JP7408510B2 - Liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment.

In recent years, due to climate change, floods have been occurring in various places. The occurrence of flood disasters is increasing year by year, and the scale of disasters is also increasing. For example, if a sudden torrential rain occurs, a large amount of rainwater on the road will flow into sewers, rivers, roadside gutters, etc. If the amount of water flowing in exceeds expectations, it may overflow from sewers, rivers, roadside gutters, etc., causing damage such as cutting off transportation networks and flooding homes.

For example, it is installed in a cylindrical member that extends vertically inside a sewage tank (drainage facility) that stores wastewater such as sewage or rainwater, and includes a hanging rope and a plurality of float switches (liquid level sensors). A friction type liquid level detection device (liquid level detection unit) is known (for example, see Patent Document 1). The liquid level detection device is fixed inside a hollow case. The float switch is turned on when the float switch is tilted upward from a predetermined operating angle set above the horizontal, and detects a predetermined permissible liquid level (warning liquid level).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-26109

By the way, it is also important to detect changes in the liquid level in rainwater basins installed around houses in order to know the occurrence of flood damage. A grid-like cover such as a grating is used for rainwater storage. Through the grating, more rainwater than expected may flow into the rainwater basin. When the liquid level rises rapidly, a buoyant force that pushes up the float switch in the vertical direction may act on the float switch as described in Patent Document 1.

Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technique in which a float type liquid level sensor is inclined and easily floats up.

In order to solve the above problems, a liquid level detection unit according to the present invention is a float-type liquid level sensor that is suspended in drainage equipment via a cable and that detects when the liquid level has reached a predetermined level. and a support part that extends in the direction of extension of the cable in the drainage equipment and supports the liquid level sensor in a floating manner via the cable, and the liquid level sensor is supported by the support part. In this state, the extending direction of an axis extending from one end to which the cable is connected to the other end opposite to the cable intersects with the extending direction of the cable.

In the liquid level detection unit according to one aspect of the present invention, an extension support part connected to a lower end of the support part in a hanging direction of the liquid level sensor, and a cable other than the cable connected to the extension support part. a float-type second liquid level sensor that is supported so as to be floating and that detects when the liquid level has reached a predetermined liquid level below the predetermined liquid level; When the sensor is supported by the extension support part, the extension direction of an axis extending from one end to which the cable is connected to the other end opposite to the cable intersects with the extension direction of the other cable. You may.

Moreover, in the liquid level detection unit according to one aspect of the present invention, the support part and the extension support part are plate-shaped members, and at least one of the support part and the extension support part extends in the hanging direction. Along each edge, a pair of protruding plates protrudes toward the side of the liquid level sensor and the second liquid level sensor, and the pair of protruding plates includes a pair of protruding plates that protrude toward the side of the liquid level sensor and the second liquid level sensor. They are spaced apart from each other to only allow lifting in a direction away from the support and the extended support.

Moreover, in the liquid level detection unit according to one aspect of the present invention, at least one of the support part and the extension support part is configured to connect the cable and the other part in a hanging direction of the liquid level sensor and the second liquid level sensor. It may have multiple fixing positions allowing fixation of the cable.

Further, in the liquid level detection unit according to one aspect of the present invention, at an upper end of the support part in the hanging direction of the liquid level sensor, the liquid level sensor may extend perpendicularly from the support part to the side on which the liquid level sensor is supported. Equipped with a mounting part that can be attached to drainage equipment.

Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, the liquid level detection unit according to the present invention is formed into a cylindrical shape with one end closed and the other end opened, and in a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction, the short axis and a cylindrical member having a long axis, a pair of short axis side wall parts facing each other in the direction of the short axis, and a pair of long axis side wall parts facing each other in the direction of the long axis; a float-type liquid level sensor that is suspended from the one end of the cylindrical member toward the other end and is housed within the cylindrical member, and detects when the liquid level has reached a predetermined liquid level; The cable for suspending the liquid level sensor is attached to one of the pair of longitudinal side walls, and extends from one end of the liquid level sensor to which the cable is connected to the other end on the opposite side of the cable. The liquid level sensor is characterized in that an axis extending toward the end is inclined from one of the longitudinal sidewalls toward the other side of the longitudinal sidewall.

Further, in the liquid level detection unit according to one aspect of the present invention, an interval between the pair of short axis side wall portions is set to prevent the liquid level sensor from floating along the short axis; The interval between the long axis side wall portions may be set such that the liquid level sensor floats along the long axis to allow detection of the predetermined liquid level.

Further, in the liquid level detection unit according to one aspect of the present invention, the cylindrical member has at least one hole on the one end side with respect to the liquid level sensor when the liquid level sensor is suspended. are doing.

Further, in the liquid level detection unit according to one aspect of the present invention, the one closed end of the cylindrical member has at least one first a rib, and at least one second rib protruding along the long axis side wall portion to a side opposite to the other end, the at least one first rib and the at least one second rib , a binding tool for binding the cylindrical member to the drainage equipment can be supported.

In the liquid level detection unit according to one aspect of the present invention, the liquid level sensor may be suspended below the liquid level sensor from one end of the cylindrical member to the other end via a cable different from the cable. further comprising a float-type second liquid level sensor that is housed in the cylindrical member and detects that another predetermined liquid level has been reached below the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor. There is.

Further, in the liquid level detection unit according to one aspect of the present invention, an axis extending from one end of the second liquid level sensor to which the cable is connected to the other end on the opposite side of the cable is the length of the axis. It is inclined from the other shaft side wall portion toward one side of the long shaft side wall portion.

Further, in the liquid level detection unit according to one aspect of the present invention, a guide path for guiding the another cable is formed on the other long axis side wall portion at a position that does not come into contact with the liquid level sensor in a floating state. has been done.

Further, in the liquid level detection unit according to one aspect of the present invention, the cylindrical member is provided between the liquid level sensor and the second liquid level sensor in the hanging direction, and the another predetermined A stopper is provided to prevent the second liquid level sensor from floating toward the liquid level sensor at a position corresponding to the liquid level.

Further, in the liquid level detection unit according to one aspect of the present invention, the liquid level sensor may be configured to intersect with an axis extending from one end of the liquid level sensor to which the cable is connected along the other end on the opposite side of the cable. The cross-sectional shape of the liquid level sensor is circular.

According to the present invention, the liquid level of the float-type liquid level sensor tends to tilt and rise.

(a) is a perspective view of a state in which a liquid level detection unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention is attached to a grating, viewed from above, and (b) is a perspective view of a state in which a liquid level detection unit is attached to a grating. It is a perspective view seen from below. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a liquid level detection unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention. (a) is a perspective view of the plate unit seen from above, and (b) is a perspective view of the plate unit seen from below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a liquid level sensor according to a first embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a perspective view of the liquid level sensor, and (b) is a side view of the liquid level sensor. . It is a side view which shows the state where the liquid level sensor was attached to the plate unit. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the liquid level detection unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention, (a) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor, and (b) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor. It is a figure which shows the state which floats on the liquid surface and detects a warning liquid level. It is a perspective view of the liquid level detection unit concerning the modification concerning the 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the dimensions of a plate unit and a liquid level sensor. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a liquid level detection unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. It is a side view of the liquid level detection unit based on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the liquid level detection unit according to the second embodiment of the present invention, (a) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor, and (b) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a state where the liquid is floating on the liquid surface and the liquid level sensor is tilted to detect the liquid level. (a) is a perspective view for explaining the structure of a rainwater tank with a liquid level detection unit according to a third embodiment of the present invention attached, and (b) is a perspective view taken along line bb in (a). FIG. FIG. 7 is a transparent perspective view of a liquid level detection unit according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the cover, (a) is a perspective view of the cover seen from above, and (b) is a perspective view of the cover seen from below. FIG. 3 is a plan view of the cover. It is a sectional view showing a state where a liquid level sensor is attached to a cover. It is a figure for demonstrating the dimension of a cover and a liquid level sensor. It is a sectional view showing a state where a liquid level detection unit is attached to a grating. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the liquid level detection unit according to the third embodiment of the present invention, (a) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor, and (b) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor. It is a diagram showing a state in which the liquid level sensor is floating on the liquid surface WL and before detecting the warning liquid level K, and (c) is a diagram showing a state in which the liquid level sensor is tilted to detect the warning liquid level. It is a perspective view explaining the structure of the liquid level detection unit based on the 4th Embodiment of this invention, (a) is a perspective view, and (b) is a front view. 20(b) is a sectional view of the liquid level detection unit taken along line XI-XI in FIG. 20(b). FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the liquid level detection unit according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, (a) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor, and (b) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor. It is a diagram showing a state in which it is floating on the liquid surface and before the liquid level is detected, and (c) is a diagram showing a state in which the liquid level sensor is tilted to detect the liquid level.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

<First embodiment>
The liquid level detection unit 1A according to the first embodiment of the present invention is attached to, for example, a grating 122 of drainage equipment such as a side gutter through which rainwater flows. The liquid level detection unit 1A detects whether the liquid level in the rainwater basin reaches a predetermined liquid level (hereinafter also referred to as "warning liquid level") when water exceeding the allowable amount enters the drainage equipment and the water level (liquid level) rises. ) Detects that K1 has been reached. The liquid level detection unit 1A is applied to, for example, known drainage equipment, and the applied drainage equipment is not limited to specific drainage equipment. For example, the liquid level detection unit 1A according to the embodiment of the present invention is attached to a grid-shaped grating 122 provided in the drainage equipment shown in FIG.

FIG. 1(a) is a perspective view of a state in which a liquid level detection unit 1A according to the first embodiment of the present invention is attached to a grating 122, viewed from above, and FIG. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the detection unit 1A attached to the grating 122, viewed from below.

The liquid level detection unit 1A according to the present embodiment, which is attached to the grating 122, is a float-type liquid sensor that is suspended from drainage equipment via a cable 30 and detects when the liquid level WL has reached a predetermined liquid level K1. a support part (hereinafter also referred to as a "support plate") 12A that extends in the direction of extension of the cable 30 in the drainage equipment 100 and supports the liquid level sensor 20 so as to float via the cable 30; Equipped with. When the liquid level sensor 20 is supported by the support portion 12A, the direction of the axis x1 extending from one end 21 to which the cable 30 is connected toward the other end 22 on the opposite side of the cable 30 is the same as the extension direction of the cable 30. cross in the direction. The configuration of the liquid level detection unit 1A will be specifically described below.

[Liquid level detection unit]
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the liquid level detection unit 1A according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The liquid level detection unit 1A is attached to the grating 122 of the drainage equipment from the inside. The liquid level detection unit 1A is attached to the grating 122 via a stainless steel binding tool 101. The liquid level detection unit 1A includes a plate unit 10A, a liquid level sensor 20, a cable 30, and a power supply device 40.

(Plate unit)
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the plate unit 10A, in which (a) is a perspective view of the plate unit 10A viewed from above, and (b) is a perspective view of the plate unit 10A viewed from below. The plate unit 10A is formed by a mounting plate 11A and a support plate 12A. The plate unit 10A is a member in which a mounting plate 11A and a support plate 12A are connected to each other in an L-shape or a substantially L-shape. The mounting plate 11A and the support plate 12A are connected to each other via two metal angle members 13A.

The mounting plate 11A is a rectangular plate member made of synthetic resin, metal, or the like in a plan view. The mounting plate 11A can be supported on the grating 122 via a stainless steel binding tool 101. The mounting plate 11A has a plurality of insertion holes 14A. The binding tool 101 is passed through the insertion hole 14A and attached to the grating 122.

The support plate 12A is a rectangular plate member made of synthetic resin, metal, or the like in a plan view. The support plate 12A is attached at right angles to the attachment plate 11A via an angle member 13A. The support plates 12A are connected to each other with one short side abutting the short side of the mounting plate 11A. The support plate 12A extends perpendicularly to the grating 122. The support plate 12A supports the liquid level sensor 20 via the cable 30.

The support plate 12A has a plurality of pairs of insertion holes 15A along the longitudinal direction. The plurality of pairs of insertion holes 15A are provided at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal direction, and serve as fixed positions for the cable 30. The liquid level sensor 20 is supported by a band-shaped fastener 31 on the cable 30 so as to be able to float on the support plate 12A.

(Liquid level sensor and cable)
FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the liquid level sensor 20, in which (a) is a perspective view of the liquid level sensor 20, and (b) is a side view of the liquid level sensor 20. The liquid level sensor 20 is a float type sensor. The liquid level sensor 20 is suspended from the plate unit 10A by a cable 30. The liquid level sensor 20 is supported by the support plate 12A by fixing the cable 30 to the support plate 12A. As the liquid level rises, the liquid level sensor 20 tilts so that one end 21 to which the cable 30 is connected approaches the other end 22 on the opposite side of the cable 30 in the hanging direction H along the vertical direction. , detects the warning liquid level K1.

The liquid level sensor 20 has a weight (not shown), a sphere (not shown), a microswitch (not shown), etc. inside. The liquid level sensor 20 has a function as a float, and has a larger mass than buoyancy. Note that the liquid level sensor 20 is not particularly limited, and a known float type sensor can be used.

The cross-sectional shape of the liquid level sensor 20 along the axis x1 passing through the center of the liquid level sensor 20 is a drop shape or a substantially drop shape. The cross-sectional shape of the liquid level sensor 20 intersecting the axis x1 is circular or approximately circular. A diameter 20R in the cross-sectional shape of the liquid level sensor 20 increases continuously from one end 21 to the other end 22 along the axis x1 from the side of the tip 21 to which the cable 30 is attached.

The length 20L of the liquid level sensor 20 along the axis x1 is larger than the maximum diameter Rmax of the liquid level sensor 20. That is, the diameter 20Rmax of the liquid level sensor 20 is smaller than the length 20L of the liquid level sensor 20. The length 20L of the liquid level sensor 20 is preferably 1.30 to 1.40 times the maximum diameter Rmax.

FIG. 5 is a side view showing a state in which the liquid level sensor 20 is attached to the plate unit 10A. A cable 30 for suspending the liquid level sensor 20 is fixed to the support plate 12A. The cable 30 is attached from above the support plate 12A of the plate unit 10A in the hanging direction H. The liquid level sensor 20 is configured such that the axis x1 extending from the tip 21 through the center of the base end (other end) 22 on the opposite side to the tip 21 in the hanging direction H is switched when the axis x1 approaches a horizontal state, for example. is turned on.

The cable 30 is electrically connected to the liquid level sensor 20. The cable 30 extends along the support plate 12A from the mounting plate 11A side. One end of the cable 30 is connected to the tip 21 side of the liquid level sensor 20. Note that the other end of the cable 30 is connected to a power supply device 40 provided behind the support plate 12A.

Cable 30 extends along support plate 12A. The cable 30 is attached to the support plate 12A with a band-shaped fastener 31 at a position spaced apart from the liquid level sensor 20 by a predetermined distance. For example, the cable 30 is fixed to the support plate 12A by inserting one end of the fastener 31 through one of the pair of insertion holes 15A of the support plate 12A and leading out from the other insertion hole 15A.

The cable 30 is supported movably in a direction away from the support plate 12A around the fixed point P1 at a position fixed by the fastener 31. The cable 30 is movable in the area between the fixed point P1 and the tip 21 of the liquid level sensor 20. The position of the fixed point P1 may be set, for example, such that the liquid level sensor 20 allows the axis x1 of the liquid level sensor 20 to be in a horizontal state.

The liquid level sensor 20 is suspended from the support plate 12A via the cable 30, and a portion thereof is in contact with the support plate 12A. In a state where the liquid level sensor 20 is attached to the support plate 12A, the axis x1 extending from one end 21 to the other end 22 of the liquid level sensor 20 intersects with the extending direction of the cable 30. Further, the axis x1 of the liquid level sensor 20 also intersects the support plate 12A. The liquid level sensor 20 is supported by the support plate 12A so that the axis x1 is separated from the support plate 12A with respect to the distal end 21 on the base end 22 side.

The liquid level sensor 20 floats on the liquid level WL in a direction away from the support plate 12A and tilts so that the axis x1 of the liquid level sensor 20 approaches the horizontal state, thereby indicating that the liquid level WL has reached the warning liquid level K1. Detect. That is, when the liquid level sensor 20 detects the warning liquid level K1, the liquid level sensor 20 floats on the liquid surface WL, and the tip 21 of the liquid level sensor 20 approaches the base end 22 in the hanging direction H, and the tip 21 and The distance to the base end 22 becomes shorter.

(power supply)
The power supply device 40 is attached to the support plate 12A on the side opposite to the liquid level sensor 20. A cable 30 is electrically connected to the power supply device 40 . The power supply device 40 supplies electricity to the liquid level sensor 20 via the cable 30.

[Operation of liquid level detection unit]
FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the liquid level detection unit 1A according to the first embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor 20, and (b) ) is a diagram showing a state in which the liquid level sensor 20 floats on the liquid level WL and detects the warning liquid level K1. For example, an unexpected amount of rainwater may flow into the drainage equipment through the grating 122 due to heavy rain. As a result, the liquid level WL in the drainage equipment rises (see FIG. 6(a)).

The warning liquid level K1 of the liquid level WL detected by the liquid level sensor 20 is arbitrarily set at a position spaced apart from the grating 122 by a predetermined interval h along the hanging direction H of the liquid level sensor 20. When the liquid level WL reaches the warning liquid level K1, it becomes an indicator that water may overflow from the grating 122, for example. For example, the liquid level sensor 20 is configured to detect the liquid level at a predetermined height position from the base end 22. By adjusting the length of the cable 30 and changing the hanging position of the liquid level sensor 20 as appropriate, the predetermined height position from the base end 22 passing through the axis x1 is set to the arbitrarily set warning liquid level K1. It can be made to correspond.

As the amount of rain flowing in through the grating 122 increases, the liquid level WL reaches the base end 22 of the liquid level sensor 20, causing the liquid level sensor 20 to emerge. The liquid level sensor 20 floats away from the support plate 12A while tilting together with the cable 30.

The liquid level sensor 20 has a larger mass than buoyancy. In the liquid level sensor 20, the center of buoyancy is located on the base end 22 side, and the center of gravity of the liquid level sensor 20 is located on the tip 21 side. Therefore, a rotational moment is generated in the liquid level sensor 20 due to the misalignment between the center of buoyancy and the center of gravity. Due to the generation of rotational moment, the tip 21 of the liquid level sensor 20 is tilted as the liquid level WL rises, and the tip 21 of the liquid level sensor 20 is on the side of the base end 22 in the hanging direction H. , the axis x1 becomes horizontal or approximately horizontal (see FIG. 6(b)).

When the liquid level WL reaches the warning liquid level K1 and, for example, the axis x1 of the liquid level sensor 20 exceeds a predetermined angle with the support plate 12A, the internal sphere rolls and the microswitch is turned on. The liquid level sensor 20 sends a signal to an external device warning that the liquid level WL in the drainage equipment has reached the warning liquid level K1.

By attaching the liquid level detection unit 1A as described above to drainage equipment, the possibility of occurrence of water damage can be recognized in advance. According to the liquid level detection unit 1A, the liquid level sensor 20 is attached to the support plate 12A together with the cable 30 with the axis x1 inclined with respect to the extending direction of the cable 30. Therefore, when the liquid level WL rises to the base end 22, the liquid level sensor 20 floats away from the support plate 12A, not in the vertical direction but together with the cable 30 below the fixed point P1. Thereby, the liquid level sensor 20 becomes easily susceptible to buoyancy, and the liquid level sensor 20 is smoothly lifted up.

Furthermore, since a plurality of pairs of insertion holes 15A are provided in the support plate 12A at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal direction, the position of the fixing point P1 of the cable 30 with respect to the support plate 12A can be appropriately selected. Can be done. For example, if the distance between the tip 21 of the liquid level sensor 20 and the fixed point P1 is increased, the curvature of the cable 30 when the liquid level sensor 20 rises becomes larger, and the load on the cable 30 can be reduced.

Further, for example, if the distance between the tip 21 of the liquid level sensor 20 and the fixed point P1 is reduced, the curvature of the cable 30 when the liquid level sensor 20 rises becomes smaller, reducing the space required for the liquid level sensor 20 to rise. It can be kept small. This increases the degree of freedom regarding the mounting symmetry of the liquid level detection unit 1A.

By connecting the mounting plate 11A to the support plate 12A, foreign matter flowing in from the grating 122 is prevented from directly adhering to the liquid level sensor 20, and the liquid level sensor 20 is prevented from being damaged by the flowing water. It is possible to reliably avoid erroneously detecting that the liquid level sensor 20 has reached the warning liquid level K1 due to the liquid level sensor 20 being shaken without being moved.

<Others>
For example, although the plate unit 10A was attached to the grating 122 via the attachment plate 11A, the attachment plate 11A may not be provided. In this case, the support plate 12A can be attached to the grating 122 via the metal angle member 13A.

Further, for example, the support plate 12A may include a pair of protruding plates 16A. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a liquid level detection unit 1B according to a modification. The pair of protruding plates 16A protrude toward the side where the liquid level sensor 20 is supported along each edge (long side) extending in the longitudinal direction. The protruding plates 16A are provided facing each other on each long side. The protruding plates 16A are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction so as to only allow the liquid level sensor 20 to float in the direction away from the support plate 12A. The protruding plate 16A is attached to the short side opposite to the mounting plate 11A. The liquid level sensor 20 is located between the pair of protruding plates 16A.

The liquid level sensor 20 floats on the liquid level WL in the direction away from the support plate 12A between the pair of protruding plates 16A, and the liquid level sensor 20 is tilted so that the axis x1 approaches the horizontal state, so that the liquid level WL becomes alert. It is detected that the liquid level K1 has been reached. That is, when the liquid level sensor 20 detects the warning liquid level K1, the liquid level sensor 20 floats on the liquid surface WL, and the tip 21 of the liquid level sensor 20 approaches the base end 22 in the hanging direction H, and the tip 21 and the base The distance to the end 22 becomes shorter. In addition, in the liquid level detection unit 1B, the warning liquid level K1 is preferably set between the pair of protruding plates 16A in the hanging direction H.

(Relationship between plate unit and liquid level sensor)
FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the dimensions of the plate unit 10B and the liquid level sensor 20. The distance d1 between the pair of protruding plates 16A is smaller than the length 20L of the liquid level sensor 20 (d1<20L). The interval d1 is slightly larger than the maximum diameter 20Rmax of the liquid level sensor 20 (d1>20Rmax). For example, the distance d1 is preferably 1.10 to 1.30 times the maximum diameter of 20Rmax. The distance d1 between the pair of protruding plates 16A is only slightly larger than the maximum diameter 20Rmax of the liquid level sensor 20.

According to the liquid level detection unit 1B as described above, at least the same effects as the liquid level detection unit 1A are achieved. Furthermore, the direction in which the liquid level sensor 20 floats between the pair of protruding plates 16A can be uniquely restricted. Thereby, the degree of freedom in attaching the liquid level detection unit 1B can be increased.

Since the liquid level sensor 20 has a circular cross-sectional shape, even if the liquid level sensor 20 comes into contact with the protruding plate 16A, the contact is a point contact, and the contact occurs in the direction away from the support plate 12A. This can prevent the movement of people from being hindered.

<Second embodiment>
Below, a liquid level detection unit 1C according to a second embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a liquid level detection unit 1C according to the second embodiment. Note that illustration of the power supply device 40 is omitted. Hereinafter, parts different from the liquid level detection unit 1A will be mainly explained, and the same parts as the liquid level detection unit 1A will be given the same reference numerals and explanations will be omitted.

The liquid level detection unit 1C includes a plate unit 10C, an extension support plate (extension support part) 13C, a liquid level sensor 20, a liquid level sensor (second liquid level sensor) 50, a cable 30, and a cable (another cable) 60 and a power supply device 40.

The extension support plate 13C is a rectangular plate member made of synthetic resin, metal, or the like when viewed from the front. The extended support plate 13C is attached to the support plate 12A via two metal plates 14C. The extension support plates 13C are connected to each other with one short side abutting against the short side of the support plate 12A on the side opposite to the mounting plate 11A (lower side in the hanging direction H). The extended support plate 13C extends perpendicularly to the grating 122. The support plate 12A supports the liquid level sensor 20 via the cable 30. The extension support plate 13C has a plurality of pairs of insertion holes (not shown) along the longitudinal direction. The plurality of pairs of insertion holes are provided at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal direction, and serve as fixed positions for the cable 60. The liquid level sensor 50 is supported by a belt-shaped fastener 61 on the cable 60 so as to be able to float on the extension support plate 13C.

The liquid level sensor 50 is a float type sensor. The liquid level sensor 50 is suspended from the extension support plate 13C by a cable 60. The liquid level sensor 50 is supported by the extension support plate 13C by fixing the cable 60 to the extension support plate 13C. As the liquid level rises, the liquid level sensor 50 tilts so that one end 51 to which the cable 60 is connected approaches the other end 52 on the opposite side of the cable 60 in the hanging direction H, so that the liquid level becomes alert. It is detected that the liquid level K2 below the liquid level K1 has been reached. Note that the liquid level sensor 50 has the same configuration as the liquid level sensor 20.

FIG. 10 is a side view of the liquid level detection unit 1C. A cable 60 for suspending the liquid level sensor 50 is fixed to the extension support plate 13C. The cable 60 is electrically connected to the liquid level sensor 50. The cable 60 extends along the extended support plate 13C from the side of the support plate 12A. One end of the cable 60 is connected to the tip 51 side of the liquid level sensor 50. Note that the other end of the cable 60 is connected to a power supply device 40 provided behind the support plate 12A.

A cable 60 is attached from above in a hanging direction H along the longitudinal direction of the support plate 12A while being suspended along the extended support plate 13C. The liquid level sensor 50 is switched on when the axis x2 extending from the tip 51 through the center of the base end (other end) 52 on the opposite side of the tip 51 in the hanging direction H approaches a horizontal state, for example. become.

Cable 60 extends along extended support plate 13C. The cable 60 is attached to the extension support plate 13C with a band-shaped fastener 61 at a position spaced apart from the liquid level sensor 50 by a predetermined distance. For example, the cable 60 is fixed to the extension support plate 13C by inserting one end of the fastener 61 through one of the pair of insertion holes of the extension support plate 13C and leading it out from the other insertion hole.

The cable 60 is supported movably in a direction away from the extension support plate 13C around the fixed point P2 at a position fixed by the fastener 61. The cable 60 is movable in the area between the fixed point P2 and the tip 51 of the liquid level sensor 50. The position of the fixed point P2 may be set, for example, so that the liquid level sensor 50 can have its axis x2 in a horizontal state.

The liquid level sensor 50 is suspended from the extension support plate 13C via the cable 60, and a portion thereof is in contact with the extension support plate 13C. In a state where the liquid level sensor 50 is attached to the extension support plate 13C, the axis x2 extending from one end 51 of the liquid level sensor 50 to the other end 52 intersects with the extending direction of the cable 60. Further, the axis x2 of the liquid level sensor 50 also intersects the extended support plate 13C. The liquid level sensor 50 is supported by the extended support plate 13C so that the axis x2 is separated from the extended support plate 13C with respect to the distal end 51 on the proximal end 52 side.

[Operation of liquid level detection unit]
FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the liquid level detection unit 1C, (a) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor 50, and (b) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor 50. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a state in which the liquid level sensor 50 is in a floating state and the liquid level sensor 50 is tilted to detect the liquid level K2. The liquid level K2 detected by the liquid level sensor 50 is arbitrarily set at a position spaced apart from the grating 122 of the drainage equipment by a predetermined distance along the hanging direction H of the liquid level sensors 20, 50. The liquid level K2 is set at a position below the warning liquid level K1. The liquid level K2 of the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor 50 is arbitrarily set at a position spaced apart from the grating 122 by a predetermined interval along the hanging direction H of the liquid level sensor 50. The liquid level K2 is set at a position below the warning liquid level K1.

When the liquid level WL reaches the base end of the liquid level sensor 50 as the amount of rain flowing in through the grating 122 increases, the liquid level sensor 50 emerges. The liquid level sensor 50 tilts together with the cable 60 and floats away from the extended support plate 13C. In the liquid level sensor 50, as the liquid level WL rises, the tip 51 of the liquid level sensor 50 tilts, and the tip 51 of the liquid level sensor 50 approaches the base end 52 in the hanging direction H, so that the axis x2 Horizontal or nearly horizontal.

When the liquid level WL reaches the liquid level K2 and the liquid level sensor 50 tilts and floats up, for example, when the axis x2 of the liquid level sensor 50 exceeds a predetermined angle with respect to the extension support plate 13C, the internal sphere rolls and the micro The switch turns on. The liquid level sensor 50 transmits a signal to an external device to notify that the liquid level WL in the drainage equipment is approaching the warning liquid level K1 (has reached a predetermined liquid level K2). When the liquid level WL further rises and reaches the warning liquid level K1, the liquid level sensor 20 is activated. The operation of the liquid level sensor 20 is similar to that in the first embodiment.

According to the liquid level detection unit 1C as described above, at least the same effects as the liquid level detection unit 1A are achieved. Furthermore, the liquid level sensor 50 can detect liquid levels K1 and K2 at two different height positions within the drainage equipment in the hanging direction H of the liquid level detection unit 1C. For example, when the liquid level WL reaches a liquid level K2 lower than the warning liquid level K1 before reaching the warning liquid level K1 in the drainage equipment, it can be detected that the liquid level WL is rising. Thereby, it is possible to recognize at an early stage that the risk of water overflowing from the drainage equipment is increasing before the liquid level WL reaches the warning liquid level K1.

Moreover, the liquid level detection unit 1C may have two pairs of protruding plates 16A. The pair of protruding plates 16A are provided on the support plate 12A and the extended support plate 13C, respectively.

<Third embodiment>
Below, a liquid level detection unit 1D according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 12(a) is a perspective view for explaining the configuration of a rainwater basin 100 to which a liquid level detection unit 1D according to the third embodiment is attached, and FIG. 12(b) is a perspective view taken along line bb in (a). It is a sectional view along the line. Hereinafter, parts that are different from the liquid level detection unit 1A will be mainly explained, and parts that are the same as the liquid level detection unit 1A will be given the same reference numerals and explanations will be omitted.

The liquid level detection unit 1D according to the third embodiment is attached to, for example, a drainage facility (hereinafter also referred to as a "rainwater mass") 100 that drains rainwater into a sewer pipe. The liquid level detection unit 1D detects when the water level in the rainwater basin reaches a predetermined level (hereinafter also referred to as "warning liquid level") when water exceeding the allowable amount overflows from the sewer pipe and rises in the rainwater basin. ) Detects that K1 has been reached. The liquid level detection unit 1D is applied, for example, to known drainage equipment, and the drainage equipment to which it is applied is not limited to specific drainage equipment. For example, the liquid level detection unit 1D according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied to a rainwater tank 100 shown in FIG. 12.

The rainwater tank 100 collects rainwater within the premises of a building such as a residence. The rainwater basin 100 is made of concrete, for example. The rainwater tank 100 is buried underground and allows inflowing water to flow into, for example, a sewer pipe.

The rainwater basin 100 has a main body part 110 and an inflow part 120. The main body portion 110 and the inflow portion 120 are integrally formed with each other. The main body portion 110 is buried underground. The main body portion 110 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The main body portion 110 has a piping port 111 . For example, a sewer pipe is connected to the pipe port 111, and water flowing into the rainwater tank 100 is discharged to the sewer pipe.

The inflow portion 120 is provided at one end of the main body portion 110 in the axial direction. In a state where the rainwater basin 100 is installed underground, the inflow portion 120 is exposed to the ground. The inflow portion 120 has an inflow opening 121 . For example, rainwater or the like flows into the main body portion 110 through the inflow opening 121 . The inflow opening 121 is closed by a grid-like lid such as a grating 122, for example.

The rainwater mass 100 described above is provided with a liquid level detection unit 1D that detects and measures the liquid level within the rainwater mass 100. The liquid level detection unit 1D according to the third embodiment has a cylindrical shape with one end closed and the other end open, and has a short axis Sa and a long axis La in a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction. A cylindrical member (hereinafter referred to as " The cylindrical member 10D is suspended from one end of the cylindrical member 10D to the other end via a cable 30 and housed within the cylindrical member 10D, and the liquid level reaches a predetermined level. A float-type liquid level sensor 20 that detects this is provided. A cable 30 for suspending the liquid level sensor 20 is attached to one of the pair of long axis side walls 14D and 15D, and extends from one end of the liquid level sensor 20 to which the cable 30 is connected to the other end on the opposite side of the cable 30. The axis x1 extending along is inclined from one side of the long axis side wall parts 14D, 15D toward the other side of the long axis side wall parts 14D, 15D. The configuration of the liquid level detection unit 1D will be specifically described below.

[Liquid level detection unit]
FIG. 13 is a transparent perspective view of a liquid level detection unit 1D according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The liquid level detection unit 1D is attached to the grating 122 of the rainwater basin 100 from the main body 110 side. The liquid level detection unit 1D is attached to the grating 122 of the rainwater basin 100 via a stainless steel binding tool 101. The liquid level detection unit 1D includes a cover 10D, a liquid level sensor 20, a cable 30, and a power supply device 40.

(cover)
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the cover 10D, in which (a) is a perspective view of the cover 10D seen from above, and (b) is a perspective view of the cover 10D seen from below. The cover 10D is a cylindrical member with one end closed and the other end open. The cover 10D is, for example, an integrally molded member made of synthetic resin. The cover 10D is a cylindrical member having an elliptical or substantially elliptical cross-sectional shape intersecting the extending direction.

FIG. 15 is a plan view of the cover 10D. The cover 10D has a short axis Sa and a long axis La that is relatively long with respect to the short axis Sa in its cross-sectional shape. The cover 10D has an upper end wall 11D, a pair of short axis side walls 12D, 13D, and a pair of long axis side walls 14D, 15D. The cover 10D defines an accommodation space S in which the liquid level sensor 20 is accommodated by an upper end wall 11D, short axis side walls 12D, 13D, and long axis side walls 14D, 15D. The pair of short axis side wall portions 12D and 13D face each other in the direction of the short axis Sa and extend along the direction of the long axis La. The long axis side wall portions 14D and 15D face each other in the direction of the long axis La and extend along the direction of the short axis Sa.

The upper end wall portion 11D closes one end of the cover 10D. The liquid level detection unit 1D is attached to the grating 122 at the upper end wall portion 11D. The cover 10D has a short rib (first rib) 11Da that protrudes toward the side opposite to the other end along the short axis side walls 12D and 13D, and a short rib (first rib) 11Da that projects along the short axis side walls 12D and 13D, and along the long axis side walls 14D and 15D. and a longitudinal rib (second rib) 11Db protruding to the side opposite to the other end. The first rib 11Da and the second rib 11Db can support a binding tool 101 for binding the cover 10D to the drainage equipment 100.

The short rib 11Da and the long rib 11Db are portions formed in a thin plate shape. Note that the number of short ribs 11Da and long ribs 11Db is not particularly limited. Each short rib 11Da extends along the short axis Sa. The short ribs 11Da are provided at equal intervals in the direction of the long axis La. The short rib 11Da protrudes from the upper end wall portion 11D to the side opposite to the accommodation space S.

The longitudinal rib 11Db extends along the long axis La so as to intersect with the short rib 11Da. The longitudinal rib 11Db extends between the short ribs 11Da provided at both ends in the direction of the long axis La. The longitudinal ribs 11Db are each provided at equal intervals between one end and the other end of the short rib 11Da in the direction of the short axis Sa.

The height of the short rib 11Da and the long rib 11Db is higher than the thickness of the cable 30 attached to the upper end wall 11D. Thereby, when the liquid level detection unit 1D is attached to the grating 122, the cable 30 can be prevented from coming into contact with the grating 122.

The short rib 11Da and the long rib 11Db each have a support opening (not shown) that supports the stainless steel binding tool 101. The support opening in each short rib 11Da is formed to penetrate in the thickness direction of the short rib 11Da. The support opening in the short rib 11Da is provided between the intersection of the short rib 11Da and the long rib 11Db.

The support opening in each longitudinal rib 11Db is formed to penetrate in the thickness direction of the longitudinal rib 11Db. The support opening is provided between the intersection of the short rib 11Da and the long rib 11Db.

Depending on the grid pattern of the grating 122 to which the liquid level detection unit 1D is attached, or depending on the position of the grating 122 to which the liquid level detection unit 1D is attached, a support opening at an appropriate position is selected and the binding tool 101 is attached. It will be done. Note that the number of short ribs 11Da, long ribs 11Db, and support openings are not particularly limited.

A guide portion 11Dc for guiding a cable 30 for suspending the liquid level sensor 20 is formed on the upper end wall portion 11D. The guide portion 11Dc is provided on the side of the long axis side wall portion 14D in the direction of the long axis La. The guide portion 11Dc guides the cable 30 into the accommodation space S from the outside of the cover 10D. The cable 30 is attached to the guide portion 11Dc.

The pair of short axis side wall portions 12D and 13D extend linearly along the long axis La. The short axis side wall portions 12D and 13D are each provided at a predetermined distance d2 from each other in the direction of the short axis Sa. The distance d2 between the short axis side wall portions 12D and 13D is set to such an extent that the liquid level sensor 20 is not allowed to rise in the direction of the short axis Sa.

At least one hole 16D is formed in the cover 10D. Each of the short axis side wall parts 12D and 13D has a plurality of holes 16D. In the extending direction of the cover 10D, the hole 16D is provided on the upper end wall portion 11D side with respect to the liquid level sensor 20 when the liquid level sensor 20 is suspended. Water and air within the cover 10D are discharged to the outside of the cover 10D through the hole 16D.

The pair of long axis side walls 14D and 15D extend between the ends of the pair of short axis side walls 12D and 13D in the direction of the long axis La. The long axis side wall portions 14D and 15D extend convexly and arcuately outward from the accommodation space S in plan view.

The pair of long axis side wall portions 14D and 15D are provided at a predetermined distance d3 from each other in the direction of the long axis La. The distance d3 between the long axis side wall portions 14D and 15D allows the liquid level sensor 20 to float in the direction of the long axis La in response to the rise in the liquid level and at least detect that the liquid level has reached the warning liquid level K1. It is set to a degree that allows it to tilt to a certain degree.

(Liquid level sensor and cable)
The liquid level sensor 20 is a float type sensor. The liquid level sensor 20 is housed in a suspended state inside the cover 10D by a cable 30. The liquid level sensor 20 floats on the liquid level within the cover 10D, and as the liquid level within the cover 10D rises, it floats along the long axis side walls 14D and 15D of the cover 10D, and the cable 30 is suspended in the hanging direction H. When the connected end 21 approaches the other end 22 on the opposite side of the cable 30, the warning liquid level K1 is detected.

A cable 30 is attached to one end (tip) 21 of the liquid level sensor 20 on the upper end wall portion 11D side in a hanging direction H along the longitudinal direction of the cover 10D while being suspended within the cover 10D. The liquid level sensor 20 is configured such that the axis x1 extending from the tip 21 through the center of the base end (other end) 22 on the opposite side to the tip 21 in the hanging direction H is switched when the axis x1 approaches a horizontal state, for example. is turned on.

When the liquid level sensor 20 is housed in the cover 10D, its base end 22 is located closer to the upper end wall 11D than the other end of the cover 10D opposite to the upper end wall 11D. That is, the entire liquid level sensor 20 is located within the accommodation space S.

FIG. 16 is a sectional view showing a state in which the liquid level sensor 20 is attached to the cover 10D. A cable 30 for suspending the liquid level sensor 20 is attached to one of the pair of long axis side walls 14D, 15D.

The cable 30 is electrically connected to the liquid level sensor 20. The cable 30 extends from the outside to the inside of the cover 10D through the guide portion 11Dc of the upper end wall portion 11D. One end of the cable 30 is connected to the tip 21 side of the liquid level sensor 20. Note that the other end of the cable 30 is connected to a power supply device 40 provided outside the cover 10D.

The cable 30 extends along one long-axis side wall portion 14D. The cable 30 is attached to one long axis side wall portion 14D with a band-shaped fastener 31 at a position spaced apart from the liquid level sensor 20 by a predetermined distance. For example, two insertion holes (not shown) are formed in the long axis side wall 14D, and one end of the fastener 31 is inserted into the cover 10D through one of the insertion holes. The cable 30 is fixed to the cover 10D by passing through the side and leading out to the outside of the cover 10D from the other insertion hole again.

The cable 30 is fixed at a position fixed by the fastener 31 as a fixed point P1, and is movably supported toward the long axis side wall portion 15D around this fixed point P1. The cable 30 is movable along the long axis La in the region between the fixed point P1 and the tip 21 of the liquid level sensor 20. The position of the fixed point P1 may be set, for example, such that the liquid level sensor 20 allows the axis x1 of the liquid level sensor 20 to be in a horizontal state.

The liquid level sensor 20 is suspended from the cover 10D via the cable 30, and a portion of its outer peripheral surface is in contact with the long axis side wall 14D. When the liquid level sensor 20 is attached to the cover 10D, the axis x1 extending from one end 21 to the other end 22 of the liquid level sensor 20 extends from the long axis side wall 14D toward the long axis side wall 15D. It's leaning. The axis x1 of the liquid level sensor 20 is separated from the long axis side wall part 14D and approaches the long axis side wall part 15D with respect to the distal end 21 on the base end 22 side.

(Relationship between cover and liquid level sensor)
FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the dimensions of the cover 10D and the liquid level sensor 20. The distance d2 between the pair of short axis side wall portions 12D and 13D is smaller than the length 20L of the liquid level sensor 20 (d2<20L). The interval d2 is slightly larger than the maximum diameter 20Rmax of the liquid level sensor 20 (d2>20Rmax). For example, the distance d2 is preferably 1.10 to 1.30 times the maximum diameter 20Rmax. The distance d2 may be set so as to prevent the liquid level sensor 20 from rising along the direction of the short axis Sa.

The distance d3 between the pair of long axis side wall portions 14D and 15D is larger than the length 20L of the liquid level sensor 20 (d3>20L). The distance d3 is the sum of at least the length 20L of the liquid level sensor 20 and the distance 30L from the fixed point P1 of the cable 30 to the tip 21 of the liquid level sensor 20 when the liquid level sensor 20 is floating and tilted horizontally. The size is larger than the size (d3>20L+30L). The distance d3 may be set so as not to prevent the liquid level sensor 20 from rising in the direction of the long axis La, or preventing detection of the warning liquid level K1 during at least the process in which the axis x1 approaches the horizontal state. .

(power supply)
Power supply device 40 is attached to grating 122. A cable 30 is electrically connected to the power supply device 40 . The power supply device 40 supplies electricity to the liquid level sensor 20 via the cable 30. The power supply device 40 has a plurality of hooks 41. By passing the binding tool 101 through the hook 41, the power supply device 40 is attached to the grating 122.

[Operation of liquid level detection unit]
FIG. 18 is a sectional view showing a state in which the liquid level detection unit 1D is attached to the grating 122. The liquid level sensor 20 floats on the liquid level WL along the short axis side walls 12D and 13D in the direction of the long axis La, and is tilted so that the axis x1 of the liquid level sensor 20 approaches the horizontal state, thereby increasing the liquid level WL. It is detected that the warning liquid level K1 has been reached. That is, when the liquid level sensor 20 detects the warning liquid level K1, the liquid level sensor 20 floats on the liquid surface WL, and the tip 21 of the liquid level sensor 20 approaches the base end 22 in the hanging direction H, and the tip 21 and The distance to the base end 22 becomes shorter.

The warning liquid level K1 of the liquid level WL detected by the liquid level sensor 20 is arbitrarily set at a position spaced apart from the grating 122 of the rainwater tank 100 by a predetermined interval h along the hanging direction H of the liquid level sensor 20. . When the liquid level WL reaches the warning liquid level K1, it becomes an indicator that water may overflow from the rainwater basin 100, for example. For example, the liquid level sensor 20 is configured to detect the liquid level at a predetermined height position from the base end 22. By adjusting the length of the cable 30 within the cover 10D, the hanging position of the liquid level sensor 20 can be changed as appropriate to correspond to the arbitrarily set warning liquid level K1.

FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the liquid level detection unit 1D, (a) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor 20, and (b) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor 20. It is a diagram showing a state in which it is floating and tilted and before detecting the warning liquid level K1, and (c) shows the state in which the liquid level WL further rises and the liquid level sensor 20 is tilted to detect the warning liquid level K1. It is a figure showing a state. For example, due to heavy rain, an unexpected amount of rainwater may flow into the rainwater tank 100 through the grating 122 in an amount greater than that which can be discharged into the sewer pipe. Water overflowing from the pipe port 111 returns into the rainwater tank 100. As a result, the liquid level WL in the main body 110 of the rainwater basin 100 rises (see FIG. 19(a)).

As the level of rainfall flowing into the rainwater tank 100 rises, water also enters the inside of the cover 10D from the side opposite to the upper end wall 11D. When the liquid level WL reaches the base end 22 of the liquid level sensor 20, the liquid level sensor 20 emerges.

The distance d2 between the short axis side wall portions 12D and 13D in the cover 10D is only slightly larger than the maximum diameter 20Rmax of the liquid level sensor 20. The liquid level sensor 20 is tilted together with the cable 30 along the short axis side walls 12D and 13D, not along the short axis Sa and the vertical direction (hanging direction H), but along the long axis La. It floats up toward the side wall portion 15D (see FIG. 19(b)).

The liquid level sensor 20 has a larger mass than buoyancy. In the liquid level sensor 20, the center of buoyancy is located on the base end 22 side, and the center of gravity of the liquid level sensor 20 is located on the tip 21 side. Therefore, a rotational moment is generated in the liquid level sensor 20 due to the misalignment between the center of buoyancy and the center of gravity. Due to the generation of rotational moment, the tip 21 of the liquid level sensor 20 is tilted as the liquid level WL rises, and the tip 21 of the liquid level sensor 20 is on the side of the base end 22 in the hanging direction H. , the axis x1 becomes horizontal or approximately horizontal (see FIG. 19(c)).

When the liquid level WL reaches the warning liquid level K1 and, for example, the axis x1 of the liquid level sensor 20 exceeds a predetermined angle with the long axis side wall portion 14D, the internal sphere rolls and the microswitch is turned on. . The liquid level sensor 20 sends a signal to an external device warning that the liquid level WL in the rainwater basin 100 has reached the warning liquid level K1.

By attaching the liquid level detection unit 1D as described above to the drainage equipment 100, occurrence of water damage can be recognized in advance. According to the liquid level detection unit 1D, since the liquid level sensor 20 is housed in the cover 10D, foreign matter flowing in from the grating 122 is prevented from adhering to the liquid level sensor 20, and the incoming water is prevented from adhering to the liquid level sensor 20. It is possible to reliably avoid erroneously detecting that the liquid level sensor 20 has reached the warning liquid level K1 due to unintentional shaking of the liquid level sensor 20. The cover 10D allows the liquid level sensor 20 to detect the warning liquid level K1 based only on the liquid level WL rising within the cover 10D.

The distance d2 between the short axis side walls 12D and 13D is set so that the cover 10D only allows the liquid level sensor 20 to rise in the direction of the long axis La. That is, the cover 10D limits the floating direction of the liquid level sensor 20 only to the direction along the long axis La. In the cover 10D, there is no need to provide a space for allowing the liquid level sensor 20 to float in the direction along the short axis Sa, and it is possible to achieve miniaturization of the cover 10D in the direction of the short axis Sa. Thereby, the cost of parts and the cost of manufacturing the cover 10D can be reduced. Further, by reducing the size of the cover 10D, the degree of freedom regarding the location where the liquid level detection unit 1D is installed increases.

Since the liquid level sensor 20 is attached to one of the long-axis side walls 14D, the direction in which the liquid level sensor 20 floats can be limited to only one direction (the direction toward the other long-axis side wall 15D). As a result, compared to, for example, a configuration in which the liquid level sensor 20 is installed at an intermediate position in the distance d3 between the pair of long-axis side walls 14D and 15D, and the liquid level sensor 20 can float up in both directions, the cover 10D is It is excellent in terms of miniaturization.

Since the liquid level sensor 20 is suspended with the base end 22 inclined toward the long axis side wall portion 15D, the liquid level sensor 20 can easily float up in the direction of the long axis La.

Since the liquid level sensor 20 has a circular cross-sectional shape, even if the liquid level sensor 20 contacts the short axis side walls 12D and 13D, the contact is a point contact, and the long axis La It is possible to prevent movement in this direction from being hindered.

Since the holes 16D are provided in the short axis side walls 12D and 13D, the air that has entered the cover 10D can be discharged to the outside of the cover 10D. This can prevent the liquid level from dropping.

Further, on the upper end wall portion 11D of the cover 10D, a plurality of ribs 11Da and 11Db extend in a grid pattern along the direction of the short axis Sa and the direction of the long axis La. Therefore, the degree of freedom in the position and orientation of attaching the liquid level detecting unit 1D via the binding tool 101 increases depending on the object to which the liquid level detecting unit 1D is attached, for example, the grid shape of the grating 122.

<Others>
For example, in the liquid level detection unit 1D of the above-described embodiment, the liquid level sensor 20 was provided on one long axis side wall portion 14D. On the other hand, the cable 30 may be fixed by the fastener 31 at an intermediate position in the direction of the long axis La on either the short axis side wall portions 12D, 13D. In this case, the cover 10D is designed to have a distance d3 that allows the liquid level sensor 20 to float in both directions along the long axis La.

Moreover, although the cover 10D has an elliptical or substantially elliptical cross-sectional shape intersecting the extending direction, it may have a rectangular or substantially rectangular shape. Further, the cover 10D may be formed of a metal mesh basket or the like as long as the cross-sectional shape crossing the extending direction is the same.

<Fourth embodiment>
Below, a liquid level detection unit 1E according to a fourth embodiment will be described. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a liquid level detection unit 1E according to the fourth embodiment, in which (a) is a perspective view and (b) is a front view. Note that illustration of the power supply device 40 is omitted. Hereinafter, parts that are different from the liquid level detection unit 1D will be mainly explained, and the same parts as the liquid level detection unit 1D will be given the same reference numerals and explanations will be omitted.

The liquid level detection unit 1E according to the fourth embodiment is applied, for example, to a rainwater tank 100 similar to the liquid level detection unit 1D. The liquid level detection unit 1E is housed in the cover 10E and suspended below the liquid level sensor 20 from one end of the cover 10E to the other end via a cable 60 different from the cable 30. The liquid level sensor 20 further includes a float-type second liquid level sensor 50 that detects that another predetermined liquid level K2 has been reached below the warning liquid level K1 detected by the liquid level sensor 20.

The liquid level detection unit 1E includes a cover 10E, liquid level sensors 20, 50, cables 30, 60, and a power supply device (not shown). Cover 10E has the same configuration as cover 10D according to the third embodiment.

A guide portion 11Ed for guiding a cable 60 for suspending the liquid level sensor 50 is formed on the upper end wall portion 11D. The guide portion 11Ed is provided on the side opposite to the long axis side wall portion 14D and on the side of the long axis side wall portion 15D in the direction of the long axis La. The guide portion 11Ed guides the cable 60 into the accommodation space S from the outside of the cover 10E. The cable 60 is attached to the guide portion 11Ed.

A guide path 17E for guiding the cable 60 is formed in the long axis side wall portion 15D at a position that does not contact the liquid level sensor 20 in a floating state. The long axis side wall portion 15D has a guide path 17E extending along the extending direction of the cover 10E. The guide path 17E extends over a range facing the liquid level sensor 20. A cable 60 guided into the cover 10E through the guide portion 11Ed of the upper end wall portion 11D is passed through the guide path 17E.

FIG. 21(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line XXI(a)-XXI(a) in FIG. 20(b), showing a state in which the liquid level sensor 20 is floating; FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXI(b)-XXI(b) of FIG. The guide path 17E is formed in the central portion of the long axis side wall portion 15D in the direction of the short axis Sa. The guide path 17E is a portion of the cover 10E whose spacing is narrowed in the direction of the short axis Sa. The distance d4 from the long axis side wall portion 14D to the guide path 17E is set to be larger than at least the sum of the length 20L of the liquid level sensor 20 and the distance 30L between the cables 30 (20L+30L) (d4>20L+30L). ).

A stopper 18E is provided on the cover 10E. The stopper 18E is provided between the liquid level sensor 20 and the liquid level sensor 50 in the hanging direction H. The stopper 18E prevents the liquid level sensor 50 from rising toward the liquid level sensor 20 with respect to the position corresponding to the liquid level K2.

The stopper 18E is a member formed separately from the cover 10E, and is attached to at least one of the short axis side walls 12D, 13D and the long axis side walls 14D, 15D. The stopper 18E prevents the liquid level sensor 50, which is located below the liquid level sensor 20, from floating toward the liquid level sensor 20 as the liquid level rises, and moves along the long axis La of the liquid level sensor 20. This is to ensure that it does not interfere with the

The stopper 18E is provided between the liquid level sensor 20 and the second liquid level sensor 50 in the hanging direction H. Specifically, the stopper 18E is located above the liquid level K2 that the second liquid level sensor 50 detects in the hanging direction H, and below the lower end of the movable range of the liquid level sensor 20. and is provided on the cover 10E. Further, the stopper 18E is provided on the liquid level sensor 20 side (upper side) than the fixing point P2 where the cable 60 is fixed to the long axis side wall portion 15D by the fastener 61.

The configuration of the liquid level sensor 50 is the same as that of the liquid level sensor 20. The configuration of cable 60 is the same as cable 30. The liquid level sensor 50 is housed in a suspended state inside the cover 10E by a cable 60. The liquid level sensor 50 is located below the liquid level sensor 20 in the hanging direction H. The liquid level sensor 50 floats on the liquid surface within the cover 10E, and as the liquid level within the cover 10E rises, one end 51 to which the cable 60 is connected is connected to the other end 52 of the liquid level sensor 50 in the hanging direction H. By approaching the cover 10E, the cover 10E rises along the long axis side wall portions 14D, 15D, and a predetermined liquid level K2 is detected.

When the liquid level sensor 50 is housed in the cover 10E, its base end 52 is located closer to the upper end wall 11D than the other end of the cover 10E, which is opposite to the upper end wall 11D. In other words, the entire liquid level sensor 50 is located within the accommodation space S.

The cable 60 extends from the outside to the inside of the cover 10E through the guide portion 11Ed of the upper end wall portion 11D. The cable 30 is connected to a power supply device 40 provided outside the cover 10E.

The cable 60 extends along one long axis side wall portion 15D. The cable 60 is attached to one long axis side wall portion 15D with a band-shaped fastener 61 at a position spaced apart from the liquid level sensor 50 by a predetermined distance. For example, two insertion holes (not shown) are formed in the long axis side wall 15D, and one end of the fastener 61 is inserted into the cover 10E through one of the insertion holes. The cable 60 is fixed to the cover 10E by passing through the side and leading out of the cover 10E from the other insertion hole again.

The cable 60 is fixed at a position fixed by the fastener 61 as a fixed point P2, and is movably supported toward the long axis side wall 14D around this fixed point P2. The cable 60 is movable along the long axis La in the region between the fixed point P2 and the tip 51 of the liquid level sensor 50. The position of the fixed point P2 may be set, for example, so that the axis x2 of the liquid level sensor 50 can be in a horizontal state.

The liquid level sensor 50 is suspended from the cover 10E via the cable 60, and a portion of its outer peripheral surface is in contact with the long axis side wall 15D. When the liquid level sensor 50 is attached to the cover 10E, the axis x2 extending from one end 51 of the liquid level sensor 50 to the other end 52 extends from the long axis side wall 15D toward the long axis side wall 14D. It's leaning. The axis x2 of the liquid level sensor 50 is separated from the long axis side wall part 15D with respect to the distal end 51 on the base end 52 side and approaches the long axis side wall part 14D.

The dimension (50L+60L) is the sum of the length 50L of the liquid level sensor 50 and the distance from the fixed point P2 of the cable 60 to the tip 51 of the liquid level sensor 50 when the liquid level sensor 20 is floating and tilted horizontally. The distance is set smaller than the distance d3 between the pair of long axis side wall portions 14D and 15D.

[Operation of liquid level detection unit]
FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the liquid level detection unit 1E, (a) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor 50, and (b) is a diagram showing the initial state of the liquid level sensor 50. It is a diagram showing a state in which the liquid level WL is floating and tilted and before detecting the liquid level K2, and (c) shows a state in which the liquid level WL further rises and the liquid level sensor 50 is tilted to detect the liquid level K2. FIG. The liquid level K2 of the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor 50 is arbitrarily set at a position spaced apart from the grating 122 of the rainwater basin 100 by a predetermined interval along the hanging direction H of the liquid level sensor 20. The liquid level K2 is set at a position below the warning liquid level K1.

For example, if the rainwater tank 100 is provided with another pipe port (not shown) below the pipe port 111, an unexpected amount of rain that exceeds the amount that can flow into the rainwater tank 100 into the sewer pipe through the grating 122 due to heavy rain. Rainwater may flow in. Water overflowing from another pipe port returns into the rainwater tank 100. As a result, the liquid level WL in the main body 110 of the rainwater basin 100 rises (see FIG. 22(a)).

As the level of rainfall flowing into the rainwater tank 100 rises, water also enters the inside of the cover 10E from the side opposite to the upper end wall 11D. When the liquid level WL reaches the base end of the liquid level sensor 50, the liquid level sensor 50 emerges.

The distance d2 between the short axis side wall portions 12D and 13D in the cover 10E is only slightly larger than the maximum diameter of the liquid level sensor 50. The liquid level sensor 50 is tilted together with the cable 60 not along the short axis Sa or vertically, but along the short axis side walls 12D and 13D, and along the long axis La toward the long axis side wall 14D. It floats up (see Figure 22(b)).

The liquid level sensor 50 has a larger mass than buoyancy. In the liquid level sensor 50, the center of buoyancy is located on the base end side, and the center of gravity of the liquid level sensor 50 is located on the tip side. Therefore, a rotational moment is generated in the liquid level sensor 50 due to the misalignment between the center of buoyancy and the center of gravity. Due to the generation of rotational moment, the tip 51 of the liquid level sensor 50 tilts as the water surface WL rises, and the tip 51 of the liquid level sensor 50 moves toward the base end 52 in the hanging direction H. As it approaches, the axis x2 becomes horizontal or nearly horizontal (see FIG. 12(c)).

When the liquid level WL reaches the liquid level K2, for example, the axis x2 of the liquid level sensor 50 becomes horizontal or approximately horizontal, the internal sphere rolls, and the microswitch is turned on. The liquid level sensor 50 sends a signal to an external device warning that the water surface WL in the rainwater basin 100 has reached the liquid level K2.

Even if the liquid level within the cover 10E rises further, the stopper 14 limits the lifting of the liquid level sensor 50. When the liquid level WL further rises beyond the stopper 14 and reaches the warning liquid level K1, the liquid level sensor 20 is activated. The operation of the liquid level sensor 20 is similar to that in the first embodiment.

According to the liquid level detection unit 1A as described above, the liquid levels K1 and K2 can be detected at two different height positions in the hanging direction H of the liquid level detection unit 1A. For example, when the rainwater tank 100 is provided with two piping ports in the height direction, before the liquid level WL reaches the warning liquid level K1, at the stage when the liquid level reaches the liquid level K2 lower than the warning liquid level K1, It is possible to detect that water is flowing backwards from the lower pipe port. Thereby, before the liquid level WL reaches the warning liquid level K1, it is possible to recognize at an early stage that the risk of water overflowing from the rainwater basin 100 is increasing.

Further, since the cover 10A has the guide path 13c, the cable 60 of the liquid level sensor 50 does not interfere with the floating of the liquid level sensor 20.

Furthermore, since the cover 10A has the stopper 14, the liquid level sensor 50 is prevented from rising and interfering with the lifting of the liquid level sensor 20.

<Others>
For example, the liquid level sensor 50 was provided on the long axis side wall portion 15D side opposite to the long axis side wall portion 14D side where the liquid level sensor 20 was provided, but it was provided on the long axis side wall portion 14D side. It may be.

Although preferred embodiments 1 to 4 of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment 4, and can include all aspects included in the concept of the present invention and the scope of the claims. include. Moreover, each structure may be selectively combined as appropriate so as to achieve at least some of the problems and effects described above. Further, for example, the shape, material, arrangement, size, etc. of each component in the above-mentioned four embodiments may be changed as appropriate depending on the specific usage mode of the present invention.

1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E...Liquid level detection unit, 10A, 10B...Plate unit, 10D...Cover (cylindrical member), 11A...Mounting plate, 11D...Upper end wall, 11Da...Short rib (first Rib), 11Db...Longitudinal rib (second rib), 11Dc, 11Ed...Guiding part, 12A...Support plate (support part), 12D, 13D...Short axis side wall part, 13C...Extension support plate (extension support part), 14D , 15D...long axis side wall part, 13A...angle member, 14A...insertion hole, 15A...insertion hole, 16A...projection plate, 16D...hole, 17E...guide path, 18E...stopper, 20...liquid level sensor, 20L...length 20R...diameter, 20Rmax...maximum diameter, 21...tip (one end), 22...base end (other end), 30...cable, 30L...interval, 31...fastener, 40...power supply device, 41...hook, 50 ...Liquid level sensor (second liquid level sensor), 50L...length, 51...tip (one end), 52...base end (other end), 60...cable (another cable), 61...fastener, 100...drainage Equipment, rainwater mass, 101...Binding device, 110...Main body, 111...Piping port, 120...Inflow part, 121...Inflow opening, 122...Grating, La...Long axis, Sa...Short axis

Claims (13)

A float-type liquid level sensor that is suspended via a cable within the drainage equipment and detects when the liquid level has reached a predetermined level;
a support part that extends in the direction of extension of the cable within the drainage equipment and supports the liquid level sensor so as to float via the cable;
an extension support part connected to a lower end of the support part in the hanging direction of the liquid level sensor;
A float-type pipe is supported on the extension support portion via a cable different from the cable, and is configured to detect when the liquid level has reached a predetermined liquid level below the predetermined liquid level. 2 liquid level sensor,
Equipped with
When the liquid level sensor is supported by the support part, the extending direction of an axis extending from one end to which the cable is connected to the other end opposite to the cable intersects with the extending direction of the cable. death,
A liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment, wherein the second liquid level sensor has an extending direction that intersects with an extending direction of the other cable in a state where the second liquid level sensor is supported by the extension support part. The support part and the extension support part are plate-shaped members,
At least one of the support part and the extension support part has a pair of protruding plates that protrude toward the liquid level sensor and the second liquid level sensor along each edge extending in the hanging direction,
The pair of protruding plates are spaced apart from each other so as to allow the liquid level sensor and the second liquid level sensor to float only in a direction away from the support part and the extended support part. A liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment according to item 1. At least one of the support part and the extension support part has a plurality of fixing positions that allow the cable and the other cable to be fixed in the hanging direction of the liquid level sensor and the second liquid level sensor. The liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment according to claim 2. A claim characterized in that an attachment part is provided at an upper end of the support part in a hanging direction of the liquid level sensor, extending vertically from the support part to a side on which the liquid level sensor is supported, and attached to the drainage equipment. A liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment according to any one of items 1 to 3. A pair of short axis side walls that are formed in a cylindrical shape with one end closed and the other end open, and that have a short axis and a long axis in a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction, and that face each other in the direction of the short axis. and a pair of long axis side wall portions facing each other in the direction of the long axis;
A float type member is suspended from the one end to the other end of the cylindrical member via a cable and housed in the cylindrical member, and detects when the liquid level reaches a predetermined liquid level. a liquid level sensor;
Equipped with
The cable for suspending the liquid level sensor is attached to one of the pair of long axis side walls,
An axis of the liquid level sensor that extends from one end of the liquid level sensor to which the cable is connected to the other end on the opposite side of the cable extends from one of the long axis side walls to one of the long axis side walls. A liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment characterized by being tilted toward the other side. The distance between the pair of short axis side wall portions is set to prevent the liquid level sensor from floating along the short axis,
The distance between the pair of long axis side wall portions is set such that the liquid level sensor floats along the long axis to allow detection of the predetermined liquid level. Liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment. 7. The cylindrical member for drainage equipment according to claim 6, wherein the cylindrical member has at least one hole on the one end side with respect to the liquid level sensor when the liquid level sensor is suspended. Liquid level detection unit. The closed end of the cylindrical member is
at least one first rib protruding along the short axis side wall portion to a side opposite to the other end;
at least one second rib protruding along the long axis side wall portion to a side opposite to the other end;
has
Any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the at least one first rib and the at least one second rib are capable of supporting a binding device for binding the cylindrical member to a drainage facility. A liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment according to item (1). The cylindrical member is suspended below the liquid level sensor from one end to the other end via a cable other than the cable, and is housed in the cylindrical member. Any one of claims 5 to 8, further comprising a float-type second liquid level sensor that detects that another predetermined liquid level has been reached below the liquid level to be detected. Liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment described in . An axis extending from one end of the second liquid level sensor to which the another cable is connected along the other end on the opposite side to the another cable extends from the other of the long axis side wall parts to the long axis side wall part. 10. The liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment according to claim 9, wherein the liquid level detection unit is inclined toward one side of the drain equipment. According to claim 9 or 10, a guide path for guiding the other cable is formed in the other long axis side wall portion at a position that does not come into contact with the liquid level sensor in a floating state. Liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment. The cylindrical member is provided between the liquid level sensor and the second liquid level sensor in the hanging direction, and the liquid level sensor is provided at a position corresponding to the another predetermined liquid level. The liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising a stopper that prevents the second liquid level sensor from floating to the side. A cross-sectional shape of the liquid level sensor that intersects with an axis extending from one end of the liquid level sensor to which the cable is connected to the other end on the opposite side of the cable is circular. A liquid level detection unit for drainage equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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