KR20190093934A - Cold water supplying system, Drinking water supplying device including the same and Controlling method for the same - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a housing forming an appearance; An inlet port through which water is introduced into the housing; A first guide part including a first vertical flow path in which water introduced into the inlet port moves in a vertical direction, and a first horizontal flow path moving in a horizontal direction; A second guide part having a second vertical flow path in which water moves in the vertical direction and a second horizontal flow path moving in the horizontal direction after passing through the first guide part; A discharge port through which the water is discharged to the outside of the housing after passing through the second guide part; And a base coupled to the housing and sealing the inside of the housing from the outside.

Description

Cold water supply system, Drinking water supplying device including the same and Controlling method for the same}

The present invention relates to a cold water supply system, a drinking water supply apparatus and a control method including the same, and more particularly, to provide a cold water supply, the space occupied by the drinking water supply apparatus is small, high energy efficiency, and can supply sufficiently cooled cold water to the user. A system, drinking water supply apparatus and control method comprising the same.

Drinking water supply device refers to a device for supplying drinking water to the user. Such a drinking water supply device may be a unique device, or may form part of another device.

For example, the water purifier is a device that passes the raw water supplied from the tap water through a separate filtering means and then supplies the purified water to the user by filtering. In addition, the device for supplying purified water to the cold water or hot water when the user needs may also be called a water purifier. The water purifier may be a device independent of other household appliances.

Meanwhile, the drinking water supply device may form part of a home appliance such as a refrigerator. That is, the water purified through the water purification device inside the refrigerator may be supplied to the outside through the drinking water supply device. Of course, the purified water inside the refrigerator may be cooled or frozen, and cold water or ice may be supplied to the outside through the drinking water supply device.

The drinking water supply device is provided to allow the user to receive drinking water from the outside regardless of whether the drinking water supply device is independent of other devices. In other words, it can be referred to as a device having a dispenser, a space for receiving drinking water.

Korean Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 1998-0072870 discloses a technique of cooling water using two thermoelectric elements, but since the two thermoelectric elements are turned on or off together, energy efficiency is low. In addition, when the two thermoelectric elements are turned off at the same time, there is a problem that the external heat flows through the thermoelectric element so that the temperature of the cold water is increased to decrease the cooling performance. In addition, the prior art has a problem in miniaturization of the drinking water supply device because the space for installing the thermoelectric element is large.

The present invention is to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a cold water supply system, a drinking water supply device and a control method comprising the same, because the space occupied by the drinking water supply device is small, it can be miniaturized.

In addition, the present invention can provide a drinking water supply device capable of supplying cold water using a thermoelectric element having a size smaller than that of a compressor for compressing a refrigerant, and can be miniaturized.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a cold water supply system, a drinking water supply device and a control method including the same that can be instantaneously cooled to provide the user without using a cold water tank to produce cold water.

In addition, the present invention can variably control the voltages of the two thermoelectric elements, and variably control the voltages of the two fans provided for heat dissipation to save the energy consumed, and improve the energy efficiency.

In addition, the present invention is to reduce the amount of heat is sucked through the thermoelectric element even if one of the two thermoelectric element, the cold water supply system that can prevent the cold water tank is heated, drinking water supply apparatus including the same And a control method.

In another aspect, the present invention is a cold water supply system, the drinking water supply and control method comprising the same, the water is heat-exchanged with the various media as the water moves in the tank, and the water can be cooled to a desired temperature by increasing the path through which the heat exchange can be made To provide.

The present invention can reduce the size of the product by eliminating the compressor for compressing the refrigerant for cooling the water and using a thermoelectric element, without using a separate cold water tank storage formula to produce a clean and sanitary cold water, directly into the thermoelectric element To provide a drinking water supply system that adopts a cooling method.

The present invention provides a fresh and clean cold water to the consumer by generating direct instant cold water through heat exchange with the water in the cooling flow path, and can provide fresh and clean cold water to the consumer. The variable voltage control of the fan provides a drinking water supply to improve cooling and optimize energy efficiency.

The present invention enables efficient voltage variable use of thermoelectric elements by connecting two thermoelectric elements and controlling them through a FET, real-time variable DC voltage applied to the thermoelectric element by PWM control, and a variable input voltage of the FAN. Compared to the fixed DC voltage input of the cooling power, improved durability, temperature is controlled uniformly, can improve energy efficiency.

According to the present invention, two thermoelectric elements are attached to one side or the other side of the cooling block, respectively, and the other side of the cooling block is directly attached to a tank including a direct flow path to directly cool water.

In the present invention, the cooling of the heat generating portion opposite to the thermoelectric element is a method of dissipating heat in an air-cooled manner to control the air volume by attaching two fans to the heat sink to change the voltage of the fan.

 Two thermoelectric elements are connected to a high efficiency PCB and FETs are connected to one thermoelectric element. In the cooling section, the FET is turned off, and full power is input by varying the input voltage to the thermoelectric element to the maximum. When the temperature in the tank module is below a certain temperature and enters the cold storage section, by turning on the FET connected to one thermoelectric element and bypassing the current, one thermoelectric element is turned off, and the other thermoelectric element is applied by varying the input voltage. Constant cooling can be maintained to control the temperature in the tank module. Therefore, it is possible to use the variable voltage of thermoelectric elements efficiently and real-time control of DC voltage applied to each thermoelectric element by PWM control and variable voltage control of FAN, so it is energy efficient by improving cooling power and durability compared to specific fixed DC voltage input. Can be improved.

The present invention is a grooved (Grooved) in which heat is transferred in one direction for blocking external heat introduced through a thermoelectric element for cooling and a fan for heat dissipation in a direct-type cold water generating structure and a thermoelectric element that is turned off in a cold storage section. ) Apply heat pipe.

The present invention connects two thermoelectric elements, one of which is connected to the FET to drive control (ON / OFF) by applying a method to bypass the current to the FET during operation to increase the PCB efficiency, thermoelectric element 1 After the dog is turned off, energy efficiency is improved by controlling the variable voltage temperature precisely with one remaining thermoelectric element.

If the water is above the set temperature, the maximum power is input to the connected thermoelectric element in the cooling section (quick cooling) .When the water is below the set temperature, the water is switched to the maintenance section (cooling). Drive by control.

In another aspect, the present invention comprises a tank module having a flow path through which water passes, and cooling the water passing through the flow path; A first thermoelectric element including a first heat absorbing portion disposed to face the tank module and a first heat generating portion provided on an opposite side of the first heat absorbing portion, and the heat transferred from the first heat generating portion to be separated from the tank module A first thermoelectric module comprising a first heat transfer part to transfer and a first heat dissipation part disposed at one end of the first heat transfer part to emit heat; A second thermoelectric element including a second heat absorbing part disposed to face the tank module and a second heat generating part provided opposite to the second heat absorbing part, and a second heat transfer part transferring heat transferred from the second heat generating part. And a second thermoelectric element module disposed at one end of the second thermoelectric part and including a second heat dissipation part for dissipating heat, wherein the first heat dissipation part and the second heat dissipation part are disposed to be separated and spaced apart from each other. It provides a cold water supply system.

The present invention also provides a cabinet for forming an appearance; And a cold water supply system accommodated in the cabinet, wherein the cold water supply system includes: a tank module having a flow path through which water passes and cooling the water passing through the flow path; A first thermoelectric element including a first heat absorbing portion disposed to face the tank module and a first heat generating portion provided on an opposite side of the first heat absorbing portion, and the heat transferred from the first heat generating portion to be separated from the tank module A first thermoelectric module comprising a first heat transfer part to transfer and a first heat dissipation part disposed at one end of the first heat transfer part to emit heat; A second thermoelectric element including a second heat absorbing part disposed to face the tank module and a second heat generating part provided opposite to the second heat absorbing part, and a second heat transfer part transferring heat transferred from the second heat generating part. And a second thermoelectric element module disposed at one end of the second thermoelectric part and including a second heat dissipation part for dissipating heat, wherein the first heat dissipation part and the second heat dissipation part are disposed to be separated and spaced apart from each other. Provided is a drinking water supply device.

In addition, the present invention includes a tank module having a temperature sensor and a flow path through which water passes, and cooling the water passing through the flow path; A first thermoelectric element including a first heat absorbing portion disposed to face the tank module and a first heat generating portion provided on an opposite side of the first heat absorbing portion, and the heat transferred from the first heat generating portion to be separated from the tank module A first thermoelectric module comprising a first heat transfer part to transfer and a first heat dissipation part disposed at one end of the first heat transfer part to emit heat; A second thermoelectric element including a second heat absorbing part disposed to face the tank module and a second heat generating part provided opposite to the second heat absorbing part, and a second heat transfer part transferring heat transferred from the second heat generating part. And a second thermoelectric module including a second heat dissipation part disposed at one end of the second thermoelectric part to emit heat, wherein the first heat transfer part and the second heat transfer part have different heat conduction methods. It provides a cold water supply system.

In another aspect, the present invention comprises a tank module having a flow path through which water passes, and cooling the water passing through the flow path; A first thermoelectric element including a first heat absorbing portion disposed to face the tank module and a first heat generating portion provided on an opposite side of the first heat absorbing portion, and the heat transferred from the first heat generating portion to be separated from the tank module A first heat transfer module including a first heat transfer unit to transfer and a first heat dissipation unit disposed at one end of the first heat transfer unit and dissipating heat; And a second heat absorbing part disposed to face the tank module, and a second heat generating part provided on an opposite side of the second heat absorbing part, and a second heat transfer transferring heat transmitted from the second heat generating part. And a second thermoelectric module including a second heat dissipation unit and a second fan disposed at one end of the second thermoelectric unit and dissipating heat, wherein the water temperature is lower than a set temperature. Determining; In the first step, when the temperature is higher than the set temperature, the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element is driven in a cooling mode for applying current. In the first step, when the temperature is lower than the set temperature, the first thermoelectric element is a current. It provides a control method of a cold water supply system comprising the step of driving in a cold mode to apply a current to the second thermoelectric element without applying.

The present invention also provides a housing forming an appearance; An inlet port through which water is introduced into the housing; A first guide part including a first vertical flow path in which water introduced into the inlet port moves in a vertical direction, and a first horizontal flow path moving in a horizontal direction; A second guide part having a second vertical flow path in which water moves in the vertical direction and a second horizontal flow path moving in the horizontal direction after passing through the first guide part; A discharge port through which the water is discharged to the outside of the housing after passing through the second guide part; And a base coupled to the housing to seal the inside of the housing from the outside, wherein the inside of the housing provides a tank module that contains a fluid that does not mix with water passing through the first guide part.

In another aspect, the present invention comprises a tank module having a flow path through which water passes, and cooling the water passing through the flow path; A first thermoelectric element including a first heat absorbing portion disposed to face the tank module and a first heat generating portion provided on an opposite side of the first heat absorbing portion, and the heat transferred from the first heat generating portion to be separated from the tank module A first thermoelectric module comprising a first heat transfer part to transfer and a first heat dissipation part disposed at one end of the first heat transfer part to emit heat; A second thermoelectric element including a second heat absorbing part disposed to face the tank module and a second heat generating part provided opposite to the second heat absorbing part, and a second heat transfer part transferring heat transferred from the second heat generating part. And a second thermoelectric module including a second heat dissipation unit disposed at one end of the second thermoelectric unit and dissipating heat, wherein the tank module includes: a housing defining an appearance; An inlet port through which water is introduced into the housing; A first guide part including a first vertical flow path in which water introduced into the inlet port moves in a vertical direction, and a first horizontal flow path moving in a horizontal direction; A second guide part having a second vertical flow path in which water moves in the vertical direction and a second horizontal flow path moving in the horizontal direction after passing through the first guide part; A discharge port through which the water is discharged to the outside of the housing after passing through the second guide part; And a base coupled to the housing to seal the inside of the housing from the outside.

In the present invention, two thermoelectric elements are used. Since one thermoelectric element is controlled to be turned on or off, the other thermoelectric element is controlled to be always turned on, thereby reducing energy consumed in the thermoelectric element. In addition, other thermoelectric elements may consume relatively little power during standby, thereby improving energy efficiency.

The heat dissipation parts of the two thermoelectric elements may be separated from each other, thereby improving heat dissipation efficiency. Moreover, in this invention, a fan is each provided in each heat radiating part, and a fan can be controlled separately from each other, and heat dissipation efficiency can be improved. The thermoelectric element operates to drive only the fan provided in the heat dissipation portion where heat needs to be discharged, thereby improving energy efficiency.

The heat transfer parts having different thermal conductivity are provided in the thermoelectric elements having different control methods, thereby improving energy efficiency. The thermoelectric element to be turned on or off uses a member that is relatively poor in heat transfer in a direction opposite to one direction, thereby reducing the amount of heat transferred to the tank module from the outside and preventing the tank module from being heated. The thermoelectric element, which is always on, uses a member having high thermal conductivity, so that the heat of the tank module can be smoothly discharged to the outside.

In the present invention, the top height of the heat dissipation unit is arranged to be the same, so that the cold water supply system and the drinking water supply device can be compactly configured. Even if the installation positions of the two thermoelectric elements in the tank module are different, the lengths of the two heat transfer parts may be different from each other, so that the heights of the two heat dissipation parts may be matched.

In addition, in the present invention, in order to secure the cold water supply amount initially, the time for water to stay in the tank module is increased. The water in the tank module may be cooled while exchanging heat in the tank module while repeatedly moving in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction.

In addition, the present invention is cooled while heat-exchanging the fluid in the first guide portion, by being cooled in contact with the thermoelectric element in the second guide portion by two ways, the cooling efficiency can be improved.

1 is a drinking water supply apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
2 illustrates a cold water supply system according to an embodiment.
3 is a view illustrating a state in which the case and the heat insulation portion are removed in FIG.
4 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. 2;
5 is a view from the side of FIG.
6 illustrates a tank module according to one embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a view from the side of FIG. 6;
8 is a view for explaining the first guide portion.
9 is a view for explaining a second guide portion.
10 is a view for explaining a cold water supply system according to another embodiment.
11 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. 10.
12 is a control block diagram according to one embodiment.
13 is a control flow diagram according to one embodiment.
14 is a diagram illustrating a voltage supplied to a thermoelectric element.

Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, preferred embodiments of the present invention that can specifically realize the above object will be described.

In this process, the size or shape of the components shown in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity and convenience of description. In addition, terms that are specifically defined in consideration of the configuration and operation of the present invention may vary depending on the intention or custom of the user or operator. Definitions of these terms should be made based on the contents throughout the specification.

1 is a drinking water supply apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. A description with reference to FIG. 1 is as follows.

In one embodiment of the present invention there is provided a drinking water supply device for supplying water to the user.

In one embodiment, the cabinet 10 forming the exterior and the button 7 may be provided on the cabinet 10. By operating the button 7, the user can drain the water from the drinking water supply device. The button 7 is provided with a plurality, so that the user can input various commands through the button (7). In addition, various commands may be input by long pressing or short pressing of the button 7 or repeatedly pressing several times. One of the various orders may mean cold water discharge. That is, when the user presses the button 7, cold water corresponding to the quantity or the quantity can be supplied to the user.

The front of the cabinet 10 is provided so as to protrude from the cabinet 10, the water discharge portion 3, the water discharge pipe is built in which the water moves from the cabinet 10 and the water discharge portion 3 downward Protrudingly formed, communicating with the water supply pipe, the water extraction nozzle 5 for selectively discharging water or steam to the user, and a handle 8 surrounding the outer portion of the water extraction unit 3 is provided.

The water extraction unit 3 is arranged to be rotatable with respect to the cabinet 10, so that the user can rotate the water extraction unit 3 clockwise or counterclockwise to a desired position. The water extraction unit 3 may be coupled to the cabinet 10 through the rotating unit 12. At this time, the rotating unit 12 may provide a structure to allow the water extraction unit 3 to be rotated.

The water outlet 3 is arranged to protrude toward the front of the cabinet 10, so that when the user is supplied with water supplied from the water outlet 3, a container such as a cup is constrained in the cabinet 10. It can be located easily without receiving.

The water extraction nozzle 5 is disposed to be exposed downward from the water extraction portion 3, so that the user can easily recognize the portion of the water discharge. Therefore, by placing a container for accommodating the water below the water extraction nozzle 5, the water can be supplied.

The handle 8 may be arranged to surround the outer surface of the water extraction unit 3, so that the user may rotate the water extraction unit 3 in a state of contacting the hand with the handle 8.

On the other hand, the handle 8 is arranged to surround the lower portion of the water extraction portion 3, the upper portion of the water extraction portion 3 is not wrapped in the handle 8, it can be exposed to the outside.

The lower end of the water extraction nozzle 5 protrudes lower than the lower portion of the handle 8, and thus may be exposed downward from the water outlet 3 and the lower end of the handle 8.

The lower portion of the water extraction unit 3 is provided with a tray 13 that can accommodate the falling water. The tray 13 is provided with a space therein, a plurality of slits are formed on the upper side, the water can be moved through the slits.

2 is a view illustrating a cold water supply system according to an embodiment, FIG. 3 is a view illustrating a case and a heat insulating part removed from FIG. 2, FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. 2, and FIG. 5 is of FIG. 3. This is a view from the side.

Referring to FIG. 3, in one embodiment, the tank module 100 positioned below and the first thermoelectric module 200 positioned on one side of the tank module 100 and the other side of the tank module 100 are located. A second thermoelectric module 300).

The tank module 100 includes a flow path through which water passes, so that water passing through the tank module 100 may be provided to a user after cooling. Therefore, after room temperature water enters the tank module 100, cold water may be provided to the user.

The first thermoelectric module 200 is disposed at one side of the tank module 100 to cool one side of the tank module 100. The first thermoelectric element module 200 may include a thermoelectric element, and may cool water without using a compressor that compresses a refrigerant.

The second thermoelectric module 300 is disposed on the other side of the tank module 100, and thus, one side of the tank module 100 may be cooled. The second thermoelectric element module 300 may include a thermoelectric element, thereby cooling water without using a compressor that compresses a refrigerant.

2 to 5, since the tank module 100 moves to cool water, it is preferable to maintain a temperature lower than room temperature. Therefore, the tank module 100 is surrounded by a heat insulating material so that heat exchange with the outside is not easily performed.

A first insulation portion 410 is provided above the tank module 100, a second insulation portion 430 is provided below the tank module 100, and one side of the tank module 100 is provided. Three insulation sections 450 are provided.

The first insulation portion 410, the second insulation portion 430, and the third insulation portion 450 may be manufactured in such a manner as to be a foamed oil (PU) that is insulated.

The first insulation portion 410 may cover the entire upper side of the tank module 100, and may include a surface extending on each of the four sides. That is, the first heat insulating part 410 may include one upper side surface and four side surfaces extending vertically from the upper side surface.

The second insulating portion 430 may cover the entire lower side of the tank module 100, and may include a surface extending on each of four sides. That is, the second heat insulating part 430 may include one upper side surface and four side surfaces extending vertically from the upper side surface.

The third insulation portion 450 covers the one side surface covered by the first insulation portion 410 and the second insulation portion 430 once more, and performs a function of insulating. The third insulation portion 450 forms a plate shape that covers one side surface of the first insulation portion 410 and a surface covered by one side surface of the second insulation portion 430. It is possible.

An upper side surface of the first insulation unit 410 is provided with a through hole 412 through which a pipe into or out of the tank module 100 may pass. The through holes 412 are provided in plurality, and each of the through holes 412 is disposed to be spaced apart from an upper surface of the first heat insulating part 410.

One side of the first heat insulating part 410 is provided with a guide groove 414 recessed while forming a space. The guide groove 414 extends to an upper side of the first insulation portion 410. That is, the member inserted into the guide groove 414 is disposed to extend from the side surface of the first insulation portion 410 to the upper side of the first insulation portion 410 without interruption.

A first case 470 is disposed on one side of the first heat insulating part 410 and the second heat insulating part 430, and the other of the first heat insulating part 410 and the second heat insulating part 430. The second case 490 is disposed on the side. The first case 470 and the second case 490 are coupled to each other, so that the first heat insulating part 410, the second heat insulating part 430, and the third heat insulating part 450 are coupled to each other. To maintain.

The first case 470 and the second case 490 are provided with a groove in which the hook and the hook can be fixed to each of the abutting portion, and can be fixed even without a separate bolt.

Through holes are provided in the first case 470 and the second case 490, respectively, so that the first heat insulating part 410, the first heat insulating part 430, and the third heat insulating part 450 are formed through respective through holes. This can be exposed. The through holes formed in the first case 470 and the second case 490 may be formed at portions where the first insulation portion 410, the insulation portion 430, and the third insulation portion 450 are coupled to each other. Since it is not formed, a portion where the first insulation portion 410, the first insulation portion 430, and the third insulation portion 450 are coupled to each other is not exposed to the outside through the through hole.

The first thermoelectric element module 200 provided at one side of the tank module 100 is opposite to the first heat absorbing portion 202 and the first heat absorbing portion 202 which are disposed to face the tank module 100. The first thermoelectric element 210 including the first heat generating unit 204 is provided, and the first heat transfer unit for transmitting the heat transmitted from the first heat generating unit 204 away from the tank module 100 ( And a first heat dissipation part 250 disposed at one end of the first heat transfer part 220 to emit heat.

The thermoelectric module is configured in the form of a module in which N, P type thermocouples are electrically connected in series and thermally parallel. When a direct current flows, a temperature difference occurs on both sides of the module due to the thermoelectric effect. This generally refers to a solid state heat pump utilizing the cooling effect exhibited by the Peltier phenomenon.

When a current flows in a predetermined direction by the Peltier effect of the first thermoelectric element 210, the temperature of the first heat absorbing part 202 is lowered and the temperature of the first heat generating part 204 is increased.

The first heat transfer part 220 performs a function of conducting heat and moves to discharge the heat absorbed from the tank module 100 to the outside.

The first heat transfer part 220 is in contact with the first heat generating portion 204, the first member 222 and the first member 222 to receive the heat of the first heat generating portion 204 It may include a first pipe 224 to transfer the generated heat to the upper side.

The first member 222 may transfer heat generated by the first heat generating part 204 to the first pipe 224 while being in surface contact with the first heat generating part 204.

The first heat transfer part 220 may be easier to transfer heat from the first heat dissipation part 204 to the first heat dissipation part 250 than in the opposite direction. That is, heat transfer from the first heat transfer part 220 to the first heat dissipation part 204 to the first heat dissipation part 250 is relatively easy, while the first heat dissipation from the first heat dissipation part 250 is performed. The heat transfer to the portion 204 can be made relatively difficult.

The first pipe 224 may be a grooved heat pipe. Grooved heat pipes (grooved heat pipe) has a characteristic that the heat transfer in one direction is better than the other direction in the extended longitudinal direction of the pipe.

The first pipe 224 may be composed of two pipes. The distance between the two pipes may be larger at the portion coupled to the first heat dissipation portion 250 than at the portion coupled to the first member 222. Since the width of the first member 222 is smaller than the width of the first heat dissipation part 250, it is for efficiently transferring heat from the first member 222 to the first heat dissipation part 250.

The first member 222 has a coupling portion coupled to the tank module 100. Therefore, even if the first heat transfer element 210 is not fastened to the bolt, the first heat absorbing surface 202 of the first thermoelectric element 210 is in surface contact with the first cooling unit 240, and the first thermoelectric element is contacted. The first heating surface 204 of the 210 may secure a coupling force that may be in surface contact with the first member 222. Coupling portions of the first member 222 may be provided on the upper side and the lower side, respectively.

In addition, the first thermoelectric module 200 may include a first cooling unit in which the first heat absorbing unit 202 is disposed between the tank modules 100 and contacts each other, and heat-exchanges with the tank module 100. 240).

The first cooling unit 240 moves the heat of the tank module 100 to the first heat absorbing portion 202 when the temperature of the first heat absorbing portion 202 is lower than that of the tank module 100. It acts as a mediator.

The first heat dissipation part 250 disposed at one end of the first heat transfer part 220 may include a plurality of fins so as to increase an area in contact with the outside air. The first heat dissipation unit 250 may release the heat transferred from the first heat transfer unit 220 to the outside of the cold water supply system, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the tank module 100.

The first thermoelectric module 200 includes a first fan 270 that generates an air flow in the first heat dissipation part 250. The first fan 270 is provided with a coupling member that can be coupled to the upper side and the lower side of the first heat dissipation unit 250, it may be fitted to the upper side and the lower side of the first heat dissipation unit 250, respectively. The first fan 270 is large enough to cover one surface of the first heat dissipation part 250, and may generate air flow toward one surface of the first heat dissipation part 250.

The first fan 270 may be formed in the form of an axial fan, generating air flow toward the first heat dissipation unit 250, and exchanging a lot of air with the first heat dissipation unit 250. The first heat dissipation part 250 may be cooled.

When the first thermoelectric element 220 is driven to cool the first heat absorbing portion 202 of the first thermoelectric element 200, the heat of the tank module 100 is transferred to the first cooling portion 240. It is moved to the first heat absorbing portion 202 through. Thus, the tank module 100 may be cooled to a low temperature.

Since the first thermoelectric element 220 is driven, the first heat generating part 204 is heated, and the heat of the first heat generating part 204 is transferred to the first pipe through the first member 222. The heat is transferred to 224, and the heat of the first pipe 224 is moved to the first heat dissipation part 250. If the first fan 270 is not driven, heat of the first heat dissipation unit 250 is discharged to the outside by natural convection, and if the first fan 270 is driven, the heat of the first heat dissipation unit 250 is reduced. Heat is released to the outside by forced convection. Therefore, when a current is applied to the first thermoelectric element 210, the tank module 100 may be cooled.

The second thermoelectric element module 300 provided on the other side of the tank module 100 is opposite to the second heat absorbing portion 302 and the second heat absorbing portion 302 which are disposed to face the tank module 100. The second thermoelectric element 310 including the second heat generating unit 304 is provided, and the second heat transfer unit for transmitting the heat transmitted from the second heat generating unit 304 to be far from the tank module 100 ( 320 and a second heat dissipation part 350 disposed at one end of the second heat transfer part 320 to emit heat.

When the current flows in a predetermined direction in the second thermoelectric element 310 by the Peltier effect, the temperature of the second heat absorbing part 302 is lowered and the temperature of the second heat generating part 304 is increased.

The second heat transfer part 320 performs a function of conducting heat, and moves the second heat transfer part 320 to discharge heat absorbed from the tank module 100 to the outside.

The second heat transfer part 320 is in contact with the second heat generating portion 304, in the second member 322 and the second member 322 to receive the heat of the second heat generating portion 304 It may include a second pipe 324 for transferring the generated heat upward.

The second member 322 may be in surface contact with the second heat generating unit 304 and transfer heat generated by the second heat generating unit 304 to the second pipe 324.

Compared to the first heat transfer unit 220, the second heat transfer unit 320 may easily perform heat transfer in both directions between the second heat generation unit 304 and the second heat radiation unit 350. That is, the second heat transfer part 320 transfers heat from the second heat dissipation part 304 to the second heat dissipation part 350 and heat transfer from the second heat dissipation part 350 to the second heat dissipation part 304. All of these can be done equally well.

The second pipe 324 may be a sinterered heat pipe. The sintered heat pipe has a characteristic that heat transfer is well performed in one direction and the other direction in an extended length direction of the pipe.

The second pipe 324 may be composed of two pipes. The distance between the two pipes may be greater at the portion coupled to the second heat dissipation portion 350 than at the portion coupled to the second member 322. Since the width of the second member 322 is smaller than the width of the second heat dissipation unit 350, it is for efficiently transferring heat from the second member 322 to the second heat dissipation unit 350.

The second member 322 has a coupling portion coupled to the tank module 100. Therefore, even if the second heat transfer element 310 is not bolted, the second heat absorbing surface 302 of the second thermoelectric element 310 is in surface contact with the second cooling unit 340, and the second thermoelectric element is contacted. The second heat generating surface 304 of the 310 may secure a coupling force that may be in surface contact with the second member 322. Coupling portions of the second member 322 may be provided on the upper side and the lower side, respectively.

In addition, the second thermoelectric element module 200 may include a second cooling unit having the second heat absorbing unit 302 disposed between the tank modules 100 to be in contact with each other and exchanging heat with the tank module 100. 340).

The second cooling unit 340 moves the heat of the tank module 100 to the second heat absorbing portion 302 when the temperature of the second heat absorbing portion 302 is lower than that of the tank module 100. It acts as a mediator.

The second heat dissipation part 350 disposed at one end of the second heat transfer part 320 may include a plurality of fins to increase an area in contact with the outside air. The second heat dissipation unit 350 may release the heat transferred from the second heat transfer unit 320 to the outside of the cold water supply system, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the tank module 100.

The second thermoelectric module 300 includes a second fan 370 for generating air flow in the second heat radiating part 350. The second fan 370 may include a coupling member that may be coupled to the upper side and the lower side of the second heat dissipation unit 350, and may be fitted to the upper side and the lower side of the second heat dissipation unit 350, respectively. The second fan 370 may have a size enough to cover one surface of the second heat dissipation part 350, and may generate air flow toward one surface of the second heat dissipation part 350.

The second fan 370 may be formed in the form of an axial fan, generating air flow toward the second heat dissipation unit 350, and exchanging a lot of air with the second heat dissipation unit 350. The second heat radiating unit 350 may be cooled.

When the second thermoelectric element 320 is driven and the second heat absorbing portion 302 of the second thermoelectric element 300 is cooled, the heat of the tank module 100 is transferred to the second cooling portion 340. It is moved to the second heat absorbing portion 302 through. Thus, the tank module 100 may be cooled to a low temperature.

Since the second thermoelectric element 320 is driven, the second heat generating unit 304 is heated, and the heat of the second heat generating unit 304 is transferred to the second pipe through the second member 322. 324 is transferred, and the heat of the second pipe 324 is moved to the second heat dissipation part 350. If the second fan 370 is not driven, heat of the second heat dissipation unit 350 is discharged to the outside by natural convection, and if the second fan 270 is driven, the heat of the second heat dissipation unit 350 is reduced. Heat is released to the outside by forced convection. Therefore, when a current is applied to the second thermoelectric element 310, the tank module 100 may be cooled.

As described above, the first heat transfer part 220 and the second heat transfer part 320 may have different heat conduction methods. The first heat transfer part 220 and the second heat transfer part 320 may be different in such a manner that heat conduction is well performed in both directions or heat conduction is good in only one direction. In addition, the first heat transfer part 220 and the second heat transfer part 320 may extend to have different lengths, and thus may have different heat conduction methods. In the present embodiment, the driving method of the first thermoelectric element 210 disposed at the end of the first heat transfer part 220 and the second thermoelectric element 310 disposed at the end of the second heat transfer part 320 are mutually different. Alternatively, the two heat transfer units may conduct heat in different ways and thus improve the cooling performance of the tank module 100.

The first heat dissipation part 250 and the second heat dissipation part 350 are disposed to be separated and spaced apart from each other. The first heat dissipation unit 250 is a component for discharging heat generated by the first thermoelectric element 210, and the second heat dissipation unit 350 is heat generated by the second thermoelectric element 310. Is a component for discharging. In the present exemplary embodiment, the thermal conduction is separated between the first heat dissipation part 250 and the second heat dissipation part 350 so that heat is not generated, and the heat of the first heat dissipation part 250 and the second heat dissipation part 350 are separated. Arranged so that the columns do not move with each other. Heat does not move to the first heat dissipation part 250 when the first thermoelectric element 210 is not operated. At this time, when the second thermoelectric element 310 is operated, since the heat is transferred to the second thermoelectric element 310 to the second heat dissipation part 350, the temperature of the second heat dissipation part 350 is increased. . In this embodiment, since the first heat dissipation part 250 and the second heat dissipation part 350 are separated, the heat of the second heat dissipation part 350 is not moved to the first heat dissipation part 250. There is an advantage.

The thickness t1 of the first cooling unit 240 may be thicker than the thickness t2 of the second cooling unit 340. When the second thermoelectric element 310 is always on, while the first thermoelectric element 210 is repeatedly turned on or off, the second cooling unit 340 may be the first heat dissipation part 250. ) May be moved to the tank module 100 through the first heat transfer part 220. Therefore, in order to reduce the amount of heat transferred from the first thermoelectric element 210 to the first cooling unit 240 to the tank module 100, the first cooling unit 340 compared to the second cooling unit 340. It is possible to configure the cooling unit 240 to be thick, so that heat transfer becomes relatively difficult.

The tank module 100 includes a left side and a right side forming an external appearance, and the first heat absorbing unit 202 is disposed to face the left side, and the second heat absorbing unit 302 faces the right side. It is possible to be arranged. When the tank module 100 is formed in a cube shape as a whole, since the first thermoelectric element 210 and the second thermoelectric element 310 are disposed on both sides of the tank module 100, the tank The module can be cooled efficiently. That is, the first heat absorbing portion 202 and the second heat absorbing portion 302 are portions that suck heat, and when the tank module 100 is widely distributed in the tank module 100, the tank module 100 may be cooled quickly. will be.

The first thermoelectric element 210 and the second thermoelectric element 310 may be disposed at different heights based on the tank module 100. The first heat absorbing portion 202 and the second heat absorbing portion 302 are portions that suck heat, and when the tank module 100 is widely distributed in the tank module 100, the tank module 100 may be rapidly cooled. . Since the two thermoelectric elements are located at different heights, water at different heights can be cooled. In particular, the first thermoelectric element 210 may be disposed at a lower position than the second thermoelectric element 310.

The first heat dissipation part 250 and the second heat dissipation part 350 may extend to the same height from the tank module 100. Since the two heat sinks have the same height, the cold water supply system can be compactly constructed. If the two heights are different, the internal volume should be used as much as the height is arranged, but since the two heights are the same, the two heat sinks can reduce the space occupied within the cold water supply system.

The first heat transfer part 220 and the second heat transfer part 320 may extend by different lengths. Although the installation heights of the two thermoelectric elements are different from each other, and the first heat dissipation part 250 and the second heat dissipation part 350 extend to the same height, the first heat transfer part 220 and the second heat transfer part ( 320) should have different lengths. That is, the first pipe 224 of the first heat transfer part 220 may extend relatively long, and the second pipe 324 of the second heat transfer part 320 may extend relatively short.

Since the length of the first pipe 224 is long, the distance that the heat moves in the pipe is long. On the other hand, since the second pipe 324 has a short length, the distance that heat moves in the pipe is short. Therefore, even when the driving of the first thermoelectric element 210 installed at one end of the first heat transfer part 220 is stopped, the heat of the first heat dissipation part 250 is transferred through the first heat transfer part 220. The path to the tank module 100 becomes long, and thus heat transfer becomes difficult.

An upper side of the tank module 100 is provided with an inlet port 110 through which water is introduced into the tank module 100 and a discharge port 112 through which water is discharged to the outside of the tank module 100. Water may be drawn in from the inlet port 110 and discharged into the discharge port 112 to be heat exchanged in the tank module 100 and cooled.

In addition, two ports 114 and 115 may be formed at an upper side of the tank module 100 to insert and withdraw fluid into the tank module 100. The two ports 114, 115 are provided on the upper side of the tank module 100, similar to the inlet port 110 and the discharge port 112, so that four ports of the tank module 100 are provided. Can be arranged together on the upper side. Four through holes 412 may be formed in the first heat insulating part 410 to allow four ports to pass therethrough.

On the other hand, the first pipe 224 and the second pipe 324 can be provided with a curved portion extending in a straight direction upwards, and is bent as the width is widened.

The first cooling unit 240 and the second cooling unit 340 are each made of aluminum, so that heat exchange between the thermoelectric elements and the tank module 100 is performed well.

The first pipe 224 may be inserted into the guide groove 414 formed in the first insulation portion 410. The guide groove 414 is formed along an extended direction of the first pipe 224, and the first pipe 224 is surrounded by one side by the first heat insulating part 410. The guide groove 414 is composed of two grooves, each of which extends in a vertical direction, and may have a curved portion corresponding to the curved shape of the first pipe 224.

The lower end of the side surface of the first heat insulating part 410 and the upper end of the side surface of the second heat insulating part 430 are provided to be spaced apart without facing each other, each of the first cooling part 240 and the first The second cooling unit 340 may be disposed to be exposed to the outside of the first heat insulating part 410 and the second heat insulating part 430.

The third heat insulating part 450 is disposed on one side of the second heat insulating part 430 and the first heat insulating part 410 to seal a part of the first thermoelectric module 200. That is, the third heat insulating part surrounds one side of the first heat transfer part 220 so that a part of the first member 222 and the first pipe 224 may be sealed by the third heat insulating part 450. Can be.

On the other hand, at the position where the second thermoelectric module 300 is installed, an additional heat insulating part covering the first heat insulating part 410 and the second heat insulating part 430 is not provided. 300 is disposed in such a way that most of it is exposed to the outside. That is, the second member 322 and the second pipe 324 in the second heat transfer part 320 is disposed to be exposed to the outside without being wrapped by a separate heat insulating part.

FIG. 6 is a view illustrating a tank module according to an embodiment, and FIG. 7 is a view seen from the side of FIG. 6, and the inside thereof is shown together. FIG. 8 is a view for explaining the first guide part, and FIG. 9 is a view for explaining the second guide part. In FIGS. 8 and 9, the housing is removed from the tank module.

The tank module 100 has a housing 104 forming an appearance, the inlet port 110 through which water is introduced into the housing, and the water entering the inlet port 110 is discharged to the outside of the housing 104. A discharge port 112 and a base 108 coupled to the housing 104.

The base 108 may be combined with the housing 104 to seal the inside of the housing 104 from the outside. The base 108 has a shape similar to a plate, and the housing 104 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape in which one surface is open and five surfaces are closed, so that the base 108 is formed on an open surface of the housing 104. It is possible to combine.

The housing 104 is provided with two ports 114 and 115 so that the fluid can be guided into the housing 104. The fluid does not mix with water guided to the inlet port 110, and performs a function of cooling water while exchanging heat with water. The fluid may be water, but in the present specification, the fluid is classified as cooling water for convenience of description.

A first vertical flow path 132 in which water introduced into the inlet port 110 moves in the vertical direction, and a first horizontal flow path 134 moving in the horizontal direction are disposed in the housing 104. After passing through the guide portion 130, the first guide portion 130, a second vertical flow path 152 in which water moves in the vertical direction, and a second horizontal flow path having a second horizontal flow path moving in the horizontal direction The guide 150 is provided.

The water guided to the inlet port 110 first passes through the first guide unit 130 and then moves in the order of being guided to the second guide unit 150, and discharged to the discharge port 112. Can be.

The first guide part 130 may have a larger distance that water moves in the first vertical flow path 132 than a distance that water moves in the first horizontal flow path 134. The first guide unit 130 has a circular cross section inside and is formed of a long extending pipe, so that water may move inside the pipe.

The first guide portion 130 is a pipe extending in the vertical direction is arranged in a zigzag form in a bent form, so that the water moves more vertically than the horizontal direction in the interior of the first guide portion 130 Done.

The second guide part 150 may have a larger distance that water moves in the second horizontal flow path 154 than a distance that water moves in the second vertical flow path 152.

The second guide part 150 is coupled to the base 108, and includes a container 170 that accommodates water therein, wherein the container 170 has a plurality of paths for moving water therein; Ribs 174 are disposed. The container 170 forms one large space, and the plurality of ribs 174 extend in a horizontal direction and are spaced apart from each other by being stacked at intervals, so that water is separated between the plurality of ribs 174. Can be raised as it is moved.

The rib 174 is disposed such that one end or the other end is spaced apart from the inner wall of the container so that the water may rise from the inside of the container 170 through one end of the container 170.

The first guide part 130 and the second guide part 150 are connected to each other at the bottom of the tank module 100, so that the water of the first guide part 130 is the second guide part 150 Can be moved to. The inlet port 110 is disposed on the upper side of the tank module 100, the water finally dropped along the first guide portion 130, as a whole rises along the second guide portion 150, It may be raised to the discharge port 112 and discharged to the outside of the tank module 100.

The first cooling unit 240 coupled to the first heat absorbing unit 202 of the first thermoelectric element 210 is in surface contact with one surface of the housing 104, and the second thermoelectric element is connected to the base 108. The second cooling unit 340 coupled with the second heat absorbing unit 302 of the 310 may be in surface contact. The first cooling unit 240 and the second cooling unit 340 may be in surface contact with different surfaces of the tank module 100 to cool various surfaces of the tank module 100. In addition, the two endothermic portions may be disposed at different heights to effectively absorb heat of water passing through various positions of the tank module 100.

One surface of the container 170 may be the base 108. On the other hand, one surface of the container 170 may be coupled to the base 108 forming a plate shape. The base 108 has a larger area than the other side of the container 170, so that when the housing 104 is coupled to the base 108, the other side of the container 170 is the base 108. And a space partitioned by the housing 104.

The first guide portion 130 is composed of one long pipe, bent to have the same height, it can be produced in a bent form. One end of the first guide unit 130 may be coupled to the second guide unit 150 to form a path in which water moves from the first guide unit 130 to the second guide unit 150. have.

Cooling water may be introduced into and discharged from the housing 104 through the two ports 114 and 115. When the coolant is introduced into one port 114, the internal air of the housing 104 is discharged to the outside of the housing 104 to the other port 115, so that the cooling water can be easily supplied into the housing 104. Do.

The rib 174 has a front and rear length equal to the front and rear length of the inner space of the container 170, and only through a path intentionally formed by the rib 174 when water moves inside the container 170. The water will rise. The water inside the container 170 is guided in the horizontal direction by the other two ribs after rising from the left end, and rises from the right end. Subsequently, the water is guided in the horizontal direction by the two ribs, and in contact with various surfaces of the tank module 100 while rising from the left end again, the heat exchange efficiency may be improved.

The water guided through the inlet port 110 may be cooled while passing through the first guide part 130 and undergoing heat exchange with the coolant filled in the housing 104. Cooling water is cooled by the first thermoelectric element 210, the water may be cooled by continuously heat exchange with the cooling water while moving along the first guide portion 130.

After passing through the first guide part 130, the water guided to the second guide part 150 may be cooled by the second thermoelectric element 310. The second thermoelectric element 310 may cool the container 170. Water may be cooled while contacting the rib 174 and the inside of the container 170 while passing through the container 170. .

Water is heat-exchanged at various positions while passing through the first guide portion 130 and the second guide portion 150, and when the water is discharged to the discharge port 112, the temperature decreases. In the present embodiment, since water is sufficiently exchanged and cooled in the tank module, it is not necessary to use a method of freezing and cooling ice. The method of freezing ice to supply cold water and cooling water by exchanging ice and water is difficult to control because the thickness of the ice is difficult to control. For example, the thickness of the ice may vary when the daily use and the monthly use are used, and the thickness of the ice may vary depending on the number or amount of cold water used by the user. That is, since the thickness of the ice varies according to the user's use environment, it is difficult to control, and accordingly, the size of the tank is difficult to design.

On the other hand, the present embodiment has developed a method of increasing the flow path of water in the tank without using ice and allowing the water to cool sufficiently. The advantage is that it does not need to be considered.

10 is a view illustrating a cold water supply system according to another embodiment, and FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. 10. Another embodiment differs from the embodiment in that the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element are both disposed on one side of the tank module 100.

In addition, in another embodiment, the heat dissipation unit 252 for dissipating heat of the first thermoelectric element 210 and the heat dissipation unit 252 for dissipating heat of the second thermoelectric element 310 are configured as one. Through the heat dissipation unit 252, heat of the first thermoelectric element 210 and the second thermoelectric element 310 may be discharged together.

Since the heights of the two thermoelectric elements 210 and 310 are different from each other, or the lengths of the two heat transfer parts 220 and 320 are different from each other, they are the same as those of the exemplary embodiment. The content of one embodiment is borrowed as is.

6 to 9, in another embodiment, the first heat absorbing portion 202 of the first thermoelectric element 210 and the second heat absorbing portion 302 of the second thermoelectric element 310 are formed on one surface of the housing 104. ) Is a surface contact.

As in other embodiments, even if two thermoelectric elements are arranged on one side of the tank module, since the height is different, water passing through the tank module can be efficiently cooled.

The first fan 270 and the second fan 370 are provided on both side surfaces of the one heat dissipation unit 252, so that when the two fans are driven simultaneously, the cooling efficiency of one heat dissipation unit 252 is maximum, When one fan is driven, the heat exchange rate of the heat dissipation unit 252 is lowered, but energy consumed may be reduced.

The temperature sensor 190 may be included in the tank module to measure the temperature of the water.

12 is a control block diagram according to an embodiment. 12 is described with the content that can be applied together in other embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 12, the present invention includes a temperature sensor 190 for measuring the temperature of the internal water of the tank module 100. The temperature sensor 190 may include at least one of a temperature of water introduced into the tank module 100, a temperature of water passing through the tank module 100, and a temperature of water discharged to the outside of the tank module 100. One temperature can be measured. The temperature measured by the temperature sensor 190 may be transmitted to the controller 500.

The controller 500 may control driving of the first thermoelectric element 210, the second thermoelectric element 310, the first fan 270, and the second fan 370 according to temperature information. have.

The controller 500 may control to supply current to the first thermoelectric element 210 and the second thermoelectric element 310, respectively. One of the two thermoelectric elements may be supplied with a current while the other may not be supplied with a current.

In particular, the controller 500 may drive or stop driving of the first thermoelectric element 210. On the other hand, the controller 500 may always drive the second thermoelectric element 310. The first thermoelectric element 210 and the second thermoelectric element 310 may be driven in different ways to reduce power consumed by the drinking water supply device, thereby improving energy efficiency.

The controller 500 may control to change the magnitude of the voltage supplied to the second thermoelectric element 310.

The controller 500 may drive or stop the driving of the first fan 270, and the controller 500 may always drive the second fan 370. The controller 500 may drive the first fan 270 and the second fan 370 in different ways to improve the overall energy efficiency.

When the magnitude of the voltage supplied to the second thermoelectric element 310 is changed, the controller 500 may control the voltage supplied to the second fan 370 to be different. That is, when the control method of the second thermoelectric element 310 is changed, the second fan 370 may be controlled in another manner.

Similarly, the controller 500 may not drive the first fan 270 when the first thermoelectric device 210 is not driven. That is, when the control method of the first thermoelectric element 210 is changed, the first fan 270 may be controlled in another manner.

The controller 130 may control various components according to the information received by the temperature sensor 190, but may be controlled depending on whether the user operates the button 7. That is, the controller 130 may operate automatically according to a set program or manually by a user's operation.

13 is a flowchart illustrating a control according to an embodiment, and FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a voltage supplied to a thermoelectric element.

Referring to Figures 13 and 14, it is possible for a user to act such as pressing the button 7 to use cold water. In FIG. 14, the upper side illustrates the operation of the second thermoelectric element, and the lower side illustrates the operation of the first thermoelectric element. In the present embodiment, since a separate tank for storing cold water is not provided, the water is immediately cooled when the user extracts the cold water, and the water is supplied to the user, which is more sanitary than the cold water tank.

The temperature sensor 190 may measure the temperature of the water (S10).

When the temperature of the water measured by the temperature sensor 190 satisfies the cold water temperature condition, the cold water is not suddenly generated, and the cold water is entered into the cold storage section maintaining the temperature at a predetermined level (S20). In the cool section, the device operates in the cool mode.

On the other hand, if the temperature of the water measured by the temperature sensor 190 does not satisfy the cold water temperature conditions, it is necessary to rapidly generate cold water.

Thus, the cooling section enters the cooling section that sharply lowers the temperature (S30). In the cooling section, it operates in the cooling mode.

On the other hand, whether the cold water temperature condition is satisfied may be determined by whether the measured temperature is higher or lower than the set temperature.

When entering the cooling section as in S30, both the first thermoelectric element 210 and the second thermoelectric element 310 is driven (S32). By turning on both thermoelectric elements, the two thermoelectric elements are used to cool the water moving into the tank module.

The controller 500 applies a maximum voltage to the first thermoelectric element 210 and the second thermoelectric element 310 as shown in FIG. 14 (S34). When the maximum voltage is applied, it is the same as supplying the maximum power. Therefore, the two thermoelectric elements are driven at the maximum, and exothermic and endothermic reactions occur. Therefore, the water passing through the tank module 100 can be cooled quickly.

In operation S36, both the first fan 270 and the second fan 370 are driven. Since both the first thermoelectric element 210 and the second thermoelectric element 310 are driven, the first thermoelectric element 210 and the second thermoelectric element 320 are generated in each thermoelectric element. Heat may be transferred to each heat dissipation unit.

At this time, both fans can be supplied with the maximum input voltage. Since the amount of heat generated in both thermoelectric elements is maximum, it is possible to drive both fans at the maximum voltage so that the heat emitted from the heat radiating portion can be discharged to the outside smoothly.

Since both fans are driven, the heat transferred from the two heat dissipating parts is heat-exchanged with air, and heat of the thermoelectric element may be discharged to the outside.

Since both thermoelectric elements are driven, the heat generating portions of the two thermoelectric elements are higher in temperature than the heat radiating portions, respectively. Thus, heat generated in the two heat generating parts may be cooled while the two heat radiating parts are moved.

While continuing to drive two thermoelectric elements, it is again determined whether the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 190 satisfies the cold water temperature conditions (S40).

If the cold water temperature condition is satisfied in S10 or S40, the cold storage zone is entered as in S20. In this case, the cold storage section may mean a section for cooling the tank module by supplying relatively little cold air compared to the cooling section.

When operating in the cold mode, the control unit 500 may turn off the first thermoelectric element 210 and turn on the second thermoelectric element 310 (S24). That is, the first thermoelectric element 210 is not driven, and the second thermoelectric element 310 is driven.

In this case, as illustrated in FIG. 14, in the cold storage period, the operation is stopped without applying a voltage to the first thermoelectric element 210 to remove energy consumed by the first thermoelectric element 210.

On the other hand, the second thermoelectric element 310 may be configured to apply a smaller input voltage than in the cooling mode (S26) to consume relatively small power. In the cooling section, the power consumption of the second thermoelectric element and the power consumption of the first thermoelectric element may be reduced compared to the cooling section, thereby improving energy efficiency.

At this time, the first fan 270 stops driving, while the second fan 370 drives (S28). In particular, by supplying the input voltage to the second fan 370 in a smaller value than the cooling mode, the power consumption in the fan is reduced in the cold section compared to the cooling section, it is possible to improve the energy efficiency.

Since the first thermoelectric element 210 does not operate in the cold period, the first heat dissipation part 250 may be at a high temperature, and the first heat dissipation part 204 may be at a relatively low temperature. Therefore, the heat of the heat dissipation part 250 is transferred to the first heat dissipation part 204 through the first heat transfer part 220, and accordingly the tank module 100 through the first cooling part 240. Can be heated.

In order to reduce the extent to which the tank module 100 is heated while heat is moved in the above-described direction, the length of the first pipe 224 of the first heat transfer part 220 is lengthened in this embodiment. Therefore, since the path from which the heat moves from the first heat radiating part 250 to the first heat generating part 204 becomes long, conduction of heat may be relatively difficult.

In addition, in the present embodiment, unlike the second heat transfer unit 320, the first heat transfer unit 220 is the third heat insulation unit 450, the first insulation unit 410, and the second insulation unit 430. Wrapped in, the first heat transfer unit 220 may be configured not to be heated from the outside. Therefore, in the state in which the first thermoelectric element 210 is not driven, external heat may heat the first heat transfer part 220 to prevent the tank module 100 from being heated.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the first pipe 224 is constituted by a grooved pipe, and when the heat of the first heat dissipation part 250 moves to the first thermoelectric element 210, the thermal conductivity is lowered so that the heat does not move easily. Configure to not.

On the other hand, since the second thermoelectric element 310 is always driven, the second heat generating unit 304 maintains a high temperature at all times compared to the second heat radiating unit 350. The second pipe 324 is composed of a sintered pipe. The sintered pipe has a relatively high thermal conductivity but has good thermal conductivity in both directions. Since the second thermoelectric element 310 is always driven, unlike the first thermoelectric element 210, heat is unlikely to flow back, so that a sintered pipe may be selected to improve energy efficiency. In the present embodiment, since the driving method of the two thermoelectric elements are different from each other, the two thermal conductive methods may select different thermal conductive parts to improve energy efficiency as a whole.

Referring to the control according to FIG. 13 again, first, when the cold water button is driven, the temperature sensor mounted in the tank module senses the temperature.

If the temperature of the tank is higher than the target temperature, it has a delay of a certain time, and then the circuit ON signal of the thermoelectric element and the fan is first applied to drive the two thermoelectric elements and the two fans. Apply SMPS ON signal to apply.

After a certain time delay to increase the PWM duty, the duty is increased to the thermoelectric element and the fan to the maximum output voltage.

If the temperature of the tank module is smaller than the target temperature and the delay has passed for a certain time to enter the maintenance section, set the flag below the target temperature and have a delay of the predetermined time to turn off the first thermoelectric element.

Two thermoelectric control signals are turned on to turn off the second thermoelectric element and to turn off the second fan.

The remaining first thermoelectric element and the first fan are driven at a minimum voltage by applying a minimum duty to enter the cold section.

On the other hand, if the temperature is sensed below the target temperature, it enters the cold section and additionally measures the temperature to detect whether it is higher than the target temperature.

In this embodiment, by using the air flow blown from the grooved heat pipe (Grooved Heat Pipe) it can heat the heat dissipating portion toward the sintered heat pipe (Sintered Heat Pipe) with a stronger air flow.

In this embodiment, by controlling the heat pipe (Heat Pipe) in two ways can reduce the heat loss to improve the power consumption. By using two pairs of heat pipes, cooling in both directions solves the thermal imbalance in the tank module. Specifically, the thermoelectric elements are disposed on both sides to cool both sides, and to solve the imbalance of the heat distribution inside the tank module.

Particularly in modules where thermoelectrics are always on, heat pipes with heat transfer are chosen.

Meanwhile, the first guide part is made of a SUS pipe, so that the length of the flow path is increased and heat exchange with the cooling water can be easily performed.

The port into which the coolant is introduced may be closed by welding after the coolant is initially inserted.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and as can be seen in the appended claims, modifications can be made by those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains, and such modifications are within the scope of the present invention.

100: tank module 130: first guide
150; Second Guide 170: Container
200: first thermoelectric module 210: first thermoelectric element
202: first heat absorbing portion 204: first heat generating portion
250: first heat dissipation unit 270: first fan
300: second thermoelectric module 310: second thermoelectric element
302: second heat absorbing unit 304: second heat generating unit
350: second heat dissipation unit 370: second fan
500: control unit

Claims (16)

A housing forming an appearance;
An inlet port through which water is introduced into the housing;
A first guide part including a first vertical flow path in which water introduced into the inlet port moves in a vertical direction, and a first horizontal flow path moving in a horizontal direction;
A second guide part having a second vertical flow path in which water moves in the vertical direction and a second horizontal flow path moving in the horizontal direction after passing through the first guide part;
A discharge port through which the water is discharged to the outside of the housing after passing through the second guide part; And
A base coupled to the housing to seal the inside of the housing from the outside;
The tank module, characterized in that the fluid that is not mixed with the water passing through the first guide portion is accommodated. The method of claim 1,
And the inlet port and the outlet port are provided above the housing. The method of claim 1,
The first guide unit is a tank module, characterized in that the distance the water moves in the first vertical flow path than the distance that the water moves in the first horizontal flow path. The method of claim 1,
The second guide unit is a tank module, characterized in that the distance the water moves in the second horizontal flow path than the distance that the water moves in the second vertical flow path. The method of claim 1,
The tank module, characterized in that surface contact with the first cooling portion coupled to the first heat absorbing portion of the first thermoelectric element, and the second cooling portion coupled to the second heat absorbing portion of the second thermoelectric element on one surface of the housing. The method of claim 1,
The first guide part is a tank module, characterized in that the inside of the pipe is a long elongated cross section. The method of claim 1,
The second guide portion,
A container coupled to the base and containing water therein;
The container is a tank module, characterized in that a plurality of ribs are formed to form a path through which water is movable. The method of claim 7, wherein
One surface of the housing is in surface contact with the first cooling unit coupled with the first heat absorbing unit of the first thermoelectric element,
The tank module, characterized in that the surface is in contact with the second cooling portion coupled to the second heat absorbing portion of the second thermoelectric element. A tank module having a flow path through which water passes, and cooling the water passing through the flow path;
A first thermoelectric element including a first heat absorbing portion disposed to face the tank module and a first heat generating portion provided on an opposite side of the first heat absorbing portion, and the heat transferred from the first heat generating portion to be separated from the tank module A first thermoelectric module comprising a first heat transfer part to transfer and a first heat dissipation part disposed at one end of the first heat transfer part to emit heat;
A second thermoelectric element including a second heat absorbing part disposed to face the tank module and a second heat generating part provided opposite to the second heat absorbing part, and a second heat transfer part transferring heat transferred from the second heat generating part. And a second thermoelectric module including a second heat dissipation unit disposed at one end of the second thermoelectric unit and dissipating heat.
The tank module,
A housing forming an appearance;
An inlet port through which water is introduced into the housing;
A first guide part including a first vertical flow path in which water introduced into the inlet port moves in a vertical direction, and a first horizontal flow path moving in a horizontal direction;
A second guide part having a second vertical flow path in which water moves in the vertical direction and a second horizontal flow path moving in the horizontal direction after passing through the first guide part;
A discharge port through which the water is discharged to the outside of the housing after passing through the second guide part; And
And a base coupled to the housing and sealing the inside of the housing from the outside. The method of claim 9,
Drinking water supply device characterized in that it further comprises a control unit for controlling to supply current to the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element, respectively. The method of claim 9,
The control unit is a drinking water supply device, characterized in that for driving or stopping the first thermoelectric element. The method of claim 9,
The control unit is a drinking water supply device, characterized in that for always driving the second thermoelectric element. The method of claim 9,
Drinking water supply device, characterized in that the first heat absorbing portion of the first thermoelectric element and the second heat absorbing portion of the second thermoelectric element is disposed on one surface of the housing. The method of claim 9,
The first heat absorbing portion of the first thermoelectric element is disposed on one surface of the housing, the second heat absorbing portion of the second thermoelectric element is disposed on the base. The method of claim 9,
The first thermoelectric module,
Drinking water supply device comprising a first fan for generating an air flow in the first heat radiating portion. The method of claim 9,
The second thermoelectric module,
Drinking water supply device comprising a second fan for generating an air flow in the second heat radiating portion.

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