Method for controlling water purifier

Abstract

An embodiment of a method for controlling a water purifier may comprise a drain determination step of determining whether to make purified water at room temperature flow through a pipe and drain the purified water. The water purifier may perform draining when receiving, from a user, input for free-temperature water discharge through which water having a temperature selected by the user is discharged before a first set time elapses from a time point at which hot water having a temperature higher than room temperature is completely discharged.

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] If hot water is dispensed before free-temperature water dispensing, the hot water can heat the pipes and devices inside the water purifier. If free-temperature water dispensing is initiated immediately, the purified water and cold water will be heated by the pipes and devices, making it difficult to dispense water at the exact temperature selected by the user.

[0009] Therefore, in cases where hot water is discharged before free temperature discharge, a method is needed to return the pipes and devices inside the water purifier heated by hot water back to room temperature.

[0010] Additionally, cold water is produced by a cooling unit equipped in the water purifier. Refrigerant flows through the cooling unit, and through heat exchange between the water and the refrigerant, room temperature water is cooled to become cold water.

[0011] However, the temperature of the refrigerant may become uneven over time, in which case the heat exchange between the water and the refrigerant becomes uneven, and accordingly the temperature of the discharged cold water may also become uneven over time.

[0012] Therefore, a method is needed to control the temperature of the discharged cold water so that it is uniform over time.

[0013] Additionally, depending on the degree to which the pipes and devices inside the water purifier are heated by hot water, it is necessary to use different methods to cool the pipes and devices to return them to room temperature.

[0014] At this time, it is necessary to decide whether to cool the pipes and devices using either room temperature purified water or cold water, depending on the degree to which they are heated.

[0015] Meanwhile, when dispensing purified water and cold water alternately to dispense water at a temperature selected by the user, it is necessary to set the ratio of purified water and cold water and the amount of purified water and cold water each.

[0016] To achieve this, the control unit equipped with the water purifier sets a duty ratio, defined as the ratio of cold water to purified water. If hot water is dispensed before free-temperature water is dispensed, this duty ratio needs to be adjusted to ensure that water is dispensed at the user-selected temperature.

[0017] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier having a structure for returning pipes and devices inside the water purifier heated by hot water back to room temperature when hot water is discharged before free temperature water discharge begins.

[0018] In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier having a structure for controlling the temperature of cold water to be uniform over time while free temperature water discharge is in progress.

[0019] In addition, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier having a structure that varies the method of cooling the pipes and devices to return them to room temperature depending on the degree to which the pipes and devices inside the water purifier are heated by hot water.

[0020] In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier having a structure capable of controlling the temperature of water used to cool the pipes and devices of the water purifier according to the degree to which they are heated.

[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier having a method for correcting a duty ratio defined as the ratio of cold water to purified water.

[0022] In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a control method for a water purifier having a method for differently setting compensation of a duty ratio depending on the temperature of a heating part that heats water.

[0023] 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.

[0024] One embodiment of a control method for a water purifier may include a drain determination step for allowing room temperature purified water to flow through a pipe and determining whether to drain it.

[0025] The water purifier can proceed with draining when it receives input from the user that water at a temperature selected by the user is to be discharged before the first set time has elapsed from the point at which hot water at a temperature higher than room temperature is discharged.

[0026] Therefore, the water purifier can drain the purified water and cool the pipes and devices inside the water purifier heated by hot water to room temperature.

[0027] One embodiment of a control method for a water purifier may include a step of operating a stirrer placed in a cooling unit provided in the water purifier; and a step of turning off the stirrer after water discharge from the water purifier is completed.

[0028] Accordingly, the temperature of the cold water can be maintained uniformly during the free temperature discharge time.

[0029] One embodiment of a control method for a water purifier may include a drain step.

[0030] In the drain stage, it may be provided to cool the heated pipe by flowing at least one of purified water or cold water through the pipe.

[0031] Therefore, depending on the heating level of the pipes and devices inside the water purifier, cold water and room temperature purified water can be appropriately used to cool the pipes and devices to room temperature.

[0032] One embodiment of a control method for a water purifier may include a step of setting a duty ratio defined as a ratio of purified water at room temperature and cold water having a temperature lower than that of the purified water; and a duty ratio correction step of increasing the amount of cold water at the duty ratio.

[0033] The duty ratio correction step may be provided so that the amount of cold water increases according to at least one of a weight or a continuous weight that is set to a value that changes according to the temperature of a heating unit equipped in the water purifier and that heats the purified water.

[0034] Therefore, cold water can effectively suppress the increase in the overall temperature of the discharged water.

[0035] The duty ratio correction step can correct the duty ratio by applying a continuous weight when the temperature rise rate of the heating part is greater than or equal to a set value during the first set time period, or when the temperature of the heating part is maintained greater than or equal to a set value during the second set time period.

[0036] Therefore, the duty ratio compensation can be set differently using weights and continuous weights, respectively, depending on the heating degree of the heating part.

[0037] A control method for a water purifier may include a drain determination step of allowing purified water at room temperature to flow through a pipe and determining whether to drain; a step of operating an agitator disposed in a cooling unit provided in the water purifier; a step of setting a duty ratio defined as a ratio of purified water at room temperature and cold water having a temperature lower than that of the purified 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 a step of turning off the agitator after the discharge of water from the water purifier is completed.

[0038] A control method of a water purifier comprises a drain determination step for determining whether to allow water to flow through a pipe and drain it; a drain step; a step for setting a duty ratio defined as a ratio of purified water at room temperature and cold water having a temperature lower than that of the purified water; a step for setting the discharge amounts of purified water and cold water respectively; and a step for alternately discharging purified water and cold water, wherein in the drain step, at least one of purified water and cold water is provided to flow through the pipe to cool the heated pipe.

[0039] A control method for a water purifier may include a step of setting a duty ratio defined as a ratio of purified water at room temperature and cold water having a temperature lower than that of the purified water; a duty ratio correction step of increasing the amount of cold water at the duty ratio; a step of setting the discharge amounts of purified water and cold water respectively; and a step of alternately discharging purified water and cold water.

[0040] In the control method of a water purifier according to the present invention, if free temperature water discharge is input before the first set time has elapsed after hot water is discharged, the water purifier can drain the purified water and cool the pipes and devices inside the water purifier heated by the hot water to room temperature.

[0041] Accordingly, while the pipes and devices are at room temperature, the control unit can mix the set cold water and purified water to produce free temperature water that more accurately matches the water temperature selected by the user.

[0042] In addition, in the control method of the water purifier according to the present invention, the temperature of the cooling water can be kept uniform during the free temperature water discharge time by operating the agitator provided in the cooling unit before the cold water or purified water is discharged, thereby maintaining the temperature of the cold water uniform during the free temperature water discharge time.

[0043] Accordingly, when discharging free temperature water, it is possible to provide convenience to the user by discharging water more accurately at the temperature selected by the user.

[0044] Furthermore, in the control method for a water purifier according to the present invention, in an embodiment, the pipes and devices can be cooled to room temperature by appropriately using cold water or room-temperature purified water depending on the heating level of the pipes and devices. Accordingly, the heated pipes and devices can be quickly cooled, providing convenience to the user and enabling more accurate adjustment of the water temperature selected by the user.

[0045] Additionally, in the control method of the water purifier according to the present invention, the weight and continuous weight may be set to increase as the temperature of the heating unit increases. As the temperature of the heating unit increases, the temperature of the water discharged at free temperature increases further, thereby further deviating from the temperature selected by the user.

[0046] Therefore, as the temperature of the heating part increases, the weight and continuous weight are further increased to increase the proportion of cold water, and the cold water suppresses the increase in the overall temperature of the discharged water, so that the discharged water can be closer to the temperature of the water selected by the user.

[0047] In addition, in the control method of the water purifier according to the present invention, by differently setting the duty ratio compensation using weights and continuous weights depending on the heating degree of the heating section, even if the heating degree of the pipes and devices of the water purifier changes due to a change in the temperature of the heating section, the temperature of the water selected by the user at the time of free temperature discharge can be accurately set.

[0048] 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.

[0049] Figure 1 is a drawing showing the configuration of a water purifier according to an embodiment.

[0050] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a cooling unit according to an embodiment.

[0051] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing a control method of a water purifier according to an embodiment.

[0052] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing specific steps of the steps of alternately dispensing purified water and cold water.

[0053] Figure 5 is a flowchart specifically showing a control method of a water purifier according to an embodiment.

[0054] Figure 6 is a drawing for explaining the method of discharging cold water and purified water according to one embodiment.

[0055] Figure 7 is a drawing for explaining the method of discharging cold water and purified water according to another embodiment.

[0056] Figure 8 is a flowchart specifically showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0057] Figure 9 is a drawing for explaining the method of discharging cold water and purified water according to another embodiment.

[0058] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0059] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing specific steps of the drain stage.

[0060] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing specific steps of the steps of alternately dispensing purified water and cold water.

[0061] Figure 13 is a flowchart specifically showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0062] Figure 14 is a flowchart specifically showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0063] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0064] Figure 16 is a diagram showing weights and continuous weights according to an example embodiment.

[0065] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing specific steps of the drain stage.

[0066] Figure 18 is a flowchart specifically showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0067] Figure 19 is a flowchart specifically showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] A water purifier of one embodiment may include a pressure reducing valve (110), a flow sensor (120), and a water supply valve (130).

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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).

[0080] 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 the bypass pipe described above, as needed.

[0081] 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).

[0082] 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).

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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).

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] The water purifier may include a safety valve (210), a second valve (220), and a drain valve (230).

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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).

[0103] 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).

[0104] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a cooling unit (180) according to one embodiment.

[0105] The cooling unit (180) of the embodiment may be provided with an indirect cooling method using cooling water as a heat transfer medium. That is, in the cooling unit (180) according to the embodiment, an indirect cooling method may be used in which the refrigerant cools the cooling water, and the cooling water in turn cools the water consumed by the user.

[0106] Direct cooling, where the refrigerant directly cools the drinking water, is difficult to implement structurally and can increase costs. Furthermore, when using the direct cooling method, if the water flowing through the cooling coil (188) is cooled by the refrigerant, which is generally at -10°C or below, ice may form on the cooling coil (188), potentially clogging the cooling coil (188).

[0107] Therefore, in the embodiment, considering the problems of this direct cooling method, the cooling unit (180) can cool the water flowing through the cooling coil (188) for drinking by the user using an indirect cooling method.

[0108] The cooling unit (180) allows heat exchange between the refrigerant and water, and thus, the room temperature purified water flowing into the cooling unit (180) can be cooled to become cold water having a temperature lower than room temperature. The cooling unit (180) contains cooling water that mediates heat exchange between the refrigerant and purified water. Therefore, heat exchange can occur between the refrigerant and purified water with the cooling water between them.

[0109] The cooling unit (180) may include an insulating container (181), an insulating cover (182), a stirrer (183), and a stirring motor (184).

[0110] The insulating container (181) forms the outer shape of the cooling unit (180) and can block heat from entering the cooling unit (180) from the outside. The insulating container (181) can be made of, for example, vacuum insulating material or foam insulating material, but is not limited thereto.

[0111] The insulating cover (182) is attached to the upper part of the insulating container (181) and can block heat from entering the cooling unit (180) from the outside. Like the insulating container (181), the insulating cover (182) can be made of, for example, vacuum insulating material or foam insulating material, but is not limited thereto.

[0112] The stirrer (183) is accommodated inside the insulating container (181) and can stir the cooling water. The stirrer (183) can be accommodated in a storage tank (185) where the cooling water is stored and can be positioned so as to be submerged in the cooling water.

[0113] The stirring motor (184) is housed inside the storage tank (185) and can rotate the stirrer (183). The stirring motor (184) may be positioned above the cooling water level to avoid corrosion or damage if submerged. The stirring motor (184) may be connected to the stirrer (183).

[0114] The stirring motor (184) may include a body in which the motor is built and a rotating shaft coupled to the motor. The rotating shaft may be coupled to a stirrer (183). The stirrer (183) may rotate to stir the cooling water stored in the storage tank (185).

[0115] The cooling water is stirred by the stirrer (183), so that the entire cooling water stored in the cooling tank can have a uniform temperature distribution. The cooling water with a uniform temperature can evenly and effectively cool the water flowing through the cooling coil (188) immersed in the cooling water, i.e., purified water.

[0116] In addition, the temperature of the refrigerant may become uneven over time during the process of heat exchange with purified water. However, by agitating the cooling water with the agitator (183), the temperature of the cooling water that directly cools the purified water can be made uniform even if the temperature of the refrigerant is uneven over time. Accordingly, the temperature of the cold water can be controlled to be uniform over time while free temperature discharge is in progress.

[0117] In addition, the agitator (183) can prevent ice from forming in the cooling water by stirring the cooling water. In addition, by stirring the cooling water, freezing of the cooling water at the area in contact with the evaporator (187) can be effectively prevented, and heat transfer between the evaporator (187) and the cooling water can be prevented from being hindered by ice.

[0118] The cooling unit (180) may include a storage tank (185), a tank cover (186), an evaporator (187), and a cooling coil (188).

[0119] The storage tank (185) is housed inside the insulating container (181) and can store cooling water. The storage tank (185) may be provided in a roughly cup shape. The cooling water stored in the storage tank (185) is cooled by the evaporator (187), and the cooled cooling water can then cool the water flowing through the cooling coil (188).

[0120] The cooling water stored in the storage tank (185) may be water flowing in from a city water pipe. An inlet pipe for introducing cooling water into the storage tank (185) and a drain pipe for draining cooling water from the storage tank (185) may be separately provided in the water purifier so as to be connected to the storage tank (185).

[0121] The tank cover (186) is mounted on the top of the storage tank (185) and can close the open top of the storage tank (185). The tank cover (186) may be provided with a cooling water pipe for supplying cooling water to be filled in the storage tank (185).

[0122] The evaporator (187) is housed in a storage tank (185) and refrigerant can flow therethrough. The refrigerant flows into the evaporator (187) in a low-temperature saturated state, where the liquid and gas are mixed, and can continuously vaporize by taking heat from the cooling water. Accordingly, the cooling water stored in the storage tank (185) is cooled and can cool the water flowing through the cooling coil (188).

[0123] The evaporator (187) is provided with a pipe formed in a coil shape and can be arranged to be immersed in cooling water. Heat exchange occurs between the evaporator (187) and the cooling water, so that the cooling water can be cooled by the evaporator (187).

[0124] A cooling coil (188) is accommodated in a storage tank (185), is placed below an evaporator (187), and water can flow through it. Drinking water for a user can flow through the cooling coil (188). The cooling coil (188) is connected to a filter (160), and water passing through the filter (160) can be cooled in the cooling coil (188).

[0125] The cooling coil (188) is provided as a pipe formed in a coil shape and can be arranged to be immersed in cooling water. Heat exchange occurs between the cooling water and the cooling coil (188), so that the water flowing through the cooling coil (188) can be cooled by the cooling water.

[0126] When the evaporator (187) and the cooling coil (188) are in direct contact with each other, the cooling coil (188) may be cooled to a very low temperature at the portion of the cooling coil (188) that is in contact with the evaporator (187), and thus the water flowing in the cooling coil (188) may freeze. In order to prevent the water from freezing, the evaporator (187) and the cooling coil (188) are preferably arranged to be spaced apart from each other and are provided so that heat transfer occurs by the cooling water.

[0127] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a water purifier according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating specific steps of alternately dispensing purified water and cold water. Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a specific control method for a water purifier according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] The control method of the water purifier of the embodiment can proceed with a drain determination step (S110). In the drain determination step, purified water at room temperature can be allowed to flow through the pipe and a determination can be made as to whether or not to drain it.

[0131] If hot water is dispensed before free-temperature water dispensing, the hot water can heat the pipes and devices inside the water purifier. If free-temperature water dispensing is initiated immediately, the purified water and cold water will be heated by the pipes and devices, making it difficult to dispense water at the exact temperature selected by the user.

[0132] When purified or cold water flows through heated pipes or devices, the purified or cold water is heated by the pipes or devices and discharged, so the temperature of the purified or cold water rises, making it difficult for water to be discharged at the originally intended temperature.

[0133] Accordingly, in the embodiment, when the pipes and devices are kept in a heated state after hot water is discharged, the pipes and devices can be drained by flowing purified water at room temperature through the pipes and devices, and the pipes and devices can be cooled to room temperature by the purified water.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] Whether the control unit proceeds with draining may be determined based on the elapsed time since the hot water was discharged. The control unit may proceed with draining if the user inputs free temperature water discharge, which discharges water at a temperature selected by the user, before the first set time elapses from the time when hot water at a temperature higher than room temperature has been discharged.

[0137] After the first set time has elapsed, the hot water flows through the water purifier, and the pipes and devices inside the water purifier that have been heated by this can be considered to have returned to room temperature. Therefore, if free temperature water discharge is input before the first set time has elapsed, draining is performed and free temperature water discharge is performed. If the first set time has elapsed and free temperature water discharge is input, free temperature water discharge can be performed without draining.

[0138] The first setting time can be set by considering how long it takes for the pipes and devices inside the water purifier, heated by the flowing hot water after the hot water is discharged, to naturally cool down and return to room temperature.

[0139] Of course, this natural cooling time will vary depending on the amount of hot water discharged and the temperature of the hot water, but in the example, it is appropriate to uniformly set the first set time by considering the maximum flow rate and maximum temperature of the hot water set by the operating mechanism of the water purifier.

[0140] Accordingly, the first setting time may be appropriately selected from a range of, for example, 1.5 to 2.5 hours, and more appropriately set to 2 hours, but is not limited thereto.

[0141] When drainage is in progress, pipes and devices heated by the flowing purified water can be cooled to room temperature. It takes some time for heat exchange to occur between the purified water and the pipes and devices, allowing the pipes and devices to reach room temperature.

[0142] Accordingly, when draining, the control unit can close the drain pipe and terminate the draining when the set drain time has elapsed. At this time, the drain time can be set by considering how long it takes for the pipes and devices inside the water purifier to cool to room temperature by the flowing purified water.

[0143] Of course, the heating level of pipes and devices will vary depending on the amount of hot water discharged and the temperature of the hot water, and thus their cooling time will vary. However, in the example, it is appropriate to uniformly set the drain time by considering the maximum flow rate and maximum temperature of hot water set by the operating mechanism of the water purifier.

[0144] In addition, if this drain time is excessively long, it may cause inconvenience to the user and increase the energy consumption and water consumption of the water purifier, so it is appropriate to set it to a relatively short time considering this.

[0145] Accordingly, the drain time of the integer may be appropriately selected in the range of, for example, 2 to 20 seconds, and more appropriately set to 10 seconds, but is not limited thereto.

[0146] In an embodiment, if free temperature water discharge is input before the first set time has elapsed after hot water is discharged, the water purifier can drain the purified water and cool the pipes and devices inside the water purifier heated by the hot water to room temperature.

[0147] Accordingly, while the pipes and devices are at room temperature, the control unit can mix the set cold water and purified water to produce free temperature water that more accurately matches the water temperature selected by the user.

[0148] When draining is in progress or free temperature water discharge without draining begins, the control unit can operate the agitator (183) placed in the cooling unit (180) provided in the water purifier (S120).

[0149] Cold water can be produced by cooling the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator (187) while the purified water passes through the cooling unit (180). Meanwhile, the evaporator (187) can be provided in a form in which the refrigerant having a temperature below zero flows through a narrow pipe formed in a coil shape or a zigzag shape.

[0150] The temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator (187) may become uneven over time during the process of heat exchange with the purified water. This is because the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator (187) increases over time as heat exchange occurs between the cooling water stored in the storage tank (185) and the refrigerant in the evaporator (187).

[0151] Accordingly, the temperature of the cold water discharged from the cooling unit (180) gradually increases over time, and the temperature of the cold water may become uneven over time while free temperature discharge is in progress.

[0152] As a result, water may not be discharged at the temperature selected by the user. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain the temperature of the cold water uniformly during free-temperature discharge. This can be achieved by uniformly maintaining the temperature of the cooling water stored in the storage tank (185), which is the heat exchange medium, during free-temperature discharge.

[0153] This is because cold water is produced through heat exchange between water flowing through the cooling coil (188) and cooling water stored in the storage tank (185).

[0154] In an embodiment, the temperature of the cooling water can be maintained uniformly during the free temperature water discharge time by operating the agitator (183) provided in the cooling unit (180) before the cold water or purified water is discharged, thereby maintaining the temperature of the cold water uniformly during the free temperature water discharge time.

[0155] Accordingly, when discharging free temperature water, it is possible to provide convenience to the user by discharging water more accurately at the temperature selected by the user.

[0156] In the embodiment, when draining is performed, the stirrer (183) can be operated after draining is completed. There is no need to operate the stirrer (183) while draining is performed, and in this case, unnecessary electricity consumption may occur, so the stirrer (183) can be operated after draining is completed.

[0157] After the agitator (183) operates, free temperature discharge is performed, and after discharge is completed, the agitator (183) can be turned off.

[0158] Below, the process of free temperature extraction is described in detail.

[0159] The water purifier can set the number of times each water is dispensed: room temperature purified water and cold water at a temperature lower than the purified water. In the example embodiment, the selected water dispensing temperature can be achieved by mixing room temperature purified water and cold water.

[0160] The water purifier can set the number of times each water is dispensed: room temperature purified water and cold water at a temperature lower than the purified water. In the example embodiment, the selected water dispensing temperature can be achieved by mixing room temperature purified water and cold water.

[0161] 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.

[0162] 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.

[0163] 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.

[0164] Below, unless otherwise specified, examples are given of dispensing cold water first and then purified water.

[0165] Next, the control unit can set a duty ratio defined as the ratio of room-temperature purified water to chilled water at a temperature lower than the purified water (S130). For example, purified water may be at room temperature, with some variation depending on the season and indoor conditions. Chilled water is discharged at the set temperature, and the temperature of the chilled water can be maintained at a generally constant temperature regardless of the season or indoor conditions.

[0166] 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.

[0167] 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.

[0168] The control unit can set the water discharge volumes of purified water and cold water, respectively (S140). 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.

[0169] The water purifier can alternately discharge purified water and cold water by the control unit (S150). 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.

[0170] As illustrated in Fig. 5, step S150 may proceed as follows.

[0171] The water purifier can output either purified water or cold water (S151). The water purifier can output the other type of water (S152).

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174] The water purifier can stop dispensing water when the set amount of purified water and cold water is discharged (S153). The purified water and cold water can be provided to alternately dispense water until the set number of discharges is reached.

[0175] 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.

[0176] 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 respectively based on the water temperature and water quantity selected by the user.

[0177] The control unit can turn off the agitator (183) after the water discharge from the water purifier is finished (S160).

[0178] Since the free temperature discharge has ended, there is no longer a need to use the agitator (183) to agitate the cooling water contained in the storage tank (185). However, in order not to affect the temperature of the water discharged during the free temperature discharge, it may be appropriate to turn off the agitator (183) after a set time has elapsed after the free temperature discharge has ended.

[0179] Accordingly, the control unit can turn off the agitator (183) after the second set time has elapsed at the point where both the cold water and purified water discharges have ended. The second set time needs to be set sufficiently so that even if the temperature distribution of the cooling water is uneven, it does not affect the temperature of the water discharged at free temperature at all.

[0180] Therefore, the second setting time can be set to, for example, 15 seconds, but is not limited thereto.

[0181] Fig. 6 is a drawing for explaining a method of discharging cold water and purified water according to one embodiment. Fig. 7 is a drawing for explaining a method of discharging cold water and purified water according to another embodiment.

[0182] As an example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, purified water and cold water can be alternately dispensed once each. Cold water can be dispensed first, purified water can be dispensed next, and purified water and cold water can be dispensed once each to complete the water dispensing.

[0183] 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.

[0184] In another embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7, 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.

[0185] When purified water and cold water are each discharged multiple times, compared to the example illustrated in Fig. 6, the number of valve operations may increase, which may increase electricity consumption, and the free temperature water discharge time may also increase.

[0186] 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.

[0187] 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. 7, if cold water is dispensed twice, the number of times the purified water is dispensed can also be the same twice.

[0188] 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.

[0189] 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.

[0190] 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.

[0191] 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.

[0192] 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.

[0193] 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 water dispensing time, and uniformity of the dispensed water temperature.

[0194] 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.

[0195] 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.

[0196] 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.

[0197] 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.

[0198] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, 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.

[0199] 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.

[0200] 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.

[0201] 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.

[0202] Referring to Fig. 5, 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.

[0203] 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.

[0204] The cooling unit (180) and heating unit (190) may have some portions where the pipes are bent in a coil or 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.

[0205] 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.

[0206] 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.

[0207] 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.

[0208] 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.

[0209] Figure 8 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment. Figure 9 is a drawing for explaining the method of dispensing cold water and purified water according to another embodiment.

[0210] As illustrated in Fig. 9, 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.

[0211] 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.

[0212] For example, referring to Fig. 9, 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.

[0213] 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.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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.

[0216] Therefore, cold water and purified water should be dispensed alternately to prevent water from splashing out, but water should be dispensed continuously overall.

[0217] 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.

[0218] 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.

[0219] 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.

[0220] 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.

[0221] 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.

[0222] 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).

[0223] Referring to Fig. 8, 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.

[0224] 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.

[0225] 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.

[0226] 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.

[0227] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment. Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating specific steps of the drain stage. Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating specific steps of the stage of alternately discharging purified water and cold water. Duplicate explanations of previously described contents may be omitted below.

[0228] In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 10, when performing drainage, unlike the above, purified water at room temperature, cold water at a temperature lower than room temperature, or both cold water and purified water can be used to cool the pipes and devices inside the heated water purifier.

[0229] During the hot water dispensing process, if the water temperature in the water purifier is high and the flow rate is high, the pipes and devices can become heated to high temperatures. If these heated pipes and devices are cooled solely with purified water, it may take longer than necessary to return them to room temperature.

[0230] In such cases, the drain time becomes longer, which increases the time the user waits to get water, and increases the water purifier's electricity consumption and water consumption.

[0231] Therefore, when pipes and devices are highly heated, they need to be cooled to room temperature quickly. For this purpose, draining can be done using not only purified water but also cold water.

[0232] Additionally, when pipes and devices are relatively heated to a low temperature, both cold water and purified water may be drained to provide an appropriate water temperature for cooling them. Furthermore, when pipes and devices are relatively heated to a low temperature, purified water alone may be drained.

[0233] In this example, the method for cooling the pipes and devices inside the water purifier to room temperature can vary depending on the degree of heating caused by hot water. This will be explained in detail.

[0234] Figure 13 is a flowchart specifically showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0235] The control method of the water purifier of the embodiment may proceed with a drain determination step (S210). In the drain determination step, water at room temperature may be allowed to flow through the pipe and a determination may be made as to whether to drain the water. The water to be drained here may be cold water, purified water, or both cold water and purified water.

[0236] As previously mentioned, this is to cool the pipes and devices inside the water purifier, which have been heated by the discharge of hot water, to room temperature before free-temperature discharge begins. This is as previously mentioned.

[0237] The control unit can proceed with draining when it receives input from the user that water at a temperature selected by the user is to be discharged before the first set time elapses from the time when hot water at a temperature higher than room temperature is discharged.

[0238] The first setting time can be set by considering how long it takes for the pipes and devices inside the water purifier, heated by the flowing hot water after the hot water is discharged, to naturally cool down and return to room temperature.

[0239] The first setting time may be appropriately selected, for example, within the range of 1.5 to 2.5 hours, and more appropriately set to 2 hours. However, this is not limited thereto. This is as described above.

[0240] If draining is required, the control unit can perform draining (S220). In the draining step (S220), at least one of purified water and cold water may be supplied to the pipe to cool the heated pipe.

[0241] When the heating level of pipes and devices is high, the pipes and devices can be cooled by draining cold water. When the heating level of pipes and devices is medium, the pipes and devices can be cooled by draining cold water and purified water. When the heating level of pipes and devices is relatively low, the pipes and devices can be cooled by draining room temperature purified water.

[0242] In this example, depending on the heating level of the pipes and devices, cold water or room-temperature purified water can be appropriately used to cool the pipes and devices to room temperature. This allows for rapid cooling of heated pipes and devices, providing convenience to the user and allowing for more accurate adjustment of the water temperature selected by the user.

[0243] Accordingly, the drain mode may include a mode for draining cold water, a mode for draining room temperature purified water, and a mode for draining both cold water and purified water. The drain mode is required to quickly cool heated pipes and devices, and also to reduce electricity consumption by using as little cold water as possible.

[0244] Therefore, by setting three drain modes as described above and using different drain modes according to the heating level of the pipes and devices, the heated pipes and devices can be quickly cooled to room temperature, and at the same time, electricity consumption can be effectively reduced by using less cold water.

[0245] When draining purified water, 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.

[0246] 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.

[0247] Meanwhile, when draining cold water, water from the water purifier can sequentially pass through the water supply valve (130), filter (160), first valve (170), cooling unit (180), second valve (220), and drain valve (230) and then drain to the outside through a drain pipe. At this time, the cooling unit (180) can operate to produce cold water.

[0248] When draining cold water and purified water, the aforementioned methods can be combined. However, in the case of draining cold water and purified water simultaneously according to an exemplary embodiment, the downstream (outlet) of the first valve (170) can be fully opened, and the upstream (inlet) of the second valve (220) can be fully opened.

[0249] At this time, the cooling unit (180) is on and the heating unit (190) is off, so cold water and purified water are simultaneously introduced into the second valve (220) and mixed, and this mixed water can be drained.

[0250] In the drain stage, the control unit can determine the previous hot water temperature and water discharge volume (S221). If hot water is discharged, the control unit can store and retain data on the temperature and water discharge volume of the discharged hot water. When draining, the control unit can determine the previous hot water temperature and water discharge volume based on the retained data.

[0251] The control unit can calculate the ratio of purified water and cold water to be drained (S222). The control unit can calculate the ratio of purified water and cold water to be drained based on the temperature and discharge amount of the previous hot water.

[0252] The higher the hot water temperature and output, the higher the proportion of cold water. If the hot water temperature and output are very high, only the cold water may be drained. If the hot water temperature and output are very low, only the purified water may be drained.

[0253] The control unit can determine the drain mode (S223). The control unit can determine the drain mode based on the calculated ratio of purified water to cold water. The drain mode can be any one of the following modes: draining cold water, draining purified water, or draining a mixture of cold water and purified water.

[0254] The mode for draining cold water and purified water can be provided to drain cold water and purified water simultaneously, or to drain cold water and purified water alternately.

[0255] In the case of mixing cold water and purified water and draining, as an example, cold water and purified water can be simultaneously flowed through the pipe so that the cold water and purified water are mixed and flow through the pipe downstream of the second valve (220) and drained.

[0256] Alternatively, as another example, cold water and purified water may be alternately flowed to cool the pipes and devices inside the water purifier without the cold water and purified water mixing with each other.

[0257] At this time, it may be appropriate to flow the cold water and purified water once each. This is a drain for cooling and not a process for discharging drinking water for the user. Therefore, there is no need or advantage to drain the cold water and purified water separately in multiple times.

[0258] The control unit can proceed with the drain discharge step (S224). The control unit can operate each valve and device of the water purifier according to the determined drain mode to flow water, thereby cooling the pipes and devices inside the water purifier.

[0259] The control unit can terminate the drain after the set drain time has elapsed (S225).

[0260] As mentioned above, when drainage is in progress, pipes and devices heated by the flowing purified water can be cooled to room temperature. It takes a certain amount of time for heat exchange to occur between the purified water and the pipes and devices, allowing the pipes and devices to reach room temperature.

[0261] Therefore, when draining, the control unit can close the drain pipe to end the draining when the set drain time has elapsed.

[0262] The drain time of the integer may be appropriately selected, for example, within the range of 2 to 20 seconds, and more appropriately set to 10 seconds. However, this is not limited thereto. This is as described above.

[0263] When draining is in progress or free temperature water discharge without draining begins, the control unit can operate the agitator (183) placed in the cooling unit (180) provided in the water purifier.

[0264] In the embodiment, when draining is performed, the stirrer (183) can be operated after draining is completed. There is no need to operate the stirrer (183) while draining is performed, and in this case, unnecessary electricity consumption may occur, so the stirrer (183) can be operated after draining is completed.

[0265] After the agitator (183) operates, free temperature discharge is performed, and after discharge is completed, the agitator (183) can be turned off.

[0266] In an embodiment, the temperature of the cooling water can be maintained uniformly during the free temperature water discharge time by operating the agitator (183) provided in the cooling unit (180) before the cold water or purified water is discharged, thereby maintaining the temperature of the cold water uniformly during the free temperature water discharge time.

[0267] Accordingly, when discharging free temperature water, water can be dispensed at a temperature more accurately matched to the user's selected temperature, providing convenience to the user. The specific details of the operation of the agitator (183) are as described above.

[0268] The water purifier can set the number of times it dispenses purified water at room temperature and cold water at a temperature lower than the purified water. In the example embodiment, the selected discharge temperature can be achieved by mixing purified water at room temperature with cold water. The specific details of this are as described above.

[0269] Next, the control unit can set a duty ratio defined as the ratio of room temperature purified water to cold water at a temperature lower than the purified water (S230). Based on the data it holds, the control unit can set a duty ratio that matches the temperature and water output selected by the user. The specific details of this are as described above.

[0270] The control unit can set the water discharge volumes of purified water and cold water, respectively (S240). 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.

[0271] The water purifier can alternately discharge purified water and cold water by the control unit (S250). 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.

[0272] As illustrated in Figure 12, step S250 may proceed as follows.

[0273] The water purifier can dispense either purified water or cold water (S251). The water purifier can dispense the other type of water (S252). The water purifier can stop dispensing water once the set amount of purified water and cold water has been dispensed (S253).

[0274] The purified water and cold water can be provided alternately until a set number of water discharges is reached. The specific details of this are as described above.

[0275] The control unit can turn off the agitator (183) after the water discharge from the water purifier is finished.

[0276] The control unit can turn off the agitator (183) after the second set time has elapsed, at which point both the cold water and purified water discharges have ended. The second set time needs to be set sufficiently so that even if the temperature distribution of the cooling water is uneven, it does not affect the temperature of the water discharged at free temperature at all.

[0277] Accordingly, the second setting time can be set to, for example, 15 seconds. However, this is not a limitation. The specific details are as described above.

[0278] In one embodiment, purified water and cold water may be dispensed alternately once each. Cold water may be dispensed first, then purified water, and then purified water may be dispensed once each, ending the water dispensing process.

[0279] In another embodiment, 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 cold water and purified water may be dispensed repeatedly until the water dispensing is complete.

[0280] When purified water and cold water are dispensed multiple times, the number of times the purified water and cold water are dispensed may be the same. The specific details regarding this are as described above.

[0281] 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.

[0282] 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.

[0283] Next, the control unit can select the number of times each purified water and cold water are dispensed. In the absence of user input, the number of times each purified water and cold water are dispensed can be selected based on at least one of the following values: the discharge volume of each purified water and cold water, the discharge temperature, and the inlet temperature, which is defined as the temperature of the water measured within the water purifier. The specific details thereof are as described above.

[0284] The time periods for purified water and cold water discharge may be separated and arranged so as not to overlap. The water purifier may stop dispensing water when either purified water or cold water discharge reaches a set amount and discharge the remaining water.

[0285] 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.

[0286] 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.

[0287] Referring to Fig. 13, 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.

[0288] This alternate dispensing of cold water and purified water may be terminated when the set number of dispensings reaches the preset number. Of course, if the number of dispensings for cold water and purified water is set to one each, dispensing may end after each has been dispensed once. The specific details regarding this are as described above.

[0289] Figure 14 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment. In the control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment, the time period during which purified water is dispensed and the time period during which cold water is dispensed may be arranged to overlap to some extent.

[0290] 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.

[0291] 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.

[0292] For example, the set value may correspond to 90% of the set water discharge amount. This control method allows for continuous water discharge by providing an overlapping interval (T1). The specific details of this are as described above.

[0293] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing a control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0294] The control method of the water purifier of the embodiment may proceed with a drain determination step (S310). In the drain determination step, water at room temperature may be allowed to flow through the pipe and a determination may be made as to whether to drain the water. The water to be drained here may be cold water, purified water, or both cold water and purified water.

[0295] If drainage is required, the control unit can perform drainage (S320). In the drain step (S320), at least one of purified water and cold water may be supplied to the pipe to cool the heated pipe. The specific details thereof are as described above.

[0296] When draining is in progress or free temperature water discharge starts without draining, the control unit can operate the agitator (183) placed in the cooling unit (180) provided in the water purifier. After the agitator (183) operates, free temperature water discharge starts, and after the water discharge is completed, the agitator (183) can be turned off. The specific details regarding the operation of the agitator (183) are as described above.

[0297] The water purifier can set the number of times it dispenses purified water at room temperature and cold water at a temperature lower than the purified water. In the example embodiment, the selected discharge temperature can be achieved by mixing purified water at room temperature with cold water. The specific details of this are as described above.

[0298] Next, the control unit can set a duty ratio defined as the ratio of room temperature purified water to cold water at a temperature lower than the purified water (S330). Based on the data it holds, the control unit can set a duty ratio that matches the temperature and water output selected by the user. The specific details of this are as described above.

[0299] The water purifier can perform a duty ratio correction step (S340) to increase the amount of cold water at the duty ratio.

[0300] After hot water is discharged, the drain step (S220) can be performed before the first set time has elapsed to cool the water purifier's pipes and devices to room temperature. However, even after draining, the pipes and devices may not return to room temperature and may remain heated.

[0301] In such cases, the user-selected temperature may not be accurately matched. Therefore, in the exemplary embodiment, after setting the duty ratio, the amount of cold water within the duty ratio is increased to enhance the cooling effect of the cold water even when the pipes and devices are heated, allowing free-temperature water to be discharged more accurately at the user-selected temperature.

[0302] Therefore, this duty ratio compensation can be performed simultaneously with the drain. That is, the duty ratio compensation can be performed under temporal conditions before the first set time has elapsed.

[0303] The duty ratio correction step may be provided so that the amount of cold water increases according to at least one of a weighting factor or a continuous weighting value that is set to a value that changes according to the temperature of a heating unit (190) provided in the water purifier and that heats the purified water.

[0304] The control unit acquires the temperature of the heating unit (190) from the thermistor provided in the heating unit (190), sets a weight or continuous weight based on the temperature, and increases the amount of cold water accordingly.

[0305] At this time, the amount of cold water increases while the amount of purified water decreases, so that the amount of water discharged can remain the same depending on the selected temperature. In other words, the total amount of cold water and purified water can remain constant even if the weight or continuous weight changes.

[0306] When the temperature of the heating unit (190) increases after hot water is discharged, by increasing the amount of cold water and discharging it, even if the discharged water is heated somewhat as it passes through the pipes and devices, the overall temperature of the discharged water can be brought closer to the temperature of the water selected by the user due to the increased cold water.

[0307] Accordingly, even when heated by hot water, the water purifier can provide convenience to the user by dispensing water at a temperature selected by the user.

[0308] In an embodiment, the weight and continuous weight may be set to increase as the temperature of the heating unit (190) increases. As the temperature of the heating unit (190) increases, the temperature of the water discharged at the time of free temperature discharge increases further, and may deviate more from the temperature selected by the user.

[0309] Accordingly, as the temperature of the heating unit (190) increases, the weight and continuous weight are further increased to increase the proportion of cold water, and the cold water suppresses the increase in the overall temperature of the discharged water, so that the discharged water can be closer to the temperature of the water selected by the user.

[0310] Figure 16 is a diagram showing weights and continuous weights according to an example. In the diagram, the ratio of cold water and purified water discharge capacity is shown relatively specifically up to the seventh decimal place.

[0311] However, for clarity, weights and continuous weights are shown to the second decimal place, and weighted water output and continuous weighted water output are rounded to the nearest decimal place. Figure 16 illustrates, for example, a case where the water output is 119 mL. The value shown as 120 mL has been increased by 1 due to rounding.

[0312] When the temperature of the heating unit (190) is the same, the continuous weight can be set to a value greater than the weight. Since the continuous weight is applied when the degree of heating by hot water is relatively large, this is because the amount of cold water is greater than the weight when the temperature of the heating unit (190) is the same.

[0313] The weight and continuous weight are determined according to the temperature of the heating unit (190) measured at the time of free temperature discharge, and the value may increase as the temperature of the heating unit (190) increases. Figure 16 shows the values ​​of the weight and continuous weight set according to each section of the temperature of the heating unit (190).

[0314] Of course, the values ​​shown in Fig. 16 are examples and are not limited thereto. Below, the values ​​shown in Fig. 16 are explained as examples.

[0315] Whether to apply weights or continuous weights can be determined by the following criteria:

[0316] If the temperature rise rate of the heating unit (190) during the first set time interval is greater than or equal to the set value, or if the temperature of the heating unit (190) remains greater than or equal to the set value during the second set time interval, the duty ratio can be corrected by applying a continuous weight. In other cases, the duty ratio can be corrected by applying a weight.

[0317] The first time interval and the second time interval are the time intervals at which hot water is discharged, and at this time, the temperature of the heating unit (190) can be measured and a weight or continuous weight can be applied.

[0318] The first and second time intervals may be set to the same or different times. For example, the first and second time intervals may each be set to 5 seconds. Other times, they may also be different.

[0319] In addition, the set value of the temperature rise rate may be, for example, 15%, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the set value of the temperature of the heating unit (190) during the second time period may be, for example, 80°C, but is not limited thereto.

[0320] Therefore, for example, if the temperature rise rate of the heating part (190) is 15% or more for 5 seconds while hot water is discharged, or if the temperature of the heating part (190) is 80°C or more for 5 seconds while hot water is discharged, the duty ratio can be corrected by applying a continuous weight.

[0321] In this case, since the heating unit (190) is heated greatly, the temperature of the water discharged by the heating unit (190) at free temperature discharge may be significantly different from the selected temperature, so it is necessary to apply a continuous weighting value.

[0322] Of course, if continuous weighting is not applied, the duty cycle can be corrected by applying weights.

[0323] Weights and continuous weights can be defined as (the amount of additional cold water discharged) / (the sum of the amounts of purified water and cold water discharged). These weights and continuous weights are preset based on the temperature of the hot water and are maintained by the control unit. The control unit can then apply different weights and continuous weights for each temperature condition based on the maintained data to correct the duty cycle.

[0324] In the duty ratio compensation step, the amount of cold water discharged by applying weights or continuous weights may increase, the amount of purified water discharged may decrease, and the total amount of discharged water may remain the same.

[0325] That is, whether the duty ratio is not corrected or corrected, the water output amount is determined to be the same, but the amount of cold water for which the duty ratio is corrected increases and, conversely, the amount of purified water decreases, so that the ratio of the output capacity of cold water and purified water may be different compared to the case where there is no duty ratio correction.

[0326] The duty ratio compensation method is specifically described with reference to Fig. 16 as follows.

[0327] The basic water output is a state in which the heating unit (190) is not heated for the first set time before free water output. Therefore, in this case, duty ratio correction is not performed.

[0328] If hot water is discharged before the first set time has elapsed from the heating unit (190) prior to free discharge, the duty ratio can be corrected by applying a weight or continuous weight.

[0329] For example, let's look at a case where the temperature of the heating part (190) is in the range of 30 to 50°C when free temperature water is discharged and weighting is applied.

[0330] In this case, the weight is set to 0.2. Therefore, the weighted water discharge amount, which means the amount of water discharged by duty ratio compensation, is (0.2 * 119) + 52 = 75.8 for cold water, rounded to 76 mL, and 119 - 56 = 43 for purified water.

[0331] Additionally, we will examine the case where continuous weighting is applied.

[0332] In this case, the continuous weight is set to 0.25. Therefore, the continuous weighted water discharge amount, which means the amount of water discharged by duty ratio compensation, is (0.25 * 119) + 52 = 81.75 for cold water, rounded to 82 mL, and 119 - 82 = 37 for purified water.

[0333] In the embodiment, by setting the duty ratio compensation differently using weights and continuous weights according to the heating degree of the heating unit (190), even if the heating degree of the pipes and devices of the water purifier changes due to the temperature change of the heating unit (190), the temperature of the water selected by the user at the time of free temperature discharge can be accurately adjusted.

[0334] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating specific steps of the drain stage. Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating a specific control method of a water purifier according to another embodiment.

[0335] In the drain stage, the control unit can determine the discharge temperature and discharge amount of the previous hot water (S321). The control unit can calculate the ratio of the purified water and the cold water to be drained (S322). The control unit can determine the drain mode (S323).

[0336] The control unit can proceed with the drain discharge step (S324). The control unit can terminate the drain after the set drain time has elapsed (S325). When performing the drain, the control unit can terminate the drain by closing the drain pipe after the set drain time has elapsed.

[0337] The drain mode may include a mode for dispensing cold water, a mode for dispensing room-temperature purified water, and a mode for dispensing both cold and purified water. The mode for dispensing cold and purified water may be configured to dispense cold and purified water simultaneously, or alternately. The specific details of the drain stage are as described above.

[0338] When draining is in progress or free temperature water discharge without draining begins, the control unit can operate the agitator (183) placed in the cooling unit (180) provided in the water purifier.

[0339] In the embodiment, when draining is performed, the stirrer (183) can be operated after draining is completed. There is no need to operate the stirrer (183) while draining is performed, and in this case, unnecessary electricity consumption may occur, so the stirrer (183) can be operated after draining is completed.

[0340] After the agitator (183) operates, free temperature discharge is performed, and after discharge is completed, the agitator (183) can be turned off. The specific details of the operation of the agitator (183) are as described above.

[0341] The water purifier can set the number of times it dispenses purified water at room temperature and cold water at a temperature lower than the purified water. In the example embodiment, the selected discharge temperature can be achieved by mixing purified water at room temperature with cold water. The specific details of this are as described above.

[0342] The control unit can set the water discharge volumes of purified water and cold water, respectively (S350). 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.

[0343] The water purifier can alternately discharge purified water and cold water by the control unit (S360). 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.

[0344] In one embodiment, purified water and cold water may be dispensed alternately once each. Cold water may be dispensed first, then purified water, and then purified water may be dispensed once each, ending the water dispensing process.

[0345] In another embodiment, 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 cold water and purified water may be dispensed repeatedly until the water dispensing is complete.

[0346] When purified water and cold water are dispensed multiple times, the number of times the purified water and cold water are dispensed may be the same. The specific details regarding this are as described above.

[0347] 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.

[0348] 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.

[0349] Next, the control unit can select the number of times each purified water and cold water are dispensed. In the absence of user input, the number of times each purified water and cold water are dispensed can be selected based on at least one of the following values: the discharge volume of each purified water and cold water, the discharge temperature, and the inlet temperature, which is defined as the temperature of the water measured within the water purifier. The specific details thereof are as described above.

[0350] The time periods for purified water and cold water discharge may be separated and arranged so as not to overlap. The water purifier may stop dispensing water when either purified water or cold water discharge reaches a set amount and discharge the remaining water.

[0351] 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.

[0352] 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.

[0353] Referring to Fig. 18, 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.

[0354] This alternate dispensing of cold water and purified water may be terminated when the set number of dispensings reaches the preset number. Of course, if the number of dispensings for cold water and purified water is set to one each, dispensing may end after each has been dispensed once. The specific details regarding this are as described above.

[0355] Figure 19 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment. In the control method for a water purifier according to another embodiment, the time period during which purified water is dispensed and the time period during which cold water is dispensed may be arranged to overlap to some extent.

[0356] 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.

[0357] 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.

[0358] For example, the set value may correspond to 90% of the set water discharge amount. This control method allows for continuous water discharge by providing an overlapping interval (T1). The specific details of this are as described above.

[0359] 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 drain judgment step that determines whether to drain or not by allowing room temperature purified water to flow through the pipe; A step of operating a stirrer placed in a cooling unit provided in a water purifier; A step of setting a duty ratio defined as the ratio of room temperature purified water and cold water having a temperature lower than that of the purified water; Step for setting the water output of each of the purified water and cold water; A step of alternately dispensing purified water and cold water; and A step of turning off the agitator after the water discharge from the water purifier is finished. including, How to control a water purifier.

2. In paragraph 1, When the user inputs free temperature water discharge, which is water at the temperature selected by the user, before the first set time elapses from the point where hot water at a temperature higher than room temperature is discharged, draining is performed. How to control a water purifier.

3. In paragraph 1, When draining, the drain pipe is closed when the set drain time has elapsed. How to control a water purifier.

4. In paragraph 1, After the second set time has elapsed and both cold water and purified water have been dispensed, the agitator is turned off. How to control a water purifier.

5. In paragraph 1, When draining, operate the agitator after draining is completed. How to control a water purifier.

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

7. 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.

8. In paragraph 7, In cases where purified water and cold water are dispensed multiple times, the number of times purified water and cold water are dispensed is the same. How to control a water purifier.

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. In paragraph 10, 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.

12. 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.

13. In paragraph 12, 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.

14. In paragraph 12, 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.

15. In paragraph 14, The above set value is an output amount corresponding to 90% of the above set output amount. How to control a water purifier.

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