Method for controlling water purifier

Abstract

One embodiment of this method for controlling a water purifier may comprise: a step for setting the number of times each of room-temperature purified water and cold water, which is at a lower temperature than the purified water, is to be dispensed; a step for setting a duty ratio which is defined as the ratio of cold water to purified water; a step for setting a dispensing amount for each of purified water and cold water; and a step for dispensing purified water and cold water alternately.

Description

Water purifier control method

[0001] The present invention relates to a control method for a water purifier, and more particularly, to a control method for a water purifier having a free temperature water discharge function that allows water to be discharged at a temperature selected by a user.

[0002] The material described in this section merely provides background information for the present invention and does not constitute prior art.

[0003] A water dispenser is a device that supplies water and dispenses a desired amount of water at a desired temperature according to the user's operation. Such devices can be applied to a variety of fields, but are most commonly used in refrigerators and water purifiers. In particular, the water dispensers in refrigerators and water purifiers are designed to dispense a preset amount of water according to the user's operation. Recently, water dispensers capable of supplying not only purified water but also cold and hot water have been developed.

[0004] For example, a water purifier is connected to a water source, such as a tap, to receive raw water, uses a filter to remove suspended solids and harmful substances from the raw water, and is configured to dispense the desired amount of purified water according to the user's operation. A variety of water purifiers are available that can not only purify water but also heat or cool the purified water to provide cold or hot water. Recently, smaller water purifiers that can be installed in a variety of installation environments have been developed.

[0005] To meet the diverse needs of users, development of water purifiers equipped with a free temperature water discharge function that allows water to be discharged at a temperature selected by the user is actively underway.

[0006] To dispense water at a temperature selected by the user, the temperature of the dispensed water can be adjusted by appropriately mixing, for example, purified water at room temperature and cold water that is lower in temperature than the purified water.

[0007] In such cases, the ratio of purified water and cold water must be set accurately, and the amount of purified water and cold water each must be set accurately.

[0008] In addition, when the purified water and cold water are dispensed alternately, if the purified water or cold water is stopped at the time of the change and then the cold water or purified water is dispensed again, the water may not be dispensed smoothly into the cup at the time of the stoppage, but may splash out, causing inconvenience to the user.

[0009] Therefore, it is necessary to develop a control method for a water purifier that sets the ratio of purified water and cold water, the amount of purified water and cold water each, and ensures that the water is discharged quietly without splashing.

[0010] Meanwhile, the temperature of the raw water flowing into the water supply can be considered the same as the temperature of purified water passing through the filter. The temperature of the raw water can vary depending on the season, the environment of the water pipes, and the indoor environment.

[0011] To alternately dispense purified and cold water to produce water at a user-selected temperature, the inlet water temperature must be accurately measured. This temperature can be determined by measuring the temperature of the unfiltered raw water flowing into the water purifier from the tap, and using this as the purified water temperature.

[0012] However, the water temperature can change from moment to moment depending on the aforementioned factors. Therefore, it is necessary to accurately measure or determine the water intake temperature and update it to the latest version.

[0013] This is because it is necessary to precisely discharge water at the temperature selected by the user based on the updated water intake temperature.

[0014] An object of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier having a free temperature water discharge function that allows water to be discharged at a temperature selected by a user.

[0015] In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier to adjust the temperature of water selected by a user when free temperature water is discharged.

[0016] In addition, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier that saves electricity consumption when dispensing water at a free temperature or makes the temperature of the dispensing water uniform throughout the cup containing the water.

[0017] In addition, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier that can suppress water from splashing out when water dispensing is stopped when water is alternately dispensed and cold water is dispensed to a temperature selected by a user, thereby inducing quiet water dispensing.

[0018] In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier capable of accurately determining the intake temperature of water.

[0019] In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier that updates the water intake temperature, which changes from moment to moment, after a set time period has passed.

[0020] In addition, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier having a structure that makes the inlet temperature of water to be updated the same as before, changes it from before, or newly detects the inlet temperature, depending on the situation.

[0021] The purposes of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Other purposes and advantages of the present invention not mentioned above can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the purposes and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0022] One embodiment of a control method for a water purifier may include a step of setting the number of times each of purified water at room temperature and cold water having a temperature lower than that of the purified water is dispensed; a step of setting a duty ratio defined as a ratio of cold water to purified water; a step of setting the discharge amounts of purified water and cold water respectively; and a step of alternately dispensing purified water and cold water.

[0023] The water purifier can set the number of dispensed water, duty ratio, and dispensed water volume for purified water and cold water respectively based on the water temperature and dispensed water volume selected by the user.

[0024] For example, purified water and cold water can be alternately dispensed once each. Therefore, water dispensing can be completed with one purified water dispensing and one cold water dispensing.

[0025] In another embodiment, purified water and cold water may be dispensed multiple times, alternately. This allows for more even mixing of purified water and cold water.

[0026] In one embodiment, the time periods for purified water and cold water discharge can be separated and arranged so that they do not overlap. Therefore, the set water discharge volume can be accurately achieved.

[0027] In another embodiment, the time intervals during which purified water is dispensed and the time intervals during which cold water is dispensed may be arranged to overlap to some extent. Accordingly, water can be dispensed continuously throughout the entire water dispensing phase.

[0028] Accordingly, water can be prevented from splashing out of the cup due to a temporary interruption in the water flow during the process of cold water and purified water being dispensed alternately.

[0029] Another embodiment of a control method for a water purifier may include a step of checking the inlet temperature of room temperature water flowing into the water purifier; a step of setting a duty ratio defined as a ratio of purified water to cold water; a step of setting the discharge amounts of purified water and cold water respectively; a step of alternately discharging purified water and cold water; and an update step of updating the inlet temperature of room temperature water.

[0030] In the water intake temperature confirmation step, if the set first time has not elapsed since the free temperature water discharge at the temperature selected by the user has ended, the water intake temperature at the previous free temperature water discharge can be set as the current water intake temperature. Therefore, water can be discharged from the water purifier without draining and water temperature measurement, enabling rapid free temperature water discharge.

[0031] In the water intake temperature confirmation step, if the first hour has passed after the free temperature water outlet at which water of the temperature selected by the user is discharged has ended and the set second hour has not passed, and if water is discharged in the second hour section, the water intake temperature can be measured while the water is flowing during the discharge process and set as the current water intake temperature.

[0032] Accordingly, when water is discharged, the water supply valve (130) is opened and water flows into the water supply valve (130), so the thermistor can measure the temperature of the flowing water. Accordingly, a separate drain process may not be performed, thereby simplifying the process.

[0033] In the water intake temperature confirmation step, if water is not discharged within the second time interval and the second time has elapsed, the drain pipe branching from the water purifier's outlet pipe is opened to drain purified water at room temperature, and the water intake temperature can be measured and set as the current water intake temperature. Therefore, the current accurate water intake temperature can be measured and updated.

[0034] In the control method of a water purifier according to the present invention, the water purifier can provide convenience to the user by providing water that meets the temperature conditions requested by the user by setting the number of times of water dispensing, duty ratio, and water dispensing amount of purified water and cold water respectively based on the temperature and water dispensing amount selected by the user.

[0035] Furthermore, in the control method for a water purifier according to the present invention, water dispensing can be completed with one purified water discharge and one cold water discharge. In this case, the number of times each valve operates can be reduced, thereby reducing electricity consumption and shortening the free temperature water dispensing time.

[0036] Furthermore, in the control method for a water purifier according to the present invention, purified water and cold water may be dispensed multiple times, each alternately. In this case, the mixing of purified water and cold water can be more uniform. Consequently, the user can enjoy water in the cup at a selected temperature, evenly distributed throughout the entire cup. This enhances user satisfaction.

[0037] In addition, in the control method of the water purifier according to the present invention, when the discharge of purified water and cold water is completely separated and they are not allowed to overlap each other, the set discharge amount can be accurately adjusted to provide the user with water of the same or very similar temperature as the temperature selected by the user.

[0038] In addition, in the control method of the water purifier according to the present invention, cold water and purified water are alternately discharged to match the temperature of the water selected by the user, and an overlapping section is provided in which cold water and purified water are discharged simultaneously, so that water can be discharged continuously throughout the entire section of the water discharge stage.

[0039] Accordingly, the water is prevented from splashing out of the cup due to a temporary interruption in the water discharge process during the alternate dispensing of cold water and purified water, thereby providing convenience to the user and effectively preventing the water discharge area and the surrounding area of ​​the cup from getting wet.

[0040] In addition, in the control method of the water purifier according to the present invention, by selecting the water inlet temperature as the water inlet temperature at the time of the previous free temperature water discharge within the first hour, water can be drained from the water purifier and the water temperature can be measured, enabling rapid free temperature water discharge, thereby providing convenience to the user.

[0041] In addition, in the control method of the water purifier according to the present invention, when purified water, cold water, hot water or free temperature water is discharged in the second time period, the water supply valve (130) is opened and water flows into the water supply valve (130), so the thermistor can measure the temperature of the flowing water and use this as the current water intake temperature.

[0042] Therefore, when water is dispensed by the user in the second time period, the water purifier may not perform a separate drain process to measure the inlet temperature of the water, thereby simplifying the process and accurately measuring and updating the inlet temperature of the water.

[0043] In addition, in the control method of the water purifier according to the present invention, after the second time has elapsed, the water is drained from the water purifier, the inlet temperature of the water is detected, and the current accurate inlet temperature of the water is measured and updated, thereby increasing the accuracy of the control of the free temperature outlet water.

[0044] In addition to the effects described above, specific effects of the present invention are described below while explaining specific details for carrying out the invention.

[0045] Figure 1 is a drawing showing the configuration of a water purifier according to an embodiment.

[0046] Figure 2 is a flowchart showing a control method of a water purifier according to an embodiment.

[0047] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing specific steps of the steps of alternately dispensing purified water and cold water.

[0048] Figure 4 is a flowchart specifically showing a control method of a water purifier according to an embodiment.

[0049] Figure 5 is a drawing for explaining the method of dispensing cold water and purified water according to one embodiment.

[0050] Figure 6 is a drawing for explaining the method of discharging cold water and purified water according to another embodiment.

[0051] Figure 7 is a flowchart specifically showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0052] Figure 8 is a drawing for explaining the method of discharging cold water and purified water according to another embodiment.

[0053] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0054] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing specific steps of the steps of alternately dispensing purified water and cold water.

[0055] Figure 11 is a flowchart specifically showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0056] Figure 12 is a flowchart specifically showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0057] The above-described objects, features, and advantages will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the technical ideas of the present invention. In describing the present invention, if a detailed description of a known technology related to the present invention is judged to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar components.

[0058] Although terms like "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a "first" component may also be a "second" component.

[0059] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0060] As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "consisting of" or "comprising" should not necessarily be construed to include all of the components or steps described in the specification, and should be construed to mean that some of the components or steps may not be included, or that additional components or steps may be included.

[0061] Throughout the specification, when we refer to "A and / or B", this means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated, and when we refer to "C through D", this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0062] Throughout this specification, "upward / downward" refers to the vertical direction of the water purifier when installed for everyday use. "Left / Right" refers to the direction perpendicular to the up / down direction, and "front / backward" refers to the direction perpendicular to both the up / down and left / right directions. "Bilateral" or "lateral" has the same meaning as left / right, and these terms may be used interchangeably throughout this specification.

[0063] Throughout the specification, raw water may refer to water before passing through the filter (160), purified water may refer to water at room temperature that has passed through the filter (160), cold water may refer to water that has passed through the filter (160) and has been cooled to a temperature lower than that of purified water, and hot water may refer to water that has passed through the filter (160) and has been heated to a temperature higher than that of purified water.

[0064] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a water purifier according to an embodiment. The water purifier may be equipped with a plurality of pipes and devices arranged in the pipes. Below, the configuration of the water purifier will be described based on devices sequentially arranged in each pipe along the direction of water flow, from the pipe into which raw water flows to the pipe from which purified water, cold water, or hot water flows out. Each device may be connected to the pipes as illustrated in Figure 1 and arranged along the water flow path.

[0065] A water purifier of one embodiment may include a pressure reducing valve (110), a flow sensor (120), and a water supply valve (130).

[0066] A pressure reducing valve (110) may be located in a pipe through which raw water flows from a water pipe into a water purifier. The pressure reducing valve (110) may reduce the pressure of raw water flowing from the water pipe to allow water to flow at a required speed and volume.

[0067] A flow sensor (120) is positioned downstream of a pressure reducing valve (110) to measure the flow rate of water flowing into the water purifier. The flow rate measured by the flow sensor (120) is transmitted to a control unit provided in the water purifier, and the control unit can control the operation of the water purifier based on the flow rate.

[0068] The water supply valve (130) is positioned downstream of the flow sensor (120) and may be provided as a three-way valve. The pipes may branch from the water supply valve (130), one of the branched pipes may be connected to a filter (160), and the other branched pipe may form a bypass pipe in which a clean heater (150) is positioned. This bypass pipe may in turn be connected to a pipe connecting the water supply valve (130) and the filter (160).

[0069] The water supply valve (130) can control the flow direction of water by connecting the pipe downstream of the flow sensor (120) to the pipe upstream of the filter (160) or to a cut bypass pipe as needed.

[0070] A control valve (140) and a clean heater (150) may be sequentially arranged in the bypass pipe along the direction of water flow. The control valve (140) may control the flow rate and / or velocity of water flowing into the clean heater (150).

[0071] The clean heater (150) can heat water for sterilizing and cleaning the water purifier's pipes and devices. A separate cleaning mode can be performed in the water purifier. When the cleaning mode is performed, the water supply valve (130) can open the bypass pipe and close the pipe connected to the filter (160), allowing water to flow into the clean heater (150).

[0072] The clean heater (150) can heat the incoming water and cause it to flow into the pipe downstream of the clean heater (150). Accordingly, high-temperature water for sterilization and cleaning flows into the pipe, thereby sterilizing and cleaning the pipe and devices placed in the water flow path.

[0073] Of course, in the case where the water is discharged as a daily routine without the water purifier's cleaning mode in progress, the bypass pipe where the clean heater (150) is installed is closed, the clean heater (150) does not operate, and the water supply valve (130) can open the pipe connected to the filter (160).

[0074] The water purifier may include a filter (160) and a first valve (170). The filter (160) is positioned downstream of the water supply valve (130) and can purify water flowing into the water purifier. Water passing through the filter (160) becomes purified water at room temperature.

[0075] The first valve (170) is arranged downstream of the filter (160) and is provided as a three-way valve. Downstream of the first valve (170), the pipes can be branched into pipes in which a cooling unit (180) and a heating unit (190) are arranged, respectively. The first valve (170) can change the direction of water flow by opening either the pipe in which the cooling unit (180) is arranged or the pipe in which the heating unit (190) is arranged, and closing the other, as needed.

[0076] The water purifier may include a cooling unit (180) and a heating unit (190). The cooling unit (180) is positioned downstream of the first valve (170), and can receive purified water at room temperature and cool the purified water to produce cold water having a temperature lower than room temperature. The cooling unit (180) can, for example, convert purified water into cold water by heat exchange between a low-temperature refrigerant and the introduced purified water.

[0077] The heating unit (190) is arranged parallel to the cooling unit (180) downstream of the first valve (170), and allows purified water at room temperature to flow in and heat the purified water to create hot water higher than room temperature. The heating unit (190) can heat the flowing water, for example, using an electric resistance heating method.

[0078] Depending on the user's choice, when making hot or cold water, the control unit equipped in the water purifier operates the first valve (170) to flow water to either the cooling unit (180) or the heating unit (190) to make cold or hot water.

[0079] Meanwhile, when discharging purified water at room temperature, the first valve (170) closes the flow path connected to the cooling unit (180) and allows the water flowing into the heating unit (190) to be discharged without heating. Accordingly, when discharging purified water at room temperature, the water passes through the heating unit (190), but since the heating unit (190) stops operating, it may not be heated.

[0080] The water purifier may include a safety valve (210), a second valve (220), and a drain valve (230).

[0081] The safety valve (210) may be placed in a drain pipe branching from the pipe connecting the heating unit (190) and the second valve (220). The safety valve (210) may be opened when the flowing water is pressurized above a set pressure.

[0082] Water may be overheated in the heating unit (190), and when the overheated water is pressurized beyond the set pressure, the safety valve (210) opens and the overheated water may be discharged outside the water purifier through the drain pipe.

[0083] Due to this structure, even if the water is overheated by the heating unit (190), the overheated water is drained to the outside by the safety valve (210), effectively preventing the water purifier from malfunctioning due to overheating of the water and damage to the user.

[0084] The second valve (220) is positioned downstream of the cooling unit (180) and the heating unit (190), is equipped with a three-way valve, and can be positioned at the point where the respective pipes in which the cooling unit (180) and the heating unit (190) are positioned are joined.

[0085] The second valve (220) can connect a pipe connected to either the pipe in which the cooling unit (180) is placed or the pipe in which the heating unit (190) is placed, and the drain valve (230). When cold water is discharged, the second valve (220) can open the pipe in which the cooling unit (180) is placed and close the pipe in which the heating unit (190) is placed.

[0086] Conversely, when hot water or purified water at room temperature is discharged, the second valve (220) can open the pipe in which the heating unit (190) is placed and close the pipe in which the cooling unit (180) is placed.

[0087] The drain valve (230) is placed downstream of the second valve (220) and is equipped with a three-way valve, and the downstream pipe can be branched into a water out pipe and a pipe connected to a drain pipe.

[0088] As needed, the drain valve (230) can open the outlet pipe and close the pipe connected to the drain pipe to discharge purified water, cold water, or hot water for the user to drink. In addition, as needed, the drain valve (230) can close the outlet pipe and close the pipe connected to the drain pipe to drain water flowing through the water purifier to the outside.

[0089] Meanwhile, some of the devices installed in the water purifier may be equipped with a thermistor capable of measuring the temperature of flowing water. First, the clean heater (150), cooling unit (180), and heating unit (190) may be equipped with a thermistor for measuring the temperature of the water. This is because these devices need to measure the temperature of the water being heated or cooled for the control of the water purifier, as the water is heated or cooled.

[0090] Meanwhile, a thermistor for measuring the temperature of the raw water flowing into the water purifier from the tap may be provided in at least one of the water supply valve (130) or the control valve (140). In addition, since the temperature of the raw water measured in the water supply valve (130) or the control valve (140) is the same as or very similar to the temperature of the purified water passing through the filter (160), the temperature of the raw water measured in the water supply valve (130) or the control valve (140) may be treated as the temperature of the purified water and used to control the water purifier.

[0091] This is because if the clean heater (150) does not operate, the water temperature can be considered to be the same until it flows into the cooling unit (180) or heating unit (190).

[0092] Meanwhile, a thermistor for measuring the temperature of the discharged purified water, cold water, and hot water may be provided in at least one of the second valve (220) or the drain valve (230).

[0093] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a water purifier according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating specific steps of alternately dispensing purified water and cold water. Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a specific control method for a water purifier according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0094] The control method of a water purifier according to an embodiment relates to a control method for free temperature water discharge, which allows water to be discharged at a temperature selected by a user. The operation of the water purifier can be performed by a control unit provided in the water purifier.

[0095] Users can select the temperature of the water dispensed through an input device installed in the water purifier. The water dispense process can be performed at any desired temperature, depending on the user's preference.

[0096] The water purifier can set the number of times each water is dispensed for purified water at room temperature and cold water at a temperature lower than the purified water (S110). In the exemplary embodiment, the selected water dispensing temperature can be achieved by mixing purified water at room temperature and cold water.

[0097] Accordingly, purified water and cold water can be dispensed alternately, and purified water and cold water can be dispensed once or multiple times. Therefore, the number of times purified water and cold water are dispensed can be set first.

[0098] Meanwhile, when alternately dispensing purified water and cold water, the cold water can be dispensed first, followed by purified water, thus alternating between purified water and cold water. Alternatively, purified water can be dispensed first, followed by cold water.

[0099] In the drawings below, this is reflected by the expression "cold water (purified water)", and since the water is discharged alternately, it is also expressed as "purified water (cold water)". This could mean that the water can be discharged in either the order of cold water and purified water, or purified water and cold water.

[0100] Below, unless otherwise specified, examples are given of dispensing cold water first and then purified water.

[0101] Next, a duty ratio, defined as the ratio of cold water to purified water, can be set (S120). For example, purified water may be at room temperature, which may vary slightly depending on the season and indoor conditions. Cold water is discharged at the set temperature, and the temperature of the cold water can be maintained at a generally constant level regardless of the season or indoor conditions.

[0102] Accordingly, the control unit can store data on the duty ratio, i.e., the ratio of purified water to cold water, corresponding to the temperature and water output selected by the user. This data can exist at various values ​​depending on the temperature change of the purified water.

[0103] Therefore, the control unit can set the duty ratio according to the temperature and water output amount selected by the user based on the data held.

[0104] The control unit can set the water discharge volumes of purified water and cold water, respectively (S130). The control unit can set the water discharge volumes of purified water and cold water, respectively, based on the total water discharge volume and the duty ratio set in the previous step.

[0105] The water purifier can alternately discharge purified water and cold water by the control unit (S140). As described above, when discharging purified water, the purified water passes through the heating unit (190), but since the heating unit (190) is not operating, the purified water can be discharged at room temperature. When discharging cold water, the purified water passes through the cooling unit (180) and becomes cold water, so it can be discharged.

[0106] As illustrated in Fig. 3, step S140 may proceed as follows.

[0107] The water purifier can output either purified water or cold water (S141). The water purifier can output the other type of water (S142).

[0108] For example, a water purifier may dispense cold water, and once a set amount of cold water has been dispensed, it may then dispense purified water. Or, conversely, a water purifier may dispense purified water, and once a set amount of purified water has been dispensed, it may then dispense cold water.

[0109] As will be described later, the purified water and cold water may be discharged without overlapping each other, or the purified water and cold water may be discharged with overlapping each other for a certain section.

[0110] The water purifier can stop dispensing water when the set amount of purified water and cold water is discharged (S143). The purified water and cold water can be provided to alternately dispense water until the set number of discharges is reached.

[0111] For example, if purified water and cold water are dispensed once each, the dispensing may end after the purified water and cold water are dispensed alternately once. In another embodiment, if purified water and cold water are dispensed multiple times each, the dispensing may end after the purified water and cold water have each reached their respective dispensing counts.

[0112] In an embodiment, the water purifier can provide convenience to the user by providing water that meets the temperature conditions requested by the user by setting the number of times purified water and cold water are dispensed, duty ratio, and water quantity based on the water temperature and water quantity selected by the user.

[0113] Fig. 5 is a drawing for explaining a method of dispensing cold water and purified water according to one embodiment. Fig. 6 is a drawing for explaining a method of dispensing cold water and purified water according to another embodiment.

[0114] As an example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, purified water and cold water can be alternately dispensed once each. Cold water can be dispensed first, then purified water can be dispensed, and then purified water and cold water can be dispensed once each, to complete the water dispensing process.

[0115] Water dispensing can be completed with one clean water discharge and one cold water discharge. This reduces the number of valve operations, thereby reducing electricity consumption and shortening the free-temperature water dispensing time.

[0116] In another embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 6, purified water and cold water may be dispensed multiple times, alternately. Cold water may be dispensed first, purified water may be dispensed next, and then the cold water and purified water may be dispensed repeatedly until the water dispensing is complete. In FIG. 6, cold water and purified water are dispensed twice each, but in other embodiments, each may be dispensed three or more times.

[0117] In cases where purified water and cold water are each discharged multiple times, compared to the example illustrated in Fig. 5, the number of valve operations may increase, which may increase electricity consumption, and the free temperature water discharge time may also increase.

[0118] However, if purified water and cold water are alternately dispensed multiple times, the mixing of purified water and cold water can proceed more evenly. Consequently, the user can enjoy water in the cup at the selected temperature, evenly distributed throughout the entire cup. This can enhance user satisfaction.

[0119] When purified water and cold water are each dispensed multiple times, the number of times the purified water and cold water are dispensed can be the same. As illustrated in Fig. 6, if cold water is dispensed twice, the number of times the purified water is dispensed can also be the same twice.

[0120] If the number of times the purified water and cold water are dispensed is different, the temperature of the water may become uneven throughout the cup containing the dispensed water. Therefore, in the exemplary embodiment, the number of times the purified water and cold water are dispensed is the same, thereby ensuring a uniform water temperature throughout the cup.

[0121] Meanwhile, there are two possible ways to set the number of dispenses for each type of water: First, the number of dispenses for each type of water can be selected based on user input.

[0122] The user can input the number of times purified water and cold water are dispensed through the input device provided in the water purifier, and the control unit can dispense purified water and cold water according to the input number of times.

[0123] As mentioned above, dispensing both purified and cold water once each saves electricity and shortens dispensing time. Meanwhile, dispensing both purified and cold water multiple times ensures that the temperature of the dispensed water remains uniform throughout the cup, increasing user satisfaction.

[0124] Dispensing purified water and cold water once or multiple times each has its own advantages. Therefore, users can choose their preferred method, either once or multiple times for both.

[0125] Next, the control unit can select the number of times each purified water and chilled water are dispensed. In this case, the control unit can select the number of times each purified water and chilled water are dispensed to optimize each factor, taking into account electricity savings, reduced dispensing time, and uniformity of the dispensed water temperature.

[0126] That is, in the absence of user input, the number of times each of purified water and cold water is dispensed can be selected based on at least one value among the discharge amount of purified water and cold water, the discharge temperature, and the inlet temperature defined by the temperature of the water measured inside the water purifier.

[0127] The inlet temperature of the water may be the temperature of the raw water, for example, the temperature of the water measured by a thermistor provided in the water supply valve (130). The outlet temperature of the purified water may be the temperature of the water measured by a thermistor provided in the second valve (220), for example. In addition, the outlet temperature of the cold water may be the temperature of the water measured by a thermistor provided in the cooling unit (180), for example.

[0128] When the discharge volumes of purified and chilled water are small, the control unit can set the discharge frequency for each to be small or to be set to 1 each. Conversely, when the discharge volumes of purified and chilled water are small, the control unit can set the discharge frequency for each to be relatively large, thereby ensuring a uniform temperature distribution of the discharged water.

[0129] In this way, if the user does not select the number of times to dispense water for each of the purified water and cold water, the control unit can select the number of times to dispense water in the manner described above and proceed with dispensing water.

[0130] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the time period during which purified water is discharged and the time period during which cold water is discharged can be provided to be separated from each other and not overlap each other.

[0131] The water purifier can stop dispensing water when the discharged amount of either purified water or cold water reaches the set amount and discharge the remaining amount of water.

[0132] In one embodiment, the water purifier may stop dispensing water when the discharged amount of either purified water or cold water reaches a set amount, and discharge the remaining amount of water.

[0133] That is, purified water and cold water are discharged alternately and separately, and there may not be a section where purified water and cold water are discharged simultaneously.

[0134] Referring to Fig. 4, when cold water is discharged and the amount of cold water discharged reaches 100% of the set value, the discharge of cold water is terminated and purified water can be discharged. When the amount of purified water discharged reaches 100% of the set value, the discharge of purified water can be terminated.

[0135] This alternate dispensing of cold water and purified water may be repeated until the set number of dispensings is reached, at which point the dispensing may end. Of course, if the number of dispensings for cold water and purified water is set to once each, the dispensing may end after each has been dispensed once.

[0136] The cooling unit (180) and heating unit (190) may have some portions where the pipes are bent in a zigzag shape for heat exchange. For this reason, the length and shape of the flow paths in the cooling unit (180) and heating unit (190) may be different, and thus the flow resistance between them may be different.

[0137] Accordingly, if purified water and cold water are discharged simultaneously, the flow resistance of the cooling unit (180) and the heating unit (190) are different, so that, compared to the case where water flows only to the cooling unit (180) or the case where water flows only to the heating unit (190), for example, the flow rate of water in the heating unit (190) may increase and the flow rate in the cooling unit (180) may decrease. In other words, the flow rates of purified water and cold water may differ from the set values.

[0138] In these cases, it can be difficult to adjust the flow rates of cold and purified water to the set values. Therefore, reducing the time period during which cold and purified water flow simultaneously can help achieve the set flow rates.

[0139] As mentioned above, if the outlets of purified water and cold water are completely separated and they do not overlap, the set outlet amount can be accurately adjusted to provide the user with water of a temperature identical to or very similar to the temperature selected by the user.

[0140] However, since there is an advantage in using a water purifier to allow purified water and cold water to overlap each other for a certain period of time, the following example explains this method of simultaneous dispensing of purified water and cold water.

[0141] Fig. 7 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment. Fig. 8 is a drawing for explaining the method of dispensing cold water and purified water according to another embodiment.

[0142] As illustrated in Fig. 8, a control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment may be provided such that a time period during which purified water is dispensed and a time period during which cold water is dispensed partially overlap.

[0143] That is, the control method of the water purifier may be provided so that the discharge of cold water begins before the discharge of purified water ends, or so that the discharge of purified water begins before the discharge of cold water ends.

[0144] For example, referring to Fig. 8, cold water may be discharged, purified water may be discharged before the discharge of the cold water ends, and purified water may be discharged alone after the discharge of the cold water ends, and then the discharge of purified water may end. Fig. 8 illustrates a case where cold water and purified water are each discharged once, but the same explanation can be given for a case where cold water and purified water are each discharged multiple times.

[0145] Therefore, in the embodiment, there may be an overlapping period (T1) in which cold water and purified water are discharged simultaneously. The time length of this overlapping period may be appropriately selected.

[0146] If cold and purified water are dispensed alternately, but the two are completely separated in time, there may be a brief period of time where no water is dispensed. If the dispenser resumes dispensing after a pause, the water may splash back out as it hits the cup.

[0147] If water splashes like this, it can be inconvenient for the user, and the splashed water can go outside the cup, wetting the water purifier and the area around the cup, which can also be inconvenient for the user.

[0148] Therefore, cold water and purified water should be dispensed alternately to prevent water from splashing out, but water should be dispensed continuously overall.

[0149] In the embodiment, cold water and purified water are alternately discharged to match the temperature of the water selected by the user, and an overlapping section (T1) is provided in which cold water and purified water are discharged simultaneously, so that water can be discharged continuously throughout the entire water discharge stage.

[0150] Accordingly, the water flow is temporarily interrupted during the process of dispensing cold water and purified water alternately, thereby preventing water from splashing out of the cup, providing convenience to the user and effectively suppressing the dispensing area and the surrounding area of ​​the cup from getting wet.

[0151] In the overlapping section (T1), the first valve (170) can open both of the two downstream channels, and the second valve (220) can open both of the two upstream channels. Accordingly, water can pass through the cooling unit (180) and be cooled to be discharged as cold water, and at the same time, purified water at room temperature that has passed through the heating unit (190) can be discharged.

[0152] Of course, at this time, the water passes through the heating unit (190), but since the heating unit (190) does not operate, the room temperature state can be maintained.

[0153] In order to ensure that water is discharged continuously throughout the discharge stage by providing an overlapping section (T1), the water purifier can discharge the remaining water when the discharged water reaches a set value among the set discharge amounts of either purified water or cold water.

[0154] For example, the set value may correspond to 90% of the set water discharge amount. This control method allows water to be discharged continuously by providing an overlapping section (T1).

[0155] Referring to Figure 7, when cold water is discharged and the discharge amount of cold water reaches 90% of the set value, purified water can be discharged while cold water is being discharged. Therefore, an overlapping section (T1) is created in which cold water and purified water are discharged simultaneously, and the discharge can proceed continuously without interruption.

[0156] When the amount of cold water discharged reaches 100% of the set value, the discharge of cold water ends, and the discharge of purified water continues, so that when the amount of purified water discharged reaches 100% of the set value, the discharge of purified water ends.

[0157] When the cold water and purified water discharges alternately and reach a set number of discharges, the discharge can be terminated. Fig. 7 illustrates an example where the number of cold water and purified water discharges is each set to one.

[0158] When the number of times cold water and purified water are dispensed is set to multiple times, the next water (e.g., cold water) can be dispensed once the previous water (e.g., purified water) reaches 90% of the set value. In this case, the overlapping section (T1) can also be provided multiple times.

[0159] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment. Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating specific steps for alternately dispensing purified water and cold water. Any further explanation of previously described content may be omitted.

[0160] The temperature of the raw water flowing from the capital can be treated as the same as the temperature of the purified water passing through the filter (160). The temperature of the raw water can vary depending on the season, the environment of the water pipes, and the indoor environment.

[0161] To alternately dispense purified and cold water to produce water at a user-selected temperature, the inlet water temperature must be accurately measured. This temperature can be determined by measuring the temperature of the unfiltered raw water flowing into the water purifier from the tap, and using this as the purified water temperature.

[0162] However, the water temperature can change from moment to moment depending on the aforementioned factors. Therefore, it is necessary to accurately measure or determine the water intake temperature and update it to the latest version.

[0163] This is because water needs to be precisely discharged at the user's selected temperature based on the updated water inlet temperature. The method for selecting the water inlet temperature is described in detail below.

[0164] The control unit can check the inlet temperature of room temperature water flowing into the water purifier (S210). The inlet temperature of water refers to the temperature of the raw water flowing into the water purifier from the tap and not yet passing through the filter (160). The inlet temperature of water can be measured by a thermistor installed in the water supply valve (130). The control unit can check the inlet temperature of water and set the duty ratio, etc. based on this.

[0165] However, if water is not discharged, the water inlet valve (130) remains closed, preventing water flow and making it impossible to accurately measure the water inlet temperature. Therefore, a method is needed to determine the water inlet temperature, which changes constantly depending on ambient conditions. This will be described in detail below.

[0166] The control unit can set a duty ratio defined as the ratio of cold water to purified water (S220). This is as described in step S120 described above. Of course, prior to step S210, as in step S110 described above, the water purifier can set the respective discharge times for purified water at room temperature and cold water at a temperature lower than the purified water.

[0167] The control unit can set the discharge amount of purified water and cold water respectively (S230). This is as described in step S130 above.

[0168] The water purifier can alternately dispense purified water and cold water by the control unit (S240). This is as described in step S140 above.

[0169] As illustrated in Fig. 10, step S240 may proceed as follows.

[0170] The water purifier can output either purified water or cold water (S241). The water purifier can also output the other type of water (S242). This is as described in steps S141 and S142 above.

[0171] The water purifier can terminate water dispensing once the set amount of purified water and cold water has been dispensed (S243). The purified water and cold water can be arranged to dispense alternately until the set number of dispenses is reached. This is as described in step S143 above.

[0172] The control unit can update the inlet temperature of room temperature water (S250). In the update step (S250), the updated current inlet temperature can be stored in the control unit of the water purifier and displayed on the user interface.

[0173] The control unit can set the duty ratio, etc. based on the updated latest water intake temperature and proceed with free temperature water discharge.

[0174] Meanwhile, the water purifier can display the current inlet water temperature on the user interface. This allows the user to receive the current inlet water temperature. For example, the user can select the number of dispenses of purified water and cold water, respectively, based on the current inlet water temperature.

[0175] Figure 11 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment. Below, the water intake temperature confirmation step (S210) will be described in detail with reference to Figure 11.

[0176] As described above, when there is no water discharge from the water purifier, the water supply valve (130) is closed at the inlet, so the thermistor provided in the water supply valve (130) cannot accurately measure the inlet temperature of the water.

[0177] For this reason, the control unit can take one of the following methods to check the current water intake temperature when the free temperature water is discharged: a method of setting the existing water intake temperature as the current water intake temperature; a method of changing the water intake temperature by measuring the water intake temperature when there is water flow; and a method of proceeding with the drain so that the water flows and then measuring the water intake temperature.

[0178] To accurately determine the water intake temperature, it's best to drain the purified water and measure the temperature while water is flowing through the water purifier's internal pipes. However, this method is time-consuming, and especially when free water is dispensed multiple times in succession, measuring the water intake temperature can be time-consuming and inconvenient for users.

[0179] Therefore, it may be more effective to determine the current water inlet temperature without actually measuring the water temperature, if possible. However, if a situation arises where measuring the actual water temperature is necessary, it is necessary to flow water through the water purifier and measure the water temperature to determine the water inlet temperature.

[0180] Of the three methods described above, the first method uses the current water inlet temperature as the reference temperature, rather than actually measuring the water temperature. The second and third methods use actual water temperature measurements to determine the reference temperature, in situations where the current temperature is inappropriate for selection. These three methods can be implemented under different conditions, each meeting their respective criteria.

[0181] In the water intake temperature confirmation step (S210), if the set first time has not elapsed since the free temperature water outlet at which water of the temperature selected by the user is discharged is completed, the water intake temperature at the previous free temperature water outlet can be set as the current water intake temperature.

[0182] In this case, the first method is to use the existing intake temperature as the current intake temperature.

[0183] If the first set time has not elapsed since the free temperature water discharge has ended, the user can perform free water discharge again within this time period.

[0184] That is, users can continuously perform free water withdrawal at time intervals. If free water withdrawal occurs again within the first hour, the temperature of the raw water entering the water purifier can be considered to have not changed significantly during the first hour. Therefore, when free water withdrawal is performed again, the water intake temperature of the previous free water withdrawal can be selected as the current water intake temperature.

[0185] Even if you select it this way, there may not be a big problem in adjusting the water temperature to the temperature selected by the user.

[0186] At this time, the first hour may be, for example, 30 minutes, but is not limited thereto and may be appropriately selected.

[0187] In the embodiment, by selecting the water intake temperature as the water intake temperature at the time of the free temperature discharge immediately before within the first hour, water can be drained from the water purifier and the water temperature can be measured, enabling rapid free temperature discharge, thereby providing convenience to the user.

[0188] In the water intake temperature confirmation step (S210), if the first time has elapsed after the free temperature water outlet at the temperature selected by the user has ended and the set second time has not elapsed, and if the water outlet is in progress during the second time period, the water intake temperature can be measured while the water is flowing during the water outlet process and set as the current water intake temperature.

[0189] As described above, the water intake temperature can be measured by a thermistor provided in the water supply valve (130).

[0190] At this time, the second time period may be arranged to be counted from the end of the first time period. That is, the second time period may proceed after the first time period has elapsed.

[0191] If the first hour has elapsed, significant time has passed and significant changes may have occurred in the water inlet temperature. Therefore, the water inlet temperature needs to be remeasured and updated.

[0192] In the second time period, when purified water, cold water, hot water or free temperature water is discharged, the water supply valve (130) is opened and water flows into the water supply valve (130), so the thermistor can measure the temperature of the flowing water and use this as the current water intake temperature.

[0193] Therefore, when water is dispensed by the user in the second time period, the water purifier may not perform a separate drain process to measure the inlet temperature of the water, thereby simplifying the process and accurately measuring and updating the inlet temperature of the water.

[0194] If there is no water discharge in the second time period, the water intake temperature at the previous free temperature discharge can be set as the current water intake temperature.

[0195] To accurately measure the water inlet temperature during the second time period, it is appropriate to create a situation where water flows within the water purifier. However, even if the inlet of the water supply valve (130) is closed due to the user's absence, preventing actual measurement of the water inlet temperature during the second time period, the water inlet temperature must still be determined. This is because free water discharge may occur during the second time period.

[0196] Therefore, in these cases, as in the first time interval, the current water intake temperature can be determined from the previous free-temperature water outlet. While there may be some difference from the actual water intake temperature, the second time interval is relatively short after the end of free-temperature water outlet, so it is safe to assume that there has been no significant change in the water intake temperature during that time.

[0197] Therefore, in these cases, there is no need for a drain to flow water to measure the water intake temperature, so electricity consumption can be reduced and the water purifier can be used efficiently.

[0198] At this time, the second time period may be, for example, 30 minutes, but is not limited thereto and may be appropriately selected.

[0199] In the water intake temperature confirmation step (S210), if water is not discharged in the second time period and the second time period has elapsed, the drain pipe branching from the water outlet pipe of the water purifier is opened to drain purified water at room temperature, and the water intake temperature of the water is measured to determine the current water intake temperature.

[0200] If the second hour elapses without water discharge during the second hour, the water intake temperature can vary significantly depending on ambient conditions. Therefore, in such cases, it is necessary to measure the water intake temperature by flowing water through the water purifier.

[0201] When draining, water from the water purifier can be drained to the outside through a drain pipe sequentially passing through a water supply valve (130), a filter (160), a first valve (170), a heating unit (190), a second valve (220), and a drain valve (230). Of course, at this time, the drain valve (230) can close the outlet pipe through which drinking water is discharged and open the pipe connected to the drain pipe.

[0202] The control unit can control each valve so that water flows along the path described above, and of course, the heating unit (190) does not operate, so that purified water at room temperature can be drained.

[0203] In this way, when the drain is performed and water flows inside the water purifier, the thermistor provided in the water supply valve (130) accurately measures the inlet temperature of the water, and the control unit can update the measured water temperature to the current water temperature.

[0204] The thermistor installed in the water supply valve (130) can measure (detect) the inlet temperature of the water after a set time has elapsed from the point at which the drainage of purified water begins. Water accumulated in the pipe adjacent to the closed water supply valve (130) cannot accurately reflect the temperature of the water actually used for free temperature discharge.

[0205] Therefore, the accuracy of the measurement can be improved by measuring the water intake temperature after a set time has elapsed from the point at which the drain starts and water begins to flow.

[0206] In the embodiment, after the second hour has elapsed, the water is drained from the water purifier, the inlet temperature of the water is detected, and the current accurate inlet temperature of the water is measured and updated, thereby improving the accuracy of the control of the free temperature outlet water.

[0207] Meanwhile, when purified water, cold water, hot water or free temperature water is discharged regardless of the first or second time interval, the thermistor provided in the water supply valve (130) can measure the temperature of the flowing water and update it to the current water intake temperature.

[0208] After the control unit has confirmed the water intake temperature in the manner described above, steps S220 and below can be performed.

[0209] When dispensing water at a free temperature, purified water and cold water can be mixed to dispense water at a user-selected temperature. In one embodiment, purified water and cold water can be alternately dispensed once each. This has already been described in detail above.

[0210] In another embodiment, purified water and cold water may be dispensed multiple times, each alternately. If purified water and cold water are dispensed multiple times, the number of times each water is dispensed may be the same. This has already been specifically described above.

[0211] As illustrated in Fig. 11, a control method of a water purifier according to an embodiment may be provided such that the time period during which purified water is dispensed and the time period during which cold water is dispensed are separated from each other and do not overlap with each other.

[0212] In this case, when either purified water or cold water is discharged and the set amount of water is reached, the water discharge is stopped and the remaining water can be discharged.

[0213] Referring to Figure 11, when cold water is discharged and the amount of cold water discharged reaches 100% of the set value, the cold water discharge is terminated and purified water can be discharged. When the amount of purified water discharged reaches 100% of the set value, the discharge of purified water can be terminated. This has already been specifically described above.

[0214] Figure 12 is a flowchart specifically showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0215] As illustrated in Fig. 12, a control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment may be provided such that a time period during which purified water is dispensed and a time period during which cold water is dispensed partially overlap.

[0216] That is, the control method of the water purifier may be configured such that cold water dispensing begins before purified water dispensing ends, or purified water dispensing begins before cold water dispensing ends. This has already been specifically described above.

[0217] In order to ensure that water is discharged continuously throughout the discharge stage by providing an overlapping section (T1), the water purifier can discharge the remaining water when the discharged water reaches a set value among the set discharge amounts of either purified water or cold water.

[0218] For example, the set value may correspond to 90% of the set water discharge amount. This control method allows water to be discharged continuously by providing an overlapping section (T1).

[0219] Referring to Fig. 12, when cold water is discharged and the amount of cold water discharged reaches 90% of the set value, purified water can be discharged while cold water is being discharged. Therefore, an overlapping section (T1) is created in which cold water and purified water are discharged simultaneously, and the discharge can proceed continuously without interruption.

[0220] When the amount of cold water discharged reaches 100% of the set value, the discharge of cold water is terminated, and the discharge of purified water continues, so that when the amount of purified water discharged reaches 100% of the set value, the discharge of purified water may be terminated. This has already been specifically described above.

[0221] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings exemplified above, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed herein, and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. Furthermore, even if the operational effects according to the configuration of the present invention have not been explicitly described while describing the embodiments of the present invention, it is natural that the effects predictable by the corresponding configuration should also be acknowledged.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a water purifier to discharge water at a temperature selected by a user, A step for setting the number of times each of water is dispensed for room temperature purified water and cold water having a temperature lower than that of purified water; A step of setting a duty ratio defined as the ratio of cold water to the purified water; Step for setting the water output of each of the purified water and cold water; and Step of alternately dispensing purified and cold water including, How to control a water purifier.

2. In paragraph 1, The purified water and cold water are provided alternately once each. How to control a water purifier.

3. In paragraph 1, The purified water and cold water are each dispensed multiple times and are provided to dispense alternately. How to control a water purifier.

4. In paragraph 3, In cases where purified water and cold water are each dispensed multiple times, the number of times purified water and cold water are dispensed is the same. How to control a water purifier.

5. In paragraph 1, The time period in which purified water is dispensed and the time period in which cold water is dispensed are separated from each other and are arranged so that they do not overlap each other. How to control a water purifier.

6. In paragraph 1, The time period during which purified water is dispensed and the time period during which cold water is dispensed are arranged to overlap to some extent. How to control a water purifier.

7. In paragraph 6, Equipped so that cold water discharge starts before purified water discharge ends, or purified water discharge starts before cold water discharge ends. How to control a water purifier.

8. In paragraph 1, At the stage of setting the number of times each water and cold water is dispensed, The number of each withdrawal is selected based on the user's input. How to control a water purifier.

9. In paragraph 8, In the absence of user input, the number of times each of purified water and cold water is discharged is selected based on at least one value of the discharge amount of purified water and cold water, the discharge temperature, and the inlet temperature defined by the temperature of the water measured inside the water purifier. How to control a water purifier.

10. In paragraph 1, The step of alternately dispensing purified and cold water is: A step of dispensing either purified water or cold water; Another step of extracting water; Step to end water dispensing when the set amount of water and cold water is dispensed Including, The purified water and cold water are provided to be dispensed alternately until the set number of dispenses is reached. How to control a water purifier.

11. In paragraph 10, When either purified water or cold water is discharged and the set amount of water is reached, the water discharge is stopped and the remaining water is discharged. How to control a water purifier.

12. In paragraph 10, When one of the purified water or cold water is discharged and reaches the set value among the set discharge amounts, the remaining water is discharged. How to control a water purifier.

13. In paragraph 12, The above set value is an output amount corresponding to 90% of the above set output amount. How to control a water purifier.

14. A step for setting the number of times each water is dispensed for purified water at room temperature and cold water at a temperature lower than the purified water; A step of setting a duty ratio defined as the ratio of cold water to the purified water; Step for setting the water output of each of the purified water and cold water; A step of dispensing either purified water or cold water; Another step of extracting water; Step to end water dispensing when the set amount of water and cold water is dispensed Including, The purified water and cold water are provided to be dispensed alternately until the set number of dispenses is reached. How to control a water purifier.

15. In paragraph 14, When either purified water or cold water is discharged and the set amount of water is reached, the water discharge is stopped and the remaining water is discharged. How to control a water purifier.

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