Smart sink capable of self-power generation using waste heat

Abstract

This smart sink capable of self-power generation using waste heat comprises: a body portion having an empty space therein; a sink main body member which is installed on an upper portion of the body portion and comprises a sink bowl, a water faucet which discharges water, and a drain that discharges water accommodated in the sink bowl to the outside; a drying and sterilizing body member which is installed to be spaced apart from the water faucet and dries and sterilizes items to be cleaned; a drying member which is built into the body portion and dries the sink bowl, the drain, and the items to be washed; a sterilization member which is built into the body portion and sterilizes the sink bowl, the drain, and the items to be washed; and a heat pump power-generation member which is built into the body portion and produces electricity. Accordingly, the sink, the drain, and the items to be washed can be rapidly dried and sterilized, and the electricity used by the drying and sterilizing member is re-produced by using waste heat from the sink, thereby achieving high energy efficiency.

Description

A smart sink that can generate electricity using waste heat

[0001] The present invention relates to a smart sink, and more particularly, to a smart sink capable of self-power generation using waste heat from the sink and having drying and sterilizing functions.

[0002] A sink is a piece of kitchen furniture installed in a home's kitchen to cook food and wash dishes, plates, utensils, and other objects used to hold the food.

[0003] In general, a sink includes a body portion that is placed on an installation surface and has an empty space formed therein, a sink bowl mounted on the upper side of the body portion and containing an object to be washed, a faucet positioned on the upper side of the sink bowl and discharging water for washing the object to be washed contained in the sink bowl, and a drain port that discharges water discharged from the faucet to the outside of the sink bowl.

[0004] Conventional sinks simply use water and detergent discharged from a faucet to wash an object to be washed, but the present invention relates to a smart sink, and more particularly, to a smart sink that can generate power by using waste heat from the sink and has drying and sterilizing functions. Because it is only a sink bowl, there has been a problem that food residue and bacteria attached to the object to be washed are not completely removed when washing the object to be washed in the sink bowl. Not only does the food residue and bacteria remaining on the object to be washed generate a bad smell, but there has also been a problem that bacteria can easily multiply, which can harm the health of a user who consumes or uses the object to be washed.

[0005] To address these issues with conventional sinks, research and development are underway to develop sinks that incorporate drying and sterilizing devices to eliminate bacteria and odors caused by residual food waste. However, installing these devices requires power to operate. This requires a power connection to the sink, limiting installation locations. Furthermore, the power required to operate the drying and sterilizing devices increases sink maintenance costs.

[0006] The present invention has been devised to solve the above problems, and its purpose is to provide a smart sink capable of self-power generation using waste heat from a sink and having drying and sterilizing functions.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat comprises: a sink body member including a body part having a hollow space formed therein, a sink bowl mounted on an upper portion of the body part and accommodating an object to be washed, a faucet disposed above the sink bowl and discharging water supplied from the outside, and a drain port for discharging water discharged from the faucet to the outside of the sink bowl; a drying and sterilizing body member installed above the sink bowl and spaced apart from the faucet; a drying member built into the sink body member and the drying and sterilizing body member and drying at least one of the sink bowl, the drain port, and the object to be washed; The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat of a sink and having a drying and sterilizing function. The member; a sterilizing member built into the drying and sterilizing body member and sterilizing at least one of the sink bowl, the drain port, and the object to be washed; a drying and sterilizing control member controlling the operation of the drying member and the sterilizing member; And it includes a heat pump power generation member built into the sink body member and generating electricity.

[0008] The above dry sterilizing main body member includes a dry sterilizing body part fixed to the upper side of the sink bowl; and a dry sterilizing head detachably connected to an end of the dry sterilizing body part.

[0009] The drying member includes an air injection unit for injecting air supplied from the outside through the drying sterilizing main body member to at least one of the sink bowl, the drain port, and the washing target; a steam injection unit for generating steam and then injecting the steam to at least one of the sink bowl, the drain port, and the washing target through the drying sterilizing main body member, wherein the air injection unit is installed inside the sink main body member and includes an air suction unit for sucking in the air from the outside; an air compressor for compressing the air sucked in the air suction unit; an air injection nozzle disposed inside the drying sterilizing head and for injecting the air to at least one of the sink bowl, the drain port, and the washing target; and an air movement pipe for connecting the air compressor and the air injection nozzle so that the air is injected from the air injection nozzle and moving the air compressed in the air compressor to the air injection nozzle, wherein the steam injection unit is installed inside the sink main body member and includes a water tank for storing water supplied from the outside; a steam generator connected to the water tank and generating steam using the water stored in the water tank; A steam injection nozzle disposed inside the dry sterilization head and spraying steam to at least one of the sink bowl, the drain, and the washing object; and a steam moving pipe connecting the steam generator and the steam injection nozzle so that the steam is sprayed from the steam injection nozzle, thereby moving the steam generated in the steam generator to the steam injection nozzle.

[0010] The above heat pump power generation member includes a heat pump installed in the drain, absorbing heat from high temperature water or low temperature water discharged through the drain, and transferring the absorbed heat to the steam generator; a generator installed in the steam transfer pipe, generating electricity using steam generated in the steam generator; and a battery storing electricity generated in the generator.

[0011] Smart sinks according to embodiments of the present invention include a drying and sterilizing member, thereby enabling rapid drying and sterilization of dishes, utensils, pots, and other items subject to washing in the sink. Accordingly, the smart sink can prevent bacterial growth or the generation of unpleasant odors in dishes, utensils, pots, and other items.

[0012] In addition, the smart sink according to embodiments of the present invention can quickly dry wet hands and remove bacteria present on hands after washing dishes or fruits by using a drying and sterilizing member, thereby preventing users from infection caused by bacteria, etc.

[0013] Additionally, the smart sink according to embodiments of the present invention further includes a heat pump power generation element. The smart sink utilizes the heat from high-temperature or low-temperature water discharged through the drain of the sink bowl to generate steam in a steam generator, and uses the generated steam to operate a generator to generate electricity, thereby utilizing waste heat from the sink. Accordingly, the smart sink can achieve high energy efficiency.

[0014] In addition, smart sinks according to embodiments of the present invention can be installed in drains that discharge hot water, hot water pipes that supply hot water to faucets, and the like, allowing for more efficient utilization of the heat in the pipes through which hot water flows. Consequently, smart sinks can achieve even greater energy efficiency.

[0015] However, the effects that can be obtained from the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood from the description below.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a front view of a portion of a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing the internal side view of a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 3 is an enlarged drawing of a portion of a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0019]

[0020] *Figure 4 is a drawing showing the end portion of a drying member and the end portion of a sterilizing member constituting a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the end portion of a drying member and the end portion of a sterilizing member constituting a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a water inflow prevention member constituting a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat comprises: a sink body member including a body part having a hollow space formed therein; a sink bowl mounted on an upper portion of the body part and accommodating an object to be washed; a faucet disposed above the sink bowl and discharging water supplied from the outside; and a drain port for discharging water discharged from the faucet to the outside of the sink bowl; a drying and sterilizing body member installed above the sink bowl and spaced apart from the faucet; a drying member built into the sink body member and the drying and sterilizing body member and drying at least one of the sink bowl, the drain port, and the object to be washed; a sterilizing member built into the drying and sterilizing body member and sterilizing at least one of the sink bowl, the drain port, and the object to be washed; a drying and sterilizing control member controlling the operation of the drying member and the sterilizing member; and a heat pump power generation member built into the sink body member and generating electricity.

[0024] The present invention is susceptible to various modifications and embodiments. Specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

[0025] First, the terms used in this specification and claims are general terms selected based on their functions in various embodiments of the present invention. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, legal or technical interpretations, and the emergence of new technologies. Furthermore, some terms may be arbitrarily selected by the applicant. These terms may be interpreted according to the meanings defined herein. In the absence of a specific definition, they may be interpreted based on the overall content of this specification and common technical knowledge in the relevant technical field.

[0026] Additionally, the same reference numbers or symbols in each drawing attached to this specification represent parts or components that perform substantially the same functions. For convenience of explanation and understanding, the same reference numbers or symbols are used in different embodiments. In other words, even if components with the same reference numbers are depicted in multiple drawings, they do not necessarily represent a single embodiment.

[0027] Additionally, terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., may be used in this specification and claims to distinguish between components. These ordinal numbers are used to distinguish identical or similar components from each other, and the use of these ordinal numbers should not be interpreted in a limited way. For example, components associated with these ordinals should not be interpreted in a limited way with respect to the order of use or arrangement, etc., due to their numbers. If necessary, each ordinal number may be used interchangeably.

[0028] In this specification, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "comprise" or "comprises" are intended to indicate the presence of a characteristic, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but should be understood not to preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other characteristics, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0029] Additionally, in the embodiments of the present invention, when a part is said to be connected to another part, this includes not only a direct connection but also an indirect connection through another medium. Furthermore, unless specifically stated otherwise, the statement that a part includes a certain component does not exclude other components, but rather implies that other components may be included.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a front view of a part of a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an internal side view of a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is an enlarged drawing of a part of a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an end portion of a drying member and an end portion of a sterilizing member constituting a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4 together, a smart sink (100) according to the present embodiment is installed in a kitchen of a home to wash objects such as dishes, fruits, and vegetables, and includes a sink body member (110), a drying and sterilizing body member (120), a drying member (130), a sterilizing member (150), a drying and sterilizing control member (160), and a heat pump power generation member (170).

[0032] The above sink body member (110) includes a sink body part (111) having an empty space formed therein, a sink bowl (112) mounted on the upper side of the sink body part (111) and accommodating a washing object, a faucet (113) positioned on the upper side of the sink bowl (112) and discharging water supplied from the outside, and a drain (114) that discharges water discharged from the faucet (113) to the outside of the sink bowl (112).

[0033] The above-mentioned faucet (113) includes a faucet fixing part fixed to the upper side of the sink bowl (112), and a faucet head part that is detachably connected to the faucet fixing part and connected to a faucet hose through which water is discharged.

[0034] Since the configuration and operation of the above-mentioned water supply (113) are general, a detailed description is omitted in this embodiment.

[0035] The above sink body (111) is placed on the installation surface of the kitchen, and a front door that allows entry and exit to the inside is formed on the front thereof, and the drying member (130), the sterilizing member (150), and the drying sterilization control member (160) are installed inside the front door.

[0036] The sink bowl (112) is formed with a concave interior and an open upper portion to accommodate the object to be washed, and the sink bowl (112) is formed by coating a metal material such as stainless steel or a synthetic resin material such as plastic.

[0037] The above-mentioned water (113) is discharged after water for washing the washing object is introduced from the outside.

[0038] The above drain (114) is installed at the bottom of the sink bowl (112) to discharge contaminated water used to wash the object to be washed to the outside.

[0039] The above drain (114) is equipped with a drain strainer (115) that can filter out foreign substances and food waste stuck to the washing object, and in the following description, drying and sterilization of the drain (114) are considered to include not only the drain (114) but also the drain strainer (115).

[0040] The above dry sterilization main body member (120) is installed at an upper side of the sink bowl (112) and spaced apart from the water tap (113), and includes a dry sterilization body part (121) and a dry sterilization head (122).

[0041] The above dry sterilizing body part (121) is fixed in a protruding form on the upper side of the sink bowl (112). In this embodiment, the dry sterilizing body part (121) is provided as an example in which it is formed in the same manner as the water faucet fixing part of the water faucet (113).

[0042] The above dry sterilizing head (122) is detachably connected to the end of the dry sterilizing body (121).

[0043] When a user using the smart sink (100) grabs and pulls the dry sterilizing head (122) from the dry sterilizing body part (121), the dry member (130) and the sterilizing member (150) inserted into the dry sterilizing body part (121) protrude together, and when the user using the smart sink (100) pushes the dry sterilizing head (122) toward the dry sterilizing body part (121), the dry member (130) and the sterilizing member (150) inserted into the dry sterilizing body part (121) are inserted into the dry sterilizing body part (121) and are restored to their original positions, and the distal end of the dry sterilizing head (122) is inserted into the dry sterilizing body part (121), thereby connecting the dry sterilizing body part (121) and the dry sterilizing head (122).

[0044] The above drying member (130) is built into the sink body member (110) and the drying sterilization body member (120), and dries at least one of the sink bowl (112), the drain (114), and the washing object.

[0045] Spraying at least one of the sink bowl (112), the drain (114) and the washing target means that the user using the smart sink (100) grabs and pulls the dry sterilizing head (122) from the dry sterilizing body part (121) and moves it toward the sink bowl (112), the drain (114) and the washing target, which are the parts requiring drying, and a detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0046] The above drying member (130) includes an air injection unit (131) and a steam injection unit (141).

[0047] The above air injection unit (131) injects air supplied from the outside through the dry sterilizing body member (120) to at least one of the sink bowl (112), the drain (114), and the washing target.

[0048] The above air injection unit (131) includes an air intake unit (132), an air compressor (133), an air injection nozzle (135), and an air movement pipe (134).

[0049] The above air intake unit (132) is installed inside the sink body member (110) and sucks in the air from the outside, and an example of this may be a blower fan.

[0050] The above air compressor (133) compresses the air sucked into the air suction unit (132), and a compressor or the like can be provided as an example.

[0051] The above air injection nozzle (135) is arranged inside the dry sterilization head (122), and has a plurality of holes formed therein to inject the air moved through the air movement pipe (134) to at least one of the sink bowl (112), the drain (114), and the washing target.

[0052] The above air moving pipe (134) connects the air compressor (133) and the air injection nozzle (135) so that the air is injected from the air injection nozzle (135), thereby moving the air compressed in the air compressor (133) to the air injection nozzle (135).

[0053] The air moving pipe (134) is connected to the air spray nozzle (135) after penetrating the inside of the dry sterilizing body part (121), and is formed in a tubular shape of a predetermined length so that the air spray nozzle (135) protrudes toward the user together with the dry sterilizing head (122) when the user pulls the dry sterilizing head (122) from the dry sterilizing body part (121), and is arranged to be movable within the dry sterilizing body part (121).

[0054] When the air injection unit (131) is formed as described above, the air sucked in from the air suction unit (132) is compressed in the air compressor (133), and the air compressed in the air compressor (133) moves to the air injection nozzle (135) through the air movement pipe (134), and is then injected from the air injection nozzle (135) so that the air can be injected to at least one of the sink bowl (112), the drain (114), and the washing target.

[0055] At this time, the air injection nozzle (135) is positioned inside the dry sterilizing head (122) so that it can move together with the dry sterilizing head (122), and accordingly, the air can be injected in a state close to the sink bowl (112), the drain (114), and the washing target that require drying, which are positioned spaced apart from each other.

[0056] The air heater (136) is arranged to cover the outside of the air moving pipe (134) and heats the air moving through the air moving pipe (134) to a high temperature that is relatively higher than the ambient temperature.

[0057] Then, the air moving in the air moving pipe (134) is heated by the air heater (136) and then sprayed through the air spray nozzle (135), thereby improving the drying function of the air.

[0058] The above steam injection unit (141) generates steam and then injects the steam through the dry sterilizing main body member (120) onto at least one of the sink bowl (112), the drain (114), and the washing target.

[0059] In detail, the steam injection unit (141) includes a water tank (142), a steam generator (143), a steam injection nozzle (145), and a steam moving pipe (144).

[0060] The above water tank (142) is installed inside the sink body member (110) and stores water supplied from the outside.

[0061] The above steam generator (143) is connected to the water tank (142) and generates steam using the water stored in the water tank (142). The steam generator (143) is connected to a heat pump (171) that absorbs heat from high-temperature water or low-temperature water discharged through a drain. The steam generator (143) utilizes the heat transferred from the heat pump (171) when generating steam. The steam generator (143) moves the generated steam to the steam injection nozzle (145) of the drying sterilization head (122) and the generator (172) through the steam transfer pipe (144).

[0062] The temperature of the steam generated through the steam generator (143) can be controlled.

[0063] The steam injection nozzle (145) is positioned inside the dry sterilization head (122) and sprays steam to at least one of the sink bowl (112), the drain (114), and the washing target.

[0064] The smart sink (100) includes a steam moving pipe (144) that connects the steam generator (143) and the steam injection nozzle (145) so that the steam is sprayed from the steam injection nozzle (145) and moves the steam generated from the steam generator (143) to the steam injection nozzle (145).

[0065] The steam moving pipe (144) is connected to the steam injection nozzle (145) after penetrating the inside of the dry sterilizing body part (121), and is formed in a tubular shape of a predetermined length so that the steam injection nozzle (145) protrudes toward the user together with the dry sterilizing head (122) when the user pulls the dry sterilizing head (122) from the dry sterilizing body part (121), and is arranged to be movable within the dry sterilizing body part (121).

[0066] When the steam injection unit (141) is formed as described above, the water stored in the water tank (142) moves to the steam generator (143) to generate the steam, and the steam generated in the steam generator (143) moves to the steam injection nozzle (145) through the steam movement pipe (144) and is then sprayed from the steam injection nozzle (145) to spray the steam on at least one of the sink bowl (112), the drain (114), and the washing target.

[0067] The injection of air through the air injection unit (131) and the injection of steam through the steam injection unit (141) can be selectively operated by the dry sterilization control member (160).

[0068] That is, either one of the air injection unit (131) and the steam injection unit (141) may be operated, or both may be operated.

[0069] In this embodiment, for the convenience of explanation, it is described that the drying member (130) can dry at least one of the sink bowl (112), the drain (114) and the washing target, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and as the air spray nozzle (135) and the steam spray nozzle (145) move together with the drying sterilizing head (122), it goes without saying that not only the sink bowl (112), the drain (114) and the washing target, but also other places, for example, the upper surface of the marble on which the smart sink (100) is installed, can be dried.

[0070] In addition, although not shown in the present embodiment, the air movement pipe (134) and the steam movement pipe (144) are formed to a predetermined length and pass through the dry sterilizing body part (121), and in that state, are inserted together into a connecting means connected to the dry sterilizing head (122), so that the air movement pipe (134) and the steam movement pipe (144) may move together according to the movement of the dry sterilizing head (122) with respect to the dry sterilizing body part (121).

[0071] The weight (146) is formed in a shape that surrounds the outside of the air movement pipe (134) and the steam movement pipe (144) so ​​that the air movement pipe (134) and the steam movement pipe (144) that were protruding from the dry sterilization body part (121) can be restored to their original state by the force with which the user pulls the dry sterilization head (122). The weight is applied to the air movement pipe (134) and the steam movement pipe (144).

[0072] The above sterilizing member (150) is built into the dry sterilizing main body member (120) and sterilizes at least one of the sink bowl (112), the drain (114), and the washing object.

[0073] In this embodiment, the sterilizing member (150) is made of a UV lamp that irradiates ultraviolet rays.

[0074] The above sterilizing member (150) is mounted inside the dry sterilizing head (122) that constitutes the dry sterilizing main body member (120).

[0075] In detail, the sterilizing member (150) is formed in a donut shape with a perforated interior and is built into the dry sterilizing head (122), and the air spray nozzle (135) and the steam spray nozzle (145) are connected in a form in which they are inserted into the interior of the sterilizing member (150) as shown in FIG. 4, and in such a state, the sterilizing member (150) is connected to the dry sterilizing head (122), so that the sterilizing member (150), the air spray nozzle (135) and the sterilizing member (150) can be maintained in a connected state together inside the dry sterilizing head (122).

[0076] The above sterilizing member (150) is connected to the dry sterilizing control member (160) by wire or wirelessly and receives the control command of the control member.

[0077] In this embodiment, a sterilizing member side power line (151) is formed to electrically connect the dry sterilizing sterilizing member (150) and the control member.

[0078] The power line (151) on the sterilizing member side is arranged to penetrate the dry sterilizing body part (121) together with the air movement pipe (134) and the steam movement pipe (144), and can be protruded from the dry sterilizing body part (121) by the pulling of the dry sterilizing head (122) by an external force.

[0079] In addition, the power cord (151) on the sterilizing member side is formed in the shape of a roller (not shown) so that it can be lengthened and shortened, or a sterilizing member side weight (not shown) is mounted on the outside thereof so that when the pulling force of the dry sterilizing head (122) by the user is released, it can be inserted into the inside of the dry sterilizing body part (121).

[0080] In the above-described configuration, when the user using the smart sink (100) grabs and pulls the dry sterilizing head (122) from the dry sterilizing body part (121), the air movement pipe (134), the steam movement pipe (144) and the sterilizing member-side power line (151) connected to the dry sterilizing head (122) protrude together from the dry sterilizing body part (121) in the same manner as the head part of the water faucet (113) from which the water is discharged protrudes or is inserted, and when the user using the smart sink (100) pushes the dry sterilizing head (122) toward the dry sterilizing body part (121), the air movement pipe (134), the steam movement pipe (144) and the sterilizing member-side power line (151) are inserted into the dry sterilizing body part (121) and return to their original positions, and the end of the dry sterilizing head (122) is inserted into the dry sterilizing body part (121). By being inserted inside, the connection between the dry sterilizing body part (121) and the dry sterilizing head (122) is established.

[0081] The above dry sterilization control member (160) controls the operation of the dry member (130) and the sterilization member (150), and includes an operation mode (162), a motion detection sensor (163), and a power supply and operation control unit (161).

[0082] The above operation mode (162) selects whether the air supply unit, the steam supply unit, and the sterilizing member (150) are operating.

[0083] The above motion detection sensor (163) detects whether the washing target exists in front of the dry sterilization main body member (120).

[0084] The power supply and operation control unit (161) supplies power to the operation mode (162) and the motion detection sensor (163) and simultaneously receives information from the operation mode (162) and the motion detection sensor (163) to control the operation of the drying member (130) and the sterilizing member (150).

[0085] For example, when at least one of the operation modes (162) is selected by the user, the power supply and operation control unit (161) operates one of the air injection unit (131), the steam injection unit (141), and the sterilizing member (150) selected by the operation mode (162).

[0086] At this time, if the washing object or the user is not detected by the motion detection sensor (163) until a preset time has elapsed while the operation mode (162) is in operation, the power supply and operation control unit (161) stops the operation of the operation mode (162).

[0087] A heat pump power generation member (170) is installed inside the sink body member (110) and generates electricity on its own by utilizing the thermal energy of high-temperature or low-temperature water used in the smart sink (100). The heat pump power generation member (170) includes a heat pump (171), a generator (172), and a battery (173).

[0088] The heat pump (171) absorbs heat from the high temperature or low temperature water discharged from the faucet (113) when the high temperature or low temperature water is discharged through the drain (114). The heat pump (171) is installed in the drain (114). The heat pump (171) is configured to be connected to the drain (114), a hot water pipe (not shown) that transfers hot water from a boiler or a hot water tank to the faucet (113), a cold water pipe (not shown) that transfers cold water from a cold water tank to the faucet (113), and a heat exchanger (not shown). The heat pump (171) is installed in a manner of spirally wrapping the cylindrical drain (114). The heat pump (171) transfers heat absorbed from the high temperature or low temperature water flowing through the drain to the steam generator (143).

[0089] In a smart sink (100) according to another embodiment of the present invention, a heat pump (171) may be additionally installed in a hot water pipe and a steam transfer pipe (144) as well as a drain (114). Here, a hot water pipe (not shown) is connected between a faucet (113) and a boiler or a hot water tank, and transfers hot water from the boiler or hot water tank to the faucet (113). The heat pump (171) installed in the hot water pipe and the faucet (113) absorbs heat from hot water passing through the hot water pipe and steam transferred along the steam transfer pipe, and transfers the absorbed heat to a steam generator (143).

[0090] The residual heat of the hot water pipe and the heat of the cold water generated in the process of the heat pump power generation member (170) are supplied to the heat pump (171), and pass through the drain pipe (114), hot water pipe, and cold water pipe connected to the high temperature water, low temperature water, or cold water pipe connected to the heat pump (171), thereby generating electric energy for components requiring electricity, such as the steam generator (143) in the smart sink (100).

[0091] The generator (172) generates electricity using steam generated from the steam generator (143). The generator (172) is installed in the steam transfer pipe (144). The generator (172) generates electricity by rotating the engine inside the generator (172) using the steam transferred from the steam generator (143). The generator (172) supplies the generated electricity to components requiring electricity in the smart sink (100) or charges the battery (173).

[0092] The battery (173) stores electricity generated by the generator (172). The battery (173) supplies the charged electricity to the components of the smart sink (100) that require electricity.

[0093] Below, the operation of the smart sink (100) according to the present embodiment is briefly described with reference to the drawings.

[0094] Hereinafter, air injection, steam injection, and sterilization of the above sink bowl (112) will be described as an example.

[0095] First, the user supplies power to the dry sterilization main body member (120) through the power supply and operation control unit (161).

[0096] The user pulls the dry sterilizing head (122) and moves it toward the sink bowl (112).

[0097] Then, the user selects the operation of the air injection unit (131) through the operation mode (162).

[0098] Then, the air sucked in from the air suction unit (132) is compressed in the air compressor (133), and the air compressed in the air compressor (133) moves to the air injection nozzle (135) through the air movement pipe (134), and is then sprayed from the air injection nozzle (135) to spray the air to the sink bowl (112).

[0099] Then, the user selects the operation of the steam injection unit (141) through the operation mode (162).

[0100] Then, the water stored in the water tank (142) is moved to the steam generator (143) to generate the steam, and the steam generated in the steam generator (143) is moved to the steam injection nozzle (145) through the steam movement pipe (144) and then sprayed from the steam injection nozzle (145) to spray the steam on the sink bowl (112).

[0101] Here, the steam generated in the steam generator (143) moves along the steam transfer pipe (144) and passes through the generator (172), and when the steam passes through the generator (172), electricity is generated in the generator (172).

[0102] Then, the user selects the operation of the sterilizing member (150) through the operation mode (162).

[0103] Then, the sterilizing member (150) is operated to sterilize the sink bowl (112).

[0104] As described above, since the smart sink (100) includes the sink body member (110), the drying sterilization body member (120), the drying member (130), the sterilization member (150), and the drying sterilization control member (160), not only can the generation of odor and the growth of bacteria be prevented in the sink bowl (112) and the drain (114) constituting the sink body member (110), but also the washing object that has been washed in the sink bowl (112) can be dried and sterilized.

[0105] Hereinafter, a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0106] In carrying out this description, any description that overlaps with the content already described in the first embodiment of the present invention described above will be omitted here.

[0107] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the end portion of a drying member and the end portion of a sterilizing member constituting a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a water inflow prevention member constituting a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6 together, in the present embodiment, a smart sink capable of self-generation using waste heat includes a sink body member, a drying sterilization body member, a drying member, a sterilization member, a drying sterilization control member, and a water inflow prevention member (270).

[0109] The above sink body member includes a body part having an empty space formed therein, a sink bowl mounted on the upper part of the body part and accommodating a washing object, a faucet positioned on the upper part of the sink bowl and discharging water supplied from the outside, and a drain port for discharging water discharged from the faucet to the outside of the sink bowl.

[0110] The above dry sterilizing body member is installed at the upper side of the sink bowl and spaced apart from the faucet.

[0111] The drying member is built into the sink body member and the drying sterilization body member, and dries at least one of the sink bowl, the drain, and the washing object, and includes an air injection unit and a steam injection unit.

[0112] The above air injection unit includes an air intake unit, an air compressor, an air injection nozzle (235), and an air movement pipe.

[0113] The above steam injection unit includes a water tank, a steam generator, a steam injection nozzle (245), and a steam moving pipe.

[0114] In this embodiment, the air injection nozzle (235) and the steam injection nozzle (245) are connected to each other by a connecting member (237) surrounding the lower portion of the air injection nozzle (235) and the upper portion of the steam injection nozzle (245).

[0115] The sterilizing member is built into the dry sterilizing main body member and sterilizes at least one of the sink bowl, the drain, and the washing object.

[0116] The above drying sterilization control member controls the operation of the drying member and the sterilization member.

[0117] The above water inflow prevention member (270) prevents water formed by condensation of the steam at the end of the steam injection unit while the steam is being injected from the steam injection unit from flowing toward the air injection unit.

[0118] In detail, the water inflow prevention member (270) includes a water inflow side hole (271), a water receiving portion (272), a water receiving side cover (273), a water inflow pipe (274), a water discharge pipe (275), an air inflow hole (276), an expansion detection portion (278), a hole opener (277), a water inflow side blocking body (279), and a water inflow side blocking body side through hole (280).

[0119] The above water inlet hole (271) is formed by recessing to a predetermined depth at a portion of the air injection nozzle (235) constituting the air injection unit that comes into contact with the steam injection nozzle (245) constituting the steam injection unit.

[0120] In detail, the water inlet side hole (271) is formed in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped with both ends extending toward the combination body (237) from the part of the air injection nozzle (235) that is in contact with the steam injection nozzle (245).

[0121] The above water receiving portion (272) is formed concavely with a predetermined curvature inside the water inlet hole (271) and is made of an elastic material such as rubber, and receives the water formed by condensation of the steam.

[0122] The water receiving portion side support (288) protrudes from the inner wall of the water inlet side hole (271) so that the water receiving portion (272) is fixed inside the water inlet side hole (271).

[0123] The above water receiving side cover (273) covers the upper side of the water receiving portion (272) so that a space for receiving water is formed inside it together with the water receiving portion (272), and is made of a synthetic resin material such as plastic.

[0124] In this embodiment, the water receiving side cover (273) and the water receiving portion (272) are formed to a predetermined length along the longitudinal direction of the air injection nozzle (235) and are formed into an oval shape like a rugby ball.

[0125] The water inlet pipe (274) connects the outside of the air injection nozzle (235) and the inside of the water receiving side cover (273) so that the water formed at the end of the steam injection nozzle (245) flows into the inside of the water receiving side cover (273) and the water receiving portion (272).

[0126] The water discharge pipe (275) connects the inside of the steam injection nozzle (245) constituting the steam injection unit, which is relatively close to the water receiving side cover (273), with the inside of the water receiving side cover (273) and the water receiving portion (272), thereby discharging the water inside the water receiving side cover (273) and the water receiving portion (272) to the inside of the steam injection nozzle (245) which is relatively close to the water receiving side cover (273).

[0127] It is preferable that the water discharge pipe (275) be formed to protrude a predetermined length toward the inner space of the water receiving side cover (273) and the water receiving portion (272) so as to facilitate the discharge of the water contained within the water receiving side cover (273) and the water receiving portion (272).

[0128] The above air inlet hole (276) is formed through a penetration between the bottom surface of the water inlet hole (271) and the air injection nozzle (235), so that some of the air flowing through the air injection nozzle (235) is introduced into the inside of the water inlet hole (271).

[0129] The above expansion detection unit (278) is positioned on the lower part of the water receiving unit (272) among the inner walls of the water inlet-side groove, and detects that the water receiving unit (272) swells downward when the water is received inside the water receiving-side cover (273) and the water receiving unit (272). A contact sensor or the like can be provided as an example.

[0130] The above hole opener (277) is placed inside the air inlet hole (276) and opens and closes the air inlet hole (276) depending on whether the expansion detection unit (278) detects the expansion of the water receiving unit (272), and a check valve or the like can be provided as an example.

[0131] When the water is not received inside the water receiving side cover (273) and the water receiving portion (272), the air inlet hole (276) is blocked by the hole opening / closing device (277), and when the water is received inside the water receiving side cover (273) and the water receiving portion (272), the water receiving portion (272) swells downward due to the weight of the water, and the water receiving portion (272) comes into contact with the expansion detection portion (278), and accordingly, the air inlet hole (276) is opened by the hole opening / closing device (277).

[0132] The operation of the hole opener (277) by detection of the expansion detection unit (278) can be controlled together with the dry sterilization control member.

[0133] The above water inlet side blocking body (279) protrudes a predetermined length from the upper side of the water receiving portion (272) close to the water inlet pipe (274) and is made of an elastic material.

[0134] The above-mentioned water inlet side blocking body through hole (280) is formed through the water inlet side blocking body (279) so that the water introduced through the water inlet pipe (274) flows toward the water receiving portion (272).

[0135] The water formed by condensation at the end of the steam injection nozzle (245) flows toward the air injection nozzle (235) and then flows into the water inlet pipe (274) and is received inside the water receiving side cover (273) and the receiving portion, and when the steam is sprayed through the steam injection nozzle (245) while the water is received inside the water receiving side cover (273) and the receiving portion, the water received inside the water receiving side cover (273) and the receiving portion is primarily discharged toward the steam injection nozzle (245) through the water discharge pipe (275) by the pressure at which the steam is sprayed.

[0136] As the steam is continuously sprayed through the steam spray nozzle (245) for a predetermined period of time, and the condensed water increases relatively, when the water received inside the water receiving side cover (273) and the receiving part through the water inlet pipe (274) reaches a predetermined weight, the water receiving part (272) swells downward due to the weight of the water, and when the expansion detection part (278) detects this, the hole opening / closing device (277) opens, and when the air is sprayed through the air spray nozzle (235) constituting the air spraying part by the opening of the hole opening / closing device (277), some of the air flowing from the air spray nozzle (235) flows into the water inlet side hole (271) through the air inlet hole (276) and pushes up the water receiving part (272), and accordingly, the water received inside the water receiving side cover (273) and the receiving part is pushed up by the water. It can be secondarily discharged toward the steam injection nozzle (245) through the discharge pipe (275).

[0137] When the water receiving portion (272) is pushed up by the air, the water inlet side blocking body (279) is rotated toward the end of the water inlet pipe (274) and then elastically deformed to block the end of the water inlet pipe (274), and since the water inlet side blocking body (279) is made of an elastic material, the water inlet side blocking body side through hole (280) is also elastically deformed to be blocked, and accordingly, while the water contained inside the water receiving side cover (273) and the receiving portion is discharged through the water discharge pipe (275), discharge into the water inlet pipe (274) can be prevented.

[0138] As the water inflow member is configured as described above, even if the steam injected through the steam injection nozzle (245) condenses to form the water, the inflow into the air injection nozzle (235) is prevented, so that not only is the air easily injected through the air injection nozzle (235), but the cleanliness of the air injection nozzle (235) can be maintained.

[0139] According to the embodiments of the present invention described above, the smart sink includes a drying and sterilizing member, thereby enabling rapid drying and sterilization of dishes, utensils, pots, and other items to be washed in the sink. Accordingly, the smart sink can prevent bacteria from growing in the dishes, utensils, pots, and other items, or from generating unpleasant odors due to bacteria.

[0140] In addition, the smart sink according to embodiments of the present invention can quickly dry wet hands and remove bacteria present on hands after washing dishes or fruits by using a drying and sterilizing member, thereby preventing users from infection caused by bacteria, etc.

[0141] Additionally, the smart sink according to embodiments of the present invention further includes a heat pump power generation element. The smart sink utilizes the heat from high-temperature or low-temperature water discharged through the drain of the sink bowl to generate steam in a steam generator, and uses the generated steam to operate a generator to generate electricity, thereby utilizing waste heat from the sink. Accordingly, the smart sink can achieve high energy efficiency.

[0142] In addition, smart sinks according to embodiments of the present invention can be installed in drains that discharge hot water, hot water pipes that supply hot water to faucets, and the like, allowing for more efficient utilization of the heat in the pipes through which hot water flows. Consequently, smart sinks can achieve even greater energy efficiency.

[0143] The present invention has been described with a focus on preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be implemented in modified forms without departing from its essential characteristics. Therefore, the disclosed embodiments should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. The scope of the present invention is set forth in the claims, not the foregoing description, and all differences within the scope equivalent thereto should be construed as being encompassed by the present invention.

Claims

1. In a smart sink that can generate electricity using waste heat, A sink body member including a body part in which an empty space is formed inside, a sink bowl mounted on the upper part of the body part and accommodating a washing object, a faucet positioned on the upper part of the sink bowl and discharging water supplied from the outside, and a drain port for discharging water discharged from the faucet to the outside of the sink bowl; A dry sterilizing body member installed at the upper side of the sink bowl and spaced apart from the water tap; A drying member built into the sink body member and the drying sterilizing body member, and drying at least one of the sink bowl, the drain, and the washing object; A sterilizing member built into the above dry sterilizing main body member and sterilizing at least one of the sink bowl, the drain, and the washing object; A drying sterilization control member that controls the operation of the drying member and the sterilization member; and A smart sink characterized by including a heat pump power generation member built into the sink body member and generating electricity.

2. In paragraph 1, The above dry sterilization body member A dry sterilizing body part fixed to the upper side of the sink bowl; A smart sink characterized by including a dry sterilizing head detachably connected to the end of the dry sterilizing body.

3. In paragraph 2, The above dry member The air supplied from the outside passes through the drying sterilizing body member to the sink bowl; An air injection unit for injecting air into at least one of the above drain and raised washing targets; It includes a steam injection unit that generates steam and then injects the steam through the dry sterilizing body member to at least one of the sink bowl, the drain, and the washing object, The above air injection part An air suction unit installed inside the sink body member and sucking in the air from the outside; An air compressor that compresses the air sucked into the air suction unit; An air spray nozzle disposed inside the dry sterilizing head and spraying the air to at least one of the sink bowl, the drain, and the washing object; An air moving pipe is included that connects the air compressor and the air injection nozzle so that the air is injected from the air injection nozzle, and moves the air compressed in the air compressor to the air injection nozzle. The above steam injection part A water tank installed inside the sink body member and storing water supplied from the outside; A steam generator connected to the water tank and generating steam using the water stored in the water tank; A steam injection nozzle disposed inside the dry sterilization head and spraying steam to at least one of the sink bowl, the drain, and the washing object; and A smart sink characterized by including a steam moving pipe that connects the steam generator and the steam injection nozzle so that the steam is injected from the steam injection nozzle and moves the steam generated in the steam generator to the steam injection nozzle.

4. In paragraph 3, The above heat pump power generation member A heat pump installed in the above drain, absorbing heat from high temperature water or low temperature water discharged through the drain, and transferring the absorbed heat to the steam generator; A generator installed in the above steam transfer pipe and producing electricity using steam generated in the steam generator; and A smart sink characterized by including a battery that stores electricity generated by the generator.

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