Purification device

A purification device comprises a main body; and a water-outlet module formed to protrude forward of the main body, wherein the water-outlet module includes a water-outlet nozzle for supplying water passing through the filter out of the main body, wherein the water-outlet module includes: a casing, wherein at least a portion of the water-outlet nozzle is mounted on a bottom of the casing so as to be exposed to an outside; a water-supply hose, wherein one end thereof is connected to an inside of the main body while the other end thereof is provided inside the casing and is connected to the water-outlet nozzle, such water from the main body is supplied to the water-outlet nozzle; and a valve provided within the casing, wherein the valve is provided above the water-discharge nozzle and is installed on the water-supply hose to control a flow of water through the water-supply hose.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a purification device.

Generally, a purification device filters water to remove impurities therefrom and is widely used in the home. Specifically, the purification device may be connected to a tap water supply and may remove floating or harmful components contained in tap water using a filter. The purification device may be configured to discharge a desired amount of water by manipulation of a user.

Nowadays, a variety of the above-described purification devices having water purification function and discharge function of hot water and cold water are being introduced. In recent years, the purification device has been developed which may be small and thus installed in various installation environment.

The purification device as described above has a water-discharge valve. In a standby mode, when a water discharge request is input by the user, the water-discharge valve is opened, such that the purified water, cold water, or hot water which has passed through the water-discharge valve is supplied to the water-outlet nozzle. The water-discharge valve is then closed. Conventionally, the water-discharge valve for controlling the discharge of purified water, cold water, and hot water has been installed inside a main body of the purification device.

As a result, a distance between the water-discharge valve and the water-outlet nozzle increases. Thus, the length of the water flow channel from the water-discharge valve to the water-outlet nozzle had to be larger. Moreover, as the length of the water flow channel becomes longer, water is supplied to the water-outlet nozzle in a longer period of time after a water-discharge request from the user, so that immediate water supply is not achieved.

In addition, in the case of hot water, the length of the hot water flow channel between the hot water valve and the water-outlet nozzle is inevitably increased. Thus, while the hot water flows from the hot water valve to the water-outlet nozzle, the temperature of the hot water is lowered. Similarly, in the case of cold water, the length of the cold water flow channel between the cold water valve and the water-outlet nozzle is inevitably larger. Thus, while the cold water flows from the cold water valve to the water-outlet nozzle, the temperature of the cold water rises up. Consequently, the user may not receive the hot water or cold water immediately.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1is a perspective view of a purification device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG. 2is an exploded perspective view of the above purification device. Referring toFIG. 1andFIG. 2, the purification device10according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body100including a housing110defining an appearance of the device, and a filter120installed inside the housing110to filter raw-water introduced from the outside; and a water-outlet module200formed to protrude forward of the main body100, wherein the module200includes a water-outlet nozzle210for supplying water passing through the filter120to the outside of the main body100.

The external appearance of the purification device10may be defined by the housing110. The housing110may include a front-cover111defining the appearance of the front-face, a rear-cover112defining the appearance of the rear-face, a base113defining the bottom face, a top-cover defining the top face114, and left and right side-panels115defining both lateral faces. The front-cover111, the rear-cover112, the base113, the top-cover114and a pair of the side-panels115may be assembled together to define the housing110forming the appearance of the purification device10.

In this connection, the front end and the rear end of each of the base113and the top-cover114may be rounded. Thus, each of the front-cover111and the rear-cover112may be convexly formed forwardly and rearwardly, respectively so as to have a curvature corresponding to a curvature of the front end and the rear end of each of the base113and the top-cover114. On the front face of the main body100, the water-outlet module200is provided. The water-outlet module200is provided so as to protrude forward from the front face of the main body. The purified water may be discharged through a water-outlet nozzle210protruding downward.

A more detailed example of the water-outlet module200will be described later. The housing110includes a filter120for purification of water and a filter bracket130to which a plurality of valves (not shown) are mounted. The filter bracket130may include a bottom portion131coupled with the base113, and a filter receiving portion132in which the filter120is received.

The shape of the bottom portion131may be formed to correspond to the shape of the tip of the base113, and the portion131may be coupled to the base113. Thus, the mounting position of the filter bracket130may be fixed via the coupling between the bottom portion131and the base113. Further, the bottom face shape of the filter receiving portion132may be defined. The filter bracket130may be hooked to the base113in a hook manner. The filter bracket130may be fixed by a screw fastened to the bottom face of the base113.

The filter receiving portion132extends in the vertical direction. The filter receiving portion132has a recessed space defined therein from a front side (left side in the figure) to a rear side (right side in the figure) so that the filter120may be accommodated therein. A plurality of the filters120may be mounted in the filter receiving portion132. The filter120may include a combination of the filters having various functions and may be configured for purifying raw-water (tap water) to be supplied thereto.

Further, the filter receiving portion132may further include a filter socket134on which the filter120is mounted. The filter socket134is provided with piping for flowing purified water. The piping may be connected to a plurality of valves (not shown). Thus, the raw-water may pass through the filter120in turn and then to a water valve (not shown).

A plurality of valves (not shown) may be provided on the back face (right side in the drawing) of the filter receiving portion132. The valves (not shown) may supply purified water having passed through the filter120to a cooling tank150for generating cold water or an induction heating assembly170for generating hot water. Furthermore, purified water may be supplied to the water-outlet module200immediately.

Further, the manipulation unit (or handle)300may be provided above the water-outlet module200. In one embodiment, a compressor113and a condenser142are provided on the top face of the base113. In addition, a cooling fan143is provided between the compressor141and the condenser142to realize cooling of the compressor141and the condenser142. The compressor141may include the compressor of the inverter type capable of adjusting the cooling ability by varying the frequency. Therefore, the cooling of purified water may be efficiently performed, thereby reducing power consumption.

Further, the condenser142may be located behind the base113and may be located at a position corresponding to a discharge hole112a defined in the rear-cover112. The condenser142may be realized by bending the flat tube type refrigerant tube many times in order to efficiently utilize the space and at the same time to improve the heat exchange efficiency. The condenser may be configured to be received within the condenser bracket144.

The condenser bracket144may have a condenser mount145on which the condenser142may be fixed, and a tank mount146on which a cooling tank150for producing cold water may be mounted. The condenser mount145has a space defined therein having a shape corresponding to the overall shape of the condenser142so as to accommodate the condenser142. Further, portions of the condenser mount145facing the cooling fan143and the discharge hole112aare opened, respectively, whereby effective cooling of the condenser142is possible.

Further, the tank mount146is formed on the condenser bracket144, that is, on the condenser mount145. The bottom portion of the cooling tank150is inserted into the tank mount146so that the tank mount146fixes the cooling tank150. The cooling tank150may be configured to cool purified water to generate cold water, and, to this end, may be filled with cooling water for heat exchange with the purified water. Further, an evaporator151for cooling the cooling water may be accommodated in the cooling tank150. Further, purified water may pass through the inside of the cooling tank to cool the purified water.

The support bracket130is further provided at one side thereof with a support plate135extending toward the cooling tank150. The support plate135is provided on the compressor141. The plate135extends from the filter bracket130to the condenser bracket144to provide a space for receiving the heating and control module160.

The heating and control module160may include an induction heating assembly170for generating hot water and a control assembly180for controlling the overall operation of the purification device10. The induction heating assembly170and the control assembly180may be coupled to each other to form a single module. The induction heating assembly170and the control assembly180may be mounted on the support plate135in the combined state into the single module.

The induction heating assembly170is configured to heat purified water and to operate in induction heating (IH) mode. The induction heating assembly170may heat the water immediately and rapidly at the time of manipulation for hot water discharge. The heating assembly controls the output of the magnetic field so that purified water may be heated to a target temperature and supplied to a user. Thus, depending on the user's manipulation, the hot water at the target temperature may be discharged.

The control assembly180may be configured to control the operation of the purification device10. The assembly180may be configured to control the compressor141, the cooling fan143, various valves and sensors, the induction heating assembly170, and the like. The control assembly180may be configured as a module by a combination of PCBs (printed circuit boards) divided into a plurality of functional parts. In addition, when the purification device10discharges only cold water and purified water, a PCB for controlling the induction heating assembly170may be omitted. In this manner, the at least one PCB may be omitted.

Hereinafter, the water-outlet module, which is a main component of the present disclosure, is illustrated more specifically.FIG. 3is a partial cutaway perspective view of a water-outlet module as one component of the present disclosure.FIG. 4is a vertical cross-sectional view of the water-outlet module as one component of the present disclosure.FIG. 5is a perspective view showing an assembled state between a valve and a bracket as components of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 3toFIG. 5, the water-outlet module200may include a casing220, a water-outlet nozzle210, and a water-supply hose230. At least a portion of the water-outlet nozzle210is mounted on the bottom of the casing220so as to be exposed to the outside. The casing220has a receiving space223defined therein. One end of the water-supply hose230is connected to the inside of the main body100while the other end thereof is connected to the water-outlet nozzle210inside the casing220. Accordingly, at least one of purified water, hot water, and cold water as generated from the main body100may be supplied to the water-outlet nozzle210. The water-outlet module200may further include a valve240. The valve240may be provided within the casing220and may be provided above the water-discharge nozzle210and may be installed on the water-supply hose230to control the flow of water through the water-supply hose230.

When the valve240for controlling the flow of water is mounted inside the casing220, utilization of the receiving space223in the water-outlet module200may be increased. In addition, the internal space of the main body100may have a relatively larger room to spare compared to a case when the valve240is installed in the main body100. Thus, the main body100may be downsized. Moreover, the water-outlet nozzle210may be closer to the valve240. Thus, the discharge of the water supply of the purified water, hot water, cold water may be executed immediately.

Conventionally, a valve240is installed inside the main body100. In this case, when the user requests the discharge of water, the valve240is opened, and, then, water is supplied from the valve240to the water-outlet nozzle210. Therefore, in such a conventional case, upon the water discharge request from the user, the distance over which the water flows may be larger.

However, when, according to the present disclosure, the valve240is provided near the water-outlet nozzle210, a path of the water flow between the valve240and the water-outlet nozzle210is significantly reduced. Thus, as the length of the water path is reduced, the supply of water may proceed more quickly.

In one embodiment, the water-supply hose230supplies at least one of purified water, hot water, and cold water generated from the main body100to the water-discharge nozzle210. In one example, the water-supply hose230may serve as a purified water pipe for supplying purified water or cold water generated from the main body100.

In another example, the water-supply hose230may serve as a hot water pipe for supplying hot water generated from the main body100. In this case, the water-supply hose230may be connected to a hot water module (or water heater), one end of which is installed in the main body100. The valve240may serve as a hot water valve for controlling the flow of hot water supplied from the hot water module to the water-discharge nozzle210.

In this connection, the hot water module refers to a heating mechanism provided in the main body100for heating purified water to hot water. In one example, the hot water module may refer to the induction heating assembly170. In this embodiment, the hot water valve240may be provided closer to the water-outlet nozzle210. Thus, hot water discharge may be performed immediately.

Specifically, in the standby mode of the purification device, the water-supply hose230existing between the hot water valve240and the induction heating assembly170installed in the main body100has been already filled with hot water. In this state, when the user requests the discharge of hot water, the hot water valve240is opened, and, then, tot water is supplied to the water-outlet nozzle210provided closer to the hot water valve240.

In this connection, since the hot water valve240is provided closer to the water-outlet nozzle210, the hot water flow path between the hot water valve240and the water-outlet nozzle210can be significantly reduced. Thus, the hot water supply may be made faster in a corresponding manner to the reduced length.

In addition, since the hot water flow path between the hot water valve240and the water-outlet nozzle210is significantly reduced, the temperature of the hot water as discharged from the water-outlet nozzle210may be kept higher. In the conventional case, since the hot water valve240is installed in the main body100, the hot water flow distance between the hot water valve240and the water-outlet nozzle210has to be larger. Thus, while the hot water flows from the hot water valve240to the water-outlet nozzle210, the temperature of the hot water is lowered.

According to the present disclosure, the hot water valve240is installed in the water-outlet module200equipped with the water-discharge nozzle210. Thus, when the hot water is discharged, the hot water flow distance is minimized, thereby minimizing the temperature loss of the hot water. As a result, the user can more rapidly discharge the hot water through the water-discharge nozzle210, as compared to the conventional case.

In one embodiment, the valve240may include following components: a water-inlet portion (or inlet)241connected to the main body100for receiving at least one of purified water, hot water, and cold water; a water-exiting portion (or outlet)242connected to the water-outlet nozzle210for discharging water introduced through the water-inlet portion241; and an actuation unit (or actuator)243provided between the water-inlet portion241and the water-exiting portion242to open and close a channel communicating between the water-inlet portion241and the water-exiting portion242.

Accordingly, the actuation of the actuation unit243opens and closes the channel between the water-inlet portion241and the water-exiting portion242. Correspondingly, water entering the water-inlet portion241may or may not be transferred to the water-exiting portion242. In one example, the valve240may be implemented as a solenoid valve.

In addition, the water-supply hose230may include a first hose231for connecting the main body100and the water-inlet portion241of the valve240, and a second hose232for connecting the water-outlet nozzle210and the water-exiting portion242of the valve240to each other. In this connection, the first hose231and the second hose232may each be made of a flexible material.

In addition, the first hose231may have an extra length for rotation and vertical movement of the water-outlet module200as described below. In one embodiment, the valve240may be oriented obliquely in the vertical direction. The first hose231may be connected to the top of the valve240, while the second hose232may be connected to the bottom of the valve240.

When, as described above, the valve240is oriented at an angle, the vertical length occupied by the valve240may be reduced. Thus, the valve may be easily installed in the inner space of the water-outlet module200. In addition, the flow of water through the valve240may be stably achieved in the inclined direction.

Furthermore, the degree of bending of the first hose231and the second hose232connected to the valve240may be reduced. Thus, the flow of water from the first hose231to the valve240and the flow of water from the valve240to the second hose232may be achieved stably.

In one embodiment, an arrow246indicating the flow direction of the water may be displayed on the outer face of the valve240. The arrow246may indicate the direction from the water-inlet portion241to the water-exiting portion242. The operator may recognize the arrow246and correctly connect the first hose231and the second hose232without confusing the water-inlet portion241and the water-exiting portion242with each other.

In addition, when adjusting the inclination of the valve240, the operator may refer to the arrow246to raise the water-inlet portion241and lower the water-exiting portion242. That is, the workability and convenience of the operator may be improved.

FIG. 6is a front and vertical cross-sectional view of the water-outlet module as one component of the present disclosure. Referring toFIGS. 5 to 6, the water-outlet module200further includes a bracket250for fixing the valve240inside the water-outlet module200.

The valve240may be directly fixed within the water-outlet module200. Alternatively, the valve240may be secured within the water-outlet module200using the bracket250. When the valve240is secured to the water-outlet module200using the bracket250, the valve240is first assembled to the bracket250, and then the bracket250having the assembled valve240therewith may be coupled to the water-outlet module200. Alternatively, the bracket250may be first coupled to the water-outlet module200, and, then, the valve240may be assembled to the bracket250coupled to the water-outlet module200.

In one example, the bracket250includes a valve mount251on which the valve240is mounted, a fixed portion (or fixing frame)252provided on the bottom of the valve mount251and fixed to a lower level of the water-outlet module200, and a spacer253provided between the valve mount251and the fixed portion252to define a space between the valve mount251and the fixed portion252.

In the configuration of the bracket250as described above, the valve240may be provided above the nozzle210and apart from the top of the water-outlet nozzle210. As described above, when the space is secured under the valve240via the spacer253, the water-supply hose230, etc. may be arranged in the space.

Furthermore, a separate supply pipe or the like bypassing the valve240may be connected through the space under the valve240to the water-outlet nozzle210. Further, additional components may be provided under the valve240. In one embodiment, the valve240may be rotatably secured to the valve mount251.

In one example, the valve240may be connected to the valve mount251using a hinge or the like. Due to such a configuration, the inclination angle of the valve240may be adjusted. In addition, fixing means for rotating the valve240and fixing a rotation angle thereof may be provided. Accordingly, the inclination angle of the valve240may be adjusted according to the size and the internal environment of the water-outlet module200. Further, the adjusted angle may be maintained.

In another example, the valve240may be provided horizontally or may be arranged in the vertical direction. In one embodiment, the fixed portion251has a plurality of fixing pins254protruding downward from the bottom face thereof. A plurality of bosses206may be formed on an inner bottom face of the water-outlet module200. Each boss206has a fixing groove205defined therein in which each fixing pin254is inserted.

Thus, as the fixing pin254fits into the fixing groove205, the bracket250may be fixed inside the water-outlet module200. Furthermore, the alignment of the bracket250may be facilitated by the engagement between the fixing pin254and the fixing groove205.

In addition, the fixed portion251is in face contact with the inner bottom face of the water-outlet module200. The fixed portion251has an up-and-down through-hole255. Accordingly, the fixed portion251may be fastened to the inner bottom face of the water-outlet module200via a screw or a bolt or the like.

In this case, the fixed portion251of the bracket250is in face contact with the inner face of the water-outlet module200, so that a supporting force be secured. In addition, because the face-contacted portions are fastened via the screws, bolts, etc., the fixing force may also be ensured. There is an advantage that if necessary, it is easy to separate the fixed portion from the module.

In addition, the manipulation unit300including a water-discharge button310is provided on a top face of the water-outlet module200. According to the present disclosure, the manipulation unit300is formed on the top face of the water-outlet module200. Thus, the user may easily control the overall operation of the purification device10.

Furthermore, since the manipulation unit300rotates together with the water-outlet module200when the water-outlet module200is rotated, the user may control the overall operation of the purification device10regardless of whether the water-outlet module200is rotated or not.

Above the valve240, a cable244and a connector245electrically connected to the manipulation unit300may extend upwardly. Since the manipulation unit300is provided on the top of the water-outlet module200, the distance between the valve240and the manipulation unit300may be shortest. Accordingly, the actuation unit243of the valve240and the manipulation unit300are linearly connectable with each other via the cable244. In this case, the length of the cable244may be kept short.

According to the present disclosure, the water-outlet module200may be capable of vertical movement and rotation with respect to the main body100. To this end, the casing220includes a fixed casing portion221fixed to the main body100, and a vertically-movable casing portion222provided inside or outside the fixed casing portion221, and vertically movable while bearing against the fixed casing portion221. The water-outlet nozzle210and the valve240are installed in the vertically-movable casing portion222.

Accordingly, while the fixed casing portion221is fixed to the main body100, the vertically-movable casing portion222is vertically moved while bearing against the fixed casing portion221. At the same time, the water-outlet nozzle210installed in the vertically-movable casing portion222and the valve240may also be vertically moved.

In another example, the casing220is fixed to a rotator400rotatably mounted on the main body100. Accordingly, the casing220is rotatable together with the rotator400in both directions with respect to the main body100. At the same time, the water-outlet nozzle210installed in the casing220and the valve240may be rotated.

FIG. 7is a front and vertical cross-sectional view of the water-outlet nozzle as one component of the present disclosure. Further,FIG. 8is a top and horizontal cross-sectional view of the water-outlet nozzle as one component of the present disclosure. Furthermore,FIG. 9is a rear view of the water-outlet nozzle as one component of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIGS. 7 to 9, in the rear end of the water-outlet nozzle210, a hose channel211through which the water-supply hose230passes is defined in the anteroposterior direction. A water-outlet hole212communicating with the hose channel211for discharging the water introduced into the water-supply hose230is defined in a vertical direction in front of the channel211. Accordingly, after water supplied from the water-supply hose230connected to the hose channel211of the water-outlet nozzle210is fed forwardly, water is discharged vertically downwards through the water-outlet hole212.

In one embodiment, the hose channel211includes a first hose channel211ato which a purified water-supply hose230afor supplying purified water or cold water is connected. The hose channel211may include a second hose channel211bextending in parallel with and spaced from the first hose channel211aand connected to a hot water-supply hose230bfor supplying hot water.

In this connection, a hollow packing213is provided in each of the first hose channel211aand the second hose channel211b. Each of the purified water-supply hose230aand the hot water-supply hose230bmay be press-fitted into a corresponding packing213. In one example, the packing213may be made of a silicon material. In addition, a protrusion213amay be formed along the circumferential direction on the inner circumferential face of the packing213. In one example, the protrusion213amay be provided in the form of a ring.

Due to the construction of the packing213having the protrusion213aas described above, the purified water-supply hose230aand the hot water-supply hose230bare more firmly fixed to the first hose channel211aand the second hose channel211brespectively. Further, leakage between the purified water-supply hose230aand the first hose channel211aand leakage between the hot water-supply hose230band the second hose channel211bmay be prevented.

The water-outlet nozzle210further includes a chamber214. The chamber214communicates with the front end of the hose channel211and communicates with the top of the water-outlet hole212. The chamber214transfers the water introduced through the hose channel211to the water-outlet hole212.

In one example, the chamber214defines a cylindrical space. The bottom of the chamber defines a first hole communicating with the water-outlet hole212. A rear end of the chamber may define a second hole and a third hole in communication with the first hose channel211aand the second hose channel211b, respectively.

Therefore, both the cold water or purified water flowing through the purified water-supply hose230aand the hot water introduced through the hot water-supply hose230bare combined in the chamber214. Alternatively, when the cold water or purified water introduced through the purified water-supply hose230aand the hot water introduced through the hot water-supply hose230bare not joined together in the chamber214, the cold water or purified water introduced through the purified water-supply hose230aand the hot water introduced through the hot water-supply hose230bmay be supplied via the chamber214through the water-outlet hole212to the outside of the hole212.

In addition, the water-outlet nozzle210may include an inner member210ahaving the water-outlet hole212and the chamber214defined therein, and an outer member210bconnected to an outer lower face of the inner member210aand exposed to the outside of the casing220. In this connection, the inner member210aand the outer member210bmay be integrally injection-molded.

In this connection, the outer member210bmay be made of a metal material. The inner member210aand the outer member210bmay be integrally formed by an insert injection method. Accordingly, the coupling force between the inner member210aand the outer member210bincreases, thereby preventing water leakage. In addition, this configuration may be easier to manufacture than when using a conventional assembly method.

In this connection, in order to improve the coupling force between the inner member210aand the outer member210b, a protrusion is formed on the outer circumferential face of the inner member210a, while the inner circumferential face of the outer member210bhas a groove defined therein into which the protrusion is fitted.

In addition, the outer member210bmay be made of stainless steel. When the outer member210bexposed to the outside of the casing220is made of stainless steel as described above, the member210bis sanitary because the member does not rust. Further, breakage and deformation otherwise occurring during frequent use of the member may be prevented. Moreover, the appearance of the purification device10becomes more beautiful. The purification device10may have a luxurious image.

A plurality of ribs215protruding inwardly from the inner face of the inner member210adefining the water-outlet hole212may be formed in the vertical direction (discharge direction). The ribs215may shape the water stream into a linear shape, remove the vortex, and the like.

Hereinafter, the water discharge process of the purification device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure having the above structure will be described.FIG. 10is a schematic view showing a flow path of water of the purification device. As shown inFIG. 10, an inlet pipe11of the purification device10is connected to a water source (for example, a water tap) and receives raw water. The inlet pipe11is connected to a pressure-reducing valve12. The raw-water passing through the pressure-reducing valve12is depressurized to a pressure set for the operation of the purification device10.

Further, the decompressed raw-water flows to the filter120along a pipe connecting the pressure-reducing valve12and the filter120. Foreign matters may be removed from the raw water while passing through the filter120to generate purified water. Further, opening a water-supply valve13may allow the purified water to pass through the water-supply valve13and through the flow-rate sensor14in turn.

In this connection, the water-supply valve13and the flow-rate sensor14may be connected to a main PCB (not shown) included in the control assembly180. The opening degree of the water-supply valve13may be adjusted based on a signal transmitted from the main PCB (not shown). Further, the flow rate sensed by the flow-rate sensor14may be transferred to the main PCB (not shown) and may be used as data necessary for controlling the purification device. The purified water having passed through the flow-rate sensor14may be branched through a branching pipe15into a cold purified-water pipe15aand a hot purified-water pipe15b.

First, the purified water flowing into the cold purified-water pipe15ais branched into a cold water pipe16aand a purified water pipe16bvia a T-shaped connector16. The cold water pipe16aand the purified water pipe16bare connected to a cold water-discharge valve17and a purified water-discharge valve18, respectively. The purified water-discharge valve18and the cold water-discharge valve17may be connected to the main PCB (not shown) and may be opened or closed based on a signal from the PCB. That is, either the purified water-discharge valve18or the cold water-discharge valve17may be selected by user input. Manipulation of the water-discharge button310allows the selected valve to be opened, allowing water to be discharged.

In one embodiment, water passing through the cold water-discharge valve17passes through a cooling coil inside the cooling tank150. The water flowing along the cooling coil is heat-exchanged with the cooling water inside the cooling tank150and is thereby cooled. To this end, the cooling water is cooled to maintain the set temperature.

In order to cool the cooling water, a compressor141connected to the main PCB (not shown) is driven. The compressor141may be driven by a cold water temperature sensor provided inside the cooling tank150. Therefore, the cooling water may be maintained at a predetermined temperature. For this purpose, the driving of the compressor141may be controlled. The compressor141may be implemented as an inverter type compressor to adjust the frequency thereof based on the required load. Thereby, the cooling ability may be adjusted. That is, the compressor141may be driven by inverter control. Thus, the cooling water can be cooled at an optimum efficiency.

In one embodiment, the user may manipulate the manipulation unit300to forcibly set the actuation of the compressor141to the off state. When cold water consumption is low or when power saving is required, or when cold water is not desired, the user may force the compressor141to remain off.

In addition, the main PCB (not shown) may be configured to control driving of the compressor141and driving of the cooling fan143. Further, the main PCB (not shown) may control driving of an agitator motor provided in the cooling tank150. The motor is driven to increase heat exchange efficiency between cooling water and cold water passing through the cooling coil. The motor is controlled by the main PCB (not shown). The agitator is rotated by driving the motor. The cooling water may have forcedly convection movement inside the cooling tank150. As a result, the purified water inside the cooling coil is effectively cooled.

The cold water passing through the cooling tank150flows into the purified water-supply hose230avia the T connector19. Water may then be discharged to the outside through the water-outlet nozzle210via the purified water-supply hose230a. In one embodiment, when the purified water-discharge valve18is opened, the purified water having passed through the purified water-discharge valve18flows into the purified water-supply hose230athrough the T connector19. Subsequently, water may be discharged to the outside through the purified water-supply hose230athrough the water-outlet nozzle210.

In one embodiment, when the user selects the discharge of hot water, the purified water may flow to the hot purified-water pipe15bbranched from the branching pipe15. A flow rate adjustment valve20is opened by the control of the main PCB (not shown). Thus, the water flowing through the flow rate adjustment valve20is adjusted to an appropriate flow rate for heating the hot water. That is, the amount of purified water to be supplied to the hot water tank pipe of the induction heating assembly170is adjusted such that water is heated to a temperature set by the induction heating assembly170.

The purified water passing through the flow rate adjustment valve20passes through the hot water tank. Further, water may be heated to a predetermined temperature via the process passing through the hot water tank. The hot water tank may be heated by induction heating. To this end, an output of the magnetic force of the working coil may be adjusted by controlling an induction heating PCB.

In order to drive the induction heating assembly170, a higher voltage is required than a voltage used in a main PCB. For this high voltage supply, power is supplied from a power supply PCB connected to the power supply line. The power supply PCB supplies appropriate power based on whether to drive the induction heating assembly170. At the same time, the main PCB is supplied with an appropriate power.

Driving the induction heating assembly170may allow water in the hot water tank to be heated to a predetermined temperature. When the hot water valve240installed in the water-outlet module200is opened, hot water heated while passing through the hot water tank may flow to the water-outlet nozzle210through the hot water-supply hose230band may be discharged to the outside.

According to the present disclosure, the hot water valve240is installed inside the water-outlet module200so as be closer to the water-outlet nozzle210. When, as described above, when the hot water valve240for controlling the flow of hot water is installed inside the casing220of the water-outlet module200, the hot water flow path distance is kept to a minimum, thereby minimizing the temperature loss of the hot water during hot water discharge.

In addition, the hot water valve240is provided near the water-outlet nozzle210, whereby the length of the water travel path between the hot water valve240and the water-outlet nozzle210is significantly reduced. Thus, the supply of water may be performed more quickly in a manner corresponding to the reduced length. As a result, the user may use the water-outlet nozzle210to discharge hot water more quickly than in the conventional configuration.

While the present disclosure has been illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and drawings as disclosed in the present specification. It will be obvious that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of the present disclosure. In addition, it should be recognized that other effects from the configurations of the present disclosure should be acknowledged although the other effects is not explicitly described in the specification.

Aspects of the present disclosure provide a purification device in which a valve to control the flow of water is mounted inside the water-outlet module, thereby increasing the utilization of the inner space of the water-outlet module. In addition, aspects of the present disclosure provide a purification device in which a larger internal space of the main body may be ensured, as compared with the case where the valve is installed in the main body, thereby enabling miniaturization of the main body.

In addition, aspects of the present disclosure provide a purification device in which the valve is located closer to the water-outlet nozzle, so that the supply of purified water, hot water, and cold water may be instantaneously achieved. In addition, aspects of the present disclosure provide a purification device in which a hot water valve is installed inside the water-outlet module equipped with the water-outlet nozzle, and, thus, it is possible to minimize the temperature loss of the hot water by keeping the hot water flow path distance to a minimum at the time of hot water discharge.

In addition, aspects of the present disclosure provide a purification device in which a cold water valve is installed inside the water-outlet module equipped with the water-outlet nozzle, and, thus, the temperature loss of cold water can be minimized by keeping the hot water flow path distance to a minimum during cold water discharge. In addition, aspects of the present disclosure provide a purification device in which valve inclination may be adjusted depending on the internal environment of the water-outlet module, thereby to facilitate valve installation.

Moreover, aspects of the present disclosure provide a purification device in which the valve is oriented obliquely so that the flow of water through the valve may be executed stably in the inclined direction. Furthermore, aspects of the present disclosure provide a purification device in which a degree of bending of the water-supply hose connected to both sides of the valve may be lowered, so that the flow of water from the water-supply hose to the valve, and the flow of water from the valve to the water-supply hose may be executed stably.

In addition, aspects of the present disclosure provide a purification device in which use of a separate bracket may make it easier to install the valve into the water-outlet module. Furthermore, aspects of the present disclosure provide a purification device in which the bracket may be easily fixed inside the water-outlet module, and the alignment of the bracket may be easily performed.

In addition, aspects of the present disclosure provide a purification device in which a manipulation unit is provided above the water-outlet module such that the distance between the valve and the manipulation unit may be kept shortest. Therefore, a length of a cable connecting an actuation unit of the valve and the manipulation unit may be kept short.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, a purification device may comprise: a main body including: a housing defining an appearance of the device, and a filter provided inside the housing for filtering raw water; and a water-outlet module formed to protrude forward of the main body, wherein the water-outlet module includes a water-outlet nozzle for supplying water passing through the filter out of the main body, wherein the water-outlet module includes: a casing, wherein at least a portion of the water-outlet nozzle is mounted on a bottom of the casing so as to be exposed to an outside; a water-supply hose, wherein one end thereof is connected to an inside of the main body while the other end thereof is provided inside the casing and is connected to the water-outlet nozzle, such that at least one of purified water, hot water, and cold water generated from the main body is supplied to the water-outlet nozzle; and a valve provided within the casing, wherein the valve is provided above the water-discharge nozzle and is installed on the water-supply hose to control a flow of water through the water-supply hose.

In one implementation of the device, one end of the water-supply hose is connected to a hot water module installed inside the main body, wherein the valve serves as a hot water valve for controlling a flow of hot water supplied from the hot water module to the water-outlet nozzle. In one implementation of the device, the water-supply hose includes: a first hose for connecting the main body and the valve; and a second hose for connecting the water-outlet nozzle and the valve.

In one implementation of the device, the valve is oriented obliquely, wherein the first hose is connected to a top of the valve, while the second hose is connected to a bottom of the valve. In one implementation of the device, the device further includes a bracket for fixing the valve inside the water-outlet module.

In one implementation of the device, the valve is rotatably mounted on the valve mount. In one implementation of the device, the casing includes: a fixed casing portion fixed to the main body; and a vertically-movable casing portion provided inside or outside the fixed casing portion, wherein the vertically-movable casing portion is movable in a vertical direction while bearing against the fixed casing portion, wherein the water-outlet nozzle and the valve are installed in the vertically-movable casing portion.

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a valve to control the flow of water is mounted inside the water-outlet module, thereby increasing the utilization of the inner space of the water-outlet module. In addition, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a larger internal space of the main body may be ensured, as compared with the case where the valve is installed in the main body, thereby enabling miniaturization of the main body.

In addition, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the valve is located closer to the water-outlet nozzle, so that the supply of purified water, hot water, and cold water may be instantaneously achieved. In addition, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a hot water valve is installed inside the water-outlet module equipped with the water-outlet nozzle, and, thus, it is possible to minimize the temperature loss of the hot water by keeping the hot water flow path distance to a minimum at the time of hot water discharge. That is, there is an advantage that the user may receive hot water of high temperature more quickly.

In addition, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a cold water valve is installed inside the water-outlet module equipped with the water-outlet nozzle, and, thus, the temperature loss of cold water can be minimized by keeping the hot water flow path distance to a minimum during cold water discharge. That is, there is an advantage that the user may receive cold water of low temperature more quickly.

In addition, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, valve inclination may be adjusted depending on the internal environment of the water-outlet module, thereby to facilitate valve installation. Moreover, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the valve is oriented obliquely so that the flow of water through the valve may be executed stably in the inclined direction.

Furthermore, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a degree of bending of the water-supply hose connected to both sides of the valve may be lowered, so that the flow of water from the water-supply hose to the valve, and the flow of water from the valve to the water-supply hose may be executed stably. In addition, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, use of a separate bracket may make it easier to install the valve into the water-outlet module.

Furthermore, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the bracket may be easily fixed inside the water-outlet module, and the alignment of the bracket may be easily performed. In addition, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a manipulation unit is provided above the water-outlet module such that the distance between the valve and the manipulation unit may be kept shortest. Therefore, a length of a cable connecting an actuation unit of the valve and the manipulation unit may be kept short.