KR20120135783A - Water treatment apparatus and sterilizing method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: A sterilizable or washable water treatment apparatus and a sterilizing and washing method of the apparatus are provided to effectively sterilize and wash water without an expensive electrode sterilizing module. CONSTITUTION: A sterilizable or washable water treatment apparatus(200) includes a filtering part, a storage tank, and a detachable electrode sterilizing module(210). The storage tank stores water filtered through a filtering part. The detachable electrode sterilizing module includes an electrode unit and is installed on a flow path in connection with the storage tank. Power is applied to the electrode unit to generate sterilizing and washing water including sterilizing or washing materials. The sterilizing and washing water sterilizes or washes the storage tank. [Reference numerals] (AA) Sterilizing water; (BB) Domestic water; (CC) Draining water

Description

WATER TREATMENT APPARATUS AND STERILIZING METHOD THEREOF}

The present invention relates to a water treatment apparatus capable of sterilizing or cleaning a storage tank of a water treatment apparatus and a flow path connected thereto and a sterilization and cleaning method thereof, and more particularly, to a water treatment apparatus when sterilization and / or cleaning is required. A sterilizing wash water containing a sterilizing substance and / or a cleaning substance by installing a removable electrode sterilizing module in a flow path of the electrode and applying a power to the electrode (hereinafter, the term 'sterilizing washing water' is applied to an electrode to which a power is applied). By means of water containing the sterilizing material and / or cleaning material generated by the present invention), and the flow path, the storage tank or the extraction member provided in the water treatment device can be sterilized and / or cleaned and sterilized and cleaned. After this is completed, the water treatment apparatus capable of disinfecting or cleaning the removable electrode sterilization module and the sterilization cleaning method thereof One will.

On the other hand, the water treatment apparatus may be used for various purposes such as industrial or domestic use (including commercial use), such as treating waste water or water, or manufacturing ultrapure water, but the present invention relates to a water treatment apparatus used for drinking, and a sterilization and cleaning method thereof. will be. As such, the water treatment apparatus 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 in the water treatment apparatus for drinking. In addition, there is a water heater, a cold water machine, an ice maker, etc., which heat or cool water supplied from a water supply means such as a water tank 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 these functions. However, for the sake of convenience, the water purifier may be taken as an example, but the water purifier should be understood as an example of the water treatment apparatus 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, such a water purifier has a problem that microorganisms or bacteria remaining in the pores of the post carbon filter may be introduced into the storage tank so that the microorganisms may re-grow in the storage tank. In addition, bacteria or microorganisms may penetrate and purify the purified water stored in the storage tank from outside, and scale may occur on the inner wall of the storage tank.

As such, a method of sterilizing a storage tank by adding a separate sterilizing agent to the storage tank from the outside in order to sterilize bacteria or microorganisms propagated in the storage tank has been proposed. However, in the case of disinfecting chemicals, the concentration of the disinfecting chemicals may be higher than necessary in some cases, and the sterilizing chemicals remain in the water purifier after the cleaning operation because there is a difference in the amount of disinfecting chemicals in accordance with the user or manager. The problem is that it can be done. Therefore, a plurality of rinsing after the cleaning operation is essential, and if the rinsing operation is not perfect there is a problem that not only harmful to the human body but also increase the complaints due to the smell of the drug.

In order to improve the problem of the sterilization drug method, a technique for fixing the electrode sterilization module inside the water purifier has been proposed.

The electrode sterilization method adopts a method of supplying sterilized wash water generated by applying power to the storage tank to perform sterilization and cleaning of the storage tank, and draining high concentration of sterilized wash water to the outside after the sterilization and cleaning work is completed. Doing.

However, such an electrode sterilization method has a problem in that an expensive electrode sterilization module is fixedly installed inside the water purifier, so that the cost efficiency is much lower compared to the use cycle (sterilization cleaning cycle).

That is, in the case of the electrode sterilization method, the sterilization cleaning can be performed only when the user selects the sterilization cleaning mode. However, when the sterilization cleaning is performed, the water purifier can not only be used while sterilizing cleaning but also takes a lot of time. Since there is a need for a complete removal of the washing water (rinsing), there is a limit in performing the sterilization cleaning by the user, which makes it difficult to perform the sterilization cleaning at any time.

For this reason, the electrode sterilization method for sterilizing and cleaning a storage tank using a high concentration of sterilizing wash water is not implemented as a real product.

In addition, the electrode sterilization method proposed in the prior art, since the electrode sterilization module mainly intended for sterilization cleaning of the storage tank, it is difficult to perform the sterilization cleaning for the flow path provided in the water purifier. In addition, since the electrode sterilization module is fixed to the water purifier, there is a problem that it is difficult to change the flow path for sterilization cleaning.

Therefore, there is a need for a method for efficiently using the electrode sterilization module.

The present invention has been made to solve at least some of the problems of the prior art as described above, the water purifier manager visits without fixing the electrode sterilization module inside the water purifier to install the electrode sterilization module in the flow path portion that needs to be sterilized and stored, It is an object of the present invention to provide a water treatment apparatus capable of sterilizing or cleaning and sterilizing and cleaning the tank and / or a flow path connected thereto.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water treatment apparatus capable of sterilizing or cleaning and a method for sterilizing and cleaning the same, which can be easily sterilized and cleaned for a flow path requiring sterilization and cleaning.

In addition, an aspect of the present invention is to provide a water treatment apparatus capable of sterilizing or cleaning and sterilizing and cleaning method, which can increase sterilization cleaning efficiency by supplying appropriate water to an electrode sterilization module to perform sterilization cleaning. It is done.

In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a water treatment apparatus capable of sterilizing or cleaning and a method for sterilizing and cleaning the same, which can sterilize and clean not only the storage tank but also the extraction member through a simple component installation.

In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a water treatment apparatus capable of sterilizing or cleaning, and a method for cleaning the sterilization, which can install not only an electrode device but also various components that can be optimized for generating sterilizing clean water. do.

As one aspect for achieving the above object, the present invention is a filter unit for filtering raw water; A storage tank for storing the filtered water through the filter unit; And an electrode device installed and used on a flow path connected to the storage tank when sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank is required, and having an electrode device generating sterilized clean water containing sterilization or cleaning material by applying power to the electrode. It includes; electrode sterilization module, and provides a water treatment apparatus capable of sterilization or cleaning, sterilizing or cleaning the storage tank through the sterilizing wash water generated by the removable electrode sterilization module.

Preferably, the removable electrode sterilization module may generate sterilized clean water including an oxidative mixture through electrolysis.

In addition, the removable electrode sterilization module is installed on the flow path connected to the storage tank when the sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank, it can be separated after the sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank is finished.

Preferably, the removable electrode sterilization module may be further provided with a constant flow rate valve installed at the front end of the electrode device to supply water of a constant flow rate to the electrode device. Also preferably, the removable electrode sterilization module may further include an electrolyte supply unit for supplying an electrolyte or a salt to the electrode device.

The water treatment apparatus capable of sterilization or cleaning according to an embodiment of the present invention further includes a control unit controlling at least one of supply of water to the storage tank and discharge of water from the storage tank. The electrode sterilization module may be connected to the controller by wire or wirelessly and may be driven by a driving signal of the controller.

Preferably, the removable electrode sterilization module may be installed at a position connecting the filter unit and the storage tank to generate sterilized clean water using filtered purified water while passing through at least a portion of the filter unit. At this time, the removable electrode sterilization module is a sterilized washing water using the purified water passed through the sediment filter, sediment filter and pre-carbon filter, or a composite filter of the sediment filter and pre-carbon filter provided in the filter unit. To generate, it may be installed between the outlet of the sediment filter, the outlet of the precarbon filter, or the outlet of the composite filter, and the inlet of the storage tank. The filter unit may include a reverse osmosis membrane filter, and the removable electrode sterilization module may be installed between the flow path tube in front of the reverse osmosis membrane filter and the storage tank. In addition, the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module is connected to the tank flow pipe connecting the last filter and the storage tank provided in the filter portion, so that the sterilization or cleaning of the tank flow pipe through the sterilization wash water is made. Can be.

In addition, the removable electrode sterilization module is installed on the circulation path between the discharge portion capable of draining from the storage tank, and the inlet of the storage tank, to generate the sterilization washing water using the water drained from the storage tank. In addition, the generated sterilizing wash water may be supplied to the storage tank again. At this time, the discharge unit may include an extraction member for supplying the water contained in the storage tank to the user, and a drain pipe for draining the living water.

Preferably, the removable electrode sterilization module may further include a pump for providing a pressing force to the water so that the water drained from the storage tank circulates and is supplied to the storage tank again. In addition, the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module is connected to the tank flow pipe connecting the last filter provided in the filter unit and the storage tank, the tank flow pipe through the sterilization washing water generated by the removable electrode sterilization module May be sterilized or washed.

Also preferably, the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module is connected to the filter flow path tube provided in the filter unit, the sterilizing clean water generated in the removable electrode sterilization module is provided with the filter portion flow path tube and the filter unit. By passing through the tank flow pipe connecting the last filter and the storage tank is re-supplied to the storage tank, it is possible to sterilize or clean the filter flow path pipe and the tank flow pipe. In this case, the filter provided in the filter unit may be separated such that the sterilizing clean water generated in the removable electrode sterilization module is supplied back to the storage tank without passing through the filter provided in the filter unit. When the filter provided in the filter unit is removed, the filter unit flow path tubes may be connected to each other by a connecting member.

Preferably, a connection port is installed in the tank flow pipe connecting the last filter and the storage tank provided in the filter unit, the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module may be connected to the connection port.

In addition, the water treatment apparatus capable of sterilization or cleaning according to an embodiment of the present invention, after the sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank is completed, the sterilized washing water contained in the storage tank to supply the water contained in the storage tank to the user It may further include a; drain connection member for connecting the extraction member and the drain pipe to be drained through the drain pipe.

In another aspect, the present invention is a sterilization and cleaning method of a water treatment apparatus comprising a filter unit for filtering raw water and a storage tank for storing the filtered water through the filter unit, in the flow path connected to the storage tank, A sterilization module installation step of installing a removable electrode sterilization module for generating sterilization wash water containing sterilization or cleaning material by applying power to the electrode; A sterilization module driving step of supplying sterilized washing water to the storage tank by driving the removable electrode sterilization module; And a sterilization module separation step of separating the removable electrode sterilization module after the sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank is completed.

Preferably, the step of installing the sterilization module, the removable electrode sterilization module to pass through at least a portion of the filter unit to generate the sterilized wash water using the filtered purified water, the removable electrode sterilization module and the storage unit and the storage Can be installed on the flow path connecting the tank. At this time, the removable electrode sterilization module is a sterilized washing water using the purified water passed through the sediment filter, sediment filter and pre-carbon filter, or a composite filter of the sediment filter and pre-carbon filter provided in the filter unit. To generate, it may be installed between the outlet of the sediment filter, the outlet of the precarbon filter, or the outlet of the composite filter, and the inlet of the storage tank. The filter unit may include a reverse osmosis membrane filter, and the removable electrode sterilization module may be installed between the flow path tube in front of the reverse osmosis membrane filter and the storage tank.

Also preferably, the step of installing the sterilization module, the removable electrode sterilization module using the water drained from the storage tank to generate the sterilized wash water and to supply again to the storage tank, the storage of the removable electrode sterilization module It can be installed between the discharge portion that can drain from the tank, and the inlet of the storage tank. At this time, the discharge unit may include an extraction member for supplying the water contained in the storage tank to the user, and a drain pipe for draining the living water.

In addition, in the sterilization cleaning method of the water treatment apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, after the sterilization module driving step, after a predetermined time elapses after the sterilization clean water is supplied to the storage tank, the sterilization clean water contained in the storage tank. Sterilizing and washing water discharge step of discharging; may further include.

In addition, before the sterilizing washing water discharge step, the drain connection member may be connected between the extracting member and the drain pipe so that the sterilizing clean water contained in the storage tank is drained to the drain pipe through the extracting member of the storage tank.

The sterilizing and washing method of the water treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a rinsing water supplying step of supplying rinsing water to the storage tank after the sterilizing washing water discharge step.

Preferably, the sterilization module installation step may further include a process of connecting the removable electrode sterilization module and the control unit by wire or wirelessly to enable the removable electrode sterilization module to be driven by a control unit.

Also preferably, the step of installing the sterilization module, by connecting the tank flow pipe connecting the last filter and the storage tank provided in the filter unit to the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module, the tank through the sterilization washing water The channel can be sterilized or cleaned.

Preferably, the step of installing the sterilization module, by connecting the filter flow path tube provided in the filter unit to the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module, the sterilization washing water generated in the removable electrode sterilization module and the filter unit flow pipe By passing the tank flow pipe connecting the last filter and the storage tank provided in the filter unit to be resupplyed to the storage tank, sterilization or cleaning of the filter flow path tube and the tank flow path tube may be performed. . At this time, the step of installing the sterilization module, the filter flow path connected to the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module, so that the sterilization washing water generated in the removable electrode sterilization module is supplied back to the storage tank without passing through the filter provided in the filter unit The filter at the rear end of the pipe can be separated and the filter part flow path pipe from which the filter is separated can be connected to each other by a connecting member.

According to one embodiment of the present invention having such a configuration, since a removable electrode sterilization module is installed in a water treatment device (water purifier) requiring sterilization cleaning and drives a removable electrode sterilization module to generate sterilized clean water, an expensive electrode in the water treatment device Even if the sterilization module is not fixedly installed, the sterilization and washing of the water treatment device is possible. In particular, since the water purifier manager performs sterilization cleaning using a removable sterilization module, the user can obtain an effective sterilization cleaning compared to the case where the user directly performs the sterilization cleaning.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the electrode sterilization module in the sterilization and cleaning the sterilization cleaning flow paths need to be mounted, and the storage tank and / or the flow path connected thereto can be sterilized more effective sterilization than the fixed electrode sterilization method The effect of being able to perform cleaning can be obtained.

In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, when the removable sterilization cleaning module is connected to the flow path requiring sterilization cleaning through a connection pipe, the sterilization cleaning is completed, so that the sterilization cleaning can be easily performed. In particular, when the filter flow path tube of the water treatment apparatus is used in place of the connecting pipe, it is possible to obtain the effect that the sterilization and cleaning of the filter flow path tube is possible.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, by connecting the inlet side of the removable electrode sterilization module to the filter flow path tube provided in the front end of the reverse osmosis membrane filter, the water suitable for the electrode sterilization module, that is, the total dissolved solids (TDS) a lot Since the sterilized washing water can be generated using the included water, the sterilizing washing efficiency can be increased and the time required for sterilizing washing can be shortened. In particular, in the case of installing the fixed electrode sterilization module, in order to introduce water suitable for the electrode sterilization module to install a separate flow path for sterilization cleaning, in the case of installing a removable electrode sterilization module according to an embodiment of the present invention Since water can be selected only by connection of a suitable flow pipe, effective sterilization can be achieved without changing the structure of the water treatment apparatus to be sterilized.

In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, by installing only the drain connection member connecting the extraction member and the drain pipe, it is possible to obtain the effect that not only the storage tank but also the sterilization cleaning of the extraction member.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the sterilization and cleaning of a plurality of water treatment devices (water purifiers) to be sterilized and cleaned with one removable electrode sterilization module is possible, the flow rate valve, the electrolyte supply unit, the pump, and the sterilization water concentration in the removable electrode sterilization module Various parts, such as a sensor, can be installed. That is, when the fixed electrode sterilization module is installed in the water treatment device, it is difficult to install many parts inside the electrode sterilization module due to the increased cost, but in the case of adopting the removable electrode sterilization module as in the embodiment of the present invention, Even if installed, the cost burden can be relatively reduced.

1 is a block diagram showing an example of a water treatment device (water purifier) to which the removable electrode sterilization module according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied.
Figure 2 is a block diagram showing another example of a water treatment device (water purifier) to which the removable electrode sterilization module according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied.
3 to 11 are attached to the removable electrode sterilization module to the water treatment apparatus shown in Figure 1 or 2, showing the various embodiments of the water treatment apparatus capable of sterilization or cleaning according to the present invention.
12 and 13 are a flow chart showing a sterilization cleaning method of the water treatment apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

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 this specification, terms such as " comprise ", " comprise ", and " have "mean that there exist features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, parts, And should not be construed to preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

In addition, in this specification, terms such as first and second may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by the terms, and distinguish one component from another component. It is used only for the purpose.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 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 and thickness of each component 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, a water treatment apparatus equipped with a removable electrode sterilization module according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. However, hereinafter, a water purifier is taken as an example of the water treatment apparatus, but the present invention will be apparent to other water treatment apparatuses.

The sterilizing and washing water treatment device (purifier) 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes a filter unit 110, a storage tank 120, and an extraction member 125.

The filter unit 110 is for filtration and purification of the raw water in sequence, the sediment filter 111, pre-carbon filter 112, reverse osmosis membrane filter 113 (or hollow fiber membrane (ultrafiltration) filter) and Although the post carbon filter 114 may be included, the type, number and order of the filters may be changed according to the filtration method of the water treatment device (purifier) or the filtration performance required for the water treatment device (purifier). For example, a hollow fiber membrane filter may be provided instead of the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113. The hollow fiber membrane filter is a pore filter having pores of several tens to hundreds of nanometers (nm) in size, and removes contaminants in water through a myriad of micropores distributed on the membrane surface.

Here, each of the filters 111, 112, 113, and 114 includes a filter case incorporating a filter element and an outer case accommodating the filter case, wherein raw water obtained into the outer case is a filter element in the filter case. It may be made of a cartridge structure that is filtered by the water is discharged to the outside of the outer case.

However, in the present invention, as described above, each filter 111, 112, 113, 114 of the filter unit 110 is not particularly limited to be formed as an independent cartridge form, and is a composite filter having a function of two or more filters. It may be configured. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the sediment filter 111 and the pre carbon filter 112 shown in FIG. 1 may be configured as a single pretreatment composite filter 111a.

The sediment filter 111 is supplied with raw water from the raw water supply unit to adsorb and remove relatively large suspended solids, sand, and the like contained in the raw water. Here, a raw water shut-off valve (V1) for selectively blocking the raw water supplied from the raw water supply unit may be installed in front of the sediment filter 111, if the raw water shut-off valve (V1) can block the supply of raw water The installation position of the raw water shutoff valve V1 is not limited thereto.

In addition, the pre-carbon filter 112 is supplied to the water passing through the sediment filter 111 through the adsorption method of activated carbon, the chemicals harmful to the human body, such as volatile organic compounds, carcinogens, synthetic detergents, pesticides contained in the water It functions to remove substances and residual chlorine (eg HOCl or ClO) components.

In addition, the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113 receives water filtered from the pre-carbon filter 112 to remove fine organic / inorganic substances such as heavy metals and other metal ions and bacteria contained in the water through the membrane having fine pores.

The reverse osmosis membrane filter 113 is connected to a drain pipe (D) for discharging living water generated during filtration of raw water, that is, waste water (commonly known as "concentrated water" in the art).

In addition, the post carbon filter 114 serves to adsorb and remove unpleasant tastes, odors, pigments, etc. of the filtered water through the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113, and the purified water filtered through the post carbon filter 114 is purified through a water purification line. It is received in the storage tank 120.

On the other hand, the filter unit 110 includes a pressurized pump (P) capable of supplying water to the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113 as the pumping pressure because the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113 purifies water through the membrane having fine pores. It may be.

The filter unit 110 is connected to the flow path pipe (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5), the filter provided in the filter unit 110 through each other through the filter unit flow path pipe (L1, L2, L3, L4). Is connected, the last filter 114 of the filter unit 110 and the inlet 122 of the storage tank 120 is connected through the tank flow pipe (L5).

Hereinafter, in the present specification, 'filter unit flow pipes (L1, L2, L3, L4)' will be used as a term referring to the flow pipes flowing into the respective filters (111, 112, 113, 114), for example For example, raw water (constant) flows through the first flow path L1 of the filter flow path pipes L1, L2, L3, and L4, and the second flow path pipe L2 has a purified water filtered by the sediment filter 110. Will flow.

In addition, another member such as a sensor or a valve may be installed between the tank flow pipe L5 and the storage tank 120, but the other filter may be installed and stored even when the other member is installed. The entire flow pipe connecting the tank 120 will be referred to as a tank flow pipe (L5). In addition, in the present specification, the filter unit flow pipes (L1, L2, L3, L4) and the tank flow pipe (L5) collectively referred to as "flow pipe".

In addition, the storage tank 120 passes through the filter unit 110 and stores the purified purified water, and when purified by the user, the purified water of the storage tank 120 is discharged through the extraction member (coke) 125.

Specifically, the storage tank 120 stores the purified water passing through the filter unit 110, the purified water tank for storing the purified water at room temperature, the cold water tank for cooling the purified water, and stores the purified water by heating It may be configured to include at least a portion of the hot water tank. In this case, the purified water tank and the cold water tank may be separately installed, but may be separately installed in one space through a partition (separator) through which water can be distributed.

In addition, the storage tank 120 may be provided with a drain pipe 126. The drain pipe 126 is used to empty the storage tank 120 when performing the cleaning of the storage tank 120, disinfecting rinse water discharge, rinsing water discharge, etc., and opens the valve 127 for drainage.

Hereinafter, a water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning according to various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 11.

[First of Water Treatment Apparatus Example]

3 and 4, the water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning according to the first embodiment of the present invention passes through a filter unit 110 for filtering raw water and the filter unit 110. Including a storage tank 120 for storing the filtered water, and a removable electrode sterilization module 210, sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank 120 through the sterilized washing water generated by the removable electrode sterilization module 210. Characterized in that.

Since the filter unit 110 and the storage tank 120 have been described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 and its connection structure will be described below. Meanwhile, FIG. 3 shows an example composed of four filters as in FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 shows an example in which a pretreatment composite filter 111a is installed in the same manner as in FIG. 2. Since the rest of the configuration except for the configuration of the filter unit 110 is the same, FIGS. 3 and 4 will be described together.

The removable electrode sterilization module 210 illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 is installed and used on a flow path connected to the storage tank 120 when sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank 120 is required. And an electrode device (see 212 of FIGS. 5, 6, and 8 to 11) that is applied to generate sterilized clean water containing sterilization or cleaning material.

In the electrode device 212 of FIG. 5, power is applied to an electrode to generate sterilized clean water including a sterilizing material or a cleaning material.

As an example, the electrode device 212 is electrolyzed (in this specification, the term electrolysis will be described as including the 'redox reaction') by the introduced water (MO: Mixed Oxidant) It can be configured to generate a sterilized washing water containing a material having a sterilizing function and / or cleaning function.

The electrode device 212 sterilizes or kills 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.

On the other hand, the sterilized washing water (electrolyzed sterilized water) obtained by using an electrode applied with power, the form of chlorine in the water varies depending on the pH, the sterilization power is very different according to the pH, strong acidic electrolyzed water, It may be classified into various forms such as weakly acidic electrolyzed water, strongly alkaline electrolyzed water, and electrolytic sodium hypochlorite water.

As described above, in order to generate various sterilizing washing water (electrolytic sterilizing water), the material and the thickness of the electrode, the size of the applied power (voltage or current), whether electrolyte or salt (including chloride) is added, and the electrolyte or The type of salt (including chloride) may be configured differently, and if it is possible to generate sterilized washing water (electrolytic sterilization water) through the electrodes, all of them are included in the scope of the electrode device 212 according to the present invention. .

That is, as described later, even when generating sterilized wash water using the electrolyte or the salt (including chloride) supplied from the electrolyte supply unit 212 of FIG. 5, the electrode device 212 according to the present invention is used. It will be said.

The removable electrode sterilization module 210 is installed on the flow path connected to the storage tank 120 when the sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank 120 and the flow path (including the extraction member) connected thereto is installed, and the storage tank ( The sterilization or cleaning of 120 may be separated after completion.

In this case, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 connects the filter unit 110 and the storage tank 120 to pass through at least a portion of the filter unit 110 to generate sterilized clean water using filtered purified water. It can be installed at the position.

Specifically, when the removable electrode sterilization module 210 needs to be sterilized or cleaned, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is installed in a flow path between the post carbon filter 114 and the storage tank 120 and is sterilized. It can be separated after the cleaning operation is completed.

As described above, when the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is connected to the filter unit 110 and the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is operated, the sterilization clean water is generated and stored in the storage tank 120. Of course, it is necessary to drain some or all of the water contained in the storage tank 120 before the sterilization cleaning operation.

In order to install the removable electrode sterilization module 210 in the sterilization cleaning target water treatment apparatus 100, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 should be connected to the flow path of the sterilization cleaning target water treatment apparatus 100.

At this time, it is also possible to connect the flow path of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 and the sterilization and cleaning water treatment apparatus 100 by separate connection pipes 251 and 252, as shown in Figure 3 and 4, sterilization It is also possible to use the flow path tube provided in the water treatment apparatus 100 to be cleaned.

Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the inlet side of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is connected to the post carbon filter 114 through the connector 251 and the outlet tube 252 on the outlet side. As the tank flow path L5 can be used. In this case, while the sterilization water generated by the removable electrode sterilization module 210 flows through the tank flow path tube L5, the sterilization cleaning of the tank flow path tube L5 may be performed.

On the other hand, the water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning according to an embodiment of the present invention is a control unit for controlling at least one of the supply of water to the storage tank 120 and the discharge of water from the storage tank 120 (C) ) May be further included.

The control unit (C) is provided in the sterilization cleaning target water treatment device 100, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is connected to the control unit (C) by a wire or wireless signal connection line (CL) to the control unit It can be driven by the drive signal of (C).

That is, after the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is installed in the flow path of the water treatment apparatus 100 for sterilization and cleaning, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is connected to the controller C through the signal connection line CL and then sterilized. When the cleaning operation is started, the sterilization cleaning operation can be performed automatically.

For example, after the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is installed, when the user selects a sterilization cleaning start button provided in the sterilization and cleaning target water treatment apparatus 100, the valve 127 is opened by the controller C. Some or all of the purified water contained in the storage tank 120 is drained. Then, when the control unit C opens the raw water shutoff valve V1 and drives the electrode device 212, the removable electrode sterilization module through the filter unit 110. The purified water may be introduced into the 210 to generate sterilized wash water, and the generated sterilized wash water may be filled up to a predetermined level (preferably, a full water level) of the storage tank 120. When the level of the storage tank 120 reaches the set level, the controller C closes the raw water shutoff valve V1 and stops the driving of the electrode device 212. In addition, after maintaining a predetermined time so that proper sterilization cleaning can be performed, the controller C may open the valve 127 to discharge the sterilizing clean water to the outside through the drain pipe D through the drain pipe 126. . Thereafter, the purified water may be obtained in the storage tank 120 without driving the electrode device 212 of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 through the control unit C, which may be directly used for drinking or as rinsing water. Can be.

As such, by connecting the removable electrode sterilization module 210 to the control unit C of the water treatment apparatus 100 for sterilization and cleaning, sterilization and cleaning work can be automatically performed.

[2nd of water treatment apparatus Example ]

Next, referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, a water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The water treatment apparatus 200 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 has a different position of the connection portion on the inlet side of the removable electrode sterilization module 210, except that the detailed configuration of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is different. It is the same as the structure of the water treatment apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. Therefore, description of the same or similar configuration will be omitted to avoid unnecessary duplication.

In the water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 includes a constant flow valve 211 and / or an electrolyte supply unit 213.

The constant flow valve 211 is installed at the front end of the electrode device 212 to supply a constant flow rate of water to the electrode device 212 to generate a sterilized washing water of a constant concentration. Specifically, since the electrode device 212 has a different concentration of the sterilizing wash water generated according to the flow rate, it is necessary to control the inflow rate in order to generate an efficient and stable sterilizing wash water. It can be provided.

In addition, the electrolyte supply unit 213 serves to supply the electrolyte or salt (including chloride) to the electrode device 212 in order to facilitate the generation of sterilizing material or cleaning material to obtain a high concentration of sterilizing wash water.

In the conventional electrode device, when the electrolyte is added, the electrolysis reaction (including the redox reaction) is performed smoothly, so that even when the same current or voltage is applied, a high concentration of sterilizing material or cleaning material can be produced.

At this time, the type of electrolyte or salt supplied from the electrolyte supply unit 213 is not limited, but it is preferable to supply chlorides such as NaCl, KCl, NaOCl, etc. to help to generate sterilizing substances. However, in addition to such chlorides, it is also possible to supply other kinds of salts and electrolytes.

In this case, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 connects the filter unit 110 and the storage tank 120 to pass through at least a portion of the filter unit 110 to generate sterilized clean water using filtered purified water. It can be installed at the position. However, since the water flowing into the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is water that is discarded after the sterilization and cleaning operation, it does not need to be highly filtered through the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113 or the hollow fiber membrane filter, which has excellent filtration performance and is relatively expensive.

Therefore, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is more preferable to generate the sterilized washing water using the filtered water while passing through only a part of the filter of the filter unit 110.

To this end, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is a sediment filter 111, a sediment filter 111 and a precarbon filter 112 (see FIG. 5), or a sediment filter provided in the filter unit 110. The outlet of the sediment filter 111 and the precarbon filter to generate sterilized wash water using the purified water that passes through the composite filter 111a (see FIG. 6) of the 111 and the precarbon filter 112. It is preferable to be provided between the outlet of 112 or the outlet of the composite filter 111a and the inlet 122 of the storage tank 120.

In particular, when the filter unit 110 includes the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113, the water filtered through the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113 has an extremely low amount of total dissolved solids (TDS), and such water is used to generate sterile rinse water. Inappropriate. Accordingly, in this case, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is disposed between the flow path tubes L1, L2, L3 in front of the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113 and the storage tank 120. It is desirable to install. However, when the inlet side of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is connected to the first flow path tube (L1), a constant that is not filtered at all through the filter unit 110 flows into the electrode device 212 and thus is included in the constant. Since the life of the electrode provided in the electrode device 212 may be shortened due to foreign matters, it is more preferable to connect the inflow side of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 with the second flow path tube L2 or the third flow path tube L3. desirable. Of course, it is also possible to connect the removable electrode sterilization module 210 and the filter unit 110 through a separate connection pipe 251 without directly using the second flow path tube (L2) or the third flow path tube (L3). .

In addition, in order to connect the outlet side of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 with the storage tank 120, a connection pipe 252 or a tank flow path tube (L5) can be used, in the case of using a tank flow path tube (L5) The sterilizing and washing water can also sterilize and clean the tank flow path tube L5.

Sterilization and cleaning operations of the water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6 may be performed in the same or similar manner to the case of the water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4. Detailed description of the sterilization and cleaning operations will be omitted.

[Third of the water treatment apparatus Example ]

Next, referring to FIG. 7, a water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The sterilizing or cleaning water treatment apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 7 is the first embodiment shown in FIG. 3 except that the removable electrode sterilization module 210 forms a circulation path with the storage tank 120. It is the same as the structure of the water treatment apparatus 200 by this. Therefore, description of the same or similar configuration will be omitted to avoid unnecessary duplication.

As shown in FIG. 7, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is circulated between the discharge parts 125 and 127 capable of draining from the storage tank 120 and the inlet 122 of the storage tank 120. Is installed on the path, using the water drained from the storage tank 120 to generate sterilized wash water, the generated sterilized wash water is supplied back to the storage tank (120).

In this case, as shown in FIG. 7, the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 and the inlet 122 of the storage tank 120 may be connected through a connection pipe 252, but the tank as the connection pipe 252. When using the flow path pipe (L5) has the advantage that the sterilization cleaning of the tank flow path pipe (L5) can be implemented through the sterilizing wash water generated by the removable electrode sterilization module 210.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 8, it is also possible to connect the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 and the connection port 115 installed in the tank flow path tube L5 through the connection pipe 252. In this case, when the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is connected through the connection pipes 251 and 252 while the flow path of the water treatment apparatus 100 for sterilization and cleaning is left as it is, the installation of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is terminated. This has the advantage of easy operation.

On the other hand, Figure 7 illustrates a case where the inlet of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is connected through the drain pipe 126 and the valve 127, it is also to form a circulation path by installing a connection port in the drain pipe 126 It is possible. In addition, the inlet of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is connected to the drainage pipe 126 as well as the connection member 270 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 between the drainage pipe 126 and the extraction member 125 to remove the removable electrode sterilization module. It is also possible to form a circulation path in which the inlet of the 210 is connected to the extraction member 125, in this case, it is possible to obtain the effect that the sterilization washing degree of the extraction member 125 can be achieved through the circulation of the sterilization washing water. have. That is, the inlet of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is connected via the extraction member 125 and / or the drain pipe 126 and the connection pipe 251, and the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is the connection pipe 252. Or it may be connected to the inlet 122 of the storage tank 120 through the tank flow pipe (L5).

In addition, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 may further include a pump 215 for providing a pressing force to the water so that the water drained from the storage tank 120 circulates and is re-supplied to the storage tank 120. have.

In the case of having such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 3, the storage tank 120 does not need to be emptied in the initial stage as compared with the case where raw water or filtered purified water is supplied to generate sterilized clean water. Since it is possible to implement the concentration of sterilizing wash water required for sterilization cleaning within a short time there is an advantage.

Specifically, the water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning shown in FIG. 7 is a circulating flow path circulating water contained in the storage tank 120 while driving the removable electrode sterilization module 210 to generate sterilized washing water. ) And a drainage passage (②) for discharging the sterilizing clean water in the storage tank 120 to the outside after the sterilization cleaning is completed.

[4th of water treatment apparatus Example ]

Next, referring to FIG. 9, a water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning shown in FIG. 9 is a removable electrode sterilization module 210 except for forming a circulation path with the filter flow path tubes L1, L2, L3, and L4. The configuration is the same as that of the water treatment apparatus 200 according to the third embodiment shown in FIG. Therefore, description of the same or similar configuration will be omitted to avoid unnecessary duplication.

As shown in FIG. 9, an outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is connected to the filter part flow path tubes L1, L2, L3, and L4 provided in the filter unit 110. The sterilizing wash water generated by 210 is connected between the filter part flow path tubes L1, L2, L3, and L4, and the last filter 114 provided in the filter part 110 and the storage tank 120. By re-supplying to the storage tank 120 through the tank flow pipe (L5) to be made, not only the storage tank 120 but also the filter flow path pipe (L1, L2, L3, L4) and the tank flow pipe (L5) It can be configured to be sterilized or cleaned.

In this case, the sterilizing clean water generated by the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is supplied to the storage tank 120 again without passing through the filters 111, 112, 113, and 114 provided in the filter unit 110. The filters 111, 112, 113, and 114 provided in the unit 110 are preferably separated. If the sterilized wash water is introduced into the filter unit 110, the life of the filter may be affected, and water contamination may occur in the water purification process due to the remaining sterilized wash water. In particular, in the case of the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113, This is because the filtration performance can be greatly reduced by water.

As such, when the filters 111, 112, 113, and 114 provided in the filter unit 110 are removed, the filter unit flow path tubes L1, L2, L3, and L4 are connected to the connection members C1, C2, C3, and C4. May be connected to each other by

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, all or part of the filters provided in the filter unit 110 are removed, and the filter member flow path tubes L1, L2, L3, and L4 are connected to tubing, a connector, or the like ( After connecting to each other by C1, C2, C3, C4), the connecting pipe 252 may be connected to the filter flow path pipe (L1, L2, L3, L4) through the connection port (CT).

In FIG. 9, all the filters are removed, and then the connection pipe 252 is connected to the front of the sediment filter 111 through the connection port CT, but the sediment filter 111 is left behind. Remove the filters 112, 113 and 114, connect the filter flow path tubes L2, L3 and L4 between the separated filters with each other by the connecting members C2, C3 and C4, and then remove the connecting tube 252. It can also be connected to the two flow path tube L2. Similarly, a method of connecting the connection pipe 252 to the filter part flow path pipes L1, L2, L3, and L4 may be variously changed.

The water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention having the configuration as described above includes a storage tank 120 → a removable electrode sterilization module 210 → a filter flow path tube L1, L2, and L3. , L4) → tank flow pipe (L5) → sterilization and washing of the flow path and the storage tank 120 while the sterilization washing water circulates through the circulation passage (①) consisting of the storage tank 120, and after the sterilization cleaning is completed The sterilizing clean water contained in the storage tank 120 and the flow passage is drained through the drainage passage ②.

[Fifth of Water Treatment Apparatus Example ]

Next, referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 may include a configuration of the water treatment apparatus 200 illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 9 except that the drain connection member 270 is installed. same. Therefore, description of the same or similar configuration will be omitted to avoid unnecessary duplication.

The drain connection member 270 of the water treatment apparatus 200 capable of sterilization or cleaning shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 stores sterilized washing water contained in the storage tank 120 after the sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank 120 is completed. The extraction member 125 and the drain pipe 126 are connected to drain the drain pipe 126 through the extraction member 125 of the tank 120.

At this time, one connection cap 271 of the drain connection member 270 is connected to the extraction member 125, the other connection cap 272 is connected to the drain pipe 126 through the drain connection port 128.

As described above, if the extraction member 125 is opened when the sterilizing wash water is drained after installing the drain connection member 270, the sterilization washing of the extraction member 125 can be achieved through the sterilizing wash water. have.

Sterilization Cleaning Method

Next, with reference to Figures 3 to 13, looks at the sterilization cleaning method (S100) of the water treatment apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention.

Sterilization and washing method (S100) according to the present invention is a sterilization and washing water treatment apparatus including a filter unit 110 for filtering raw water, and a storage tank 120 for storing the filtered water passing through the filter unit 110. It relates to a sterilization cleaning method of (100).

3 to 13, the sterilization cleaning method (S100) of the water treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention is sterilized or cleaned by applying power to an electrode on a flow path connected to the storage tank 110. Sterilization module installation step (S110) for installing a removable electrode sterilization module 210 for generating a sterilized wash water containing a material, and the sterilized clean water in the storage tank 120 by driving the removable electrode sterilization module 210 Sterilization module driving step (S120) for supplying, and after the sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank 120 may be configured to include a sterilization module separation step (S160) for separating the removable electrode sterilization module 210. .

In addition, the sterilization cleaning method (S100) of the water treatment apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, after the sterilization module driving step (S120), after a predetermined time has passed after the sterilization clean water is supplied to the storage tank 120 After the sterilized washing water discharge step (S130) for discharging the sterilized clean water contained in the storage tank 120, after the sterilized clean water discharge step (S130), rinsing water in the storage tank 120 It may include a rinsing water supply step (S140) and rinsing water discharge step (S150) for supplying.

First, the sterilization module installation step (S110), as shown in Figures 3 to 6, 10, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is filtered water while passing through at least a portion of the filter unit 110 The removable electrode sterilization module 210 may be installed on a flow path connecting the filter unit 110 and the storage tank 120 to generate sterilization clean water. As such, when the purified purified water is introduced into the removable electrode sterilization module 210 through at least a part of the filter, contaminants may be prevented from contacting the electrode, thereby preventing shortening of the life of the electrode. It becomes possible.

Specifically, the sterilization module installation step (S110), as shown in Figure 3 and 4, the filter to generate the sterilized washing water using the filtered water while passing through all the filters provided in the filter unit 110 The removable electrode sterilization module 210 may be installed between the last filter 114 of the unit 110 and the inlet 122 of the storage tank 120. In this case, the tank flow path tube L5 may be used as the outlet side connection pipe 252 of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 to implement the sterilization cleaning of the tank flow path tube L5.

However, since the water flowing into the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is water that is discarded after the sterilization and cleaning operation, it does not need to be highly filtered through the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113 or the hollow fiber membrane filter, which has excellent filtration performance and is relatively expensive. Therefore, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is more preferable to generate the sterilized washing water using the filtered water while passing through only a part of the filter of the filter unit 110.

To this end, the removable electrode sterilization module is shown in Figures 5, 6, 10, the sediment filter 111, sediment filter 111 and the pre-carbon filter 112 provided in the filter unit 110 Or through the composite filter 111a of the sediment filter 111 and the precarbon filter 112 to generate sterilized wash water using the purified water. It may be installed between the outlet of the carbon filter 112, or the outlet of the composite filter 111a, and the inlet 122 of the storage tank 120.

In particular, when the filter unit 110 includes the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113, the water filtered through the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113 is not suitable for the generation of sterilized wash water because the amount of total dissolved solids (TDS) is extremely low. Rather, it is generated water that is discarded as household water. Therefore, in this case, as shown in Figures 5, 6 and 10, the removable electrode sterilization module 210, the filter unit flow path tube (L1, L2, L3) and the storage tank in front of the reverse osmosis membrane filter 113 It is preferable to provide between 120. However, when the inlet side of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is connected to the first flow path tube (L1), a constant that is not filtered at all through the filter unit 110 flows into the electrode device 212 and thus is included in the constant. Since the life of the electrode provided in the electrode device 212 may be shortened due to foreign matters, it is more preferable to connect the inflow side of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 with the second flow path tube L2 or the third flow path tube L3. desirable. Of course, it is also possible to connect the removable electrode sterilization module 210 and the filter unit 110 through a separate connection pipe 251 without directly using the second flow path tube (L2) or the third flow path tube (L3). .

In addition, in order to connect the outlet side of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 with the storage tank 120, a connection pipe 252 or a tank flow path tube (L5) can be used, in the case of using a tank flow path tube (L5) The sterilizing and washing water can also sterilize and clean the tank flow path tube L5.

On the other hand, the sterilization module installation step (S110), as shown in Figures 7 to 9, 11, the removable electrode sterilization module 210 to the sterilization washing water using the water drained from the storage tank 120 Discharge parts 125 and 126 capable of draining the removable electrode sterilization module 210 from the storage tank 120 and replenishing the storage tank 120 to generate and resupply the storage tank 120. It can also be installed on the circulation flow path (①) between. At this time, the discharge parts (125, 126) may include a drain pipe 126 and the extraction member 125 for draining the water contained in the storage tank 120 to the living water.

7, 8, and 11, the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module 210 may be connected to the inlet 122 of the storage tank 120 through the tank flow pipe (L5).

On the other hand, by connecting the filter unit flow path tube (L1, L2, L3, L4) provided in the filter unit 110 to the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module 210, generated in the removable electrode sterilization module 210 It is also possible to form a circulating flow path (①) through which the sterilized washing water has passed through the filter flow path pipes (L1, L2, L3, L4) and the tank flow path pipe (L5) to be supplied back to the storage tank (120). . In this case, the sterilizing clean water generated by the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is supplied back to the storage tank 120 without passing through the filters 111, 112, 113, and 114 provided in the filter unit 110. Remove the filter at the rear of the filter flow path pipe (L1, L2, L3, L4) connected to the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module 210, and remove the filter flow path pipe (L1, L2, L3, L4) from which the filter is separated. The connecting members C1, C2, C3, and C4 can be connected to each other.

And, the sterilization module installation step (S110) is the removable electrode sterilization module 210 and the drive to enable the removable electrode sterilization module 210 by the control unit (C) provided in the water treatment apparatus 100 subject to sterilization cleaning. It may also include a step of connecting the control unit (C) by wire or wireless.

As such, when the sterilization module installation step (S110) is completed, the sterilization module driving step (S120) is performed to supply the sterilization clean water to the storage tank 120 by driving the removable electrode sterilization module 210. The sterilization module driving step (S120) may be automatically performed by the control unit C connected to the removable electrode sterilization module 210 in a wired or wireless manner, or may be performed by a user or an administrator by manually operating a button.

On the other hand, after the end of the sterilization module driving step (S120) sterilized washing water discharge step (S130) is performed. This sterilization washing water discharge step (S130) may be performed by opening the valve 127 installed in the drain pipe 126 of the storage tank 120, the end of the sterilization module driving step (S120) to increase the effect of the sterilization cleaning It is preferably performed after a certain time has elapsed.

At this time, the sterilizing wash water received in the storage tank 120 before the sterilizing washing water discharge step (S130), so that the sterilization cleaning of the extraction member 125 can be made using the sterilizing washing water discharged. It is also possible to connect the extraction member 125 and the drain pipe 126 to the drain connection member 270 to be drained to the drain pipe 126 through the extraction member 125 of.

On the other hand, after the sterilized washing water discharge step (S130), the rinsing water supply step (S140) for supplying the rinsing water to the storage tank 120 to remove the sterilized washing water remaining in the storage tank 120 or the flow path, A rinsing water discharging step S150 of discharging the rinsing water supplied to the storage tank 120 may be performed.

Since the rinsing water uses the purified water that has passed through the filter unit 110, the rinsing water supply path is the same as the path where the purified water is generated (but the rinsing water is supplied while the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is not driven). The rinsing water discharge path is identical to the drainage path of the storage tank. Therefore, detailed description of the rinsing water supply step (S140) and rinsing water discharge step (S150) will be omitted.

However, in the case of FIGS. 3 to 6 and 8 to 11, even if the removable electrode sterilization module 210 is installed, a flow path is formed between the filter unit 110 and the storage tank 120 so that the constant (raw water) ( 9) or the purified water may be supplied to the storage tank 120, but in FIG. 7, the rinsing water supply step (S140) is automatically performed because the flow path is separated between the filter unit 110 and the storage tank 120. In order to carry out by removing the removable electrode flesh module 210 (S160) to restore the flow path to its original state or to perform a manual rinsing operation.

Then, after removing the removable electrode sterilization module 210 to restore the flow path to its original state (S160), the purified water is supplied to the storage tank 120 (S170).

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 device for water sterilization
110 ... filter 111 ... sediment filter
111a ... combined filter 112 ... free carbon filter
113 ... Reverse Osmosis Membrane Filter 114 ... Post Carbon Filter
115 ... Connection port 120 ... Storage tank
122 ... Inlet 125 ... Extraction member
126 ... drain pipe 127 ... valve
128 ... Drainage connection port
200 ... Water treatment unit that can be sterilized or cleaned
210. Removable electrode sterilization module 211 ... Constant flow valve
212 Electrode unit 213 Electrolyte supply
215 Pump 251, 252 Connector
270 ... drain connection member 271, 272 ... connection cap
C ... control unit CL ... signal connection line
CT ... connection port C1, C2, C3, C4 ... connection member
D ... drain tube H ... housing
L1, L2, L3, L4 ... Filter flow path pipe L5 ... Tank flow pipe
LS ... level sensor P ... pump

Claims (32)

Filter unit for filtering the raw water;
A storage tank for storing the filtered water through the filter unit; And
When the storage tank needs to be sterilized or cleaned, it is installed and used on the flow path connected to the storage tank, and a removable electrode having an electrode device for generating sterilized clean water containing sterilization or cleaning material by applying power to the electrode. Sterilization module;
And sterilizing or cleaning the storage tank through the sterilizing and washing water generated by the removable electrode sterilizing module. The method of claim 1,
The removable electrode sterilization module is a water treatment device capable of sterilization or cleaning, characterized in that to generate a sterilized wash water containing an oxidizing mixture through electrolysis. The method of claim 1,
The removable electrode sterilization module is installed on a flow path connected to the storage tank when sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank is possible, and the sterilization or cleaning is possible after the sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank is separated. Water treatment device. The method of claim 1,
The removable electrode sterilization module is a sterilization or cleaning water treatment device, characterized in that further provided with a constant flow valve for supplying a constant flow rate of water to the electrode device is installed in front of the electrode device. The method of claim 1,
The removable electrode sterilization module is a sterilization or cleaning water treatment apparatus further comprises an electrolyte supply unit for supplying an electrolyte or salt to the electrode device. The method of claim 1,
And a controller configured to control at least one of supply of water to the storage tank and discharge of water from the storage tank.
The removable electrode sterilization module is connected to the control unit in a wired or wireless manner, characterized in that driven by the drive signal of the control unit sterilization or cleaning is possible. 7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The removable electrode sterilization module is capable of sterilization or cleaning, which is installed at a position connecting the filter unit and the storage tank so as to generate sterilized clean water using filtered purified water while passing through at least a part of the filter unit. Water treatment device. The method of claim 7, wherein
The removable electrode sterilization module generates sterilized clean water using a purified water that passes through the sediment filter, the sediment filter and the precarbon filter, or the composite filter of the sediment filter and the precarbon filter provided in the filter unit. And an outlet of the sediment filter, an outlet of the precarbon filter, or an outlet of the composite filter and an inlet of the storage tank. The method of claim 7, wherein
The filter unit includes a reverse osmosis membrane filter,
The removable electrode sterilization module is a water treatment apparatus capable of sterilization or cleaning, characterized in that installed between the flow pipe and the storage tank of the front end of the reverse osmosis membrane filter. The method of claim 7, wherein
The outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module is connected to the tank flow pipe connecting the last filter and the storage tank provided in the filter unit, characterized in that the sterilization or cleaning of the tank flow pipe through the sterilization wash water is made. A water treatment apparatus capable of sterilization or washing. 7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The removable electrode sterilization module is installed on the circulation path between the discharge portion capable of draining from the storage tank and the inlet of the storage tank, and generates sterilized washing water using the water drained from the storage tank, The sterilizing and washing water is sterilized or washable water treatment device, characterized in that the resupply to the storage tank. The method of claim 11,
The discharge unit is sterilized or rinsable water treatment apparatus characterized in that it comprises an extraction member for supplying the water contained in the storage tank to the user, and a drain pipe for draining the living water. The method of claim 11,
The removable electrode sterilization module further comprises a pump for providing a pressing force to the water so that the water drained from the storage tank is circulated to be supplied back to the storage tank. The method of claim 11,
The outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module is connected to the tank flow pipe connecting the last filter provided in the filter unit and the storage tank, the sterilization of the tank flow pipe through the sterilization washing water generated by the removable electrode sterilization module Or a water treatment apparatus capable of sterilizing or cleaning, wherein the cleaning is performed. The method of claim 11,
The outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module is connected to the filter flow path tube provided in the filter unit, the sterilizing wash water generated in the removable electrode sterilization module is the filter flow path tube, the last filter provided in the filter unit and A sterilization or cleaning water treatment device capable of sterilizing or cleaning the filter flow path tube and the tank flow path tube by resupplying the storage tank through a tank flow path pipe connecting the storage tanks. . 16. The method of claim 15,
The sterilizing or cleaning water treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the filter provided in the filter unit is separated so that the sterilizing clean water generated by the removable electrode sterilization module does not pass through the filter provided in the filter unit. 17. The method of claim 16,
When the filter provided in the filter unit is removed, the filter unit flow path tube is connected to each other by a connection pipe, characterized in that the sterilization or cleaning water treatment apparatus. The method of claim 11,
A connection port is installed in the tank flow pipe connecting the last filter and the storage tank provided in the filter unit,
An outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module is sterilized or cleaned water treatment device, characterized in that connected to the connection port. 7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
After the sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank is completed, the drain connection member for connecting the extraction member and the drain pipe so that the sterilizing wash water contained in the storage tank is drained to the drain pipe through the extraction member for supplying the water contained in the storage tank to the user Water treatment device capable of sterilization or washing, further comprising;
In the sterilization and cleaning method of the water treatment apparatus comprising a filter unit for filtering the raw water, and a storage tank for storing the filtered water through the filter unit,
A sterilization module installation step of installing a removable electrode sterilization module for generating a sterilization washing water containing sterilization or cleaning material by applying power to an electrode on a flow path connected to the storage tank;
A sterilization module driving step of supplying sterilized washing water to the storage tank by driving the removable electrode sterilization module; And
A sterilization module separation step of separating the removable electrode sterilization module after the sterilization or cleaning of the storage tank is completed;
Sterilization and cleaning method of the water treatment device comprising a. 21. The method of claim 20,
The sterilization module installation step,
Installing the removable electrode sterilization module on the flow path connecting the filter unit and the storage tank so that the removable electrode sterilization module passes through at least a part of the filter unit to generate sterilized clean water using filtered purified water. A sterilization cleaning method for a water treatment device, characterized in that. 21. The method of claim 20,
The removable electrode sterilization module generates sterilized clean water using a purified water that passes through the sediment filter, the sediment filter and the precarbon filter, or the composite filter of the sediment filter and the precarbon filter provided in the filter unit. And an outlet of the sediment filter, an outlet of the precarbon filter, or an outlet of the composite filter and an inlet of the storage tank. 21. The method of claim 20,
The filter unit includes a reverse osmosis membrane filter,
The removable electrode sterilization module is a sterilization cleaning method of the water treatment device, characterized in that installed between the flow pipe and the storage tank of the front end of the reverse osmosis membrane filter. 21. The method of claim 20,
The sterilization module installation step,
A discharge part capable of draining the removable electrode sterilization module from the storage tank so that the removable electrode sterilization module generates sterilizing clean water using the water drained from the storage tank and then resupply the storage tank to the storage tank; Sterilization and cleaning method of water treatment device installed between water inlets of tank. 25. The method of claim 24,
The discharging unit sterilization and cleaning method of the water treatment device, characterized in that it comprises an extraction member for supplying the water contained in the storage tank to the user, and a drain pipe for draining the living water. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 25,
After the sterilization module driving step, the sterilizing washing water discharge step of discharging the sterilizing washing water contained in the storage tank after a predetermined time after the sterilizing washing water is supplied to the storage tank;
Sterilization and cleaning method of the water treatment device, characterized in that it further comprises. The method of claim 26,
Before the sterilization washing water discharge step, the water treatment device is connected to the drain connection member between the extraction member and the drain pipe so that the sterilizing wash water received in the storage tank is drained through the extraction member of the storage tank. Sterilization and cleaning methods. The method of claim 26,
After the sterilizing wash water discharge step,
A rinsing water supplying step of supplying rinsing water to the storage tank;
Sterilization and cleaning method of the water treatment device, characterized in that it further comprises. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 25,
The sterilization module installation step,
And a process of connecting the removable electrode sterilization module and the control unit by wire or wirelessly to enable the removable electrode sterilization module to be driven by a control unit. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 25,
The sterilization module installation step,
To the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module, by connecting the tank flow pipe connecting the last filter and the storage tank provided in the filter unit, to sterilize or clean the tank flow pipe through the sterilization wash water A sterilization cleaning method for a water treatment device, characterized in that. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 25,
The sterilization module installation step,
By connecting the filter flow path tube provided in the filter unit to the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module, the sterilization washing water generated in the removable electrode sterilization module, the filter unit flow path tube, the last filter provided in the filter unit and Sterilizing and cleaning the water treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the filter unit flow pipe and the tank flow pipe are sterilized or washed by passing the tank flow pipe connected between the storage tanks and resupplying the storage tank. 32. The method of claim 31,
The sterilization module installation step,
The filter is separated from the rear end of the filter flow path tube connected to the outlet of the removable electrode sterilization module so that the sterilizing clean water generated by the removable electrode sterilization module does not pass through the filter provided in the filter part. A sterilizing and cleaning method for a water treatment device, characterized in that the separated filter flow path pipes are connected to each other by a connecting member.

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