KR20120132347A - Method and apparatus for controlling total dissolved solids, and water treatment apparatus having the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: An apparatus for adjusting total dissolved solids, a method for the same, and a water treatment apparatus including the apparatus are provided to supply various kinds of water with various total dissolved solid material contents by controlling removal kinds and rates of total dissolved solids from a deionization filter. CONSTITUTION: An apparatus for adjusting total dissolved solids includes a filtering part(110) and a controlling part(200). The filtering part includes a deionization filter(130) which removes dissolved solids from feed water using input currents. The controlling part controls the input currents using a pulse width modulation method such that water from the deionization filter becomes pre-determined total dissolved solids. The controlling part applies a pre-determined fixed voltage to the deionization filter. [Reference numerals] (AA) Feed water; (BB) Wastewater

Description

Total dissolved solids control device and method, water treatment device including total dissolved solids control device {METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING TOTAL DISSOLVED SOLIDS, AND WATER TREATMENT APPARATUS HAVING THE SAME}

The present invention relates to a water treatment device such as a water purifier or a water purifier having a function of ionized water, and a control method thereof, a total dissolved solids control device and method, and a total dissolved solids control device, and more specifically, water discharged water The present invention relates to a water treatment device capable of controlling the total dissolved solids contained in the same, and a control method thereof, a total dissolved solids control device and method, and a total dissolved solids control device.

On the other hand, the water treatment device may be used for various purposes, such as industrial or domestic (including commercial use), such as to treat waste water or water, or to produce ultrapure water, but the present invention relates to a water treatment device and the like used for drinking. As such, the water treatment device for drinking is generally referred to as a water purifier in a narrow sense because it receives raw water (constant water) and then filters and generates purified water for drinking. The water purifier is configured to supply raw water (constant water) to the user, which is filtered at the filter unit, and can provide hot water and / or cold water to the user by heating / cooling the purified water at room temperature do.

In addition, not only purified water but also functional water for supplying various functional water, such as ionized water, carbonated water, and oxygen water, may be used for drinking water treatment equipment. In addition, there is a water heater, a cold water machine, an ice maker, and the like, which first filter the water supplied from a water supply means such as a bucket and then heat or cool or generate ice. In the present specification, the water treatment device is used as a generic term for a water purifier, a functional water machine, a water heater, a cold water machine, an ice maker, and the like having a combination of at least some of these functions. However, for the convenience of description, a conventional water purifier (including an ion water purifier) may be taken as an example, but such a water purifier should be understood as an example of the water treatment device according to the present invention.

In general, the water purifier is classified into a hollow fiber membrane method and a reverse osmosis membrane method according to the water purification method.

Of these, the reverse osmosis membrane type water purifier is known to be superior to other water purification methods developed so far in removing contaminants.

The reverse osmosis membrane type water purifier receives raw water from tap water and the like and removes dust, debris and various suspended substances through a fine filter of about 5 microns, and a carcinogen (THM) by using an activated carbon adsorption method. It consists of a free carbon filter that removes harmful chemicals such as synthetic detergents and insecticides and residual chlorine, and a reverse osmosis membrane of 0.0001 micron to filter heavy metals such as lead and arsenic, as well as sodium and various pathogens. The reverse osmosis membrane filter (RO membrane filter) to be discharged through, and the filter unit including a post carbon filter for removing the unpleasant taste and smell, pigments, etc. contained in the water passing through the reverse osmosis membrane filter.

In addition, a hollow fiber membrane type water purifier uses a hollow fiber membrane filter (ultrafiltration filter, UF) instead of the said reverse osmosis membrane filter. The hollow fiber membrane filter is a porous filter having pores of several tens to hundreds of nanometers (nm) in size, and removes contaminants in water through the myriad of micropores distributed on the membrane surface.

However, the conventional reverse osmosis membrane type water purifier has a problem in that not only heavy metals contained in raw water but also various mineral components cannot meet the user's desire for intake of minerals. Since the filtration performance is relatively low compared to the reverse osmosis membrane type water purifier, there is a problem in that it does not meet the user's desire for clean water (highly filtered water).

Furthermore, in the case of the conventional reverse osmosis membrane type water purifier, there is a problem in that waste water is severe because the concentrated water (living water) that has not passed through the reverse osmosis membrane must be discharged to the outside.

Furthermore, the conventional reverse osmosis membrane type water purifier or the hollow fiber membrane type water purifier has a problem in that the life of the reverse osmosis membrane filter or the hollow fiber membrane filter is short, so that the replacement time of the filter is shortened, and thus, the maintenance of the filter is expensive. In particular, in the case where the raw water contains a large amount of hardness material, such as metal ions, there is a problem that the lifespan of the reverse osmosis membrane filter or the hollow fiber membrane filter is further shortened.

Therefore, there is a demand for a water purifier (water treatment device) having a method different from the conventional water purifying method.

The present invention has been made to solve at least some of the problems of the prior art as described above, depending on the user's choice according to the total dissolved solids, such as mineral-rich mineral water and ultrapure water at a level similar to that filtered in the reverse osmosis membrane method. An object of the present invention is to provide a water treatment device capable of providing various types of water and a control method thereof.

In addition, the present invention as one aspect, it is possible to supply the filtered water without having a separate tank to prevent the intake of contaminated water due to tank contamination, and also does not have a separate tank overall size of the water treatment device And to provide a water treatment apparatus and a control method thereof that can reduce the manufacturing cost.

In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a water treatment device and a method of controlling the same, which can achieve filtration performance similar to that of a reverse osmosis membrane water purifier, and which are easy to generate ionized water.

In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a water treatment device and a control method thereof capable of regenerating a deionized filter, which plays a most important role in the filter unit, to extend the life of the filter. Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to provide a water treatment device and a control method thereof capable of confirming that regeneration is performed through a regeneration flow path.

In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a water treatment apparatus capable of sterilizing a flow path inside or connected to the water extraction member using hot water, and a control method thereof.

In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a water treatment device and a method of controlling the same, which facilitate the control of the deionization filter in the process of removing the total dissolved solids.

In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a water treatment apparatus and a control method thereof, which can prevent the ice generated in the ice making unit from being contaminated as much as possible.

In addition, the present invention in one aspect, the total dissolved solids control device and method, total dissolved solids that can easily control the reduction rate of the total dissolved solids (removal rate of dissolved solids (ion material)) and a simple configuration through the current control It is an object of the present invention to provide a water treatment device including a solids control device.

As one aspect for achieving the above object, the present invention, the filter unit having a deionized filter for removing the dissolved solids (Dissolved Solids) contained in the water introduced by the power applied; A water extracting member for extracting water filtered by the filter unit; And controlling a power applied to the deionized filter to control a reduction rate of total dissolved solids (TDS) present in the water filtered by the deionized filter, or the total dissolved solid material through the deionized filter. It provides a water treatment device comprising a control unit.

As another aspect, the present invention, the filter unit having a deionized filter for removing the dissolved solids (Dissolved Solids) contained in the water introduced by the power applied; An ionized water generating unit generating ionized water using water filtered by the filter unit; A water extraction member for selectively withdrawing water filtered by the filter unit and water generated by the ionized water generator; And controlling a power applied to the deionized filter to control a reduction rate of total dissolved solids (TDS) present in the water filtered by the deionized filter, or the total dissolved solid material through the deionized filter. It provides a water treatment device comprising a control unit.

Preferably, the deionization filter may remove dissolved solids contained in water using electricity. In this case, as an example, the deionization filter may be used in water using at least one of electrodialysis (ED), electrodeionization (EDI), and capacitive deionization (CDI). It may be configured to remove the dissolved solids contained.

Also preferably, the deionized filter may be regenerated by applying a power having a reverse polarity. In this case, the filter unit includes a purified water flow path for performing filtration through the deionization filter and a regeneration flow path for performing regeneration of the deionization filter, wherein the purified water flow path and the regeneration flow path are regenerated flow path switching valves. A flow rate sensor may be provided between the regeneration flow path switching valve and the deionization filter to measure a flow rate flowing into the deionization filter.

In addition, a drain pipe may be connected to the purified water flow path between the flow sensor and the deionization filter to drain the water passing through the deionization filter to the outside during regeneration of the deionization filter. At this time, the water treatment device according to an aspect of the present invention may further include a display unit for displaying a regeneration failure when the flow rate is detected through the flow sensor during the regeneration of the deion filter.

Preferably, the controller is divided into two or more kinds of water according to the total dissolved solids (TDS) in the water filtered by the deionized filter or the total dissolved solids through the deionized filter in two or more kinds. It may be configured to control the power applied to the deionization filter so that water can be discharged.

More preferably, the water treatment device according to an aspect of the present invention includes a heating unit for heating the water filtered in the filter unit, and a cooling unit for cooling the water filtered in the filter unit; It may include at least one of, wherein at least one of the heating unit and the cooling unit may be configured to withdraw water divided into two or more kinds.

Also preferably, the water treatment device according to an aspect of the present invention includes an ice making unit that generates ice using water filtered in the filter unit, wherein the ice making unit uses water divided into two or more kinds. To generate ice.

Preferably, the control unit is configured to control the power applied to the deionization filter so that the mineral water from which the dissolved solid material is removed from the raw water to a certain level, and the ultra-pure water with less total dissolved solid material than the mineral water can be discharged. Can be.

In addition, the mineral water may be limited to the reduction rate of the total dissolved solids from the raw water 30% or more and less than 80%, the ultrapure water is limited to the reduction rate of the total dissolved solids from the raw water 80% or more.

On the other hand, the control unit controls the power applied to the deionized filter so that the mineral water from which the dissolved solid material is removed from the raw water to a certain level, and the ultra-pure water with less total dissolved solid material than the mineral water can be withdrawn The controller may control a power applied to the deionization filter so that mineral water is introduced into the ionized water generating unit when the ionized water is generated. At this time, the mineral water may be water of 30% or more and less than 80% of the total dissolved solids from raw water.

In addition, the water treatment device according to an aspect of the present invention may comprise at least one of a cooling unit and a heating unit for changing the temperature of the water filtered in the filter unit. At this time, the cooling unit and the heating unit is configured to cool or heat the water supplied by the water pressure of the raw water, it may be made of a direct type that is not provided with a tank.

Preferably, the outlet of the heating unit is selectively connected to the drain pipe or the outlet of the water extraction member, the control unit is such that the outlet of the heating unit is connected to the drain tube for a predetermined time to drain the water remaining in the heating unit. It can be configured to switch the flow path. At this time, the outlet side of the heating unit may be connected to the drain pipe through the drain flow path switching valve provided in the water discharge member, the control unit is at least part of the time that the water remaining in the heating unit is drained through the drain pipe It may be configured to drive the heating unit for a time of sterilization of the flow path provided in the water extraction member.

The controller may be configured to apply a predetermined fixed voltage to the deionization filter and control an input current applied to the deionization filter by using a pulse width modulation (PWM).

On the other hand, the water treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises an ice making unit for generating ice using the water filtered in the filter unit; And a sterilizing water generating unit provided between the filter unit and the ice making unit to generate an oxidative mixed material (MO) by electrolysis, wherein the ice making unit is an oxidative product generated by the sterilizing water generating unit. Ice may be produced through drinking sterile water comprising the mixture.

At this time, the water treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention further comprises a storage tank for receiving the water filtered in the filter unit, wherein the oxidizing mixture generated in the sterilization water generating unit is supplied to the storage tank, The ice making unit may be configured to receive ice sterilized water containing an oxidative mixture contained in the storage tank to generate ice.

More preferably, the drinking sterilized water contained in the storage tank may be configured to be supplied to the ice making unit after passing through a chlorine removal filter for removing the chlorine component contained in the drinking sterilized water.

In still another aspect, the present invention provides a method for controlling a water treatment device having a deionization filter for removing dissolved solids contained in water introduced by power application, wherein the dissolved solids in raw water are at a predetermined level. A user selection step of receiving an extraction of the removed mineral water or an extraction of an ultrapure water having less total dissolved solids than the mineral water; Applying power to the deionization filter to adjust the reduction rate of total dissolved solids present in the water filtered by the deionization filter, or total dissolved solids through the deionization filter according to the type of water input in the user selection step. Deionized filter driving step; And a water extraction step of extracting the mineral water or the ultrapure water filtered by the deionization filter.

In still another aspect, the present invention provides a control method for a water treatment device including a deionization filter for removing dissolved solids contained in water introduced by power application, wherein the dissolved solids in raw water are constant. A user selection step of receiving an extraction of the level-removed mineral water, or extraction of ultrapure water having less total dissolved solids than the mineral water, or extraction of ionized water; Applying power to the deionization filter to adjust the reduction rate of total dissolved solids present in the water filtered by the deionization filter, or total dissolved solids through the deionization filter according to the type of water input in the user selection step. Deionized filter driving step; An ionized water generation step of generating ionized water using water filtered by the deionized filter when extraction of ionized water is input; And a water extraction step of extracting the mineral water or ultrapure water filtered by the deionization filter, or the ionized water generated in the ionized water generation step.

Preferably, when the extraction of the ionized water is selected in the user selection step, the deionization filter driving step may be configured to adjust the power applied to the deionization filter to generate mineral water in the deionization filter.

Also preferably, the mineral water may have a reduction rate of 30% or more and less than 80% of total dissolved solids from raw water, and the ultrapure water may be limited to a reduction rate of 80% or more of total dissolved solids from raw water.

Preferably, the deionized filter is dissolved in water using at least one of electrodialysis (ED), electrodeionization (EDI), and capacitive deionization (CDI). It can be configured to remove solids.

Also preferably, the deionization filter driving step may include applying a predetermined fixed voltage to the deionization filter and controlling an input current applied to the deionization filter using a pulse width modulation (PWM). It can be configured to.

As another aspect, the present invention, the filter unit having a deionized filter for removing the dissolved solids present in the raw water introduced by using the input current; And a control unit controlling the input current so that the water discharged from the deionization filter becomes a target total dissolved solids (TDS).

Preferably, the control unit may be configured to apply a predetermined fixed voltage to the deionization filter and to control the input current using a pulse width modulation (PWM).

At this time, the control unit, a calculator for calculating the total dissolved solids contained in the raw water introduced into the deionization filter using the input current; An input current setter for comparing the calculated total dissolved solid material with the target total dissolved solid material and setting an input current applied to the deionization filter according to the comparison result; And an input current supplyer applying a predetermined fixed voltage to the deionization filter and supplying the input current to the deionization filter in a pulse width modulation manner.

On the other hand, the total dissolved solids control device according to an aspect of the present invention, the flow sensor for measuring the flow rate of the raw water flowing into the deion filter; may further include.

Preferably, the input current setter may set the input current applied to the deionization filter using the calculated result of comparing the total dissolved solid material and the target total dissolved solid material, and the flow rate of the raw water measured by the flow sensor. have.

More preferably, the input current setter may set the input current applied to the deionization filter using a table in which the flow rate of raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionization filter are described according to the total dissolved solid material.

Preferably, the calculator may calculate the total dissolved solids of the introduced raw water using a table in which the flow rate of the raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionization filter are described according to the total dissolved solids.

Also preferably, the deionization filter is included in water using at least one of electrodialysis (ED), electrodeionization (EDI), and capacitive deionization (CDI). Dissolved solids can be removed.

As another aspect, the present invention, the step of applying a predetermined fixed voltage to the deion filter; Removing dissolved solids present in raw water flowing into the deionization filter by using the applied fixed voltage; Measuring a magnitude of a current flowing through the deionization filter by the applied fixed voltage; Calculating total dissolved solids present in the raw water using the measured magnitude of the current; Comparing the calculated total dissolved solids and the target total dissolved solids of the raw water and determining the magnitude of the current to be applied to the deionized filter according to the comparison result; And applying the determined current to the deionized filter by using a pulse width modulation method.

Preferably, the total dissolved solids control method according to an aspect of the present invention, measuring the flow rate of the raw water flowing into the deion filter; may further include.

More preferably, the step of determining the magnitude of the current, using the comparison result of the calculated total dissolved solids and the target total dissolved solids of the raw water and the measured flow rate of the raw water to the current applied to the deionized filter Can be set.

Also preferably, the determining of the magnitude of the current may include setting a current applied to the deionization filter using a table in which the flow rate of raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionization filter are described according to total dissolved solids. Can be.

Preferably, the step of calculating the total dissolved solids present in the raw water, the flow rate of the raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionization filter using the table described according to the total dissolved solids total dissolved dissolved raw water Solid matter can be calculated.

Meanwhile, the deionized filter is a dissolved solid contained in water using at least one of electrodialysis (ED), electrodeionization (EDI), and capacitive deionization (CDI). The material can be removed.

As another aspect, the present invention provides a water treatment device comprising the above-described total dissolved solids control device.

According to an embodiment of the present invention having the above configuration, by controlling the total dissolved solids and / or reduction rate removed from the deionization filter by applying power, the content of the total dissolved solids is different in response to the user's requirements It is possible to supply various kinds of water, for example, mineral water and ultrapure water. In particular, the ultrapure water obtained from the reverse osmosis membrane type water purifier and the mineral water obtained from the hollow fiber membrane type water purifier can be selected, and thus the desired water can be provided according to the user's selection. In addition, in the case of cold water or hot water, and / or ice, it is possible to provide water desired by the user, for example, mineral water or ultrapure water.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention may not be provided with a separate tank by allowing the water filtered in the filter portion to be extracted through the water extraction member by the pressure of the raw water, thereby solving the problem due to tank contamination. In addition, the overall size and manufacturing cost of the water treatment device can be reduced. In particular, even the supply of cold water and hot water can be implemented by using a direct water supply, so it is not necessary to have a tank while supplying water at various temperatures, thereby preventing intake of contaminated water due to tank contamination.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, by controlling the power applied to the deionization filter, not only the ultrapure water extractable from the reverse osmosis membrane type water purifier can be obtained, but also the mineral water is supplied to the ionized water generating unit to supply ionized water (alkaline water). By generating, alkaline water or acidic water of sufficient pH can be obtained even at low power operation. That is, the present invention can obtain the effect that the generation of ionized water, which was difficult to implement in the conventional reverse osmosis membrane water purifier, can be obtained by supplying the ionized water generating unit with mineral water having sufficient total dissolved solids.

In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to regenerate the deionized filter through the regeneration operation to extend the life of the deionized filter compared to the conventional reverse osmosis membrane filter or hollow fiber membrane filter.

In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, since the regeneration of the deionization filter may be confirmed through a flow sensor, it is possible to obtain an effect of determining whether the deionization filter is regenerating.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, since it is possible to sterilize the flow path inside the water extraction member or the flow path connected thereto by using the hot water generated in the heating unit, it is possible to obtain an effect of improving hygiene.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the production of drinking sterilization water through the sterilizing water generating unit and using the ice to generate ice not only to provide the user with uncontaminated ice, the ice is stored in the ice storage for a long time Even if there is an effect that can minimize the contamination by bacteria.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, even if the storage tank is provided for ice making by supplying the oxidizing mixture generated in the sterilizing water generating unit to the storage tank to prevent the growth of bacteria or microorganisms in the storage tank The effect is that ice can be produced using clean, uncontaminated water. In particular, if the ice contains a small amount of oxidizing mixture, even if the ice is stored in the ice storage for a long time there is an effect that can prevent the growth of bacteria or microorganisms in the ice. In addition, when the drinking sterilized water contained in the storage tank is passed through the chlorine removal filter and then supplied to the ice making unit, the chlorine component (oxidative mixture) contained in the drinking sterilized water may be adsorbed. The taste can be removed, which can eliminate the discomfort felt by the user.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, when using the current control to drive the deionization filter, total dissolved solids contained in the raw water or the water being filtered inside the deionization filter without a separate sensor (TDS: Total Dissolved Solids) can be calculated (or measured). Furthermore, since the total dissolved solids are controlled in consideration of the flow rate of the raw water, the user can obtain the desired level of filtered water.

In particular, the control method, the total dissolved substance control apparatus and method of the water treatment apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention uses a current control method, and thus has a simpler configuration, less error, and a faster feedback speed than the voltage control method. Will be effective.

In addition, since the control method, the total dissolved material control device and method of the water treatment apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention uses a current control method, it is possible to calculate the total dissolved solids present in the raw water without a separate sensor, through The effect of controlling the reduction rate of total dissolved solids can be obtained.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the degree of compensation according to the flow rate of the raw water is considered, the user can obtain water containing the total dissolved solids at a desired level, for example, mineral water and ultrapure water.

1 is a flow chart showing the configuration of a water treatment device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing a flow path for generating purified water in the water treatment device shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
3 is a flow chart showing a flow path at the time of deionization filter regeneration in the water treatment device shown in FIG.
Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing the configuration of the water treatment device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing a flow path for generating purified water in the water treatment device shown in FIG. 4. FIG.
FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing a flow path at the time of deionization filter regeneration in the water treatment device shown in FIG. 4; FIG.
Fig. 7 is a flow chart showing the configuration of the water treatment device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 8 is a flow chart showing the configuration of a water treatment device according to a modification of the third embodiment of the present invention.
9 is a graph for explaining mineral removal performance according to voltage.
10 is a graph for explaining the harmful heavy metal removal performance according to the voltage.
11 is a functional block diagram showing the main configuration involved in the control of total dissolved solids according to the present invention.
12 is a functional block diagram illustrating a control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
13 is a table showing a table in which the flow rate of raw water, the voltage applied to the filter unit, etc. according to one embodiment of the present invention are described according to the total dissolved solid material.
14 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling a water treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart specifically showing a deionization filter driving step shown in FIG. 14; FIG.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. Furthermore, the singular forms "a", "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

In addition, throughout the specification, when a part is said to be 'connected' to another part, it is not only 'directly connected', but also 'indirectly connected' with another component in between. Also includes. In addition, 'including' and 'comprising' a certain component means that the component may further include other components, except for the absence of a description to the contrary.

Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings will be described a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The present invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. In order to clearly illustrate the present invention, parts not related to the description are omitted, and the same or similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the specification. In addition, since the size of each component and the distance between the components shown in the drawings are arbitrarily shown for convenience of description, the present invention is not necessarily limited to those shown in the drawings.

First, referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, a water treatment device 100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

1 to 6, the water treatment device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a filter unit 110 having a deionization filter 130, and water filtered by the filter unit 110. And a control unit 200 for controlling power to be applied to the deionization filter, and a cooling unit 150 and a heating unit 160 to change the temperature of the extracted water. It may further include a display unit (not shown) for displaying the operation state or abnormality of the device 100 by light or sound. In addition, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, the water treatment device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an ionized water generating unit 140 for generating ionized water using the water filtered in the filter unit 110 It may further comprise.

First, the filter unit 110 is used to sequentially filter and purify raw water, and may include a sediment filter, a pre carbon filter, a deion filter 130, and a fucarbon filter 112, but a deion filter. If it includes 130, the type, number and order of the filter may be changed according to the filtration performance of the water treatment device (purifier). In addition, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, a composite filter 111 including a sediment filter and a precarbon filter may be provided in combination, and various functional filters may be added or replaced.

Briefly about each filter, the sediment filter receives the raw water from the raw water supply unit and serves to adsorb and remove the relatively large suspended solids, sand, etc. solid matter contained in the raw water, the pre-carbon filter is a sediment filter By supplying the water passed through the adsorption method of activated carbon to remove harmful chemicals and residual chlorine components such as volatile organic compounds, carcinogens, synthetic detergents, pesticides contained in the water. 1 to 6 illustrate an example in which the sediment filter and the pre carbon filter are configured as the composite filter 111, but may be separately installed.

On the other hand, the rear end of the composite filter 111 may be provided with a raw water feed valve (V2) for selectively blocking the raw water supplied from the raw water supply unit, if the raw water feed valve (V2) can block the supply of raw water feed The installation position of the valve V2 is not limited thereto, and may be provided at the front end of the composite filter 111. In addition, as shown in Figures 1 to 6, it is also possible to install a pressure reducing valve (V1) to maintain the pressure of the raw water flowing into the filter unit 110 at a constant level.

In addition, the post carbon filter 112 serves to adsorb and remove unpleasant tastes, odors, pigments, etc. of the water filtered by the deionization filter 130, and the purified water filtered through the post carbon filter 112 is the water extraction member 170. Can be supplied to the user through. In this case, another composite function may be added to the post carbon filter 112 to be configured as one filter, and another additional filter may be added.

In addition, the deionization filter 130 provided to remove the dissolved solids (including the meaning of filtration, adsorption, and separation from water) in the present invention is a composite as shown in FIGS. 1 to 6. It may be provided between the filter 111 and the post carbon filter 112, but is not limited thereto, and may be used together with other filters, and the deionization filter 130 may be provided alone in the filter unit 110. It is also possible.

The deionization filter 130 lowers the total dissolved solids (TDS) contained in the water introduced by power application. That is, the deionization filter 130 may be configured to remove (separate from water) dissolved solid matter (ion material) contained in water using electricity. At this time, total dissolved solids (TDS: Total Dissolved Solids) refers to the amount of solids, including minerals such as calcium, sodium, magnesium, iron, dissolved in water, expressed in units of mg / ℓ or ppm. As such, the total dissolved solids means the total amount of the dissolved solids, and the dissolved solids are mainly present as ionic materials in the ionic state.

As an example, the deionization filter 130 may be disposed in water using any one of electrodialysis (ED), electrodeionization (EDI), and capacitive deionization (CDI). It can be configured to remove the dissolved solids (ionics) contained. However, the deionization filter 130 is not limited to those described above as long as it is possible to remove the dissolved solid material (ion material) by the power applied to the anode and the cathode, for example, the ion exchange resin is attached to the membrane or It is also possible to configure the coated state so that electricity is applied to the membrane. In this case, since the dissolved solid material removed from the deionization filter 130 is mainly an ionic material in an ionic state, removing the dissolved solid material in the present specification, including the claims, includes the meaning of removing the ionic material. .

Meanwhile, the electrodeionization method (EDI) is a method of performing deionization (desalting) using direct current electricity, also called MDI (Membrane Deionization), CEDI (Continuous Electro Deionization), and the like. (EDI) will be described as including all methods such as MDI and CEDI.

The deionization filter 130 removes the dissolved solid material (ion material) from the water by the application of a power source, thereby reducing the total dissolved solid material in the water passing through the deionization filter 130. Control of the total dissolved solids through the deionization filter 130 is performed by the controller 200. That is, the controller 200 controls the reduction rate of the total dissolved solids (TDS) present in the water filtered by the deionization filter 130 or the total dissolved solids (TDS) through the deionization filter 130. The power applied to the deionization filter 130 is controlled.

In this case, the control unit 200 is at least a kind of water according to the type of water according to the total dissolved solids present in the water filtered by the deionization filter 130 or the reduction rate of the total dissolved solids through the deionization filter 130 at least. The power applied to the deionization filter 130 may be controlled to divide the water into two stages.

For example, the control unit 200 may dewater the mineral water from which the total dissolved solids are removed to a certain level from the raw water, and the ultra-deionized water containing less total dissolved solids than the mineral water. Can be applied to the power supply. However, the classification of water according to the reduction rate of total dissolved solids or total dissolved solids can be further subdivided in addition to mineral water and ultrapure water.

For example, the mineral water corresponds to water having a reduction rate of 30% or more and less than 80% of total dissolved solids through the deion filter 130 as compared with water (or raw water) before being introduced into the deion filter 130. The ultrapure water may be set to water having a reduction rate of 80% or more of the total dissolved solid material through the deionization filter 130. As such, the reduction rate of the total dissolved solids corresponding to the mineral water or the ultrapure water may be directly selected by the user, but may be released in a predetermined range or set to a predetermined value. As an example, in the case of ultra-pure water, the reduction rate (dissolved solids removal rate) of the total dissolved solids through the deionization filter 130 is set to 90%, and in the case of mineral water, the total dissolved solids through the deionization filter 130 is determined. The reduction rate can be set to 50%.

On the other hand, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, when the ionized water generating unit 140, the ionized water generating unit 140 can be generated smoothly alkaline water and acidic water even at low power (low current) driving. It is preferable that mineral water containing a large amount of minerals (total dissolved solids) is introduced into the ionized water generator 140. To this end, the controller 200 preferably controls the power applied to the deionization filter 130 when the ionized water (alkaline water) is selected so that the total dissolved solid material corresponding to the mineral water is included in the water. .

In addition, the deionization filter 130 may perform a regeneration process by applying a power of opposite polarity.

To this end, the filter 110 of the water treatment device 100 may be provided with a regeneration flow path (L2) that is distinguished from the purified water flow path (L1).

The regeneration flow path L2 supplies the introduced raw water to the outlet side of the deionization filter 130. Specifically, the regeneration flow path L2 is branched from the regeneration flow path switching valve 113 and connected to the connection part F located at the outlet side of the deionization filter 130. In addition, as described later, the water used for the regeneration while flowing in the reverse direction through the deionization filter 130 is drained through the drain pipe (D). At this time, the regeneration feed valve (V6) which is closed in the purified water mode and opened in the regeneration mode may be installed in the drain pipe (D) so that water passing through the composite filter 111 is not drained to the drain pipe (D) when the purified water is generated. have.

In addition, the front of the deionization filter 130 measures the flow rate of water flowing into the deionization filter 130 to measure the total dissolved solids removed from the deionization filter 130 or the flow rate sensor 120 so as to adjust the reduction rate thereof. May be provided.

The flow sensor 120 may be installed at the front end of the connection portion (F) connecting the purified water flow path (L1) and the drain pipe (D). That is, the drain pipe (D) is connected to the purified water flow path (L1) between the flow sensor 120 and the deionization filter 130 so that there is no flow of water passing through the flow sensor 120 in the regeneration mode, Therefore, when the flow rate through the flow sensor 120 is sensed when the deionization filter 130 is regenerated, it is possible to confirm that there is an abnormality in the flow path switching of the regeneration flow path switching valve 113. As such, when it is confirmed that there is an abnormality in performing the regeneration mode through the flow sensor 120, the controller 200 may display an operation abnormality of the regeneration mode through light or sound through a display unit (not shown). Therefore, by adjusting the installation position of the flow sensor 120, it is possible to prevent the function of the deionization filter 130 is not performed properly by the regeneration failure.

In this regeneration mode, a flow path is formed along the arrows shown in FIGS. 3 and 6. That is, when the regeneration flow path switching valve 113 switches the flow path so as to communicate with the purified water flow path L1 and the regeneration flow path L2, the raw water is introduced into the regeneration flow path L2 via the regeneration flow path switching valve 113 and regenerated. Raw water introduced into the flow path (L2) is introduced to the outlet side of the deionization filter 130 to pass through the deionization filter 130 in the reverse direction, and through the connecting portion (F) connected to the drain pipe (D) regeneration feed valve ( Drained to the drain pipe (D) via V6). In this regeneration mode, a power of opposite polarity is applied to the deionization filter 130.

In addition, the water dissolved in the total dissolved solids is filtered by the filter unit 110, and the water extraction valve V3 is opened by the user's choice of water extraction. As a result, the water extraction member 170 is supplied through the room temperature water flow path L3. To be discharged.

Meanwhile, the water treatment device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention may include at least one of the cooling unit 150 and the heating unit 160 to change the temperature of the water filtered by the filter unit 110. .

In order to supply water through the cooling unit 150 or the heating unit 160, the cooling unit 150 is installed in the cold water flow path L4, and the heating unit 160 is installed in the hot water flow path L5, respectively. Extraction is made when the cold water extraction valve V4 and the hot water extraction valve V5 are opened.

In the drawings of the present specification, the water extraction valve (V3), the cold water extraction valve (V4) and the hot water extraction valve (V5) by the user's selection in order to make the extraction through the water extraction member 170 is automatically controlled by the control unit 200. An example of an electronic valve that is opened by means of a mechanical valve is also possible.

Meanwhile, in FIGS. 1 to 3, the normal temperature water flow path L3, the cold water flow path L4, and the hot water flow path L5 are combined together and discharged through one extraction hole 171 provided in the water extraction member 170. Although shown, the number of the extraction port 171, the front end of the water extraction member 170 or the flow path configuration inside the water extraction member 170 can be variously changed.

 The cooling unit 150 or the heating unit 160 may be formed of a cold water tank or a heating tank, but may be formed of an instant cooling device or an instant heating device for cooling or heating water supplied by the water pressure of raw water. . As described above, in the case of using the direct cooling unit 150 and / or the heating unit 160 using the water pressure of raw water, it prevents the growth of bacteria or microorganisms in the water stored in the tank and at the same time, the water treatment due to the installation of the tank. Advantageously, the size and size of the device 100 can be reduced.

In addition, in order for the water discharged from the heating unit 160 to be discharged through the drain pipe (D) or the extraction port 171 of the discharge member 170, inside or withdrawal member 170 of the discharge member 170 ), A drain flow path switching valve (VD) may be installed to switch the flow path so that the outlet side of the heating unit 160 communicates with the drain pipe D or the extraction port 171. The driving of the drain flow channel switching valve VD may be controlled by the controller 200 like other valves.

At this time, the controller 200 is connected to the drain pipe (D) through the drain flow path (V7) for a predetermined time to drain the water remaining in the heating unit 160 of the instantaneous cooling method, The flow path of the drain flow path switching valve VD can be switched. That is, water that is filtered out of the filter unit 110 by opening the valves connected to the heating unit 160 such as the raw water feed valve V2 flows into the heating unit 160 and remains in the heating unit 160. By discharging to the outside it is possible to remove the air inside the heating unit 160. As such, damage to the heating member due to bubbles may be prevented by removing residual water inside the heating unit 160. At this time, it is preferable that the check valve V9 is installed in the drain passage V7 so that water flowing in the drain passage V7 does not flow back to the water discharge member 170.

On the other hand, after removing the residual water inside the heating unit 160 for a predetermined time (for example, 1 to 2 seconds), the temperature of the water discharged from the heating unit 160 may be increased by driving the heating unit 160. In addition, it is also possible to sterilize the flow path connected to or inside the water extraction member 170 using the hot water. That is, the water remaining in the heating unit 160 through the control of the control unit 200 during at least part of the time (for example, about 2 to 3 seconds) drained through the drain pipe (D) (for example, For example, after 1 to 1.5 seconds have elapsed until the end of drainage, the heating unit 160 may be driven to sterilize the flow path provided in the water extraction member 170.

Sterilization of the water extraction member 170 by the heating unit 160 may be performed at the time of hot water extraction, but may be automatically performed by a user's selection or at a predetermined cycle. Meanwhile, the control unit 200 may control the heating unit 160 based on the flow rate measured by the flow sensor FS provided in front of the heating unit 160 so as to effectively control the temperature of the water heated by the heating unit 160. The heating amount (power supply amount) of can be controlled.

On the other hand, as shown in Figure 4 to 6, the water treatment device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include an ion water generating unit 140.

The ionized water generator 140 generates acidic and alkaline water by applying power to an electrode provided therein. The ionized water generating unit 140 is installed to supply the user with ionized water (alkaline water) generated by being connected to the normal temperature water channel L3 or the cold water channel L4 at room temperature or low temperature.

7 and 8, the water treatment device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an ice making unit 195 that generates ice using water filtered by the filter unit 110. The sterilizing water generating unit 192 may further include a sterilizing material.

The ice making unit 195 generates ice in the same manner as a general ice maker or an ice purifier, and the ice making unit 195 of the present invention provides a concrete manner or concrete structure for ice production if water can be supplied with water. Is not particularly limited. In addition, the ice generated by the ice making unit 195 may be accommodated in an ice storage not shown and provided to the user.

The sterilizing water generator 192 generates sterilizing water containing sterilizing material by applying power to the electrode.

As an example, the sterilizing water generator 192 is electrolyzed (in this specification, the term electrolysis will be described as including 'redox reaction') of the introduced water. Oxidant) may be configured to generate sterilizing water containing a sterilizing function.

The sterilizing water generator 192 sterilizes or destroys microorganisms or bacteria remaining in the water by passing water between electrodes having different polarities. In general, the sterilization of purified water by electrolysis involves direct oxidation reactions that directly oxidize microorganisms at the anode, and various oxidizing mixtures (MO: Mixed Oxidants) that may occur at the anode, such as residual chlorine, ozone, OH radicals and oxygen. Indirect oxidation reaction in which radicals oxidize microorganisms is performed in a complex manner.

As such, the water introduced into the sterilizing water generator 192 is moved to the ice making unit 195 in a state in which the oxidative mixture is included. In this case, since the water introduced into the ice making unit 195 is used to generate ice, the sterilizing water is generated so that the drinking sterilizing water containing the oxidizing mixture having a concentration that the user can drink is supplied to the ice making unit 195. It is necessary to control the current / voltage applied to the electrode of the unit 192.

Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the sterilized water generating unit 192 generates a drinking sterilized water containing the oxidizing mixture and by using this to generate ice in the ice making unit 195, the ice is not contaminated In addition to providing to the user, even if the ice is stored in the ice storage (not shown) for a long time it is possible to minimize the contamination by bacteria and the like.

In addition, as shown in Figure 7, the water treatment device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a storage tank 193 for receiving the water filtered in the filter unit 110. In this case, the oxidizing mixture generated in the sterilizing water generating unit 192 (more specifically, the sterilizing water including the oxidizing mixture) is supplied to the storage tank 193, and the ice making unit 195 is stored in the storage tank 193. The tank 193 may be configured to receive drinking sterile water containing the oxidative mixture contained in the tank 193 to generate ice.

The storage tank 193 may be configured as a storage tank at room temperature, but may be configured as a cold water tank so that ice making of the ice making unit 195 can be performed quickly.

As such, when the storage tank 193 is provided, the oxidizing mixture generated in the sterilization water generator 192 may be diluted with the water contained in the storage tank 193 to produce drinking sterilized water having a drinkable concentration. The concentration (amount) of the oxidative mixture generated in the sterilizing water generator 192 may be controlled.

As such, when the storage tank 193 is provided, the water supplied to the ice making unit 195 is stored in advance, compared with the case of directly supplying the water passing through the filter unit 110 to the ice making unit 195. The time for supplying water to 195 can be shortened.

On the other hand, when the water treatment device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a normal temperature water tank in the normal temperature water flow path L3 or a cold water tank in the cooling unit 150 as shown in FIG. Tank 193 may be configured as such a cold water tank or cold water tank, the sterilizing water generating unit 192 is provided on the inlet side of the cold water tank or cold water tank is configured to supply the oxidizing mixture to the cold water tank or cold water tank Can be.

As such, when the storage tank 193 is provided, germ or water is supplied to the water contained in the storage tank 193 by supplying drinking sterilizing water containing an oxidizing mixture to the storage tank 193 through the sterilizing water generating unit 192. It is possible to prevent microorganisms from breeding and contaminating, which makes it possible to generate ice using clean, uncontaminated water. In addition, the ice making unit 195 generates ice with drinking sterilized water containing a small amount of an oxidizable mixture, which can prevent bacteria or microorganisms from propagating in the ice even if the ice is stored in the ice storage for a long time.

On the other hand, as shown in Figure 7, the water treatment device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention adds a chlorine removal filter 194 to remove the chlorine component contained in the drinking sterilized water at the rear end of the storage tank 193. It can be included as.

When the chlorine removal filter 194 is included as described above, the chlorine component contained in the drinking sterilized water contained in the storage tank 193 is removed to remove the odor or taste caused by the chlorine component, thereby causing discomfort felt by the user. You can eliminate it. On the other hand, when the water passing through the chlorine removal filter 194 to the ice making unit 195 is removed a large amount of oxidizing mixture because it does not generate bacteria or microorganisms on the ice as compared to the case without the chlorine removal filter 194 Although the effect of preventing may be low, the storage period of the storage tank 193 is supplied to the ice making unit 195 with little bacteria or microorganisms due to the oxidative mixture present in the storage tank 193, so that the storage period is This has the advantage of being longer.

On the other hand, as shown in Figure 8, the water treatment device 100 according to an aspect of the present invention is the oxidizing mixture generated in the sterilizing water generating unit 192 to supply the cooled water to the ice making unit 195 It may be configured to pass through the cooling unit 150. At this time, it is possible to adjust the current / voltage applied to the sterilization water generation unit 192 so that the sterilization water containing the oxidizing mixture generated in the sterilization water generation unit 192 can be used as drinking sterilization water.

7 and 8, reference numerals 191 and 191 ′ denote flow path switching valves for switching flow paths so that water filtered from the filter unit 110 may be supplied to the ice making unit 195. V4 functions as a flow path switching valve for switching the flow path between the flow path for cold water extraction and the flow path connected to the ice making unit 195.

On the other hand, in the normal water purification mode of the water treatment device 100, the extraction of the purified water is performed along the flow path indicated by the arrows in Figs. That is, the water passing through the purified water flow path (L1) may be discharged to room temperature after passing through the normal temperature water flow path (L3), may be cooled and discharged after passing through the cold water flow path (L4), heated after passing through the hot water flow path (L5) Can be discharged. In addition, as described above, when the hot water is extracted, the water remaining in the heating unit 160 may be initially drained as shown by the dotted arrows.

At this time, it is possible to extract after passing the hot water flow path (L5) according to the user's selection. In this way, a plurality of types of extracting water according to total dissolved solids (or reduction rate) may be set. For example, two kinds of mineral water and ultrapure water may be provided. It may be configured to further extract by subdividing.

If the user selects mineral water or ultrapure water, water having a total dissolved solids amount corresponding to mineral water or ultrapure water or water having a reduction rate of total dissolved solids corresponding to mineral water or ultrapure water may be discharged. In this case, the mineral water or the ultrapure water may be discharged through the extraction port 171 of the water extraction member 170 after passing through the room temperature water passage L3, the cold water passage L4, or the hot water passage L5. At this time, the water outlet 171 of the water extraction member 170 may be provided with a plurality of different functions, or may be provided with only one, as shown in Figure 1, all of which are included in the scope of the present invention.

As such, the water treatment device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is capable of extracting various kinds of extracted water having different total dissolved solids (or reduction rates), and extracting various kinds of extracted water at various temperatures. As a result, the user's various needs can be sufficiently met.

On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, when the ionized water generator 140 is provided, the purified water passing through the filter unit 110 flows into the inflow passage L7 through the flow path switching valve V7 to allow the ionized water generator ( 140). The water supplied to the ionized water generating unit 140 is separated into alkaline water and acidic water, and the alkaline water is extracted into alkaline water at room temperature through the water extraction member 170 via the upper alkaline water channel L8, and the cold alkaline water channel L9 is extracted. Extracted into cooling alkaline water through the water extraction member 170, the acidic water is drained to the outside via the acidic water flow path (L10). At this time, the acidic water passage (L10) may be connected to the drain pipe (D), but may be used for other purposes such as cleaning through a separate extraction member. At this time, the water supplied to the ionized water generating unit 140 in order to implement the proper pH of the ionized water preferably has a sufficient amount of total dissolved solids. Therefore, when the ionized water extraction is selected, the control unit 200 removes the deionized filter 130 so as to implement the total dissolved solids (or a reduction rate thereof) corresponding to the mineral water so that the mineral water can be supplied to the ionized water generator 140. The power (current or voltage) applied to the ion filter 130 may be controlled.

Hereinafter, the action of controlling the total dissolved solids removed from the deionization filter 130 will be described in detail.

9 and 10 are graphs for explaining ion removal performance and harmful heavy metal removal performance according to voltage. Specifically, Figure 9 is a graph showing the ion removal performance present in the raw water by applying the electric deionization method according to the applied voltage, Figure 10 is applied to remove the harmful heavy metal present in the raw water by applying the electric deionization method It is a graph showing the voltage. 9 and 10 were performed while the deionization filter 130 was regenerated, and the flow rate was 1 LPM (liter / min) while the TDS concentration of the raw water was 320 ppm, and the voltage condition was changed from 50 V to 260 V. The measurement was carried out while.

According to Figure 10, while the applied voltage is changed from 50V to 260V, it can be seen that the harmful heavy metal removal performance is almost removed at a rate of 90 ~ 100%. Further, the harmful heavy metal removal performance is not significantly affected by the magnitude of the voltage applied, it can be seen that almost all heavy metals contained in the raw water within the above voltage range.

On the other hand, according to Figure 9, while the applied voltage is changed from 50V to 260V it can be seen that the removal performance of the ions excluding the harmful heavy metal, that is, the mineral ions useful for the human body is rapidly improved as the voltage increases. In addition, it can be seen that the reduction rate of total dissolved solids (TDS) gradually increases at a rate of 35% to 85% while the applied voltage changes from 50V to 260V.

Therefore, by adjusting the magnitude of the voltage or current applied to the deionization filter 130, ultrapure water {eg, TDS (mineral) removal ratio 80% or more} or mineral water {eg, TDS (mineral) removal A ratio of 30% or more to less than 80%} can be generated, and it is also possible to extract a general integer (eg, TDS (mineral) removal rate of less than 30%).

In particular, as shown in Figure 9, in the case of calcium ions it can be seen that more than 80% removed even in a low voltage state. Therefore, as described above, when the ionized water generating unit (electrolyzer) 140 for generating ionized water is installed at the rear end of the deionization filter 130, scale generation is significantly reduced in the electrode provided in the ionized water generating unit 140. In this case, the lifespan of the electrode provided in the ionized water generator 140 may be greatly improved.

As can be seen in Figures 9 and 10 described above, by adjusting the voltage applied to the deionization filter 130, while removing most of the harmful heavy metal, the amount of mineral ions is determined according to the user's taste, mineral water or seconds Integers can be extracted.

Therefore, based on the experimental example of FIGS. 9 and 10, while removing most of the harmful heavy metal, the total dissolved solids (mineral ions, ionic substances) control device that can determine the amount of mineral ions according to the user's taste ( 100 ') and the total dissolved solids control method (S100' of FIG. 15) may be considered.

That is, by adjusting the voltage applied to the raw water from 50V to 260V, it is possible to remove approximately 90 to 100% of the harmful heavy metal without a large influence on the magnitude of the voltage, as shown in Figure 10, shown in Figure 9 As can be determined the amount of mineral ions present in the raw water.

However, since the control of total dissolved solids removal through voltage requires that the power supply (not shown) be able to have an arbitrary voltage value between 50V and 260V, a voltage controller capable of realizing such a change in voltage is required. . However, the voltage control device supporting the voltage control having a relatively large change range, such as 50V to 260V, is complicated in configuration, and excessive cost may be required for the circuit configuration.

Accordingly, the present invention according to one aspect of the present invention provides a total dissolved solids control device through a control method based on electric current, while eliminating almost all of the harmful heavy metals as described below. ') And control method (S100' of Figure 15).

Referring to FIG. 11, the total dissolved solids control device 100 ′ according to an aspect of the present invention may include a deionization filter 130, a flow sensor 120, and a controller 200.

As described above, the deionization filter 130 uses raw water using at least one of electrodialysis (ED), electrodeionization (EDI), and capacitive deionization (CDI). Dissolved solids (ion materials) present in the can be removed, wherein the reduction rate of the total dissolved solids or total dissolved solids removed by the deionization filter 130 to the input current applied to the deionization filter 130 Can be determined accordingly. Meanwhile, in FIG. 11, the total dissolved solids control device 100 ′ according to an aspect of the present invention is illustrated to include only the deionization filter 130, but the total dissolved solids control device 100 is illustrated for convenience of description. ') May be provided with a filter other than the deionization filter 130, for example, a sediment filter, a precarbon filter, a post carbon filter, or the like.

Meanwhile, in the case of removing ions present in raw water by using electrodialysis, the deionization filter 130 may include an electrode and an ion exchange membrane.

Specifically, when the deionization filter 130 applies an input current to the raw water through the electrode, the dissolved solid material (ion material) contained in the raw water is caused by electrical attraction toward the electrode of the cathode or the anode according to each polarity. Will move. Here, since the electrode of the anode and the cathode is provided with an ion exchange membrane, only the respective dissolved solids moved by the electrical attraction is trapped / adsorbed on the ion exchange membrane. Therefore, as described above, the deionization filter 130 may remove ions from the introduced raw water.

On the contrary, when the deionization filter 130 removes the dissolved solids (ion materials) present in the raw water by using the electrodeionization method, the deionization filter 130 includes an electrode, an ion exchange membrane, and an ion. It may be configured to include an exchange resin.

Specifically, the cation and anion in the raw water introduced into the deionization filter 130 may be collected / adsorbed by using an ion exchange resin filled between the cation exchange membrane and the anion exchange membrane. In this case, when an input current is applied to the ion exchange resin, the collection / adsorption of dissolved solids in the raw water may be accelerated by electrical attraction. As such, since the dissolved solids existing in the raw water are collected / adsorbed by the ion exchange resin, the dissolved solids included in the raw water introduced through the deionization filter 130 may be removed.

In addition, in the case of removing ions present in raw water by using a capacitive deionization method, unlike the electrodialysis or electrodeionization method, the deionization filter 130 includes a separate ion exchange membrane or an ion exchange resin. You can't. That is, in the capacitive deionization method, ions may be removed from raw water introduced into the deionization filter 130 by directly adsorbing a dissolved solid material (ionic material) to the electrode. Accordingly, the electrode of the deionization filter 130 is preferably a porous carbon electrode having a large surface area and small reactivity, and the porous carbon electrode may be implemented with activated carbon. Since the activated carbon has excellent pore volume, high specific surface area, high de-adsorption performance and long life when compared to various porous carbon materials, it is preferable to use the activated carbon as an electrode of the deionization filter 130. More preferred.

According to one embodiment of the capacitive deionization method, when a voltage is applied to two porous carbon electrodes and raw water is introduced therebetween, cations included in the raw water may be adsorbed to the negative electrode and negative ions to the positive electrode. In this case, the amount of ions adsorbed on the electrode is increased so that the electrode may be saturated. When the electrodes are saturated, voltages of opposite polarities may be applied to the respective electrodes, and ions that have been adsorbed to the electrodes may be desorbed from the electrodes by electrical repulsive force. That is, the electrode can be regenerated by applying a voltage of opposite polarity to the electrode.

By utilizing the capacitive deionization method as described above, since the configuration of an ion exchange membrane, an ion exchange resin, etc. is unnecessary, the configuration of the deionization filter 130 is simplified, and ions are adsorbed on the electrode itself, thereby attracting the ions. The magnitude of the voltage for coming can be reduced compared to the above electrodialysis and electrodeionization methods. That is, according to the capacitive deionization method, since the ion removal by the deionization filter 130 is possible even at a low voltage, a configuration of a power supply device for supplying power to the deionization filter 130 can be easily implemented. And it is possible to reduce the parts price of the power supply. In addition, since the deionization filter 130 is driven at a low voltage, it is possible to further save energy consumed during the deionization operation.

However, the deionization filter 130 is not limited to the filter by the above-mentioned electrodialysis, electrodeionization and capacitive deionization methods, and structurally various modifications may be possible if the dissolved solid material can be removed by applying power. .

As described above, the deionization filter 130 may remove dissolved solids (ion materials) present in raw water by using an electrodialysis method, an electric deionization method, and a capacitive deionization method. The amount of dissolved solids removed by the filter 130 or the removal rate of the dissolved solids may be determined according to an input current applied to the deionization filter 130.

The controller 200 controls an input current applied to the deionization filter 130 such that water discharged through the deionization filter 130 has a target total dissolved solids (TDS). can do.

 The controller 200 may apply a predetermined fixed voltage to the deionization filter 130 and control the input current using a pulse width modulation (PWM). The preset fixed voltage may be set differently according to a reduction rate (or total dissolved solids material (TDS) included in water to be extracted) of the total dissolved solids input by the user.

The target total dissolved solid material may be a predetermined value or may be input from a user. The target total dissolved solids may be set according to the reduction rate (or total dissolved solids (TDS) contained in the extracted water) of the total dissolved solids in the raw water input by the user.

The control unit 200 may first apply a fixed voltage of a predetermined value to the deionization filter 130 to control the amount of total dissolved solids of the deionization filter 130 by current control. When the fixed voltage is applied to the deionization filter 130, a current may flow in the deionization filter 130 by cations and anions present in the raw water. That is, since an anion in the raw water supplies electrons to the positive electrode at the positive electrode, and an anode in the negative electrode provides electrons to the cations in the raw water, a current may flow in the deionization filter 130.

Since the current flowing through the deionization filter 130 may be regarded as being proportional to the amount of the dissolved solid material (ionic material) removed by the filter when the other conditions are the same, the current flowing through the deionization filter 130 By controlling the current, the reduction rate (dissolution rate of dissolved solids) of the total dissolved solids present in the raw water can be adjusted.

In more detail, the control unit 200 of the total dissolved solids control device 100 ′ according to an aspect of the present invention may control the input current by using a pulse width modulation method. The pulse width modulation method is a method of changing an input period of a fixed voltage input to the deionization filter 130. The pulse width modulation method may control the input current while fixing the voltage constant. In order to implement such a pulse width modulation scheme, the controller 200 may include a switching device. The controller 200 may control the input current applied to the deionization filter 130 by the time when the switching element is closed, and thus the amount of dissolved solid material (ion material) removed from the raw water may be determined. have.

In addition, the flow sensor 120 may measure the flow rate of the raw water flowing into the deionization filter 130.

The flow sensor 120 may provide the control unit 200 with information about the measured flow rate. The total dissolved solids removal performance of the deionization filter 130 may be affected by the flow rate of the raw water flowing into the deionization filter 130 as well as the total dissolved solids present in the raw water. Therefore, the controller 200 may provide the information about the flow rate measured by the flow sensor 120 to more accurately control the deionization filter 130.

12 is a functional block diagram illustrating the control unit 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 12, the controller 200 may include a calculator 210, an input current setter 220, and an input current supply 230, and may further include a data table 240. .

The calculator 210 may calculate the total dissolved solids of the raw water introduced into the deionization filter 130 using the input current, and more specifically, the total dissolved solids of the raw water introduced using the data table 240. The substance can be calculated. Here, the data table 240 may be described according to the flow rate of the raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionization filter 130 according to the total dissolved solid material.

Specifically, the magnitude of the load resistance can be known by knowing the fixed voltage applied to the deionization filter 130 and the magnitude of the current flowing through the deionization filter 130. Here, the magnitude of the load resistance includes information about the amount of ions present in the raw water, that is, the total dissolved solids. Therefore, the total dissolved solids (amount of ionic substance) present in the raw water can be calculated from the magnitude of the load resistance. However, as another embodiment, a meter (eg, TDS meter) for measuring total dissolved solids may be used, and the present invention does not exclude the use of such a total dissolved solids meter.

In addition, experimentally, the total dissolved solids present in the raw water may be obtained according to the flow rate of each raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionization filter 130, and may be configured as a data table. Therefore, the controller 200 may calculate the total dissolved solids of the introduced raw water by using the data table 240.

The input current setter 220 may compare the calculated total dissolved solid material with the target total dissolved solid material, and set an input current applied to the deionization filter 130 according to the comparison result. The input current setter 220 may set the input current applied to the deionization filter 130 by using the calculated total dissolved solids and the target total dissolved solids comparison result and the measured flow rate of raw water. An input current applied to the deionization filter 130 may be set using the data table 240. Here, the data table 240 may be described according to the flow rate of the raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionization filter 130 according to the total dissolved solid material.

The input current setter 220, if the calculated total dissolved solids is larger than the target total dissolved solids, the deionization filter 130 to increase the reduction rate (removal rate of ionic substances) of the total dissolved solids in the raw water. You can set the input current so that more current flows through). On the contrary, if the calculated total dissolved solids is smaller than the target total dissolved solids, less current may flow through the deionization filter 130 to lower the reduction rate (ion material removal rate) of the total dissolved solids in the raw water. Input current can be set.

More specifically, the data table 240 may be used to set the input current. Since the data table 240 lists the magnitudes of the current and the voltage for each total dissolved solid material, the input current to be input to the deionization filter 130 can be set using the data table 240 to obtain a target dissolved solid material. have.

In the case of current control using the pulse width modulation method, the input current input to the deionization filter 130 may be set by setting the time for applying the current to the deionization filter 130.

The input current supplyer 230 may apply a predetermined fixed voltage to the deionization filter 130 and supply the input current to the deionization filter 130 in a pulse width modulation manner.

The pulse width modulation method is a method of changing an input period of a fixed voltage input to the deionization filter 130. The pulse width modulation method may control a current flowing while fixing a constant voltage level. In order to implement the pulse width modulation scheme, the input current supplier 230 may include a switching element. By controlling the time when the switching element is closed, the controller 200 may control the current applied to the deionization filter 130, and thus the amount of dissolved solid material (ion material) removed from the raw water may be determined. .

In the data table 240, as described above, the flow rate of the raw water, the voltage and the current applied to the deionization filter 130 may be described according to the total dissolved solid material. A brief example of the data table 240 is presented by FIG.

The total dissolved solids present in the raw water may be calculated by comparing the measured value of the current flowing through the deionization filter 130 with the data table 240 and the deionized filter 130 to obtain a target total dissolved solids. How much current should be applied to?

As described above, the control unit 200 applies a preset fixed voltage to the deionization filter 130 and uses a pulse width modulation (PWM) to the deionization filter 130. The input current applied can be controlled.

Next, a control method (S100) of a water treatment device according to another aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6, 14, and 15.

Control method (S100) of the water treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided with a deionization filter 130 for removing the total dissolved solids (TDS: Total Dissolved Solids) contained in the water introduced by the power applied A method for controlling the water treatment device 100, the user selection step of receiving the extraction of mineral water from which the total dissolved solids are removed to a certain level from the raw water, or the extraction of ultrapure water with less total dissolved solids than the mineral water (S110) and the total dissolved solids present in the water filtered by the deionization filter 130 or the total dissolved solids removed by the deionization filter 130 according to the type of water input in the user selection step. A deionization filter driving step (S120) for applying power to the deionization filter 130 to adjust the reduction rate, and a water extraction step (S140) for extracting the mineral water or the ultrapure water filtered by the deionization filter 130; And also, it may further comprise the water outlet step (S140) before heading passage changing step (S130) for adjusting the temperature of the water filtered by the filter unit 110 to.

4 to 6, when the ionized water generator 140 is provided, the method (S100) of controlling the water treatment device according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include deionized water in the user selection step (S110). The extraction process may further include an input, and when the extraction of the ionized water is input, may further include an ionized water generation step (included in step S130) to generate the ionized water using the filtered water in the deionized filter. have. In addition, the water extraction step (S140) may further include a process of extraction of the room temperature or cooling ionized water.

In particular, when the extraction of the ionized water is selected in the user selection step (S110), the deionization filter driving step (S120) is a power applied to the deionization filter 130 so that mineral water is supplied to the ionized water generation unit 140. It is preferred to control the production of mineral water in the deionization filter 130. As an example, the mineral water corresponds to water having a reduction rate of 30% or more and less than 80% of total dissolved solids through the deion filter 130 as compared with water (raw water) before entering the deionization filter 13, The ultrapure water may be limited to water having a reduction rate of 80% or more of the total dissolved solids through the deionization filter 130, but the value is not limited to the above range.

In addition, as described above, the deionization filter 130 uses any one of electrodialysis (ED), electrodeionization (EDI) and capacitive deionization (CDI). It can be configured to remove the dissolved solids (ionic material) contained in the water.

Next, the deionization filter driving step S120 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 15. On the other hand, the deionization filter driving step (S120) may constitute a total dissolved solids control method (S100 ') according to another aspect of the present invention.

The deionization filter driving step (S120) constituting the control method (S100) of the water treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention and the total dissolved solids control method (S100 ') according to one aspect of the present invention are fixed voltage application steps (S121), dissolved solids removal step (S122), current measurement and flow measurement step (S123), total dissolved solids calculation step (S124), total dissolved solids comparison step (S125), input current determination step (S126) , And an input current application step (S127).

The fixed voltage application step S121 may be configured to apply a predetermined fixed voltage to the deionization filter 130. Here, the fixed voltage applied to the deionization filter 130 may be set differently according to the total dissolved solids reduction rate (ion material removal rate) input by the user. According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, since a predetermined fixed voltage is applied, the load resistance can be easily detected from the current value flowing through the deionization filter 130, thereby reducing the total dissolved solids (TDS) in the raw water. Can be calculated (measured) In addition, since the fixed voltage is applied, a complicated configuration for controlling the voltage value may not be included as compared to the voltage control method. The fixed voltage may be applied to the deionization filter 130 by the controller 200.

In addition, the dissolved solids removing step (S122) may remove the dissolved solids (ionic material) present in the raw water flowing into the deionization filter 130 using the applied fixed voltage. The deionization filter 130 may remove dissolved solids present in raw water by using an electrodialysis method, an electrodeionization method, and a capacitive deionization method.

In addition, the current measurement and flow rate measuring step (S123) may measure the magnitude of the current flowing in the deionization filter 130 by the applied fixed voltage, the flow rate of the raw water flowing into the deionization filter 130 Can be measured. Information about the measured current and flow rate may be transmitted to the controller 200.

And, the total dissolved solids calculation step (S124) may calculate the total dissolved solids present in the raw water by using the measured magnitude of the current. The total dissolved solids may be calculated using a table in which the flow rate of raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionization filter 130 are described according to the total dissolved solids. Specifically, the load resistance can be known if the fixed voltage applied to the deionization filter 130 and the magnitude of the current flowing through the deionization filter 130 are known. Since the magnitude of the load resistance includes the amount of dissolved solids (ionic material) present in the raw water, that is, the information on the total dissolved solids, the amount of ions present in the raw water from the magnitude of the load resistance, that is, the total dissolved content Solid materials can be calculated.

Further, experimentally, the total dissolved solids present in the raw water may be obtained according to the flow rate of each raw water, the voltage and the current applied to the deionization filter 130, and may be configured as a table (see FIG. 13). Therefore, the total dissolved solids of the introduced raw water may be calculated using the table of the flow rate of the raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionization filter 130 according to the total dissolved solids.

And, the total dissolved solids comparing step (S125) may compare the total dissolved solids and the target total dissolved solids of the calculated (measured) raw water. It may be determined whether the calculated total dissolved solid material and the target total dissolved solid material are the same, and if not, a feedback method for controlling the input current input to the deionization filter 130 may be used.

In addition, the input current determination step (S126) may determine the magnitude of the current to be applied to the deionization filter 130 according to the comparison result of the calculated (measured) total dissolved solids of the raw water and the target total dissolved solids. . In addition, the current applied to the deionization filter 130 may be determined by using the calculated result of comparing the total dissolved solids of the raw water with the target total dissolved solids and the measured flow rate of the raw water. The flow rate of the filter, the voltage applied to the filter and the current may be determined using the table described according to the total dissolved solid material.

If the calculated total dissolved solids is larger than the target total dissolved solids, the deionization filter 130 may add more to the deionization filter 130 to increase the reduction rate of the total dissolved solids in the raw water (removal rate of dissolved solids (ionics)). Input current can be set to allow current to flow. On the contrary, if the calculated total dissolved solids is smaller than the target total dissolved solids, the input current can flow less current to the deionization filter 130 in order to lower the reduction rate of the total dissolved solids in the raw water (removal rate of the dissolved solids). Can be controlled.

More specifically, in order to set the input current, a table in which the flow rate of raw water, the voltage applied to the filter, and the current are described according to the total dissolved solid material may be used.

In operation S127, the input current may be applied to the deionization filter 130 using a pulse width modulation method. The pulse width modulation method is a method of changing an input period of a fixed voltage input to the deionization filter 130. The pulse width modulation method may control a current flowing in a fixed voltage. In order to implement the pulse width modulation scheme, the controller 200 may include a switching device. By the time when the switching element is closed, the controller 200 may control the current applied to the deionization filter 130, and thus the amount of dissolved solid material (ion material) removed from the raw water may be determined.

As described above, in the driving of the deionization filter (S120), a predetermined fixed voltage is applied to the deionization filter 130, and an input current applied to the deionization filter 130 using a pulse width modulation method. Can be configured to control.

On the other hand, the water treatment apparatus including the total dissolved solids control device according to an aspect of the present invention may be configured to include the above-described total dissolved solids control device (100 'of FIG. 11).

While the invention has been shown and described with respect to particular embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below. I want to make it clear.

100 ... Water treatment equipment 110 ... Filter section
113 ... regenerative flow switch valve 120 ... flow sensor
130 Deionized filter 140 Deionized water generator
150 ... cooling section 160 ... heating section
170. Water exit member 171 Dispensing spout
191 ... Euro flow valve 191 '... Euro flow valve
192 ... Sterilization water generator 193 ... Storage tank
194 ... Chlorine removal filter 195 ... Ice machine
200 ... control unit 210 ... calculator
220 ... input current setter 230 ... input current supply
240: data table D ... drain pipe
F ... connection (fitting) FS ... heating flow sensor
L1 ... Oil Purifier L2 ... Oil Regeneration
L3 ... with normal water flow L4 ... with cold water flow
L5 ... hot water passage L6 ... drainage passage
L7 ... Inflow channel L8 ... Normal alkali flow channel
L9 ... Cold Alkaline Euro L10 ... Acid Water Euro
S100 ... Control method of water treatment equipment S110 ... User selection step
S120 ... Deionization filter driving step S121 ... Fixed voltage application step
S122 ... Removing dissolved solids S123 ... Measuring current and measuring flow
S124 ... Total dissolved solids calculation step S125 ... Total dissolved solids comparison step
S126 ... Input current determination step S127 ... Input current application step
S130 ... exit flow change step S140 ... exit flow step

Claims (15)

A filter unit having a deionization filter for removing dissolved solids present in raw water introduced by using an input current; And
A controller configured to control the input current such that water discharged from the deionization filter becomes a target total dissolved solids (TDS);
Total dissolved solids control device comprising a.
The apparatus of claim 1,
Total dissolved solids control device, characterized in that for applying a predetermined fixed voltage to the deion filter, and controlling the input current using a pulse width modulation (PWM).
3. The apparatus of claim 2,
A calculator for calculating total dissolved solids contained in raw water introduced into the deionization filter using the input current;
An input current setter for comparing the calculated total dissolved solid material with the target total dissolved solid material and setting an input current applied to the deionization filter according to the comparison result; And
And an input current supplyer configured to apply a predetermined fixed voltage to the deionization filter, and supply the input current to the deionization filter in a pulse width modulation manner.
The method of claim 3,
A flow rate sensor for measuring a flow rate of raw water flowing into the deionization filter;
Total dissolved solids control device further comprising a.
The method of claim 4, wherein the input current setter,
Adjusting the total dissolved solids, characterized in that the input current applied to the deionization filter is set using the calculated total dissolved solids and the target total dissolved solids, and the flow rate of the raw water measured by the flow sensor Device.
The method of claim 5, wherein the input current setter,
Total dissolved solids control device, characterized in that the flow rate of the raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionized filter to set the input current applied to the deionized filter using a table described according to the total dissolved solids.
The method of claim 4, wherein the calculator,
Total dissolved solids control device, characterized in that for calculating the total dissolved solids of the introduced raw water using the table of the flow rate of the raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionization filter according to the total dissolved solids.
The method of claim 1,
The deionized filter may be prepared by using at least one of electrodialysis (ED), electrodeionization (EDI) and capacitive deionization (CDI). Total dissolved solids control device, characterized in that to remove.
Applying a predetermined fixed voltage to the deionization filter;
Removing dissolved solids present in raw water flowing into the deionization filter by using the applied fixed voltage;
Measuring a magnitude of a current flowing through the deionization filter by the applied fixed voltage;
Calculating total dissolved solids present in the raw water using the measured magnitude of the current;
Comparing the calculated total dissolved solids and the target total dissolved solids of the raw water and determining the magnitude of the current to be applied to the deionized filter according to the comparison result; And
Applying the determined current to the deionization filter using a pulse width modulation scheme;
Total dissolved solids control method comprising a.
10. The method of claim 9,
Measuring the flow rate of the raw water flowing into the deion filter; Total dissolved solids control method further comprising.
The method of claim 10, wherein determining the magnitude of the current,
And a current applied to the deionization filter by using the calculated result of comparing the total dissolved solid material and the target total dissolved solid material of the raw water and the measured flow rate of the raw water.
The method of claim 11, wherein determining the magnitude of the current comprises:
Total dissolved solids control method, characterized in that the flow rate of the raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionized filter to set the current applied to the deionized filter using a table described according to the total dissolved solids.
The method of claim 10, wherein the step of calculating the total dissolved solids present in the raw water,
The total dissolved solids control method, characterized in that for calculating the total dissolved solids of the introduced raw water using the table of the flow rate of the raw water, the voltage and current applied to the deionization filter according to the total dissolved solids.
10. The method of claim 9,
The deionized filter may be prepared by using at least one of electrodialysis (ED), electrodeionization (EDI) and capacitive deionization (CDI). Total dissolved solids control method characterized in that the removal.
A water treatment device comprising the total dissolved solids control device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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