Filter apparatus

Abstract

This filter apparatus comprises: a housing which includes a case and a cover coupled to the case, and which has an inlet part and an outlet part so that water flows to the inside or outside of the housing; a deionization device formed by stacking a plurality of electrodes in order to adsorb ionic substances from the water inside the housing; and a pressing plate disposed between the cover and the deionization device so as to press the deionization device. A part of a flow path through which the water flowing in through the inlet part flows toward the outlet part is formed on one surface of the pressing plate.

Description

filter device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a filter device having an improved structure.

[0002] In the case of electronic products that utilize water, such as dishwashers, water purifiers, and humidifiers, a filter device designed to filter externally supplied raw water may be included. The filter device may include a capacitive deionization (CDI) device, an electrodeionization (EDI) device, or a continuous electrodeionization (CEDI) device.

[0003] The deionization process using a capacitive deionization device generally works by applying a charge to two electrodes, adsorbing ions from the water flowing between the two electrodes onto the electrodes and removing them, and then reversing the electrode voltage to detach the ions adsorbed on the electrodes from the electrodes. In other words, when water passes through the space between the anode and cathode, anions move to the anode due to electrostatic force, and cations move to the cathode, resulting in charging. The water is discharged as treated water in a pure form with the ions removed.

[0004] The filter device may include a case that accommodates the capacitor-type deionization device, a cover coupled to the case, and the like.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a filter device comprising a capacitive deionization device.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a filter device comprising a pressurized plate configured to pressurize and secure a capacitive deionization device.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a filter device capable of reducing flow resistance.

[0008] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0009] A filter device according to the invention comprises a housing comprising a case and a cover coupled to the case, the housing having an inlet and an outlet for allowing water to flow into or out of the housing, a deionization device formed by stacking a plurality of electrodes for adsorbing ionic substances from water within the housing, and a pressurizing plate disposed between the cover and the deionization device for pressurizing the deionization device. A portion of a flow path through which water introduced through the inlet flows toward the outlet is formed on one surface of the pressurizing plate.

[0010] A filter device according to the invention comprises a housing including a case having an outlet and a cover having an inlet, a deionization device formed by stacking a plurality of electrodes to adsorb ionic substances from water inside the housing, and a plate disposed between the cover and the deionization device. The case is provided on the inside of the deionization device and includes a discharge pipe communicating with the discharge pipe, the discharge pipe having a first joining protrusion provided at one end. The cover protrudes from the bottom surface of the cover and includes a second joining protrusion joined to the first joining protrusion. The plate includes a plate hole into which the first joining protrusion and the second joining protrusion are inserted.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a filter device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating a filter device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an exploded view of a filter device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of a deionization device according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the internal configuration of a deionization device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a method for purifying water by a deionization device according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a method for regenerating a deionization device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a pressure plate, a case, and a deionization device according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a state in which a pressure plate is coupled to a case according to one embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an internal flow path of a filter device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating a process in which a cover is fused to a pressure plate and a case according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a process in which a cover is fused to a pressure plate and a case according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 13 is an enlarged view of area A shown in Figure 11.

[0024] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a cover fused to a pressure plate and a case according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 15 is an enlarged view of area B shown in Figure 14.

[0026] The embodiments described in this disclosure and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely preferred examples of the disclosure, and there may be various modified examples that can replace the embodiments and drawings of the disclosure at the time of filing of this application.

[0027] Additionally, the same reference numbers or symbols presented in each drawing of the present disclosure represent parts or components that perform substantially the same function.

[0028] In addition, the terminology used in this disclosure is used to describe embodiments and is not intended to limit and / or restrict the disclosure. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this disclosure, terms such as "comprise" or "have" are intended to indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the disclosure, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0029] Additionally, in the present disclosure, each of the phrases such as “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” “at least one of A or B,” “A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0030] Additionally, the term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0031] Additionally, terms including ordinal numbers such as "first," "second," etc., used in this disclosure may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms, and the terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, the first component may be referred to as the second component, and similarly, the second component may also be referred to as the first component. The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related listed items or any item among a plurality of related listed items.

[0032] Furthermore, the meaning of "identical" in this disclosure includes having similar properties or being similar within a certain range. Furthermore, "identical" means "substantially identical." "Substantially identical" should be understood to include values ​​that fall within the manufacturing error range or values ​​that differ from a reference value within a range that has no significance.

[0033] Additionally, terms such as "~part", "~device", "~block", "~absence", and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the terms may refer to at least one hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) / ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one software stored in a memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0034] Meanwhile, the terms “front,” “rear,” “left,” and “right” used in the description below are defined based on the drawing, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0035] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0036] Fig. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a filter device according to one embodiment. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating a filter device according to one embodiment. Fig. 3 is an exploded view illustrating a filter device according to one embodiment.

[0037] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the filter device (1) may include a housing (100). The housing (100) may form the exterior of the filter device (1). The housing (100) may form a receiving space designed to receive water.

[0038] The housing (100) may be provided with an inlet (121) for allowing water to flow in and an outlet (111) for allowing water to flow out. Through the inlet (121) and the outlet (111), water may flow into or out of the housing (100).

[0039] The housing (100) may include a case (110). The case (110) may include a bottom (118) and a side wall (119) protruding from the edge of the bottom (118). Through this configuration, the case (110) may form an accommodation space therein. For example, a deionization device (200), which will be described later, may be placed on the bottom (118) of the case (110), and the side wall (119) of the case (110) may surround the deionization device (200).

[0040] The housing (100) may include a cover (120) coupled to the case (110). The housing (100) may be formed by coupling the case (110) and the cover (120).

[0041] The case (110) may have a cylindrical shape with one side open, and the cover (120) may cover the open side of the case (110). However, there is no special limitation on the shape of the case (110).

[0042] A discharge port (111) may be provided in the case (110), and an inlet port (121) may be provided in the cover (120). That is, water that flows into the housing (100) through the inlet port (121) provided in the cover (120) may be discharged through the discharge port (111) provided in the case (110).

[0043] However, the locations of the discharge and inlet ports are not limited thereto. For example, the discharge port may be provided in the cover (120), and the inlet port may be provided in the case (110). For example, both the discharge port and the inlet port may be provided in the case (110). Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the discharge port (111) is provided in the case (110), and the inlet port (121) is provided in the cover (120) will be described.

[0044] The discharge portion (111) may be formed by opening in the bottom (118) of the case (110). The discharge portion (111) may be provided approximately at the center of the bottom (118) of the case (110). A discharge hose connector (10) that allows a discharge hose (not shown) to be mounted may be coupled to the discharge portion (111).

[0045] The case (110) may include a discharge pipe (112) that is connected to the discharge portion (111). The discharge pipe (112) may protrude from the bottom (118) of the case (110) toward the cover (120). The discharge pipe (112) may be provided with an opening (112b) through which water discharged from a deionization device (200) to be described later may flow in. Details regarding the opening (112b) will be described later.

[0046] The inlet (121) may be formed by opening in the cover (120). The inlet (121) may be provided approximately at the center of the cover (120). An inlet hose connector (20) that allows an inlet hose (not shown) to be mounted may be coupled to the inlet (121).

[0047] The cover (120) may include a distribution section (122) provided on the lower side of the inlet section (121) and a plurality of inlet holes (123) formed along the outer surface of the distribution section (122). The plurality of inlet holes (123) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the edge of the distribution section (122). According to this configuration, water introduced through the inlet section (121) may be evenly distributed and flowed into each of the plurality of inlet holes (123) by the distribution section (122).

[0048] The filter device (1) may include a deionization device (200). The deionization device (200) may be provided to adsorb ionic substances from water inside the housing (100). For example, the deionization device (200) may adsorb ionic substances from raw water flowing into the housing (100) through the inlet (121) from an external water source to produce purified water.

[0049] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the deionization device (200) may be a capacitive deionization (CDI) device formed by stacking a plurality of electrodes (210). The detailed configuration and detailed operating principles of the deionization device (200) will be described later.

[0050] The deionization device (200) may be placed inside the housing (100). Specifically, the deionization device (200) may be placed inside the case (110). The deionization device (200) may have a cylindrical shape with a hollow portion formed in the center. However, there is no special limitation on the shape of the deionization device (200).

[0051] The deionization device (200) can partition the internal space of the case (110). Specifically, the case (110) can include a first hollow space (110a) formed between the outer surface of the deionization device (200) and the inner surface of the case (110) and a second hollow space (110b) formed on the inner side of the deionization device (200). That is, the first hollow space (110a) and the second hollow space (110b) can be partitioned by the deionization device (200).

[0052] The deionization device (200) may be configured to allow water to pass through. Accordingly, the first cavity (110a) may be connected to the second cavity (110b). That is, water within the first cavity (110a) may flow through the deionization device (200) into the second cavity (110b).

[0053] The second hollow (110b) may be connected to the discharge portion (111). In addition, a discharge pipe (112) may be arranged in the second hollow (110b). Accordingly, water flowing from the first hollow (110a) through the deionization device (200) into the second hollow (110b) may be discharged through the discharge portion (111).

[0054] The filter device (1) may include electrode terminals (310, 320). The electrode terminals (310, 320) may be provided to apply voltage to each of two electrodes (210) provided at opposite ends of the deionization device (200). For example, the electrode (210) provided at one end of the deionization device (200) may be an anode, and the electrode (210) provided at the other end of the deionization device (200) may be a cathode. For example, the electrode (210) provided at one end of the deionization device (200) may be a cathode, and the electrode (210) provided at the other end of the deionization device (200) may be an anode.

[0055] The electrode terminals (310, 320) may include a first electrode terminal (310) configured to apply voltage to an electrode (210) provided at one end of the deionization device (200). The first electrode terminal (310) may be coupled to the case (110) via a first terminal fixing member (330). For example, the first electrode terminal (310) may have a screw thread formed thereon, and the first terminal fixing member (330) may be a nut. In this case, a first sealing member (340) may be disposed in a space between the first electrode terminal (310) and the case (110).

[0056] However, the method of coupling the first electrode terminal (310) is not limited thereto. For example, the first electrode terminal (310) may be inserted when the case (110) is injected and formed integrally with the case (110). In this case, the first sealing member (340) may be omitted, and the gap between the first electrode terminal (310) and the case (110) for arranging the first sealing member (340) may be filled.

[0057] The electrode terminals (310, 320) may include a second electrode terminal (320) provided to apply voltage to the electrode (210) provided at the other end of the deionization device (200). The second electrode terminal (320) may be coupled to the cover (120) and the pressure plate (400) described below via a second terminal fixing member (350). For example, the second electrode terminal (320) may be formed with screw threads, and the second terminal fixing member (350) may be a nut. In this case, a second sealing member (360) may be placed in the space between the second electrode terminal (320) and the pressure plate (400).

[0058] However, the method of joining the second electrode terminal (320) is not limited thereto. For example, the second electrode terminal (320) may be inserted when the pressure plate (400) is injected and formed integrally with the pressure plate (400). In this case, the second sealing member (360) may be omitted, and the gap between the second electrode terminal (320) and the pressure plate (400) for placing the second sealing member (360) may be filled.

[0059] The filter device (1) may include a pressure plate (400). The pressure plate (400) may be placed between the cover (120) and the deionization device (200) to pressurize the deionization device (200). By pressurizing the deionization device (200) by the pressure plate (400), each of the plurality of electrodes (210, see FIG. 4) may be fixed in place.

[0060] Water flowing into the housing (100) through the inlet (121) can flow through the inlet hole (123) onto one side of the pressure plate (400). The water flowing into one side of the pressure plate (400) can be discharged into the first hollow (110a) through the groove (430) described later. That is, a portion of a path through which water flowing into the inlet (121) flows toward the discharge (111) can be formed on one side of the pressure plate (400).

[0061] The detailed configuration of the pressurizing plate (400) and the detailed principle by which the pressurizing plate (400) pressurizes the deionizing device (200) will be described later.

[0062] The filter device (1) may include a fastening member (500) provided to fasten the case (110) and the cover (120). The fastening member (500) may be fastened to the central portion of the cover (120) and the central portion of the case (110).

[0063] The fastening member (500) may include an insertion member (510) and a fixing member (520). At least a portion of the insertion member (510) may be provided to be inserted into a first insertion hole (112d) provided in a cap portion (112a) and a first joining protrusion (112c) to be described later, and a second insertion hole (124a) provided in a second joining protrusion (124) to be described later. The fixing member (520) may firmly fix the case (110) and the cover (120) by being combined with the insertion member (510). For example, the insertion member (510) may be a bolt, and the fixing member (520) may be a nut.

[0064] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of a deionization device according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the internal configuration of a deionization device according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a method for purifying water using a deionization device according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a method for regenerating a deionization device according to one embodiment.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 7, the deionization device (200) may include a plurality of electrodes (210), a plurality of ion exchange membranes (220), and a plurality of spacers (230). The deionization device (200) may be formed by stacking a plurality of electrodes (210), a plurality of ion exchange membranes (220), and a plurality of spacers (230) in a certain order.

[0066] Each of the electrode (210), the ion exchange membrane (220), and the spacer (230) may be provided in the form of a thin plate or sheet. In addition, each of the electrode (210), the ion exchange membrane (220), and the spacer (230) may form a hollow space on the inside. Through this configuration, each of the electrode (210), the ion exchange membrane (220), and the spacer (230) may be provided to surround the discharge pipe (112, see FIG. 2).

[0067] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the deionization device (200) may be a bipolar type capacitive deionization device. That is, only two electrodes (210) provided at opposite ends of the deionization device (200) are connected to electrode terminals (310, 320, see FIG. 2) so that voltage can be applied. At this time, a dielectric polarization phenomenon may occur in each of the plurality of electrodes (210) provided inside the deionization device (200). Accordingly, one surface of each of the plurality of electrodes (210) may have an increase in positive charge and may act as an anode, and the other surface of each of the plurality of electrodes (210) may have an increase in negative charge and may act as a cathode.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 5, the plurality of electrodes (210) may include a first electrode (211) and a second electrode (212). One side of the first electrode (211) and one side of the second electrode (212) may be arranged to face each other. Either one side of the first electrode (211) or one side of the second electrode (212) may act as an anode, and the other side may act as a cathode. Accordingly, an electric field may be formed between the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212). Hereinafter, an embodiment in which one side of the first electrode (211) acts as an anode, and one side of the second electrode (212) acts as a cathode will be described.

[0069] The ion exchange membrane (220) may include a cation exchange membrane (221) and an anion exchange membrane (222). The cation exchange membrane (221) may be provided so that only cations may pass through, and the anion exchange membrane (222) may be provided so that only anions may pass through. The cation exchange membrane (221) may be attached to one surface of the second electrode (212) that acts as a cathode, and the anion exchange membrane (222) may be attached to one surface of the first electrode (211) that acts as an anode. However, the ion exchange membrane (220) may be omitted.

[0070] A spacer (230) may be placed between a cation exchange membrane (221) and an anion exchange membrane (222). The spacer (230) may be configured to allow water to pass through its interior. For example, the spacer (230) may include a mesh material. However, there is no particular limitation on the material of the spacer (230).

[0071] Water can pass through the deionization device (200) by flowing inside the spacer (230). At this time, cations contained in the water can be adsorbed on one surface of the second electrode (212) acting as a cathode, and anions contained in the water can be adsorbed on one surface of the first electrode (211) acting as an anode. Each of the cation exchange membrane (221) and the anion exchange membrane (222) can facilitate the capture of cations and anions. In addition, each of the cation exchange membrane (221) and the anion exchange membrane (222) can limit the adsorption of cations or anions on one surface of the first electrode (211) or one surface of the second electrode (212) during regeneration of the deionization device (200).

[0072] Hereinafter, a method of purifying water using a deionization device (200) and a method of regenerating the deionization device (200) will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. For convenience of explanation, the cation exchange membrane (221), the anion exchange membrane (222), and the spacer (230) are omitted from the drawings.

[0073] As an adsorption voltage is applied to the deionization device (200), one side of the first electrode (211) may act as an anode, and one side of the second electrode (212) may act as a cathode. At this time, when water moves between the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212) which are spaced apart from each other, ionic substances contained in the water may move to the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212) by electrical attraction. Accordingly, ionic substances having a negative charge may be adsorbed on the first electrode (211), and ionic substances having a positive charge may be adsorbed on the second electrode (212). Therefore, water passing through the deionization device (210) may not contain ionic substances or may contain a very small amount of ionic substances.

[0074] However, as the purification operation is continuously performed and ionic substances continue to accumulate on the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212), the electric field formed between the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212) may weaken. When the electric field weakens, ionic substances are not easily adsorbed on the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212), so the adsorption capacity of the deionization device (200) may deteriorate. Therefore, the deionization device (200) must be regenerated to restore the adsorption performance of the deionization device (200).

[0075] In order to restore the adsorption capacity of the deionization device (200), a regeneration voltage having a polarity opposite to the adsorption voltage may be applied to the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212). Due to the application of the regeneration voltage, one side of the first electrode (211) may act as a cathode, and one side of the second electrode (212) may act as an anode. Accordingly, the ionic substances attached to the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212) may be separated from the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212).

[0076] In addition, even when no voltage is applied to the deionization device (200) and thus no dielectric polarization phenomenon occurs at the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212), the ionic substances can be separated from the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212). In this case, since neither one side of the first electrode (211) nor one side of the second electrode (212) acts as an anode or a cathode, the electric field between the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212) can disappear, thereby allowing the ionic substances to be separated from the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212).

[0077] The ionic substances separated from the first electrode (211) and the second electrode (212) can be discharged to the outside together with water. Through this, the adsorption capacity of the deionization device (200) can be restored.

[0078] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a pressure plate, a case, and a deionization device according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a pressure plate is coupled to a case according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an internal flow path of a filter device according to one embodiment.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the pressurizing plate (400) can be coupled to the case (110). That is, the pressurizing plate (400) can pressurize the deionizing device (200) by being coupled to the case (110).

[0080] The pressure plate (400) may include a first coupling portion (410), and the case (110) may include a second coupling portion (113). The first coupling portion (410) and the second coupling portion (113) may be coupled. The first coupling portion (410) may be formed along at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the pressure plate (400). The second coupling portion (113) may be formed at one end of the side wall (119).

[0081] The first connecting portion (410) may be bent and extended from the outer surface of the pressure plate (400). The second connecting portion (113) may be formed by being recessed at one end of the side wall (119). Accordingly, the first connecting portion (410) may be connected to the second connecting portion (113) by being inserted into the second connecting portion (113).

[0082] The first connecting portion (410) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple first connecting portions (410) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer circumference of the pressure plate (400).

[0083] The pressure plate (400) may include a third coupling portion (420), and the case (110) may include a fourth coupling portion (114). The third coupling portion (420) and the fourth coupling portion (114) may be coupled. The third coupling portion (420) may be formed along at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the plate hole (450) to be described later. The fourth coupling portion (114) may be formed at one end of the discharge pipe (112).

[0084] The third connecting portion (420) may be formed by being sunken into the inner surface of the plate hole (450) to be described later. The fourth connecting portion (114) may be formed by being protruded from the outer surface of the cap portion (112a) to be described later. Accordingly, the fourth connecting portion (114) may be connected to the third connecting portion (420) by being inserted into the third connecting portion (420).

[0085] The third connecting portion (420) and the fourth connecting portion (114) may each be provided in multiple numbers. The plurality of third connecting portions (420) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the inner circumference of the plate hole (450) to be described later. The plurality of fourth connecting portions (114) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer circumference of the cap portion (112a) to be described later.

[0086] The pressure plate (400) may include a groove (430). The groove (430) may be formed on at least a portion of the outer surface of the pressure plate (400). Water introduced onto one surface of the pressure plate (400) through the inlet (121) may flow through the groove (430) into the interior of the case (110).

[0087] Specifically, the groove (430) can be opened toward the first hollow (110a). Through this configuration, water introduced onto one side of the pressure plate (400) through the inlet (121) can pass through the groove (430) and flow into the first hollow (110a) of the case (110).

[0088] A plurality of grooves (430) may be provided. The plurality of grooves (430) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer surface of the pressure plate (400). Specifically, the first connecting portion (410) and the plurality of grooves (430) may be alternately arranged on the outer surface of the pressure plate (400).

[0089] The pressure plate (400) may include a plurality of guide portions (440). The plurality of guide portions (440) may be provided to guide water introduced onto one surface of the pressure plate (400) through the inlet portion (121) to each of the plurality of groove portions (430). The plurality of guide portions (440) may be formed to protrude from one surface of the pressure plate (400). The plurality of guide portions (440) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction on one surface of the pressure plate (400).

[0090] A first coupling portion (410) may be formed at one end of each of the plurality of guide portions (440). That is, each of the plurality of first coupling portions (410) may be provided to correspond to each of the plurality of guide portions (440).

[0091] The pressure plate (400) may include a plate hole (450). The plate hole (450) may be provided so that at least a portion of the fastening member (500) may be inserted. The plate hole (450) may be provided so that a first joining protrusion (112c), which will be described later, and a second joining protrusion (124), which will be described later, may be inserted. In other words, the joining surfaces of the first joining protrusion (112c) and the second joining protrusion (124) may be provided on the inside of the plate hole (450). The plate hole (450) may be formed in the central portion of the pressure plate (400).

[0092] The pressure plate (400) may include a hook portion (460). The hook portion (460) may be formed to protrude from one end of the plate hole (450). At least a portion of the hook portion (460) may be inserted into the opening (112b) of the discharge pipe (112). For example, a hook protrusion (461) formed at one end of the hook portion (460) may be inserted into the opening (112b) of the discharge pipe (112).

[0093] A plurality of hook portions (460) may be provided. A plurality of hook portions (460) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction at one end of the plate hole (450).

[0094] The hook portion (460) can facilitate placing the pressure plate (400) in the correct position on the deionization device (200) during the assembly process of the filter device (1). This will be described in detail later.

[0095] The pressure plate (400) may include a terminal coupling portion (470). A second electrode terminal (320) may be coupled to the terminal coupling portion (470). The terminal coupling portion (470) may be formed on the guide portion (440).

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 7, the discharge pipe (112) may include a cap portion (112a). The cap portion (112a) may be provided at one end of the discharge pipe (112). The cap portion (112a) may be positioned inside the plate hole (450).

[0097] The discharge pipe (112) may include an opening (112b). The opening (112b) may be provided to allow water discharged from the deionization device (200) to flow in.

[0098] An opening (112b) may be formed on the outer surface of the discharge pipe (112). The opening (112b) may extend in the direction in which the discharge pipe (112) protrudes. Through this configuration, the open area of ​​the opening (112b) may be maximized.

[0099] A plurality of openings (112b) may be provided. The plurality of openings (112b) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer circumference of the discharge pipe (112).

[0100] Below, the internal flow path of the filter device (1) is described with reference to Fig. 9.

[0101] Water supplied from an external water source can flow from an inlet hose (not shown) to an inlet portion (121) through an inlet hose connector (20). The water can flow into the housing (100) through the inlet portion (121). The water flowing into the housing (100) through the inlet portion (121) can be evenly distributed and flow into a plurality of inlet holes (123) by a distribution portion (122).

[0102] Water passing through the plurality of inlet holes (123) can flow onto one side of the pressure plate (400). The water flowing onto one side of the pressure plate (400) can be guided by the plurality of guide parts (440) and flow into each of the plurality of groove parts (430, see FIG. 8).

[0103] Water passing through the plurality of grooves (430, see FIG. 8) can flow into the first cavity (110a). The water flowing into the first cavity (110a) can flow into the second cavity (110b) through the deionization device (200). At this time, as the water passes through the deionization device (200), ionic substances contained in the water can be removed.

[0104] Water flowing into the second hollow (110b) can flow into the discharge pipe (112) through the opening (112b) of the discharge pipe (112). Water flowing into the discharge pipe (112) can flow into the discharge portion (111) and be discharged outside the housing (100). Water discharged outside the housing (100) can flow into the discharge hose (not shown) through the discharge hose connector (10).

[0105] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the opening (112b) of the discharge pipe (112) can extend in the direction in which the discharge pipe (112) protrudes, thereby having a relatively wide open area. Through this configuration, the flow resistance experienced by water passing through the opening (112b) can be reduced, and thus the performance of the filter device (1) can be improved.

[0106] This document describes an embodiment in which the discharge portion (111) is provided in the case (110) and the inlet portion (121) is provided in the cover (120). However, depending on the embodiment, the discharge portion may be provided in the cover (120) and the inlet portion may be provided in the case (110). In this case, water that flows into the housing (100) through the inlet portion of the case (110) may flow in a direction opposite to the flow path described above and be discharged through the discharge portion of the cover (120).

[0107] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating a process of fusing a cover to a pressure plate and a case according to one embodiment. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a process of fusing a cover to a pressure plate and a case according to one embodiment. FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of area A shown in FIG. 11. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cover fused to a pressure plate and a case according to one embodiment. FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of area B shown in FIG. 14.

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 15, after a deionization device (200) is placed inside a case (110) and a pressure plate (400) is placed on the deionization device (200), a cover (120) can be combined with the case (110) and the pressure plate (400).

[0109] As described above, the deionization device (200) may be formed by stacking a plurality of electrodes (210), a plurality of ion exchange membranes (220), and a plurality of spacers (230) (see FIG. 4). At this time, each of the electrodes (210), the ion exchange membranes (220), and the spacers (230) may slightly swell by absorbing moisture in the surroundings. Accordingly, the deionization device (200) may swell along the direction in which each of the electrodes (210), the ion exchange membranes (220), and the spacers (230) is stacked, which may cause the arrangement of the plurality of electrodes (210) to be misaligned, thereby degrading the deionization performance of the deionization device (200).

[0110] According to the concept of the present disclosure, in the process of combining the cover (120) with the case (110) after the pressurizing plate (400) is placed on the deionizing device (200), the deionizing device (200) can be pressurized by the pressurizing plate (400) and the cover (120). Accordingly, the arrangement state of the plurality of electrodes (210) can be normalized, and the deionizing performance of the deionizing device (200) can be maintained.

[0111] When the pressure plate (400) is placed on the deionization device (200), the hook projection (461) of the hook portion (460) can be inserted into the opening (112b) of the discharge pipe (112). Through this configuration, the hook portion (460) can restrict the pressure plate (400) from moving due to the inflated deionization device (200). In addition, by inserting the hook portion (460) into the opening (112b), the pressure plate (400) can be placed in the correct position on the deionization device (200).

[0112] The cover (120) can be joined to the case (110) and the pressure plate (400) by fusion. Specifically, after the pressure plate (400) is joined to the case (110), the cover (120) can be fused to the case (110) and the pressure plate (400). There is no particular limitation on the fusion method. For example, the fusion method can be any one of thermal fusion, ultrasonic fusion, and mechanical fusion. Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the fusion method is thermal fusion will be described.

[0113] The discharge pipe (112) of the case (110) may include a first joining protrusion (112c) provided at one end of the discharge pipe (112). The cover (120) may include a second joining protrusion (124) protruding from the bottom surface of the cover (120). Specifically, the first joining protrusion (112c) may be formed to protrude from the cap portion (112a), and the second joining protrusion (124) may protrude from the bottom surface of the distribution portion (122).

[0114] The second joining protrusion (124) can be joined to the first joining protrusion (112c). During the assembly process of the filter device (1), the second joining protrusion (124) can be fused to the first joining protrusion (112c) by joining it to the first joining protrusion (112c) after heat treatment.

[0115] The case (110) may include a first joining rib (115) formed along the outer circumference of one end of the side wall (119). The cover (120) may include a second joining rib (125) protruding from the bottom surface of the cover (120). Specifically, the first joining rib (115) may be formed on the outside of the second connecting portion (113), and the cover (120) may be formed along the outer circumference of the bottom surface of the cover (120).

[0116] The second joining rib (125) can be joined to the first joining rib (115). During the assembly process of the filter device (1), the second joining rib (125) can be fused to the first joining rib (115) by joining it to the first joining rib (115) after heat treatment.

[0117] That is, the cover (120) can be joined to the case (110) as the second joining protrusion (124) is fused to the first joining protrusion (112c) and the second joining rib (125) is fused to the first joining rib (115).

[0118] The pressure plate (400) may include a third bonding rib (480) protruding from one surface of the pressure plate (400). The cover (120) may include a fourth bonding rib (126) protruding from the bottom surface of the cover (120). Specifically, the third bonding rib (480) may protrude from the guide portion (440).

[0119] The third joint rib (480) may be provided in multiple numbers. Each of the plurality of third joint ribs (480) may protrude from each of the plurality of guide portions (440).

[0120] A plurality of fourth joint ribs (126) may be provided. A plurality of fourth joint ribs (126) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction on the bottom surface of the cover (120). Each of the plurality of fourth joint ribs (126) may be provided to correspond to each of the plurality of third joint ribs (480).

[0121] The fourth joining rib (126) can be joined to the third joining rib (480). During the assembly process of the filter device (1), the fourth joining rib (126) can be fused to the third joining rib (480) by joining it to the third joining rib (480) after heat treatment.

[0122] That is, the cover (120) can be joined to the pressure plate (400) as the fourth joining rib (126) is fused to the third joining rib (480).

[0123] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the cover (120) is joined to the case (110) and the pressure plate (400) by fusion, so that the pressure plate (400) can be joined to the case (110). That is, when the cover (120) is joined to the case (110) and the pressure plate (400), the first joining portion (410) of the pressure plate (400) can be joined to the second joining portion (113) of the case (110), and the third joining portion (420) of the pressure plate (400) can be joined to the fourth joining portion (114) of the case (110). Accordingly, the pressure plate (400) can be fixed in place.

[0124] As described above, each of the electrode (210), the ion exchange membrane (220), and the spacer (230) may swell by absorbing moisture from the surroundings. In addition, when water flows into the housing (100), the electrode (210) and the ion exchange membrane (220) may swell as the water flows into the spacer (230). This phenomenon may cause the arrangement of the plurality of electrodes (210) to be misaligned, and may form a space between the deionization device (200) and the pressure plate (400) through which water can flow, thereby causing the water to be discharged without passing through the deionization device (200). Accordingly, the deionization performance of the deionization device (200) may deteriorate.

[0125] According to the concept of the present disclosure, since the cover (120) is joined to the case (110) and the pressure plate (400) by fusion, the cover (120) can pressurize the pressure plate (400), and the pressure plate (400) can pressurize the deionization device (200). Since the cover (120) is fused to the case (110) and the pressure plate (400) while the pressure plate (400) pressurizes the deionization device (200), the deionization device (200) can be firmly fixed. Accordingly, the arrangement of the plurality of electrodes (210) and the distance between the electrodes (210) can be maintained constant, and water inside the housing (100) can be prevented from being discharged without passing through the deionization device (200). In other words, the deionization performance of the deionization device (200) can be improved.

[0126] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the filter device (1) may include a fastening member (500) fastened to the central portion of the cover (120) and the central portion of the case (110) to secure the case (110) and the cover (120). Through this configuration, the case (110) and the cover (120) can be firmly fixed. In addition, since the fastening member (500) is fastened to the central portion of the cover (120) and the central portion of the case (110), the central portion of the deionization device (200) can be more effectively prevented from swelling.

[0127] In the above, an embodiment in which a plurality of grooves (430) and a plurality of guides (440) are formed on one surface of a pressure plate (400) to form a flow path branch structure on one surface of the pressure plate (400) has been described. However, depending on the embodiment, a flow path branch portion where a flow path branch structure is formed may be provided separately. In this case, the flow path branch portion may be arranged between the cover (120) and the pressure plate (400).

[0128] A filter device (1) according to one embodiment comprises a housing (100) including a case (110) and a cover (120) coupled to the case (110), wherein an inlet (121) and an outlet (111) are provided to allow water to flow into or out of the housing (100), a deionization device (200) formed by stacking a plurality of electrodes (210) to adsorb ionic substances from water inside the housing (100), and a pressure plate (400) disposed between the cover (120) and the deionization device (200) to pressurize the deionization device (200). A portion of a path through which water introduced through the inlet (121) flows toward the outlet (111) is formed on one surface of the pressure plate (400).

[0129] The above inlet (121) may be provided in the cover (120). The pressure plate (400) may include a groove (430) formed on at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the pressure plate (400) so that water introduced onto one surface of the pressure plate (400) through the inlet (121) flows into the interior of the case (110).

[0130] The above discharge portion (111) may be provided in the case (110). The case (110) may include a first hollow portion (110a) formed between the outer surface of the deionization device (200) and the inner surface of the case (110), and a second hollow portion (110b) formed on the inner side of the deionization device (200) and communicating with the first hollow portion (110a) and the discharge portion (111) so that water flowing in from the first hollow portion (110a) is discharged through the discharge portion (111). The groove portion (430) of the pressure plate (400) may be opened toward the first hollow portion (110a).

[0131] The case (110) may be placed in the second hollow (110b) and may include a discharge pipe (112) protruding from the bottom (118) of the case (110) toward the cover (120). Each of the plurality of electrodes (210) may surround the discharge pipe (112).

[0132] The above grooves (430) may be provided in multiple numbers. The plurality of grooves (430) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer circumference of the pressure plate (400).

[0133] The above pressure plate (400) may include a plurality of guide portions (440) that are formed by protruding from one surface of the pressure plate (400) to guide water introduced onto one surface of the pressure plate (400) through the inlet portion (121) to each of the plurality of groove portions (430).

[0134] The above pressure plate (400) may include a first coupling portion (410) formed along at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the pressure plate (400). The case (110) may include a side wall (119) surrounding the deionization device (200) and a second coupling portion (113) formed at one end of the side wall (119) and coupled with the first coupling portion (410).

[0135] The first connecting portion (410) may be bent and extended from the outer surface of the pressure plate (400). The second connecting portion (113) may be formed by being recessed so that the first connecting portion (410) is inserted.

[0136] The above first coupling portion (410) may be provided in multiple numbers. The plurality of first coupling portions (410) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer circumferential surface of the pressure plate (400).

[0137] The above discharge portion (111) may be provided in the case (110). The case (110) may be connected to the discharge portion (111) and may include a discharge pipe (112) protruding from the bottom (118) of the case (110) toward the cover (120). The discharge pipe (112) may include a cap portion (112a) provided at one end of the discharge pipe (112) and an opening portion (112b) formed on the outer circumferential surface of the discharge pipe (112) and extending in the direction in which the discharge pipe (112) protrudes.

[0138] The above discharge pipe (112) may include a first joining protrusion (112c) protruding from the cap portion (112a). The cover (120) may include a second joining protrusion (124) protruding from the bottom surface of the cover (120) and fused to the first joining protrusion (112c).

[0139] The above pressure plate (400) may include a hook portion (460) that is provided so that at least a portion thereof is inserted into the opening portion (112b).

[0140] The case (110) may include a side wall (119) surrounding the deionization device (200), and a first bonding rib (115) formed along the outer surface of one end of the side wall (119). The cover (120) may include a second bonding rib (125) formed along the outer surface of the cover (120) and fused to the first bonding rib (115).

[0141] It may further include a fastening member (500) provided to secure the case (110) and the cover (120). The pressure plate (400) may include a plate hole (450) provided to allow at least a portion of the fastening member (500) to be inserted.

[0142] The above plate hole (450) can be formed in the central portion of the pressure plate (400).

[0143] A filter device (1) according to one embodiment includes a housing (100) including a case (110) in which a discharge portion (111) is provided and a cover (120) in which an inlet portion (121) is provided, a deionization device (200) in which a plurality of electrodes (210) are formed by stacking to adsorb ionic substances from water inside the housing (100), and a plate (400) disposed between the cover (120) and the deionization device (200). The case (110) is provided on the inside of the deionization device (200) and includes a discharge pipe (112) communicating with the discharge portion (111), the discharge pipe (112) having a first joining protrusion (112c) provided at one end. The cover (120) protrudes from the bottom surface of the cover (120) and includes a second joining protrusion (124) joined to the first joining protrusion (112c). The above plate (400) includes a plate hole (450) into which the first joining protrusion (112c) and the second joining protrusion (124) are inserted.

[0144] The above plate (400) may further include a groove (430) that is opened toward the hollow formed between the outer surface of the deionization device (200) and the inner surface of the case (110) so that water introduced through the inlet (121) flows toward the hollow.

[0145] The above plate hole (450) may be formed in the central portion of the plate (400). The above groove portion (430) may be formed in at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the plate (400).

[0146] The case (110) may include a side wall (119) surrounding the deionization device (200) and a first bonding rib (115) formed along the outer surface of one end of the side wall (119). The cover (120) may include a second bonding rib (125) formed along the outer surface of the cover (120) and bonded to the first bonding rib (115).

[0147] The cover (120) can be joined to the case (110) as the second joining protrusion (124) is fused to the first joining protrusion (112c) and the second joining rib (125) is fused to the first joining rib (115).

[0148] According to the invention, the filter device may include a capacitive deionization device. The capacitive deionization device is disposed within the case of the housing and is capable of adsorbing ionic substances contained in water flowing into the housing.

[0149] According to the present disclosure, a filter device may include a pressure plate. The pressure plate is positioned between the cover and the capacitive deionization device, thereby pressurizing and securing the capacitive deionization device. This configuration prevents water within the housing from being discharged without passing through the capacitive deionization device, and maintains the arrangement of the plurality of electrodes, thereby improving the deionization performance of the deionization device.

[0150] According to the concept of the present disclosure, an opening may be formed on the outer surface of the discharge pipe, extending in the direction in which the discharge pipe protrudes. That is, the opening may extend in one direction to have a relatively wide open area, thereby reducing the flow resistance within the filter device.

[0151] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. A housing including a case and a cover coupled to the case, wherein an inlet and an outlet are provided to allow water to flow into or out of the housing; A deionization device formed by stacking a plurality of electrodes to adsorb ionic substances from water inside the housing; and A pressure plate is disposed between the cover and the deionization device to pressurize the deionization device, A filter device in which a portion of a flow path through which water introduced through the inlet flows toward the outlet is formed on one surface of the above pressure plate.

2. In paragraph 1, The above inlet is provided in the cover, The above pressure plate, A filter device including a groove formed on at least a portion of the outer surface of the pressure plate so that water introduced onto one surface of the pressure plate through the inlet flows into the interior of the case.

3. In paragraph 2, The above discharge portion is provided in the above case, The above case is, A first hollow formed between the outer surface of the deionization device and the inner surface of the case; and It is formed on the inside of the deionization device and includes a second cavity that is connected to the first cavity and the discharge portion so that water flowing in from the first cavity is discharged through the discharge portion. A filter device in which the groove of the above pressure plate is opened toward the first hollow portion.

4. In paragraph 3, The above case is, It is disposed in the second hollow and includes a discharge pipe protruding from the bottom of the case toward the cover, Each of the plurality of electrodes is a filter device surrounding the discharge pipe.

5. In paragraph 2, The above home portion is provided in multiple pieces, A filter device in which the plurality of grooves are arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer surface of the pressure plate.

6. In paragraph 5, The above pressure plate, A filter device including a plurality of guide portions formed by protruding from one surface of the pressure plate to guide water introduced through the inlet portion onto one surface of the pressure plate to each of the plurality of groove portions.

7. In paragraph 1, The above pressure plate includes a first connecting portion formed along at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the above pressure plate, The above case is, a side wall surrounding the deionization device; and A filter device formed at one end of the side wall and including a second coupling portion coupled to the first coupling portion.

8. In paragraph 7, The above first connecting portion is bent and extended from the outer surface of the pressure plate, A filter device in which the second connecting portion is formed by being sunken so that the first connecting portion is inserted.

9. In paragraph 7, The above first connecting portion is provided in multiple pieces, A filter device in which the plurality of first coupling portions are arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer surface of the pressure plate.

10. In paragraph 1, The above discharge portion is provided in the above case, The above case is, It is connected to the above discharge unit and includes a discharge pipe protruding from the bottom of the case toward the cover, The above discharge pipe, A cap provided at one end of the above discharge pipe; and A filter device formed on the outer surface of the discharge pipe and including an opening extending in the direction in which the discharge pipe protrudes.

11. In paragraph 10, The discharge pipe includes a first joining projection protruding from the cap portion, The above cover, A filter device comprising a second joining projection protruding from the bottom surface of the cover and fused to the first joining projection.

12. In paragraph 10, The above pressure plate, A filter device comprising a hook portion provided to be inserted at least partially into the opening.

13. In paragraph 1, The above case is, a side wall surrounding the deionization device; and Including a first joining rib formed along the outer circumferential surface of one end of the side wall, The above cover, A filter device comprising a second bonding rib formed along the outer surface of the cover and fused to the first bonding rib.

14. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a fastening member provided to fix the case and the cover, A filter device in which the pressure plate includes a plate hole into which at least a portion of the fastening member is inserted.

15. In paragraph 14, The above plate hole is a filter device formed in the central portion of the above pressure plate.

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