of the evaporator.

[0147] In addition, if only one temperature sensor is placed at the bottom of the cooling water tank (33), supercooling of the cooling water can be determined, but there is a limit to controlling the amount of ice on the actual evaporator surface or controlling the refrigeration cycle.

[0148] Therefore, the water purifier according to the embodiment of the present invention enables precise control of the cooling water by separately arranging a temperature sensor for controlling the refrigeration cycle that cools the cooling water and a temperature sensor for checking supercooling of the cooling water.

[0149] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a temperature change process that resolves coolant supercooling by applying a process for detecting and resolving coolant supercooling according to one embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment of Fig. 10 is an embodiment in which three supercooling detection temperature sensors (170a to 170n) are arranged in a heat exchange space (92), each corresponding to an upper temperature, an intermediate temperature, and a lower temperature.

[0150] If it is detected that the coolant has reached a supercooled state during the ice storage process (S3), the control unit (150) first performs a supercooling resolution process (S7) through sensible heat control. If the supercooled state of the coolant is not resolved through the sensible heat control process, the control unit (150) performs a supercooling resolution process (S9) through ice storage control to resolve the supercooling of the coolant.

[0151] At the beginning of the supercooling resolution process (S9), the temperature of the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control changed from -5 degrees Celsius (-5 ℃) to -0.1 degrees Celsius (-0.1 ℃), and the cold water is discharged normally. After the supercooling resolution process (S9) is completed, the temperature of the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control is -4.2 degrees Celsius (-4.2 ℃) at the time of the compressor being turned off (the refrigeration cycle being turned off), and the cold water is discharged normally. That is, it can be seen that the supercooling of the cooling water is resolved through the S7 and S9 processes, and the cold water is discharged normally.

[0152] In this way, the supercooling release process can be implemented to minimize the time during which the lower temperature of the coolant remains below 0 degrees Celsius (0℃), thereby preventing the water inside the cold water coil from freezing and preventing condensation from forming on the surface of the cold water module.

[0153] Although it can be set in various ways depending on the implementation example, in the experiment of Fig. 10, the maximum time for which the lower temperature of the coolant is maintained below 0 degrees Celsius (0℃) was calculated to be 211 seconds, and in the simulation, it was 320 seconds, so if the supercooling release process is applied, the time for which the coolant is in a supercooled state can be minimized.

[0154] Figures 11 and 12 show a structure in which a supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is arranged. Figure 11 shows a structure in which a supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is arranged in a heat exchange space (92), and Figure 12 shows a structure in which a supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is arranged in a cooling space (91). In the embodiment of Figure 12, a separate structure is arranged around the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) to minimize the influence of ice formed in the evaporator (35).

[0155] The structure of Fig. 11 is a configuration in which the cooling water is placed in the middle or lower part of the cooling water tank (33) in which the cooling water is stored.

[0156] Figure 11 is a drawing showing an example of a supercooling detection temperature sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention being placed in a heat exchange space within a water purifier. As previously described, a temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control is placed in the first space, and a supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is placed in the second space.

[0157] Fig. 11 is an embodiment in which the first space is a cooling space (91) in which an evaporator is arranged, and the second space is a heat exchange space (92) in which a cold water coil (34) is arranged. In addition, a partition member (36) is arranged between the two spaces to divide the two spaces.

[0158] In the water purifier of Fig. 11, a supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is disposed spaced apart from the evaporator (35), and a hole is formed in the mesh-shaped partition member (35) so that the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) penetrates the cooling space (91) and extends into the heat exchange space (92) to detect the temperature of the cooling water in the heat exchange space (92). In addition, a temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control is disposed adjacent to the evaporator (35). Holes and ribs are disposed in the mesh-shaped partition member (35) so that the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) can be fixed.

[0159] The embodiment of FIG. 11 can solve the problem of not being able to detect supercooling of the coolant due to ice adjacent to the evaporator (35). In other words, the problem of false supercooling detection due to ice can be solved. If the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is placed above the coolant, for example, in the cooling space (91), a guide can be placed to minimize the effect of ice. This will be discussed in detail in FIG. 12.

[0160] Fig. 12 is a drawing showing an example in which a supercooling detection temperature sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention is arranged in a cooling space within a water purifier. The first space and the second space have been described above, and Fig. 12 shows that a guide (175) is arranged between the first space and the second space. The guide (175) blocks ice generated in the first space (around the evaporator) from contacting the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) in the second space (space away from the evaporator).

[0161] When the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is placed in the cooling space (91), a guide (175) is arranged to block the influence of ice from the evaporator (35). The guide (175) is a structure surrounding the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170).

[0162] The embodiment of FIG. 12 has the advantage of being able to shorten the length of the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170). In addition, the embodiment of FIG. 12 can solve the problem of structural complexity that may arise due to the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) being placed in the heat exchange space (92).

[0163] Fig. 13 is a drawing showing a configuration in which temperature sensors are arranged on a case cover of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention. Both Figs. 11 and 12 apply, and a supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) and a temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control are arranged on one side of the case cover (40), and the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is arranged so as to be far away from the position of the evaporator (35). The temperature sensors (160, 170) can be screw-fastened to the case cover (40).

[0164] The separation distance can be determined in various ways depending on the internal structure of the water purifier and the shape of the evaporator (35). In one embodiment, the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) can be placed at a point where the distance between the inner wall within the water purifier and the outer position of the evaporator (35) is the greatest. Alternatively, even if the outer position of the evaporator (35) and the inner wall within the water purifier are adjacent positions, even if the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is placed in close contact with the inner wall within the water purifier, this corresponds to an embodiment in which the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is placed far from the position of the evaporator (35).

[0165] Fig. 14 is a drawing showing a structure coupled to a supercooling detection temperature sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention. A bracket (176) for fixing the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is arranged. The lower portion (177) of the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) measures temperature.

[0166] When the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is fixed with a bracket (176), the bracket (176) may be included in the path through which heat penetrates from the evaporator (35) to the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170). Of course, a guide (175) may be placed around the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) to block the influence of the evaporator (35).

[0167] In addition, the control unit (150) can implement logic to compensate for the temperature standard for determining supercooling according to the set temperature according to the outside temperature in order to increase the accuracy of detection of supercooling of the coolant by heat penetration into the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) through the bracket (176) or other elements, as shown in Table 1.

[0168] Ambient temperature (RT) range RT ≤ 10℃10℃ < RT ≤ 35℃RT > 35℃Overcooling detection temperature sensor setting temperature -0.5℃ ⇒ - 0.7℃-0.5℃-0.5℃ ⇒ -0.3℃

[0169]

[0170] For example, if RT is below 10 degrees Celsius, the supercooling judgment criterion of the supercooling detection temperature sensor set temperature can be changed to -0.7 degrees Celsius. This compensates for the low ambient temperature. Furthermore, if RT exceeds 35 degrees Celsius, the supercooling judgment criterion of the supercooling detection temperature sensor set temperature can be changed to -0.3 degrees Celsius. This compensates for the high ambient temperature.

[0171] That is, the control unit (150) can change the reference temperature for determining coolant supercooling in response to the external temperature as shown in Table 1. Depending on the changed reference temperature, the control unit (150) can determine whether the coolant is supercooled.

[0172] For example, if the external temperature is 10 degrees Celsius or lower, the control unit (150) changes the reference temperature for determining supercooling to -0.7 degrees Celsius. Thereafter, if the temperature detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is -0.7 degrees Celsius, the control unit (150) determines that supercooling has occurred.

[0173] The control unit (150) according to one embodiment of the present invention can check for abnormalities in the temperature sensors by using the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control and the temperature sensor (170) for supercooling detection. The control unit (150) periodically compares the temperature values ​​sensed by the two temperature sensors (160, 170) at a specific point in time, and notifies of an abnormality in the temperature sensors when the deviation is an arbitrary value, for example, a temperature difference exceeding 0.5 degrees Celsius (±0.5°C) occurs three times in a row, thereby enabling a quality defect caused by a defective temperature sensor to be resolved in advance.

[0174] Here, examples of specific points in time that the control unit (150) periodically compares include the power supply point, the heat control completion point, the high-temperature sterilization operation completion point, etc. In one embodiment, the power supply point is when the stirring member has completed operation for a preset time (e.g., 15 seconds) or when the temperature measurement value of the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control is 10 degrees Celsius (10°C) or higher.

[0175] The criteria by which the control unit (150) compares the temperatures of the two sensors are as follows.

[0176] First, the difference between the measured value of the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control and the measured value of the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170) is called Diff_Sensor and can be calculated as follows.

[0177] Diff_Sensor = Measurement value of the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control - Measurement value of the temperature sensor (170) for supercooling detection

[0178] The control unit (150) determines that the value of Diff_Sensor is normal when it is between 0.5 (-0.5℃ < Diff_Sensor < +0.5℃).

[0179] Meanwhile, the control unit (150) determines that the condition is abnormal when the value of Diff_Sensor is less than or equal to -0.5 (Diff_Sensor ≤ -0.5℃) or when the value of Diff_Sensor is greater than or equal to +0.5 (Diff_Sensor ≥ +0.5℃).

[0180] That is, the control unit (150) compares the measurement values ​​of the temperature sensor (160) for cooling water control and the temperature sensor for supercooling detection (170) at any one of the points of time when power is applied, when the sensible heat control is completed, or when the high-temperature sterilization operation is completed, and determines whether the sensors are normal or abnormal based on the difference between the two measurement values. Alternatively, if the difference in the measurement values ​​is greater than a certain size repeatedly at the aforementioned point in time, the control unit (150) counts the number of times the difference in the measurement values ​​is determined to be abnormal, and if it occurs more than N times (for example, 3 times), an alarm for the abnormality is generated.

[0181] When applying an embodiment of the present invention, the control unit (150) of a water purifier including a water purifier ice storage cooling module can detect supercooling of the cooling water and resolve the supercooling by using an algorithm (e.g., FIGS. 7 to 9) that resolves the supercooling of the cooling water. That is, the control unit (150) can directly detect the supercooling state of the cooling water by using a separate supercooling detection temperature sensor, and perform a supercooling release process accordingly. The control unit (150) controls the performance of a refrigeration cycle that lowers the temperature of the cooling water by using the temperature detected by the coolant control temperature sensor (160). In addition, the control unit (150) detects the supercooling state of the cooling water by using the temperature detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor (170).

[0182] To implement a stable ice storage water purifier independent of the product's installation environment, the control unit (150) can adjust the refrigeration cycle and control the operation of the stirring member to relieve supercooling when supercooling is detected. As a result, malfunctions (no cold water discharge, water leakage due to condensation) caused by supercooling of the cooling water can be resolved.

[0183] In particular, there are cases where coolant supercooling is not resolved depending on the surrounding environment where the water purifier is installed or the temperature, humidity, etc. of the installation location. For example, if the ambient temperature of the water purifier is high or the water purifier is installed in a location with poor heat dissipation conditions, the evaporation temperature is higher than the normal operating conditions of the product, so the temperature difference between the evaporator and the coolant becomes small, and the intermittent operation of the stirring member may create a situation where it is difficult to form ice on the surface of the evaporator.

[0184] This is because the temperature of the evaporator surface increases due to the flow of coolant during the operation of the stirring member. Furthermore, as the refrigeration cycle operates, the machine room temperature gradually rises (relatively compared to the initial refrigeration cycle operation), and as the amount of heat input to the coolant increases, the evaporator temperature may not decrease significantly over time.

[0185] Therefore, when applying an embodiment of the present invention, precisely detecting supercooling can improve the cold water extraction performance of a water purifier.

[0186] Although all components constituting the embodiments of the present invention have been described as being combined or operating in combination, the present invention is not necessarily limited to such embodiments, and within the scope of the present invention, all components may be selectively combined and operated one or more times. In addition, although all of the components may be implemented as individual independent hardware, some or all of the components may be selectively combined and implemented as a computer program having program modules that perform some or all of the functions combined in one or more hardware pieces. The codes and code segments constituting the computer program may be easily inferred by those skilled in the art of the present invention. Such a computer program may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium and read and executed by a computer, thereby implementing the embodiments of the present invention. Storage media for computer programs include magnetic recording media, optical recording media, and storage media including semiconductor recording devices. In addition, a computer program implementing an embodiment of the present invention includes a program module that is transmitted in real time through an external device.

[0187] While the above description focuses on specific embodiments of the present invention, various modifications and variations can be made within the scope of those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that such modifications and variations are within the scope of the present invention, as long as they do not depart from its scope.

[0188]

[0189] -Explanation of the symbol-

[0190] 91: Cooling space 92: Heat exchange space

[0191] 150: Control unit 160: Temperature sensor for cooling water control

[0192] 170: Supercooling detection temperature sensor 175: Guide

[0193]

[0194]

Claims

1. Coolant tank containing coolant; An evaporator disposed inside the cooling water tank and cooling the cooling water according to a refrigeration cycle; A cold water coil positioned at the lower side of the evaporator inside the cooling water tank through which water passes and is cooled; A rotatable stirring member disposed inside the cooling water tank and causing the cooling water to flow; A temperature sensor for controlling coolant placed in a first space inside the coolant tank; A supercooling detection temperature sensor arranged in a second space inside the above cooling water tank; and A water purifier for preventing supercooling, comprising a control unit that controls the operation of the evaporator and the operation of the stirring member using temperature information detected by the temperature sensor for controlling the cooling water and the supercooling detection temperature sensor.

2. In paragraph 1, The above first space is a cooling space where an evaporator is placed, The above second space is a heat exchange space in which the cold water coil is placed, A water purifier that prevents supercooling, wherein a partition member is arranged between the cooling space and the heat exchange space to separate the two spaces.

3. In paragraph 1, The above control unit generates a first output temperature (Temp_SCL) using the temperature information detected by the above supercooling detection temperature sensor. A water purifier for preventing supercooling, wherein the control unit performs a supercooling release process when the first output temperature is lower than the normal ice storage control reference temperature (Temp_Normal_Ice), and performs a normal ice storage control process when the first output temperature is equal to or higher than the normal ice storage control reference temperature.

4. In paragraph 3, A water purifier for preventing supercooling, wherein the control unit performs sensible heat control to increase the rest time of the refrigeration cycle by increasing the reference temperature for starting the refrigeration cycle and the reference temperature for ending the refrigeration cycle.

5. In paragraph 4, A water purifier that prevents supercooling, wherein the control unit performs sensible heat control by increasing the temperature range of the reference at which the stirring member operates.

6. In paragraph 4, After performing the above sensible heat control, the control unit generates a second output temperature using the temperature information detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor. A water purifier for preventing supercooling, wherein the control unit performs ice storage control to operate the refrigeration cycle by lowering the temperature at which the refrigeration cycle starts and the temperature at which the refrigeration cycle ends when the second output temperature is lower than the normal ice storage control reference temperature (Temp_Normal_Ice).

7. In paragraph 6, A water purifier that prevents supercooling, wherein the above control unit performs ice storage control by stopping the operation of the above stirring member.

8. In paragraph 2, A water purifier that prevents supercooling, wherein two or more supercooling detection temperature sensors are arranged at different heights in the second space.

9. In paragraph 1, A guide is placed between the second space and the first space. A water purifier that prevents supercooling, wherein the above guide blocks ice generated in the first space from contacting the supercooling detection temperature sensor in the second space.

10. In paragraph 1, The above control unit compares the measurement values ​​of the temperature sensor for cooling water control and the temperature sensor for detecting supercooling at any one of the points in time when power is supplied, the point in time when heat control is completed, or the point in time when high-temperature sterilization is completed, and determines whether the sensors are normal or abnormal based on the difference between the two measurement values, in a water purifier that prevents supercooling.

11. A water purifier including an evaporator that is arranged inside a cooling water tank that receives cooling water and cools the cooling water according to a refrigeration cycle, a cold water coil that is arranged below the evaporator inside the cooling water tank and through which water passes and is cooled, and a rotatable stirring member that is arranged inside the cooling water tank and through which the cooling water flows. A step for controlling the operation of the evaporator and the stirring member by using the temperature detected by the temperature sensor for cooling water control placed in the first space inside the cooling water tank by the control unit of the water purifier; A step for detecting a supercooling state of the coolant by using the temperature detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor disposed in a second space inside the coolant tank by the control unit; and A method for preventing supercooling, comprising a step of controlling the operation of the evaporator and the operation of the stirring member after the control unit detects the supercooling state to relieve the supercooling state.

12. In paragraph 11, The above first space is a cooling space where an evaporator is placed, The above second space is a heat exchange space in which the cold water coil is placed, A method for preventing supercooling, wherein a partition member is arranged between the cooling space and the heat exchange space to separate the two spaces.

13. In paragraph 11, The above control unit generates a first output temperature (Temp_SCL) using temperature information detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor; The above control unit performs a step of performing a supercooling release process when the first output temperature is lower than the normal ice storage control reference temperature (Temp_Normal_Ice); and A method for preventing supercooling, wherein the control unit includes a step of performing a normal ice storage control process when the first output temperature is equal to or higher than the normal ice storage control reference temperature.

14. In paragraph 13, A method for preventing supercooling, wherein the control unit includes a step of performing sensible heat control to increase a reference temperature for starting the refrigeration cycle and a reference temperature for ending the refrigeration cycle to increase a rest time of the refrigeration cycle.

15. In paragraph 14, A method for preventing supercooling, wherein the control unit includes a step of performing sensible heat control by increasing the range of the reference temperature at which the stirring member operates.

16. In paragraph 14, After performing the above sensible heat control, the control unit generates a second output temperature using the temperature information detected by the supercooling detection temperature sensor; A method for preventing supercooling, wherein the control unit includes a step of performing ice storage control to operate the refrigeration cycle by lowering the reference temperature for starting the refrigeration cycle and the reference temperature for ending the refrigeration cycle when the second output temperature is lower than the normal ice storage control reference temperature (Temp_Normal_Ice).

17. In paragraph 16, A method for preventing supercooling, wherein the control unit includes a step of performing ice storage control by stopping the operation of the stirring member.

18. In paragraph 12, A method for preventing supercooling, wherein two or more supercooling detection temperature sensors are arranged at different heights in the second space.

19. In paragraph 11, A guide is placed between the second space and the first space. The above guide is a method for preventing supercooling by blocking ice generated in the first space from contacting the supercooling detection temperature sensor of the second space.

20. In paragraph 11, A method for preventing supercooling, wherein the control unit comprises a step of comparing the measurement values ​​of the temperature sensor for cooling water control and the temperature sensor for supercooling detection at any one of the time of power supply, the time of completion of the sensible heat control, or the time of completion of the high-temperature sterilization operation, and determining whether the sensors are normal or abnormal based on the difference between the two measurement values.

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