KR20220039665A - Water purifier - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a water purifier. The water purifier according to an idea of the present invention includes a case and a water outlet unit. The water outlet unit includes a water outlet side cover, a first lifting cover, a second lifting cover, a lifting motor, a gear module, and a water outlet nozzle. In addition, the first lifting cover includes a lifting gear extending in the vertical direction. In addition, the gear module includes a gear bracket coupled to the second lifting cover and a gear installed on the gear bracket to mesh with the lifting gear. Accordingly, the gear is rotated along the lifting gear by the operation of the lifting motor, and the second lifting cover is relatively moved in the vertical direction with respect to the first lifting cover. An object of the present invention is to provide the water purifier in which the water outlet nozzle from which water is taken out by the lifting motor moves up and down.

Description

Water Purifier {WATER PURIFIER}

The present invention relates to a water purifier.

In general, a water purifier corresponds to a device for supplying purified water from which impurities are removed by filtering predetermined water. The water purifier is widely used throughout the home appliance or industry. In particular, the water purifier may be provided as a household water purifier that provides purified water that can be consumed by a user.

The water purifier includes a water purifier body to which a filter is mounted and a water outlet for providing filtered water from the water purifier body. In general, the water outlet is fixed to the front surface of the water purifier body. Accordingly, the user can collect purified water by placing a container for accommodating water in the water outlet.

With such a structure, since the user is constrained to the position of the water outlet, there is a problem in that the user's convenience cannot be secured. In order to solve this problem, the following prior document 1 has been registered and published.

<Prior Literature 1>

1. Registration number: No. 10-1381803 (Announcement date: April 07, 2014)

2. Title of invention: water purifier

In the preceding document 1, a water outlet is provided on one side of the main body, and the water outlet is rotated at a predetermined angle in the main body and coupled thereto is disclosed. In particular, the water outlet is separated from the main body by the user and rotated by a set angle to be rejoined. That is, the user can change the location of the water outlet to a required location.

In the prior document 1 configured as described above, the user must directly separate and combine the water outlet. Accordingly, there is a problem in that the user's convenience is reduced.

In addition, there is a problem in that components are lost or damaged in the process of separation and coupling. In addition, since the water outlet pipe from which purified water is taken out is connected to the water outlet, water leakage may occur during the separation and coupling process.

In addition, since the water outlet is rotated and coupled only at a predetermined angle, there is a problem in that the position of the water outlet is limited. In particular, the water outlet can only move in a horizontal direction, and cannot move in a vertical direction. Accordingly, there is a problem in that it is difficult to satisfy the user's needs.

The present invention has been proposed to solve this problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier in which a water outlet nozzle from which water is taken out by an elevating motor is moved up and down.

In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a water purifier that is provided to be movable not only in the vertical direction but also in the horizontal direction to increase user convenience.

The water purifier according to the present invention includes a case and a water outlet unit coupled to one side of the case. In addition, the water extraction unit includes a water extraction side cover seated on the case, a first lifting cover coupled to the water extraction side cover, a second lifting cover movably accommodated inside the first lifting cover, and the second lifting and lowering cover. A lifting motor coupled to the cover, a gear module interlocked with the lifting motor, and a water outlet nozzle installed on the second lifting cover to take out water are included.

In addition, the first lifting cover includes a lifting gear extending in the vertical direction.

In addition, the gear module includes a gear bracket coupled to the second lifting cover and a gear rotatably installed on the gear bracket to mesh with the lifting gear.

Accordingly, the gear is rotated along the lifting gear by the operation of the lifting motor, and the second lifting cover is relatively moved in the vertical direction with respect to the first lifting cover.

On the other hand, in the control method of the water purifier according to the spirit of the present invention, the water intake container is seated on a tray disposed vertically below the water outlet nozzle, and the height of the water intake container is recognized to determine whether it is necessary to lower the water outlet nozzle or to raise or lower it. When there is an input from the input unit, the step of operating the lifting motor is included.

And, according to the operation of the elevating motor, the gear coupled to the second elevating cover rotates and descends along the elevating gear extending vertically from the first elevating cover, so that the second elevating cover is connected to the water outlet nozzle are moved to the bottom together.

And, when there is an input from the water extraction input unit, water is discharged from the water extraction nozzle and water is taken in the water intake container.

According to the water purifier and the control method thereof according to the embodiment of the present invention having the configuration as described above, the following effects are obtained.

As the elevating cover with the water outlet nozzle is moved relative to the vertical direction according to the driving of the elevating motor, there is an advantage of increasing user convenience and ensuring stability.

In particular, there is an advantage in that the user's convenience can be further increased as the water outlet nozzle is lowered by a simple operation of the user pressing the button of the elevating input unit or by recognizing the water intake container.

In addition, as the water outlet nozzle is lowered corresponding to the height of the water intake container, it is possible to prevent scattering of the water intake. In addition, when hot water having a high temperature is withdrawn, there is an advantage in that the safety of the user can be ensured.

In addition, the water extraction nozzle is provided to be rotatable in the horizontal direction, so that the user can freely move the water extraction nozzle as needed.

1 is a view showing a water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.
2 is a view showing a state in which the position of the water outlet nozzle of the water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention is changed.
3 and 4 are views illustrating an exploded view of a water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.
5 is a view showing a water outlet unit of a water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.
6 is an exploded view showing the water outlet unit of the water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.
7 is a view showing a cross section VII-VII' of FIG.
8 is a view showing a cross section VIII-VIII' of FIG. 5 with movement.
9 is a diagram illustrating a control configuration of a water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.
10 is a diagram illustrating a control flow of the water purifier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
11 is a diagram illustrating a control flow of a water purifier according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
12 is a diagram exemplarily illustrating the control of FIG. 11 .

Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. In adding reference numerals to components in the drawings, it should be noted that the same components are assigned the same reference numerals as much as possible even though they are indicated in different drawings. In addition, in describing the embodiment of the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function interferes with the understanding of the embodiment of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

In addition, in describing the components of the embodiment of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used. These terms are only for distinguishing the elements from other elements, and the essence, order, or order of the elements are not limited by the terms. When it is described that a component is “connected”, “coupled” or “connected” to another component, the component may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but another component is between each component. It will be understood that may also be "connected", "coupled" or "connected".

1 is a view showing a water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the water purifier 1 according to the spirit of the present invention includes a case 10 forming an exterior and a water outlet unit 20 coupled to one side of the case 10 .

The case 10 is provided to form an internal space in which various components to be described later are installed. For example, the case 10 may be provided in a cylindrical shape, as shown in FIG. 1 . However, this is an exemplary shape, and the case 10 may be provided in various shapes.

The case 10 may be formed by combining a plurality of plates. In detail, the case 10 includes a front cover 100 , a rear cover 102 , a base cover 104 , a top cover 106 , and a pair of side covers 108 . In this case, each cover may form the front, rear, bottom, top, and both sides of the exterior of the water purifier 1 .

Each cover may be coupled to each other through a coupling member or coupling structure. In detail, the front cover 100 and the rear cover 102 are disposed to be spaced apart in the front and rear. In addition, the pair of side covers 108 may connect the front cover 100 and the rear cover 102, respectively, to form a circumference of the water purifier 1 .

In addition, the top cover 106 is coupled to the top of the front cover 100 , the rear cover 102 , and the pair of side covers 108 . In addition, the base cover 104 is coupled to the lower ends of the front cover 100 , the rear cover 102 , and the pair of side covers 108 . It is understood that the base cover 104 is a part that is seated on the bottom surface on which the water purifier 1 is installed.

In this case, the front cover 100 and the rear cover 102 may be bent to a predetermined curvature, and the pair of side covers 108 may be formed as a flat plate. In detail, the front cover 100 and the rear cover 102 may be respectively convex in front and rear.

In addition, the front and rear ends of the base cover 104 and the top cover 106 are rounded to correspond to the front cover 100 and the rear cover 102 .

In this case, a flat portion 1002 may be formed in the center of the front cover 100 in the vertical direction. The flat portion 1002 may function as a center point during rotation of the water extraction unit 20 to be described later.

Also, the flat portion 1002 may be understood as a recessed portion in the front cover 100 convexly protruding forward. In this case, the front surface of the front cover 100 corresponds to a portion where the user arranges a container such as a cup for water intake (hereinafter referred to as a water intake container). Accordingly, the flat portion 1002 is formed, so that the user can place the mixing container more deeply, and there is an advantage that the mixing container can be stably supported.

In addition, the water purifier 1 includes a tray 30 on which the water intake container is mounted. The tray 30 is connected to the base cover 104 and is disposed to protrude forward. Accordingly, it can be understood that the tray 30 forms the lower surface of the water purifier 1 together with the base cover 104 .

In addition, the tray 30 may be located vertically below the water outlet nozzle 240 to be described later. In addition, the tray 30 may be formed in a structure for storing water that is not accommodated in the water intake container and falls. For example, the tray 30 may be provided in a form in which a grill and a storage unit are provided below the grill.

The water extraction unit 20 may protrude from one side of the case 10 and be coupled thereto. In detail, the water outlet unit 20 may be disposed to protrude forward from the front cover 100 and the top cover 106 . In addition, the water extraction unit 20 is coupled to communicate with the case (10).

The water outlet unit 20 includes a water outlet top cover 230 , water outlet elevation covers 200 and 210 , and a water outlet side cover 220 . Each cover may form the exterior of the water outlet unit 20 .

The water outlet side cover 220 corresponds to a configuration that is seated on the case 10 . Referring to FIG. 3 to be described later, it is provided in a cylindrical shape corresponding to the curvature of the front cover 100 . In addition, the water outlet side cover 220 is disposed such that the front cover 100 is divided into upper and lower portions. Accordingly, the front cover 100 is divided into a lower front cover 1000 coupled to the base cover 104 and an upper front cover 1004 coupled to the top cover 106 .

In this case, the upper front cover 1004 has a smaller cross-sectional area than the lower front cover 1000 . Accordingly, the upper front cover 1004 is understood as an auxiliary part for forming the exterior. It is understood that the lower front cover 1000 is a portion in which the flat portion 1002 is formed and is disposed on one side of the water intake container.

In addition, the water outlet lifting covers 200 and 210 are disposed to protrude forward from the front cover 100 . In particular, it is provided in a shape protruding outwardly from the water outlet side cover 220 . In addition, the water outlet top cover 230 is provided to extend from the top cover 106 to cover the upper ends of the water outlet elevation covers 200 and 210 .

Various input units 40 for a user to input a predetermined command may be provided on the water outlet top cover 230 . The input unit 40 may be provided in various forms such as a button method and a touch method. In addition, although the input unit 40 is illustrated as one in FIG. 1 , the input unit 40 may be provided in various numbers.

In addition, the water outlet unit 20 includes a water outlet nozzle 240 through which a predetermined amount of water is taken out. The water outlet nozzle 240 is installed to extend downward, and may be exposed under the water outlet lifting covers 200 and 210 . As described above, the tray 30 is disposed vertically below the water outlet nozzle 240 .

In addition, a water outlet pipe (not shown) connected to the water outlet nozzle 240 is disposed inside the water outlet unit 20 . The water outlet pipe (not shown) may extend inside the water outlet unit 20 from the inside of the case 10 to be coupled to the water outlet nozzle 240 .

At this time, the water extraction unit 10 of the water purifier 1 according to the spirit of the present invention may be moved so that the position of the water extraction nozzle 240 is changed. Hereinafter, this will be described in detail.

2 is a view showing a state in which the position of the water outlet nozzle of the water purifier is changed according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the water extraction unit 20 may be rotated or moved to be lifted. Accordingly, the water outlet nozzle 240 may be rotated or lifted. In addition, the tray 30 may be rotated according to the rotation of the water outlet nozzle 240 .

First, the rotation of the water extraction unit 20 will be described. The water outlet unit 20 may be rotated as the water outlet side cover 220 is rotated. That is, as the water outlet side cover 220 is rotated, the water outlet lifting covers 200 and 210 , the water outlet top cover 230 , and the water outlet nozzle 240 may be rotated.

At this time, the water extraction unit 20 may be rotated along the front cover 100 and has a rotation radius of about 180 degrees. In addition, as the input unit 40 is formed on the water extraction top cover 230 , it is rotated together with the water extraction unit 20 to correct user convenience.

The tray 30 is rotatably coupled to the base cover 104 and rotates to correspond to the water extraction unit 20 . Accordingly, the tray 30 also has a rotation radius of about 180 degrees.

Then, the elevation of the water extraction unit 20 will be described. The water outlet elevation cover includes a first elevation cover 200 and a second elevation cover 210 movably coupled to the first elevation cover 200 . The first lifting cover 200 may be fixed to the water outlet side cover 220 .

In addition, the water outlet top cover 230 may be coupled to the upper end of the first lifting cover 200 . The second lifting cover 210 may be disposed inside the first lifting cover 200 to move along the first lifting cover 200 . Also, the water outlet nozzle 240 may be installed on the second lifting cover 210 and move together with the second lifting cover 210 .

Rotation and elevation of the water extraction unit 20 may be performed independently of each other. That is, the rotation and elevation of the water extraction unit 20 may be performed simultaneously or separately. For example, the rotation of the water extraction unit 20 may be performed according to an installation location, and the elevation of the water extraction unit 20 may be performed according to the height of the water intake container.

In addition, the water extraction unit 20 may be provided in a rotating or elevating structure. That is, the water extraction unit 20 may be provided in a structure that does not rotate but is raised and lowered. Accordingly, the water outlet side cover 220 may be disposed to be fixed to the case 10 .

Hereinafter, the internal configuration of the water purifier 1 will be described in detail.

3 and 4 are views illustrating an exploded view of a water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a diagram illustrating some of the configurations shown in FIG. 3 in different combinations for convenience of understanding.

The water purifier 1 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 has a configuration capable of supplying purified water, cold water, and hot water. However, this is an example, and the configuration of the water purifier 1 is not limited thereto and may be omitted or added. In addition, for the convenience of the description, the pipe through which water flows is omitted and illustrated.

3 and 4 , the water purifier 1 has a filter 40 , a cooling tank 50 , a compressor 60 , a condenser 70 and induction heating disposed inside the case 10 . Assembly 80 is included. In addition, a filter bracket 45 on which the filter 40 is mounted is provided inside the case 10 .

The filter bracket 45 may be seated on the base cover 104 adjacent to the front cover 100 . In addition, the water outlet side cover 220 may be seated on an upper portion of the filter bracket 45 . That is, the filter bracket 45 may be provided at a height corresponding to the lower front cover 1000 .

The upper and lower ends of the filter bracket 45 are provided in the shape of a semicircle having a curvature corresponding to that of the front cover 100 . In addition, the filter bracket 45 forms a space recessed to the rear so that the filter 40 can be accommodated.

In detail, the filter 40 is disposed in a space formed between the filter bracket 45 and the front cover 100 . The filter 40 is for purification of supplied raw water (tap water) and may be configured to combine filters having various functions. That is, the filters 40 may be provided in various numbers and in various shapes.

In addition, various valves (not shown) may be provided on the filter bracket 45 to be connected to respective pipes. For example, a pipe through which water flowing into the filter 40 flows and a pipe through which purified water flows through the filter 40 may be connected.

In this case, the water purified by the filter 40 may be supplied to the cooling tank 50 , the induction heating assembly 80 , or the water outlet nozzle 240 . That is, the water purified by the filter 40 may be supplied in the form of cold water, hot water, and purified water.

The compressor 60 and the condenser 70 form a refrigeration cycle together with the evaporator 55 disposed inside the cooling tank 50 . That is, the compressor 60 and the condenser 70 may be understood as a configuration for supplying cold water.

The compressor 60 and the condenser 70 may be seated on the base cover 104 . In detail, the compressor 60 and the condenser 70 may be disposed behind the filter bracket 45 . In addition, a cooling fan 65 is disposed between the compressor 60 and the condenser 70 . It is understood that the cooling fan 65 is configured to cool the compressor 60 and the condenser 70 .

In addition, the compressor 60 may be an inverter type compressor capable of adjusting the cooling capacity by varying the frequency. Therefore, cooling of the purified water can be efficiently performed, thereby reducing power consumption.

In addition, the condenser 70 may be located at a position corresponding to the discharge port formed in the rear cover 102 . The condenser 70 may be formed by bending a flat tube type refrigerant tube a plurality of times in order to efficiently use space and improve heat exchange efficiency.

In addition, the condenser 70 may be accommodated in the condenser bracket 75 . The condenser bracket 75 is provided to form a space having a shape corresponding to the overall shape of the condenser 70 to accommodate the condenser 70 . In addition, the condenser bracket 75 is formed such that portions facing the discharge ports of the cooling fan 65 and the rear cover 102 are opened to effectively cool the condenser 70 .

A tank mounting part 53 in which the cooling tank 50 is accommodated is disposed above the condensation bracket 75 . The tank mounting part 53 is understood as a configuration for fixing the cooling tank 50 . For example, the tank mounting part 53 is provided so that the lower end of the cooling tank 50 is inserted.

The cooling tank 50 is for making cold water by cooling the purified water, and the cooling water for heat exchange with the incoming purified water is filled. In addition, an evaporator 55 for cooling the cooling water may be accommodated in the cooling tank 50 . In addition, the purified water may be cooled by allowing the purified water to pass through the inside of the cooling tank.

The induction heating assembly 80 is for heating purified water, and is configured to heat purified water using an induction heating (IH) method. The induction heating assembly 80 can heat water immediately and quickly when hot water is taken out, and can heat the purified water to a desired temperature by controlling the output of the magnetic field and provide it to the user. Accordingly, hot water having a desired temperature can be taken out according to a user's operation.

In addition, the induction heating assembly 80 is installed to be seated on the support plate (85). The support plate 85 is provided extending from the filter bracket 45 to the cooling tank 50 . In addition, the support plate 85 is provided above the compressor 160 .

In addition, the water purifier 1 includes a control unit 90 . The control unit 90 may control the driving of the water purifier 1 by controlling the above-described components. In detail, the control unit 90 is configured to control the compressor 60 , the cooling fan 65 , various valves, sensors, and the induction heating assembly 80 . The control unit 90 may be modularized by a combination of PCBs divided into a plurality of parts for each function.

In addition, the control unit 90 may function to heat the purified water together with the induction heating assembly 80 . Accordingly, the control unit 90 is disposed on one side of the induction heating assembly (80). In detail, it may be coupled to the induction heating assembly 80 in a single module state to be seated on the support plate 85 .

In addition, the water purifier 1 is provided with a rotating structure of the water outlet unit 20 . That is, a structure in which the water outlet side cover 220 and the tray 30 are rotatably provided is provided.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , rotation mounting parts 225 and 227 coupled to the water outlet side cover 220 are provided. The rotation mounting parts 225 and 227 are provided in a ring shape having an outer diameter corresponding to the water outlet side cover 220 .

For example, guide rails are formed on the rotation mounting parts 225 and 227 , and the water outlet side cover 220 may slide along the guide rails. In addition, the rotation mounting parts 225 and 227 may be provided as a pair of plates with a ball bearing or roller disposed therebetween.

The rotating mounting portion includes an upper rotating mounting unit 225 coupled to an upper end of the water outlet side cover 200 and a lower rotating mounting unit 227 coupled to a lower end of the water outlet side cover 200 . The lower rotation mounting part 227 may be fixed to the upper end of the filter bracket 45 . In addition, the upper rotation mounting part 225 may be fixed to the lower end of the upper front cover 1104 .

In addition, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , a tray mounting unit 300 coupled to the tray 30 is provided. The tray mounting part 300 is fixed to the base cover 104 and has a ring shape having an outer diameter corresponding to the front end of the base cover 104 .

The tray 30 may be provided with a tray hook 310 coupled to the tray mounting unit 300 . That is, the tray 30 is detachably hook-coupled to the tray mounting unit 300 . Accordingly, the user can easily remove the tray 30 and wash it.

Hereinafter, the elevating structure of the water extraction unit 20 will be described in detail.

5 is a view showing a water outlet unit of a water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is an exploded view showing the water outlet unit of the water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. In addition, FIG. 7 is a view showing a cross-section VII-VII' of FIG. 6, and FIG. 8 is a view showing a cross-section VIII-VIII' of FIG. 5 with movement.

5 and 6 , the water outflow unit 20 includes the water outflow elevation covers 200 and 210 and the water outflow side cover 220 . In addition, the water outlet elevating cover includes the first elevating cover 200 and the second elevating cover 210 . For convenience of description, the water outlet top cover 230 and the water outlet nozzle 240 are omitted and illustrated.

As described above, the first lifting cover 200 is fixed, and the second lifting cover 210 corresponds to a movable configuration. However, this is an example, and the first and second lifting covers 200 and 210 may be provided in various forms that are relatively movable. For example, the first and second lifting covers 200 and 210 may be provided to be movable.

As described above, the water outlet side cover 220 is provided in a cylindrical shape. In particular, the front of the water outlet side cover 220 may form a front exterior of the water purifier 1 together with the front cover 100 .

The first lifting cover 200 is coupled to the outside of the water outlet side cover 220 . In addition, the first lifting cover 200 includes a first plate 2000 coupled to the water outlet side cover 220 and a second plate 2002 extending from the first plate 2000 . The first plate 2000 and the second plate 2002 are separated for convenience of description and may be integrally formed with each other.

The first plate 2000 is provided as a flat plate having a predetermined thickness. Alternatively, the first plate 2000 may be provided in the form of a plate bent to a curvature corresponding to the water outlet side cover 220 . At this time, FIG. 7 corresponds to a view showing the first plate 2000 by cutting the second plate 2002 .

Referring to FIG. 7 , a water outlet opening 2004 communicating with the inner space of the case 10 is formed in the first plate 2000 . In addition, a through hole corresponding to the water outlet opening 2004 is also formed in the water outlet side cover 220 . The water outlet opening 2004 corresponds to a hole through which the water outlet pipe extending to the water outlet nozzle 240 passes.

In addition, the lifting gear 2006 and the guide rail 2008 extending in the vertical direction are formed on the first plate 2000 . At this time, one surface of the first plate 2000 on which the lifting gear 2006 and the guide rail 2008 are formed is referred to as an inner surface, and the first plate 2000 coupled to the water outlet side cover 220 . One side of the is called the exterior.

The lifting gear and the guide rail 2008 are formed to protrude from the inner surface of the first plate 2000 . In addition, the lifting gear 2006 and the guide rail 2008 may extend vertically from an upper end to a lower end of the first plate 2000 .

In this case, the lifting gear 2006 and the guide rail 2008 are respectively disposed on both sides of the water outlet opening 2004 . 7 , the lifting gear 2006 is located on the right side of the water outlet opening 2004 and on the left side of the guide rail 2008 . That is, the lifting gear 2006 and the guide rail 2008 are horizontally spaced apart from each other and extend in parallel in the vertical direction.

The lifting gear 2006 may correspond to a straight rack. That is, the lifting gear 2006 has gear teeth extending in the vertical direction. In particular, the lifting gear 2006 is formed on the left side so that the gear teeth face one side, specifically, the water outlet opening 2004 .

The guide rail 2008 is provided in the shape of a rod extending smoothly. At this time, a plurality of seating grooves 2007 and 2009 are formed on one side of the guide rail 2008 facing the lifting gear 2006 , that is, on the right side surface. The plurality of seating grooves 2007 and 2009 may be formed by being depressed from the right side of the guide rail 2008 to the left.

The plurality of seating grooves 2007 and 2009 include a first seating groove 2007 and a second seating groove 2009 positioned lower than the first seating groove 2007 . In particular, the first seating groove 2007 is formed adjacent to the upper end of the guide rail 2008 , and the second seating groove 2009 is formed adjacent to the lower end of the guide rail 2008 .

In other words, the first seating groove 2007 and the second seating groove 2009 are formed to be spaced apart from each other by a maximum distance. In this case, the distance between the first seating groove 2007 and the second seating groove 2009 may correspond to a distance that the second lifting cover 210 moves.

The second plate 2002 corresponds to a plate convexly extending from both ends of the first plate 2000 . In other words, the second plate 2002 corresponds to a plate coupled to both ends of the first plate 2000 in a bent shape. Accordingly, a predetermined space is formed between the first plate 2000 and the second plate 2002 .

Such a space is provided in a state in which the top and bottom are opened. That is, the upper and lower portions of the first lifting cover 200 are provided in an open state. At this time, the upper portion of the first lifting cover 200 is closed by coupling the water outlet top cover 230 . In addition, a lower portion of the first lifting cover 200 may be closed by the second lifting cover 210 .

At this time, one surface of the second plate 2002 forming such a space is referred to as an inner surface, and a surface opposite to the second plate 2002 is referred to as an outer surface. The outer surface of the second plate 2002 is a portion protruding from the front of the water purifier 1 and corresponds to the surface forming the exterior. Accordingly, the outer surface of the second plate 20002 can be formed smoothly for aesthetics.

In addition, the inner surface of the second plate 2002 is formed smoothly so that the first lifting cover 210 can be moved. At this time, the guide protrusion 2003 protruding laterally is formed on the inner surface of the second plate 2002 . The guide protrusion 2003 is formed to extend vertically from the upper end to the lower end of the second plate 2002 .

In addition, the guide protrusion 2003 may be formed adjacent to the guide rail 2007 and the lifting gear 2009 , respectively. In FIG. 6 , a guide protrusion 2003 adjacent to the guide rail 2007 is illustrated, and in FIG. 7 , a guide protrusion 2003 adjacent to the lifting gear 2006 is illustrated.

The second lifting cover 210 is disposed inside the first lifting cover 200 . In detail, the second lifting cover 210 is disposed in a space formed by the first plate 2000 and the second plate 2002 of the first lifting cover 200 . In addition, the second lifting cover 210 is moved downward from the inside of the first lifting cover 200 .

The second rising cover 210 is provided in a shape corresponding to the first rising cover 200 . That is, the second rising cover 210 has a first plate 2010 and a second plate 2012 in the same way as the first rising cover 200 . Although the first plate 2010 and the second plate 2012 of the second rising cover 210 are separately illustrated in FIG. 6 , this is exemplary and may be integrally formed.

Accordingly, a predetermined space is also formed by the second rising cover 210 by the first plate 2010 and the second plate 2012 . In addition, the upper end of the second lifting cover 210 is opened, and may be provided by cutting into a predetermined shape for coupling with the lifting motor 250 and the gear module 260 to be described later.

A structure in which the water outlet nozzle 240 is installed may be provided at a lower end of the second rising cover 210 . For example, an opening through which the water outlet nozzle 240 is fitted may be provided at a lower portion of the second rising cover 210 .

A water outlet groove 2014 corresponding to the water outlet opening 2004 is formed in the first plate 2010 . The water outlet groove 2014 may be formed at a position corresponding to the water outlet opening 2004 when the second rising cover 210 is raised. Accordingly, the water outlet pipe may extend through the water outlet opening 2004 and the water outlet groove 2014 .

In addition, an auxiliary guide rail 2015 is formed on the first plate 2010 . The auxiliary guide rails 2015 are formed to protrude toward both sides, and extend in the vertical direction. The auxiliary guide rail 2015 may be in contact with the guide protrusion 2003 to guide movement.

The second plate 2012 may be provided with a gripper 2013 that can be gripped by a user. The gripping parts 2013 are located below both sides of the second plate 2012 . In addition, the first lifting cover 200 is provided in a cut shape so that the holding part 2013 can be exposed to the outside even when the second lifting cover 210 is raised.

The holding part 2013 corresponds to an auxiliary configuration in which the user manually moves the second lifting cover 210 . In addition, the holding part 2013 may be provided in various forms so that a user can conveniently move the second lifting cover 210 .

In addition, the second plate 2012 is provided with a lifting bracket 2016 coupled to the lifting motor 250 and the gear module 260 to be described later. The lifting bracket 2016 includes a motor coupling part 2017 to which the elevation motor 250 is coupled and a gear seating part 2018 to which the gear module 260 is coupled.

The water extraction unit 20 further includes a lifting motor 250 and a gear module 260 interlocked with the lifting motor 250 .

The lifting motor 250 includes a wire 2504 connected to an external power source, a motor shaft 2500 rotated by power supply, and a motor gear 2502 connected to the motor shaft 2500 . The motor gear 2502 corresponds to a spur gear in which gear teeth are cut in parallel with the motor shaft 2500 .

As described above, the lifting motor 250 is coupled to the motor coupling unit 2017 . That is, the lifting motor 250 may be coupled to the second lifting cover 210. In detail, the lifting motor 250 includes the motor shaft 2500 extending in the horizontal direction, and the motor gear ( 2502) may be coupled to the second lifting cover 210 to be disposed at the rear.

The gear module 260 may be formed of a plurality of gears rotated by the elevating motor 250 . In addition, a gear bracket 2600 for rotatably fixing a plurality of gears is included. The gear bracket 2600 may be seated on an upper portion of the motor coupling part 2017 and coupled by a coupling member.

The gear bracket 2600 includes gear guide protrusions 2602 protruding from both side surfaces, respectively, and contacting the guide protrusions 2003 . The gear guide protrusion 2602 may be provided as a pair protruding spaced apart so that the guide protrusion 2003 is disposed therebetween.

That is, the guide protrusion 2003 and the gear guide protrusion 2602 may be disposed in a state in which they are inserted into each other. Accordingly, the gear bracket 2600 may be guided vertically along the guide protrusion 2003 .

In addition, the gear bracket 2600 includes a guide rail protrusion 2604 protruding to the rear. The guide rail protrusion 2604 may be disposed to contact an inner surface of the guide rail 2008 . Accordingly, the gear bracket 2600 may be guided vertically along the guide rail 2008 .

In this case, the guide rail protrusion 2604 may be in close contact with the inner surface of the guide rail 2008 to receive an external force. In detail, a force may be applied to the guide rail protrusion 2604 to push the inner surface of the guide rail 2008 outward. Accordingly, the guide rail protrusion 2604 may be inserted into the first and second seating grooves 2007 and 2009 .

Referring to FIG. 8 , the gear module 260 includes a first gear 2606 , a second gear 2607 , a third gear 2608 , and a fourth gear 2609 mounted on the gear bracket 2600 . is included In this case, the number and shape of the gears are exemplary.

The first gear 2606 corresponds to a gear meshing with the motor gear 2402 . In addition, the second gear 2607 is coaxially connected to the first gear 2606 . In this case, the first gear 2606 and the second gear 2607 may be formed as one gear.

The third gear 2608 corresponds to a gear meshing with the second gear 2607 . In addition, the fourth gear 2609 is coaxially connected to the third gear 2608 . In this case, the third gear 2608 and the fourth gear 2609 may be formed as one gear.

In addition, the fourth gear 2609 is meshed with the lifting gear 2608 . In this case, the lifting gear 2608 is formed on the first lifting cover 200 and corresponds to a fixed configuration. In addition, the fourth gear 2609 is mounted on the gear bracket 2600 and corresponds to a configuration coupled to the second lifting cover 210 . Accordingly, as the fourth gear 2609 rotates, the second lifting cover 210 may be moved.

The lifting and lowering of the second lifting cover 210 will be described with reference to FIG. 8 . Fig. 8 (a) shows a state in which the second lifting cover 210 is raised, and Fig. 8 (b) shows a state in which the second lifting cover 210 is lowered.

Also, in (a) of FIG. 8, the guide rail protrusion 2604 is inserted into the first seating groove 2007, and in FIG. 8 (b), the guide rail protrusion 2604 is positioned in the second seating groove. It is inserted into the groove 2009 . Accordingly, the second lifting cover 210 may be moved by the separation distance of the first and second seating grooves 2009 .

In addition, the water outlet nozzle 240 installed on the second lifting cover 210 may be raised and lowered by the moving distance of the second lifting cover 210 . Hereinafter, a method for controlling the water purifier 1 will be described based on such a configuration.

9 is a diagram illustrating a control configuration of a water purifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. The control configuration shown in FIG. 9 shows only the configuration related to elevating and outgoing water. Accordingly, the control configuration of the water purifier 1 may be provided in more various ways.

As shown in FIG. 9 , the water purifier 1 is provided with a control unit 90 for controlling various configurations. The control unit 90 may be installed inside the case 10 as described above. Also, the control unit 90 may be provided separately from the water purifier 1 .

The control unit 90 may control the operation of the lifting motor 240 . Then, the second lifting cover 210 and the water outlet nozzle 240 are raised and lowered by the operation of the lifting mocker 240 . That is, the controller 90 may control the elevation of the water outlet nozzle 240 .

Also, the control unit 90 may control the operation of the water outlet valve 94 . The water outlet valve 94 may be understood as a configuration for opening and closing the water outlet nozzle 240 . That is, the control unit 90 may control the water outflow and the exit stop.

The control unit 90 may control the operation of the lifting motor 240 and the water outlet valve 94 according to a signal from the input unit 40 or the sensing unit 92 provided with various sensors. For example, the input unit 40 may include an elevation input unit 400 and a water extraction input unit 410 . Also, the sensing unit 92 may include a plurality of sensors 920 , 922 , and 924 .

Hereinafter, control by the input unit 40 is described as a first embodiment, and control by the sensing unit 92 is described as a second embodiment. However, such control is exemplary and is not limited thereto.

10 is a diagram illustrating a control flow of the water purifier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

10 illustrates a flow in which the water purifier 1 is controlled when a user inputs a predetermined command to the input unit 40 . In particular, it may be controlled by the lifting input unit 400 and the water outlet input unit 410 . In this case, the lifting input unit 400 and the water extraction input unit 410 may be provided as separate buttons.

Referring to FIG. 10 with reference to FIG. 9 , the water purifier 1 is prepared in a standby state for water extraction ( S100 ). In this case, the standby state for water extraction may be understood as a state in which power is connected to the water purifier 1 .

Then, it is determined whether there is an input from the lifting input unit 400 (S110). When there is an input from the elevating input unit 400 , the water outlet nozzle 420 is lowered. That is, when the user presses or touches the lifting input unit 400 , the second lifting cover 210 is moved downward.

In detail, the control unit 90 drives the lifting motor 240 according to a signal from the lifting input unit 400 . Accordingly, the motor shaft 2500 is rotated, and power is transmitted to the gear module 260 . In addition, the fourth gear 2609 may be rotated along the lifting gear 2006 to descend.

In addition, as shown in (a) of FIG. 8 , the guide rail protrusion 2604 is moved by the operation of the elevating motor 240 in a state in which the guide rail protrusion 2604 is inserted into the first seating groove 2007 . It comes out of the first seating groove 2007 . And, it may descend along the guide rail 2008 .

While continuously descending, the guide rail protrusion 2604 may reach the second seating groove 2009 . Then, the guide rail protrusion 2604 is inserted into the second seating groove 2009 . Accordingly, a large load greater than a preset reference value is temporarily applied to the lifting motor 240 .

When a large load greater than the preset reference value is input, the control unit 90 determines that the descent is complete and stops the driving of the elevating motor 240 . That is, the second lifting cover 210 and the water outlet nozzle 240 are lowered until the guide rail protrusion 2604 is inserted into the second seating groove 2009 .

Then, it is determined whether there is an input from the water extraction input unit 410 (S130). When there is an input from the water outlet input unit 410, the water outlet valve 94 is opened and water is taken out through the water outlet nozzle 420 (S140). In this case, the water taken out may correspond to purified water, cold water, or hot water according to a user's selection or setting.

In addition, even when there is no input from the lifting input unit 400 , water is drawn if there is an input from the water extraction input unit 410 . That is, according to the user's selection, the water extraction nozzle 240 may be lowered or water may be discharged from the original position.

In addition, when water intake is in a state in which the water extraction nozzle 240 is lowered, when water intake is finished, the water extraction nozzle 240 may be raised to the original position again. In this case, the elevation of the water extraction nozzle 240 may be set after a predetermined time elapses after the input or water intake of the elevation input unit 400 is finished.

In detail, the control unit 90 drives the lifting motor 240 in reverse according to a signal or setting of the lifting input unit 400 . Accordingly, the motor shaft 2500 is rotated in the opposite direction, and power is transmitted to the gear module 260 . In addition, when the fourth gear 2609 is rotated in the opposite direction, it can be rotated and raised along the lifting gear 2006 .

In addition, as shown in (b) of FIG. 8 , the guide rail protrusion 2604 is moved by the operation of the elevating motor 240 in a state where the guide rail protrusion 2604 is inserted into the second seating groove 2009 . It comes out of the second seating groove 2009 . And, it may be raised along the guide rail 2008 .

While continuously ascending, the guide rail protrusion 2604 may reach the first seating groove 2007 . Then, the guide rail protrusion 2604 is inserted into the first seating groove 2007 . Accordingly, a large load greater than a preset reference value is temporarily applied to the lifting motor 240 .

When a large load greater than the preset reference value is input, the control unit 90 determines that the lifting is complete and stops the driving of the lifting motor 240 . That is, the second lifting cover 210 and the water outlet nozzle 240 are raised until the guide rail protrusion 2604 is inserted into the first seating groove 2007 .

11 is a diagram illustrating a control flow of a water purifier according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the control of FIG. 11 .

11 and 12 illustrate a flow in which the water purifier 1 is controlled according to the information sensed by the sensing unit 92 . In particular, the sensing unit 92 includes a first sensor 920 , a second sensor 922 , and a third sensor 924 for detecting the presence or absence of an object. In this case, the number of sensors is exemplary and may be provided in various numbers.

The first, second, and third sensors 920 , 922 , and 924 may be mounted on the front cover 100 . In particular, the first, second, and third sensors 920 , 922 , and 924 may be sequentially installed to be vertically spaced apart from each other on the flat part 1002 . The second sensor 922 is located above the first sensor 920 , and the third sensor 924 is located above the second sensor 922 .

In this case, the position of each sensor may be determined according to the size of the water intake container.

The first sensor 920 is positioned at a height that can be recognized when the low-height intake container C is seated on the tray 30 . In other words, the first sensor 920 may be understood as a sensor installed at the lowermost side among a plurality of sensors installed vertically spaced apart.

For example, as shown in (c) of FIG. 12, when a low-height water intake container (C) such as a coffee cup is seated on the tray 30, it can be recognized by the first sensor 920 there is.

The third sensor 924 is positioned at a height that can be recognized when the intake container A having a high height is seated on the tray 30 . For example, as shown in (a) of FIG. 12, when a high intake container (A) such as a tumbler is seated on the tray 30, the first, second, and third sensors 920, 922, 924) can be recognized.

The second sensor 922 is located at the center of the first sensor 920 and the third sensor 924 . Therefore, it can be recognized when the intake container (B) of the intermediate height is seated on the tray (30). For example, as shown in (b) of FIG. 12 , when a water intake container (B) of an intermediate height such as a mug is seated on the tray 30, the first and second sensors 920 and 922 can be recognized

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 12 , referring to FIG. 11 , the water purifier 1 is prepared in a standby state for water extraction ( S200 ). Then, it is determined whether the first sensor 920 is recognized (S210). At this time, even when the intake containers A, B, and C of a certain height are seated on the tray 30 as shown in FIG. 12 , it is recognized by the first sensor 920 .

Accordingly, whether the first sensor 920 is recognized may be understood as determining whether the water intake container is seated on the tray 30 . Accordingly, when the first sensor 920 is not recognized, it is continuously provided in a water dispensed standby state.

And, when the first sensor 920 is recognized, it is determined that the water intake container is seated on the tray 30 . Then, it is determined whether the second sensor 220 is recognized (S220). Then, when the second sensor 220 is recognized, it is determined whether the third sensor is recognized (S230).

When the first sensor 920 is recognized but the second sensor 220 is not recognized, it is determined as in the state shown in FIG. 12( c ). That is, it is determined that the low-height water intake container (C) is seated, and it is recognized that lowering of the water extraction nozzle 240 is necessary. Accordingly, the water outlet nozzle 240 is lowered in two stages (S225).

In other words, it corresponds to a case in which only the sensor located at the lowermost side among the plurality of sensors spaced up and down is recognized. And, in this case, the water outlet nozzle 240 may be lowered to the maximum.

When the first and second sensors 920 and 922 are recognized but the third sensor 924 is not recognized, the state as shown in FIG. 12B is determined. That is, it is determined that the water intake container B of the intermediate height is seated, and it is recognized that lowering of the water outlet nozzle 240 is necessary. Accordingly, the water outlet nozzle 240 is lowered by one stage (S235).

This corresponds to a case in which the sensor located at the lowermost side among the plurality of sensors and the sensor located above the sensor are recognized. And, in this case, the water outlet nozzle 240 may be lowered in a range smaller than the maximum.

At this time, the two-stage lowering of the water outlet nozzle 240 means the state in which the second lifting cover 210 is lowered to the maximum. In addition, the first-stage descent of the water outlet nozzle 240 refers to a state in which it is lowered to an intermediate level compared to the second-stage descent.

For example, a third seating groove (not shown) may be formed in an intermediate portion between the first seating groove 2007 and the second seating groove 2009 . Accordingly, the first-stage descent of the water outlet nozzle 240 may correspond to descent until the guide rail protrusion 2604 is seated in the third seating groove. In addition, the two-stage descent of the water outlet nozzle 240 may correspond to descent until the guide rail protrusion 2604 is seated in the second seating groove 2009 .

When the first, second, and third sensors 920 , 922 , and 924 are recognized, it is determined that the state is the same as in FIG. 12A . That is, it is determined that the high water intake container (A) is seated, and it is recognized that lowering of the water extraction nozzle 240 is not necessary.

In this way, according to the height of the water intake container sensed by the plurality of sensors, the water outlet nozzle 240 may be raised and lowered in stages. In addition, according to the number of the plurality of sensors, the water outlet nozzle 240 may be raised and lowered in a plurality of steps. Accordingly, the water outlet nozzle 240 may be disposed to correspond to the height of the water intake container in more various ways.

When the lowering of the water outlet nozzle 240 is completed or it is recognized that lowering is not necessary, it is determined whether water is drawn out (S240). In this case, the water extraction may determine whether there is an input from the water extraction input unit 410 . When the water outlet input unit 410 is input, the water outlet valve 94 is opened and water is taken into the water outlet nozzle 240 .

In addition, when there is no input from the water extraction input unit 410 for a predetermined time or when water extraction is completed, the water extraction nozzle 240 may return to its original position. That is, the elevating motor 250 is driven in the opposite direction so that the water outlet nozzle 240 can be raised until the guide rail protrusion 2604 is seated in the first seating groove 2007 .

The water may be discharged from a position adjacent to the water intake container by elevating the water extraction nozzle 240 as described above. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the water being taken in from scattering. In particular, when water at a very high temperature is taken in, scattering is prevented, thereby ensuring the user's safety.

1: water purifier 10: case
20: water outlet unit 30: tray
200: first lifting cover 210: second lifting cover
220: water outlet side cover 230: water outlet top cover
240: water outlet nozzle 250: elevating motor
260: gear module

Claims (19)

A case, and a water outlet unit coupled to one side of the case,
The water outlet unit,
a water outlet side cover seated on the case;
a first lifting cover coupled to the water outlet side cover;
a second lifting cover movably accommodated from the inside to the outside of the first lifting cover;
a gear module having at least one gear coupled to the second lifting cover;
a water outlet nozzle installed at the lower end of the second lifting cover to take out water;
It is formed inside the first lifting cover and includes a lifting gear extending in the vertical direction,
The gear of the gear module rotates along the elevating gear, and the second elevating cover moves in a vertical direction relative to the first elevating cover. The method of claim 1,
The gear module is
a gear bracket coupled to the second lifting cover; and
and at least one gear that is rotatably installed on the gear bracket and meshes with the lifting gear. 3. The method of claim 2,
The first lifting cover further includes a guide rail spaced apart from the lifting gear and extending in the vertical direction, and having at least one seating groove formed therein;
The gear bracket is disposed in close contact with the guide rail and includes a guide rail protrusion inserted into the seating groove according to vertical movement. 4. The method of claim 3,
The seating groove includes a first seating groove and a second seating groove formed under the first seating groove,
The second lifting cover ascends until the guide rail protrusion is inserted into the first seating groove, and moves downwardly until the guide rail protrusion is inserted into the second seating groove, characterized in that it moves in the vertical direction. water fountain. 5. The method of claim 4,
In the first lifting cover,
a first plate on which the lifting gear and the guide rail are formed; and
a second plate convexly extending from both ends of the first plate to form an inner space with the first plate;
The outer surface of the first plate is coupled to the water outlet side cover,
The lifting gear and the guide rail are formed to protrude inward from the inner surface of the first plate and extend in the vertical direction. 6. The method of claim 5,
The second plate includes a pair of guide protrusions protruding from the inner surface of the second plate and disposed adjacent to the lifting gear and the guide rail, respectively,
The gear bracket includes a pair of gear guide protrusions each protruding to both sides to come into contact with the pair of guide protrusions. 6. The method of claim 5,
The second lifting cover is accommodated in the inner space formed by the first plate and the second plate of the first lifting cover,
The second lifting cover includes first and second plates having shapes corresponding to the first and second plates of the first lifting cover. 8. The method of claim 7,
Grip parts are formed on the lower portions of both sides of the second plate of the second lifting cover,
The second plate of the first lifting cover is cut so that the holding part is exposed to the outside while the second lifting cover is raised. The method of claim 1,
The lifting motor includes a motor shaft and a motor gear connected to the motor shaft,
In the gear module,
a first gear meshing with the motor gear;
a second gear coaxial with the first gear;
a third gear meshing with the second gear; and
and a fourth gear coaxial with the third gear and meshing with the lifting gear. The method of claim 1,
The water outlet side cover is rotatably coupled to the case in a horizontal direction,
As the water outlet side cover rotates, the first and second lifting covers and the water outlet nozzle are rotatably disposed. The method of claim 1,
The water purifier according to claim 1, wherein an input unit for inputting a predetermined command is provided on an upper surface of the case or the water extraction unit. 12. The method of claim 11,
The water extraction unit further includes a lifting motor coupled to the second lifting cover,
The gear module is a water purifier that interworks with the elevating motor. 13. The method of claim 12,
The water purifier, characterized in that by the operation of the elevating motor, the gear of the gear module rotates along the elevating gear, and the second elevating cover is relatively moved in the vertical direction with respect to the first elevating cover. 14. The method of claim 13,
The input unit is provided with a lift input unit,
The control unit operates the lifting motor according to the input of the lifting input unit to raise and lower the water outlet nozzle. 14. The method of claim 13,
The case is
a base cover forming a bottom surface;
a front cover forming a front surface and coupled to which the water outlet unit protrudes;
a tray coupled to the base cover and disposed to protrude forward; and
The water purifier further comprising: a plurality of sensors installed to be vertically spaced apart from the front cover to sense the height of the water intake container seated on the tray. 16. The method of claim 15,
A control unit for controlling the driving of the lifting motor may operate the lifting motor according to the height of the water intake container sensed by the plurality of sensors to raise and lower the water outlet nozzle in stages. 17. The method of claim 16,
When a load greater than a reference value is sensed on the lifting motor during the lifting operation of the second lifting cover, the controller determines that the lifting of the second lifting cover is completed, and stops the driving of the lifting motor. 17. The method of claim 16,
When a load greater than a reference value is sensed on the lifting motor during the lowering operation of the second lifting cover, the controller determines that the lowering of the second lifting cover is complete, and stops the driving of the lifting motor. 17. The method of claim 16,
The control unit may include, when the sensor recognizes the height of the water intake container and determines that lowering of the water outlet nozzle is necessary or when there is an input from the lifting input unit, the water purifier operates the lifting motor.

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