A water dispenser with a photoelectric sensor

Abstract

This utility model discloses a water dispenser with a photoelectric sensing device. The top of the ice water tank is equipped with a water supply pipe and an overflow pipe. An infrared liquid level sensing component is installed within the communicating vessel, including a high-level sensor near the top of the tank and a low-level sensor near the bottom. Through the infrared liquid level sensing component within the communicating vessel, the dual monitoring of the high and low level sensors tracks the dynamic changes in water level in real time. Combined with the hierarchical layout of the overflow pipe and the water supply pipe, an active overflow prevention protection mechanism is formed. The high-level sensor can trigger the water supply pipe to close or sound an alarm when the liquid level approaches the upper limit, preventing overflow and seepage damage to the equipment; the low-level sensor can promptly detect insufficient water. Infrared sensing technology overcomes the shortcomings of traditional mechanical detection methods, which are susceptible to scale and condensation, ensuring detection accuracy and long-term stability. The display screen synchronously reflects the water level status, enhancing the user's real-time control of the equipment and balancing safety and intuitive operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of drinking water equipment technology, and in particular to a water dispenser with a photoelectric sensing device. Background Technology

[0002] With the improvement of living standards, people's demand for intelligent and functional drinking water equipment is increasing. Traditional water dispensers mostly use mechanical water level control devices, such as float valves, which monitor water level through the raising and lowering of mechanical components. This type of mechanical structure has drawbacks such as low sensitivity and susceptibility to scale buildup, leading to jamming and failure. Especially in low-temperature ice-making scenarios, condensation can obstruct the float's movement, causing a risk of uncontrolled water level. When the water level in the ice water tank is too high, traditional overflow pipes lack an active monitoring mechanism and can only passively drain water, failing to trigger timely shutdown protection and posing a safety hazard of overflow damaging the circuitry. Conversely, when the water level is too low, it can cause the compressor to burn out, shortening the equipment's lifespan. Furthermore, existing water dispensers generally lack a visual water level interface, making it impossible for users to intuitively understand the water storage status.

[0003] To address the aforementioned issues, while some existing technologies employ electronic sensors, their sensing components are mostly single-point level detection, failing to construct a gradient monitoring system for dynamic water level changes. Furthermore, the sensor installation locations lack optimized design, making them susceptible to interference from factors such as condensation and air bubbles within the tank, affecting detection accuracy. In terms of pipeline layout, the design of the coordination between the water supply system and the overflow pipe does not adequately consider fluid dynamics characteristics, resulting in a lag in water level regulation response. Therefore, existing technologies require further improvement and enhancement. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a water dispenser with a photoelectric sensing device to solve the problem of insufficient water level monitoring accuracy in the prior art.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: a water dispenser with a photoelectric sensing device, comprising a water dispenser frame and a display screen disposed on the front of the frame, wherein an ice water tank is fixed on the water dispenser frame, and a water supply pipe and an overflow pipe are provided on the top of the ice water tank, wherein the outlet of the overflow pipe is located below the outlet of the water supply pipe; an infrared liquid level sensing component is provided in a communicating vessel connected to the ice water tank, including a high water level sensor near the top of the tank and a low water level sensor near the bottom of the tank.

[0006] In one embodiment of the present invention, an integrated control system is also included, comprising a controller connected to the display screen via a cable, an adapter electrically connected to the controller, and signal processors respectively connected to high and low water level sensors.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, the water dispenser frame is provided with a water purification module connected to the water outlet. The water purification module includes a primary water pump, a heater and a purified water tank connected in sequence by pipelines. The heater is provided with an independent temperature control circuit and interacts with the display screen.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, it further includes: a raw water tank disposed on the water dispenser frame; and a filter assembly connected between the raw water tank and the purified water tank. The filter assembly includes a filter element and a filter element cylinder, the filter element cylinder being fixed on the water dispenser frame, and the filter element being inserted into the filter element cylinder through an opening at the top of the filter element cylinder.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, a compressor is also provided inside the water dispenser frame. The compressor is fixed directly below the ice water tank and is connected to the refrigeration system.

[0010] As described above, the water dispenser with photoelectric sensing device of this invention has the following beneficial effects: By installing high and low water level infrared sensors on the outer wall of the ice water tank, combined with the position design of the overflow pipe and water supply pipe, real-time and accurate monitoring of water level changes is achieved. When the water level in the tank rises to near the overflow pipe, the high water level sensor can promptly trigger a control signal, linking to shut off the water inlet or issue an early warning, effectively preventing accidental liquid overflow; while the low water level sensor can quickly provide feedback when the water volume is insufficient, ensuring normal water supply needs. This dual monitoring mechanism can not only dynamically sense the trend of water level rise and fall, but also actively intervene before the critical state, which not only improves water safety, but also ensures the stability of equipment operation, and reduces the risk of resource waste or equipment damage caused by abnormal water levels. Attached Figure Description

[0011] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0012] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a water dispenser with a photoelectric sensing device provided by this utility model;

[0013] Figure 2 A partial structural schematic diagram of a water dispenser with a photoelectric sensing device provided by this utility model;

[0014] Figure 3 This is a partial structural diagram of a water dispenser with a photoelectric sensing device provided by this utility model.

[0015] Component designation explanation

[0016] 1. Water dispenser frame; 2. Display screen; 3. Ice water tank; 4. Water supply pipe; 5. Overflow pipe; 6. High water level sensor; 7. Low water level sensor; 8. Controller; 9. Adapter; 10. Primary water pump; 11. Heater; 12. Clean water tank; 13. Raw water tank; 14. Filter cartridge; 15. Filter cartridge; 16. Compressor. Detailed Implementation

[0017] This utility model provides a water dispenser with a photoelectric sensing device. To make the purpose, technical solution and effects of this utility model clearer and more explicit, the following describes this utility model in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0018] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "up, down, left, right" and other indicating directions or positional relationships are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model; in addition, the terms "installation" and "connection" should be interpreted broadly, and those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0019] Please see Figures 1 to 3 This utility model provides a water dispenser with a photoelectric sensing device, including a water dispenser frame 1 and a display screen 2 installed on the front of the frame. An ice water tank 3 is fixed on the water dispenser frame 1. A water supply pipe 4 and an overflow pipe 5 are located on the top of the ice water tank 3, with the outlet of the overflow pipe 5 located below the outlet of the water supply pipe 4. An infrared liquid level sensing component is installed in a communicating vessel (not shown) connected to the ice water tank 3, including a high-level sensor 6 near the top of the tank and a low-level sensor 7 near the bottom of the tank. Specifically, the communicating vessel is equipped with both a high-level sensor and a low-level sensor. The high-level sensor 6 is installed at a preset distance below the top of the communicating vessel. When the liquid level in the ice water tank rises to near full, the change in the liquid's refractive index triggers a sensor signal, sending a high-level alarm to the control system. The low-level sensor 7 is fixed at a safe position above the bottom of the communicating vessel. It monitors the lowest liquid level in the ice water tank in real time by detecting the absorption / reflection of infrared light by the liquid surface.

[0020] In the absence of liquid, the infrared liquid level sensing component emits infrared light that is deflected 180° inside a prism, resulting in emission, which is then received by the receiving tube. When liquid is present, the emitted infrared light passes through the prism without emission, and the receiving tube cannot receive the signal. Both the high-level sensor 6 and the low-level sensor 7 employ an integrated infrared emission-reception structure, containing an infrared LED light source, a prism reflector, and a photoelectric receiving tube. When the ice water tank 3 is filled with water, the liquid submerges the prism portion of the sensor, altering the infrared light refraction path. The receiving tube, unable to receive the reflected light, outputs a low-level signal. When the water level drops to a point where the sensor is no longer covered by liquid, the prism returns to total reflection, and the receiving tube receives the light signal and outputs a high-level signal. The control circuit determines the water level status based on the signal combination from two sensors: if the high water level sensor 6 is triggered and the low water level sensor 7 is not triggered, the water level is normal and the refrigeration system can operate; if the high water level sensor 6 is not triggered and the low water level sensor 7 is triggered, the water level is too low, triggering a water shortage alarm and stopping refrigeration; if both the high and low water level sensors 7 are triggered, the water level is abnormal (such as an overflow fault), triggering an alarm and closing the inlet valve; if neither the high nor low water level sensors 7 are triggered, the tank is empty, prompting the user to add water.

[0021] By placing the overflow pipe 5 below the water supply pipe 4 and combining it with the high and low water level infrared sensors inside the communicating vessel, real-time monitoring and dynamic response to water level changes are achieved. The high water level sensor 6 effectively prevents water overflow, while the low water level sensor 7 promptly alerts users to water replenishment needs. This dual protection mechanism significantly improves the safety and reliability of the water dispenser, while avoiding the risk of resource waste or equipment damage due to abnormal water levels.

[0022] It also includes an integrated control system, comprising a controller 8 connected to the display screen 2 via cables, an adapter 9 electrically connected to the controller 8, and signal processors connected to the high and low water level sensors 7 respectively. Through the collaboration of the controller 8, adapter 9, and signal processors, the integrated control system enables rapid analysis and response to the signals from the high and low water level sensors 7, ensuring the accurate transmission and execution of water level control commands. The interaction between the controller 8 and the display screen 2 supports real-time status visualization, allowing users to intuitively monitor equipment operating parameters. Simultaneously, the system automatically triggers water level anomaly warnings or shutdown protection, improving the equipment's automation level. The modular design of the cable connections simplifies maintenance procedures, reduces the risk of signal transmission interference, and enhances the overall stability of the system.

[0023] The water dispenser frame 1 houses a water purification module connected to the water outlet. This module includes a primary water pump 10, a heater 11, and a purified water tank 12, all connected in sequence via pipelines. The heater 11 has an independent temperature control circuit that interacts with the display screen 2. Through the coordinated design of the primary water pump 10, heater 11, and purified water tank 12, the water purification module achieves efficient integration of water production, heating, and storage functions. The interaction between the independent temperature control circuit and the display screen 2 allows users to precisely adjust the water temperature, avoiding the risk of overheating. Simultaneously, the isolated layout of the heater 11 and the purified water tank 12 reduces heat loss and improves energy efficiency. The water pump configuration ensures rapid delivery of purified water, meeting users' immediate water needs, while the modular structure facilitates maintenance and component replacement, extending the equipment's lifespan.

[0024] It also includes a raw water tank 13 mounted on the water dispenser frame 1; and a filter assembly connecting the raw water tank 13 and the purified water tank 12. The filter assembly includes a filter element 14 and a filter cartridge 15. The filter element 14 is fixed to the water dispenser frame 1, and the filter element 14 is inserted into the filter cartridge 15 through an opening at the top of the filter cartridge 15. The combined design of the raw water tank 13 and the filter assembly simplifies the filter element 14 replacement process through the plug-in structure at the top of the filter cartridge 15. Users can complete maintenance without disassembling complex pipelines, improving ease of use. The multi-stage purification of raw water by the filter assembly ensures the safety of the output water quality, and the fixed installation method of the filter cartridge 15 enhances the system's sealing performance, avoiding the risk of leakage. The independent water storage design of the raw water tank 13 can adapt to different water sources, expanding the applicable scenarios of the equipment, while the separate layout with the purified water tank 12 avoids cross-contamination of water quality.

[0025] The water dispenser rack 1 also houses a compressor 16, which is fixed directly below the ice water tank 3 and connected to the refrigeration system. This placement of the compressor 16 directly below the ice water tank 3 optimizes the heat exchange efficiency of the refrigeration system, reduces energy loss by shortening the refrigerant transmission path, and improves ice-making speed and energy efficiency. The direct connection between the compressor 16 and the refrigeration system ensures rapid transfer of cold energy to the ice water tank 3, maintaining a stable low-temperature environment. Simultaneously, the bottom mounting design facilitates equipment balance, reducing operational vibration and noise. The coordinated operation of the refrigeration system and infrared water level monitoring further ensures the reliability of water level control in low-temperature scenarios, preventing condensation buildup from interfering with sensor functionality.

[0026] In summary, this utility model of a water dispenser with a photoelectric sensing device, through the coordinated operation of the high-water-level sensor 6 and the low-water-level sensor 7 of the infrared liquid level sensing component, can perceive the dynamic change trend of the water level in the ice water tank 3 in real time. When the liquid level approaches the critical state, it triggers a control signal in advance, linking the start / stop of the water supply pipe 4 or issuing an alarm, thereby proactively avoiding the risk of overflow and seepage caused by excessively high water levels, while preventing the compressor 16 from running dry and losing power due to excessively low water levels. Compared with traditional mechanical detection devices, infrared sensing technology achieves accurate detection in a non-contact manner, effectively avoiding physical interference from low-temperature frost and scale deposition on the sensing elements, ensuring long-term stable operation. In addition, the hierarchical layout of the overflow pipe 5 and the water supply pipe 4, combined with dual-point sensing monitoring, forms a dual anti-overflow protection mechanism, further enhancing the response speed and reliability of water level control, while the real-time feedback of the display screen 2 intuitively improves the user's control over the equipment's operating status, balancing safety protection and ease of use. Therefore, this utility model effectively overcomes the various shortcomings of the prior art and has high industrial application value.

[0027] It is understood that those skilled in the art can make equivalent substitutions or changes based on the technical solution and inventive concept of this utility model, and all such substitutions or changes should fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A water dispenser with a photoelectric sensing device, comprising a water dispenser frame (1) and a display screen (2) disposed on the front of the frame, characterized in that: An ice water tank (3) is fixed on the water dispenser frame (1). The top of the ice water tank (3) is provided with a water supply pipe (4) and an overflow pipe (5), wherein the outlet of the overflow pipe (5) is located below the outlet of the water supply pipe (4). An infrared liquid level sensing component is provided in the communicating vessel connected to the ice water tank (3), including a high water level sensor (6) near the top of the tank and a low water level sensor (7) near the bottom of the tank.

2. A water dispenser having a photoelectric sensing device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an integrated control system, comprising a controller (8) connected to the display screen (2) via a cable, an adapter (9) electrically connected to the controller (8), and signal processors respectively connected to the high and low water level sensors (7).

3. The water dispenser with photoelectric sensing device as claimed in claim 1, wherein The water dispenser frame (1) is equipped with a water purification module connected to the water outlet. The water purification module includes a primary water pump (10), a heater (11), and a water tank (12) connected in sequence by pipelines. The heater (11) is equipped with an independent temperature control circuit that interacts with the display screen (2).

4. The water dispenser with photoelectric sensing device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, Also includes: A raw water tank (13) is installed on the water dispenser frame (1); a filter assembly is connected between the raw water tank (13) and the purified water tank (12), the filter assembly includes a filter element (14) and a filter element cylinder (15), the filter element cylinder (15) is fixed on the water dispenser frame (1), and the filter element (14) is inserted into the filter element cylinder (15) through the opening at the top of the filter element cylinder (15).

5. The water dispenser with photoelectric sensing device as claimed in claim 1, wherein The water dispenser frame (1) is also equipped with a compressor (16), which is fixed directly below the ice water tank (3) and connected to the refrigeration system.

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