Machine for producing water from air

Abstract

Provided is a machine for producing water from air, which is capable of discharging only drinking water that has as little contamination as possible by draining off at least a portion of drinking water that has accumulated in a water flow path provided between a water storage tank and a water discharge port and that may be contaminated by proliferation of bacteria or the like, rather than discharging such drinking water as is, and which is capable of realizing this by an inexpensive and simple method. The machine for producing water from air is characterized by comprising: a water collection bottle 0100 for storing dew condensation water produced from air; a cold water tank 0120 for storing drinking water; a water discharge part 0130 for discharging drinking water; a switching part 0140 for switching a water flow path of the drinking water supplied from the cold water tank; and a control unit 0150 for controlling the switching part. Said machine is also characterized in that the control unit controls the switching part so as to drain off, to the water collection bottle, at least a portion of the drinking water accumulated in at least a portion of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching part, for a predetermined time upon water discharge, and so as to discharge the drinking water from the water discharge part after the predetermined time has elapsed.

Description

Air Water Generator

[0001] The present invention relates to an air water maker for producing drinking water from water vapor in the air.

[0002] An air water maker is generally a device that cools air to condense the water vapor in the air into liquid water, and then filters it to obtain drinking water, and for example, an air water maker with such a general mechanism is disclosed in Patent Document 1. Such air water makers can produce drinking water themselves and do not require an external water supply, so they have the advantage of being able to easily obtain drinking water even in times such as disasters when the water supply is unavailable and it is difficult to supply water from outside.

[0003] On the other hand, invisible bacteria and viruses float in the air. These bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms are called airborne bacteria and can potentially pose health risks to humans, so measures such as sterilization are necessary. These airborne bacteria are contained in the water that condenses when the water condenses, and it is difficult to remove them 100% even with a filter. The drinking water obtained after filtration may be contaminated by impurities such as bacteria that have proliferated due to the airborne bacteria while stored in the tanks and piping of the air-powered water maker. Therefore, when the drinking water stored in the air-powered water maker is used for drinking, it is desirable to supply it in a state in which impurities such as bacteria have been removed as much as possible.

[0004] Non-patent document 1 describes an air water maker with a sterilization function that has a water storage tank equipped with an ultraviolet lamp, and sterilizes the drinking water stored in the tank by irradiating it with the lamp.

[0005] JP 2014-224399 A

[0006] A water server that makes water from air [Aeris] with water purification function (URL: https: / / airlith.com)

[0007] The air water maker described in Non-Patent Document 1 is intended to sterilize drinking water stored in a water storage tank. However, air water makers typically have a pipe installed between the water storage tank and the water outlet as a water flow path, and in this case, after the drinking water is discharged from the water outlet, a certain amount of water remains in the pipe, and as time passes until the next discharge opportunity, bacteria and the like may grow in the drinking water accumulated in the pipe, and the water may be discharged without being removed.

[0008] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and provides an air water maker that can discharge only drinking water that is as uncontaminated as possible by draining at least a portion of the drinking water that is stored in a flow path provided between a water storage tank and a water outlet and that may be contaminated by bacterial growth, etc., rather than discharging it as is, and that can achieve this in an inexpensive and simple manner.

[0009] Specifically, the first invention of the present invention provides an air water maker that makes drinking water from air, comprising a water collection bottle that collects condensation water made from air, a cold water tank that collects drinking water, a water discharge unit that discharges drinking water, a switching unit that switches the flow path of drinking water supplied from the cold water tank, and a control unit that controls the switching unit, wherein the control unit controls the switching unit to drain at least a portion of the drinking water that has collected in at least a portion of the flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit into the water collection bottle for a predetermined time when discharging water, and to discharge drinking water from the water discharge unit after the predetermined time has elapsed.

[0010] In addition, the second invention of the present invention provides an air water maker that is based on the first invention and has multiple filters in at least a part of the flow path that supplies condensed water collected in the water collection bottle to the cold water tank.

[0011] The third aspect of the present invention is based on the second aspect of the present invention and provides an air water maker in which the plurality of filters comprise at least an activated carbon filter, a reverse osmosis membrane filter, and a biomineral filter.

[0012] In addition, the fourth invention of the present invention is based on the first invention, and provides an air water maker in which the switching unit is composed of a three-way solenoid valve whose inlet is at least a part of the flow path connection from the cold water tank, and whose outlet is a flow path connection connected to the water discharge unit and a flow path connection connected to the water collection bottle.

[0013] Furthermore, the fifth invention of the present invention provides an air water maker based on the first invention, in which the control unit is made up of a control board that is composed of at least a CPU, a main memory, a non-volatile memory, and an input / output interface.

[0014] The sixth aspect of the present invention provides an air water maker based on the first aspect of the invention, and further including a water purification filter in at least a portion of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit.

[0015] Furthermore, the seventh invention of the present invention provides an air water maker that is based on the second invention, but in which the water collection bottle and the multiple filters are configured to be removable and insertable from the front of the water maker housing.

[0016] The eighth aspect of the present invention provides an air water purifier based on the sixth aspect, in which the water purification filter is at least one of an activated carbon filter, a filtration membrane filter, a ceramic filter, an ion exchange resin filter, and a reverse osmosis membrane filter.

[0017] Furthermore, the ninth aspect of the present invention provides an air water maker that is based on the first aspect of the invention and is equipped with a hot water tank that produces and stores hot water using a heater in at least a portion of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit.

[0018] The tenth aspect of the present invention provides an air water maker based on the first aspect of the invention, and further including an ultraviolet lamp for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the drinking water stored in the cold water tank.

[0019] To provide an air water maker that can discharge only drinking water that is as uncontaminated as possible by draining at least a part of the drinking water that is stored in a flow path provided between a water storage tank and a water outlet and that may be contaminated by bacterial growth, etc., instead of discharging it as is, and that can achieve this in an inexpensive and simple manner.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an air water maker of embodiment 1; FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of a switching unit in an air water maker of embodiment 1; FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of an air water maker according to the present invention; FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of the processing flow in embodiment 1; FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a three-way solenoid valve that constitutes the switching unit; FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of an air water maker of embodiment 7; FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of an air water maker of embodiment 9; FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of a water discharge unit that is configured to automatically switch the position of the discharge port over time;

[0021] The following describes embodiments of each invention. The present invention should not be limited to these embodiments and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit of the invention. The relationship between the embodiments and the claims is as follows: Embodiment 1 relates mainly to claim 1, etc.; Embodiment 2 relates mainly to claim 2, etc.; Embodiment 3 relates mainly to claim 3, etc.; Embodiment 4 relates mainly to claim 4, etc.; Embodiment 5 relates mainly to claim 5, etc.; Embodiment 6 relates mainly to claim 6, etc.; Embodiment 7 relates mainly to claim 7, etc.; Embodiment 8 relates mainly to claim 8, etc.; Embodiment 9 relates mainly to claim 9, etc.; Embodiment 10 relates mainly to claim 10, etc.

[0022] First Embodiment The first embodiment mainly relates to claim 1 and the like.

[0023] <Embodiment 1: Overview> The air water maker of embodiment 1 has a means (switching unit) for switching the flow path of drinking water supplied from a cold water tank, and is characterized in that when water is discharged into a container such as a cup (hereinafter referred to as a "cup, etc."), at least a portion of the drinking water that has accumulated in at least a portion of the flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit is drained into a flow path different from the flow path for discharging drinking water into the cup, etc., for a predetermined time from the start of the water discharge operation, and is controlled to discharge the water into the cup, etc. after the predetermined time has elapsed.

[0024] <Embodiment 1: Configuration> (Embodiment 1: Configuration: General) Fig. 1 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an air water maker according to embodiment 1. The air water maker 0100 includes a water collection bottle 0110, a cold water tank 0120, a water discharge unit 0130, a switching unit 0140, and a control unit 0150.

[0025] In the present invention, an air-powered water maker refers to a device that has the function of producing water from air and the function of supplying it to users as drinking water. As is clear from this definition, the air-powered water maker in the present invention is sufficient as long as it has at least the function of producing water from air and the function of supplying it to users as drinking water. In addition, the air-powered water maker in the present invention also includes a device that has the function of setting bottles of delivered drinking water and supplying it to users (a function that is provided in ordinary water servers).

[0026] Known techniques can be used to produce water from air. Known known techniques include the refrigerant type and the adsorption type. The refrigerant type is a method of obtaining water by cooling the air using a refrigerant such as a refrigerant coil to condense the water vapor in the air. On the other hand, the adsorption type is a method of obtaining water by adsorbing moisture in the air onto an adsorbent such as an adsorption filter, heating it with a heater to evaporate it, and then cooling it to condense it. The air water maker of the present invention includes any of these methods. Furthermore, the air water maker of the present invention also includes any of these methods.

[0027] There are no particular restrictions on the dimensions or weight of the air water maker, and it may be designed as appropriate depending on the purpose and use. For example, a small one (supplying about 20 liters per day) to be installed in a home or office may be about 400 to 450 mm wide, 480 to 530 mm deep, 1250 to 1300 mm high, and weigh about 50 to 60 kg.

[0028] (Embodiment 1: Configuration: Water Collection Bottle) The water collection bottle is a bottle-shaped component that collects condensed water 0111 made from air. However, there are no limitations on its shape. There are also no particular limitations on its capacity, and it can be designed appropriately depending on the application, etc. For example, in the case of a small air-powered water maker, a capacity of approximately 1.5 to 2.0 liters is considered. It is desirable that the water collection bottle be equipped with a water level sensor to prevent leakage, such as overflowing of collected water. In this case, for example, if the water level sensor detects that condensed water is about to overflow from the water collection bottle, it may emit an alarm or flash a warning light to urge the user to stop generating condensed water, or stop the condensation refrigerant pump. Furthermore, the measurement results from the water level sensor may be displayed on a display, such as on the front of the air-powered water maker's housing.

[0029] As will be described later, the water collection bottle also serves as a drainage destination when all or part of the drinking water accumulated in the water flow path is drained prior to water discharge.

[0030] (Embodiment 1: Configuration: Chilled Water Tank) The chilled water tank is a tank (water tank) for storing drinking water 0121 in a chilled state. This drinking water is condensed water collected in a water collection bottle and sent via the flowing water path 0101. The chilled state may be maintained by receiving chilled condensed water, or the water in the chilled water tank may be chilled after receiving the water and then maintained. In the present invention, chilled water refers to water between 0°C and 10°C, and more preferably between 0°C and 5°C, since temperatures between 10°C and 60°C are considered to be temperatures at which bacteria easily grow. A known technique (e.g., a refrigeration cycle technique using a refrigerant, such as that used in refrigerators) may be used to maintain the chilled state. The shape of the chilled water tank is not limited. There is also no particular limitation on the capacity, which may be appropriately designed depending on the application. For example, a capacity of approximately 10 to 15 liters is considered for a small air-powered water maker.

[0031] (Embodiment 1: Configuration: Water Flow Path Between Water Collection Bottle and Cold Water Tank) As described above, the air water maker of this embodiment is provided with a water flow path 0101 for sending condensed water collected in the water collection bottle to the cold water tank. Although the present invention is provided with several other water flow paths, in the following description, for convenience, in order to distinguish it from the other water flow paths, the water flow path between this water collection bottle and cold water tank will be referred to as the "water flow path between water collection bottle and cold water tank."

[0032] The water flow path is a tubular member for passing water. There are no particular limitations on the dimensions or material of the water flow path between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank, but for example, in the case of a small air-generated water dispenser, a silicone hose (a hose made of silicone rubber with a heat-resistant, strong synthetic fiber sandwiched between the middle layer) with an inner diameter of about 3 to 5 millimeters, a hard hose (made of polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, etc.), or a combination of these may be used. Condensed water from the water collection bottle can be drawn into the water flow path and sent to the cold water tank using, for example, a pump.

[0033] The water flow path between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank is preferably provided with multiple filters for purifying the water to remove bacteria, remove minute debris, and add necessary minerals, etc. This is to purify the condensed water and make it suitable for drinking. Such a configuration will be described later in another embodiment (see embodiment 2).

[0034] (Embodiment 1: Configuration: Water flow path between the cold water tank and the water discharge unit) Drinking water stored in the cold water tank is usually sent to the water discharge unit via a water flow path separate from the above-mentioned water flow path between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank, and then discharged to be supplied to the user as drinking water. For this reason, the air water maker of this embodiment is provided with a water flow path between the cold water tank and the water discharge unit.

[0035] The water flow path between the cold water tank and the water discharge unit is provided with a switching unit midway, and this switching unit is configured to drain potentially contaminated drinking water into a water collection bottle and then send uncontaminated drinking water to the water discharge unit. In the following description, for convenience, the water flow path 0102 from the cold water tank to the switching unit will be referred to as the "cold water tank-to-switching unit water flow path," the water flow path 0103 from the switching unit to the water collection bottle will be referred to as the "switching unit-to-water collection bottle water flow path," and the water flow path 0104 from the switching unit to the water discharge unit will be referred to as the "switching unit-to-water discharge unit water flow path." The reason for assuming that the water in the cold water tank-to-switching unit water flow path may be contaminated is that the water in this water flow path is not cooled or sterilized by ultraviolet light or heat within the water flow path, which could potentially allow bacteria to grow. The dimensions and materials of these water flow paths are not particularly limited, but for example, in the case of a small air-generated water machine, the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit uses a combination of a silicone hose with an inner diameter of about 8 to 15 mm, a silicone hose with an inner diameter of about 7 to 11 mm, and a silicone hose with an inner diameter of about 3 to 5 mm, the water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle uses a hard hose with an inner diameter of about 3 to 5 mm, and the water flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit uses a silicone hose with an inner diameter of about 8 to 15 mm.

[0036] A feature of the air-powered water maker of this embodiment is that when discharging drinking water, the water accumulated in the cold water tank-switching unit flow path 0102 (which may contain impurities such as bacteria that have multiplied over time) is not simply discharged from the water discharger, but is first drained into a water collection bottle and then replenished with new, uncontaminated drinking water from the cold water tank, thereby discharging drinking water that is as uncontaminated as possible. That is, when discharging water, the air-powered water maker of this embodiment (1) first drains all or part of the drinking water accumulated in the cold water tank-switching unit flow path 0102 into the water collection bottle for a predetermined period of time. Accordingly, fresh drinking water is newly replenished from the cold water tank into the cold water tank-switching unit flow path. The supply of new drinking water from the cold water tank to the cold water tank-switching unit flow path can be achieved, for example, by using a pump provided in the cold water tank-switching unit flow path. Alternatively, a flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit may be installed vertically directly below the cold water tank, and a check valve may be installed at the outlet of the cold water tank to the flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit, so that the valve automatically opens due to the water pressure of the drinking water in the cold water tank along with the drainage, allowing the drinking water in the cold water tank to fall freely into the flow path.

[0037] The inclusion of "partial" drainage of the drinking water stored in the water passage between the cold water tank and the switching unit into the water collection bottle takes into consideration the possibility that water may remain in the water purification filter or gaps in the piping joints in the water passage and not be drained. In other words, it is conceivable that only a portion of the drinking water stored in the water passage between the cold water tank and the switching unit may be drained into the water collection bottle due to structural reasons of the water passage between the cold water tank and the switching unit. However, even if such a case occurs, the remaining amount is likely to be small. Therefore, the effect of the present invention, which allows only minimally contaminated drinking water to be discharged from the water discharge unit after a predetermined period of drainage, is fully achieved. Therefore, the present invention also includes such a configuration in which only partial drainage is performed within its technical scope.

[0038] After the above-mentioned (1) draining the drinking water in the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit into the water collection bottle, the air water maker of this embodiment then (2) after a predetermined time has passed, discharges only the drinking water newly replenished from the cold water tank (if some water remains that has not been drained as described above, this remaining water is mixed with the newly replenished water from the cold water tank) from the discharge unit. This makes it possible to discharge drinking water that is as free from contamination as possible.

[0039] (Embodiment 1: Flow path between the cold water tank and the water discharge unit: Configuration to prevent contaminated water from remaining in the flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit) If water remains in the flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit after water discharge has finished, there is a risk that the water will become contaminated and be discharged from the water discharge unit the next time water is discharged. Therefore, while the effect of the present invention of discharging only drinking water that is as uncontaminated as possible can be fully achieved, it is more desirable for the air-powered water maker of the present invention to be configured so that water does not remain in the flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit after water discharge has finished. One possible configuration for this purpose is to position the flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit vertically directly below the switching unit, preventing drinking water from remaining in the path due to free fall. In this case, it is desirable to make the pipe diameter of the flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit sufficiently large to prevent water from remaining in the path due to capillary action. For example, a diameter of approximately 8 to 15 millimeters, as described above, is preferred. If the diameter is less than 8 mm, there is a risk of water remaining inside due to capillary action, and if the diameter is more than 15 mm, the force of the water being discharged into the cup may be too strong, causing a paper cup to tip over, or splashing water all over the surrounding area as the cup fills. Alternatively, the nozzle may be configured to automatically switch the position of the outlet over time. This is a configuration to prevent potentially contaminated drinking water from being consumed even if water remains in the flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit.

[0040] FIG. 9 shows an example of a water discharger structure that automatically switches the position of the discharge port over time. In this example, the orientation of the discharge port 0932, located on the side of a disk-shaped water discharger 0930, can be switched between facing away from a cup 0934 and facing away from one. In FIG. 9, (a) is a front view of the vicinity of the water discharger of the air water maker, and (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A. When the water discharger is operated, water is first discharged from the cold water tank-switching unit water flow path for a predetermined period of time, and then water begins to be supplied to the switching unit-discharge unit water flow path. For a certain period of time, the discharge port 0932 is directed away from a cup, as shown in (b) (the discharged water is then discharged through the drain 0933). After a certain period of time has passed, the direction of the discharge port automatically switches to facing the cup, as shown in (c), and drinking water is poured into the cup. Such a configuration may be achieved using known technology (for example, by providing a motor capable of driving a disk-shaped member in a reverse direction, and controlling the motor to reverse the member based on the passage of time using a computer).

[0041] (Embodiment 1: Configuration: Water Discharge Unit) The water discharge unit is configured to discharge drinking water. This discharge is performed to supply drinking water to a user. The specific configuration or structure of the water discharge unit is not particularly limited, and possible configurations include a configuration in which drinking water is dispensed from a spout by pushing or tilting a lever with a cup, or a configuration in which drinking water is dispensed from a spout by manually pressing a button. For example, if the switching unit is a three-way valve and the button is operated by hand, when the user presses the button, a valve connected to the water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle opens, and water in the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit is drained to the water collection bottle for a predetermined time. After that, the valve connected to the water flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit opens to dispense water into a cup or the like. After a certain time (for example, the time required to fill a cup of normal capacity with drinking water) has elapsed, the valve connected to the water flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit automatically closes to end the water discharge. In the case of a type in which the lever is pressed with a cup or the like, a valve connected to the water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle opens while the lever is pressed, and after a predetermined time the water in the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit is drained to the water collection bottle side, a valve connected to the water flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit opens to discharge water into the cup or the like, and when the lever stops being pressed, the valve closes to stop the water discharge. Note that if there are multiple types of drinking water to be discharged (for example, hot water and cold water), multiple spouts may be provided to make up the water discharge unit.

[0042] Prior to this discharge, the drinking water in the cold water tank-switching unit flow path is sent to the discharge unit via the switching unit-discharge unit flow path. This drinking water is composed entirely or almost entirely of uncontaminated drinking water newly supplied from the cold water tank to the flow path after all or most of the drinking water in the cold water tank-switching unit flow path has been drained into the water collection bottle. That is, if all of the drinking water in the cold water tank-switching unit flow path is drained, it is replaced with uncontaminated drinking water newly supplied from the cold water tank. On the other hand, even if some of the drinking water remains undischarged due to the structure of the cold water tank-switching unit flow path, most of the water will be filled with uncontaminated drinking water newly supplied from the cold water tank. Furthermore, if the volume of a single discharge exceeds the capacity of the cold water tank-switching unit flow path, more drinking water is replenished from the cold water tank during the discharge and is then discharged via the switching unit-discharge unit flow path. Therefore, in either case, drinking water that is as uncontaminated as possible can be discharged.

[0043] (Embodiment 1: Configuration: Switching Unit) As means for enabling such switching of the flow path, the air water maker includes a switching unit 0140 and a control unit 0150.

[0044] Of these, the switching unit is configured to switch the flow path of drinking water supplied from the cold water tank. That is, the switching unit is a means for switching the destination of drinking water in the flow path 0102 between the cold water tank and the switching unit between the water collection bottle and the discharge unit. Specific means that can be used, for example, is a three-way valve. A three-way valve is a valve-like component that has three connection ports (one inlet and two outlets) to piping such as a flow path, and can switch the destination of the fluid by switching the opening and closing of the outlet valve. In the switching unit of this embodiment, the connection port with the flow path 0102 on the cold water tank side serves as the inlet, and the connection ports with the flow path 0103 between the switching unit and the water collection bottle and the flow path 0104 between the switching unit and the discharge unit serve as the outlets.

[0045] 2A and 2B are diagrams showing an example of the structure of the switching unit in the air water maker of the first embodiment, in which the switching unit is a three-way valve. (a) of the figure is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the switching unit, which includes an inlet 0241 connected to a cold water tank-to-switching unit flow path 0202, and two outlets 0242, 0243 connected to a switching unit-to-water collection bottle flow path 0203 and a switching unit-to-discharge unit flow path 0204, respectively. (b) and (c) are vertical cross-sectional views along line Y-Y in (a). As shown in these figures, a substantially L-shaped tubular member (hereinafter referred to as an "L-shaped pipe") 0244 is provided within the main body of the switching unit 0240, which can be connected to only one outlet at a time. The L-shaped pipe is configured to be horizontally rotatable, generally about the central axis 0245 of the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit, and by rotating it horizontally, the outlet tip of the pipe can be switched to face the water collection tank or the water discharge unit. (b) shows the state from when the water discharge means is operated until a predetermined time has elapsed (before the water discharge means is operated, the state is as shown in (f), as described below), in which the L-shaped pipe 0244 is connected to the water flow path 0203 between the switching unit and the water collection bottle, and water in the water flow path 0202 between the cold water tank and the switching unit is being drained into the water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle (water in the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit, the L-shaped pipe, and the water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle is shown in light ink, and the direction of water flow is shown by an arrow). Next, (c) shows the state in which, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the L-shaped pipe rotates horizontally and connects to the switching unit-to-discharge unit water flow path 0204, and water in the cold water tank-to-switching unit water flow path is supplied to the switching unit-to-discharge unit water flow path (water in the cold water tank-to-switching unit water flow path, the L-shaped pipe, and the switching unit-to-discharge unit water flow path is indicated in light ink, and the direction of water flow is indicated by an arrow). (d) to (f) are horizontal cross-sectional views taken along the X-X line of (a). (d) shows the state from (b) until a predetermined time has elapsed since the water discharge means was operated, and (e) shows the state after the predetermined time has elapsed, as in (c). Note that (f) shows the state in which the L-shaped pipe is not connected to either outlet after water discharge has ended until the next time the water discharge means is operated, and therefore the water in the cold water tank-to-switching unit water flow path remains without being drained into the water collection bottle or supplied to the water discharge unit.

[0046] The specific type of the switching valve is not limited, and it may be a mechanical type or an electromagnetic type. For example, a suitable example is a three-way solenoid valve. The three-way solenoid valve will be described in another embodiment later (see embodiment 4). The components that make up such a switching unit generally have a simple structure and can be installed inexpensively, which has the advantage of being less costly than installing an ultraviolet lamp or a heater to obtain high-temperature water.

[0047] The switching operations of the switching unit described above are all controlled by the control unit described next.

[0048] (Embodiment 1: Configuration: Control Unit) The control unit is configured to control the switching unit. More specifically, the control unit is configured to control the switching unit so that, during water discharge, at least a portion of the drinking water stored in at least a portion of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit is drained into the water collection bottle for a predetermined time, and then, after the predetermined time has elapsed, the drinking water is discharged from the water discharge unit. That is, when supplying drinking water by discharging from the water discharge unit, the control unit first controls the opening of the switching unit to be on the water collection bottle side (the water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle) so that all or a portion of the water stored in the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit is drained into the water collection bottle via the water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle for a predetermined time. Then, after the predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit controls the opening of the switching unit to be on the water discharge unit side (the water flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit) so that the water in the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit can be discharged from the water discharge unit via the water flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit.

[0049] The length of the "predetermined time" is a design issue that should be appropriately determined in light of factors such as the time required to drain potentially contaminated water accumulated in the flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit into the water collection bottle. For example, if the calculation based on the volume of the path and the pump's drainage capacity per unit time shows that it takes 5 seconds to drain almost all of the drinking water in the path, it may be possible to uniformly set the above-mentioned "predetermined time" at 5 seconds.

[0050] Alternatively, from the perspective of minimizing the amount of drinking water that is drained into the water collection bottle without being discharged, and taking into consideration that the degree of contamination will vary depending on the length of time the drinking water has been retained in the path, if it is not necessary to drain all of the drinking water in the path into the water collection bottle when the retention time is short (i.e., if some retained water remains, it will be sufficiently potable if diluted with newly replenished uncontaminated water), the above-mentioned "predetermined time" may be set in stages depending on the retention time, for example, 1 second if the retention time is less than 3 hours, 3 seconds if 3 to 6 hours, 5 seconds if 6 to 9 hours, etc. In this case, the retention time can be known by, for example, recording the discharge time history using a clock function provided inside or outside the air water maker.

[0051] According to the air purifier of the present embodiment described above, simply by switching the water flow path, it is possible to discharge only drinking water that is as free from contamination as possible, and there is no need to install equipment such as an ultraviolet lamp for sterilization or a heater for producing hot water, etc. Therefore, it is possible to achieve the objective of discharging only drinking water that is as free from contamination as possible in an inexpensive and simple manner.

[0052] Although not included in the technical scope of the present invention, if the next water discharge operation is performed only a very short time after the previous water discharge, the water may not be discharged to the water collection bottle, so to speak, but the "predetermined time" may be set to zero and the water may be discharged immediately. This is because, when water is discharged continuously, it is clear that the drinking water in the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit is not contaminated.

[0053] <Embodiment 1: Hardware Configuration> (Hardware Configuration: General) The present invention is an invention that in principle utilizes a computer, and can be realized by software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. The hardware that realizes all or part of the components of the present invention is composed of at least the CPU, main memory, non-volatile memory, and input / output interface, which are basic components of a computer.

[0054] 4 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the air water maker of embodiment 1. The air water maker 0400 includes a CPU 0401, a main memory 0402, a non-volatile memory (e.g., a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid disk drive (SSD), etc.) 0403, and an input / output interface 0404. These components are interconnected by a bus line 0405, which is a data communication path, and are configured to transmit and receive information and perform processing.

[0055] The present invention can basically be configured with a general-purpose computer program and various devices. The computer basically operates by loading a program stored in non-volatile memory into main memory when the power is turned on, and then executing processing using the main memory, CPU, and various devices. Communication with devices is performed via an input / output interface connected to a bus line. Typical input / output interfaces include a mouse, keyboard, and display interface.

[0056] (Hardware Configuration: CPU) The CPU (Central Processing Unit) sequentially reads, interprets, and executes programs, which are sequences of instructions stored in main memory, outputting information consisting of signals to the main memory. The CPU functions as the center of calculations within a computer. The CPU is composed of a CPU core, which is the center of calculations, and its peripheral components, including registers, cache memory, an internal bus connecting the cache memory to the CPU core, a direct memory access (DMA) controller, a timer, and an interface with the bus connecting to the north bridge. Multiple CPU cores may be included in a single CPU (chip). Processing may also be performed by a graphics processing unit (GPU) or a floating point unit (FPU) in addition to the CPU. Programs may also be built into the CPU.

[0057] In this embodiment, the CPU executes a switching control program loaded on the main memory to control the switching of the water flow path. When a signal indicating an operation for dispensing drinking water (e.g., pressing a lever) is received, the switching control program opens the water collection bottle-side connection port of the switching unit and closes the water discharge unit-side connection port. After a predetermined time has elapsed, the switching program closes the water collection bottle-side connection port of the switching unit and opens the water discharge unit-side connection port. The non-volatile memory also stores predetermined time information, such as a predetermined time of five seconds, which is loaded on the main memory in response to a program startup command. To execute the switching control program, the CPU needs to know when the predetermined time has elapsed. This can be done, for example, by comparing the predetermined time information loaded on the main memory with time information (also loaded on the main memory) obtained from a clock (timekeeping device) connected via the input / output interface.

[0058] (Hardware Configuration: Main Memory) Main memory reads out programs that perform various processes so that the CPU can execute them, and also provides a work area for those programs. Main memory is a volatile memory, and dynamic random access memory (DRAM) is used. Programs in main memory are loaded from non-volatile memory onto main memory, for example, upon receiving a program startup command. The CPU directly accesses and executes the various programs in main memory. The CPU then executes the program according to various execution commands and execution procedures within the program.

[0059] In addition, the main memory and non-volatile memory are each assigned multiple addresses, and programs executed by the CPU can exchange data and perform processing by identifying and accessing these addresses.

[0060] In this embodiment, as described above, the switching control program is loaded from the nonvolatile memory onto the main memory when the power is turned on, etc. Furthermore, the predetermined time information stored in the nonvolatile memory is also loaded onto the main memory in response to a program start command.

[0061] (Hardware Configuration: Non-Volatile Memory) As described above, the non-volatile memory stores the switching control program and predetermined time information, which are loaded onto the main memory when the power is turned on, for example.

[0062] (Hardware Configuration: Input / Output Interface) The input / output interface is connected to an external device and transmits received signals to the CPU via a bus line. An example of an external device in this embodiment is a clock that provides predetermined time information. Other possible external devices include a button (which sends a press signal indicating that the button has been pressed when water is dispensed) and a display (which displays measurement data such as the water level in the water collection bottle).

[0063] <Embodiment 1: Process Flow> Next, a process flow relating to the control of the switching unit by the control unit of the air water maker of this embodiment will be described.

[0064] 5 is a flow diagram showing an example of the process flow in embodiment 1, illustrating the process flow related to the control of the switching unit by the control unit. As shown in the figure, in step S0501 of determining whether an operation to start water discharge (water discharge start operation) has been performed, if the control unit determines that the water discharge start operation has been performed, in step S0502 of controlling switching to the water collection bottle side, the control unit controls the switching unit to open the connection port on the water collection bottle side and close the connection port on the water discharge unit side. Whether the water discharge start operation has been performed is determined based on criteria such as whether the discharge button or lever has been pressed.

[0065] Next, in step S0503 of determining whether a predetermined time has elapsed, if the control unit determines that the predetermined time has elapsed, in step S0504 of controlling switching to the water discharge unit side, the control unit controls the switching unit to close the connection port on the water collection bottle side and open the connection port on the water discharge unit side.

[0066] Furthermore, if the control unit determines in step S0505 whether an operation to terminate water discharge (water discharge termination operation) has been performed that an operation to terminate water discharge has been performed, then in step S0506, the control unit controls the switching unit to close the connection port on the water discharge unit side and keep the connection port on the water collection bottle side closed, i.e., to switch to a state in which the L-shaped pipe of the switching unit is not connected to either the water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle or the water flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit (i.e., a neutral state), as shown in FIG. 2(f) above. The determination of whether the water discharge termination operation has been performed is based on criteria such as whether a certain amount of time has passed since the button was pressed or whether the lever has been released from its depressed state. As a result, after water discharge has ended, the L-shaped pipe of the switching unit remains in the neutral state, and the determination process in the determination step of whether the next water discharge start operation has been performed is performed under this state.

[0067] <Effects of Embodiment 1> The invention of this embodiment makes it possible to provide an air water maker that can discharge only drinking water that is as uncontaminated as possible by draining at least a portion of the drinking water that has accumulated in the flow path between the water storage tank and the water outlet and may be contaminated by bacterial growth, rather than discharging it as is, and that can achieve this in an inexpensive and simple manner.

[0068] Second Embodiment The second embodiment mainly relates to claim 2 and the like.

[0069] <Embodiment 2: Overview> The air water maker of embodiment 2 is based on the air water maker of embodiment 1, but is further characterized by the provision of multiple filters in at least a portion of the flow path that supplies condensed water collected in the water collection bottle to the cold water tank.

[0070] As already explained with reference to Figure 1, the air water maker according to the present invention is provided with a water flow path (water flow path between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank) 0101 for supplying condensed water collected in the water collection bottle to the cold water tank. In this embodiment, a plurality of filters are provided in this water flow path. The purpose of providing a plurality of filters is to purify the unpurified drinking water collected in the water collection bottle using these filters when supplying it to the cold water tank, thereby obtaining uncontaminated drinking water.

[0071] <Embodiment 2: Configuration> The configuration of the air water maker of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the air water maker of embodiment 1. However, in addition to this, the air water maker of this embodiment is provided with a plurality of filters in at least a part of the flow path that supplies condensed water collected in the water collection bottle to the cold water tank.

[0072] The water flow path between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank, which is the water flow path in which these multiple filters are installed, is provided separately from the water flow paths from the cold water tank to the water collection bottle described in embodiment 1 (i.e., the ``water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit'' and the ``water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle'').

[0073] The filter installed in the water flow path is primarily intended to purify condensed water. The primary reason for installing multiple filters is that, since different types of water purification filters have different functions and characteristics, combining them in a complex manner enables effective water purification. From this perspective, a combination of multiple types of filters is preferable to a single type. While there are no particular limitations on the specific types of filters, examples include a combination of multiple types selected from activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis membrane filters, biomineral filters, ceramic filters, ion exchange resin filters, and the like. A particularly preferred example is one that includes at least an activated carbon filter, a reverse osmosis membrane filter, and a biomineral filter; this example will be described later in another embodiment (see embodiment 3).

[0074] <Effects of Embodiment 2> According to the invention of this embodiment, the drinking water stored in the cold water tank is purified in advance using multiple filters, making it possible to more effectively achieve the object of the present invention of ensuring that the drinking water finally discharged is as free from contamination as possible.

[0075] Third Embodiment The third embodiment mainly relates to claim 3 and the like.

[0076] <Embodiment 3: Overview> The air water maker of embodiment 3 is based on the air water maker of embodiment 2, but is further characterized in that the multiple filters consist of at least an activated carbon filter, a reverse osmosis membrane filter, and a biomineral filter.

[0077] <Embodiment 3: Configuration> The configuration of the air water maker of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the air water maker of embodiment 2. However, in the air water maker of this embodiment, the multiple filters consist of at least an activated carbon filter, a reverse osmosis membrane filter, and a biomineral filter.

[0078] (Embodiment 3: Configuration: Activated Carbon Filter) An activated carbon filter is a filter that uses activated carbon (a substance whose main component is porous carbon, which has been chemically or physically treated (activated) with coconut shells, coal, or the like to increase its adsorption efficiency). Activated carbon has the property of being excellent at removing various odors, such as chlorine, from water, and activated carbon filters are filters with high water purification capabilities. Activated carbon filters also have the characteristics of being easy to shape and inexpensive. However, they have the problem of having a relatively short effective period, requiring replacement about once a year.

[0079] (Embodiment 3: Configuration: Reverse Osmosis Membrane Filter) A reverse osmosis membrane filter is a filter that uses a reverse osmosis membrane (a membrane that utilizes the principle of reverse osmosis to allow water molecules to move from water containing a large amount of impurities to water that does not). The pores in the membrane are extremely fine, on the order of 0.0001 micrometers, and allow almost no substances other than water molecules to pass through, resulting in extremely high impurity removal capabilities. Furthermore, water is typically forced through the membrane by a pump at a high pressure of approximately 0.4 to 1.2 MPa. However, problems arising from the extremely small dimensions of the membrane pores include a limited flow rate per unit time, slow permeation times, and the high cost of applying high pressure for reverse osmosis. Furthermore, these extremely fine pores can also result in the removal of not only harmful substances but also beneficial ingredients such as minerals.

[0080] (Embodiment 3: Configuration: Biomineral Filter) The biomineral filter is a filter containing biominerals (a general term for inorganic compounds formed by living organisms). The purpose of this filter is to not only remove impurities and harmful substances but also to replenish minerals in drinking water. Drinking water is preferably both tasty and healthy, and therefore desirably contains the appropriate types and amounts of minerals. However, because the air water maker of this embodiment includes a reverse osmosis membrane filter as described above, almost all minerals in the drinking water are removed at this stage. Therefore, by providing a biomineral filter, minerals can be replenished in the drinking water. Therefore, it is desirable to place the biomineral filter downstream of the reverse osmosis membrane filter in the flow path between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank, i.e., closer to the cold water tank than the reverse osmosis membrane filter. There are no particular limitations on the type of biomineral contained in the biomineral filter, but in light of the above-mentioned purpose of placement, it is preferable to use a filter that can add essential minerals particularly necessary for human health. Essential minerals generally refer to a total of 16 elements, including calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Therefore, preferred types of biominerals are those containing a large amount of these minerals, such as anorthite (CaAl ２ Si２ O ８ ), calcite (CaCO ３ ) etc.

[0081] Although there are no particular limitations on the order in which the filters described above should be arranged, the order is preferably activated carbon filter, reverse osmosis membrane filter, and biomineral filter. This is because reverse osmosis membrane filters are relatively expensive and have extremely small pores that easily clog, so it is better to first remove most impurities and harmful substances using a relatively inexpensive activated carbon filter with a large pore size before passing the water through the reverse osmosis membrane filter, and for the reasons mentioned above, it is better to arrange the biomineral filter downstream of the reverse osmosis membrane filter.

[0082] <Effects of Embodiment 3> According to the invention of this embodiment, the drinking water stored in the cold water tank is purified in advance by a filter, and by combining multiple types of filters, more effective water purification can be achieved, making it possible to more effectively achieve the object of the present invention, which is to ensure that the drinking water finally discharged is as free from contamination as possible.

[0083] Fourth Embodiment The fourth embodiment mainly relates to claim 4 and the like.

[0084] <Embodiment 4: Overview> The air water maker of embodiment 4 is based on the air water maker of embodiment 1, and further characterized in that the switching unit comprises a three-way solenoid valve having at least a part of the flow path connection from the cold water tank as an inlet, a flow path connection connected to the water discharge unit, and a flow path connection connected to the water collection bottle as an outlet.

[0085] <Embodiment 4: Configuration> The configuration of the air water maker of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the air water maker of embodiment 1. However, in addition to this, in the air water maker of embodiment 4, the switching unit comprises a three-way solenoid valve whose inlet is at least a part of the running water path connection from the cold water tank, and whose outlet is a running water path connection connected to the water discharge unit and a running water path connection connected to the water collection bottle.

[0086] FIG. 6 shows an example of the configuration of an air water maker according to the fourth embodiment, specifically a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a three-way solenoid valve constituting a switching unit. A three-way solenoid valve is a type of three-way valve that is electromagnetically operated. A solenoid valve is a device that can stop, start, or change the direction of fluid flow by turning on and off current to a solenoid (electromagnet). In the example shown in the figure, the three-way solenoid valve has a main body 0640 equipped with three connection ports for connecting to water flow paths: a connection port 0641 for connecting to the cold water tank-to-switching unit water flow path 0602, a connection port 0642 for connecting to the switching unit-to-water collection bottle water flow path 0603, and a connection port 0643 for connecting to the switching unit-to-discharge unit water flow path 0604. The main body also includes a plunger 0645 (shown in light gray) and a coil spring 0646 in addition to the solenoid 0644. The plunger has a core (iron core) 0647 and three valve bodies 0648a, 0648b, and 0648c, and is capable of reciprocating back and forth within the cylindrical body. The valve body 0648c at the tip of the plunger is attached to a spring. The example in the figure shows how drinking water in the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit is drained to the water collection bottle when the solenoid is first energized, supplied to the water discharge unit when the solenoid is second energized (energized in the opposite direction to the first energization), and remains in the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit without being drained or supplied to either side when the solenoid is not energized.

[0087] Figure 6(a) shows the solenoid in a first energized state. Here, "first energization" refers to a state in which the solenoid is energized so that the magnetic field generated by the solenoid is oriented in a direction that attracts the solenoid and the core to each other. In this state, the core is attracted to the solenoid. At this time, the valve body attached to the plunger opens the connection port with the water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle and closes the connection port with the water flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit. This can be achieved by designing the valve body's installation position accordingly in advance. This state continues for a predetermined time, during which time the drinking water in the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit is drained to the water collection bottle (the direction of water flow is indicated by the arrow).

[0088] Next, Figure 6(b) shows the state in which the current direction is switched after a predetermined time has elapsed, and a second current is being applied to the solenoid. Here, the second current refers to a state in which current is applied so that the magnetic field generated by the solenoid is oriented in a direction that repels the solenoid and the core. In this state, the core repels the solenoid and moves away. In the example shown in Figure 6(b), the core has slid leftward from its position in Figure 6(a). Note that the coil spring cannot compress beyond the position shown in Figure 6(a), so it cannot slide rightward. At this time, the valve element attached to the plunger opens the connection port with the water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle and closes the connection port with the water flow path between the switching unit and the water discharge unit. This can be achieved by designing the valve element's installation position accordingly in advance.

[0089] Furthermore, Figure 6(c) shows the state where water discharge has ended and the power supply is cut off. In this state, the electromagnetic force of the solenoid is not applied, so the coil spring, which was stretched by the sliding of the core to the left during the second power supply, is no longer biased, i.e., returns to its natural state. As a result, the position of the core has slid slightly to the right compared to the second power supply in (b). At this time, the valve body provided on the plunger closes both the connection port with the water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle and the connection port with the water flow path between the switching unit and the water collection bottle. This can be achieved by designing the valve body's installation position in advance.

[0090] <Effects of Embodiment 4> The invention of this embodiment makes it possible to provide an air water maker that can discharge only drinking water that is as free from contamination as possible, without discharging drinking water that has accumulated in a flow path provided between a water storage tank and a water outlet and may be contaminated by bacterial growth, etc., and that can achieve this in an inexpensive and simple manner.

[0091] Fifth Embodiment The fifth embodiment mainly relates to claim 5 and the like.

[0092] <Embodiment 5: Overview> The air water maker of embodiment 5 is based on the air water maker of embodiment 1, but is further characterized in that the control unit is made up of a control board consisting of at least a CPU, main memory, non-volatile memory, and an input / output interface.

[0093] <Embodiment 5: Configuration> The configuration of the air water maker of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the air water maker of embodiment 1. However, in addition to this, the air water maker of this embodiment has a control board in which the control unit is made up of at least a CPU, main memory, non-volatile memory, and an input / output interface.

[0094] In the air water maker of this embodiment, the control board is a board on which an electronic circuit is arranged, with a CPU, main memory, non-volatile memory, input / output interface, etc., which are hardware for executing the switching control program, connected by a bus line. This has the advantage that identical boards can be mass-produced at low cost. The configuration of the CPU, main memory, non-volatile memory, input / output interface, etc., arranged thereon is as described in the first embodiment.

[0095] <Effects of Embodiment 5> The invention of this embodiment makes it possible to provide an air water maker that can discharge only drinking water that is as free from contamination as possible, without discharging drinking water that has accumulated in a flow path provided between a water storage tank and a water outlet and may be contaminated by bacterial growth, etc., and that can achieve this in an inexpensive and simple manner.

[0096] Sixth Embodiment The sixth embodiment mainly relates to claim 6 and the like.

[0097] <Embodiment 6: Overview> The air water maker of embodiment 6 is based on the air water maker of embodiment 1, but is further characterized by the provision of a water purification filter in at least a portion of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit.

[0098] <Embodiment 6: Configuration> The configuration of the air water maker of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the air water maker of embodiment 1. However, in addition to this, the air water maker of this embodiment is provided with a water purification filter in at least a part of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit.

[0099] The purpose of providing a water purification filter in at least a portion of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit is as follows. Specifically, during water discharge, drinking water remaining in the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit is first drained into the water collection bottle, and only the cleanest drinking water possible, including newly replenished drinking water from the cold water tank, is discharged from the water discharge unit. Therefore, providing a water purification filter in at least a portion of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit is not essential in the present invention. However, there is a risk that impurities, bacteria, etc. adhering to the inner walls of the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit may not be drained during the drainage process and may be mixed into the drinking water delivered to the water discharge unit after switching. Therefore, in consideration of this possibility, the purpose of the configuration of this embodiment is to provide a water purification filter in at least a portion of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit, thereby minimizing the risk of impurities, bacteria, etc. being mixed into the drinking water delivered to the water discharge unit after switching.

[0100] The specific location of the water purification filter can be designed as appropriate, but considering that impurities and bacteria attached to the part of the inner wall of the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit that is closest to the switching unit may be mixed in when water is discharged, it is desirable to install the filter at least at the end part of the water flow path on the switching unit side.

[0101] As a specific type of water purification filter, the same filter as that described in the second embodiment may be used.

[0102] <Effects of Embodiment 6> The invention of this embodiment can minimize the risk of impurities, bacteria, etc. being mixed into the drinking water delivered to the water outlet side after switching and being discharged, making it possible to more effectively achieve the object of the present invention of providing an air water maker that can discharge only drinking water that is as free from contaminants as possible and that can achieve this in an inexpensive and simple manner.

[0103] Seventh Embodiment The seventh embodiment mainly relates to claim 7 and the like.

[0104] <Embodiment 7: Overview> The air water maker of embodiment 7 is based on the air water maker of embodiment 2, but is further characterized in that the water collection bottle and multiple filters are configured to be removable and insertable from the front of the water maker housing.

[0105] <Embodiment 7: Configuration> The configuration of the air water maker of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the air water maker of embodiment 2. However, in addition to this, the air water maker of this embodiment is configured so that the water collection bottle and multiple filters can be inserted and removed from the front of the water maker housing.

[0106] The water collection bottle collects the condensed water before purification and the potentially contaminated drinking water that is drained through the switching unit before being discharged, so it needs to be replaced or cleaned periodically.The same applies to the multiple filters installed in the water flow path between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank, which circulate this condensed water and other contaminants.

[0107] The purpose of this embodiment is to make it easier to replace the water collection bottle and multiple filters by making them accessible from the front of the water maker housing. One possible configuration for this is to provide an openable door on the front of the section of the water maker housing where the water collection bottle and multiple filters are located, and to make the water collection bottle and multiple filters easily detachable.

[0108] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of an air water maker according to the sixth embodiment, in which an openable door 0705 is provided in front of the section of the water maker housing where the water collection bottle 0710 and the multiple filters 0711-0714 are located so that the water collection bottle 0710 and the multiple filters 0711-0714 can be inserted and removed from the front of the water maker housing 0700. In this case, the front door may be transparent so that the level of contamination of the water collection bottle, etc. can be easily ascertained even when the door is closed. Although not shown in the figure, the outlet of the water discharge unit is usually located on the front of the upper part of the housing.

[0109] In order to avoid impairing the convenience of the air water maker, it is desirable to prepare multiple water collection bottles and use them as disposable bottles, or to install and use other bottles while one bottle is removed for cleaning.

[0110] For multiple filters, it is desirable to use cartridge-type filters that can be easily attached and detached, and it is also desirable to have multiple disposable filters on hand.

[0111] <Effects of Embodiment 7> The invention of this embodiment makes it possible to insert and remove the water collection bottle and multiple filters from the front of the water maker housing, facilitating replacement and other operations, thereby more effectively achieving the object of the present invention of providing an air water maker that can dispense only drinking water that is as free from contamination as possible and that can achieve this in an inexpensive and simple manner.

[0112] Eighth Embodiment The eighth embodiment mainly relates to claim 8 and the like.

[0113] <Embodiment 8: Overview> The air water maker of embodiment 8 is based on the air water maker of embodiment 6, and further characterized in that the water purification filter is made up of at least one of an activated carbon filter, a filtration membrane filter, a ceramic filter, an ion exchange resin filter, and a reverse osmosis membrane filter.

[0114] <Embodiment 8: Configuration> (Embodiment 9: Configuration: General) The configuration of the air water maker of this embodiment is basically the same as the configuration of the air water maker of embodiment 6. However, in addition to this, the air water maker of this embodiment has a water purification filter that is at least one of an activated carbon filter, a filtration membrane filter, a ceramic filter, an ion exchange resin filter, and a reverse osmosis membrane filter.

[0115] The water purification filter here is provided in the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit. The main reason for providing multiple filters is the same as the reason for providing multiple filters in the water flow path between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank in embodiment 2: different types of water purification filters have different functions and characteristics, and combining these filters in a complex manner enables effective water purification. From this perspective, a combination of multiple types of filters is also preferable to a single type of filter. From this perspective, the filter in this embodiment is composed of at least one of an activated carbon filter, a filtration membrane filter, a ceramic filter, an ion exchange resin filter, and a reverse osmosis membrane filter. Of these, the characteristics of the activated carbon filter and the reverse osmosis membrane filter are as described in embodiment 3.

[0116] (Embodiment 6: Configuration: Filtration Filter) Filtration membrane filters are filters made of a filtration membrane, and are classified according to the size of the diameter of the fine pores into coarse filtration membrane filters (pore diameter of approximately more than 10 micrometers), microfiltration membrane filters (pore diameter of approximately more than 0.05 micrometers and less than 10 micrometers), and ultrafiltration membrane filters (pore diameter of approximately more than 0.001 micrometers and less than 0.05 micrometers). The smaller the pore diameter, the smaller the impurity particles and the like that can be captured and filtered. For example, microfiltration membrane filters capture microorganisms such as yeast and E. coli, but allow proteins and viruses to pass through. Ultrafiltration membrane filters with smaller pore diameters also capture proteins and viruses.

[0117] (Embodiment 6: Configuration: Ceramic Filter) A ceramic filter is a filter made of ceramic material, and has the characteristics of being highly durable and capable of being reused by washing and firing.

[0118] (Embodiment 6: Configuration: Ion exchange resin filter) An ion exchange resin filter is a filter made of ion exchange resin (a synthetic resin with ion exchange groups), which can remove impurities from drinking water by capturing impurity ions contained in drinking water and exchanging them with ions contained in the resin, thereby removing impurities from drinking water.

[0119] <Effects of Embodiment 8> The invention of this embodiment can minimize the risk of impurities, bacteria, etc. being mixed into the drinking water delivered to the water outlet side after switching and being discharged, making it possible to more effectively achieve the object of the present invention of providing an air water maker that can discharge only drinking water that is as free from contaminants as possible and that can achieve this in an inexpensive and simple manner.

[0120] Ninth Embodiment The ninth embodiment mainly relates to claim 9 and the like.

[0121] <Embodiment 9: Overview> The air water maker of embodiment 9 is based on the air water maker of embodiment 1, but is further characterized by the inclusion of a hot water tank in at least a portion of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit, which produces and stores hot water using a heater.

[0122] <Embodiment 9: Configuration> The configuration of the air water maker of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the air water maker of embodiment 1. However, the air water maker of this embodiment additionally includes a hot water tank that generates and stores hot water using a heater in at least a part of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit.

[0123] Figure 8 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an air water maker according to embodiment 9, in which a hot water tank 0860 is provided in the flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit. This hot water tank stores hot water heated by a heater provided within the tank. This configuration makes it possible to discharge not only cold water but also hot water, thereby improving the convenience of the air water maker. Furthermore, hot water from the hot water tank can be circulated through the flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit to sterilize the path, thereby more effectively achieving the object of the present invention of discharging only drinking water that is as uncontaminated as possible.

[0124] <Effects of Embodiment 9> The invention of this embodiment makes it possible to discharge not only cold water but also hot water, thereby increasing the convenience of the air water maker and minimizing the risk of impurities, bacteria, etc. being mixed into the drinking water sent to the water discharge section after switching, making it possible to more effectively achieve the object of the present invention of providing an air water maker that can discharge only drinking water that is as free from contaminants as possible.

[0125] Tenth Embodiment The tenth embodiment mainly relates to claim 10 and the like.

[0126] <Embodiment 10: Overview> The air water maker of embodiment 10 is based on the air water maker of embodiment 1, but is further characterized by the addition of an ultraviolet lamp that irradiates ultraviolet light onto the drinking water stored in the cold water tank.

[0127] <Embodiment 10: Configuration> The configuration of the air water maker of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the air water maker of embodiment 1. However, the air water maker of this embodiment is additionally provided with an ultraviolet lamp that irradiates ultraviolet light onto the drinking water stored in the cold water tank. With this configuration, the drinking water stored in the cold water tank can be sterilized by the ultraviolet lamp.

[0128] <Effects of Embodiment 10> The invention of this embodiment can minimize the risk of impurities, bacteria, etc. being mixed into the drinking water delivered to the water outlet side after switching and being discharged, making it possible to more effectively achieve the object of the present invention of providing an air water maker that can discharge only drinking water that is as free from contaminants as possible.

[0129] 3 is a diagram for explaining an embodiment of the air water maker according to the present invention. Hereinafter, one embodiment of the air water maker 0300 according to the present invention will be described using this diagram, generally in accordance with the processing order for condensed water and drinking water.

[0130] (Example: Water Collection Bottle) As shown in the lower left of the figure, first, condensed water 0311 made from air is collected in a water collection bottle 0310. The capacity of the water collection bottle in this example is 1.5 liters. In the example shown in the figure, the water collection bottle is equipped with a water level sensor SE1 and a weight sensor SE2 to prevent water leakage.

[0131] (Example: Water flow path between water collection bottle and cold water tank) Condensed water collected in the water collection bottle is sent to the cold water tank 0320 (shown in the upper right of the figure) via the water flow path 0301 between the water collection bottle and cold water tank. In this example, the water flow path between the water collection bottle and cold water tank is made by joining a silicone hose (S1) (the numbers in parentheses indicate the material and inner diameter of the hose (the same applies below), where "S1" indicates a silicone hose with an inner diameter of 4 mm) and a hard hose (K1) (a hard hose with an inner diameter of 4 mm). Condensed water is taken into the water flow path using a pump P1 provided on the water flow path.

[0132] A water purification filter F1 is provided in the water flow path between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank. The figure shows an example in which four water purification filters (filter (1), filter (2), filter (0), and filter (4)) are provided. It is desirable for these filters to be multiple types selected from among filtration filters, activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis membrane filters, biomineral filters, ceramic filters, ion exchange resin filters, etc., but the figure shows an example in which the filters are, in order, filtration filters, activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis membrane filters, and biomineral filters (the same applies to Figures 10 and 11 described below).

[0133] 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the structure of a water purification filter provided in the water flow path 1001 between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank (this is merely a conceptual diagram and does not necessarily represent the actual shape). The example in this figure also has four water purification filters (filter (1), filter (2), filter (0), and filter (4)), and each water purification filter houses filter material (filter body) 10 in a cylindrical cartridge 10. These water purification filters are connected to each other by the water flow path 1001 between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank, and condensed water is purified by passing through these filters in order.

[0134] Figure 11 is a conceptual diagram showing how condensed water is gradually purified as it passes through multiple connected water purification filters. Arrows FL1 to FL4 indicate the flow of condensed water, and the shades of color represent the amount of impurities (darker colors indicate more impurities). The diagram shows how condensed water is gradually purified as it passes through filter (1), filter (2), and filter (0) in sequence. From this perspective, the filters shown in the diagram—filter (1), filter (2), and filter (0)—are, as mentioned above, a filtration filter, activated carbon filter, and reverse osmosis membrane filter, respectively. Furthermore, filter (4) is an example of a bimineral filter. Since the reverse osmosis membrane filter almost completely removes impurities containing minerals, a biomineral filter is placed after it to add minerals.

[0135] 10, for example, as shown in the figure, the water purification filter is configured so that the cartridge containing the filter material is divided into two compartments, and the condensed water sent to the first compartment, which is the inner one, passes through the filter material and is sent to the second compartment, which is the outer one, and then goes through the water flow path between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank and is sent to the first compartment, which is the inner one of the next water purification filter, and the same process is repeated thereafter. The purified water is sent to the cold water tank, and uncontaminated drinking water is stored in the cold water tank.

[0136] Here, it is desirable to drain a portion of the water sent to the reverse osmosis membrane filter (0). To achieve this, for example, a flow path 1005 can be provided between the reverse osmosis membrane filter and the water collection bottle, and a pump P4 provided in the flow path can be used to return a portion of the water before passing through the reverse osmosis membrane filter's filter material to the water collection bottle. This configuration takes into account the fact that the nature of reverse osmosis membranes requires the application of water pressure to reverse osmosis, and that the pore size of the filter material in reverse osmosis membrane filters is extremely small compared to other types of water purification filters (the pore size of the filter material in reverse osmosis membrane filters is approximately 0.0001 micrometers, compared to, for example, the pore size of the filter material in bimineral filters is approximately 0.4 micrometers). In other words, condensed water is pumped from the water collection bottle through the flow path between the water collection bottle and the cold water tank at a constant pressure and flow rate. During this process, the condensed water first passes through a filtration filter and an activated carbon filter, and then reaches the reverse osmosis membrane filter. However, the pore size of the filter material in a reverse osmosis membrane filter is very small, and the flow rate that can pass through per unit time is small. As a result, condensed water cannot pass through the filter material of the reverse osmosis membrane filter at the same rate (flow rate) as before, and the condensed water that has accumulated in front of the filter material and has nowhere to go may try to flow back, hindering the smooth water purification function. Therefore, as described above, a water flow path 1005 is provided between the reverse osmosis membrane filter and the water collection bottle to prevent water from accumulating.

[0137] For reference, Figure 12 shows a conceptual diagram illustrating the relationship between water flow rate and water pressure in a water purification filter (this is merely a conceptual diagram and is merely qualitative). Generally, as water pressure increases, flow rate increases, but the specific values ​​of this relationship vary depending on the type of filter. Of the two curves, (a) represents the relationship for a reverse osmosis membrane filter, while (b) represents the relationship for an activated carbon filter, an example of a different filter. This diagram shows that when the same water pressure p is applied, the flow rate f1 (the flow rate that can pass through the filter material per unit time) for the reverse osmosis membrane filter is lower than the flow rate f2 (the same flow rate) for the activated carbon filter. This indicates that water that passes through the activated carbon filter and reaches the reverse osmosis membrane filter (before the filter material) under the same water pressure tends to stagnate there.

[0138] (Example: Cold Water Tank) Returning to Figure 3, the cold water tank 0320 stores water sent from the water collection bottle 0310 as drinking water 0322. The capacity of the cold water tank shown in the figure is 12 liters. The cold water tank shown in the figure is provided with the above-mentioned water level sensor SE3 and a water temperature sensor SE4 for temperature control. The cold water tank shown in the figure is also provided with a UV lamp 0370 for sterilizing the drinking water in the tank.

[0139] (Example: Flow path for discharging cold water during a power outage) In the example shown in the figure, a flow path 03092 is provided from the cold water tank 0320 to the cold water discharge manual cock C2. This is a flow path provided for discharging cold water during a power outage. Discharging of water is enabled by the user manually opening the cold water manual cock. In this case, water is discharged from a separate outlet from the normal water discharge unit 0330.

[0140] (Example: Flow Path Between Cold Water Tank and Switching Unit) Potable water in the cold water tank is sent to the switching unit 0340 via the flow path 0302 between the cold water tank and switching unit. The flow path between the cold water tank and switching unit is composed of a silicone hose (S3) (a silicone hose with an inner diameter of 11 mm), a silicone hose (S2) (a silicone hose with an inner diameter of 9 mm), and a silicone hose (ST1) (a T-shaped silicone hose with an inner diameter of 11 mm). The portion using the T-shaped hose allows a portion of the drinking water in the flow path between the cold water tank and switching unit to be returned to the cold water tank via a separate flow path 0306 without being sent to the switching unit. In the example shown in the figure, this delivery is also performed using a pump P2 installed on the path. In addition, in the example shown in the figure, a water purification filter F2 is also installed on the path. Furthermore, a supply valve (check valve) V1 is installed on the path to prevent water in the path from flowing back into the cold water tank.

[0141] (Example: Hot Water Tank) As shown in the figure, the air water maker of this example is also equipped with a hot water tank 0360, so that it can provide not only cold water but also hot water to the user. The hot water tank is equipped with a heater H, and drinking water sent from the cold water tank is heated by the heater and stored in the hot water tank. The capacity of the hot water tank in the example shown in the figure is 2 liters. This hot water tank is also equipped with a water level sensor SE5 and a water temperature sensor SE6.

[0142] (Example: Water flow path between cold water tank and hot water tank) As such, since the air water maker of this example is provided with a hot water tank, in addition to the water flow path between the cold water tank and the switching unit described above, two water flow paths (water flow paths between the cold water tank and hot water tank) 0307a, 0307b leading from the cold water tank to the hot water tank, and a water flow path (water flow path between the hot water tank and the switching unit) 0308 leading from the hot water tank to the switching unit are provided.

[0143] Of the two cold water tank-hot water tank flow paths, one, flow path 0307a, is a path that sends water from the cold water tank to the hot water tank. Water sent from the cold water tank via supply valve V2 to the hot water tank is heated in the hot water tank and then provided to the user. A silicone hose (S1) is used for this flow path. Meanwhile, the other cold water tank-hot water tank flow path 0307b is a path that returns some of the water in the hot water tank to the cold water tank when the hot water tank is about to overflow. A silicone hose (S3) is used for this flow path.

[0144] (Example: Flow path between hot water tank and switching unit) The flow path between hot water tank and switching unit 0308 is a flow path for sending hot water from the hot water tank 0360 to the switching unit 0340. A silicone hose (S1) is used for this path. Drinking water is sent from this hot water tank to the switching unit using a pump P3, similar to what has already been described for sending drinking water from the cold water tank to the switching unit. Also, as shown in the same figure, a supply valve (check valve) V3 may be provided on the flow path between the hot water tank and switching unit to prevent hot water from flowing back into the cold water tank, similar to what has been described above for cold water.

[0145] (Example: Configuration for Air Removal from the Water Flow Path Between the Hot Water Tank and the Switching Unit) Hot water typically contains air bubbles (water vapor) generated by heating and air (hereinafter referred to as "air, etc.") mixed in during pump operation. When attempting to pump hot water containing air, etc., a phenomenon known as "air entrapment" occurs, resulting in insufficient flow rate and water pressure in the water flow path, and the pump not operating properly. Therefore, as shown in the figure, a water flow path 03091 is provided that branches off from the hot water tank-switching unit water flow path 0308 and leads to a water collection bottle, and a cock C1 is provided on the water flow path near the branching point. The cock is normally closed and is opened (the supply valve V3 is closed at this time) when the water in the hot water tank boils, for example, to return the water in the water flow path containing the water vapor to the water collection bottle 0310, preventing the water containing the water vapor from accumulating in the hot water tank-switching unit water flow path 0308. Once this process is complete, the tap is closed again to return to the original normal state. Note that these processes may be configured so that a sensor detects when the water in the hot water tank has boiled and automatically opens and closes the supply valve and tap. Under normal circumstances, i.e., when the tap is closed, when hot water starts to be discharged from the water discharge unit, the hot water will not flow from the tap toward the water collection bottle, but will flow exclusively toward the switching unit.

[0146] (Example: Flow path for discharging hot water during a power outage) In the example shown in the figure, a flow path 03093 is provided from the hot water tank 0360 to the hot water discharge manual cock C3, just as in the case of cold water. This is a flow path provided for discharging hot water during a power outage. Similar to what has been described above for cold water, the water can be discharged by the user manually opening the hot water manual cock, and the water is discharged from a separate outlet from the normal water discharge unit 0330.

[0147] (Example: Switching Unit) Cold water delivered from the cold water tank via the cold water tank-switching unit flow path (or hot water delivered from the hot water tank via the hot water tank-switching unit flow path) is switched by the switching unit 0340, and is drained into the water collection bottle for a predetermined time before being sent to the water discharge unit 0330. In the example shown in the figure, the switching unit is a three-way valve. This switching is performed by a control unit (not shown) that controls the switching unit.

[0148] (Example: Water flow path between switching unit and water discharge unit, water discharge unit) After water has been discharged into the water collection bottle for a predetermined time at the switching unit, the drinking water in the water flow path between the cold water tank and switching unit (or the water flow path between the hot water tank and switching unit), or in addition, the drinking water in the cold water tank or hot water tank, is sent to the water discharge unit 0330 via the water flow path between switching unit and water discharge unit 0304, and is discharged and made available for drinking. The water flow path between the switching unit and water discharge unit is made of a silicone hose (ST3) with an inner diameter of 11 mm.

[0149] 0100 Air water maker 0101 Water flow path between water collection bottle and cold water tank 0102 Water flow path between cold water tank and switching unit 0103 Water flow path between switching unit and water collection bottle 0104 Water flow path between switching unit and water discharge unit 0110 Water collection bottle 0120 Cold water tank 0130 Water discharge unit 0140 Switching unit 0150 Control unit 0303 Water flow path between cold water tank and water collection bottle 0305 Water flow path from reverse osmosis membrane filter to water collection bottle 0306 Water flow path for returning part of the drinking water in the circulation path between the cold water tank and switching unit to the cold water tank 0307a Water flow path between cold water tank and hot water tank 0307b Water flow path between cold water tank and hot water tank 0308 Water flow path between hot water tank and switching unit 03091 Water flow path between hot water tank and water collection bottle 03092 Water flow path between hot water tank and water collection bottle 03093 Water flow path to drain water from the cold water tank into the water collection bottle 0370 UV lamp S1, S2, S3, SW1, SW2, SW3 Silicone hose ST1 T-shaped silicone hose K1 Hard hose P1, P2, P3 Pump PL1 Plug F1, F2 Water purification filter SE1, SE3, SE5 Water level sensor SE2 Weight sensor SE4, SE6 Water temperature sensor V1, V2, V3 Valve H Heater C1 Air vent cock C2 Manual cock for discharging cold water C3 Manual cock for discharging hot water

Claims

1. An air water maker that makes drinking water from air, comprising: a water collection bottle that collects condensation water made from air; a cold water tank that collects drinking water; a water discharge unit that discharges the drinking water; a switching unit that switches the flow path of the drinking water supplied from the cold water tank; and a control unit that controls the switching unit, wherein the control unit controls the switching unit to drain at least a portion of the drinking water that has collected in at least a portion of the flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit into the water collection bottle for a predetermined time when discharging water, and to discharge the drinking water from the water discharge unit after the predetermined time has elapsed.

2. The air water maker according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of filters are provided in at least a part of the water flow path that supplies the condensed water collected in the water collection bottle to the cold water tank.

3. The air water maker according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of filters comprise at least an activated carbon filter, a reverse osmosis membrane filter, and a biomineral filter.

4. The air water maker of claim 1, wherein the switching unit comprises a three-way solenoid valve having at least a portion of the flow path connection from the cold water tank as an inlet, a flow path connection connected to the water discharge unit, and a flow path connection connected to the water collection bottle as an outlet.

5. The air water maker according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is made up of a control board comprising at least a CPU, a main memory, a non-volatile memory, and an input / output interface.

6. The air water maker according to claim 1, wherein a water purification filter is provided in at least a part of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching section.

7. The air water maker according to claim 2, wherein the water collection bottle and the plurality of filters are configured to be removable from the front of the water maker housing.

8. The air water purifier according to claim 6, wherein the water purification filter is at least one of an activated carbon filter, a membrane filter, a ceramic filter, an ion exchange resin filter, and a reverse osmosis membrane filter.

9. The air water maker according to claim 1, further comprising a hot water tank for storing hot water produced by a heater in at least a part of the water flow path from the cold water tank to the switching unit.

10. The air water maker according to claim 1, further comprising an ultraviolet lamp for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the drinking water stored in the cold water tank.

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