Food waste disposer

Abstract

A food waste disposer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a solid-liquid separation unit that transports only food waste from which at least a portion of moisture has been removed, and drops the food waste downward; a decomposition unit disposed below the solid-liquid separation unit, wherein the dropped food waste is decomposed by microorganisms; a collection unit that stores the decomposed food waste; and a drain and deodorization module that discharges liquid separated from the food waste or liquid injected from the inlet into a sink drain pipe and discharges gas containing malodorous particles therein into the sink drain pipe, wherein the drain and deodorization module includes: an exhaust fan; a drain and deodorization pipe including a drain pipe having one end connected to the sink drain pipe through which the liquid flows and a deodorization pipe having one end connected to the exhaust fan and the other end connected to the drain pipe through which the gas containing the malodorous particles flows; and a backflow prevention valve disposed in the deodorization pipe to restrict backflow of the liquid from the drain pipe and to allow gas containing malodorous particles to flow, wherein the backflow prevention valve restricts the backflow of the liquid by the buoyancy of the backflowing liquid and allows the gas containing malodorous particles to flow by its own weight, and the backflow prevention valve opens and closes the deodorization pipe, and includes a valve body including a hollow portion therein, wherein the valve body includes a valve hinge hinged to the deodorization pipe.

Description

food waste disposer

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a food waste disposer, and more particularly, to a built-in type food waste disposer that can be installed inside a sink.

[0002] Generally, food waste disposers are divided into built-in type, which is installed under the sink and is integrated into the sink so that food waste is directly fed into the sink inlet and processed, and standing type, which is installed separately from the sink and collects and processes dehydrated solid food waste.

[0003] In the case of a stand-alone food waste disposer, solid food waste that has undergone dehydration is collected and decomposed into inorganic substances mainly through decomposition using microorganisms, and the decomposed waste is collected and discharged.

[0004] Meanwhile, in the case of a sink built-in food waste disposer, it includes a crusher that crushes food waste fed through the inlet and a dehydrator that dehydrates the crushed food waste.

[0005] Typically, food waste is processed sequentially through grinding and dehydration. Food waste passes through a grinder, a dehydrator, and then is loaded into a loading bin. The liquid separated from the food waste is discharged through a drain hose. Remaining food waste is collected in a food waste collection bin and disposed of once a certain amount has accumulated.

[0006] Users select and use food waste disposers according to the food waste disposal method and installation method, taking into account various factors such as environmental conditions and preferences.

[0007] However, both built-in and stand-alone food waste disposers capture food waste for a set amount of time to process it. During this time, the food waste decomposes, generating a foul odor. Microbial-based food waste disposers, in particular, face the problem of generating a particularly strong odor due to the high temperatures and humidity required for decomposition.

[0008] Korean Patent Publication No. 2001-009109 utilizes a sink (1), a discharge pipe (11), a drain pipe (51), a main exhaust drain pipe (5), and a waste disposer (4). A sedimentation tank (2) for receiving water and food waste is formed at the bottom of the sink, a waste disposer (4) is installed inside the sink (1), and a conveyor (3) is connected between the sedimentation tank (2) and the waste disposer (4), and the odor generated from the waste disposer (4) is discharged to the outside through the drain pipe (51) and the main exhaust drain pipe (5).

[0009] Korean Patent Publication No. 2006-0007993 discloses a food waste disposal device comprising a housing, a crushing unit that is installed inside the housing and is composed of a pair of crushing rolls to crush food waste, and a dewatering unit that is composed of a screw shaft that pressurizes and removes moisture from food waste crushed in the crushing unit, the device comprising: a drain trap that is installed on the upper surface of the housing and is connected to the drain of a sink, and has a plurality of drain holes formed on the outer periphery of the upper surface; a casing that surrounds the drain trap with an induction path between the outer peripheries to guide moisture discharged through the drain holes toward an inflow path formed on the upper surface of the housing and process it; a drain path that communicates with the inflow path formed on the upper surface of the housing to allow moisture to flow; a water collecting unit that collects moisture introduced through the drain path; a drain pipe that is installed on the front side of the water collecting unit to guide the collected moisture toward a sewer pipe; and a wind blown by a blower that is installed on the lower side of the water collecting unit to guide the wind toward the water collecting unit so that bad smells are eliminated through the drain pipe. It is characterized by including a pipe body consisting of a blower pipe for discharging into a sewer pipe.

[0010] Korean Patent Publication No. 2001-009109 has a structure in which a suction part is provided on the outer surface of the product, so that outside air is drawn into the decomposition part and exhausted into the sewer together with the foul odor, and Korean Patent Publication No. 2006-0007993 has a structure in which only the foul odor from the drying room inside the product is exhausted.

[0011] Therefore, conventional technologies have a disadvantage in that they cannot remove the odor generated from the inlet because they do not have a structure that discharges the odor from the inlet and the decomposition part at the same time, and there is a problem in that the liquid flows back when discharging the odor through the drain, causing damage to the inside of the food waste disposer.

[0012]

[0013] [Prior Art Literature]

[0014] [Patent Document]

[0015] Korean Patent Publication No. 2001-009109

[0016] Korean Patent Publication No. 2006-0007993

[0017]

[0018] The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a built-in type food waste disposer that can collect and remove food waste by fermenting it without crushing it in a sink-integrated food waste disposer.

[0019] In addition, the present disclosure provides a food waste disposer capable of discharging gas containing odor particles generated in a sink drain and food waste disposer through a sewer pipe.

[0020] In addition, the present disclosure provides a food waste disposal device that discharges gas containing odor particles generated in the sink drain and food waste disposal device through a sewer pipe, while discharging liquid flowing in through the sink drain into the sewer pipe, and preventing the liquid from flowing back into the food waste disposal device.

[0021] In addition, the present disclosure provides a food waste disposer that is easy to replace parts in the future, convenient to service, and takes up less space inside the food waste disposer by forming a pipe integrally to discharge gas containing odor particles generated in the sink drain and food waste disposer through the drain pipe, while discharging liquid flowing in through the sink drain into the drain pipe.

[0022] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a solid-liquid separation module having a suction module that can form negative pressure inside a food waste disposer and suck odors inside from an inlet connected to a sink drain and discharge them through a sewer pipe.

[0023] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a food waste disposer in which a waste transfer unit for collecting only the waste fermented in the decomposition unit into an adjacent collection unit is arranged above the collection unit, thereby utilizing the limited space under the sink and, in particular, minimizing the space other than the space where food is fermented or collected.

[0024] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a food waste disposer that prevents water used by a user from easily flowing into the food waste disposal space of the food waste disposer and, even if it does flow in, discharges the water through a discharge hole regardless of the operation of the food waste disposer.

[0025]

[0026] The present disclosure is characterized in that the check valve restricts the backflow of liquid by the buoyancy of the backflowing liquid and allows the gas containing odor particles to flow by its own weight.

[0027] Specifically, a food waste disposer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a solid-liquid separation unit that removes at least a portion of liquid from among food waste introduced from an inlet and transfers only the food waste to the lower portion, a decomposition unit that is disposed below the solid-liquid separation unit and in which the introduced food waste is decomposed by microorganisms, a collection unit that stores the decomposed food waste, and a drain deodorization module that discharges liquid separated from the food waste or liquid introduced from the inlet into a sink drain pipe and discharges gas containing malodorous particles inside into the sink drain pipe, wherein the drain deodorization module includes a drain deodorization pipe including an exhaust fan, a drain pipe having one end connected to the sink drain pipe through which the liquid flows, and a deodorization pipe having one end connected to the exhaust fan and the other end connected to the drain pipe through which the gas containing the malodorous particles flows, and a backflow prevention valve disposed in the deodorization pipe and restricting the backflow of liquid from the drain pipe and allowing the gas containing the malodorous particles to flow, wherein the backflow prevention valve is configured to react to buoyancy of the backflowing liquid. The backflow prevention valve is characterized by opening and closing the deodorizing pipe, including a valve body having a hollow portion therein, and a valve hinge hingedly connected to the deodorizing pipe, wherein the valve body restricts the backflow of the liquid and allows the gas containing the odor particles to flow by its own weight.

[0028] The hinge axis of the above valve hinge can extend in a direction intersecting the direction of gravity.

[0029] The specific gravity of the above valve body may be smaller than the specific gravity of the liquid.

[0030]

[0031] When liquid flows in the above drain pipe, the exhaust fan does not operate and the check valve can close the deodorizing pipe.

[0032] When liquid does not flow in the above drain pipe, the exhaust fan is operated and the check valve can open the deodorizing pipe.

[0033] The above drain pipe may include a first inlet connected to the drain pipe of the solid-liquid separation unit and a first outlet connected to the sink drain pipe, and the deodorizing pipe may include a second inlet connected to the exhaust fan and a second outlet connected to the drain pipe.

[0034] The above high-liquid separation unit may be positioned higher than the drainage deodorization pipe.

[0035] The above-mentioned check valve may be located below the second inlet.

[0036] The second inlet may be positioned higher than the second outlet.

[0037] The first inlet may be positioned higher than the second outlet.

[0038] The second outlet may be located closer to the first outlet than the first inlet in the drain pipe.

[0039] The above drainage pipe may further include a reservoir in which liquid accumulates between the first inlet and the first outlet.

[0040] The first inlet may be positioned higher than the first outlet.

[0041] At least a portion of the above check valve may be positioned to overlap the second inlet in the direction of gravity.

[0042] The above drainage pipe may include a first drainage pipe having the first inlet at one end and extending vertically, a reservoir connected to the lower end of the first drainage pipe, a second drainage pipe connected to the upper end of the inlet and extending vertically, a direction changing portion connected to the upper end of the second drainage pipe and extending in a direction intersecting with the second drainage pipe, and a third drainage pipe having one end connected to the direction changing portion and the other end provided with a first outlet.

[0043]

[0044]

[0045] Through the above solution, the food waste disposer is easy to post-process and environmentally friendly as it decomposes food into microorganisms.

[0046] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, in a sink-integrated food waste disposer, fermentation is performed in a solid state without crushing food waste, thereby preventing discharge of food waste into a drain due to crushing, making it environmentally friendly.

[0047] The present disclosure provides various structures that can transfer solids to the lower decomposition unit by horizontally moving them in a solid state with liquid removed from the input inlet when food waste is input, thereby utilizing a minimum space and moving them to the lower decomposition unit.

[0048] In addition, the present disclosure can provide a food waste disposer that can be used hygienically because all individual components that come into contact with food in a horizontal transport structure can be separated and washed and managed.

[0049] In addition, it can form negative pressure inside the food waste disposer and suck odors inside from the inlet connected to the sink drain and discharge them through the sewer pipe, thereby minimizing the user's discomfort caused by odors.

[0050] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of preventing water used by a user from easily flowing into the food waste treatment space of a food waste treatment device from flowing into the sink faucet, and even if it does, discharging the water through a discharge hole regardless of the operation of the food waste treatment device, thereby protecting microorganisms in the treatment space from dying due to excessive water input, and preventing damage to other components due to water overflowing into the treatment space.

[0051] In addition, the present disclosure has an advantage in that the agitator includes a blade of a different shape from the agitator screw, a screw hole is formed in the agitator screw, so that food is sufficiently mixed with microorganisms and stirred in the decomposition section, and thrust is generated in the direction of the agitator shaft when the agitator screw rotates, so that the food is transported, the screw hole provides a space through which the food can pass, thereby reducing the resistance of the agitator screw, and the blade has an I-shape, so that it scrapes the food stuck to the wall of the decomposition tank, thereby preventing the food from sticking to the wall of the decomposition tank, thereby preventing damage to the agitator.

[0052] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantages of being able to efficiently transmit driving force without using a chain or belt between the motor shaft and the stirrer, with the stirrer being connected in series to the motor shaft and the motor being located outside the decomposition tank, being easy to assemble, and being able to freely switch the rotation direction and stirring direction of the motor.

[0053] In addition, since the deodorizing pipe is closed by the backflow prevention valve due to the buoyancy of the liquid when the liquid flows back into the drain pipe, the liquid discharged through the sink drain does not flow back into the decomposition section, etc. through the deodorizing pipe, but is discharged into the sink drain pipe, thereby preventing the decomposition section and solid-liquid separation section from being damaged by the liquid discharged through the drain pipe.

[0054] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage that, since the deodorizing pipe is opened by the backflow prevention valve when no liquid is flowing in the drain pipe, gas containing odor particles generated from the food waste disposal device and gas containing odor particles generated from the sink drain are discharged into the sink drain pipe through the deodorizing pipe.

[0055] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of being able to easily manufacture a structure for preventing backflow of liquid by forming a drainage pipe through which liquid is drained and a deodorization pipe through which steam and odor are discharged as one unit, having a structure that occupies a small space, and being an integrated structure, being easy to service in the future.

[0056] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of being able to discharge not only gas containing odor particles from a sink drain, but also gas containing odor particles inside a food waste treatment device such as a solid-liquid separation unit, a decomposition unit, a transport unit, and a collection unit.

[0057] In addition, the present disclosure has the advantage of easily controlling the opening and closing of the door by opening and closing the door connecting the transfer section and the decomposition section through which food is discharged from the high-liquid separation section, thereby restricting food that is not decomposed in the decomposition section from moving to the transfer section, and physically synchronizing the opening of the transfer section with the rotation of the transfer section to open the transfer section.

[0058]

[0059] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a food waste disposer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the main body and lower module of a food waste disposer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the inside of the food waste disposer of Figure 1.

[0062] Figure 4 is a front view showing the inside of the food waste disposer of Figure 1.

[0063] Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the input portion of the food waste disposer of Fig. 1.

[0064] Fig. 6a is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the input section of Fig. 5 taken along line Ⅰ-Ⅰ', and Fig. 6b is a detailed perspective view of the cover section and the cover guide.

[0065] Figures 7a and 7b are detailed drawings of the solid-liquid separation unit of the food waste disposer of Figure 1.

[0066] Fig. 8a is a perspective view showing the inside of the lower module of the food waste disposer of Fig. 1.

[0067] Figure 8b is an exploded perspective view of Figure 8a.

[0068] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the interior of a lower module of a food waste disposer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] Figures 10a and 10b are state diagrams showing the combination of a transport unit and a collection unit.

[0070] Figure 11a is a simplified schematic diagram showing the drainage deodorization module of the food waste disposer of Figure 1.

[0071] Figure 11b is an enlarged view of the part where the backflow prevention valve of Figure 11a is installed.

[0072] Fig. 11c is a simplified schematic diagram of the wastewater deodorization module of the food waste disposer of Fig. 1 viewed from a different direction than Fig. 11a.

[0073] Figure 11d is a simplified schematic diagram showing the upper deodorizing module of the food waste disposer of Figure 1.

[0074] Figure 11e is a schematic diagram showing the operation of the upper deodorization module of Figure 11d.

[0075] Figure 11f is a drawing showing the operation of the drainage deodorization module of Figure 11a when liquid flows.

[0076] Figure 11g is a drawing showing the operation of the drainage deodorization module of Figure 11a when odor is discharged.

[0077] Figure 11h is a drawing showing the operation when liquid flows back into the drainage deodorization module of Figure 11a.

[0078] FIG. 11i is a drawing illustrating the odor / vapor path of the food waste treatment device of FIG. 1.

[0079] Figures 12a to 12d are flowcharts showing the operation of the food waste disposer of Figure 1.

[0080]

[0081] The expressions referring to directions such as “front (F) / back (R) / left (Le) / right (Ri) / upper (U) / lower (D)” mentioned below are defined as indicated in the drawings, but this is only for the purpose of explaining so that the present disclosure can be clearly understood, and it goes without saying that each direction can be defined differently depending on where the standard is set.

[0082] The use of terms such as "first," "second," etc., preceding components mentioned below is intended solely to avoid confusion regarding the components they refer to, and has no bearing on the order, importance, or dominant-subordinate relationship between the components. For example, an embodiment that includes only the second component and no first component is also possible.

[0083] The thickness and size of each component in the drawings are exaggerated, omitted, or schematically illustrated for convenience and clarity. Furthermore, the size and area of ​​each component do not entirely reflect its actual size or area.

[0084] Additionally, the angles and directions mentioned in the process of describing the structure of the present disclosure are based on those described in the drawings. If the reference point and positional relationship for angles are not clearly mentioned in the description of the structure in the specification, reference should be made to the relevant drawings.

[0085] Hereinafter, a food waste disposer (10) according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0086] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a food waste disposer (10) according to one embodiment of the present specification, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a main body (700) and a lower module (750) of a food waste disposer (10) according to one embodiment of the present specification, FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the inside of the food waste disposer (10) of FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 is a front view showing the inside of the food waste disposer (10) of FIG. 1.

[0087] The food waste disposer (10) of the present disclosure is a microbial decomposition method, and food waste, which is the object of disposal, is introduced through an inlet (11) located at the top of the food waste disposer (10) and undergoes a decomposition process inside the food waste disposer (10). The composted waste, which is decomposed by microorganisms and turned into compost, is discharged through an outlet (12) located at the bottom of the food waste disposer (10), and is received in a collection unit (500) and then discharged to the outside all at once.

[0088] The food waste disposer (10) can be installed as an integral part (3) inside the sink (1). When the food waste disposer (10) is built into the sink (1), the inlet (100) of the food waste disposer (10) can be provided with a size and shape corresponding to the drain (4) on the bottom surface of the sink bowl (2). Therefore, when the food waste disposer (10) is installed in the sink (1), it can be conveniently used by connecting the inlet (100) of the food waste disposer (10) to the drain (4) of the existing sink bowl (2) without the need for a separate sink bowl (2) for connection.

[0089] The food waste disposer (10) of the present disclosure built into the interior (3) of the sink (1) is implemented to have an upper surface that is arranged parallel to the sink bowl (2) of the sink (1), a lower surface that is parallel to the upper surface and faces the bottom of the sink (1), and front, back, left, and right sides between the upper surface and the lower surface, and to have an internal space.

[0090] The front of the food waste disposer (10) is defined as the side facing the user when the user stands in front of the sink (1), the back is defined as the side that is parallel to the front and faces the back of the sink (1), the side that is bent to the left from the front is defined as the left side, and the side that is bent to the right from the front is defined as the right side.

[0091] In FIGS. 1 and 2, the upper and lower surfaces of the food waste disposer (10) have different areas, and a rear recessed portion (15) is formed according to the difference in the areas of the upper and lower surfaces, and a distributor (not shown) inside the sink (1) (3) can be positioned in the rear recessed portion (15).

[0092] The left and right sides are also formed into a square shape with at least a portion of the side facing the back being sunken by the back recess (15).

[0093] Accordingly, the food waste disposer (10) according to the present disclosure has an overall hexahedral shape, but may have a portion sunken at the lower back, and may be provided in various ways depending on the shape of the sink (1). That is, if the upper inlet (100) of the food waste disposer (10) is arranged so that it can be connected to the drain (4) of the sink (1), and the drain / deodorization module (600) of the food waste disposer (10) is arranged so that it can be connected to the drain pipe of the sink (1), it can be transformed into any structure as long as it has an internal space.

[0094] The food waste disposer (10) is configured with an upper module (710) having an inlet (11) arranged on the upper surface of the food waste disposer (10), a solid-liquid separation unit (200) connected to the inlet and separating the incoming food waste into solids and liquids and transporting the solids, and a lower module (750) arranged below the upper module (710).

[0095] The upper module (710) may include a display unit (14) on the front of the food waste disposer (10) and is integrated into the main body (700) (entire housing) of the food waste disposer (10).

[0096] The display unit (14) can display information about the temperature and humidity within the decomposition unit (300), the degree of maturation, and the remaining filling amount of the collection unit (500).

[0097] The lower module (750) is a functional module for receiving food from the upper module (710) and fermenting and storing it. It is integrated into one module and can be separated from the main body (700) in which the upper module (710) is placed.

[0098] The lower module (750) can be separated from the main body (700) by pulling it out in the first direction, i.e., in the front-back direction, from the front of the food waste disposer (10). By separating the lower module (750), it is possible to directly collect the decomposing matter and microorganisms that are decomposed within the decomposition unit (300) mounted on the lower module (750), and to clean the inside of the decomposition unit (300).

[0099] Various techniques can be applied to facilitate the assembly and separation of the lower module (750) from the main body (700). For example, the lower module (750) can be detached from the main body (700) in a drawer-like manner.

[0100] The input cover (111) covers the inlet (11) so that it can be opened and closed, but is provided to cover most of the area of ​​the inlet (11) so that the odor of the input food does not escape.

[0101] The collection unit (500) stores decomposed food waste. The collection unit (500) implements a sealed structure so that no foul odors generated inside the food waste disposer (10) leak out.

[0102] The food waste disposer (10) of the present disclosure is connected to a water supply pipe formed in a sink (1) and supplies moisture to the inside, and a drain / deodorization module (600) connected to a drain pipe formed in the sink (1) separates solid and liquid from food waste, and the liquid discharged is discharged immediately, while the odor or moisture discharged from each module is guided to be discharged to the drain pipe through the drain / deodorization module (600). Therefore, it has a structure that is directly connected to the water supply pipe and drain pipe of the sink (1), and does not have a separate hole through which odor is discharged to the outside, so when the food waste disposer (10) is operated and the inlet cover (111) is covered, the inside has a sealed structure.

[0103] The collection unit (500) connected to the outlet (12) of the food waste disposer (10) is detachable from the outlet (12). The separated collection unit (500) can empty the collected waste and be reassembled into the food waste disposer (10). The collection unit (500) can be installed in the food waste disposer (10).

[0104] The input cover (111) may be provided in a circular shape so as to be rotatable at the inlet (11). Specifically, the input cover (111) can be secured by simply being fitted into the inlet (11) to ensure a sealing force between the input cover (111) and the inlet (11). Therefore, the coupling of the input cover (111) and the inlet (11) to the extent of fitting or securing is required without performing engagement with the inlet (11) and a screw structure or the like.

[0105] In addition, when the insertion cover (111) is rotated by a predetermined angle or more while in a settled state, the rotation is detected by a sensor, and the settling and start of operation of the insertion cover (111) can be recognized.

[0106] That is, the rotation of the input cover (111) can also be used as an operation switch of the food waste disposer (10). For example, the input cover (111) and the input section (100) to which the input cover (111) is coupled can be provided with a sensing structure of a magnet and a hall sensor. That is, when the input cover (111) is fastened to the inlet (11) and rotated, the hall sensor periodically detects the magnet to recognize the rotational motion, and accordingly, recognizes the start of the operation.

[0107] That is, the operation of the insertion cover (111) being installed and the operation start command of the food waste disposer (10) can be recognized separately. Accordingly, the installation operation of the insertion cover (111) to prevent bad odors and the rotation operation for the operation start command of the food waste disposer (10) are separated, enabling accurate operation start while minimizing user intervention.

[0108] Figures 3 and 4 are a perspective view and a front view showing the inside of a food waste disposer (10) according to the present disclosure.

[0109] Below, the configurations according to the food waste processing process of the food waste disposer (10) of the present disclosure are described.

[0110] The input section (100) is the inlet (11) of the food waste disposer (10), and guides food to be input and delivers the food to the solid-liquid separation section (200) at the bottom.

[0111] The solid-liquid separation unit (200) is provided at the bottom of the inlet unit (100) and separates liquid from food moved from the inlet unit (100). In order for food to be easily decomposed, it is desirable for it to have a moisture content below a certain level, and the solid-liquid separation unit (200) separates liquid without crushing it and discharges it into an external sink drain through the drain / deodorization module (600).

[0112] The solid-liquid separation unit (200) can receive water from a water supply unit connected to an external sink water supply pipe and supply it to the lower decomposition unit (300). The interior of the decomposition unit (300) must maintain a certain amount of humidity for microbial activity, and the humidity can be sprayed from the water supply unit (730) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200).

[0113] A water supply part (730) is formed that penetrates from the outside to the inside of the case (201) of the solid-liquid separation part (200), and the water supply part (730) can have a water supply pipe extended so as to be connected to an external water supply pipe. Meanwhile, the internal water supply pipe (730) provided inside the food waste disposer (10) connects the solid-liquid separation part (200) and the external sink water supply pipe through the pipe connection part (732), and the internal drainage / deodorization module (600) connects the solid-liquid separation part (200) and the external drain port through the pipe connection part (680) (see FIG. 11a). The internal drainage / deodorization module (600) is connected so that a part is branched to perform a deodorization function, and also functions as a deodorization module that discharges odors together with liquid into the external drain port.

[0114] The solid separation unit (200) separates only the solids from which liquid has been separated from the food input from the input unit (100) and moves linearly or rotationally on a horizontal plane to drop them into the lower decomposition unit (300).

[0115] The decomposition unit (300) can decompose solid food materials using microorganisms. The decomposition unit (300) is located below the solid-liquid separation unit (200) and within the lower module (750). The decomposition unit receives food materials from which liquid has been removed, mixes them with microorganisms, and composts them, thereby decomposing them into compost. Food materials decomposed into compost are decomposed into a form similar to compost with small, uniform particle sizes without the need for separate grinding.

[0116] Accordingly, the decomposed material has a small particle size and a small weight, so it can move along a relatively large trajectory by stirring by the stirrer and be fed into the transfer unit (400) located at the top.

[0117] The collection unit (500) receives food that has been decomposed in the decomposition unit (300) and stores food to be discharged outside the food waste disposer (10) in advance. The collection unit (500) may be arranged horizontally with the decomposition unit (300). The decomposition unit (300) and the collection unit (500) may be partitioned by a side wall (360), and the decomposed matter of the decomposition unit (300) may be moved to the collection unit (500) through a side wall opening formed in the side wall (360).

[0118] The transfer unit (400) transfers at least a portion of the decomposed matter produced in the decomposition unit (300) to the collection unit (500). The transfer unit (400) is arranged horizontally with the decomposition unit (300) and is arranged above the collection unit (500) so that food in the decomposition unit (300) can be moved through the upper opening of the collection unit (500) via the inlet (361) of the side wall (360). The transfer unit (400) moves food in the decomposition unit (300) to the collection unit (500) by mechanical drive.

[0119] That is, when light and small particles of decomposition material are moved upward by the stirring of the decomposition unit (300), they are introduced into the transfer unit (400) through the inlet (361) of the side wall (360) and are discharged into the upper opening of the collection unit (500) through the outlet (12) by the mechanical driving of the transfer unit (400).

[0120] The main body (700), which determines the appearance and volume of the internal space of the food waste disposer (10), mounts each module.

[0121] Specifically, the input section (100) and the solid-liquid separation section (200) are formed integrally within the housing of the main body (700) that forms the exterior of the food waste disposer (10) as an upper module (710), and the decomposition section (300), the collection section (500), and the transport section (400) are mounted within a drawer-type lower module (750) that is physically separable from the housing of the main body (700).

[0122] Below, the detailed configuration of each functional module is described with reference to each drawing.

[0123] Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the input section of the food waste disposer (10) of Fig. 1, Fig. 6a is a partial cross-sectional view of the input section (100) of Fig. 5 taken along line Ⅰ-Ⅰ', and Fig. 6b is a detailed perspective view of the input cover and cover guide.

[0124] The food waste disposer (10) according to the present disclosure includes an inlet (100) that protrudes from the upper surface of the main body (700) and is aligned with the drain (4) on the bottom surface of the sink bowl (2) of the sink (1).

[0125] The inlet (100) includes a sink lock (120) that is coupled to the inlet of the high-liquid separation unit (200), an inlet cover (111), and a cover guide (130) that is assembled with the inlet cover (111) and detects the presence and start of operation of the inlet cover (111).

[0126] The inlet (2011) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) is inserted into the drain (4) on the bottom surface of the sink bowl (2) and is connected to the upper opening of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) in the sink (1) to form the input inlet (11) of the food waste disposer (10).

[0127] The inlet (2011) of the high-liquid separation unit (200) is formed to have a diameter equal to or smaller than the diameter of the drain (4) on the bottom surface of the sink bowl (2), but since the diameter of the drain (4) is generally standardized, the inlet (2011) of the high-liquid separation unit (200) can also be manufactured / distributed / sold according to the standard.

[0128] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6a, the inlet (2011) of the high-liquid separation unit (200) is formed to have a cylindrical side inserted into the drain (4) of the sink bowl (2) and to extend from the side to the upper surface of the sink bowl (2) to cover and compensate for the gap caused by the diameter difference between the drain (4) of the sink (1) and the side.

[0129] At this time, the inlet (2011) of the high-liquid separation unit (200) is formed with a step on the side to form a mounting surface (137) having a narrower diameter than the upper opening, and the mounting surface is formed so that the cover guide (130) is mounted.

[0130] The sink lock (120) is formed on the side of the inlet (2011) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) and completely covers the space between the sink (1) and the sink bowl (2) and is screw-connected to the side of the inlet (2011) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) so as to be in close contact with the upper surface of the sink bowl (2). Therefore, the food waste disposer (10) and the sink (1) are connected without a space within the sink bowl (2) by the sink lock (120).

[0131] A cover guide (130) is placed on the side of the sink lock (120).

[0132] The cover guide (130) has a mounting surface (137) on which the insertion cover (111) is mounted, and guides the mounting of the insertion cover (111).

[0133] Specifically, referring to FIG. 6b, the cover guide (130) has a cylindrical structure having a diameter smaller than the side of the sink lock (120).

[0134] The cover guide (130) includes a side (132) that overlaps the side of the sink lock (120) within the side of the sink lock (120), a mounting surface (137) that is bent inward from the lower side of the side (132), and on which the insertion cover (111) is mounted.

[0135] Additionally, the cover guide (130) includes an expansion rim (131) having a step (133) so that the cover guide (130) is mounted on the mounting surface (137) of the inlet of the high-liquid separation unit (200) from the upper side (132).

[0136] The inner surface of the expansion rim (131) has a slope so that it has a predetermined slope from the top to the bottom, and can be formed so that the diameter of the cross-section decreases as it goes downward.

[0137] At this time, the outer surface of the expansion rim (131) can be formed vertically in the up-down direction. Accordingly, a step (133) is formed between the expansion rim (131) and the side surface (132), and the cover guide (130) is supported while the step (133) hangs over the mounting surface of the inlet (2011) of the high-liquid separation unit (200).

[0138] A locker slot (134) is formed on at least a portion of the side (132) of the cover guide (130).

[0139] The locker slot (134) is an opening through which the locker (280) is inserted into the slot (134) to secure the insertion cover (111) and the cover guide (130).

[0140] The locker slot (134) may be formed as a rectangular opening that is long and opens to have a predetermined width along the side (132), and may include a mountain whose middle region is inclined upwards corresponding to the shape of the arm of the locker (280).

[0141] At this time, the lower mounting surface (137) may be removed corresponding to the area where the locker slot (134) is formed, but is not limited thereto. That is, when the mounting surface (137) is removed, the mounting surface (137) may have a C shape with a portion removed rather than a ring shape.

[0142] Meanwhile, a guide portion (136) is formed on the inner surface of the expansion rim (131) of the cover guide (130).

[0143] The guide unit (136) provides a light path for guiding and transmitting the guidance indication received from the control unit (not shown) located in the lower high-liquid separation unit (200) to the upper part.

[0144] That is, the guide section (136) is formed of a light-transmitting light-guiding material and is connected to the control section located adjacent to the solid-liquid separation section (200) below by penetrating the expansion rim (131).

[0145] The guide unit (136) provides the user with a guide display that illuminates from the control unit. At this time, the guide display may be an indication of the current operating status of the food waste disposer (10), for example, an indication of operation in progress, operation completion, or an error. The indications of operation in progress, operation completion, and error may be briefly indicated by an emitting color, flicker, or the like. Therefore, the user can intuitively recognize the emitting color of the set guide unit (136) and quickly recognize the current status of the food waste disposer (10).

[0146] Since such a guide member (136) is placed on the slope of the expansion forest (131), it can be recognized with the naked eye when the user looks at the drain (4) of the sink bowl (2) from above.

[0147] A feedback magnet (135) can be placed below the guide portion (136) of the cover guide (130), and the feedback magnet (135) can provide resistance when the input cover (111) rotates in conjunction with the magnet (112) of the input cover (111).

[0148] At this time, the magnetic force of the feedback magnet (135) may be greater than the magnetic force of the magnet (112) of the input cover (111).

[0149] The input cover (111) is introduced into the side of the sink lock (120) of the input section (100) and is inserted so as to be placed on the mounting surface (137) of the cover guide (130).

[0150] At this time, the input cover (111) is installed within the cover guide (130) without a separate connection structure such as a screw connection, and can be used as a cover to prevent food from falling out during operation and operation of the food waste disposer (10).

[0151] Specifically, the input cover (111) can be formed into a disc shape having a predetermined thickness so as to be rotatable over the cover guide (130), as shown in FIG. 6b.

[0152] The insertion cover (111) can be implemented with a cover housing (1111) forming a disc and an upper plate (1112) covering the upper portion of the cover housing (1111).

[0153] The cover housing (1111) has a space inside and can be formed in a cylindrical shape. At this time, the diameter of the cover housing (1111) may be smaller than the diameter of the upper plate (1112).

[0154] A predetermined number of magnets (112) can be arranged spaced apart from each other inside the cover housing (1111).

[0155] The magnets (112) are magnets of the same size and magnetic force and are formed to have the same polarity. Such magnets (112) are arranged to have the same spacing distance, and can be formed to be spaced apart from the center point of the cover housing (1111) by a predetermined distance, for example, an angle of 360 / n. n is defined as the number of magnets (112).

[0156] For example, when six magnets (112) are arranged, the magnets (112) can be arranged to have a separation angle of 60 degrees.

[0157] The upper plate (1112) covers the cover housing (1111) and can be finished smoothly and flat to form the upper surface of the input cover (111).

[0158] After the insertion cover (111) is seated on the seating surface (137) of the cover guide (130), it can be rotated by a predetermined angle or more to command the start of operation.

[0159] The food waste disposer (10) of the present disclosure does not rotate to grind or dehydrate food input from the input unit (100) and the solid-liquid separation unit (200). Therefore, the input cover (111) is not required to be completely sealed to the input unit (100), and only a covering force equivalent to that required to prevent the emission of unpleasant odors that may occur during the operation of the food waste disposer (10) by covering the drain (4) is required. Therefore, an engaging shape such as a screw structure is not necessarily required.

[0160] However, the input cover (111) rotates after being installed in the inlet (11), and the rotation of the input cover (111) is recognized by the magnet (112) mounted on the input cover (111) and the Hall sensor mounted on the control unit of the solid-liquid separation unit (200).

[0161] By rotating the input cover (111) in this manner, a command for the settling and operation initiation of the input cover (111) can be artificially generated. That is, the rotation of the input cover (111) can also be used as an operation switch of the food waste disposer (10).

[0162] Specifically, after the insertion cover (111) is installed in the inlet (11) and rotates, the Hall sensor periodically detects the magnet (112) to recognize the rotational motion, and accordingly, recognizes the operation start command.

[0163] That is, the control unit can distinguish and recognize the operation of the insertion cover (111) being installed and the operation start command of the food waste disposer (10). Accordingly, the installation operation of the insertion cover (111) to prevent bad odors and the rotation operation for the operation start command of the food waste disposer (10) are distinguished, enabling accurate operation start while minimizing user intervention.

[0164]

[0165] Below, the main body (700) and the solid-liquid separation unit (200) of the food waste disposer (10) are described.

[0166] Figures 7a and 7b are detailed drawings of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) of the food waste disposer (10) of Figure 1.

[0167] Referring to FIGS. 7a and 7b, the solid-liquid separation unit (200) is placed in the upper module (710) of the main body (700) of the food waste treatment device (10) between the input unit (100) and the decomposition unit (300).

[0168] The solid-liquid separation unit (200) performs the function of filtering liquid from food waste introduced into the inlet unit (100), i.e., food waste introduced directly from the sink bowl (2) of the sink (1), and delivering only solids to the decomposition unit (300).

[0169] The solid-liquid separation unit (200) has an inlet (2011) and an outlet (208). The inlet (2011) is connected to the drain (4) of the sink (1) as described above, and the outlet (208) is arranged on the lower surface of the upper module (710), that is, on the lower surface of the case (201) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200), and communicates with the decomposition unit (300).

[0170] To this end, the solid-liquid separation unit (200) is provided so that at least one area overlaps with the decomposition unit (300), and the outlet (208) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) is provided so as to be located in this overlapping area. As a result, food discharged through the outlet (208) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) falls freely and is transferred to the decomposition unit (300).

[0171] The inlet (2011) and outlet (208) of the high-liquid separation unit (200) are arranged so as not to overlap with respect to the second direction, which is the vertical direction.

[0172] For example, the inlet (2011) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) may be positioned rearward from the front and rear of the food waste disposer (10), and the outlet (208) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) may be positioned frontward of the food waste disposer (10). Accordingly, the solid-liquid separation unit (200) may horizontally move the input food waste from the rear to the front and transfer it to the decomposition unit (300).

[0173] The high-value separation unit (200) includes a case (201) defining the interior of the upper module (710).

[0174] The case (201) of the high-liquid separation unit (200) has a shape in which the length and depth are greater than the height, and the height is greater than the height of the filter (210) in which the introduced food is initially received, and an inlet (2011) is provided on the upper surface of the case (201), and an outlet (208) is provided on the lower surface.

[0175] At this time, the case (201) can form a hexahedron, and forming a hexahedron means not only having the exact shape of a hexahedron, but also having a cross-section that has a square shape in some part.

[0176] Food in the input unit (100) is delivered to the inlet (2011) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200), and food that has passed through the solid-liquid separation unit (200) moves horizontally and is delivered to the decomposition unit (300) through the outlet (208) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200). The outlet (208) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) is connected to the inlet of the decomposition unit (300) and the entrance (751) of the lower module (750), so that its shape can be identical to the entrance (751) of the lower module (750).

[0177] The internal space of the high-liquid separation unit (200) defined by the high-liquid separation unit (200) case (201) can be divided into a high-liquid separation space (A) and a transfer space (B).

[0178] The high-liquid separation space (A) may be an area located at the rear within the case (201), and is a space between the inlet (2011) and the drain hole (270) that accommodates the filter (210). The filter (210) may be composed of a cylindrical side portion (211) and a bottom portion (212) that covers the lower opening of the side portion (211), and the side portion (211) includes a filter (210) surface forming the main area of ​​the side, an upper rim (2112) that extends upward from the filter (210) surface, and a lower rim (2113) of the side.

[0179] The side part (211) of the filter (210) is mainly cylindrical and can be implemented as a strainer, i.e., a strainer, in which holes of a predetermined size are formed. Liquid flows out through the side part (211) and is injected into the drain hole connection part (271) along the slope of the bottom surface (2016) of the solid-liquid separation space (A).

[0180] The upper rim (2112) is formed as a slope so that the diameter increases as it goes upward, but the lower rim (2113) can be formed to extend from the side portion (211) and function as a border.

[0181] At this time, it may include at least one fixed projection (2111, 2117) that protrudes from a part of the lower rim (2113) and is fixed to the bottom surface of the high-liquid separation space (A), i.e., the bottom part (212) of the filter (210).

[0182] In addition, the lower rim (2113) may further include at least one side fixing protrusion (2115) that fixes the bottom portion (212) of the filter (210) to the side. The filter (210) is formed so that the side portion (211) and the bottom portion (212) can be separated, and the bottom portion (212) is formed in a closed structure without a hole.

[0183] At this time, the bottom part (212) may be bent upward at a part of the edge to form a joining guide (2121, 2122) that guides the side part (211) of the filter (210).

[0184]

[0185] The filter (210) is separated or combined with the case (201) of the high-liquid separation space (A) in a state where the side part (211) and the bottom part (212) are combined. At this time, the bottom part (212) is a part of the case (201) and the combination guides (2121, 2122), specifically, the area where the combination guides (2121, 2122) extend outside the circumference, and the lower part of the side wall (2015) of the case (201) are combined, and can be separated only by physical pressure.

[0186] When the filter (210) is placed in the high-liquid separation space (A), a gap is formed between the side part (211) of the filter (210) and the case side wall (2015) as shown in Fig. 7d, and only liquid is separated from food waste through the perforations of the side part (211) of the filter (210) in the space created by the gap and flows into the case (201).

[0187] The liquid flowing into the case (201) flows to the bottom surface (2016) of the case through the gap space (2017) between the bottom part (212) of the filter (210) and the case side wall (2015) formed by the extended area of ​​the coupling guide (2121, 2122) when the bottom part (212) of the filter (210) is located in the solid-liquid separation space (A) and is introduced into the discharge hole connection part (271).

[0188] In this way, the bottom part (212) of the filter (210) is not integrated with the bottom surface of the case (201), but is combined in a structure that can be separated when pressurized, so that it can be separated from the case (201) for washing and drying as needed. In addition, by separating the bottom part (212), it is possible to wash the bottom surface of the case (201), i.e., the inclined surface that guides the flow of liquid to the drain hole (270) connected to the drain (4) of the sink (1), to prevent the growth of bacteria, etc.

[0189] The filter (210) can be removed externally by the user lifting it from the inlet (11) of the inlet (100). This has a structure similar to the drain (4) strainer of a conventional sink (1), and the filter (210) can be removed externally for washing and drying, thereby enabling individual management of the space where food comes into contact.

[0190] The case (201) includes a side wall (2015) surrounding the filter (210), and the side wall (2011) can be formed to have a curved surface in an area corresponding to the filter (210). A transfer space (B) is formed in front of the solid-liquid separation space (A).

[0191] The transport space (B) is mainly an empty space, and may be empty when the filter (210) is placed due to movement of the filter (210) by the transport unit (400) or when the filter (210) is retreated.

[0192] The transfer space (B) is open at the bottom, and the open bottom serves as the outlet (208) of the high-liquid separation unit (200) and is connected to the inlet of the decomposition unit (300).

[0193] The case (201) of the high-liquid separation unit (200) surrounding the transfer space (B) can have a bent square shape, and a transfer cover that seals the front of the case (201) can be separately arranged. When the transfer cover that seals the front is separately provided and combined, it can be opened and closed for cleaning and repair.

[0194] The high-liquid separation unit (200) includes a transfer module on one side of the case (201) for moving the filter (210) on a horizontal plane between the transfer space (B) and the high-liquid separation space (A).

[0195] The transfer module may include a transfer motor (220), a pinion (221) connected to a shaft of the transfer motor (220), and a linear rack (222) that moves forward and backward by the pinion (221).

[0196] In addition, the linear rack (222) may further include a guide bar (223) for moving and a transfer body (230) that is bent from the linear rack (222) and has a planar structure facing forward.

[0197] The motor (220) rotates the pinion (221) in one direction to horizontally move the filter (210) from the solid-liquid separation space (A) to the transfer space (B) from rear to front. In addition, the pinion (221) may be rotated in the opposite direction as needed to return the filter (210) from the transfer space (B) to the solid-liquid separation space (A).

[0198] Specifically, when the food is fed into the filter (210) and the feed cover (111) is rotated to recognize the start of operation, the transport motor (220) can be rotated. Alternatively, the transport motor (220) can be operated when a start signal is received from a user, and such a start signal from the user can be received from a user terminal having an application that can be linked with the food waste disposer (10) installed. The rotational drive of the transport motor (220) can be controlled by a control unit.

[0199] The transport motor (220) may be disposed outside the case (201), for example, outside the side of the case (201), but is not limited thereto, and may also be disposed inside the case (201). When the transport motor (220) is disposed outside the case (201), the shaft of the transport motor (220) may penetrate the side wall of the case (201) and be connected to the pinion (221). The pinion (221) engages with the teeth of the linear rack (222) by the shaft of the motor to move the linear rack (222) in a linear direction in the forward and backward directions.

[0200] At this time, a guide bar (223) may be further included to allow the linear rack (222) to move in a forward and backward direction along a horizontal plane.

[0201] The transfer module includes an extension surface (2221) extending vertically (in a second direction) with respect to the longitudinal direction (in a first direction) of the linear rack (222), and the extension surface (2221) extends in the longitudinal direction like the linear rack (222) and is formed integrally with the linear rack (222).

[0202] At least one holder (2222) for holding a guide bar (223) protrudes from the upper and lower portions of the expansion surface (2221). The at least one holder (2222) may be formed in a cylindrical structure through which the guide bar (223) passes, or may be formed in a semicircular shape. If the holder is semicircular, the holders may be arranged to open in opposite directions. Accordingly, the expansion surface (2221) can move in a straight line without shaking along the guide bars (223) installed to pass through a plurality of semicircular holders (2222) at the same time.

[0203] When a plurality of guide bars (223) are arranged, holders (2222) may be provided at the upper and lower portions of the expansion surface (2221), and guide bars (223) may be coupled to the upper and lower holders (2222), respectively, so that the linear rack (222) can move more horizontally and without shaking.

[0204] The guide bar (223) may be an STS guide that is fixed at one end, i.e., the rear end, to the case (201) and maintains the front end in a free state, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the linear rack (222) can move in a straight line by calculating the angle in real time and controlling the horizontality, including a horizontal sensor. At this time, the side of the case facing the linear rack (222) may further include a touch sensor (not shown) that detects the position of the protrusion at the bottom of the linear rack (222).

[0205] At this time, the touch sensor is placed at a position that limits the displacement according to the movement of the linear rack (222), and when a touch of the protrusion is detected by the touch sensor, the control unit can stop the operation of the motor (220). The touch sensor (235) can be placed at both ends of the displacement of the linear rack (222).

[0206] A linear rack (222) is arranged inside the side wall of the case (201) and moves in a straight line forward and backward according to the rotation of the pinion (221), and a planar transfer body (230) is arranged in the front by being bent from the front edge of the linear rack (222).

[0207] The transfer body (230) is a coupling member that is combined with the filter (210) to move the filter (210) together when the linear rack (222) moves in a straight line.

[0208] The transfer body (230) forms a cover in itself, and can be formed to have the same area and shape as the cross-section of the case (201) perpendicular to the direction of movement so that the transfer body (230) divides the case (201) of the high-liquid separation unit (200) into front and rear.

[0209] Accordingly, the rear of the transfer body (230), which is the area where food exists, and the front of the transfer body (230), which is the area where food does not exist, are separated and sealed from each other. The sealed structure of the transfer body (230) is described in detail in FIG. 8.

[0210] The transfer body (230) is slidably coupled to a fixed part (2114) formed on the side of the filter (210) with the side facing the transfer space (B) to horizontally move the side of the filter (210) to the transfer space (B) according to the movement of the linear rack (222).

[0211] When moving horizontally, only the side part (211) of the filter (210) moves, and the bottom part (212) remains in the solid-liquid separation space (A), so that only the solid matter of the solid-liquid separated food retained in the filter (210) moves to the transfer space (B) and falls to the decomposition unit (300) through the outlet (208) at the bottom.

[0212]

[0213]

[0214] 11 degrees 11 degrees 11 degrees 11

[0215] Hereinafter, the detachable lower module (750) of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10.

[0216] The lower module (750) that accommodates the disassembly section (300), the transport section (400), and the collection section (500) is packaged as an individual module that can be separated from the main body (700). Since the lower module (750) accommodates the inner case (320) of each module within the lower case (751), each functional module has a double case structure.

[0217] The lower module (750) case (751) can be implemented with the same material as the main body (700) as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape so as to be insertable into the main body (700).

[0218] Fig. 8a is a perspective view showing the inside of the lower module (750) of the food waste disposer (10) of Fig. 1.

[0219] The inner case (320) defines the positions of the disassembly section (300), the transport section (400), and the collection section (500) and can be provided in the form of a single injection molded product.

[0220] At this time, the transfer unit (400) and the collection unit (500) may have individual cases placed within the inner case (320), but the disassembly unit (300) may have the inner case (320) itself define the space of the disassembly unit (300).

[0221] That is, the decomposition unit (300) is defined as a space for stirring while containing microorganisms and food. The decomposition unit (300) is a space (310) that is maintained mostly empty on one side of the inner case (320), and occupies 1 / 2 to 2 / 3 of the volume of the lower module (750).

[0222] The decomposition unit (300) can be positioned to the lower left of the front of the food waste disposer (10), and the collection unit (500) and the transfer unit (400) are positioned to overlap each other to the lower right.

[0223] Accordingly, the space (310) of the disassembly section (300) maintains a deep concave shape that occupies the entire overlapping length of the collection section (500) and the transfer section (400), and the inner case (320) has a partition wall (380) positioned therein that divides the collection section (500) and the transfer section (400) from the disassembly section (300).

[0224] The decomposition unit (300) within the lower module (750) mixes the solid food material from which the liquid transferred to the decomposition unit (300) has been removed with microorganisms. The mixing of the food material and microorganisms increases the decomposition efficiency.

[0225] When the upper part of the decomposition unit (300) is opened, the opened upper part of the decomposition unit (300) is aligned with the outlet (208) of the case (201) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200).

[0226] At this time, the upper part of the decomposition part (300) may be larger than the outlet (208) of the solid-liquid separation part (200). Since the lower module (750) can be packaged in a separate case (751) and can be independently separated, the user's hand can enter the internal space (310) through the opening in the upper part of the decomposition part (300). Therefore, cleaning the internal space (310) of the decomposition part (300), removing stuck or stuck food, etc. can be facilitated, and if a foreign substance (e.g., a spoon, chopsticks, bottle cap, etc.) is introduced into the lower space (310), it can be easily removed.

[0227] A deodorizing port (322) for connection with a rear drain / deodorizing module (600) is formed in the disassembly section (300). A deodorizing port (322) that can be aligned with a deodorizing fan disposed in the main body (700) at the rear of the case (320) of the disassembly section (300) can be implemented.

[0228] The decomposition unit (300) does not have a separate drainage structure and decomposes dehydrated solid food matter and discharges only the vaporized odor or water vapor through deodorization. Therefore, it does not have a structure connected to the outside except for the deodorizing port (322).

[0229] In some cases, when a separate drainage structure is required, the drawer-type lower module (750) may include a module for connecting a drainage structure for connecting the drain to the sink (1) drain pipe, but alternatively, it may further include a tank for separately collecting and then discharging the liquid.

[0230] In the decomposition unit (300), delivered food and food undergoing decomposition by microorganisms are mixed and accumulated. Among the accumulated food, food that has been completely decomposed becomes compost, with particles that are very small and light in weight.

[0231] Such decomposed matter moves further along a larger trajectory due to the rotation of the mixer due to the difference in weight between it and the newly introduced food, and is transferred to the collection unit (500) through the transfer unit (400) located at the top of the decomposition unit (300).

[0232] Below, the detailed structure of the decomposition unit (300) is described.

[0233] Figure 8b is an exploded perspective view of Figure 8a.

[0234] Referring to FIGS. 8a and 8b, the decomposition unit (300) may include a decomposition tank (310), a stirrer (350), and a stirring motor (330).

[0235] The decomposition tank (310) provides a space where food is decomposed. The decomposition tank (310) can be defined as the internal space of the internal case (320) of the decomposition unit (300).

[0236] The inner case (320) of the disassembly unit (300) may have a structure in which the cross-sectional area becomes narrower as it goes downward.

[0237] In addition, the bottom of the decomposition tank (310) may have a curved surface. The bottom of the decomposition tank (310) is formed with a curved surface following the trajectory of the agitator (350), so that the centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the agitator (350) uniformly affects each space below, thereby enabling uniform stirring of food and microorganisms from below.

[0238] A driving space (325) in which a stirring motor (330) is positioned can be defined on the outside of the inner case (320) of the disassembly unit (300). The positioned driving space (325) can be formed by the inner case (320) of the disassembly unit (300) being sunken inward.

[0239] Specifically, the drive space (325) may be sunken to the right on the lower left side of the decomposition tank (310). In particular, the bottom of the drive space (325) that is sunken in the inner case (320) of the decomposition unit (300) is formed to have a curved surface to prevent food or waste from remaining at the corners.

[0240] The stirring motor (330) provides rotational force to the stirrer (350). The stirring motor (330) may be located outside the decomposition tank (310). Specifically, the stirring motor (330) is located in the driving space (325).

[0241] The stirring motor (330) can be positioned facing the collection unit (500) with respect to the decomposition tank (310).

[0242] The stirring motor (330) can be connected in series with the stirrer (350). Specifically, the shaft of the stirring motor (330) and the rotation shaft of the stirrer (350) are connected by a motor-stirrer coupler (332), and the motor-stirrer coupler (332) can be installed through the decomposition tank (310).

[0243] Between the motor-stirrer coupler (332) and the decomposition tank (310), a stirring sealing member (333) may be placed to seal between the motor-stirrer coupler (332) and the decomposition tank (310).

[0244] Accordingly, the agitator (350) is connected in series to the motor shaft, and the motor is located outside the decomposition tank (310), so that the driving force can be efficiently transmitted without using a chain or belt between the motor shaft and the agitator (350), assembly is easy, the rotation direction and stirring direction of the motor can be freely switched, and there are advantages in that the motor is prevented from being damaged by food or moisture in the food.

[0245] The decomposition unit (300) may further include a heater (328) that provides heat to the decomposition tank (310). The heater (328) may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the decomposition tank (310).

[0246] For example, the heater (328) may be a heating wire embedded in the decomposition tank (310). As another example, the heater (328) may be a flexible film shape with the heating wire embedded in it that wraps around the outer surface of the decomposition tank (310).

[0247] The heater (328) is provided on the outer surface of the case (320) of the disassembly unit (300), thereby indirectly transferring heat to the internal space of the disassembly unit (300) through the case (320) of the disassembly unit (300). The case (320) of the disassembly unit (300) includes a metal plate with high thermal conductivity, thereby enabling efficient heat transfer. For this purpose, the case (320) of the disassembly unit (300) may have some surfaces made of a heterogeneous material of metal and non-metal, as needed.

[0248] The decomposition tank (310) is heated so that microorganisms can reach a temperature suitable for decomposing food, and also so that moisture in the food can sufficiently evaporate or vaporize, thereby facilitating processing.

[0249] The agitator (350) is rotatably installed within the decomposition tank (310) and agitates the food. In addition, the agitator (350) provides pressure or thrust in one direction to the food within the decomposition tank (310). The thrust of the agitator (350) causes the food within the decomposition tank (310) to accumulate on one side of the decomposition tank (310) and to be transported to the transport section.

[0250] The agitator (350) may have a structure that reduces the resistance of the food while generating sufficient thrust to move the food in one direction within the decomposition tank (310).

[0251] The decomposition unit (300) may further include a dryness sensor that detects the dryness of food in the decomposition tank (310).

[0252] For example, the dryness sensor may include an electrode sensor (371) that measures the resistance of food in the decomposition tank (310) to calculate the dryness. The electrode sensor (371) has two electrodes placed in a space where stirring is active in the decomposition tank (310).

[0253] The electrode sensor (371) detects the resistance of the by-product located between the two electrodes by supplying voltage between the two electrodes. If the moisture content within the by-product is high, current flows well, so the resistance value between the electrode sensors is low. On the other hand, if the moisture content within the by-product is low (dry), current does not flow well, so the resistance value between the electrode sensors is high. The difference in these resistance values ​​can be used to indirectly determine the dryness of the by-product.

[0254] As another example, the dryness sensor may include a capacitance sensor (372) that measures the dielectric constant of food within the decomposition tank (310) to calculate the dryness. The capacitance sensor (372) may be installed on the outer surface of the decomposition tank (310) to detect the dryness of the byproduct in a non-contact manner.

[0255] The capacitance sensor (372) may include two capacitance sensors (372) with different sensitivities.

[0256] Since a high sensitivity capacitive sensor can detect low permittivity, it is designed to send a LOW signal when the by-product reaches a certain dryness level, and when this sensor signal goes LOW, it is determined that drying is complete.

[0257] Since the low sensitivity capacitance sensor can detect high permittivity, it is designed to send a HIGH signal when the by-product exceeds a certain moisture content, and when this sensor signal is sent as HIGH, it is determined that the internal state of the decomposition tank (310) is over-humidified, and thus food input can be restricted.

[0258]

[0259]

[0260] Hereinafter, the transfer unit (400) and the collection unit (500) will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.

[0261] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the interior of a lower module of a food waste disposer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0262] Referring to Fig. 9, the transfer unit (400) can implement a transfer function through a transfer screw (430) and a decomposition tank propeller (410).

[0263] The transfer unit (400) is located on one side of the disassembly unit (300), for example, on the right side, and is located on the top of the collection unit (500).

[0264] The transfer unit (400) may be positioned higher than the center of the decomposition unit (300). Specifically, the transfer unit (400) may be positioned higher than the center of the decomposition tank (310). Preferably, the decomposition tank propeller (410) and the transfer screw (430) may be positioned higher than the stirring member (352).

[0265] More preferably, the decomposition tank propeller (410) and the transfer screw (430) may be positioned higher than the rotation axis of the stirrer.

[0266] The conveying unit (400) can be positioned to vertically overlap with the collecting unit. Accordingly, food falling through the conveying unit (400) can fall to the collecting unit by gravity.

[0267] Due to the height difference between the agitator of the transfer unit (400) and the decomposition unit (300), only the decomposition materials with a small weight can selectively reach the transfer unit (400). In other words, only the decomposition materials that move by agitation and form a large trajectory in height due to the weight difference are introduced into the transfer unit (400), and the transfer unit (400) is implemented so that the introduced decomposition materials are moved to the collection unit (500).

[0268] The transport unit (400) transports food decomposed in the decomposition unit (300) to the transport unit (400), and includes a decomposition tank propeller (410) rotatably installed in the decomposition unit (300), a transport screw (430) that transports food transferred through the decomposition tank propeller (410) to a collection unit, and a motor that rotates the decomposition tank propeller (410) and the transport screw (430).

[0269] The decomposition tank propeller (410) is located inside the decomposition tank (310) and transfers food products decomposed and dried in the decomposition tank (310) to the transfer unit (400).

[0270] The decomposition tank propeller (410) can be rotated by a separate motor. Preferably, the decomposition tank propeller (410) is coupled to the rotation axis (451) of the transfer screw (430) and can be rotated together with the transfer screw (430).

[0271] The disassembly tank propeller (410) and the transfer screw (430) can be connected to each other by penetrating the bulkhead (380). The disassembly tank propeller (410) and the transfer screw (430) can be connected to each other by connectors (412, 452). Specifically, the disassembly tank propeller (410) and the transfer screw (430) can be connected by a forced fit or a groove and projection combination. A connecting hole (382) through which the connector (412, 452) passes is formed in the bulkhead (380).

[0272] The decomposition tank propeller (410) and the transfer screw (430) can be arranged to face each other with respect to the bulkhead (380). The decomposition tank propeller (410) is positioned to the left of the bulkhead (380), and the transfer screw (430) is positioned to the right of the bulkhead (380).

[0273] The decomposition tank propeller (410) prevents the decomposition tank propeller (410) from being rotated by food accumulated in the decomposition tank, and transports the food to the transport section (400) through the transport port (381).

[0274] A conveying port (not shown) is formed in the bulkhead (380) to allow only food smaller than a certain size to pass through and prevent food larger than a certain size from passing through. At least a portion of the conveying port may be positioned to overlap horizontally with the decomposition tank propeller (410) and the conveying screw (430).

[0275] The conveying screw (430) conveys the food waste introduced into the conveying space (401) to the collection unit (500). The conveying screw (430) may be provided with a rotation axis (451) for conveying the food waste in the direction of conveying, and as the spiral blade protruding from the rotation axis (451) rotates, the food waste may be pushed toward the collection unit (500) or moved in the opposite direction.

[0276] The transport section (400) may further include a door (433) that opens and closes the transport port (381) by rotation of the transport screw (430). The door (433) is constrained by the rotation of the transport screw (430) and rotates together with the transport screw (430) to open or close the transport port.

[0277] The motor (450) rotates the transfer screw (430) in one direction so that the waste material moves from the decomposition section (300) area to the collection section (500) area.

[0278] At this time, if a signal is received that the collection bin (510) equipped in the collection unit (500) is full, the waste material can be moved back from the collection unit (500) area to the decomposition unit (300) area, or the motor (450) can be stopped. The rotational drive of the motor (450) can be controlled by the control unit (C).

[0279]

[0280] Below, the structure of the collection unit and the combined structure of the collection unit and the transfer unit (400) will be described in detail.

[0281] Figures 10a and 10b are state diagrams showing the combination of a transport unit and a collection unit.

[0282] Referring to FIG. 10, the collection unit (500) may be positioned on the lower right side within the inner case (320) of the lower module (750) in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped.

[0283] The collection unit (500) is inserted into the collection space (326) of the inner case (320) of the lower module (750).

[0284] The collection unit (500) can be individually assembled and separated from the main body (700) as a single module, and can also be assembled and separated from the lower module (750).

[0285] That is, the collection unit (500) is a module that is inserted into the collection space (326) in a state similar to an insertable trash can.

[0286] The collection unit (500) is composed of a collection unit (500) cover (520) and a collection box (510).

[0287] A hinged cover (521) is placed on the cover (520) of the collection unit (500).

[0288] The hinged cover (521) opens when combined with the transfer unit (400) and connects the internal space of the collection box (510) with the exit (12) of the transfer unit (400).

[0289] The hinged cover (521) is closed when the user separates the collection unit (500) from the collection space (326) and takes it out, and when the user re-mounts the collection unit (500) on the food waste disposer (10), it rises up and opens along the inclined surface (475) of the bracket (470) of the transport unit (400). For this purpose, the hinged cover (521) is hinged on the front side.

[0290] Accordingly, when the collection unit (500) is taken out, the user can prevent the garbage from being seen and the foul odor of the garbage can be prevented from escaping.

[0291] The collection box (510) has a concave shape to have an internal collection space, and may have a stepped structure so that it can be used by covering it with vinyl.

[0292] It includes a sensor (530) that can measure the amount of waste in the collection unit (500) so that the user can collect and discard it when a certain amount accumulates in the collection unit (500).

[0293] The sensor (530) of the collection unit (500) may be a weight sensor, and a weight plate (540) is formed on the bottom surface of the collection box (510), and the weight of the waste material can be detected through a load cell at the bottom of the weight plate 540 and transmitted to the control unit (C).

[0294] The collection unit (500) sensor (530) may, on the other hand, be a water level sensor placed inside the collection space, and various sensors such as an ultrasonic sensor, a laser sensor, and an image sensor can be applied as the water level sensor.

[0295] In this way, the combination and communication of the collection unit (500) and the transfer unit (400) are carried out by sliding combination of the outlet (12) of the transfer unit (400) and the opening / closing cover (521) of the cover (520) of the collection unit (500), so that the user does not feel discomfort due to internal deterioration when removing the collection unit (500), and the two modules can be easily connected and separated.

[0296] Meanwhile, the food waste disposer (10) of the present invention further includes a drainage / deodorization module (600) in the space between the main body (700) and the lower module (750), i.e., the rear space.

[0297]

[0298] Below, the drainage / deodorization module that discharges odor / vapor from the food waste disposer is described.

[0299] FIG. 11a is a simplified schematic diagram showing the drainage deodorization module of the food waste disposer of FIG. 1, FIG. 11b is an enlarged diagram showing the part where the backflow prevention valve of FIG. 11a is installed, FIG. 11c is a simplified schematic diagram showing the drainage deodorization module of the food waste disposer of FIG. 1 seen from a different direction than FIG. 11a, FIG. 11d is a simplified schematic diagram showing the upper deodorization module of the food waste disposer of FIG. 1, and FIG. 11e is a schematic diagram showing the operation of the upper deodorization module of FIG. 11d.

[0300] Referring to FIGS. 11a and 11b, the lower module (750) has an internal space defined by a rectangular lower module (750) case (751) having a depth smaller than that of the main body (700).

[0301] Due to this depth difference, a gap exists between the main body (700) and the case (751) of the lower module (750) at the rear of the lower module (750).

[0302] The drain deodorization module (600) discharges liquid separated from food or liquid injected from the inlet (100) into the sink drain pipe, and discharges gas containing odor particles that have passed through the solid-liquid separation unit (200) and the decomposition unit (300) into the sink drain pipe.

[0303] This separation space is positioned toward the lower rear of the entire body (700) of the food waste disposer (10). An exhaust fan (620) is formed at the rear of the separation space, i.e., the rear of the body (700). In addition, a sewage pipe connection part that is connected to the sewage pipe of an external sink (1) is formed at the bottom surface of the separation space, i.e., the bottom surface of the body (700).

[0304] A negative pressure is created inside the food waste disposer (10) by the exhaust fan (620), and the gas containing the odor particles inside is discharged into the sink (1) drain pipe through the deodorizing duct (610) connected to the exhaust fan (620).

[0305] Here, the gas containing odorous particles may include molecules or particles that produce an odor or odor. Furthermore, the gas containing odorous particles may also include water vapor. For example, the odorous particles may include at least one of ammonia, acetaldehyde, methyl mercaptan, and hydrogen sulfide.

[0306] The deodorizing duct (610) is a spiral (snail-shaped) duct (610), and the area facing the exhaust fan (620) on one side is connected to a ventilation hole (322) formed on the rear of the case of the lower module (750), and the other side is connected to a drainage deodorizing pipe (650, 660).

[0307] A connection between the deodorizing duct (610) and the drainage deodorizing pipe (650, 660) can be formed through a connecting unit (630), which can be implemented using an O-ring, etc.

[0308] The drainage deodorization pipe (650, 660) is formed as a pipe having a plurality of bends, connecting a first inlet (656) connected to the sewage pipe (270) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200), a second inlet (661) connected to the deodorization duct (610), and a first outlet (657) connected to the sewage pipe of an external sink (1).

[0309] The drainage deodorization pipe (650, 660) may include a drainage pipe (650) and a deodorization pipe (660). The drainage pipe (650) and the deodorization pipe (660) may be formed integrally or may be formed separately and then combined.

[0310] The drain pipe (650) is connected to the sink drain pipe on one side and discharges liquid separated from food or liquid injected from the inlet into the sink drain pipe.

[0311] The drain pipe (650) is in the form of an S-shaped trap between the first inlet (656) and the first outlet (657), and includes a drain pipe (650) for forming a path for the washing water flowing down from the strainer from the first inlet (656) while allowing the liquid filtered from the solid-liquid separation unit (200) to flow into an external sewer pipe. Since the S-shaped trap always contains water, it can prevent the backflow of odors from the sewer (4).

[0312] Specifically, the drain pipe (650) includes a first inlet (656) connected to the sewage pipe of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) and a first outlet (657) connected to the sink sewage pipe.

[0313] To prevent foul odors from flowing back through the sink drain, the drain pipe (650) may further include a collecting portion (652) where liquid accumulates.

[0314] The reservoir (652) may be located between the first inlet (656) and the first outlet (657). The reservoir (652) may include various configurations, but is preferably a U-shaped pipe convex downward.

[0315] More specifically, the drain pipe (650) may include a first drain pipe (651) having a first inlet (656) at one end and extending vertically, a reservoir (652) connected to the lower end of the first drain pipe (651), a second drain pipe (653) connected to the upper end of the reservoir (652) and extending vertically, a direction changing portion (654) connected to the upper end of the second drain pipe (653) and extending in a direction intersecting with the second drain pipe (653), and a third drain pipe (655) having one end connected to the direction changing portion (654) and the other end provided with a first outlet (657).

[0316] The reservoir (652) may be positioned higher than the second outlet (661). The reservoir (652) may be positioned higher than the first outlet (657) and lower than the first inlet (656). The reservoir (652) may be positioned lower than the direction changer (654).

[0317] Accordingly, the liquid flowing into the sink is prevented from collecting in the sump (652) and flowing back into the sink drain pipe and the upper part of the sink, thereby preventing the bad smell from spreading to the outside.

[0318] The first inlet (656) may be positioned higher than the first outlet (657).

[0319]

[0320] Meanwhile, the deodorizing pipe (660) may have at least one bend between the second inlet (661) and the first outlet (657). The deodorizing pipe (660) is connected to the exhaust fan (620) on one side and to the drain pipe (650) on the other side, so that gas containing odor particles flows.

[0321] According to an embodiment, the deodorizing pipe (660) may be connected to at least one of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) and the decomposition unit (300). That is, the deodorizing pipe (660) is connected to the solid-liquid separation unit (200) and the decomposition unit (300), so that the gas containing the odor particles of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) and the decomposition unit (300) can be discharged into the sink drain.

[0322] As another example, the deodorizing pipe (660) may be connected to at least one of the deodorizing duct (610) and the upper deodorizing module (250).

[0323] The deodorizing pipe (660) may include a second inlet (661) connected to the exhaust fan (620) and a second outlet (661) connected to the drain pipe (650). The deodorizing pipe (660) may have an inner diameter that expands from the second inlet (661) toward the second outlet (661).

[0324] The second inlet (661) may be positioned higher than the second outlet (661). The first inlet (656) may be positioned higher than the second outlet (661). The second outlet (661) may be positioned closer to the first outlet (657) than to the first inlet (656) in the drain pipe (650).

[0325] The second inlet (661) may be formed at the right end of the deodorization pipe (660), and the second outlet (661) may be formed at the upper right end of the deodorization pipe (660).

[0326] Of course, the high-value separation unit (200) can be positioned higher than the drainage deodorization pipe (650, 660).

[0327] The drain deodorization module prevents liquid from flowing back into the solid-liquid separation unit (200) or the decomposition unit (300) while the liquid is flowing, and discharges gas containing odor particles that have passed through the solid-liquid separation unit (200) and the decomposition unit (300) into the sink drain while the liquid is not flowing. This control can be implemented electronically by a microcomputer or by a physical force acting on a backflow prevention valve (670) described below.

[0328]

[0329] At this time, a backflow prevention valve (670) is formed between the second inlet (661) and the second outlet (661) of the deodorization pipe (660) to prevent liquid from flowing back from the drain pipe (650) into the deodorization pipe (660).

[0330] The check valve (670) is intended to prevent an accident in which all microorganisms in the decomposition unit (300) die if the liquid flows back into the deodorizing pipe (660) and is injected into the decomposition unit (300). A check valve can be used as the check valve (670).

[0331] A check valve (670) is placed in the deodorizing pipe (660) to limit the backflow of liquid from the drain pipe (650) and allow the flow of gas containing odor particles.

[0332] The check valve (670) restricts the backflow of liquid by the buoyancy of the backflowing liquid and allows the gas containing odor particles to flow by its own weight.

[0333] The check valve (670) can open the deodorization pipe (660) by its own weight and close the deodorization pipe (660) by the buoyancy of the liquid flowing in the deodorization pipe (660).

[0334] When liquid flows in the drain pipe (650), the exhaust fan (620) does not operate and the check valve (670) can close the deodorizing pipe (660). When liquid does not flow in the drain pipe (650), the exhaust fan (620) operates and the check valve (670) can open the deodorizing pipe (660).

[0335] Specifically, the check valve (670) may include a valve body (672) that opens and closes the deodorizing pipe, and the valve body (672) may include a valve hinge (671) that is hinge-connected to the deodorizing pipe.

[0336] The valve body (672) can be rotated about the valve hinge (671). The hinge axis of the valve hinge (671) can extend in a direction intersecting the direction of gravity. Preferably, the hinge axis of the valve hinge (671) can extend in a direction orthogonal to the direction of gravity. Here, the direction of gravity can be the downward direction of FIG. 11A or a direction parallel to the third drain pipe (655).

[0337] If the hinge axis of the valve hinge (671) extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity, it is easy for the valve body (672) to rotate downward by its own weight, and it is advantageous for it to rotate upward by buoyancy.

[0338] The specific gravity of the valve body (672) may be less than the specific gravity of the liquid. When the specific gravity of the valve body (672) is less than the specific gravity of the liquid, when the liquid flows backward, the valve body (672) floats on the liquid due to the buoyancy of the liquid, thereby allowing the valve body (672) to close the deodorizing pipe (660).

[0339] For example, the interior of the valve body (672) may include a hollow space. The hollow space is formed inside the valve body (672), so that it can easily float on a liquid.

[0340] Since the backflow prevention valve (670) is automatically operated by the buoyancy and self-weight of the liquid, a separate operating structure for control is not required, and there is an advantage of no flow resistance compared to the existing valve opening by the wind pressure of the exhaust fan.

[0341] More specifically, the check valve (670) can be raised by the buoyancy of the liquid flowing through the deodorizing pipe (660) to close the second inlet (661) and open the second inlet (661) by the weight of the check valve (670).

[0342] The check valve (670) may be positioned below the second inlet (661). Preferably, at least a portion of the check valve (670) may be positioned to overlap the second inlet (661) in the gravity (up-down) direction.

[0343] The check valve (670) may further include a limit rib (673) that sets a limit to the downward rotation of the valve body (672). The limit rib (673) prevents the valve body (672) from coming into contact with the lower end of the deodorizing pipe (660) and being lifted by the liquid.

[0344] The restriction rib (673) can be formed by protruding from the deodorizing pipe (660).

[0345] In this way, the two paths (650, 660) are integrated and formed between the case of the main body (700) and the case (751) of the lower module (750), which is advantageous in space utilization. In addition, since both sewage and odor are discharged through the drain of the sink (1) without forming a separate odor discharge path, odor discharge to the outside can be prevented, and a separate filter structure for minimizing odor discharge to the outside is unnecessary. Therefore, the product can be simplified and costs can be reduced.

[0346] In addition, when the lower module (750) and the main body (700) are combined, the combination with the deodorizing duct (610) is induced, thereby allowing for a fitting combination without a separate physical combination structure. For this purpose, a sealing portion may be formed between the ventilation hole of the lower module (750) and the deodorizing duct (610).

[0347] At this time, the gas containing odor particles in the solid-liquid separation space (A) is sucked into the transfer space (B) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) by the upper deodorization module (250) described above, and the odor and moisture are structured to be introduced into the decomposition unit (300) through the outlet (208) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200). Accordingly, the gas containing odor particles in both the upper module (710) and the lower module (750) passes through the deodorization duct (610) through the rear opening (322) in the decomposition unit (300) and is discharged into the deodorization pipe (660).

[0348] The ventilation holes of the lower module (750) are aligned to communicate with the rear opening (322) of the case of the decomposition unit (300), so that negative pressure is formed in the interior of the decomposition unit (300) and the interior space of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) through the opening at the top of the decomposition unit (300), the transfer unit (400), and the collection unit (500) connected to the transfer unit (400), thereby forming an air flow so that all gases containing odor particles can be discharged through the opening (322).

[0349] In addition, a guide seal is formed between the exhaust fan (620) and the deodorizing duct (610), and the guide seal helps the deodorizing duct (610) of the lower module (750) to fit properly into the exhaust fan (620) of the main body (700), while forming a sealed structure that prevents odor from the decomposition unit (300) from escaping to the outside.

[0350] The food waste disposer (10) of the present invention includes a control unit (C) for recognizing a start command by rotation of the input cover (111) and controlling each module.

[0351] The control unit (C) can be implemented with a processor or microcomputer, and communicates with various sensors and display units (14) in each module through wired or wireless communication to control the operation of each module accordingly.

[0352] Below, the liquid and odor / vapor paths of the food waste disposer (10) of the present invention are described.

[0353] FIG. 11f is a drawing showing the operation when liquid flows in the drain pipe (650) of FIG. 11a.

[0354] Referring to FIG. 11f, when liquid flows through the drain pipe (650), the deodorizing pipe (660) is opened by the check valve (670). Accordingly, the liquid discharged through the sink drain is discharged into the sink drain pipe.

[0355] Figure 11g is a drawing showing the operating state when no liquid flows through the drain pipe (650) of Figure 11a.

[0356] Referring to FIG. 11g, when no liquid flows through the drain pipe (650), the deodorizing pipe (660) is opened by the backflow prevention valve (670). Accordingly, the gas containing odor particles generated from the food waste disposal device and the gas containing odor particles generated from the sink drain are discharged into the sink drain pipe through the deodorizing pipe (660).

[0357] Figure 11h is a drawing showing the operation when liquid flows through the drain pipe (650) of Figure 11a and the liquid flows back through the deodorization pipe (660).

[0358] Referring to FIG. 11f, when liquid flows through the drain pipe (650) and flows back into the deodorizing pipe (660), the buoyancy of the liquid causes the backflow prevention valve (670) to rise, and the deodorizing pipe (660) is closed. Therefore, liquid flowing back from the sink drain does not flow into the interior of the food waste disposer.

[0359]

[0360] Below, the odor / vapor path of the food waste disposer (10) of the present invention is described.

[0361] FIG. 11i is a drawing illustrating the odor / vapor path of the food waste treatment device of FIG. 1.

[0362] Referring to Fig. 11i, external air is sucked through the inlet (100) by the negative pressure of the exhaust fan (620) and flows into the solid-liquid separation unit (200) and the upper deodorization module. At this time, the external air also causes gas containing odor particles to flow around the inlet (100) and within the solid-liquid separation unit (200) and the upper deodorization module.

[0363] The gas containing air / odor particles that flows into the high-liquid separation unit (200) and the upper deodorization module (250) passes through the decomposition unit (300) and the deodorization duct (610) in sequence and is discharged into the sink drain through the deodorization pipe (660).

[0364] A portion of the gas containing air / odor particles that has entered the high-liquid separation unit (200) and the resident deodorization module (250) passes through the transfer unit and deodorization duct (610) in sequence and is discharged into the sink drain through the deodorization pipe (660).

[0365]

[0366] Hereinafter, the operation of the food waste disposer (10) of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 12a to 12d.

[0367] Figures 12a to 12d are flowcharts showing the operation of the food waste disposer (10) of Figure 1.

[0368] First, as shown in Fig. 12a, the food waste disposer (10) of the present disclosure, which is built into the internal space (3) of the sink (1), when food waste is generated, the food waste (800) is fed into the inlet (100) through the drain (4) of the sink bowl (2) of the sink (1).

[0369] When food (800) is introduced into the filter (210) through the inlet (100), the liquid (810) in the food flows into the first pipe (650) of the drain / deodorization module (600) through the hole between the bottom part (212) of the filter (210) (200) and the case (201) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) by gravity through the hole. The liquid is discharged into the drain of the sink (1) through the first pipe (650), and only solids (820) remain in the filter (210).

[0370] When the user places the input cover (111) on the cover guide (130) and rotates it by a predetermined angle, as shown in Fig. 12b, the control unit of the food waste disposer (10) instructs the transport operation of the solid-liquid separation unit (200).

[0371] The solid separation unit (200) moves only the solid matter (820) from which the liquid has been separated from the food moved from the input unit (100) horizontally forward and drops it into the lower decomposition unit (300).

[0372] That is, when the motor (220) of the solid-liquid separation unit (200) is driven, the linear rack (222) moves forward in a straight line on a horizontal plane by the rotation of the pinion (221). Accordingly, the connected transfer body (230) moves the side part (211) of the filter (210) forward. At this time, the bottom part (212) of the filter (210) remains in the solid-liquid separation space (A), so only the side part (211) of the filter (210) exists in the transfer space (B), and the solid matter (820) inside the filter (210) falls to the decomposition unit (300) below by gravity.

[0373] After a predetermined time has elapsed, the motor (220) can rotate in the opposite direction to move the filter (210) back to the high-liquid separation space (A).

[0374] Meanwhile, the food solids (820) dropped into the decomposition unit (300) are mixed by stirring with the microorganisms contained inside and the previously decayed food and the currently introduced food as the stirring member (350) rotates by the rotation of the motor (330) of the decomposition unit (300).

[0375] The microbial fermentation process progresses through continuous mixing and maintenance of a predetermined temperature by the heating element (328), and the food is fermented and decomposed into compost (821).

[0376] This type of decomposition is a process that changes organic matter into inorganic matter and can be expressed as composting.

[0377] The decomposed waste (821) is smaller and lighter than the food that was fed in this manner. Therefore, when the motor (330) of the decomposition unit (300) is driven to stir, the food moves from bottom to top, from left to right in the wide space above, and from top to bottom while utilizing the entire space of the decomposition unit (300). Such a large trajectory is achieved by the low-speed rotation of the stirring member (350), the integrated screw shape of the stirring member (350), and the irregular recessed portion (351).

[0378] As shown in Fig. 12d, the decomposed material has a larger trajectory when stirred due to its small and light particle characteristics, and can thus move to the transfer unit (400) through the inlet (361) located below the partition wall (380) located on the upper right.

[0379] When the motor (450) of the transfer unit (400) is driven to rotate the transfer screw (430) and move the waste material introduced through the inlet (361) to the right, the waste material is introduced into the collection unit (500) below through the outlet (12) formed on the right.

[0380] By controlling the operation of the motor of each module, the motor of each module can rotate the shaft in a direction and speed determined according to its characteristics, and thus, optimal operation is possible.

[0381] For example, if a water level sensor (370) is placed inside the decomposition unit (300) and a sediment (821) that draws a large trajectory higher than a predetermined height is detected by the water level sensor (370), the transport unit (400) motor can be operated to transport the sediment (821) of the transport unit (400).

[0382] Therefore, it is possible to simply and independently control multiple modules without a complex gear connection structure to perform rotation of multiple modules with one motor.

[0383] In addition, when the weight of the waste (830) in the collection unit (500) is greater than a predetermined value, the control unit can receive a detection value from the weight sensor (530) and provide a collection unit (500) discharge alarm to the display unit (14) or a linked user terminal accordingly.

[0384] By means of such an alarm, the user can separate only the collection unit (500) from the lower module (750) case (751) and empty the debris (830) inside.

[0385] In this way, the food waste disposer (10) of the present disclosure is built into a sink (1) and communicates with the drain (4) of the sink (1), and is connected to the water supply pipe and the drain pipe of the sink (1) so as to receive water and discharge liquid and odor from food waste into the drain pipe. Accordingly, the output from the food waste disposer (10) is limited to the spoiled matter in the collection unit (500), and the user can use it without various modules for ventilation and deodorization for separate exhaust by emptying only the spoiled matter in response to an alarm.

[0386] As described above, the food waste disposer (10) of the present disclosure is configured separately by an upper module (710) that mounts an input unit (100) and a solid-liquid separation unit (200), and a lower module (750) that mounts a decomposition unit (300), a transport unit (400), and a collection unit (500). The lower module (750) is packaged in a separate case (751) and can be attached to and detached from the main body (700) in a drawer-like manner.

[0387]

[0388]

[0389]

[0390] The present disclosure encompasses various variations of each embodiment and embodiment discussed herein. According to the present disclosure, at least one feature described in one embodiment or example may be equally applicable to other embodiments or examples described above. Features of one or more of the aforementioned embodiments or examples may be combined with each of the aforementioned embodiments or examples. One or more embodiments of the present disclosure, or a combination of all or part of the embodiments, are also part of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A solid-liquid separation unit that separates at least some of the liquid from the food introduced from the inlet and transfers only the food to the lower part; A decomposition unit located below the high-liquid separation unit, where the dropped food is decomposed by microorganisms; A collection unit for storing the decomposed food; and It includes a drain deodorizing module that discharges liquid separated from the food or liquid injected from the inlet into the sink drain pipe and discharges gas containing odor particles inside into the sink drain pipe. The above drainage deodorization module is, exhaust fan; A drainage deodorization pipe including a drainage pipe having one end connected to the sink drain pipe and through which the liquid flows, and a deodorization pipe having one end connected to the exhaust fan and the other end connected to the drain pipe and through which the gas containing the odor particles flows; and A non-return valve is disposed in the deodorizing pipe to limit the backflow of liquid from the drain pipe and to allow the flow of gas containing odor particles, The above-mentioned check valve restricts the backflow of liquid by the buoyancy of the backflowing liquid and allows the gas containing odor particles to flow by its own weight. The above check valve is, A valve body that opens and closes the above deodorizing pipe and includes a hollow space inside; and A food waste disposer wherein the valve body includes a valve hinge hinged to the deodorizing pipe.

2. In paragraph 1, A food waste disposer in which the hinge axis of the above valve hinge extends in a direction intersecting the direction of gravity.

3. In paragraph 1, A food waste disposer in which the specific gravity of the valve body is smaller than the specific gravity of the liquid.

4. In paragraph 1, A food waste disposer in which, when liquid flows in the drain pipe, the exhaust fan does not operate and the backflow prevention valve closes the deodorizing pipe.

5. In paragraph 1, A food waste disposer in which the exhaust fan operates and the backflow prevention valve opens the deodorizing pipe when no liquid flows in the drain pipe.

6. In paragraph 1, The above drain pipe includes a first inlet connected to the sewage pipe of the high-liquid separation unit, and a first outlet connected to the sink sewage pipe, A food waste disposer comprising a second inlet connected to the exhaust fan and a second outlet connected to the drain pipe, wherein the deodorizing pipe is a second inlet connected to the exhaust fan.

7. In paragraph 1, A food waste treatment device in which the high-liquid separation unit is positioned higher than the drainage deodorization pipe.

8. In paragraph 6, A food waste disposer wherein the above-mentioned backflow prevention valve is located below the second inlet.

9. In paragraph 6, A food waste disposer wherein the second inlet is positioned higher than the second outlet.

10. In paragraph 8, A food waste disposer wherein the first inlet is positioned higher than the second outlet.

11. In paragraph 6, A food waste disposer wherein the second outlet is located closer to the first outlet than the first inlet in the drain pipe.

12. In paragraph 6, A food waste disposer wherein the above drain pipe further includes a collecting portion where liquid accumulates between the first inlet and the first outlet.

13. In paragraph 12, A food waste disposer wherein the first inlet is positioned higher than the first outlet.

14. In paragraph 6, A food waste disposer wherein at least a portion of the backflow prevention valve is positioned to overlap the second inlet in the direction of gravity.

15. In paragraph 6, The above drainage pipe, First, the first inlet is provided and the first drainage pipe extends vertically, A reservoir connected to the lower end of the first drainage pipe; A second drainage pipe connected to the upper part of the above-mentioned entrance and extending in the vertical direction, A direction changing portion connected to the upper end of the second drain pipe and extending in a direction intersecting with the second drain pipe; A food waste disposer including a third drain pipe having a first end connected to the above-mentioned direction change unit and a first outlet provided at the other end.

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