WO2019147023A1

WO2019147023A1 - Water dispensing apparatus and method for controlling the same

Info

Publication number: WO2019147023A1
Application number: PCT/KR2019/000986
Authority: WO
Inventors: Junseok YOU; Jongjin Park; Kyungsoo Oh
Original assignee: Lg Electronics Inc.
Priority date: 2018-01-26
Filing date: 2019-01-23
Publication date: 2019-08-01
Also published as: KR20190091102A; KR102511722B1

Abstract

Provided are a water dispensing apparatus and a method for controlling the same. The water dispensing apparatus includes an under-sink unit including a raw water tube through which raw water supplied from the outside flows, a filter purifying the water supplied through the raw water tube to generate purified water, a water discharge passage through which the purified water passing through the filter flows, a hot water module heating the purified water supplied through the water discharge passage in an induction heating manner, and a hot water passage through which the water passing through the hot water module flows, the under-sink unit being installed in a sink and a faucet including a water discharge nozzle supplying the hot water supplied from the hot water passage to a user, a temperature sensor measuring a temperature of the water supplied from the hot water passage, and a flow switching valve including one inlet and a plurality of outlets to supply the hot water supplied from the hot water passage to the water discharge nozzle or drain the hot water according to whether the discharged hot water is first cup hot water. At least a portion of the faucet includes the water discharge nozzle is installed outside the sink.

Description

WATER DISPENSING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME

The present disclosure relates to a water dispensing apparatus and a method for controlling the same.

In general, water dispensing apparatuses are apparatuses for supplying water, particularly, apparatuses for dispensing water as much as the user desires through user’s manipulation.

In such a water dispensing apparatus, when the user normally manipulates a lever or a button, stored water is dispensed through a nozzle. In detail, in the water dispensing apparatus, while the user manipulates the lever or the button, the nozzle is opened to dispense water. Then, the user stops the manipulation of the lever or the button while the user confirms an amount of water filled into a cup or a container.

The water dispensing apparatus may be applied to various fields. Representatively, the water dispensing apparatus may be applied to a refrigerator and a water purifier. Particularly, the water dispensing apparatus provided in the refrigerator and the water purifier has a function of supplying an amount of water, which is automatically set by the user’s manipulation. In recent years, water dispensing apparatuses capable of supplying not only purified water but also cold water and hot water have been developed.

For example, an instant hot water supply apparatus and method, in which hot water is dispensed in a short time through flow control, is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2017-0105466 (hereinafter, referred to as Prior Art 1). In detail, disclosed are an instant hot water supply apparatus including a heater heating introduced water to a heating capacitor of the heater, an inflow valve adjusting an amount of water to be introduced into the heater, and a valve control unit calculating a flow rate of water to be introduced into the heater by using a temperature of introduced water, a target temperature of water, and the heating capacity of the heater and controlling an opening degree of the inflow valve according to the calculated flow rate, and an instant hot water supply method.

In the abovementioned Prior Art 1, an opening degree of the inflow valve is controlled according to water to be introduced and a target temperature of introduced water to adjust a temperature of hot water.

For another example, a control method including a heating process of operating a heater for a preset time to heat the inside of a water storage tank and then stop the operation of the heater, a measurement process of measuring an increasing value of an internal temperature of the water storage tank after the heating process, a comparison process of comparing the value measured in the measurement process with a reference value, and a process of operating the heater when the measured value is less than the reference value is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2017-0096783 (hereinafter, referred to as Prior Art 2).

In the abovementioned Prior Art 2, when a sufficient amount of water is stored in the water storage tank on the basis of a storage type hot water supply apparatus, the heater is operated for the preset time to heat the inside of the water storage tank and then stop the operation of the heater, and after the heating process, the increasing value of the internal temperature is measured to be compared with the reference value, and then, the heater is operated again.

However, in the case of the abovementioned Prior Arts, the temperature of the hot water is adjusted in only the manner in which the flow rate and the temperature of the water introduced into the heater are detected to control the opening degree of the inflow value. That is, the heater is not changed in output according to the result obtained by detecting a temperature of water discharged from the heater. Thus, if the flow rate suddenly increases or decreases, it is difficult to satisfy required hot water discharge temperature conditions.

Also, in the case of an under-sink type water purifier, since a hot water tank is installed inside a sink, a water discharge passage increases by about 1 m or more when compared with that of the general water purifier, and hot water in a first cup has a temperature of 80℃ or less. Thus, it is difficult to satisfy the water discharge temperature, and the hot water decreases in temperature due to various reasons when the hot water is continuously discharged. That is, a heat loss may occur due to the long water discharge passage, and it is difficult to satisfy the required hot water discharge temperature conditions by the ambient temperature change due to an operation of a product and the heat loss due to the ambient temperature change because the product is installed in the sink.

Embodiments provide a water dispensing apparatus that is capable of providing hot water having a set temperature to a user regardless of whether discharged hot water is hot water in a first cup or a repeated cup and a method for controlling the same.

Embodiments also provide a water dispensing apparatus that is capable of providing hot water having a set temperature to a user regardless of a length of a hot water passage through which hot water flows and a method for controlling the same.

Embodiments also provide a water dispensing apparatus that is capable of providing hot water or cold water having a set temperature to a user without a heat loss even through the cold water, the hot water, and purified water are discharged through one passage and nozzle and a method for controlling the same.

Embodiments also provide a water dispensing apparatus that is capable of providing hot water having a set temperature to a user regardless of a flow rate and a flow speed of water supplied to a hot water tank and a method for controlling the same.

Embodiments also provide a water dispensing apparatus that is capable of preventing water from boiling in a hot water tank at a temperature of 100℃ or more and further preventing steam from being generated and preventing hot water having a high temperature in a water discharge nozzle from being scattered around the water discharge nozzle and a method for controlling the same.

Embodiments also provide a water dispensing apparatus that provides hot water and cold water as well as purified water in spite of being an under-sink water purifier to improve user’s convenience and a method for controlling the same.

In one embodiment, a water dispensing apparatus includes an under-sink unit installed inside a sink and a faucet of which at least a portion including a water discharge nozzle is installed outside the sink.

The under-sink unit may include a raw water tube through which raw water supplied from the outside flows, a filter purifying the water supplied through the raw water tube to generate purified water, a water discharge passage through which the purified water passing through the filter flows, a hot water module heating the purified water supplied through the water discharge passage in an induction heating manner, and a hot water passage through which the water passing through the hot water module flows.

The faucet may include a water discharge nozzle supplying the hot water supplied from the hot water passage to a user, a temperature sensor measuring a temperature of the water supplied from the hot water passage, and a flow switching valve including one inlet and a plurality of outlets to supply the hot water supplied from the hot water passage to the water discharge nozzle or drain the hot water according to whether the discharged hot water is first cup hot water.

In another embodiment, a method for controlling a water dispensing apparatus includes: inputting a command for dispensing hot water having a set temperature by a user; detecting a temperature of the hot water introduced into the flow switching valve through a hot water passage by a temperature sensor; preheating the hot water by the hot water module; determining whether the discharged hot water is first cup hot water; comparing a real-time temperature of the hot water with the set temperature by a valve control part to determine a drain time when the discharged hot water is the first cup hot water; draining the hot water through the flow switching valve for the determined time; and supplying the hot water from the flow switching valve to a water discharge nozzle after the draining is completed.

Whether the discharged hot water is the first cup hot water may be determined according to a difference in temperature between the hot water in a water discharge passage before the hot water module and the hot water in the hot water passage or determined according to a time elapsing after the heating operation of the hot water module.

After the draining is completed, when the hot water is supplied to the water discharge nozzle, the output control part may control an output of the hot water module.

The controlling of the output of the hot water module may include: controlling the output of the hot water module to a preset fixed output; determining whether the discharged hot water is first cup hot water; and controlling the output of the hot water module into a first reference output or a second reference output when the discharged hot water is the first cup hot water and the output of the hot water module into a third reference output, which is less than each of the first reference output and the second reference output, when the discharged hot water is not the first cup hot water.

The controlling of the output of the hot water module may include: determining whether a water discharge temperature of the hot water module exceeds the reference temperature; controlling the output of the hot water module into a first reference output when the water discharge temperature of the hot water module is less than the preset reference temperature and the output of the hot water module into a second reference output, which is less than that of the first reference output, when the water discharge temperature of the hot water module exceeds the preset reference temperature.

The water dispensing apparatus and the method for controlling the same according to the embodiment may have the following effects.

First, the hot water having the set temperature may be supplied to the user regardless of whether the hot water dispensed by the user’s request is the first cup hot water or the repeated cup hot water.

Also, in the case of the repeated cup hot water, the drain may not be performed to quickly perform the supply of the hot water.

Also, the hot water having the set temperature may be provided to the user regardless of the length of the hot water passage through which the hot water flows.

Also, even though the cold water, the hot water, and purified water are discharged through one passage and nozzle, the hot water or cold water having the set temperature may be provided to the user without the heat loss.

Also, the hot water having the set temperature may be provided to the user regardless of the flow rate and the flow speed of water supplied to the hot water tank.

Also, it may prevent water from boiling in the hot water tank at a temperature of 100℃ or more and further prevent the steam from being generated and prevent the hot water having the high temperature in the water discharge nozzle from being scattered around the water discharge nozzle.

Also, the water dispensing apparatus may provide the hot water and the cold water as well as the purified water in spite of being the under-sink water purifier to improve the user’s convenience.

Also, it may prevent the safety accident of the user from being caused by the overheating of the hot water when the flow rate is rapidly reduced or prevent the inner components of the water dispensing apparatus from being damaged by thee steam.

Also, the hot water having the constant temperature may be discharged regardless of the change in flow rate due to the simultaneous use of the water by the use environment to secure the quality stability.

Fig. 1 is a schematic view illustrating a state in which a water dispensing apparatus is mounted in a sink according to an embodiment.

Fig. 2 is a water tube diagram for explaining a hot water dispensing process in the water dispensing apparatus according to an embodiment.

Fig. 3 is a block diagram of the water dispensing apparatus according to an embodiment.

Fig. 4 is a view illustrating a state a faucet is mounted on a sink in another form.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a hot water module that is a main component of a water purifier according to an embodiment.

Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the hot water module.

Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a water dispensing apparatus according to an embodiment.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, that alternate embodiments included in other retrogressive inventions or falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will fully convey the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art.

Fig. 1 is a schematic view illustrating a state in which a water dispensing apparatus is mounted in a sink according to an embodiment. Also, Fig. 2 is a water tube diagram for explaining a hot water dispensing process in the water dispensing apparatus according to an embodiment. Also, Fig. 3 is a block diagram of the water dispensing apparatus according to an embodiment. Also, Fig. 4 is a view illustrating a state a faucet is mounted on a sink in another form.

A water dispensing apparatus according to an embodiment may correspond to a water purifier, a refrigerator, or the like. For example, the water dispensing apparatus may be provided as a under-sink type water purifier.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the water dispensing apparatus according to an embodiment includes an under-sink unit 100 installed inside a sink 10 and a faucet 200 of which at least a portion is installed to be exposed to the outside of the sink 10.

First, the under-sink unit 100 includes a raw water tube 11 through which raw water supplied from the outside flows, a filter 60 purifying the water supplied through the raw water tube 11 to generate purified water, a water discharge passage 30 through which the purified water passing through the filter 60 flows, a hot water module 40 for heating the purified water supplied through the water discharge passage 30 in an induction heating manner, and a hot water passage 330 through which the water passing through the hot water module 40 flows.

That is, the under-sink unit 100 includes a water purifier body and a plurality of tubes.

The water purifier body includes the filter 60, the hot water module 40, and the water discharge passage 30. The water purifier body may have a box shape and be disposed in an accommodation space within the sink 10. Also, the raw water tube 11 connects an external water supply source, e.g., a water pipe to the filter 60 within the water purifier body. Also, the hot water passage 33 connects the hot water module 40 to the faucet that will be described below.

Thus, the raw water supplied from the water supply source is introduced into the water purifier body through the raw water tube 11 and then supplied to the filter 60. The raw water passing through the filter 60 is purified into purified water, and the purified water is supplied to the hot water module 40 through the water discharge passage 30. The purifier water supplied to the hot water module 40 is heated to generate hot water, and the hot water is supplied to the faucet 200, which will be described below, through the hot water passage 33.

At least one of a flow rate detection part 114 detecting a flow rate of water supplied to the hot water module 40, a flow rate adjustment part 20 adjusting the flow rate of the water supplied to the hot water module 40, a flow speed valve (not shown) adjusting a flow speed of the water supplied to the hot water module 40, and opening/

closing valves

13 and 19 interrupting a flow of the water supplied to the hot water module 40 may be installed in the raw water tube 11 or the water discharge passage 30.

When the flow rate detection part 14 is provided, an amount of water supplied to the hot water module 40 may be detected to adjust an output of the hot water module 40 through the detected flow rate information. Also, when the flow rate adjustment part 20 or the flow speed valve (not shown) is provided, an amount of water supplied to the hot water module 40 may be adjusted to generate hot water having a temperature desired by a user. Also, an amount of hot water as much as the user desires may be generated. Also, when the opening/

closing valves

13 and 19 are provided, a flow of the water supplied to the hot water module 40 may be interrupted. The opening/closing valve 19 may be opened only when the generation of the hot water is required to supply water to the hot water module 40.

As a modified example, at least one of the flow rate detection part 14, the flow rate adjustment part 20, the flow speed valve (not shown), and the opening/closing valve 19 may be installed in the hot water passage 33.

Also, the under-sink unit 100 may include an output control part 520 controlling an output of the hot water module 40. The output control part 520 is connected to a second temperature sensor 420 detecting a temperature of the hot water module 40 so that the output of the hot water module 40 is feedback controlled in real time according to a temperature of the hot water.

Also, the under-sink unit 100 may further include a valve control part 510 controlling an opening/closing, an opening degree, or an opening position of the flow rate adjustment part 20, the flow speed valve (not shown), the opening/

closing valves

13 and 19, and a flow switching valve 300 that will be described below.

Also, the output control part 520 and the valve control part 510 may communicate with a main control device (PCB) 700 through a communication unit 600 to receive and transmit various data. The communication unit 600 may connect the output control part 520, the valve control part 510, and the main control device (PCB) 700 to each other in a wired manner or in a wireless manner (Wife, Bluetooth, and the like).

Also, the faucet 200 includes a water discharge nozzle 210 supplying the hot water supplied from the hot water passage 33 to the user a first temperature sensor 410 measuring a temperature of the water supplied from the hot water passage 33, and the flow switching valve 300 including one inlet and a plurality of outlets to supply the hot water supplied from the hot water passage 33 to the water discharge nozzle 210 or drain the hot water according to whether the hot water supplied from the hot water passage 33 is hot water in a first cup (hereinafter, referred to as first cup hot water) or hot water in a repeated cup (hereinafter, referred to as repeated cup hot water).

Here, the first temperature sensor 410 may be installed inside the flow switching valve 300.

In the current embodiment, the flow switching valve 300 may be opened and closed by the control of the valve control part 510.

The valve control part 510 controls the flow switching valve 300 so that the hot water is drained to the outside when the hot water introduced into the flow switching valve 300 is the ‘first cup hot water’.

For reference, in a standby mode in which the hot water is not discharged, the flow switching valve 300 may be in a state of being opened to a drain.

For example, the valve control part 510 controls the flow switching valve 300 so that the drain is performed for a preset time when the hot water introduced into the flow switching valve 300 is the first cup hot water. Thereafter, when the drain is completed, the valve control part 510 controls the flow switching valve 300 so that the hot water is supplied to the water discharge nozzle 210.

For another example, when the hot water introduced into the flow switching valve 300 is the first cup hot water, the valve control part 510 controls the flow switching valve 300 so that the hot water is drained until a water temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 410 reaches a reference temperature. Thereafter, when the drain is completed, the valve control part 510 controls the flow switching valve 300 so that the hot water is supplied to the water discharge nozzle 210.

On the other hand, when the hot water introduced into the flow switching valve 300 is the ‘repeated cup hot water’, the valve control part 510 controls the flow switching valve 300 so that the hot water is supplied to the water discharge nozzle 210 without being drained.

In the above description, the ‘first cup hot water’ may be defined by various criteria.

For example, the hot water may be discharged to the water discharge nozzle 210 and then may be divided into the first cup hot water and the repeated cup hot water as a time elapses. In detail, in a state in which a reference time t1 is set, when N-th hot water discharge is performed, if the reference time t1 elapses after previous ((N-1)-th) hot water discharge is performed, the hot water is determined as the first cup hot water. On the other hand, when the reference time t1 does not elapse after the previous ((N-1)-th) hot water discharge is performed, the hot water is determined as the repeated cup hot water.

For another example, after an operation of the hot water module 40 is finished, the hot water may be divided into the first cup hot water and the repeated cup hot water according to the elapsing time. In detail, in a state in which a reference time t2 is set, when hot water discharge is performed, if the reference time t2 elapses after the operation of the hot water module 40 is finished, the hot water is determined as the first cup hot water. On the other hand, when the reference time t2 does not elapse after the operation of the hot water module 40 is finished, the hot water is determined as the repeated cup hot water.

For another example, the hot water may be divided into the first cup hot water and the repeated cup hot water according to a temperature of the water filled in the hot water passage 33. In detail, in a state in which a reference temperature is set, when hot water discharge is performed, if a temperature of the water introduced into the hot water passage 33 or the flow switching valve 300 is less than the reference temperature, the hot water is determined as the first cup hot water. In detail, if the temperature of the water introduced into the hot water passage 33 or the flow switching valve 300 is equal to or greater than the reference temperature, the hot water is determined as the repeated cup hot water.

For another example, the hot water may be divided into the first cup hot water and the repeated cup hot water according to a difference in temperature between the water filled in the hot water passage 33 and the hot water filled in the water discharge passage 30. In detail, in a state in which a reference value is set, when hot water discharge is performed, if the difference in temperature between the hot water filled in the hot water passage 33 and the hot water filled in the flow switching valve 300 is less than the reference value, the hot water is determined as the first cup hot water. In detail, if the difference in temperature between the hot water filled in the hot water passage 33 and the hot water filled in the flow switching valve 300 is equal to or greater than the reference value, the hot water is determined as the repeated cup hot water.

In addition, criteria for dividing the first cup hot water and the repeated cup hot water may be determined according to various embodiments.

Also, when one of the criteria for determining the first cup hot water according to the various embodiments is satisfied, the hot water may be determined as the first cup hot water, or when a plurality of criteria are satisfied, the hot water may be determined as the first cup hot water. Alternatively, only when all of the criteria are satisfied, the hot water may be determined as the first cup hot water.

As illustrated in Fig. 1, the faucet 200 may be mounted to be entirely exposed upward from the sink 10. Thus, a main body 220 in which the flow switching valve 300 is built and the water discharge nozzle 210 extending upward form the main body 220 may be disposed on an outer portion of the sink 10.

As illustrated in Fig. 4, for another example, a lower portion of the faucet 200 may be mounted inside the sink 10. Thus, the main body 220 in which the flow switching valve 300 is built may be disposed inside the sink 10, and the water discharge nozzle 210 extending upward from the main body 220 may be mounted to be exposed upward from the sink 10.

In the current embodiment, the flow switching valve 300 may be provided as a 2-way valve. The flow switching valve 300 may include an inflow hole connected to the hot water passage 33, a water discharge hole communicating with the inflow hole and connected to the water discharge nozzle 210, a main body in which a drain hole connected to a drain tube 23 or a drain (not shown) is defined, and an opening/closing unit provided in the main body to selectively open and close the water discharge hole and the drain hole.

The opening/closing unit selectively opens and closes the water discharge hole and the drain hole while operating by the valve control part 510 that will be described below.

Also, the first temperature sensor 410 may be provided in the flow switching valve 300 to detect a temperature of the hot water introduced into the flow switching valve 300.

Also, a display and input unit 240 may be disposed on the faucet 200.

The display and input unit 240 may be provided in a touch screen manner.

For example, the display and input unit 240 may be disposed on a top surface of the water discharge nozzle 210. The display and input unit 240 may include a function of selecting the hot water, the cold water, and the purified water, a water discharge command function, a function of setting a temperature of the cold water and the hot water, a function of selecting the drain, and a function of alarming a filter replacement period.

Also, a sterilizing water cock 230 may be provided in the faucet 200. Also, a sterilizing water generation unit (not shown) may be provided in the under-sink unit 100. Thus, the sterilizing water generated in the sterilizing water generation unit may be supplied to the outside of the sink 10 through the sterilizing water cock 230.

Also, the water discharge nozzle 210 and the sterilizing water cock 230 may be rotatably mounted with respect to the main body 220.

Hereinafter, a process of dispensing the purified water, the cold water, and the hot water in the water dispensing apparatus according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 2 and 3.

In the under-sink unit 100, the raw water tube 11 is connected to the water pipe to receive raw water. A decompression valve 12 is installed in the raw water tube 11 to decompress the raw water passing through the decompression valve 12 to a set pressure.

Also, the decompressed raw water flows to the filter 60 through the tube connecting the decompression valve 12 to the filter 60. Foreign substances contained in the raw water may be removed while passing through the filter 60, and then, the water may be purified. Also, the purified water successively passes through the flow rate detection part 14 via the inflow valve 13 through the water discharge tube 30 by opening the inflow valve 13.

Here, the flow rate detection part 14 may be connected to the valve control part 510. Here, an opening degree of the flow rate adjustment part 20 may be adjusted according to a signal transmitted from the valve control part 510. Also, the flow rate detected by the flow rate detection part 14 may be transmitted to the output control part 520 that will be described below and then used as data required for controlling the output of the hot water module 40.

The purified water passing through the flow rate adjustment part 20 may be branched into a cold water purifying-side and a hot water-side through a branch tube 15.

Also, the purified water branched to the cold water purifying-side is branched again into a cold water-side and a purified water-side by a T-connector 16 to respectively flow to the purified water tube 31 and the cold water tube 32. A purified water discharge valve 18 and a cold water discharge valve 17 are installed in the purified water tube 31 and the cold water tube 32, respectively. The purified water discharge valve and the cold water discharge valve 17 may be connected to the valve control part 510 and thus be opened and closed by the control of the valve control part 510. The purified water discharge valve 18 and the cold water discharge valve 17 may be selected by user’s setting. A water discharge button disposed on the outside of the water purifier may be manipulated to open the selected valve and dispense the purified water or the cold water.

Here, the water passing through the cold water tube 32 connected to the cold water-side of the T-connector 16 and the cold water discharge valve 17 passes through a cooling coil within a cooling tank 70. The water flowing along the cooling coil is heat-exchanged with cooling water within the cooling tank 70 and then cooled. For this, the cooling water may be cooled to be maintained at a set temperature.

A compressor connected to the output control part 520 may be driven to cool the cooling water. The driving of the compressor may be determined by a cold water temperature sensor provided in the cooling tank 70. Thus, the cooling water may be always maintained at the set temperature. For this, the driving of the compressor may be controlled. The compressor may be adjusted in frequency to correspond to a load that is required for an inverter compressor and thus adjusted in cooling capacity. That is, the compressor may be driven by an invert control to cool the cooling water with optimal efficiency.

An operation of the compressor may be set in a forcibly turned-off state by manipulating a manipulation part by the user. The compressor may be forcibly maintained in the turn-off state when cold water consumption is low at winter, power saving is required, or the cold water is not desired to be used.

The cold water passing through the cooling tank 70 may be dispensed to the outside through the water discharge tube 34 and the water discharge nozzle 210.

When the purified water discharge valve 18 is opened, the purified water passing through the purified water tube 31 connected to the purified water-side of the T-connector and the purified water discharge valve 18 may be dispensed to the outside through the water discharge tube 34 and the water discharge nozzle 210.

When the user selects the dispensing of the hot water, the purified water flows to the hot water-side of the branch tube 15 and then flow to the hot water tube 33.

Here, the hot water discharge valve 19 and the flow rate adjustment part 20 may be opened by the control of the valve control part 510, and the water flowing through the hot water tube 33 may be adjusted to an adequate flow rate for heating the hot water through the flow rate adjustment part 20. In detail, the valve control part 510 adjusts an amount of purified water supplied to the hot water tank of the hot water module 40 so that the water is heated at the set temperature in the hot water module 40.

As described above, the purified water passing through the flow rate adjustment part 20 passes through the hot water module 40. Also, while passing through the hot water module, the water may be heated at the set temperature. The hot water module 40 may heat the water in the induction heating manner. For this, an output of a working coil provided in the hot water module 40 is adjusted in the output control part 520.

Also, the purified water passing through the hot water module 40 may be heated at the set temperature.

The hot water heated while passing through the hot water module 40 may flow to the water discharge nozzle 210 through the hot water passage 33 and then be dispensed to the outside through the water discharge tube 34 and the water discharge nozzle 210.

Also, the hot water module 40 may be further connected to the drain tube 23. The drain tube 23 may discharge steam generated when the water within the hot water module 40 is boiled. Also, a safety valve 231 is provided in the drain tube 23. When an internal pressure is equal to or greater than a set pressure, the safety valve 231 is opened to discharge steam.

In detail, the safety valve is configured to discharge the steam generated when the hot water is heated in the hot water tank. Thus, the safety valve prevents the inside of the hot water tank from excessively increasing in pressure by the steam. The safety valve 231 may be configured to be opened at the set pressure and have various structures as long as the steam generated in the hot water tank is smoothly discharged.

In the case of the water dispensing apparatus according to an embodiment, one of the cold water, the purified water, and the hot water may be dispensed to the outside through the water discharge tube 34 and the water discharge nozzle 210.

As described above, when one of the cold water, the purified water, and the hot water is dispensed through the water discharge tube 34, a heat effect may occur.

In detail, when the cold water is discharged after discharging the hot water, the cold water may increase in temperature due to the hot water. Thus, relatively less cold water may be discharged to the water discharge nozzle 210.

In detail, when the hot water is discharged after discharging the cold water, the hot water may decrease in temperature due to the cold water. Thus, relatively less hot (lukewarm) water may be discharged to the water discharge nozzle 210.

Thus, although one water discharge tube 34 and one water discharge nozzle 210 are used, it is necessary to take countermeasures so that the hot water and the cold water are discharged to the water discharge nozzle 210 at a satisfactory temperature without any heat effect therebetween.

Also, in the case of the under-sink water purifier, the water discharge nozzle 210 through which the hot water is discharged is installed outside the sink 10, and the hot water module 40 in which the hot water is generated is installed inside the sink. Thus, the hot water passage 33 connecting the hot water module 40 to the water discharge nozzle 210 may increase in length. Also, in the standby mode, the hot water is in a state of being filled in the hot water passage 33.

In this state, when a time elapses, the hot water filled in the hot water passage 33 may be cooled to decrease in temperature due to an external effect. Also, when the hot water is discharged, the cooled hot water filled in the hot water passage 33 may be discharged to the water discharge nozzle 210, and thus, the user may receive the hot water having a relatively low temperature.

According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the water filled in the hot water passage 33 having a long length may be drained according to the conditions, and newly generated hot water may be supplied to provide hot water having a temperature that is satisfied by the user. That is, the first cup hot water may increase in temperature to provide the hot water having a desired temperature.

For this, the valve control part 510 controls the flow switching valve 300 so that the hot water is drained to the outside by determining that the hot water filled in the hot water passage 33 is cooled when the hot water introduced into the flow switching valve 300 is the ‘first cup hot water’.

For example, the valve control part 510 controls the flow switching valve 300 so that the drain is performed for a preset time when the hot water introduced into the flow switching valve 300 is the first cup hot water. Thereafter, when the drain is completed, the valve control part 510 controls the flow switching valve 300 so that the hot water is supplied to the water discharge nozzle 210. Here, the drain time is maintained until al of the water filled in the hot water passage is drained.

For another example, the valve control part 510 controls the flow switching valve 300 so that the hot water is drained until a water temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 410 reaches a reference temperature when the hot water introduced into the flow switching valve 300 is the first cup hot water. Thereafter, when the drain is completed while satisfying the hot water conditions of the hot water, the valve control part 510 controls the flow switching valve 300 so that the hot water is supplied to the water discharge nozzle 210.

On the other hand, when the hot water introduced into the flow switching valve 300 is the ‘repeated cup hot water’, the valve control part 510 controls the flow switching valve 300 so that the hot water is supplied to the water discharge nozzle 210 without being separately drained.

Thus, the user may receive the hot water having a desired temperature.

Hereinafter, the ‘hot water module’ that is a portion of the component according to an embodiment will be described in more detail.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the hot water module that is a main component of the water purifier according to an embodiment. Also, Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the hot water module.

As illustrated in the drawings, the hot water module 40 and a controller 50 may be coupled to each other to form one module. Then, the one module may be mounted in the water purifier. Here, the controller 50 may include the output control part 520. Also, the controller 50 may include the valve control part 510.

The hot water module 40 receives the purified water to heat the purified water and thereby to generate hot water. The hot water module 40 may heat the purified water in an induction heating (IH) manner.

In detail, the hot water module 40 may include a hot water tank 41 through which the purified water passes, a working coil 42 for heating the water passing through the hot water tank 41, and a mounting bracket 43 on which the working coil 42 and the hot water tank 41 are mounted.

The mounting bracket 43 provides a mounting space for the hot water tank 41, the working coil 42, and a ferrite core 44. Also, the mounting bracket 43 may be made of a resin material that is not deformed or damaged at a high temperature.

A bracket coupling part 431 to be coupled to the controller 50 is disposed on an edge of the mounting bracket 43. The bracket coupling part 431 may be provided in plurality. Here, extending ends of the bracket coupling parts 431 may have different shapes and have directionality. Thus, the hot water module 40 may have a structure that is combined with the controller 50, and thus, the hot water module 40 may be mounted at an accurate position.

Also, a bracket mounting part 432 on which a sensor bracket 45 is mounted may be further disposed on a center of one surface of the mounting bracket 43 on which the hot water tank is mounted. A tank temperature sensor 451 and a fuse 452 may be disposed at a center of the bracket mounting part 432.

The tank temperature sensor 451 for measuring a temperature of the hot water tank 41 may be mounted on the sensor bracket 45. The tank temperature sensor 451 may measure a temperature at a center of the hot water tank 41 to determine a temperature of the hot water without directly measuring the temperature of the hot water within the hot water tank 41. Thus, the dispensed hot water may be maintained within an appropriate temperature range by the tank temperature sensor 451. That is, additional heating or heating stop may be determined by the temperature detected by the tank temperature sensor 451.

Also, the fuse 452 may be mounted on the sensor bracket 45. The fuse 452 may interrupt power of the hot water module 40 when water within the hot water tank 41 is excessively heated.

A plurality of coil fixing parts 453 may be disposed on a circumference of the sensor bracket 45. Each of the coil fixing parts 453 may extend outward from an outer surface of the sensor bracket 45 to fixe the working coil 42 mounted on the mounting bracket 43. Two coil fixing parts 453 may be disposed on each of upper and lower portions of the sensor bracket 45. Here, the coil fixing parts 453 may extend from both corners in a diagonal direction to press and fix the working coil 42.

The working coil 42 is disposed on a front surface of the mounting bracket 43. The working coil 42 generates magnetic force lines that cause heat generation of the hot water tank 41. When current is applied to the working coil 42, the magnetic force lines are generated in the working coil 42. The magnetic force lines may affect the hot water tank 41, and thus, the hot water tank 41 may be affected by the magnetic force lines to generate heat.

The working coil 42 is disposed on the front surface of the mounting bracket 43 to face one surface of both surfaces of the hot water tank 41, which has a flat shape. Also, the working coil 42 is provided as a plurality of strands of copper or other conductive wires, and the strands are insulated from each other. The working coil 42 generates magnetic fields or magnetic force lines by the current applied to the working coil 42.

Thus, the front surface of the hot water tank 41, which faces the working coil 42, may be affected by the magnetic force lines generated by the working coil 42 to generate heat. In the drawing, the strands of the working coil 42 are not shown in detail, and only the entire outline of the working coil 42 in which each of the strands is wound around the outside of the bracket mounting part 432 is shown.

The ferrite core 44 is disposed on the front surface of the working coil 42. The ferrite core 44 may suppress a loss of the current to function as a shield layer for the magnetic force lines. The working coil 42 may include a plurality of ferrite cores 44. The plurality of ferrite cores 44 may be radially disposed with respect to a central portion of the working coil 42.

The ferrite core 44 may be fixed to a core fixing part 433 of the mounting bracket 43. The ferrite core 44 may adhere to the core fixing part 433 or be press-fitted or combined with the core fixing part 433. The core fixing part 433 may be provided in plurality that are radially disposed like the ferrite cores 44.

Also, in the state in which the hot water tank 41 is mounted on the circumference of the mounting bracket 43, a coupling part 434 may be further provided so that an end of the hot water tank 41 is hung to be fixed. Thus, the working coil 42, the ferrite core 44, the sensor bracket 45, and the hot water tank 41 may be mounted on the mounting bracket 43 to form one module.

The hot water tank 41 is mounted on the front surface of the mounting bracket 43. The hot water tank 41 may be affected by the magnetic force lines generated by the working coil 42 to generate heat. Thus, the purified water is heated while passing through the inner space of the hot water tank 41 to generate hot water.

Also, the overall shape of the hot water tank 41 may be flat and compact. Also, the hot water tank 41 may be provided to correspond to the overall shape of the hot water module 40 so that the hot water tank 41 is effectively heated when the hot water module 40 is driven.

In detail, the hot water tank 41 may be provided by bonding a circumference of a first tank part 411 having a flat plate shape to a circumference of a plate-shaped second tank part 412 of which at least a portion of the hot water tank 41 is recessed to provide a passage. Also, an outlet tube 414 through which the heated water is discharged is provided in an upper end of the hot water tank 41, and an inlet tube 413 through which water to be heated is supplied is provided in a lower end of the hot water tank 41. Thus, while the water flows to be introduced into the inlet tube 413 and then discharged to the outlet tube 414, the hot water tank 41 may be instantly heated by the induced electromotive force generated by the working coil 42, and thus, the hot water may be discharged.

The first tank part 411 may have a flat surface facing the working coil and be adjacent to the working coil 42 so that the entire surface of the first tank part 411 uniformly generates heat by the induced electromotive force generated by the working coil 42.

Also, a plurality of forming parts 412a may be provided in the second tank part 412. Each of the forming parts 412a may be recessed to the first tank part 411. When the first tank part 411 and the second tank part 412 are coupled to each other, the forming part may come into contact with an inner surface of the first tank part 411 to maintain a spaced space between the first tank part 411 and the second tank part 412. Thus, the first tank part 411 and the second tank part 412 may provide a space, through which water flows, by the forming parts 412a.

Also, the plurality of forming parts may be disposed adjacent to the inlet tube 413 and the outlet tube 414. Also, the plurality of forming parts 412a may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in a width direction of the hot water tank 41. Thus, the water flowing through the inside of the hot water tank 41 may flow to be dispersed into the entire region within the hot water tank 41 so that the hot water tank 41 is effectively heated by the working coil. That is, the water flowing through the inside of the hot water tank 41 having a thin thickness and a wide area may be quickly heated by the working coil 42 at a temperature that is required for the discharging.

The controller 50 may be disposed at a rear side of the hot water module 40. The controller 50 may be connected to the hot water module 40, the flow rate sensor 14, the tank temperature sensor 451, the plurality of

valves

12, 13, 17, 18, 20, and 240, and electronic components. The controller 50 may be provided in plurality. The plurality of controllers 50 may be divided into a portion for controlling the hot water module 40 and a portion except for the portion for controlling the hot water module 40.

For example, the controller 50 may include a control PCB 51, a control case 52, and a control cover 53. The control PCB 51 may be configured to control the driving of the hot water module 40 and be mounted on the control case 52. Also, the control PCB 51 may control the driving of the valves connected to the hot water module 40.

The control case 52 may accommodate the control PCB 51 therein and have an opened one surface that is covered by the control cover 53. Thus, the control PCB 51 may be maintained in the accommodated state by coupling the control case 52 to the control cover 53.

A shield plate 54 may be disposed on a front surface of the control cover 53. The shield plate 54 may prevent the magnetic force lines from being transmitted to the control PCB 51 when the hot water module 40 is driven and thus be disposed on the entire front surface of the control cover 53. The shield plate 54 may be molded in the form of a separate sheet and mounted on the front surface of the control cover 53.

Hereinafter, a method for controlling the water dispensing apparatus having the above-described structure according to an embodiment will be described.

Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the water dispensing apparatus according to an embodiment.

Referring to Fig. 7, in a standby state, a command for dispensing hot water having a desired temperature is inputted by a user [S1].

Thereafter, a temperature of hot water introduced into a flow switching valve 300 through a hot water passage 33 is detected by a first temperature sensor 410 built in the flow switching valve 300. Also, a flow rate of purified water introduced to a hot water module 40 is detected by a flow rate adjustment part 20 [S2].

In the operation S2, the detected temperature of the hot water within the flow switching valve 300 is utilized as information for determining whether the hot water is drained later. Also, the flow rate of the purified water, which is detected by the flow rate adjustment part 20, is utilized as information for determining an output of the hot water module 40.

After the operation S2, preheating is performed by the hot water module 40. Here, the preheating is performed at a set output [S3].

In the operation S3, the preheating may be performed in a state in which a flow of the hot water within the hot water module is restricted. That is, the preheating may be performed in a state in which valves disposed at front and rear portions of the hot water module 40 are closed.

After the operation S3, a main control device 700 determines whether the hot water that is discharging is 'first cup hot water’ or ‘repeated cup hot water’ [S4].

In the above description, the ‘first cup hot water’ and the ‘repeated cup hot water’ may be determined by various criteria.

For example, the main control device 700 may divide the hot water into the first cup hot water and the repeated cup hot water according to a time elaspes after the hot water is discharged to the water discharge nozzle 210. In detail, in a state in which a reference time t1 is set, when N-th hot water discharge is performed, if the reference time t1 elapses after previous ((N-1)-th) hot water discharge is performed, the hot water is determined as the first cup hot water. On the other hand, when the reference time t1 does not elapses after the previous ((N-1)-th) hot water discharge is performed, the hot water is determined as the repeated cup hot water.

For another example, after a heating operation of the hot water module 40 is finished, the main control device 700 may the hot water into the first cup hot water and the repeated cup hot water according to the elapsing time. In detail, in a state in which a reference time t2 is set, when hot water discharge is performed, if the reference time t2 elapses after the heating operation of the hot water module 40 is finished, the hot water is determined as the first cup hot water. On the other hand, when the reference time t2 does not elapse after the heating operation of the hot water module 40 is finished, the hot water is determined as the repeated cup hot water. For example, the reference time t2 may be about 20 seconds.

For further another example, the main control device 700 may divide the hot water into the first cup hot water and the repeated cup hot water according to a temperature of the water filled in a hot water passage 33. In detail, in a state in which a reference temperature is set, when hot water discharge is performed, if a temperature of the water introduced into the hot water passage 33 or the flow switching valve 300 is less than the reference temperature, the hot water is determined as the first cup hot water. In detail, if the temperature of the water introduced into the hot water passage 33 or the flow switching valve 300 is equal to or greater than the reference temperature, the hot water is determined as the repeated cup hot water.

For further another example, the main control device 700 may divide the hot water into the first cup hot water and the repeated cup hot water according to a difference in temperature between the water filled in the hot water passage 33 and the hot water filled in the water discharge passage 30. That is, the hot water may be divided into the first cup hot water and the repeated cup hot water according to a difference in temperature between the purified in the passage before the hot water module 40 and water stored in the passage after the hot water module 40 with respect to a flow path of water. Here, although a temperature within the water within the hot water passage 33 is directly measured, it is possible to predict the water temperature on the basis of the temperature of the water within the hot water tank.

In detail, in a state in which a reference value is set, when hot water discharge is performed, if a difference in temperature between the hot water filled in the hot water passage 33 and the hot water filled in the flow switching valve 300 is less than the reference value, the hot water is determined as the first cup hot water. In detail, if the difference in temperature between the hot water filled in the hot water passage 33 and the hot water filled in the flow switching valve 300 is equal to or greater than the reference value, the hot water is determined as the repeated cup hot water.

In addition, the main control device 700 may divide the hot water into the first cup hot water and the repeated cup hot water in more various manners.

Also, when one of the criteria for determining the first cup hot water according to the various embodiments is satisfied, the main control device 700 may determine the hot water as the first cup hot water, or when a plurality of criteria are satisfied, the main control device 700 may determine the hot water as the first cup hot water. Alternatively, only when all of the criteria are satisfied, the hot water may be determined as the first cup hot water.

In the determination process, when it is determined that the discharged hot water is the first cup hot water, a real-time temperature of the hot water filled in the hot water passage 33 in real time is compared with the selected temperature (desired temperature) to determine a drain time [S5].

Also, drain may be performed in the flow switching valve 300 by the determined time. That is, a drain hole of the drain-side is opened to perform the drain of the hot water. Here, a water discharge hole of a water discharge nozzle-side of the flow switching valve 300 is in a closed state [S6, S7].

For example, in the temperature comparison process, when a difference between the real-time temperature of the hot water filled in the hot water passage 33 and the selected temperature (the desired temperature) is less than a preset reference valve (about 15℃), the drain is performed for a preset first time in the flow switching valve 300. For example, the drain may be performed for about 2 seconds [S6].

For another example, in the temperature comparison process, when a difference between the real-time temperature of the hot water and the set temperature exceeds the preset reference valve (about 15℃), the drain is performed for a preset second time that is greater than the preset first time in the flow switching valve 300. That is, after the drain is performed for the first time, drain may be additionally performed [S7].

That is, in the operation S7, when it is determined that the temperature of the hot water filled in the hot water passage 33 is more less than the reference valve (about 15℃), a drain time greater than that in the operation S6 may be taken to satisfy the hot water temperature conditions.

In the operation S6 or S7, while the drain is performed, if the real-time temperature of the hot water, which is detected by the first temperature sensor 410, reaches the preset reference temperature, the drain may be stopped in the flow switching valve 300. That is, the real-time temperature of the hot water introduced into the flow switching valve 300 may be detected to perform feedback control of the flow switching valve 300.

Thereafter, when the drain is completed, a flow direction may be switched to the water discharge nozzle 210 by the flow switching valve 300 to allow the hot water to flow to the water discharge nozzle 210.

As described above, while the drain is performed or after the drain is completed, control for fixing an output of the hot water module 40 is performed. That is, the output of the hot water module 40 is adjusted to the preset value [S8].

If the discharged hot water is not the first cup hot water, but the repeated cup hot water in the operation S4, the fixed output control process (S8) is performed just without performing the drain process.

Thereafter, the feedback control of the output of the hot water module 40 may be performed in real time according to temperature conditions and flow rate and flow speed conditions of the hot water module 40.

If the feedback control is not performed, the hot water within the hot water tank of the hot water module 40 is heated at a temperature of about 100℃ to cause a boiling phenomenon, resulting in generating steam. Also, splashing of the hot water may occur in the water discharge nozzle 201 through which the hot water is discharged to threaten safety of the user.

To feedback control the output of the hot water module as described above, it is determined whether the discharged hot water is the first cup hot water or the repeated cup hot water [S9].

In the operation S9, when it is determined that the discharged hot water is the first cup hot water, the output of the hot water module 40 is adjusted to a first reference output or a second reference output. Here, in the case of the first cup hot water, since an amount of heat required for generating the hot water is large when compared with the repeated cup hot water, the output applied to the hot water module 40 may increase.

Also, whether the water discharge temperature of the hot water module 40 exceeds the reference temperature is determined [S10].

Here, the reference temperature may vary according to a selected temperature. For example, when the selected temperature (desired temperature) is about 90℃, the reference temperature may be selected in a range of about 85℃ to about 90℃.

In the operation S10, when the water discharge temperature of the hot water module 40 is less than the preset reference temperature, the output of the hot water module 40 is adjusted to the first reference output [S12].

On the other hand, in the operation S10, when the water discharge temperature of the hot water module 40 exceeds the preset reference temperature, the output of the hot water module 40 is adjusted to the second reference output less than the first reference output [S12].

Here, when the water discharge temperature of the hot water module 40 is equal to or greater than the preset reference temperature, since an amount of heat required for generating the hot water decreases, the output applied to the hot water module 40 may decrease.

In the operation S9, when it is determined that the discharged hot water is not the first cup hot water but the repeated cup hot water, the output of the hot water module 40 is adjusted to a third reference output less than each of the first reference output and the second reference output [S11].

That is, in the case of the repeated cup hot water, since an amount of heat required for generating the hot water when compared with the first cup hot water, the output applied to the hot water module 40 may decrease.

Thereafter, the output of the hot water module 40 may be controlled in the feedback manner. For example, the hot water module 40 may be controlled in a PI control manner [S14].

The output control part 520 may control the output of the hot water module 40 according to a temperature of the hot water selected by the user.

In detail, the output control part 520 may control the output of the hot water module 40 so that when a water discharge temperature desired by the user increases, the output applied to the hot water module 40 increases, and when a water discharge temperature desired by the user decreases, the output applied to the hot water module 40 decreases.

Also, the output control part 520 may control the output of the hot water module 40 according to a temperature (a water inflow temperature) of the purified water introduced into the hot water module 40.

In detail, the output control part 520 may control the hot water module 40 so that when a temperature of the purified water introduced into the hot water module 40 decreases, the output applied to the hot water module 40 increases. On the other hand, when a temperature of the purified water introduced into the hot water module 40 is high, the output applied to the hot water module 40 decreases.

As a modified example, the valve control part 510 may control the hot water module 40 so that when a temperature of the purified water introduced into the hot water module 40 is low, an amount of purified water supplied to the hot water module 40 decreases to secure the temperature of the hot water, and when a temperature of the purified water introduced into the hot water module 40 is high, an amount of purified water supplied to the hot water module 40 increases to prevent the hot water from being overheated.

Also, the output control part 520 may control the output of the hot water module 40 according to a flow rate or flow speed of the purified water introduced into the hot water module 40.

In detail, the output control part 520 may control the hot water module 40 so that a temperature of the purified water introduced into the hot water module 40 is low, the output applied to the hot water module 40 decreases. On the other hand, when a temperature of the purified water introduced into the hot water module 40 is high, the output applied to the hot water module 40 increases.

As a modified example, in the state of fixing the output of the hot water module 40, the flow rate or flow speed of the purified water introduced into the hot water module 40 may increase or decrease to control a temperature of the hot water.

In detail, when the temperature of the hot water is excessively high to cause boiling, the valve control part 520 may control the hot water module 40 so that the purified water introduced into the hot water module 40 increases in flow rate and flow speed, and when the temperature of the hot water is excessively low to dissatisfy the temperature conditions of the hot water, the valve control part 520 may control the hot water module 40 so that the purified water introduced into the hot water module 40 decreases in flow rate or flow speed.

According to the embodiment as described above, the hot water having the temperature desired by the user may be provided regardless of whether the dispensed hot water is the first cup hot water or the repeated cup hot water. Also, the hot water having the temperature desired by the user may be provided regardless of the length of the hot water passage through which the hot water flows. Also, even though the cold water, the hot water, and purified water are discharged through one passage and nozzle, the hot water or cold water having the set temperature may be provided to the user without the heat loss. Also, it may prevent water from boiling in the hot water tank at a temperature of 100℃ or more and further prevent the hot water having the high temperature in the water discharge nozzle from being scattered around the water discharge nozzle.

Claims

A water dispensing apparatus comprising:

an under-sink unit comprising a raw water tube through which raw water supplied from the outside flows, a filter purifying the water supplied through the raw water tube to generate purified water, a water discharge passage through which the purified water passing through the filter flows, a hot water module heating the purified water supplied through the water discharge passage in an induction heating manner, and a hot water passage through which the water passing through the hot water module flows, the under-sink unit being installed in a sink; and

a faucet comprising a water discharge nozzle supplying the hot water supplied from the hot water passage to a user, a temperature sensor measuring a temperature of the water supplied from the hot water passage, and a flow switching valve comprising one inlet and a plurality of outlets to supply the hot water supplied from the hot water passage to the water discharge nozzle or drain the hot water according to whether the discharged hot water is first cup hot water, wherein at least a portion of the faucet comprises the water discharge nozzle is installed outside the sink.
The water dispensing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the hot water module comprises:

a hot water tank through which the purified water passes;

a working coil disposed at a position that faces the hot water tank to emit electromagnetic force for induction-heating the hot water tank;

a ferrite core provided in plurality that are radially disposed with respect to a center of the working coil to prevent the electromagnetic force generated by the working coil from being lost; and

a mounting bracket on which the hot water tank, the working coil, and the ferrite core are mounted in the form of a module
The water dispensing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of a flow rate sensor detecting a flow rate of the water supplied to the hot water module, a flow rate valve adjusting a flow rate of the water supplied to the hot water module, a flow speed valve adjusting a flow speed of the water supplied to the hot water module, an opening/closing valve interrupting a flow of the water supplied to the hot water module is installed in the raw water tube or the water discharge passage.
The water dispensing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the flow switching valve is installed outside the sink.
The water dispensing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the flow switching valve is installed inside the sink.
The water dispensing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the temperature sensor is installed in side the flow switching valve.
The water dispensing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a valve control part controlling an opening position of the flow switching valve.
The water dispensing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an output control part controlling an output of the hot water module.
A method for controlling a water dispensing apparatus, the method comprising:

inputting a command for dispensing hot water having a set temperature by a user;

detecting a temperature of the hot water introduced into the flow switching valve through a hot water passage by a temperature sensor;

preheating the hot water by the hot water module;

determining whether the discharged hot water is first cup hot water;

comparing a real-time temperature of the hot water with the set temperature by a valve control part to determine a drain time when the discharged hot water is the first cup hot water;

draining the hot water through the flow switching valve for the determined time; and

supplying the hot water from the flow switching valve to a water discharge nozzle after the draining is completed.
The method according to claim 9, wherein, in the comparing of the temperatures, when a difference between the real-time temperature of the hot water and the set temperature is less than a preset reference value, the draining is performed for a preset fist time by the flow switching valve.
The method according to claim 9, wherein, in the comparing of the temperatures, when a difference between the real-time temperature of the hot water and the set temperature exceeds the preset reference value, the draining is additionally performed after the draining is performed for the preset fist time by the flow switching valve.
The method according to claim 10, wherein, while the draining is performed, when the real-time temperature of the hot water, which is detected by the temperature sensor, reaches the set temperature, the draining is stopped by the flow switching valve.
The method according to claim 9, wherein, after the draining is completed, when the hot water is supplied to the water discharge nozzle, the output control part controls an output of the hot water module.
The method according to claim 13, wherein the controlling of the output of the hot water module comprises:

controlling the output of the hot water module to a preset fixed output;

determining whether the discharged hot water is first cup hot water; and

controlling the output of the hot water module into a first reference output or a second reference output when the discharged hot water is the first cup hot water and the output of the hot water module into a third reference output, which is less than each of the first reference output and the second reference output, when the discharged hot water is not the first cup hot water.
The method according to claim 13, wherein the controlling of the output of the hot water module comprises:

determining whether a water discharge temperature of the hot water module exceeds the reference temperature;

controlling the output of the hot water module into a first reference output when the water discharge temperature of the hot water module is less than the preset reference temperature and the output of the hot water module into a second reference output, which is less than that of the first reference output, when the water discharge temperature of the hot water module exceeds the preset reference temperature.
The method according to claim 13, wherein the controlling of the output of the hot water module comprises controlling the output of the hot water module in inverse proportion to a temperature of purified water introduced into the hot water module.
The method according to claim 13, wherein the controlling of the output of the hot water module comprises controlling the output of the hot water module in proportion to a flow rate or speed of purified water introduced into the hot water module.
The method according to claim 13, wherein the controlling of the output of the hot water module comprises feedback-controlling the output of the hot water according to a temperature of the hot water discharged from the hot water module.
The method according to claim 9, wherein, the draining is performed, or the hot water is supplied to the water discharge nozzle, purified water introduced into the hot water module is controlled in flow rate or speed.
The method according to claim 9, wherein whether the discharged hot water is the first cup hot water is determined according to a difference in temperature between the hot water in a water discharge passage before the hot water module and the hot water in the hot water passage or determined according to a time elapsing after the heating operation of the hot water module.