CN117606588A - Liquid level detection device, water tank and drinking water equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

The application relates to a liquid level detection device, water tank and drinking water equipment, liquid level detection device includes: a fixing seat; the floating assembly is provided with a first end which is configured to be capable of floating up and down along with the change of the liquid level, and a second end which is rotatably connected to the fixed seat through a rotating shaft; the induction piece is arranged on the fixed seat and positioned on a rotating path of the second end rotating around the rotating shaft; the sensing piece is used for being connected with the second end and is configured to feed back the floating height of the first end in the process that the second end rotates around the rotating shaft. The second end of the floating assembly can be connected with different positions on the sensing piece, so that the current floating height of the first end of the floating assembly in the target space is reflected, and the current liquid level height in the target space is detected; therefore, the liquid level height in the target space can be continuously detected, so that the detection process is more stable and reliable, and the detection result is more accurate.

Description

Liquid level detection device, water tank and drinking water equipment

Technical Field

The application relates to the technical field of drinking water equipment, in particular to a liquid level detection device, a water tank and drinking water equipment.

Background

Along with the progress of science and technology, the heating mode of drinking water equipment has been gradually upgraded from hot pot type to instant heating type and has been discharged, and the moisturizing mode of the water tank in drinking water equipment has also changed into the automatically controlled form of solenoid valve liquid level switch by original mechanical float switch. However, the technology currently used for detecting the liquid level mainly includes a hall contact type, a far infrared non-contact detection type. The Hall contact type floating device has many applicable places, but has the problems that the floating force of the floats is insufficient, the floating device is easily affected, the universality of different machine types is poor, and the like. Far infrared non-contact detection depends on the wall surface of a transparent water tank, and detection failure can be caused when moss grows on the wall surface of the water tank or dirt is generated on the wall surface of the water tank.

Therefore, the existing liquid level detection technology has the problems of unstable detection process and poor accuracy of detection results.

Disclosure of Invention

Based on the above, it is necessary to provide a liquid level detection device, a water tank and a drinking water apparatus, aiming at the problems of unstable detection process and poor accuracy of detection results in the existing liquid level detection technology.

In a first aspect, the present application provides a liquid level detection apparatus for detecting a liquid level in a target space, the liquid level detection apparatus comprising:

a fixing seat;

the floating assembly is configured to be capable of floating up and down along with the change of the liquid level, and a second end opposite to the first end is rotatably connected to the fixed seat through a rotating shaft; and

The induction piece is arranged on the fixed seat and is positioned on a rotating path of the second end rotating around the rotating shaft;

the sensing piece is used for being connected with the second end and is configured to feed back the floating height of the first end in the process that the second end rotates around the rotating shaft.

In some embodiments, the floating assembly comprises a floating member, a connecting member and a sliding member, wherein one end of the connecting member is connected with the floating member, and the other end of the connecting member is rotatably connected to the fixed seat through the rotating shaft;

the sliding piece is arranged at one end of the floating piece, which is connected with the rotating shaft, and protrudes towards the direction away from the floating piece, and the sliding piece is used for being connected with the sensing piece.

In some embodiments, the float member comprises a hollow float ball connected to the connector member and configured to float up and down in response to a change in liquid level.

In some embodiments, the sensing element includes a body and a resistance wire disposed on the body, the resistance wire extends along a rotation path of the second end rotating around the rotation shaft, and the resistance wire is used to connect with the second end.

In some embodiments, the sensing member has a first connection location thereon, and the liquid level detection device is configured to signal replenishment of the target space when the second end is at or above the first connection location.

In some embodiments, the sensing element is further provided with a second connection position, and the height of the second connection position is lower than that of the first connection position;

the liquid level detection device is configured to signal to stop replenishing water to the target space when the second end is at or below the second connection position.

In some embodiments, the sensing element is further provided with a third connection position, and the height of the third connection position is higher than that of the first connection position;

the liquid level detection device is configured to emit an alarm signal when the second end is located at or above the third connection position.

In some embodiments, the fixing seat is provided with a water inlet channel and a water sealing port communicated with the water inlet channel, wherein the water sealing port is used for communicating with an external water source;

the liquid level detection device further comprises a water sealing plug which is abutted on the floating assembly and is movably arranged in the water inlet channel;

the water sealing plug is configured to move in the water inlet channel under the drive of the floating assembly and has an opening position for opening the water sealing port and a closing position for closing the water sealing port.

In a second aspect, the present application also provides a water tank comprising:

a box body with an accommodating space inside; and

According to the liquid level detection device, the fixed seat in the liquid level detection device is arranged on the box body, and the floating assembly and the sensing piece are both positioned in the accommodating space; the liquid level detection device is used for detecting the liquid level in the accommodating space.

In a third aspect, the present application also provides a drinking apparatus comprising:

the water tank is provided with a water inlet and a water outlet, wherein the water inlet is used for being communicated with an external water source, and the water outlet is used for being communicated with a user side;

the control valve is arranged between the water inlet and the water tank and is used for opening or closing the water inlet;

and the controller is respectively connected with the control valve and the liquid level detection device in a communication way and is used for controlling the control valve to be opened or closed according to the detection result of the liquid level detection device.

In some embodiments, the water dispenser further comprises a water pump disposed between the water tank and the user side, the water pump being communicatively coupled to the controller.

In some embodiments, the drinking device further comprises a heating element disposed between the water tank and the user side.

In some embodiments, the water drinking device further comprises a temperature sensing element arranged downstream of the heating element along the liquid flowing direction, wherein the temperature sensing element is used for detecting the temperature of the liquid flowing to the user end.

The liquid level detection device, the water tank and the drinking water equipment can float up and down along with the change of the liquid level in the target space, namely, when the liquid level is lowered, the height of the first end of the floating assembly is lowered, and when the liquid level is raised, the height of the first end of the floating assembly is raised; meanwhile, the second end of the floating assembly rotates around the rotating shaft under the drive of the first end, and in the rotating process, the second end of the floating assembly can be connected with different positions on the sensing piece, so that the current floating height of the first end of the floating assembly in the target space is reflected, and the current liquid level height in the target space is detected; therefore, the liquid level height in the target space can be continuously detected, so that the detection process is more stable and reliable, and the detection result is more accurate.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid level detection apparatus according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a schematic structural view of a drinking apparatus according to one or more embodiments.

Fig. 3 is a schematic structural view of a water tank in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a schematic structural view of a sensing member in a liquid level detection apparatus according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a circuit connection of a drinking appliance in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a schematic structural view of a liquid level detection device according to one or more embodiments.

Reference numerals illustrate: 1000. a drinking water apparatus; 100. a water tank; 200. a control valve; 300. a water inlet pipe; 400. a water outlet pipe; 500. a water pump; 600. a heat generating member; 700. a temperature sensing member; 10. a liquid level detection device; 20. a case; 11. a fixing seat; 12. a floating assembly; 13. an induction member; 14. a rotating shaft; 15. a water sealing plug; 21. an accommodation space; 111. a water inlet channel; 112. sealing a water gap; 121. a floating member; 122. a connecting piece; 123. a slider; 131. a body; 132. a resistance wire; 133. a first connection location; 134. a second connection location; 135. a third connection site;

wherein the arrow direction in fig. 2 is the flow direction of the liquid.

Detailed Description

In order to make the above objects, features and advantages of the present application more comprehensible, embodiments accompanied with figures are described in detail below. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present application. This application is, however, susceptible of embodiment in many other forms than those described herein and similar modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the application, and therefore the application is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

In the description of the present application, it should be understood that, if there are terms such as "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., these terms refer to the orientation or positional relationship based on the drawings, which are merely for convenience of description and simplification of description, and do not indicate or imply that the apparatus or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be configured and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the present application.

Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and the like, if any, are used for descriptive purposes only and are not to be construed as indicating or implying a relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defining "a first" or "a second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In the description of the present application, the terms "plurality" and "a plurality" if any, mean at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless specifically defined otherwise.

In this application, unless explicitly stated and limited otherwise, the terms "mounted," "connected," "secured," and the like are to be construed broadly. For example, the two parts can be fixedly connected, detachably connected or integrated; can be mechanically or electrically connected; either directly or indirectly, through intermediaries, or both, may be in communication with each other or in interaction with each other, unless expressly defined otherwise. The specific meaning of the terms in this application will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art as the case may be.

In this application, unless expressly stated or limited otherwise, the meaning of a first feature being "on" or "off" a second feature, and the like, is that the first and second features are either in direct contact or in indirect contact through an intervening medium. Moreover, a first feature being "above," "over" and "on" a second feature may be a first feature being directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or simply indicating that the first feature is level higher than the second feature. The first feature being "under", "below" and "beneath" the second feature may be the first feature being directly under or obliquely below the second feature, or simply indicating that the first feature is less level than the second feature.

It will be understood that if an element is referred to as being "fixed" or "disposed" on another element, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present. If an element is referred to as being "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or intervening elements may also be present. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and the like as used herein, if any, are for descriptive purposes only and do not represent a unique embodiment.

Referring to fig. 1, an embodiment of the present application provides a liquid level detection device 10 for detecting a liquid level in a target space, where the liquid level detection device 10 includes a fixing base 11, a floating assembly 12, and a sensing member 13. The first end of the float assembly 12 is configured to float up and down in response to a change in the liquid level, and the second end disposed opposite to the first end is rotatably connected to the fixed seat 11 through a rotation shaft 14. The sensing element 13 is disposed on the fixed base 11, and is located on a rotation path along which the second end rotates around the rotation axis 14. Wherein the sensing member 13 is adapted to be coupled to the second end and is configured to feedback the flying height of the first end during rotation of the second end about the rotational axis 14.

It should be noted that, the liquid level detection device 10 may be applied to a drinking water apparatus, that is, the liquid level detection device 10 is disposed in a water tank of the drinking water apparatus, so as to continuously detect a liquid level in the water tank and continuously feed back a current liquid level in the water tank, so as to better control water replenishing into the water tank or stop water replenishing into the water tank according to the current liquid level in the water tank.

Referring to fig. 1, 2 and 3, when the liquid level detecting device 10 is applied to the drinking apparatus 1000, the target space is the accommodating space 21 in the water tank 10. It will be appreciated that the liquid level detection apparatus 10 may also be applied to other devices for storing liquid, and will not be described herein.

The fixing base 11 is a component capable of providing a mounting base for the floating assembly 12 and the sensing member 13, and when the liquid level detecting device 10 is applied to a drinking water apparatus, the fixing base 11 is mounted on a water tank, and the floating assembly 12 and the sensing member 13 extend into the accommodating space 21 of the water tank 100, so that the floating assembly 12 can float up and down under the buoyancy of the liquid in the water tank 100.

The float assembly 12 has oppositely disposed first and second ends, the first end floating on the liquid, the first end floating upward with the liquid level when the liquid level rises, and the first end floating downward with the liquid level when the liquid level falls.

The second end is rotatably arranged on the fixed seat 11 through the rotating shaft 14, when the first end floats upwards along with the liquid level, the second end rotates anticlockwise around the rotating shaft 14, and when the first end floats downwards along with the liquid level, the second end rotates clockwise around the rotating shaft 14.

The sensing element 13 is fixedly arranged on the fixed seat 11 and is positioned on a rotating path of the second end rotating around the rotating shaft 14. That is, the second end is always in contact with the sensing element 13, and when the second end rotates around the rotating shaft 14 under the driving of the first end, the second end and the sensing element 13 perform relative movement, so that the second end is connected with different positions on the sensing element 13. At this time, the different connection positions of the sensing element 13 correspond to different heights of the first end of the floating assembly 12 in the target space, so as to reflect different current liquid levels in the target space. Thus, the current level in the target space can be fed back by connecting the second end with a different position of the sensing member 13.

Further, since the second end of the floating component 12 continuously rotates under the drive of the first end, and in the process of continuously rotating the second end, the second end and the sensing piece 13 are always in a connection state, so that the current liquid level in the target space can be continuously reflected by the sensing piece 13, the continuous detection of the liquid level in the target space can be realized, the detection process is more stable and reliable, and the detection result is more accurate.

In some embodiments, the floating assembly 12 includes a floating member 121 and a connecting member 122 connected to the floating member 121, wherein an end of the connecting member 122 remote from the floating member 121 is rotatably connected to the fixing base 11 through the rotating shaft 14. Wherein the float 121 is configured to be capable of floating up and down following a change in the liquid level.

Specifically, the float member 121 is capable of floating on the liquid surface and floating up and down according to the liquid level change. One end of the connecting member 122 is connected to the floating member 121, and the other end is rotatably connected to the fixed base 11 through the rotation shaft 14. The connecting member 122 may be, but not limited to, a connecting rod, and is driven by the floating member 121 to rotate around the rotating shaft 14. When the float 121 floats upward, the link rotates counterclockwise about the rotation shaft 14, and when the float 121 floats downward, the link rotates clockwise about the rotation shaft 14.

Therefore, the floating member 121 can float up and down when the liquid level changes, and drives the connecting member 122 connected with the floating member to rotate around the rotating shaft 14, so that the connecting member 122 can be connected with different positions of the sensing member 13, and the liquid level in the target space can be continuously detected.

In some embodiments, the end of the floating member 121 connected to the rotating shaft 14 is provided with a sliding member 123, and the sliding member 123 is disposed to protrude in a direction away from the floating member 121. Wherein the slider 123 is adapted to be connected to the sensing element 13.

Specifically, the slider 123 may be provided as a slide, and extend in a direction away from the float 121. When the floating member 121 floats up and down following the liquid level, the slide rotates around the rotation shaft 14 and slides relatively with the sensing member 13. When the sliding vane slides to different positions on the sensing piece 13, the current liquid level in the target space can be rapidly reflected, and the detection of the liquid level is realized.

In some embodiments, the float member 121 comprises a hollow float ball coupled to the connector 122 and configured to float up and down in response to a change in fluid level.

The hollow floating ball can float and sink along with the liquid level, so that the connecting piece 122 connected with the hollow floating ball can be smoothly driven to rotate around the rotating shaft 14. Specifically, the actual density of the floating ball can be adjusted according to the density of the liquid to be detected, so that the floating ball can more smoothly float and sink along with the change of the liquid level.

Referring to fig. 1, 4 and 5, in some embodiments, the sensing element 13 includes a body 131 and a resistance wire 132 disposed on the body 131, the resistance wire 132 extends along a rotation path along which the second end rotates around the rotation shaft 14, and the resistance wire 132 is used to connect with the second end.

Specifically, body 131 is primarily used to provide a mounting base for resistance wire 132. When the resistance wire 132 is provided on the body 131, the slider 123 slides on the body 131 while rotating about the rotation shaft 14, so that it can be better connected with the resistance wire 132 on the body 131.

The resistance wire 132 is disposed to extend along the rotation path of the slider 123 around the rotation shaft 14, so that the slider 123 can be more stably connected to the resistance wire 132 during the rotation of the slider 123 around the rotation shaft 14.

It should be noted that, by providing a power source, the slider 123 and the resistance wire 132 may be connected to the circuit. One end of the resistance wire 132 is disposed at an access point of the circuit, and one end of the slider 123 near the rotating shaft 14 is disposed as an access point of the circuit.

In this way, the sliding member 123 is connected to different positions on the resistance wire 132 during the rotation of the rotating shaft 14, so that the actual length of the resistance wire 132 connected to the circuit is changed, thereby affecting the actual current value in the circuit, and the height information of the liquid level in the target space can be determined according to the actual current value.

Through the above structure, the sliding member 123 is connected with different positions of the resistance wire 132 during the rotation of the rotating shaft 14, so as to change the actual length of the resistance wire 132 actually connected into the circuit, and according to the different lengths of the resistance wire 132 connected into the circuit, the actual current value in the circuit can be changed, so that the actual liquid level height in the target space is fed back according to the magnitude of the actual current value.

In some embodiments, the sensing member 13 has a first connection location 133 thereon, and the liquid level detection device 10 is configured to signal to replenish water to the target space when the second end is located at the first connection location 133 or higher than the first connection location 133.

Specifically, the first connection location 133 is a first access point on the resistance wire 132, which may correspond to an intermediate liquid level in the target space. When the slider 123 is located at or above the first access point, it is indicated that the current liquid level in the target space is equal to or below the intermediate liquid level. At this time, the liquid level detecting device 10 may send out a signal for replenishing water into the target space so as to timely replenish water.

Further, the intermediate liquid level may be set to be an intermediate liquid level, that is, when the actual liquid level is equal to or lower than the intermediate liquid level, it is indicated that the actual liquid level is lower, and the water storage amount in the target space is insufficient, so that timely water replenishment is required in the target space.

It can be appreciated that the specific value of the intermediate liquid level can be adjusted accordingly according to the actual capacity of the target space, so that the water replenishing operation better meets the actual requirement of the target space.

In addition, an external controller may be provided and communicatively coupled to the sensing element 13. When the connection position of the sliding member 123 and the sensing member 13 is located at the first connection position 133 or higher than the first connection position 133, the sensing member 13 can send a water replenishing signal to the controller, and the controller controls the external water source to replenish water into the target space.

In some embodiments, the sensing element 13 further has a second connection location 134 thereon, and the second connection location 134 has a height lower than that of the first connection location 133. The liquid level detection device 10 is configured to signal to stop replenishing water to the target space when the second end is located at or below the second connection location 134.

Specifically, the second connection bit 134 is a second access point on the resistance wire 132, and the second access point is located below the first access point. When the slider 123 is located between the first access point and the second access point, it is indicated that the actual liquid level in the target space is higher than the intermediate liquid level, i.e. that the amount of water in the target space is sufficient.

Further, the second access point may be set corresponding to a highest liquid level in the target space. In the process of replenishing water into the target space, when the sliding member 123 reaches the second access point, it indicates that the liquid level in the target space has reached the highest liquid level, and if water replenishing into the target space is continued, water overflow is caused.

Therefore, when the connection position of the sliding member 123 and the sensing member 13 is located at the second connection position 134 or lower than the second connection position 134, the sensing member 13 can send a signal for stopping water replenishment to the controller, and the controller controls the external water source to stop replenishing water into the target space, so as to prevent the liquid level in the target space from overflowing.

In some embodiments, the sensing element 13 further has a third connection location 135 thereon, and the height of the third connection location 135 is higher than the height of the first connection location 133. The liquid level detection device 10 is configured to emit an alarm signal when the second end is located at said third connection location 135 or above the third connection location 135.

Specifically, the third connection bit 135 is a third access point on the resistance wire 132, and the third access point is located above the first access point. When the slider 123 is located between the first access point and the third access point, it is indicated that the actual liquid level in the target space is below the intermediate liquid level, i.e. that the amount of water in the target space is small.

Further, the third access point may be set corresponding to a lowest liquid level in the target space. During the use of the liquid in the target space, the float member 121 gradually descends as the liquid level descends, and at the same time, the slider member 123 is rotated clockwise around the rotation shaft 14 by the drive of the float member 121.

When the slider 123 reaches the third access point, it indicates that the liquid level in the target space has reached the minimum liquid level, and if the liquid level in the target space continues to decrease, the heating element 600 in the drinking water apparatus 1000 will be caused to dry heat, resulting in an apparatus failure.

Therefore, when the connection position of the sliding member 123 and the sensing member 13 is located at the third connection position 135 or higher than the third connection position 135, the sensing member 13 can send an alarm signal to the controller, and the controller receives the signal and then controls the drinking device 1000 to stop.

As shown in fig. 6, in some embodiments, the fixing base 11 has a water inlet 111 and a water sealing port 112 in communication with the water inlet 111, and the water sealing port 112 is used for communicating with an external water source. The liquid level detecting device 10 further comprises a water sealing plug 15, wherein the water sealing plug 15 is abutted against the floating assembly 12 and is movably arranged in the water inlet channel 111. Wherein the water sealing plug 15 is configured to move in the water inlet channel 111 under the driving of the floating assembly 12, and has an open position for opening the water sealing port 112 and a closed position for closing the water sealing port 112.

Specifically, the inside of the fixing seat 11 is provided with a water inlet channel 111, and the fixing seat 11 is also provided with a water sealing port 112 communicated with the water inlet channel 111. Wherein, the water sealing port 112 can be communicated with an external water source through a pipeline, when the fixing seat 11 is installed on the water tank 100, the external water source can flow into the accommodating space 21 of the water tank 100 through the water sealing port 112 and the water inlet channel 111.

The water sealing plug 15 is movably arranged in the water inlet channel 111, and the bottom of the water sealing plug 15 is abutted against the connecting piece 122.

When the liquid level inside the water tank 100 drops, the floating member 121 drops along with the liquid level, and the connecting member 122 drives the water sealing plug 15 to move downwards to the open position so as to open the water sealing port 112. At this time, an external water source may flow into the water tank 100 through the water inlet passage 111 through the water blocking port 112.

When the liquid level in the water tank 100 rises, the floating member 121 rises along with the liquid level, and the connecting member 122 drives the water sealing plug 15 to move upwards to the closing position so as to close the water sealing port 112. At this time, the water sealing plug 15 seals the water sealing port 112, so that the liquid level in the water tank 100 can be prevented from being too high.

Further, the liquid level corresponding to the closed position of the water sealing plug 15 can be set to be slightly higher than the highest liquid level, so that the double guarantee of the water sealing plug 15 on the liquid level can be further increased on the basis of controlling the liquid level through the controller.

As shown in fig. 3, based on the same concept as the liquid level detection device 10, the present application further provides a water tank 100, which includes a tank body 20 and the liquid level detection device 10 as described above, wherein an accommodating space 21 is provided in the tank body 20, a fixing seat 11 in the liquid level detection device 10 is mounted on the tank body 20, a floating assembly 12 and a sensing member 13 are both located in the accommodating space 21, and the liquid level detection device 10 is used for detecting the liquid level in the accommodating space 21.

As shown in fig. 2, based on the same concept as the above-described water tank 100, the present application provides a drinking apparatus 1000 including a control valve 200, a controller (not shown in the drawings), and the water tank 100 as described above. The water tank 100 has a water inlet for communicating with an external water source and a water outlet for communicating with a user terminal. A control valve 200 is provided between the water inlet and the water tank 100 for opening or closing the water inlet. The controller is respectively connected with the control valve 200 and the liquid level detection device 10 in a communication way, and is used for controlling the control valve 200 to be opened or closed according to the detection result of the liquid level detection device 10.

Specifically, the water inlet of the water tank 100 communicates with an external water source through the water inlet pipe 300, and the water outlet communicates with the user terminal through the water outlet pipe 400. The external water source flows into the water tank 100 through the water inlet pipe 300 and the water inlet, and then flows into the user side through the water outlet pipe 400 and the water outlet pipe 300 for the user.

The control valve 200 may be, but not limited to, provided as a solenoid valve, and the control valve 200 is provided on the water intake pipe 300 and serves to control the on-off of the water intake pipe 300. When the control valve 200 controls the water inlet pipe 300 to be turned on, the water inlet is opened, and an external water source may flow into the water tank 100 from the water inlet. When the control valve 200 controls the water inlet pipe 300 to be opened, the water inlet is closed and the external water source cannot enter the water tank 100.

The controller is respectively in communication with the control valve 200 and the sensing member 13 in the liquid level detecting device 10, and indicates that the liquid level in the accommodating space 21 is equal to or lower than the intermediate liquid level when the sliding member 123 rotates to the first connection position 133 or a position higher than the first connection position 133 on the sensing member 13. At this time, the sensing part 13 sends a water replenishing signal to the controller, and the controller controls the control valve 200 to be opened, and an external water source flows into the accommodating space 21 through the water inlet, thereby replenishing water.

As the water replenishment process proceeds, the liquid level in the accommodating space 21 increases continuously. When the slider 123 is rotated to the second connection position 134 on the sensing member 13 or to a position lower than the second connection position 134, it is indicated that the liquid level in the accommodating space 21 reaches the maximum liquid level. At this time, the sensing member 13 transmits a signal to stop the water supply to the controller, and the controller controls the control valve 200 to be closed to stop the water supply to the accommodating space 21.

In addition, an alarm can be arranged and is in communication connection with the controller. As the user uses, the liquid level in the accommodation space 21 continuously decreases. When the slider 123 is rotated to the third connection position 135 or a position higher than the third connection position 135 on the sensing member 13, it is indicated that the liquid level in the accommodating space 21 reaches the minimum liquid level. At this time, the sensing part 13 sends an alarm signal to the controller, and the controller controls the alarm to give an alarm and at the same time, the controller controls the drinking apparatus 1000 to stop.

With the above structure, continuous detection and automatic control of the liquid level in the water tank 100 are realized, and the usability of the drinking apparatus 1000 is improved.

In some embodiments, the drinking apparatus 1000 further includes a water pump 500 disposed between the water tank 100 and the user side, the water pump 500 being communicatively connected to the controller.

Specifically, the suction pump 500 is disposed on the water outlet pipe 400, and is then transferred to the user side through the water outlet pipe 400 as the liquid in the accommodating space 21 is withdrawn.

The water pump 500 is in communication connection with the controller, and when a user needs water, the water pump 500 is turned on by the controller, so that water in the water tank 100 flows out to the user side through the water outlet pipe 400.

In some embodiments, the drinking apparatus 1000 further includes a heat generating member 600 disposed between the water tank 100 and the user side.

Specifically, the heating element 600 may be, but not limited to, a heating tube, which is disposed on the water outlet pipe 400 and is used for heating the liquid in the water outlet pipe 400 so as to enable the liquid flowing out from the user end to reach a desired temperature.

In some embodiments, the drinking apparatus 1000 further includes a temperature sensing member 700 disposed downstream of the heat generating member 600 in the liquid flow direction, and the temperature sensing member 700 is used to detect the temperature of the liquid flowing to the user side.

Specifically, the temperature sensing member 700 may be used to measure the temperature of the liquid. After the heating element 600 heats the liquid in the water outlet pipeline 400, the temperature sensing element 700 detects the actual temperature of the liquid, so as to better control the water outlet temperature of the user side.

According to one or more embodiments, when the liquid level detection apparatus 10 is applied to the drinking device 1000, the user turns on the water pump 500 through the controller when the user needs water, and the water pump 500 pumps the water in the accommodating space 21 to the water outlet pipe 400 and flows out to the user side through the water outlet pipe 400. Meanwhile, the heating element 600 arranged on the water outlet pipeline 400 can heat water, and the temperature sensing element 700 detects the heated water temperature, so that the water temperature flowing out to the user end meets the requirement.

With the use of the user, the liquid level in the accommodating space 21 is continuously lowered, and the floating member 121 is lowered with the liquid level, thereby driving the sliding member 123 to rotate clockwise around the rotation shaft 14. When the slider 123 is rotated to the first connection position 133 or a position higher than the first connection position 133 on the sensing member 13, it is indicated that the liquid level in the accommodating space 21 is lower than the intermediate liquid level. At this time, the controller opens the control valve 200, and the external water source supplements water into the accommodation space 21.

As the liquid level rises, the slider 123 is driven by the float member 121 to rotate counterclockwise about the rotation axis 14. When the slider 123 is rotated to the second connection position 134 or to a position lower than the second connection position 134, it is explained that the liquid level in the accommodating space 21 is higher than the maximum liquid level. At this time, the controller closes the control valve 200 to stop the water supply to the storage space 21.

In addition, when the sliding member 123 rotates to the third connection position 135 or a position higher than the third connection position 135, it is indicated that the liquid level in the accommodating space 21 is lower than the lowest liquid level, at this time, the controller controls the alarm to alarm and controls the drinking apparatus 1000 to stop, so as to avoid the risk of dry burning of the heating member 600.

The technical features of the above-described embodiments may be arbitrarily combined, and all possible combinations of the technical features in the above-described embodiments are not described for brevity of description, however, as long as there is no contradiction between the combinations of the technical features, they should be considered as the scope of the description.

The above examples only represent a few embodiments of the present application, which are described in more detail and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. It should be noted that it would be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and improvements could be made without departing from the spirit of the present application, which would be within the scope of the present application. Accordingly, the scope of protection of the present application is to be determined by the claims appended hereto.

Claims (13)

1. A liquid level detection apparatus for detecting a liquid level in a target space, the liquid level detection apparatus comprising:

a fixed seat (11);

a floating assembly (12) having a first end configured to float up and down in response to a change in liquid level, a second end disposed opposite to the first end rotatably connected to the fixed seat (11) through a rotation shaft (14); and

The induction piece (13) is arranged on the fixed seat (11) and is positioned on a rotating path of the second end rotating around the rotating shaft (14);

wherein the sensing member (13) is adapted to be coupled to the second end and configured to be capable of feeding back a flying height of the first end during rotation of the second end about the rotation axis (14).

2. The liquid level detection device according to claim 1, wherein the floating assembly (12) comprises a floating member (121), a connecting member (122) and a sliding member (123), one end of the connecting member (122) is connected with the floating member (121), and the other end is rotatably connected to the fixing seat (11) through the rotating shaft (14);

the sliding piece (123) is arranged at one end, connected with the rotating shaft (14), of the floating piece (121), and protrudes towards the direction away from the floating piece (121), and the sliding piece (123) is used for being connected with the sensing piece (13).

3. The liquid level detection device according to claim 2, characterized in that the float member (121) comprises a hollow floating ball, which is connected to the connecting member (122) and is configured to be capable of floating up and down following a liquid level change.

4. The liquid level detection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensing member (13) comprises a body (131) and a resistance wire (132) disposed on the body (131), the resistance wire (132) is disposed along a rotation path along which the second end rotates around the rotation axis (14), and the resistance wire (132) is configured to be connected to the second end.

5. The liquid level detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensing member (13) has a first connection location (133) thereon, and the liquid level detection device (10) is configured to signal to replenish water to the target space when the second end is located at or above the first connection location (133).

6. The liquid level detection device according to claim 5, characterized in that the sensing member (13) further has a second connection location (134), the second connection location (134) having a lower height than the first connection location (133);

the liquid level detection device (10) is configured to be able to signal to stop replenishing water to the target space when the second end is located at the second connection position (134) or below the second connection position (134).

7. The liquid level detection device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the sensing member (13) further has a third connection location (135), the third connection location (135) having a height higher than the first connection location (133);

the liquid level detection device (10) is configured to be able to emit an alarm signal when the second end is located at the third connection location (135) or above the third connection location (135).

8. The liquid level detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that the holder (11) has a water inlet channel (111) and a water sealing port (112) in communication with the water inlet channel (111), the water sealing port (112) being adapted to communicate with an external water source;

the liquid level detection device (10) further comprises a water sealing plug (15), wherein the water sealing plug (15) is abutted on the floating assembly (12) and is movably arranged in the water inlet channel (111);

wherein the water sealing plug (15) is configured to move in the water inlet channel (111) under the drive of the floating assembly (12) and has an opening position for opening the water sealing port (112) and a closing position for closing the water sealing port (112).

9. A water tank, comprising:

a case (20) having an accommodation space (21) therein; and

The liquid level detection device (10) according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the fixed seat (11) in the liquid level detection device (10) is mounted on the box body (20), and the floating assembly (12) and the sensing piece (13) are both positioned in the accommodating space (21); the liquid level detection device (10) is used for detecting the liquid level in the accommodating space (21).

10. A drinking apparatus, comprising:

the water tank (100) of claim 9, having a water inlet for communicating with an external water source and a water outlet for communicating with a user terminal;

a control valve (200) provided between the water inlet and the water tank (100) for opening or closing the water inlet;

and the controller is respectively in communication connection with the control valve (200) and the liquid level detection device (10) and is used for controlling the control valve (200) to be opened or closed according to the detection result of the liquid level detection device (10).

11. The water dispenser apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the water dispenser apparatus (1000) further comprises a water pump (500) arranged between the water tank (100) and the user side, the water pump (500) being communicatively connected to the controller.

12. The water fountain according to claim 10, wherein the water fountain (1000) further comprises a heat generating element (600) arranged between the water tank (100) and the user side.

13. The water dispenser apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the water dispenser apparatus (1000) further comprises a temperature sensing member (700) arranged downstream of the heat generating member (600) in a liquid flow direction, the temperature sensing member (700) being adapted to sense a temperature of the liquid flowing to the user side.