Liquid storage box, additive delivery device and identification method

Abstract

The present invention discloses a liquid storage box, an additive dispensing device and an identification method. The liquid storage box is provided with a guide identification portion with a set guide track; the number, position, and track shape of the guide identification portions provided on the liquid storage box correspond to any one or a combination of the types of additives stored in the liquid storage box. The additive dispensing device is provided with an intelligent identification component, including a first terminal and a second terminal connected to a detection circuit; an elastic pusher, including a conductive element electrically connected between the first terminal and the second terminal under normal conditions; and a rotating swinging member, which, when the liquid storage box is inserted into the plug-in slot, can swing along the set guide track of the guide identification portion on the liquid storage box and push the elastic pusher at the corresponding position, so that the conductive element is disconnected from the terminal, thereby realizing signal recognition. The type of additive in the liquid storage box is determined based on the signal information of the terminal disconnected from each conductive element, so as to realize accurate identification of the type of additive in the liquid storage box.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of clothing additive delivery, and in particular to a liquid storage box, an additive delivery device and an identification method. Background Art

[0002] Washing machine dispensers are becoming increasingly popular, but existing ones only meet simple user needs and fall far short of the high-tech standards of intelligent dispensing. Existing additive dispensers typically have multiple mounting locations, each for a separate reservoir. This allows reservoirs storing different types of additives to be simultaneously mounted on the same additive dispenser, enabling the dispenser to selectively dispense different additives, or in combination.

[0003] As the functions of washing machines increase, washing machines can automatically dispense detergents, stain removers, color protectants, softeners and other clothing treatment agents. The types of liquid storage boxes have become more complex and diverse, making it difficult for users to determine whether the installation positions of each liquid storage box are accurate, and it is very easy to make mistakes in the dosage of additives.

[0004] The invention patent with application number 201810617547.4 discloses a control method and device for automatically dispensing multiple clothing treatment agents into a washing machine. The automatic dispensing device includes a fixed-type treatment agent box for holding a fixed type of clothing treatment agent and a variable-type treatment agent box for selectively holding one type / multiple types of clothing treatment agents at the same time; the control method includes: the washing machine executes a washing program, and the automatic dispensing device executes the corresponding dispensing process according to the clothing treatment agent selected in the fixed-type treatment agent box and / or the variable-type treatment agent box.

[0005] While the automatic dispensing device disclosed in the aforementioned application can achieve the purpose of targeted intelligent dispensing for different garments by providing a selectable variable-type treatment agent box and controlling the dispensing of the clothing treatment agent in the variable-type treatment agent box, the disclosed dispensing device cannot automatically identify the type of additive stored in the variable-type treatment agent box, making it impossible to accurately dispense the additive based on the actual type in the subsequent washing process.

[0006] In view of this, the present invention is proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the existing technology and provide a liquid storage box with a self-identifying identity information function, so that the type of additive contained in the additive container can be identified using a specific guide mark with a set guide track. The present invention also provides an additive dispensing device that automatically recognizes the identity mark of the installed liquid storage box, thereby achieving the purpose of identifying the type of additive contained in the liquid storage box. Furthermore, the present invention also provides an identification method for the additive dispensing device to automatically identify and determine the type of additive in the installed liquid storage box.

[0008] In order to solve the above technical problems, the basic concept of the technical solution adopted by the present invention is:

[0009] A liquid storage box, wherein the liquid storage box has a closed chamber for storing additives, and at least one guide marking portion with a set guide track is provided on the outer wall of the liquid storage box;

[0010] Any one or combination of the number, position, and track shape of the guide marking parts provided on the liquid storage box corresponds to the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box.

[0011] Furthermore, the guide marking portion is a guide rib and / or guide groove provided on the outer wall of the liquid storage box along the insertion and removal direction of the liquid storage box;

[0012] Preferably, the guide ribs and / or guide grooves are provided on the top wall of the liquid storage box;

[0013] More preferably, along the insertion direction of the liquid storage box, the guide ribs and / or guide grooves are arranged on the top wall of the liquid storage box near the front end.

[0014] Furthermore, the top wall of the liquid storage box is recessed inward to form the guide groove, and the guide groove has a guide wall capable of changing the direction of the guide track;

[0015] And / or, the top wall of the liquid storage box protrudes outward to form the guide rib, and the guide rib has a guide wall that can change the direction of the guide track.

[0016] Furthermore, the liquid storage box has at least two set identification positions, and the guide identification portion is a guide rib and / or guide groove arranged at the identification position. The number and / or position of the guide ribs and / or guide grooves at the identification position of different types of additive liquid storage boxes are different.

[0017] Furthermore, the liquid storage box is provided with a marking cover, and the guide ribs and / or guide grooves are provided on the marking cover;

[0018] Preferably, the identification cover is a partial structure of the liquid storage box and is arranged on the top wall of the liquid storage box near the front end;

[0019] More preferably, the top wall of the liquid storage box is provided with an opening, and the identification cover is mounted on the opening; or, the identification cover and the liquid storage box are integrally formed.

[0020] Furthermore, another object of the present invention is to provide an additive dispensing device having a plug-in slot for mounting the above-mentioned liquid storage box, wherein the plug-in slot is provided with an intelligent recognition component for identifying the type of additive in the liquid storage box, and the intelligent recognition component includes:

[0021] The wiring terminals include a first wiring terminal and a second wiring terminal connected to the detection circuit;

[0022] The elastic pusher includes a conductive element that is in contact and electrically connected between the first terminal and the second terminal under normal conditions;

[0023] The rotating swinging member can swing along the set guide track of the guide mark part on the liquid storage box when the liquid storage box is inserted into the plug-in slot and push the elastic pushing member at the corresponding position, so that the conductive element is disconnected from the wiring terminal to realize signal recognition;

[0024] Preferably, the wiring terminals, elastic pushers, and rotating swinging members are provided in multiple groups, which can cover the guide identification parts at all identification positions on the additive storage boxes for identifying different types of additives.

[0025] Furthermore, the additive delivery device includes an upper cover plate located on the top of the plug-in slot, and the rotating swing member includes:

[0026] The swing part has an upper end surface provided with a rotating shaft rotatably connected to the upper cover plate, and a lower end surface provided with a guide column, the guide column can move along the guide track of the guide marking part to drive the swing part to swing;

[0027] The pressing portion is connected to the swing portion at a set angle and deflects as the swing portion swings, thereby pressing the elastic pusher to disconnect the conductive element from the terminal.

[0028] Preferably, the swing portion is a swing block, and the pressing portion is a pressing plate connected to the side of the swing block at a certain angle;

[0029] More preferably, the swing block and the pressure plate are integrally formed, and a connection angle between the swing block and the pressure plate is greater than 90°.

[0030] Furthermore, the elastic pushing member includes:

[0031] The cylinder shell is fixed on the upper cover plate;

[0032] A sliding push rod, one end of which is located outside the cylindrical shell and abuts against the pressing portion, and the other end of which extends into the cylindrical shell and abuts against the end of the conductive element;

[0033] The conductive element is movably disposed in the cylindrical shell, and its two ends are respectively in contact with and electrically connected to the first terminal and the second terminal;

[0034] The swinging of the rotating swinging member drives the pressing portion to deflect and press the sliding push rod, and the sliding push rod pushes the conductive element to move, so that at least one end of the conductive element is disconnected from the corresponding terminal, thereby realizing signal recognition;

[0035] Preferably, the conductive element includes a conductive spring limitedly installed in the cylindrical shell and conductive contacts connected to both ends of the conductive spring;

[0036] Preferably, the outer diameter of the end portion of the sliding push rod abutting against the pressing portion is enlarged.

[0037] Furthermore, the intelligent identification component is fixed on the upper cover plate through a mounting seat, the mounting seat has a receiving chamber, and the elastic pusher is installed in the receiving chamber;

[0038] Preferably, the side of the mounting seat close to the rotating swing member is open, and the edge of the top wall of the mounting seat is connected to an extended connecting wall, and the rotating shaft of the rotating swing member is rotatably connected to the extended connecting wall.

[0039] Preferably, one end of the connection terminal is fixed on the top wall of the mounting seat and connected to the external detection circuit, and the other end extends into the cylindrical shell to contact and connect with the conductive element.

[0040] Furthermore, another object of the present invention is to provide an identification method having the above-mentioned additive delivery device, comprising:

[0041] The liquid storage box is inserted into the plug-in slot of the additive delivery device;

[0042] The guide marking portion provided on the liquid storage box resists and guides the corresponding rotating swinging member in the plug-in slot, so that the conductive element at the corresponding marking position is disconnected from the corresponding terminal;

[0043] Signal information of the connection terminals disconnected from each conductive element is obtained, and the type of additive in the liquid storage box is determined based on the signal information of the connection terminals disconnected from each conductive element.

[0044] After adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art.

[0045] In the present application, by providing a plurality of guide marking parts with set guide tracks on the upper outer wall of the liquid storage box, the types of additives contained in the liquid storage box are accurately identified by utilizing any one or a combination of information such as the number, position, and track shape of the guide marking parts, thereby achieving a significant technical advancement in clearly identifying the category information of additives for different liquid storage boxes.

[0046] Through the above-mentioned arrangement, after different types of liquid storage boxes are respectively inserted into the plug-in slots of the additive dosing device, the guide identification parts of different numbers and / or different positions provided on different liquid storage boxes can be used to resist and guide the rotating swinging parts corresponding to the intelligent identification components provided on the additive dosing device, so that the conductive elements at the corresponding identification positions are disconnected from the corresponding wiring terminals, thereby achieving the purpose of generating different detection signals at the wiring terminals of different numbers and different positions after different liquid storage boxes are installed in the additive dosing device, thereby achieving the effect of identifying the type of additive information represented by the guide identification parts provided on the liquid storage boxes.

[0047] Through the above method, the type of additive in the liquid storage box is determined based on the signal information of the terminal blocks disconnected from each conductive element, so that the identity of the liquid storage box installed in the additive delivery device can be accurately identified, thereby achieving significant technical progress in automatically and accurately identifying the type of additive.

[0048] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] The accompanying drawings are part of the present invention and are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention. The exemplary embodiments of the present invention and their descriptions are used to explain the present invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the present invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments. For those of ordinary skill in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without inventive effort. In the accompanying drawings:

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of the additive delivery device of the present invention from one angle;

[0051] Figure 2 This is a schematic structural diagram of the additive delivery device of the present invention from another angle;

[0052] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure after removing the upper cover and intelligent identification components

[0053] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of the structure at center A;

[0054] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 The enlarged view of the structure at B, Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the structure after removing the PCB board;

[0055] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 The enlarged view of the structure at C in the middle is Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the structure after removing the mounting base;

[0056] In the picture:

[0057] 1. Additive dispensing device; 11. Upper cover plate; 111. Limiting rib;

[0058] 2. Liquid storage box; 21. Guide identification portion; 211. Guide rib; 2111. Guide wall; 201. Identification cover; 202. One-way air valve;

[0059] 3. Intelligent identification component; 301. Detection wire; 302. PCB board;

[0060] 31, connection terminal; 311, first connection terminal; 312, second connection terminal;

[0061] 32. Elastic pusher; 321. Cylinder shell; 3211. Position limiting mounting groove; 322. Sliding push rod; 323. Conductive spring;

[0062] 33. Rotating swing member; 331. Swing block; 3311. Rotating shaft; 3312. Guide column; 332. Pressing plate;

[0063] 34. Mounting seat; 341. Extended connecting wall; 342. Claw structure; 343. Position limiting rib;

[0064] Z1, first identification position; Z2, second identification position; Z3, third identification position.

[0065] It should be noted that these drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the conceptual scope of the present invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the present invention for those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention but are not used to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0067] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood broadly. For example, they may refer to fixed, detachable, or integral connections; mechanical or electrical connections; and direct or indirect connections through an intermediary. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0068] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the embodiments.

[0069] Example 1

[0070] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, this embodiment provides a liquid storage box 2 having a sealed chamber for storing additives. At least one guide marker 21 having a predetermined guide track is provided on the outer wall of the liquid storage box 2. The number, position, and track shape of the guide markers 21 provided on the liquid storage box 2 correspond to the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box 2.

[0071] In this embodiment, Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, by providing a plurality of guide marking portions 21 with set guide trajectories on the outer wall of the liquid storage box 2, the type of additives contained in the liquid storage box 2 is accurately identified by utilizing any one or a combination of information such as the number, position, and trajectory shape of the guide marking portions 21, thereby achieving a significant technical advancement in clearly identifying the category information of additives for different liquid storage boxes 2.

[0072] Furthermore, the liquid storage box 2 is pluggably arranged in the plug-in slot of the additive delivery device, and the guide marking portion 21 is a guide rib 211 and / or a guide groove arranged on the outer wall of the liquid storage box 2 along the plug-in and pull-out direction of the liquid storage box 2.

[0073] In this embodiment, the guide ribs 211 and / or guide grooves can be provided on the bottom wall, top wall, or other side walls of the liquid storage box 2 that are in contact with the insertion slot. This allows the intelligent identification component 3 provided on the insertion slot corresponding to the guide marking portion 21 to move along the guide track of the guide ribs 211 and / or guide grooves when the liquid storage box 2 is inserted into the insertion slot, causing the position to shift, thereby achieving signal recognition and further determining the identity of the liquid storage box 2.

[0074] Preferably, the guide ribs 211 and / or guide grooves are provided on the top wall of the liquid storage box 2. By providing the guide ribs 211 and / or guide grooves on the top wall of the liquid storage box 2, the corresponding smart identification component 3 provided on the corresponding plug-in slot can be installed on the integrated waterway on the top of the plug-in slot, which facilitates the wiring installation of the detection circuit, simplifies the wiring, and improves safety.

[0075] More preferably, along the insertion direction of the liquid storage box 2, the guide rib 211 and / or guide groove are arranged on the top wall of the liquid storage box 2 near the front end. Providing the guide rib 211 and / or guide groove on the front end of the liquid storage box 2 can further ensure that the liquid storage box 2 can be smoothly and easily inserted into or removed from the plug-in slot during the entire plug-in and removal process, and avoids the situation where the guide rib 211 and / or guide groove and the smart recognition component 3 are arranged in the middle position of the liquid storage box 2, during the plug-in and removal process, the smart recognition component 3 will interfere with the guide rib 211 and / or guide groove, thereby affecting the smooth insertion or removal of the liquid storage box 2 into or out of the plug-in slot.

[0076] Furthermore, the top wall of the liquid storage box 2 is recessed inward to form the guide groove, and the guide groove has a guide wall 2111 that can change the direction of the guide track. Specifically, the top wall of the liquid storage box 2 can be set to have a certain thickness, and the groove formed by the inward recess of the top wall of the liquid storage box 2 forms the guide groove, and the side walls of the groove form the guide wall 2111. The guide column 3312 of the smart identification component 3 is supported on the guide wall 2111 and moves along the guide track of the guide wall 2111. The guide mark portion 21 is formed by the above-mentioned groove, which is simple to form, easy to implement, and can achieve a good guiding effect.

[0077] Furthermore, the liquid storage box 2 has at least two set identification positions, and the guide identification portion 21 is a guide rib 211 and / or guide groove arranged at the identification position. The number and / or position of the guide rib 211 and / or guide groove at the identification position of different types of additive liquid storage boxes 2 are different.

[0078] In another embodiment, Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the guide marking portion 21 can also be formed by a guide rib 211. Specifically, the top wall of the liquid storage box 2 protrudes outward to form the guide rib 211, and the guide rib 211 has a guide wall 2111 with a changeable guide track direction. At least one side wall of the guide rib 211 is configured as a guide wall 2111 with a changeable guide track direction. One side wall of the guide rib 211 is configured as a special-shaped bent wall, or a curved guide wall 2111, so that the guide column 3312 of the intelligent identification component 3 can change its motion trajectory along the guide wall 2111 to achieve the purpose of detecting the type of additive in the liquid storage box 2.

[0079] In another preferred embodiment, the guide marking portion 21 may also adopt the guide groove and guide rib 211 structures at the same time.

[0080] In this embodiment, the liquid storage box 2 has three marking positions, and the guide marking portion 21 adopts the guide groove and the guide rib 211 structure as an example for detailed description.

[0081] Specifically, if Figure 3 As shown, the identification positions include a first identification position Z1, a second identification position Z2, and a third identification position Z3 arranged side by side on the front side end of the top wall of the liquid storage box 2 at intervals. The top wall of the liquid storage box 2 is recessed inward near the front end to form a groove structure, and the groove structure covers the above three identification positions.

[0082] In one embodiment, the groove structure includes a groove sidewall parallel to the insertion and removal direction of the liquid storage box 2, and the first identification position Z1 is located on the groove sidewall of the groove structure. The groove sidewall on one side of the groove structure is set to have a certain bending angle, thereby forming a first guide wall 2111 with a changeable guide track direction. In this embodiment, the groove structure not only provides a certain avoidance space for setting the guide rib 211, but also uses its own structure to form the guide identification portion 21

[0083] The second identification position Z2 and the third identification position Z3 are both located in the groove, and a guide rib 211 can be set at the second identification position Z2 or the third identification position Z3 respectively, and the guide rib 211 includes a guide side wall parallel to the insertion and removal direction of the liquid storage box 2, and one side wall of the guide rib 211 is set to have a certain bending angle to form a second guide wall 2111 with a changeable guide track direction.

[0084] Of course, in another embodiment, the first identification position Z1, the second identification position Z2, and the third identification position Z3 may also be located in the groove, and the position of the groove side wall does not constitute an identification position. The types of additives stored in the liquid storage box 2 are identified by setting guide ribs 211 at the first identification position Z1 and / or the second identification position Z2 and / or the third identification position Z3. The number, position, or combination of the guide ribs 211 provided on the liquid storage box 2 corresponds to the types of additives stored in the liquid storage box 2.

[0085] For example, it can be set that if the guide rib 211 is set at the first identification position Z1, it means that the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box 2 is detergent; if the guide rib 211 is set alone at the second identification position, it means that the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box 2 is softener; if the guide rib 211 is set alone at the third identification position, it means that the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box 2 is disinfectant; if the guide rib 211 is set at both the second identification position and the third identification position, it means that the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box 2 is softener.

[0086] In the above solution, the groove structure provides an avoidance installation space for setting the guide rib 211, and the height of the guide rib 211 is not higher than the depth of the groove structure, so that the guide rib 211 will not protrude from the top wall of the liquid storage box 2, effectively avoiding the problem that the liquid storage box 2 and the plug-in slot cannot be matched and installed due to interference from the guide rib 211.

[0087] In the above embodiment, the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box 2 can be inferred by identifying the position and number of the guide ribs 211 provided on the liquid storage box 2 through the intelligent identification component 3 in the plug-in slot. This identification method is intelligent and efficient, and uses the structural shape of the liquid storage box 2 itself to identify the type of additive stored therein without the need for other identification structures, thereby reducing costs while simplifying the structure of the liquid storage box 2.

[0088] Furthermore, in another preferred embodiment, Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the liquid storage box 2 is provided with a marking cover 201, and the guide ribs 211 and / or guide grooves are provided on the marking cover 201. By providing the marking cover 201, it is more convenient and simple to process the guide ribs 211 and / or guide grooves on the marking cover 201 than directly processing them on the box body of the liquid storage box 2, thereby improving the production efficiency of the liquid storage box 2.

[0089] Furthermore, the identification cover 201 can be a separate component mounted on the top wall of the liquid storage box 2. Preferably, in this embodiment, the identification cover 201 is a partial structure of the liquid storage box 2 and is mounted on the top wall of the liquid storage box 2 near the front end. This allows the identification cover 201 to serve as both a carrier for the guide ribs 211 and / or guide grooves and a component of the liquid storage box 2, achieving multiple uses and reducing costs.

[0090] More preferably, the top wall of the liquid storage box 2 is provided with an opening, and the identification cover 201 is installed on the opening. The identification cover 201 adopts a split structure, which is assembled into one to form a liquid storage box 2 with a complete independent closed chamber.

[0091] Alternatively, the identification cover 201 and the box body of the liquid storage box 2 are integrally formed. The identification cover 201 and the liquid storage box 2 are integrally formed using a blow molding process, which simplifies the process and reduces the production cost.

[0092] Preferably, if Figure 4 As shown, a one-way air-permeable valve 202 is installed on the identification cover 201 to balance the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the liquid storage box 2, ensuring that the additive in the liquid storage box 2 can be smoothly sucked out.

[0093] The identification cover 201 is provided with a mounting hole for installing a one-way air valve 202, and the one-way air valve 202 is sealed and installed in the mounting hole. By installing the one-way air valve 202 on the identification cover 201 instead of setting it at other positions on the box body of the liquid storage box 2, processing and manufacturing are facilitated, and the processing technology of the liquid storage box 2 is further simplified.

[0094] Example 2

[0095] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, this embodiment provides an additive dosing device 1 based on the embodiment 1, and the additive dosing device 1 has a plug-in slot for installing the liquid storage box 2 in the above embodiment 1, and an intelligent identification component 3 for identifying the type of additive in the liquid storage box 2 is correspondingly provided in the plug-in slot.

[0096] like Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the intelligent recognition component 3 includes:

[0097] The connection terminal 31 includes a first connection terminal 311 and a second connection terminal 312 connected to the detection circuit;

[0098] The elastic pusher 32 includes a conductive element that is normally in contact and electrically connected between the first terminal 311 and the second terminal 312;

[0099] The rotating swing member 33 can swing along the set guide track of the guide mark portion 21 on the liquid storage box 2 when the liquid storage box 2 is inserted into the insertion slot and push the elastic push member 32 at the corresponding position, so that the conductive element is disconnected from the terminal 31 to achieve signal recognition;

[0100] Preferably, the wiring terminals 31 , the elastic pushers 32 , and the rotating swinging members 33 are provided in multiple groups, which can cover the guide marking parts 21 at all marking positions on the additive storage boxes 2 for identifying different types of additives.

[0101] Through the above-mentioned arrangement, after different types of liquid storage boxes 2 are respectively inserted into the plug-in slots of the additive dosing device 1, the guide identification parts 21 of different numbers and / or different positions provided on different liquid storage boxes 2 can be made to resist and guide the rotating swinging parts 33 corresponding to the intelligent identification component 3 provided on the additive dosing device 1, so that the conductive elements at the corresponding identification positions are disconnected from the corresponding wiring terminals 31, thereby achieving the purpose of generating different detection signals at the wiring terminals 31 of different numbers and different positions after different liquid storage boxes 2 are installed in the additive dosing device 1, thereby achieving the effect of identifying the type of additive represented by the guide identification parts 21 provided on the liquid storage box 2.

[0102] Through the above method, the type of additive in the liquid storage box 2 is determined based on the signal information of the terminal 31 disconnected from each conductive element, so that the identity of the liquid storage box 2 installed in the additive delivery device 1 can be accurately identified, thereby achieving a significant technical advancement in automatic and accurate identification of the type of additive.

[0103] In this embodiment, the insertion slot can accommodate multiple liquid storage cartridges 2, each corresponding to a smart identification component 3. Each smart identification component 3 includes multiple connection terminals 31, elastic pushers 32, and rotating swing members 33. These connection terminals 31, elastic pushers 32, and rotating swing members 33 constitute a detection mechanism for detecting the guide marking portion 21 at the corresponding identification position of the liquid storage cartridge 2.

[0104] Combined with Example 1 and Figures 1 to 3 If three identification positions are set on the liquid storage box 2: the first identification position Z1, the second identification position Z2, and the third identification position Z3, the corresponding intelligent recognition component 3 includes three groups of detection mechanisms, and the intelligent recognition component 3 includes a wiring terminal 31, an elastic pushing member 32, and a rotating swinging member 33 respectively set at the first identification position Z1, the second identification position Z2, and the third identification position Z3.

[0105] If the intelligent identification component 3 only receives a disconnect signal from the terminal 31 at the first identification position Z1, it can be identified and inferred that the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box 2 is detergent; if the intelligent identification component 3 only receives a disconnect signal from the terminal 31 at the second identification position Z2, it can be identified and inferred that the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box 2 is softener; if the intelligent identification component 3 only receives a disconnect signal from the terminal 31 at the third identification position Z3, it can be identified and inferred that the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box 2 is disinfectant; if the intelligent identification component 3 receives a disconnect signal from the terminal 31 at both the second identification position Z2 and the third identification position Z3, it can be identified and inferred that the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box 2 is softener.

[0106] In this embodiment, each intelligent recognition component 3 includes three groups of detection mechanisms. Each intelligent recognition component 3 can identify 2*2*2=8 types of liquid storage boxes 2. Of course, the number of detection mechanisms of the intelligent recognition component 3 is not limited, and can also be four or five groups, etc., so that more types of liquid storage boxes 2 can be identified.

[0107] Further, as Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 6 As shown, the additive delivery device 1 includes an upper cover plate 11 located on the top of the plug-in slot, and the rotating swing member 33 includes:

[0108] The swing part has a rotating shaft 3311 rotatably connected to the upper cover plate 11 on its upper end surface, and a guide column 3312 on its lower end surface. The guide column 3312 can move along the guide track of the guide mark portion 21 to drive the swing part to swing;

[0109] The pressing portion is connected to the swing portion at a set angle, and deflects as the swing portion swings, pressing the elastic pushing member 32 to disconnect the conductive element from the connection terminal 31 .

[0110] In the above embodiment, the upper cover plate 11 is provided with a rotating shaft hole, and the rotating shaft 3311 drives the swinging portion to rotate horizontally along the rotating shaft 3311. The rotating shaft 3311 and the guide post 3312 are not coaxially arranged. The rotating shaft 3311 and the guide post 3312 are arranged on either side of the swinging portion, with the rotating shaft 3311 arranged on the side of the swinging portion close to the elastic pusher 32, and the guide post 3312 arranged on the side of the swinging portion away from the elastic pusher 32, so that the swinging portion forms a cam-like structure.

[0111] Under the limitation of the vertical direction and the limiting action of the rotating shaft 3311, the swinging part will drive the pressing part to rotate and push the elastic pushing member 32 under the guidance of the guide column 3312, so that the conductive element is disconnected from the terminal 31, realizing signal recognition, and further realizing the detection and identification of the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box 2.

[0112] Preferably, if Figure 6 As shown, the swinging portion is a swing block 331, and the pressing portion is a pressing plate 332 connected at a certain angle to the side of the swing block 331. The pressing plate 332 is connected to the side wall of the swing block 331 near the elastic pusher 32, and the outer wall of the pressing plate 332 has a pressing surface that can press against the elastic pusher 32.

[0113] More preferably, the swing block 331 and the pressure plate 332 are integrally formed, and the angle between the swing block 331 and the pressure plate 332 is greater than 90°. The angle greater than 90° between the swing block 331 and the pressure plate 332 allows the swing block 331 to rotate and push the pressure plate 332 against the elastic pusher 32 with a slight rotation.

[0114] Furthermore, if Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the elastic pushing member 32 includes:

[0115] The cylindrical shell 321 is fixed on the upper cover plate 11, and the extension direction of the cylindrical shell 321 is parallel to the insertion and removal direction of the liquid storage box 2;

[0116] A sliding push rod 322, one end of which is located outside the cylindrical shell 321 and abuts against the pressing portion, and the other end of which extends into the cylindrical shell 321 and abuts against the end of the conductive element;

[0117] The conductive element is movably disposed in the cylindrical shell 321, with its two ends respectively contacting and electrically connected to the first terminal 311 and the second terminal 312;

[0118] The swinging of the rotating swing member 33 drives the pressing portion to deflect and press the sliding push rod 322. The sliding push rod 322 pushes the conductive element to move, so that at least one end of the conductive element is disconnected from the corresponding terminal 31, thereby realizing signal recognition.

[0119] In one embodiment, the conductive element can be movably disposed in the cylindrical shell 321 along the axial direction of the cylindrical shell 321. When not affected by external force, the conductive element is connected to the first wiring terminal 311 and the second wiring terminal 312, and a conduction signal is generated between the first wiring terminal 311 and the second wiring terminal 312.

[0120] When a guide rib 211 is provided at a designated position on the liquid storage box 2, the rotating swinging member 33 at the corresponding position will rotate inward along the guide of the guide rib 211 to push the sliding push rod 322 at the corresponding position, thereby disconnecting the conductive element from the terminal 31 and generating a disconnection signal between the first terminal 311 and the second terminal 312. An elastic return member is also provided within the cylindrical shell 321. When the conductive element is not subjected to a thrust force, the elastic return member returns the conductive element to its initial position in contact with the first terminal 311 and the second terminal 312.

[0121] In another preferred embodiment, the conductive element includes a conductive spring 323 positioned within the cylindrical housing 321 and conductive contacts connected to both ends of the conductive spring 323. Of course, the conductive contacts can be omitted, with the connection terminals 31 directly contacting and connecting to both ends of the conductive spring 323. The provision of the conductive contacts can further enhance the coordination between the connection terminals 31 and the conductive spring 323, thereby improving electrical conduction efficiency.

[0122] like Figure 6 As shown, in the natural state, the conductive contacts at both ends of the conductive spring 323 are in contact with the first terminal 311 and the second terminal 312 respectively. Under the action of the thrust of the sliding push rod 322, the conductive spring 323 will be compressed, and the conductive contact on the end of the conductive spring 323 in contact with the sliding push rod 322 will disconnect from the corresponding terminal 31, thereby realizing signal recognition.

[0123] In the above embodiment, the conductive element adopts a conductive spring 323 structure, which can achieve the function of conductivity and can be restored to its original state by the action of its own spring force without external force. There is no need to add an elastic reset part, which simplifies the structure of the elastic pusher 32 and reduces costs.

[0124] Specifically, in this embodiment, Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, a strip-shaped opening is opened on the top peripheral wall of the cylindrical shell 321 to form a limit installation groove 3211 for the limit installation of the conductive spring 323. Along the axial direction of the cylindrical shell 321, the two ends of the conductive spring 323 are limitedly abutted against the two end edges of the strip-shaped opening, and the two ends of the conductive spring 323 are respectively connected to conductive contacts.

[0125] Furthermore, the sliding push rod 322 is movably disposed within the cylindrical shell 321 along the axial direction of the cylindrical shell 321. One end of the sliding push rod 322 extends out of the cylindrical shell 321 and abuts against the pressing portion, while the other end abuts against the end of the conductive spring 323. Preferably, the outer diameter of the end of the sliding push rod 322 abutting against the pressing portion is enlarged to increase the contact area with the pressing portion, prevent separation, and ensure a pushing effect.

[0126] Furthermore, both ends of the limiting mounting groove 3211 are provided with avoidance openings for avoiding the first wiring terminal 311 and the second wiring terminal 312. The first wiring terminal 311 and the second wiring terminal 312 can extend into the cylindrical shell 321 through the avoidance openings on both sides of the limiting mounting groove 3211 and contact and connect with the guide contacts at both ends of the conductive spring 323.

[0127] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, in this embodiment, the swing block 331 pushes the sliding push rod 322 to move back and forth when swinging. Before the liquid storage box 2 is inserted, the sliding push rod 322 is not pushed, and the conductive spring 323 is in contact with the terminal 31, so that all three groups of detection terminals are in an energized state. When the liquid storage box 2 is inserted, if the liquid storage box 2 only pushes one of the sliding push rods 322, the sliding push rod 322 will drive the corresponding conductive spring 323 to move, and one end of the conductive spring 323 will be compressed, thereby disconnecting and realizing signal recognition. Different liquid storage boxes 2 will push different combinations of sliding push rods 322 to move, thereby realizing different signal inputs. In this way, after the liquid storage box 2 is pushed in, it can realize intelligent identification of the type of additive stored therein.

[0128] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the intelligent identification component 3 is fixed on the upper cover 11 through a mounting seat 34, the mounting seat 34 has a accommodating chamber, the elastic pusher 32 is fixedly installed in the accommodating chamber, and the cylindrical shell 321 is fixed in the accommodating chamber.

[0129] Furthermore, if Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 As shown, the mounting seat 34 can be fixedly connected to the upper cover plate 11 by means of snaps or screws.

[0130] Preferably, if Figure 1 As shown, the upper cover 11 is provided with a mounting opening for mounting the intelligent identification component 3. The circumferential edge of the mounting opening extends upward to form a limiting rib 111, and the mounting seat 34 is mounted within the limiting rib 111. The inner circumferential wall of the limiting rib 111 is provided with a latching platform / slot, and the outer circumferential wall of the mounting seat 34 is provided with a corresponding latching platform / slot. The mounting seat 34 is locked and retained within the limiting rib 111. The use of a latching connection to secure the intelligent identification component 3 and the upper cover 11 facilitates removal and replacement of the intelligent identification component 3.

[0131] More preferably, the limiting rib 111 is provided with a limiting groove formed by protruding outward, and a limiting rib 343 cooperating with the limiting groove is correspondingly provided on the peripheral wall of the mounting seat 34. The limiting rib 343 is limited in the limiting groove to limit and fix the mounting seat 34 in the circumferential direction to prevent the intelligent identification component 3 from rotating.

[0132] Preferably, the mounting seat 34 is open near the side of the rotating swing member 33, allowing the push rod to extend and contact the pressure plate 332. An extended connecting wall 341 is integrally provided on the edge of the top wall of the mounting seat 34, and the rotating shaft 3311 of the rotating swing member 33 is rotatably connected to the extended connecting wall 341.

[0133] Furthermore, an avoidance opening is provided on the upper cover plate 11 at a position corresponding to the rotating swinging member 33 to avoid affecting the swinging and rotating of the rotating swinging member 33 .

[0134] In this embodiment, one end of the connection terminal 31 is fixed on the top wall of the mounting base 34 and connected to the external detection circuit, and the other end extends into the cylindrical shell 321 to contact and connect with the conductive element.

[0135] Furthermore, the external detection circuit includes a PCB board 302, on which all the connection terminals 31 of each intelligent identification component 3 are integrated to achieve the purpose of rectification. In this way, three signal outputs can be achieved using only two detection wires 301. Of course, if the actual principle remains the same, different PCBs can also be used, for example, each set of connection terminals 31 is directly connected to two detection wires 301.

[0136] Furthermore, if Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 4 As shown, the PCB board 302 is set on the top wall of the mounting base 34, and a plurality of claw structures 342 are provided on the peripheral wall of the mounting base 34. The claw structures 342 are clamped on the PCB board 302 to limit and fix the PCB board 302 to prevent the PCB board 302 from moving and affecting the accuracy of the detection results.

[0137] This embodiment also provides an identification method using the above-mentioned additive delivery device, comprising:

[0138] The liquid storage box 2 is inserted into the plug-in slot of the additive delivery device;

[0139] The guide mark portion 21 provided on the liquid storage box 2 resists and guides the corresponding rotating swing member 33 in the plug-in slot, so that the conductive element at the corresponding mark position is disconnected from the corresponding terminal 31;

[0140] Signal information of the connection terminals 31 disconnected from each conductive element is obtained, and the type of additive in the liquid storage box 2 is determined based on the signal information of the connection terminals 31 disconnected from each conductive element.

[0141] Through the above method, the type of additive in the liquid storage box 2 is determined based on the signal information of the terminal 31 disconnected from each conductive element, so that the identity of the liquid storage box 2 installed in the additive delivery device can be accurately identified, thereby achieving a significant technical advancement in automatic and accurate identification of the type of additive.

[0142] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not constitute any form of limitation to the present invention. Although the present invention has been disclosed as above in terms of a preferred embodiment, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any technician familiar with this patent can make slight changes or modifications to equivalent embodiments using the above technical content without departing from the scope of the technical solution of the present invention. However, any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and modifications made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the content of the technical solution of the present invention are still within the scope of the solution of the present invention.

Claims

1. An additive delivery device, characterized in that: The liquid storage box comprises a closed chamber for storing additives, and the outer wall of the liquid storage box is provided with at least one guide marking portion with a set guide track; Any one or combination of the number, position, and track shape of the guide marking portion provided on the liquid storage box corresponds to the type of additive stored in the liquid storage box; It also has a plug-in slot for installing the liquid storage box, and the plug-in slot is correspondingly provided with an intelligent recognition component for identifying the type of additive in the liquid storage box. The intelligent recognition component includes: The wiring terminals include a first wiring terminal and a second wiring terminal connected to the detection circuit; The elastic pusher includes a conductive element that is in contact and electrically connected between the first terminal and the second terminal under normal conditions; The rotating swinging piece can swing along the set guide track of the guide identification part on the liquid storage box when the liquid storage box is inserted into the plug-in slot and push the elastic pushing piece at the corresponding position, so that the conductive element is disconnected from the wiring terminal to realize signal recognition.

2. The additive dosing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The guide marking portion is a guide rib and / or a guide groove provided on the outer wall of the liquid storage box along the plugging and unplugging direction of the liquid storage box.

3. The additive dosing device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The guide ribs and / or guide grooves are arranged on the top wall of the liquid storage box.

4. The additive dosing device according to claim 3, characterized in that: Along the insertion direction of the liquid storage box, the guide ribs and / or guide grooves are arranged on the top wall of the liquid storage box near the front end.

5. The additive dosing device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The top wall of the liquid storage box is recessed inward to form the guide groove, and the guide groove has a guide wall capable of changing the direction of the guide track; And / or, the top wall of the liquid storage box protrudes outward to form the guide rib, and the guide rib has a guide wall that can change the direction of the guide track.

6. The additive dosing device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The liquid storage box has at least two set identification positions, and the guide identification part is a guide rib and / or guide groove arranged at the identification position. The number and / or position of the guide ribs and / or guide grooves at the identification position of different types of additive liquid storage boxes are different.

7. The additive delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The liquid storage box is provided with a marking cover, and the marking cover is provided with guide ribs and / or guide grooves.

8. The additive dosing device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The identification cover is a partial structure of the liquid storage box and is arranged on a top wall of the liquid storage box near the front end.

9. The additive dosing device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The top wall of the liquid storage box is provided with an opening, and the identification cover is mounted on the opening; or the identification cover is integrally formed with the liquid storage box.

10. The additive dosing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The wiring terminals, elastic pushers and rotating swinging members are multiple groups, which can cover the guide identification parts at all identification positions on the additive storage boxes for identifying different types of additives.

11. The additive dosing device according to claim 10, characterized in that: It includes an upper cover plate located on the top of the plug-in slot, and the rotating swing member includes: The swing part has an upper end surface provided with a rotating shaft rotatably connected to the upper cover plate, and a lower end surface provided with a guide column, the guide column can move along the guide track of the guide marking part to drive the swing part to swing; The pressing portion is connected to the swing portion at a set angle and deflects as the swing portion swings, thereby pressing the elastic pushing member to disconnect the conductive element from the connection terminal.

12. The additive dosing device according to claim 11, characterized in that: The swing portion is a swing block, and the pressing portion is a pressing plate connected to the side of the swing block at a certain angle.

13. The additive dosing device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The swing block and the pressure plate are integrally formed, and a connection angle between the swing block and the pressure plate is greater than 90°.

14. The additive dosing device according to claim 11, characterized in that: The elastic pushing member includes: The cylinder shell is fixed on the upper cover plate; A sliding push rod, one end of which is located outside the cylindrical shell and abuts against the pressing portion, and the other end of which extends into the cylindrical shell and abuts against the end of the conductive element; The conductive element is movably disposed in the cylindrical shell, and its two ends are respectively in contact with and electrically connected to the first terminal and the second terminal; The swinging of the rotating swinging member drives the pressing portion to deflect and press the sliding push rod, and the sliding push rod pushes the conductive element to move, so that at least one end of the conductive element is disconnected from the corresponding terminal, thereby realizing signal recognition.

15. The additive dosing device according to claim 14, characterized in that: The conductive element comprises a conductive spring which is limitedly installed in the cylindrical shell and conductive contact pieces connected to both ends of the conductive spring.

16. The additive dosing device according to claim 14, characterized in that: The outer diameter of the end portion of the sliding push rod abutting against the pressing portion is enlarged.

17. The additive dosing device according to claim 14, characterized in that: The intelligent identification component is fixed on the upper cover plate through a mounting seat. The mounting seat has a receiving chamber inside, and the elastic pushing member is installed in the receiving chamber.

18. The additive dosing device according to claim 17, characterized in that: The side of the mounting seat close to the rotating swing member is open, and the edge of the top wall of the mounting seat is connected to an extended connecting wall, and the rotating shaft of the rotating swing member is rotatably connected to the extended connecting wall.

19. The additive dosing device according to claim 17, characterized in that: One end of the connection terminal is fixed on the top wall of the mounting seat and connected to the external detection circuit, and the other end extends into the cylindrical shell and contacts and connects with the conductive element.

20. A method for identifying an additive delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that: include: The liquid storage box is inserted into the plug-in slot of the additive delivery device; The guide marking portion provided on the liquid storage box resists and guides the corresponding rotating swinging member in the plug-in slot, so that the conductive element at the corresponding marking position is disconnected from the corresponding terminal; Signal information of the connection terminals disconnected from each conductive element is obtained, and the type of additive in the liquid storage box is determined based on the signal information of the connection terminals disconnected from each conductive element.

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