KR20200033215A - Liquid dispenser for animals - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a companion animal water dispenser comprising: a water tank having an upper opening unit; a pump provided in the water tank; a water supply pipe through which a liquid pumped from the pump is delivered; an upper plate having an upper surface through which the liquid flows; and a filter assembly disposed under the upper plate and, more specifically, to a companion animal water dispenser which can provide water at the temperature preferred by the companion animal.

Description

Pet Animal Waterer {LIQUID DISPENSER FOR ANIMALS}

The present invention relates to a water supply for supplying water to animals, for example companion animals.

In recent years, in addition to the attachment and interest in pets, the population of pets is increasing.

As with most mammals, companion animals need to drink water to maintain and survive biorhythms. Since pets are often left alone and are difficult to communicate with their owners, there is an increasing demand for water supplies that can provide water to pets.

EP3315022A1, KR10-1825334B1, US2014 / 0053781, US2015 / 0313180, US2010 / 0095897 and US2012 / 0216751 (hereinafter referred to as 'prior art') disclose a beverage container for a companion animal. However, such a beverage container has various problems to be solved by the present invention.

EP3315022A1 (hereinafter referred to as 'Prior Art 1') is a functional container for temporarily storing a beverage container, a block with a filtration filter, a pump circulation pipe connected to a pump, and water supplied from a water tank or a pump circulation pipe. A drinking fountain for a companion animal comprising an insert housing is disclosed. The technology block and beverage reservoir can be integrally combined to form a single functional insert. The technology block may further include a first induction transfer element outside the beverage bowl and a second induction transfer element inside the technology block.

When the pump is driven, the water stored in the beverage container flows through the filter into the technology block, and the water flowing into the technology block is moved upward through the pump circulation pipe to the upper surface of the functional insert.

However, if the outdoor temperature is high, such as summer, the temperature of the water stored in the beverage container may also be high. Since the heating and cooling module of the prior art 1 is provided in the technology block, it is possible to control only the temperature of the water flowing from the pump circulation line, not the water stored in the beverage container, and the water stored in the beverage container may not be easily cooled.

In addition, pets prefer different water temperatures depending on the species, but the beverage fountain disclosed in the prior art 1 cannot control the temperature of the water stored in the beverage container.

In addition, a water level gauge that detects the level of water entering the technology block can be submerged in the technology block. Therefore, if the water level gauge is used for a long time, the water level may not be accurately detected.

In addition, many pets prefer dripping water instead of flowing water from the same surface as the functional insert housing, but since the functional insert housing or beverage reservoir of prior art 1 is provided within a beverage container, the pet has no option to drink falling water and is functional You can only drink water that flows along the top surface of the insert.

In addition, the functional insert of the prior art 1 is high in the center and low in height toward the edge of the beverage container, so that it is difficult for the companion animal to drink the water of the beverage container or water flowing on the surface of the functional insert.

In addition, the top of the beverage container can be opened, so that the water stored in the beverage container can be easily contaminated.

The upper surface of the functional insert of the prior art 1 can be used as a drainage surface, and it is difficult for a companion animal to drink enough water in a short time because it must drink shallowly flowing water. In particular, the majority of dogs roll their tongue and drink water using the back of their tongue, and water spread shallowly on the surface is difficult for the dog to consume.

In addition, in the beverage fountain of the prior art 1, when the capacity of the pump is increased at the beginning of the operation or when the pump is supplied, the water can be pumped upward and splashed around the beverage fountain.

In addition, prior art 1 discloses a power cable extracted from a base plate disposed under a beverage container and connected to an external power supply. An external power control adapter and a first induction transfer element are provided on the base plate to be disposed under the beverage container, and a second induction transfer element is provided at the bottom of the beverage container in a functional insert to align with the first induction transfer element.

This structure is possible only when power is transmitted from the first induction transmission element provided in the base plate to the second induction transmission element provided in the beverage container and other modules provided in the functional insert, and the second induction transmission element 1 It may be impossible to transfer power to an inductive transfer element.

Thus, in the absence of an external power supply, the electronic device provided on the base plate cannot be operated, and its function is limited to that of the technology block.

In addition, there is a risk of electric shock when the external power is cut off due to external conditions. Moreover, since the prior art 1 does not disclose a control method for the use of battery power, effective battery use may be difficult.

The highly conductive electrode or circuit board provided on the base plate of prior art 1 can be unintentionally heated by eddy currents induced by the magnetic field of the inductive transfer element. The first inductive transfer element is provided on the base plate and is adjacent to the electrode or wiring due to its high electrical conductivity. As a result, an eddy current is generated in the electrode or the wiring due to the change in the magnetic field or magnetic field of the first inductive transfer element.

In order to prevent such unintentional heat generation, a complex shielding film structure may be formed on the first inductive transfer element, or the periphery of the first inductive transfer element may be coated with an insulating material.

In addition, as the power cable is withdrawn from the base plate coupled to the beverage container, the power cable may be severely twisted and damaged when the beverage fountain is rotated or moved by a companion animal. The power cable stimulates the pet, and there is a danger that the pet will bite the power cable and get an electric shock.

Such a structure may interfere with the alignment of the first induction transmission element and the second induction transmission element by the impact applied to the base plate, and limit its function. In addition, since it is fixed to the power supply cabling base plate, impact on the power cable may affect alignment.

Prior art 1 discloses that a protrusion (or nose) is formed on the base plate. A recess is formed at the bottom of the beverage container, and the beverage container is disposed on the base plate to be disposed on the nose of the base plate. The functional insert of the beverage container may further include a recess.

The functional insert of prior art 1 discloses to include a pump, filter and inductive delivery element, but does not disclose a specific arrangement, support structure within the functional insert.

Thus, a filter, pump, or inductive delivery element in a functional insert can be displaced or damaged by physical impacts that occur in the process of separating the functional insert from the beverage container.

In addition, the pumps and heating / cooling elements in the technical block of the functional insert may have low water levels or continue to operate when changing water, resulting in high power consumption.

In addition, since the lower surface of the functional insert having a recess includes a separate waterproof housing to prevent flooding, it may be difficult to separate the housing and repair or clean the functional insert. In addition, since the waterproof housing design and the internal structure are compact and compact in the interior space of the housing, the structure of the functional insert and the housing can be complicated, and durability can be reduced.

In addition, since the filter of the prior art 1 is provided only on one side of the technology block, the water stored in the beverage container flows only through one side of the technology block, making it difficult to circulate the entire water.

In addition, the pump is provided in the technology block, and if the pump needs to be repaired, the technology block must be disassembled.

In addition, by installing an UV (ultraviolet lay) filter in the pump circulation pipe, it is possible to sterilize the water transferred to the pump circulation pipe, but cannot sterilize the water stored in the beverage container.

Prior art 1 discloses a UV filter that irradiates ultraviolet light to sterilize water, but the ultraviolet light may not be visible outside the beverage fountain for the safety of the user and companion animals. Although ultraviolet light is unintentionally emitted to the outside, exposure to UV light is not related to seasonal stigma relief.

US 2015/0313180 (hereinafter referred to as 'Prior Art 2') discloses a companion water fountain assembly including a pump module having a pump and a filter, and a water supply pipe connected to the pump. A bowl in which water supplied from the water supply pipe is temporarily stored is disposed on the pump, and a dome may cover the pump module and provide a drainage channel.

The wire of the prior art 2 is directly connected to the pump, extends outside the companion fountain assembly and is fixed to the electrical socket. Therefore, the connection between the pump and the electric wire can be easily damaged or disconnected due to the impact applied to the pet fountain assembly or the electric wire. In addition, because the wire is fixed to the companion water fountain assembly, when the companion water fountain assembly is rotated or moved by the companion animal, the wire can be easily twisted and pulled.

Therefore, the durability of the companion animal fountain assembly may be deteriorated, it may be dangerous due to the possibility of electric shock due to a short circuit, and repair may be difficult.

US 2012/0216751 (hereinafter referred to as 'Prior Art 3') discloses an animal water supply device including a filter and a pump provided in the water supply bowl, the power cord being connected to the pump and extending out of the water tank. Since the power cord is connected to the pump and fixed to the water tank, it is difficult to separate and assemble the water tank and the pump, and it is difficult to clean the inside of the animal water supply device. Moreover, the usable range of the animal water supply device is determined according to the length of the power cord, thereby limiting the usability.

The companion animal water supply system disclosed in US 2010 / 0095897A1 is a water storage tank, a pump installed on the bottom surface of the water tank, a fluid column connected to the pump, and a cap for generating a plurality of spouts that are coupled to a limiting plate to discharge water. It includes. However, the water supplied from the fluid column sprays water only at a specific location through the spout and the space between the spouts is narrow, so that it is difficult for several pets to drink water at the same time. In addition, the upper surfaces of the spout and limiting plates are covered with caps, so that pets can only drink water that falls from a specific location and not running water.

Also, pets are afraid of water splashing on their bodies. Water falling from a specific location through the spout can be crushed by the pet when the pet drinks water, so that the pet can avoid it.

KR 10-1825334B1 discloses a 'cat portable washbasin' that includes a main body module in which water is stored, a submersible pump provided on the inner surface of the main body module, and a discharge structure composed of a three-stage circular portion in the form of a circular dish.

The 'cat transfer table' is supplied with water to a bowl having a steep slope toward the edge. The flow direction of water supplied to the dish changes upward toward the edge. This structure weakens the driving force of the water toward the edge from the discharge hole provided in the center. Accordingly, the supplied water does not fall from the upper edge of the discharge structure toward the water tank, and flows on the outer surface of the discharge structure. Therefore, the 'cat transfer table' has a problem in that it is difficult for a companion animal to drop water and it is difficult for a plurality of companion animals to simultaneously consume water.

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide fresh and clean water to a companion animal, and to provide water at a temperature preferred by the companion animal.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water supply that can prevent contamination from the outside of the water supply, such as the snout of a companion animal.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water supply capable of supplying flowing water preferred by a companion animal.

 Another object of the present invention is to provide a water supply capable of supplying water to which the water temperature is controlled and maintained to the companion animal based on the input of the species or user of the companion animal.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water supply capable of accurately sensing the temperature of water stored in the water supply, and controlling a thermoelectric regulator based on the detected temperature.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water heater capable of rapidly heating and / or cooling water stored in the water heater.

Another object of the present invention, to accurately detect the amount of water stored in the water supply, and to provide a water supply that operates based on the detected amount of water.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water supply that accurately detects the proximity of a companion animal approaching the water supply and operates based on the detected proximity.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water heater that insulates a space in which water is stored.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water supply that can efficiently filter and sterilize water.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water supply capable of operating with electric power supplied from an external power source and battery power.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water supply capable of operating under a power saving mode based on charging of a battery that operates the water supply and whether the water supply is receiving power from an external power source.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water dispenser capable of alleviating seasonal depression of companion animals and users.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water dispenser with excellent aesthetics.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water dispenser that is easy to repair, clean and control.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a water supply that can be safely used.

The problems of the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

In order to achieve the above object, the water supply according to an embodiment of the present invention, a water tank 200 having an upper rim 230 for storing water and forming an upper opening; A base 100 supporting the water tank; A pump 192 having an inlet 192c for sucking water stored in the water tank and an outlet 192a for discharging the water; A filter assembly 300 supported on the upper rim 230; And a water supply assembly 400 provided above the filter assembly and closing the opening of the water tank together with the filter assembly.

The pump pumps water from the water tank to the upper side of the water supply assembly.

The filter assembly includes: first plates 312 and 322 fitted inside the water tank; First walls 313 and 323 extending upwardly from the first plate and having an outer surface supported by the upper rim of the water tank; And at least one opening 325 or 312 through which water dropped from the water supply assembly returns to the water tank.

Alternatively, the filter assembly for the water supply includes: a filter guide 320 having an inclined wall 323 extending from the bottom surface 322 and fitted to the top of the water tank 200 for storing water; And an upper filter 310 fitted to the filter guide.

The upper filter 310 captures water falling from the water supply surface 420 located above the upper filter, and includes a bottom surface 312 spaced upward from the bottom surface of the filter guide.

Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

According to the companion animal water supply device of the present invention, there are one or more of the following effects.

Fresh and clean water can be provided to the pet, and water at a temperature preferred by the pet can be provided.

It can prevent contamination from the outside of the water supply, such as the snout of a pet.

It can supply the flowing water preferred by the pet.

It is possible to supply water to which the water temperature is controlled and maintained to the companion animal based on the species of the companion animal or the user.

It is possible to accurately detect the temperature of the water stored in the water supply, and to control the thermoelectric regulator based on the detected temperature.

The water stored in the water supply can be quickly heated and / or cooled.

It is possible to accurately detect the amount of water stored in the water supply and operate based on the detected amount of water.

It can accurately detect the proximity of a companion animal approaching the water supply and operate based on the detected proximity.

It can insulate the space where water is stored.

Water can be efficiently filtered and sterilized.

It can operate with power supplied from the battery power and external power.

The battery may be operated in a power saving mode based on charging of the battery that operates the water supply and whether the water supply is receiving power from an external power source.

It has excellent aesthetics and can relieve seasonal depression of companion animals and users.

Easy to repair, clean and control and safe to use.

The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

1 is a view showing a companion animal water supply according to a first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1A is a perspective view of the float open, Figure 1B is a perspective view of the float closed, Figure 1C is a companion animal shown in Figure 1A 1D is a perspective view showing the inside of the water tank shown in FIG. 1A, FIG. 1E is a perspective view showing the inside of the water tank while the secondary filter shown in FIG. 1D is removed, and FIG. 1F is FIG. 1E Perspective view of the bottom cover separated from the companion animal water supply shown in Figure 1G is a bottom view showing the base of the companion animal water supply shown in Figure 1A.
Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the companion animal water supply shown in Figure 1, Figure 2A is an exploded perspective view of the upper cover disposed on the upper side of the water tank, Figure 2B is an exploded perspective view of the base.
3A is a cross-sectional view of the water supply assembly shown in FIG. 2A, and FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a float of a companion animal water supply according to another embodiment of the invention.
Figure 4 is a view showing the upper cover shown in Figure 2A, Figure 4A is a perspective view of the upper filter, Figure 4B is a perspective view of the disassembled water supply assembly from the filter assembly, Figure 4C is a perspective view of the upper filter disassembled from the filter guide 4D is a perspective view of the filter guide, and FIG. 4E is a partial perspective view showing the filter slot and filter tray of the filter guide.
Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a companion animal water supply according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view of the companion animal water supply shown in Figure 1, Figure 5B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the companion animal water supply shown in Figure 5A, Figure 5C is a cross-sectional view of the water tank shown in FIG. 5A.
6 is a perspective view of the secondary filter shown in FIG. 1D.
FIG. 7 is a view of the floor cover shown in FIG. 1E, FIG. 7A is a perspective view showing the upper side of the floor cover, and FIG. 7B is a perspective view showing the bottom surface of the floor cover.
8 is a view showing the base and the components provided on the base, FIG. 8A is a perspective view of the base, FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the upper frame separated, and FIG. 8C is an exploded perspective view of the base.
9A is a perspective view showing a center plate separated from the lower frame and heat sink of the base, FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the base having the center plate on the heat sink, and FIG. 9C is an exploded perspective view of the base located under the upper cover .
10A to 10C are views showing a temperature control device, FIGS. 10A and 10B are exploded perspective views of a fan, a fan housing, a heat sink, a Peltier device, and a Peltier metal, and FIG. 10C is a perspective view showing a bottom surface of the assembly of the components to be.
10D is an exploded perspective view showing the base, water supply assembly, filter assembly, upper rim and secondary filter excluding the upper and lower frames.
FIG. 10E is a perspective view of another angle of the companion animal water supply shown in FIG. 1D, and FIG. 10F is a perspective view excluding the upper frame from the companion water supply shown in FIG. 10E.
11A is a perspective view showing the weight sensor of the companion animal water supply, and FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the base and an enlarged view of the heat sink.
11C is a bottom view of the upper frame of the base.
12 is a schematic control block diagram of a companion animal water feeder.
13A is a cross-sectional view showing a fan, heat sink, and Peltier device of a companion animal water supply according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13B is a bottom view of the base of the companion animal water supply shown in FIG. 13A.
14A is a view showing a fan, a heat sink, and a Peltier device of a companion animal water supply according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14B is a bottom view of the base of the companion animal water supply according to the third embodiment.

Advantages and features of the present invention, and methods for achieving them will be clarified with reference to embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be implemented in various different forms, and only the embodiments allow the disclosure of the present invention to be complete, and common knowledge in the art to which the present invention pertains It is provided to completely inform the person having the scope of the invention, and the present invention is only defined by the scope of the claims. The same reference numerals refer to the same components throughout the specification.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings for describing a companion animal water feeder according to embodiments of the present invention.

Not only do animals generally prefer to drink running water over standing water in containers, but there is also a need to provide animals with fresh and clean water. Referring to Figures 1A to 1G, the companion animal water dispenser 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is a container or chamber configured to store a liquid (for example, drinking water) (hereinafter also referred to as 'water') ( 200) (hereinafter, referred to as a water tank) may include a base 100 is disposed. The upper covers 300 and 400 may include a filter assembly 300 and a water supply assembly 400 and close the upper opening of the water tank 200. The liquid may be distributed from the water tank 200 to the water supply assembly 400 and may re-enter the water tank 200 after passing through the filter assembly 300.

The base 100 may be formed by connecting the upper frame 110 and the lower frame 120. An electronic device is stored inside the base 100 to supply power to the companion animal water supply and cool the water stored in the water tank 200. The upper and lower frames 110 and 120 may be referred to as an upper cover and a lower cover, respectively. The side surface of the base 100 may include an exhaust port 115 through which air is discharged. The bottom surface of the base 100 may include a suction grill 121 through which air introduced into the base 100 passes and a discharge slot 122 through which air and liquid can escape.

In addition, the base 100 may include a user interface 114 that allows a user to input a command for selecting a mode, water temperature, and the like, and to output information about the state and temperature of the water supply to the user. . The base 100 may also include a socket or terminal 118 capable of receiving power from an external power source. The base 100 may be placed on the weight sensor 124. The weight sensor 124 may detect the weight or amount of water stored in the water tank 200. The detailed description of the weight sensor 124 will be described later with reference to FIG. 11A.

The water tank 200 may be referred to as a container or tank. The water tank 200 may be disposed above the base 100. The water tank 200 may include an outer wall 210 and an inner wall 220. The inner wall 220 may substantially define a space in which water is stored, and the outer wall 220 may be spaced apart from the inner wall 210 to insulate the water inside the inner wall 220. The pump 192 may be provided in the water tank 200, and may pressurize water to the water supply assembly 300. The secondary filter 240 may surround the pump 192 and filter foreign substances from water flowing into the pump 192. The upper rim 230 of the water tank may define an upper opening of the water tank.

The upper covers 300 and 400 may include a filter assembly 300 and a water supply assembly 400, and cover or close the upper opening of the water tank 200. The filter assembly 300 and the water supply assembly 400 may cover or close the upper opening of the water tank 200. The filter assembly 300 may be disposed on the upper rim 230 of the water tank 200. The filter assembly 300 includes a first filter surface 312 and a second filter surface 325a to filter foreign substances from water falling from the water supply assembly 400. The filter assembly 300 may include a filter slot 325, and a filter tray 326 (see FIG. 2A) may be inserted into the filter slot 325 to function as an additional filter.

The water supply assembly 400 is disposed above the filter assembly 300 and may protrude above the upper portion of the water tank 200. In general, water is supplied from the water tank 200 through the pump to the water supply hole 421 of the water supply assembly 400, flows across the upper plate 420, and the filter assembly 300 at the edge 420a of the water supply assembly. ), Filtered and returned to the water tank 200 to circulate. As shown by the arrow in FIG. 1A, water spreads the upper surface of the upper plate 420 outward and may fall from the edge 420a to the filter assembly 300. The companion animal may drink water falling from the edge of the water supply assembly 300 or drink water flowing across the upper plate 420.

The float 410 may be inserted into the water supply hole 421. Water may be pumped by the pump 192, and may flow through the water supply pipe 192b in communication with the water supply hole 421. Depending on the capacity of the pump 192, as shown in FIG. 1A, the water pushes the float 410 upward and the float 410 can open the water supply hole 421 for water supply. When the pump 192 is stopped, the float 410 may completely close the water supply hole 421 as shown in FIG. 1B.

The upper covers 300 and 400 including the filter assembly 300 and the water supply assembly 400 can be easily lifted from the water tank 200. 1D shows the inside of the water tank 200 in a state in which the upper covers 300 and 400 are lifted from the water tank and the bottom cover 250 is seated on the bottom of the water tank 200. The bottom cover 250 may include a pump cover 251 covering the pump 192 and an outer ring 256 covering the outer portion of the bottom of the water tank 200. The secondary filter 240 may be seated on the outer ring 256 of the bottom cover 250 and surround the pump cover 251.

A metal 191a (hereinafter, also referred to as a “heating part”) may be further provided on the bottom surface of the water tank 200. The metal 191a may be in contact with a Peltier device 191b mounted on the base 100 or a thermoelectric cooler (TEC). The Peltier device 191b and the metal 191a may heat or cool water in the water tank 200. The water temperature sensor 193 may protrude through the bottom of the water tank 200 and measure the water temperature in the water tank 200.

The water tank 200 may be transparent. The upper frame 110 of the base 100 may further include a guide rib 113 and a guide groove 119. The guide rib 113 may support the inner wall 210 of the water tank. The outer wall 220 may be inserted into the guide groove 119. The upper frame 110 may include one or more screw holes or one or more bosses 117a corresponding to grooves or holes in the fan housing 170 described later. The plurality of screw holes or the plurality of bosses 117a have bolts or screws inserted into the bosses 117a, so that devices (for example, the fan housing 170 and the heat sink 160) in the base 100 are inserted. You can maintain your position.

2A, the water supply assembly 400 may include an upper plate 420 and a plate support 430. The upper plate 420 may be disposed above the plate support 430. The plate support 430 may include a water supply pipe support 433 into which the water supply pipe 192b (see FIG. 3A) is inserted. The detailed description of the water supply assembly 400 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 2A and 3A.

The filter assembly 300 may include a filter guide 320 and an upper filter 310 disposed on the filter guide 320. The upper filter 310 may include a first filter surface 312, and the filter guide 320 may include a filter slot 325 and a second filter surface 325a. The filter tray 326 may include a filtration material (eg, carbon filter). The filter tray 326 may be inserted into and out of the filter slot 325. The filter guide 32 may include a guide surface 322 disposed below the first filter surface 312. The guide surface 322 may guide water dropped through the first filter surface 312 to the filter slot 325. The filter assembly 300 may include inclined walls 313 and 323 disposed on the upper rim 230 of the water tank 200 and protruding toward the outside. The upper filter 310 and the filter guide 320 may be disposed on the upper rim 230 of the water tank 200, and may include inclined walls 313 and 323 protruding toward the outside. The inclined walls 313 and 323 may capture water falling from the water supply assembly 400.

The upper filter 310 and the filter guide 320 may include inner openings 311 and 321 (also referred to as inner holes). The upper plate 420 and the plate support 430 may cover the inner opening 311 of the upper filter 310 and the inner opening 321 of the filter guide 320. Detailed description of the filter assembly 300 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4D.

2A and 2B, the outside of the base 100 may be formed by the upper frame 110 and the lower frame 120, and the inner space of the base 100 heats the water in the water tank 200. Alternatively, a Peltier device 191b, a heat sink 160, and a fan 180 for cooling may be disposed. The fan 180 is provided on the lower frame 120 and may be disposed above the suction grill 121. The fan housing 170 may be arranged to surround the fan 180. The heat sink 160 may include a plurality of heat dissipation fins 162 disposed above the fan housing 170 and a heat dissipation plate 161 connecting the plurality of heat dissipation fins 162. The Peltier device 191b, the sterilizing light emitter 194, and the water temperature sensor 193 may be mounted on the heat sink 161.

The metal 191a may be disposed above the Peltier device 191b, and may function as a heat sink or heat sink. The Peltier device 191b may increase or decrease the temperature of water when power is supplied. The fan 180 may discharge cold air or hot air through the exhaust port 115. In addition, the fan 180 may suck ambient air through the suction grill 121 to the base 100 to cool the lower surface of the heat sink 160 and / or the Peltier device 191b during the cooling process.

A plurality of plates 130, 140 and 150 may be provided between the heat sink 160 and the upper frame 110. The plates 130, 140, and 150 may be referred to as separators or insulating plates, and a more detailed description will be described later with reference to FIGS. 9A to 9C.

The plates 130, 140, 150, the upper frame 110 and the bottom of the water tank 200 may all include openings, through which the sterilizing light 194, the water temperature sensor 193, and the heat sink ( Metal 191a mounted on 160 may be exposed to water in the water tank 200. The outer wall 210 of the outer water tank 200 may be inserted into the guide groove 119, and the inner wall 220 may be provided between the guide ribs 113. The bottom of the water tank 200 may be sandwiched between the openings 112a of the upper frame 110. Detailed description of the bottom of the water tank 200 will be described later with reference to FIG. 5C.

The pet water dispenser can have a smooth and efficient design to supply cool and flowing water to the pet. Upper plate 420, plate support 430, filter guide 320, water tank 200, secondary filter 240, bottom cover 250 and base 100, upper and lower frames 110, 120 May be made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic, thermoplastic resin or polycarbonate (PC). The upper filter 320 and the secondary filter 240 may be made of metal (eg, stainless steel) or thermoplastic. The top plate 420 may be provided with a metal or ceramic coating, or may be made entirely of metal (eg stainless steel).

The outer wall 210 and the inner wall 220 of the water tank 200 may be transparent, but the upper rim 230, the upper plate 420, the plate support 430, the upper filter 310 of the water tank 200, The upper and lower frames 110 and 120 of the filter guide 320, the secondary filter 240, the bottom cover 250, and the base 100 may be opaque. In an alternative embodiment, the outer wall 210 and inner wall 220 of the water tank 200 may be made of glass, the upper rim 230, the upper plate 420, the plate support 430, the upper filter 310 ), The filter guide 320, the secondary filter 240, the bottom cover 250, and the upper and lower frames 110 and 120 may be made of stainless steel or coated with ceramic to provide a smooth appearance.

More specifically, referring to FIGS. 1F, 2A and 3A, the water supply assembly 400 may include the uppermost faces of the top covers 300 and 400. The upper plate 420 may be provided above the central portion of the water tank 200, and the plate support 430 may be partially inserted into the water tank 200. The plate support 430 may be adhered or fused to the upper plate 420. Alternatively, the upper plate 420 may be pressed into the plate support 430. The plate support 430 may include a hole disposed below the water supply hole of the upper plate 420.

The upper surface of the upper plate 420 may be inclined upward toward the water supply hole 421, and may also be inclined upward toward the outer edge 420a of the upper plate 420. The upper surface of the upper plate 420 may be inclined at a predetermined angle toward the edge 420a with respect to a horizontal axis parallel to the floor. The predetermined angle of the upper surface of the upper plate 420 may be 0 degrees to 45 degrees (for example, 2 degrees). The inclination of the upper surface of the upper plate can be kept constant. Alternatively, the upper surface of the upper plate 420 may have a concave curvature to facilitate collection of liquid. As another alternative, the upper side of the upper plate 420 can be inclined downward toward the edge 420a to facilitate liquid dripping from the edge 420a of the upper plate 420. The water supply assembly 400 illustrated in the drawings can be easily replaced with alternative water supply assemblies to suit various species of companion animals.

The outer edge 420a of the upper plate 420 is curved so that water can easily roll off from the edge of the upper plate 420. The upper surface of the upper plate 420 may be a smooth surface. The upper surface of the upper plate 420 may be formed of a hydrophobic surface to facilitate movement of water flowing through the upper surface, but is not limited thereto. The upper plate 420 may be made of metal or plastic. In the drawing, the upper plate 420 is shown in a disc shape, but may be formed in another shape. For example, the upper plate 420 may be formed in a rectangular, hexagonal or triangular plate shape. Alternatively or in addition, the upper plate 420 can optionally include a plurality of ribs or a plurality of guide grooves to guide the flow of liquid across the upper surface of the upper plate 420.

When the operation of the pump 192 is stopped, by the inclined surface around the rim of the water supply hole 421, the water on the upper plate 420 may accumulate near the rim of the water supply hole 421, and the water is supplied to the water supply hole. It may not be recovered again through (421). Therefore, the inclined surface around the rim of the water supply hole 421 can be prevented from flowing back into the water supply pipe 192b. Alternatively, the upper plate 420 may have a surface or a rim near the water supply hole 421 inclined downward, and the width or diameter of the water supply hole 421 may be larger than the width of the water supply pipe 192b, and the pump may be configured with this structure. After 192 is turned off, water remaining on the upper plate 420 may be recovered back into the water tank 200 through the water supply hole 421. As another alternative, the upper plate 420 may be bent or inclined downward from the water supply hole 421 toward the outer edge 420a, and in this structure, the operation of the pump is stopped and remains on the upper plate 420 Any water that is present may continue to fall from the edge of the upper plate 420.

The water supply hole 421 is illustrated in the figure as being formed at the center of the upper plate 420, but the position of the water supply hole 421 is not limited thereto and may be provided at another position. The position of the hole of the plate support 430 may correspond to the position of the water supply hole of the upper plate 420. The position of the pump discharge port 192a may correspond to the position of the lower end of the water supply pipe support 433. The diameter (or width) of the water supply hole 421 and the hole 431 of the plate support 430 may be the same as the inner width or inner diameter of the water supply pipe support 433. Alternatively, the upper part of the water supply hole 421 and the hole 431 of the plate support may have an increasing diameter from the lower portion of the water supply hole 421 to the upper surface of the upper plate 420. Hereinafter, the water supply hole 421 and the hole 431 of the plate support are also referred to as holes 421 and 431.

The upper side of the plate support 430 may include one or more spokes 432 (or ribs) to reinforce the rigidity of the support and / or water supply assembly 400 of the upper plate. Alternatively, spokes may be provided on the bottom surface of the upper plate 420. The spoke may be a support rib having an inclination angle equal to the predetermined inclination angle of the upper plate 420. The plate support 430 can be easily separated from the upper filter 310 of the filter assembly 300, and the water supply assembly 400 can be easily replaced with another water supply assembly 400 having another type of upper plate 420. Can be.

The lower surface of the plate support 430 may include a protrusion 434 that is fitted to the rim 324 (or flange) of the filter assembly 300 and lowers the center of gravity of the plate support 430. The circumference of the protrusion 434 may be substantially the same as the circumference of the opening 311 of the upper filter 310 or may be slightly smaller than the circumference of the opening 311. Therefore, the water supply assembly 400 is mounted on the filter assembly 300, and the inside of the water tank 200 may be substantially sealed from the outside. The protrusion 434 may be coupled to or sealed to the openings 311 and 321 of the upper filter 310 and the filter guide 320, which will be described later.

The water supply pipe support 433 may extend from the bottom surface of the protrusion 434 toward the inside of the water tank 200 below the hole 431 of the plate support 430. The water supply pipe support 433 may be a hollow cylinder or a cylindrical shell. The water supply pipe 192b may have an inlet port connected to the pump discharge port 192a, extends through a passage of the water supply pipe support 433, and is connected to the hole 431 of the water supply hole 421 and the plate support 430, or It may be provided with a communication outlet.

The water supply pipe 192b may be flexible, and the water supply pipe support 433 may extend in a vertical direction to support the water supply pipe 192b. Alternatively or in addition, the flexible water pipe 192b may be curved to have a plurality of U-shaped bends disposed on the metal 191b of the Peltier device 191b before extending through the water pipe support 433, Accordingly, water flowing through the water supply pipe 192b may be additionally heated or cooled by the metal 191b.

Alternatively, the water supply pipe 192b may be formed of a rigid material, and in this case, the water supply pipe support 433 may mainly serve to protect the water supply pipe 192b instead of supporting the water supply pipe 192b. In this alternative embodiment, the water pipe support 433 can be optional. In another embodiment, the water supply pipe 192b may be omitted, and the water supply pipe support 433 may be connected to the pump discharge port 192b and function as a pipe in the water supply hole 421.

The inner surface of the water supply pipe support 433 and, optionally, the water supply hole 421 and the hole 431 of the plate support 430 may each have a groove. The float 410 includes a head 411, a stem 412, and an engaging hook 413 (or rib) fitted in a groove of the water supply pipe support 433, so that the float 410 is the hole 421 , 431). Alternatively, the rib 413 may be configured such that the float 410 maintains a fixed position within the holes 421, 431, and the float 410 is partially inserted into the holes 421, 431. Since it does not move up and down, it can serve as a diverter that changes the direction of water flowing through the water supply pipe 420.

The rib 413 may be a vertical extension that inclines outward from the lower end of the stem 412, and may be V-shaped. The inner end of the rib 413 can be coupled at the lower end of the stem 412 so that the stem 412 can be easily inserted into the water pipe support 430. The outer end of the rib 413 may have an optional hook or vertical wall that fits into the groove of the water pipe support 430. The ribs 413 can be flexible and bent slightly inward from the lower end of the stem 412 so that the outer end can move toward the stem 412 and fit into the water pipe support 430.

3B, the float 410 'of the water supply according to another embodiment of the present invention is only in that the rib 413' may be a vertical wall (or vertical plate) extending from the outer circumferential surface of the stem 412 It may be different from the float 410. The outer end (or side) of the rib 413 'may be fitted into the groove of the water supply pipe support 430. 3B, four ribs 413 'may be provided at 90 degrees to each other around the stem 412. The inner surface of the water supply pipe bolt 430 may have four vertical grooves through which the vertical side of the rib 413 'can move.

Referring again to FIGS. 2A and 3A, the stem 412 may have a width (or diameter) smaller than the width (or diameter) of the holes 421 and 431, while the head 411 may have a hole 421 , 431) may have a width (or diameter) larger than the width (or diameter). The head 411 can be similar to a dome (or cap) and can have a semi-circular cross section. Alternatively, the head 411 may have a truncated cone shape with a wide upper end and a narrow lower end. The stem 412 may be T-shaped, and the head 411 may be joined or welded to the top end of the stem 412. Alternatively, the head 411 and the stem 412 can be manufactured together integrally.

When water is discharged from the water supply hole of the upper plate, water may be injected between the upper edge of the water supply hole 421 and the lower edge of the head 411. The water may be sprayed while forming a water film, and may cover the upper surface of the upper plate 420. The water may fall from the edge 420a of the upper plate 420 to the filter assembly 300. The shape of the head 411 and the water supply hole 421 includes the pumping capacity of the pump 192, and the horizontal (or radial) speed component of the water discharged through the water supply hole 421 is the predetermined value of the upper plate 420. It may be configured to overcome the inclination angle of falling from the edge (420a). Therefore, the float 410 can function as a diverter that changes the flow direction of water from the upper side to the horizontal (or outer) direction.

Referring to Figures 2A and 4A to 4D, the filter assembly 300 may define the outer portion of the top cover (300, 400). The upper filter 310 and the filter guide 320 of the filter assembly 300 may be disposed below the upper plate 420 and the plate support 430 of the water supply assembly 400, and the filter guide 320 is the upper side. Water falling from the outer edge 420a of the plate can be captured. The upper filter 310 may be selectively installed. The upper filter 310 and the filter guide 320 may be welded, bonded, or adhered, or alternatively, the upper filter may be pressed into the upper portion of the filter guide 320.

The upper filter 310 may be made of metal, and may include a first filter surface 312 and an inclined wall 313 (or filter guard). The upper filter 310 may also be referred to as a drip tray. The inclined wall 313 may be a wall inclined outward from the first filter surface 312. Water may drop onto the upper filter 310, and water may be prevented from splashing out of the water supply by the inclined wall 313. The first filter surface 312 may be a flat plate or a ring shape, and may include a plurality of through holes through which contaminants can be filtered. The through hole of the first filter surface 312 may be in the shape of at least one of a circle, arc, slot shape, or other suitable hole shape to filter contaminants, and the size of the through hole is uniform or the size of contaminants to be filtered. Based on.

4A and 4B, the upper filter 310 may include an inner rim 314 defining an inner opening 311. The inner rim 314 may extend downward from the inner edge of the first filter surface 312, and may be provided around the flange 324 of the filter guide 320. The inner rim 314 may have a diameter greater than or equal to the diameter of the flange 324. When the upper filter 310 is coupled to the filter guide 320, the inner 314 may maintain a space between the upper filter 310 and the filter guide 320. The flange 324 protrudes upward from the inner opening of the upper filter 310, so that the protrusion 434 of the plate support 430 can be inserted on the flange 324.

The filter guide 320 may be made of plastic, and may optionally include an inclined wall 323 (or a guide guard). The inclined wall 323 of the filter guide 320 may correspond to the inclined wall 313 of the upper filter 310. The inclined wall 323 may be a wall inclined outward from the guide surface 322 of the filter guide 320. The inclined wall 313 of the upper filter may have an inclination similar to or the same as the inclined wall 323 of the filter guide 320, and may be disposed on the inclined wall 323 of the filter guide 320.

4B shows the water supply assembly 400 separated from the filter assembly 300 while the filter assembly 300 is seated on the upper rim 230 of the water bath 200. When the filter assembly 300 is located on the upper side of the water tank 200, the inclined walls 313 and 323 of the upper filter 310 and the filter guide 320 may protrude outward from the upper rim 230 , The angle between the upper rim 230 and the inclined walls 313 and 323 may be set to a predetermined angle (for example, 120 degrees). 4C shows that the filter guide 320 is still seated on the water bath 200 and the upper filter 310 is separated from the filter guide 320.

The inclined walls 313 and 323 may have an upper end on the same plane as the upper plate 420, or may be disposed at a lower position of the upper plate 420, so that the companion animal may easily consume water. Alternatively, the inclined walls 313 and 323 may be disposed at a position higher than the upper plate 420 to further prevent water splashing out of the water supply. A space (or a gap) may be formed between the upper end of the inclined walls 313 and 323 and the edge 420a of the upper plate 420, and the size of the space is that of a companion animal at the edge of the upper plate 420. It can be configured to easily access the water falling from (420a).

The lower rim 327 may extend downward from the lower portion of the guide surface 322 and / or the inclined wall 323. The lower rim 327 may be a vertical wall. The inclined wall 323 may be seated on the upper rim 230 of the water tank 200, and the upper end of the inclined wall 323 may protrude outside the water tank. The predetermined angle may be formed between the upper rim 230 and the inclined wall 323. The top covers 300 and 400 can be easily lifted from the water tank 200, the filter assembly 300 can be easily cleaned, and water can be easily replenished.

When the filter assembly 300 is seated on the upper rim 230 of the water tank 200, the filter assembly 300 and the water supply assembly 400 may close the upper opening of the water tank 200 together, and the water tank 200 ) Can be insulated, and can prevent foreign substances from falling into the water tank 200. The filter assembly 300 may be seated on the upper rim 230 to close the outer portion of the upper opening. The water supply assembly 400 may close the inner portion of the upper opening of the water tank 200 by the protrusion 434 of the plate support 430 covering the openings 311 and 321 of the upper filter and filter guide. The protrusion 434 may be seated on the flange 324 of the filter guide 320.

The guide surface 322 may be the bottom surface of the filter guide 320, and may extend from the inner upper portion of the lower rim 327 or alternatively from the lower inner or inner end of the inclined wall 323. As shown in FIG. 4C, similar to the inclined surface, the guide surface 322 can be inclined to allow water to flow downward toward the opening or filter slot 325. The guide face 322 can also be inclined inward toward the flange 324 and / or opening 321 from the bottom of the inclined wall 323, and water can be guided toward the inner edge of the guide face 322. Yes (see Figure 5A).

Water filtered through the first filter surface 312 may fall to the guide surface 322 and may be guided downward toward the filter slot 325. The upper filter 310 is connected to the filter guide 320 so that the first filter surface is spaced from the guide surface 322, allowing free flow of water. The guide surface 322 is similar to a slope bent in a ring shape, and the end of the slope is provided lower than the center of the slope, so that water dropped on the guide surface 322 through the first filter surface 312 is filtered. Guided towards the slot 325, can be filtered again to return to the water tank 200. Since water can move along the guide surface 322 below the first filter surface, noise generated when it falls directly into the water tank 200 through the first filter surface 312 can be reduced.

The filter slot 325 may include walls 325b and 325c protruding downward from a lower portion of the guide surface 322 and a second filter surface 325a. The walls 325b and 325c may include two side walls 325b and a rear wall 325c, and the side walls 325b and the rear wall 325c may extend downward from the guide surface 322. The second filter surface 325b may extend between the side walls 325b. The upper surface of the filter slot 325 may be an opening of the guide surface 322. The bottom surface of the filter slot 325 may be defined as a second filter surface 325a. The second filter surface 325a may have a plate shape and may include a plurality of through holes through which water is filtered. Similar to the through holes in the first filter surface, the size and shape of the through holes in the second filter surface 325a can be adjusted based on the type of contaminants to be filtered.

The filter tray 326 may be disposed inside the filter slot 325 and may have an outer perimeter having the same dimensions as the inner perimeter of the filter slot. The side wall 325b and the rear wall 325c can receive the filter tray, while the front surface of the filter slot 325 includes an opening, so that the filter tray 326 opens the opening of the filter slot 325 front surface. Can be inserted through.

The filter tray 326 is provided with a filter material (eg, carbon filter, mesh filter, porous filter, guard board or accordion filter, strainer, etc.) (hereinafter also referred to as filtration material), the water supply assembly 400 and the filter When the assembly 300 is positioned on the water tank 200, water may be additionally filtered and the water tank 200 may be insulated. Water falls to the upper filter 310, is filtered through the first filter surface 312, flows along the guide surface 322 of the filter guide 320, and passes through the filter material of the filter tray 326. It can flow and flow into the water tank 200 through the second filter surface 325a.

Before the filter tray 326 is sealed or closed, the two side walls corresponding to the side wall 325b of the filter slot 325 and the rear wall corresponding to the rear wall 325c of the filter slot 325 and the filter slot 325 are closed. It may include a barrier. Filter tray 326 may optionally include one or more walls extending between the front and rear walls to maintain the position of the filter material. The filter tray 326 and / or filter material can be easily replaced. A handle may optionally be provided on the front wall of the filter tray 326 to facilitate separation of the filter tray 326 and / or filter material.

The upper plate 420, the plate support 430, the upper filter 310 and the filter guide 320 cover the upper opening of the water tank to prevent contamination of water stored in the water tank, and can insulate the water in the water tank 200. . The first filter surface can prevent foreign matter, such as food from a pet's mouth or muzzle, from falling into the water tank 200, and the filter material of the filter tray 326 removes foreign matter from water before the water returns to the water tank. It can be further filtered.

The openings of the upper filter 310 and the filter guide 320 may be located at the center of the upper filter 310 and the filter guide 320. The flange 324 may surround the opening 321 of the filter guide 320 and may be inserted into the opening 311 of the upper filter 310. The protrusion 434 of the plate support 320 may be inserted into at least a portion of the upper filter 310 and the openings 311 and 321 of the filter guide 320, and the outer bottom surface of the plate support 430 is a filter guide. It can be mounted on the flange 324 of 320. The secondary filter 240 provided in the water tank 200 may be fitted into the openings 311 and 321 of the upper filter 310 and the filter guide 320. Further details of the secondary filter will be described later with reference to FIG. 6.

2A and 5A to 5C, the water tank 200 may be formed of an outer wall 210, an inner wall 220, and an upper rim 230. The inner and outer walls 220 and 210 may be formed as an integral type (for example, injection molded plastic), or separately manufactured and connected by connecting the upper ends of the outer wall 210 and the inner wall 220. have. Alternatively, the inner and outer walls 220, 210 are half injection molded together (e.g., the left half and the right half have half of the inner wall 220 and outer wall 210), and the half They can be joined or fused to each other.

The upper rim 230 may be fitted on top of the inner and outer walls 220 and 210. The outer wall 210 may include a stepped portion 211 leading to a concave rim on the top. The inner wall 220 may also include a step portion 224 leading to a concave rim on the upper side. The upper rim 230 is formed in an inverted V-shape, and may be disposed in a concave rim on the inner and outer walls 220 and 210. The upper rim 230 is seamless from the outer wall 220 to the upper rim 230 when the upper rim 230 is pressed and / or attached to the concave rims of the inner and outer walls 220 and 210. ) It may be configured to form the outer surface. The upper rim 230 may cover the connected upper ends of the inner and outer walls 220 and 210 and may be removable.

Alternatively, the upper rim 230 can be omitted. In this case, the outer wall 210 and the inner wall 220 may not include the step portions 211 and 224, respectively, and the shape or inclination of the outer wall 210 and the inner wall 220 may include a filter assembly 300. It can be configured to support. When the upper rim 230 is omitted, the outer wall 210 and the inner wall 220 are combined at the top, covering the space S1 formed between the inner wall 220 and the outer wall 210.

As another alternative, when the upper rim 230 is included, the ends of the outer wall 210 and the inner wall 220 may not be coupled, and the upper rim 230 may serve to cover the space S1. . In this case, the upper rim 230 is fixed to the outer wall 210 and the inner wall 220, and in order to seal the space S1, step portions 211 and 224 of the outer wall 210 and the inner wall 220 ) Can be further glued or sealed.

The inner wall 220 may be cylindrical, and the outer wall 210 may be inclined outward from the top of the inner wall 220. The upper rim 230 may be inclined to match the inclination of the outer wall 210. The water tank 200 may have a trapezoidal cross-section or a truncated cone shape with a lower bottom than the top, but the shape of the water tank 200 is not limited to the truncated cone shape. For example, the outer wall 210 may also be cylindrical, and the upper rim 230 may not have a slope. This configuration makes the water tank 200 cylindrical. When the water tank 200 has a truncated cone shape having a diameter that decreases from the bottom to the top, the center of mass of the water tank may be lowered, and the water tank 200 may be positioned as a stable well at the bottom.

The lower ends of the inner and outer walls 220 and 210 may be spaced apart from each other. A space S1 may be provided between the inner wall 220 and the outer wall 210, and the space S1 is filled with air to insulate the water tank 200, and cool the water stored in the water tank 200 (or Alternatively warm). The inner and outer walls 220 and 210 may be transparent materials (for example, glass or plastic), and a user may check the water level or the possibility of contamination in the water tank 200. The upper rim 230 may be an opaque material (eg, stainless steel or colored plastic) to enhance the aesthetics of the water tank 200.

The inner wall 220 may also include a bottom surface, and the bottom surface of the inner wall may include an outer bottom surface 221 and an inner bottom surface 223. The inner bottom surface 223 may be provided lower than the outer bottom surface 221, and a vertical wall 222 (or an extension) may connect the inner bottom surface 223 and the outer bottom surface 221. The inner bottom surface 223 may be a circular concave within the bottom of the water tank 200, and may be concave downward from the outer bottom surface 221. The extension portion 222 may correspond to a vertical wall 112b (or a flange) extending downward and defining an opening of the upper frame 110 of the base 100.

The inner bottom surface 223 is closer to the devices (e.g., Peltier device 191b, heat sink 160) provided in the base 100, while the outer bottom surface 221 is opened in the base 100 It can be raised to be further away from the device (for example, the center plate 130, the heat sink 160.) between the upper surface of the upper frame 110 of the base 100 and the heat sink 160 There may be a space (S2) (or gap) in the outer bottom surface 221 of the water tank 200 may be further insulated.The outer bottom surface 221 forms a curved corner from the inner wall 220 Alternatively, the inner and outer bottom surfaces 223 and 221 may be separately formed and then joined or welded to the lower end of the inner wall 220.

The diameter of the inner bottom surface 223 may be smaller than or equal to the diameter of the secondary filter 240. The inner bottom surface 223 may include a pump housing 292 in which a pump 192 is disposed, and also a printed circuit board 195 and / or battery 196 described below provided in the base 100 It may include a wire hole 226 into which the wire of the pump 192 connected to (see FIG. 10D) is inserted. A sealant or gasket that prevents water in the water tank 200 from leaking to the base may be provided in the wire hole.

The inner bottom surface 223 may further include a Peltier hole 225 (or opening) to which the metal 191a located on the upper portion of the Peltier device 191b may be exposed. The Peltier hole 225 of the water tank 200 may have a size and shape corresponding to the size and shape of the upper portion of the metal 191a. The sealant or gasket may be provided in the wire hole 226 to prevent water stored in the water tank 200 from leaking into the base 100. Although the metal 191a and the Peltier hole 225 are illustrated in a circular shape, the shapes of the metal 191a and the Peltier hole 225 are not limited thereto. For example, the metal 191a and the Peltier hole 225 may have a rectangular shape. The inner bottom surface 223 may further include openings or holes through which the sterilizing light 194 and the water temperature sensor 193 protrude, and the sealant or gasket may be used for the sterilizing light 194 and the water temperature sensor 193. It is provided in the openings to prevent water from leaking to the base 100.

Referring to FIG. 1F, the pump housing 292 may be disposed near the center of the inner bottom surface 223, and the pump 192 may be provided at the center of the water tank 200 under the water supply pipe support 433. , The positions of the pump 192 and the pump housing 292 are not limited thereto. The Peltier hole 225 is disposed at the pump inlet 192c side of the pump inlet 192c pump 192 so that water is heated or cooled by the Peltier device 191b and the metal 191a to the pump 192. Can be introduced. The pump inlet 192c may be configured to be adjacent to the metal 191a, and the Peltier hole 225 may be provided near or adjacent to the pump housing 292.

The metal 191a may function as a heat sink by directly contacting water stored in the water tank 200 and an upper side of the Peltier device 191b. The Peltier device 191b may be mounted on the heat sink 160, and details of the Peltier device 191b, the metal 191a, and the heat sink 160 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 10A to 10F. A gasket having a high thermal conductivity is provided between the Peltier hole 225 and the Peltier device 191b to seal the Peltier hole 225, and water does not penetrate into the base 100. The metal 191a may also be bonded or bonded to the Peltier hole 225 so that the Peltier hole 225 can be sealed. The Peltier device 191b may be disposed directly under the inner bottom surface 223 of the water tank 200, and water stored in the water tank 200 may be efficiently heated or cooled before flowing into the pump inlet 192c. . The Peltier hole 225 is provided close to the pump housing 292, and water entering the pump inlet 192c may be cooled (or heated) after passing through the metal 191a.

The pump housing 292 may be formed of at least two walls extending upward from the inner bottom surface. As shown in FIG. 1F, the pump housing 292 creates three walls to create a housing with an inner perimeter having the same dimensions (eg, length and width) as the dimensions of the outer perimeter of the pump 192. It can be provided. A bumper or gasket with an elastic material (eg, rubber) along the inner circumference of the pump housing 292 can be provided. The bumper may further secure and cushion the pump 192 within the pump housing 292.

The lower side of the pump 192 may be provided with at least one suction cup to secure the pump 192 to the center of the inner bottom surface 223. The pump housing 292 can be optional, and the pump 192 can be attached to the inner bottom surface 224 through the suction cup. The suction cup can also be optional, and the pump 192 can alternatively be secured within the pump housing 292 of the inner bottom surface 223. The pump 192 may be an underwater pump.

The inner bottom surface 223 may include an optical housing 294 that guides light from the sterilizing light 194. The optical housing 294 may be cylindrical surrounding the opening of the bottom portion of the inner bottom surface 223. Alternatively, there may be no openings, and light from the sterilizing light 194 may be emitted through a transparent material on the inner bottom surface, and guide the light upward by the light housing 294 in the water tank 200. Water can be sterilized.

The sterilizing light 194 may be mounted on the heat sink 160 and / or the center plate 130 (or disk) provided below the inner bottom surface 223. The sterilizing light 194 may include at least one light emitting diode (LED) or organic light emitting diode (OLED) that emits ultraviolet rays to sterilize water in the water tank 300. The sterilizing light 194 may include an LED or OLED emitting visible light. The optical housing 294 may have a cylindrical shape, may block ultraviolet rays from being directly emitted toward the user's eyes, and guide and reflect ultraviolet rays upwards to cover the water and / or pump flowing into the pump inlet 192c (251) Water flowing over the upper side can be sterilized. The inner surface of the optical housing can be formed or coated with a reflective material. Alternatively or in addition, the sterilizing light may include a light emitting diode that emits visible light (blue light or yellow light) that can diffuse into the water stored in the water tank 200 to enhance aesthetics.

The control unit C in the base 100 may be provided on the printed circuit board 195 (PCB) (see FIG. 8B), and may control the sterilization light to operate at regular periodic intervals. The user can also select when to activate the sterilizing light 194 via the user interface 114 and / or mobile application.

The water temperature sensor 193 (for example, a thermometer) protrudes through the central plate 130 and the inner bottom surface 223 to directly contact the water stored in the water tank 200 and to measure the temperature of the water. have. The water temperature sensor 193 may be a probe protruding into the water tank 200 or may include a probe. Alternatively or in addition, a contamination level sensor may be projected into the water tank 200 or provided inside the water tank 200 to detect the level of contamination of water in the water tank 200. The control unit c may operate the sterilizing light 194 based on the contamination level detected by the contamination level sensor.

The inner bottom surface 223 may be optional, and an extension 222 extending below the outer bottom surface 221 may be welded or adhered to the central plate 130. In this configuration, the center plate 130 can include a pump housing 292 and an optical housing 294. The center plate 130 may include a light hole 132, a wiring hole 136, and a Peltier hole 131 (see FIG. 9). The center plate 130 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 8A to 9C.

2A and 6, the secondary filter 240 may be a cylindrical filter or strainer made of a hard material (eg, metal or stainless steel), and may be easily separated from the water tank 200. The secondary filter 240 may be a strainer having a plurality of through holes 241, and may filter foreign substances from water. Alternatively, the secondary filter 240 may have a mesh structure. The secondary filter may include an upper rim 242 and a lower rim 243. In FIG. 6, through holes are not formed in the upper rim 242 and the lower rim 243, but the upper rim 242 and the lower rim 243 may optionally include through holes. The secondary filter may be located on the bottom cover 250 to surround the pump cover 251.

The secondary filter may be cylindrical as shown in the drawing, or alternatively, may be inverted truncated cone shape having a wide upper rim 242 and a narrow lower rim 243, and may increase the area where the through hole is formed. For example, this truncated cone shape can have a larger number of holes. The secondary filter 240 may have a hollow inside with openings at the top and bottom, and the water supply pipe support 433 can be easily inserted into the upper opening, and pumps of the pump 192 and / or the bottom cover 250 The cover 251 can be easily inserted into the lower opening.

The diameter of the secondary filter 240 may be smaller than the diameter (or width) of the openings 311 and 321 of the upper filter 310 and the filter guide 320, and the height of the secondary filter 240 may be a water tank 200 It may be smaller than the distance from the bottom of the filter guide 320 to the top of the flange 324. When the companion animal water supply is assembled, the secondary filter 240 may not contact the flange 324 or the plate support 240. Alternatively, the secondary filter 240 may have the same height as the height from the bottom of the water tank 200 to the top of the flange 324, and may additionally support the plate support 430. The secondary filter 240 may or may not be needed. As another alternative, the height and diameter of the secondary filter can be configured such that upper rim 242 replaces flange 324.

The water supply pipe 192b and the water supply pipe support 433 may be disposed in the secondary filter 240, and the secondary filter 240 may include a bottom surface 223 of the water tank 200, a water supply pipe 192, and a water supply pipe support 433 ) To improve the integrity of the appearance of the water supply. When the secondary filter 240 is positioned on the bottom cover 250, the upper rim 242 may overlap at least partially with the flange 324 of the filter guide 320.

The plurality of through holes 241 may filter particles having a size larger than the plurality of through holes 241. Similar to the first and second filter surfaces 312 and 325a, the size and shape of the through holes of the secondary filter can be adjusted based on the type of contaminants.

The size of the plurality of through holes of the first filter surface 312 may be larger than the size of the plurality of through holes of the second filter surface 325a, which in turn may be larger than the size of the plurality of through holes of the secondary filter 240. . The secondary filter 240 may filter particles smaller than the first and second filter surfaces 312 and 325a. Alternatively, the size of the plurality of through holes of the secondary filter 240 may be larger than that of the plurality of through holes of the first and second filter surfaces 312 and 325a to facilitate the flow of water toward the pump 192. have. The secondary filter 240 may be optional and may be configured to have various sizes and shapes.

1E, 5A, 5B, 7A and 7B, the bottom cover 250 can be made of an opaque material (eg, colored plastic or metal), and can be located on the bottom of the water bath 200 , The inner and outer bottom surfaces 223 and 221 may be covered. Since the water tank 200 may be transparent, the bottom cover 250 covers the bottom of the water tank 200 to hide the wire inserted into the wire hole 226, the pump 192, the optical housing 294 , Pump housing 292, sterilizing light 294 and water temperature sensor 193 can also be hidden.

The outer ring 256 and the pump cover 251 are made separately, and can be glued or welded, or the outer ring 256 can be kept separate from the pump cover 251. In this separate configuration, at least one of the outer ring 256 and the pump cover 251 may be optional. The outer ring 256 may have a ring shape corresponding to the outer bottom surface 221, and the pump cover 251 may be provided with a pump 192 provided under the side and / or pump cover 251 formed by the extension 254. It may be a cap shape having a side having a plurality of openings to allow the inflow of water.

The shape of the bottom cover 250 may correspond to the shape of the bottom of the water tank 200 between the inner walls 220. Although the drawings include a cylindrical inner wall 220, a ring-shaped outer bottom surface 221 and a circular inner bottom surface 223, and corresponding ring-shaped outer rings 256 and circular pump covers 251. Although the bottom cover 250 is shown, the disclosed embodiment is not limited to a circle.

The pump cover 251 may protrude over the outer ring 256, which may be an outer or flat portion of the bottom cover 250. The pump cover 251 may protrude upward to form an interior space in which the pump 192, the pump housing 292, the sterilizing light 194, and the light housing 294 can be provided. The pump cover 251 has a cap (or dome) shape having a height equal to or higher than the height of the pump 192 and a lower diameter (or width) similar to the diameter (or width) of the inner bottom surface 223 of the water tank. Can The plurality of extensions 254 (or ribs) may protrude upward from the inner edge of the outer ring 256 to form a side surface of the pump cover 251. The extension 254 may be inclined inward from the outer ring 256 toward the pump cover 251.

A plurality of holes or openings are formed between the plurality of extensions 254 so that water can enter the openings and be sucked into the pump inlet 192c. The size of the opening may be larger than the size of the through hole 241 of the secondary filter 240 to facilitate free flow of the liquid filtered by the pump 192. The distance between the extensions 254 may vary. Alternatively, instead of the plurality of extensions 254, the sides of the pump cover 251 may be filters having through holes for further filtering foreign matter from the water. In this alternative embodiment, the size and shape of the through hole of the pump cover 251 is the size of the through hole (241, etc.) of the secondary filter 240, the first filter surface 312 and the second filter surface 325a, and It may be smaller than the shape, and may filter particles smaller than the secondary filter 240, the first filter surface 312, and the second filter surface 325a. Alternatively, the size and shape of the through hole of the pump cover 251 is more than the size and shape of the through hole 241 of the second filter 240, the first filter surface 312 and the second filter surface 325a. It can be large and can facilitate the flow of water to the pump inlet 192c.

The upper surface of the pump cover 251 may include an outlet hole 252 into which the pump outlet 192a can be inserted. Alternatively, the pump outlet 192a may be covered by a pump cover 251, and the water supply pipe 192b may be inserted through the outlet hole 252. The top surface of the pump cover 251 may also include a light hole or light housing 253 for guiding light from the sterile light 194.

7B, the optical housing 253 of the pump cover 251 may extend below the upper surface of the pump cover 251 to fit around the optical housing 294 of the water tank 200. Alternatively, the optical housing 253 of the pump cover 251 may be inserted into the optical housing 294 of the water tank 200. In this alternative, the inner surface of the light housing 253 is optionally coated with a reflective layer so that light can be dispersed throughout the water in the water bath 200.

The lower side of the bottom cover 250 is spaced apart from the pump cover 251 from the pump 192 and at least one inserted into the recess of the inner bottom surface 223 to prevent lateral movement of the bottom cover 250 Ribs 255 (or flanges). The flange 255 and / or the bottom cover 250 may have sufficient weight to hold the bottom cover 250 at the bottom of the water tank 200. Alternatively, ribs 255 may be provided at locations on the floor cover 250 to space the floor cover 250 from the outer bottom surface 221. The bottom cover 250 may be made of an opaque material such as metal or colored plastic. Alternatively, ribs or flanges extending upwardly from the inner bottom surface 223 or the outer bottom surface 221 may be provided, which may include the bottom cover 250 and / or the pump cover 251 in the water tank 200. The inner and outer bottom surfaces 223 and 221 are spaced apart.

The secondary filter 240 may be fitted around the pump cover, and may be located inside the outer ring 256. The widest width (or diameter) of the pump cover 251 may be less than or equal to the width (or diameter) of the lower rim 243 of the secondary filter 240. The outer ring 256 surrounds the pump cover 251 and may optionally include a groove in which the secondary filter 240 is inserted and aligned, and the groove may prevent side movement of the secondary cover 240. have.

The outer ring 256 may cover the outer bottom surface 221 of the water tank 200. The overall diameter (or width) of the bottom cover 250 may be equal to or smaller than the width of the bottom of the water tank 200. Since the water tank 200 can be transparent, the bottom cover 250 can serve to cover any wiring or adhesive visible under the bottom of the pump 192 and water tank 200. The secondary filter 240 and the bottom cover 250 can be easily lifted from the water tank 200 to easily correct the displacement of the pump 192 or clean the water tank 200.

At least one of the secondary filter 240, the outer ring 256, and the pump cover 251 may be optional. For example, the secondary filter 240 serves to cover the pump 192, and the bottom cover 250 may be omitted. Alternatively, the pump cover 251 can be omitted from the bottom cover 250, and the secondary filter 240 can be inserted into the center hole of the outer ring 256. Alternatively, the pump cover 251 may be provided without the outer ring 256, and the secondary filter 240 may surround and maintain the position of the pumpker 251. As another alternative, the secondary filter 240 can be omitted, and the pump cover 251 can include a plurality of apertures to filter the liquid.

2A to 2B and 8A to 8C, inner and outer bottom surfaces 223 and 221 of the water tank 200 may be disposed on the upper side of the upper frame 110. The lower frame 120 can be coupled to the upper frame 110 (eg, snap fit, press fit, bolted, screwed or glued). The upper and lower frames 110 and 120 may have cap shapes for forming outer walls (or side surfaces) together with upper and lower surfaces, respectively. The lower rim of the upper frame 110 may include grooves and ribs that snap to corresponding grooves and ribs formed in the upper rim of the lower frame 120. The upper frame 110 of the base 100 can mainly serve as an upper cover, and electronic devices and cooling elements (eg, printed circuit boards 114c, 195, proximity sensor 125, and heat sink 160) In order to form a space in which it is installed or provided, it may be snap-fitted into the lower frame 120, press-fit, screwed, or the like.

The outer surface of the lower frame 120 may have a convex curvature or a curved lower edge. The user can easily lift the water dispenser without gripping the curved bottom edge of the lower frame 120 by making a wedge-shaped finger between the bottom surface of the lower frame 120 and the floor or the ground. In addition, the curved bottom edge of the lower frame 120 is shaken when an external force is applied to the water supply, and the water supply can be returned to the upright position of the initial position. The curved edge of the lower frame 120 can prevent the waterer from turning over completely.

The upper frame 110 may include outer and inner covers 111 and 112 forming outer and inner portions of the upper surface of the base 100. The upper surface of the base 100 may also include a vertical wall 112b (or flange) extending downward from the inner cover 112 and forming the inner opening 112a. The flange 112b may correspond to the extension 222 of the bottom of the water tank 200, and the opening 112a may correspond to the inner bottom surface 223. The inner bottom surface 223 may be a circular recess that protrudes downward and is inserted into the opening 112a.

The metal 191a mounted on the heat sink 160, the sterilizing light 194, and the water temperature sensor 193 may be exposed through the opening 112a. A circular center plate 130 corresponding to the shape of the opening 112a may be exposed through the opening 112a. In addition to the inner and outer bottom surfaces 223 and 221 of the water tank 200, the outer and inner covers 111 and 112 and the center and upper plates 130 and 140 block the inside of the base 100 from water to base The devices provided in 100 (eg, fan 180, Peltier device 191b) are sealed from water stored in water tank 200.

The guide rib 113 can separate the outer and inner covers 111 and 112. The outer bottom surface 221 of the inner wall 220 of the water tank 200 may be seated on the inner cover 112 and positioned between the guide ribs 113. The guide rib 113 may extend along the circumferential direction of the upper side of the upper frame 110 as a whole, and may prevent movement of the inner wall 220 of the water tank 200. Alternatively or in addition, the outer bottom surface 221 may contact the inner cover 112.

The outer cover 111 may include a guide groove 119 (see FIG. 9A), and a lower end of the outer wall 210 of the water tank 200 may be inserted into the guide groove 119. Alternatively or in addition, the lower end of the outer wall 210 may include a protrusion (or extension) fitted to the guide groove 119, the outer wall 210 of the upper frame 110 of the base 100 It may be snap-coupled to the outer cover 111.

The user interface 114 may be provided on the upper frame 110 of the base 100. Alternatively, the user interface may be provided on the lower frame of the base 100 or inside the upper rim of the water tank. In this alternative embodiment, an electronic device such as the user interface 114 may be provided in the upper rim 230 of the water tank, and the upper rim 230 has an inner space to provide electronic devices, wires, batteries, electrodes, and / or Alternatively, the wireless power transceiver may be wrapped.

The user interface 114 may allow the user to select the mode, temperature, etc. of the water supply. Although the user interface 114 is shown as having a button 114b and / or a light emitting device 114e, the disclosed embodiments are not limited to this, and the user interface 114 may be a digital display, LCD, touch screen, or the like. have. For convenience of description, it is described that the user interface 114 includes a button 114b and a light emitting device 114e. The user can control the water supply through a mobile application communicating via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, or through the Wi-Fi module of the control unit C provided on the printed circuit board 195, for more details. It will be described later with reference to.

The upper frame 110 of the base 100 may include at least one button hole 114a into which at least one button 114b is inserted. The button 114b can be connected to the printed circuit board 114c. Based on the pressing pattern of the button 114b by the user, the button 114b may contact the printed circuit board 114c and transmit various types of signals to the control unit C on the printed circuit board 195. The upper frame 110 may further include at least one light hole 114d, and at least one light emitting device 114e such as a light emitting diode (LED) or an organic light emitting diode (OLED) may be printed circuit board 114c. ) On the upper side of the button. The light emitting device 114e emits light of various wavelengths and colors through the light hole 114d under the control of the control unit C on the printed circuit board 195 to indicate at least one of the state or operation of the water supply.

Although a single light emitting device 114e behind the light hole 114d is shown, the shape of the light emitting device 114e is not limited thereto. For example, the light emitting device 114e may be in the form of a ring, may include a plurality of LEDs or OLEDs, and the light emitting device 114e may be installed in a groove formed in the upper frame 110 of the base 100. have. As another alternative, the light emitting device 114e may be installed on the lower frame 120 of the base 100 or the upper rim 230 of the water tank. The ring-shaped light-emitting device 114e may include a plurality of LEDs or OLEDs to soothe animals that may suffer from seasonal emotional disorder or seasonal depression. The light emitting device 114e can also be used as a lamp or mood stable light.

The user can select a first mode (for example, an ON mode) by pressing the button 114d once, and the light emitting device 114e emits a first color (for example, green) indicating that the water supply is turned on. Can, and the pump 192a can be operated. The user can select the second mode (e.g., off mode) by pressing the button 114d twice, and the light emitting device 114e emits a second color (e.g., red) indicating that the water supply is turned off. The pump 192 can be turned off.

The user can also operate the fan 180 and the Peltier device 191b and select a cooling mode or a fast cooling mode to cool the water, and the light emitting device 114e can emit blue light. The user can also select a heating mode to operate the Peltier device 191b to heat the water. Other modes are manual mode (if the user needs to further instruct whether to operate the pump 192 or cool or heat the liquid through the Peltier device 191b) or the water temperature sensor 193 and / or at least one proximity sensor ( It may include an automatic mode in which the pump 192 and the Peltier device 191b can be operated based on the water temperature sensed by the 125 and / or proximity information sensed by the at least one proximity sensor.

The proximity sensor 125 may be a radar sensor that emits radio waves to detect whether the companion animal is approaching the water supply. Since the proximity sensor 125 uses radar technology, it is not necessary to include a hole in the upper frame 110 through which the proximity sensor 125 transmits a signal. Alternatively, the proximity sensor 125 may transmit a signal (eg, a laser signal) through a hole or opening provided in the upper frame 110, and an optional transmissive film may cover the hole or opening.

Proximity sensor 125 may be provided on the inner circumferential surface of the lower frame 120 or behind the outer walls of the upper and lower frames 110 and 120 to face the outside, but in the embodiments disclosed herein, the proximity sensor 125 may transmit a signal It is not limited to such a location as far as it can be emitted. A plurality of proximity sensors 125 may be provided at equal intervals along the circumference or inner circumference of the lower frame 120. For example, when the lower frame 120 is circular, four proximity sensors 125 may be provided at 90 degrees from each other. As another example, three proximity sensors 125 that are 120 degrees apart from each other may be provided. The number and arrangement of the proximity sensors 125 is not limited to three and four, and the proximity sensors 125 disposed at various intervals in the base 100 may be more or less.

Alternatively or in addition, there may be mounting portions extending from the inner circumferential surfaces of the upper frame 110 and / or the lower frame 120, and the proximity sensor 125 and / or other electronic devices (eg For example, recesses (or cavities) that accommodate printed circuit boards 114c and 195 may be formed. Alternatively, the upper rim 230 of the water tank 200 may have a mounting portion projecting outward from the outer circumferential surface to accommodate the proximity sensor 125 and / or the camera (or image sensor). In another alternative, there may be a camera (or image sensor) provided on the upper frame 110 as part of the user interface 114, and the upper frame 110 may be captured by the camera (or image sensor). It may include a hole.

The upper frame 110 may further include an exhaust port (or exhaust grill) 115 for discharging hot or cold air from the inside of the base 100 to the outside. Alternatively, the exhaust port 115 may be disposed on the side of the lower frame 120. The exhaust port 115 may be a vertical slot configured to be aligned with an end portion of the heat sink fin 162 of the heat sink 160, and details thereof will be described later with reference to FIGS. 10A to 10F.

The bottom surface of the lower frame 120 of the base 100 may include at least one leg 127 (or flange) that separates the base 100 from the ground. A plurality of base legs 127 (or flanges) spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction of the lower frame 120 may be provided on the lower edge or bottom surface of the lower frame 120. The weight sensor 124 may also serve to separate the base 100 from the ground.

The bottom surface of the lower frame 120 is an air / liquid discharge slot 122 through which a suction grill 121 through which the ambient air can be sucked into the base through the fan 180 and a liquid (eg, condensate) can be discharged. It may include. The suction grill 121 may include a plurality of arc-shaped slots or through holes extending in a circumferential direction. Alternatively, the suction grill 121 may include a plurality of elongated slots extending radially outward from the center of the lower frame 120, may include a helical opening, or a grid or mesh type with rectangular holes It may include a grill. The suction grill 121 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the fan 180.

The discharge slot 122 may be an arc-shaped slot or a hole formed in an outer portion or an outer edge of the bottom surface of the lower frame 120. The position of the discharge slot 122 may correspond to the end of the fan housing 170, and details of the flow path of the liquid or condensate formed downward toward the discharge slot 122 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 10A to 10F. .

8C to 9C, the center plate 130 may have a shape corresponding to a shape (eg, a circle) of the opening 112a of the upper frame 110. The diameter of the center plate 130 may be slightly larger than the diameter of the opening 112a, and the center plate 130 and / or the upper plate 140 disposed on the center plate 130 (hereinafter, 'top plate') Also referred to as) may be coupled (eg, welded, glued, or fused) to the flange 112b to cover the opening 112a. The center plate 130 may be integrally formed with the inner cover 112 and the outer cover 111 of the base 100, or may be formed of separate pieces and later flanged 112b of the inner cover 112 and / or Alternatively, it may be welded or joined to the extension portion 222 of the water tank 200 and the inner bottom surface 221. 9B shows an example in which the center plate 130 has a pump housing 292 in which the pump 192 is disposed, the pump housing 292 may alternatively be a water tank (as shown in FIG. 1F). 200) may be provided on the inner bottom surface 223.

The central plate 130 is a Peltier hole (or Peltier opening) 131 into which a metal 191a is inserted, a light hole 132 into which a sterilizing light 194 can be inserted or exposed, and a water tank 200 It may include a wiring hole 136 through which an electric wire connected to the inner pump 192 passes. The wiring hole 136 may include an optional cylindrical housing that is inserted into the wiring hole 226 to further insulate the wiring and prevent liquid from seeping into the base 100 from outside the wiring holes 226 and 136 . The metal 191a may be inserted through the Peltier hole 131 of the center plate 130 and the Peltier hole 225 of the inner bottom surface 223 of the water tank 200 (FIG. 5C), and the metal 191a is Mounted on the Peltier device 191b, the liquid may be heated or cooled before water enters the pump 192.

The Peltier device 191b may be mounted on the heat sink 160 and the heat sink 160 (and / or the optional top plate 140 provided on the heat sink 160) by a gap or space S3. And spaced apart may serve to separate the central plate 130. The length of the gap or space S3 may be the same as the height of the Peltier device 191b.

The peltier hole 131 of the center plate 130 may have a size and shape corresponding to a lower portion of the metal 191a mounted on the heat sink 160. Alternatively, the Peltier hole 131 of the center plate 130 may have a size and shape corresponding to the upper portion of the metal that is formed smaller than the lower portion of the metal 191a, and the center plate 130 is a lower portion of the metal 191a. You may be seated in an injury. In this alternative embodiment, the gap or space S3 between the central plate 130 and the heat sink 160 may be equal to the sum of the heights of the lower Peltier device 191b and the lower height of the metal 191a.

The center plate 130 may further include a water temperature sensor hole 133 through which the water temperature sensor 193 may protrude. The water temperature sensor 193 includes a base 193a mounted on the heat sink 161 of the heat sink 160 and a probe protruding into the water tank 200 through the inner bottom surface 223 of the water tank 200. can do. The Peltier device 191b, sterilizing light 194, pump 192, and water temperature sensor 193 are electrically connected to the battery 196 provided on the printed circuit board 195 and / or the printed circuit board 195 (see FIG. 10D). Can be connected to.

The center plate 130 may have a disc shape corresponding to the shape of the inner bottom surface 223 of the water tank 200. However, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to circular central plate 130. For example, the center plate 130 may be rectangular and may have a shape corresponding to the heat sink 161 of the heat sink 160.

The center plate 130 may be disposed between and / or under the pair of side plates 150. The side plate 150 may have a height higher than the center plate 130, and may be disposed under the outer cover 111 and inner covers 111 and 112 of the upper frame 110 of the base 100. . The side plates 150 may be disposed spaced apart over the heat sink 160 and / or the optional top plate 140 to form a gap or space S2 (see FIGS. 5A-5B). The space S2 under the side plate 150 may communicate with the space S3 under the center plate 130. The pair of side plates 150 may not contact the center plate 130 and may be adhered to the lower surfaces of the outer cover 111 and the inner cover 112.

The optional top plate 140 may be disposed on the heat sink plate 161 of the heat sink 160 (see FIGS. 5B, 5C, and 11B). Alternatively, the top plate 140 may alternatively be disposed on the center plate 130 (see FIGS. 2B and 8C). The top plate 140 may include a hole through which the Peltier device 191b, the sterilizing light 194, and the water temperature sensor 193 are exposed, in addition to a hole for receiving an electric wire passing through the wiring hole 227. The top plate 140, the side plate 150, and the center plate 130 are configured to prevent the water tank 200 from being unintentionally heated by the heat emitted by the heat sink 160 and / or the motor provided to the fan 180. The heat sink 160 can be removed. The top plate 140, the side plate 150, and the center plate 130 can be made of an insulating material and can act as a gasket. Alternatively, the top plate 140, the side plate 150 and the center plate 130 may be made of metal.

9A and 10A to 10F, the heat sink 160 may be disposed under the center plate 130, the top plate 140 and the side plate 150, and the fan 180 and the fan housing ( 170). The heat sink 161 may be disposed under the center plate 130, the top plate 140, and the side plate 150. The plurality of heat dissipation fins 162 may be provided under the heat dissipation plate 161 to face the upper surface or the outlet of the fan 180.

The heat sink fin 162 and the heat sink 161 may be formed of the same material, and the material may be a material having a high thermal conductivity such as metal (eg, copper or aluminum). The heat dissipation fin 162 may be arranged in a parallel structure configured to flow air toward the exhaust port 115, and when the upper frame 110 is coupled to the lower frame 120, the end of the heat dissipation fin 162 is an exhaust port ( 115) (FIGS. 10E and 10F). The heat dissipation fins 162 and the ends of the exhaust port 115 may correspond to the left and right sides of the water supply, the user interface 114 may correspond to the front, and the socket 118 may correspond to the rear. The end of the heat sink 160 corresponding to the exhaust port 115 may be curved to correspond to the curvature of the side wall of the upper frame 110. The corresponding ends of the top plate 140 and the side plate 150 can be similarly curved.

Although the drawing shows a plurality of longitudinal heat dissipation fins 162 extending linearly across the heat sink 161, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to this configuration of the heat sink 160. For example, the heat sink 161 may be formed of a circular disk or ring, and the heat sink fins 162 may extend radially outward from the center of the heat sink 161 and formed as an annular ring extending in the circumferential direction. It may be, or may be a square or rectangular pin facing each other and provided at equal intervals around the outer periphery of the heat sink 161. In another alternative embodiment, the heat sink 161 can be formed as a ring with a hole, and the fan 180 can be inserted into the hole instead of being provided under the heat sink 160.

A Peltier device 191b, a water temperature sensor 193, and a sterilizing light 194 may be disposed on the heat sink 161. As an alternative, the Peltier device 191b, the water temperature sensor 193 and the sterilizing light 194 are provided on either the top plate 140 or the center plate 130 to open the opening 112a of the upper frame 110 and the water tank 200 ).

The metal 191a may directly contact water in the water tank 200. The metal 191a may be made of a metal having good thermal conductivity such as copper or aluminum, but may alternatively be made of stainless steel or other material having high thermal conductivity (or high heat transfer coefficient). The upper side or part of the metal 191a may have a ridge shape, or alternatively a mesh grid shape to increase the surface area in contact with water. Other shapes or contours can be used to increase the surface area. For example, the surface of the metal 191a may be convex or concave, and may additionally include a mesh grid pattern or a row of ridges or pins (hereinafter also referred to as a 'ridge'). The lower portion of the metal 191a may be wider than the upper portion having a raised portion. The Peltier hole 225 of the water tank 200 (see FIG. 5C) may be sized to expose only the upper part of the metal 191a, while the lower part of the metal 191a has water in the Peltier hole of the water tank 200. It is possible to prevent the base 100 from leaking past the 225.

The Peltier device 191b may be mounted on the top surface of the heat sink 161 and may have a terminal to which a voltage can be applied. When a voltage is applied to the Peltier device 191b, heat is transferred from one of the upper or lower portions to the other, and a temperature difference may occur between the upper and lower portions.

During the heating process, the upper portion of the Peltier device 191b may become hot and release heat, which may be transferred to the liquid in the water tank 200 through the metal 191a, and the lower portion may be cold or absorb heat. As the fan 180 rotates, cold air may be discharged through the heat sink 160 and discharged out of the exhaust port 115.

During the cooling process, the top of the Peltier device 191b can be cooled and the liquid in the water bath 200 can be cooled through the metal 191a. The lower portion of the Peltier device 191b may be hot. As the fan 180 rotates, hot air is dissipated through the heat sink 160 and may be exhausted outside the exhaust port 115.

In order to sense the temperature of the Peltier device 191b or the heat sink 160, a temperature sensor may be optionally provided. When the temperature sensor detects that the temperatures of the Peltier device 191b and / or the heat sink 160 are higher than a preset temperature, the operation of the Peltier device 191b is stopped, and the fan 180 rotates to heat sink 160 And / or cool the Peltier device 191b. Ambient air may be sucked upward to the base through the suction grill 121. The fan 180 may discharge the ambient air toward the plurality of heat sink fins 162 of the heat sink 160, the heat sink 160 and / or the Peltier device 191b may be cooled, and the exhaust port 115 Through the hot air may be discharged.

The fan 180 is disposed on the lower frame 120 on the suction grill 121 and may be oriented so that air sucked through the suction grill 121 can be discharged to the heat sink fin 162 of the heat sink 160. . The fan 180 may include a hub 183 and a plurality of blades 182 extending from the hub 183 at the center. The fan case or shroud 181 may surround the plurality of blades 182. The hub 183 may be rotated by a motor inside the hub 183. The plurality of blades 182 may be inclined or bent to push air toward the heat sink 160. The fan case 181 may include a fastening hole 184 through which a bolt or screw can fasten the fan case 181 to the fan housing 170. Alternatively, the fastening hole 184 can be used to couple the fan case 181 to at least one of the upper frame 110 and the lower frame 120 of the base 100.

The fan housing 170 surrounds the fan case 181, supports the heat sink 160, and can guide the flow of air discharged from the outlet of the fan 180. The center frame 173 of the fan housing 170 may have an inclined surface leading to the discharge slot 122 and the exhaust port 115. The inclined surface of the center frame 173 may cover the side surface of the fan case 181. For example, when an unexpected liquid enters the base 100 through the exhaust port 115, the liquid may be guided to the inclined surface of the fan housing 170 and discharged out of the discharge slot 122 and the discharge port 115.

When the fan 180 is not operating, the liquid is more likely to fall to the sides of the water tank 200 and the base 100 than to fall into the exhaust port 115. When the fan 180 is operated, the discharged air may prevent the liquid from flowing into the base 100 through the exhaust port 115. In addition, any other liquid or condensate that can be condensed on the fan housing 170 can be discharged through the discharge slot 122.

The inclined surface of the center frame 173 may guide the exhaust toward the exhaust port 115. The height of the inclined surface of the center frame 173 may be less than or equal to the lower height of the exhaust port 115 so as not to block the exhaust port 115. The bottom surface of the inclined surface of the central frame 173 of the fan housing 170 guides the air discharged from the fan 180 to the heat sink 160 and prevents the surrounding air from escaping.

The upper end of the center frame 173 may have an opening 171 (see FIG. 9C) configured to fit the fan 180 and / or the fan case 181, the inclined surface extending from the side edge or end to the fan housing 170 ) May correspond to the length direction of the heat sink 160 and the top plate 140. The size and shape of the opening 171 may be sufficiently large that the outflow of the fan 180 is exposed through the opening 171, and the center frame 173 partially covers the fan case 181 to cover the fan case 191 ) May be attached to the center frame 173 through the fastening hole 184. Alternatively, the size and shape of the opening 171 may correspond to the size and shape (eg, square or circular) of the circumference of the fan case 181. The height of the top of the center frame 173 may be greater than or equal to the height of the fan case 181 so that the heat sink 160 can be placed on the center frame 173.

The fan housing 170 may include a pair of sidewalls or side frames 172 extending upward to cover the side surfaces of the heat sink 160. The side frame 172 may extend from the top surface of the center frame 173 and the side surfaces of the inclined wall of the center frame 173.

The center plate 130 may have a diameter or width equal to or greater than the distance between the side frames 172 of the fan housing 170, and the side frames 172 include recesses 172a (or cutouts) It may be, the side portion of the central plate 130 extending beyond the width of the fan housing 170 may be provided in the cut-out or recess (172a). The concave portion 172a may separate the central plate 130 from the heat sink 160 by the space S3. The distance from the lower end of the side frame 172 to the recess 172a may be greater than or equal to the distance from the lower end of the heat sink fin 162 of the heat sink 160 to the upper end of the Peltier device 191b. Alternatively, if the diameter of the central plate 130 is smaller than the distance between the side frames 172 of the fan housing 170, the recesses 172a may be omitted.

The side frame 172 may include a lower opening or an incision in which the side of the fan case 181 may be exposed, and the inclined surface of the center frame 173 may cover each side of the fan case 181. The height of the fan case 181 may be equal to or less than the height of the opening of the side frame 172. The end of the side frame 172 may be provided around the end of the fan case 181.

The fan housing 170 may include a screw hole 170a (or boss) protruding from the side frame 172. A bolt or screw is inserted into the screw hole 170a to attach the fan housing 170 to the upper frame 110, the fan housing 170, the heat sink 160, the Peltier device 191b, the metal 191a, and a plurality Plates 130, 140, and 150 of the base 100 can be pushed upward toward the upper surface of the upper frame 110 and the inner bottom surface 223 of the water tank 200, Peltier holes 225, wiring The hole 226 and the opening for the sterilizing light 194 and the temperature sensor 193 are additionally sealed, so that water in the water tank 200 can be prevented from leaking into the base 100. In addition, the screws inserted into the screw holes 170a may help align the heat sink 160, the Peltier device 191b, the metal 191a, and the plurality of plates 130, 140, 150. Details of the coupling of the screw hole 170a and the fan housing 170 to the upper frame 110 will be described later with reference to FIG. 11C.

The Peltier device 191b and the fan 180 may be connected to the control unit C (see FIG. 12) on the printed circuit board 195 and receive power from external power through the socket 118 (or terminal). , Power may be supplied through the battery 196. Details of the control unit C and the printed circuit board 195 will be described later with reference to FIG. 12.

Base 100 may include battery 196. The battery 196 is adjacent to the side wall 172 of the fan housing 170 and may be provided on the printed circuit board 196. The battery 196 may be rated at 3500mAh (milliampere-hour, milliamp hour). The battery 196 may be charged by external power applied to the socket 118 disposed near the battery 196. Alternatively or in addition, the battery 196 can be charged wirelessly through a corresponding charging pad. The wire can be plugged into socket 118. The printed circuit board 195 may include an AC / DC converter for converting direct current from an external power supply to alternating current. Alternatively, the battery 196 may be connected to a wireless power transceiver or wireless power receiver, and may be wirelessly charged through the wireless power transceiver.

When external power is cut off or deactivated, the battery 196 can power the pump 192, the sterilizing light 194, the water temperature sensor 193, the Peltier device 191b, and / or the user interface 114. When the charge amount of the battery 196 is less than a predetermined amount and the socket 118 is not connected to an external power source, the controller C emits or flashes a specific color (for example, red) of the light emitting device 114e. By warning the user that the power supply is low, the user can supply external power to the water supply through the socket 118. In addition, the water dispenser will enter a power saving mode where only certain devices (e.g., pump 192) are operated while other devices (e.g., Peltier device 191b, sterilizing light 194) are not activated. You can. Details of the power saving mode will be described later with reference to FIG. 12.

11A and 11B, the bottom surface of the lower frame 120 includes a sensor frame 123 (eg, a weight sensor frame) in which a water level sensor 124 (eg, a weight sensor) can be accommodated. It may further include. The embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to having a weight sensor to determine the amount of liquid contained in the container, but for convenience of description, describe the embodiment where the water level sensor 124 is a weight sensor.

The shape of the weight sensor 124 may correspond to the lower contour of the weight sensor frame 123. The weight sensor 124 can also act as a leg or cushion that supports the water supply, and can protrude further downward than the leg 127 formed on the lower frame 120. The weight sensor 124 senses the weight (or pressure by weight) of water in the water tank 200 and strain gauge, pressure applied to the bottom frame 120 of the base 100 and / or the bottom of the water tank 200 It can be a sensor or a load sensor. The control unit C provided on the printed circuit board 195 may determine the water level in the water tank 200 based on the measurement of the weight sensor 124.

The weight sensor frame 123 may include a recess portion or a step portion 123a that enters upward from the lower surface of the lower frame 120, and the lower portion of the weight sensor frame 123 is a lower portion of the lower frame 120. It can protrude from the face. A cavity or a chamber may be formed by the step portion 123a.

The weight sensor 124 may include a main body 124a and a pad 124b with a sensor. The elastic frame 124c may be coupled to the inner opening of the main body 124a through an extension 124e formed on one side of the elastic frame 124c. The elastic frame 124c may be inserted into the cavity formed by the step portion 123a of the weight sensor frame 123, and the main body 124a may be provided below the bottom of the weight sensor frame 123. The pad 124b of the weight sensor 124 may extend beyond the leg 127 of the lower frame 120 such that the cushion height of the weight sensor 124 is longer than the length of the leg 127.

The weight sensor 124 may further include a protrusion or flange 124d inserted into the second step portion 123c (or the intermediate step portion) formed in the weight sensor frame 123. The intermediate step portion 123c may be formed concavely at the lower end of the weight sensor frame 123, but may not be concavely formed up to the step portion 124a. The flange 124d can fix the main body 124a of the weight sensor 124 to the intermediate step portion 123c and provide stability and rigidity to the body 124a.

The size and shape of the extension portion 124e is moved toward the ground while pressing the elastic frame 124c depending on how much the weight of the water tank 200 is at the lower end of the main body 124a and the weight sensor frame 123 of the weight sensor. Or you can move away from the ground. The may body 124b and the elastic frame 124c may be made of the same material as the lower frame 120 (eg, plastic).

The pad 124b may cover the end of the protrusion protruding from the elastic frame 124c. The protrusions and pads 124b can still be fixed, even if the lower frame 120, the lower end of the weight sensor frame 123 and the main body 124a move towards the ground or move away from the ground, and are elastic according to the applied weight The frame 124c can be pressed. When the surface of the step portion 123a moves downward and touches the rear surface of the elastic portion 124c, pressure or weight applied by the sensor of the pad 124b can be sensed. The pad 124b may further expand and contract according to the weight applied to the weight sensor 124, and may further include an elastic material (eg, rubber) that acts as a cushion to protect the sensor. The upper surface of the elastic frame 124c and the lower surface of the step portion 123a are flat so that the pressure sensed by the pad 124b can be uniformly distributed.

The combination of the weight sensor 124 and the weight sensor frame 123 is not limited to a configuration including an extension on the main body 124a of the weight sensor and step portions 123a and 123c in the weight sensor frame 123. As an alternative example, the main body 124a of the weight sensor 124 is provided with an opening or cavity having a circumference corresponding to the top contour and / or the upper contour of the main body 124a of the weight sensor 124 of the frame. It can be snapped or pressed into the frame 123. Alternatively, the body 124a and pad 124b of the weight sensor can be manufactured as a single weight sensor 124.

The pad 124b of the weight sensor 124 may function as a leg on which the water supply can be placed, and the bottom surface of the lower frame 120 of the base may be separated from the ground so that air can be sucked through the suction grill 121. have.

The base 100 may be provided with additional sensors, such as the optional temperature sensor described above, a gyro sensor for sensing the inclination (or inclination) of the water supply, and an optical sensor for sensing ambient light in a space where the water supply is disposed. In addition, the water supply unit may be provided with a pedestal that the control unit (C) can adjust the height and / or slope of the water supply in response to the measurement from the gyro sensor.

Referring to FIGS. 1F, 1G, 2B, 8A to 8C, 9A and 9C in connection with FIG. 9B, the lower side of the upper frame 110 includes a variety of holes and bosses, the base 100 The internal heat sink 160, the fan housing 170, the printed circuit board 195, the battery 196, the proximity sensor 125 and the user interface 114 can maintain the position of the upper frame 110 To assist in coupling to the lower frame 120. The fan housing 170, the upper plate 140, the side plate 150, and the lower frame 120 may have holes, bosses, or recesses corresponding to various holes and bosses of the upper frame 110. Screws or bosses can be inserted into the holes and bosses of the upper frame 110, fan housing 170, top plate 140, and the side plate 150 is the fan housing 170, fan 180, heat sink 180, center plate 130, Peltier device 191a, metal 191b, top plate 140 and / or side plate 150 toward upper frame and inner bottom surface 223 of water tank 200 It is possible to prevent water from seeping into the base 100 by pushing.

More specifically, the side wall of the upper frame 110 may include a socket opening 118a (or socket hole) through which a terminal or socket 118 can be exposed for plug-in. The battery housing 196a may be formed as a wall extending downward. A portion of the wall of the battery housing 196a may be curved to correspond to the curvature of the battery 196. Four bosses 195a extending downward near the corner of the battery housing 196a can maintain the position of the printed circuit board 195 below the battery 196.

The user interface housing 114f formed of a wall or frame may extend downward to maintain the position of the printed circuit board 114c of the user interface 114. Similarly, the proximity sensor housing 125a formed as a wall or frame may extend downward to maintain the position of the top of the proximity sensor 125. Although two proximity sensor housings 125a are shown in FIG. 11C, there may be more or less proximity sensor housings 125a depending on the number of proximity sensors 125 provided on the base. The positions of the user interface housing 114f, the proximity sensor housing 125a, and the battery housing 196a may correspond to the positions of the user interface 114, the proximity sensor 125, and the battery 196, respectively, and the boss 195a. The position of may correspond to the position of the printed circuit board 195.

The bosses 117a, 117b, and 117d (or screw holes) may be formed as holes protruding through the upper surface of the upper frame 110. The boss 117c may extend downward and may optionally have a hole protruding through the upper surface of the upper frame 110.

The boss 117a may be a screw hole or a bolt hole. Bolts or screws are inserted into the recess 170b formed in the side frame 172 through the boss 117a to maintain the positions of the fan housing 170 and the heat sink 160. Each side frame 172 of the fan housing 170 may include two recesses 170b having a shape corresponding to a bolt inserted through the boss 117a. Four bosses 117a may be provided at positions corresponding to the recesses 170b in the fan housing 170. The top plate 140 includes a hole 140a located on the upper side of the recess 170b, and a bolt may be inserted into the recess 170b. Similarly, a pair of frames 150 may include cut-outs, recesses or openings 150a, and bolts may be cut through, cut-outs or openings 150a of the frame 150, It may pass through the set (170b). Therefore, the upper plate 140 and the pair of plates 150 may not interfere with the path to the recess 170b.

The boss 117b may be a smaller bolt hole or screw hole than the boss 117a. The bolt or screw may be inserted through the boss or screw hole 170a protruding from the side frame 172 of the fan housing 170 and coupled to the boss 117b. Each side frame 172 of the fan housing 170 may include two screw holes 170a adjacent to the recess 170b. Four bosses 117b may be provided at positions corresponding to the screw holes 170a in the fan housing 170. The bolt or screw is inserted upward into the corresponding boss 117b through the screw hole 170a to maintain the position of the fan housing 170 and heat sink 160, Peltier device 191a, temperature sensor 193, By applying pressure to the sterilizing light 194 and the metal 191b, openings in the inner bottom surface 223 of the water bath 200 for the sterilizing light 194 and the temperature sensor 193, Peltier holes 225 and wiring It is possible to prevent water from leaking through the hole 226.

The boss 117c may extend downward and be coupled to the lower frame 120. The lower frame 120 may include a corresponding boss 117e protruding upward. The corresponding boss 117e may include a hole into which the lower end of the boss 117c can be inserted. Alternatively, the boss 117c can be coupled to a corresponding groove formed in the lower frame 120, and the boss 117e of the lower frame 120 is simply a heat sink 160 and / or a fan housing 170. It can serve to prevent lateral displacement.

The boss 117d may be a bolt hole or a screw hole. The bolt or screw may be inserted through the boss 117d and through a hole 150a provided in the pair of side plates 150 to be coupled to the heat sink 160. When the top plate 140 is provided, a corresponding cutout, recess or opening 140b may be provided so as not to obstruct the path to the heat sink 160. The bolt coupled to the heat sink 160 serves to keep the heat sink 160 away from the center plate 130.

2A to 2B and 12A, the control unit C provided on the printed circuit board 195 includes a printed circuit board 114c and / or a user interface 114, a sterilizing light 194, and a proximity sensor (125), a water temperature sensor 193, a weight sensor 124, a battery 196, a motor provided on the fan 180, a Peltier device 191b and a pump 192 can be electrically connected and controlled. The control unit C is an AC / DC converter that converts AC supplied to the socket 118 into DC, a memory or storage device that stores data (for example, proximity sensor 125 data and time), and a communication module. It can be electrically connected. If various other sensors (for example, a temperature sensor or a gyro sensor) provided in the base 100 are provided, the other sensors may also be electrically connected to and controlled by the controller C. The control unit C may be connected to an optional global positioning system (GPS) that tracks the location of the water supply.

The communication module includes a WiFi module and / or a Bluetooth module, so that the user can control the control unit C through a mobile application installed on the mobile device. The communication module may communicate with the communication module of the printed circuit board 114c to control the operation of the light emitting device 114e and the button 114b on the user interface 114. The communication module may retrieve information (eg, GPS data) from the user's mobile device or smart toy, and compare it with data from the water supply (eg, GPS data detected by GPS). The communication module interacts or communicates with a separate server that receives data from the user's mobile device and / or smart companion device (e.g., pet pendant, automatic pet treadmill, automatic pet house, robot cleaner, etc.) can do.

When the water temperature sensor 193 detects a temperature outside the preset first water temperature range, the Peltier device 191b may be controlled by the controller C to heat or cool the water in the water tank 200. Since animals tend to prefer water at 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, the first water temperature range may be 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. In addition, the user can set the temperature range of the water in the water tank 200 through the user interface 114 or a mobile application.

The proximity sensor 125 may detect the position of the companion animal within a preset distance range. If the control unit C determines that the companion animal is within the predetermined distance range, the control unit C can operate the pump 192 to supply water to the upper plate 420, and the outer edge of the upper plate 420. Water falling from 420a may embody the flowing water preferred by the animals. Pets are interested in watering and can drink falling water.

In addition, the control unit C may wait for the operation of the pump 192 only when the proximity sensor 125 detects that the companion animal continues to be close to the water supply. The proximity sensor 125 may first detect that the companion animal is within a preset distance range, and the controller C may quickly operate the pump 192 when the pump 192 has an additional command or signal from the controller. It can be controlled to be ready to "standby." When the proximity sensor 125 detects that the companion animal has moved closer to the water feeder, the control unit C may operate the pump 192.

As another example, the control unit C may operate the pump 192 only when the companion animal approaches the water supply at a preset speed. The control unit C may calculate the speed of the companion animal approaching based on continuous or periodic measurements from the proximity sensor 125 and the internal timer. When the pet is detected as being within a preset second distance range that is smaller than or close to the preset first distance range, the controller C determines that the companion animal is drinking water from the water supply, and the memory can store consumption data. .

The control unit C may control the pumping capacity or the pumping rate of the pump 192. The controller C may increase the pumping capacity by detecting and determining that a plurality of companion animals are approaching or approaching the water supply through the plurality of proximity sensors 125.

The memory can be provided on the printed circuit board 195 and can store data on how often or what time the pet drinks water from the water supply. The controller C may predict when a companion animal will access the water supply device based on the data stored in the memory, and operate the pump 192 and the Peltier device 191b based on this. For example, if the data stored in the memory indicates that the companion animal drinks water from the water supply at noon every day, the control unit C operates the Peltier device 191b before noon to cool or heat the water, and the pump at noon (192) ), Or control the pump 192 to be in a standby state.

As another example, if the data stored in the memory indicates that the companion animal drinks from the water supply every two hours, the proximity sensor 125 detects that the companion animal is no longer within the second distance range from the water supply, and then 2 After a time, the control unit C may operate the Peltier device 191b and / or control the pump 192 to be in an operating or standby state.

The control unit C may interact with a mobile application installed on a mobile device (or computer), and may also interact with a pet pendant or tag having a GPS tracker. Based on the pet pendant and the GPS sensor of the user's mobile device, the control unit C may determine whether the companion animal is alone at home, outside or at home with the user. The location of the house may be determined by a user input through a mobile application or based on GPS data detected by the water heater's GPS.

When the GPS data indicates that the companion animal and the owner are away from the house together, the control unit C operates the Peltier device 191b to cool or heat the water so that the water is at a comfortable temperature when the companion animal returns home. Can do When the owner and the companion animal are away from the house, the control unit C may further operate the sterilizing light 194 because there is no risk of the owner and the companion animal being exposed to UV radiation.

When the GPS sensor indicates that the companion animal is alone at home, the control unit C may operate the pump 192 and / or the light emitting device 114e to lead the companion animal to the water supplyer and regularly ingest water. The user can also control the water supply through the mobile application, and turn the water supply on or off using the mobile application. The user can also select the water temperature to be maintained and control the pump 192.

2A to 2B and 12, a state of the battery 196 may be provided to a user through a mobile application, and the controller C may control the electronic device based on the charge amount of the battery 196. have. In addition, the control unit C may control the electronic device based on the water level detected by the weight sensor 124.

For example, when the battery 196 is less than a predetermined first charge amount (eg, 15%) and external power is not supplied to the socket 118, the power saving mode may be entered. The user may configure desired settings during the power saving mode through the user interface 114, or a default power saving mode may be implemented when no setting is input. In the power saving mode, the temperature control of the water supply can be changed. For example, the control unit C may stop the operation of the Peltier device 191b, the proximity sensor 125, the temperature sensor 193, and the sterilizing light 194, but the pump 192 and the user interface 114 Can continue to operate.

Alternatively or in addition, the control unit C may stop the fan 180 when the temperature of the heat sink 160 and / or the Peltier device 191b sensed by the element temperature sensor is lower than a preset temperature. Can be.

In addition, even if the charge amount of the battery 196 exceeds 15%, the controller C may implement a power saving mode when the water level sensed by the weight sensor 124 is less than a predetermined minimum water level. Alternatively or in addition, the control unit C may stop the operation of the pump 192 when the water level sensed by the weight sensor 124 is less than the predetermined minimum water level. The control unit C may continuously operate the weight sensor 124 and operate the pump 192 when the water level sensed by the weight sensor 124 is greater than a predetermined minimum water level.

Alternatively or in addition, the control unit C may cause the electronic device to operate preferentially during the power saving mode. The controller C may change the priority of the electronic device based on the data detected by the weight sensor 124, the water temperature sensor 193, and the proximity sensor 125. For example, the control unit C may continue to operate the water temperature sensor 193 in the power saving mode, but the operating priority of the Peltier device 191b is a preset second water temperature range greater than a preset first water temperature range (eg For example, the operation of the Peltier device 191b may be prioritized based on the temperature sensed outside 2 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius. In addition, the user may set in advance the priority of the electronic device to be implemented during the power saving mode through the user interface 114.

During the power saving mode, the control unit C controls the communication module to signal a charging pad capable of wirelessly charging the battery 196 (for example, a wireless signal through a WiFi or service set identifier or SSID signal) or electrical Connections can be checked continuously. When a signal indicating that the battery 196 is in a range capable of wirelessly charging is received from the charging pad, a normal mode or operation may be implemented, and the power saving mode may be interrupted. The normal mode may not prevent or reduce the operation of the Peltier device 191b. If no signal is received from the charging pad, the user can override the sleep mode through the mobile application to implement the normal mode.

The control unit C may continuously check whether external power is being applied to the socket 118 by interacting with the socket 118. If the control unit C determines that external power is being applied to the socket 118, the power saving mode may be stopped, and the normal mode may be implemented.

If the battery 195 is less than a preset second charge amount (e.g., 3%) less than the first charge amount, the water supply is still running with the remaining electronic devices (e.g., light emitting device 114e and / or user interface) (114), the element temperature sensor, the weight sensor 124, the pump 192 and the fan 180, the operation can be entered into a sleep or sleep mode is stopped. If the user cannot charge the battery 195 by connecting the socket 118 to an external power source or wirelessly through a charging pad, the user lifts the inclined wall 323 of the filter guide 320 to feed water assembly ( 400) and the filter assembly 300 may be separated from the water tank 200, and a companion animal may take water directly from the water tank 200. The user can also separate the secondary filter 240 from the water tank 200 so as not to interfere with the intake of water by the pet, but the inside of the water tank 200 to protect the pump 192 and the sterilizing light 194 The bottom cover 250 can be maintained.

In the above-described first embodiment, the fan 180 provided in the center of the base 100 and the heat sink 160 and the Peltier device 191b provided on the side are illustrated, but are not limited thereto.

13A and 13B, a companion animal water supply device according to the second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is the first embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12, except for the arrangement of the fan 180 ', the heat sink 160', the Peltier device 191b ', and the metal 191a', and It may be substantially the same as its alternative embodiments.

In the second embodiment, the fan 180 'and the heat sink 160' are smaller in size and may be disposed on the side of the base 100. The fan 180 'may be disposed under the heat sink 160', the heat sink 160 'may be disposed under the Peltier device 191b', and the Peltier device 191b 'may have an outer bottom surface ( 221). The suction grill 121 ′ may be disposed on the lower frame 120 under the fan 180 ′, and the discharge grill 115 ′ may be disposed on the center or opposite side of the lower frame 120.

In the second embodiment, the bottom cover 250 may be made of metal (e.g., stainless steel), and the bottom cover 250 is in direct contact with the metal 191a 'to function as an additional heat transfer plate and the water tank ( 200) to help heat or cool the liquid within, the ribs 255 can be omitted. Alternatively, the bottom cover 250 includes ribs 255 or the outer bottom surface 221 of the water tank 200 spaces the bottom cover 250 from the outer bottom surface 221 of the water tank 200. It may include a rib to let.

14A to 14B, a water supply device according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The third embodiment, with the exception of the arrangement of the fan 180 ", the heat sink 160", the Peltier device 191b ", and the metal 191a" in the third embodiment, with reference to FIGS. It may be substantially the same as the described first embodiment and alternative embodiments thereof.

The fan 180 "may be a centrifugal fan provided on the side of the heat sink 160" rather than on the lower side. The suction grill 121 "may be provided on the lower frame 120 under the fan 180" (or the suction grill 121 "may be provided on the outer wall of the lower frame 120 adjacent to the fan), and on the lower side. On the opposite side of the intake grill 121 "of the frame, an outlet grill 115" through which air can be discharged may be provided. The heat sink 160 "and the fan 180" are provided with an intake grill 121 "and an outlet grill (115 ").

The fan 180 "blows air laterally through the heat sink fins of the heat sink 160" to provide a Peltier device 191b "provided on the heat sink of the heat sink 160" and under the metal 191a ". It can be cooled.

In the above, although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and the technical field to which the present invention pertains without departing from the gist of the present invention claimed in the claims. Of course, various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art, and these modifications should not be individually understood from the technical idea or prospect of the present invention.

100: base 200: water tank
300: filter assembly 400: water supply assembly

Claims (22)

A water tank 200 having an upper rim 230 for storing water and forming an upper opening;
A base 100 supporting the water tank;
A pump 192 having an inlet 192c for sucking water stored in the water tank and an outlet 192a for discharging the water;
A filter assembly 300 supported on the upper rim 230; And
It is provided above the upper portion of the filter assembly, and includes a water supply assembly 400 for closing the opening of the water tank with the filter assembly,
The pump pumps water from the water tank to the upper side of the water supply assembly,
The filter assembly,
First plates 312 and 322 fitted inside the water tank;
First walls 313 and 323 extending upwardly from the first plate and having an outer surface supported by the upper rim of the water tank; And
A water supply including at least one or more openings 325 and 312 through which water dropped from the water supply assembly returns to the water tank.
According to claim 1,
The first wall (313, 323) includes an inclined wall extending upwardly outward,
The first width of the upper rim 230 is smaller than the second width of the upper end of the first wall,
The first and second widths are located in a first direction.
According to claim 1,
The first plate 322 is inclined downward toward the opening 325, the water supply to guide the water to the opening.
According to claim 1,
The first plate 322, the water supply is inclined toward the center of the water tank from the outer edge.
According to claim 1,
The first plate (312, 322) is a water supply in the shape of a ring.
According to claim 1,
The first plate 312 is a water supply including a strainer having a plurality of openings.
According to claim 1,
Further comprising a second plate 322 spaced from the first plate 312,
The first plate covers the second plate.
The method of claim 7,
Further comprising a second wall 323 extending from the second plate 322,
The second wall 323 is a water dispenser contacting the first wall (313).
The method of claim 7,
The first plate and the second plate have inner openings 311 and 321,
The second plate has an edge 324 extending upward from the inner opening,
The first plate, the water supply is disposed on top of the second plate so that the inner opening 311 of the first plate surrounds the rim 324 of the second plate.
According to claim 1,
The filter assembly 300 is connected to at least two or more slot walls 325b and 325c extending downward from an opening formed in the first plate 322 and a bottom surface 325a connected to a bottom of the at least two slot walls. Further comprising a first filter slot 325 defined by,
The bottom surface (325a) is a water supply including at least one opening through which water flowing into the water tank flows.
The method of claim 10,
Further comprising a filter tray 326 having a filtration medium,
The filter tray 326,
Through the opening of the first plate 322, the filtration medium and the opening of the bottom surface (325a), the water supply is inserted removably from the filter slot 325, so that water flows into the water tank.
The method of claim 11,
The filtration medium is a water supply comprising a carbon filter.
The method of claim 11,
The filter tray 326,
Two side walls corresponding to the two slot walls 325b of the filter slot 325, a rear wall corresponding to the rear wall 325c of the filter slot 325, and before sealing the filter slot 325c Water supply including barriers.
According to claim 1,
A water supply unit further provided in the water tank and surrounding the pump 240.
The method of claim 14,
Further comprising a bottom cover 250 disposed on the bottom (221, 223) of the tank,
The bottom cover 250 includes a pump cover 251 covering the pump,
The pump cover is a water supply with an opening formed on the side.
The method of claim 14,
The filter 240, the water supply including a cylindrical strainer disposed on the bottom cover 250 and surrounding the pump cover (151).
The method of claim 14,
The first plate includes inner openings 311 and 321,
The water supply assembly 400 includes a plate support 430 closing the inner opening of the first plate,
The lower part of the plate support 430 is fitted to the inner opening of the first plate.
The method of claim 17,
The filter 240 has a water supply having an upper end 242 disposed in an inner opening of the first plate.
A filter guide 320 having an inclined wall 323 extending from the bottom surface 322 and fitted to the top of the water tank 200 for storing water; And
It includes an upper filter 310 to be fitted to the filter guide,
The upper filter 310,
The water falling from the water supply surface 420 located above the upper filter is captured,
It includes a bottom surface 312 spaced upward from the bottom surface of the filter guide,
A plurality of through holes are formed in the bottom surface of the upper filter,
A filter assembly for a water supply having an opening in the bottom surface of the filter guide.
The method of claim 19,
Further comprising a plate (325a) connected to the bottom surface of the filter guide through at least one or more walls (325b, 325c), and extending horizontally below the opening 325 of the bottom surface of the filter guide,
A filter assembly having a plurality of through holes formed in the plate 325a.
The method of claim 20,
A filter assembly further comprising a filtration medium provided between the plate 325a and the bottom surface 322 of the filter guide 320.
The method of claim 19,
A filter assembly in which a bottom surface of the filter guide is inclined downward toward the opening 325.

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