Water treatment apparatus and method for controlling water treatment apparatus

Abstract

This water treatment apparatus comprises: a first electrode module; a second electrode module; a power supply unit; a battery; the first electrode module, the second electrode module, and a switching unit; and a control unit for controlling the switching unit such that, in a dual charging operation, the power supply unit is electrically connected to the first electrode module and the second electrode module, in a recycle operation, the discharging terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module and the second electrode module while the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module or the second electrode module, and the charging terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module and the second electrode module while the discharging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module or the second electrode module.

Description

Water treatment device and control method of water treatment device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a water treatment device utilizing electrochemical desalination technology and a method for controlling the water treatment device.

[0002] Desalination technology is a technology that is widely required across various industries, such as removing hardness components like calcium and magnesium from water in areas with high hardness content for drinking or boiler use, or for use as cooling water in power plants or factories.

[0003] Electrochemical deionization technology is a technique that removes ions by adsorbing them onto electrodes using electrochemical methods. Examples of electrochemical deionization technology include electrodialysis (ED), electrodeionization (EDI), and capacitive deionization (CDI).

[0004] Through electrochemical desalination technology, an electric field is formed via electrodes contained in the filter to move and remove ions, thereby producing purified water with ions removed from external water.

[0005] Electrochemical desalination technology can produce purified water by removing ions contained in water by passing water through each of the multiple electrode modules, provided with multiple electrode modules containing multiple electrodes to increase desalination efficiency.

[0006] The present disclosure may provide a water treatment device comprising a plurality of electrode modules and capable of recovering energy from one electrode module and transferring it to another electrode module, and a method for controlling the water treatment device.

[0007] The technical problems to be solved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs from the description below.

[0008] A water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a first electrode module; a second electrode module; a power supply unit; a battery for charging or discharging the first electrode module and the second electrode module; a switching unit for changing the electrical connection relationship of the first electrode module, the second electrode module, the power supply unit, and the battery; and a control unit that, in a dual charging operation, controls the switching unit so that the power supply unit is electrically connected to the first electrode module and the second electrode module, and in a recycle operation, controls the switching unit so that the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module and the second electrode module while the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module or the second electrode module, and controls the switching unit so that the charging terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module and the second electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module or the second electrode module.

[0009] In the above dual charging operation, the control unit can control the switching unit so that the power supply unit is connected in parallel with the first electrode module and the second electrode module.

[0010] In the above dual charging operation, the control unit can adjust the magnitude of the voltage generated by the power supply unit based on the capacitance of each of the first electrode module and the second electrode module.

[0011] The above-mentioned recycling operation may include recovering energy generated as one of the first electrode module and the second electrode module is discharged and using it to charge the other electrode module.

[0012] The above-mentioned recycle operation includes a first recycle operation and a second recycle operation, and the control unit controls the switching unit such that, in the first recycle operation, the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the second electrode module while the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module, and the charging terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the second electrode module, and in the second recycle operation, the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module while the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the second electrode module, and the charging terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the second electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module.

[0013] The above control unit can alternately perform the first recycling operation and the second recycling operation.

[0014] Alternately performing the first cycle operation and the second cycle operation may include performing the second cycle operation based on the voltage of the first electrode module dropping to a predetermined value during the first cycle operation, and performing the first cycle operation based on the voltage of the second electrode module dropping to the predetermined value during the second cycle operation.

[0015] In the first cycle operation above, the control unit controls the switching unit so that the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module at a first duty ratio, and controls the switching unit so that the discharging terminal is electrically connected to the second electrode module at a second duty ratio, and the first duty ratio and the second duty ratio can be determined based on the capacitance of the first electrode module and the second electrode module, respectively.

[0016] The above control unit can perform a battery recovery operation based on the fact that the voltage of the battery has dropped below a predetermined value during the recycling operation.

[0017] In the above battery recovery operation, the control unit can control the switching unit so that the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the power supply unit.

[0018] The above control unit can resume the recycling operation based on the completion of the battery recovery operation.

[0019] A control method for a water treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include, in a control method for a water treatment device comprising a first electrode module, a second electrode module, a power supply unit, and a battery, in a dual charging operation, electrically connecting the power supply unit to the first electrode module and the second electrode module; in a recycle operation, electrically disconnecting the discharge terminal of the battery from the first electrode module and the second electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module or the second electrode module, and electrically disconnecting the charge terminal of the battery from the first electrode module and the second electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module or the second electrode module.

[0020] In the above dual charging operation, electrically connecting the power supply unit to the first electrode module and the second electrode module may include connecting the power supply unit in parallel to the first electrode module and the second electrode module in the above dual charging operation.

[0021] In the above dual charging operation, it may further include adjusting the magnitude of the voltage generated by the power supply based on the capacitance of each of the first electrode module and the second electrode module.

[0022] The above-mentioned recycling operation may include recovering energy generated as one of the first electrode module and the second electrode module is discharged and using it to charge the other electrode module.

[0023] The above-mentioned recycle operation includes a first recycle operation and a second recycle operation, and in the recycle operation, controlling the switching unit may include, in the first recycle operation, electrically disconnecting the discharge terminal of the battery from the second electrode module while the charge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module, and electrically disconnecting the charge terminal of the battery from the first electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the second electrode module; and in the second recycle operation, electrically disconnecting the discharge terminal of the battery from the first electrode module while the charge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the second electrode module, and electrically disconnecting the charge terminal of the battery from the second electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module.

[0024] It may further include alternately performing the first recycling operation and the second recycling operation.

[0025] Alternately performing the first cycle operation and the second cycle operation may include: performing the second cycle operation based on the voltage of the first electrode module dropping to a predetermined value during the first cycle operation; and performing the first cycle operation based on the voltage of the second electrode module dropping to the predetermined value during the second cycle operation.

[0026] In the first cycle operation, electrically disconnecting the discharge terminal of the battery from the second electrode module while the charge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module, and electrically disconnecting the charge terminal of the battery from the first electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the second electrode module, comprises electrically connecting the charge terminal of the battery to the first electrode module with a first duty ratio and electrically connecting the discharge terminal to the second electrode module with a second duty ratio in the first cycle operation; wherein the first duty ratio and the second duty ratio may be determined based on the capacitance of the first electrode module and the second electrode module, respectively.

[0027] It may further include performing a battery recovery operation based on the fact that the voltage of the battery has dropped below a predetermined value during the above-mentioned recycling operation.

[0028] Performing the above battery recovery operation may include electrically connecting the charging terminal of the battery to the power supply.

[0029] It may further include resuming the recycling operation based on the completion of the battery recovery operation.

[0030] According to the present disclosure, there is a better effect of reducing energy consumption by recovering energy from one electrode module and transferring it to another electrode module.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a circuit diagram illustrating the connection relationships of various components of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a deionization operation method by an electrode module according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a regenerative operation method by an electrode module according to one embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the operation waveforms of the components in the dual charging operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0036] Figure 6 is a circuit diagram illustrating the electrical flow of a water treatment device in the case of dual charging operation in Figure 5.

[0037] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the operation waveforms of the components in the first recycling operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0038] Figure 8 is a circuit diagram illustrating the electrical flow of a water treatment device in the case of the first recycle operation in Figure 7.

[0039] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the operation waveforms of the components in the second recycling operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram illustrating the electrical flow of a water treatment device in the case of the second recycling operation in FIG. 9.

[0041] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the operation waveforms of the components in the first recycling operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram for explaining the electrical flow of a water treatment device in the case of the first recycle operation in FIG. 11.

[0043] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the operation waveforms of the components in the second recycling operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 14 is a circuit diagram for explaining the electrical flow of a water treatment device in the case of the second recycling operation in FIG. 13.

[0045] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of adjusting the duty cycle according to the capacitance of each of a plurality of electrode modules in the case of a recycling operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of performing battery recovery operation according to the voltage of a battery of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 17 is a circuit diagram illustrating the electrical flow of a water treatment device in the case of battery recovery operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 18 is a control flowchart of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0049] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0050] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0051] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0052] In this document, 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, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0053] The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0054] The terms "part," "module," and "component" may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, a plurality of "parts," "modules," and "components" may be implemented as a single component, or a single "part," "module," or "component" may include a plurality of components.

[0055] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0056] Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0057] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0058] When it is said that a component is "connected," "combined," "supported," or "in contact" with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0059] When it is said that a component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0060] Meanwhile, terms such as "front," "rear," "left," "right," "top," and "bottom" used in the following description are defined based on the drawings; however, the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, the front side may be defined as the +X side and the rear side as the -X side. For example, based on the drawings, the right side may be defined as the +Y side and the left side as the -Y side. For example, based on the drawings, the top side may be defined as the +Z side and the bottom side as the -Z side.

[0061] Water treatment devices according to various embodiments can purify contaminated water to make it clean. Water treatment devices are used in sewage treatment facilities, industrial processes, and water supply systems within homes or offices, playing an important role in environmental protection and human health. Water purified to a clean state by a water treatment device can be discharged back into nature, used for cleaning purposes, used as drinking water, or reused in industrial processes.

[0062] According to various embodiments, the water treatment device may include not only household water treatment devices such as water purifiers or water softeners, but also industrial water treatment devices.

[0063] Water treatment devices can produce purified water by purifying raw water introduced from the outside through various methods, such as biological treatment, chemical treatment, and physical treatment methods.

[0064] A water treatment device according to one embodiment can produce purified water by purifying raw water introduced from the outside using an electrochemical method among chemical treatment methods. For example, the water treatment device can produce purified water by purifying raw water introduced from the outside through at least one method among electrodialysis (ED), electrodeionization (EDI), and capacitive deionization (CDI).

[0065] Hereinafter, for the convenience of explanation, a water treatment device according to one embodiment is described as a device that generates purified water from raw water introduced from the outside through a capacitive deionization method.

[0066] Capacitive deionization refers to a method of removing ions from raw water introduced from the outside by utilizing the principle that ions are adsorbed and desorbed from the surface of electrodes by an electrical force generated between electrodes. In this specification, removing ions from raw water introduced from the outside may include removing ionic substances from raw water introduced from the outside.

[0067] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0068] FIG. 1 is a circuit diagram illustrating the connection relationships of various components of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0069] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a deionization operation method by an electrode module according to one embodiment.

[0070] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a regenerative operation method by an electrode module according to one embodiment.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 1, a water treatment device (1) according to one embodiment may include a power supply unit (200), a first electrode module (110), a second electrode module (120), a battery (250), and a switching unit (30).

[0072] The power supply unit (200) can generate a voltage to be supplied to the first electrode module (110), the second electrode module (120), or the battery (250).

[0073] For example, the power supply unit (200) may include a DC voltage source that generates a DC voltage to be supplied to the first electrode module (110), the second electrode module (120) and / or the battery (250).

[0074] One end of the power supply unit (200) can be connected to the first node (N1), and the other end of the power supply unit (200) can be connected to the ground node (N2).

[0075] The first electrode module (110) may include a pair of first electrodes (111, 112).

[0076] A pair of first electrodes (111, 112) can be positioned facing each other.

[0077] The second electrode module (120) may include a pair of second electrodes (121, 122).

[0078] A pair of second electrodes (121, 122) can be positioned facing each other.

[0079] Although the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) are each illustrated in FIG. 1 as comprising only one pair of electrodes, the number of electrodes each comprising the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) according to the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) may each comprise two or more pairs of electrodes. However, below, the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) are each described as comprising one pair of electrodes.

[0080] Each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) may be a capacitive electrode module having the function of a capacitor. A capacitor refers to a device composed of a pair of electrodes that can charge or discharge depending on the voltage supplied to the pair of electrodes.

[0081] Below, a method for charging or discharging each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) is described.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 2, when power is supplied to the electrode module, one side of one electrode of a pair of electrodes of the electrode module can act as a positive electrode and one side of the other electrode can act as a negative electrode.

[0083] For example, when power is supplied to the first electrode module (110), one side of one electrode (111, 112) of the first electrode module (110) can act as a positive electrode and one side of the other electrode (112) can act as a negative electrode.

[0084] As another example, when power is supplied to the second electrode module (120), one side of one electrode (121) of the pair of second electrodes (121, 122) of the second electrode module (120) can act as a positive electrode and one side of the other electrode (122) can act as a negative electrode.

[0085] At this time, when water moves between a pair of electrodes spaced apart from each other (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112), a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)), ionic substances contained in the water can move between the pair of electrodes (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112), a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)) by electrical attraction. Accordingly, ionic substances can be adsorbed on each of the pair of electrodes (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112), a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)).

[0086] Deionization operation can be defined as removing ionic substances contained in water or purifying water to a certain level of ionic substance concentration by adsorbing ionic substances onto a pair of electrodes in the water before it passes through the electrode module in the manner described above.

[0087] Each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) can be charged when deionization operation is performed.

[0088] For example, when deionization operation of the first electrode module (110) is performed, the first electrode module (110) can be charged by adsorbing an ionic substance onto a plurality of electrodes of the first electrode module (110) (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112)).

[0089] In another example, when deionization of the second electrode module (120) is performed, the second electrode module (120) can be charged by adsorbing an ionic substance onto a plurality of electrodes of the second electrode module (120) (e.g., a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)).

[0090] Charging of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) may include storing energy (e.g., electrostatic energy) in the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120).

[0091] Each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) may have a predetermined capacitance.

[0092] Capacitance can be determined by the amount of ionic material adsorbed on the electrode module as a predetermined voltage is supplied to the electrode module.

[0093] For example, the capacitance of the first electrode module (110) can be determined according to the amount of ionic material adsorbed on a plurality of electrodes (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112)) of the first electrode module (110) as a voltage of a predetermined size is supplied to the first electrode module (110) during the deionization operation of the first electrode module (110).

[0094] As another example, the capacitance of the second electrode module (120) can be determined according to the amount of ionic material that can be adsorbed to a plurality of electrodes (e.g., a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)) of the second electrode module (120) as a voltage of a predetermined size is supplied to the second electrode module (120) during the deionization operation of the second electrode module (120).

[0095] Meanwhile, as deionization operation is continuously performed, ionic substances accumulate on the electrodes (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112), a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)), and an electric field is not properly formed between the electrodes (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112), a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)), which may lower the efficiency of the deionization operation. The regenerative operation to maintain the efficiency of the deionization operation is described below.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 3, a voltage having opposite polarity to the voltage supplied in deionization operation can be supplied to each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120).

[0097] For example, by supplying a voltage having a polarity opposite to that supplied in the deionization operation to each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120), ionic substances adsorbed on a pair of electrodes (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112), a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)) can be detached from the pair of electrodes (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112), a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)).

[0098] When regeneration operation of the first electrode module (110) is performed, the first electrode module (110) may be discharged. When regeneration operation of the second electrode module (120) is performed, the second electrode module (120) may be discharged.

[0099] For example, when regeneration operation of the first electrode module (110) is performed, the stored energy can be discharged through deionization operation of the first electrode module (110) by desorbing an ionic material from a plurality of electrodes (a pair of first electrodes (111, 112)) of the first electrode module (110).

[0100] As another example, when regeneration operation of the second electrode module (120) is performed, the stored energy can be discharged through the deionization process of the second electrode module (120) by desorbing ionic material from a plurality of electrodes (e.g., a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)) of the second electrode module (120).

[0101] In summary, each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) can be charged when deionization operation is performed and discharged when regeneration operation is performed.

[0102] Referring again to FIG. 1, the battery (250) may include a charging terminal (251) for charging the battery (250) and a discharging terminal (252) for discharging the battery (250). The battery (250) may be composed of a secondary battery capable of repeated charging and discharging. For example, the battery (250) may be composed of a lithium-ion battery capable of repeated charging and discharging.

[0103] Charging the battery (250) may include increasing the voltage of the battery (250). Discharging the battery (250) may include decreasing the voltage of the battery (250).

[0104] The battery (250) may include a positive electrode and a negative electrode, and the voltage of the battery (250) may include a potential difference between the positive electrode of the battery (250) and the negative electrode of the battery (250).

[0105] When the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is connected to the first electrode module (110), the second electrode module (120), or the power supply unit (200), the battery (250) can be charged.

[0106] For example, when the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the first electrode module (110), the energy stored in the first electrode module (110) can be recovered through the charging terminal (251) and the battery (250) can be charged. In this case, the first electrode module (110) can be discharged.

[0107] In another example, when the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the second electrode module (120), the energy stored in the second electrode module (120) can be recovered through the charging terminal (251) and the battery (250) can be charged. In this case, the second electrode module (120) can be discharged.

[0108] In another example, when the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the power supply unit (200), the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200) is supplied through the charging terminal (251) so that the battery (250) can be charged.

[0109] When the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is connected to the first electrode module (110) or the second electrode module (120), the battery (250) can be discharged.

[0110] For example, when the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the first electrode module (110), the battery (250) can be discharged. In this case, the first electrode module (110) can be charged through the energy generated by the discharge of the battery (250).

[0111] In another example, when the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the second electrode module (110), the battery (250) can be discharged. In this case, the second electrode module (120) can be charged through the energy generated by the discharge of the battery (250).

[0112] The switching unit (30) may include a plurality of switching elements (SW1, SW2, SW3, SW4, SW5, SW6, SW7).

[0113] Each of the multiple switching elements (SW1, SW2, SW3, SW4, SW5, SW6, SW7) may be a diode. However, this is not limited to this, and they may be implemented as a Field Effect Transistor (FET) or a Bipolar Junction Transistor (BJT) instead of a diode.

[0114] A plurality of switching elements (SW1, SW2, SW3, SW4, SW5, SW6, SW7) may include a first switching element (SW1) and a second switching element (SW2).

[0115] One end of the first switching element (SW1) can be connected to the first node (N1), and the other end of the first switching element (SW1) can be connected to the second node (N2).

[0116] One end of the second switching element (SW2) can be connected to the first node (N1), and the other end of the second switching element (SW2) can be connected to the fourth node (N4).

[0117] The first switching element (SW1) can electrically connect the power supply unit (200) and the first electrode module (110) so that the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200) is supplied to the first electrode module (110). Additionally, the first switching element (SW1) can electrically disconnect the power supply unit (200) and the first electrode module (110) so that the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200) is not supplied to the first electrode module (110).

[0118] The second switching element (SW2) can electrically connect the power supply unit (200) and the second electrode module (120) so that the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200) is supplied to the second electrode module (120). Additionally, the second switching element (SW2) can electrically disconnect the power supply unit (200) and the second electrode module (120) so that the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200) is not supplied to the second electrode module (120).

[0119] A plurality of switching elements (SW1, SW2, SW3, SW4, SW5, SW6, SW7) may include a third switching element (SW3) and a fourth switching element (SW4).

[0120] One end of the third switching element (SW3) can be connected to the second node (N2), and the other end of the third switching element (SW3) can be connected to the third node (N3).

[0121] The third switching element (SW3) can electrically connect the first electrode module (110) and the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250). Additionally, the third switching element (SW3) can electrically disconnect the first electrode module (110) and the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250).

[0122] The fourth switching element (SW4) can electrically connect the second electrode module (120) and the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250). Additionally, the fourth switching element (SW4) can electrically disconnect the second electrode module (120) and the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250).

[0123] A plurality of switching elements (SW1, SW2, SW3, SW4, SW5, SW6, SW7) may include a fifth switching element (SW5) and a sixth switching element (SW6).

[0124] One end of the fifth switching element (SW5) can be connected to the third node (N3), and the other end of the fifth switching element (SW5) can be connected to the fourth node (N4).

[0125] The fifth switching element (SW5) can electrically connect the second electrode module (120) and the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250). Additionally, the fifth switching element (SW5) can electrically disconnect the second electrode module (120) and the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250).

[0126] One end of the sixth switching element (SW6) can be connected to the second node (N2), and the other end of the sixth switching element (SW6) can be connected to the fifth node (N5).

[0127] The sixth switching element (SW6) can electrically connect the first electrode module (110) and the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250). Additionally, the sixth switching element (SW6) can electrically disconnect the first electrode module (110) and the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250).

[0128] A plurality of switching elements (SW1, SW2, SW3, SW4, SW5, SW6, SW7) may include a seventh switching element (SW7).

[0129] One end of the 7th switching element (SW7) can be connected to the 1st node (N1), and the other end of the 7th switching element (SW7) can be connected to the 3rd node (N3).

[0130] The seventh switching element (SW7) can electrically connect the power supply unit (200) and the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) so that the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200) is supplied to the battery (250). Additionally, the seventh switching element (SW7) can electrically disconnect the power supply unit (200) and the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) so that the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200) is not supplied to the battery (250).

[0131] FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 4, a water treatment device (1) according to one embodiment may include a power supply unit (200) that generates voltage, a communication unit (150) that communicates with an external device, a switching unit (30) that changes the electrical connection relationship between various components of the water treatment device (1), a sensor unit (50), and / or a control unit (70).

[0133] In one embodiment, the power supply unit (200) can generate a voltage supplied to the first electrode module (110), the second electrode module (120) and / or the battery (250).

[0134] The power supply unit (200) may be configured as a DC voltage source. For example, the power supply unit (200) may generate a DC voltage.

[0135] The control unit (70) can control the power supply unit (200) so that the power supply unit (200) generates voltage.

[0136] The control unit (70) can adjust the magnitude of the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200). For example, the control unit (70) can adjust the magnitude of the direct current voltage (DC voltage) generated by the power supply unit (200).

[0137] The sensor unit (50) can collect data to obtain the capacitance of the first electrode module (110).

[0138] Data for obtaining the capacitance of the first electrode module (110) may include voltage data supplied to the first electrode module (110). Additionally, data for obtaining the capacitance of the first electrode module (110) may include data on the amount of ionic substance adsorbed on a plurality of electrodes of the first electrode module (110) (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112)).

[0139] The sensor unit (50) can collect data to obtain the capacitance of the second electrode module (120).

[0140] Data for obtaining the capacitance of the second electrode module (120) may include voltage data supplied to the second electrode module (120). Additionally, data for obtaining the capacitance of the second electrode module (120) may include data on the amount of ionic substance adsorbed on a plurality of electrodes of the second electrode module (120) (e.g., a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)).

[0141] The sensor unit (50) may include a voltage sensor for collecting voltage data supplied to each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120), and a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) sensor for collecting data on the amount of ionic substance adsorbed to each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120).

[0142] The sensor unit (50) can collect voltage data of the battery (250). The voltage data of the battery (250) may include potential difference data between the positive electrode of the battery (250) and the negative electrode of the battery (250).

[0143] The sensor unit (50) can transmit data for obtaining the capacitance of the first electrode module (110), data for obtaining the capacitance of the second electrode module (120), and voltage data of the battery (250) to the control unit (70).

[0144] The communication unit (150) can communicate with external devices (e.g., servers, user devices, and / or home appliances) via wired and / or wireless communication.

[0145] The communication unit (150) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0146] The communication unit (150) can transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit (150) can establish communication with a server, a user device and / or a home appliance and transmit and receive various data.

[0147] To this end, the communication unit (150) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication unit (150) may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a LAN (local area network) communication module, or a power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules may communicate with an external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0148] A short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, Bluetooth communication modules, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication modules, Near Field Communication modules, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication modules, Zigbee communication modules, infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication modules, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication modules, UWB (ultrawideband) communication modules, Ant+ communication modules, microwave (uWave) communication modules, etc.

[0149] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0150] In one embodiment, the communication unit (150) can communicate with external devices such as a server, user device, and home appliance through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the water treatment device (1), home appliance, and / or user device are connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The water treatment device (1), home appliance, and / or user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN).

[0151] The communication unit (150) can receive from an external device data for obtaining the capacitance of the first electrode module (110), data for obtaining the capacitance of the second electrode module (120), and voltage data of the battery (250).

[0152] For example, if a sensor is installed externally, the communication unit (160) can receive data for obtaining the capacitance of the first electrode module (110), data for obtaining the capacitance of the second electrode module (120), and voltage data of the battery (250) from the sensor installed externally to the water treatment device (1).

[0153] Information obtained by the communication unit (150) can be transmitted to the control unit (70).

[0154] A switching unit (30) according to one embodiment can change the electrical connection relationship of a first electrode module (110), a second electrode module (120), a power supply unit (200), and a battery (250).

[0155] Electrical connection relationships may include electrical connections between components being blocked or electrical connections between components being allowed.

[0156] For example, the switching unit (30) can electrically connect the power supply unit (200) to the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120), respectively, and can electrically disconnect the power supply unit (200) from the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120), respectively.

[0157] The control unit (70) can control various components of the water treatment device (1) (e.g., power supply unit (200), communication unit (150), sensor unit (50), switching unit (30)). For example, the control unit (70) can control the power supply unit (200) so that the power supply unit (200) generates voltage.

[0158] The control unit (70) can process data received from the sensor unit (50) (e.g., data for obtaining the capacitance of the first electrode module (110), data for obtaining the capacitance of the second electrode module (120), and voltage data of the battery (250)) to obtain certain information (e.g., capacitance of the first electrode module (110), capacitance of the second electrode module (120)) and the charge state of the battery (250).

[0159] For example, the control unit (70) can obtain the capacitance of the first electrode module (110) by processing voltage data supplied to the first electrode module (110) and data on the amount of ionic material adsorbed on a plurality of electrodes of the first electrode module (110) (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112)). The control unit (70) can determine that the capacitance of the first electrode module (110) is greater the greater the amount of ionic material adsorbed on a plurality of electrodes of the first electrode module (110) (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112)) with respect to the magnitude of the voltage supplied to the first electrode module (110).

[0160] As another example, the control unit (70) can obtain the capacitance of the second electrode module (120) by processing voltage data supplied to the second electrode module (120) and data on the amount of ionic material adsorbed on a plurality of electrodes of the second electrode module (120) (e.g., a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)). The control unit (70) can determine that the capacitance of the second electrode module (120) is greater the greater the amount of ionic material adsorbed on a plurality of electrodes of the second electrode module (120) (e.g., a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)) with respect to the magnitude of the voltage supplied to the second electrode module (120).

[0161] As another example, the control unit (70) can process voltage data of the battery (250) to obtain information regarding the charge state of the battery (250). The information regarding the charge state of the battery (250) may include the charge rate of the battery.

[0162] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that, during a recycle operation, the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) while the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the first electrode module (110) or the second electrode module (120).

[0163] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that, during a recycle operation, the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the first electrode module (110) or the second electrode module (120), while the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120).

[0164] A detailed explanation of controlling the switching unit (30) in the recycling operation will be provided later.

[0165] The control unit (70) may include hardware such as a CPU, a Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit (70) may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the water treatment device (1), at least one memory (72) for storing data in the form of a program, and / or at least one processor (71) for performing the aforementioned operation and the subsequent operation using the data stored in the at least one memory (72). The memory (72) and the processor (71) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (71) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (72) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory (72) and the processor (71) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0166] The control unit (70) can be electrically connected to the power supply unit (200), the communication unit (150), the switching unit (30), and the sensor unit (50).

[0167] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the operation waveforms of the components in the dual charging operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0168] Figure 6 is a circuit diagram illustrating the electrical flow of a water treatment device in the case of dual charging operation in Figure 5.

[0169] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the control unit (70) can turn on or off a plurality of switching elements (SW1, SW2, SW3, SW4, SW5, SW6, SW7) of the switching unit (30).

[0170] Turning on a switching element may include supplying a switching voltage to the switching element. For example, turning on a first switching element (SW1) may include supplying a first switching voltage (Vsw1) to the first switching element (SW1).

[0171] Turning off a switching element may include not supplying a switching voltage to the switching element. For example, turning off a first switching element (SW1) may include not supplying a first switching voltage (Vsw1) to the first switching element (SW1).

[0172] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that the power supply unit (200) is electrically connected to the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) during dual charging operation.

[0173] Dual charging operation may include controlling the switching unit (30) so that the voltage (V0) generated by the power supply unit (200) is supplied to each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120).

[0174] For example, the control unit (70) can turn on the first switching element (SW1) so that the power supply unit (200) is electrically connected to the first electrode module (110) during dual charging operation.

[0175] Additionally, the control unit (70) can turn on the second switching element (SW2) so that the power supply unit (200) is electrically connected to the second electrode module (120) during dual charging operation.

[0176] In dual charging operation, each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) can be charged.

[0177] For example, in dual charging operation, as the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200) is supplied to the first electrode module (110), deionization operation can be performed on the first electrode module (110), and as a result, ionic material can be adsorbed on a plurality of electrodes of the first electrode module (110) (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112)) and the first electrode module (110) can be charged.

[0178] Also, for example, in dual charging operation, as the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200) is supplied to the second electrode module (120), deionization operation can be performed on the second electrode module (120), and as a result, ionic material can be adsorbed on a plurality of electrodes (e.g., a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)) of the second electrode module (120) so that the second electrode module (120) can be charged.

[0179] The control unit (70) can turn off the switching elements (third switching element (SW3), fourth switching element (SW4), fifth switching element (SW5), sixth switching element (SW6) and seventh switching element (SW7)) excluding the first switching element (SW1) and the second switching element (SW2) during dual charging operation.

[0180] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that the power supply unit (200) is connected in parallel with the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) in dual charging operation.

[0181] For example, in dual charging operation, the control unit (70) can turn on the first switching element (SW1) and the second switching element (SW2) so that each end of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) are connected to the first node (N1) and the ground node (Ng) which are connected to both ends of the power supply unit (200).

[0182] As a result, in dual charging operation, the voltage (V0) generated by the power supply (200) can be supplied to each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120).

[0183] During dual charging operation, each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) is charged as the voltage (V0) generated by the power supply unit (200) is supplied, and the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) CDI1 ) and the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) CDI2 Each of ) can reach the voltage (V0) generated by the power supply (200). The voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) CDI1 ) refers to the voltage at both ends of the first electrode module (110). The voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) CDI2 ) means the voltage at both ends of the second electrode module (120).

[0184] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can adjust the magnitude of the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200) based on the capacitance of each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (110) during dual charging operation.

[0185] For example, the control unit (70) can adjust the magnitude of the voltage (V0) generated by the power supply unit (200) such that the magnitude of the voltage supplied to the first electrode module (110) in dual charging operation is proportional to the capacitance of the first electrode module (110). That is, the magnitude of the voltage (V0) generated by the power supply unit (200) can be increased as the capacitance of the first electrode module (110) increases.

[0186] As another example, the control unit (70) can adjust the magnitude of the voltage (V0) generated by the power supply unit (200) so that the magnitude of the voltage (V0) supplied to the second electrode module (120) in dual charging operation is proportional to the capacitance of the second electrode module (120). That is, the magnitude of the voltage (V0) generated by the power supply unit (200) can be increased as the capacitance of the second electrode module (120) increases.

[0187] According to the present disclosure, the amount of energy (e.g., electrostatic energy) that is pre-stored in the electrode module through dual charging operation according to the capacitance of the electrode module (e.g., first electrode module (110), second electrode module (120)) can be controlled by controlling the magnitude (V0) of the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200).

[0188] Dual charging operation may include charging each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) through a voltage generated by the power supply unit (200) before a recycling operation is performed in which energy exchange between the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) is performed through the battery (250).

[0189] The battery (250) has an initial battery voltage (V BO Can have ).

[0190] At the time (t1) when dual charging operation is completed, the voltage of each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) can reach the magnitude (V0) of the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200).

[0191] Below, a recycling operation is described in which energy stored in the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) is exchanged with each other through the battery (250) via dual charging operation.

[0192] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the operation waveforms of the components in the first recycling operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0193] Figure 8 is a circuit diagram illustrating the electrical flow of a water treatment device in the case of the first recycle operation in Figure 7.

[0194] Recycle operation may include recovering energy generated as one electrode module is discharged and using it to charge another electrode module.

[0195] For example, the recycle operation may include a first recycle operation that recovers energy generated as the first electrode module (110) is discharged and uses it to charge the second electrode module (120), and a second recycle operation that recovers energy generated as the second electrode module (120) is discharged and uses it to charge the first electrode module (110).

[0196] Referring to FIGS. 7 and FIGS. 8, the water treatment device (1) can perform a first recycling operation.

[0197] In various embodiments, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that the battery (250) is alternately connected to the first electrode module (110) or the second electrode module (120) during the first cycle operation.

[0198] The battery (250) being alternately connected to the first electrode module (110) or the second electrode module (120) may include the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) and the discharging terminal (252) of the battery (250) being alternately connected to the first electrode module (110) or the second electrode module (120).

[0199] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that, during the first cycle operation, the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically disconnected from the second electrode module (120) while the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the first electrode module (110).

[0200] For example, the control unit (70) can turn on the third switching element (SW3) so that the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the first electrode module (110) during the first cycle operation (e.g., TW1), while turning off the fourth switching element (SW4) so ​​that the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically disconnected from the second electrode module (120).

[0201] While turning on the third switching element (SW3) (e.g., TW1), the first electrode module (110) is electrically connected to the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250), so that the first electrode module (110) is discharged and the battery (250) can be charged by receiving energy generated as the first electrode module (110) is discharged through the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250).

[0202] Accordingly, the voltage of the battery (250) (Vbattery) is the initial battery voltage (V) while turning on the third switching element (SW3) (e.g., TW1). BO Increased size than ) (e.g., V B1 Can have ).

[0203] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that, during the first cycle operation, the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the second electrode module (120), while the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module (110).

[0204] For example, the control unit (70) can turn on the fourth switching element (SW4) so ​​that the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the second electrode module (120) during the first cycle operation (e.g., TW2), while turning on the third switching element (SW3) so that the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module (110).

[0205] While the fourth switching element (SW4) is turned on (e.g., TW2), the second electrode module (120) is electrically connected to the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250), so that the battery (250) is discharged and the second electrode module (120) can be charged by receiving energy generated as the battery (250) is discharged.

[0206] Accordingly, the voltage of the battery (250) (Vbattery) is the initial battery voltage (V) while turning on the fourth switching element (SW4) (e.g., TW2). BO It can be reduced to ).

[0207] The control unit (70) can turn off the switching elements (first switching element (SW1), second switching element (SW2), fifth switching element (SW5), sixth switching element (SW6) and seventh switching element (SW7)) excluding the third switching element (SW3) and the fourth switching element (SW4) during the first cycle operation.

[0208] Voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) CDI1 ) may drop to a predetermined value (e.g., 0) during the first cycle operation (e.g., the interval from t1 to t2). For example, the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) CDI1 ) is the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) as it discharges while the first electrode module (110) is connected to the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) during the first cycle operation (e.g., TW1). CDI1 ) can drop to a predetermined value (e.g., 0).

[0209] Meanwhile, the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) CDI2 ) can reach a predetermined value (e.g., 2V0) while the first cycle operation is performed. For example, the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) CDI2 ) is the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) as it is charged while the second electrode module (120) is connected to the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) during the first cycle operation (e.g., TW2). CDI2 ) can reach a predetermined value (e.g., 2V0).

[0210] In the first electrode module (110), regeneration operation can be performed while the first recycling operation is being performed.

[0211] In the second electrode module (120), while the first recycle operation is being performed, a deionization operation can be performed using energy charged through the battery (250).

[0212] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) controls the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) during the first cycle operation. CDI1 A second recycling operation can be performed based on the fact that ) has dropped to a predetermined value.

[0213] For example, the control unit (70) controls the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) during the first cycle operation. CDI1 A second cycle operation can be performed based on the voltage (e.g., 0V) corresponding to the state where all the energy stored in the first electrode module (110) is discharged. That is, the control unit (70) can perform a second cycle operation based on the fact that all the energy stored in the first electrode module (110) is discharged during the first cycle operation.

[0214] Below, a second recycling operation is described in which energy generated as the second electrode module (120) is discharged is recovered and used to charge the first electrode module (110).

[0215] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the operation waveforms of the components in the second recycling operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0216] FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram illustrating the electrical flow of a water treatment device in the case of the second recycling operation in FIG. 9.

[0217] Referring to FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10, the water treatment device (1) can perform a second recycling operation.

[0218] In various embodiments, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that the battery (250) is alternately connected to the first electrode module (110) or the second electrode module (120) during the second cycle operation.

[0219] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that, during the second cycle operation, the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module (110) while the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the second electrode module (120).

[0220] For example, the control unit (70) can turn on the fifth switching element (SW5) so that the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the second electrode module (120) during the second cycle operation (e.g., TW3), while turning on the sixth switching element (SW6) so that the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module (110).

[0221] While turning on the fifth switching element (SW5) (e.g., TW5), the second electrode module (120) is electrically connected to the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250), so that the second electrode module (120) is discharged and the battery (250) can be charged by receiving energy generated as the second electrode module (120) is discharged through the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250).

[0222] Accordingly, the voltage of the battery (250) (Vbattery) is the initial battery voltage (V) while turning on the fifth switching element (SW5) (e.g., TW5). BO Increased size than ) (e.g., V B1 Can have ).

[0223] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that, during the second cycle operation, the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the first electrode module (110), while the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically disconnected from the second electrode module (120).

[0224] For example, the control unit (70) can turn on the sixth switching element (SW4) so ​​that the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the first electrode module (110) during the second cycle operation (e.g., TW4), while turning on the fifth switching element (SW5) so that the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically disconnected from the second electrode module (120).

[0225] While the fourth switching element (SW4) is turned on (e.g., TW2), the second electrode module (120) is electrically connected to the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250), so that the battery (250) is discharged and the second electrode module (120) can be charged by receiving energy generated as the battery (250) is discharged.

[0226] Accordingly, the voltage of the battery (250) (Vbattery) is the initial battery voltage (V) while turning on the 6th switching element (SW6) (e.g., TW4). BO It can be reduced to ).

[0227] The control unit (70) can turn off the switching elements (first switching element (SW1), second switching element (SW2), third switching element (SW3), fourth switching element (SW4) and seventh switching element (SW7)) excluding the fifth switching element (SW5) and the sixth switching element (SW6) during the second cycle operation.

[0228] Voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) CDI2 ) may drop to a predetermined value (e.g., 0) during the second cycle operation (e.g., the interval between t2 and t3). For example, the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) CDI2 ) is the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) as it discharges while the second electrode module (120) is connected to the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) during the second cycle operation (e.g., TW3). CDI2 ) can drop to a predetermined value (e.g., 0).

[0229] Meanwhile, the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) CDI1 ) can reach a predetermined value (e.g., 2V0) while the second recycling operation is performed. For example, the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) CDI1 ) is the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) as it is charged while the first electrode module (110) is connected to the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) during the second cycle operation (e.g., TW4). CDI1 ) can reach a predetermined value (e.g., 2V0).

[0230] In the first electrode module (110), while the second cycle operation is being performed, a deionization operation can be performed using energy charged through the battery (250).

[0231] In the second electrode module (120), regeneration operation can be performed while the first recycling operation is being performed.

[0232] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) controls the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) during the second cycle operation. CDI2 A first recycling operation can be performed based on the fact that ) has dropped to a predetermined value.

[0233] For example, the control unit (70) controls the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) during the second cycle operation. CDI2 ) can perform a first cycle operation based on the voltage (e.g., 0V) corresponding to the state where all the energy stored in the second electrode module (120) is discharged. That is, the control unit (70) can perform a first cycle operation based on the fact that all the energy stored in the second electrode module (120) is discharged during the second cycle operation.

[0234] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can alternately perform a first recycling operation and a second recycling operation.

[0235] For example, the control unit (70) can alternately and repeatedly perform a first recycle operation and a second recycle operation.

[0236] Below, we will explain how to perform the first and second cycle operations again after performing the second cycle operation.

[0237] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the operation waveforms of the components in the first recycling operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0238] FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram for explaining the electrical flow of a water treatment device in the case of the first recycle operation in FIG. 11.

[0239] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the operation waveforms of the components in the second recycling operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0240] FIG. 14 is a circuit diagram for explaining the electrical flow of a water treatment device in the case of the second recycling operation in FIG. 13.

[0241] The control unit (70) can perform the first recycling operation again after the second recycling operation is performed. For example, during the second recycling operation, the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) CDI2 Based on the voltage dropping to a predetermined level (e.g., 0V), the first cycle operation can be performed again.

[0242] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) CDI1 ) can drop to a predetermined value (e.g., 0) again while the first cycle operation is performed (e.g., during the t3 to t4 interval). For example, the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) CDI1 ) is the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) as it discharges while the first electrode module (110) is connected to the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) (e.g., TW1) during the first cycle operation performed again after the second cycle operation. CDI1 ) can drop to a predetermined value (e.g., 0).

[0243] Meanwhile, the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) CDI2 ) can reach a predetermined value (e.g., 2V0) again while the first cycle operation is performed. For example, the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) CDI2 ) is the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) as it is charged while the second electrode module (120) is connected to the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) (e.g., TW2) during the first cycle operation performed again after the second cycle operation. CDI2 ) can reach a predetermined value (e.g., 2V0).

[0244] In the first electrode module (110), regeneration operation can be performed while the first recycling operation is being performed again.

[0245] In the second electrode module (120), while the first cycle operation is being performed again, a deionization operation can be performed using energy charged through the battery (250).

[0246] The control unit (70) can perform a second recycling operation again after the first recycling operation is performed. For example, during the first recycling operation, the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) CDI1 Based on the voltage dropping to a predetermined level (e.g., 0V), a second cycle operation can be performed again.

[0247] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) CDI2 ) can drop to a predetermined value (e.g., 0) again while the second cycle operation is performed (e.g., during the t4 to t5 interval). For example, the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) CDI2 ) is the voltage (V) of the second electrode module (120) as it discharges while the second electrode module (120) is connected to the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) (e.g., TW3) during the second cycle operation performed again after the first cycle operation. CDI2 ) can drop to a predetermined value (e.g., 0).

[0248] Meanwhile, the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) CDI1 ) can reach a predetermined value (e.g., 2V0) again while the second cycle operation is performed. For example, the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) CDI1 ) is the voltage (V) of the first electrode module (110) as it is charged while the first electrode module (110) is connected to the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) (e.g., TW4) during the second cycle operation performed again after the first cycle operation. CDI1 ) can reach a predetermined value (e.g., 2V0).

[0249] In the second electrode module (120), regeneration operation can be performed while the second recycling operation is being performed again.

[0250] In the first electrode module (110), while the second cycle operation is being performed, a deionization operation can be performed using energy charged through the battery (250).

[0251] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of adjusting the duty cycle according to the capacitance of each of a plurality of electrode modules in the case of a recycling operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0252] Referring to FIG. 15, in various embodiments, the control unit (70) can adjust the duty ratio of the switching element during a recycle operation.

[0253] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the first electrode module (110) at a first duty ratio during the first cycle operation.

[0254] The first duty cycle refers to the ratio of the time during which the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is connected to the first electrode module (110) through the switching unit (30) during the first cycle operation period (t1~t2).

[0255] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the second electrode module (120) at a second duty ratio during the first cycle operation.

[0256] The second duty cycle refers to the ratio of the time during which the discharge terminal (252) of the battery (250) is connected to the second electrode module (120) through the switching unit (30) during the first cycle operation period (t1~t2).

[0257] As the first duty cycle increases, the amount of energy transferred from the first electrode module (110) to the battery (250) can increase.

[0258] For example, as the first duty cycle increases, the time during which the first electrode module (110) is discharged during the first cycle operation increases, so the amount of energy generated by the discharge of the first electrode module (110) increases, and as a result, the amount of energy transferred to the battery (250) can increase.

[0259] As the second duty cycle increases, the amount of energy transferred from the battery (250) to the second electrode module (120) can increase.

[0260] For example, as the second duty cycle increases, the time during which the second electrode module (120) is charged during the first cycle operation increases, and thus the amount of energy transferred from the battery (250) to the second electrode module (120) can increase.

[0261] In one embodiment, the first duty cycle and the second duty cycle may be determined based on the capacitance of the first electrode module (110) and the capacitance of the second electrode module (120).

[0262] The larger the capacitance of the electrode module, the greater the amount of energy the electrode module can store. For example, if the voltage of the electrode module has a predetermined voltage magnitude (e.g., V0), the larger the capacitance of the electrode module, the greater the amount of energy the electrode module can store.

[0263] Therefore, by increasing the discharge time of an electrode module that has a relatively large capacitance and stores a relatively large amount of energy, the amount of energy used to charge an electrode module that has a relatively small capacitance and stores a relatively small amount of energy can be increased.

[0264] For example, if the capacitance of the first electrode module (110) is relatively larger than the capacitance of the second electrode module (120), increasing the first duty cycle increases the discharge time of the first electrode module (110), thereby increasing the amount of energy generated by the discharge of the first electrode module (110), and as a result, the amount of energy to charge the second electrode module (120) can be increased.

[0265] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of performing battery recovery operation according to the voltage of a battery of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0266] FIG. 17 is a circuit diagram illustrating the electrical flow of a water treatment device in the case of battery recovery operation of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0267] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the water treatment device (1) can perform battery recovery operation.

[0268] When the aforementioned first cycle operation and second cycle operation are performed alternately and repeatedly, the voltage of the battery (250) is the battery initial voltage (V BO () may become lower than. For example, when the first cycle operation and the second cycle operation are performed alternately and repeatedly, energy loss may occur during the energy exchange process between the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (220), so the voltage of the battery (250) may be lower than the battery initial voltage (V BO Size lower than ) (e.g., V B2 It can be lowered to ).

[0269] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can perform a battery recovery operation based on the fact that the voltage (Vbattery) of the battery (250) has dropped below a predetermined value during a recycle operation (e.g., a first recycle operation or a second recycle operation).

[0270] For example, the control unit (70) states that during a recycle operation (e.g., a first recycle operation or a second recycle operation), the voltage (Vbattery) of the battery (250) is the initial battery voltage (V BO A predetermined size (V) smaller than ) B1 Battery recovery operation can be performed based on the drop below ).

[0271] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can control the switching unit (30) so that the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the power supply unit (200) during battery recovery operation.

[0272] For example, the control unit (70) can turn on the seventh switching element (SW7) so that the charging terminal (251) of the battery (250) is electrically connected to the power supply unit (200) during battery recovery operation.

[0273] The control unit (70) can turn off the switching elements (SW1, SW2, SW3, SW4, SW5, SW6) among the plurality of switching elements (SW1, SW2, SW3, SW4, SW5, SW6, SW7), excluding the seventh switching element (SW7), during battery recovery operation.

[0274] Through battery recovery operation, the battery (250) is charged by the power supply unit (200) and the voltage (Vbattery) of the battery (250) is increased to the battery initial voltage (V BO It can be maintained above )

[0275] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can resume the recycling operation based on the completion of the battery recovery operation.

[0276] For example, the control unit (70) states that the voltage (Vbattery) of the battery (250) is the initial battery voltage (V BOBased on the above, the battery recovery operation can be completed and the recycling operation can be resumed. Resuming the recycling operation may include repeatedly performing the first recycling operation and the second recycling operation alternately.

[0277] FIG. 18 is a control flowchart of a water treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0278] Referring to FIG. 18, in one embodiment, the control unit (70) can perform dual charging operation (1100).

[0279] Performing dual charging operation may include charging both the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120).

[0280] For example, performing dual charging operation may include electrically connecting each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120) to a power supply unit (200) so that the voltage generated by the power supply unit (200) is supplied to each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120), thereby charging each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120).

[0281] When dual charging operation is performed, deionization operation can be performed in each of the first electrode module (110) and the second electrode module (120).

[0282] For example, by supplying a voltage generated by a power supply unit (200) to a first electrode module (110), an ionic material is adsorbed onto a plurality of electrodes (e.g., a pair of first electrodes (111, 112)) of the first electrode module (110), and as a result, the first electrode module (110) can be charged.

[0283] As another example, by supplying a voltage generated by a power supply unit (200) to the second electrode module (120), an ionic material is adsorbed onto a plurality of electrodes (e.g., a pair of second electrodes (121, 122)) of the second electrode module (120), and as a result, the second electrode module (120) can be charged.

[0284] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can perform a recycling operation (1200).

[0285] Recycle operation may include a first recycle operation and a second recycle operation.

[0286] When the first cycle operation is performed, the first electrode module (110) is discharged and the second electrode module (120) can be charged (1200).

[0287] When the first recycling operation is performed, the first electrode module (110) can be regenerated, and the second electrode module (120) can be deionized.

[0288] When a second cycle operation is performed, the first electrode module (110) can be charged and the second electrode module (120) can be discharged (1300).

[0289] When the second recycling operation is performed, the first electrode module (110) can be deionized and the second electrode module (120) can be regenerated.

[0290] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can alternately perform a first recycling operation and a second recycling operation.

[0291] For example, the control unit (70) can alternately and repeatedly perform a first recycle operation and a second recycle operation.

[0292] In one embodiment, the control unit (70) can perform battery recovery operation (1400).

[0293] When battery recovery operation is performed, the voltage (Vbattery) of the battery (250) becomes the initial battery voltage (V BO It can be more than )

[0294] For example, the control unit (70) can charge the battery (250) by controlling the switching unit (30) so that the voltage (Vbattery) of the battery (250) electrically connects the battery (250) to the power supply unit (200) during battery recovery operation.

[0295] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code and, when executed by a processor, may generate a program module to perform the operation of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0296] Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media that store instructions that can be decoded by a computer. Examples include ROM (read-only memory), RAM (random access memory), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage devices, etc.

[0297] Additionally, computer-readable recording media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. Here, 'non-transitory storage media' simply means that it is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily. For example, 'non-transitory storage media' may include a buffer in which data is stored temporarily.

[0298] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or distributed online (e.g., download or upload) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily created on a device-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0299] As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been explained with reference to the attached drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be practiced in forms different from the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be interpreted restrictively.

Claims

1. First electrode module; Second electrode module; Power supply unit; A battery for charging or discharging the first electrode module and the second electrode module; A switching unit that changes the electrical connection relationship of the first electrode module, the second electrode module, the power supply unit, and the battery; and In dual charging operation, the switching unit is controlled so that the power supply unit is electrically connected to the first electrode module and the second electrode module, and A water treatment device comprising: a control unit that, in a recycle operation, controls the switching unit such that the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module and the second electrode module while the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module or the second electrode module, and controls the switching unit such that the charging terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module and the second electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module or the second electrode module.

2. In Paragraph 1, In the above dual charging operation, the control unit, A water treatment device that controls the switching unit so that the power supply unit is connected in parallel with the first electrode module and the second electrode module.

3. In Paragraph 1, In the above dual charging operation, the control unit, A water treatment device that adjusts the magnitude of the voltage generated by the power supply based on the capacitance of each of the first electrode module and the second electrode module.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned recycling operation is, A water treatment device comprising an operation that recovers energy generated as one of the first electrode module and the second electrode module is discharged and uses it to charge the other electrode module.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned recycling operation is, Includes a first recycling operation and a second recycling operation, The above control unit is, In the first cycle operation above, the switching unit is controlled such that the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the second electrode module while the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module, and the charging terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the second electrode module. A water treatment device that controls the switching unit such that, in the second cycle operation, the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the first electrode module while the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the second electrode module, and the charging terminal of the battery is electrically disconnected from the second electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above control unit is, The above first recycling operation and the above second recycling operation are performed alternately, Alternately performing the above-mentioned first recycling operation and the above-mentioned second recycling operation is, A water treatment device comprising performing a second cycle operation based on the voltage of the first electrode module dropping to a predetermined value during the first cycle operation, and performing the first cycle operation based on the voltage of the second electrode module dropping to the predetermined value during the second cycle operation.

7. In Paragraph 5, In the above first recycling operation, the control unit, The switching unit is controlled so that the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module at a first duty cycle, and The switching unit is controlled so that the discharge terminal is electrically connected to the second electrode module at a second duty cycle, and A water treatment device in which the first duty cycle and the second duty cycle are determined based on the capacitance of each of the first electrode module and the second electrode module.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit is, A water treatment device that performs a battery recovery operation based on the fact that the voltage of the battery drops below a predetermined value during the above-mentioned recycling operation.

9. In Paragraph 8, In the above battery recovery operation, the control unit, A water treatment device that controls the switching unit so that the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the power supply unit.

10. In Paragraph 8, The above control unit is, A water treatment device that resumes the recycling operation based on the completion of the battery recovery operation.

11. A method for controlling a water treatment device comprising a first electrode module, a second electrode module, a power supply unit, and a battery, wherein In dual charging operation, electrically connecting the power supply unit to the first electrode module and the second electrode module; A method for controlling a water treatment device comprising: in a recycle operation, electrically disconnecting the discharge terminal of the battery from the first electrode module and the second electrode module while the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module or the second electrode module, and electrically disconnecting the charging terminal of the battery from the first electrode module and the second electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module or the second electrode module.

12. In Paragraph 11, In the above dual charging operation, electrically connecting the power supply unit to the first electrode module and the second electrode module is, A control method for a water treatment device comprising: connecting the power supply unit in parallel with the first electrode module and the second electrode module in the above dual charging operation.

13. In Paragraph 11, A control method for a water treatment device further comprising, in the above dual charging operation, adjusting the magnitude of the voltage generated by the power supply based on the capacitance of each of the first electrode module and the second electrode module.

14. In Paragraph 11, The above-mentioned recycling operation is, A control method for a water treatment device comprising recovering energy generated as one of the first electrode module and the second electrode module is discharged and using it to charge another electrode module.

15. In Paragraph 11, The above-mentioned recycling operation is, Includes a first recycling operation and a second recycling operation, In the above-mentioned recycling operation, electrically disconnecting the discharge terminal of the battery from the first electrode module and the second electrode module while the charge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module or the second electrode module, and electrically disconnecting the charge terminal of the battery from the first electrode module and the second electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module or the second electrode module, is In the first recycling operation above, electrically disconnecting the discharge terminal of the battery from the second electrode module while the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module, and electrically disconnecting the charging terminal of the battery from the first electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the second electrode module; and A control method for a water treatment device comprising: in the second cycle operation, electrically disconnecting the discharge terminal of the battery from the first electrode module while the charging terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the second electrode module, and electrically disconnecting the charging terminal of the battery from the second electrode module while the discharge terminal of the battery is electrically connected to the first electrode module.

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