Freely-settable temperature water purifier and operating method thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to: a freely-settable temperature water purifier, that is, a structure of a water purifier configured to allow a user to freely set a water-discharge temperature; and an operating method thereof. Specifically, the present invention relates to an operation algorithm related to a water supply flow path, a water discharge flow path, and water discharge of a water purifier.

Description

Free temperature water purifier and its operating method

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority from Republic of Korea Patent Application No. 10-2024-0080658, dated June 20, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a structure of a free temperature water purifier, i.e., a water purifier configured to allow a user to freely set the discharge temperature, and an operating method thereof.

[0003] A water purifier is a device that purifies water to make it drinkable. It typically provides purified water and, optionally, cold and / or hot water. Types of water purifiers include reverse osmosis (RO) purifiers, nanofiltration (NF) purifiers, ultrafiltration (UF) purifiers, and sterilizing water purifiers.

[0004] Among water purifiers, those that provide both purified water and cold water, produced by cooling the purified water, are widely used. These cold water purifiers typically provide both cold water and purified water at different, consistent temperatures.

[0005] Meanwhile, interest in water purifiers with a free temperature function that dispenses water at a temperature freely set by the user, in addition to fixed-temperature purified water and cold water, is increasing.

[0006] Accordingly, there is an urgent need to develop technology for the structure of a water purifier and a method of operating it to implement this free temperature function.

[0007] A particular problem lies in the fact that the temperature of purified and cold water constantly fluctuates depending on variables such as the external environment and the previous water discharge. Therefore, a water purifier structure capable of accurately measuring the temperature and changes in the temperature of purified and cold water through precise sensing is required.

[0008] In addition, in actually implementing these free temperature functions, it is also a challenge to create a user interface that is easy for users to recognize and operate.

[0009] The present invention was created under the background of the above-mentioned prior art, and its purpose is to provide a structure of a water purifier capable of discharging water at a temperature freely set by a user, and an operating method thereof.

[0010] Specifically, the present invention aims to provide a structure of a water purifier capable of accurately monitoring the temperature of cold water and purified water, temperature changes, flow rate, etc., and reflecting them in water discharge control.

[0011] The present invention also aims to provide an algorithm for controlling a water supply path and a valve to discharge water at a temperature according to a user's settings.

[0012] Another technical challenge of the present invention is to provide a method for resolving problems that may cause inconvenience to users, such as water cut-off or water splashing due to water discharging operation.

[0013] The present invention also aims to provide a user interface and software and hardware constituting the same for enabling a user to conveniently operate a water purifier having a free temperature function.

[0014] The technical objectives of the present invention are not limited to the purposes mentioned above. Other objectives and advantages of the present invention not mentioned above can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the objectives and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0015] [Water purifier water supply flow path structure]

[0016] The present invention comprises: an inlet for supplying raw water; an outlet for discharging cold water and purified water; a cold water channel connecting the inlet and the outlet and supplying cold water to the outlet; a cold water module installed in the cold water channel and producing cold water by cooling purified water; a purified water channel connecting the inlet and the outlet and supplying purified water to the outlet; a branch part connecting an outlet of the inlet, an inlet of the cold water channel, and an inlet of the purified water channel; a joining part connecting an outlet of the cold water channel, an outlet of the purified water channel, and an inlet of the outlet; a cold water valve configured to open and close at least one of the inlet and outlet of the cold water channel; a purified water valve configured to open and close at least one of the inlet and outlet of the purified water channel; a filter installed in the inlet and producing purified water by purifying raw water; And the structure of a water purifier supply channel is provided, including an inlet temperature sensor installed between the filter and the branch or in the water purification channel to measure the temperature of uncooled water.

[0017] According to the present invention, various variables used for controlling the dispensing of cold water and purified water and for producing useful information related to the dispensing of water displayed to the user can be accurately measured.

[0018] The above cold water valve may be installed in the cold water passage, and the above purified water valve may be installed in the purified water passage.

[0019] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the cold water valve and the purified water valve may be included in one multi-valve constituting the branch section.

[0020] According to one variation, the cold water valve and the purified water valve may be included in one multi-valve constituting the combined portion.

[0021] The above water purifier supply path may additionally include a cooling temperature sensor included in the cooling module.

[0022] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the cold water module may include: a cold water tank; cooling water contained in the cold water tank; an evaporator contained in the cold water tank and cooling the cooling water; and a cold water coil passing through the inside of the cold water tank and cooled by the cooling water, through which purified water flows. At this time, the cooling temperature sensor may be configured to measure the temperature of the cooling water.

[0023] According to one variation, the cold water module may include: a cold water tank into which purified water flows and cold water flows; and an evaporator accommodated in the cold water tank and configured to cool the purified water to produce cold water. In this case, the cooling temperature sensor may be configured to measure the temperature of water flowing inside the cold water tank.

[0024] The above water purifier water supply path may additionally include a water outlet temperature sensor installed at the water outlet to measure the temperature of the water being discharged.

[0025] The water purifier supply path may additionally include a cold water temperature sensor installed between the cold water module and the joint to measure the temperature of the cold water being discharged. In this case, the temperature of the cold water actually being discharged can be measured more accurately in real time.

[0026] The water purifier supply channel may further include a flow sensor that measures the flow rate of water passing through at least one of the cold water channel and the purified water channel.

[0027] The above flow sensor may be installed in at least one of the inlet and outlet. In this case, the flow sensor may measure the total amount of discharged water passing through the cold water channel and the purified water channel, and in this case, each amount of discharged water passing through the cold water channel and the purified water channel may be calculated as half of the total amount of discharged water.

[0028] The above flow sensor may be installed in at least one of the cold water passage and the purified water passage. In this case, the amount of water discharged through the cold water passage and the amount of water discharged through the purified water passage may be measured separately.

[0029]

[0030] Water Purifier Operation Algorithm 1 - Sequential Water Discharge Control

[0031] The present invention provides a water purifier operation algorithm for operating a water purifier configured to discharge water at a temperature set by a user through a water discharge unit in an amount set by the user, the algorithm including: a setting step for setting a target temperature and a target water discharge amount; a water discharge amount determination step for determining a total cold water discharge amount and a total purified water discharge amount based on the target temperature and the target water discharge amount; and a water discharge step for discharging cold water in an amount equal to the total cold water discharge amount and purified water in an amount equal to the total purified water discharge amount to provide the users with the water.

[0032] The above water discharging step includes: a cold water valve opening step for opening a cold water valve to supply cold water to the water outlet; a cold water valve blocking step for blocking the cold water valve when the accumulated cold water discharging amount is greater than the total cold water discharging amount; a purified water valve opening step for opening a purified water valve to supply purified water to the water outlet; and a purified water valve blocking step for blocking the purified water valve when the accumulated purified water discharging amount is greater than the total purified water discharging amount.

[0033] According to the present invention, a free temperature water discharge control method is provided, which discharges cold water and purified water in the amount of the total cold water discharge and the total purified water discharge, respectively, so that the temperature and amount of mixed water are equal to the target temperature and target water discharge.

[0034] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the water discharge step may be performed in the following order: the cold water valve opening step, the cold water valve blocking step, the pure water valve opening step, and the pure water valve blocking step.

[0035] According to one variation, the water discharge step may be performed in the following order: the water purification valve opening step, the water purification valve blocking step, the cold water valve opening step, and the cold water valve blocking step.

[0036] That is, the above water discharging step can be performed by discharging purified water after cold water discharging is completed, or by discharging cold water after purified water discharging is completed.

[0037] The total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount may be determined by reflecting the initial cooling temperature provided by the cooling temperature sensor included in the cold water module that produces cold water. The initial cooling temperature may accurately represent the initial temperature of the cold water discharged at the beginning of the cold water discharge, and may serve as a basis for predicting changes in the cold water temperature according to the accumulated cold water discharge amount.

[0038] The total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount may be determined by reflecting the inlet water temperature provided by the inlet temperature sensor that measures the temperature of purified water not cooled by the cold water module. Specifically, the inlet temperature sensor may be used as a basis for predicting changes in the cold water temperature with respect to the accumulated cold water discharge amount and / or determining the temperature of purified water.

[0039] At least one of the above relationship, the total cold water discharge amount, and the total purified water discharge amount can be determined by reflecting at least one of the temperature and amount of residual water remaining inside the water discharge unit.

[0040] The above-mentioned outlet may be provided with an outlet temperature sensor. At this time, the temperature of the residual water may be set based on the temperature measured by the outlet temperature sensor immediately before the outlet step.

[0041] The amount of the above residual water may be set to a predetermined value. The predetermined value may be determined according to the specific dimensions of the outlet.

[0042] The amount of the residual water may be included in at least one of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount. In other words, when calculating the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount, the amount of the residual water may be included in at least one of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount.

[0043]

[0044] Water Purifier Operation Algorithm 2 - Simultaneous Water Discharge Control

[0045] In a water purifier operation algorithm configured to operate a water purifier that can discharge water at a temperature set by a user through a water outlet in an amount set by a user, the operation algorithm comprises: a setting step in which a target temperature and a target water discharge amount are set;

[0046] A water purifier operation algorithm is provided, including a water discharge amount determination step for determining a total cold water discharge amount and a total purified water discharge amount based on the target temperature and the target water discharge amount; and a water discharge step for discharging cold water equivalent to the total cold water discharge amount and purified water equivalent to the total purified water discharge amount to provide the same to a user.

[0047] The above water discharging step includes: a cold water valve opening step for opening a cold water valve to supply cold water to the water outlet; a cold water valve blocking step for blocking the cold water valve when the accumulated cold water discharging amount is greater than the total cold water discharging amount; a purified water valve opening step for opening a purified water valve to supply purified water to the water outlet; and a purified water valve blocking step for blocking the purified water valve when the accumulated purified water discharging amount is greater than the total purified water discharging amount.

[0048] The present invention is characterized in that when one of the cold water valve and the purified water valve is referred to as a first valve and the other as a second valve, and accordingly one of the cold water valve opening step and the purified water valve opening step is referred to as a first valve opening step and the other as a second valve opening step, and one of the cold water valve blocking step and the purified water valve blocking step is referred to as a first valve blocking step and the other as a second valve blocking step, the second valve opening step is performed after the first valve opening step, and the second valve blocking step is performed before the first valve blocking step.

[0049] According to the present invention, there is no section where water is cut off and restarted between cold water and purified water dispensing, so that smooth and stable water dispensing is possible without water cutoff or water splashing caused by this.

[0050] The above water purifier operation algorithm may further include, between the setting step and the water discharging step, a water discharging order determining step of determining one of the cold water valve and the pure water valve as the first valve and the other as the second valve.

[0051] According to a second embodiment of the present invention, the water discharge order determining step may be performed after the water discharge amount determining step. At this time, in the water discharge order determining step, if the total cold water discharge amount is greater than the total purified water discharge amount, the first valve may be determined as the cold water valve and the second valve may be determined as the purified water valve, and if the total cold water discharge amount is less than the total purified water discharge amount, the first valve may be determined as the purified water valve and the second valve may be determined as the cold water valve. In other words, it may be determined that the one with the greater total discharge amount between the cold water and purified water is discharged first.

[0052] According to one variation, in the step of determining the water discharge order, if the target temperature is lower than the average of the cold water temperature and the purified water temperature, the first valve may be determined as the cold water valve and the second valve may be determined as the purified water valve, and if the target temperature is higher than the average of the cold water temperature and the purified water temperature, the first valve may be determined as the purified water valve and the second valve may be determined as the cold water valve. This is based on the premise that the cold water temperature and the purified water temperature are maintained constant as the cumulative discharge amount increases.

[0053] According to a second embodiment of the present invention, the second valve opening step is performed when the accumulated water discharge amount from the time the first valve opening step is performed is equal to or greater than the difference between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount, and the second valve closing step may be performed simultaneously with the first valve closing step. In this case, the difference between the amount of water discharged through the first valve and the amount of water discharged through the second valve becomes equal to the difference between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount.

[0054] According to one variation, the second valve shut-off step may be performed when the cumulative water discharge amount from the time the second valve opening step is performed is equal to or greater than twice the smaller value between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount. In this case, the amount of water discharged through the second valve becomes equal to the smaller value between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount. In this case, the second valve opening step may be performed simultaneously with the first valve opening step.

[0055]

[0056] According to the first modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention, the second valve opening step and the second valve closing step may be alternately repeated multiple times after the first valve opening step and before the first valve closing step. That is, in the water discharging step according to the present invention, the discharge of purified water may be repeatedly started and stopped multiple times during the discharge of cold water, or the discharge of cold water may be repeatedly started and stopped multiple times during the discharge of purified water.

[0057] According to the first modified example, the temperature of the discharged mixed water can be maintained close to the target temperature throughout the discharge process. Accordingly, even if the user stops dispensing water before the target discharge amount is reached, the user can receive water at a temperature close to the target temperature.

[0058] The sum of the accumulated water discharged while the second valve is open may be equal to twice the smaller value between the total cold water discharged and the total purified water discharged. In this case, the amount of water discharged through the second valve is equal to the smaller value between the total cold water discharged and the total purified water discharged.

[0059] The sum of the accumulated water discharged while the first valve is open and the second valve is closed may be equal to the difference between the total cold water discharged and the total purified water discharged. In this case, the difference between the amount of water discharged through the first valve and the amount of water discharged through the second valve is equal to the difference between the total cold water discharged and the total purified water discharged.

[0060] According to the first modified example, from the time the first valve opening step is performed, a cycle consisting of a resting step, the second valve opening step, and the second valve closing step can be repeatedly performed at a predetermined time period or for a predetermined accumulated water discharge amount.

[0061] Specifically, the cycle may be composed of the pause step, the second valve opening step, and the second valve closing step, in that order. In this case, when the number of repetitions of the cycle is N, in each cycle, the second valve opening step may be performed when the cumulative water discharge amount from the start of the pause step becomes equal to or greater than a value obtained by dividing the difference between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by N. Accordingly, in each cycle, the difference between the amount of water discharged through the first valve and the amount of water discharged through the second valve becomes equal to a value obtained by dividing the difference between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by N, and as a result, the difference between the total amount of water discharged through the first valve and the total amount of water discharged through the second valve becomes equal to the difference between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount.

[0062] According to another modified example, the cycle may be composed of the second valve opening step, the second valve closing step, and the pause step in that order. In this case, when the number of repetitions of the cycle is N, in each cycle, the second valve closing step may be performed when the cumulative water discharge amount from the time the second valve opening step is performed is equal to or greater than a value obtained by dividing twice the smaller value of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by N. Accordingly, the amount of water discharged through the second valve in each cycle is equal to a value obtained by dividing the smaller value of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by N, and as a result, the total amount of water discharged through the second valve is equal to a smaller value of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount.

[0063] The above water purifier operation algorithm may further include a repetition count determination step for determining the number of alternate repetitions of the second valve opening step and the second valve closing step before the water discharge step after the water discharge amount determination step.

[0064] In the above repetition number determination step, the repetition number can be determined as an integer less than or equal to the difference between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount divided by a predetermined minimum water discharge amount.

[0065] Preferably, in the step of determining the number of repetitions, the number of repetitions may be determined as the maximum value among integers less than or equal to the difference between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount divided by a predetermined minimum water discharge amount.

[0066] Alternatively, in the step of determining the number of repetitions, the number of repetitions may be determined as an integer less than or equal to a value obtained by dividing twice the smaller value between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by a predetermined minimum water discharge amount.

[0067] Preferably, in the step of determining the number of repetitions, the number of repetitions may be determined as the maximum value among integers less than or equal to a value obtained by dividing twice the smaller value among the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by a predetermined minimum water discharge amount.

[0068] At this time, the minimum water discharge amount may be set in consideration of the range of water discharge amount required for the accurate operation of the flow sensor measuring the flow rate of the discharged water. For example, the minimum water discharge amount may be 30 mL or more, and preferably 40 mL or more.

[0069]

[0070] [Water Purifier Operation Algorithm 3 - Determining Cold Water Dispensing Amount]

[0071] The present invention provides a water purifier operation algorithm for operating a water purifier configured to discharge water at a temperature set by a user through a water discharge port in an amount set by the user, the algorithm comprising: a setting step for setting a target temperature and a target water discharge amount; a relationship determining step for determining a relationship representing a relationship between a cumulative cold water temperature and a cumulative cold water discharge amount by reflecting an initial cooling temperature provided from a cooling temperature sensor included in a cold water module that produces cold water; a total cold water discharge amount determining step for determining the total cold water discharge amount based on an inlet water temperature provided from an inlet temperature sensor that measures the temperature of purified water that has not been cooled by the cold water module, the target temperature, the target water discharge amount, and the relationship; a total purified water discharge amount determining step for determining the total purified water discharge amount by reflecting the total cold water discharge amount; and a water discharge step for discharging cold water in an amount equal to the total cold water discharge amount and purified water in an amount equal to the total purified water discharge amount to provide the users.

[0072] Typically, a chilled water module, which cools purified water to produce chilled water, experiences a gradual increase in temperature as it exchanges heat with purified water. Consequently, the temperature of the chilled water discharged through the chilled water module also gradually increases. According to the present invention, by predicting the change in chilled water temperature due to an increase in the cumulative chilled water discharge volume based on the initial cooling temperature, the target temperature can be more accurately achieved.

[0073] According to the present invention, the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount can be calculated by using the fact that the total heat of the final mixed water is equal to the sum of the total heat of the final cold water discharged and the total heat of the final purified water discharged.

[0074] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the cold water module may include: a cold water tank; cooling water contained in the cold water tank; an evaporator contained in the cold water tank and cooling the cooling water; and a cold water coil passing through the inside of the cold water tank and cooled by the cooling water, through which purified water flows. At this time, the cooling temperature sensor may be configured to measure the temperature of the cooling water.

[0075] According to one variation, the cold water module may include: a cold water tank into which purified water flows and cold water flows; and an evaporator accommodated in the cold water tank and configured to cool the purified water to produce cold water. In this case, the cooling temperature sensor may be configured to measure the temperature of water flowing inside the cold water tank.

[0076] The above relationship may be determined by additionally reflecting at least one of the external air temperature and the inlet water temperature of the water purifier. In addition to these, any variable that may affect the production of cold water through heat exchange between the purified water and the cold water module may be reflected in the determination of the above relationship.

[0077] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the above relationship can express the accumulated cold water temperature as a function of the accumulated cold water discharge amount.

[0078] Alternatively, the above relationship may be expressed as a function of the cumulative cold water discharge amount, where the difference between the cumulative cold water temperature and the initial cooling temperature is expressed as a function of the cumulative cold water discharge amount, or the difference between the cumulative cold water temperature and the inlet temperature is expressed as a function of the cumulative cold water discharge amount.

[0079] The above relationship can be obtained theoretically or experimentally.

[0080] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the above relationship can be determined as one of a plurality of relationship equations obtained through experiments.

[0081] At this time, the plurality of relational expressions may include a data chart showing the correspondence between the cumulative cold water discharge amount and the cumulative cold water temperature measured under different conditions, or a formula obtained through mathematical approximation therefrom.

[0082] At this time, the different conditions may include a difference in at least one of the initial cooling temperature, the inlet temperature, and the external temperature of the water purifier.

[0083] At least one of the above relationship, the total cold water discharge amount, and the total purified water discharge amount may be determined by reflecting at least one of the temperature and amount of residual water remaining within the discharge unit. This is because, especially when the previous discharge was hot water, the residual water may significantly affect the accumulated cold water temperature by exchanging heat with the discharged cold water.

[0084] The above-mentioned outlet may be provided with an outlet temperature sensor. At this time, the temperature of the residual water may be set based on the temperature measured by the outlet temperature sensor immediately before the outlet step.

[0085] The amount of the above residual water may be set to a predetermined value. The predetermined value may be determined according to the specific dimensions of the outlet.

[0086] The amount of the residual water may be included in at least one of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount. In other words, when calculating the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount, the amount of the residual water may be included in at least one of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount.

[0087] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the water discharging step may include: a cold water valve opening step for opening a cold water valve to supply cold water to the water outlet; a cold water valve blocking step for blocking the cold water valve when the accumulated cold water discharging amount is greater than the total cold water discharging amount; a purified water valve opening step for opening a purified water valve to supply purified water to the water outlet; and a purified water valve blocking step for blocking the purified water valve when the accumulated purified water discharging amount is greater than the total purified water discharging amount.

[0088]

[0089] Water Purifier Operation Algorithm 4 - Real-Time Water Discharge Control

[0090] The present invention provides a water purifier operation algorithm for operating a water purifier configured to discharge water at a temperature set by a user through a water outlet in an amount set by the user, the algorithm including: a setting step for setting a target temperature and a target water discharge amount; a cold water valve opening step for opening a cold water valve to supply cold water to the water outlet; a cold water valve blocking step for blocking the cold water valve; a water purification valve opening step for opening a water valve to supply purified water to the water outlet; and a water purification valve blocking step for blocking the water purification valve on the condition that the accumulated water discharge amount is greater than the target water discharge amount.

[0091] The above water purifier operation algorithm is characterized in that, after the cold water valve opening step, a predicted mixed temperature is calculated by assuming the cumulative cold water temperature calculated in real time multiple times as the final cold water temperature and the cumulative cold water discharge amount measured in real time as the total cold water discharge amount, and the cold water valve shut-off step is performed under the condition that the predicted mixed temperature is lower than the target temperature.

[0092] According to the present invention, a water discharge control method is provided that can discharge mixed water of an accurate temperature and capacity without being affected by various variables that may affect the temperature of cold water by measuring the temperature of cold water in real time as the accumulated discharge amount increases and reflecting this in the discharge control.

[0093] In order to minimize water interruption between cold water discharge and purified water discharge, it is preferable that the purified water valve opening step be performed simultaneously with or after the cold water valve closing step.

[0094] In the water purifier operation algorithm according to the third embodiment of the present invention, the cumulative cold water discharge amount when the predicted mixed temperature becomes lower than the target temperature can be determined as the total cold water discharge amount.

[0095] The above total purified water discharge amount can be determined as the difference between the above target water discharge amount and the above total cold water discharge amount.

[0096] According to a third embodiment of the present invention, the predicted mixing temperature can be calculated by reflecting the inlet temperature provided from an inlet temperature sensor that measures the temperature of uncooled purified water.

[0097] Prediction of the above predicted mixing temperature can be performed at predetermined time intervals.

[0098] The above-mentioned accumulated cold water temperature can be calculated based on the average of the instantaneous water discharge temperatures measured at each predetermined time period, assuming that the water discharge flow rate is constant over time.

[0099] According to a third embodiment of the present invention, the accumulated cold water temperature can be calculated based on the instantaneous water discharge temperature and instantaneous water discharge amount measured at each predetermined time period. Specifically, the accumulated cold water discharge amount can be calculated as the sum total of the instantaneous water discharge amounts measured up to the time of calculation, and the accumulated cold water temperature can be calculated by utilizing the fact that the total heat amount of the mixed water discharged up to the time of calculation is equal to the sum total of the heat amounts of the water discharged at each predetermined time period.

[0100] According to one variation, the prediction of the predicted mixed temperature may be performed for each predetermined cumulative discharge amount. In this case, the cumulative cold water temperature may be calculated based on the average of the instantaneous discharge temperatures measured for each predetermined cumulative cold water discharge amount.

[0101] According to a third embodiment of the present invention, the instantaneous water outlet temperature can be measured by at least one of a water outlet temperature sensor provided at the water outlet and a cold water temperature sensor connected to the rear end of a cold water module where cold water is produced.

[0102] Alternatively, the instantaneous water outlet temperature may be calculated based on the cooling temperature measured from a cooling temperature sensor included inside the cooling water module where the cold water is produced.

[0103] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the cold water module may include: a cold water tank; cooling water contained in the cold water tank; an evaporator contained in the cold water tank and cooling the cooling water; and a cold water coil passing through the inside of the cold water tank and cooled by the cooling water, through which purified water flows. At this time, the cooling temperature sensor may be configured to measure the temperature of the cooling water.

[0104] According to one variation, the cold water module may include: a cold water tank into which purified water flows and cold water flows; and an evaporator accommodated in the cold water tank and configured to cool the purified water to produce cold water. In this case, the cooling temperature sensor may be configured to measure the temperature of water flowing inside the cold water tank.

[0105] The instantaneous water discharge amount can be calculated based on the flow rate measured over the predetermined period from the flow rate sensor included in the water purifier. The flow rate sensor may be installed to measure the flow rate of cold water only, or may be installed to measure the flow rates of both cold water and purified water simultaneously.

[0106]

[0107] [Production Algorithm 1 - Calculating the Minimum and Maximum Possible Temperatures]

[0108] The present invention provides a calculation algorithm for calculating a range of possible water discharge temperatures of a water purifier configured to discharge water at a temperature set by a user through a water discharge port in an amount set by the user, the calculation algorithm comprising: a target water discharge amount setting step in which a target water discharge amount is determined as a preset value or input by a user; a relationship determining step in which a relationship representing a relationship between a cumulative cold water temperature and a cumulative cold water discharge amount is determined by reflecting an initial cooling temperature provided from a cooling temperature sensor included in a cold water module that produces cold water; a first calculation step in which a minimum possible temperature is calculated based on the target water discharge amount and the relationship; and a second calculation step in which a maximum possible temperature is calculated based on an inlet water temperature provided from an inlet temperature sensor that measures the temperature of purified water that has not been cooled by the cold water module.

[0109] According to the present invention, when a target water discharge volume is set, an algorithm is provided for calculating the highest possible temperature and the lowest possible temperature at which water can be discharged in accordance with the target water discharge volume. Specifically, according to the present invention, the lowest possible temperature is calculated assuming that the target water discharge volume is equal to the total cold water discharge volume, and the highest possible temperature is calculated assuming that the target water discharge volume is equal to the total purified water discharge volume.

[0110] At this time, the present invention can reflect the change in the discharge temperature that may occur in the process of the discharged water exchanging heat with the cold water module and the discharge unit.

[0111] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the cold water module may include: a cold water tank; cooling water contained in the cold water tank; an evaporator contained in the cold water tank and cooling the cooling water; and a cold water coil passing through the inside of the cold water tank and cooled by the cooling water, through which purified water flows. At this time, the cooling temperature sensor may be configured to measure the temperature of the cooling water.

[0112] According to one variation, the cold water module may include: a cold water tank into which purified water flows and cold water flows; and an evaporator accommodated in the cold water tank and configured to cool the purified water to produce cold water. In this case, the cooling temperature sensor may be configured to measure the temperature of water flowing inside the cold water tank.

[0113] The above minimum possible temperature can be calculated by substituting the target water discharge amount into the above relational expression. At this time, the relational expression can be data indicating the correspondence between the accumulated cold water temperature and the accumulated cold water discharge amount, or a formula expressing the accumulated cold water temperature as a function of the accumulated cold water discharge amount.

[0114] The above relationship may be determined by additionally reflecting at least one of the external air temperature and the inlet water temperature of the water purifier. In addition to these, any variable that may affect the production of cold water through heat exchange between the purified water and the cold water module may be reflected in the determination of the above relationship.

[0115] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the above relationship can express the accumulated cold water temperature as a function of the accumulated cold water discharge amount.

[0116] Alternatively, the above relationship may be expressed as a function of the cumulative cold water discharge amount, where the difference between the cumulative cold water temperature and the initial cooling temperature is expressed as a function of the cumulative cold water discharge amount, or the difference between the cumulative cold water temperature and the inlet temperature is expressed as a function of the cumulative cold water discharge amount.

[0117] The above relationship can be obtained theoretically or experimentally.

[0118] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the above relationship can be determined as one of a plurality of relationship equations obtained through experiments.

[0119] At this time, the plurality of relational expressions may include a data chart showing the correspondence between the cumulative cold water discharge amount and the cumulative cold water temperature measured under different conditions, or a formula obtained through mathematical approximation therefrom.

[0120] At this time, the different conditions may include a difference in at least one of the initial cooling temperature, the inlet temperature, and the external temperature of the water purifier.

[0121] The above-mentioned outlet may be provided with an outlet temperature sensor. At this time, at least one of the minimum possible temperature and the maximum possible temperature may be calculated by reflecting the outlet temperature measured by the outlet temperature sensor. This is to reflect the temperature change that may occur as the outlet water exchanges heat with the outlet. The outlet temperature has a greater influence, especially when the immediately preceding outlet was hot water.

[0122] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the lowest possible temperature and the highest possible temperature can be calculated by reflecting the amount of heat exchange according to the difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature.

[0123] At this time, the amount of heat exchange according to the difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature may include a data chart obtained through an experiment or a formula obtained through mathematical approximation therefrom.

[0124]

[0125] [Output Algorithm 2 - Calculating the Maximum Possible Output]

[0126] The present invention provides a calculation algorithm for calculating the maximum water discharge amount of a water purifier configured to discharge water at a temperature set by a user through a water discharge unit in an amount set by the user, the calculation algorithm including: a target temperature setting step for receiving a target temperature input from a user; a relational expression determining step for determining a relational expression representing the relationship between the cumulative cold water temperature and the cumulative cold water discharge amount by reflecting an initial cooling temperature provided from a cooling temperature sensor included in a cold water module that produces cold water; and a calculation step for calculating the maximum possible water discharge amount based on the target temperature and the relational expression.

[0127] According to the present invention, when a target temperature is set, an algorithm is provided for calculating the maximum possible water discharge amount that can be discharged at the target temperature. Specifically, according to the present invention, the maximum possible water discharge amount is calculated as the cumulative water discharge amount until the target temperature is reached by discharging only cold water. In this case, the present invention can reflect changes in the discharge temperature that may occur during the process of the discharged water exchanging heat with the cold water module and the discharge port.

[0128] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the cold water module may include: a cold water tank; cooling water contained in the cold water tank; an evaporator contained in the cold water tank and cooling the cooling water; and a cold water coil passing through the inside of the cold water tank and cooled by the cooling water, through which purified water flows. At this time, the cooling temperature sensor may be configured to measure the temperature of the cooling water.

[0129] According to one variation, the cold water module may include: a cold water tank into which purified water flows and cold water flows; and an evaporator accommodated in the cold water tank and configured to cool the purified water to produce cold water. In this case, the cooling temperature sensor may be configured to measure the temperature of water flowing inside the cold water tank.

[0130] The above maximum possible water discharge amount can be calculated by substituting the target temperature into the above relational expression. In this case, the relational expression may be data indicating a correspondence between the accumulated cold water temperature and the accumulated cold water discharge amount, or an equation indicating the accumulated cold water discharge amount as a function of the accumulated cold water temperature.

[0131] The above relationship may be determined by additionally reflecting at least one of the external air temperature and the inlet water temperature of the water purifier. In addition to these, any variable that may affect the production of cold water through heat exchange between the purified water and the cold water module may be reflected in the determination of the above relationship.

[0132] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the above relationship can express the accumulated cold water temperature as a function of the accumulated cold water discharge amount.

[0133] Alternatively, the above relationship may be expressed as a function of the cumulative cold water discharge amount, where the difference between the cumulative cold water temperature and the initial cooling temperature is expressed as a function of the cumulative cold water discharge amount, or the difference between the cumulative cold water temperature and the inlet temperature is expressed as a function of the cumulative cold water discharge amount.

[0134] The above relationship can be obtained theoretically or experimentally.

[0135] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the above relationship can be determined as one of a plurality of relationship equations obtained through experiments.

[0136] At this time, the plurality of relational expressions may include a data chart showing the correspondence between the cumulative cold water discharge amount and the cumulative cold water temperature measured under different conditions, or a formula obtained through mathematical approximation therefrom.

[0137] At this time, the different conditions may include a difference in at least one of the initial cooling temperature, the inlet temperature, and the external temperature of the water purifier.

[0138] The above-mentioned outlet may be equipped with an outlet temperature sensor. In this case, the maximum water discharge amount may be calculated by reflecting the outlet temperature measured by the outlet temperature sensor. This is to reflect the temperature change that may occur as the discharged water exchanges heat with the outlet. The temperature of the outlet has a greater influence, especially when the previous discharge was hot water.

[0139] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the lowest possible temperature and the highest possible temperature can be calculated by reflecting the amount of heat exchange according to the difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature.

[0140] At this time, the amount of heat exchange according to the difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature may include a data chart obtained through an experiment or a formula obtained through mathematical approximation therefrom.

[0141]

[0142] [Output Algorithm 3 - Real-time calculation of cumulative water discharge temperature and cumulative water discharge volume]

[0143] The present invention provides a calculation algorithm for calculating at least one of a cumulative water discharge temperature and a cumulative water discharge amount in a water purifier configured to discharge water at a temperature set by a user through a water discharge unit in an amount set by the user, wherein the calculation algorithm is characterized in that, after water discharge starts, an instantaneous water discharge temperature is measured at each predetermined time period or each predetermined cumulative water discharge amount through a water discharge unit temperature sensor provided at the water discharge unit, and the cumulative water discharge temperature is calculated based on the measured value of the instantaneous water discharge temperature accumulated at each predetermined time period or each predetermined cumulative water discharge amount.

[0144] According to the present invention, since the cumulative discharge temperature and cumulative discharge amount are calculated in real time while the discharge is in progress, there is an advantage in that the temperature and amount of the provided mixed water can be known even if the user stops the discharge in the middle.

[0145] The above cumulative discharge temperature can be calculated based on the average of the instantaneous discharge temperatures measured at each predetermined time period, assuming that the discharge flow rate is constant over time.

[0146] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the accumulated water discharge temperature can be calculated based on the instantaneous water discharge temperature and instantaneous water discharge amount measured at each predetermined time period. Specifically, the accumulated water discharge amount can be calculated as the sum total of the instantaneous water discharge amounts measured up to the time of calculation, and the accumulated water discharge temperature can be calculated by utilizing the fact that the total heat amount of the mixed water discharged up to the time of calculation is equal to the sum total of the heat amounts of the water discharged at each predetermined time period.

[0147] According to one variation, the cumulative discharge temperature can be calculated based on the average of the instantaneous discharge temperatures measured for each predetermined cumulative discharge amount.

[0148]

[0149] [Composition of input section, display section, and control section]

[0150] The present invention provides a structure of a water purifier including: a water supply channel for providing cold water and purified water; a water outlet provided at an end of the water supply channel and discharging water at a temperature set by a user; an input unit configured to enable a user to turn a free temperature mode on or off and configured to enable a user to set a target temperature when the free temperature mode is on; and a control unit for controlling the water supply channel so that cold water and purified water are discharged to the water outlet based on the target temperature and the set target water outlet amount.

[0151] According to the present invention, an interface for a water purifier is provided that can accurately guide the available water temperature and amount while allowing the user to conveniently use the interface.

[0152] When the above free temperature mode is turned on, the target water output amount can be set to a predetermined basic water output amount. According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the basic water output amount can be 120 mL.

[0153] The input unit may be configured to allow a user to change the target water output amount. The input unit may include, for example, a button, dial, touch panel, or the like that the user can operate to change the target water output amount.

[0154] The above input unit may include a voice input unit configured to recognize the user's voice and set the target temperature and the target water output amount. The voice input unit may be configured to recognize the user's voice and process it to generate information related to the water to be output, or may be connected to a separate control unit that performs such a function.

[0155] The above voice input unit can be configured to recognize the user's voice regarding the intended use of the water to be provided and set the target temperature and target water output amount according to the intended use.

[0156] The above voice input unit may be configured to set at least one of a target TDS and a target pH suitable for the purpose. In this case, the control unit may control the water supply path so that water is discharged according to the setting of the voice input unit.

[0157] The water purifier may further include a display configured to display the maximum possible water output when the user sets the target temperature. In this case, the control unit may be configured to calculate the maximum possible water output based on the target temperature.

[0158] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the control unit can calculate the maximum possible water discharge amount by reflecting at least one of an initial cooling temperature provided from a cooling temperature sensor included in a cooling water module that produces cold water, an inlet temperature provided from an inlet temperature sensor that measures the temperature of uncooled purified water, and an outlet temperature measured from an outlet temperature sensor provided in the outlet.

[0159] The water purifier may further include a display configured to display at least one of a minimum possible temperature and a maximum possible temperature when a user sets the target water output amount. In this case, the control unit may be configured to calculate at least one of the minimum possible temperature and the maximum possible temperature based on the target water output amount.

[0160] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the control unit can calculate at least one of the lowest possible temperature and the highest possible temperature by reflecting at least one of the initial cooling temperature provided from a cooling temperature sensor included in a cooling water module that produces cold water, the inlet temperature provided from an inlet temperature sensor that measures the temperature of uncooled purified water, and the outlet temperature measured from an outlet temperature sensor provided in the outlet.

[0161] The water purifier may further include a display unit that displays in real time at least one of the cumulative discharge temperature and the cumulative discharge amount of water discharged through the discharge unit. In this case, the control unit may be configured to calculate in real time at least one of the cumulative discharge temperature and the total cumulative discharge amount.

[0162] The present invention provides a structure of a water purifier capable of mixing cold water and purified water and dispensing water at a temperature freely set by a user, and an operating method thereof.

[0163] The present invention can also provide a structure for arranging and connecting sensors on a water supply path that can accurately monitor the temperature, temperature change, and flow rate of cold water and purified water and reflect the same in water discharge control.

[0164] The present invention also provides a structure and operating method of a water purifier capable of more accurately determining the water discharge amount and implementing an accurate target temperature through the information provided from the above-mentioned sensors.

[0165] The present invention also provides a structure and control method of a water purifier that reduces or prevents inconveniences such as water cut-off or water splashing caused by opening and closing of a valve during the water dispensing process.

[0166] Another advantage of the present invention lies in the provision of a physical interface through which a user can input or recognize various information in order to utilize the free temperature function, and a software interface that can process the input information or provide useful information to the user.

[0167] In addition, the present invention may have various other effects, which will be described in each embodiment, or the description of effects that can be easily inferred by a person skilled in the art will be omitted.

[0168] Figures 1 and 2 show the appearance of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0169] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing a water supply path of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0170] Figures 4 and 5 show the structures of different types of cold water modules.

[0171] Figure 6 shows a water purifier operation algorithm according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0172] Figure 7 shows a method for performing a setting step according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0173] Figure 8 shows a method for calculating the highest possible temperature and the lowest possible temperature according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0174] Figure 9 shows a relationship between the cumulative cold water discharge amount and the cumulative discharge temperature according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and a calculation formula for the highest possible temperature and the lowest possible temperature based on the relationship.

[0175] Figure 10 shows a method for calculating the maximum possible output amount according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0176] Figure 11 shows a relationship between the cumulative cold water discharge amount and the cumulative discharge temperature in the first embodiment of the present invention, and a calculation formula for the maximum possible discharge amount based on the relationship.

[0177] Figure 12 shows a method for determining the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0178] Figure 13 shows a relationship between the cumulative cold water discharge amount and the cumulative discharge temperature according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and a calculation formula for the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount based on the relationship.

[0179] Figure 14 shows a method for performing a water extraction step according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0180] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing the method of performing Figure 14.

[0181] Figure 16 shows a calculation formula for real-time cumulative discharge temperature and real-time cumulative discharge amount according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0182] Figure 17 shows a method for performing a water extraction step according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0183] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing the method of performing Figure 17.

[0184] Figure 19 shows a method for performing a different extraction step in a first modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0185] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram showing the method of performing Figure 19.

[0186] Figure 21 shows a water purifier operation algorithm according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0187] Figure 22 shows a relationship between the cumulative cold water discharge amount and the predicted mixing temperature according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and a calculation formula for the predicted mixing temperature based on the relationship.

[0188] [Explanation of symbols]

[0189] WP: Water purifier WO: Water outlet I1~I5: 1st~5th input D: Display part 11: Water inlet F: Filter FS: Flow sensor IS: Water inlet temperature sensor 121: Branch part V: Multi-valve 122: Joint part 131: Cold water path CM: Cold water module T: Cold water tank CW: Cold water C: Cooling water CC: Cold water coil E: Evaporator CS: Cooling temperature sensor 132: Water purifier path H: Heater 14: Water outlet OS: Water outlet temperature sensor

[0190] 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 idea of ​​the present invention. In describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of known technologies related to the present invention may 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.

[0191] Although the terms "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a "first" component may also be a "second" component.

[0192] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0193] Hereinafter, the phrase "any configuration is placed on (or below)" a component or "on (or below)" a component may mean that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of said component, and that other configurations may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0194] Additionally, when it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected or connected to one another, but that other components may also be "interposed" between the components, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through another component.

[0195] 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.

[0196] 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 to D", this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0197] Throughout the specification, “water purifier” means any type of water treatment device configured to discharge purified and cold water, including those incorporated into other devices such as refrigerators.

[0198] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0199]

[0200] [Definition of Terms]

[0201] Hereinafter, as well as throughout this specification, each term described below may have the following definitions. However, the following definitions for each term are intended to aid understanding of the invention and should not be taken as strict. The true meaning of each term should be determined as a result of reasonable inference by a person skilled in the art based on the technical context in which the term is used.

[0202] Free temperature mode: An operating mode of the water purifier in which the user can freely select the temperature of the water being dispensed within a certain range.

[0203] Target Temperature: The final temperature at which the user wishes to receive the water.

[0204] Target water output: The total amount of water the user ultimately wants to receive.

[0205] Total Cold Water Discharge: The total amount of cold water that should be discharged or actually discharged until discharge is complete.

[0206] Total Integer Discharge: The total amount of integer that must be discharged or is actually discharged until discharge is complete.

[0207] Final Cold Water Temperature: The mixed temperature of cold water that should be discharged or actually discharged before discharge is complete.

[0208] Final water temperature: The temperature at which only the water should be withdrawn or is actually withdrawn before the water is completely withdrawn.

[0209] Final Mixed Temperature: The total mixed temperature of the cold water and purified water being dispensed until the water is completely dispensed.

[0210] Cumulative water discharge: Total amount of water discharged up to the time of measurement.

[0211] Cumulative cold water discharge: Total amount of cold water discharged up to the time of measurement.

[0212] Cumulative water discharge: The total amount of water discharged up to the time of measurement.

[0213] Cumulative discharge temperature: Mixed temperature of the discharged water up to the measurement point.

[0214] Cumulative cold water temperature: Mixed temperature of only the cold water discharged up to the measurement point.

[0215] Accumulated water temperature: Mixed temperature of only the water discharged up to the measurement point.

[0216] Instantaneous water output: The amount of water output during a given period, measured at regular intervals.

[0217] Instantaneous water discharge temperature: The temperature of the water discharged during a given cycle, measured at regular intervals.

[0218] Minimum possible temperature: The lowest temperature at which water can be discharged to meet the set target discharge amount.

[0219] Maximum Possible Temperature: The highest temperature at which water can be discharged to meet the set target discharge volume.

[0220] Maximum possible water output: The maximum amount of water that can be output at the set target temperature.

[0221] Inlet Temperature: The temperature measured by the inlet temperature sensor or the temperature representing the temperature of the uncooled water.

[0222] Cooling Temperature: The temperature measured by the cooling temperature sensor or the temperature representing the temperature of the chilled water discharged from the chilled water module.

[0223] Initial cooling temperature: The temperature measured by the cooling temperature sensor before water dispensing begins, or the temperature representing the initial cold water temperature at the time of dispensing.

[0224] Relationship: Any form of information that represents the correspondence between two variables, including data charts, formulas, etc.

[0225]

[0226] [Example 1]

[0227] Hereinafter, the structure and operation algorithm of a water purifier according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0228]

[0229] [Structure of the water purifier's exterior, input section, and display section]

[0230] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the appearance of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to these drawings, a water purifier (WP) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a water outlet (WO) for discharging cold water and / or purified water, an input unit (I1 to I5) for receiving a user's command or information, and a display unit (D) for displaying information to the user.

[0231] The above-mentioned water outlet (WO) can be connected to the water outlet of the water supply path described later.

[0232] At least some of the input units (I1 to I5) may be provided as an integral part with at least some of the display units (D). For example, some of the input units (I1 to I5) and some of the display units (D) may be implemented as a single touch panel.

[0233] The above input units (I1 to I5) may have multiple functions and may have multiple corresponding parts. In particular, the first to fifth input units (I1 to I5) described below may be configured in software within a single unit, such as a touch panel.

[0234] The above input units (I1 to I5) may include a first input unit (I1) configured to turn on or off a free temperature mode in which a user can freely select the temperature of the discharged water within a predetermined range. The first input unit (I1) may be, for example, a toggle switch.

[0235] The above input units (I1 to I5) may include a second input unit (I2) configured to enable a user to input a target temperature and / or a target water output amount. The second input unit (I2) may be, for example, a dial that a user can rotate.

[0236] The above input units (I1 to I5) may include a third input unit (I3) through which the user can input other properties related to the discharged water, such as whether the discharged water is purified water, cold water, or hot water, whether the ice discharge mode is in operation, and settings related to the pH or TDS of the discharged water.

[0237] The above input units (I1 to I5) may include a fourth input unit (I4) configured to input an operation for starting or ending the dispensing. The fourth input unit (I4) may be, for example, a lever that can be pushed using a button or a cup.

[0238] The above input units (I1 to I5) may include a fifth input unit (I5) configured to recognize a user's voice. The fifth input unit (I5) may include a microphone capable of receiving voice, and may be connected to a processing unit or control unit that recognizes and processes natural language and receives commands.

[0239] The fifth input unit (I5) may be configured to recognize the user's voice regarding the intended use of the water. The fifth input unit (I5) may be configured to set at least one of the pH, TDS, temperature, and water discharge amount of the water according to the intended use input by the user. In addition, the fifth input unit (I5) may be configured to recognize the user's voice to turn the free temperature mode on and off, or start or stop the water discharge operation.

[0240] The above display unit (D) can display information about the water being dispensed to the user. For example, the display unit (D) can display preset values ​​and / or user-set values ​​for the temperature, discharge amount, pH, TDS, etc. of the dispensed water.

[0241] The above water purifier (WP) may include a control unit (not shown) for controlling the operation of a water supply path, which will be described later, based on information received from the input units (I1 to I5). The control unit may include one or more circuit boards, and may be a single system including a plurality of control units, each having a different function. The control unit may be connected to the input units (I1 to I5) and the display unit (D) to control their operation.

[0242]

[0243] [Structure of water supply path and cooling water module]

[0244] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing a water supply path of a water purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to this, the water purifier (WP) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a water supply path that receives raw water and provides purified water and cold water.

[0245] The above water supply path includes an outlet (14) for discharging cold water and purified water and an inlet (11) for supplying raw water.

[0246] A filter (F) that purifies raw water and produces purified water is installed in the above-mentioned water intake section (11).

[0247] The above water supply path may include a cold water path (131) connecting the water inlet (11) and the water outlet (14). A cold water module (CM) that cools purified water to produce cold water may be installed in the cold water path (131).

[0248] The above water supply path may include a cold water valve that selectively allows purified water to flow into the cold water path (131) and cold water to flow out from the cold water path (131). As the cold water valve is opened or closed, water may or may not flow through the cold water path (131) to the water outlet (14).

[0249] In one example, the cold water valve may be installed in the cold water passage (131). At this time, the cold water passage (131) may include a first portion connected to an inlet end of the cold water module (CM) and a second portion connected to an outlet end of the cold water module (CM), and the cold water valve may be installed in the first portion and / or the second portion of the cold water passage (131).

[0250] The above water supply path may include a purified water path (132) connecting the water inlet (11) and the water outlet (14). Uncooled purified water may flow through the purified water path (132).

[0251] A heating module (HM) for heating purified water to produce hot water may be installed in the above-mentioned water passage (132). Depending on whether the heating module (HM) is in operation, purified water may flow into the above-mentioned water passage (132), and purified water or hot water may flow out.

[0252] The above water supply path may include a water purification valve that selectively allows the inflow of purified water into the water purification path (132) and the outflow of purified water or hot water from the water purification path (132). As the water purification valve is opened or closed, water may or may not flow through the water purification path (132) to the water outlet (14).

[0253] The above water supply path may include a branch portion (121) connecting the outlet of the water inlet (11), the inlet of the cold water path (131), and the inlet of the purified water path (132). In other words, the water supply path may have a structure in which it branches into the cold water path (131) and the purified water path (132) at the end of the water inlet (11).

[0254] The above water supply path may include a joint (122) connecting the inlet of the water outlet (14), the outlet of the cold water path (131), and the outlet of the purified water path (132). In other words, the ends of the cold water path (131) and the purified water path (132) may be joined to each other and connected to the water outlet (14).

[0255] The branch section (121) may be provided with a multi-valve (V) including the cold water valve and the purified water valve. Specifically, the multi-valve (V) may have one inlet connected to the water inlet (11) and a pair of outlets respectively connected to the cold water path (131) and the purified water path (132), and the pair of outlets may be individually openable and closeable. When the multi-valve (V) is provided in the branch section (121), there is an advantage in that it is more suitable in terms of internal pressure design and reliability of the cold water module (CM).

[0256] Alternatively, the multi-valve may be installed in the joint portion (122) rather than the branch portion (121). In this case, there is an advantage in that the temperature of the discharged cold water can be accurately measured because purified water or residual water does not flow into the section after the cold water module (CM) in the cold water passage (131).

[0257] Alternatively, the cold water valve and the purified water valve may be installed in the cold water path and the purified water path, respectively, instead of forming a single multi-valve.

[0258] Figures 4 and 5 illustrate the structures of different types of cooling modules. Referring to these drawings, the cooling module (CM) can have various structures.

[0259] For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the cold water module (CM) may have a structure in which purified water flows into a cold water tank (T) that accommodates an evaporator (E), is cooled by the evaporator (E), and flows out as cold water.

[0260] In this case, the cold water module (CM) can start supplying cold water stored in the cold water tank (T) to the water outlet (14) in response to a cold water discharge request. At this time, the cold water valve is installed in the second part of the cold water passage (131) to control the amount of cold water supplied from the outlet of the cold water module (CM) to the water outlet (14).

[0261] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 5, the cold water module (CM) may have a structure in which an evaporator (E), cooling water (C) cooled by the evaporator, and a cold water coil (CC) cooled by the cooling water are accommodated in a cold water tank (T), and cold water is produced and discharged as purified water flowing into the cold water coil (CC) is cooled.

[0262] In this case, the cold water module (CM) can start producing cold water by receiving purified water in response to a cold water discharge request. At this time, the cold water valve is installed in the first part of the cold water passage (131) to control the amount of purified water supplied from the inlet (11) to the inlet of the cold water module (CM).

[0263] Referring again to FIG. 3, the feed water path includes an inlet temperature sensor (IS) for measuring the temperature of the uncooled purified water, i.e., the inlet temperature.

[0264] The above-described inlet temperature sensor (IS) may be installed in the inlet (11). In particular, the inlet temperature sensor (IS) is preferably installed after the filter (F) in order to measure the inlet temperature more accurately by reflecting the temperature change that may occur while passing through the filter (F). Specifically, in the present embodiment, the inlet temperature sensor (IS) may be installed between the filter (F) and the branch (121). In this case, the inlet temperature sensor (IS) has the advantage of being able to accurately measure the temperature of purified water supplied to the cold water passage (131) and the purified water passage (132).

[0265] However, the inlet temperature sensor (IS) can be installed anywhere where uncooled purified water flows, regardless of its name. For example, the inlet temperature sensor (IS) can be installed in the purified water passage (132). In this case, the temperature value measured by the inlet temperature sensor (IS) has the advantage of more accurately representing the temperature of the purified water flowing through the purified water passage (132).

[0266] The above-mentioned water supply path may include a cooling temperature sensor (CS) included in the cooling water module (CM) to measure the cooling temperature. The cooling temperature sensor (CS) may play an important role in measuring or predicting the temperature of the discharged cold water.

[0267] When the above-described cold water module (CM) has a structure as shown in Fig. 4, the cooling temperature sensor (CS) can measure the temperature of the water flowing inside the cold water tank (T). In particular, the cooling temperature sensor (CS) is preferably positioned close to the outlet through which the water flows out. Accordingly, the cooling temperature measured by the cooling temperature sensor (CS) can more accurately represent the temperature of the cold water flowing out from the cold water module (CM).

[0268] When the above-mentioned cold water module (CM) has a structure as in Fig. 5, the cooling temperature sensor (CS) can measure the temperature of the cooling water contained in the cold water tank (T). When sufficient time has passed before the cold water is discharged, the cold water coil (CC) reaches thermal equilibrium with the cooling water (C), so the initial cooling temperature measured by the cooling temperature sensor (CS) can accurately represent the temperature of the cold water discharged at least at the beginning of the entire water discharge process.

[0269] The above water supply path may include an outlet temperature sensor (OS) installed at the outlet (14) to measure the outlet temperature.

[0270] The above water supply path may include a flow sensor (FS) for measuring the flow rate of water flowing through the water supply path. According to the present embodiment, the flow sensor (FS) may be installed at the water inlet (11) and / or the water outlet (14) to measure the total flow rate flowing through the water supply path. At this time, the flow sensor (FS) may be used to measure the discharge amount of cold water when the cold water valve is open and the purified water valve is closed, and to measure the discharge amount of purified water when the cold water valve is closed and the purified water valve is open. In addition, in the present embodiment, when both the cold water valve and the purified water valve are open, the discharge amounts of cold water and the discharge amounts of purified water may each be calculated as half of the flow rates measured by the flow sensor (FS). If there is a difference in the cross-sectional area of ​​the cold water passage (131) and the purified water passage (132), the amount of cold water discharged and the amount of purified water discharged can be calculated based on the ratio of the flow rate measured by the flow sensor (FS) and the cross-sectional area of ​​the cold water passage (131) and the purified water passage (132).

[0271] Alternatively, the flow sensor (FS) may be installed in each of the cold water passage (131) and the purified water passage (132). In this case, the discharge amount of cold water and the discharge amount of purified water can be measured separately.

[0272] The above water supply path may be connected to the control unit (not shown). The control unit may be configured to control the operation of the cold water valve, the purified water valve, and / or the multi-valve (V) to start or stop the dispensing of cold water, purified water, and / or hot water. In addition, the control unit may be connected to the inlet temperature sensor (IS), the cooling temperature sensor (CS), the outlet temperature sensor (OS), and the flow sensor (FS), and may transmit, process, or calculate values ​​necessary for controlling the water purifier (WP) based on information received from them, and may also generate new data based on the same.

[0273]

[0274] [Water purifier operation algorithm]

[0275] Fig. 6 illustrates a water purifier operation algorithm according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to this, the water purifier operation algorithm according to the present embodiment includes a setting step (S101) in which a target temperature and a target water output amount are set, a water output amount determination step (S102) in which a total cold water output amount and a total purified water output amount are determined based on the target temperature and the target water output amount, and a water output step (S103) in which cold water equivalent to the total cold water output amount and purified water equivalent to the total purified water output amount are output. Hereinafter, the execution method of each of these steps will be described in detail.

[0276]

[0277] [Target temperature and target water output setting steps]

[0278] Figure 7 illustrates a method for performing a setting step according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to this, in the setting step, a target temperature and a target water output amount can be set.

[0279] To start the above setting step, the user can turn on the free temperature mode by operating the first input unit (I1).

[0280] The target water output amount can be set to a predetermined basic water output amount when the above free temperature mode is turned on (S201).

[0281] Specifically, the basic water output volume according to the present embodiment is 120 mL. However, the basic water output volume need not be fixed, and the target water output volume may always be determined by user input.

[0282] At this time, the minimum possible temperature and the maximum possible temperature for the basic water output amount can be calculated according to a predetermined calculation algorithm. The calculated minimum possible temperature and the maximum possible temperature can be displayed on the display unit (D). Accordingly, the user can recognize the temperature range of water that can be discharged for the basic water output amount and set a target temperature within this range.

[0283] If the user wants to set the target water output to an amount other than the basic water output amount, the user can change the target water output amount (S202).

[0284] At this time, the change in target water output can be performed by manipulating the input units (I1 to I5). Specifically, the change in target water output according to the present embodiment can be performed by manipulating the second input unit (I2) while the free temperature mode is turned on. More specifically, the user can input whether to change the target water output by manipulating the second input unit (I2). Alternatively, the user can directly input a new target water output through the second input unit (I2) to change the target water output. Alternatively, the user can directly input the target temperature through the second input unit (I2) on the premise that the target water output is set to the basic water output. These specific operating methods may be implemented in various ways considering the convenience of the user.

[0285] When a user changes the target water output, the minimum possible temperature and the maximum possible temperature for the changed target water output can be calculated according to a predetermined calculation algorithm (S221). The calculated minimum possible temperature and the maximum possible temperature can be displayed on the display unit (D). Accordingly, the user can recognize the temperature range of water that can be output as much as the target water output, and set the target temperature within this range (S222).

[0286] If the user does not wish to change the target water output to an amount other than the basic water output, the user can immediately set the target temperature (S211).

[0287] At this time, the change in target temperature can be performed by manipulating the input units (I1 to I5). Specifically, the change in target temperature according to the present embodiment can be performed by manipulating the second input unit (I2) while the target water output amount is set.

[0288] When a user sets a target temperature, the maximum possible water output for the set target temperature can be calculated according to a predetermined calculation algorithm (S212). The calculated maximum possible water output can be displayed on the display unit (D). Accordingly, the user can recognize the maximum water output that can be produced at the target temperature, and can choose to change the target water output within this range or maintain the default water output (S213).

[0289] Figure 8 illustrates a method for calculating the highest possible temperature and the lowest possible temperature according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to this, the algorithm for calculating the highest possible temperature and the lowest possible temperature according to the present embodiment includes a target water discharge setting step (S301) in which the target water discharge amount is set to the basic water discharge amount or an amount changed by the user from the basic water discharge amount.

[0290] In this embodiment, since cold water is manufactured by cooling purified water, theoretically, the temperature of the cold water cannot be higher than the temperature of the purified water. Therefore, the lowest possible temperature can be calculated as the final mixing temperature when only cold water is discharged in the set target discharge amount without mixing purified water. In this case, if the temperature of the discharged cold water is maintained constant as the cumulative cold water discharge amount increases, the initial cooling temperature may represent the lowest possible temperature. However, in reality, as the cumulative cold water discharge amount increases, the cooling temperature increases due to heat exchange occurring in the cold water module (CM), and accordingly, the cumulative cold water temperature also tends to increase as the cumulative cold water discharge amount increases. This phenomenon occurs regardless of which structure the cold water module (CM) has among FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0291] Accordingly, the above calculation algorithm may include a relationship determination step (S302) for determining a relationship representing the relationship between the accumulated cold water discharge amount and the accumulated cold water temperature before calculating the lowest possible temperature.

[0292] The above relationship may be obtained experimentally or theoretically. Specifically, the relationship may be a data chart showing the correspondence between the accumulated cold water discharge amount and the accumulated cold water temperature obtained experimentally, or may be a formula obtained through mathematical approximation therefrom. Alternatively, the relationship may be mathematically obtained by integrating a function representing the instantaneous cold water discharge temperature or the change in the cooling temperature with respect to the accumulated cold water discharge amount.

[0293] Fig. 9 shows a relationship between the cumulative cold water discharge amount and the cumulative discharge temperature according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and a calculation formula for the highest possible temperature and the lowest possible temperature according to the relationship. Referring to this, the relationship according to the present embodiment may express the cumulative cold water temperature (Tc) as a function (Tc = f(Mc)) related to the cumulative cold water discharge amount (Mc). In this case, the relationship may be obtained by mathematically approximating data obtained by measuring the cumulative cold water temperature (Tc) while varying the cumulative cold water discharge amount (Mc).

[0294] However, the form of the above relational expression is not limited to the above formula. For example, the above relational expression may express the difference between the accumulated cold water temperature and the initial cooling temperature as a function of the accumulated cold water discharge amount, or the difference between the accumulated cold water temperature and the inlet temperature may be expressed as a function of the accumulated cold water discharge amount.

[0295] Meanwhile, the pattern of change in accumulated cold water temperature relative to the accumulated cold water discharge may vary depending on various variables. Therefore, the above relationship may be determined differently under different conditions. Specifically, the above relationship may be determined based on at least one of the outdoor temperature, the inlet temperature, and the initial cooling temperature.

[0296] According to the present embodiment, the above relationship may be determined as one of multiple relationships obtained through experiments according to conditions. In this case, the multiple relationships may be obtained as a result of multiple experiments conducted while varying at least one of the external temperature, the inlet temperature, and the initial cooling temperature.

[0297] Referring back to FIG. 8, the above calculation algorithm may include a first calculation step (S303) of calculating the lowest possible temperature based on the above relationship and the target water discharge amount after the above relationship is determined.

[0298] Referring again to Figure 9, as described above, the lowest possible temperature is calculated based on the final mixed temperature when only cold water is discharged. Accordingly, the lowest possible temperature (Tmin) can be calculated by substituting the target discharge amount (Mt) into the above equation (Tc=f(Mc)) (Tmin=f(Mt)).

[0299] Meanwhile, if the previous discharge was hot water or purified water, the heat amount of the discharge port (14) or the heat amount of the residual water remaining in the discharge port (14) may affect the final mixing temperature. Accordingly, the lowest possible temperature may be calculated by considering the heat exchange amount (Qr) with the discharge port (14). For this purpose, the discharge port temperature measured by the discharge port temperature sensor (OS) may be reflected in the calculation of the lowest possible temperature.

[0300] Specifically, the heat exchange amount (Qr) can be calculated by reflecting the difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature. Data indicating the relationship between the difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature and the heat exchange amount can be obtained experimentally or theoretically. According to the present embodiment, the data can be a data chart obtained through experimentation or a formula obtained through mathematical approximation therefrom.

[0301] Alternatively, the heat exchange amount may be calculated by reflecting the temperature and volume of the residual water remaining in the outlet (14). At this time, the amount of the residual water may have a predetermined value depending on the dimensions of the outlet (14). For example, according to the present embodiment, the amount of the residual water may be predetermined as 9.4 mL. In addition, the temperature of the residual water may be represented by the outlet temperature measured by the outlet temperature sensor (OS).

[0302] According to the present embodiment, the lowest possible temperature (Tmin￢) can be calculated through the calculation formulas (M11, M12) shown in Fig. 9. The calculation formulas (M11, M12) can be derived by using that the sum of the total heat of the cold water itself (f(Mt)·Mt) and the heat exchange amount (Qr) with the water outlet (14) is equal to the heat of the final mixed water (Tmin·Mt). At this time, since the specific heat of water is 1, the water outlet amount directly represents the heat capacity. According to the present embodiment, the lowest possible temperature (Tmin) can be calculated as (f(Mt)·Mt+Qr) / Mt, and the function f can be determined by reflecting at least one of the initial cooling temperature, the outside temperature, and the inlet water temperature, and the heat exchange amount Qr can be determined by reflecting the difference between the water outlet temperature and the inlet water temperature.

[0303] Referring back to FIG. 8, the above calculation algorithm may include a second calculation step (S304) for calculating the highest possible temperature based on the target water output amount and water intake temperature.

[0304] In this embodiment, the highest possible temperature can be calculated as the final mixing temperature when only purified water is discharged in the set target discharge amount without mixing in cold water.

[0305] Referring again to Figure 9, the maximum possible temperature (Tmax) can be calculated to be equal to the inlet temperature (Tin).

[0306] Meanwhile, if the previous discharge was hot or cold water, the heat amount of the discharge port (14) or the heat amount of the residual water remaining in the discharge port (14) may affect the final mixing temperature. Accordingly, the highest possible temperature may be calculated by considering the heat exchange amount (Qr) with the discharge port (14). For this purpose, the discharge port temperature measured by the discharge port temperature sensor (OS) may be reflected in the calculation of the highest possible temperature.

[0307] Specifically, the heat exchange amount (Qr) can be calculated by reflecting the difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature. Data indicating the relationship between the difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature and the heat exchange amount can be obtained experimentally or theoretically. According to the present embodiment, the data can be a data chart obtained through experimentation or a formula obtained through mathematical approximation therefrom.

[0308] Alternatively, the heat exchange amount may be calculated by reflecting the temperature and volume of the residual water remaining in the outlet (14). At this time, the amount of the residual water may have a predetermined value depending on the dimensions of the outlet (14). For example, according to the present embodiment, the amount of the residual water may be predetermined as 9.4 mL. In addition, the temperature of the residual water may be represented by the outlet temperature measured by the outlet temperature sensor (OS).

[0309] According to the present embodiment, the highest possible temperature (Tmax) can be calculated through the calculation formulas (M13, M14) shown in Fig. 9. The calculation formulas (M13, M14) can be derived by using the fact that the sum of the total heat of the purified water itself (Tin·Mt) and the heat exchange amount (Qr) with the water outlet (14) is equal to the heat amount (Tmax·Mt) of the final mixed water. At this time, since the specific heat of water is 1, the water outlet amount directly represents the heat capacity. According to the present embodiment, the highest possible temperature (Tmax) can be calculated as (Tin·Mt+Qr) / Mt, and the heat exchange amount Qr can be determined by reflecting the difference between the water outlet temperature and the water inlet temperature.

[0310] Figure 10 illustrates a method for calculating a maximum possible water output according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to this, the algorithm for calculating a maximum possible water output according to the present embodiment includes a target temperature setting step (S401) in which a target temperature is set according to a user input.

[0311] According to this embodiment, when cold water is discharged, the accumulated cold water temperature gradually increases from the initial cooling temperature as the accumulated cold water discharge amount increases, approaching the inlet temperature or purified water temperature. Accordingly, the maximum possible discharge amount can be calculated as the accumulated cold water discharge amount until the accumulated cold water temperature reaches the target temperature by discharging only cold water without mixing purified water.

[0312] Accordingly, the above calculation algorithm may include a relationship determination step (S402) for determining a relationship representing the relationship between the accumulated cold water discharge amount and the accumulated cold water temperature before calculating the maximum possible water discharge amount.

[0313] The above relationship may be obtained experimentally or theoretically. Specifically, the relationship may be a data chart showing the correspondence between the accumulated cold water discharge amount and the accumulated cold water temperature obtained experimentally, or may be a formula obtained through mathematical approximation therefrom. Alternatively, the relationship may be mathematically obtained by integrating a function representing the instantaneous cold water discharge temperature or the change in the cooling temperature with respect to the accumulated cold water discharge amount.

[0314] Fig. 11 shows a relationship between the cumulative cold water discharge amount and the cumulative discharge temperature according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and a calculation formula for the maximum possible discharge amount based on the relationship. Referring to this, the relationship according to the present embodiment may represent the cumulative cold water temperature (Tc) as a function (Tc = f(Mc)) related to the cumulative cold water discharge amount (Mc). In this case, the relationship may be obtained by mathematically approximating data obtained by measuring the cumulative cold water temperature (Tc) while varying the cumulative cold water discharge amount (Mc).

[0315] However, the form of the above relational expression is not limited to the above formula. For example, the above relational expression may express the difference between the accumulated cold water temperature and the initial cooling temperature as a function of the accumulated cold water discharge amount, or the difference between the accumulated cold water temperature and the inlet temperature may be expressed as a function of the accumulated cold water discharge amount.

[0316] Meanwhile, the pattern of change in accumulated cold water temperature relative to the accumulated cold water discharge may vary depending on various variables. Therefore, the above relationship may be determined differently under different conditions. Specifically, the above relationship may be determined based on at least one of the outdoor temperature, the inlet temperature, and the initial cooling temperature.

[0317] According to the present embodiment, the above relationship may be determined as one of multiple relationships obtained through experiments according to conditions. In this case, the multiple relationships may be obtained as a result of multiple experiments conducted while varying at least one of the external temperature, the inlet temperature, and the initial cooling temperature.

[0318] Referring back to FIG. 10, the above calculation algorithm may include a calculation step (S403) of calculating the maximum possible output amount based on the above relationship and the target temperature after the above relationship is determined.

[0319] Referring back to Figure 11, as described above, the maximum possible water discharge is calculated based on the cumulative cold water discharge when only cold water is discharged and the target temperature is reached. Accordingly, the maximum possible water discharge (Mmax) can be calculated by substituting the target temperature (Tt) into the above equation (Tc=f(Mc)) (Mmax=f-1(Tt)).

[0320] Meanwhile, if the previous discharge was hot water or purified water, the heat amount of the discharge port (14) or the heat amount of the residual water remaining in the discharge port (14) may affect the final mixing temperature. Accordingly, the lowest possible temperature may be calculated by considering the heat exchange amount (Qr) with the discharge port (14). For this purpose, the discharge port temperature measured by the discharge port temperature sensor (OS) may be reflected in the calculation of the lowest possible temperature.

[0321] Specifically, the heat exchange amount (Qr) can be calculated by reflecting the difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature. Data indicating the relationship between the difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature and the heat exchange amount can be obtained experimentally or theoretically. According to the present embodiment, the data can be a data chart obtained through experimentation or a formula obtained through mathematical approximation therefrom.

[0322] Alternatively, the heat exchange amount may be calculated by reflecting the temperature and volume of the residual water remaining in the outlet (14). At this time, the amount of the residual water may have a predetermined value depending on the dimensions of the outlet (14). For example, according to the present embodiment, the amount of the residual water may be predetermined as 9.4 mL. In addition, the temperature of the residual water may be represented by the outlet temperature measured by the outlet temperature sensor (OS).

[0323] According to the present embodiment, the maximum possible water discharge amount (Mmax￢) can be calculated through the calculation equation (M20) shown in Fig. 11. The calculation equation (M20) can be derived by using that the sum of the total heat of the cold water itself (f(Mmax)·Mmax) and the heat exchange amount (Qr) with the water outlet (14) is equal to the heat amount of the final mixed water (Tt·Mmax). At this time, since the specific heat of water is 1, the water discharge amount directly represents the heat capacity. According to the present embodiment, the maximum possible water discharge amount (Mmax) can be calculated as a solution of equation M20 for Mmax, and the function f can be determined by reflecting at least one of the initial cooling temperature, the outside temperature, and the inlet water temperature, and the heat exchange amount Qr can be determined by reflecting the difference between the water outlet temperature and the inlet water temperature.

[0324] The method of performing the setting step according to the present embodiment is merely an example and may be performed in various ways. For example, the setting step may include a step of prompting the user to set a new target temperature by calculating and displaying the maximum possible temperature and the minimum possible temperature again when the target water output is set to be greater than the maximum possible water output. Similarly, the setting step may include a step of prompting the user to set a new target water output by calculating and displaying the maximum possible water output again when the target temperature is set to be higher than the maximum possible temperature or lower than the minimum possible temperature.

[0325] In short, the core technical idea of ​​the method for performing the setting step according to the present invention is that the water purifier according to the present invention can calculate and display the maximum possible temperature, the minimum possible temperature, and the maximum possible water output based on values ​​measured from one or more sensors installed in the water supply path and values ​​input or preset by the user.

[0326]

[0327] [Determination steps for total cold water output and total purified water output]

[0328] Fig. 12 illustrates a method for determining the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to this, the water discharge amount determination step according to the present embodiment may include a relationship determination step (S501) for determining a relationship between the cumulative cold water discharge amount and the cumulative cold water temperature, a total cold water discharge amount determination step (S502) for determining the total cold water discharge amount based on the target temperature, the target water discharge amount, the inlet temperature, and the relationship, and a total purified water discharge amount determination step (S503) for determining the total purified water discharge amount by reflecting the total cold water discharge amount.

[0329] In this embodiment, the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount can be determined by using the fact that the heat of the final mixed water calculated based on the temperature of the cold water and the temperature of the purified water is equal to the sum of the heat of the cold water only and the heat of the purified water only. At this time, if the temperature of the discharged cold water remains constant as the cumulative cold water discharge amount increases, the initial cooling temperature (Tci) may represent the final cold water temperature (Tct). In this case, the heat of the final mixed water (Tt·Mt) is equal to the sum of the heat of the final discharged cold water only (Tct·Mct=Tci·Mct) and the heat of the final discharged purified water only (Tpt·Mpt=Tin·(Mt-Mct)), and therefore, the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) and the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt=Mt-Mct) can be calculated therefrom.

[0330] However, in reality, as the accumulated cold water discharge amount increases, the cooling temperature increases due to heat exchange occurring in the cold water module (CM), and accordingly, the accumulated cold water temperature also tends to increase as the accumulated cold water discharge amount increases. This phenomenon occurs regardless of which structure the cold water module (CM) has among FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0331] Accordingly, the above calculation algorithm may include a relationship determination step (S501) for determining a relationship representing the relationship between the accumulated cold water discharge amount and the accumulated cold water temperature before calculating the total cold water discharge amount.

[0332] The above relationship may be obtained experimentally or theoretically. Specifically, the relationship may be a data chart showing the correspondence between the accumulated cold water discharge amount and the accumulated cold water temperature obtained experimentally, or may be a formula obtained through mathematical approximation therefrom. Alternatively, the relationship may be mathematically obtained by integrating a function representing the instantaneous cold water discharge temperature or the change in the cooling temperature with respect to the accumulated cold water discharge amount.

[0333] Fig. 13 shows a relationship between the cumulative cold water discharge amount and the cumulative discharge temperature according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and a calculation formula for the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount based on the relationship. Referring to this, the relationship according to the present embodiment may represent the cumulative cold water temperature (Tc) as a function (Tc = f(Mc)) related to the cumulative cold water discharge amount (Mc). In this case, the relationship may be obtained by mathematically approximating data obtained by measuring the cumulative cold water temperature (Tc) while varying the cumulative cold water discharge amount (Mc).

[0334] However, the form of the above relational expression is not limited to the above formula. For example, the above relational expression may express the difference between the accumulated cold water temperature and the initial cooling temperature as a function of the accumulated cold water discharge amount, or the difference between the accumulated cold water temperature and the inlet temperature may be expressed as a function of the accumulated cold water discharge amount.

[0335] Meanwhile, the pattern of change in accumulated cold water temperature relative to the accumulated cold water discharge may vary depending on various variables. Therefore, the above relationship may be determined differently under different conditions. Specifically, the above relationship may be determined based on at least one of the outdoor temperature, the inlet temperature, and the initial cooling temperature.

[0336] According to the present embodiment, the above relationship may be determined as one of multiple relationships obtained through experiments according to conditions. In this case, the multiple relationships may be obtained as a result of multiple experiments conducted while varying at least one of the external temperature, the inlet temperature, and the initial cooling temperature.

[0337] Reflecting the above relationship, the heat of the final mixed water (Tt·Mt) is equal to the sum of the heat of the final discharged cold water only (Tct·Mct=f(Mct)·Mct) and the heat of the final discharged purified water only (Tpt·Mpt=Tin·(Mt-Mct)), and therefore, the total cold water discharge (Mct) and the total purified water discharge (Mpt=Mt-Mct) can be calculated from this.

[0338] Meanwhile, if the previous discharge was hot water or purified water, the heat amount of the discharge port (14) or the heat amount of the residual water remaining in the discharge port (14) may affect the final mixing temperature. Accordingly, at least one of the above relationship, the total cold water discharge amount, and the total purified water discharge amount may be calculated by taking into account the temperature and amount of the residual water remaining in the discharge port (14).

[0339] At this time, the amount of residual water can be included in at least one of the total purified water discharge amount and the total cold water discharge amount. Accordingly, at least one of the heat of only the cold water finally discharged and the heat of only the purified water finally discharged can be calculated by including the heat of the residual water. Specifically, according to the present embodiment, the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt) can include the amount of residual water (Mr). Accordingly, the heat of the residual water can be included in the heat of only the purified water finally discharged, and the heat of only the purified water finally discharged can be calculated by the sum of the heat of the portion obtained by subtracting the amount of residual water (Tin·(Mpt-Mr)) and the heat of the residual water portion (Tr·Mr).

[0340] At this time, the amount of residual water (Mr) may have a predetermined value depending on the dimensions of the outlet (14). For example, according to the present embodiment, the amount of residual water may be predetermined as 9.4 mL. In addition, the temperature (Tr) of the residual water may be represented by the outlet temperature (Tout) measured by the outlet temperature sensor (OS).

[0341] According to the present embodiment, the maximum possible water output (Mct) can be calculated through the calculation formula (M31) shown in Fig. 13. The calculation formula (M31) can be derived by using the fact that the sum of the total heat of the cold water itself (f(Mct)·Mct) and the total heat of the purified water and residual water (Tin·(Mpt-Mr)+Tr·Mr) is equal to the heat of the final mixed water (Tt·Mt). At this time, since the specific heat of water is 1, the water output directly represents the heat capacity.

[0342] At this time, in the above-mentioned production formula (M31), the temperature of the outlet (Tout) is substituted for the temperature of the residual water (Tr), and the equation (M32) indicating that the total purified water discharge (Mpt) is equal to the target water discharge minus the total cold water discharge (Mt-Mct) can be substituted to obtain the equation (Tt·Mt=f(Mct)·Mct+Tin·(Mt-Mct-Mr)+Tout·Mr). The total cold water discharge can be calculated as a solution of the above-mentioned equation (M31) with respect to Mct, and the function f can be determined by reflecting at least one of the initial cooling temperature, the outside temperature, and the inlet water temperature.

[0343] In addition, when the total cold water discharge (Mct) is determined, the total purified water discharge (Mpt) can be calculated by substituting the total cold water discharge (Mct) into the calculation formula M32.

[0344] The method for calculating and determining the total cold water discharge and the total purified water discharge according to the above-described embodiment is merely an example, and the specific method may vary in any number of ways. In short, the core technical idea of ​​the method for determining the water discharge according to the present invention is to predict the temperature change of the cold water and / or purified water as the water discharge accumulates through a predetermined relationship, and to reflect this in the calculation and determination of the total cold water discharge and the total purified water discharge.

[0345]

[0346] [Output Stage - Sequential Control]

[0347] Fig. 14 shows a method for performing a water discharging step according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram showing the method for performing Fig. 14. Referring to these drawings, the water discharging step according to the present embodiment includes a cold water valve opening step (S601) of opening the cold water valve to start cold water discharging, a cold water valve blocking step (S602) of blocking the cold water valve to end cold water discharging, a purified water valve opening step (S603) of opening the purified water valve to start purified water discharging, and a purified water valve blocking step (S604) of blocking the purified water valve to end purified water discharging.

[0348] The above cold water valve shut-off step (S602) may be performed when the accumulated cold water discharge amount (Mc) is greater than the total cold water discharge amount (Mct). Similarly, the above water purification valve shut-off step (S604) may be performed when the accumulated purified water discharge amount (Mp) is greater than the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt).

[0349] According to the present embodiment, the water discharging step may be performed in the following order: the cold water valve opening step (S601), the cold water valve blocking step (S602), the purified water valve opening step (S603), and the purified water valve blocking step (S604). That is, the water discharging step according to the present embodiment may be performed by first discharging cold water in the total cold water discharging amount (Mct) to complete the cold water discharging, and then discharging purified water in the total purified water discharging amount (Mpt). In this case, it is preferable that the cold water valve blocking step (S602) and the purified water valve opening step (S603) are performed substantially simultaneously.

[0350] In this case, the cold water valve blocking step (S602) may be performed when the accumulated cold water discharge amount (Mc) is greater than or equal to the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) or when the accumulated water discharge amount (M) is greater than or equal to the total cold water discharge amount (Mct). At this time, the purified water valve blocking step (S604) may be performed when the accumulated purified water discharge amount (Mp) is greater than or equal to the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt) or when the accumulated water discharge amount (M) is greater than or equal to the target water discharge amount (Mt).

[0351] According to the present embodiment, when cold water is discharged, purified water is not discharged, and when purified water is discharged, cold water is not discharged. Therefore, the accumulated cold water discharge amount and the accumulated purified water discharge amount can be measured by a single flow sensor (FS) provided in the water inlet (11) and / or the water outlet (14).

[0352] In one variation, the water discharge step may be performed in the following order: the water purification valve opening step (S603), the water purification valve blocking step (S604), the cold water valve opening step (S601), and the cold water valve blocking step (S602). In this case, the cold water discharge begins after the purified water discharge is completed.

[0353] In this case, the above-mentioned water valve blocking step (S604) can be performed when the accumulated purified water discharge amount (Mp) is greater than or equal to the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt) or when the accumulated water discharge amount (M) is greater than or equal to the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt). At this time, the above-mentioned cold water valve blocking step (S602) can be performed when the accumulated cold water discharge amount (Mc) is greater than or equal to the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) or when the accumulated water discharge amount (M) is greater than or equal to the target water discharge amount (Mt).

[0354] In another variation, cold water discharging and purified water discharging may be performed simultaneously over a certain period of time. For example, the water discharging step may be performed in the following order: cold water valve opening step (S601), purified water valve opening step (S603), cold water valve blocking step (S602), and purified water valve blocking step (S604), or may be performed in the following order: purified water valve opening step (S603), cold water valve opening step (S601), purified water valve blocking step (S604), and cold water valve blocking step (S602).

[0355] In this case, there is a section where cold water and purified water are discharged at the same time. At this time, the accumulated cold water discharge amount and the accumulated purified water discharge amount may be measured by flow sensors provided in the cold water passage (131) and the purified water passage (132), respectively, or may be calculated by dividing the total flow rate measured by one flow sensor (FS) provided in the water inlet (11) and / or the water outlet (14) in half or by dividing it according to the cross-sectional area ratio of the cold water passage (131) and the purified water passage (132).

[0356]

[0357] [Real-time display of water discharge temperature and amount]

[0358] Fig. 16 illustrates a calculation formula for real-time cumulative water discharge temperature and real-time cumulative water discharge amount according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to this, the water purifier (WP) according to the present embodiment can be configured to calculate and display the cumulative water discharge temperature and cumulative water discharge amount in real time while performing the water discharge step. Accordingly, the user can recognize the mixed temperature and amount of the mixed water in which the discharged cold water and / or purified water are mixed within the container in real time, and can recognize the temperature and amount of the mixed water that will be obtained when the water discharge is stopped midway.

[0359] Meanwhile, the real-time cumulative water discharge temperature and real-time cumulative water discharge amount do not necessarily need to be both calculated and displayed, and only one of them may be calculated or displayed.

[0360] The real-time cumulative water discharge temperature and real-time cumulative water discharge amount calculated as above can be displayed on the display unit (D).

[0361] According to the present embodiment, from the time the water discharge step starts, the water discharge temperature sensor (OS) can measure the instantaneous water discharge temperature (Ti) at predetermined time intervals or predetermined accumulated water discharge amounts. Accordingly, the real-time accumulated water discharge temperature (TT) can be calculated based on the accumulated measured values ​​of the instantaneous water discharge temperature (Ti).

[0362] According to the present embodiment, the instantaneous outlet temperature can be measured from the outlet temperature sensor (OS).

[0363] According to the present embodiment, measurement of the instantaneous outlet temperature (Ti) can be performed at predetermined time intervals.

[0364] According to the present embodiment, from the time the water discharge step begins, the flow sensor (FS) can measure the instantaneous water discharge amount (Mi) at the predetermined time interval. Accordingly, the real-time cumulative water discharge amount (MT) can be calculated as the sum of the instantaneous water discharge amounts (Mi) measured up to the time of calculation according to the calculation formula (M41) of FIG. 16.

[0365] At this time, the heat amount (TT·MT) of the mixed water discharged until the time of calculating the real-time accumulated temperature is equal to the sum of the heat amounts (Ti·Mi) of the water discharged at each predetermined cycle until the time of calculating, and thus the calculation formula (M42) of Fig. 16 can be obtained. Accordingly, the real-time accumulated discharge temperature (TT) can be calculated by substituting the calculation formula M41 into the calculation formula M42.

[0366] According to one variation, assuming that the flow rate at the time of discharge is maintained at a constant flow rate, the real-time cumulative discharge amount (MT) can be calculated as a value obtained by multiplying the constant flow rate by the time elapsed until the calculation.

[0367] At this time, the real-time cumulative outlet temperature (TT) can be calculated based on the average of the measured values ​​of the instantaneous outlet temperature (Ti). For example, if the instantaneous outlet temperature (Ti) value is measured N times as the predetermined time period passes N times, the real-time cumulative outlet temperature (TT) can be calculated as the sum of the instantaneous outlet temperature (Ti) values ​​divided by N.

[0368] According to another modified example, the measurement of the instantaneous water discharge temperature (Ti) may be performed each time a predetermined cumulative water discharge amount is discharged. In this case, the real-time cumulative water discharge temperature (TT) may be calculated based on the average of the measured values ​​of the instantaneous water discharge temperature (Ti). For example, when the instantaneous water discharge temperature (Ti) value is measured N times as the predetermined time period elapses N times, the real-time cumulative water discharge amount (Mi) may be calculated as a value obtained by multiplying the predetermined cumulative water discharge amount by N, and the real-time cumulative water discharge temperature (TT) may be calculated as a value obtained by dividing the sum of the instantaneous water discharge temperature (Ti) values ​​by N.

[0369] The method for calculating and / or displaying real-time cumulative water discharge temperature and real-time cumulative water discharge volume according to the present invention can be performed in any manner different from the above-described embodiments. In short, the core of the method for calculating and / or displaying real-time cumulative water discharge temperature and real-time cumulative water discharge volume according to the present invention lies in the fact that, when a user arbitrarily interrupts the water discharge step, the temperature and / or amount of mixed water discharged up to that point can be calculated and displayed to the user.

[0370]

[0371] [Example 2]

[0372] Hereinafter, a water purifier operation algorithm according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail. The water purifier operation algorithm according to this embodiment is characterized in that cold water and purified water are discharged simultaneously at least temporarily during the water discharge step. For parts not separately described in this embodiment, reference may be made to the first embodiment of the present invention described above. Specifically, this embodiment may share with the first embodiment described above contents: structures of the exterior appearance, input unit, and display unit of the water purifier; structures of the water supply path and cold water module; water purifier operation algorithm; step of setting target temperature and target water discharge amount; step of determining total cold water discharge amount and total purified water discharge amount; and real-time display of water discharge temperature and water discharge amount.

[0373]

[0374] [Output stage - simultaneous control]

[0375] Fig. 17 illustrates a method for performing a water discharging step according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating the method for performing Fig. 17. Referring to these drawings, the water discharging step according to the present embodiment is performed on the premise that the step (S701) of setting a target temperature and a target water discharging amount and the step (S702) of determining a total cold water discharging amount and a total purified water discharging amount, which correspond to the water purifier operation algorithm of the first embodiment described above, have been performed.

[0376] The water discharge step according to the present embodiment includes a cold water valve opening step (S711, S722), a cold water valve blocking step (S713, S723), a water purification valve opening step (S712, S721), and a water purification valve blocking step (S713, S723), which correspond to the water discharge step of the first embodiment.

[0377] According to the present embodiment, when one of the cold water valve and the purified water valve is referred to as a first valve and the other is referred to as a second valve, and accordingly, one of the cold water valve opening step and the purified water valve opening step is referred to as a first valve opening step and the other is referred to as a second valve opening step, and one of the cold water valve blocking step and the purified water valve blocking step is referred to as a first valve blocking step and the other is referred to as a second valve blocking step, the second valve opening step (S712, S722) is performed after the first valve opening step (S711, S721), and the second valve blocking step (S713, S723) is performed before the first valve blocking step (S713, S723).

[0378] In other words, one of the cold water and the purified water starts to be dispensed with the start of the dispensing step and ends with the end of the dispensing step, and the other starts to be dispensed only after the dispensing step starts or ends before the end of the dispensing step.

[0379] At this time, since the amount of water discharged through the first valve among the cold water and purified water is greater than the amount of water discharged through the second valve, in order to determine which of the cold water valve and the purified water valve is the first valve and which is the second valve, the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) and the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt) need to be considered.

[0380] Accordingly, prior to the water discharging step according to the present embodiment, a water discharging order determination step (S703) may be performed to determine which of cold water and purified water will be dispensed first.

[0381] According to the present embodiment, if the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) is greater than the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt) in the water discharge order determination step (S703), the cold water valve may be determined as the first valve, and the purified water valve may be determined as the second valve. Similarly, if the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) is less than the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt) in the water discharge order determination step (S703), the purified water valve may be determined as the first valve, and the cold water valve may be determined as the second valve. At this time, if the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) is equal to the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt), either the first valve or the second valve may be selected.

[0382] According to one variation, assuming that the cold water temperature and the purified water temperature are constant, if the target temperature is less than the average of the cold water temperature and the purified water temperature, the cold water valve may be determined as the first valve, and if the target temperature is greater than the average of the cold water temperature and the purified water temperature, the purified water valve may be determined as the first valve.

[0383] According to the present embodiment, the second valve opening step (S712, S722) is performed after the first valve opening step (S711, S721) is performed, and the second valve closing step (S713, S723) can be performed simultaneously with the first valve closing step (S713, S723). That is, the second valve can be opened later than the first valve and closed simultaneously with the first valve.

[0384] At this time, the second valve opening step (S712, S722) according to the present embodiment may be performed when the cumulative water discharge amount (M) from the time the first valve opening step (S711, S721) is performed is equal to or greater than the difference between the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) and the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt). For example, in the case where the first valve is the cold water valve and the second valve is the purified water valve, the purified water valve may be opened after the cumulative water discharge amount (M) from the time the cold water valve is opened is equal to or greater than the difference between the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) and the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt). In this case, from the time the purified water valve is opened until the time the discharge step is completed, the cold water and purified water are discharged in equal amounts equal to the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt). That is, in this case, from the time the purified water valve is opened, the cold water flow path and the purified water flow path share the total flow rate in half.

[0385] According to the present embodiment, the first valve blocking step and the second valve blocking step (S713, S723) can be performed when the accumulated water discharge amount (M) from the time the first valve opening step (S711, S721) is performed becomes the target water discharge amount.

[0386] Alternatively, the first valve blocking step and the second valve blocking step (S713, S723) may be performed when the cumulative water discharge amount from the time the second valve opening step (S712, S722) is performed becomes equal to or greater than twice the smaller value of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount. For example, in the case where the first valve is the cold water valve and the second valve is the purified water valve, the cold water valve and the purified water valve may be blocked after the cumulative water discharge amount from the time the purified water valve is opened becomes equal to or greater than twice the total purified water discharge amount. In this case, since the cold water valve and the purified water valve share the total flow rate in half each, the amount of purified water ultimately discharged becomes equal to the total purified water discharge amount.

[0387] According to one variation, the flow rate sensors may be provided in the cold water passage (131) and the purified water passage (132), respectively. In this case, the first valve blocking step and the second valve blocking step (S713, S723) may be performed when the accumulated water discharge amount passing through the second valve from the time the second valve opening step (S712, S722) is performed is equal to or greater than a smaller value among the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount.

[0388] According to another variation, the second valve shutting step may be performed before the first valve shutting step is performed. That is, the second valve may be shut off before the first valve. At this time, the second valve shutting step may be performed when the cumulative water discharge amount from the time the second valve opening step is performed is equal to or greater than twice the smaller value of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount. At this time, the second valve opening step may be performed simultaneously with the first valve opening step or may be performed after the first valve opening step.

[0389] In this case as well, the flow rate sensor may be provided in each of the cold water passage (131) and the purified water passage (132), and the first valve blocking step and the second valve blocking step (S713, S723) may be performed when the accumulated discharge amount passing through the second valve from the time the second valve opening step (S712, S722) is performed is equal to or greater than a smaller value among the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount.

[0390] According to this embodiment, the interruption phenomenon that can occur when cold water and purified water are discharged sequentially can be improved. In other words, according to this embodiment, the phenomenon of rapid increases and decreases in flow rate that can occur when one of the cold water valve and the purified water valve is closed and the other is opened is reduced. Such rapid increases and decreases in flow rate can cause water splashing or give the user a negative aesthetic impression, and therefore, it is necessary to prevent this.

[0391]

[0392] [Output stage - repeated simultaneous control]

[0393] Fig. 19 shows a method of performing a water discharging step according to a first modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 20 is a schematic diagram showing the method of performing Fig. 19. Referring to these drawings, as in the second embodiment of the present invention, the water discharging step according to the first modified example is performed on the premise that the step (S801) of setting a target temperature and a target water discharging amount and the step (S802) of determining a total cold water discharging amount and a total purified water discharging amount, corresponding to the water purifier operation algorithm of the first embodiment described above, have been performed.

[0394] As in the second embodiment of the present invention, the water discharge step according to the first modified example includes a cold water valve opening step (S811, S823), a cold water valve blocking step (S815, S824), a water purification valve opening step (S813, S821), and a water purification valve blocking step (S814, S825), which correspond to the water discharge step of the first embodiment.

[0395] As in the second embodiment of the present invention, according to the first modified example, when one of the cold water valve and the purified water valve is referred to as a first valve and the other as a second valve, and accordingly, one of the cold water valve opening step and the purified water valve opening step is referred to as a first valve opening step and the other as a second valve opening step, and one of the cold water valve blocking step and the purified water valve blocking step is referred to as a first valve blocking step and the other as a second valve blocking step, the second valve opening step (S813, S823) is performed after the first valve opening step (S811, S821), and the second valve blocking step (S814, S824) is performed before the first valve blocking step (S815, S825).

[0396] In other words, one of the cold water and the purified water starts to be dispensed with the start of the dispensing step and ends with the end of the dispensing step, and the other starts to be dispensed only after the dispensing step starts or ends before the end of the dispensing step.

[0397] At this time, since the amount of water discharged through the first valve among the cold water and purified water is greater than the amount of water discharged through the second valve, in order to determine which of the cold water valve and the purified water valve is the first valve and which is the second valve, the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) and the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt) need to be considered.

[0398] Accordingly, prior to the above-mentioned water dispensing step, a water dispensing order determination step (S804) may be performed to determine which of cold water and purified water will be dispensed first.

[0399] As in the second embodiment of the present invention, according to the first modified example, if the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) is greater than the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt) in the water discharge order determining step (S804), the cold water valve may be determined as the first valve, and the purified water valve may be determined as the second valve. Similarly, if the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) is less than the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt) in the water discharge order determining step (S804), the purified water valve may be determined as the first valve, and the cold water valve may be determined as the second valve. At this time, if the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) is equal to the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt), either the first valve or the second valve may be selected.

[0400] According to another modified example, assuming that the cold water temperature and the purified water temperature are constant, if the target temperature is less than the average of the cold water temperature and the purified water temperature, the cold water valve may be determined as the first valve, and if the target temperature is greater than the average of the cold water temperature and the purified water temperature, the purified water valve may be determined as the first valve.

[0401] According to the first modified example, the second valve opening step (S813, S823) and the second valve closing step (S814, S824) may be alternately performed multiple times after the first valve opening step (S811, S821) and before the first valve closing step (S815, S825). For example, in the case where the first valve is the cold water valve and the second valve is the purified water valve, the discharge of purified water may be repeatedly started and stopped after the discharge of cold water starts and before it ends.

[0402] At this time, the sum of the accumulated water discharge amount (M) while the first valve is open and the second valve is closed may be equal to the difference between the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) and the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt). For example, in the case where the first valve is the cold water valve and the second valve is the purified water valve, the accumulated water discharge amount (M) while purified water is not discharged and only cold water is discharged may be equal to the difference between the total cold water discharge amount (Mct) and the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt). In this case, while cold water and purified water are discharged simultaneously, the cold water and purified water are discharged in equal amounts equal to the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt). That is, in this case, while the cold water valve and the purified water valve are simultaneously open, the cold water flow path and the purified water flow path share the total flow rate in half.

[0403] Alternatively, at this time, the sum of the accumulated water discharged while the second valve is open may be equal to twice the smaller value of the total cold water discharged and the total purified water discharged. For example, in the case where the first valve is the cold water valve and the second valve is the purified water valve, the sum of the accumulated water discharged while the cold water and purified water are discharged simultaneously may be equal to twice the total purified water discharged. In this case, since the cold water valve and the purified water valve share the total flow rate in half each while the cold water and purified water are discharged simultaneously, the amount of purified water ultimately discharged is equal to the total purified water discharged.

[0404] According to the first modified example, from the time when the first valve opening step (S811, S821) is performed, a cycle consisting of a resting step (S812, S822), the second valve opening step (S813, S823), and the second valve closing step (S814, S824) can be repeatedly performed at a predetermined time period or for a predetermined accumulated water discharge amount.

[0405] According to the first modified example, the cycle may be composed of the pause step (S812, S822), the second valve opening step (S813, S823), and the second valve blocking step (S814, S824) in that order. At this time, when the cycle is performed a total of N times, in each cycle, the second valve opening step (S813, S823) may be performed when the cumulative water discharge amount (M) from the start of the pause step (S812, S822) is equal to or greater than the value obtained by dividing the difference between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by N ((Mct- Mpt) / N). Accordingly, the water discharged through the first valve may be discharged more than the water discharged through the second valve by the difference (Mct- Mpt) between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount.

[0406] At this time, in each cycle, the second valve shut-off step (S814, S824) can be performed when the accumulated water discharge amount (M) from the start of the cycle or the pause step (S812, S822) is equal to or greater than the target water discharge amount divided by N (Mt / N).

[0407] According to another modified example, the cycle may be composed of the second valve opening step, the second valve closing step, and the pause step in that order. At this time, when the cycle is performed a total of N times, in each cycle, the second valve closing step may be performed when the cumulative water discharge amount from the time the second valve opening step is performed is equal to or greater than twice the smaller value between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount. Accordingly, the total amount of water discharged through the second valve may be equal to the smaller value between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount.

[0408] According to a first variation of the second embodiment of the present invention, the temperature of the mixed water can be maintained relatively constant during the water dispensing step by repeatedly opening and closing the second valve at predetermined intervals while the first valve is open. Accordingly, even if the user interrupts the water dispensing step midway, the mixed temperature of the water discharged up to the point of interruption can be closer to the target temperature.

[0409] According to the first modified example, between the water discharge amount determination step (S802) and the water discharge step, a repetition number determination step (S803) for determining the number of repetitions of the cycle can be performed.

[0410] In the above repetition number determination step (S802), the repetition number (N) may be determined as an integer less than or equal to a value obtained by dividing the difference (Mct-Mpt) between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by a predetermined minimum water discharge amount, and preferably may be determined as the maximum value among integers less than or equal to a value obtained by dividing the difference (Mct-Mpt) between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by a predetermined minimum water discharge amount.

[0411] Alternatively, in the repetition number determination step (S802), the repetition number (N) may be determined as an integer less than or equal to a value obtained by dividing twice the smaller of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by a predetermined minimum water discharge amount, and preferably may be determined as a maximum value among integers less than or equal to a value obtained by dividing twice the smaller of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by a predetermined minimum water discharge amount.

[0412] It is desirable that the minimum water discharge amount be set sufficiently large to ensure the accuracy of the water discharge measurement by the flow sensor (FS). This is because conventional flow sensors have a technical limitation in that they cannot accurately measure water discharge amounts that are too small. Therefore, it is desirable that the minimum water discharge amount be determined to reflect the minimum water discharge amount required for the flow sensor (FS) to operate accurately.

[0413] In the case of the flow sensor (FS) according to the present embodiment, it was found that the accuracy of the water discharge measurement tended to decrease significantly for water discharge amounts of 30 mL or less, and the accuracy of the water discharge measurement was very high for water discharge amounts of 40 mL or more. Therefore, the minimum water discharge amount may be set to 30 mL or more, and preferably, may be set to 40 mL or more.

[0414]

[0415] [Example 3]

[0416] Hereinafter, a water purifier operation algorithm according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail. The water purifier operation algorithm according to this embodiment is characterized in that water discharge control is performed based on a predicted mixed temperature measured in real time between water discharge steps, without determining the total cold water discharge amount or the total purified water discharge amount prior to water discharge. For parts not described separately in this embodiment, reference may be made to the first and second embodiments of the present invention described above. Specifically, this embodiment may share the following contents with the first and / or second embodiments described above with respect to: the structure of the appearance, input unit, and display unit of the water purifier; the structure of the water supply path and the cold water module; the step of setting the target temperature and target water discharge amount; and the real-time display of the water discharge temperature and water discharge amount.

[0417]

[0418] [Output Stage - Real-Time Control]

[0419] Figure 21 illustrates a water purifier operation algorithm according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Referring to this, the water purifier operation algorithm according to the present embodiment includes a setting step (S901) in which a target temperature and target water output amount are set, and a water output step in which cold water and purified water are output. In the case of the present embodiment, a water output amount determination step for determining the total cold water output amount or the total purified water output amount is not performed between the setting step (S901) and the water output step.

[0420] The water discharge step according to the present embodiment includes a cold water valve opening step (S902) for starting cold water discharge by opening the cold water valve, a cold water valve blocking step (S903) for ending cold water discharge by blocking the cold water valve, a purified water valve opening step (S904) for starting purified water discharge by opening the purified water valve, and a purified water valve blocking step (S905) for ending purified water discharge by blocking the purified water valve.

[0421] According to the present embodiment, the water discharging step may be performed in the following order: the cold water valve opening step (S902), the cold water valve blocking step (S903), the purified water valve opening step (S904), and the purified water valve blocking step (S905). That is, the water discharging step according to the present embodiment may be performed by first discharging cold water and then discharging purified water. In this case, it is preferable that the cold water valve blocking step (S903) and the purified water valve opening step (S904) are performed substantially simultaneously.

[0422] According to the present embodiment, the predicted mixing temperature (Te) can be calculated multiple times from the time the cold water valve opening step (S902) is performed.

[0423] Fig. 22 shows a relationship between the cumulative cold water discharge amount and the predicted mixing temperature according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and a calculation formula for the predicted mixing temperature based on the relationship. Referring to this, the predicted mixing temperature (Te) is calculated as the final mixed temperature when the cumulative cold water discharge amount (Mc) at the time of calculation is assumed to be the total cold water discharge amount (Mct), and the cumulative cold water temperature (Tc) predicted at the time of calculation is assumed to be the final cold water temperature (Tct). In other words, the predicted mixing temperature (Te) is the same as the final mixed temperature when it is assumed that the cold water valve is shut off at the time of calculation and only purified water is discharged thereafter.

[0424] The above predicted mixing temperature (Te) gradually decreases as the cumulative cold water discharge (Mc) increases. This is because the final mixing temperature decreases as the proportion of the total cold water discharge (Mct) in the target water discharge (Mt) increases.

[0425] Referring back to FIG. 21, the cold water valve shut-off step (S903) may be performed under the condition that the predicted mixing temperature (Te) is equal to or less than the target temperature (Tt). Accordingly, the accumulated cold water discharge amount (Mc) at the time when the cold water valve shut-off step (S903) is performed may be determined as the total cold water discharge amount (Mct), and the final mixing temperature may also be equal to the predicted mixing temperature (Te). At this time, the total purified water discharge amount (Mpt) may be determined as the value (Mt-Mct) obtained by subtracting the total cold water discharge amount from the target water discharge amount.

[0426] Referring back to FIG. 22, from the time the water discharge step is initiated until the cold water valve shut-off step (S903) is performed, the water discharge temperature sensor (OS) can measure the instantaneous water discharge temperature (Ti) at predetermined time intervals or predetermined accumulated water discharge amounts. Accordingly, the accumulated cold water temperature (TT) can be calculated based on the accumulated measured values ​​of the instantaneous water discharge temperature (Ti).

[0427] According to the present embodiment, the instantaneous outlet temperature can be measured from the outlet temperature sensor (OS).

[0428] According to one variation, the instantaneous outlet temperature may be calculated based on the cooling temperature measured from the cooling temperature sensor (CS).

[0429] According to another modified example, a cold water temperature sensor (not shown) that measures the temperature of cold water discharged from the cold water module (CM) is connected to the rear end of the cold water module (CM) on the cold water conduit (131), and the instantaneous discharged water temperature can be measured by the cold water temperature sensor.

[0430] According to the present embodiment, measurement of the instantaneous outlet temperature (Ti) can be performed at predetermined time intervals.

[0431] According to the present embodiment, from the time the water discharging step starts, the flow sensor (FS) can measure the instantaneous water discharging amount (Mi) at each predetermined time period. Accordingly, the accumulated cold water discharging amount (MT) can be calculated as the sum total of the instantaneous water discharging amounts (Mi) measured up to the time of calculation. At this time, the total heat amount (TT·MT) of the cold water discharged up to the time of calculation of the accumulated cold water temperature is equal to the sum total of the heat amounts (Ti·Mi) of the water discharged at each predetermined time period up to the time of calculation.

[0432] According to one variation, assuming that the flow rate at the time of discharge is maintained at a constant flow rate, the accumulated cold water discharge amount (MT) can be calculated as a value obtained by multiplying the constant flow rate by the time elapsed until the calculation.

[0433] At this time, the accumulated cold water temperature (TT) can be calculated based on the average of the measured values ​​of the instantaneous water outlet temperature (Ti). For example, if the instantaneous water outlet temperature (Ti) value is measured N times as the predetermined time period passes N times, the accumulated cold water temperature (TT) can be calculated as the value obtained by dividing the sum of the instantaneous water outlet temperature (Ti) values ​​by N.

[0434] According to another modified example, the measurement of the instantaneous water discharge temperature (Ti) may be performed each time a predetermined cumulative water discharge amount is discharged. In this case, the cumulative cold water discharge temperature (TT) may be calculated based on the average of the measured values ​​of the instantaneous water discharge temperature (Ti). For example, when the instantaneous water discharge temperature (Ti) value is measured N times as the predetermined time period elapses N times, the cumulative cold water discharge amount (Mi) may be calculated as a value obtained by multiplying the predetermined cumulative water discharge amount by N, and the cumulative cold water discharge temperature (TT) may be calculated as a value obtained by dividing the sum of the instantaneous water discharge temperature (Ti) values ​​by N.

[0435] At this time, the predicted mixing temperature (Te) can be calculated by using the fact that the heat amount (Te·Mt) of the final mixed water when the accumulated cold water discharge amount (Mc) at the point of calculation is determined as the total cold water discharge amount for each predetermined cycle is equal to the sum of the total heat amount (TT·MT) of the cold water discharged up to that point and the total heat amount (Tpt·(Mt-MT)) of the purified water to be discharged thereafter.

[0436] According to the present embodiment, the calculation formula (M50) of Fig. 22 can be obtained by using the fact that the cumulative cold water discharge amount (MT) is equal to the sum of the instantaneous water discharge amounts (Mi) measured up to the time of calculation, and the fact that the total heat amount (TT·MT) of the cold water discharged up to the time of calculation is equal to the sum of the heat amounts (Ti·Mi) of the water discharged at each predetermined cycle up to the time of calculation.

[0437] According to this embodiment, even if the discharge temperature of cold water changes as the accumulated discharge amount of cold water increases, there is an advantage in that a more accurate final mixing temperature can be implemented by measuring this in real time and reflecting it in the control.

[0438]

[0439] It should be understood that the above-described embodiments are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive, and the scope of the present invention will be determined by the claims that follow, rather than by the detailed description set forth above. Furthermore, the meaning and scope of the claims that follow, as well as all possible modifications and variations derived from their equivalent concepts, should be construed as encompassing the scope of the present invention.

[0440] 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. In a water purifier operation algorithm for operating a water purifier configured to discharge water at a temperature set by the user and in an amount set by the user through a water outlet, A setting step where the target temperature and target water output are set; A water discharge amount determination step for determining the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount based on the target temperature and the target water discharge amount; and A water dispensing step for dispensing cold water equivalent to the total cold water dispensing amount and purified water equivalent to the total purified water dispensing amount to provide the user with the water; The above extraction steps are: A cold water valve opening step for supplying cold water to the outlet by opening the cold water valve; A cold water valve blocking step for blocking the cold water valve when the accumulated cold water discharge amount is greater than the total cold water discharge amount; A step of opening a water purification valve to supply purified water to the outlet by opening the water purification valve; and A water purification valve blocking step for blocking the water purification valve when the accumulated water purification output amount is greater than the total water purification output amount; One of the above cold water valve and the above water purification valve is called the first valve, and the other is called the second valve. Accordingly, one of the cold water valve opening step and the purified water valve opening step is called the first valve opening step, and the other is called the second valve opening step. When one of the above cold water valve blocking step and the above water valve blocking step is called the first valve blocking step and the other is called the second valve blocking step, The second valve opening step is performed after the first valve opening step, A water purifier operation algorithm wherein the second valve shut-off step is performed before the first valve shut-off step.

2. A water purifier operation algorithm according to claim 1, further comprising a water discharge order determination step of determining one of the cold water valve and the purified water valve as the first valve and the other as the second valve between the setting step and the water discharge step.

3. In claim 2, in the step of determining the order of extraction, If the target temperature is lower than the average of the cold water temperature and the purified water temperature, the first valve is determined as the cold water valve and the second valve is determined as the purified water valve. A water purifier operation algorithm in which, when the target temperature is higher than the average of the cold water temperature and the purified water temperature, the first valve is determined as the purified water valve and the second valve is determined as the cold water valve.

4. In claim 2, the step of determining the order of withdrawal is performed after the step of determining the amount of withdrawal, In the above step of determining the order of withdrawal, If the total cold water discharge amount is greater than the total purified water discharge amount, the first valve is determined as the cold water valve and the second valve is determined as the purified water valve. A water purifier operation algorithm in which, when the total cold water discharge amount is less than the total purified water discharge amount, the first valve is determined as the purified water valve and the second valve is determined as the cold water valve.

5. In claim 1, the second valve opening step is performed when the accumulated water discharge amount from the time the first valve opening step is performed is equal to or greater than the difference between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount. A water purifier operation algorithm wherein the second valve blocking step is performed simultaneously with the first valve blocking step.

6. A water purifier operation algorithm according to claim 1, wherein the second valve shut-off step is performed when the accumulated water discharge amount from the time the second valve opening step is performed is equal to or greater than twice the smaller value of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount.

7. A water purifier operation algorithm according to claim 6, wherein the second valve opening step is performed simultaneously with the first valve opening step.

8. A water purifier operation algorithm according to claim 1, wherein the second valve opening step and the second valve closing step are alternately repeated multiple times after the first valve opening step and before the first valve closing step.

9. In claim 8, a water purifier operation algorithm in which the sum of the accumulated water discharge while the second valve is open is equal to twice the smaller value between the total cold water discharge and the total purified water discharge.

10. A water purifier operation algorithm according to claim 8, wherein the sum of the accumulated water discharge while the first valve is open and the second valve is closed is equal to the difference between the total cold water discharge and the total purified water discharge.

11. A water purifier operation algorithm according to claim 8, wherein a cycle consisting of a pause step, a second valve opening step, and a second valve closing step is repeatedly performed at a predetermined time interval or for a predetermined accumulated water discharge amount from the time the first valve opening step is performed.

12. In claim 11, the cycle is composed of the resting step, the second valve opening step, and the second valve closing step in that order, When the number of repetitions of the above cycle is N, A water purifier operation algorithm in which, in each cycle, the second valve opening step is performed when the accumulated water discharge amount from the start of the pause step is equal to or greater than the difference between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount divided by N.

13. In claim 11, the cycle is composed of the second valve opening step, the second valve closing step, and the resting step in that order, When the number of repetitions of the above cycle is N, A water purifier operation algorithm in which, in each cycle, the second valve shut-off step is performed when the accumulated water discharge amount from the time the second valve opening step is performed is equal to or greater than a value obtained by dividing twice the smaller value of the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by N.

14. A water purifier operation algorithm according to claim 8, further comprising a repetition count determination step for determining the number of alternate repetitions of the second valve opening step and the second valve closing step before the water discharge step after the water discharge amount determination step.

15. A water purifier operation algorithm according to claim 14, wherein, in the step of determining the number of repetitions, the number of repetitions is determined as an integer less than or equal to the difference between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount divided by a predetermined minimum water discharge amount.

16. In claim 15, in the step of determining the number of repetitions, the number of repetitions is determined as the maximum value among integers less than or equal to the difference between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount divided by a predetermined minimum water discharge amount.

17. In claim 14, a water purifier operation algorithm wherein, in the step of determining the number of repetitions, the number of repetitions is determined as an integer less than or equal to a value obtained by dividing twice the smaller value between the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by a predetermined minimum water discharge amount.

18. In claim 17, in the step of determining the number of repetitions, the number of repetitions is determined as the maximum value among integers less than or equal to a value obtained by dividing twice the smaller value among the total cold water discharge amount and the total purified water discharge amount by a predetermined minimum water discharge amount.

19. A water purifier operation algorithm according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the minimum water discharge amount is 30 mL or more.

20. A water purifier operation algorithm according to claim 20, wherein the minimum water discharge amount is 40 mL or more.

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