JP4878638B2 - Water purifier - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention generally relates to a water purifier, and more particularly to a water purifier that purifies raw water using a filter medium.

  Conventionally, there are some water purifiers that filter raw water with a filter medium to make purified water, or precipitate impurities contained in the raw water to make the raw water purified. The turbidity of the raw water supplied to the water purifier is not necessarily constant. For example, if the inner wall of the water supply pipe through which the raw water is circulated is peeled off, the turbidity of the raw water may suddenly increase. In addition, the turbidity of the raw water may temporarily increase due to typhoons or heavy rain.

  For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-58907 (Patent Document 1) describes a coagulation sedimentation system in which coagulation sedimentation apparatuses that coagulate and precipitate suspended substances in raw water are arranged in two stages in series. This coagulation sedimentation system is provided with a bypass line that can selectively switch between the first stage treatment and the second stage treatment according to the turbidity of the raw water. In this coagulation sedimentation system, when the turbidity of raw water is high, a two-stage process is performed in which the raw water is treated by a two-stage coagulation sedimentation apparatus. On the other hand, when the turbidity of the raw water is low, a one-stage process is performed in which the raw water is processed by a one-stage coagulation sedimentation apparatus.

JP 2002-58907 A

  However, as in the coagulation precipitation system described in JP-A-2002-58907 (Patent Document 1), it takes time to make the raw water purified by coagulating and precipitating suspended substances in the raw water. In addition, a large space for placing the precipitation agglomeration system is required. Therefore, it is difficult to use a coagulation sedimentation apparatus when purifying a relatively small amount of raw water at home.

  Therefore, when obtaining purified water at home, for example, it is conceivable to replace the two-stage coagulation sedimentation apparatus of the coagulation sedimentation system with filter media.

  However, when the two-stage coagulating sedimentation apparatus of the coagulating sedimentation system described above is replaced with a filter medium, if the two-stage treatment is selected when the turbidity of the raw water is large, the raw water having a large turbidity passes through the filter medium. .

  Thus, when water with high turbidity passes through the filter medium, the filter medium is easily clogged. When the filter medium is clogged, the water purification performance of the filter medium is lowered. In particular, when raw water with a turbidity greater than the normal turbidity suddenly flows into the filter medium, the life of the filter medium predicted from the normal use of the filter medium, that is, the standard filter medium usable period is exceeded. However, the filter medium can be used only for a short period.

  Then, the objective of this invention is providing the water purifier which can prevent the fall of the water purification performance of the filter medium by sudden turbidity of raw | natural water.

The water purifier according to the present invention includes a water passage, a filter medium, a turbidity detection unit, a switching unit, a control unit, and a storage unit . The water channel is for circulating water. The filter medium is disposed in a water passage and passes through raw water to make purified water. The turbidity detection unit detects the turbidity of raw water flowing through the water channel. The switching unit switches between a filtered state in which water flowing through the water passage passes through the filter medium and a non-filtered state in which water passing through the water passage does not pass through the filter medium. The control unit controls the switching unit. The reservoir stores raw water.

  The switching unit switches to a filtration state when the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity detection unit is equal to or lower than the predetermined turbidity, and the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity detection unit is greater than the predetermined turbidity. When it is larger, it is configured to switch to a non-filtered state.

  When the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity detection unit is equal to or lower than the predetermined turbidity, the switching unit switches the water purifier to the filtration state, so that the raw water flowing through the water passage passes through the filter medium, It is made into purified water.

  On the other hand, when the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity detection unit is larger than the predetermined turbidity, the switching unit switches the water purifier to the non-filtered state, so that the water passing through the water passage passes through the filter medium. No longer.

  In this way, by preventing raw water with turbidity greater than the predetermined turbidity from passing through the filter medium, even if the raw water with high turbidity suddenly flows into the water purifier, It is possible to prevent the filter medium from being clogged.

  By doing in this way, the water purifier which can prevent the fall of the water purification performance of the filter medium by sudden turbidity of raw water can be provided.

Control section, when the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity detection unit is equal to or less than a predetermined turbidity switched to filtered state, turbidity turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity detecting part is predetermined When larger, the switching unit is controlled to switch to the non-filtering state.

  By doing so, it is possible to accurately switch between the filtered state and the non-filtered state using a switching unit with a simple configuration.

The filter medium, the turbidity detection section, the switching section, and the storage section are arranged in the order of the turbidity detection section, the storage section, the switching section, and the filter medium from the upstream side to the downstream side of the water passage.

  It may take time between detection of turbidity by the turbidity detection unit and switching to the non-filtered state by the switching unit. Therefore, by placing a storage part between the position where turbidity is detected by the turbidity detection part and the filter medium in the water passage, the water whose turbidity is detected by the turbidity detection part until the water passes through the filter medium. In the meantime, it is temporarily stored in the storage part. By doing in this way, when water with high turbidity suddenly flows into the water passage, it is possible to prevent water with high turbidity from passing through the filter medium before the switching unit switches to the non-filtered state. it can.

  As mentioned above, according to this invention, the water purifier which can prevent the fall of the water purification performance of the filter medium by sudden turbidity of raw water can be provided.

It is a figure which shows typically the structure of the water purifier which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the control relevant structure of the water purifier which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows typically another example of the water purifier which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows typically the structure of the water purifier which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows typically the structure of the water purifier which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
As shown in FIG. 1, the water purifier 1 according to the first embodiment includes a turbidity sensor 110, a silver ion eluent 120, a prefilter 131, and an activated carbon filter 132 as a turbidity detection unit disposed in the water passage 100. And a turbidity removal filter 133, a tank 140, a pump 150, and an air introduction unit 160 as filter media. Moreover, the water purifier 1 includes a control unit 170, a water level sensor 143, and a notification unit 144 outside the water passage 100. The water passage 100 is also provided with a first water purification path introduction valve 101, a drain valve 102, a second water purification path introduction valve 103, a middle water valve 104, a water purification valve 105, and a backwash valve 106. Yes. The upstream end of the water passage 100 is connected to an external pipe that supplies raw water such as tap water. The raw water may be well water or river water in addition to tap water.

  The turbidity sensor 110 includes, for example, a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit, and is configured to detect the turbidity of water by detecting light scattering and light transmission.

  On the downstream side of the turbidity sensor 110, the water passage 100 is connected to two pipes. A first water purification path introduction valve 101 is disposed on one pipe, and a drain valve 102 is disposed on the other pipe. The first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 are an example of a switching unit. As will be described later, the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 are opened and closed by receiving a control signal from the control unit 170. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 are electromagnetic valves.

  A silver ion eluent 120 is disposed in the pipe where the first water purification path introduction valve 101 is disposed. As the silver ion eluent 120, for example, a material obtained by kneading silver ion eluting zeolite in polyethylene pellets is used. When water comes into contact with such a silver ion eluent 120, silver ions are eluted from the silver ion eluent 120 into the water.

  Since the members in the water passage 100 are always in contact with water, the bacteria are likely to propagate in the water passage 100 and the members in the water passage 100, particularly in various filters. When the bacteria propagate, the filter is clogged and the water purification performance of the filter is reduced. Therefore, by disposing the silver ion eluent 120 in the water channel 100, it is possible to suppress the growth of bacteria due to the sterilization effect by silver ions and prevent clogging of the filter.

  A prefilter 131 is connected to the downstream side of the silver ion eluent 120. The pre-filter 131 is configured by a relatively coarse nonwoven fabric. The water passing through the prefilter 131 is dredged by the prefilter 131 to remove relatively large impurities in the water.

  An activated carbon filter 132 is connected to the downstream side of the prefilter 131. The activated carbon filter 132 is made of activated carbon, and adsorbs and removes organic substances in the water from the water.

  The turbidity removal filter 133 is disposed on the downstream side of the activated carbon filter 132. The turbidity removal filter 133 is an example of a filter medium. The turbidity removal filter 133 is formed of a relatively fine nonwoven fabric. The turbidity removal filter 133 may be configured by a film. As the water passes through the turbidity removal filter 133, fine impurities are also filtered out. The water that has passed through the turbidity removal filter 133 becomes purified water.

  On the downstream side of the turbidity removal filter 133, the water passage 100 is connected to two pipes. The second water purification path introduction valve 103 is disposed on one pipe, and the middle water valve 104 is disposed on the other pipe. The second water purification path introduction valve 103 is opened and closed by receiving a control signal from the controller 170 as will be described later. The middle water valve 104 is opened and closed by the user. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the second water purification path introduction valve 103 is an electromagnetic valve.

  A tank 140 is connected to the pipe where the second water purification path introduction valve 103 is arranged. In the tank 140, water flowing through the water passage 100 and flowing into the tank 140 is temporarily stored. The tank 140 contains a UV (ultraviolet) irradiator 141 and a bacteria sensor 142. The UV irradiator 141 irradiates the water stored in the tank 140 with ultraviolet rays. The bacteria sensor 142 detects the number of bacteria in the water in the tank 140 and transmits a signal to the control unit 170.

  The water level sensor 143 detects the water level in the tank 140 and transmits a signal to the control unit 170.

  The notification unit 144 uses an alarm sound when the bacteria sensor 142 detects a predetermined number or more of bacteria in the water in the tank 140 and uses that the bacteria in the tank 140 is a predetermined number or more. Inform the person.

  The pump 150 delivers the water stored in the tank 140. The pump 150 is configured to be driven when a backwash valve 106 described later is opened.

  On the downstream side of the pump 150, the water passage 100 is connected to two pipes. A water purification valve 105 is disposed on one pipe, and a backwash valve 106 is disposed on the other pipe. The water purification valve 105 is opened and closed by the user. The backwash valve 106 is opened and closed by receiving a control signal from the controller 170 as will be described later. In this embodiment, the backwash valve 106 is an electromagnetic valve.

  The pipe on which the water purification valve 105 is arranged communicates with the outside of the water purifier 1. On the other hand, an air introduction unit 160 is connected to the pipe where the backwash valve 106 is arranged. In the pipe to which the air introduction unit 160 is connected, the end on the side opposite to the backwash valve 106 is connected to the turbidity removal filter 133.

  The air introduction unit 160 supplies air to the water sent from the pump 150 to the turbidity removal filter 133. By supplying air to the water delivered by the pump 150, the speed of the water flow can be increased even if the amount of water is the same.

  The water supplied with air by the air introduction unit 160 is supplied to the turbidity removal filter 133. The water supplied to the turbidity removal filter 133 is drained from the water purifier 1 without being returned to the tank 140.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the water purifier 1 includes a turbidity sensor 110, a bacteria sensor 142, a water level sensor 143, a first water purification path introduction valve 101, a drain valve 102, and a second water purification path introduction valve 103 as control-related components. And a backwash valve 106 and a notification unit 144. Turbidity sensor 110, bacteria sensor 142, and water level sensor 143 transmit signals to control unit 170. Based on the signals received from the turbidity sensor 110, the bacteria sensor 142, and the water level sensor 143, the control unit 170 performs the first water purification path introduction valve 101, the drain valve 102, the second water purification path introduction valve 103, and the backwash. A control signal is transmitted to the valve 106 and the notification unit 144.

  When the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is larger than a predetermined value, for example, 2 NTU (turbidimetric turbidity unit), the control unit 170 closes the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and drains the water. A control signal is transmitted to the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 so as to open the valve 102. The state in which the first water purification path introduction valve 101 is closed and the drain valve 102 is opened is defined as a non-filtering state.

  When the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is a predetermined value, for example, 2 NTU or less, the control unit 170 opens the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and closes the drain valve 102. A control signal is transmitted to the path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102. A state in which the first water purification path introduction valve 101 is opened and the drain valve 102 is closed is defined as a filtration state.

  The turbidity value when switching between the non-filtered state and the filtered state is adjusted depending on the environment in which the water purifier 1 is used, the type of filter medium, and the like. For example, normally, when the turbidity of the raw water is 0.01 NTU and the turbidity of the raw water is larger than 1.0 NTU, when the turbidity removal filter 133 is not allowed to pass, the raw water detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is used. When the turbidity is 1.0 NTU or less, the state is switched to the filtration state, and when the turbidity detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is greater than 1.0 NTU, the state is switched to the non-filtration state.

  The turbidity value when switching between the non-filtered state and the filtered state is determined based on the turbidity value detected by the turbidity sensor 110 within a predetermined period when the water purifier 1 is in operation. Also good. When determining the predetermined value in this way, the control unit 170 stores the turbidity value detected by the turbidity sensor 110 within a predetermined period, and the average value of the stored turbidity values and Find the standard deviation. Next, the control part 170 calculates | requires (average value + standard deviation x2) using the calculated | required average value and standard deviation of turbidity, and makes this a predetermined value. When the turbidity value detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is larger than the obtained (average value + standard deviation × 2), the control unit 170 switches to the non-filtered state so that the raw water becomes the turbidity removal filter 133. Do not pass through. In addition, when the turbidity value detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is equal to or less than the obtained (average value + standard deviation × 2), the control unit 170 switches to the filtration state and the raw water becomes a turbidity removal filter. 133.

  When the amount of bacteria in the tank 140 detected by the bacteria sensor 142 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the control unit 170 transmits a control signal to the notification unit 144 so that the number of bacteria in the tank 140 is a predetermined number. The user is notified of the above.

  The controller 170 also opens the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the second water purification path introduction valve 103 when the water in the tank 140 detected by the water level sensor 143 is lower than a predetermined water level. A control signal is transmitted to the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the second water purification path introduction valve 103. On the other hand, when the water in the tank 140 detected by the water level sensor 143 is equal to or higher than a predetermined water level, a control signal is transmitted to the first water purification path introduction valve 101 so as to close the first water purification path introduction valve 101. .

  Further, the control unit 170 opens and closes the backwash valve 106 by transmitting a control signal to the backwash valve 106 at regular time intervals, for example. The opening and closing of the backwash valve 106 may be interlocked with a signal that the control unit 170 receives from the bacteria sensor 142 and the water level sensor 143. When the backwash valve 106 is opened, the pump 150 (FIG. 1) is driven.

  Operation | movement of the water purifier 1 comprised as mentioned above is demonstrated.

  When raw water such as tap water flows into the water passage 100 and passes through the turbidity sensor 110, the turbidity of the raw water is detected by the turbidity sensor 110. When the detected turbidity is larger than a predetermined value, for example, 2 NTU, a signal is transmitted from the turbidity sensor 110 to the control unit 170, the control unit 170 closes the first water purification path introduction valve 101, and the drain valve Control to open 102. Water having a turbidity greater than a predetermined turbidity is discharged to the outside of the water purifier 1 through the drain valve 102 without flowing into the water passage 100 downstream of the first water purification passage introduction valve 101.

  Thus, the water in which the turbidity larger than the predetermined turbidity is detected is discharged from the water purifier 1 without passing through the turbidity removal filter 133 or the like.

  On the other hand, when the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is a predetermined value, for example, 2 NTU or less, a signal is transmitted from the turbidity sensor 110 to the control unit 170, and the control unit 170 transmits the first purified water. Control is made to open the passage valve 101 and close the drain valve 102. Water having a predetermined turbidity or less passes through the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and enters the downstream side of the first water purification path introduction valve 101 in the water passage 100.

  On the downstream side of the first water purification path introduction valve 101, the water passes through the silver ion eluent 120. At this time, silver ions are eluted in water. When the water purifier 1 is not used and raw water is not supplied into the water purifier 1, if there is water remaining inside the water purifier 1, the silver ions gradually elute into the water, Can suppress the growth of bacteria in

  Next, the water passes through the prefilter 131. By passing through the pre-filter 131, relatively large impurities are removed from the water.

  Next, the water passes through the activated carbon filter 132. By passing through the activated carbon filter 132, organic substances in the water are adsorbed on the activated carbon and removed from the water.

  Next, the water passes through the turbidity removal filter 133. By passing through the turbidity removal filter 133, relatively small impurities in the water are removed.

  In this way, purified water is generated.

  The generated purified water is stored in the tank 140. When the water level in the tank 140 detected by the water level sensor 143 is lower than the predetermined water level, the second water purification path introduction valve 103 is opened and the water that has passed through the turbidity removal filter 133 flows into the tank 140. To do. The water stored in the tank 140 is sterilized by being irradiated with ultraviolet rays by the UV irradiator 141. When the number of bacteria detected by the bacteria sensor 142 is a predetermined number or more, the notification unit 144 notifies the user that the number of bacteria in the tank 140 is a predetermined number or more.

  When the notification by the notification unit 144 is not made, when the user opens the water purification valve 105, the purified water is discharged from the water purifier 1 through the water purification valve 105. The user can use purified water.

  On the other hand, when the notification by the notification unit 144 is made, the user can continue the sterilization by the UV irradiator 141 for a longer time. Moreover, the user can open the water purification valve 105 even if the notification by the notification unit 144 is made. In this case, it is preferable to use the water discharged from the water purifier 1 for washing instead of using it for eating and drinking.

  In the water purifier 1, the backwash valve 106 is opened at predetermined time intervals, the pump 150 is driven, and the turbidity removal filter 133 is washed. The turbidity removal filter 133 can be cleaned by supplying water that has been sterilized and purified by irradiating ultraviolet rays in the tank 140 to the turbidity removal filter 133 from the direction opposite to the normal flow of water. . The water that has washed the turbidity removal filter 133 is discharged from the water purifier 1 as it is.

  The user can also open the middle water valve 104 and drain the water that has passed through the second water purification path introduction valve 103 from the water purifier 1 without storing it in the tank 140. In this way, the water that passes through the turbidity removal filter 133 without being stored in the tank 140 and is then discharged to the outside of the water purifier 1 without being stored in the tank 140 is referred to as middle water. The middle water is purified by the turbidity removal filter 133, but is not sterilized by ultraviolet irradiation. Therefore, it is desirable to use the middle water for washing or the like without using it as a beverage.

  In this embodiment, the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 are described as electromagnetic valves. However, the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 may be other valves. Good. For example, the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 may be configured to open and close according to the amount of transmitted light detected by the turbidity sensor 110, that is, the brightness in the water passage 100.

  For example, as the drain valve 102, a light-driven valve that is opened by light irradiation can be used. The optically driven valve includes, for example, a movable film formed of a photoresponsive substance. The movable film formed of the photoresponsive substance is reversibly deformed depending on the amount of light irradiated. By irradiating light to the optically driven valve including such a movable film, the movable film is reversibly deformed, and the optically driven valve is driven. The light-driven valve used for the drain valve 102 is configured to be opened when receiving a larger amount of scattered light, for example, and closed when receiving a predetermined amount or less of scattered light.

  In the water channel 100, when a light emitting unit that irradiates light in the water channel 100 is installed and light is irradiated from the light emitting unit to the water in the water channel 100, scattered light increases according to turbidity. Therefore, by providing a drain valve 102 constituted by a light-driven valve at a position for receiving scattered light in the water channel 100, the drain valve 102 is used when the turbidity of the raw water in the water channel 100 is larger than a predetermined value. Is opened and the drain valve 102 can be closed when it is below a predetermined value.

  Similarly, a light driven valve can be used as the first water purification path introduction valve 101. The 1st water purification path introduction valve 101 is arrange | positioned in the position which receives the transmitted light in the water flow path 100. FIG. The transmitted light in the water channel 100 decreases as the turbidity of the raw water in the water channel 100 increases. Therefore, an optically driven valve configured to be opened when receiving transmitted light of a predetermined amount or more and closed when receiving transmitted light less than a predetermined amount is used as the first water purification path introduction valve 101. . By doing in this way, when the turbidity of the raw water in the water channel 100 is below a predetermined value, the 1st water purification path introduction valve 101 is open | released, and when larger than a predetermined value, a 1st water purification path introduction valve 101 can be occluded.

  When the 1st water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 are comprised in this way, the 1st water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 are opened and closed without going through the control part 170. For example, when the brightness in the water passage 100 is higher than the brightness in the water passage 100 when the turbidity sensor 110 detects turbidity of 2 NTU or less, the first is set to switch to the filtration state. The water purification path introduction valve 101 is opened, and the drain valve 102 is closed. On the other hand, when the brightness in the water channel 100 is lower than the brightness in the water channel 100 when the turbidity sensor 110 detects turbidity of 2 NTU or less, the first water purification channel is introduced so as to switch to the non-filtered state. The valve 101 is closed and the drain valve 102 is opened.

  On the other hand, like the water purifier 1 of the first embodiment, the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 are controlled via the control unit 170 to switch between the filtration state and the non-filtration state. As the 1 water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102, valves having a simple configuration can be used.

  As described above, the water purifier 1 according to the first embodiment includes the water passage 100, the turbidity removal filter 133, the turbidity sensor 110, the first water purification path introduction valve 101, and the drain valve 102. The water passage 100 is for circulating water. The turbidity removal filter 133 is disposed in the water passage 100 and passes the raw water into purified water. The turbidity sensor 110 detects the turbidity of the raw water flowing through the water passage 100. The first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 are not filtered so that the water flowing through the water passage 100 passes through the turbidity removal filter 133 and the water passing through the water passage 100 does not pass through the turbidity removal filter 133. Switch between filtration states.

  When the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is equal to or lower than the predetermined turbidity, the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 are switched to the filtration state, and the raw water detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is used. When the turbidity of the water is larger than the predetermined turbidity, it is configured to switch to the non-filtered state.

  When the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is less than or equal to a predetermined turbidity, the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 switch the water purifier 1 to the filtered state, thereby allowing the water flow path 100. The raw water flowing through the water passes through the turbidity removal filter 133 to be purified.

  On the other hand, when the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is larger than the predetermined turbidity, the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 switch the water purifier 1 to the non-filtered state, Water passing through the water passage 100 does not pass through the turbidity removal filter 133.

  Thus, by preventing raw water having a turbidity greater than the predetermined turbidity from passing through the turbidity removal filter 133, even if the raw water having a large turbidity suddenly flows into the water purifier 1, It is possible to prevent the turbidity removal filter 133 from being clogged by raw water having a high degree.

  By doing in this way, the water purifier 1 which can prevent the fall of the water purification performance of the turbidity removal filter 133 by sudden turbidity of raw | natural water can be provided.

  Moreover, the water purifier 1 of 1st Embodiment is provided with the control part 170 which controls the 1st water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102. FIG. When the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is equal to or lower than the predetermined turbidity, the control unit 170 switches to the filtration state, and the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is predetermined turbidity. If larger, the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 are controlled so as to switch to the non-filtration state.

  By doing in this way, the filtration state and a non-filtration state can be correctly switched using the 1st water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 of a simple structure.

  In addition, between the pump 150 and the water purification valve 105, a heater (not shown) as a heating unit and a cooling device (not shown) as a cooling unit may be installed. For example, the user can adjust the temperature of the purified water discharged through the water purification valve 105 by adjusting the driving of the heater and the cooling device.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the water purifier 2 as another example of the first embodiment is connected directly to a raw water tank 220 in which raw water is stored, instead of supplying the raw water directly into the water channel 200 from the water supply. It may be. Thus, when supplying raw water from the raw water tank 220 into the water purifier 2, the pump 210 is disposed between the raw water tank 220 and the turbidity sensor 110.

  By doing in this way, even if there is no water pressure like tap water, water is supplied from the raw water tank 220 into the water passage 200 of the water purifier 2 by the pump 210, and the water is circulated in the water passage 200. Can do.

(Second Embodiment)
As shown in FIG. 4, the water purifier 3 of the second embodiment is different from the water purifier 1 of the first embodiment in that the water purifier 3 of the second embodiment includes a buffer unit 310 as a storage unit. The buffer unit 310 is disposed between the turbidity sensor 110 and the first water purification path introduction valve 101 in the water passage 300. The other structure of the water purifier 3 is the same as that of the water purifier 1 of 1st Embodiment.

  The buffer unit 310 may have any shape as long as it is configured to temporarily store water. For example, the buffer unit 310 may be a cylindrical container or a spirally wound tubular shape. It may be formed or simply a long tube. The length of time that the raw water is retained in the buffer unit 310 can be adjusted by the shape, diameter, and length of the buffer unit 310.

  Operation | movement of the water purifier 3 of 2nd Embodiment comprised as mentioned above is demonstrated. Here, a different point from the operation of the water purifier 1 of the first embodiment will be described.

  When raw water such as tap water flows into the water passage 300 and passes through the turbidity sensor 110, the turbidity sensor 110 detects the turbidity of the raw water. When the detected turbidity is larger than a predetermined value, for example, 2 NTU, a signal is transmitted from the turbidity sensor 110 to the control unit 170. The control unit 170 transmits a control signal to the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 so as to close the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and open the drain valve 102.

  On the other hand, the raw water whose turbidity is detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is temporarily stored in the buffer unit 310. The raw water is temporarily stored in the buffer unit 310 and then circulates in the water passage 300 downstream.

  The turbidity sensor 110 transmits a signal to the control unit 170, the control unit 170 transmits a control signal to the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102, the first water purification path introduction valve 101 is closed, and the drain valve 102. It may take some time before the is opened. However, since raw water is temporarily stored in the buffer part 310 upstream from the first water purification path introduction valve 101, even if it takes time until the first water purification path introduction valve 101 is closed, turbidity Large raw water can be prevented from passing through the first water purification path introduction valve 101.

  As mentioned above, the water purifier 3 of 2nd Embodiment is provided with the buffer part 310 for storing raw | natural water. The buffer unit 310 is disposed between the position where turbidity is detected by the turbidity sensor 110 in the water passage 300 and the turbidity removal filter 133.

  It may take time between the detection of turbidity by the turbidity sensor 110 and the switching to the non-filtered state by the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102. Therefore, by disposing the buffer unit 310 between the position where the turbidity sensor 110 detects the turbidity in the water passage 300 and the turbidity removal filter 133, the water whose turbidity is detected by the turbidity sensor 110 is reduced. Until the turbidity removal filter 133 passes, the buffer unit 310 temporarily stores the turbidity removal filter 133. By doing in this way, when water with large turbidity suddenly flows into the water passage 300, the water with high turbidity is switched before the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the drain valve 102 are switched to the non-filtered state. Can be prevented from passing through the turbidity removal filter 133.

  The other structure and effect of the water purifier 3 of 2nd Embodiment are the same as that of the water purifier 1 of 1st Embodiment.

(Third embodiment)
As shown in FIG. 5, the water purifier 4 according to the third embodiment is different from the water purifier 1 according to the first embodiment in that the water purifier 4 according to the third embodiment includes a flow sensor 410 as a water amount detection unit. The flow sensor 410 is disposed between the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and the silver ion eluent 120 in the water passage 400. The flow sensor 410 detects the flow rate of the raw water that has passed through the first water purification path introduction valve 101 in the water passage 400 and transmits a signal to the control unit 170. Similar to the water purifier 1 of the first embodiment, the turbidity sensor 110 detects the turbidity of raw water flowing through the water passage 400 and transmits a signal to the control unit 170.

  The pump 150, the backwash valve 106, and the air introduction unit 160 constitute a cleaning unit. The backwash valve 106 is opened and closed based on a signal received from the control unit 170.

  The control unit 170 obtains the product of the turbidity and the amount of water based on the signal received from the turbidity sensor 110 and the signal received from the flow sensor 410. When the product of the obtained turbidity and the amount of water is larger than a predetermined value, the control unit 170 drives the pump 150 and transmits a control signal to the backwash valve 106 so as to open the backwash valve 106. .

  The other structure of the water purifier 4 of 3rd Embodiment is the same as that of the water purifier 1 of 1st Embodiment.

  Operation | movement of the water purifier 4 comprised as mentioned above is demonstrated. Here, a different point from the operation of the water purifier 1 of the first embodiment will be described.

  When the raw water flows into the water passage 400 of the water purifier 4, the turbidity sensor 110 detects the turbidity of the raw water flowing through the water passage 400 and transmits a signal to the control unit 170.

  When the water purifier 4 is switched to the filtration state, the raw water flowing through the first water purification path introduction valve 101 and flowing into the turbidity removal filter 133 passes through the flow sensor 410. The flow sensor 410 detects the amount of raw water that has passed through the first water purification path introduction valve 101 in the water passage 400 and transmits a signal to the controller 170.

  Based on the signal received from the turbidity sensor 110, the control unit 170 integrates the turbidity detected by the turbidity sensor 110 with time. Further, the control unit 170 integrates the flow rate detected by the flow rate sensor 410 with time based on the signal received from the flow rate sensor 410. In the third embodiment, the control unit 170 integrates the detected turbidity and flow rate for the time that has elapsed after the turbidity removal filter 133 is backwashed.

  The controller 170 obtains a product of a value obtained by integrating the turbidity with time and a value obtained by integrating the flow rate with time. When the calculated product is larger than a predetermined value, the control unit 170 drives the pump 150 and transmits a control signal to the backwash valve 106 so as to open the backwash valve 106.

  When the pump 150 is driven and the backwash valve 106 is opened, the water in the tank 140 passes through the pump 150, the backwash valve 106, and the air introduction part 160, and becomes turbid from the opposite direction to the normal water flow. It flows into the quality removal filter 133, and the turbidity removal filter 133 is backwashed. The purified water used for backwashing is discharged from the water purifier 4 as it is.

  As described above, the water purifier 4 according to the third embodiment includes the flow sensor 410 that detects the amount of water passing through the turbidity removal filter 133, the backwash valve 106 that cleans the turbidity removal filter 133, and the air introduction unit 160. Is provided. The backwash valve 106 and the air introduction unit 160 have a product of a value obtained by integrating the turbidity detected by the turbidity sensor 110 with time and a value obtained by integrating the amount of water detected by the flow sensor 410 with time. Is also larger, the turbidity removal filter 133 is configured to be washed.

  Even if suddenly large turbidity water does not pass through the turbid removal filter 133, the usage time of the turbid removal filter 133, that is, as the total amount of water passing through the turbid removal filter 133 increases, The turbidity removal filter 133 is likely to be clogged. Further, the greater the turbidity of the water passing through the turbidity removal filter 133, the more easily the turbidity removal filter 133 is clogged. Therefore, when the product of the value obtained by integrating the turbidity detected by the turbidity sensor 110 with time and the value obtained by integrating the amount of water detected by the flow sensor 410 with time is larger than a predetermined value, By the air introduction unit 160 washing the turbidity removal filter 133, it is possible to more effectively prevent the water purification performance of the turbidity removal filter 133 from being deteriorated.

  Other configurations and effects of the water purifier 4 of the third embodiment are the same as those of the water purifier 1 of the first embodiment.

  The embodiment disclosed above should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above embodiments but by the scope of claims, and includes all modifications and variations within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims.

  1, 2, 3, 4: Water purifier, 100, 200, 300, 400: Water passage, 101: First water purification passage introduction valve, 102: Drain valve, 106: Backwash valve, 110: Turbidity sensor, 133: Turbidity removal filter, 150: pump, 160: air introduction unit, 310: buffer unit, 410: flow rate sensor.

Claims (1)

A water channel for distributing water,
A filter medium that is disposed in the water passage and passes through the raw water to be purified.
A turbidity detector for detecting the turbidity of the raw water flowing through the water channel,
A switching unit configured to switch between a filtered state in which water flowing through the water passage passes through the filter medium and a non-filtered state in which water passing through the water passage does not pass through the filter medium ;
A control unit for controlling the switching unit;
A storage section for storing raw water ,
The filter medium, the turbidity detection section, the switching section, and the storage section are arranged in the turbidity detection section, the storage section, the switching section, and the filter medium from the upstream side to the downstream side of the water passage. Arranged in order,
The control unit switches to the filtering state when the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity detection unit is equal to or lower than a predetermined turbidity, and the turbidity of the raw water detected by the turbidity detection unit is predetermined. If the turbidity is greater than the control unit to control the switching unit to switch to a non-filtered state,
Water purifier.

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