KR20210014064A - Water purifier for companion animal - Google Patents

Abstract

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a water purification device for a companion animal comprises: a housing which has an internal space; a water purification flow path which passes through the internal space of the housing and has one side connected to an external flow path in which the water pressure is formed; a filter which is connected to the water purification flow path and configured to purify water received from the water purification flow path; a discharge unit which is connected to the other side of the water purification flow path and configured to discharge the water purified by the filter to the outside; an external water container which is coupled to a front surface of the housing to be disposed on a lower portion of the discharge unit and configured to store the water discharged by the discharge unit; a first valve which is coupled to one portion of the water purification flow path at the rear of the filter and configured to adjust the pressure of water moving from the water purification flow path to the inside of the filter; a second valve which is coupled to one portion of the water purification flow path at the front of the filter and configured to allow purified water to move from the water purification flow path to the discharge unit or block the movement thereof; a first sensor which is mounted on the housing and configured to sense a movement of a companion animal; and a controller which is electrically connected to the second valve and the first sensor and configured to control the second valve based on a detection signal of the first sensor. The water purification device for a companion animal can be easily cleaned and managed.

Description

Water purification device for companion animals{WATER PURIFIER FOR COMPANION ANIMAL}

The technical idea of the present disclosure relates to a water purification device, and more particularly, to a water purification device for companion animals.

The market for companion animals is growing rapidly around the world. In the case of our country, the demand for companion animals is increasing as the number of singles and the elderly increases due to the progress of social nuclear familyization and aging. Accordingly, many products for companion animals are being released. Specifically, many products for the health of companion animals are being released.

Pets need frequent drinking of clean water for their health. For example, if cats don't drink enough fluids or drink clean water, cats' kidney function can be impaired. According to overseas studies, about 30% of cats with a lifespan of 15 years or more suffer from chronic kidney failure due to inadequate fluid intake. Also, the treatment of cats with chronic renal failure can be costly.

One of the problems to be solved by the technical idea of the present disclosure is to provide a water purification device capable of inducing the enjoyment of drinking water for companion animals.

One of the problems to be solved by the technical idea of the present disclosure is to provide a water purification device operated by the companion animal itself.

One of the problems to be solved by the technical idea of the present disclosure is to provide a water purification device that is easy to clean and manage.

In order to achieve the above object, as an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a housing having an inner space; A purified water passage passing through the inner space of the housing and having one side connected to an outer passage having a water pressure; A filter connected to the purified water passage and configured to purify water received from the purified water passage; A discharge unit connected to the other side of the purified water flow path and configured to discharge water purified by the filter to the outside; An external water container coupled to the front surface of the housing so as to be below the discharge unit and configured to store water discharged from the discharge unit; A first valve coupled to a portion of the purified water passage at the rear of the filter and configured to adjust a pressure of water moving from the purified water passage into the filter; A second valve coupled to a portion of the purified water passage in front of the filter and configured to allow or block the movement of purified water from the purified water passage to the discharge unit; A first sensor mounted on the housing and configured to detect movement of a companion animal; And a controller electrically connected to the second valve and the first sensor, and configured to control the second valve based on a detection signal of the first sensor.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first sensor is characterized in that it comprises an infrared distance sensor.

In an exemplary embodiment, the water purifying apparatus for the companion animal includes: a sensor casing covering a portion of a front surface of the housing and having a plurality of coupling grooves of different levels; And a sensor shelf having an upper surface and a lower surface defining a space in which the first sensor is located, and at least one of the upper surface and the lower surface is inserted into any one of the plurality of coupling grooves of the sensor casing. It characterized in that it further includes;

In an exemplary embodiment, the water purifying device for the companion animal is configured to rotate about an axis in a direction parallel to a vertical direction through the upper and lower surfaces of the sensor shelf, and the first sensor is coupled Axis of rotation; And a rotating plate extending from the rotating shaft, exposed to the upper surface of the sensor shelf, and having a rotating groove at an upper portion.

In an exemplary embodiment, the water purifying device for the companion animal further includes a speaker connected to the controller and configured to output a sound, and the controller further includes, a crying sound of the animal, water for attracting the attention of the companion animal And controlling the speaker so that the speaker outputs at least one of a falling sound and a voice of a master.

In an exemplary embodiment, the water purification device for the companion animal further includes a speaker connected to the controller and configured to output a sound, wherein the controller notifies the need to wash parts of the water purification device for the companion animal , A replacement timing notification, and a malfunction notification, controlling the speaker so that the speaker outputs at least one notification.

In an exemplary embodiment, the discharge unit may include a discharge passage connected to the other side of the purified water passage and configured to discharge purified water; And a discharge casing that surrounds the discharge flow path and has a groove whose width becomes narrower from the top to the bottom from one surface thereof, wherein the discharge flow path discharges water in a direction opposite to the direction of gravity to the discharge casing of the discharge casing. Water purification device for a companion animal, characterized in that configured to provide purified water to the groove.

In an exemplary embodiment, the external water tank includes: a tapered central portion having an inclined surface inclined upward toward the center and narrowing in cross-sectional area toward an upward direction; And an edge portion surrounding the central portion and provided in a concave shape, wherein the inclined surface of the central portion overlaps in a vertical direction with a portion of the discharge unit where the purified water starts to fall. .

In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom surface of the outer bucket is inclined downward as it approaches the front surface of the housing.

In an exemplary embodiment, the water purifying device for the companion animal may include an inner water container located inside the housing and connected to the external water container; A second sensor configured to sense a level of water stored in the inner bucket; And a discharge pump connected to the inner water container and configured to discharge water in the inner water container to the outside, wherein the controller is connected to the second sensor and the discharge pump, and a detection signal of the second sensor Based on, characterized in that the discharge pump is controlled.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second sensor generates a detection signal and transmits the detection signal to the controller when the level of water stored in the inner water tank reaches the discharge start level, and the controller detects the detection from the second sensor. When a signal is received, controlling the discharge pump to discharge the water in the inner bucket to the outside, or controlling the second valve to block the movement of purified water from the purified water flow path to the discharge unit It is characterized.

In an exemplary embodiment, the inner water container has an air discharge hole on the upper surface, and the water purifying device for the companion animal covers the air discharge hole of the inner water container and moves by the air discharged from the air discharge hole. Thus, the air discharge plate configured to open or block the air discharge hole; characterized in that it further comprises.

In an exemplary embodiment, the water purifying apparatus for the companion animal includes: a first light-emitting element configured to irradiate light in a direction toward the external bucket; And a second light-emitting element configured to irradiate light in a direction toward the discharge unit. It characterized in that it includes at least any one of.

In an exemplary embodiment, the water purification device for a companion animal includes: an input device configured to receive an input from a user; And a display device configured to display at least one of operation information, setting information, and information corresponding to an input of the input device for the companion animal.

In an exemplary embodiment, the water purifying apparatus for the companion animal further comprises a third valve disposed between the purified water passage and the discharge unit and configured to adjust a pressure of water moving from the purified water passage to the discharge unit; It features.

The water purifying apparatus for a companion animal of the present disclosure may include a sensor configured to detect the movement of the companion animal, and a valve configured to allow or block water discharge based on a detection signal of the sensor. Accordingly, the water purification device for a companion animal of the present disclosure may be operated by the companion animal itself.

The water purifying apparatus for a companion animal of the present disclosure may include a speaker that outputs a sound for attracting the attention of the companion animal. Accordingly, the water purifying apparatus for a companion animal of the present disclosure may cause the companion animal to drink water.

In addition, the water purification device for a companion animal of the present disclosure may include a discharge pump and a light emitting device to be described later. Accordingly, cleaning and management of the water purification device for companion animals may be facilitated.

1 is a diagram showing the appearance of a water purification device for a companion animal in three dimensions according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
2 is a view showing the interior of a water purification device for a companion animal in three dimensions according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
3 is an internal cross-sectional view of a water purification device for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
4 is a functional block diagram of a water purification device for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
5 is a view showing an interior of a sensor module of a water purifying apparatus for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
6 is an exploded view of parts of a sensor module of a water purification device for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
7 is a view showing a water purifying device for a companion animal in a first state according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
8 is a view showing a water purification device for a companion animal in a second state according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
9 is an enlarged view of an external water container of a water purifying apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of an interior of a water purifying apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
11 is an enlarged view of an upper portion of an inner bucket of a water purifying apparatus for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
12 is an enlarged view of a part of a water purifying apparatus for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
13 is a diagram illustrating a companion animal drinking water using a device for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
14 is an enlarged view of a part of a water purifying apparatus for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure
15 is a diagram showing communication between a water purification device and a smart phone for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure may be modified in various different forms, and the scope of the present disclosure should not be construed as being limited by the embodiments described below. It is preferable that the embodiments of the present disclosure be interpreted as being provided in order to more completely describe the present disclosure to those having average knowledge in the art. Identical symbols mean the same elements all the time. Furthermore, various elements and areas in the drawings are schematically drawn. Accordingly, the inventive concept is not limited by the relative size or spacing drawn in the accompanying drawings.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical terms and scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the inventive concept belongs. In addition, commonly used terms as defined in the dictionary should be construed as having a meaning consistent with what they mean in the context of the technology to which they are related, and in an excessively formal sense unless explicitly defined herein. It will be understood that it should not be interpreted.

1 is a diagram showing the appearance of a water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal in three dimensions according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 2 is a water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. ) In three dimensions. 3 is an inner cross-sectional view of a water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In addition, FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of a water purification apparatus 10 for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

The water purification device 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure may be a device operated by the companion animal itself and configured to provide purified water to the companion animal.

When referring to FIGS. 1 to 4 together, the water purification device 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure includes a housing 110, a water purification passage 120, a filter 130, a discharge unit 140, and an external water container 150. ), the first valve 160, the second valve 170, the third valve 180, the first sensor 190, the internal water bottle 200, the discharge pump 210, the first discharge flow path 220, The second discharge passage 230, the second sensor 240, the speaker 250, the sensor casing 260, the sensor shelf 270, the light emitting element 280, the input device 290, the display device 300, It may include a battery 310, a controller 320, and the like.

The housing 110 of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal may provide an interior space. More specifically, the housing 110 may have a front surface (110a), a rear surface (not shown), a side surface (110b), an upper surface (110c), and a lower surface (not shown). Faces can define the interior space.

In an exemplary embodiment, the inner space of the housing 110 is the filter 130, the first valve 160, the second valve 170, the third valve 180, the first sensor 190, the inner water bottle ( 200), the speaker 250, the battery 310, and the controller 320 may be a space in which components of the water purification apparatus 10 for companion animals are located.

The water purification passage 120 of the water purification apparatus 10 for a companion animal may provide a path through which water flows. The water in the purified water passage 120 may be sequentially moved to the filter 130 and the discharge unit 140.

In an exemplary embodiment, one side of the purified water flow path 120 may be connected to the'external flow path 101 in which water pressure is formed'. One side of the purified water passage 120 may be connected to the external passage 101 in which water pressure is formed, so that the water purification apparatus 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure discharges water in the purified water passage 120 into the water discharging unit 140. It may not include separate motors and power devices such as pumps that provide pressure to flow through.

For example, the external flow path 101 in which water pressure is formed may include a pipe in which water pressure is formed in a toilet, a pipe in which water pressure is formed in a sink, a pipe in which water pressure is formed in a veranda, etc.

In an exemplary embodiment, the other side of the purified water flow path 120 may be connected to the discharge flow path 143 of the discharge unit 140. As described above, since the purified water passage 120 can be connected to the external passage 101 in which water pressure is formed, the water in the purified water passage 120 passes through the filter 130 without a separate power device and the discharge unit 140 Can be moved to. Accordingly, noise of the water purification apparatus 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure may be improved.

The filter 130 may be configured to purify water flowing through the purified water passage 120. In other words, water flowing through the purified water passage 120 may be purified while passing through the filter 130.

In an exemplary embodiment, one or more filters 130 may be provided. As shown in FIG. 1, the filter 130 may be provided as one. However, it is not limited to the above, and the filter 130 may be provided in two or more. When two or more filters 130 are provided, the plurality of filters 130 may be interconnected in a parallel structure or a series structure.

In an exemplary embodiment, the filter 130 may include at least one of a precipitation filter, a carbon filter, a hollow fiber membrane filter, a reverse osmosis filter, and an ion exchange resin. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the filter 130 may include various types of filters configured to purify water.

The discharge unit 140 of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal is connected to the other side of the water purification passage 120 and may be configured to discharge water purified by the filter 130 to the outside. The discharge unit 140 may include a discharge flow path 143 and a discharge casing 145.

In an exemplary embodiment, the discharge passage 143 of the discharge unit 140 may be a passage that is connected to a part of the purified water passage 120 and provides a passage for water purified by the filter 130. In addition, the discharge casing 145 of the discharge unit 140 may wrap the side of the discharge flow path 143. In addition, the discharge casing 145 may expose the discharge surface of the discharge flow path 143.

In addition, the discharge casing 145 is provided in a fan shape, and may be coupled to the front surface 110a of the housing 110. However, the shape of the discharge casing 145 is not limited to the above.

In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the discharge passage 143 of the discharge unit 140 may discharge purified water in the direction of gravity. However, the present invention is not limited to the above, and the discharge passage 143 of the discharge unit 140 may discharge purified water in a direction opposite to the direction of gravity, as illustrated in FIG. 12. The technical idea of the discharge unit 140 will be described later in more detail with reference to FIG. 12.

The external water container 150 of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal may be coupled to the front surface 110a of the housing 110 so as to be located under the discharge unit 140. In addition, the external water container 150 may provide a space for storing water discharged from the discharge unit 140. For example, a portion of the external bucket 150 may be vertically overlapped with the discharge surface of the discharge passage 143.

In an exemplary embodiment, the external bucket 150 may have a discharge hole 150H at its lower surface. Since the external bucket 150 may have a discharge hole 150H at its lower surface, the external bucket 150 may temporarily store water discharged from the discharge unit 140 and then discharge it to the outside.

The above-described'the external bucket 150 temporarily stores the water discharged from the discharge unit 140' refers to'while a companion animal drinks water using the water purifying device 10, the external bucket 150 Silver water is stored, and after the companion animal finishes using the water purifying device 10, the external bucket 150 discharges the water inside through the discharge hole 150H to the outside. .

In an exemplary embodiment, the outer bucket 150 may be provided in a concave shape to store water. For example, the outer bucket 150 may have a concave shape whose height decreases toward the center portion. However, the shape of the external bucket 150 may not be limited to the above. Other shapes of the external bucket 150 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.

In addition, a discharge hole 150H for discharging water may be formed in a central portion of the external water container 150. Since the outer bucket 150 may have a discharge hole 150H, water may not be stored in the outer bucket 150 for a long time. Accordingly, a phenomenon in which water overflows in the external bucket 150 can be prevented, and a phenomenon in which water in the external bucket 150 is contaminated from external contaminants can be prevented.

In an exemplary embodiment, the outer bucket 150 may be separated from the housing 110. For example, the user may apply an external force to the external water container 150 to easily separate the external water container 150 from the housing 110. However, the present invention is not limited to the above, and the external bucket 150 and the housing 110 may be integrated.

The first valve 160 of the water purification device 10 for companion animals is coupled to a part of the'water purification passage 120 at the rear of the filter 130', and from the purification passage 120 to the filter 130 It can be configured to regulate the pressure of the moving water. The aforementioned'purified water passage 120 at the rear of the filter 130' may refer to the purified water passage 120 through which water flows before flowing into the filter 130.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first valve 160 is coupled to a part of the purified water passage 120 at the rear of the filter 130 and reduces the pressure of water moving from the purified water passage 120 to the filter 130 It can be configured to let. For example, the first valve 160 may be a valve configured to adjust the pressure and speed of water by adjusting the cross-sectional area of the purified water passage 120 at the rear of the filter 130.

The pressure of water flowing from the external flow path 101 in which the water pressure is formed to the purified water flow path 120 may not be suitable for a companion animal to easily drink water. For example, the water pressure of the external flow path 101 in which the water pressure is formed may be suitable for human use (eg, human water supply and shower, etc.), but may not be suitable for water supply of companion animals. Accordingly, it is necessary to reduce the pressure of water flowing from the external flow path 101 in which the water pressure is formed to the purified water flow path 120.

The first valve 160 may reduce the pressure of water moving from the purified water passage 120 to the filter 130 so that the companion animal can easily drink water. In addition, since the first valve 160 can reduce the pressure of water moving from the purified water passage 120 to the filter 130, physical damage to the filter 130 due to the water pressure can be prevented.

The second valve 170 of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal is coupled to a part of the'water purification passage 120 in front of the filter 130', and the discharge unit 140 from the purification passage 120 It may be configured to allow or block the movement of the purified water into. The aforementioned "purified water passage 120 in front of the filter 130" may refer to the purified water passage 120 through which water purified through the filter 130 flows. In other words, the second valve 170 may serve as a switch that allows or blocks the discharge of water purified by the filter 130.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second valve 170 may be an electric and/or mechanical valve actuated by a command of a controller 320 to be described later and configured to allow or block the discharge of purified water. For example, the second valve 170 may be a solenoid valve that allows the discharge of purified water when electricity is supplied and blocks the discharge of purified water when electricity is cut off.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second valve 170 allows or blocks the movement of purified water from the purified water flow path 120 to the discharge unit 140 based on a detection signal of the first sensor 190 to be described later. Can be configured.

For example, when the first sensor 190 detects that the companion animal is in a position close to the water purification device 10, the second valve 170 purifies the water purification passage 120 to the discharge unit 140 It is possible to allow the movement of the water.

In addition, when the first sensor 190 detects that the companion animal is absent in the vicinity of the water purification device 10, the second valve 170 controls the purified water from the water purification passage 120 to the discharge unit 140. You can block the movement.

In addition, when the power of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal is cut off (for example, when the battery 310 is discharged or a power outage occurs), the second valve 170 blocks the discharge of purified water. Can be configured to

The third valve 180 of the water purification device 10 for companion animals is located between the water purification passage 120 and the discharge unit 140, and controls the pressure of water moving from the purification passage 120 to the discharge unit 140 Can be configured to

In an exemplary embodiment, in order to improve the convenience of drinking water for a companion animal, the third valve 180 may be configured to reduce or increase the pressure of water moving from the purified water passage 120 to the discharge unit 140. have.

For example, when the pressure of water discharged from the discharge unit 140 is relatively high, the third valve 180 may reduce the pressure of water moving from the purified water flow path 120 to the discharge unit 140. In addition, when the pressure of the water discharged from the discharge unit 140 is relatively small, the third valve 180 may increase the pressure of the water moving from the purified water passage 120 to the discharge unit 140. Accordingly, the convenience of drinking water for the companion animal may be improved.

The first sensor 190 of the water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal is mounted on the housing 110 and may be configured to detect the movement of the companion animal. For example, the first sensor 190 may be installed in a portion adjacent to the front surface 110a of the housing 110. In addition, when the first sensor 190 detects the movement of the companion animal in front of the housing 110, the first sensor 190 generates a detection signal and transmits the generated detection signal to the controller 320. I can deliver. In this case, the controller 320 may control the second valve 170 so that the discharge unit 140 discharges the water purified by the filter 130.

In an exemplary embodiment, when the first sensor 190 detects that the companion animal is absent around the water purifying apparatus 10, the first sensor 190 may stop generating the detection signal. At this time, the controller 320 may adjust the second valve 170 so that the discharge unit 140 stops discharging the purified water.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first sensor 190 may be a distance sensor configured to measure a separation distance between a companion animal and the first sensor 190. The first sensor 190 may include a transmitter configured to irradiate light and a receiver configured to receive light irradiated from the transmitter. The first sensor 190 may measure a separation distance between the companion animal and the first sensor 190 based on whether or not light is detected, the intensity of the light, and the arrival time of the light.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first sensor 190 may be an infrared distance sensor configured to irradiate infrared rays. More specifically, the first sensor 190 may be configured to irradiate infrared rays having a wavelength of about 700 nanometers to about 1400 nanometers.

Also, humans cannot hear ultrasound, but some companion animals can. Accordingly, when the first sensor 190 includes an ultrasonic distance sensor, discomfort of the companion animal may be caused by the ultrasonic waves emitted from the first sensor 190. Accordingly, the water purification device 10 for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may be characterized by including an infrared distance sensor having a wavelength of about 700 nanometers to about 1400 nanometers.

However, when the water purification device 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure is used for a companion animal that cannot hear ultrasonic waves, the water purification device 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure may include an ultrasonic distance sensor.

The position, structure, and operation of the first sensor 190 will be described later in more detail with reference to FIGS. 5 to 8.

The inner water container 200 of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal is located inside the housing 110 and may be connected to the external water container 150. The inner bucket 200 may have a space for storing water discharged from the outer bucket 150.

In an exemplary embodiment, the inner bucket 200 may be connected to the outer bucket 150 through the first discharge passage 220. More specifically, the first discharge passage 220 may be a passage for transferring water discharged from the discharge hole 150H of the outer bucket 150 to the inner bucket 200.

The discharge pump 210 of the water purification device 10 for companion animals may be a pump configured to discharge water stored in the inner water container 200 to the outside. For example, the discharge pump 210 may be a pump configured to cause a pressure change through a reciprocating motion or a rotational motion, and discharge water stored in the inner water container 200 to the outside through the pressure change.

In an exemplary embodiment, the discharge pump 210 may be connected to the second discharge flow path 230. More specifically, when the discharge pump 210 is operated, water in the inner bucket 200 may be discharged to the outside through the discharge pump 210 and the second discharge passage 230.

The second sensor 240 of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal is coupled to the inner surface of the inner bucket 200 and may be configured to sense the level of water stored in the inner bucket 200. The level of water stored in the inner bucket 200 may be defined as "the height at which the water stored in the inner bucket 200 is formed in a vertical direction from the bottom surface of the inner bucket 200".

In an exemplary embodiment, the second sensor 240 may be a contact-type level sensor that measures the level of water by contacting water in the inner bucket 200. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the second sensor 240 does not contact water in the inner bucket 200, but may be a non-contact type level sensor that measures the level of water by emitting ultrasonic waves.

In an exemplary embodiment, when the level of water stored in the inner water container 200 reaches the'discharge start level', the second sensor 240 may generate a detection signal and transmit it to the controller 320. The'discharge start level' may be the level of water in the inner bucket 200 when the discharge pump 210 starts to operate to discharge water in the inner bucket 200.

For example, when the level of water stored in the inner bucket 200 reaches the discharge start level, the controller 320 may operate the discharge pump 210 to discharge water in the inner bucket 200 to the outside. In addition, when the level of water stored in the inner water container 200 does not reach the discharge start level, the controller 320 may not operate the discharge pump 210.

In an exemplary embodiment, due to a malfunction of the controller 320, when the level of water stored in the inner water container 200 reaches a'overflow detection level' higher than the aforementioned'discharge start level', the second sensor ( 240 may function as a switch for blocking the second valve 170 and operating the discharge pump 210.

More specifically, when the water stored in the inner bucket 200 reaches the overflow detection level, the second sensor 240 may cut off the electrical connection between the second valve 170 and the controller 320. Accordingly, the second valve 170 may not operate, and the movement of the purified water from the purified water passage 120 to the discharge unit 140 is blocked, so that the discharge unit 140 does not discharge the purified water. I can.

In addition, when the water stored in the inner bucket 200 reaches the overflow detection level, the second sensor 240 directly operates the discharge pump 210 using the power of the battery 310 without going through the controller 320. It can also be operated. Accordingly, in spite of the malfunction of the controller 320, the water stored in the inner water tank 200 may be discharged to the outside through the discharge pump 210. That is, since the second sensor 240 can function as a switch for blocking the second valve 170 and operating the discharge pump 210, the water purifying device 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure is a controller ( Even if 320) malfunctions, safety can be ensured.

The speaker 250 of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal may be configured to output sound. In an exemplary embodiment, the speaker 250 may be configured to output at least one of a crying sound of an animal, a sound of falling water, and a voice of the owner to attract the attention of the companion animal.

In addition, the speaker 250 may be configured to output at least one of a notification of a need for cleaning, a notification of a replacement timing, and a notification of a malfunction of parts constituting the water purification device 10 for a companion animal.

For example, the speaker 250 is at least one of a notification of the need to wash the discharge unit 140 and the external water container 150, a notification of the replacement time of the filter 130, and a malfunction notification of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal. One notification can be output.

The light emitting device 280 of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal may include a first light emitting device 283 and a second light emitting device 285. The first light-emitting device 283 may be configured to irradiate light in a direction toward the external water container 150. For example, the first light-emitting element 283 may be coupled to the lower surface of the discharge casing 145 of the discharge unit 140 and irradiate ultraviolet rays in a direction toward the external water container 150. Accordingly, the proliferation of microorganisms in the outer bucket 150 may be suppressed, and the washing cycle of the outer bucket 150 may be increased.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second light emitting element 285 may be coupled to the front surface 110a of the housing 110 and may irradiate light in a direction toward the discharge unit 140. For example, the second light-emitting element 285 may be coupled to the front surface 110a of the housing 110 to irradiate ultraviolet rays in a direction toward the jetting surface of the discharge passage 143. Accordingly, the growth of microorganisms in the discharge passage 143 may be suppressed, and the washing cycle of the discharge passage 143 may be increased.

In an exemplary embodiment, the intensity and period of light irradiated from the first light emitting device 283 and the second light emitting device 285 may be adjusted by the controller 320.

The technical idea of the sensor casing 260 and the sensor shelf 270 of the water purification device 10 for companion animals will be described in more detail later with reference to FIGS. 5 to 5.

Although not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the water purification device 10 for a companion animal may further include an input device 290. For example, the input device 290 may be installed on the front surface 110a of the housing 110. However, the present invention is not limited to the above, and the input device 290 may be installed at various locations where it is easy to receive a user's input.

The input device 290 of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal may be configured to receive a user input. The input device 290 may include a plurality of input buttons and/or a smart dial for receiving user inputs.

In an exemplary embodiment, the user input may be a touch input indicating the start of water discharge, control of the discharge intensity of water, and power on/off of the water purifying apparatus 10. For example, the input device 290 may detect a touch input according to various methods including a pressure-sensitive method and a capacitive method.

Although not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the water purification device 10 for a companion animal may further include a display device 300. The display device 300 of the water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal may be configured to display status information, setting information, or information corresponding to a user input of the water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display device 300 includes various display devices including a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display panel (PDP), a thin-film-transistor LCD (TFT LCD), and an organic light emitting diode (OLED). It may be implemented in at least one of these. In addition, the input device 290 and the display device 300 described above may be implemented integrally.

The battery 310 of the water purifying device 10 for a companion animal includes a first sensor 190, a second sensor 240, a speaker 250, a light emitting element 280, an input device 290, and a display device 300. ), and the controller 320 may be configured to supply power.

In an exemplary embodiment, the water purification device 10 for a companion animal may not include the battery 310. For example, the water purification device 10 for a companion animal uses household electricity, the first sensor 190, the second sensor 240, the speaker 250, the light emitting element 280, the input device 290 Power may be supplied to the display device 300 and the controller 320.

In an exemplary embodiment, the battery 310 may include a rechargeable battery (eg, a lithium ion battery) replaceable by a user. When the power of the battery 310 is insufficient, the controller 320 may control the speaker 250 to output a signal indicating that the power of the battery is insufficient. In addition, when the battery 310 has insufficient power, the controller 320 may stop the overall operation of the water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal.

In an exemplary embodiment, when the battery 310 is connected to an external power source, the water purification device 10 for a companion animal is operated by an external power source, and the battery 310 may be charged by an external power source.

The controller 320 of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal may control the overall operation of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal. For example, the controller 320 may start a control operation based on the detection signals of the first sensor 190 and the second sensor 240. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above, and the controller 320 may initiate a control operation based on a user input of the input device 290.

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 320 may control the display device 300 to display status information, setting information, or information corresponding to a user input of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal.

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 320 may be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof. For example, the controller 320 may be a computing device such as a workstation computer, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, and a tablet computer. The controller 320 may be a simple controller, a complex processor such as a microprocessor, a CPU, or a GPU, a processor configured by software, and dedicated hardware or firmware. The controller 320 may be implemented by, for example, a general purpose computer or application specific hardware such as a digital signal process (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), and an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

In an exemplary embodiment, the operation of the controller 320 may be implemented as instructions stored on a machine-readable medium that can be read and executed by one or more processors. Here, the machine-readable medium may include any mechanism for storing and/or transmitting information in a form readable by a machine (eg, a computing device). For example, machine-readable media may include read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, electrical, optical, acoustic, or other forms of radio signals ( For example, carrier waves, infrared signals, digital signals, etc.) and other arbitrary signals.

The controller 320 may be implemented with firmware, software, routines, and instructions for the operation of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal. For example, the controller 320 may be implemented by software that receives a signal sensed by the first sensor 190, generates a signal for the operation of the second valve 170, and performs a predetermined operation. have.

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 320 includes a first valve 160, a second valve 170, a third valve 180, a first sensor 190, a discharge pump 210, and a second sensor 240. ), the speaker 250, the light emitting element 280, the input device 290, and the display device 300 may be electrically connected to at least one of.

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 320 may be configured to adjust the first valve 160 in order to reduce the pressure of water moving from the purified water passage 120 to the filter 130.

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 320 permits or blocks the movement of purified water from the purified water passage 120 to the discharge unit 140 based on the detection signal of the first sensor 190. 170).

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 320 may be configured to adjust the third valve 180 in order to adjust the pressure of water moving from the purified water passage 120 to the discharge unit 140.

However, the present invention is not limited to the above, and the controller 320 is not electrically connected to the first valve 160 and the third valve 180, but may be electrically connected to the second valve 170. In other words, the first valve 160 and the third valve 180 may be operated manually by a user, and the second valve 170 may be operated by a command of the controller 320.

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 320 may be electrically connected to the first sensor 190 and may receive a detection signal generated by the first sensor 190. The detection signal may be a signal generated by the first sensor 190 detecting the movement of the companion animal when the companion animal is close to the water purifying device 10 to drink water. The controller 320 may control the second valve 170 based on the detection signal of the first sensor 190 as described above.

More specifically, when the controller 320 receives the detection signal from the first sensor 190, the controller 320 is configured to allow the movement of the purified water from the purified water flow path 120 to the discharge unit 140. 2 The valve 170 can be controlled.

In addition, when the controller 320 does not receive the detection signal from the first sensor 190, the controller 320 is configured to block the movement of the purified water from the purified water flow path 120 to the discharging unit 140. 2 The valve 170 can be controlled.

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 320 may be electrically connected to the second sensor 240 and may receive a detection signal generated by the second sensor 240. The detection signal may be a signal generated by the second sensor 240 when the level of water stored in the inner bucket 200 reaches a discharge start level. The controller 320 may control the discharge pump 210 based on the detection signal of the second sensor 240 as described above.

In an exemplary embodiment, when the second sensor 240 senses "the level of water stored in the inner bucket 200 reaches the discharge start level" and transmits a detection signal to the controller 320, the controller 320 The discharge pump 210 may control the discharge pump 210 so that the water in the inner bucket 200 discharges to the outside.

In addition, when the second sensor 240 detects "the level of water stored in the inner water container 200 reaches the discharge start level", the controller 320 moves from the purified water flow path 120 to the discharge unit 140. The second valve 170 may be controlled to block the movement of the purified water.

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 320 may control the speaker 250. More specifically, the controller 320 controls the speaker 250 so that the speaker 250 outputs at least one of the crying sound of the animal, the sound of falling water, and the voice of the owner to attract the attention of the companion animal. can do. For example, the controller 320 may control the speaker 250 so that the speaker 250 outputs the aforementioned sounds every predetermined time.

In addition, the controller 320 is the speaker 250 so that the speaker 250 outputs at least one of a notification of a need for cleaning, a notification of a replacement time, and a notification of a malfunction of the parts constituting the water purification device 10 for a companion animal. ) Can be controlled.

For example, the controller 320 indicates that the speaker 250 is notified of the need for cleaning of the discharge unit 140 and the external bucket 150, a notification of the replacement time of the filter 130, and the water purification device 10 for a companion animal. The speaker 250 may be controlled to output at least one notification among malfunction notifications.

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 320 may control at least one of the first light emitting device 283 and the second light emitting device 285 described above. For example, the controller 320 may control the light emission intensity and light emission period of the first light emitting device 283 and the second light emitting device 285.

For example, when the first sensor 190 detects'the companion animal is in a position close to the water purifying device 10', the controller 320 includes the first light-emitting element 283 and the The second light emitting device 285 may not be operated.

In addition, when the first sensor 190 detects'the companion animal is absent in the vicinity of the water purifying apparatus 10', the controller 320 controls the first light emitting element 283 and the second light emitting element 285 Can be controlled. For example, the controller 320 allows the first light-emitting element 283 and the second light-emitting element 285 to operate only for a certain period of time after the companion animal leaves the periphery of the water purifying device 10. It is possible to control (283) and the second light-emitting element 285.

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 320 may be connected with the input device 290. The controller 320 receives a user input through the input device 290, and based on the received input, the first valve 160, the second valve 170, the third valve 180, and the discharge pump 210 , At least one of the speaker 250 and the light emitting device 280 may be controlled.

For example, the controller 320 may control the water purification device 10 for a companion animal based on the first sensor 190 and the second sensor 240, and may respond to a user's input of the input device 290. It is also possible to control the water purification device 10 for companion animals on the basis.

Since the water supply device for a general companion animal is not connected to an external flow path in which water pressure is formed, there is an inconvenience of having to replenish water every time. In addition, watering systems for common pets should be cleaned frequently in hot weather, such as in summer.

The water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure includes a first sensor 190 configured to detect the movement of the companion animal and a second valve 170 operated based on a detection signal of the first sensor 190. Including, the water purification device 10 for the companion animal may be operated by the companion animal itself.

In addition, the water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure may include a speaker 250 configured to output a sound for attracting the attention of the companion animal, so that the water purifying apparatus 10 for the companion animal is It can trigger the fun of drinking water.

In addition, since the water purification device 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure may include the above-described discharge pump 210 and a light emitting element 280, it is easy to clean and manage the water purification device 10 for a companion animal. can do.

5 is a view showing the interior of the sensor module (SM) of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 6 is a diagram for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. It is an exploded view of parts of the sensor module SM of the water purification apparatus 10. The sensor module SM may be a module of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal including a first sensor 190 configured to detect the movement of the companion animal.

5 and 6 together, the sensor module SM of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal includes a sensor casing 260, a sensor shelf 270, a first sensor 190, and a speaker 250. ), etc. The sensor module SM may be detachable from the front surface 110a of the housing 110 of the water purifying apparatus 10. For example, the sensor module SM may be separated from the housing 110 by a user.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor casing 260 may cover a portion of the front surface 110a of the housing 110 and may have a plurality of coupling grooves 260H of different levels. More specifically, the plurality of coupling grooves 260H may be grooves into which at least one of the upper surface 270a and the lower surface 270b of the sensor shelf 270 to be described later is inserted.

For example, the level of the sensor shelf 270 may be determined based on the level of the coupling groove 260H of the sensor casing 260 to which the sensor shelf 270 is coupled. That is, the sensor casing 260 includes a plurality of coupling grooves 260H of different levels, and the level of the sensor shelf 270 may be differently determined according to convenience.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor shelf 270 may provide a space in which at least one of the first sensor 190 and the speaker 250 is located. The sensor shelf 270 may have an upper surface 270a and a lower surface 270b defining a space in which at least one of the first sensor 190 and the speaker 250 is located. In addition, the sensor shelf 270 may have a partition wall 270c connecting the upper surface 270a and the lower surface 270b in a vertical direction. Two or more partition walls 270c of the sensor shelf 270 may be provided.

For example, the sensor shelf 270 may have an upper surface 270a, a lower surface 270b, and two partition walls 270c, and may form three spaces. The first sensor 190 may be positioned in the two edge spaces of the sensor shelf 270, respectively. In addition, a speaker 250 may be located in one central space of the sensor shelf 270. However, the structure of the sensor shelf 270 and the positions of the first sensor 190 and the speaker 250 are not limited to those described above.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor shelf 270 may include a translucent material. For example, when the first sensor 190 is an infrared sensor, the sensor shelf 270 may include a material capable of transmitting infrared rays.

A plurality of first sensors 190 may be provided and may be positioned on the sensor shelf 270. For example, two first sensors 190 may be provided and may be located in the edge space of the sensor shelf 270. Since a plurality of first sensors 190 are provided and may be located in an edge space of the sensor shelf 270, a range in which the first sensor 190 detects the movement of a companion animal may be increased.

In an exemplary embodiment, the water purification device 10 for a companion animal passes through the upper surface 270a and the lower surface 270b of the sensor shelf 270, and is configured to rotate around an axis in a direction parallel to the vertical direction. It may include 410.

In addition, the above-described first sensor 190 may be coupled to the rotation shaft 410. The first sensor 190 may be configured to rotate in the same direction as the rotation direction of the rotation shaft 410. Since the first sensor 190 can be rotated by the rotation shaft 410, the angle at which the first sensor 190 detects the movement of the companion animal can be easily adjusted.

In an exemplary embodiment, the water purifying device 10 for a companion animal may include a rotating plate 420 extending from the rotating shaft 410 and exposed on the upper surface of the sensor shelf 270. For example, the rotation shaft 410 and the rotation plate 420 may be integrated. The rotation plate 420 may have a rotation groove 420H at the top.

For example, the user may insert a fastening member 800 such as a driver into the rotation groove 420H to rotate the rotation plate 420. Since the rotation plate 420 and the rotation shaft 410 may be connected, the rotation axis 410 and the first sensor 190 are also in the same direction as the rotation direction of the rotation plate 420 according to the rotation of the rotation plate 420. Can be rotated. Accordingly, the user can easily rotate the rotation shaft 410 using the rotation plate 420 in which the rotation groove 420H is formed in order to adjust the detection angle of the first sensor 190.

FIG. 7 is a view showing a water purifying device 10 for a companion animal in a first state according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 8 is a diagram for a companion animal in a second state according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. It is a diagram showing the water purification device 10.

The first state of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal may be a state in which the sensor module SM is at the first level, and the second state of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal is the sensor module SM. The second level may be higher than the first level.

7 and 8 together, the sensor casing 260 of the sensor module SM may have a plurality of coupling grooves 260H of different levels. In addition, at least one of the upper surface 270a and the lower surface 270b of the sensor shelf 270 may be inserted into at least one of the plurality of coupling grooves 260H. Accordingly, the level of the sensor module SM can be freely adjusted.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor casing 260 may have a first level coupling groove 260H and a second level coupling groove 260H. The first level coupling groove 260H may be at a lower level than the second level coupling groove 260H. In other words, the height of the first level coupling groove 260H in the vertical direction may be smaller than the height of the second level coupling groove 260h in the vertical direction.

In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, at least one of the upper surface 270a and the lower surface 270b of the sensor shelf 270 of the sensor module SM is the first-level coupling groove ( 260H). In addition, as shown in FIG. 8, at least one of the upper surface 270a and the lower surface 270b of the sensor shelf 270 of the sensor module SM is inserted into the second level coupling groove 260H. Can be.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor casing 260 may have a plurality of coupling grooves 260H of different levels, so that the level of the sensor module SM may be freely adjusted. Accordingly, the water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure can adjust the height of the sensor module SM, so that movement of the companion animal of various sizes can be easily detected.

For example, when the size of the companion animal using the water purifying device 10 for the companion animal is relatively small, at least one of the upper surface 270a and the lower surface 270b of the sensor shelf 270 is a sensor casing ( It may be inserted into the first level coupling groove 260H of the 260. In addition, when the size of the companion animal using the water purification device 10 for the companion animal is relatively large, at least one of the upper surface 270a and the lower surface 270b of the sensor shelf 270 is the sensor casing 260 It may be inserted into the coupling groove 260H of the second level.

In addition, the water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure can adjust the height of the sensor module SM, so that it can be continuously used while the companion animal is growing. For example, as the companion animal grows, the level of the coupling groove 260H in which the sensor shelf 270 is coupled to the sensor casing 260 may increase.

9 is an enlarged view of an external water tank 150 of the water purifying apparatus 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 10 is an internal view of the water purifying apparatus 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. It is a cross-sectional view showing the part.

When referring to FIGS. 9 and 10 together, the central portion of the outer bucket 150 may have a tapered shape. More specifically, the central portion of the outer bucket 150 may have a tapered shape whose cross-sectional area becomes narrower as it goes upward. In addition, the outer bucket 150 may include an inclined surface inclined upward toward the center. The inclined surface of the external bucket 150 may overlap in a vertical direction with a portion of the discharge unit 140 where the purified water starts to fall.

In an exemplary embodiment, water discharged from the discharge unit 140 may fall on an inclined surface of the center portion of the external water container 150. Accordingly, water falling from the discharge unit 140 to the external bucket 150 may not splash outside.

In addition, an edge portion of the external water container 150 may have a concave shape to store water discharged from the discharge unit 140. Accordingly, water discharged from the discharging unit 140 may be stored at the edge of the external bucket 150.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom surface of the outer bucket 150 may be inclined. More specifically, the bottom surface of the outer bucket 150 may be inclined downward as it approaches the front surface 110a of the housing 110. Accordingly, the water in the outer bucket 150 may flow through the slope of the bottom surface.

In an exemplary embodiment, the discharge hole 150H of the outer bucket 150 may be formed on the bottom surface of the outer bucket 150. More specifically, the discharge hole 150H of the external bucket 150 may be formed on one surface of the lowest level among the bottom surfaces of the external bucket 150. The water in the outer bucket 150 is discharged through the discharge hole 150H, and may move to the inner bucket 200 through the first discharge passage 220.

In an exemplary embodiment, when the level of water stored in the inner bucket 200 reaches the above-described discharge start level, the second sensor 240 may generate a detection signal and transmit it to the controller 320, and the controller 320 ) May control the discharge pump 210 to discharge the water in the inner bucket 200 to the outside. The water in the inner bucket 200 may be discharged to the outside through the discharge pump 210 and the second discharge flow path 230.

11 is an enlarged view of an upper portion of the inner water container 200 of the water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 11, the upper surface of the inner bucket 200 may have an air discharge hole 200H. The air discharge hole 200H on the upper surface of the inner bucket 200 may provide a passage through which air in the inner bucket 200 is discharged to the outside.

In addition, the water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure covers the air discharge hole 200H of the inner bucket 200 and moves by air discharged from the air discharge hole 200H, and the air discharge hole ( 200H) may further include an air discharge plate 510 configured to open or block.

One side of the air discharge plate 510 may be attached to the upper surface of the inner water container 200. The other side of the air discharge plate 510 opposite to the one side may not be attached to the upper surface of the inner water container 200. For example, the air discharge plate 510 may be hinged to the upper surface of the inner water container 200. Accordingly, the air discharge plate 510 may be moved up and down by the air discharged from the air discharge hole 200H.

For example, when the pressure inside the inner bucket 200 increases due to the movement of water from the outer bucket 150 to the inner bucket 200, the air in the inner bucket 200 is air discharge hole 200H It can be discharged to the outside through. In this case, the air discharge plate 510 may move upward by the air discharged from the air discharge hole 200H to open the air discharge hole 200H. Accordingly, the air in the inner bucket 200 is discharged to the outside, so that the pressure in the inner bucket 200 may be reduced.

12 is an enlarged view of a portion of a water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The shape of the discharge unit 140 illustrated in FIG. 12 may be different from the discharge unit 140 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3.

As described above, the discharge unit 140 may include a discharge flow path 143 providing a movement path of water purified by the filter 130 and a discharge casing 145 surrounding the side of the discharge flow path 143. have.

In an exemplary embodiment, the discharge passage 143 may be configured to discharge water purified by the filter 130 to the upper portion of the discharge casing 145. For example, the spray surface of the discharge passage 143 may be exposed on the upper portion of the discharge casing 145.

In an exemplary embodiment, the discharge passage 143 may discharge purified water in a direction opposite to the direction of gravity, and provide water to the upper portion of the discharge casing 145. As the discharge passage 143 discharges the purified water in the direction opposite to the gravity, the companion animal can drink the water in the upper portion of the discharge casing 145.

In an exemplary embodiment, a groove 145H may be formed in the upper portion of the discharge casing 145 and narrower toward the lower portion. The groove 145H of the discharge casing 145 may provide a moving path of the purified water discharged from the discharge passage 134. That is, the purified water discharged from the discharge passage 143 may flow through the groove 145H of the discharge casing 145. Since the surface of the discharge casing 145 may have a groove 145H that narrows in width from the top to the bottom, the purified water in the groove 145H may fall into the external water container 150 while having a narrow width. have.

However, the present invention is not limited to the above, and as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the discharge passage 143 may discharge water purified by the filter 130 to the lower portion of the discharge casing 145. For example, the spray surface of the discharge passage 143 may be exposed under the discharge casing 145 and water may be discharged in the direction of gravity.

13 is a view showing a companion animal drinking water using the water purifying device 10 for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

In an exemplary embodiment, when referring to (a) of FIG. 13, when the discharge passage 143 discharges purified water in a direction opposite to the direction of gravity, and provides water to the upper portion of the discharge casing 145 , Companion animals can drink water in the upper portion of the discharge casing (145).

In addition, referring to FIG. 13B, water in the upper portion of the discharge casing 145 may flow in the direction of gravity. Accordingly, the companion animal may drink water falling from the discharge casing 145 to the external bucket 150.

In addition, referring to (c) of FIG. 13, the companion animal may drink water stored in the external water container 150.

As described above, since the discharge flow path 143 can discharge purified water in a direction opposite to the direction of gravity, the water purifying apparatus 10 of the present disclosure can increase the convenience of a companion animal, and also Can increase the fun of drinking water.

14 is an enlarged view of a portion of a water purifying apparatus 10 for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first light-emitting element 283 may be coupled to the lower surface of the discharge casing 145 and may irradiate light in a direction toward the outer bucket 150. For example, the first light-emitting element 283 may be coupled to the lower surface of the discharge casing 145 to irradiate ultraviolet rays in a direction toward the external bucket 150. Accordingly, the proliferation of microorganisms in the outer bucket 150 may be suppressed, and the washing cycle of the outer bucket 150 may be increased.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second light emitting element 285 may be coupled to the front surface 110a of the housing 110 and may irradiate light in a direction toward the discharge unit 140. For example, when the injection surface of the discharge passage 143 of the discharge unit 140 is exposed to the lower surface of the discharge casing 145, the second light-emitting element 285 is directed toward the injection surface of the discharge passage 143 UV rays can be irradiated in the direction. Accordingly, the growth of microorganisms in the discharge passage 143 may be suppressed, and the washing cycle of the discharge passage 143 may be increased.

15 is a diagram illustrating communication between a water purification device 10 and a smart phone 20 for a companion animal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 15, the water purification device 10 for a companion animal of the present disclosure may be connected to the smart phone 20. For example, the water purification device 10 for a companion animal may perform wireless communication with the smart phone 20. The smart phone 20 may be connected to the water purifying device 10 through a wired/wireless communication such as a mobile communication network, Bluetooth, and wireless Internet, which are basic functions.

In an exemplary embodiment, the application running on the smart phone 20 may perform a display function, an operation input function, a communication function, and the like of the operation of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal.

For example, the application of the smart phone 20 may display various information for executing the operation of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal. For example, the application may display information for discharging purified water, executing an operation of the discharge pump 210 and/or the light emitting element 280, and executing an operation of the speaker 250.

In addition, the application of the smart phone 20 may have operation histories of the water purification device 10 for companion animals. For example, the application may have a history of the companion animal's water intake time and water intake amount. Accordingly, even when the user goes out, the user can check the safety and health of the companion animal through the application.

In addition, when the smart phone 20 receives a signal to execute an operation by the user, the smart phone 20 can communicate with the water purification device 10 to perform the operation of the water purification device 10 for a companion animal. have.

For example, when a user inputs any one of a command among the discharge of water purified through the application, the operation of the discharge pump 210 and the light emitting element 280, and the operation of the speaker 250, the application It is possible to transmit the command by communicating with the water purification device 10 for.

The technical idea of the present disclosure described above is not limited to the above-described embodiments and the accompanying drawings. In addition, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that various substitutions, modifications, and changes can be made without departing from the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

Claims (15)

As a water purification device for companion animals,
A housing having an inner space;
A purified water passage passing through the inner space of the housing and having one side connected to an outer passage having a water pressure;
A filter connected to the purified water passage and configured to purify water received from the purified water passage;
A discharge unit connected to the other side of the purified water flow path and configured to discharge water purified by the filter to the outside;
An external water container coupled to the front surface of the housing so as to be below the discharge unit and configured to store water discharged from the discharge unit;
A first valve coupled to a portion of the purified water passage at the rear of the filter and configured to adjust a pressure of water moving from the purified water passage into the filter;
A second valve coupled to a portion of the purified water passage in front of the filter and configured to allow or block the movement of purified water from the purified water passage to the discharge unit;
A first sensor mounted on the housing and configured to detect movement of a companion animal; And
A controller electrically connected to the second valve and the first sensor, and configured to control the second valve based on a detection signal of the first sensor;
Water purification device for companion animals comprising a. The method of claim 1,
The first sensor,
Purification device for companion animals, characterized in that it comprises an infrared distance sensor. The method of claim 1,
The water purification device for the companion animal,
A sensor casing covering a portion of the front surface of the housing and having a plurality of coupling grooves of different levels; And
A sensor shelf having an upper surface and a lower surface defining a space in which the first sensor is located, and at least one of the upper surface and the lower surface is configured to be inserted into any one of the plurality of coupling grooves of the sensor casing;
Purifying device for companion animals, characterized in that it further comprises. The method of claim 3,
The water purification device for the companion animal,
A rotation shaft that penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the sensor shelf and is configured to rotate about an axis parallel to a vertical direction, and to which the first sensor is coupled; And
A rotating plate extending from the rotating shaft, exposed on the upper surface of the sensor shelf, and having a rotating groove at an upper portion;
Purifying device for companion animals, characterized in that it further comprises. The method of claim 1,
The water purification device for the companion animal,
A speaker connected to the controller and configured to output sound; further includes,
The controller,
A water purifying apparatus for a companion animal, characterized in that controlling the speaker so that the speaker outputs at least one of a crying sound of an animal, a sound of falling water, and a voice of the owner to attract the attention of the companion animal. The method of claim 1,
The water purification device for the companion animal,
A speaker connected to the controller and configured to output sound; further includes,
The controller,
A water purifying apparatus for a companion animal, characterized in that controlling the speaker so that the speaker outputs at least one notification of a cleaning necessity notification, a replacement timing notification, and a malfunction notification of the parts of the water purifying apparatus for the companion animal. The method of claim 1,
The discharge unit,
A discharge passage connected to the other side of the purified water passage and configured to discharge purified water; And a discharge casing that surrounds the discharge flow path and has a groove whose width becomes narrower from the top to the bottom of one surface.
The discharge flow path,
A water purifying apparatus for a companion animal, characterized in that, by discharging water in a direction opposite to a direction of gravity, and providing purified water to the groove of the discharge casing. The method of claim 1,
The external bucket,
A tapered central portion having an inclined surface inclined upward toward the center and narrowing in cross-sectional area toward an upward direction; And
An edge portion surrounding the central portion and formed in a concave shape;
Including,
The water purifying apparatus for a companion animal, wherein the inclined surface of the central portion overlaps a portion of the discharge unit from which the purified water starts to fall in a vertical direction. The method of claim 1,
The bottom surface of the outer bucket,
Purification device for companion animals, characterized in that the closer to the front of the housing inclined downward. The method of claim 1,
The water purification device for the companion animal,
An inner bucket inside the housing and connected to the outer bucket;
A second sensor configured to sense a level of water stored in the inner bucket; And
A discharge pump connected to the inner bucket and configured to discharge water in the inner bucket to the outside;
Including,
The controller,
A water purifying apparatus for a companion animal, connected to the second sensor and the discharge pump, and controlling the discharge pump based on a detection signal of the second sensor. The method of claim 10,
The second sensor,
When the level of water stored in the internal water tank reaches the discharge start level, a detection signal is generated and transmitted to the controller,
The controller,
When receiving the detection signal from the second sensor,
In order to discharge the water in the inner bucket to the outside, or control the discharge pump,
A water purifying apparatus for a companion animal, characterized in that controlling the second valve to block movement of the purified water from the purified water passage to the discharge unit. The method of claim 10,
The inner bucket,
Has an air outlet hole on the top,
The water purification device for the companion animal,
An air discharge plate configured to cover the air discharge hole of the inner water container and move by the air discharged from the air discharge hole to open or block the air discharge hole;
Purifying device for companion animals, characterized in that it further comprises. The method of claim 10,
The inner bucket,
Has an air outlet hole on the top,
The water purification device for the companion animal,
An air discharge plate configured to cover the air discharge hole of the inner water container and move by the air discharged from the air discharge hole to open or block the air discharge hole;
Purification device for companion animals, characterized in that it further comprises The method of claim 1,
The water purification device for the companion animal,
An input device configured to receive a user's input; And
A display device configured to display at least one of operation information, setting information, and information corresponding to an input of the input device for the companion animal;
Water purification device for companion animals comprising a. The method of claim 1,
The water purification device for the companion animal,
A third valve disposed between the purified water passage and the discharge unit and configured to adjust a pressure of water moving from the purified water passage to the discharge unit;
Purifying device for companion animals, characterized in that it further comprises.

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