KR102372538B1 - Water purifier - Google Patents

Abstract

The water purifier is started. The water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a microphone module for detecting a voice command. The microphone module is coupled to the top cover.
The upper cover includes a microphone coupling unit. The microphone coupling unit stably couples the microphone module to the upper cover. The coupled state may be maintained by a fixing member.
The fixing member is coupled to the upper cover. The fixing member is fastened to the microphone coupling portion, and at the same time presses the microphone module toward the upper cover. In addition, the fixing member surrounds the terminal of the microphone module, and physically separates the terminal from the external space.
Accordingly, noise generated inside the water purifier does not flow into the terminal unit. As a result, the recognition rate of the voice command issued by the user may be improved.

Description

Water purifier

The present invention relates to a water purifier, and more particularly, to a water purifier having a structure that can operate according to voice information and can accurately recognize input voice information.

A water purifier refers to a device that purifies water for users to drink. Recently, as interest in health has increased, there is an increasing number of cases of drinking purified water equipped with a water purifier in general households.

A water purifier generally includes a filter for purifying raw water and a water outlet for discharging purified water. In a water purifier having a traditional structure, it is common that a lever disposed near the water outlet is operated to allow water to be discharged.

That is, when the user presses the lever using a container such as a cup, the member closing the water outlet is moved accordingly, and water is discharged through the water outlet.

However, the water purifier having the above structure should maintain a state in which the user presses the lever while water is drawn out. Accordingly, in recent years, in order to improve user convenience, a water purifier having a structure capable of dispensing water by issuing a voice command for water extraction without operation of a lever is also being actively developed.

However, when the water purifier is controlled through voice, operation reliability is generally lower than when the user controls the water purifier by manipulating a button or the like. This is because, in the case of voice commands, differences in intonation, size, etc. occur depending on the user. Accordingly, the accuracy of voice control may vary depending on the user.

Moreover, in order to control the water purifier through voice, a voice command must be accurately input. By the way, the water purifier includes many components inside to purify, heat or cool water. When each component is operated, noise is generated.

Accordingly, a case in which a voice command issued by a user and a noise generated inside the water purifier are synthesized may occur frequently. In this case, it is difficult to accurately input a voice command issued by a user, and thus the accuracy of voice control may be deteriorated.

Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2014-0070270 discloses a voice recognition water purifier. Specifically, a voice recognition water purifier capable of dispensing water desired by a user by comparing the voice signal input to the voice input unit and the command value stored in the storage unit is disclosed.

However, this type of water purifier has a limitation in that it discloses only a method for extracting water by a voice signal. That is, the prior literature does not suggest a countermeasure for preventing the synthesis of the user's voice signal and the noise generated inside the water purifier.

Korean Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 10-1999-0030565 discloses a control apparatus for a cold/hot water purifier and a method for controlling the same. Specifically, a control apparatus for a cold/hot water purifier capable of recognizing a user's voice by using a microphone and a voice recognition integrated circuit and extracting water according to the recognized voice, and a control method thereof are disclosed.

However, the control device of this type of water purifier also has a limitation in that it discloses only a method for extracting water by a voice signal. That is, the prior literature has a limitation in that there is no consideration for a method for preventing the synthesis of the input voice signal and the noise generated inside the water purifier.

Moreover, the prior documents mainly suggest a method for controlling a water purifier and a configuration for the same. That is, the prior documents do not suggest a method for preventing the synthesis of a voice signal and noise generated inside the water purifier through the internal structure of the water purifier.

Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2014-0070270 (2014.06.10.) Korean Patent Publication No. 10-1999-0030565 (199.05.06.)

An object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier having a structure that can solve the above problems.

First, a water purifier having a structure that can be operated to dispense water desired by a user by a voice signal issued by a user has one purpose.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier having a structure capable of improving a recognition rate of a voice signal issued by a user.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier having a structure in which synthesis between a voice signal issued by a user and noise generated inside the water purifier can be minimized.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier having a structure capable of improving a recognition rate of a voice signal issued by a user without excessively changing the structure.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier having a structure in which a member for accommodating a user's voice signal can be easily and firmly coupled.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier having a structure in which a voice signal issued by a user can be easily transmitted to the member.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier having a structure in which a user can easily recognize an input voice signal.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention, the body formed in the space therein; an upper cover coupled to the upper side of the body and covering the space; a microphone module coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover and receiving external voice information; a microphone coupling part protruding from the inner surface of the upper cover, accommodating the microphone module, and surrounding the inserted microphone module; and a fixing member coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover and in contact with the microphone module, wherein the fixing member includes: a base portion coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover; and a microphone support part continuous with the base part and in contact with the microphone module to press the microphone module in a direction toward the inner surface of the upper cover.

In addition, the microphone module of the water purifier may include a module body extending in one direction; and a terminal positioned on one surface of the module body facing the fixing member.

In addition, the microphone support portion of the water purifier may include: an outer peripheral rib protruding toward the microphone module and extending along the outer circumference of the microphone support portion to surround a portion of the terminal; and an inner peripheral rib protruding toward the microphone module and extending between two ribs facing each other among the outer peripheral ribs to surround the remaining part of the terminal, wherein the outer peripheral rib and the inner peripheral rib include the microphone module Each end surface of one side toward the may be in close contact with the one surface of the module body.

The microphone support portion of the water purifier may include: an outer peripheral rib protruding toward the microphone module and extending along an outer circumference of the microphone module; an inner peripheral rib protruding toward the microphone module and extending between two ribs facing each other among the outer peripheral ribs; and a terminal accommodating part formed to be surrounded by the outer circumferential rib and the inner circumferential rib and which is a space for accommodating the terminal.

In addition, a plurality of the terminal accommodating part of the water purifier is formed, the terminal is accommodated in any one of the plurality of the terminal accommodating parts, and the terminal accommodating part includes the module body, the microphone support part, the outer peripheral rib and the inner peripheral rib can be enclosed and sealed.

In addition, the microphone coupling unit of the water purifier may include: a microphone insertion unit recessed to accommodate the microphone module; and a rib formed to protrude and surround the microphone insertion unit.

In addition, the rib of the water purifier may include a first rib surrounding one side of the microphone insertion part; a second rib facing the first rib and surrounding the other side of the microphone insertion unit; and a third rib surrounding the other side of the microphone insertion unit and including a plurality of ribs facing each other.

In addition, the shortest distance between each end of the first rib, the second rib and the third rib facing the space of the water purifier and the inner surface of the upper cover is the first rib, the second rib and the third The rib may be shorter than the shortest distance between the respective ends facing the space and a surface in which the microphone insert is in contact with the microphone module.

The water purifier may include: a support rib protruding from an inner surface of the upper cover and extending from the third rib in a direction away from the microphone insertion part; and a screw fastening part protruding from the third rib in a direction away from the inner surface of the upper cover.

In addition, the screw fastening portion of the water purifier includes a fastening hole recessed therein to be coupled to the fastening member, and the fixing member includes a fastening hole formed through the base portion and through which the fastening member is coupled can do.

Also, the fastening hole and the fastening hole of the water purifier may be disposed to have the same central axis.

In addition, the present invention, the body formed in the space inside; an upper cover coupled to the upper side of the body and covering the space; a microphone module coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover and including a terminal for receiving external voice information; a microphone coupling part protruding from the inner surface of the upper cover and surrounding the microphone module; and a fixing member coupled to the microphone coupling part, positioned adjacent to the terminal, and in contact with the microphone module, wherein the fixing member is formed to protrude toward the microphone module, and a portion of the outside of the terminal an outer peripheral rib having an end surface of one side facing the microphone module in close contact with the microphone module; and an inner peripheral rib that is formed to protrude toward the microphone module, surrounds the remaining part of the outside of the terminal, and has an end surface of one side facing the microphone module in close contact with the microphone module.

In addition, a microphone hole communicating the space and the outside may be formed through the upper cover of the water purifier, and the terminal may be located directly below the microphone hole.

In addition, the upper cover of the water purifier may have a length in a front-rear direction longer than a length in a left-right direction, and the microphone hole may be positioned so as to be symmetrical in the left-right direction of the upper cover.

In addition, the upper cover of the water purifier may have a length in a front-rear direction longer than a length in a left-right direction, and the microphone hole may be located at a center of the upper cover in the front-rear direction.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the following effects can be achieved.

First, the water purifier includes a microphone module. The microphone module has a terminal for receiving voice information. Voice information issued by the user may be transmitted to the microphone module.

The microphone module is connected to the control unit. The voice information input to the microphone module is processed by the controller to control the water outlet.

Accordingly, the user can dispense the desired water by emitting voice information without button manipulation.

In addition, the microphone module is accommodated in the microphone coupling unit. The microphone coupling portion includes a microphone insertion portion recessed in the upper cover. The microphone module is accommodated in the microphone insert. The microphone coupling unit includes a plurality of ribs. Each rib is disposed to surround the microphone insertion unit and the microphone module accommodated in the microphone insertion unit.

Accordingly, noise generated inside the water purifier may be blocked by each rib.

In addition, the microphone module is pressed toward the upper cover by the fixing member. The surfaces of the microphone module and the microphone insertion unit facing each other are in close contact with each other by the pressure of the fixing member. As a result, noise generated inside the water purifier does not flow between the surfaces.

Accordingly, voice information issued by the user is input to the terminal of the microphone module, and noise generated inside the water purifier is not input. Accordingly, the recognition rate of voice information issued by the user may be improved.

Further, the terminal is surrounded by the microphone support portion of the fixing member. The terminal is accommodated in a terminal accommodating portion formed in the microphone support. The terminal receiving portion is surrounded by the outer circumferential rib of the microphone support portion, the inner circumferential rib and the face of the module body.

As described above, the fixing member is coupled to the upper cover to press the microphone module. Accordingly, the outer peripheral rib and the inner peripheral rib of the microphone support are pressed against the surface of the module body and are in close contact. That is, the terminal accommodating part is blocked from communicating with the space inside the water purifier.

Accordingly, the noise generated inside the water purifier does not flow into the terminal accommodating part. Furthermore, as described above, the surface to which the microphone insertion unit and the microphone module are coupled is closely coupled by the fixing member.

Accordingly, noise generated inside the water purifier cannot proceed toward the terminal receiving unit. Likewise, the noise generated inside the water purifier cannot proceed toward the surface where the microphone insertion unit and the microphone module are coupled.

As a result, voice information issued by the user is input to the terminal, but noise generated inside the water purifier is not input. Accordingly, the synthesis between the voice information issued by the user and the noise generated inside the water purifier can be minimized.

In addition, the microphone module for receiving voice information issued by the user is coupled to the upper cover. The microphone coupling part for accommodating the microphone module and the fixing member for supporting the microphone module are also coupled to the upper cover. No structural changes to the other components of the water purifier are required.

Accordingly, the recognition rate of voice information issued by the user may be improved without excessively changing the overall structure of the water purifier.

In addition, the microphone module for receiving the voice information issued by the user is accommodated in the microphone coupling unit provided on the upper cover. The fixing member is coupled to the microphone coupling portion after the microphone is accommodated. In one embodiment, the coupling may be performed by a fastening member.

Accordingly, the microphone module and the fixing member for supporting the microphone module may be easily coupled to the upper cover. Furthermore, since the fixing member is coupled to the upper cover by the fastening member, the coupled state may be stably maintained.

In addition, a microphone hole through which voice information issued by a user flows is formed in the upper cover. A terminal provided in the microphone module to receive the voice information is located adjacent to the microphone hole. In an embodiment, the terminal may be located directly below the microphone hole.

Accordingly, the length of the path through which the voice information issued by the user is moved to the terminal can be shortened. Accordingly, voice information issued by the user may be easily transmitted to the microphone module.

Also, in an embodiment, the water purifier may include a speaker module. The speaker module may output water extraction information calculated according to the voice information input by the user as audio information. In another embodiment, the water extraction information may be calculated as visualization information and output through the manipulation unit.

Accordingly, the user can easily recognize a situation in which the water purifier is operated according to the input voice information.

1 is a perspective view illustrating a water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is a front view showing the water purifier of Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is a side view showing the water purifier of Fig. 1;
Fig. 4 is a plan view showing the water purifier of Fig. 1;
5 is a plan view illustrating an upper cover in a state in which the operation unit is removed from the water purifier of FIG. 4 .
6 is a plan view illustrating an inner surface of an upper cover in the water purifier of FIG. 5 .
7 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the microphone module provided in the water purifier of FIG. 1 is coupled to the upper cover.
8 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a microphone module provided in the water purifier of FIG. 1 is coupled to an upper cover.
9 is a plan view illustrating a state in which the microphone module provided in the water purifier of FIG. 1 is coupled to the upper cover.
10 is a perspective view illustrating the microphone module of FIG. 7 .
11 is a perspective view illustrating a fixing member for fixing the microphone module of FIG. 7 .
12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a coupling relationship between a microphone module and a fixing member.
13 is a cross-sectional view AA′ illustrating a coupling relationship between the microphone module and the fixing member of FIG. 12 .
14 is a cross-sectional view BB′ showing the coupling relationship between the microphone module and the fixing member of FIG. 12 .
15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a process of blocking internal noise in the water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, the water purifier 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

In the following description, in order to clarify the characteristics of the present invention, descriptions of some components may be omitted.

1. Definition of terms

The term "raw water" used in the following description means water that has not been purified for drinking. In an embodiment, the raw water may be tap water or the like.

The term "pressing operation" used in the following description means an operation performed by being pressed and pressed by an external force.

The term “press information” used in the following description refers to control information inputted by pressing by a user.

The term "voice information" used in the following description refers to control information input by a user's voice.

The term “control information” used in the following description refers to information input by a user to control the water purifier 10 . In an embodiment, the control information may include press information and voice information.

The term "light emission information" used in the following description means information related to light emission or extinction of each component provided in the manipulation unit 300 . In an embodiment, the light emission information may include light emission information, light emission type information, and light emission time information.

The term “water extraction information” used in the following description refers to information related to water discharged from the water purifier 10 . In an embodiment, the water extraction information may include water extraction temperature information, water extraction amount information, and water extraction duration information.

The term "identifier information" used in the following description means information consisting of a combination of specific phrases including content related to water outflow information. In an embodiment, the identifier information may be configured in the form of voice information.

The term "communicable connection" used in the following description means that two or more members are connected to transmit and receive electrical signals. In an embodiment, the electrical signal may be current or control information.

The terms “front side”, “rear side”, “left”, “right”, “top” and “bottom” used in the following description will be understood with reference to the coordinate system shown in FIG. 1 .

However, the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 to 14 will be described on the assumption that the upper cover 114 is in an inverted state. This is due to the speaker module 400, the microphone coupling part 500, the microphone module 600, and the fixing member 700 to be described later being coupled to the inner surface (ie, the lower surface) of the upper cover 114 . .

Accordingly, the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 to 14 will be described on the assumption that "upper side" and "lower side" are opposite to each other when compared with the coordinate system shown in FIG. 1 .

In addition, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 15 , the upper cover 114 is coupled to the main body 110 . Accordingly, the embodiment shown in FIG. 15 will be described on the assumption that "upper side" and "lower side" are the same as the coordinate system shown in FIG. 1 .

2. Description of the configuration of the water purifier 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention

1 to 4 , the water purifier 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet 100 , a water outlet 200 , and an operation unit 300 .

In addition, with further reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 , the water purifier 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a speaker module 400 , a microphone coupling unit 500 , a microphone module 600 , and a fixing member 700 . do.

Hereinafter, the configuration of the water purifier 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the microphone coupling part 500 , the microphone module 600 and the fixing member 700 will be described as separate clauses.

(1) Description of the cabinet (100)

The cabinet 100 forms the outer shape of the water purifier 10 . In addition, a predetermined space is formed inside the cabinet 100 . In the space, various components (not shown) for the water purifier 10 to purify raw water and to heat or cool it may be mounted.

That is, the cabinet 100 functions as a housing of the water purifier 10 .

The water outlet 200 is connected to the cabinet 100 . Purified, heated or cooled water may be discharged to the outside through the water outlet 200 .

The cabinet 100 is provided with a manipulation unit 300 . The user may input pressing information for selecting water to be dispensed and pressing information for dispensing the selected water through the manipulation unit 300 .

The speaker module 400 , the microphone coupling part 500 , the microphone module 600 , and the fixing member 700 are accommodated in the cabinet 100 . Specifically, the speaker module 400 , the microphone coupling part 500 , the microphone module 600 , and the fixing member 700 are coupled to the inside of the upper cover 114 .

The cabinet 100 is formed to extend in one direction, in the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. In addition, the cabinet 100 is formed to extend in another direction, in the up-down direction in the illustrated embodiment.

That is, when viewed from the front, the cabinet 100 is elongated in the vertical direction and has a narrow width in the left and right directions. Accordingly, the water purifier 10 can be accommodated in a narrow space.

The cabinet 100 includes a body 110 and a residual water tray 120 .

The body 110 forms the outer shape of the water purifier 10 . In addition, a predetermined space is formed inside the main body 110 , and various components (not shown) described above may be mounted therein.

The body 110 may be formed of a material having high rigidity while being lightweight. In one embodiment, the body 110 may be formed of reinforced plastic.

The body 110 includes a front cover 111 , a side cover 112 , a rear cover 113 , an upper cover 114 , and a water outlet coupling part 115 . The front cover 111 , the side cover 112 , the back cover 113 , and the upper cover 114 are disposed to surround the body 110 .

Each cover (111, 112, 113, 114) is connected to each other. Accordingly, the space inside the body 110 is physically separated from the outside.

The front cover 111 forms the front side of the body 110 . The front cover 111 is formed to cover the predetermined space formed inside the main body 110 from the front side. The front cover 111 is formed to be rounded toward one side, the front side in the illustrated embodiment. In an embodiment, the front cover 111 may have a shape of a half circle.

The front cover 111 is positioned to be biased toward the upper cover 114 , and a round opening is formed therethrough. The water outlet 200 may be exposed to the outside through the opening. The water outlet 200 may be rotated along the opening.

Both ends of the front cover 111 are connected to the side cover 112 . The upper end of the front cover 111 is connected to the upper cover 114 . A residual water tray 120 is coupled to one side of the front cover 111 opposite to the upper cover 114 , the lower side in the illustrated embodiment. In an embodiment, the residual water tray 120 may be rotatably and detachably coupled to the front cover 111 .

The side cover 112 forms both sides of the main body 110, left and right in the illustrated embodiment. The side cover 112 is configured to cover the predetermined space formed inside the body 110 from left and right sides. In the illustrated embodiment, the side cover 112 has a plane shape.

One side of the side cover 112 facing the front cover 111 , in the illustrated embodiment, the front side end is connected to both ends of the front cover 111 . The other side of the side cover 112 facing the rear cover 113 , in the illustrated embodiment, the rear side end is connected to both ends of the rear cover 113 .

In addition, the other side of the side cover 112 facing the upper cover 114, the upper end in the illustrated embodiment is connected to both ends of the upper cover 114.

The rear cover 113 forms the rear side of the body 110 . The rear cover 113 is formed to cover the predetermined space formed inside the main body 110 from the rear side.

The rear cover 113 is formed to be rounded to one side, the rear side in the illustrated embodiment. In one embodiment, the front cover 111 and the rear cover 113 may be formed in a shape symmetrical to each other.

One side of the rear cover 113 facing the side cover 112 , left and right ends in the illustrated embodiment are connected to the rear side end of the side cover 112 . The other side of the rear cover 113 facing the upper cover 114 , in the illustrated embodiment, the upper end is connected to the rear end of the upper cover 114 .

The upper cover 114 forms an upper side of the body 110 . The upper cover 114 is formed to cover the predetermined space formed inside the main body 110 from the upper side.

The upper cover 114 is formed so that both sides, the front side and the rear side in the illustrated embodiment are rounded. The rounded portion may be formed to correspond to the shapes of the front cover 111 and the rear cover 113 .

The operation unit 300 is coupled to the upper cover 114 . In one embodiment, the manipulation unit 300 may be rotatably coupled to the upper cover 114 . In the above embodiment, the manipulation unit 300 may be rotated integrally with the water outlet 200 .

Referring to FIG. 5 , a microphone hole 114a is formed through the upper cover 114 . The microphone hole 114a communicates with the inside and outside of the body 110 . Voice information issued by the user may be transmitted to the microphone module 600 through the microphone hole 114a.

The microphone hole 114a is aligned with the terminal 620 of the microphone module 600 . The voice information introduced through the microphone hole 114a may be moved toward the terminal 620 . Accordingly, voice information issued by the user may be transmitted to the microphone module 600 .

A plurality of microphone holes 114a may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment, two microphone holes 114a may be provided. Each microphone hole 114a is positioned to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the left and right directions. The predetermined distance may be determined according to a distance between the terminals 620 of the microphone module 600 .

The plurality of microphone holes 114a may be formed to be symmetrical to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of microphone holes 114a are disposed to be symmetrical to each other with respect to the central axis in the front-rear direction of the upper cover 114 .

The microphone hole 114a is positioned to be spaced apart from the water outlet 200 by a predetermined distance in the extending direction of the upper cover 114, and in the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the microphone hole 114a is located biased toward the front from the central portion of the front-rear direction of the upper cover 114 .

The position of the microphone hole 114a may be changed according to the position of the microphone module 600 .

The water outlet 200 is rotatably coupled to the water outlet coupling part 115 . The water outlet 200 may be rotatably coupled to the body 110 through the water outlet coupling unit 115 .

The water outlet coupling part 115 is formed on the upper cover 114 . The water outlet coupling part 115 is located on one side facing the water outlet 200 , and on the front side in the illustrated embodiment. The water outlet coupling part 115 is positioned adjacent to the front cover 111 .

The water outlet coupling part 115 may be formed through the upper cover 114 . A main body coupling part (not shown) of the water outlet 200 may be rotatably inserted and coupled to the water outlet coupling part 115 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the water outlet coupling part 115 is formed as a circular through hole. The shape of the water outlet coupling part 115 may be determined in any shape to which the water outlet 200 may be rotatably coupled.

A pipe (not shown) extending to the water outlet 200 may pass through the water outlet coupling part 115 . Each component (not shown) for generating purified water, cold water, and hot water accommodated in the space inside the body 110 and the water outlet 200 include the pipe (not shown) passing through the water outlet coupling unit 115 . can be communicated by

The residual water tray 120 accommodates water that has not entered the container among the water discharged from the water outlet 200 . Accordingly, even if an error occurs in the user's operation or the operation of the water purifier 10 , the escaped water is prevented from flowing out of the water purifier 10 .

The residual water tray 120 is coupled to the front cover 111 . The residual water tray 120 is located in the direction away from the water outlet 200 , in the illustrated embodiment, on the lower side. Preferably, the residual water tray 120 may be located directly below the water outlet 200 .

The residual water tray 120 may be detachably coupled to the front cover 111 . When the residual water is collected in the residual water tray 120 by a predetermined amount or more, the user can remove the residual water by separating the residual water tray 120 .

The residual water tray 120 may be rotatably coupled to the front cover 111 . When the water dispenser 200 and the manipulation unit 300 are rotated, the residual water tray 120 may also be rotated along the water dispenser 200 and the manipulation unit 300 .

Accordingly, even when water is discharged from various angles, the residual water may be collected in the residual water tray 120 .

A predetermined space is formed inside the residual water tray 120 . Residual water of the water discharged from the water outlet 200 is accommodated in the space. A grating is formed on the upper side of the residual water tray 120 . Residual water may be introduced into the predetermined space through the opening formed in the grate.

(2) Description of the water outlet 200

The water outlet 200 is a portion from which purified, heated or cooled water is discharged. The water outlet 200 communicates with a filter (not shown), a heating device (not shown), and a cooling device (not shown) accommodated in the space inside the cabinet 100 .

The water outlet 200 may communicate with the outside or be blocked. The communication and blocking may be achieved by mechanical or electronic means.

Specifically, the water outlet 200 may communicate with the outside according to control information. Accordingly, purified, heated or cooled water may be discharged into the container through the water outlet 200 .

In addition, the water outlet 200 may block communication with the outside according to the control information. Accordingly, purified, heated or cooled water is not arbitrarily discharged through the water outlet 200 .

The water outlet 200 may be operated according to control information applied to the manipulation unit 300 by a user. Also, the water dispenser 200 may be operated according to the control information calculated by the controller (not shown).

The water outlet 200 is rotatably coupled to the cabinet 100 . The water outlet 200 may be rotated by a predetermined angle while being coupled to the cabinet 100 .

In an embodiment, the water outlet 200 may be rotated by 180°. That is, the water outlet 200 may be rotated from one side where the front cover 111 is connected to the side cover 112 to the other side, and from left to right in the illustrated embodiment.

The water outlet 200 is communicatively connected to a control unit (not shown). Control information calculated by the controller (not shown) may be transmitted to the water dispenser 200 . Accordingly, the water outflow may be allowed or blocked. In addition, information related to the water dispensed from the water outlet 200 may be transmitted to the controller (not shown).

The water extraction unit 200 includes a rotator 210 , a water extraction unit 220 , and a water extraction cock 230 .

The rotator 210 forms the body of the water outlet 200 . The rotator 210 is rotatably coupled to the inside of the cabinet 100 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the rotator 210 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The curvature of the rotator 210 may be determined to correspond to the curvature of the front cover 111 .

Although not shown, a piping structure (not shown) through which water may flow may be provided inside the rotator 210 . The pipe structure (not shown) may be rotated together with the rotator 210 .

One side of the cylindrical rotator 210, the outer periphery of the front side in the illustrated embodiment may be exposed through an opening formed in the front cover (111). A water extraction unit 220 is connected to the outer periphery of the front side of the rotator 210 . The water extraction unit 220 penetrates through the opening.

The water outlet unit 220 is formed to protrude from the front cover 111 by a predetermined distance. Accordingly, the discharged water may be accommodated in a container disposed at a position spaced apart from the front cover 111 .

The water dispensing unit 220 is formed to extend in a direction toward the upper cover 114 or a direction toward the residual water tray 120, in the illustrated embodiment, in the vertical direction. A water extraction cock 230 is provided under the water extraction unit 220 . The manipulation unit 300 is positioned above the water extraction unit 220 .

The water extraction unit 220 is connected to the rotator 210 . When the rotator 210 is rotated, the water extraction unit 220 may also be rotated. In this case, the manipulation unit 300 positioned at the upper side of the water dispense unit 220 and the water dispense cock 230 positioned at the lower side may also be rotated together.

A pipe (not shown) through which water flows is provided inside the water outlet unit 220 . The pipe (not shown) communicates with a pipe structure (not shown) provided inside the rotator 210 . In addition, the pipe (not shown) communicates with the water outlet cock 230 .

Accordingly, purified, heated or cooled water may flow to the water outlet cock 230 through a pipe structure (not shown) and a pipe (not shown).

The water outlet cock 230 is a passage through which purified, heated or cooled water is discharged. The water outlet cock 230 may allow or block purified, heated or cooled water. This is accomplished by mechanical or electronic means as described above.

The water extraction cock 230 is located below the water extraction unit 220 . The water extraction cock 230 is formed to protrude from the lower side of the water extraction unit 220 by a predetermined length.

The water outlet cock 230 communicates with a pipe (not shown) positioned inside the water outlet unit 220 . Water passing through the water outlet unit 220 may be discharged to the outside of the water purifier 10 through the water outlet cock 230 .

A residual water tray 120 is positioned below the water outlet cock 230 . The water outlet cock 230 and the remaining water tray 120 are disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. Accordingly, a predetermined space is formed between the water outlet cock 230 and the residual water tray 120 . A container for accommodating the discharged water may be disposed in the space.

The manipulation unit 300 is a part into which control information related to water to be discharged is input. The user may select the type and capacity of water to be dispensed through the operation unit 300 .

Control information input to the manipulation unit 300 is transmitted to a control unit (not shown). The controller (not shown) may control the water dispenser 200 according to water dispense information calculated using the input control information.

The manipulation unit 300 is rotatably coupled to the upper cover 114 . The manipulation unit 300 is located on one side of the upper cover 114 facing the front cover 111 , on the front side in the illustrated embodiment.

The manipulation unit 300 is connected to the water outlet 200 . Specifically, the manipulation unit 300 may be coupled to the upper side of the water dispense unit 220 . When the water outlet 200 is rotated relative to the cabinet 100 , the manipulation unit 300 may also rotate integrally with the water outlet 200 .

Accordingly, the manipulation unit 300 is also rotated in the direction and angle in which the user rotates the water outlet 200 . As a result, user convenience can be improved.

The operation unit 300 is communicatively connected to a control unit (not shown). Control information input through the manipulation unit 300 may be transmitted to a control unit (not shown). In addition, the control information calculated by the control unit (not shown) may be transmitted to the operation unit 300 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the operation unit 300 includes an operation button 310 and a water dispense button 320 .

The operation button 310 is pressed by the user to receive pressing information for controlling the water purifier 10 .

The operation button 310 is communicatively connected to a control unit (not shown). Pressing information input to the manipulation button 310 may be transmitted to a controller (not shown). In addition, water extraction information calculated by the control unit (not shown) may be transmitted to the operation button 310 .

The operation button 310 may be operated by touch to receive pressing information for controlling the water purifier 10 . Accordingly, in the following description, a press operation or a touch operation will be collectively referred to as a “press operation”.

In an embodiment, the operation button 310 may be pressed for a predetermined time to receive pressing information. This is to prevent unintentional water leakage due to erroneous operation. In an embodiment, the predetermined time may be 3 seconds.

The manipulation button 310 may be provided in any form capable of being pressed and energized with the control unit (not shown) or transmitting an electrical signal to the control unit (not shown).

In an embodiment, the operation button 310 may be provided in the form of a switch, a toggle switch, or a touch panel.

The operation button 310 may emit light. The operation button 310 may be operated by pressing or while the water purifier 10 is operated, the operation button 310 may emit light.

To this end, the operation button 310 may include a member that emits light by an electrical signal. In one embodiment, the operation button 310 may include an LED lamp.

A plurality of operation buttons 310 may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment, there are three operation buttons 310 in the front-rear direction and two in the left-right direction, for a total of six operation buttons 310 . The number and arrangement of the manipulation buttons 310 may be changed.

A predetermined function may be assigned to each of the plurality of manipulation buttons 310 . That is, when any one of the operation buttons 310 is pressed and operated, a predetermined function assigned to the operation button 310 may be performed.

For example, any one of pressing information for dispensing purified water, cold water, or hot water may be input to each manipulation button 310 .

In addition, any one of press information related to the amount of water dispensed, water dispense time, or cleaning of the water purifier 10 may be input to each manipulation button 310 .

The water extraction button 320 is located on one side of the operation button 310 facing the water extraction cock 230 , and on the front side in the illustrated embodiment.

When the water outlet button 320 is pressed, various valves (not shown) are opened, so that water can be discharged through the water outlet 200 . The water outlet button 320 is communicatively connected to the water outlet 200 and various valves (not shown).

The water dispense button 320 may be pressed once, and water may be dispensed. In this case, water may be dispensed according to the temperature of the water input through the operation button 310 , the amount of water dispensed, the water run duration, and the like.

As the water dispense button 320 maintains the pressed state, water may be dispensed. In this case, water may be dispensed while the water dispense button 320 is pressed.

In the illustrated embodiment, the water dispense button 320 is located in the central portion of the frontmost side of the manipulation unit 300 . This is to improve accessibility since it is a button that is used most frequently by the user.

Although not shown, the manipulation unit 300 may be provided with a plurality of indicators (not shown). Each indicator (not shown) may display the operating state of the water purifier 10 .

In an embodiment, the indicator (not shown) may display whether the water purifier 10 is in an operating state and whether the water purifier 10 is communicatively connected to an external terminal or database unit.

In addition, the indicator (not shown) may display whether the water purifier 10 is in a state in which voice information input by the user can be received.

(4) Description of the speaker module 400

6 , the water purifier 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a speaker module 400 .

The speaker module 400 outputs the operating state of the water purifier 10 as audio information. The user can easily recognize the operating state of the water purifier 10 through the auditory information output from the speaker module 400 .

The speaker module 400 may output the voice information input by the user as audio information.

That is, as an example, when the user inputs voice information “Give me a cup of cold water”, the speaker module 400 may output audio information such as “Give me a cup of cold water” that is the same as the voice information.

Alternatively, the speaker module 400 may output control information corresponding to the voice information input by the user as audio information.

That is, as an example, when the user inputs voice information "Give me a cup of cold water", the speaker module 400 may output audio information such as "I dispense 200 ml of cold water."

In addition, when a safety accident may occur, such as a situation in which hot water is dispensed, the speaker module 400 may output auditory information to draw the user's attention.

The speaker module 400 is accommodated in a space inside the body 110 . Specifically, the speaker module 400 may be coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover 114 , that is, one side of the upper cover 114 that covers the space inside the body 110 .

The speaker module 400 may be located on one side facing the water outlet 200 , and biased toward the front side in the illustrated embodiment. In an embodiment, the speaker module 400 may be located adjacent to the front cover 111 .

The speaker module 400 is communicatively connected to a control unit (not shown). Control information calculated by the controller (not shown) may be transmitted to the speaker module 400 . The connection may be implemented by a conducting wire member (not shown) or the like.

The speaker module 400 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 410 and a speaker 420 .

The PCB 410 calculates auditory information output from the speaker module 400 . The PCB 410 may be communicatively connected with a control unit (not shown) to receive control information calculated by the control unit (not shown).

The PCB 410 calculates auditory information using the received control information. The calculated auditory information may be transmitted to the speaker 420 . The PCB 410 and the speaker 420 are communicatively connected. The connection may be implemented by a conducting wire member (not shown) or the like.

The PCB 410 is positioned adjacent to the water outlet 200 . In the illustrated embodiment, the PCB 410 is located on the rear side of the front cover 111, biased to the left.

The speaker 420 outputs the control information calculated by the controller (not shown) as audio information. The speaker 420 is communicatively connected to a control unit (not shown) through the PCB 410 .

The speaker 420 may output auditory information related to the operating state of the water purifier 10 . In an embodiment, the speaker 420 may output audio information related to the temperature information of the water discharged from the water purifier 10 , information about the amount of water discharged, and the like.

The speaker 420 may output auditory information related to voice information input by the user. In one embodiment, the speaker 420 may output the same audio information as the user's voice information. In another embodiment, the speaker 420 may output information on the temperature and amount of water dispensed according to the voice information issued by the user.

In addition, the speaker 420 may output auditory information about a safety accident that may occur in the process of using the water purifier 10 to draw the user's attention.

The speaker 420 may be provided in any form capable of outputting auditory information. In an embodiment, the speaker 420 may be provided in the form of a condenser speaker or a dynamic speaker.

In another embodiment, the speaker 420 may be provided in the form of vibrating the upper cover 114 using sound waves constituting the auditory information. As is known, auditory information is a kind of wave propagating through a medium. Accordingly, the speaker 420 may be provided in a form that is coupled to the upper cover 114 and vibrates the upper cover 114 itself.

2. Description of the microphone coupling unit 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention

Referring back to FIG. 6 , the water purifier 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a microphone coupling unit 500 .

The microphone coupling unit 500 enables the microphone module 600 to stably maintain a coupled state to the upper cover 114 . The microphone module 600 inserted into the microphone coupling unit 500 does not move arbitrarily on the upper cover 114 .

The microphone coupling unit 500 may prevent internal noise from being introduced into the microphone module 600 coupled to the upper cover 114 . Accordingly, the amount of internal noise introduced into the microphone module 600 may be minimized.

The microphone coupling unit 500 is located on the upper cover 114 . This is due to the microphone module 600 and the fixing member 700 being coupled to the upper cover 114 .

Each of the ribs 510 , 520 , 530 , and 540 of the microphone coupling unit 500 to be described later may be separately manufactured and coupled to the upper cover 114 . Alternatively, each rib 510 , 520 , 530 , 540 may be integrally formed with the top cover 114 .

Hereinafter, the microphone coupling unit 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the microphone coupling unit 500 includes a first rib 510 , a second rib 520 , a third rib 530 , a support rib 540 , a microphone insertion unit 550 , and a screw fastening unit. (560).

The first rib 510 is formed to surround one side of the microphone module 600 accommodated in the microphone insertion unit 550 . In the illustrated embodiment, the first rib 510 is formed to surround the rear side of the microphone insert 550 or the microphone module 600 .

That is, the first rib 510 forms a rear boundary of the microphone insertion unit 550 or the microphone module 600 .

The first rib 510 is formed to extend in one direction, left and right in the illustrated embodiment. The one direction may be the same as the direction in which the module body 610 or the microphone insertion part 550 of the microphone module 600 is extended.

The first rib 510 may be formed to be shorter than an extended length of the module body 610 or the microphone insertion unit 550 . The first rib 510 may extend between both ends in the direction in which the module body 610 or the microphone insertion part 550 extends.

The first rib 510 is formed to protrude from the inner surface of the upper cover 114 by a predetermined length. That is, the first rib 510 is formed to protrude from the upper cover 114 toward the space inside the body 110 .

The first rib 510 may be formed to extend longer than the second rib 520 . This is due to the fact that a plurality of second ribs 520 are provided and are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance.

The first rib 510 and the second rib 520 may extend in the same direction. In the illustrated embodiment, both the first rib 510 and the second rib 520 extend in the left and right directions. In an embodiment, the first rib 510 and the second rib 520 may extend parallel to each other.

The first rib 510 is positioned to be spaced apart from the second rib 520 by a predetermined distance in the other direction, in the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. The predetermined distance may be shorter than an extended length of the first rib 510 . The predetermined distance may be determined according to the width direction length of the module body 610 .

A space surrounded by the first rib 510 and the second rib 520 is defined as the microphone insertion unit 550 . The first rib 510 is disposed to face the second rib 520 with the microphone insert 550 interposed therebetween.

A third rib 530 is extended at each end in the direction in which the first rib 510 extends, and at the end in the left and right direction in the illustrated embodiment. A detailed description of the third rib 530 will be described later.

The second rib 520 is formed to surround the other side of the microphone module 600 accommodated in the microphone insertion unit 550 . In the illustrated embodiment, the second rib 520 is formed to surround the front side of the microphone insert 550 or the microphone module 600 .

That is, the second rib 520 forms a boundary on the front side of the microphone insertion unit 550 or the microphone module 600 .

The second rib 520 is formed to extend in one direction, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. The one direction may be the same as the direction in which the module body 610 or the microphone insertion part 550 of the microphone module 600 is extended.

A plurality of second ribs 520 may be provided. The plurality of second ribs 520 are disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance along the extending direction thereof. The plurality of second ribs 520 are disposed to surround the left and right sides of the front side of the microphone insertion unit 550 , respectively.

In the illustrated embodiment, two second ribs 520 are provided, respectively, located on the left and right sides of the front of the microphone insertion unit 550 . A space in which the two second ribs 520 are spaced apart from each other may be defined as a protrusion insertion part 551 .

In this case, a distance between the two second ribs 520 may be formed to be greater than or equal to a length in which the protrusion 640 of the microphone module 600 extends in one direction.

In the above embodiment, each second rib 520 may be formed to be shorter than the length to which the module body 610 or the microphone insertion part 550 is extended. Each of the second ribs 520 may extend between the opposite ends and the central portion in the direction in which the module body 610 or the microphone insertion unit 550 extends, respectively.

In an embodiment, an extended length of the second rib 520 may be determined to be less than or equal to half of an extended length of the first rib 510 .

The second rib 520 is formed to protrude from the inner surface of the upper cover 114 by a predetermined length. That is, the second rib 520 is formed to protrude from the upper cover 114 toward the space inside the body 110 .

The second rib 520 may extend in the same direction as the first rib 510 . In the illustrated embodiment, both the second rib 520 and the first rib 510 extend in the left and right directions. In an embodiment, the second rib 520 and the first rib 510 may extend parallel to each other.

Accordingly, the front side and rear side edges of the module body 610 extending in parallel to each other may be stably supported by the first rib 510 and the second rib 520 .

The second rib 520 is spaced apart from the first rib 510 by a predetermined distance in the other direction, and in the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. The predetermined distance may be shorter than an extended length of the second rib 520 . The predetermined distance may be determined according to the width direction (ie, the front-rear direction) length of the module body 610 .

A space surrounded by the second rib 520 and the first rib 510 is defined as the microphone insertion unit 550 . The second rib 520 is disposed to face the first rib 510 with the microphone insertion unit 550 interposed therebetween.

The third rib 530 is formed to surround the other side of the microphone module 600 accommodated in the microphone insertion unit 550 . In the illustrated embodiment, the third rib 530 is formed to surround the left and right sides of the microphone insert 550 or the microphone module 600 .

That is, the third rib 530 forms the left and right boundaries of the microphone insertion unit 550 or the microphone module 600 .

Accordingly, the microphone module 600 accommodated in the microphone insertion unit 550 is not arbitrarily moved on the inner surface of the upper cover 114 .

The third rib 530 is formed to extend in one direction, the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. The one direction may be the same as the width direction of the module body 610 of the microphone module 600 .

A plurality of third ribs 530 may be provided. The plurality of third ribs 530 are disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. The plurality of third ribs 530 are disposed to surround the left and right sides of the microphone insertion unit 550 , respectively.

In the illustrated embodiment, two third ribs 530 are provided, respectively, respectively located on the left and right sides of the microphone insertion unit 550 . A space in which the two third ribs 530 are spaced apart from each other may be defined as the microphone insertion unit 550 . That is, the two third ribs 530 are disposed to face each other with the microphone insert 550 interposed therebetween.

In this case, a distance between the two third ribs 530 may be formed to be greater than or equal to the length in which the module body 610 extends.

The third rib 530 may be formed to surround the microphone insertion part 550 recessed in the inner surface of the upper cover 114 . That is, the third rib 530 may be defined as a portion of the inner surface of the upper cover 114 having a higher step than that of the microphone insertion unit 550 .

Each of the third ribs 530 may extend in the same direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the two third ribs 530 extend in the front-rear direction. In one embodiment, each of the third ribs 530 may extend parallel to each other.

Accordingly, left and right edges of the module body 610 extending in parallel to each other may be stably supported by each of the third ribs 530 .

The plurality of third ribs 530 are positioned to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the other direction, in the left and right directions in the illustrated embodiment. The predetermined distance may be longer than an extended length of the third rib 530 . The predetermined distance may be determined according to the length of the module body 610 in the longitudinal direction (ie, the left-right direction).

A fixing member 700 coupled to the upper cover 114 is seated on the support rib 540 . In addition, the support rib 540 supports the screw fastening part 560 from the lower side.

Specifically, the screw fastening part 560 is positioned above the support rib 540 , and the fixing member 700 is seated on the screw fastening part 560 .

The support rib 540 is continuous with the first rib 510 . The support rib 540 may extend to form a predetermined angle with the first rib 510 . In an embodiment, the predetermined angle may be a right angle.

The support rib 540 is formed to extend in one direction. The one direction may be a direction different from the direction in which the first rib 510 or the second rib 520 extends. In the illustrated embodiment, the support ribs 540 may extend in the front-rear direction.

A plurality of support ribs 540 may be formed. The plurality of support ribs 540 may be continuous with the first rib 510 at each end in the direction in which the first rib 510 extends.

In the illustrated embodiment, two support ribs 540 are provided, including a first support rib 541 and a second support rib 542 . A first support rib 541 and a second support rib 542 extend from left and right ends of the first rib 510 , respectively.

Each support rib 540 may include a plurality of ribs. A plurality of the ribs are positioned to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. In the illustrated embodiment, each support rib 540 is provided with two ribs. The distance between the two ribs may be determined to be greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the screw fastening part 560 .

A screw fastening part 560 is positioned above the support rib 540 . In one embodiment, the support rib 540 and the screw fastening portion 560 may be integrally formed.

As the support rib 540 including two ribs spaced apart from each other supports the screw fastening part 560 , the weight of the support rib 540 may be reduced. In addition, the rigidity of each rib supporting the screw fastening part 560 may be reinforced.

The microphone insertion unit 550 is a space into which the microphone module 600 is inserted. The microphone insertion part 550 is recessed by a predetermined distance from the inner surface of the upper cover 114 .

The microphone insertion unit 550 may be defined as a space surrounded by the first rib 510 , the second rib 520 , and the third rib 530 .

Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear side of the microphone insertion unit 550 is surrounded by the first rib 510 . The front side of the microphone insertion unit 550 is wrapped around the second rib 520 .

Left and right sides of the microphone insertion unit 550 are respectively wrapped around the third rib 530 . As described above, the third rib 530 is not formed to protrude separately, but may be defined as a portion formed to be stepped as the microphone insertion unit 550 is recessed.

The microphone insertion unit 550 is formed to extend in one direction, left and right in the illustrated embodiment. In addition, the microphone insertion unit 550 is formed to have a width of a predetermined length in the other direction, in the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment.

Accordingly, the microphone insertion unit 550 is formed to have a rectangular cross section. It will be understood that the shape of the microphone insert 550 is due to the shape of the module body 610 of the microphone module 600 .

The length of the microphone insertion unit 550 in each direction may be determined according to the shape of the module body 610 . In an embodiment, the length in each direction of the microphone insertion unit 550 may be formed to be greater than or equal to the length in each direction of the module body 610 corresponding thereto.

The length of the microphone insertion unit 550 in each direction is preferably determined so that the inserted microphone module 600 does not move arbitrarily on the inner surface of the upper cover 114 .

A coupling member for coupling the microphone module 600 may be provided on one surface of the microphone insertion unit 550 facing the upper cover 114 , that is, a recessed surface.

The coupling member may be provided in the form of bonding the microphone module 600 to the one surface of the microphone insertion unit 550 . In one embodiment, the coupling member may be provided with a tape member or an adhesive of a fluid phase.

The microphone insertion unit 550 communicates with the microphone hole 114a. Voice information input through the microphone hole 114a may be transmitted to the terminal 620 of the microphone module 600 accommodated in the microphone insertion unit 550 .

When the microphone module 600 is accommodated in the microphone insertion unit 550 , the terminal 620 may be positioned in a vertical direction of the microphone hole 114a. Accordingly, the input voice information may be transmitted to the terminal 620 without being interfered with by other sound waves.

The microphone insertion unit 550 includes a protrusion insertion unit 551 .

The protrusion insertion part 551 is a space into which the protrusion 640 of the microphone module 600 is inserted.

The protrusion insertion part 551 is formed in which a plurality of second ribs 520 are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. Specifically, the protrusion insertion part 551 may be defined as a space between the respective ends of the plurality of second ribs 520 facing each other.

The protrusion insertion unit 551 communicates with the microphone insertion unit 550 . When the microphone module 600 is accommodated in the microphone insert 550 , the protrusion 640 connected to the module body 610 is accommodated in the protrusion insert 551 .

The protrusion 640 inserted into the protrusion insertion part 551 extends in the extending direction, that is, each end in the left and right direction in the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of second ribs 520 are positioned adjacent to each end facing each other . In one embodiment, each end of the protrusion 640 may be in contact with each end of the plurality of second ribs 520 .

Accordingly, the microphone module 600 accommodated in the microphone insertion unit 550 is not arbitrarily moved on the plane of the upper cover 114 .

A screw member 740 for fastening the fixing member 700 to the upper cover 114 is coupled to the screw fastening part 560 .

The screw fastening part 560 is located above the support rib 540 . The screw fastening portion 560 is supported by the support ribs 540 .

The screw fastening part 560 is formed to protrude from the support rib 540 by a predetermined length. In other words, the screw fastening portion 560 protrudes toward the inner space of the body 110 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the screw fastening part 560 has a cylindrical shape through which the fastening holes 561 extending in the axial direction, that is, in the vertical direction, are formed therein. The screw fastening part 560 may be formed in any shape to which the fixing member 700 may be screwed.

In the above embodiment, the outer diameter of the screw fastening portion 560 may be formed to be smaller than the distance between the respective ribs of the support ribs 540 are spaced apart from each other.

One side of the screw fastening part 560 facing the inner space of the body 110 , in the illustrated embodiment, the lower end may be inserted into the fastening hole 730 of the fixing member 700 . Accordingly, the screw fastening part 560 and the fixing member 700 may be firmly coupled.

In the above embodiment, the shape of the cross section of the screw fastening part 560 may be formed to correspond to the shape of the cross section of the fastening hole 730 .

The screw fastening part 560 includes a fastening hole 561 .

A screw member 740 is coupled through the fastening hole 561 . The fastening hole 561 is formed in the screw fastening part 560 .

The fastening hole 561 is recessed by a predetermined length from one end of the screw fastening part 560 in the direction away from the upper cover 114 , that is, the lower end. In an embodiment, the fastening hole 561 may be formed to extend in the longitudinal direction of the screw fastening part 560 .

A screw thread may be formed on the outer diameter of the fastening hole 561 , that is, inside the screw fastening part 560 surrounding the fastening hole 561 . A screw thread formed on the outer periphery of the fastening member 740 may be in contact with or coupled to the screw thread.

3. Description of the microphone module 600 according to an embodiment of the present invention

6 to 9 , the water purifier 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention may receive voice information issued by a user. To this end, the water purifier 10 includes a microphone module 600 for receiving voice information.

The microphone module 600 is coupled to the upper cover 114 . The microphone module 600 communicates with the outside of the water purifier 10 through the microphone hole 114a formed through the upper cover 114 . Voice information issued by the user from the outside of the water purifier 10 may be transmitted to the microphone module 600 through the microphone hole 114a.

As described above, in the space inside the body 110, a filter member (not shown) for purifying raw water, a heating member (not shown) for heating purified water, and a cooling member (not shown) for cooling purified water are provided. can be

In an embodiment, the heating member (not shown) may be provided as a thermoelement.

Also, in an embodiment, the heating member (not shown) and the cooling member (not shown) may be provided as a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant is circulated.

The refrigeration cycle is configured to absorb or release heat according to a phase change and a temperature change of the refrigerant. In addition, when the refrigeration cycle is circulated in reverse, it may be configured to operate as a heat pump to heat the purified water. Since the operating principle of the refrigeration cycle or the heat pump is a well-known technology, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The refrigeration cycle may comprise a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve and an evaporator. The refrigerant circulates sequentially through the compressor, the condenser, the expansion valve and the evaporator, and may heat or cool the purified water while repeating expansion, compression, and phase change.

At this time, the conveying force for flowing the refrigerant is provided by the compressor. The compressor includes a motor rotatably provided therein. When the motor rotates, the refrigerant flows into the compressor, is compressed, and then flows toward the condenser communicating with the compressor.

Accordingly, when the refrigeration cycle is operated, noise is generated due to the operation of the compressor, specifically, the rotation of the motor inside the compressor. In addition, noise may also be generated as the refrigerant circulates in the refrigeration cycle.

Meanwhile, a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, an evaporator, etc. constituting the refrigeration cycle are formed to have a relatively high weight compared to other components constituting the water purifier 10 . Therefore, each component constituting the refrigeration cycle is preferably located at the lower side in the space inside the body 110 .

In addition, the microphone module 600 for receiving voice information issued by the user is located in the space inside the body 110 . Therefore, when the microphone module 600 and each component constituting the refrigeration cycle are positioned adjacent to each other, there is a fear that noise generated as the refrigeration cycle is operated is input to the microphone module 600 .

As is known, voice information and noise and the like are transmitted in the form of waves. Accordingly, in the above case, voice information and noise emitted by the user are input together into the microphone module 600 , and there is a fear that the accuracy of voice information recognition may be deteriorated.

Accordingly, in the water purifier 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the microphone module 600 is positioned on the upper cover 114 . Accordingly, the microphone module 600 may be located at the lower side of the inner space of the body 110 to be spaced apart as much as possible from the refrigerant cycle generating noise.

Accordingly, the amount of noise transmitted to the microphone module 600 among noises generated as the refrigeration cycle is operated can be minimized. Accordingly, the recognition rate of voice information issued by the user may also be improved.

The voice information transmitted to the microphone module 600 is transmitted to a control unit (not shown) and is calculated as water extraction information for controlling the water extraction unit 200 . The microphone module 600 and the controller (not shown) are communicatively connected.

The microphone module 600 and the control unit (not shown) may be connected by a wired or wireless communication method. In an embodiment, the microphone module 600 and the controller (not shown) may be communicatively connected by a conducting wire member (not shown).

The microphone module 600 is inserted and coupled to the microphone insertion unit 550 . The microphone insertion unit 550 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the microphone module 600 .

The microphone module 600 is formed to extend in one direction, left and right in the illustrated embodiment. The microphone module 600 is formed to have a predetermined width.

As described above, an adhesive member is provided on one surface of the microphone insertion unit 550 that is in contact with the microphone module 600 , that is, one surface of the microphone insertion unit 550 that is recessed in the upper cover 114 .

Accordingly, the microphone module 600 inserted into the microphone insertion unit 550 may stably maintain the inserted state.

The microphone module 600 includes a module body 610 , a terminal 620 , a gripping part 630 , and a protrusion 640 .

The module body 610 forms the body of the microphone module 600 . A terminal 620 , a gripping part 630 and a protrusion 640 are coupled to the module body 610 .

The module body 610 is formed to extend in one direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the module body 610 is formed to extend in the left and right direction. The length to which the module body 610 extends may be formed to be longer than the length of the width of the module body 610 .

A conducting wire member (not shown) for forming a communicable connection may be accommodated in the module body 610 . A conducting wire member (not shown), etc. accommodated in the module body 610 is communicatively connected to the terminal 620 . The voice information input to the terminal 620 may be transmitted to a controller (not shown) through the module body 610 .

That is, the module body 610 may be formed to have a rectangular cross section.

The module body 610 is formed to have a predetermined thickness. In one embodiment, the module body 610 may be formed in a rectangular plate shape.

The thickness of the module body 610 may be determined according to the distance at which the microphone insertion part 550 is recessed. In an embodiment, the thickness of the module body 610 may be formed to be greater than the distance at which the microphone insertion part 550 is recessed.

The module body 610 is accommodated in the microphone insert 550 . As described above, the shape of the cross-section of the microphone insertion part 550 may be determined according to the shape of the cross-section of the module body 610 .

Accordingly, the module body 610 accommodated in the microphone insertion unit 550 is not arbitrarily moved on the inner surface of the upper cover 114 .

A coupling member (not shown) is provided on one surface of the module body 610 in contact with the surface on which the microphone insertion unit 550 is recessed, that is, one surface of the module body 610 facing the microphone insertion unit 550 . can As described above, the coupling member (not shown) may be provided with an adhesive or a tape.

The one surface of the module body 610 may be treated with water repellent. This is to prevent the microphone module 600 from being damaged by the water flowing inside the water purifier 10 .

In one embodiment, the water-repellent treatment may be performed by coating a water-repellent material on the one surface, or by attaching a layer formed of a water-repellent material. In an embodiment to which a layer is attached, the layer may have a mesh shape.

Each surface of the module body 610 and the microphone insertion unit 550 facing each other may be in close contact with each other. This may be accomplished by the fixing member 700 . This will be described later.

The terminal 620 is located on the other surface of the module body 610 opposite to the one surface, that is, on one surface in the direction away from the microphone insertion part 550 in the illustrated embodiment.

The terminal 620 is communicatively coupled to the module body 610 . The terminal 620 receives voice information. The voice information input to the terminal 620 is transmitted to a controller (not shown) through a conducting wire member (not shown) provided in the module body 610 .

The terminal 620 may be provided in any form capable of receiving voice information and converting it into an electrical signal. In an embodiment, the terminal 620 may be provided as a microphone.

The terminal 620 may be located adjacent to the microphone hole 114a. 12 , the terminal 620 may be positioned to cover the microphone hole 114a.

The terminal 620 is formed to have a predetermined shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal 620 has a predetermined length in the front-rear and left-right directions, and is provided in the form of a square plate having a predetermined thickness.

The size of the cross-sectional area of the terminal 620 may be larger than the size of the microphone hole 114a. Accordingly, the terminal 620 may be formed to completely cover the microphone hole 114a. Accordingly, voice information input to the microphone hole 114a may be transferred to the terminal 620 without being leaked to another location.

Accordingly, voice information issued by the user may be stably transmitted to the terminal 620 .

A plurality of terminals 620 may be provided. The plurality of terminals 620 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. In the illustrated embodiment, two terminals 620 are provided. The two terminals 620 are disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance.

Each terminal 620 may be positioned adjacent to each end in the direction in which the module body 610 extends. In the illustrated embodiment, each terminal 620 is positioned adjacent to the left and right ends of the module body 610 .

The number and arrangement of the terminals 620 may be changed according to the number and position of the microphone holes 114a. In an embodiment, three or more terminals 620 may be provided. As the number of terminals 620 increases, voice information issued by a user may be input more accurately.

In the above embodiment, the number and location of the microphone holes 114a formed in the upper cover 114 may be changed according to the number and location of the plurality of terminals 620 .

The grip part 630 is a part in which the user grips the microphone module 600 . The gripper 630 is provided on the module body 610 . The grip part 630 is located on one surface of the module body 610 facing the space inside the main body 110 , that is, one surface in the direction away from the microphone insertion part 550 .

The gripper 630 may be positioned between the plurality of terminals 620 . In the illustrated embodiment, the gripper 630 may be positioned to have the same distance from each terminal 620 . That is, the gripper 630 may be located at a central portion in the extending direction of the module body 610 .

A protrusion 640 is formed protruding from one side of the gripping part 630 facing the front cover 111 , on the front side in the illustrated embodiment.

The protrusion 640 is inserted into the protrusion insertion part 551 . The protrusion 640 is in contact with each end of the second rib 520 , so that the module body 610 does not move randomly on the upper cover 114 .

Also, the protrusion 640 may allow the user to recognize the direction in which the microphone module 600 is accommodated in the microphone insertion unit 550 . That is, when the user inserts the microphone module 600 into the microphone insertion unit 550 , the user can accurately insert it in the width direction of the microphone module 600 , in the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment.

The protrusion 640 is formed to protrude from the module body 610 by a predetermined length. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 640 is formed to protrude from one surface of the module body 610 facing the front cover 111 .

The protrusion 640 extends by a predetermined length in one direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 640 extends by a predetermined length in the left-right direction. An extended length of the protrusion 640 may be equal to or less than an extended length of the protrusion insertion part 551 .

In an embodiment, both ends of the protrusion 640 inserted into the protrusion insertion part 551 in the longitudinal direction may be in contact with the second rib 520 . In the illustrated embodiment, each end of the protrusion 640 in the left and right direction may be in contact with each end of the second rib 520 facing each other.

Accordingly, the microphone module 600 accommodated in the microphone insertion unit 550 is not arbitrarily moved on the upper cover 114 .

4. Description of the fixing member 700 according to an embodiment of the present invention

6, 7 and 10 , the water purifier 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a fixing member 700 .

The fixing member 700 stably couples the microphone module 600 to the upper cover 114 . In addition, the microphone module 600 may be in close contact with the microphone insertion unit 550 by the fixing member 700 .

The fixing member 700 may be separately provided and fastened to the upper cover 114 . Specifically, the fixing member 700 is fastened to the screw fastening part 560 provided in the upper cover 114 .

A plurality of fixing members 700 may be provided. The plurality of fixing members 700 are respectively positioned adjacent to the plurality of terminals 620 . In an embodiment, the plurality of fixing members 700 may be disposed to cover each terminal 620 .

The fixing member 700 is disposed to cover the microphone coupling part 500 . That is, the fixing member 700 is disposed to be farther from the upper cover 114 than the microphone coupling part 500 . Alternatively, the fixing member 700 is disposed adjacent to the space inside the body 110 rather than the microphone coupling part 500 .

The fixing member 700 is disposed to cover the microphone module 600 . That is, the fixing member 700 is disposed to be farther from the upper cover 114 than the microphone module 600 . Alternatively, the fixing member 700 is disposed closer to the space inside the body 110 than the microphone module 600 .

The fixing member 700 is coupled to the microphone coupling unit 500 . The fixing member 700 may be fixedly coupled to the microphone coupling part 500 by the fastening member 740 . By the coupling, the fixing member 700 may be coupled to the microphone coupling part 500 by pressing the microphone coupling part 500 with a predetermined force.

The fixing member 700 presses the microphone module 600 . Specifically, the fixing member 700 presses the microphone module 600 with a predetermined force by the fastening member 740 and comes into contact with the microphone module 600 . The surface of the microphone module 600 on which the microphone insertion part 550 faces each other may be in close contact with each other by the predetermined force.

Accordingly, internal noise input to the microphone module 600 may be minimized.

7 and 10 , the fixing member 700 according to the illustrated embodiment includes a base part 710 , a microphone support part 720 , a fastening hole 730 , and a fastening member 740 .

The base portion 710 forms the body of the fixing member 700 . The base part 710 is positioned above the fixing member 700 . That is, the base part 710 is located farthest from the microphone module 600 among the components of the fixing member 700 .

The base portion 710 is coupled to the upper cover 114 . Specifically, the fastening hole 730 formed through the base part 710 is coupled to the screw fastening part 560 positioned on the upper cover 114 by the fastening member 740 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the base portion 710 has a rectangular prism shape in which each corner is chamfered. The base portion 710 may be formed in any shape capable of pressing the microphone module 600 .

A space portion 711 is formed in a portion of the interior of the base portion 710 (see FIG. 12 ). The space portion 711 is formed to be recessed by a predetermined distance from one side of the base unit 710 away from the microphone module 600, and the upper side in the illustrated embodiment.

The space portion 711 is divided into a plurality of space portions 711 by the reinforcing ribs 712 . In the illustrated embodiment, the space portion 711 is divided into two space portions 711 with the reinforcing rib 712 therebetween.

As the space portion 711 is formed, the total mass of the fixing member 700 may be reduced.

Specifically, when the upper cover 114 is coupled to the main body 110, the fixing member 700 is located at the lower side. Accordingly, the fixing member 700 is preferably formed to have as little mass as possible.

The space 711 may be recessed in the base 710 to reduce the mass of the fixing member 700 . In addition, the rigidity of the base portion 710 may be reinforced by the reinforcing ribs 712 positioned between the space portions 711 .

A fastening hole 730 is formed through the other part of the inside of the base part 710 (see FIG. 12 ). A fastening member 740 is inserted through the fastening hole 730 . The fastening member 740 may be screw-coupled to the fastening hole 730 and the fastening hole 561 of the screw fastening part 560 .

One side of the base part 710 facing the microphone module 600, the microphone support part 720 is located on the lower side in the illustrated embodiment.

The microphone support 720 is in contact with the microphone module 600 . In addition, the microphone support 720 presses the microphone module 600 .

Accordingly, the microphone support unit 720 may stably maintain a state inserted into the microphone insertion unit 550 . Furthermore, the surfaces of the microphone module 600 and the microphone insertion unit 550 facing each other may maintain a close contact with each other.

In addition, the microphone support 720 is configured to cover the terminal 620 . By the microphone support unit 720 , the terminal 620 may be physically separated from the space inside the body 110 . Accordingly, the path through which the noise generated inside the main body 110 is transmitted to the terminal 620 is blocked, so that the generation of noise can be minimized.

The microphone support unit 720 is located on one side of the base unit 710 facing the microphone module 600, and on the lower side in the illustrated embodiment. The microphone support unit 720 extends from one side of the base unit 710 toward the microphone module 600 by a predetermined length.

The microphone support part 720 is formed in the remaining part of the base part 710 except for the part where the fastening hole 730 is formed. In the illustrated embodiment, the microphone support 720 is located on the front side of the fastening hole 730 .

The microphone support unit 720 includes an outer circumference rib 721 , an inner circumference rib 722 , and a terminal receiving unit 723 .

The outer peripheral rib 721 forms the outer periphery of the microphone support 720 . Specifically, the outer peripheral rib 721 is formed to surround the terminal accommodating portion 723 formed inside the microphone support portion 720 .

Among the surfaces surrounding the terminal accommodating part 723 , one surface facing the base part 710 is positioned to be farther from the microphone module 600 than the end surface of the outer peripheral rib 721 facing the microphone module 600 . Accordingly, it may be said that the outer peripheral rib 721 is formed to extend from the base portion 710 toward the microphone module 600 .

The outer peripheral rib 721 is in contact with the microphone module 600 . Specifically, the end surface of the outer peripheral rib 721 facing the microphone module 600 is in contact with one surface of the module body 610 facing the fixing member (700). In an embodiment, the end surface of the outer peripheral rib 721 may be in close contact with the one surface of the module body 610 .

When the outer peripheral rib 721 is in contact with the microphone module 600 , the terminal 620 is located inside the outer peripheral rib 721 .

The outer peripheral rib 721 is composed of a plurality of pieces. Specifically, the outer peripheral rib 721 includes two pairs of ribs facing each other. Each rib is continuous with each other.

In the illustrated embodiment, the outer circumferential rib 721 includes a pair of ribs disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the front-rear direction and a pair of ribs disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the left-right direction.

The predetermined distance between the pair of ribs disposed to face each other in the front-rear direction may be longer than a length of the terminal 620 in the front-rear direction. Accordingly, the terminal 620 may be accommodated in the terminal receiving portion 723 positioned between the pair of ribs.

In addition, the predetermined distance by which the pair of ribs disposed to face in the front-rear direction are spaced apart may be shorter than the length, that is, the width in the front-rear direction of the module body 610 . Accordingly, the end surfaces of the pair of ribs may be in contact with or in close contact with the surface of the module body 610 .

The predetermined distance by which the pair of ribs disposed to face in the left and right directions are spaced apart may be longer than a length in the left and right directions of the terminal 620 . Accordingly, the terminal 620 may be accommodated in the terminal receiving portion 723 positioned between the pair of ribs.

An inner peripheral rib 722 extends between the pair of ribs disposed to face each other in the left and right directions.

The inner peripheral rib 722 is located on the inside of the microphone support 720 . Specifically, the inner peripheral rib 722 extends across the terminal receiving portion 723 formed inside the microphone support portion 720 .

The inner circumferential rib 722 divides a plurality of terminal receiving portions 723 surrounded by the outer circumferential rib 721 . In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal receiving portion 723 is divided into two spaces by the inner peripheral rib 722 .

The inner circumferential rib 722 is positioned between a pair of ribs disposed to face each other among the outer circumferential ribs. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner peripheral rib 722 extends between a pair of ribs disposed to face each other in the front-rear direction.

The inner circumferential rib 722 is positioned between the other pair of ribs disposed to face each other among the outer circumferential ribs 721 . In the illustrated embodiment, the inner peripheral rib 722 extends between a pair of ribs disposed to face each other in the left-right direction. A distance between the inner peripheral rib 722 and each of the pair of ribs may be the same.

Among the surfaces surrounding the terminal accommodating portion 723 , one surface facing the base portion 710 is positioned farther from the microphone module 600 than the end surface of the inner peripheral rib 722 facing the microphone module 600 . Accordingly, it may be said that the inner peripheral rib 722 extends from the base portion 710 toward the microphone module 600 .

The inner peripheral rib 722 is in contact with the microphone module 600 . Specifically, the end surface of the inner peripheral rib 722 facing the microphone module 600 is in contact with the one side surface of the module body 610 facing the fixing member (700). In an embodiment, the end surface of the inner peripheral rib 722 may be in close contact with the one surface of the module body 610 .

When the inner circumferential rib 722 is in contact with the microphone module 600 , the terminal 620 is positioned to be surrounded by the outer circumferential rib 721 and the inner circumferential rib 722 .

A distance between each of the pair of ribs disposed to face in the left and right directions among the outer circumferential ribs 721 and the inner circumferential rib 722 may be longer than a length in the left and right directions of the terminal 620 . Accordingly, the terminal 620 may be accommodated in the terminal accommodating part 723 positioned between any one of the pair of ribs and the inner peripheral rib 722 .

In one embodiment, the shortest distance between the end face of the inner circumferential rib 722 and the one face of the module body 610 is between the end face of the outer circumferential rib 721 and the one face of the module body 610 . It can be formed equal to the shortest distance.

In other words, when the microphone support 720 is in contact with the one surface of the module body 610, the end surface of the outer peripheral rib 721 and the end surface of the inner peripheral rib 722 are each module body 610 may be in contact with the one side of the

In this case, the end surface of the outer peripheral rib 721 and the end surface of the inner peripheral rib 722 may press the one surface of the module body 610, respectively.

Accordingly, the terminal 620 accommodated in the terminal accommodating part 723 is physically spaced apart from the inner space of the body 110 . In other words, the terminal 620 is blocked from communicating with the space inside the body 110 .

Accordingly, noise generated in the space inside the body 110 does not flow into the terminal 620 . As a result, only voice information issued by the user is input to the terminal 620 , so that the accuracy of the input voice information may be improved.

The terminal accommodating part 723 is a space in which the terminal 620 is accommodated. When the fixing member 700 is in close contact with the microphone module 600 , the terminal 620 accommodated in the terminal receiving part 723 is spaced apart from the inner space of the main body 110 .

The terminal receiving part 723 is formed inside the microphone support part 720 . Specifically, the terminal receiving part 723 is formed to be recessed by a predetermined distance from one side of the microphone support part 720 facing the microphone module 600 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the front side, the rear side, the left and right sides of the terminal receiving part 723 are wrapped by the outer peripheral rib 721 . In addition, the terminal accommodating portion 723 is divided into a plurality of spaces by the inner peripheral rib 722 .

Accordingly, the terminal receiving part 723 may be defined as a space surrounded by the outer peripheral rib 721 and the inner peripheral rib 722 extending from the microphone support part 720 toward the microphone module 600 .

The terminal accommodating part 723 has a shape capable of accommodating the terminal 620 . In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal accommodating portion 723 is formed to have a rectangular cross section surrounded by the outer circumferential rib 721 and the inner circumferential rib 722 .

The shape of the terminal accommodating part 723 may be determined in any shape capable of accommodating the terminal 620 therein.

In the illustrated embodiment, lengths in the front-rear and left-right directions of the terminal accommodating part 723 may be longer than those of the terminal 620 in the front-rear and left-right directions.

The terminal accommodating part 723 may block communication with the outside while the terminal 620 is accommodated.

Specifically, as described above, the terminal accommodating portion 723 is formed surrounded by the outer circumferential rib 721 and the inner circumferential rib 722 . At this time, one side of the terminal accommodating part 723 facing the microphone module 600, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment is formed open.

When the fixing member 700 is in contact with or in close contact with the microphone module 600 , the one side of the terminal receiving part 723 is closed by the module body 610 .

Accordingly, the terminal accommodating part 723 is physically spaced apart from the inner space of the body 110 . Accordingly, noise generated in the space inside the body 110 does not flow into the terminal accommodating part 723 .

That is, noise generated in the space inside the main body 110 does not flow into the terminal 620 positioned inside the terminal accommodating part 723 . As a result, voice information issued by the user and input to the terminal 620 is not interfered with by noise generated in the space inside the main body 110 .

A plurality of terminal accommodating parts 723 may be formed. The plurality of terminal accommodating parts 723 may be physically spaced apart from each other to block communication.

In the illustrated embodiment, two terminal accommodating parts 723 are formed and respectively positioned in the left and right directions of the microphone support part 720 . The terminal receiving portion 723 may be partitioned by an inner peripheral rib 722 .

The fastening hole 730 is a portion at which the fixing member 700 is coupled to the upper cover 114 . Specifically, the fastening hole 730 is a space through which the fastening member 740 for coupling the fixing member 700 to the microphone coupling part 500 is coupled therethrough.

The fastening hole 730 is formed in the base part 710 . Specifically, the fastening hole 730 is formed in the remaining part of the base part 710 except for the part where the microphone support part 720 is located.

In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening hole 730 is formed on the rear side of the base portion 710 .

The fastening hole 730 is formed through the inside of the base part 710 . The fastening hole 730 is formed penetrating in the direction toward the microphone module 600, in the illustrated embodiment, in the vertical direction.

In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening hole 730 has a cylindrical shape having a circular cross section. The shape of the fastening hole 730 may be determined in any shape through which the fastening member 740 may be coupled.

Although not shown, a screw thread may be formed in the fastening hole 730 . In an embodiment in which the fastening member 740 is provided as a screw member, the fastening member 740 may be screwed to the fastening hole 730 .

A first fastening rib 731 and a second fastening rib 732 are provided adjacent to the fastening hole 730 .

The first fastening rib 731 and the second fastening rib 732 are portions at which the fixing member 700 is seated on the microphone coupling unit 500 .

Specifically, when the fixing member 700 is seated on the microphone coupling part 500 , the first coupling rib 731 and the second coupling rib 732 are one side of the screw coupling part 560 facing the fixing member 700 . , wraps around the upper end in the illustrated embodiment.

Accordingly, the fixing member 700 and the microphone coupling unit 500 may be stably coupled.

The first fastening rib 731 and the second fastening rib 732 protrude toward the microphone coupling part 500 from one side of the base part 710 facing the microphone module 600, and from the lower side in the illustrated embodiment. In the first fastening rib 731 and the second fastening rib 732 , a portion in which the fastening hole 730 is formed among the portions of the base part 710 is positioned.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first fastening rib 731 and the second fastening rib 732 are disposed to surround the fastening hole 730 at the lower side of the base part 710 .

The first fastening rib 731 is formed to surround the fastening hole 730 from one side of the fastening hole 730 , and from the left side in the illustrated embodiment. The first fastening rib 731 is formed to protrude from the lower side of the base part 710 by a predetermined length.

The first fastening rib 731 is spaced apart from the second fastening rib 732 by a predetermined distance. A predetermined space is formed between the first fastening rib 731 and the second fastening rib 732 . The upper end of the screw fastening part 560 is inserted into the space.

The first fastening rib 731 is configured to surround one side of the upper end of the screw fastening unit 560 inserted into the space, and the left side in the illustrated embodiment.

The first fastening rib 731 includes a first portion extending from the microphone support unit 720 and a second portion bent at a predetermined angle from an end of the first portion.

The first portion is formed to extend from one side of the microphone support unit 720 , in the illustrated embodiment, the rear side. The first portion may extend to one side of the base portion 710, and to the rear end in the illustrated embodiment.

The first part is formed to surround one side of the upper end of the screw fastening part 560, the left side in the illustrated embodiment.

The second portion extends from a rear side end of the first portion. The second part is bent at a predetermined angle with the first part. In one embodiment, the second portion may extend perpendicular to the first portion.

The second portion extends a predetermined length. In an embodiment, the second portion may extend shorter than the radial length of the fastening hole 730 . The second part is formed to surround a part of the other side of the upper end of the screw fastening part 560, the front side in the illustrated embodiment.

The second fastening rib 732 is formed to surround the fastening hole 730 from the other side of the fastening hole 730 , in the illustrated embodiment, from the right side. The second fastening rib 732 is formed to protrude from the lower side of the base part 710 by a predetermined length.

The second fastening rib 732 is spaced apart from the first fastening rib 731 by a predetermined distance. A predetermined space is formed between the second fastening rib 732 and the first fastening rib 731 . The upper end of the screw fastening part 560 is inserted into the space.

The second fastening rib 732 is configured to surround the other side of the upper end of the screw fastening part 560 inserted into the space, and the right side in the illustrated embodiment.

The second fastening rib 732 is formed to extend from one side of the microphone support unit 720, and from the rear side in the illustrated embodiment. The second fastening rib 732 may extend to one side of the base portion 710 and to the rear end in the illustrated embodiment.

In an embodiment, an extended length of the second fastening rib 732 may be the same as an extended length of the first portion of the first fastening rib 731 .

The fastening member 740 couples the fixing member 700 and the microphone coupling part 500 (see FIG. 7 ). By the fastening member 740 , the fixing member 700 and the microphone coupling unit 500 may be stably maintained in a coupled state.

The fastening member 740 provides a force for the fixing member 700 to press the microphone module 600 . As the fastening member 740 is fastened while pressing the fixing member 700 , the fixing member 700 may also press the microphone module 600 .

Accordingly, the microphone module 600 may be maintained in close contact with the microphone insertion unit 550 .

The fastening member 740 may be provided in any shape capable of fastening two or more different members. In one embodiment, the fastening member 740 may be provided as a screw member. The fastening member 740 may be screwed to the fastening hole 730 and the fastening hole 561 , respectively.

The fastening member 740 is sequentially penetrated and inserted into the fastening hole 730 and the fastening hole 561 . For the coupling, as described above, threads may be formed on the inner surfaces of the fastening hole 730 and the fastening hole 561 .

5. Description of the process of blocking the internal noise of the water purifier 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention

The water purifier 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be operated according to a voice command issued by a user. At this time, in order to improve the recognition rate of the voice command issued by the user, the water purifier 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention is formed in a structure to minimize noise generated inside the water purifier 10 .

Hereinafter, a process of blocking noise generated inside the water purifier 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 11 to 15 .

In the following description, the term “internal noise” refers to sounds emitted by various components inside the water purifier 10 . In an embodiment, the term internal noise may be used to mean sounds other than voice information issued by a user.

First, a state in which the microphone module 600 is coupled to the upper cover 114 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 14 , and then a process of blocking internal noise will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 15 . Explain.

(1) Description of the state in which the microphone module 600 according to an embodiment of the present invention is coupled to the upper cover 114

11 to 14 , a state in which the microphone module 600 according to an embodiment of the present invention is coupled to the upper cover 114 is shown.

First, the microphone module 600 is inserted into the microphone insertion unit 550 formed in the upper cover 114 .

The microphone insertion part 550 is recessed by a predetermined distance from the inner surface of the upper cover 114 . Also, the microphone insertion unit 550 is a space surrounded by the first rib 510 , the second rib 520 , and the third rib 530 . The microphone insertion unit 550 is formed to have a shape corresponding to the microphone module 600 .

At this time, one side of the microphone insertion unit 550, a protrusion insertion unit 551 is formed on the front side in the illustrated embodiment.

That is, the user may insert the microphone module 600 into the microphone insertion unit 550 in the direction in which the projection 640 of the microphone module 600 is inserted into the projection insertion unit 551 . Accordingly, the microphone module 600 may be inserted into the microphone insertion unit 550 in the correct direction.

When the microphone module 600 is inserted into the microphone insertion unit 550 , each corner of the microphone module 600 is wrapped around the first to third ribs 510 , 520 , and 530 .

Specifically, one side of the microphone module 600 , the rear side in the illustrated embodiment, is wrapped around the first rib 510 . The other side of the microphone module 600, the front side in the illustrated embodiment, is wrapped around the second rib 520, and the other side of the microphone module 600, left and right in the illustrated embodiment, is a third rib 530 wrapped in

Accordingly, the microphone module 600 is not arbitrarily moved on the inner surface of the upper cover 114 .

After the microphone module 600 is inserted into the microphone insertion unit 550 , the fixing member 700 is coupled to the microphone coupling unit 500 .

First, the terminal 620 provided in the microphone module 600 is accommodated in the terminal receiving unit 730 . In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal 620 is accommodated in the terminal accommodating part 730 located more outside of the plurality of terminal accommodating parts 730 .

Specifically, the terminal 620 positioned at the left end of the module body 610 is accommodated in the terminal accommodating portion 730 positioned on the left. In addition, the terminal 620 positioned at the right end of the module body 610 is accommodated in the terminal accommodating portion 730 positioned on the right side.

As described above, a plurality of fixing members 700 are provided. The plurality of fixing members 700 are disposed to cover each terminal 620 provided in a plurality of the microphone module 600 , respectively.

The terminals 620 are located at both ends of the module body 610 in the longitudinal direction, and at each end in the left and right directions in the illustrated embodiment. Each terminal accommodating part 723 formed in the plurality of fixing members 700 is disposed to cover each terminal 620 .

At this time, each end of the outer peripheral rib 721 and the inner peripheral rib 722 of the microphone support 720 toward the microphone module 600, in the illustrated embodiment, the lower end is in contact with the upper surface of the module body 610.

The base portion 710 of the fixing member 700 is seated on the screw fastening portion 560 . Specifically, the fixing member 700 is seated so that the first fastening rib 731 and the second fastening rib 732 formed on the lower side of the base part 710 surround the upper end of the screw fastening part 560 .

Accordingly, the fixing member 700 does not move arbitrarily on a plane relative to the screw fastening portion 560 .

At this time, the fastening hole 730 formed through the base part 710 and the fastening hole 561 recessed inside the screw fastening part 560 are aligned with each other. In an embodiment, the fastening hole 730 and the fastening hole 561 may be disposed to have the same central axis.

A fastening member 740 is inserted and coupled to the fastening hole 730 and the fastening hole 561 . Specifically, the fastening member 740 is inserted through the fastening hole 730 . In addition, one end of the fastening member 740 facing the upper cover 114, the lower end in the illustrated embodiment is inserted and coupled to the fastening hole (561).

In an embodiment, the fastening member 740 may be screwed to the fastening hole 730 and the fastening hole 561 , respectively.

At this time, the fastening member 740 presses the fixing member 700 downward in the direction toward the upper cover 114 , in the illustrated embodiment.

Accordingly, the microphone support 720 in contact with the upper surface of the microphone module 600 also presses the microphone module 600 in a direction toward the upper cover 114 .

Accordingly, the outer peripheral rib 721 and the inner peripheral rib 722 of the microphone support unit 720 press one side of the module body 610 toward the fixing member 700, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment.

Accordingly, the end of the outer peripheral rib 721 and the inner peripheral rib 722 in contact with the module body 610, the lower end in the illustrated embodiment is to press the upper surface of the module body (610).

Accordingly, the microphone support 720 may be in close contact with the module body 610 . Accordingly, the terminal receiving portion 723 surrounded by the outer circumferential rib 721 and the inner circumferential rib 722 is blocked from communicating with the space inside the body 110 .

(2) Description of the process of blocking the internal noise of the water purifier 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention

Hereinafter, a process for blocking internal noise of the water purifier 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 15 .

As described above, the illustrated embodiment assumes that the upper cover 114 is coupled to the main body 110 . Accordingly, the illustrated embodiment will be described on the assumption that the portion where the upper cover 114 is positioned is the upper side, and the portion where the terminal 620 is positioned is the lower side.

In addition, arrows shown in FIG. 15 mean a movement path of internal noise generated in the space inside the body 110 as the water purifier 10 is operated.

Through the above-described process, one side of the module body 610 facing the upper cover 114, the upper surface in the illustrated embodiment is in close contact with one surface of the microphone insertion unit 550 (a rectangular portion indicated by a dotted line in FIG. 15 ) ).

The adhesion is achieved as the microphone support 720 presses the module body 610 as described above.

The terminal 620 is accommodated in the microphone insertion unit 550 and is physically spaced apart from the inner space of the main body 110 . The terminal 620 is located adjacent to the microphone hole 114a. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal 620 is positioned directly below the microphone hole 114a and is positioned to cover the microphone hole 114a.

Accordingly, the voice information issued by the user may pass through the microphone hole 114a and be transmitted to the terminal 620 without interference by other noises.

When the water purifier 10 starts to operate, internal noise is generated as each component is operated for water purification, cooling or heating. In addition, purified, cooled or heated water flows and internal noise may be generated.

Referring to the arrows shown in FIG. 15 , a movement path of the internal noise generated by the components is shown.

First, the generated internal noise is primarily blocked by the first rib 510 , the second rib 520 , and the third rib 530 surrounding the microphone insertion unit 550 .

As described above, since the internal noise has a wave property, the internal noise colliding with the first to third ribs 510 , 520 , and 530 is reflected and moved away from the terminal 620 .

In this case, a predetermined gap may be generated between the microphone module 600 and the microphone insertion unit 550 . Accordingly, some of the internal noise may proceed toward the terminal 620 through the clearance.

At this time, the surface of the module body 610 and the microphone insertion unit 550 facing each other is in close contact with each other by the fixing member 700 (a rectangular portion indicated by a dotted line in FIG. 15 ). Therefore, even if some of the housekeeping internal noise is introduced through the play, there is no room for the internal noise to proceed further.

Therefore, the inflow of internal noise to the terminal 620 can be effectively blocked. Accordingly, voice information issued by the user may be introduced into the terminal 620 without interference, and accurate voice information may be input to the water purifier 10 .

Although the above has been described with reference to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, those of ordinary skill in the art can variously modify and change the present invention within the scope without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention described in the claims below. You will understand that you can.

10: water purifier
100: cabinet
110: body
111: front cover
112: side cover
113: back cover
114: top cover
114a: microphone hall
115: water outlet coupling part
120: residual water tray
200: water outlet
210: Rotator
220: water outlet unit
230: water outlet cock
300: control panel
310: operation button
320: water out button
400: speaker module
410: Printed Circuit Board (PCB)
420: speaker
500: microphone coupling unit
510: first rib
520: second rib
530: third rib
540: support rib
541: first support rib
542: second support rib
550: microphone insert
551: projection insertion portion
560: screw fastening part
561: fastener
600: microphone module
610: module body
620: terminal
630: grip part
640: turn
700: fixing member
710: base part
711: space part
712: reinforcement rib
720: microphone support
721: outer rib
722: inner rib
723: terminal receiving part
730: fastening hole
731: first fastening rib
732: second fastening rib
740: fastening member

Claims (15)

a body formed in the space therein;
an upper cover coupled to the upper side of the body and covering the space;
a microphone module coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover and receiving external voice information;
a microphone coupling part protruding from the inner surface of the upper cover, accommodating the microphone module, and surrounding the inserted microphone module; and
and a fixing member coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover and in contact with the microphone module,
The fixing member is
a base portion coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover; and
and a microphone support part continuous with the base part and in contact with the microphone module to press the microphone module in a direction toward the inner surface of the upper cover,
The microphone module is
a module body extending in one direction; and
and a terminal located on one surface of the module body facing the fixing member,
The microphone support unit,
an outer peripheral rib protruding toward the microphone module and extending along the outer circumference of the microphone support part to surround a portion of the terminal; and
It is formed to protrude toward the microphone module, and includes an inner peripheral rib extending between two ribs facing each other among the outer peripheral ribs to surround the remaining part of the terminal,
The outer peripheral rib and the inner peripheral rib,
Each end surface of one side facing the microphone module is in close contact with the one surface of the module body,
water fountain. delete delete a body formed in the space therein;
an upper cover coupled to the upper side of the body and covering the space;
a microphone module coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover and receiving external voice information;
a microphone coupling part protruding from the inner surface of the upper cover, accommodating the microphone module, and surrounding the inserted microphone module; and
and a fixing member coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover and in contact with the microphone module,
The fixing member is
a base portion coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover; and
and a microphone support part continuous with the base part and in contact with the microphone module to press the microphone module in a direction toward the inner surface of the upper cover,
The microphone module is
a module body extending in one direction; and
and a terminal located on one surface of the module body facing the fixing member,
The microphone support unit,
an outer peripheral rib protruding toward the microphone module and extending along the outer circumference of the microphone module;
an inner peripheral rib protruding toward the microphone module and extending between two ribs facing each other among the outer peripheral ribs; and
and a terminal accommodating part formed to be surrounded by the outer circumferential rib and the inner circumferential rib and which is a space for accommodating the terminal,
water fountain. 5. The method of claim 4,
A plurality of the terminal accommodating parts are formed, and the terminals are accommodated in any one of the plurality of the terminal accommodating parts,
The terminal receiving part,
Surrounded by the module body, the microphone support, the outer peripheral rib and the inner peripheral rib,
water fountain. According to claim 1,
The microphone coupling unit,
a microphone insertion unit which is recessed to accommodate the microphone module; and
Containing a rib formed to protrude and surround the microphone insertion unit,
water fountain. 7. The method of claim 6,
The rib is
a first rib surrounding one side of the microphone insertion part;
a second rib facing the first rib and surrounding the other side of the microphone insertion unit; and
Surrounding the other side of the microphone insertion unit, including a third rib including a plurality of ribs facing each other,
water fountain. a body formed in the space therein;
an upper cover coupled to the upper side of the body and covering the space;
a microphone module coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover and receiving external voice information;
a microphone coupling part protruding from the inner surface of the upper cover, accommodating the microphone module, and surrounding the inserted microphone module; and
and a fixing member coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover and in contact with the microphone module,
The fixing member is
a base portion coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover; and
and a microphone support part continuous with the base part and in contact with the microphone module to press the microphone module in a direction toward the inner surface of the upper cover,
The microphone coupling unit,
a microphone insertion unit which is recessed to accommodate the microphone module; and
and a rib formed to protrude and surround the microphone insertion part,
The rib is
a first rib surrounding one side of the microphone insertion part;
a second rib facing the first rib and surrounding the other side of the microphone insertion unit; and
and a third rib that surrounds the other side of the microphone insertion unit and includes a plurality of ribs facing each other,
The shortest distance between each end of the first rib, the second rib and the third rib facing the space and the inner surface of the upper cover,
The first rib, the second rib, and the third rib is shorter than the shortest distance between the respective ends facing the space and a surface in which the microphone insert is in contact with the microphone module,
water fountain. a body formed in the space therein;
an upper cover coupled to the upper side of the body and covering the space;
a microphone module coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover and receiving external voice information;
a microphone coupling part protruding from the inner surface of the upper cover, accommodating the microphone module, and surrounding the inserted microphone module; and
and a fixing member coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover and in contact with the microphone module,
The fixing member is
a base portion coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover; and
and a microphone support part continuous with the base part and in contact with the microphone module to press the microphone module in a direction toward the inner surface of the upper cover,
The microphone coupling unit,
a microphone insertion unit which is recessed to accommodate the microphone module; and
and a rib formed to protrude and surround the microphone insertion part,
The rib is
a first rib surrounding one side of the microphone insertion part;
a second rib facing the first rib and surrounding the other side of the microphone insertion unit; and
a third rib surrounding the other side of the microphone insertion unit and including a plurality of ribs facing each other;
a support rib protruding from the inner surface of the upper cover and extending from the third rib in a direction away from the microphone insertion part; and
Comprising a screw fastening part protruding from the third rib in a direction away from the inner surface of the upper cover,
water fountain. 10. The method of claim 9,
The screw fastening part includes a fastening hole which is recessed therein and to which the fastening member is coupled,
The fixing member is
It is formed through the base portion, including a fastening hole through which the fastening member is coupled,
water fountain. 11. The method of claim 10,
The fastening hole and the fastening hole are arranged to have the same central axis,
water fountain. a body formed in the space therein;
an upper cover coupled to the upper side of the body and covering the space;
a microphone module coupled to the inner surface of the upper cover and including a terminal for receiving external voice information;
a microphone coupling part protruding from the inner surface of the upper cover and surrounding the microphone module; and
and a fixing member coupled to the microphone coupling portion, positioned adjacent to the terminal, and in contact with the microphone module,
The fixing member is
an outer peripheral rib protruding toward the microphone module, surrounding a portion of the outside of the terminal, and having an end surface of one side facing the microphone module in close contact with the microphone module; and
It is formed to protrude toward the microphone module, and surrounds the remaining part of the outside of the terminal, and an end surface of one side facing the microphone module includes an inner peripheral rib in close contact with the microphone module,
water fountain. 13. The method of claim 12,
A microphone hole communicating the space and the outside is formed through the upper cover,
The terminal is
Located directly below the microphone hole,
water fountain. 14. The method of claim 13,
The upper cover is formed to have a length in the front-rear direction longer than the length in the left-right direction,
The microphone hole is
Positioned to be symmetrical in the left-right direction of the upper cover,
water fountain. 14. The method of claim 13,
The upper cover is formed to have a length in the front-rear direction longer than the length in the left-right direction,
The microphone hole is
Located in the center of the front-rear direction of the upper cover,
water fountain.

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